Wearily, Logan wound his way through the mess, back to the front door. He opened the door to find Mrs. Moreno standing next to Bling.
"I wanted to thank you myself for getting me out of hospital," Mrs. Moreno started to say shyly, "Thanks for vouching for me."
"She was all packed and ready when I got there to pick her up," Bling stood behind her
"I've been ready to go home for days," Mrs. Moreno continued. "It was just a bump on the head. Just had a bad moment, I suppose. Nothing, really. Is everything all right with you up here, Logan? The doorman said you'd had a fire in the penthouse today." Mrs. Moreno peered past Logan, looking concerned.
"It was nothing much. Just set off the fire alarm. Nothing a little cleaning up can't take care of," Logan smiled wearily.
"Well," Mrs. Moreno started, sniffing disapprovingly at the burnt smell "I'd like you all to come over to my place for a little Christmas dinner, if you don't have other plans. Nothing complicated, of course. But I hate to spend Christmas day alone and your kitchen is in no condition for cooking. I may not have much in the house, but I can still feed a few kids on Christmas Day."
"You just got home, Mrs. Moreno. Are you sure you're feeling up to it?" Max smiled.
"Nonsense. Cooking's one thing I have no problem doing. Why don't you come too?" Mrs. Moreno turned to Bling.
"I'm afraid I already have holiday plans. But you two kids run along and have a good time," Bling answered.
"Well then, it's settled," Mrs. Moreno nodded. "Come on over after you've finished and I'll see you then."
With Bling's help, the rest of the cleanup went quickly. By the time they had all had quick showers, the mood was practically festive. Bling wished them a Merry Christmas and left to join his family for dinner. Max wrapped a bottle of pre-Pulse Cabernet. Logan made his way into the hallway and up the steps again.
Logan looked back to see Max leaning on the wall next to the elevator.
"You didn't have to sneak off by yourself, you know," Max's voice came softly.
"A bit out of practice on the steps, you know…" he paused, not sure how to go on. "I was getting used to being on my feet. Things are going to take a little getting used to."
"Seems like you're doing all right."
Max started to say something else, but before she could, Mrs. Moreno opened the door, filling the hallway with the delicious smell of cooking food.
As Max passed Logan at the doorway, she leaned down to give his shoulder a squeeze.
"I told you before. It was never about you being able to walk."