Zana knew something was off the second she stepped into her home.

The house was eerily quiet, which she usually wouldn't take any note of. There was never much noise, as both her parents were very busy people and hardly ever home during the day, but it was Christmas. They should be here.

"Mum?" Zana kicked off her shoes by the front door before walking towards the kitchen. "Dad? Anyone home?"

Her eyes wandered around aimlessly as she awaited a response, but there wasn't one. She was just beginning to feel a sense of dread when the front door opened and the sound of her parents' laughter filled her head.

"Zana!" Carlisle Kline greeted warmly as he pulled off his winter coat and hung it next to the front door. "How long have you been here?"

"I just got here," she chuckled as her father pulled her into a tight and welcoming embrace. "I asked the Doctor to bring me."

"And where is the Doctor?" Her dad pulled away and gave Zana a look of uncertainty.

"He's off helping a friend," she answered simply enough as she turned to her awaiting mother. "Hi, Mum."

Cynthia Kline stepped forward and wordlessly hugged her daughter, holding her as tight as she could without restricting her airflow. She hadn't seen her since the Battle.

"Mum..." Zana smiled.

"Are you okay?"

"I'm fine. Really," she pulled out of the embrace and gave her mum an assuring smile. "It's taking some getting used to, having lost..."

It was Cynthia's turn to offer a comforting smile as she studied her daughter's face.

She looked exhausted. She looked older.

"Anyway, enough about that," Carlisle stepped past the two women. "I'll be right back, this requires champagne!"

Both Zana and her mum laughed as they watched him disappear into the kitchen. They stood there in silence for a few moments before Zana remembered why exactly she came home. She needed to know what was happening at H.C. Clements. She needed to know what was happening to Donna. Something inside of her that she couldn't explain just kept telling her that her mother, in some way, was involved. She had to be.

"Mum, can we talk?" She turned to face her. "It's about your job."

"Of course, honey," her mum nodded and started walking towards her office, which was up the stairs. Zana quickly followed after her. "What is it you want to know?"

Zana watched as her mother walked around her desk and took a seat. In some odd way, it felt like she was seeing her mother for the first very time. It was like she had flipped a switch and was no longer her mother, but instead solely the Head Scientific Advisor for Torchwood.

"The Doctor and I," Zana shook her thoughts from her head and took the seat opposite of Cynthia. "We were in the TARDIS today, saying goodbye to..." she paused and let out a sigh before continuing. "Anyway, it was just the two of us. It's only been the two of us for two weeks now, Mum. Then out of nowhere this woman just...appeared. It was like...she was pulled in by something."

Cynthia frowned as she listened, "And what exactly does this have to do with me? Or Torchwood?"

"My whole life you lied to me and told me you worked for some locksmith company called H.C. Clements. You told me that for eighteen years and now it means something," Zana leaned forward in her chair, "Donna works there too, Mum. She's just a temp, she obviously isn't a part of any secret underground organization."

"Zana, darling, I already told you that I have no idea who that is," her mum sighed. She should have seen this coming.

"And I believe you, Mum, I do. You may not know her, but your work in that building has done something to her. I know it has, it's the only explanation. What is it you do there?"

"I can't tell you that," Cynthia spoke softly. "Zana, it's top secret."

Zana was beginning to grow annoyed. The way she saw it, her mother's work almost ended the entire world when they foolishly allowed the ghost shifts to happen, enabling the Cybermen and Daleks to take over. Her mum's job, in a way, stole her best friend away from her. She had to keep reminding herself that it was Torchwood that did everything wrong, not her mom. But it was getting harder to do.

"Look, I know you don't want to tell me anything," Zana stood to her feet. "But I can guarantee that if you don't give me the answers I need, then the Doctor will find them himself. And, just so you know, Torchwood doesn't rank too highly on his list of friendly organizations, especially after the Battle of Canary Wharf, so don't expect things to be forgiven so quickly this time 'round."

Cynthia gave Zana a look she had never seen before. It actually caused a shiver to run down her spine. "Zana Kline, you will not threaten me. Do not threaten me with the Doctor. I am your mother."

"It's starting to frighten me how little you seem to care about the repercussions of your work. People have died! People are in danger and you don't even care!" Zana was shouting now, she couldn't help it. She was pissed. "How can you be the person who raised me to believe that every life matters, every single one of them, when you yourself are so indifferent to the casualties of your cause?"

"Zana Marie Kline-"

"No. You listen to me this time because I already know what you're going to say. Donna's in trouble. She's supposed to be getting married! You ruined the best day of her life because you-"

"Huon particles."

"-are just- I'm sorry?" Zana blinked. "What particles?"

"For years now, I've been overseeing a confidential research project in the lower levels of H.C. Clements," Cynthia stood from her seat and opened the file cabinet behind her. She searched for a second before pulling out a few thick files and sitting them on the desk in front of her daughter. "We've been restoring and creating what is known as Huon particles. They haven't been universally used in millennia and have long been thought to be nonexistent."

"What do they do?" Zana quickly got to work, opening the files in order to go over them.

"We...don't know. Not really," her mother informed. "But I do as I am told. I'm just doing my job, Zana, don't you see? I have to take orders from my superiors. I have a duty for Queen and Country."

"Mum..." Zana closed the files and sat back down in her chair. "The Huon particles are the only explanation for Donna showing up in the TARDIS. How could Donna be...poisoned with these? How does that even happen?"

"The only possible way anyone could possess enough Huon to transport themselves across the Universe would mean that she would have had been dosed for months at the very least."

"By who? And why?"

"Huon particles are attracted to Huon particles. The Universe has been without for a long time, so activated Huon would immediately be drawn to other activated Huon particles, and I'm guessing, since she appeared in the TARDIS, that the Doctor's ship must have remnants of the particle."

"But who?"

Cynthia shook her head, "That, I don't know. I'm sorry."

"I'm sorry for shouting," Zana apologized. "But if I were you, Mum, I would definitely look into the security of your labs because Donna's in serious trouble."

"Yes ma'am," her mum replied with a cheeky smile. "Now, how about that champagne?"

"About that," Zana and her mum turned when they heard Carlisle's voice. "Saxon has requested that I report to base immediately. Something has entered our atmosphere."

Zana frowned at his words, "Harold Saxon?" She shook her head. "Nevermind that, what's in the atmosphere?"

"It seems to be an alien ship," her father answered with a sigh. "I'm so sorry that I have to go the only time you're actually home, Zana."

"Comes with the job," Zana replied instinctively. She had heard that her entire life.

"Promise me you'll be here when I return?"

"I promise to try."

The small family shared a sad smile at her words.

Zana had tried to call the Doctor the moment her father had left, but he wouldn't answer. She chalked it up to him simply being away from the TARDIS, but she was bursting to tell him what she had learned from her mother.

"Zana, darling, could you help me with the cooking?" Cynthia's voice called to Zana from the kitchen. The teenager had been laying on the couch in the sitting room for an hour now, dialing and redialling the TARDIS with no prevail.

"Do I have to?" Zana replied absently as she let out a sigh and begrudgingly sat her phone down on the couch beside her. There was no point. It was starting to worry her, as she had absolutely no idea where the Doctor or Donna was, or even if they were okay.

"Yes, your father would appreciate it," her mother walked into the room, giving Zana a knowing look.

"He's not even here."

"Zana, it's Christmas."

Zana hated arguing. She really did. She knew that if she were to say something about worrying for the Doctor, her mother would find some reason to turn it into an argument.

So she reluctantly agreed.

For about an hour, the two of them cooked and prepped and even laughed a few times. Zana couldn't say that she had become distracted from the Doctor and Donna because they were still at the forefront of her mind, but she'd be lying if she said she wasn't enjoying this time with her mother. She couldn't really remember the last time the two of them spent actual quality time together.

"Turn on the telly, will ya?" Her mum looked up from the dessert she was preparing and noticed her daughter staring absently at the blank television, as if it held the answers to all her questions. "I'm sure it's a bit more interesting than your reflection."

"Thanks, Mum," Zana murmured as leaned forward and turned on the small telly that was sitting on their kitchen island. The screen came to life to reveal a news broadcaster and a breaking news alert.

"This just in, Minister of Defense Harold Saxon has released an official statement regarding the current alien craft entering the Earth's atmosphere about London this Christmas Eve," an older man spoke in a rather official, if not slightly worried tone. Zana crossed her arms and began chewing on her nails nervously as the image shifted to reveal the alien craft shaped much like a giant star...or web.

"Citizens of Great Britian, do not be alarmed," a different man flashed across the screen, who Zana instantly recogized as Harold Saxon. Something about him resonated very strongly with the British people, herself included. He was relatively new to the public scene, but she knew that it was only a matter of time before he took office as Prime Minister. Harriet Jones wasn't faring too well (thanks to the Doctor's six words) and she was going to be replaced, and by who better than Harold Saxon? Zana just wasn't aware that her father worked for him. Learn something new everyday, she supposed. "The great men and women we have serving in the Unified Intelligence Taskforce will disarm this looming threat before it is capable of harming any human life."

"They're going to shoot it down, just like they did to the Sycorax," Zana murmured to herself as her mum simply continued her task of cooking. "But they don't even know who it is, Mum."

"It's not our job to ask questions, Zana. Your father and I follow orders."

Zana chose not to respond to her mother's words, instead turning back to the telly.

"The human race is in the midst of a celebration of love. Of family. Of togetherness," Mr. Saxon's eyes were looking directly into the camera, and in a way, into Zana. "We will not tolerate alien threats during such joyous times, or any time, for that matter. We must establish our place in the Universe and send a message out into the stars that we are not weak, but strong. That we are inclined to save our people, always."

"Have you met Mr. Saxon?" Zana looked up to see her mum sliding her pie into the oven.

"Yes, he's very involved with both UNIT and Torchwood," she wiped the spare flour from her hands. "He's taken a great interest in your father's work."

"Really? Is he nice?"

"Oh, he and Lucy are lovely, Zana. You'd love them!" Cynthia smiled widely as she stepped up and wrapped an arm around her daughter's shoulders. "We've had dinner with them a few times now, and he's always asking about you."

"He knows about me?" Zana asked in surprise.

"Why wouldn't he? Do you think your father and I don't mention your name? Ever?"

"Well, no," she admitted. "I always assume you two are too busy talking about official things, like blowing up alien ships."

Her mother gave her an annoyed look, "You know for a fact that we try to make as many connections for you as possible. A recommendation from Minister Saxon would help you tremedously when you apply for university."

Zana's eyes widened slightly at her mum's words. University was the very last thing on her mind. Hell, she hadn't thought of school since the moment the Doctor blew hers up.

"Yeah..." she hesitantly agreed, not wanting to hear her mother's tirade about school.

"...and remember," Mr. Saxon's voice filled the empty air. "While we are not alone in this Universe, we are very much capable of protecting and holding our own. Do not fret, do not worry. The Universe will soon see Planet Earth as its master. Merry Christmas, and God Bless Queen and Country."

"Master?" Zana frowned as the footage returned to the newsbroadcaster. "That doesn't sound right..."

The kettle on the stove began to whistle loudly, causing the young woman to jump in surprise. Her mum reached over and switched the burner off, laughing quietly at her daughter's reaction.

"The Doctor's out there," Zana reminded softly as she sighed, drowing out the noise of the telly as the video of the ailen ship played on repeat. "He's out there, Mum. He's probably on that ship, knowing him. He needs me."

"Zana..." Cynthia's eyes softened at her daughter's words. "If the Doctor is even half as amazing as you talk him up to be, then I promise you he will be okay."

"But what if he's not? Even the Doctor needs someone, Mum," Zana's chest began to tighten at the worrisome thoughts entering her mind. She felt her heart begin to race. She couldn't afford to lose him, not now.

"Come here," Cynthia pulled Zana in to a tight embrace, comfortingly stroking her hair as the young woman felt tears brim her eyes. "You know, when your father gets called onto something like this...it terrifies me every time, Zana. I'm so scared something will go wrong and two men in uniforms are going to show up at our door. It never gets easier, darling. All you can do, when you aren't by his side, is hope. Hope that he'll be okay and that he'll come back to you..."

Zana knew her mother's words were directed towards the Doctor, but she felt the fear she held for father. She honestly never considered how her mother felt when her dad was working, as she always had a warming smile and a calm demeanor. She supposed that was why she herself was so good at masking her true feelings. It was an inherited trait.

"I'm sorry, Mum...I never knew," Zana murmured as she pulled out of the warm hug. "I never even considered-"

Before she could finish, the sound of her phone ringing instantly caught her attention. Without a second thought, she quickly dashed out of the kitchen and into the living room, where her phone had been sitting on the couch. Without even looking, she picked it up and answered it.

"Doctor!" She breathed a sigh of relief. "Are you okay? What about Donna?"

"The threat's been taken care of," the voice on the other line replied. "You can tell your friend it was no thanks to him this time. I've always had to clean up his messes."

"Who is this?" She demanded instantly. "Where's the Doctor?"

"If I were you, I'd save this number, Miss Kline. I have a feeling you'll be hearing a lot from me."

"Hold on..." Zana frowned. "I know this voice. Mr. Saxon? Did my parents give you this number?"

"Your parents are very good people. Very obediant," Harold's smile could be heard through the phone. "I'm sure you yourself are quite the obediant companion."

"How do you know the Doctor?" It had just clicked in her head that he was speaking of her alien friend. "Have you met him?"

"We go way back," he replied cheekily. "Your father should be home in time for dinner. Give him my praises. Until we speak again, Zana Kline."

With that, the line went dead.

Zana pulled the phone from her ear and glanced down at the screen, frowning at the unfamiliar number. Why did Harold Saxon call her? Why, out of all the people on the planet? Why now?

"Zana?" her mum called from the kitchen. "Who was it?"

"Uh..." she wasn't sure if she should tell her or not. After all, she was sure her mother and father were behind it. "Dad's on his way home."

"Brilliant!" Cynthia exclaimed as Zana sat her phone back down. She was still eagerly awaiting for the Doctor to call her. "Now come and help me finish dinner before he arrives."

Zana was seated at the dinning room table, which was adorned with an array of festive foods, plates, and silverware, staring blankly as her parents tended to the finishing touches of their Christmas Eve meal. Her father had returned half an hour ago, beaming and proud of his latest mission's success. She tried to seem present, but her mind was racing with the events of the day. Her earlier conversation with Mr. Saxon was at the back of her mind, while the Doctor was at the forefront. She hadn't heard from him in hours. She was growing more and more concerned by the minute.

"...it's only a matter of time before he's PM, I'm telling ya," her father's voice pulled her to the present as her eyes focused on her two parents. They were working around each other like some intricate dance, like they had rehearsed it a thousand times. They were smiling and talking and laughing without a care in the world. They were happy. To them, their night was complete with Zana at home. Things couldn't be more perfect, in fact.

"Did you..." Zana cleared her throat. "Did you happen to give my mobile number to Mr. Saxon?"

Her parents both turned to look at her, but it was her father who answered.

"Why would we do that, sweetheart?" He pondered, glass in hand.

"I mean, I dunno. Mum said you've talked to him about me, so I just assumed..."

"No, we've never done such a thing," he chuckled, waving her off. "Why do you ask?"

She shrugged, quickly looking down so they couldn't meet her gaze. "Just wondering."

Before they could say anything else, the doorbell rang throughout the house.

"Get that, Zana," her mother told her. "Dinner will be done in five so make it quick."

"Make it quick," she mocked quietly as she stood from her seat. She ignored the stern look her mum gave her and shuffled towards the front door. She figured it was one of her father's friends behind the door so she took her time, but when she pulled open the door, the Doctor was looking back at her. He looked exhausted.

"Zana," a tired smile formed on his lips as he saw her. He felt the day's stress and regrets slip from his mind for just a moment as she returned his smile and immediately pulled him into her arms.

"Doctor," she spoke into his chest as he held her close. "Oh thank god you're okay, I was starting to think..."

She couldn't find it in herself to say it aloud.

"I'm sorry," he murmured softly, his arms tightening around her. He needed her by his side today more than ever, but he was eternally grateful that she hadn't seen him so low, so...broken.

"Are you alright?" she pulled away slightly to look up at him, but stayed in his embrace. "Where's Donna?"

"She's home. She's safe," he assured.

"And you?"

"I'm here," he spoke softly. Zana frowned at his words and reached up, caressing his cheek softly. She had no idea what he went through in her absence, but based on the heaviness in his eyes, it was no walk in the park. Guilt rose in her chest.

"I should have been there-"

"No," the Doctor cut her off and shook his head. "No, I think it's better you weren't, Zan."

"What happened?" She met his gaze. "I tried to call you, to tell you about the Huon particles-"

"How did you know about that?"

"My mum, she's in charge of the projects under H.C. Clements," she watched as his face grew hard. "That's why I came home, I knew that she knew something. I should have told you."

He just shook his head. He couldn't get into that tonight, not after the day he just had. He just needed her.

"Back to the TARDIS?" He asked gently as he released her and took her hand into his own.

"Uh..." she gave him a nervous smile. "Actually, my parents wanted me to stay for Christmas dinner. Care to join us?"

He groaned at her words, "Oh...I don't-"

"Please? I've been here dealing with them all day, Doctor. A little reprieve would be nice," she gave his hand a squeeze. "An hour, tops, then back home."

The Doctor couldn't help but smile warmly at her words. He quite liked the way that sounds, especially the way she said it. There was something about Zana Kline that he couldn't say no to.

"Oh, alright," he feigned defeat as he let out a loud sigh. "An hour and that's it. We've got places to be, people to meet."

"You and I both know that the Universe won't stop if you take a break," her words stug slightly as he remembered something similar his departed Rose had told him a lifetime ago. "I even made something special for you!"

"You did what?" he let her pull him into the house.

She closed the door behind him, briefly admiring the snow that was falling from the sky before replying with a grin, "Banana bread."

"Zana Kline, you continue to amaze me," he beamed happily.

"The least I could do after you saved the day," she nudged him before stepping past him, towards the dinning room. "Come on, Time Boy. Time to eat."

He watched as she disappeared around the corner and allowed himself, for a brief moment, to bask in the feeling of adoration and contentment that filled him. He momentarily forgot about the horrors of the day. The feeling of water dripping down his face as he watched the Racnoss burn and her children drown left his mind, as well as Donna's face when she had refused to join him in his travels. He had terrified her.

He kept picturing Zana. How she would have reacted if she had seen him in such a dark, low place, on the verge of ending not only the Racnoss, but himself.

She would have been terrified, too.

Donna was right. He needed someone. Someone to keep him sane, to keep him alive. To tell him to stop.

He needed Zana.

A/N: Ahhh! Enjoy!