The characters in this fanfic are not my creations but belong to their original author, Jess Cantrell, author of the Gray Matter Series.
While I strive to remain true to my perception of these characters, I may occasionally write pieces that could seem out of character. Please read with grace.
Dana and Stephen had returned to their normal routines, though they were irrevocably changed by the months of caring for Samuel together. Every night, Stephen came over to help with Samuel's care, their interactions slipping from the professional to something softer, more intimate. Personal respect had grown quickly for each other. It had been just over a month since Samuel's surgery. Thanksgiving had come and gone, and then Christmas too, passing in a quiet, almost somber fashion. Stephen had gone back East for a brief visit to see his family, leaving Dana and Samuel to navigate the holidays alone.
Dana worked with ease giving Samuel a bed bath. The rhythmic motion of the sponge against his pale skin was soothing, both for her and the boy who lay unresponsive, yet stable. His fine brunette hair, still damp from washing, gleamed under the soft winter light filtering in from the window. She leaned forward to kiss his forehead gently. "Sammy, baby, you missed Christmas," she whispered, her voice barely above a murmur. "But I know you're fighting, and I have the best gift for you."
The room was still, except for her quiet voice recounting the Thanksgiving they'd spent together with Grey and Stephen. It was a simple meal, but they had been grateful—grateful for each other, for survival, for small moments of peace in a year full of turmoil.
"Grey came for Christmas dinner," she continued softly, sponging the boy's arms with slow, deliberate care. "He brought me this beautiful print. I'll hang it in the parlor. You'll love it." She smiled to herself, thinking of the small gifts exchanged, the thoughtfulness behind each one. Grey's reaction to the braille cookbook she had given him was something she wouldn't soon forget. The wonder on his face when he realized it was something he could use, something that spoke to his independence, had warmed her heart in a way she hadn't expected.
She finished cleaning Samuel and paused by his bedside, holding his limp hand in hers. "You're going to get better, my sweet boy," she whispered.
Dana stood and moved to the front of the house to tend to some paperwork when the front door opened with a gust of cold wind. A man stood silhouetted in the doorway, a heavy coat covering broad shoulders. It took less than a second for her heart to recognize him.
"Stephen!" she gasped, her voice filled with surprise. Before she knew it, she was across the room, wrapped in his strong arms, his warmth banishing the cold that had settled into her bones.
"Merry Christmas, Dana," he whispered, his grin wide as he held her tight.
"I didn't expect you back so soon!" She pulled away just enough to look at him, the joy bubbling in her chest almost painful. "I have something for you," she said, suddenly eager to share the gift she had carefully wrapped during his absence.
Stephen watched her as she retrieved the package from her desk. His curiosity piqued as he carefully untied the string and unfolded the paper. "Leçons sur les Fonctions du Système Nerveux: Lessons on the Functions of the Nervous System," he read aloud, his brow furrowing in surprise. Then, his eyes caught the second book. "Contributions to the Physiology and Pathology of the Nervous System," he said, softer this time, his gaze lifting to meet hers. "Dana, these are... incredible."
She laughed lightly, her face glowing. "I know it's not exactly holiday reading, but I thought you might appreciate them."
A piece of paper was nestled under the books and Stephen noticed it after a minute, "Oh, what's this?"
"Open it." She prompted.
Dr. Whitechurch,
It is with great pleasure that we write to inform you that the process concerning the adoption of young Samuel has been successfully concluded. As of this date, you are now granted full legal guardianship and parental rights over the child.
The necessary judicial proceedings have been completed, and the final decree of adoption has been duly recorded in the county's registry. From this moment forward, Samuel is officially recognized as your lawful son, entitled to all the rights, privileges, and duties therein.
We are most gratified to have overseen this process and are confident that Samuel will flourish under your care. We are certain that the warmth and compassion you have already shown him will provide him with the stable and loving home every child deserves.
Please be assured that should you require any further assistance, guidance, or documentation related to this matter, we remain at your service.
On behalf of the society and the many kindhearted souls involved in Samuel's welfare, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to you. It is our sincerest hope that your future together will be filled with joy, growth, and mutual affection.
Yours faithfully,
Eva F. LeFevre, Denver Orphan's Home
In conjunction with
Ruth G. Schenck, Children's Home Society of Colorado
"Dana!" He picked her up and swung her around. "This is way better than the books!" Stephen set her down and fumbled in his pocket before pulling out a small velvet box. "I have something for you, too. I hope it's not too forward."
Dana took the box, her heart racing as she opened it. Inside was a delicate golden locket, simple but littered with intricate engravings along the edge. Her fingers trembled slightly as she opened it, revealing a tiny picture of Samuel, perfectly fitted into the oval space.
Her breath caught in her throat. "This... this is beautiful. I love it," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.
He helped her fasten the locket around her neck. "Merry Christmas, Dana," he said softly, his gaze lingering on her face, filled with something deeper, something unspoken.
She hugged him again, this time tighter, they rocked gently, the world outside forgotten, wrapped in the warmth of each other's presence. For a moment, the fear and uncertainty that had dominated her life these past months faded away.
Stephen cleared his throat, pulling back just enough to look at her. "How's my little guy doing?"
"The same," Dana sighed, her smile fading. "He's stronger, but... he hasn't woken up."
Stephen took her hand, and together they moved into Samuel's room. Something had shifted though and the moment Dana stepped inside, her heart stopped. She froze, her hand tightening around Stephen's.
Samuel's eyes were open.
His small face was turned toward the doorway, his arms reaching out, weak but unmistakable.
"Oh, Sammy!" Dana gasped, rushing to his side, scooping him up into her arms with a cry of pure, unadulterated joy. She spun him gently, her tears falling freely as she kissed his soft cheeks. "You're awake!"
She handed the boy to Stephen, her heart swelling as she watched the little boy wrap his tiny arms around Stephen's neck, giggling. It was too much. Laughter bubbled up from somewhere deep within, a joyful, delirious sound. In her sheer happiness, she didn't think twice—she leaned up and kissed him Stephen, her lips meeting his in a sweet, impulsive moment.
"Merry Christmas," she whispered, laughing through joyful tears.
Stephen, equally overwhelmed, held Sammy close as the little boy giggled softly. His eyes met Dana's, and in that moment, something inside him shifted. "Dana," he whispered, "I think I love you."
It had become so clear to him when he was back east. Emma had ribbed him for so much talk of this female doctor, but in privacy they had talked more deeply and earnestly, and it had become clear to Stephen that his perspective on what he wanted had not changed, but rather there were elements now added that he had never imagined.
Her heart skipped a beat, the world slowing to stillness around them.
"I'd like to court you, Dana Whitechurch," he added, his eyes earnest.
Dana's face was ruddy red from crying, but the smile that split it shone bright. "I'd like that, Dr. Reyburn. Very much."
