Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

From all the days this could have happened, Madi Griffin decided to come into this world on the most destructive of days.

Hurricane Jason – a Category 3 hurricane, arrived in full force in the City of Polis, causing massive floods, strong winds, and high rainfall. Houses near the river banks were evacuated and downtown was in total chaos. The destruction of its pathway was going to be difficult to overcome, but the people of Polis were nothing but resilient.

That night, two women were driven to Polis General to deliver their babies. Two women whose lives were going to intersect in the most painful way.

It was dark, so dark that the sky was only lit by lightning. The windows reverberated with the sound of thunder as the strong winds pushed the wooden planks that covered most of the glass windows, threatening to rip them apart any minute.

As a stretcher was pushed towards the maternity wing, the lights flickered once more.

“Oh God, please!” Clarke Griffin, a 26 years old, and 3D artist, whined in pain while resting her hand over her rounded belly as if telling her baby to hang in there. 

“It’s going to be alright, sweetheart,” her mother, Abby Griffin, said as she escorted her daughter to the delivery room.

“Alright, let’s see how far the cervix is.” The OB in charge took a peek underneath Clarke’s hospital gown. “Yup, this is happening now. Let's get to work!”

Clarke gave another guttural cry of pain and Abby hurried to her side to take one of her hands. “Breath, honey. Deep breaths.” Abby advised.

“It hurts!” Clarke cried.

“I know, sweetie. You gotta hang in there.”

“Alright, Clarke. You’re going to push right when I tell you, okay?” The doctor told Clarke. “On one, two…”

“AAAAAAAAAGH! I CAN’T!”

In a nearby room, Alexandria Woods, a 29 years old, corporate lawyer was also in labor.

“Yes, you can, Lex. You are fucking strong!” Anya, her best friend and sister of the heart was on her side.

“Please, I need this to be over!” Lexa said between sobs.

Anya cupped her friend’s face, wiping away the beads of sweat from her forehead. “This is everything you dreamed of, Lexa. Come on!”

“I have the baby, I just need another push NOW!” The OBGyn instructed Lexa.

With a feral scream, Lexa pushed.

“Hold it!” The doctor said once more. “Gimme a sec here and… PUSH!”

With one final effort, Lexa gave it her all, and finally, FINALLY, the cries of a baby were heard in the labor room.

“Here she is!” The doctor pulled the baby from the birth canal, enveloping her in a dry blanket. The doctor passed the baby to the exhausted mother after cutting the umbilical cord before she said, “Meet your baby, Lexa.”

“Hey, Tris. Welcome, baby.” Lexa whispered to her baby girl. Dropping a kiss on her forehead, still a bit dirty with vernix.

“She’s so pretty, Lexa. Look at that girl!” Anya said with happy tears in her eyes.

“Alright, Tris needs to be checked while we finish here with you in the postpartum room, Lexa.” The OBGyn passed the baby to the nurses who left the delivery room for the examination room.

-oo-

Inside the nursery, the cries of several babies could be heard, displeased with the horrible storm outside.

“Here we have uh, baby Griffin. She’s 5 pounds and 7 ounces, APGAR score 7, in bassinet 318.” The nurse signed the paperwork and left it on a table before leaving the newborn baby girl in her assigned crib.

Another wailing baby was brought to the nursery a few minutes later. The nurse left the newborn in the crib 319. She grabbed the provided file and read the information reported.

“Baby Woods, she weighed 6 pounds and 4 ounces, APGAR score of 9.”

Suddenly a loud sound boomed around and all the lights went off. Then the sound of glass cracking was heard not too far away. Soon, a cold draft of wind found its way inside the nursery hall.

“Jesus!” Someone shouted as more babies started to cry.

“Please, remain calm! The backup generator should be up and running in a few minutes! We need all hands on deck in the ER, only essential nurses must remain on this floor!” The head nurse of the obstetric unit ordered from the nurse’s station.

“Ow!” A nurse slipped due to some of the rainwater wetting the floor. “It’s slippery here. Be careful!” She shouted.

More lightning crackled as the howling of the wind intensified.

“You okay?” Another nurse came to assist the fallen one.

“Yeah…” The nurse was slightly shaking.

The lights flickered until they were fully on as more heavy rain entered the building.

“Help me here, we need to cover this window!”

The two young nurses grabbed a nearby cabinet and pushed it against the broken window to cover it from the unyielding storm.

“Careful with the glass, we need a maintenance crew asap!” The head nurse approached the two women. “Alright, let’s do a quick round to check on our little patients. Then if you are done here please go to the ER. We’re short-staffed as it is and more wounded people are arriving as we speak. The hurricane is nearby and I’m afraid we won’t be able to help everyone, so make sure to triage severe patients only. I’ll take charge of this floor with Nurse Cooper once we deal with this mess.”

“Right away!” Both women replied.

“Shit!” The rattled nurse realized that the wind had blown away some of the files recently brought from the examination room.

“Here let me help you, it’s going to be okay. You new?” The nurse tried to offer a calming smile and leaned down to help pick up the flown documents.

“Yes, I ah, I’ve only been here for two weeks.” The young nurse nodded, shaking as the windows started to receive the hit of debris flying around. She quickly picked up the papers without really paying attention to the numbers assigned to them. A mistake that was going to change the lives of two women forever.

“Jason is not going to get to this hospital. We’ll be okay. Calm down.” The more experienced nurse tried to infuse some courage into the younger one as she returned the other files to her. “We’re needed in the ER. Just input these in the electric system and make a quick round to check on the babies before you leave the floor to Cooper, alright?”

“Okay, uh, thank you.” She took a deep breath calming herself, otherwise the already chaotic environment would turn worse.

The young nurse began to review each of the files. She booted up the hospital’s computer and transcribed the information into the electronic file.

“Alright, in 318 we have Woods,” The nurse quickly began to file the electronic file and print the newborn ID. “WOODS, LEXA. GIRL. DOB 10/31/2018, FEMALE.” The nurse attached the wristband and placed a second one to the ankle of the baby.

“Next is Griffin in 319.”

The nurse repeated the process and read the printed band. “GRIFFIN, CLARKE. GIRL. DOB 10/31/2018, FEMALE. You two could become trick-or-treating pals, huh?” The nurse said as she stood between the two bassinets. “What the…” The nurse frowned looking at the infant lying still in her crib.

“WE HAVE A CODE WHITE!” She shouted in fear.

-oo-

“No.”

Lexa shook her head from side to side as tears ran down her face. “How!?”

“We believe it was SIDS, eh, sudden death infant syndrome.”

“She was fine!” Lexa screamed in anguish as Anya hugged her friend against her chest.

The doctor nodded, “Yes, but it’s very possible that there was a defect on part of the baby’s brain that regulates breathing. The hurricane’s tail hit us pretty hard, causing very complicated climatic conditions, which could also influence the newborn to some extent. She was asleep and then… I’m truly sorry, Ms. Woods.”

“Get out!” Lexa growled. “GET. OUT!”

“Shhhh, easy baby. I know you’re hungry.” Clarke pulled the baby girl into her bosom and brought her to her rosy nipple. “Come on, it’s right there, Madi. You can take all you want.”

The girl kept crying until she noticed the nipple and latched into it. Soon the newborn girl was sucking as her life depended on it.

“Ouch! Girl, you’re going to leave me nipless at this rate.” Clarke passed her thumb over the brown mop of hair.

Suddenly, the door opened and Abby entered looking a bit weary. “How are my two favorite girls?”

“Tired, but so happy now that this cutie is here. Is that how you felt with me, mom?”

Abby smiled looking far away, probably reminiscing of the day Clarke was born. “Your dad was so in love with you way before you were born. He wouldn’t let me do anything at all. If he could breastfeed you, he would have done it.”

“Ew, Mom!”

Abby chuckled. “What a day to be born, huh?” Abby sat on the nearby chair letting out a deep exhale.

“Is our home…?” Clarke couldn’t dare to ask what happened to their home in the suburbs.

“I don’t know, honey. What matters is that you and my granddaughter are safe.” Abby stared into her hands, still a bit shaky after all the death and grief she probably witnessed last night. “We survived, sweetheart. That’s the only thing that matters right now.”

After a beat, Clarke said, “I’m sorry you had to leave behind your job at Arkadia Memorial because of me.”

“No regrets, baby. Polis offered me a great position anyway and while I’m going to miss working in Arkadia, I know that we’ll be fine here. A new life begins for all of us Griffin women.”

“Thank you, Mom.”

The baby made some gurgling noises and released the nipple. Her green eyes began to get droopy. “Someone needs a nap.” Clarke adjusted the baby onto her shoulder and began rocking her gently while she patted her back to help her release some gas.

“I could swear her eyes were blue when I first looked at her,” Clarke commented as she rocked Madi slowly.

“Don’t worry, it’s normal due to the lack of pigmentation that the baby’s eyes appear at first gray or blue, then it will change to their color. Might take six months to a year.” Abby explained before she approached them. She kissed Clarke’s forehead. “I’ll see you in a few hours.  Try to rest, baby.”

Once Abby left Clarke, the new mother sighed. Abby was right. A new life awaited her in Polis. That’s why she left her old life back in Arkadia, to start anew.

“We’re going to be okay, Madi. I promise.”

______________

SIX YEARS LATER - PRESENT DAY

Clarke was walking as fast as possible through the halls of Polis Elementary School to go pick up her daughter at the infirmary. Niylah Summers, Madi’s first-grade teacher, had called to tell Clarke about Madi feeling unwell.

Clarke knocked on the nurse’s office and came inside.

“Hello, Clarke. Glad you’re here.” Niylah greeted the exhausted blonde. “Madi was feeling unwell. She hasn’t been eating properly and I brought her here before calling you.”

“Is she okay?”

“Yes. The nurse already provided her medication for the fever. It might be one of those seasonal viruses, Clarke. Try not to worry.”

“Thank you for keeping an eye on her, Niylah.” Clarke squeezed the hand of the caring teacher before checking inside the patient’s room.

“Madi?”

“Momma?”

Hearing the weak sound of her baby girl’s voice broke Clarke’s heart.

“Hey, sweetie. Mommy’s here.” She approached the bed and quickly leaned down to kiss her daughter’s forehead, feeling she was still hot. “Okay sweetie, let’s get you home.” Clarke picked up her daughter from the infirmary’s bed, helped her put on her winter coat, and carried her to the car, escorted by the teacher.

“If there’s anything you need, don’t hesitate to call.” Niylah offered kindly.

“I appreciate it, Niylah.”

She bid farewell to Madi’s teacher and quickly put her daughter in the back seat. She adjusted the seatbelt and got into the driver’s seat before calling her mother through the bluetooth system.

“Mom? I’m taking Madi to her pediatrician. She’s not improving!” Clarke said as she put the car in drive and headed towards Polis General. She knew her daughter like the back of her hand and Clarke suspected something wrong was going on with Madi.

“What happened?” Abby asked.

“She has a fever and she refuses to eat. I already told you she’s wetting the bed, Mom. Madi hasn't wet the bed in years! The regular medication is not working so I doubt this is just the flu.” Clarke honked at the slow car in front of her once the lights turned green.

“Clarke, drive safely,” Abby advised. “I need you to relax for a sec. It’s best that you go check with Dr. Lightbourne. Right now those symptoms could mean a bunch of things, so once the tests are out they can treat Madi, alright?”

“I know. It’s just hard seeing her like that, Mom. You know how much she loves winter but this year there is no spark.” Clarke squeezed the steering wheel. Something in her gut was telling Clarke that something was wrong, but what? She really wasn’t sure.

“I’m gonna page Dr. Lightbourne so you can take Madi through the ER, okay? It will be faster that way.”

“Okay, love you, Mom,” Clarke said before ending the call. She looked at the rearview mirror seeing her daughter so tired. “You'll be okay sweetheart. Hang in there.”

-oo-

Luckily, the ER wasn’t in a state of usual chaos. Nurses were tending their patients, and a few doctors were making their rounds.

Everything seemed pristine in the white medical room, far from the madness that occurred six years ago during Hurricane Jason.

Dr. Josephine Lightbourne, a pediatrician in her mid-thirties, read the lab results in her hands while Madi was tended to in one of the emergency beds by a nurse.

Josephine shook her head as if caught by surprise, disbelief written on  her face.

Clarke didn’t like that look at all.

“Josephine? What’s going on with Madi?” Clarke asked with a slight tremor in her voice.

Dr. Lightbourne looked at Clarke and approached her. “Let’s talk in my office,” she said, then stopped at the nurses station. “Could you page Dr. Griffin and tell her to meet me in my office, please.”

“Wha- why?” Clarke followed the doctor completely confused.

“Just come with me, Clarke.” Josephine said nothing else, only guiding Clarke to the pediatrics wing and into her office.

Josephine opened the door and invited Clarke to come in, a few minutes later the Chief of Surgery arrived.

“Dr. Lightbourne, why am I here?” Abby realized that Clarke was in the office.

“Please, take a seat.” Josephine offered before typing on her computer. “Once you brought Madi I ordered a blood test. However, by the symptoms you described – proteinuria, feeding difficulties, and abdominal distention didn’t make much sense to me considering Madi was healthy in her previous general tests, so I ordered an ultrasound and uh, I found this.” Josephine turned the computer screen towards both Griffin women.

Abby’s eyes immediately widened while Clarke was still lost on what she was supposed to be seeing.

“What the-”

Josephine nodded, “I have no idea why this wasn’t in the prenatal scans of Madi. She should have gotten the renal scans immediately after birth to confirm this.”

“Confirm what?” Clarke asked, her heart beating so fast it was about to burst in her chest.

“MCDK,” Abby said, frowning. “Did you order the scans?” Abby immediately turned into doctor mode, which Clarke hated.

“I did. It seems it was unilateral due to the underdevelopment of the right kidney, but it seems there is glomerulonephritis in the left one. We need some renal scans to see what’s going on, but it looks to me there is no-”

Clarke stood up abruptly hitting the desk, “Can you speak English for fuck’s sake!? What is happening to my daughter!?”

Josephine and Abby exchanged a look and the younger doctor nodded.

Abby stood up and stared directly at Clarke. “Honey, Madi suffered from what is called a Multicystic Dysplastic Kidney during her early development, which means only one of her kidneys managed to develop without cysts; however, the kidney she has left is not working properly due to severe inflammation and might cause renal failure if we don’t intervene.”

Clarke was paralyzed, her body began to shake. “What? Gosh, no! There has to be something we can do!” Clarke cried.

“Kidney transplant could give her the best chance. Since you're the mother, you're the perfect candidate, Clarke.” Josephine explained. “It should be compatible and you and Madi both can live with one kidney. Madi would need dialysis to make sure the new kidney works as it should, and with the proper medical care and technology we have today the chances of survival are very high.”

“Oh, God! I’m not losing my baby!” Clarke completely broke into a heartbreaking sob. “I’ll do anything!”

“We’ll do a matching test just to make sure the kidney is compatible and we’ll prepare the surgery as soon as possible, honey,” Abby added, giving Clarke a tight hug. “Madi is strong, baby. She’ll get through this.”

“Okay, tell me what I need to do now.”

-oo-

Soft snow could be seen falling through the small window of the hospital. The orange sky informed of the sun going already to rest as the stars began to make their shiny appearance.

The room was pretty much quiet, except for the voice of Clarke.

“The princess wasn’t happy being taken hostage, but the warrior promised to return her safely once the evil King gave up on his war. All the warrior wanted was for the princess’ people to leave them in peace.” Clarke read, moving to the next page. “Soon, the princess got to know everyone in the warriors’ village and realized that they weren’t so different after all. That the warrior was not as savage as she thought, but rather a person with a good heart.”

Madi yawned, but she refused to close her eyes. “I like the warrior, Mommy. Is she going to be friends with the princess?” Madi asked.

Clarke chuckled, “We’ll find out another day, baby. You need to rest.”

“I’m not sleepy, Mommy.” Madi’s eyes didn’t get the memo, as they closed slowly.

“Of course you’re not.”

“Is Auntie Rae coming soon? She promised we’d build a new brick castle for the princess, Mommy!” Madi was fighting hard to not fall asleep, but the disease had tired her so much. It pained Clarke to see her bright star so dimmed; her little arm connected to the IV to keep her vitals steady.

“Soon, baby. Aunty Raven is coming tomorrow. For now, dream on, sweetie.”

Clarke kissed Madi’s brown mop of hair as the child fell asleep in her bed. Clarke closed the storybook and left it back on the night table. They had been moved to a private room at Polis General Hospital while Clarke waited for the result of her test and set a date for the surgery of her daughter.

“You’ll get well soon, baby. I swear nothing is going to happen to you while Mommy’s here.” Clarke whispered gently as she removed herself from the bed and adjusted the blanket to cover her sweet girl.

A knock on the door distracted Clarke and her mother peeked through the door before coming inside.

“Hey, how is she?” Abby asked softly, not wanting to wake up the little girl.

“She’s cranky, and wants to go home.” Clarke wiped the tears that escaped her watery blue eyes. “When are we doing the surgery, Mom?”

Abby licked her lips, “Sweetie, come let’s talk.”

Clarke made sure to wash her face before she followed her mother through the large corridor of the hospital back to Abby’s office. Clarke couldn’t help but notice the looks of curiosity from some nurses, and pity from others.

To Clarke’s surprise, the Chief of Staff, Dr. Marcus Kane, was also in the office.

“Dr. Kane, what a surprise!” Clarke accepted the handshake offered by Marcus, who greeted her in return.

“It’s good to see you, Clarke.” The experienced doctor greeted her with a formal smile. Marcus had been a family friend for years and Clarke trusted him deeply.

“So when are we doing this, Mom?”

Marcus cleared his throat. He scratched his ashen beard and invited Clarke to sit.

“Clarke, you cannot be a donor.”

Clarke gasped, “Impossible! There has to be something wrong!”

“Clarke, please listen to-” Abby tried to calm Clarke down.

“Is it Finn? If I have to search for his cheating ass and make him give his kidney I will, Mom!” Clarke was already heading for the door on her way to Arkadia.

Marcus followed Clarke and gently took her hand. He cupped Clarke’s face like a father would do to a daughter to regain her attention.

“She’s not your daughter.” Marcus dropped the metaphorical bomb.

Silence.

A deafening silence filled the lackluster office.

Clarke was completely stunned by the sudden news.

“What? Are you kidding me? She’s my daughter!” Clarke raised her voice already up in arms, trying to distance herself from Marcus.

“Clarke, Madi isn’t your biological daughter.” Abby quickly explained. “We did a DNA test with the sample we took from you earlier that confirms you’re not related.”

Clarke shook her head, denial already filling her thoughts. “Huh? This is insane. Madi is MINE!”

Marcus reached again for Clarke and grabbed her gently by the shoulders to keep Clarke steady. “Six years ago, in this same hospital, another woman gave birth. Same day, same time. During Hurricane Jason, staff was barely able to keep afloat and apparently there was a mix-up in the documentation. Two baby girls were registered, but to the wrong mothers.” Marcus let out a long sigh and took a step back giving time to Clarke to process.

“Nope. No, no no no. This is all a joke, right?” Clarke looked at her mother pleadingly for this to be a huge mistake.

“I’m sorry, sweetheart. I couldn’t believe this either, but it’s true. There was another baby girl born at the same time as Madi. Her exams were the ones we used; the reason why there was no evidence prior to the MCDK disease.”

“And where is this other woman? Does she have my biological child?” Clarke asked, voice breaking, her face so pale Abby was afraid her daughter was going to faint.

Marcus took a deep breath, exhaling softly. Hoping to soften the next blow. “That child died not too long after birth. SIDS.”

“Sudden death infant syndrome,” Abby quickly translated for Clarke.

Everything went black for a second and Marcus quickly caught Clarke before she fell, guiding her to a chair while Abby poured some water into a cup, offering it to Clarke.

“Drink, sweetheart.”

Clarke took a few gulps of the offered water. She sniffed hard and soon tears were welling up in her eyes. Clarke covered her mouth in disbelief, and so many emotions crossed her mind - guilt, pain, shame; but she had to be strong in this moment for her living daughter. There would be time to grieve.

Madison Abigail Griffin was her baby girl and nothing was going to change that.

“Who’s Madi’s biological mother? She can be the donor, right?”

“Yes, we hope she’s a perfect match. All we need to do is confirm Madi’s medical condition and get the donor to start the process right away.” Abby said, rubbing soothing circles to Clarke’s back. “The hospital will try to contact her and uh, explain this situation.”

“What’s her name?” Clarke asked with one goal in mind. Saving her daughter no matter the cost.

“Alexandria Woods,” Marcus answered.

Chapter Text

The sun filtered through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the offices of Trikru Law Firm. In the conference room, there was a tension you could cut with a knife as Alexandria Woods, sharply dressed in a black suit, gazed at the executive of Azgeda Inc.

“Lexa, I don’t think you understand the favor we’re doing for Ms. Cadogan by acquiring EcoWidgets.” Roan Winters, son of the CEO of Azgeda Inc. smiled smugly.

Lexa walked around the mahogany conference table, hands inside her black pants pockets as she looked at the opposite side of the table. “You took advantage of Ms. Cadogan in her desperation to save her small business. You damn well know the valuation is inflated because you’ve been poaching her clients for months!”

Roan chuckled, shaking his head, and adjusting his ponytail dismissively. “It's a competitive strategy. You heard of that, Lexa? Azgeda is the solution.”

Callie shifted uneasily in the chair, but Lexa rested her hand on her shoulder to offer reassurance. “Solution? More like a takeover. You plan to strip their assets and leave them in ruins. That’s not saving a business; that’s a hostile grab.”

Roan adjusted his tie, then with a cold smile, he said, “Oh, please. It’s called business. If they can’t keep up, it’s their fault. We’re just seizing an opportunity.” 

Lexa’s green eyes harden. “You’re seizing desperation. This isn’t just opportunism; it’s predatory. You’re trying to capitalize on their vulnerability while pretending to be a hero.”

Roan huffed, seeming more agitated as the vein in his temple became swollen with blood. “You think you can outsmart me? This is a game, Lexa, and I know how to play it.”

“This isn’t a game for Ms. Cadogan. If you move forward with this acquisition, you’re inviting lawsuits and backlash that could ruin your company too.”

Roan scoffed, “You think you can scare me with legal threats? We both know how easy it is to bend the rules.”

“But that’s where you’re wrong. You might think you can skirt the law, but eventually, the consequences catch up. You’ll be the one holding the bag when this blows up.”

Roan seemed more desperate now. “I have connections. I can smooth things over if it comes to that.”

Lexa immediately striked back. “Connections won’t save you when the public turns against you. People talk, Roan. You’re risking everything for a deal that could implode at any moment.”

“You’re just playing the moral high ground, Lexa. But in the end, it’s about who comes out on top.” Roan smirked, his cold blue eyes seizing Lexa from head to toe, making her shiver in disgust.

“And at what cost? If you proceed, you’ll destroy more than just a company. You’ll ruin lives.” Lexa growled leaning into the table.

That seemed to piss off Roan who abruptly stood up, “You’re underestimating me, Lexa. I won’t back down.”

“Neither will I. But I’ll be fighting for something worth protecting. You may think you have the upper hand, but I know the truth, and it’s not on your side.”

Roan stormed out grabbing his suitcase and leaving the conference office in complete silence.

Callie released the air she was holding and Lexa offered a kind smile in return.

“Thank you, Lexa. I already lost hope, but you stood up to one of the biggest companies in the country.”

“Not me, you did Callie. Your business deserves to thrive, not just survive.” Lexa shook hands with her client and walked out of the conference room towards the desk of her assistant and friend, Luna Waters.

“What on earth did you just do to Roan Winters, Woods?” Luna asked, offering a steaming cup of coffee to Ms. Cadogan and another to Lexa.

Lexa shrugged, taking a sip of the drink. “Nothing he didn’t deserve. Please escort Ms. Cadogan to the exit once she reviews the documentation for the final meeting. Do I have anything else pending for today?”

“Nope, no more clients. You just got a call from Dr. Marcus Kane at Polis General. He said to return his call to this number asap.” Luna passed the information to Lexa.

“Thanks, Lu. I’ll be in my office.”

-oo-

It was already lunchtime when Lexa finished filling out some of the pending emails she had to return this week. Her stomach was rumbling, a regular occurrence for her.

She eyed the piece of paper holding the phone number Luna gave her earlier and was about to call the doctor when Anya Stone, the family lawyer of their firm, came bustling with her usual arrogance.

Lexa rolled her eyes, “How'd it go?”

Anya was grinning ear to ear. Her best friend and mentor was so cocky sometimes. Lexa met Anya Stone in college when she was just a noob. She was so lost and Anya, who was in her third year of law school, took her under her wing. Since then the two have been inseparable. Together they decided to open their law firm, and from a tiny office in Tondc, they ended up doubling their clients and moved to downtown Polis.

“It was a whole circus. The judge had to remind the court that this wasn’t a reality TV show.”

Lexa snorted, leaning in her chair. “When is it not?”

Anya sat in the chair in front of Lexa’s desk. “The good thing is we pulled through. The judge granted us temporary custody.”

“Good job, Ahn. A win is a win in my book.” Lexa congratulated her friend.

“Definitely. Now I need to prep for mediation next week. You know how that is.” Anya stretched her long ass legs. “Heard you spook Roan, huh?”

Lexa chuckled, grabbing the phone and dialing Dr. Kane. “I won’t let him walk all over our clients. Gotta show him we will fight head to head. Now gimme a sec, let me make this call, and then we can go grab lunch.”

“Sure thing, Lex.”

The phone rang. Lexa waited, phone pressed to her ear as the call finally connected. “Hello? Dr. Marcus Kane? This is Lexa Woods.”

Lexa listened, “Ah, wait. If this isn’t about a legal consultation, then what is this all about?”

Anya sat up straight in her chair as she observed her friend turn slightly paler.

“About my,” Lexa swallowed hard. “I don’t understand, Dr. Kane. “Right now? I uh, sure I can be there.” Lexa checked her wristwatch. “Does 45 minutes sound alright? Ok, see you there, doctor.” Lexa ended the call. She was shaking and Anya stood up to check up on her friend.

“Lex? What’s wrong?”

“I don’t know,” Lexa spoke softly. “Dr. Kane said it has to do with Tris.”

Anya frowned, her hazel eyes searching for a sign that Lexa was joking, but that of course didn’t make sense, because she knew personally the toll that losing Tris cost Lexa.

“Could it be some kind of follow-up?” Anya wondered aloud.

“Dr. Kane said he will meet with me to talk about what happened six years ago. That it’s a matter of urgency.” Lexa stood up shaking using both of her hands over the desk to keep her balance.

“Oh hell no, you’re not driving like that. I’ll take you to Polis General and we can grab something quick to eat on the way. Come on.” Anya pulled Lexa towards the exit, who seemed paralyzed in fear.

“Hey, Luna. No more calls for today.” Anya instructed Lexa’s assistant as they headed to the parking lot.

Lexa’s heartbeat was going fast, so fast she was afraid she was going to have a heart attack. She had no idea what could have happened to be called regarding the birth of her daughter after all this time.

“Try to relax, okay?” Anya turned the engine on, adjusting the heat since it was snowing today and the streets were crazier the closer they got to Christmas.

“Okay,” Lexa said, staring out the window as the car abandoned the parking lot of their law firm and towards the place where Lexa lost a piece of her heart.

-oo-

Lexa looked at the building from the parking lot. Hands inside the suit jacket she wore to fight against the cold of the late-afternoon. She didn’t like hospitals for a reason. Closing her eyes Lexa tried to center herself, hoping to avoid looking into memories lodged deep down in her head that might send her to a time where she had hope. She could almost smell the sterile smell of the delivery room, the beeping monitors, the chaos around her. Lexa opened her eyes as Anya touched her shoulder.

“Come on, let’s go.”

Lexa nodded crossing the threshold of the hospital and was immediately overcome with nausea as the smell of antiseptic hit her senses. Memories came back faster, so intense that she could almost feel the weight of her baby girl in her arms and then, the despair of losing Tris weighing her down like an anchor. Lexa shook her head, fighting against the past that tried to swallow her down to the dark days that followed.

“Hi, we’re looking for Dr. Marcus Kane. Alexandria Woods is here to see him.” Anya stopped at the nurses' station while Lexa was still far away in her mind.

The nurse made a quick call announcing Lexa’s presence and soon they were directed to another floor.

Lexa followed Anya, whose longer steps kept Lexa slightly behind, still lost in memories. That was until she bumped into Anya’s back, having stopped unexpectedly.

A man in his 50s was waiting outside an office. He had tousled brown hair and eyes. His face was covered by a beard.

“Thank you for coming, I’m Marcus Kane, Chief of Staff at Polis General Hospital. Please come inside.” He said calmly, yet somber.

“I’m Anya Stone and this is Lexa Woods.” Anya introduced them, shaking the doctor’s hand.

Lexa and Anya were invited into a simple office where a sturdy desk cluttered with files and a computer welcomed them. The doctor offered them the available chairs and they sat.

“I don’t understand why I’m here, Dr. Kane,” Lexa said, hoping to hide some of her anxiousness.

Marcus nodded and he cleared his throat. “To be honest I’m not sure how to disclose this, but we need your help, Ms. Woods. A child needs your help.”

Lexa frowned, not understanding a thing. “My help? You were clear this was not a business consultation.”

“It is not.” Marcus hurried to say. He took a deep breath, choosing his words carefully. “Six years ago you gave birth. That same night, another woman did the same. Two baby girls were born on October 31st.”

Lexa felt an unease enveloped her, she leaned forward in her chair as her heart raced.

“We made a mistake,” Marcus said. “An error in our procedures at the time of your delivery.”

“Okay, Dr. Kane, what the fuck are you saying?” Anya asked, exasperated.

Marcus looked Lexa in the eye and with utter remorse he explained what happened. “That night we accidentally switched the paperwork of your birth and Ms. Griffin’s. We ended up switching the two baby girls.”

Lexa gasped in utter disbelief; Anya’s mouth agape in shock.

“My Tris died!” Lexa growled. “How dare you bring this up!”

“No, Ms. Woods. Your daughter is alive.”

-oo-

Lexa stared at the cup of coffee, afraid that if she took a sip she was going to feel sick.

Anya was absentmindedly stirring her cup of hot liquid. She was just as confused and angry as Lexa.

All the sounds around the hospital cafeteria were muted by the incoming headache Lexa was starting to develop.

“How are you feeling?” Anya asked after a while.

“I can’t believe any of this, Anya. I have a daughter and she’s alive?” Lexa said in a whisper.

Anya reached for Lexa’s hand. “It’s a lot to take in, Lex. If you need more time we can tell Dr. Kane to wait some more.”

Lexa inhaled sharply, as she felt herself run out of oxygen. “My biological daughter is alive and is also very sick, Anya. I can’t waste time.” Lexa fisted her hand. The impotence and pain mixing with a sliver of hope felt so wrong.

“Gosh, I’ve mourned my daughter for so long and now… This feels so wrong, Anya. To feel happiness and hope?” Lexa sighed.

“Your dream of becoming a mother is still alive in this same hospital, Lex. What are you going to do?” Anya asked carefully.

“I’m not going to let her die. Even if we weren’t related I cannot let that girl down.” Lexa said with conviction. “I’m scared though. How do I approach this? Madison Griffin has a family. A mother. I’m a stranger to her.” Tears pricked at the corner of Lexa’s eyes.

“Lexa, you’re the biological mother of that child! You have all legal rights and power to claim the full custody of that girl.” Anya informed in her usual lawyer voice which kind of annoyed Lexa.

Exasperated, Lexa hit the table. “Anya, you’re not here as my lawyer but as my friend. Just, tell Dr. Kane that I’m ready to talk with the Griffins and that I will sign any form needed for the exams and transplant procedure.”

Anya nodded, standing up from the table leaving Lexa momentarily alone with her thoughts.

Lexa was trying to picture herself with the young girl. A six-year-old girl who already had dreams and favorite toys. Lexa began to sob; she had lost so much already. So many birthdays, the little accomplishments Madison achieved, and her struggles too. Lexa was so behind but also wanted to be there from now on. To make sure that her daughter would have everything that was needed for her survival and recovery. Maybe one day, to earn her love as well.

“Lexa? They are waiting for you.” Anya returned a few minutes later. “Follow me.”

Lexa swallowed hard and walked after Anya. This time they were in another hall, where the conference room awaited them.

“You ready?” Anya eyed Lexa with concern. “I have your back, Lex. Always.”

“I know. I just… fuck this is hard.” Lexa clenched and unclenched her fists. “Okay. Let’s meet the Griffins.”

-oo-

Inside the conference room, there was a long table. Marcus Kane was talking quietly with another woman with brown hair. There were two other women seated at one of the ends of the table, so Lexa and Anya headed to the opposite side.

The air felt tense, like nobody wanted to make sudden moves and break the stillness between the two parties.

“Well, um, allow me to make the introductions,” Marcus focused on Lexa and Anya. “Ms. Woods and Ms. Stone, this is my colleague and Chief of Surgery Abigail Griffin, grandmother of the child.”

Abby nodded politely.

Marcus took a step to the side, “This is Raven Reyes.”

The woman with brown eyes and dark hair stood up, crossing her arms in front of her chest. “Madi’s godmother,” the Latina announced with a slight challenge in her tone.

“Right,” Marcus then moved next to the blonde woman. He rested his hand over her shoulder giving it a gentle squeeze. “This is Clarke Griffin.”

Lexa looked into blue eyes that stared at her carefully. There was pain in them, but also caution and fear.

“This is Alexandria Woods and her friend, Anya Stone.” Marcus then walked to the center of the table and pulled a chair to sit.

“We’re here to make the best decisions regarding Madi’s health,” Marcus announced. “Ms. Woods has agreed to proceed with the transplant once the exams confirm compatibility.”

Lexa focused her attention on the blonde while Dr. Kane parroted the medical information about the transplant. Clarke Griffin was around Lexa’s age, if Lexa guessed correctly, and her body language was guarded, closed off, clearly on the defensive and ready to attack like a wounded animal. This woman raised Lexa’s daughter as her own. Loved her and cared for her.

Based on her observations Lexa concluded that Clarke Griffin had to be a good mother.

“Lexa will authorize and sign any paperwork related to the girl’s hospitalization while we work on the custody details,” Anya interjected into whatever it was Dr. Kane was talking about, while Lexa was staring at the blonde, causing all hell to break loose.

The blonde stood up abruptly, “Excuse me? Custody? You’re not taking my daughter away from me!”

“Sorry to inform you, Blondie, the mother of the child is Lexa Woods and she’ll take control of everything about the child’s welfare from now on.” Anya rebutted with confidence matching Clarke’s energy.

“Over my dead body, Cheekbones!” The raven-haired woman stood up as well, already pointing menacing fingers at the two of them.

“Okay, let’s calm down!” Marcus stood up trying to regain control of the discussion, but it was in vain.

“Madi is my daughter! I am her mother!” Clarke snarled and for one second Lexa thought the woman was going to bite her head off.

“ENOUGH!”

Lexa stood up, chair scraping on the floor. She turned towards Anya first. “For fuck’s sake, Ahn. This is not what we need right now.” She then looked at the rest of the people around. “May I have a moment of privacy to talk with Mrs. Griffin?” Lexa asked, already tired of this mess of emotions.

“Clarke?” Raven eyed her friend first.

Clarke nodded in response. “It’s okay, Rae. Stay with Madi, I’ll be there in a bit.”

“Alright. Just call if that psycho tries anything else.” Raven narrowed her eyes at Anya before she left the room.

“Anya? Just go and talk to Dr. Kane about how Polis General is going to cover every single expense before I sue their asses. If I need anything else I’ll let you know.”

“Okay.” Anya grabbed her things and left as well.

“I’ll go with Marcus, honey.” Abby kissed the top of Clarke’s head before she left with Marcus right behind.

And then, there were two.

-oo-

The quietness was deafening. Lexa didn’t even want to breathe too hard, afraid of breaking the stalemate.

This was the most important battle of Lexa’s life. To reach an agreement with the woman who was the world of her daughter. Roan was a piece of cake. But Clarke Griffin? Lexa was about to find out.

Minutes passed by, maybe hours, Lexa didn’t know. She was simply lost in the blue eyes of the blonde woman. There was a clear message in them, mess with me and I’m going to rip your heart out, or something like that.

Lexa lifted her chin, straightened herself up, removed her suit jacket, and rolled the sleeves of her button-up before approaching slowly.

“Mrs. Griffin, I’m truly sorry about that, um, my friend Anya. She’s very protective of me after I, um uuh. Anyway, I’m not here to take Madi. I’m not going to fight you for full custody. I mean, I hope we can reach an agreement in the future to share custody, but that’s for later. I know the excruciating pain of what it is to lose a child.” 

Lexa felt a lump in her throat. She blinked away the tears forming and focused again on the blue of the other woman’s eyes. “I don’t want to cause you that pain. I’m here to ask you to give me a chance to be the mother I thought I’d never be. Please.”

Lexa couldn’t keep her composure anymore. The hurt and the memories were too much and she broke like a dam. Lexa couldn’t hold the blonde’s stare anymore.

And then, the warmth of a hand surrounded her own. Lexa lifted her verdant gray eyes again to meet a blue watery gaze.

“It’s okay. We’re going to get through this together. Madi is my universe, but she’s also yours. There will be time for… What was her name? Clarke asked with a broken voice.

Lexa swallowed. “Tris.”

The blonde burst into a full-on cry and Lexa felt so much empathy for this woman who was a complete stranger, but who had so much love already for the daughter that never was. Her Tris.

No. Their Tris.

Lexa gently pulled the woman closer and held her in a warm and kind embrace. Wrapping each other in the middle of a storm of emotions. Crying and comforting each other in their mutual pain. They were anchored together. Holding each other to avoid falling into the abyss that was despair. The weight of unspoken emotions hanging in the air.

“We’re going to get through this, Mrs. Griffin,” Lexa whispered as she soothed the other woman, stroking her back gently.

“Clarke,” the blonde replied softly as the tension simmered beneath the surface.

“Clarke,” Lexa tasted the name for the first time. She liked it. “Your daughter is going to be okay,” Lexa affirmed with hope.

Clarke pulled back, still holding Lexa’s shoulders. They held each other's gaze and the warmth they shared felt almost electric.

With a tender smile, Clarke replied, “Our daughter.”

That brought out a genuine smile from Lexa.

It made her feel that things were going to be alright.

Chapter Text

The coffee shop was buzzing with the usual energy of an early morning. The atmosphere was cozy and the air smelled of fresh coffee and baked goods.

Clarke was drinking a latte at a wooden table in a corner while observing other patrons using their computers and drinking their espressos near the entrance.

“Damn, she’s loaded, Griffin!” Raven turned around her laptop and showed Clarke the screen.

“Huh?” Clarke looked at her best friend Raven, who immediately traveled from Arkadia to be with her goddaughter and support them in these dire times.

“Woods! Your baby’s new Mamacita. She and Cheekbones are the main partners of Trikru Law Firm. This woman battles with big ass corporations. That must be one hell of a paycheck she gets.” Raven returned to her laptop and continued exploring the law website.

“Raven, I don't care about that. I’m just relieved that Lexa’s going to donate the kidney to Madi.” Clarke was hopeful, after the exams revealed that Lexa was indeed the ideal candidate, everything was moving fast to prepare the little girl for her surgery. “Hmm, not much about them in social media other than their website, and uh, I got two profiles on Instagram but they are private.”

“Raven, can you stop stalking her?” Clarke drank from her latte, letting the warmth relax her some more. She looked out through the window to see more snow coming down. Clarke hoped that Madi would be home for the holidays, surrounded by the people who cared about her. Which now included Lexa Woods.

Raven peaked above the screen of her laptop to look at Clarke, “Hey. I’m watching over you and Madi. Can’t let them get close to my fave kiddo without doing a quick background check.” Raven took a bite of her chocolate croissant and continued her investigation.

Clarke rolled her eyes when she felt her cell phone vibrate.

Lexa: Hello, Clarke. Good morning. I’m going to be at the hospital around 10 am to meet Madi. Is that ok with you?

Clarke read the message and chuckled at the formality of Lexa. There was a level of trepidation to get to know her deeply. Lexa had asked Clarke if she could meet Madi before the surgery, which excited and terrified her. After Lexa and her exchanged phone numbers a few days ago, they agreed to try to build a positive relationship for the sake of their daughter and slowly introduce Lexa to make a smooth transition of this new component in their little family.

Clarke: Hi, Lexa. I’m at the nearby coffee shop and should be there before you arrive and talk with Madi. We can discuss how to approach her. Is that okay?

Lexa: More than okay. Thank you. See you soon, then.

Clarke returned her attention to her friend who was staring at her with suspicion.

“What?”

“I’m watching you, Griff. Tapping on the phone like a schoolgirl chatting with a crush. Who was it? Sweet first-grade teacher Ms. Summers?” Raven leaned into the table. Brown eyes sharp like a hawk.

“It was Lexa, dumbass. Lexa is coming to meet Madi and I’m nervous about that.” Clarke admitted, hiding her insecurities behind the cup of coffee.

“Clarke, there’s nothing to worry about. Madi’s a good kid.” Raven shrugged.

“How do I tell her that I’m not her mother?” Clarke adjusted the sleeves of her cardigan to warm her hands a bit. Fear of not knowing how her baby would react scared Clarke to death.

“Clarke, you are her mother. Not by blood but by bond. Nothing is going to change that.” Raven closed the lid of her laptop and took Clarke’s hand. “Don’t rush things. My advice? Don’t tell her yet. One day, once all this mess is in the past and Madi is mature enough, then she’ll be able to grasp the major fuck up of the hospital, but Madi will never doubt you’re her mommy, Clarke.”

“Are you sure?” Clarke was hesitant, she has always been truthful with her daughter.

“Positive. Maybe you should ask Niylah for some advice. She has a degree in psychology, isn’t that right?”

“Yup. She understands Madi very well and Madi adores her teacher. Maybe I’ll do that.” Clarke smiled, thankful for Raven.

“Maybe ask her out for a coffee and who knows, maybe things will take a more interesting turn.” Raven wiggled her eyebrows suggestively.

Clarke swatted Raven’s hand away. “I’m not going to date Niylah. She’s a wonderful friend and Madi’s teacher. Not going to blow that up for whatever.”

“Aw come on! Have you seen her heart eyes?”

“Clearly no. Now, Reyes, shut it; let’s go back to the hospital. Madi’s waiting for us.”

-oo-

The monitor beeped constantly at a steady rhythm as Clarke held Madi’s hand in hers. Clarke was finishing the story of the current book that Madi was obsessed with while they waited for her surgery.

“The warrior fought every soldier that came after them. The clash of swords was intense, but the warrior knew that if she wanted to rescue the princess, it was through the soldiers blocking the castle.” Clarke read as she turned to the next page. “The warrior fought bravely and even when her heart was filled with fear, it also beat with love for the princess. The warrior was going to rescue her no matter what.”

Madi raised her brows impressed. “Woah, mommy! The warrior is very brave.”

Clarke stared into the eyes of her daughter– a blend of green and tints of gray and gold. So pure and honest. That’s when it clicked for Clarke why she trusted Lexa and felt at ease with her so quickly. Because those same eyes stared at her with so much pain and hope a few days ago in the body of said woman.

Madi had Lexa’s eyes.

That caused such turmoil in her heart because it reminded her that Madi wasn’t fully hers.

“Mommy?”

Clarke blinked away the threatening tears and smiled, hoping her kid wasn’t aware of the quirks on her face. “Yes, baby. Brave like you. You’re going to get into that surgery and you’re going to fight hard. Isn’t that right, baby?”

Madi readied her tiny fist. “Yes, Mommy! I’m like the warrior too!” Madi giggled and Clarke dropped a kiss in her messy brunette hair.

“You’ll feel much better once Dr. Josie takes care of you, sweetheart. Don’t be afraid. Mommy is going to be with you all the way.”

“Am I going to get superpowers, Mommy?” Madi asked with eagerness.

Clarke chuckled, shaking her head no. “Superpowers? I don’t think so, but probably a bunch of energy for sure.”

“I want to go home soon. We have to put up our Christmas tree, Mommy. I have to make Santa my list!” Madi bit her lower lip concerned.

“Hey, no worries. I promise you we have time to do all that. You’ve been very good this year Madi. Or haven’t you?” Clarke asked teasingly.

Madi chuckled mischievously and Clarke suddenly attacked her with a tickle attack.

Madi cackled in laughter as Clarke tickled her with vigor.

 A knock on the door interrupted their fun and Raven peeked inside.

“Alright, time to break up the tickle fight!” Raven came inside. “Griff, Lexa is waiting for you outside. I’ll finish reading the story to Madi in the meantime.”

“Aunty Rae!” Madi shouted.

“Hey, Mads! Let’s continue reading while your mom deals with some stuff, okay?” Raven took Clarke’s place in the nearby chair and grabbed the storybook.

“Aunty, I want a sword like that!” Madi pointed immediately to the illustration in the book.

Raven perked her brow. “You do? Hmm, I might think about it.”

“Raven! No pointy objects in the house.” Clarke scolded as she retreated outside.

-oo-

Clarke walked outside the hospital room and found Lexa pacing back and forth, hands inside her pants pockets looking like a nervous wreck.

“Lexa?”

Lexa stopped abruptly and met Clarke’s gaze.

“Hi, uh, Clarke it's good to see you.” Lexa approached and offered her hand in greeting.

Clarke greeted her with a firm handshake. “Hello, Lexa. Are you okay?”

Lexa snorted, “I’m about to have a heart attack, but I guess I’m as okay as I can be.”

“We’ll chat first with Madi’s doctors and then you can come and meet Madi. Is that okay?”

“Sure. Anya will be here soon, I ah.” Lexa rubbed the back of her neck trying to ease the likely tension she was having. “I got Madi a few gifts if you don’t mind?”

“Oh, no. It’s fine.”

Lexa sighed in relief. “Okay. Let’s go then.”

They headed to the pediatrics wing to chat with Dr. Lightbourne, who was in the company of the specialist that would take care of Madi’s surgery.

Lexa was quiet. However, Clarke noticed she was fidgeting with her hands a bit.

Clarke stopped in front of Dr. Lightbourne’s office and knocked three times. Lexa swallowed hard and Clarke felt tenderness for the other woman. She gently took one of Lexa’s hands. “We’re going to get through this together. You’re not alone.”

Lexa licked her lips, exhaling softly, and nodded affirmatively. “Thank you.”

Clarke let go and opened the door.

“Clarke, welcome!” Josephine met Clarke first, then she faced Lexa. “You must be Ms. Woods. We’re truly shocked about what happened, but I assure you we have taken care of Madi since she was a baby.” Josephine clarified right away.

“I appreciate that.” Lexa greeted her and sat.

“This is my colleague, Dr. Becca Franko, the nephrologist.”

“Nice to meet you both. As I was explaining to Dr. Lightbourne, we’ll begin hemodialysis for Madi tonight to aid her kidneys while we prep the transplant. We have adjusted the diet for Madi right now and with the treatment, she should feel slightly better.”

“Okay. Is Madi going to feel any discomfort during the dialysis?” Clarke asked.

Becca nodded no. “We’ll do it when she’s asleep. She won’t feel a thing. We already have her line ready so we won’t inconvenience her more than we have to.”

“Once the surgery is done, will Madi be able to return to school? I already talked with her teacher and she needs to know how long Madi will be at home so she can prepare the school material accordingly.”

“If things go as we hope, Madi will be back in 12 weeks,” Becca answered.

“So late February? Uff, she’s going to be pissy about that. She loves her classmates and teacher.”

“I bet, but she’s smart. She won’t risk delaying her return for misbehaving,” Josephine added.

“Any other concerns you might have?” Becca asked next.

“No, thank you. Lexa?” Clarke looked to where Lexa was sitting.

“No. I uh, I’m good. Excuse me.” Lexa stood up abruptly and retreated from the office.

Clarke thanked both doctors and followed after Lexa.

–––––––––––––––

Lexa leaned against the wall feeling useless. She truly was so behind and couldn’t articulate anything because she was completely lost.

“Lexa?” Clarke rested her hand on her shoulder. The warmth of her touch eased her insecurities a bit. “What’s wrong?”

“I’m sorry, Clarke. I’m such an idiot. I didn’t even consider Madi’s school or how she’d miss her friends. I was no help at all in there!” Lexa clenched her jaw, already chastising herself for being a failure of a parent.

“Lexa, you’re too hard on yourself.” Clarke stood in front of Lexa and lifted her chin to make her look into her face. “You’re going to get to know every aspect of Madi’s life. I promise you’ll learn what she likes and hates, just as I do. But we have to be patient and kind to each other as we learn to navigate this new relationship. We’re stuck together in this and I’m here for you. I hope we can at least become friends.”

Lexa was hypnotized, she had no words, but she felt like the weight on her shoulders lifted. Because Clarke was right. They were in this together. Lexa had been so hopeless for so long and Clarke carried this responsibility on her own all this time. It made sense what Clarke said, even when Lexa’s insecurities continued to nag in her mind

“I’d love that,” Lexa said sincerely. “I wouldn’t mind another friend.”

Clarke let go of Lexa and pointed with her head ahead. “Come on, let’s get you to Madi’s room.”

Lexa wondered if this was how Clarke spoke to Madi because it did wonders for her. Madi couldn’t be in better hands. Lexa had to trust that.

“There you are! I was tired of carrying these things. I look ridiculous!” Anya was in the waiting room holding a couple of balloons that read “Get well soon!,” and a mid-size plushie raccoon.

“Thanks, Ahn. I got it.” Lexa grabbed the gifts and checked on Clarke who went on the defensive as she noticed Anya. This was going to be a problem if Lexa didn’t mend this asap. If Clarke was going to be part of her life, at least in a co-parent capacity, Anya had to learn to behave and be nice to Clarke as well.

“Anya? Clarke.” Lexa stared daggers at her friend.

Anya cleared her throat. “Ms. Griffin. I uh, hope you forgive me for my outburst the other day. It’s great to see you.” Anya offered her hand but perked her brow. “But you on the other hand? I’m not so sure.” She said to Raven, who had peeked her head out. 

“Oh gosh, “ Lexa would face-palmed if her hands weren’t busy holding the gifts.

“If you behave, I behave, Flaca.” Clarke’s friend came out of nowhere and was in protective mode as far as Lexa could see.

“There’s no need for that, Rae. Let’s be civil, please.” Clarke was the voice of reason in the group. “Raven, stay here while I go in with Lexa. Be nice!”

Raven saluted, “No worries, Princess. I’ll keep this one company.”

Anya rolled her eyes and crossed her arms over her chest defensively. “I don’t need a babysitter.”

Raven turned, arching her brow. “Tranquila güerita, you stay in your corner and I’ll stay in mine.”

“Okay, come on Lexa. This way.” Clarke immediately turned around and Lexa followed, hoping Anya didn’t mess anything up with Clarke’s friend.

-oo-

“Okay, just to let you know, I discussed how to break the news to Madi with her teacher Niylah Summers, who is also a child psychologist. She recommended I introduce you as a new friend who will help her. Once Madi’s comfortable around you and you’ve earned her trust, that's when Niylah suggested disclosing your relationship to her.” Clarke spoke lowly, probably to avoid being eavesdropped by the girl inside the hospital room.

Lexa frowned, processing the information.

“I know this might not be what you want right now, Lexa.” Clarke immediately said.

“No, no. I get it, Clarke.” Lexa sighed, “I didn’t even consider that. You think about everything beforehand. I truly appreciate that. I hope I can learn from you how to be a good mother to Madi. I’ll do what the teacher says. She’s the expert. I’m just so lost right now and what if Madi doesn’t like me? Then what?”

“Trust her. Show her who you really are, Lexa. Madi has a keen eye. Let her choose you, okay?”

Lexa nodded.

Clarke opened the door slowly, “Baby?”

“Mommy!” Madi said with excitement and Lexa’s heartbeat increased double.

“I uh, I want you to meet somebody.” Clarke pushed the door open and stepped inside. “I want you to meet the person who’s going to donate her kidney to you. Madi, meet Lexa Woods.”

Madi sat on the bed and tilted her head frowning.

Once Lexa stepped inside and looked at the little girl in the bed she felt herself bursting with happiness. She took it slowly and followed Clarke towards the bed.

Clarke sat on the edge of the bed and held Madi’s hand in hers, leaving the nearby chair available for her.

“Hi, Madi. I’m Lexa. I uh, got these for you.” Lexa offered the gifts to the girl.

Madi studied Lexa, then she looked for assurance from her mother, Clarke; feeling insecure about Lexa’s intentions.

Lexa had to remind herself this was going to be a very slow process and hoped one day to be there for Madi just like Clarke was there for her. For now, she had to let the girl approach her, for as much as  she wanted to hug her right there Lexa had to be strong and follow Clarke’s advice.

“It’s okay, sweetheart. Lexa’s a friend and she’s here to help.”

“Okay, Mommy.” Only then did Madi accept the plushie, hugging it tightly into her body.

“Madi? What do we say?” Clarke arched her brow in that way mothers do.

“Thank you, Leksa!” Madi smiled and Lexa noticed the front teeth the little girl was missing, melting her on the spot.

“It’s Le-xa.” Clarke pronounced slower.

“Lek-sa!” Madi repeated wrongly again.

“It’s okay,” Lexa said with so much love already. “It’s nice to meet you, Madi. You’re a brave girl.” Lexa sat holding herself from crying.

“I’m a warrior, Leksa. Mommy, tell Leksa!” Madi squeezed the plushie, already moving its arms as if the raccoon was throwing punches left and right.

“Yes. She’s a brave warrior. Now um,” Clarke cleared her throat. Her voice broke as she continued. “I uh, I’m going to leave you two to get acquainted for a second. Mommy needs to go to the restroom. Be good, Madi.”

“Okay,” Madi said smiling.

Clarke rested her hand on Lexa’s shoulders and left her alone with her kid.

“Here, let me put the balloons over there so you can play with the raccoon better. Have you thought about a name?” Lexa asked as the girl played with the plushie making punching sounds.

POW POW!

Madi gasped. “A name?” She narrowed her eyes, her tongue peeked out the slightest. It was endearing.

“Where I’m from, we call it snacha.” Lexa commented trying to offer some help for the thinking girl.

“Snacha? Sounds funny.” Madi giggled. “I like it. Mr. Snacha say hi!”

“It’s nice to meet you too, Mr. Snacha.” Lexa offered her hand to the animal and Madi gave its paw in return. Madi laughed some more.

“So tell me, how’s school going?” Lexa asked, hoping to gather as much information from her kid.

“I’m a genius!” Madi said, making Lexa chuckle. That was a clear influence of Madi’s godmother for sure, if she read Raven Reyes right. “I miss my friends. I haven’t seen Hope and Jordan, and I miss Ms. Summers' stories.” Madi pouted.

“You’ll see them eventually. I’m glad to hear you have good friends. What do you like to do when you’re home? Do you like to play with dolls?” Lexa asked next, praying she didn’t upset the girl after reminiscing about her friends.

“Mommy got me a few dolls, but now I want a sword!” Madi kept playing innocently with the plush.

“A sword?” Lexa was now at a loss.

“Because I’m going to rescue the princess!” Madi said with conviction.

Now it was Lexa’s turn to be confused. “A princess?”

“Yup.” Madi left the raccoon and quickly went for the book on top of the nightstand and showed it to Lexa.

Once Lexa looked at the cover she understood. “The Princess and the Commander. That’s uh, something interesting.”

“You haven’t read it?” Madi asked, baffled; because who wouldn’t read a children’s book like this one?

“No, I don't know this story.”

Madi giggled and offered the book to Lexa, “Okay. I can let you borrow my book and when Mommy comes, she can read to both of us right where I left off.”

“You sure?” Lexa asked ready to devour this book for her daughter’s sake.

“Yup. You’re mommy’s friend. I know you’ll return it.” Madi said with such innocence. ”Or else my Aunty Rae will make you go boom!”

Lexa knew that was a promise.

“I’m in your debt, Madi. Thank you for trusting me with your storybook. I promise to return as soon as possible so we can read it together.”

“Yay!” Madi celebrated before grabbing the plush again, making more small talk with Lexa until Clarke came back.

-oo-

Lexa waited for Clarke who was chatting with her mother before the doctor went to her granddaughter’s room.

Lexa had such a wonderful time with Madi and couldn’t wait to meet her again.

“Hey, how are you?” Clarke asked after she finished with her mother.

“I still can’t believe that’s my girl. She’s fantastic!” Lexa meant every word.

“She’s a good one, isn’t she? You’re going to read that?” Clarke asked after noticing the storybook.

“I have to. She said you’re going to read it to us both once I catch up.” Lexa smiled.

“Of course, she said that. That child from hell! I told her explicitly no more stories until she caught up with schoolwork. So now I have to read to you both?”

Lexa laughed out loud. “Wow, she’s smart alright.”

“Sometimes too much.” Clarke resigned herself. “Anyway, I’m happy to know everything went well.”

“Me too. I can’t wait to spend some time with her. Maybe when she gets better we can discuss some visits too, if that’s alright?”

“Sure, um, we can discuss all of that when she’s back home.”

“I uh, I have to go back to work but um, please call me if Madi needs anything. I’m available 24/7, okay? Don’t hesitate to call me.” Lexa offered her hand once more before bidding farewell to Clarke.

“Of course. See you soon.” Clarke returned the gesture and waved before going back to their daughter’s side.

Lexa was going to work with her heart full for the first time in years. She hadn’t felt this level of happiness since she confirmed the IVF worked. Lexa walked like the luckiest woman on this planet and it was marvelous. She truly was on cloud nine.

Once she reached the waiting room she found Anya and Raven in a weird staring contest.

“Ah, Anya, thanks for waiting. I’m ready.” Lexa waited hoping she wasn’t interrupting something.

“About time. I was this close to committing murder.” Anya stretched a bit and came to meet Lexa.

“See you later, Raven.” Lexa waved goodbye and walked with Anya towards the parking lot.

“How was it?” Anya asked.

“She’s incredible. I love her so much already, Ahn. Madi is perfect!” Lexa was still in disbelief.

“Can’t wait to meet her too.” Anya patted Lexa’s back. “She must be one hell of a kid. Especially with that godmother of hers.”

“Oh yeah. I have no doubt.”

Lexa could already imagine all the birthdays and celebrations that she thought she would never get to enjoy. “I think I need to get shopping. Madi is going to need several things for her recovery and gosh, I think I should get myself some parenting books.”

“Woah, slow down, Lex. One step at a time. Don’t want you to get too crazy already.”

“I spent six years in total darkness, Ahn. You know I was barely surviving and now I have hope again. I don’t want to ruin this thing. I have to be the best mother I can be for Madi, Anya.” Lexa looked at her best friend with resolution

“You will, Lexa. One day at a time.” Anya gave Lexa a gentle squeeze before getting into the driver’s seat of her car.

Lexa looked once more towards the hospital. “I’ll become a mother you can be proud to call yours, Madi. I swear.”

Chapter Text

Clarke sat up suddenly as the nightmare she was having woke her up. She immediately looked towards the hospital bed where Madi was sleeping, making sure her chest was rising as the little girl breathed. The clock on the nightstand glowed in red at 3:07 am.

Only then did Clarke realize her daughter was safe. Madi was okay.

With shaky legs, Clarke stood up from the uncomfortable chaise, moving her neck to one side then the next, and headed to the restroom to wash her face.

She moved as silently as she could to avoid waking the exhausted girl. Clarke splashed some water onto her face and she looked at her reflection in the mirror. Some dark bags under her eyes greeted her, and the redness that had set in with the initial news of everything that happened was still present.

Slowly, Clarke touched her womb and sniffled before she broke again into ugly cries. It seemed no matter how many nights Clarke cried herself to sleep, there were still many more tears to be shed.

“I’m sorry, baby,” Clarke whispered to the heavens. “I’m so sorry I wasn’t there.” Clarke clearly recalled the eyes of her daughter from the day she was born as Clarke held her in her arms; the weight, the little noises, and her newborn whines before the nurses took her.

Then, she got another woman’s daughter and she raised her as her own. Clarke covered her mouth to avoid making more noise to stifle the sounds of the pain she felt in her heart.

Now the daughter she raised as her own was on the verge of dying if the transplant didn’t work. All her hopes were for that medical procedure to go well. Madi was going to go into surgery in the morning and Clarke was dreading it now more than ever. She was utterly scared of losing her baby girl.

With deep breaths Clarke tried to center herself. She washed her face one more time to get rid of the negative vibes she got from her dream. She dried herself with the nearby towel and returned to the bedside. Gently grabbing her fragile daughter’s arm, she felt the warmth and released all the fears in a long exhale.

Clarke already lost her ability to go back sleep so she returned to her chair and grabbed her tablet. She was a bit behind at work and decided to continue working on the characters she had to design for the project she had been tasked with alongside her team. 

Clarke had been working for Polis Animation Studios since she arrived in Polis, working under her boss, Lincoln Sage. He was an artist like herself and Lincoln’s passion for video games and animation made him open his own studio in Polis. Ever since Clarke started to work there, she felt she belonged with her team of animators and designers. She was thankful Lincoln had been so lenient when she requested time off work to deal with Madi’s illness. The least she could do now was try to catch up with her actual job and make sure she still could provide for her daughter. If Lexa dared to check on her finances, the biological mother of her child would realize that Clarke struggled financially. She feared that knowledge could push Lexa to request full custody of Madi, and Clarke wasn’t even sure she could get herself a good family lawyer if that came to be.

Clarke added more texture to the face of the character she was working on. Making sure that it looked realistic as the character was supposedly walking. Clarke moved her stylus and created a bit of flow for the clothing as well. As a 3D designer, her job was to make sure her work was as detailed as possible, double-checking that the movements and expressions were up to par with the company’s standards.

She couldn’t afford to lose this job. Clarke had to pay for everything - school materials, clothing, food, medication. Even though Abby tried to help, the responsibility had always been Clarke’s. That was her decision once she left Arkadia and Finn behind; she wouldn’t depend on anyone. But now things were changing. Having Lexa around, Clarke wasn’t sure how much involvement Lexa was going to have. The woman did offer to aid Clarke in anything Madi needed, but Clarke was afraid that if she accepted such help Lexa would soon realize that Madi would be better in her care and Clarke would never allow that. So here she was, working her ass off to guarantee a check and keep her daughter safe.

-oo-

As soon as the first rays of sunlight peeked through the curtains, the nurses came in to prepare Madi for surgery.

After her nightmare, Clarke couldn’t sleep and spent the rest of the early hours drawing. She was exhausted now.

She headed for Madi’s bed and caressed her forehead, kissing it.

“Hey, baby. The nurses are going to take you now. Mommy is going to wait for you, okay?” Clarke said as she caressed Madi with care.

“I’m afraid, Mommy.” Madi said, holding the sheets tighter.

“I know, baby. Don’t forget you’re my little warrior. Be strong, okay? Everything is going to be fine.”

“I’ll be there with you, Madi,” Josephine said as she checked the latest update of her patient’s chart.

“Is Lexa already here?” Clarke asked.

“She’s already in pre-operatory. Everything looks good here. Dr. Franko will proceed with the removal of Ms. Woods' kidney first, then she’ll proceed with Madi. Do you have any questions, Madi?”

“Is it going to hurt?” Madi asked with a slight tremble in her voice. Clarke immediately soothed her daughter, rubbing her back slowly.

“It’s going to be very smooth. You’ll be asleep and dreaming amazing things while the doctors make sure you get the organ. After? You might feel sleepy and tired, pain should be minimal but if it hurts, you let me or any adult know and I’ll be there to help you with it.” Josephine explained as clearly as possible.

“Is your friend Leksa going to miss her organ, Mommy?” Madi asked next.

Clarke chuckled, “I don’t think so, sweetheart. Lexa is giving it with so much love already, so let’s make sure you care for it from now on, okay?”

“I will, Mommy!”

“That’s my girl!” Clarke said proudly. She kissed and hugged Madi once more and took a step back to let the nurses begin transferring Madi to the pre-operation room.

“Grandma!” Madi jumped in her bed as soon as Abby came through the doors.

“Madi, honey. Everything is going to be fine.” Abby kissed her granddaughter.

“We’re ready, Dr. Lightbourne. I’ll be supervising every step of the way and Marcus, too.” Abby looked at Clarke. “Sweetheart, you should go home and get some rest, you look exhausted and this is going to take some time. I won’t move from the gallery, okay? I’ll be the first one to call you once Madi gets out.”

Clarke looked at Madi, who was already being tended by the nurses who were transferring her to the gurney.

“Okay, just please, Mom, if anything happens…”

Abby rested her hand on Clarke’s shoulder. “I’ll call you. Honey, get some sleep. Madi’s going to need you once she wakes up.”

“Fine. I’ll rest some but I’ll be back soon.”

“Alright. Time to get this young lady to get ready.” Abby left Clarke and headed towards Madi. “We’re going to get you ready, sweetie. Say bye to Mommy for now.” Abby ruffled her granddaughter’s hair.

Madi raised her hand and waved goodbye. “I’ll see you later, Mommy.”

“I love you, Madi. See you soon!”

Clarke watched as the nurses took the gurney away, along with a piece of her soul,  and she prayed to the heavens that everything went well.

_________________

Slowly, Lexa woke up. She felt like she had been asleep for days, and was tired and already fed up with being in the hospital; she really hated them. It’d been two days since she was operated on and she couldn’t wait to get out of her room and see her daughter. According to news brought by Anya, the girl was doing well in recovery.

She sat in her bed, adjusting the pillow, and reached for the book she borrowed from Madi. Lexa sat and continued reading to pass the time. It was an enjoyable story and she could understand the appeal the story had for Madi. It was full of action, adventures, and a beautiful friendship between the princess and the commander.

“Hey, boss!”

Lexa removed her gaze from the book to meet Luna peeking through the door.

“Hey, Lu. Thanks for coming!” Lexa returned the book to the side table.

“It’s good to see you. Anya kindly informed me of the situation about you being in a hospital and I made all arrangements to push your scheduled meetings for this week.” Luna gave Lexa a box of chocolates with a “Get Well Soon” card.

“I appreciate it, Luna. I hope to go home soon and there I can at least work remotely.” Lexa said.

“So what’s up? I didn’t think you would be this sick to need surgery.” Luna took a look at her friend, slightly worried. “You’re okay now?”

Lexa cleared her throat and reached for a bottle of water. She took a couple of sips before returning her attention to Luna. “How much did Anya tell you?”

 “Just that you were going to be in the hospital for a few days. You know how she is, very discreet.”

Lexa nodded. That was indeed Anya.

“I uh, I have a daughter, Luna,” Lexa confessed.

Luna formed an “O” with her mouth but nothing came out.

Lexa gave her time to assimilate the news.

“What? I ah, I thought-” Luna didn’t dare to say it. “How?”

“There was a mix-up and my daughter was given to the wrong mother. Present day, my daughter is very sick and in need of a life-saving transplant.”

“Wow, that’s crazy!” Luna whistled. “So, you’re going to be a nomon huh?”

Lexa smiled softly. “Sha.”

“So how’s that going to work with the other family? You’re going to share the weekends?” Luna asked, leaning forward completely immersed in the story.

Lexa shrugged, “I’m not sure. I don’t want to jump right into her life, but I hope I can start to build a relationship with her.”

“Makes sense. I’m happy for you, Lexa. Let me know if you need more time and I can fix the rest of your month.”

A knock on the door interrupted the conversation with Luna and soon blue eyes met green.

“Oh! Sorry to interrupt.”

Lexa sat up straighter in the bed, adjusting the sheets. “Clarke, hi! Come in.”

The blonde was followed by her friend Raven carrying some boxes.

“I uh, brought you some real food since you told me you weren’t so fond of the hospital menu,” Clarke said as Raven left the box over the nearby table.

“This is my friend, Luna. Meet Clarke and her friend Raven. Clarke is Madi’s mother,” Lexa quickly introduced.

“Hello,” Clarke said.

“You seem nicer than Cheekbones. Nice meeting you.” Raven offered her hand and a wink.

“Hello. It’s a pleasure to meet you both.” Luna stood up accepting the handshake.

“Anyway, we’re heading back to Madi. She’s been fussing all morning for some candy so gotta go.” Clarke waved goodbye. “Nice meeting you, Luna.”

“Likewise,” Luna said as the two other women retreated. Luna sat back and got closer to Lexa.

“That’s the other mom?” Luna spoke conspiratorially. “Because hot damn!”

“Geez, Luna, don't be so crass!” Lexa rolled her eyes. “Clarke’s probably married, though I haven’t seen the husband yet.”

“Hmm I saw no ring; besides, I have eyes and taste, Woods. Her friend ain’t so bad at all either.”

Lexa punched Luna’s shoulder. “Alright, that’s enough ogling Lu.”

Luna burst out laughing, raising her hands in defeat. “Okay, I’m done.”

-oo-

Once Dr. Franko deemed Lexa stable after five days in her hospital room, she packed her few belongings and removed the horrible hospital gown before dressing appropriately. Lexa lifted her t-shirt to stare at the tiny scars left by the laparoscopic surgery under better light; the small cut made to remove the organ over her abdomen.

“Whatever else you need from me you can have, Madi,” Lexa said softly, like a promise.

“Ready to go home?” Anya asked, immediately taking Lexa’s duffel bag and offering her a warm jacket,

“I need to return this book to Madi first. Come on, time to introduce you my kid.” Lexa opened the door, thanking the nurses while she headed to the pediatric wing and headed into Madi’s room.

From the hall, you could hear the laughter coming from inside the bedroom and it caused butterflies in Lexa’s stomach.

Lexa knocked and opened the door slowly. The image inside was so heartwarming, seeing her child laughing with a wide smile on her face. A taller blonde woman was beside Clarke. The two of them seemed comfortable around each other, so definitely not a stranger to them.

“Leksa!” Madi waved with excitement.

“Hey, Madi. I’m happy to see you. How are you feeling?” Lexa asked, approaching the other side of the bed.

“I’m okay. I have your organ here.” Madi pointed to her belly. “I promised Mommy to take good care of it.”

Lexa chuckled, “I appreciate it, Madi. Here,” Lexa offered the storybook, “I reached the bookmark you left so just let me know when we can continue reading together.”

“Mommy?” Madi looked immediately at her mother.

“Yes, baby. Ahm, I uh, have to discuss with Lexa after she has properly recovered when she can join us for storytime.” Clarke responded to her daughter with a slight blush on her cheeks.

“Cool!” That was positive enough for Madi. She reached towards colorful handmade cards. “Look what Ms. Summers brought me!” Madi proudly showed off to Lexa. “This is from my friends in school! This is from Hope and this one from Jordan, my best friends!”

“Wow, that’s so nice of them. I’m happy to know you have good people around you.” Lexa said. “I also have a good friend. Ahn?”

Anya peeked inside the room.

“Come meet Madi.” Lexa smiled, encouraging Anya to come forward.

Anya awkwardly waved from the back of the room. “Hi, Madi.”

Madi gasped. “Woah, you’re so tall!”

Lexa chuckled, “Yes, she is. Anya is my best friend.”

Madi still stared at Anya completely amazed. “So pretty! Like a princess.”

Anya turned beet red while grumbling in utter embarrassment and making the other women in the room laugh softly.

“Well, we both hope to see you once you go back home, Madi. Take care, okay? I’ll be in touch.” Lexa rested her hand over Madi’s head giving her a gentle pat.

Lexa took a couple of steps back to bid farewell to Clarke.

“Hey, um, please call me if you or Madi need anything. Once you take her home I’d love to visit if it’s not a problem?” Lexa rubbed the back of her neck with some nervousness.

“Ah, of course. I uh, thank you. I don’t know what I'd do if…” Clarke swallowed hard.

“Shhh, it’s okay, Clarke. She’s going to be fine.” Lexa rested her hand over Clarke’s shoulder trying to convey her support.

“I know. Thank you.” Clarke quickly batted her lashes removing any potential tears, and after taking a deep breath, looked behind her. “This is Niylah Summers. Madi’s first-grade teacher. Niylah brought her some cards from her classmates today.”

Lexa offered her hand, taking a closer look at the other woman who seemed to be also on a first-name basis with Clarke.

“Hello Ms. Summers. Thank you for coming to check on Madi.”

“Nice meeting you, Ms. Woods. I’ve heard a bit about you. Hope we can discuss later how um, this thing is going to work moving forward with the school activities.”

“Sure.” Lexa nodded and gave one last look at Clarke before she exited with Anya behind her.

“Holy fuck, Lex. That kid is your spitting image!” Anya said as they walked side by side towards the exit.

Lexa couldn’t help the small smile on her face, “Yeah, but once she opens her mouth she’s a Griffin through and through.”

“I never thought of the day I’d see a mini Lexa running around.” Anya unlocked her car, opened the trunk, and stashed Lexa’s duffel inside.

“Christmas is coming. Do you think Clarke is going to invite me to their celebrations?” Lexa asked, frowning. “Do they even celebrate Christmas?”

“I think you can sit down with blondie to talk about all of that later.” Anya slid on some aviator sunglasses before turning on the engine. “We still need to arrange the custody issues and add your name to the legal paperwork to officially make you her mother.”

“I know. I don’t want to pressure Clarke right now. She has a lot on her plate. Let’s do that after the holidays, Princess Anya.”

“Oh shut the fuck up, Lexa. Don’t you fucking dare!” Anya spat.

Lexa cackled in laughter. “Sorry, I just couldn’t help it. Madi was impressed with you.”

“Guess she’s not familiar with tall people of Asian descent?” Anya drove them towards the exit and onto the highway.

“This changes everything, Lexa,” Anya said thoughtfully.

“I know. I’m scared, Ahn. I have a responsibility now. A kid to feed, educate and protect. I want to show her how much I love her already, but what if I fuck it up?” Lexa looked at her hands pensively.

“You’re a good woman, Lex. A fantastic role model already. You have to earn her trust and I bet that kid already cares for you in a way. Just take it one day at a time.”

“I’ve never cared about holidays and now? I can’t stop thinking about getting Madi all the toys she wants. To get everything her heart wishes. I’m ready to fight for her. I hope I can be part of her life and Clarke’s.” Lexa looked out at the scenery, mountains in the distance already white on top, and thought of family reunions and bonding over the silliest things. It made her feel fuzzy inside.

“Yup, you’re a mother now, Lexa. I’m happy for you.”

__________________

The snow was falling harder today as the winter intensified. It was cold and Clarke was on the verge of a mental breakdown with Madi, made things worse by the little girl’s awful mood.

“I want to go now, Mommy!” Madi demanded from the backseat.

Clarke sighed, leaning back against the headrest as Raven drove them back home.

“Sweetheart, you heard Dr. Josie. You need to stay home and relax. No roughhousing and especially no going to shop for our tree.”

“I don’t care! It’s almost Christmas and we don’t have the tree up!” Madi crossed her little arms over her chest, her frown getting deeper.

“Mads, take it easy, kiddo. You just got out of the hospital after your surgery. You gotta take it slow.” Raven added, hoping to diffuse the angry girl’s tirade.

“I wanna go get the tree NOW!” Madi shouted.

Clarke snapped. She looked at her daughter scowling. “Madison Abigail Griffin, you will calm down this instant or no Christmas for you! Is that clear?”

Madi simply adjusted her face, ignoring Clarke.

Clarke sighed and leaned back in the seat; this was going to be a long day.

Raven parked outside of their small apartment located near Tondc. It was a bit far from Polis, where Clarke worked, but it was cheap and she could afford it.

“Come on up.” Clarke offered her arms, but the little girl was still a small ball of anger. She still went into her mother’s arms to be carried to their floor since the elevator was busted (as usual).

Raven grabbed Madi’s belongings from the hospital and up they went.

Clarke unlocked the door and went inside their two-bedroom apartment. The kitchen/living room was enough for their needs. It needed a bit of cleaning though, and once Madi was asleep Clarke would clean the few cups she left on the previous days.

“Alright, go watch some cartoons while I prepare some lunch.” Clarke placed the girl carefully on the couch and headed for the kitchen.

“What do you want, sweetheart?” Clarke asked as she checked their empty refrigerator. She needed to go grocery shopping soon.

“Nothing.” Madi answered between sniffles, still upset.

Clarke huffed, and started to make a couple of ham sandwiches. “You want anything Rae? Got beer.”

Raven put Madi’s things inside her bedroom and joined Clarke in the kitchen. “Beer sounds okay.”

She pulled Clarke into a warm hug. “Relax, Clarkey. I know you’re stressed, don’t deny it. You look like shit. Madi’s going to recover fully. She’s still a kid though and you know she loves the holidays. Be patient.”

“I know, I’m trying Rae.”

Raven kissed her temple and went for her beer bottle. “I know you are.”

Clarke finished with the sandwiches and went to the couch, leaving a plate for Madi on the small table.

“I need you to eat, baby.”

“I don’t want it.” Madi pouted.

“Baby, I know you want us to decorate and have everything right now, but we can’t. Not today. Once you’re better we can do some decorations.” Clarke tried to explain with patience, but her daughter was stubborn as hell.

“Santa won’t even know where to come. There’s nothing here!” Madi stood up stomping on the floor still defiant.

“I know it’s hard this year with everything that happened, but once you rest we can put out some decorations.”

“I just want the tree up!” Madi’s green eyes got teary and soon a fat tear began rolling down her puffy cheeks.

Clarke gently reached for her daughter. Wiping the tears slowly. “I hear you, baby; but throwing a tantrum won’t help. I need you to calm down first, sweetheart.” Clarke brushed a wild brown lock away from her face. “I promise you, things will be back to normal soon. Just be a good girl, okay?”

Madi looked up at Clarke still sniffing. “Okay.”

Clarke kissed the top of her head before heading back to the kitchen. “Thank you, baby. Now get something to eat.”

“Fuck,” Clarke was tired and frustrated as she leaned against the kitchen counter watching Madi from afar.

“Why don’t you go and take a nap. I’ll stay here a bit longer.” Raven offered as she took a good sip from the bottle in her hand.

“Gosh, Rae. I’m sorry you had to stay here for me and Madi. You should go back home. You did enough already for us.”

“I love you two very much. Arkadia can wait a few more hours. Go get some rest while I build some shit with my goddaughter.” Raven squeezed Clarke’s arm before joining Madi on the couch.

-oo-

Clarke couldn’t be more stressed if she tried. Christmas was approaching fast and even though Madi had calmed herself, Clarke still didn’t have a tree for them, much less put a single piece of decoration.

Adding to that, she had to request more time off from work and Clarke wasn’t sure how that was going to go. Sadly, Raven had responsibilities in Arkadia and couldn’t stay longer. Clarke didn’t have money for a nanny either so she had no choice but to stay home watching her daughter’s recovery. Abby helped Clarke with the groceries but Clarke didn’t want to abuse when her mother was just as busy with her own patients and surgeries.

She breathed and waited until her boss was connected on the video call.

“Clarke?”

“Oh, hey Mr. Sage. Thank you for your time.” Clarke said with nerves.

“Of course, Clarke. How’s your daughter? Is everything okay?” The black man had his usual smile on his face. Lincoln Sage was a very handsome man in his 40s,  and  also a really good boss. Clarke could only hope she didn’t get fired on the spot.

“Ah, yes. Madi’s transplant was successful but um, I need to ask you for more time off.” Clarke’s voice was so shaky now.

The brown eyes of the man were so expressive and kind. “I understand, Clarke. How long are we talking about?”

 “I uh, I’m really sorry to have to ask this but I can’t return to the office after the holiday break, um, I have to care for my daughter until the end of February so um, two months?”

Lincoln nodded, crossing his fingers over the desk where he sat. “I understand, Clarke. Don’t worry about it. We can discuss later how to adjust the schedule for your current project.”

“I don’t want to take advantage of your kindness, Mr. Sage. I’ll work from here when I can and send my work to the team. I can work remotely and I-”

“Slow down, Clarke.” Lincoln interrupted. “Hey, you’re one of the most talented artists we have. Take your time. Seriously. Focus on your daughter and we’ll see how to adjust to your needs.”

Clarke’s shoulders relaxed and felt like breathing was easier. “I can’t thank you enough, Mr. Sage.”

“I wish your daughter a speedy recovery, Clarke. Don’t worry. Once things are better, call me up and we can set a meeting with the team to see how to proceed with the project, okay?”

“Got it. Thank you.”

Clarke closed the lid of her laptop and relaxed in her chair. She saw the clock pointing at 9 pm, realizing it was time to give Madi her medication.

She went to the kitchen, filled a glass with water and walked towards the little girl’s bedroom.

“Sweetie?” Clarke opened the door slowly and turned on the night lamp. “You have to take your medication, baby.”

Sitting on the edge of the bed she helped the girl sit and passed her the pill along with the water. “Come on, honey.”

Madi scrunched her nose in disgust. “I don’t like this, Mommy.”

“I know, but this is for your own good.”

The girl did as told and once she drank her water Clarke adjusted the blanket. “Now rest some more.”

Exhausted, Clarke returned to the living room and sat down,  letting out a long breath. She had to take advantage of the weekend and do some laundry, but she also had the decorations pending and she didn’t want to break her promise. Clarke leaned over the table taking a few minutes to gather some energy to help her push through the rest of her day. After so many sleepless nights and dread filling her soul, now she could breathe. Madi was asleep again and she had time for herself. This was how it had been since Madi was born. She had to deal with this alone.

Except she wasn’t.

Clarke sat up straighter in her chair, looking at the phone charging on the kitchen island.

Lexa said to call her whenever.

“We need help, Clarke.” A voice over her shoulder whispered to Clarke.

However, another similar voice said, “Lexa will take Madi away once she sees the chaos of your life, Clarke.”  That made Clarke shudder.

“Fuck, I’m going crazy,” Clarke closed her eyes for a minute. Lexa had been consistently texting, asking about Madi’s progress. She seemed sincere and it seemed Lexa was willing to do anything for Madi. Clarke could swallow her pride for her daughter. Something in her gut told Clarke to trust Lexa’s words.

She stood up and grabbed her phone, quickly searched her contact list, and before she chickened out made the call.

Chapter Text

Lexa shouldn’t be drinking at this time, but it was cold outside and a glass of wine wasn’t going to hurt. She was bored to death reading some emails and answering those that needed her immediate attention. Anya had overseen the firm, Lexa just went when she needed to meet clients in person, and Luna was accommodating Lexa’s schedule in a way to let her get plenty of rest.

Overall, it wasn’t so bad.

The silence in her apartment was deafening, but it never bothered Lexa, to be honest. Living in a fancy downtown apartment close to the firm was convenient and she simply needed her sleep.

There was hardly any indication that someone lived here. There were a limited number of photos, and the decor was pretty minimalist. The cleaning service came once every week and Lexa had really nothing else going for her.

The room she had once prepared as a nursery remained closed shut. Lexa hadn’t stepped inside that room since she lost Tris. If it wasn’t for Anya, Luna, and Lincoln, all who came to put the crib and the clothing away, Lexa wouldn’t have known what to do with those things.

Removing her reading glasses, Lexa shut down the laptop and decided to call it a night. She was feeling really good and decided she’d probably be going back to the office anyway on Monday.

Lexa stood up and stretched her tired arms and back, rolling her shoulders next as the bones cracked here and there. Thoughts of Madi running in this apartment started to flood her mind. She could imagine the laughter as she chased the little girl with her sword as they fought to save the princess from the storybook.

Lexa needed to offer Madi a place to call home. But to do that Lexa had to open the gates of the past and let it go.

She headed towards the bedroom hall and stopped in front of the door she kept closed all these years. With a shaky hand she reached for the doorknob and after taking deep calming breaths she pushed the door open.

Empty.

Except, Lexa remembered building the crib and setting it in the corner of this room. Remembered how she folded all the baby clothes and set them inside the drawers with pretty star designs. She recalled the days she spent painting the walls in lavender to add some softness to the room. It still hurt; however, there was also the hope she harbored to create something new with her newly found daughter.

“Sweetheart,” Lexa said in a whisper. “This room is going to be Madi’s. Please help me, Tris. Help me be good to your sister.” Lexa wiped some tears from her face as she closed the door.

“I need to get a new bed and take Madi shopping for clothes.” 

Lexa was going to need her friends' help to set up this room in record time for her daughter. Once Clarke gave the okay, she would love to bring Madi here to spend the night and have a family day.

Now that Lexa was clear on what her next goal would be, she walked to her bedroom when her cellphone rang.

Lexa frowned, not sure who would call her at this time. She made it back to her office to silence her phone when she noticed the caller ID.

“Clarke? Is Madi okay?” Lexa felt on edge, and fear for her daughter was something she wasn’t used to yet.

“Hello, Lexa. Ah, yes, sorry to call this late. Madi is doing well.”

Lexa felt an immediate relief. Her heart started to slow down its erratic heartbeat and she sat back in a chair dragging her hand over her face in relief.

“That’s uh, good to know. Don’t worry about it, Clarke. What’s wrong?”

“I’m not sure how to ask you this, but um…”

Lexa could sense some hesitation on Clarke’s part and what Lexa truly wanted was for the other woman to call with confidence and trust her to respond. Maybe it was too early to trust each other in that way.

“Clarke, I told you I’m here for you and Madi. What is it?” Lexa tried again to encourage the blonde.

“I need help with, um, the Christmas tree.”

“Ah, like to decorate it?” Lexa looked at her empty apartment. Not a single ornament was displayed.

“No, I mean to get one. I understand it’s almost Christmas but with everything that happened I didn’t have the time to get one. You see, Madi loves Christmas and we always decorate our place and put up the tree, but now…”

“Oh! Of course, Clarke.  I’m able to go hunting for a tree tomorrow. Don’t worry about it.”

That seemed to make Clarke relax as she chuckled lightly on the phone.

“I truly appreciate it.”

Lexa smiled, feeling happy to be able to do this for her kid. “As soon as I get one I’ll text you for the address to deliver it.”

“I uh, thank you.”

“No, thank you for calling me, Clarke. Good night.”

“Good night, Lexa.”

Once the call ended Lexa sent a quick text to Anya, informing her that they were going to go tree shopping first thing in the morning.

Something she never thought she’d do again. She was excited, and if this was something important to Madi, Lexa wouldn’t fail her, much less fail Clarke.

-oo-

After hitting the road extremely early, much to Anya’s objection, Lexa managed to find a beautiful tree in a tree farm near the border of Azgeda.

Lexa was excited and would have gotten a bigger tree, but since she had no clue where Madi lived, she followed Anya’s logical advice and selected a medium-sized one. The tree was bushy and smelled good. It was a beautiful dark green. Lexa got it right away and hoped it would be what Madi imagined. 

Anya drove the car into the parking lot of an old-looking building after following the GPS instructions. Lexa helped Anya pull the tree down from the roof.

“You got it?” Anya asked as she passed the trunk to her friend to hold it as Anya untangled it from the roof.

“Yup, I got it.” Lexa set the tree securely on the floor.

Lexa huffed and adjusted the black beanie over her ears to fend off some of the biting cold of this Sunday morning. Their surroundings looked buried in layers and layers of white snow, even some cars were fully covered, so Lexa hoped the building had a good heating system.

“Alright, gimme a hand. I can drag it once we get it into the elevator.”

Anya rolled her eyes. “There’s no need to show off. Madi must still be asleep at this goddamn hour in the morning you psycho!”

“I promised coffee, didn’t I?” Lexa hit the buzzer and soon she heard Clarke’s voice.

“Yes?”

“Hey, it’s Lexa.”

“Oh, come on up.”

The door unlocked and they reached the lobby carrying the tree. Anya at the front and Lexa carrying the back.

Anya laughed sarcastically. “Fuck’s sake”

Lexa peeked behind Anya and noticed the “Out of Service” sign. Lexa sighed, “Well, this wouldn’t be an adventure without adversity. Come on. It’s on the second floor.”

Soon, the two women were climbing the stairs at a steady pace.

“Ahn?”

“What?” Anya asked a bit out of breath.

“Could you please shut the fuck up?” Lexa grunted.

“I haven't said a thing,” Anya scoffed.

“But you will. I know that you don’t approve of this place, but Clarke must have her reasons for living here, so please I beg you. Keep your thoughts to yourself!” Lexa huffed, adjusting the grip she had on the tree, and moved it over her other shoulder.

“I mean, this place gives me the creeps, but whatever.”

“We both come from Tondc. Can’t forget about our roots, can we?”

“Never did,” Anya said with effort.

Finally, the two lawyers reached the second floor and lowered the tree slowly. Lexa pulled out her phone once more to check they had the right apartment and rang the doorbell.

Not a second later the door was opened and Clarke greeted them. She had a polite smile on her face, but she looked guarded. There were some dark bags under the blue of her eyes, and she looked a bit pale. Clarke seemed like she lacked sleep, but Lexa reserved her thoughts and avoided making Clarke feel judged.

“Hi. I see you made it. Sorry about the elevator.” Clarke said apologetically as she stepped aside inviting the duo inside. “It’s been a while since the damn thing actually worked.”

“It was nothing,” Lexa smiled, pulling the tree with her, then Anya followed next.

“I uh, appreciate this. So um, how much do I owe you?” Clarke asked, already searching for her purse.

“Wha- No, please Clarke. Don’t be silly.” Lexa immediately clarified. “This is for you and Madi. No need to repay me or anything.”

“Well, at least let me offer you some coffee? It’s a cold morning.” Clarke offered instead, already heading for the kitchen.

“Thank you,” Lexa answered.

“Alright, um, please make yourself at home. I know it’s not uh, all cleaned up. Madi has been playing a lot and sometimes she forgets to put her toys back inside her box.”

Lexa and Anya removed their winter coats, hung them on the perch near the door, and took their seats in the living room. The couch springs crunched under their weight.  Indeed, there were legos scattered around, some dolls in one corner, and a couple of plushies in the other.

Lexa had a chance to take a clear look around the small apartment. The whole thing could actually fit in her living room. The kitchen was just a few steps away with a table for two. The couch and a TV were in the next area, and farther behind that Lexa assumed led to the restroom and bedrooms. And yet, the place seemed so full of life– vibrant and well-lived. She noticed the pictures on the walls and decided to get a closer look.

In one picture it was Clarke holding Madi in her arms as the two wore Mickey Mouse hats. Another picture was of Madi waving to the camera and carrying a backpack almost the size of her; probably the first day of school. The next picture was of baby Madi in Clarke’s arms, as Clarke grinned proudly. Then, an old family picture with a blonde man and a younger Dr. Griffin, the little blonde girl had to be Clarke. Right next to that frame was another similar picture with Dr. Griffin, Clarke and Madi. No father in any of the photographs, Lexa noticed.

The yearning Lexa felt for missing all these moments with Madi got to her. The trips and the school recitals that Lexa missed because she was mourning. Lexa closed her eyes and exhaled slowly, hoping to center herself. This wasn’t the time to cry for what she lost. Instead, Lexa focused on the genuine smile that Madi had in every picture, Reminding herself that Madi was loved.

“Here you go!”

Lexa jumped a bit in her distraction. Embarrassed, Lexa turned around sheepishly.

“Sorry, I uh, these pictures are beautiful. You have a nice place, Clarke.” Lexa accepted the warm mug.

“Thanks. Sugar is on the table. We ran out of milk. Madi drinks like a gallon per day.” Clarke joked and Lexa’s heart swelled.

Lexa chuckled, “This is fine. Thank you.” She returned to the couch and sat, drinking the coffee and grateful for getting an opportunity to be of help for Clarke.

“So um, it’s still early and we have time. What would you say if we helped with decorations and once Madi is up we get the tree done?” Lexa offered hoping to spend more time in the company of Clarke and hopefully see Madi today.

Anya raised her brow at Lexa, already staring daggers at her friend.

Lexa looked back with a clear offer to pay her back later, but this was important.

“Uh, you sure? I don’t want to take advantage,” Clarke looked between the two women.

“It’s alright. I’m happy to help.” Anya said, easing Clarke’s hesitation for Lexa’s sake.

“Alright, let me get the boxes.” Clarke smiled and this time it seemed to reach her eyes.

-oo-

Taking a look around, the Griffin's household looked ready for Christmas. The red, blue, and green decorations that hung from the windows with reindeers added some magic to the apartment. The tree had a few ornaments, but they were waiting for Madi to wake up to finish the tree.

The decorations were simple, but it was made with love, Lexa thought.

“And of course, some mistletoe,” Lexa said as she finished hanging the mistletoe above the living room.

“Mommy?”

A sleepy voice was heard and Lexa’s heartbeat exploded as she noticed the small child dragging her feet as she rubbed her face.

“What’s going on?” Madi asked. Her hair was such a mess but to Lexa her girl was gorgeous.

“Hey, baby. Good morning.” Clarke approached the little girl and kneeled to hug her and kiss her forehead.

Madi blinked and gasped as she looked at her home. “Mommy, it’s so pretty!”

“I know, baby.”

“The tree!” She pointed and speed-walked towards it. “We got a tree!” Madi began to jump in happiness.

Clarke smiled looking at the girl and Lexa observed the tenderness between Clarke and Madi.

“Lexa and Anya came to offer us a hand,” Clarke explained.

The little girl turned around and only then noticed the two other adults in the room.

“Leksa!” The girl ran until she collided with Lexa’s legs, making her almost fall. “I have a tree, Leksa!”

“What do we say, Madi?” Clarke reminded the girl.

“Thank you. I like it.” Madi hugged tighter Lexa’s legs.

“Do you want to decorate with us?” Lexa offered.

“I want to. Mommy?” Madi looked at Clarke for permission.

“First, breakfast,” Clarke said in that no-nonsense way only mothers could achieve.

“Mommyyyyy,” Madi whined as Lexa patted her back.

“You listen to your mother, Madi. Me and Anya will be waiting for you right here.” Lexa promised.

“Okay,” Madi headed to the kitchen and got into her chair. At the same time, Clarke made her something to eat.

Lexa was retreating to the living room when she bumped into a nearby table, accidentally causing some documents to fall to the floor. She kneeled to pick them up quickly and accidentally read a warning for late rent from Carl Emerson.

Quickly, Lexa read the note realizing that Clarke was literally just a few days late and this Emerson asshole was already threatening to evict them.

Over my dead body. Lexa returned the note with the other pile of mail and headed to the couch. The least she could do was take care of this inconvenience. Clarke already had too much on her table.

While Madi chatted amicably with her mother Lexa sent a quick text to Luna.

Lexa: Hey Lu, sorry to bother during the weekend but I need a favor. Get me info on Mount Weather Investments asap.

Luna: Whatcha need? CEO? Financial records?

Lexa: Just general info about the business and who’s in charge. The name rings a bell.

Luna: ok

Once Madi finished her breakfast. Lexa and Clarke helped Madi hang the ornaments they had for the tree. Then, Anya was thrilled to put Madi on top of her shoulders to hang the star as the child's laughter echoed around the apartment.

“Thank you for having us, we already took much of your time today,” Lexa announced.

“Madi, say bye to Anya and Lexa,” Clarke told the child.

“Bye bye,” Madi waved farewell as she was pretty focused on hanging some more ornaments on the tree.

Clarke walked Lexa and Anya to the door. They grabbed their belongings and Clarke opened the door.

“Thank you again for your help,” Clarke thanked Lexa by offering her hand.

Lexa shook it gracefully. “If you ever need anything else I’m only a call away.”

Anya cleared her throat since it seemed Lexa was still holding Clarke’s hand.

Lexa removed her hand embarrassedly and put back on her beanie.

Lexa chuckled. “Take care.”

“If you are not busy, we would love to share our Christmas Eve dinner with you. Raven is coming as per tradition.” Clarke added.

“Oh, I uh, I’d love that!” Lexa was beaming. This was everything she wanted.

“Great, so um, I’ll call you later for the deets.”

“Sure.”

“Thank you and bye,” Anya said, pulling Lexa away and back into the hall.

“Well, hope you had your fun,” Anya sighed, pushing Lexa downstairs.

“I did.” Lexa was grinning ear to ear. “It was amazing! Gosh, it almost felt like we did this every year.”

Anya patted Lexa’s shoulder. “I’m glad you had this opportunity, just take it easy.”

“I know. I can’t wait to have more time with Madi.” Lexa zipped her jacket and began going downstairs.

“You owe me big time,” Anya said, giving a soft punch into Lexa’s shoulder.

“Yeah, yeah.”

Then her cell phone sent a notification tone and Lexa checked right away. It was an email with the info she requested from Luna.

“Cage Wallace. I knew it! He’s scum. Owns a bunch of properties and leases them only to leave their tenants broke. I’ll deal with this asshole myself.”

Anya unlocked the door of the car, looking weirdly at Lexa. “Lex? What the hell are you doing?”

Lexa sat in the passenger’s seat and buckled up. “I’m taking care of my daughter, Ahn. What does it look like?”

“It looks like you’re making decisions on someone’s behalf.” Anya turned on the engine and got them out of the parking lot and back into the busy streets.

“Clarke might need a helping hand with Madi still in recovery. I know these assholes Ahn. Cage Wallace is the owner of this crappy building and many others. What do you mean he hasn’t been able to fix the damn elevator while still charging usual rent? Hell no. I’m going to make sure he isn’t robbing my family!”

“Your what?” Anya stole a glance at her friend.

“You know what I mean. I’m going to make sure my daughter is protected. That’s all.”

“Whatever you say, Lex.”

_______________

Christmas music filled the apartment while Clarke finished with the last basket of laundry she had to fold. Beside her was her daughter, coloring on the carpeted floor without a worry in the world. Oh to be a child!

Meanwhile, Clarke left the pile of mail over on the table, scratching her head as to how to deal with all the bills piling up while also needing to pay for Madi’s medication. Clarke was also still skeptical about Lexa’s intentions. She was scared that the goodness of Lexa’s heart was nothing but a way to lure her into a sense of comfort to then pull the carpet from under her feet and take Madi away.

“She’s not like Finn,” a voice in her head said.

“You don’t know her. Lexa cannot be trusted,” the other voice said.

Clarke sighed and put the clothes inside the basket before heading to Madi’s room. She had been going down a spiral of self-hate and fear not knowing how to tackle any of this moving forward.

She was trying her best to offer Lexa Woods a way into her daughter’s life because she loves Madi, but underneath all the good intentions she offered was the pain and failure she felt as a mother, and the fear of Lexa taking Madi away for good.

The doorbell rang and she heard a “Ho ho ho!”

“Aunty!!!” Madi shouted, which meant Raven was finally here.

Clarke put all the clothes inside their respective drawers and headed to the living room.

There she found Raven already carrying Madi in her arms.

“Griff! Can you believe this? The fuc- err, the elevator is working after a million years!” Raven said as she approached to greet Clarke.

“Really?” Clarke hugged and kissed Raven’s cheek in greeting. “I’ve been pretty busy so I didn’t notice anything.”

Raven put Madi back down and patted her back for the girl to return to her activities.

“Yup, it must be a Christmas miracle.”

“With Emerson in charge? Don’t think so.” Clarke helped Raven with her bags. “Thank you for being here.”

“Hey, you know I wouldn’t miss being with my fave girls!” Raven searched in her red jacket and pulled out a couple of bills. “Here you go, this should help to cover rent this month.”

Clarke melted into Raven’s arms in relief. “Gosh, Rae. Sorry for asking for money but Madi’s medications are so expensive, and it’s been hard.”

“I know, Clarke.” Raven kissed the top of Clarke’s head. “I’m Madi’s Godmother. This is the least I can do to help.”

“Alright, I’ll go pay Emerson while you get comfy. My mom should be arriving soon. She’s going to stay with Madi while we do some errands to prep tomorrow’s dinner for our guests.”

Raven perked her brow, tilting her head expectantly. “What guests?”

“I invited Lexa and Anya too.”

“You did?” Raven whistled.

“I’m not sure if I’m rushing Madi into this.” Clarke looked towards her kid, still lost in her world humming some kind of song while the adults talked. “They helped with the tree and decorating and I thought it would be good for Lexa to be with us.”

“Hey, it’s nice that you offered. You’re a good woman, Clarke. Madi is so lucky to have you.”

“I’ll be right back.”

-oo-

Indeed the elevator was working. How crazy was that? Clarke still decided to use the stairs to go meet the landlord, Carl Emerson. She wouldn’t trust the supposed repairs after so long without the lift being in use.

Carl Emerson was a total douche as a landlord. Clarke always paid on time, the few times she was late were rare and she asked him for consideration due to the sudden expenses she had to deal with. Emerson said no to her petition to delay her payment a few more days. Gosh, she hated that smarmy man.

After reaching the lobby, Clarke walked towards the back of the building where his office was located. She knocked before going inside. At the desk, the man offered a tightlipped smile. He wore his red hair pretty short and freckles scattered across his face.

“Well, Clarke. What a surprise.” He said in mockery. “Any more complaints I should take care of?”

“I got the money. So can you please keep your warnings to yourself next time?”

The man stood up not taking the cash. “There’s no need, Griffin. I thought your sugar daddy got things taken care of.”

Clarke blinked because what?  “My what? Have you lost your mind?”

Emerson chuckled, “Your sugar daddy already canceled this month and paid 3 months in advance. Must be someone powerful, Clarke. Made my boss call first thing in the morning yesterday to fix the elevator.” The man shrugged disinterested.

Clarke frowned, not trusting anything this man was saying. “Powerful?” Clarke began to think because who in the world would have the means to reach Emerson’s actual boss and make him bend so quickly?

Oh!

“I uh, alright. I should um, yeah. Merry Christmas, Emerson.”

Clarke returned to her apartment with a numbing fear.

“Raven?” Clarke opened the door, closed it faster than lightning, and walked to meet Raven who was watching TV.

“Done so fast, Griff? Don’t tell me that prick added some fees for being a bit late?” Raven asked.

“How powerful is Lexa Woods?” Clarke asked suddenly, increasing Raven’s confused state.

“Eh? What do you mean?” Raven reached for the remote and shut the TV off.

“Is it possible she knows Emerson’s boss?”

“Hmmm. She’s a corporate lawyer but is it possible she knows the actual owner of the property? Maybe.”

“She paid for rent in advance and made Emerson fix the elevator because according to that a-hole my sugar daddy talked with his boss. The only person I know with those connections is Lexa.”

Raven whistled impressed. “She did that?”

“Rae, this is serious! If Lexa can do that, imagine what she can do with a judge! She isn’t going to take Madi away.” Clarke said through gritted teeth.

Raven’s face changed into one of concern. “Shit! I think it’s a good idea to lawyer up, Griff.”

“But who? I can barely stay afloat as it is, Raven.” Clarke sounded more scared.

“O, can help you.”

“Octavia? I haven’t talked to her since I left.”

“But I have. She can take care of this for you, Clarke. I can tell her and see if she’s willing to come here.” Raven suggested.

“I don’t want anyone who knows Finn to know where I am.” Clarke was resolute.

Raven reached for Clarke’s arm, adding a soothing squeeze. “I got you, Griff. I can suggest a coffee shop so you two can get acquainted and discuss the situation.”

“Okay, but in the meantime I’m going to talk to her. Lexa Woods won’t control my life like this. She might have money, but I have the will to defend my daughter.”

“You won’t have to do it alone. Once your mom arrives we can go to her office and see what’s up, okay?”

Clarke nodded ready to go to hell and back to make sure she didn’t lose her daughter.

-oo-

After Abby arrived and took care of Madi, Raven and Clarke drove to downtown Polis where Trikru Law was located.

At least today the snow gave them some reprieve, opening a quick pathway through the traffic to reach the offices.

The first thing Clarke noticed was how impressive the lobby of the building was. It was wide with a lot of elevators and people wearing suits going through security, carrying their expensive suitcases and coffees to go.

Clarke reached the security desk and met a huge man wearing a black uniform. “Hi, I’m here to visit Trikru Law.”

“For a consultation?” The security guard with a tag that read “Ryder” asked.

“Yup!” Raven added with a charming smile.

“I need ID’s.” Ryder demanded with a gruff voice.

Clarke quickly searched her purse and showed her the identification document, Raven next. He quickly took notes on a computer and gave Clarke and Raven a visitor’s badge to each of them. “Here you go, twelfth floor.”

“Thank you.” Clarke grabbed the badge attaching it to her clothes before quickly pulling Raven along with her to get away from that scary security guy.

Clarke’s heart was racing now that she was getting close to the office, but she had to show strength and avoid being intimidated by such a demonstration of power from Lexa.

Once the elevator doors opened, they were led into an ample room where a sign clearly indicated they were in the offices of Trikru Law.

Scanning the place she spotted a familiar woman whom she remembered seeing in the hospital with Lexa.

“Luna,” Clarke mumbled and headed towards her, pushing through a glass door and reaching the receptionist's desk.

“Oh hello!” The brown eyes of the curly-haired woman widened as recognition hit her when she noticed Clarke and Raven approaching.

“Luna, right?” Clarke asked.

“Yes, how are you? How’s the girl?” Luna wondered sincerely.

“Better. Where’s Lexa?” Clarke cut to the chase.

Luna pointed towards the wooden door closed behind her. “She’s in her office on a call, but um, do you have an appointment? I don’t remem-”

Clarke didn’t even wait for the woman to finish before she was stomping into the office.

“Woah hold up a sec!” Luna tried to follow, but Raven held her by the shoulder. “Hey, sorry to interfere but um, give Clarke a sec?” Raven tossed her best puppy eyes which seemed to do the job to hold Luna back.

Clarke pushed the door and her sight laser focused on the woman leaning back in her big executive chair as she dealt with a call.

“How dare you?!” Clarke growled, finally making Lexa notice the ball of anger walking into her office.

Lexa blinked in shock at what was happening and removed the black frame glasses she was wearing. “Clarke?” Lexa said in disbelief and quickly remembered she was on the line. “Aaah, I uh, have a situation right now, I’ll call you at a later time, Linc. Bye.”

Lexa stood up to meet the agitated blonde.

“Clarke?”

“How. Dare. You?!” Clarke punctuated as she stabbed her finger into Lexa’s shoulder.

“Huh?” Lexa frowned, swallowing hard. “Clarke? I uh, I’m not sure what you’re talking about?”

“My rent?” Clarke took another step forward, making Lexa take a couple of steps backward. “How dare you do that behind my back?!”

“Oooooh,” Lexa swallowed hard and realized she had nowhere else to go as her ass bumped the edge of her desk. “I uh, I can explain.” Lexa raised her hands in a placating manner.

“Start talking, because if you think you can use your money to make me look like an irresponsible parent I have news for you!” Clarke clenched her fists on her sides ready to pounce on the brunette.

“Woah, slow down. You got it all wrong.” Lexa was quick to say. “Look, I’m sorry if I overstepped. All I wanted was to help. My intention was never to make you look bad.”

Clarke narrowed her eyes not believing a single word and Lexa knew it. The brunette took a tentative step towards the angry blonde, then another until she was close enough to offer her hand palm up.

“Let’s talk. I promise, nothing but the truth.”

Looking into the offered hand, Clarke hesitated, but again, those green eyes always seemed so honest. She took Lexa’s hand in hers as she was guided to a nearby sofa.

_________________

Before she said anything, Lexa quickly made herself and Clarke some steaming tea. She loosened the tie she was wearing and released the top buttons of her shirt to get comfortable. She thanked Luna for holding the fort while she chatted with Clarke and then approached the blonde who waited impatiently by the tap of her feet.

“I’m sorry for not discussing with you what I had in mind. That was my mistake, but I swear all I wanted was to make sure you had no further issues with rent. I knew how to solve it and took action.” Lexa reached for the teacups and poured them both a cup of tea, she took a sip from the steaming mug and crossed one leg over the other.

Clarke huffed, “Yeah, because now Emerson thinks I have some sugar daddy. Good job, Lexa.”

Lexa cringed inside. Yeah, she definitely messed up. “Yikes! Sorry about that. Look, I know you don’t trust me yet and we don’t really know much about each other, but I always dreamt of having a kid.” Lexa took another sip letting the infusion ease her fraying nerves. “When I lost that dream, I was surviving. Then Dr. Kane called me and my world changed. I had a daughter that I would give my life for. I have an opportunity to fulfill my dream and I want to be the best parent I can for Madi. That means I will support you in every way I can, Clarke.” Lexa spoke with her heart on her sleeve, because there was no other way for Clarke to see they were on the same page, not enemies.

Clarke remained quiet, reaching for her own mug to drink her tea.

“I saw the notification by accident and I did what I thought best. I wanted so badly to get Madi to know me, but I forgot you - as her other mother - deserve to know me too. I should have consulted with you and it won’t happen again. All I wanted was to do my part. That includes anything you might think of – school supplies, clothing, rent, and so on. Because that’s my responsibility as Madi’s other mother. It was never about making you look bad, because Clarke Griffin, since the day I met you, I felt that you have been the best mother Madison could have, and I will always be grateful it was you who raised her.”

Clarke’s blue eyes watered and she sniffed, she removed her gaze from Lexa as if in shame, which wasn't the purpose of this either.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have jumped to conclusions but I’m so scared of losing her.” Clarke said between sobs that hurt Lexa’s heart.

Lexa reached for Clarke’s hand and squeezed. “You’ve been nothing but patient with me, Clarke. You’ve been showing me the ropes of parenting when I’m clearly so lost. I swear I won’t take Madi away from you. Not ever. I hope that you give me the chance to get to know you too, so you can finally trust me. Believe me, all I want is to care for Madi and love her like you have done so far.”

“It’s been hard, you know? Just me and her all this time. I’m not used to this.”

Lexa frowned, sensing something deeper, she licked her lips not sure if she should broach the next question she had in mind, but she did anyway.

“Where’s the father?”

A pause.

There was pain in Clarke’s far away expression and Lexa knew she definitely touched a sensitive subject.

“I shouldn’t have pried.”

Clarke shook her head. “Finn was my boyfriend. I loved him and he loved me until I got pregnant. He didn’t propose, nor was I expecting him to. All I wanted was to build a happy family with him and our child. That was until I caught him cheating in our bed after an appointment to an ultrasound that got suddenly cancelled. He said he had needs. So it was my fault.” Clarke closed her eyes and took deep breaths before continuing.

Lexa felt so much anger on behalf of Clarke. How dare that man hurt this kind-hearted soul. If Lexa could use her influence for something, she would find this bastard and make him pay, but that’s what got her into this situation in the first place. Instead, Lexa finished her tea, listening to Clarke’s story.

“I left without a word. My mom accepted the offer Kane presented her and we moved to Polis and never looked back. Since then it has been me and Madi. Mom has helped as much as she can but this was my baby. I have worked my ass to build a new life for us and I did. Except Finn doesn’t have a daughter. Not anymore.” And this is exactly when Clarke broke apart. “I held her, Lexa. She was in my arms crying and she’s gone…” Clarke held herself, trying to self-comfort as the dam broke and she drowned in guilt.

Lexa swiftly moved beside Clarke and pulled her in her arms, offering words to ease her heart.

“It wasn’t your fault, Clarke. Not your fault.” Lexa tried to reassure Clarke because God knows she had a hard time accepting that it wasn’t her fault either years ago.

“Your baby must have felt your love right away. Her short time was filled with love, so there’s nothing to feel guilty about. Tris is in a better place now, watching over you and Madi. You’re not alone, Clarke. I’m here for you too.”

Clarke burrowed into Lexa’s neck and Lexa held her tighter, keeping Clarke in a cocoon away from the reality and the pain they shared.

“Hey, Lex, why the fuck is Luna flirting with that woman and we-” Anya stopped on her tracks as she observed from the door Lexa and Clarke melting in a heartwarming embrace where she couldn’t tell who was who. The baffled expression on Anya’s face was enough to make Lexa snort as she and Clarke broke the embrace.

“And that’s my cue to leave.” Anya turned around and left just as fast as she appeared.

“I’m so sorry for dumping this on you.” Clarke wiped the remaining tears from her face. “I uh, I shouldn’t have come to your workplace like an unhinged person.”

“Don’t be. Any other person feeling threatened would’ve done the same.” Lexa carefully wiped a few more tears from Clarke’s face before pulling away at a respectful distance.

Once Clarke seemed to be more at ease and receptive Lexa said, “I want to do things right, so I have to ask. Is it okay if I get some Christmas gifts for Madi?”

“Of course,” Clarke chuckled and that was a relief for Lexa. “That girl made a huge list, though I usually get her a couple of things. Can’t buy everything and I don’t wanna spoil her, but I do my best to get her what she wants. This year she asked for a bunch of books and some collectibles she’s interested in. I’ll send you the list and choose from there. Again, don’t buy her everything. She’s learning to earn things.”

“Will do.”

“How did you manage to make Emerson fix the elevator though?” Clarke wondered.

“I went against the owner of that building in a business dispute. Cage Wallace is a snake, so I made a call and reminded him who kicked his ass in court.” Lexa grinned all smug.

“So you’re that good, huh?” Clarke teased.

“I think I’m good enough.” Lexa smiled. “And Clarke Griffin? I vow to treat your needs as my own. Your people as my people. I pinky swear, so please trust me to take care of our daughter from now on.” Lexa offered her pinky finger.

That made Clarke laugh some more. “Pinky promise? What are we, five?”

“Don’t laugh at me. I mean it.”

Clarke linked her pinky with Lexa's, sealing their trust in one another.

Lexa chuckled, “I’ll see you tomorrow then?”

“Sure. Be ready to play some board games and lose. It’s a Griffin Christmas tradition.” Clarke looked more at ease. This conversation was something she probably had to get out of her chest.

Lexa escorted Clarke to the door. “I like a good challenge. Might even surprise you.”

“Bring it on, Woods.” Having said that, Clarke waved to her friend Raven and both headed towards the elevator.

Clarke Griffin was so strong and she didn’t even know it. Lexa was now more curious and wanted to get to know the woman deeply. Madi was already her world, but to build a healthy relationship with her daughter, she also had to build something positive with the other co-parent. Lexa had to make an effort to get to know the loyal and caring blonde woman first.

That was scary.

Lexa hadn’t opened up to anyone, not in a very long time, but Clarke was special. She would do whatever it took to earn her trust and respect.

After all, Clarke was no Costia.

Chapter Text

Waiting with bated breath, Lexa observed as Echo Ash reviewed the documentation presented by her in regards to the legal dispute between Lexa’s client and Roan Winters.

“It’s all clear, Woods. I see what you’re offering.” Echo closed the folder and put it inside her briefcase.

“Roan would be an idiot to fight me on this, Echo. You know it. Talk with your client and tell him to back off from Ms. Cadogan’s EcoWidgets.” Lexa leaned in her chair, eyes still fixed on the light brown eyes of the other lawyer. “I’m giving you the most discreet way out of this. Roan would be stupid to continue messing with Ms. Cadogan. I will take you to court and challenge you every step of the way, and you will lose.” Lexa noticed the clear anxiousness in Echo’s body language. She had to push a bit more to make her crack.

“By now you should know Nia Winters didn’t raise quitters. Roan won’t give up. I do see your proposal as a logical way to prevent bringing this to the light, but he’s persistent.” Echo explained.

Lexa chuckled, rising from her chair and grabbing two small glasses and a bottle of whiskey. She poured a bit in each glass and slid one to Echo.

“As his lawyer, make sure to advise him what is most convenient for Azgeda Inc.” Lexa raised her glass and took a sip. “You’re not an idiot, he is. Make sure Roan sees actual reasoning, because I won’t stop until everyone in the corporate world knows how Azgeda takes advantage of honest competition.  The smear campaign will be such a mess, he won’t recover for years.” Lexa finished the drink and put down the empty glass with a thud.

Echo sighed, tipping the whole drink up and downing it in one go. She left the empty glass on the table and stood up, fixing her blazer. “You’re a tough cookie, Woods. I’ll make him back off, just don’t forget you’re poking a wolf.”

Lexa arched her brow, “Is that a threat, Echo?”

Echo tilted her lips, shaking her head. “I’m just saying be careful, Lexa.”

“I’m an excellent hunter.” Lexa grinned as Echo walked herself to the exit.

Once Lexa was left alone in the conference room, she exhaled softly, feeling a bit of tension already in the nape of her neck. She knew the likes of Roan. Of course she’d expect him to react. She had to be ready whenever he decided to strike.

She grabbed her things and headed back to her office. Looking through the windows, she saw there was already less snow in the far away mountains as winter gave way to spring.

Her phone rang and she checked the notification. Lexa smiled widely once she saw who was messaging her.

Clarke:  Hey, Lexa. Madi needs to complete a few activities before she returns to classes in a couple of weeks. Niylah has a package I need to pick up but can’t go right now. Maybe if you have a chance you could go to Polis Elementary and get it for me?

Lexa: Sure. I’ll be there and bring it to you in a few hours. How’s Madi’s cold going?

Clarke: She’s better, still a persistent fever but it’s under control. Madi’s just an awful patient.

Lexa: Rightfully so. I’ll see you at two in the afternoon. Take care!

This is what makes Lexa’s day on a daily basis; having these interactions with Clarke and knowing about Madi’s day. Lexa had been doing a lot of reading about parenting and sharing a child to guarantee Madi had a positive family to grow around.

Lexa still felt that Clarke kept herself a bit guarded, nonetheless. There was still guilt and Lexa knew that if she wanted to help Clarke she’d have to do more than chatting over coffee and croissants during the weekends.

She had to finish her job and head to Madi’s school to get her activity package to see her daughter soon.

-oo-

“Hi!” Clarke welcomed Lexa with her usual bright smile, opening the door to her apartment and inviting Lexa inside.

“Here you go. A couple of materials to work on the Valentine’s Day school activity.” Lexa passed Clarke the box with the school materials and instructions.

“Thanks.”

Lexa followed after Clarke and then grabbed a seat at the kitchen island. “I think Ms. Summers was deeply disappointed it was me who picked up the school materials.” Lexa said, as Clarke put everything on the table and went to prepare tea for Lexa.

Clarke frowned, “Why?”

Lexa shrugged. “Guess she was counting on seeing you, Ms. Griffin. Her disdain was pretty clear to me.”

“No way. Niylah is so kind. She’s nice to everyone!” Clarke reached for the teapot and began boiling water.

Lexa huffed. “Not to me. She was staring daggers as I said I’d be picking up Madi’s materials.”

“Pfft, Niylah might still be weary. You’re just getting to know all of us involved with Madi. I know she’s going to welcome you with open arms in no time.”
Lexa rolled her eyes trying to not argue with Clarke about how wrong she was, because Niylah Summers was anything but warm with her.

“Here you go.” Clarke passed her a warm cup of fresh tea.

“Where’s Madi?” Lexa asked once she noticed the TV off.

Clarke sat next to Lexa and took her own cup. “She fell asleep after I gave her the medication. She has an appointment with Dr. Josie next week so it would be good if you came with us.”

“Sure, send me the time and I’ll come pick you up.” Lexa took a sip and let the soft tones of the herbal mix relax her. Gosh, Niylah really worked her up.

“I was thinking,” Lexa took another sip and waited until the beautiful blue eyes of Clarke were on her own. “I want to take you somewhere else this Saturday instead of going to our usual coffee date.”

Clarke rested her head in her palm, curiosity clearly written in her face. “Where would we go?”

“Somewhere more private. Is that okay with you?” Lexa asked.

“Hmm, consider me intrigued, Ms. Woods.” Clarke joked. The way her tongue peeked slightly out of her mouth was the cutest thing ever. Something that Madi actually did, Lexa now realized.

“Usual time?” Clarke drank some more of the tea as she played absentmindedly with a blonde lock framing her face.

“Yes.” Lexa was tempted to push that strand away from Clarke’s face but she restrained herself, that would be weird. She was starting to get to know Clarke as a person as they went out every Saturday for drinks and pastries. Lexa didn’t want to cause anything to ruin the balance she was achieving with the co-parent of her kid.

“Mommy?” The tired voice of Madi was heard through the kitchen as the girl called for her mother.

“Go ahead,” Lexa grabbed the cups and returned them to the sink while Clarke went ahead to check on the sick girl.

Lexa washed everything and as she headed towards Madi’s room she spotted Clarke’s newest photograph in the house.

It was taken during the Christmas Eve dinner. Lexa and Clarke were caught under the mistletoe, so Clarke leaned in and kissed Lexa on the cheek. Madi was jumping underneath, excited to see some mistletoe action. It was such a sweet family moment and Raven snapped the pic. Lexa was so happy to be part of the photo selection of the Griffin household.

Lexa knocked softly before heading inside Madi’s room.

“Hey strik heda, how are you feeling?” Lexa asked the girl underneath a pile of blankets.

“My tummy hurts.” Madi replied.

Which was pretty noticeable. Madi was red-faced and her eyes were lacking the usual spark.

“You just need to try to sleep some more, sweetheart.” Clarke adjusted the blanket and the plushies around to help Madi get comfy.

“No sleep!” Madi protested weakly.

“What if Clarke reads and then you sleep?” Lexa suggested. She’d do anything to make her daughter feel better, and seeing her so down, it truly was heart-wrenching.

“Yes, mommy! Read please?” Madi coughed a bit.

“Easy, baby.” Clarke kissed Madi’s forehead. “Fever is gone though. Okay, just one chapter.”

Madi scooted to the headboard and sat. Lexa grabbed a nearby chair and Clarke sat on the bed.

Clarke cleared her throat while she searched for the bookmark. “The warrior defeated the evil king in battle,  once and for all freeing the captive princess. The princess was sad, but she knew the king wouldn’t have let her be happy with her friends.” Clarke continued. “The princess ran into the arms of the brave warrior and hugged her. They felt relief to be together again. That was the power of friendship.”

“Friends?” Lexa interrupted. “Are you sure they’re not gal pals?”

Clarke swatted Lexa’s arm with the book, “It’s a fantasy book for kids, Lexa.”

Lexa chuckled. “I’m just saying.”

Madi scratched her head, “Are you and Leksa gal pals, Mommy?”

Clarke had a coughing fit and Lexa couldn’t help but laugh out loud.

“We’re friends, Madi. Just friends.” Clarke told the curious girl.

“Like the princess and the commander?” Madi asked for clarification.

Lexa nodded, but suddenly she wondered if the power of friendship was what made her heart flutter when green eyes locked into blue.

_______________

The music inside the restaurant that Clarke chose to meet Octavia Blake at was relaxing. There weren’t many people at this time during a weekday, another reason why Clarke preferred to meet here. She was a bit nervous. The last time she saw Octavia she was still doing an apprenticeship while Clarke was two months pregnant.

“Here we are, Griff.” Raven was the first to appear.

Following behind was the pale-skin woman, whose green eyes were as striking as ever. Her dark brown hair was now shoulder-length.

“Holy shit, Clarke!” Octavia quickly went to surround Clarke in a warm embrace. “It’s been so long!”

“Yeah, it has.”

“Alright, ladies get comfy. I’m gonna get us some drinks.” Raven disappeared for a few minutes while Clarke got acquainted with Octavia.

Octavia took the chair in front of Clarke, pulling out a notepad from her briefcase. “I couldn’t believe it when Raven said you were needing a lawyer. After you left, no one else heard anything about you, Clarke.” Octavia said with disappointment. “We were your friends. It didn’t matter what Finn said, we always thought of you.”

“I’m sorry about that, O. I had to leave that toxic place. I needed a fresh start.” Clarke explained.

“I understand, Clarke.” Octavia leaned onto the table lacing her fingers together. “So why am I here?”

“Before Griff says anything you need to keep your mouth shut, O.” Raven arrived with two champagne glasses filled with mimosas before seating beside Clarke.

“I get it, Rae. I’m no snitch.” Octavia rolled her eyes, accepting the offered champagne flute.

“But Bellamy is,” Raven glared at Octavia.

“I’m not going to say anything to my brother. You have my word.” Octavia promised.

Raven’s phone blipped and when she read the message she stood up. “Oops, I uh, I forgot I had a physio appointment today. Need to go, but um, I’ll come back for you O. Text me!”

Clarke got concerned. “What happened? I thought you were doing much better?”

“Yup, it’s um, some tension I need to release, er- leg muscle is acting up.”

“Okay, well let me know if you need a ride later.” Clarke offered.

Raven gave Clarke a half hug and waved to Octavia as she retreated. “I’ll see you two later!”

“Okay, so what’s the legal situation you need me for?” Octavia was now all business.

Clarke took a deep breath because this was going to get some time. “It all started six years ago…”

Octavia was staring, processing everything she jotted down as much as she could. “What the fuck? That’s insane, Clarke!”

“I know.”

“Woah, are we suing the hospital?” Octavia rubbed her hands with such excitement, Clarke wondered what kind of cases Octavia Blake dealt with in Arkadia.

Clarke stopped Octavia right there. “No, that’s kind of settled. I need you for the upcoming family court  trial. Me and Madi’s bio mom are going for shared custody, but  I still wanna make sure that I’m properly represented.”

“Gotcha! So who are we negotiating with?” Octavia continued taking notes looking at Clarke with a certain eagerness to get into action.

“Lexa Woods and Anya Stone.”

Octavia’s pencil fell from her grasp and she eyed Clarke.

”No fucking way!” Octavia paled and finished her mimosa. “Anya Stone? Geez, Clarke, that woman is a cutthroat family lawyer. I have heard of her a bunch of times, and Lexa Woods is another monster, thank Jesus she’s corporate law. Are you sure it’s amicable?” Octavia reached for Clarke’s flute and gulped it down in one go. That didn’t do anything assuage Clarke’s fears. Was Anya such a danger for her legal aspirations?

“Yes, Lexa assured me that she has no ill intention, or plans of taking full custody.” Clarke began picking at her fingernails, because for all the coffee dates that she had been going on with Lexa to get to know each other, there was still that small voice in her head being cautious of the other woman. The other voice simply admired Lexa’s resilience and genuine good heart.

In other words, Clarke was extremely conflicted about Lexa Woods the woman; and Alexandria Woods, the corporate lawyer.

“Okay, I think I can work with that.” Octavia continued taking notes and asking some more questions to clarify any doubts she might have before ending their meeting.

-oo-

As Saturday came, Clarke prepared for her usual outing with Lexa. She put on some jeans and a grey henley that allowed her to be comfortable but also presentable if Lexa decided to take them to a new coffee shop.

“Is this okay?” Clarke turned around to meet Raven who busy with her phone. “Rae?”

“Ah, yeah. Looks nice and your girls look tight and cozy.” Raven winked before returning to her phone.

Clarke rolled her eyes and stood in front of Raven, hands over hips. “What are you up to, Raven? You’ve been acting weird since the Christmas dinner.”

“Me? That’s you. Like are you and Lexa dating or what?” Raven leaned back further onto Clarke’s bed, crossing her feet and resting against the headboard.

“I told you, we’re getting to know each other to be better co-parents for Madi. You on the other hand are acting strange!” Clarke arched her brow, not taking Raven’s bullshit.

“Look, it’s nothing. I swear it’s all fun and games. Nothing to worry about.” Raven smiled, hoping to reassure Clarke.

“Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.”

DING DONG!

“And that’s your cue, Have fun, Griff.” Raven slid off the bed to walk to the living room with Clarke.

The blonde kissed Madi goodbye. “I’ll be back in a few hours, baby. Have fun with Aunty Raven.” Clarke hugged Madi and went to the door to greet Lexa.

“Can I go, Mommy?” Madi asked.

“No, sweetie. Another time.” Clarke ruffled Madi’s hair but the girl was not taking no for an answer. She crossed her arms over her chest.

“Why?” Madi demanded.

“Because mommy needs to talk about adult things.”

“I don’t like it!” Madi stomped her little feet.

“Relax, kiddo. Let your mom and Lexa do their thing and we can stay here watching movies and eating pizza.” Raven immediately jumped in trying to defuse the incoming tantrum.

“Leksa?” Madi looked towards the door and once she saw Lexa waiting she stared intensely, pursing her lips.

“Hi!” Lexa waved from the door but swallowed hard, noticing how Madi was staring back at her.

“Come on, let’s get going.” Clarke blew a kiss to Madi and locked the door behind her.

“Everything okay there?” Lexa wondered seeing the tension between mother and child.

“Madi wanted to come and I said no. She’s a bit clingy after being home since her surgery. She’s going to be fine. Raven will keep an eye on her.” Clarke explained as best as she could. Madi could be a handful sometimes.

“Okay, then. Let’s go.”

After driving back into downtown Polis, Clarke was led into a fancy building. Lexa parked, and after opening the door for Clarke and helping her out like the gentlewoman Lexa was, she tapped a keycard before going in.

“Mounin, Heda.” A gigantic man opened the door of the building and Clarke stopped in her tracks.

“Somon, Gustus! Dis laik Klark.” Lexa stopped to chat with the scary bearded man and Clarke had no idea what was happening. “Ain nomfri– Sorry,” Lexa scrunched her nose. “Uhm, this is Clarke. She’s the co-parent of my daughter. Clarke, this is Gustus. The security guard of this building.”

“Hello,” Clarke greeted with a cordial nod, still very much intimidated.

“Of course. Welcome.” The man said with a thick accent.

“Sorry about that. It’s second nature for me to jump into Trig.” Lexa guided Clarke to the elevator.

“No, actually that’s on me. I’ve been living in Polis for six years and I have not even tried to learn the local language. I know Madi will learn Trigedasleng in school once she reaches third grade.”

“That’s good.” Lexa quickly pressed the top floor.

“Where exactly are we going?” Clarke asked, but soon enough the elevator doors opened into a hall with a wooden double door. Lexa pulled out a key and opened the door.

“This is my place. Come on in.” Lexa welcomed Clarke to the ample space and Clarke was just in shock because holy shit, it was huge.

Clarke couldn’t believe the size of the living room and much less the kitchen, equipped with stainless steel appliances. “Wow, this is incredible.”

“Thanks,” Lexa closed the door. “Let me show you around.”

Lexa guided Clarke around the apartment showing her the kitchen, bedroom section, where she could find the restroom and finally she brought Clarke towards a beautiful L-shaped couch, and with a remote the automatic blinds began to cover the floor-to-ceiling windows until they covered most of the annoying glare from the Sun, without ruining the beautiful view they had available from this height.

“Please, make yourself comfortable.” Lexa said before disappearing.

Clarke took the time to really appreciate the apartment. It was pristine, not a single object out of place. It didn’t even look like someone actually occupied it. It had to be expensive to begin with. Still, it made sense for Lexa to have such a sophisticated place. There were wooden and carpeted floors, the latest tech appliances, central a/c, beautiful decor, but not a single personal frame.

“Alright, here you go.” Lexa came back with two glasses and a bottle of wine. She poured them each a generous amount and sat on the couch.

“Pinot Noir.”

“Thank you.  When did you move here? Clarke asked. “I know you were in Tondc all your early years under Indra’s tutelage, correct?”

“Yes, it took a while. Even after I graduated from college I lived in Tondc. Anya and I opened our firm there.”

Lexa took a sip of her wine eyes looking at the glass she held in her hands as she swirled it slowly. After a beat Lexa looked at Clarke. “When I was 30, I felt I was at a good moment in my life. I had a job and the firm was doing better than ever and we decided to move to Polis. I thought that it was the best moment to become a mother, except I was single and a lesbian.”

Clarke choked on her drink.

After clearing her airways, Clarke looked apologetically at the brunette. “Sorry, I uh that’s unexpected.”

“Which part? Single or lesbian?” Lexa raised her brow.

Clarke chuckled, “You don’t look like a lesbian.”

Lexa gasped, touching her chest in mock offense. “I don’t? Well, you’re right. It’s been cold so you haven’t seen me in my exquisite flannel collection, but once fall is upon us I’ll show you how much of a lesbian I am.” Lexa grinned. “Unless, you don’t approve of that?”

“Wha- No, oh gosh. That’s no problem at all. I uh, I’m bi myself, though it’s not something that I have the need to share, you know?” Clarke said, shrugging it off.

“Of course.” Lexa took another sip from her glass, as she looked at the horizon. “I did IVF, and when they announced that I was successfully pregnant I was beyond happy. I searched for a new place to live and I bought this. A beautiful view, secure and with plenty of space.” Lexa sighed, and finished her drink.

Maybe Clarke shouldn’t be so curious, this was obviously a sensitive topic. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to pry.”

Lexa shook her head. “It’s okay, I wanted to talk about this. I wanna show you something. Join me?” Lexa stood up and offered her hand to Clarke in invitation.

Clarke left the glass and took Lexa’s hand in hers. The brunette guided them to the back of the apartment where the bedrooms were located.

Lexa opened the door inviting Clarke inside. “This was supposed to be Tris' nursery. My friends helped me set it up. I had everything ready once we returned from the hospital – crib, clothes, toys.” Lexa sniffed and wiped the incoming tears from her face. “I-I couldn’t step inside since that day. It was as if Hurricane Jason didn’t just destroy the town, but my soul.”

“Come’ere.” Clarke pulled Lexa into a kind embrace. Lexa held onto Clarke’s back, resting her forehead on Clarke’s shoulder while Clarke anchored her by holding her waist.

Once Lexa calmed down she took a step back. “It was too painful to be here, but now I hope with your help, we can transform this into Madi’s future bedroom. You told me you’re a digital artist, so who better than you to make this into something Madi would like.” 

The room was pretty spacious and it had a nice view as well. Madi would go nuts in here with all the space for her toys and bricks.

It truly broke Clarke’s heart knowing that a place meant for happiness turned into a place of pain. But with her help, this bedroom would become a place of good memories.

“So you brought me here to design for you? For free?” Clarke teased, already looking at the walls she could use to create something spectacular for Madi.

“Well, what about I order, maybe Chinese? We already have wine and you have at your disposal all these materials.” Lexa reached for some brushes that were in the corner and gave one to Clarke. “Maybe I can sweeten the pot with some dessert?”

Clarke smiled, taking the brush. “You got a deal, Woods. Now get me a pencil.”

-oo-

Clarke couldn’t stop laughing. Maybe it was the wine, or maybe it was how comfortable she felt around Lexa.

“... So Titus came after me and Luna, his bald head was all scribbled on, and with the giant penis I drew he truly was an official dickhead.” Lexa finished her glass and poured herself some more.

“You, Lexa Woods, were very naughty.” Clarke tipped her own glass towards Lexa, requesting a refill. 

“Indra was so pissed, I got grounded for a month!” Lexa said with a fond smile on her face. It suited her.

Clarke had already finished drawing all the walls but before they started the paint job decided to take a break. They ate Chinese and drank as they shared funny stories of their childhood and teenage years. It was refreshing to say the least.

“What about you, never got in big trouble?” Lexa asked leaning against the wall to be able to stretch her legs.

“Hmm, I was pretty obedient when I was a kid. As I grew older I tended to clash more with my mom because we are so much alike, so I rebelled a bit more. Dad was way more lenient. I ended up detained once I think. Was doing stupid shit with my friends. They called us the delinquents. After dad died though, I stopped getting into trouble to keep the peace at home.”

“Damn, sorry about your father. You were still young, right?”

“Yup, I was 17. It was a tough time. I gave my mom hell but look at us now. Without her I don’t know where I would be.” Clarke admitted.

“You and Raven go way back?”

“Yup, we were such troublemakers. Until the cops shot Rae while we detonated silly fireworks in a condemned property.”

“That’s why she uh, wears that brace, right?” Lexa asked.

“Yeah. She lost all movement in her leg. My mom did some surgeries to try to fix the neural damage and pain. It’s been hard, but Raven is a champ.”

Lexa nodded and finished her drink. “I’m glad that you kept in touch with Raven. Without Anya I… I’m not proud of the things I did after I lost Tris. I was in self-destruct mode – drinking, fighting. Anything that eased the pain away. Anya dragged my sorry ass to therapy and only then did I pull myself together and manage to survive. That’s why Anya is the way she is with me; she’s more like a mom to be honest. Once we met in college, Anya cared for me and taught me so much. I owe her a lot.”

“I- I’m so sorry you suffered that loss when it was supposed to be me.” Clarke looked at her hands and felt guilty. Life spared her of tremendous pain. Lexa was so strong for still being here, trying to make things work between them for the sake of Madi.

Lexa reached for Clarke’s hand taking her out of her inner thoughts. By now, Clarke was used to holding Lexa’s hands in hers. Lexa’s long fingers interlocked with her own. She marvelled at how soft they were in some areas and calloused in others. There was even a long scar on Lexa’s left hand, like she cut herself with a knife, that Clarke tended to soothe with her thumb for some reason.

“Hey, where did you go? This is not to guilt trip you, Clarke. I meant it when I said I wanted you to know me. To learn to trust that I won’t hurt you or your family.”

Clarke squeezed Lexa’s hand back. “I know. I’m trying, but this is all so scary. I love Madi so much and…” Clarke couldn't even say the words. Losing Madi was not an option for her.

“Madi is the hope I needed to begin living again. I won’t ever do anything to remove you from Madi’s life, because you’re Madi’s world and one day, maybe I can be part of it too.” Lexa said earnestly.

Clarke believed her.

Clarke blinked some traitorous tears from her eyes and stood up, she removed some dirt from her jeans and grabbed a brush. “Let’s try to finish this wall, shall we?”

“Okay.” Lexa followed Clarke’s lead. No more words were necessary.

The two continued painting the art that Clarke created, and it was what they both needed to release the rest of the tension they were feeling. It was cathartic in a way.

“Hey, you missed a spot” Clarke pointed to Lexa who quickly leaned and added more paint to the character she was painting.

“I think it’s done.” Lexa took two steps back to admire their work.

“Mhmm, I think it is.” Clarke agreed. “You got something there by the way.”

Lexa wiped her left cheek.

“Nope, not there.” Clarke indicated a bit lower.

Again, Lexa wiped with the back of her hand her left cheekbone to her jawline.

“There! Though you missed this!” Suddenly Clarke pressed her brush to Lexa’s right cheekbone.

Lexa gasped, “no, you didn’t!”

Clarke started to laugh and Lexa quickly counterattacked with her brush. Soon it was an all out war.

The two women laughed loudly as they fought brush to brush in a fierce battle. Their clothes were already splattered with bright colors and now their faces and arms were too.

Clarke stepped onto a very slippery spot of the plastic covering the floor and lost her balance.

“Aw shit!”

Lexa moved quickly but she ended up stepping into a paint tray, making her slip as well. Still, Lexa reached for Clarke hoping to get to her before the floor did.

“Ugh!”

“You okay?” Lexa sounded strained and with reason, Clarke was sprawled on top of the brunette.

“I think so, you?” Clarke used her elbows to support part of her weight and fixed her eyes on Lexa’s.

“It hurts,” Lexa groaned but then she fixed her eyes on Clarke’s.

Since when did Lexa have freckles? Clarke began noticing details that she never paid attention to before. Like the kissable bow of the bee-stung lips on the brunette. The long lashes covering grey-green eyes with specks of gold. That regal nose and firm jawline.

Why was Clarke noticing these things just now?

It’s like they both zoned out, just staring into each other like it was the first time all over again.

“She has your eyes.” Clarke rasped.

Lexa blinked, kind of lost about Clarke’s comment, “What?”

Clarke cleared her throat and removed herself away from Lexa, breaking the weird moment they just had. “Sorry.”

Lexa pushed herself up, then offered both hands to help Clarke up. “You mean Madi.”

“She’s your spitting image and I don’t know how to deal with that.” Clarke hugged herself, making herself small.

“Madi might resemble me, but that girl is all you, Clarke. The way she bites her lip when she’s scribbling, how her tongue peeks out just like you when you concentrate. The way she’s stubborn and opinionated. She’s your daughter through and through. Never doubt that.”

“It’s stupid, I know. Don’t worry about it, Lexa.”

Then Lexa cupped Clarke’s face gently, forcing Clarke to look into Lexa’s eyes.

“I’m serious. Madi’s core is all you and that makes me happy. You’re the best role model she could have, Clarke. You’re her mother and she’s your daughter. No one can change that.”

How could Clarke deny such powerful words? Lexa said it with such conviction it was impossible not to believe her.

“Thank you.” Clarke leaned into Lexa’s touch and closed her eyes letting her soak such tender affection.

“Come on, we both need to shower. I’ll lend you some clothes and then I’ll drop you off back home.” Lexa popped the bubble of safety in which they were and guided Clarke to the restroom. “You can shower here, there are towels and anything you might need. I’ll finish cleaning up and then I’ll shower in my room. You can, uh, wait in the living room if you’re done, okay?”

“I appreciate it.”

Lexa retreated to her room, leaving Clarke alone with her thoughts. She looked at herself in the mirror; she looked awful with her face painted in so many colors and her hair all messy, but the lightness in her heart and the smile on her face were a sign that she was alright. That she would be okay after all these tribulations.

The voices in Clarke’s head were gone. No more doubting. Lexa had bared herself to Clarke in a way that Finn never did. All for the sake of Madi.

It was time that Clarke stopped doubting Lexa’s intentions and actually relied on her.

Because her family wasn’t two people anymore, it was three.

Chapter Text

The courtroom was silent except for the rustling of paper. Clarke was tense but Octavia seemed relaxed sitting beside her. On the opposite end, Anya and Lexa were seated side by side. Both were dressed in very professional attire.

The judge reviewed the documents delivered by the lawyers, then raised his head to address the room.

“After reviewing the evidence, I can see that both parties are committed to being involved in the life of Madison Abigail Griffin Woods, whose new legal name has been approved by this same court.” The judge with his bald head glinting by the light above announced. “Therefore, I’m granting shared physical custody of Madison. You will have equal time with her. Nonetheless, considering the nature of this very particular case brought to me today. I must decide on legal custody.” The judge pauses.

Clarke looked at Octavia. “What is going on?” Clarke asked in a whisper.

Octavia seemed to pale. “The judge will decide on the education, healthcare, and general well-being of Madi.”

“What? Why?” Clarke was getting antsy.

“Ms. Woods was robbed of her rights as the biological mother of the child.” The judge continued, “while I commend Ms. Griffin on the amazing job she has done, this court cannot deny the uniqueness of this particular situation and grants Ms. Woods sole legal custody of Madison.”

“Wait, what?!” Clarke shouted as she stood up, leaning forward behind her desk questioning the judge.

“Clarke, calm down. Let me take care of this, please.” Octavia held Clarke before she went ahead and ripped the judges’ head off,

“While I recognize the effort you have done these past six years, Ms. Griffin. It is the desire of this court to seek stability for Madison, and re-establish the severed connection with her biological mother. Ms. Woods will compensate Ms. Griffin for the six years of investment in time and money she has spent on the education and healthcare of Madison until today. The amount will be established by the lawyers and approved by this court.”

“Lexa, what did you do?!” Clarke growled towards Lexa and Anya.

Lexa swallowed hard, she was at a loss of what just happened, but before she could say anything Anya intervened.

“Your Honor. Ms. Woods was clear in her intent to share every single aspect of the child’s responsibilities with Ms. Griffin.” Anya quickly said.

The gavel resounded in the room to quiet it down. “The job of this court is to ensure the continuity and stability for Madison with her biological family first and foremost.”

“Yes your Honor, we understand your decision, but we request the possibility to review the issue in three months, given the circumstances of both families affected, since it wasn't just Ms. Woods who suffered the wrongdoing but Ms. Griffin as well! It’s not her fault her biological child was given to the wrong person!” Octavia said with determination in her voice. Resting her hand over Clarke’s shoulder to keep her seated before she got into trouble.

“We support that request, your Honor. Considering the new family dynamics it would be wise to review the development of Madison with both co-parents.” Anya added.

“That sounds reasonable. I will review this case again in six months instead. For now legal custody is in the hands of Ms. Woods. Both of you must continue working as co-parents. This is not a victory for one parent over the other, but a step towards allowing Madison to have a stable relationship with both maternal figures.”

“This is ridiculous. What have I done that does not grant me the right to be the primary care for my daughter?!” Clarke questioned, visibly angry.

“Your role as mother doesn’t end because you don’t have legal custody, Ms. Griffin. The court expects you to continue to be an active participant in the life of Madison, just like Ms. Woods. The court is trying to make amends for both parties and help you build a co-parent relationship, not to deepen this situation. However, if this becomes adversarial I will reconsider the current arrangement.” The judge said with finality.

“Your Honor, we’re satisfied with the decision,” Anya replied.

“We’ll take the six-month review into account,” Octavia said.

“This session is adjourned!” The judge announced.

Everyone stood once the judge left and Clarke immediately grabbed her things and left the courtroom as if it was on fire, followed by Octavia. Lexa didn’t even have time to approach before Clarke was gone.

“Fuck, what just happened?” Lexa hit the desk with her fist.

“Chil au, Lexa.” Anya put her hand over Lexa’s shoulder in a calming gesture. “You have to let Clarke release that anger first, or this is going to get very nasty. Trust me.”

Lexa sighed. Sitting again, she dragged her hand over her face and rested her forearms on her thighs.

“She’s never going to trust me, Ahn. All I’ve done in the past months to earn her trust and respect down the drain.” Lexa felt sick.

-oo-

Clarke reached for her cup and drank slowly, letting the warmth of the coffee ease her anger and disappointment. She absentmindedly fiddled with the spoon, replaying the events of their day in court. Clarke had felt hopeful, but in the end she was let down when biology trumped familial bonds.

“Look, I know this is not what we wanted to hear, but overall it went well.” Octavia said once everyone at the table calmed down.

“What exactly does that entail?” Abby asked, trying to follow up on the information given to her.

“It means that Ms. Woods, as the biological mother, will have the final word in terms of the general well-being of Madi. However, it does not mean that Clarke won’t be consulted. I believe Ms. Woods is going to follow up on her initial proposal to fully share all responsibilities.” Octavia added, hoping to diffuse the tensions.

“I mean, that still sucks. Like,  how the fuck did the judge reached that decision? Clarke has been nothing but a great mother!” Raven reached for a piece of muffin and tossed it in her mouth letting the sweet flavors ease her heart.

“I’m guessing here, but seeing the overall mess that happened? It does make sense that the judge sided with Lexa on this particular situation due to the time she lost to be the mother she was supposed to be.” Octavia sighed, taking a sip from her mug. “But we’re reviewing this again, so what this means for us is that Clarke needs to be on her best behavior. Make sure to have a relatively healthy relationship with Madi’s bio mom and make sure that if a social worker comes to review your case, Madi is happy with both parental figures.”

Clarke felt her phone vibrate, but once she saw the name on the caller ID, she canceled the call. She really wasn’t in the mood to speak to Lexa.

“For now, I’ll be sending the child support payment owed to Clarke to get it reviewed and approved by the court and wait for the next trial.” Octavia announced.

Clarke nodded, “Alright.”

“Also, make sure to discuss when to disclose to your daughter the truth about Ms. Woods. I assume that it would be good to start making that transition to allow Madi time to adjust to the new lifestyle in both households.”

Clarke closed her eyes. Taking deep breaths she finally looked at her mom and friends. “I know. I uh, I’ll have a chat with Niylah to see what she recommends now that Madi’s back in school. I’m not sure I’m ready to let my baby go and stay with Lexa every other weekend.”

“I get it, Clarke. This isn’t going to be easy for anyone, but we need to show the court your disposition to be the best co-parent you can be.”

“Thanks O.” Raven said and reached for Clarke’s hand. “We can get through this, Clarke. Madi is not going anywhere anytime soon, okay?”

-oo-

After the day Clarke had, she wanted nothing but to be with her daughter. She drove all the way to Madi’s school to pick her up. As she parked, she heard the sounds of kids of all ages laughing and shouting as the school hours came to a close.

Clarke made it into the hall and headed to the first-grade door. There, she saw her baby girl playing with some blocks on a small table with Hope Diyoza.

As soon as Madi spotted her she ran into Clarke’s arms. “Mommy!”

“Hey baby!” Clarke kissed the mop of brown hair and hugged her tightly as she knelt to hold her.

“Did you have a good time?” Clarke asked the excited girl.

“Yes, Mommy. I played lots.” Madi replied with enthusiasm.

“I’m glad, sweetie. You keep playing for a bit. I’m going to chat with Ms. Summers before we go home.”

“Okay.” Madi returned to the table and Clarke walked towards the teacher’s desk to greet Niylah.

“Hello, Clarke. How’s everything?” Niylah said with a warm and inviting voice.

Clarke forced a smile that never reached her eyes. “It’s okay.”

Niylah narrowed her eyes and with a gentle hand on her lower back pushed her outside to speak with more privacy. “Clarke, come on. I know you. You’re worried about Madi. I assure you we have been following all her doctor’s instructions and she isn’t going to exert herself under my watch.”

“I know, Niylah, it’s just that with the shared custody…” Clarke sighed, “I know things are going to be different.”

Niylah smiled and rested her hand over Clarke’s shoulder. As she stepped closer she said in a soft voice. “It’s okay to feel scared, Clarke. This is all new but don’t forget, you're still Madi’s mom.”

“I lost the legal custody, I’m afraid to lose her completely. What if this doesn’t work?” Clarke asked with a trembling voice.

“The bond you and Madi have is something that can’t be destroyed.” As Niylah spoke she held Clarke’s arm longer than necessary. "Madi’s resilient and she’ll thrive off the love from you and her other mother. Simply, be there for her.”

“Thanks, Niylah. You always know what to say to cheer me up.” Clarke wiped the traitorous tears welling in her eyes. “When do you think I should tell her about Lexa?”

“Madi’s a great kid and very perceptive. She knows Lexa has been more involved in your lives. She might start to make ideas about the why sooner rather than later.”

Clarke furrowed her brow, uncertainty washing over her. “You think I should tell her?”

Niylah licked her lips before nodding. “I do. Now that custody has been granted to both of you, Madi needs to understand how this is going to work. Obviously, it’s important to frame it in a way that is age-appropriate for her and acknowledge her feelings.”

Clarke’s expression softened a bit. “I just want to do right by her, Niylah. She’s my everything.”

“I have faith you’ll find a way to approach this.”

“Mommy?” Madi opened the classroom door, searching for Clarke.

“Yes, baby?”

“I wanna go home. It’s nappy time.” Madi said as she yawned.

“Yes, sweetheart. It’s been a crazy day. Let’s go home. Say bye to your teacher.”

“Bye, Ms. Summers.” Madi waved.

“Go grab your things, honey.” Clarke encouraged her as the child returned to pick up her belongings

“Clarke?” Niylah approached with timidness, rubbing the back of her neck. “I uh, I was wondering...”

Clarke tilted her head, “Yeah?”

“Would you–” Niylah took a deep breath. “I ah, I was hoping we could have dinner at that new Italian restaurant that opened a few blocks away?”

Clarke narrowed her eyes because she truly had no idea what Nyilah was talking about. “I mean, sure I’ve been wanting to check it out with Madi.”

Niylah shook her head no. “When I said dinner, I uh, I meant like a date. Just the two of us.”

Clarke blinked in utter confusion.

One.

Two.

Three.

Four.

Five.

“Oh!”

Clarke gasped. It took her five seconds to understand what Niylah was asking. “I uh, I don’t know what to say.”

Niylah smiled gently. “It’s okay. Think about it?” Quickly Niylah scribbled on a piece of paper her phone number. “Whenever you make up your mind, please call me?”

“I’m ready, Mommy.” Madi quickly grabbed Clarke’s hand, interrupting the conversation between the two women.

“See you tomorrow, Madi!” Niylah waved as she stepped back.

“Thanks again, Niylah.” Clarke waved as they headed towards the parking lot.

-oo-

As winter gave way to spring, Clarke lost herself looking at the blooming trees. The birds flew around chirping and the soft wind blew, infusing the air with the gentle scent of earth and budding flowers. Clarke had been ignoring Lexa for a few days. Her pride was hurt, to say the least, and hearing from the corporate lawyer wasn’t something Clarke wanted to think about.

Madi was at the playground with other kids from the neighborhood, all of them running around the castle and monkey bars in the verdant park so carefree. Hearing her child’s laughter was everything to Clarke.

“And?” Raven asked, elbowing Clarke with a cheeky smile on her face. “What did you say to Niylah?”

“Nothing.”

“Nothing? Come on, Griff. I’ve been telling you Ms. Summers has had the hots for you for months!” Raven raised her hand in frustration.

“I don’t know, Rae. Dating right now seems complicated.”

“Why?” Raven insisted. “Because of Madi? Or is it because of Lexa?”

“No.” Clarke shook her head. “Niylah is Madi’s teacher. Lexa has nothing to do with this.”

“Geez, the school year is going to be over in like 3 months. You were going out with Lexa, at least until the trial.”

Clarke rolled her eyes. “We were getting to know each other to be better co-parents, Raven. It was never a date!”

Raven shrugged, “If you say so. Then what’s stopping you from going out with Niylah?”

Indeed, that was the question.

“Right now my only concern is that Madi learns the truth and accepts our new family dynamic. I don’t have time for dates or falling in love, Raven.”

Raven huffed, “That’s a poor excuse, Griffin. You’re young and still with a bright future. Once Madi is not dependent on you, then what? Are you still going to deny yourself the opportunity to share your life with someone? Heck, when was the last time you had an orgasm?”

“Raven!” Clarke swatted Raven’s arm. “We’re in the park, for fuck’s sake!”

Raven chuckled, “Stop deflecting! You know I’m right!”

“Madi is all that matters right now, Raven. I’ll have time to think later about other things.” Clarke said, eyes fixed on her daughter climbing the slide.

“I know you do, Clarke. Seriously, you're the best mom anyone could ask for, but you cannot forget you’re also a woman with needs. You matter too.” Raven squeezed Clarke’s hand briefly before running to the park and chasing Madi around.

_____________________

Lexa was in her office, looking out the window at the clear sky. It was a beautiful day, but it didn’t stir anything in Lexa. She felt empty inside. Lexa understood that Clarke needed space. She felt betrayed by something Lexa had no control over, still, she stayed away. However, the pain inside her heart was so telling of how attached Lexa already was to the Griffins. She missed Madi’s toothy grin, the laughter of her daughter, and the way Clarke cared so much for Madi. The way Clarke’s blue eyes sparkled when she read to Madi, how much love she saw reflected in them.

Clarke.

It was in the little things they did together.

In the way Clarke held her hand.

In how gentle she was with her.

In the way Clarke’s lips curved into a dashing smile and the beauty mark above said lip.

“Are you even listening to what I just said?!” Anya grabbed her head in frustration. “Lexa!”

“What?” Lexa eyed the other woman shouting on the other side of her desk. She was so lost in her head that she had no idea what Anya was talking about.

“Goddamit! You’re useless right now. Here.” Anya passed Lexa a document, which she read and put back on her desk.

“Seriously? Nothing?” Anya asked, hoping to get a reaction from her friend.

Lexa shrugged, “I don’t care how much money it is, Ahn. Forty-six thousand is the least I could give Clarke. I’ll tell Luna to arrange monthly payments until we have covered the debt.”

Anya stood up and went to grab Lexa from her shirt, lifting her. “Lexa, look at me. Where are you? You’ve been acting funky, so please tell me what’s up.”

Lexa pushed Anya away. She turned around, looking out into the windows. “Nothing’s wrong. I just miss them.”

“No, you miss her. You miss Madi.” Anya corrected.

“That’s what I said.” Lexa huffed, already getting tired of Anya’s pestering.

“Oh boy,” Anya closed her eyes and took two deep breaths. “Lexa? Please tell me you’re aware of your pining.”

Lexa turned around and stared daggers at Anya. “Anya, what the hell? I’m not pining! I miss my daughter, that’s all!”

“Really. All these coffee dates with blondie haven’t gotten to your head?” Anya pushed a bit more.

“Clarke and I, we’re…” Lexa stopped to mull over her thoughts. “It’s not like that. We’re just vibing. We now have a girl to raise together, that’s all.” Lexa was starting to develop a headache. This wasn’t what she needed right now.

“Vibing?” Anya cackled in laughter. “Okay, keep vibing, I guess. I’m gonna go and uh,” Anya checked her watch. “You know what? You need to release all this pent-up frustration. Let’s hit the gym.”

“Seriously, Ahn?” Lexa perked her brow.

“Yup, and after you have drained all that anxiety, you should check on Clarke and talk about how to move forward.”

-oo-

Lexa grunted, flexing her arms as she was close to failure. “Come on, one more!” Anya was close, spotting Lexa.

“There we go!” Anya patted Lexa’s back as Lexa returned the weights to their place.

Lexa wiped the sweat from her forehead, she was glistening as her muscles ripped harder. Drinking water from her bottle, Lexa tried to ease some of her tension. She looked at Anya, who was just as drenched in sweat as her, “Now what?”

“Now we spar.”

“Come on, Anya. It’s been years since we had a sparring session.” Lexa was reluctant.

“You're scared I’m going to humiliate you?” Anya was already taping her hands. “Come on, Lexa. Once I beat your ass, you’ll feel so exhausted that when you visit Clarke you won’t even worry.”

Lexa jumped onto the mats, rolling her shoulders and hopping a bit to keep on her toes.

“Okay, let’s get some steam off!” Anya began circling Lexa and quickly sent a couple of jabs to check her distance and reach.

“Nice try!” Lexa kept moving, watching Anya carefully. Then, she attacked with a quick combination of punches, making Anya move back.

The battle was pretty even; the energy and adrenaline were what Lexa needed to forget the mess of her life. Inside the ring, she was laser focused.

Anya ducked and managed to connect on Lexa’s ribs. “You’re getting slow!”

“Nah, I’m just warming up.” Lexa shook it off, striking back with confidence.

“Show me what you got, Lexa!” Anya moved with quick steps, cornering Lexa.

There was no other option for Lexa but to change to defense, moving left and right and evading the flurry of punches.

Adrenaline pumped in her veins, and Lexa took a step forward, ready to send a couple of jabs when from the corner of her eye, Lexa could swear she saw someone she hadn’t seen in a long time. “Is that-”

Lexa never saw Anya’s left hook, which landed right on her face.

“Skrish!” Anya froze as she saw Lexa staggering back and then falling onto the mat. “Hey, you okay?”

Lexa sat, feeling a bit dizzy. “Yeah, uh, I got distracted.” Lexa touched her lip, feeling the trickle of blood running down her chin.

“Sorry, Lexa. I got carried away a bit.” Anya helped Lexa get up. She grabbed a towel and pressed it to Lexa’s mouth. “I’ll be back.” Anya left to get a medical kit.

In the meantime, Lexa was heading to the showers when she bumped into someone. “Oh, sorry I-”

“Well, well, well. I’ll be damned.” The woman had a voice like a siren’s song, raspy and sensual. “It’s been a while, Alexandria Woods.”

“Costia,” the name caused a bitterness on her tongue.

Costia was taller than Lexa, with a lean curvy body and legs for days. Her brown eyes twinkled with mischief as her lips curled into a smile. “It’s been years, huh? Though I gotta say it’s hard not to hear about you in the courthouse. Going against Roan Winters? That’s ballsy.”

“Yeah, anyway. I gotta go.” Lexa didn’t want to spend more time than she needed to with Costia.

Costia’s eyes roamed very slowly over Lexa’s body, licking her lips as a drop of sweat traveled to her cleavage.

“Bye, Costia.” Lexa was about to move on when Costia grabbed her by the wrist.

“Come on, Lexa. You’re still mad?” Costia moved her hand over Lexa’s bicep. “I didn’t mean to-”

“To what? To hurt me, to lie to me? You knew I was grieving. I was hurting and you used me!” Lexa said through gritted teeth.

For a second, Lexa could have sworn remorse crossed Costia’s face. “I’m sorry, Lexa. I am. However, I cannot deny that I enjoyed our chemistry. I miss your warmth. Call me, let’s try again.”

Costia left, and Lexa now had a major headache. She walked towards the locker room and sat holding her head in her hands.

“Lex? You okay?” Anya rested her hand on Lexa’s shoulder.

“Yeah, it’s all in the past.” Lexa tried to say it with conviction, but the past always had to come to bite her in the ass.

-oo-

After Lexa had parked, she walked slowly while preparing the best way to approach Clarke and hopefully convince her to open the apartment complex door. Luckily for her, two tenants were leaving so Lexa squeezed inside the lobby and took the stairs two at a time.

By the time she was in front of Clarke’s door, Lexa took deep breaths, rolled the sleeves of her shirt up to her elbows, and pushed the doorbell.

She waited impatiently until she heard the heavy sigh behind the door. Clarke probably already checked the peephole.

“What are you doing here?” Clarke asked, still behind the door.

“I respected your wishes for a week, Clarke. I’m here to clear things up.”

“How did you get inside? Are the doors of this building now open for you?” Clarke questioned with some annoyance.

“Wha- No, I, uh, snuck into the lobby when others were leaving. Were you going to open it if I had rung?”

Lexa sighed; the silence was enough of a response for her.

“Clarke, talk to me, please?”

Finally, she heard the bolt behind the door unlock and soon enough, there were a pair of sky-blue eyes staring back at her.

Clarke stepped aside, letting Lexa inside before closing the door after Lexa.

“What the fuck happened to your face?”

Under the light of the apartment, the nasty bruise was very visible on Lexa’s jawline.

“Sparring gone wrong. It’s fine.”

For a hot second Clarke got closer to Lexa, her fingertips a few centimeters away from her face, the healer in Clarke probably wanted to clean the wound after the crappy job Anya did, but at the last second Clarke retracted her hand. “This way.” Clarke guided her to the kitchen island instead.

No coffee or tea invitation, the message was clear. Clarke wanted Lexa out of there asap. Lexa would have to be clear in her argument to win this case.

“I’m sorry about what happened.” Lexa cut to the chase. “I swear this was not part of the petitions we made to the court. I told you I intended to share every single aspect of Madi’s life with you. All I’ve ever been trying here is to be a good co-parent with you, Clarke.”

Clarke remained quiet, clearly trying to examine if what Lexa said was the truth.

Careful, Lexa reached for Clarke’s hand resting on the table. “I don’t give a damn about what Judge Rothenberg ordered, he can fuck off. I know that right now you feel I betrayed you, but I made a vow to you that I intend to keep until my last breath.”

“Lexa, I don’t know what to believe right now.” Clarke sounded skeptical and with reason. Knowing Clarke’s backstory, Lexa knew Clarke protected her heart for a reason.

“You know me. I think we’ve spent enough time for you to recognize if I’m being dishonest.”

“I’m so tired of being afraid of losing Madi. I don’t wanna feel like this anymore.”

Gently, Lexa cupped Clarke’s face. “You don’t have to fear anything from me. I love yo- your daughter.” Lexa realized her mishap. “Our daughter. Let me prove to you how much I value our friendship and that I won’t ever betray your trust.”

“Mommy, I lost my coloring book!” Madi came out of her bedroom, looking around the small living room, checking the couch and the nearby table.

Lexa removed her hand from Clarke, already missing the warmth, and smiled at seeing the girl looking stronger and healthier than when she saw her back when they first met.

“Ah, gimme a sec, baby. I’m here with Lexa and-”

At that, Madi furrowed her brows and stared daggers at Lexa. “Go away!”

Clarke gasped. She walked towards Madi and stood in front of the angry girl. “Madi, that is no way to talk to another person, much less to Lexa who has been our friend for months!” Clarke scolded.

Madi clenched her little fists, looking at Lexa still.

“Madi? What’s wrong?” Lexa asked, a bit shocked at the reaction from the girl.

Lexa was going to approach when the girl shouted, “I don’t like Leksa. Go away!”

Clarke lifted the feisty brunette and carried her in her arms, taking her to the living room. She sat the girl on the couch and Clarke sat beside her.

Lexa followed, concerned about what on earth had just happened. Did she ruin her relationship with her daughter before it even began?

“Madison, you’re acting rude, and I don’t like that. Why are you like this?” Clarke questioned the girl again. “You can tell Mommy,” Clarke spoke with assertiveness.

Madi pouted, crossing her arms just like Clarke tended to do when angry. “Leksa is going to take you away, Mommy!”

“What? No, sweetheart, Lexa’s my friend. She wouldn’t take me away.” Clarke tried to explain.

Madi shook her head as her lips trembled. “Leksa spends more time with you, Mommy. You leave me here with Aunty Rae to go out with her!” Madi accused.

“Oh no, Madi. You got it all wrong, strik heda.” Lexa reached for the little girl, posing her hand over her little arms. “I’m not here to steal your Mommy. She’s never going to leave your side. I simply go out with her because your Mommy needs to have some fun too!” Lexa tried to explain, but this was out of her expertise.

“I wanna have fun too! What about me?!” Madi was crying already, and it tore Lexa’s heart to see her little girl so confused but also so protective of her mommy.

“Oh, baby. Look, you’re my number one girl, and I promise you that we’ll go out to the park and go eat some ice cream, but Mommy also needs some time for herself with her friends.” Clarke explained, hoping to diffuse the situation.

Madi sniffed, wiping the tears from her scrunchy face. “I want ice cream too, Mommy. I wanna go!”

“It’s okay, Madi. I’m sorry you felt you couldn’t come with us. How about this time I invite you and your Mommy to have some fun together?” Lexa asked.

Madi's green, expressive eyes grew bigger. “You want me to go with you and Mommy?”

Lexa smiled in return, patting Madi’s head. “Of course, strik heda. I love spending time with you and your Mommy.”

“Mommy? I wanna go with Leksa and Mommy!” Madi made the most beautiful pout and puppy eyes Lexa had ever seen, and if that girl did that to her, she would be putty in her hands.

Clarke rolled her eyes, “Geez, sweetheart. Alright, we can go together, but don’t forget that Mommy will have to go out with other people and you won’t be able to come, is that clear?” Clarke looked sternly at the little brunette.

“Yes, Mommy!” Madi was smiling so big it made Lexa’s heart jump.

And thanks to Madi, Lexa was about to have her first family outing with her daughter.

-oo-

In the end, they went to the park, where Madi released all her extra energy climbing the stairs to get to the upper cabin of the playground set.

Clarke and Lexa watched nearby as they walked around the playground, enjoying the fresh wind and the smell of the flowers.

“I uh, I want to apologize on behalf of Madi. This is all new to her, and I don’t think she’s ever been away from me.” Clarke said, looking at the girl sliding down. “I should’ve explained to her what I was doing.”

“This is new to all of us. I don’t want to cause any discomfort to Madi as we begin sharing her time independently.” Lexa observed Clarke. “I uh, I do wonder when the time will be to tell Madi about who I am to her.”

Clarke bit her lower lip. “I asked Niylah, eh, Ms. Summers. She recommends doing it soon; making sure she understands this new dynamic between us.”

Lexa felt something ugly in the pit of her stomach at the mention of Madi’s teacher, but she pushed that feeling aside. “I hope I can have Madi stay with me on some days. Once we explain everything to her, that is.”

Clarke nodded. “I assume we should decide if Madi stays a couple of weeks with me and then with you or if we switch weekly.”

“Yeah, something like that.” Lexa nodded. “But for now, I want to take it easy. As you said, this is new, and Madi will probably need some time to start learning to be away from you.”

“I mean,” Clarke chuckled, “I’ll need time too, Lexa. It’s been just the two of us for six years. I don’t know how to share her yet.”

Lexa offered an understanding smile. “It takes as long as it takes.”

“Mommy! Leksa!” Madi was running with all she had and bumped into Clarke’s legs.

“Honey, take it easy. You know you shouldn’t be running like that.” Clarke knelt to see the girl eye to eye.

“I want ice cream. Can I have one Leksa?” Madi asked, pointing to the ice cream shop on the other side of the street.

“Of course. Ice cream right away, strik heda.”

Lexa offered her hand and Madi took it. Then Madi gave her available hand to Clarke and the three of them walked together like a unit, like a family.

“Baby, stop asking for samples. You and I know that you’re going to request your favorite.” Clarke tickled Madi as the girl laughed mischievously.

“And what’s your favorite?” Lexa asked excitedly.

“Choco Chip!” Madi jumped with her fist in the air.

“No way! Mine too!” Lexa high-fived the little girl in celebration.

Clarke raised her brows. “Seriously?”

Lexa nodded, “Yes.”

“I always wondered why she liked it so much.” Clarke looked at the girl with a certain sadness.

“During my pregnancy, I craved chocolate chip like crazy,” Lexa explained, hoping to keep a light conversation, seeing the sadness in Clarke’s eyes. “What’s your favorite?”

“Vanilla.”

“Vanilla?!” Lexa was surprised. “I took you for a cookie dough kind of girl.”

That made Clarke smile. “Cookie dough? Nope, I’m as vanilla as they come.”

“Leksa? Did you fight with the evil king?” Madi asked, pointing to the purple, blackish bruise on her face.

“Ah, not an evil king but close.” Lexa winked.

“Really? Can you teach me?” Madi was leaning more and more over her chair with the excitement of a girl living in a fantasy world, to the point she almost fell off her chair.

“Madison! Fighting is not okay!” Clarke immediately scolded.

“But, Mommy. I want to rescue the princess too!” Madi pouted.

“When you grow up a bit more, maybe we can start teaching you some self-defense.” Lexa fist-bumped Madi, who quickly returned to her ice cream and made a mess on her face.

-oo-

When they returned to Clarke’s home, Lexa was carrying Madi in her arms. The weight of her little girl made her so happy. This was her daughter, her beautiful baby girl asleep in her arms. Clarke opened the door back to the apartment. “Let’s take her to her room.”

Lexa nodded, following Clarke into the bedroom, and carefully laid the little girl on the bed.

“Baby? I need you to wake up and go brush your teeth.” Clarke pushed a brown curl away from Madi’s face. “I don’t want to, Mommy.” Madi scooted deeper into the bed.

“Madi, come on. The faster you do it, the faster you can go back to sleep.” Clarke tapped the little girl’s shoulder and the girl finally relented sitting back on the bed.

“I’ll get your pjs ready.” Clarke opened the upper drawer and got a cute pajama set with monkeys.

As Madi was in the restroom brushing her teeth Lexa observed the way Clarke prepared Madi for bed, with so much efficiency. Like a dance they already knew by heart.

Madi returned, and Clarke helped the girl put on her sleeping clothes and tucked her inside the bed. “Good night, baby.” Clarke kissed her head.

Lexa ruffled Madi’s head. “Good night, Madi.”

The girl mumbled something, but Lexa assumed it was her saying good night.

Clarke and Lexa walked outside back to the living room, and Lexa waited for Clarke.

“I want to apologize, Lexa. I might have overreacted.” Clarke said after a bit.

Lexa nodded. “I get it, Clarke. I’m glad we could talk.”

“Me too.” Clarke went into the kitchen. “Would you like some water? After that amount of ice cream I need to wash the sugar down.”

“Thanks,” Lexa followed. She grabbed the glass Clarke offered and took a generous sip.

After taking a sip of her own, Clarke said, “I was thinking, maybe it’s time you spend some quality time with Madi.”

Lexa raised her brows. “Really?”

“Yup, I think next Saturday is convenient. I uh, I have a date so um, I’ll drop Madi off at your apartment and I’ll pick her up at 9 pm, does that work for you?” Clarke proposed.

“A date?” Lexa murmured, “I mean, yes, absolutely fine by me! I’d love to babysit Madi.”

Clarke smiled satisfied. “Great! Next Saturday then, once I conclude my date with Niylah I’ll pick her up.”

Lexa choked on the water, having a coughing fit. Clarke aided her, hitting her back.

“Are you okay?” Clarke asked, rubbing Lexa’s back soothingly.

Lexa cleared her throat and took a bit of water. She wetted her lips and took a deep breath. “What did you say?” Lexa asked.

“That I’ll pick Madi after I’m done with Niylah?” Clarke repeated a bit confused.

Lexa felt her heart constrict. “Oh, that’s ah, good to know. Ms. Summers, huh?” Lexa offered a tight-lipped smile. “No problem! You take your time, and I’ll take good care of Madi.”

Clarke smiled in relief. “Glad to hear. I hope we can start sharing Madi more often.”

Lexa stood up, “Anyway, good night, Clarke.”

“Take care, Lexa.” Clarke waved goodbye, and Lexa left the apartment quickly; she needed some fresh air.

Outside, Lexa took a couple of deep breaths. “A date with Ms. Summers?” Lexa felt bile in her throat. “Why do I fucking care? It’s none of my business,” Lexa scolded herself as she went back into her car.

Right now, her focus needed to be on preparing to spend a whole day with her kid.

Chapter Text

Clarke sighed, she had no idea what she had got into by accepting Niylah’s invitation to dinner. When she checked her closet this morning before going to work, Clarke noticed the lack of dresses she had. All she possessed were blouses, old band t-shirts, jeans, and pants that were efficient to work and run after a 6 year old child.

Sighing, Clarke focused on her work at hand; making sure the character she had been working on moved flawlessly on the screen. This? Clarke could do this with her eyes closed. She has been an animator for a long time, this is where she felt comfortable, but dating? Clarke was so lost. The last time she dated it was with Finn, and the Finn Collins experience was nothing but traumatizing, so Clarke had no clue what to expect and what was expected of her.

Clarke checked the new photo frame she added to her desk.  Right beside the picture of baby Madi a new photo had been added. It was from the day Clarke and Lexa took Madi to get some ice cream, a picture perfect family outing, so why not take one? Clarke had no idea why, but it felt right to photograph them like the family they kind of were. Lexa had been so patient and understanding of Clarke. Who was this woman who people in the law field feared, but in person was the kindest and soft Clarke had the pleasure of dealing with.

As Clarke returned her focus to the monitor, she could have sworn she heard a familiar soft voice with a specific cute accent.

“Don’t worry Linc, we just need to clarify the rights associated with the new film you’re about to launch. I’ll look into the licensing agreement and any potential risk with other studios.”

“Got it. Thanks, Lex.” Lincoln patted the lawyer's back with familiarity.

“If it makes you sleep better at night, I can draft a stronger IP agreement,” Lexa offered. “Before I-” Lexa froze, looking into the working area. “Clarke?”

“Lexa!” Clarke smiled, seeing that indeed it was the brunette.

Lincoln tilted his head, not understanding how his friend and lawyer knew one of his animators.

Lexa approached to greet Clarke, and Clarke stood up as well, however as they both met, it was weird how they greeted each other. Offering hands, half hugging, kissing a cheek? It was awkward to say the least.

Lexa chuckled, “I uh, I had no idea you worked here. Now it makes sense where I have seen your art style.”

“Yup. This is where I work.” Clarke blushed sheepishly.

“Hey, since when do you two know each other?” Lincoln asked, very curious.

“Actually, Clarke is the mother of my child,” Lexa explained, smiling like she had won the lottery.

“No way!” Lincoln gasped. “Holy cow! I never made the connection.” Lincoln chuckled, “Lexa told us about the hospital mess up, but I never connected the dots with your daughter, Clarke. How small the world is!”

“Yeah,” Clarke knew the resemblance between Madi and Lexa was as clear as water, and she couldn’t help the feelings of hurt knowing her and Madi would never have a resemblance like that.

“I hope you’ve been supportive of Clarke, Linc.” Lexa said, with a hint of warning in her voice.

“Oh, no! Mr. Sage has been nothing but supportive,” Clarke added right away.

“Good to know!” Lexa shrugged, as if she wasn’t ready to destroy Lincoln if Clarke wasn’t treated with respect.

“Anyway, I’ll talk to you later, Lexa. Clarke.” Lincoln nodded before retreating to his office.

“Lincoln’s a good man. I’m glad you can share your talent with him.” Lexa said.

“He gave me a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when I came from Arkadia. I owe him a lot.” Clarke added.

“So ah, how’s everything? Ready for your um, date?” Lexa asked next. Not sure if she really wanted to know the answer.

Clarke snorted. “I have no idea, Lexa. I haven’t done this in years. So, um, if we were dating, how would you expect me to dress for our first date?” Clarke asked shyly.

Lexa blushed as she swallowed hard. “I’m a terrible fashion icon, but I think any person would be happy to see you, no matter what you wore.”

“So a simple dress could work?” Clarke inquired some more.

“Absolutely. A flower dress, considering it’s spring, would be nice,” Lexa tried to sound casual. “I could add a soft blue lightweight scarf, in case it gets cold at night, to make your eyes pop.”

“I hope that it doesn’t look like I’m trying too hard,” Clarke sighed.

“Trust me, Ms. Summers would be an idiot not to fall for you right away.” Lexa forced a smile.

“Thank you, Lexa. I appreciate your advice.” Clarke said, more relieved.

“Anytime! I’ll see you on Saturday.” Lexa bid farewell.

“Right, Madi’s very excited. See you.” Clarke waved goodbye and watched the brunette go.

Clarke felt a bit better, and seriously, how crazy was it that Lexa knew her boss? Indeed, a small world.

“I guess I should stop by and get a new dress.” Clarke sighed; this dating thing was not for her.

-oo-

The smell of coffee at this hour was intense, Clarke sat at the round table along with Raven and Octavia. Madi was in school so Clarke had time to relax and chat before it was pick up time.

“I’m glad you and Woods talked,” Octavia said, drinking from her steaming cup. “You know it’s important to cooperate with her, Clarke. Offering an olive branch and making this work is going to be good for all of you, particularly Madi.”

“Now that you fixed your shit with your baby momma, what about your favorite teacher? Ready for your date?” Raven wiggled her brows.

“I don’t know, Rae. Maybe I rushed into this. I’ve been a mother for 6 years. I'm not dating material. Dinner and flowers? I don’t know what to do.” Clarke sighed, confusion rolling in her mind.

Octavia reached for Clarke’s hand, “Hey, don’t stress about it. I think that you should just go to get to show yourself not as the mother of Madi but as a woman. Try to enjoy yourself and just follow your gut!” Octavia advised, hoping to assuage Clarke’s fears.

“Thanks, O. I guess I’ll need to be brave and go for it.” Clarke drank from her cup, enjoying the bitter taste of her black coffee.

“How do you feel about leaving Madi with Lexa?” Raven asked next. “This is the first time Lexa will be in charge of Madi on her own.”

“I’m not sure if I’m fully ready to be apart from Madi. Lexa and I have a shared responsibility, and Lexa has her rights to spend time with her daughter, but it’s always been the two of us. I do hope Madi feels comfortable and connects with Lexa.” Clarke said.  She really wanted her daughter to get along with the lawyer. “Lexa is trying hard to make things work and she’s so patient and so honest. She always makes sure I feel comfortable; she’s so gentle and soft. Her smile is tender and makes me feel cared for.” Clarke smiled, thinking about the older woman.

“Oh, is that right?” Raven leaned in, mischief in her eyes. “Please, do tell us more about the great Lexa Woods.” Raven grinned, making Octavia snort.

“For fuck’s sake, Raven!” Clarke groaned, hitting the table, frustrated. “How many times do I have to clarify that Lexa is a concerned mother. This is for Madi’s well-being!” Clarke sighed, and finished her cup, ignoring the amused laughter of her friends.

“Whatever helps you sleep at night, Griff!”

_______________

In a flurry of combinations, Lexa hit the sandbag. One, two, one, two, three, as the sound of leather thudded against the heavy bag. Sweat dripped on Lexa’s brow as she kept her focus on the bag.

“So what else are you planning? Shopping, maybe?” Anya asked as she held the bag to stop it from swaying too much.

“I guess we could go to the mall. She might want to stop and get some ice cream,” Lexa said, huffing as she continued her workout.

“That’s great. Madi will be tired once she gets to your apartment and you will call it a day!” Anya added.

In a combination of punches Lexa moved, focusing on her footwork. “I do want to spend more time with her, Anya. That’s the point of keeping Madi for the day. I’ll try some movies later while we wait for Clarke to arrive from. Her. Date.” Lexa punctuated each punch into the bag, rattling Anya a bit.

“And that’s a problem because…?” Anya continued with her previous inquiry.

Lexa rolled her eyes, “It’s not a problem.”

“You make it sound like one,” Anya added.

Lexa huffed, punching harder and moving a step back before she threw a kick, making Anya lose a bit of breath.

“I just think that if that date with Ms. Summers goes well then two becomes three, and it’s likely she would be more involved in Madi’s life. I just got my first chance with Madi, Ahn. Sharing her so soon…” Lexa sighed, stepping back from the back to drink some water from her bottle.

Anya passed Lexa a towel as they both took a seat on a nearby bench. “I get it, Lex. She could become a potential stepmom, huh?” Anya teased.

If her somber expression was any indication, Lexa wasn’t in the mood. “I get Clarke deserves to meet other people. I know she’s lonely and deserves someone who cares for her just as much as for Madi, but we’re just beginning this co-parenting thing, and I don’t want to share my kid with anyone else. Ms. Summers already knows Madi to some capacity and Madi likes her!” Lexa sighed, finishing her bottle before tossing it into a nearby bin.

Lexa began to remove her wrappings, already done for the day.

“Niylah isn’t going to compete for your daughter’s affections, Lex. I mean, right now Ms. Summer’s goal is to get into Clarke’s pants.” Anya chuckled but that laughter didn’t last much as Lexa punched her hard in her arm. “Ow!”

“Watch it!” Lexa growled, with teeth and everything.

Anya raised her hands in a placating manner. “Seriously. I don’t think blondie’s going to rush Madi into connecting with another adult in her life while you two are beginning to share custody.” Anya grabbed their belongings and followed Lexa back into the lockers.

Lexa splashed her face with water from the sink, feeling a bit better after releasing her frustrations into the bag. “I guess I should try to bond with Madi and make sure we have a good day together,” Lexa said with hope.

Anya patted her friend on the back. “That’s the spirit! You’ll see how great your day with your kid is going to be.”

-oo-

Lexa was tapping her shoe on the floor, not knowing what to do. Clarke had sent a text message that she was on her way to drop Madi off and Lexa couldn’t stop the nerves assaulting her at this moment.

She took another glance around to make sure everything was clean, safe, and secure for Madi to be around. She had snacks and drinks for the little girl as well.

The doorbell rang around 20 minutes later and Lexa stood up faster than a bullet, she fixed her shirt, and taking deep breaths opened the door.

Lexa felt the air leave her lungs. “Wow.”

Clarke was beautiful with her hair loose in soft curls. She wore a pretty flowy ankle dress that adjusted to her curves nicely and enhanced her bosom, giving a nice view of cleavage. Lexa felt her throat was dry.

“Hey,” Clarke smiled shyly.

“Hi,” Lexa had no words. She was hypnotized.

“Leksa!” Madi shouted, breaking the spell Lexa was in.

“Strik heda, hello!” Lexa finally had some neurons working and stepped away allowing Clarke to bring Madi inside. “Welcome, Madi. Clarke, you look um, gorgeous.”

Blushing Clarke giggled, “Thank you, it’s been a while. Hope it’s not too much.”

“Not at all, you’re perfect!” Lexa needed oxygen or else she was going to do something stupid. Clearing her throat, she stepped aside. “Well, I think I’m all set. You have a great dinner, Clarke.” Lexa tried to sound happy for the blonde. Emphasis on try.

“You two have fun. I’ll be back later, sweetheart.” Clarke kissed Madi.

“Okay, Mommy.” Madi waved and ran around, amazed at how big Lexa’s home was.

Lexa chuckled, “See you later.” Lexa bid farewell and watched Clarke go.

“Mommy said we’re going to play Leksa. Can we play fight?” Madi asked, so energetic.

“Oh, I uh, sure. I guess?” Lexa wasn’t exactly clear on what games were allowed but this couldn’t be so bad.

“Come on, let me show you your room first.” Lexa guided Madi to the bedroom she and Clarke worked so hard to setup.

Once she opened the door Madi gasped. “Ah, this is so cool!” Madi jumped onto the bed.

“Do you like it?” Lexa asked unsure, seeing the girl was jumping like crazy on the bed.

“It’s soooo pretty!” Madi kept bouncing.

“Okay, let’s not jump anymore, Madi. We don’t want any accidents.” Lexa pulled the girl down and soon Madi was in her closet taking out all the toys from the boxes.

“Oh God.”

Lexa had unleashed a little monster.

-oo-

Lexa should have known this wasn’t going to be as easy as she thought. Madison Abigail Griffin Woods was incredibly energetic, very talkative, and very stubborn.

“Please Madi, I need you to eat so you can take your bath and we can get you ready for sleep.” Lexa insisted, pushing the plate of spaghetti to the already fussy girl.

“NO! I want my mommy!” Madi shouted hitting the table with her tiny fist.

“I explained it to you Madi, your mommy’s having fun with a friend. She’ll come once she’s done.” Lexa sighed, this was so out of her depth.

“I want my mommy, now!” Madi furrowed her brows, crossing her arms in childish anger.

“Look, Clarke’s going to be here in a couple more hours. Just eat and then we can watch another movie? Maybe we can draw in your room.” Lexa offered, hoping to get the interest of the girl who was done with today’s play day. “Madi, let’s eat; then you can bathe and play with a lot of fun bath toys, what do you say?” Lexa offered hoping to make the girl have her dinner.

That caught the interest of the girl. “Lots of toys?” Madi gasped.

“Sha, and you can play with bubbles too,” Lexa raised the offer.

Madi began to eat her spaghetti, and oh what a mess it was. The girl was covered in sauce by the time she finished.

“Okay, strik heda. Let’s get you to the bathtub.” Lexa grabbed the girl underneath her arms, putting her back on the floor. “I promise once you bathe we can read you a story before bed time.”

“I wanna play, Leksa!” Madi dragged Lexa. Excited to play in the bathtub, the girl suddenly got a boost of energy and now she was pretty happy to get into the tub. “Lots of bubbles!” Madi began to chant as Lexa prepared the water.

Lexa tested the water temperature and added the bubblegum smell into the water, creating a foam that became a sea of bubbles.

“YAY!” Madi was quick to get in and began splashing, creating a massive flood outside the tub

“Oh gosh, Madi, let’s not do that, please? I’m gonna have to mop this so please no more making sudden moves. Here.” Lexa added some toys so the girl could play while she wiped the floor.

Lexa was exhausted, and it was just a few hours of having Madi. “How can Clarke do this every day?” Lexa wondered out loud. “I am so behind, geez.” Lexa sighed, mopping the area to make it safer to walk.

“Come here, Madi, I’m going to add some shampoo to your hair.” Lexa dragged a chair and sat, adding strawberry shampoo to the mop of hair of the girl singing who knew what to the toys.

“Is mommy coming already?” Madi asked.

“I don’t know, Madi. Maybe later.” Lexa massaged the girl’s scalp, making sure to remove any sauce left from dinner. “After the bath, you’re going to put on your pjs and wait for mommy on the bed.”

“No! I want my mommy, now!” Madi insisted again, getting angry as she hit the water, creating waves that began to wet the floor again. “I WANT MOMMY!” Madi shouted.

“Em pleni, Madi!” Lexa shouted back. That made the girl quiet. “Oh gosh, I uh, look Madi, I’m sorry I just lost it for a sec and-”

The girl’s lip began to wobble as she began to cry. “You’re not my mommy!”

“I-” Lexa felt like a dagger went through her heart. “I am,” Lexa sighed quietly. “Let’s get you changed, Madi.”

_____________________

As the dinner finished, Niylah and Clarke strolled down to the nearby park. It was a chilly night as the cool wrapped around them like a blanket. The lamps lit the pavement as Niylah and Clarke walked side by side.

“It’s a lovely night, huh?” Niylah was so close Clarke could feel her body heat.

“It’s nice, yeah,” Clarke replied, still a bit on edge, not fully immersed in the romantic vibes of the night.

As they reached the nearby pond, you could see the moon reflected in the calm waters. Niylah stopped to look deeply into it. “It’s moments like this that make this so worthwhile.” Niylah offered a wide smile.

“Yeah, I get it.” Clarke looked at Niylah, then into the water, to gather her thoughts. “Sometimes, it’s hard to find time for ourselves.”

Niylah turned to face Clarke. “So what else do you like to do when you’re not being Madi’s supermom?”

Clarke chuckled, “It’s been a long time since I had some fun, Niylah. Life has been pretty hectic, but I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Niylah got closer, their shoulders brushing. “You know? I’ve got some ideas to change that. Some art exhibit next weekend, maybe?” Niylah hinted at another date.

Clarke exhaled softly, “I ah, that sounds lovely, Niylah but I, uh…” Clarke tried to find the right words.

“But?” Niylah encouraged ever so patient.

“I’m not sure I’m in the right headspace for dating right now, Niylah. I’m so worried about Madi being with Lexa that I wasn’t fully here. I’m sorry.” Clarke confessed. “I don’t want to hurt you, Niylah.”

Niylah’s smile faltered for a second, but she quickly regained her composure. “I get it, Clarke. It’s fine. We can keep it light, no pressure. If you want to have some fun, just text me whenever you’re ready.”

That made Clarke feel some sort of relief. Niylah was a nice woman, but deep down, Clarke knew that there was another woman already crawling into that space in her heart. “Thanks, Niylah. I really had a good time tonight.”

Niylah nodded, offering her hand to Clarke as they finished their walk, the moon casting a soft light on their path. It was a nice moment, one that Clarke probably needed to see if her heart was ready to love again, and maybe it was. For now, she would enjoy this night before going to pick up Madi.

-oo-

Clarke kissed Niylah good night on her cheek before going to the lobby where Gustus greeted Clarke warmly. She called the elevator, and seeing it was 9pm, she hoped her daughter was already deep asleep for their ride home.

As the doorbell rang she heard the noise she dreaded, and oh God.

“Mommyyyyyy!” Madi ran half-naked into Clarke’s legs.

“Madi, where are your shirt and pants?” Clarke asked, seeing her daughter looking like a wild creature wearing only underwear.

“Hey, Clarke. I uh, I’m sorry.” Lexa looked so exhausted.

Clarke knew this was too soon to leave Madi and Lexa on their own.

“I tried to put her to bed, but Madi just refuses.” Lexa sagged, feeling defeated.

Clarke grabbed her daughter and, lifting her onto her hip, looked seriously at the rowdy girl. “Madison? This is not how we behave!” Clarke spoke with seriousness. “You know you have to be in bed at this time!”

“But moooommyyyyy,” Madi whined. “Leksa didn’t tell me when you were coming.”

“That’s no excuse, Madi!” Clarke was angry. “You promised to be a good girl, and you weren’t, so Mommy is not happy right now!”

Madi pouted, knowing she was on the naughty list

“Go get your pajamas on while Mommy talks with Lexa.  Is that clear?”

“Yes, mommy.” Madi left the two women alone.

“I’m so sorry, Lexa. I shouldn’t have left Madi with you without more guidance.” Clarke felt so bad, her daughter acted like a completely rude girl.

“No, this is on me. I had no idea what to do or how to talk to her, Clarke. I’m so afraid to do the wrong thing that I messed up everything.” Lexa said with such disappointment. “I couldn't even manage to put a 6-year-old to bed, Clarke. What does that tell you about me!?” Lexa was obviously frustrated.

“Lexa, I’ve had years of practice. This was your first time having to do the role of a mom. Maybe we did rush things, but we cannot let Madi behave like this.” Clarke admitted. “I think we should change tactics so Madi can understand that you are meant to care for her, and she needs to obey.”

“What do you mean?” Lexa asked.

“Let me show you. If you stay with us, we can tag along. You can learn Madi’s habits and she can get used to your presence.” Clarke suggested.

Lexa blinked, trying to process the suggestion. “Wait, you want me to stay with you two?” Lexa asked, just to be sure.

“I mean, it would be a way for us to show Madi that we are together in this and um, also to teach you the day-to-day of Madi?” Clarke shrugged.

“You can stay here,” Lexa said. “I mean, your home is a bit small to add in another adult living there, so why don’t you two stay here for a couple of weeks? My room is comfortable, and I have no issues sleeping on this couch; it’s cozy.” Lexa joked.

“Oh no, Lexa. If we do this, I’m staying on the couch. This is your place.” Clarke couldn’t kick Lexa out of her own bed.

“I’m offering.” Lexa smiled. “I would love to have you two here so you can teach me how to become a proper mother for Madi.”

“So tomorrow then? I can tell Madi the kitchen needs repairs, so we’re staying here. That way, you can learn her schedule for school, her snack time, and how to deal with her tantrums. We’re in this together - a team.” Clarke smiled, feeling more at ease with the idea.

“Like a family,” Lexa grinned.

“Deal?” Clarke extended her hand.

“Deal.” Lexa shook it.

Chapter Text

Clarke sighed, ready to punch Raven. “Can you stop talking crap for a second and listen?”

Raven rolled her eyes exasperated. “Clarke, you eloped! That’s what you basically said.”

“No, I did not! I’m just doing this to ease the transition of Lexa into Madi’s life.”

“Yeah, by moving in together like a lovey-dovey couple!” Raven grinned, wiggling her brows.

Clarke groaned, “Ugh, you’ll only hear what you want, Rae.”

“So, what’s up with Ms. Summers? No second date? No moving into third base?” Raven giggled as she tossed another couple of folded shirts into Clarke’s luggage.

“Niylah was nice, but I truly don’t have the mind to date right now, not with this new family dynamic we have.” Clarke finished folding some more clothes before adding them to the pile in her luggage.

Raven lifted the next box and added some shoes. “So this new experiment of yours means staying with Lexa in her home, sleeping with her, and being just co-parents?”

“I’m not sleeping with her, Raven. I’ll take the couch, so stop your ridiculous ideas.” Clarke groaned, tired of Raven’s pestering.

“Alright, fine. No sexual escapades for you, Griffin. You’ll sleep on the couch, but still, hot lawyer Lexa is going to be on your radar 24/7. I think that sounds like a recipe for disaster.” Raven shrugged.

“We’re friends, Raven. I’m sorry you’re incapable of forming platonic friendships with other women.” Clarke joked.

“Ha! Incapable no. Just saying that if Lexa were my type, I’d be getting in her bed in no time.” Raven grinned.

“Gross, Reyes. I really didn’t need to put that image in my head.” Clarke gagged, closing her luggage. “I'm set here. Go get Madi’s luggage and when I pick her up from school, we’ll meet Lexa at Dr. Lightbourne’s clinic for Madi’s check up.”

“What are you going to tell Madi about living with Lexa?” Raven asked.

“Just that we’re fixing the kitchen because it’s old, and that we’ll stay with Lexa for a couple of weeks, nothing complicated,” Clarke said.

“And when Madi comes back and sees the kitchen looking all the same? Your daughter is not an idiot, Clarke.”

“I’ll deal with that later, Rae. Help me get these in the car, and then we'll go pick up your goddaughter.”

-oo-

Once the bell rang to end the classes for the day, Clarke picked up her baby girl in her arms as the other kids left the classroom.

“How was your day, sweetheart?” Clarke asked as she adjusted her grip on Madi’s legs.

“I drew something for you, mommy!” Madi squeezed out of Clarke’s arms and ran to her desk, searching under the table the girl found a loose page and waved it excitedly before giving it to Clarke.

“This is for you, mommy!” Madi showed Clarke her masterpiece. It was a simple drawing with the squared figure with blonde hair holding a smaller rounder figure with huge smiles on each of their faces. What caught Clarke’s attention was the third figure holding an ice cream cone. “Baby? Who is this?”

Madi grinned widely, “Leksa!”

Clarke widened her eyes, surprised that Madi was already including Lexa into her drawings in such a natural way. “That’s very nice, sweetheart.”

“I want more ice cream, mommy!” Madi smiled, already hoping to get dessert as she reached for her backpack.

“Well, baby, I told you we have to fix the kitchen first but um, I can ask Lexa later if we can go to get some.” Clarke explained, taking Madi’s hands and leading her outside the classroom.

“Hey, Clarke, how’s everything?” Niylah asked as she bid farewell to the other kids in her class.

“All good, Niylah. It’s good to see you.” Clarke didn’t want to stay longer than necessary with Niylah in case it gave the wrong idea to the teacher.

“Bye, Ms. Summers!” Madi bid farewell which helped Clarke to avoid any awkwardness between her and Niylah.

“Bye, Madi, see you tomorrow!” Niylah smiled gently, patting the smaller girl’s head, before she watched them go.

“Are we going to play with Leksa?” Madi asked, jumping excitedly as they returned to the car, where Raven waited.

“No, baby. We’re not going to play with Lexa. Lexa is welcoming us in her home while the landlord fixes our kitchen.” Clarke explained.

“But I want us to play with Leksa, mommy!” Madi insisted.

“Maybe if Lexa has time.” Clarke sighed.

“Where’s Madster!” Raven called as soon as she spotted the two walking to the car.

“Aunty Rae!” Madi ran to meet Raven, launching herself into the arms of her godmother.

“Hey, I missed you so much!” Raven kissed the laughing girl as she tickled her.

“Are you coming with us, Aunty? Are you going to play with Leksa too?” Madi asked.

Raven laughed, “Oh no, Madi. If I play with Lexa your mommy is going to get very mad at me.”

Clarke mouthed “Raven!” before shooting a murderous look at her friend.

“Why, Mommy? Aunty Rae is funny and Leksa likes ice cream!” Madi asked.

“Yes, Clarke. Why can I play with Lexa, eh?” Raven wiggled her brows mischievously. “I know ways I can totally play with her.” Raven teased.

“Because…” Clarke put Madi’s belongings in the trunk of the car, earning some minutes to think what on earth she would say to her daughter. “Because Lexa’s busy and she doesn’t have time to play with Raven, and much less with me.”

Madi pouted. “But I want her to play with us, Mommy!”

Raven chuckled, “No worries, kiddo. Lexa will make time for you.”

“Let’s just go already, Lexa must be waiting for us.” Clarke sat in the driver’s seat while Raven sat behind with Madi.

“This is just for a couple of weeks, it’s going to be fine.” Clarke tried to reassure them, mostly to reassure herself. Two weeks sharing the same space with the lawyer? How hard could that be?

_______________

The press was shouting question after question to Calliope Cadogan after her first hearing versus Roan Winters. It was a big profile case in the sense that many deemed this David vs Goliath in the business world. EcoWidgets was going head to head with Azgeda Inc., a corporation known for its monetary power.

“My client is confident that justice will prevail.” Lexa stood side by side with her client. “We already presented substantial evidence showing how Mr. Winters used legal loopholes to aggressively poach clients from Ms. Cadogan’s company. This misconduct has not only harmed EcoWidgets, but also raised significant ethical concerns regarding business practices in the industry.” Lexa explained in a firm and confident manner.

“Can you elaborate on what specific loopholes Roan Winters is using?” A journalist asked.

“I cannot divulge all details as the case is ongoing. I’ll say that Azgeda Inc. has exploited ambiguities in client contracts, leveraging them to seduce clients away from EcoWidgets. This predatory behavior raises serious questions about fair competition and the integrity of business practices.”

“Ms. Woods, can you describe the damage Azgeda Inc. allegedly caused EcoWidgets?” Another reporter asked next.

“The impact has been devastating! EcoWidgets has not only lost key clients, but also a significant drop in revenue, employee morale, and trust in market stability.”

“What recourse is Ms. Cadogan seeking from the court?” A journalist followed with another question.

“We’re seeking compensatory damages for the losses incurred and a court order to prevent further poaching and unfair practices by Azgeda Inc. Ultimately, we just want justice and accountability for Ms. Cadogan and her small business, as well as to set a precedent that discourages similarly opportunistic behavior in the future. That will be all, thank you.”

Lexa walked across the sea of reporters to bid farewell to Callie as her client headed to the parking lot.

“This is going to be intense, but don’t let this discourage you. Go and rest and we’ll continue this battle, okay? Take care, Callie.” Lexa escorted Callie to her car and watched her go before returning to the courthouse.

Lexa walked back to the courthouse and into the restroom to wash her face and take a breather after the intense first hearing.

Echo would give her a fierce battle, but Lexa won’t let Roan win. She’ll use every resource she has to stop his abuse from going on any longer. Lexa loosened the tie she wore and removed it before releasing several buttons of her button up as her job was done for the day. She splashed her face with a lot of water to freshen up.

“I cannot deny I got drenched hearing you speak with such authority, Commander.”

Lexa raised her sight and in the mirror reflection she found Costia.

“Gosh, of course you’re here.” Lexa grabbed some paper towels to pat her face dry before tossing the paper into the bin to face the other woman.

Costia approached Lexa swaying her hips and with a seductive smile, knowing well how to use her assets.

Standing face to face, Costia traced her fingertips over the contour of Lexa’s shoulder. “You left me so horny, I had to come quickly to relieve myself.” Costia whispered in Lexa’s ear as she pressed her luscious lips to Lexa’s neck, leaving small sensuous kisses.

“I miss you, Lexa. Come on. Let’s forget the past, we were so good together.” Costia began to unbuckle Lexa’s belt trying to find the heat of the corporate lawyer.

Lexa was stressed, tired, and in so much need of affection, but feeling Costia touching her, kissing her, whispering sweet nothings into her ear did not ignite anything at all. She was dry as a dessert.

Gently she reached for Costia’s wrist, stopping her from reaching under her briefs. “Costia, what’s so hard to understand? I’m not interested.”

“Lexa, we used each other back then and you seemed fine with it,” Costia huffed mildly offended at the rejection. She fixed her pencil skirt and blouse as she reapplied her crimson lipstick.

“I was grieving, depressed, and spiraling into self-destruction. We were toxic for each other.” Lexa sighed rolling the sleeves of her shirt before checking her watch “It’s over, Costia. I mean it. Goodbye.” Lexa noticed Madi’s appointment was in 30 minutes so she needed to be on her way.

“I’m not giving up, Lexa. You know I get what I want.” Costia said with a confident smile as Lexa left the courthouse restroom.

-oo-

Just in the nick of time, even with the heavy traffic across Polis, Lexa reached Polis General. Lexa found Clarke and Madi waiting to be called into the doctor’s office.

“Hey, there you are!” Lexa grinned happily as she walked to greet the two people most important to her right now - her daughter and Clarke.

“Leksaaaa!” Madi ran and bumped into Lexa’s legs giving her a tight hug.

“Hei strik heda, how are you?” Lexa lifted the girl in her arms with ease.

“I was in school and I made a drawing with you and mommy!” Madi grinned proudly of her art piece.

“Really? I can’t wait to see it!” Lexa beamed.

Lexa walked to deliver the girl back to Clarke amid giggles from the small girl. “Hello, Clarke. How are you?” Lexa dropped Madi back in her chair before she greeted Clarke with a hug. Lexa closed her eyes for a second feeling the warm embrace from the slightly shorter woman.

“Everything ready for the temporary move in?” Lexa asked quietly.

“Yup, we got the luggage in my car.” Clarke stepped back with a faint blush, but her smile suddenly vanished. “I hope we didn’t take too much of your personal time to join us.” Clarke’s tone changed into a more serious, colder tone.

Lexa frowned wondering what might have happened. “Not at all. I told you I had time after my audience today. I’m more than happy to come to Madi’s medical check-ups.”

“I can clearly see that,” Clarke returned to her chair leaving a stunted Lexa dealing with the sudden whiplash of Clarke’s emotions.

Frowning, Lexa turned around to check her breath, maybe something was bothering Clarke about her perfume? Lexa excused herself to go to the washroom and freshen herself up. Maybe she should have changed her shirt after she was done in court. As Lexa stared into the mirror to fix her clothes, she noticed the blurred red lipstick print on her white shirt.

“Fucking Costia!” Lexa growled.

She quickly dabbed a paper towel with water and began to clean her shirt, removing as much as she could the evidence of Costia’s lips.

At that moment she heard Madi was being called for her appointment. Lexa made sure to be presentable, smelling clean, and headed quickly to join Clarke and Madi.

“Dr. Lightbourne, it’s good to see you,” Lexa shook the hand of Madi’s pediatrician before taking the available chair beside Clarke.

“Ms. Woods, how are you feeling? Any issues with your health?” Josie asked as she took Madi and helped her get on the examination bed before she opened her chart to read Madi’s latest labs.

“Not at all. Dr. Franco did a great job.” Lexa smiled.

“Great, so here we have Madi’s results.” Josie began reading. “Kidney function looks stable, electrolytes are normal, and no sign of infection.” Jose then sat to do a quick physical examination of the girl. “Alright, looking strong as ever.” Josie brought Madi down and returned to her chair.

“It’s important to keep taking the antirejection meds. Madi, I know you must be really tired but for now they’re doing their job, we can adjust the dose once we see the labs for her next appointment.” Jose explained.

Madi huffed, “But I don’t want to, they suck!”

“Madison!” Clarke scolded.

Josie offered an understanding smile. “Madi, imagine that your new kidney is like Superman, taking the meds away would make you into kryptonite, so for now please keep taking the pills.”

“That was Lexa’s gift to you, Madi. So please take care of it.” Clarke added.

“Okay.” Madi crossed her arms and began to pout.

“For now, let’s keep taking it easy, Madi. Don’t overdo it in school and by next time I think we’ll have even better news for you.” Josie concluded.

“Alright then, let’s get you two home.” Lexa was beyond happy knowing her child was progressing so well. Now, to top it off, she would spend a couple of weeks living with her.

Lexa was completely over the moon.

-oo-

Once Lexa opened the doors to her home, Madi ran like a freight train into the living room.

Lexa chuckled seeing the energetic girl run into her place like she already belonged there.

“Welcome, I guess.” Lexa helped Clarke with the luggage as the two entered the wide apartment. “Make yourself at home and feel free to use anything around,” Lexa said as Clarke remained pretty still, trying to avoid taking space, which sat wrong with Lexa.

“Mommy, I like it here!” Madi came back already carrying some toys from her room. “I like to have fun with Leksa, too!” The girl said, beaming her smile.

“Sweetheart, this is not a playground. We’re going to live with Lexa while our kitchen gets fixed, you know that. Please behave accordingly.” Clarke reminded the little ball of energy.

“Okay, Mommy, but can I go play now?” Madi asked, hands tight, begging.

“Okay, baby. Grab your bag and leave it in your room first, then you can play.” Clarke instructed and the girl didn’t wait any longer as she grabbed her smaller roller bag and took it into her room.

“Well, um, while Madi uses her time, let's get you settled.” Lexa offered a kind smile, hoping to show Clarke she was more than welcome. “I’m glad you’re staying here. I needed to donate some old clothes I didn’t use anymore to make space for your things,” Lexa joked as they reached the master bedroom.

“You shouldn’t have, Lexa. We don’t want to impose.” Clarke replied, holding her bag tight in her hand.

“Hey, I offered. I want you and Madi to feel comfortable here, okay?” Lexa tipped Clarke’s chin to force her to look into her face. “You’re not a guest, you’re the mother of my child. I want you to feel at home too.” Lexa wanted her honesty to reach Clarke. “Here, this is all empty for your stuff. Also, in the shower, I left some space for your things.” Lexa pointed to the door on the other side.

“Thanks,” Clarke offered a tight-lipped smile.

Lexa nodded and went to the storage closet and got a few extra blankets. “I’m not sure how you like to sleep, but here you have some extra blankets if you get cold at night.” Lexa left them on the bed.

“Lexa, I’m not kicking you out of your bed,” Clarke said as she hung some of her work clothes, filling the available space in the closet.

“I already made my choice, I don’t mind. The couch is very comfortable. I want you and Madi to feel at home, so please don’t worry about anything, okay? Having you two here makes me very happy, and I really want Madi to feel comfortable so she can stay with me eventually.” Lexa reached for Clarke’s hand, giving a gentle squeeze to show her support. “Thank you for this opportunity.”

“I mean, I do want Madi to be happy with you too.” Clarke shrugged.

Looking at her watch Lexa noticed it was almost dinner time. “You finish here and I’ll begin prepping dinner. Anything you’re allergic to? Preference for food?” Lexa asked, realizing she never asked if Madi had any food allergies. She should have been more careful. “Does Madi have any food issues?” Lexa was worried.

“No, Madi can eat everything as of now.” Clarke giggled, “Anything is fine, I’m not picky.”

“Well, considering this is our first family dinner I’d like to leave a good impression, Ms. Griffin.” Lexa grinned hopeful.

“Then surprise us, Ms. Woods.” Clarke winked.

Challenge accepted. Lexa was going to become the ultimate chef to make sure she left a great impression on her very special guests.

-oo-

Lexa changed into comfortable sweatpants and a baggy shirt and began working in the kitchen while Madi took her shower under the supervision of Clarke.

Once the oven was on, Lexa began working on boiling the elbow macaroni; next, she added butter to a medium saucepan and began melting it, before adding the flour, salt and pepper.

“Alright, now let’s add the milk with the half and half quickly and shredded cheese.” Lexa added the ingredients to the sauce, continuing stirring until it all melted.

“Perfect,” Lexa grabbed the macaroni noodles and tossed them in the sauce. Grabbing the baking dish, Lexa poured everything into it.  She sprinkled some shredded cheese, another layer of noodles, and finally the last of the cheese before baking it for a few more minutes to get a more sticky consistency.

Right on time, Clarke and Madi arrived at the dinner table. Lexa removed the baking dish from the oven and carefully laid it out on the table.

“Wow, it smells incredible!” Clarke helped Madi sit before checking if Lexa needed more help.

“Don’t worry about it, Clarke. I got this.” Lexa smiled confidently. Lexa brought some apple juice for Madi and a bottle of Chardonnay to share with Clarke.

“Alright, here you go.” Lexa passed the first bowl to Clarke, and then she served Madi.

“Ahm, yummy!” Madi licked her lips at the first bite of gooey mac n cheese.

Lexa waited until Clarke also took her first taste and moaned, which did things to Lexa.

“This is so good!” Clarke licked her lips taking as much cheese as possible. “Like, did you really make this from scratch?” Clarke asked after taking another mouthful. “Because I feel extremely humiliated that I tend to buy the boxed version for Madi.” Clarke blushed at the admission.

“Oh no, there’s nothing wrong with buying boxes. It’s actually time saving but I really wanted to cook for you two tonight.” Lexa admitted, taking a sip of her drink before diving into her own bowl.

“This is amazing,” Clarke said, closing her eyes savoring the rich flavor of the homemade mac n cheese. “What else can you cook, huh?” Clarke asked next. “I think I might have to move here permanently,” Clarke giggled at her own silly comment.

To Lexa that was something she definitely would love.

“I like it too, Mommy! Can I have more?” Madi offered her empty bowl, making Lexa immediately refill the bowl for the happy girl.

“I’m glad to hear you like it, Madi. Maybe we can try to prepare other dishes you like?” Lexa offered hoping to find a way to bond with her daughter.

“Mommy says I’m too small, Leksa.” Madi pouted.

“On your own, sweetheart. If Lexa supervises and helps you I have no problems.” Clarke smiled at her daughter.

“Yay! I want to cook with Leksa!” Madi chimed in excitedly.

This night was something Lexa would store in her head for many years to come; the first night she truly felt she was part of a family.

________________

As the sun began to filter through the curtains, Clarke’s alarm started to ring. Groggily, the blonde woman turned it off to begin a new day. It has been a couple of days living with Lexa, and it was pretty incredible how seamlessly Clarke and Madi fit into Lexa’s life.

Things were kind of confusing at first, considering that during the first morning, as Clarke was getting ready to shower, a very tired Lexa pushed the door open half asleep, forgetting Clarke was sharing her space.

Clarke couldn’t deny that seeing Lexa’s reaction did things to her self-esteem. As the lawyer widened her eyes, gasping in surprise, she froze for a whole five seconds staring at Clarke’s naked body before Clarke covered herself with the nearest towel. Lexa turned around, profusely apologizing for the sudden intrusion.

Both adults started to split their time in such an efficient manner that allowed them both to be ready to go to work and drop Madi at school.

While Clarke was showering, Lexa was in charge of waking Madi up. Once Clarke was done dressing, she took over breakfast duty, while Lexa and Madi took their respective showers.

All in all, things were working fine and Clarke finally learned how it felt to share equal responsibility for raising a child. Not that Finn would ever have a chance to do so, but still, it was so hard to do as a single mother. Having Lexa fulfill her role as co-parent eased Clarke’s worries a lot. Madi felt comfortable with Lexa, and the child was beginning to rely on Lexa for support and trusted her to help when needed.

Clarke stretched before jumping out of the bed and heading to shower. She was done quickly and dressed to go to work. However, the apartment felt eerily silent at this time.

Clarke walked outside and noticed everything was dark. Lexa had been arriving late at night due to a huge ongoing legal battle that she read about in some online news sources.

As Clarke reached the living room, she found Madi on top of a very asleep Lexa, drawing on her face with a kohl pencil Madi probably grabbed from Lexa’s cosmetic bag.

“Madi! What are you doing?! Get down immediately and leave Lexa alone!!” Clarke quickened her steps and sat on the edge of the couch, which was uncomfortable. Clarke felt so much guilt that Lexa was working extra hard and couldn’t properly rest. Clarke would discuss with Lexa tonight about new sleeping arrangements.

“I made her a warrior, Mommy!” Madi smiled, proudly, showing her dirty hands with the black paint.

“Lexa? Wake up, sleepyhead, you gotta shower.” Clarke shook Lexa gently, and slowly the brunette began to stir.

“Clarke?” Lexa sat abruptly. “Gosh, what time is it?”

“Hey, hey, it’s okay. We’re on time.” Clarke rested her hands on Lexa’s shoulders, trying to infuse some serenity into the brunette.

“Sorry, I must have forgotten my phone inside my office and didn’t hear the alarm.” Lexa apologized.

“Heda!” Madi began to jump around. “Yu ste ai gona, Leksa!”

Lexa frowned. “I’m your what?” Lexa asked as she ran her face with both hands, rubbing the strange substance over her cheekbones without realizing it.

“Oh no,” Clarke chuckled as Lexa made it worse, spreading the kohl over her cheekbones.

“Huh?” Lexa looked at her hands, her fingertips were all black. “What the…”

“Yeah um, sorry about that. Madi woke up extremely creative today.” Clarke apologized, still holding a gentle smile.

“I made her heda, Mommy!” Madi was jumping around, very proud of her work. “Can we have a picture, mommy?”

Clarke sighed, “Okay, one. Quickly, and then you two are going to shower.” Clarke pulled out her phone, snapped a quick picture when Madi sat on Lexa’s lap with a fierce expression making Clarke laugh at the hilarity, and showed it to the mother-daughter duo.

“So cool!” Madi happily jumped down.. “I want to show it to Hope and Jordan so they’ll now will believe me when I say we live with a warrior, Mommy!”

“Let’s get moving, Madi, or we’re going to be late for school.” Clarke grabbed Madi, resting her over her hip. “I’ll take care of her morning routine; you take your time Lexa.”

Lexa smiled softly in appreciation, which did things to Clarke’s heart.

-oo-

Clarke put Madi to bed after her daughter was buzzing all day long about how awesome it was to be here in Lexa’s tower. After reading Madi a short story and watching her fall asleep, Clarke closed the door and went to get comfortable before cleaning the dishes.

Clarke put on some music as it was eerily quiet. The place was pretty big, and for Clarke, living like this felt lonely. Clarke didn’t want to imagine what it was like for Lexa to be here, in the place she pictured having her family, her daughter, during the first months of her life. Clarke felt a pang of guilt that she savored Madi’s first mumbled words, saw her crawl all over her small apartment, and take her first steps. She felt bad that Lexa didn’t get to experience the happiness and worries of motherhood.

Clarke felt she stole all of that from Lexa.

Clarke sniffed, and the inevitable tears began to run down her face. The guilt of taking those moments from Lexa, who was truly a good woman. A woman with so much love to give in her heart, and yet Clarke was making things difficult for her still.

That wouldn’t do anymore.

Clarke finished washing the dishes and made sure to save a bowl of soup for Lexa, who would probably arrive past 10pm again.

As the night wore on, Clarke decided it was time for Lexa to get proper sleep. She moved the brunette’s things back into her bedroom, making sure to respect the drawers that weren’t meant for her. Clarke fluffed the pillows and made sure the blankets were all in place.

Right on key, Lexa arrived home. The jingle of keys alerted Clarke to her arrival.

She went to greet the exhausted lawyer.

Lexa seemed lost in her head. She dropped the keys in the nearby bowl on the side table, removed her suit jacket, hung it on the perch, and was about to head to the couch when Clarke welcomed her.

“Hey, Lexa.” Clarke greeted.

“Geez!” Lexa jumped, touching her chest. “Clarke? I didn’t see you. Everything alright? Is Madi okay?” Lexa immediately worried, considering Clarke wasn’t normally awake at this time.

Clarke offered a smile to ease the nerves of Lexa. “She’s asleep. I just thought it was about time someone cared for you, just the way you care for me and Madi.” Clarke said. “I’ll warm the soup I saved for you while you shower. Go ahead, I’ll take care of your dinner.” Clarke offered to a still-stunted Lexa.

“Oh, um, thanks,” Lexa replied.

Clarke headed to the kitchen, turned on the stove, and made sure the soup was warm, not scalding hot, as Lexa would probably be starved. Clarke knew that when Lexa was laser-focused, she tended to forget getting some sustenance.

A few minutes later, Lexa arrived already dressed in her sleeping clothes. She sat on one of the chairs at the kitchen island.

“Here you go. This should provide some nourishment for sure,” Clarke said as she pushed the bowl of hearty soup and sat to Lexa’s left.

“Thank you. You shouldn’t have stayed up. A note would have sufficed.” Lexa grabbed the spoon and took a small spoonful. The way Lexa closed her eyes, savoring the rich flavors, made Clarke really glad she cooked today.

“I meant it, Lexa. Let me take care of you.” Clarke reached for Lexa’s free hand.

Lexa squeezed back as she continued eating, not letting go of Clarke’s hand.

“I’m not used to this,” Lexa said between spoonfuls. “I’ve lived on my own for so long I forgot what it was to be cared for.”

“We’re a team, Lexa. Just because we’re both Madi’s co-parents doesn’t mean we shouldn’t watch out for each other.” Clarke said, the guilt of taking so much from Lexa was always at the back of her mind. She desperately wanted to make amends somehow; maybe this could be a good start, Clarke thought.

Once Lexa was done, Clarke quickly washed everything as Lexa was brushing her teeth.

When Lexa came out of the washroom, she stopped in front of the couch.

“Clarke? Where are my things?” Lexa asked.

Clarke reached for Lexa again. “You’re not sleeping on the couch again, Lexa. You need to rest, come on!”

Clarke dragged Lexa back to the main bedroom. “Here, we’re both adults. We can share.”

Lexa took a deep breath. “I don’t want to impose, Clarke.”

“Lexa, don’t be ridiculous. I’m not going to ruin your sleep. The couch is for watching movies, not for you to sleep night after night. Get on your side, Lexa!” Clarke didn’t leave room for more arguing and slid into her side of the bed.

“Alright, um, sure. Good night, Clarke.” Lexa lifted the covers and lay on her side of the bed.

“See? Big enough!” Clarke pointed to the still-empty space between them. “Good night, Lexa.”

-oo-

Slowly, Clarke began to stir. She felt warm, cozy. She slept so comfortably holding into the warmth of her daughter. Except her daughter was definitely way smaller.

Opening her eyes, Clarke met a brown mop of curls all over her face. Clarke stopped breathing.

Swallowing hard, Clarke realized that she was spooning Lexa, not her daughter, as she had imagined last night.

Carefully, trying not to disturb the sleep of the other woman, Clarke removed the arm that was encasing Lexa in a protective cocoon. Her legs were entangled with the longer limbs of the lawyer.

Exhaling very slowly, Clarke began to pull her legs, just as Lexa began to turn onto her back. Clarke scooted her hips back to give Lexa space and sighed in relief.

Lexa must be pretty exhausted as she was still sleeping undisturbed. Her chest rose as she breathed in calmly.

Clarke took a few moments to stare at the vulnerable state of Lexa. Her side profile was so regal - her strong jawline encasing those pouty lips, and her long lashes covering her pretty eyes.

Lexa was beautiful; actually, no, Lexa was beyond gorgeous, as Clarke suddenly realized. But more than that, was the fact that Lexa trusted her to be in the same bed. Trusted her with her daughter to share custody when Lexa had all the right to reclaim Madi fully. Lexa trusted Clarke with every action the woman took.

Gently, Clarke shifted so she laid sideways, reaching her arm to brush a wild curl away from Lexa’s serene face. She could see so much of Madi in Lexa in that instant. But also, she could see Lexa herself, without her usual mask of self-preservation.

Lexa was a gentle soul.

As Clarke took in more details of Lexa, she spotted black ink covering her right arm. It was an intricate pattern that went all the way up to her shoulder, which she couldn’t see fully due to the sleeve of Lexa’s shirt. Clarke had no idea Lexa had a tattoo, and now she was more curious to find out what else Lexa had on her body. All for artistic purposes. Clarke was an artist after all.

The alarm began to ring, taking Clarke out of her visual study. She turned around reaching towards the nightstand and shutting the sound off.

Lexa began to stir at the sound of the alarm, breaking the reverie in which Clarke was submerged.

Lexa groaned as she stretched her arms, blinking herself awake, before she sat on the bed.

“Good morning, Clarke.”

“Morning, Lexa.” Clarke was blushing horribly; she felt she was doing something illegal after staring at Lexa while she slept.

“Did I move too much?” Lexa asked.

“Nope, not at all! I uh, slept amazingly!” Clarke said, moving out of the bed and getting herself busy.

“Good, I didn’t want to disturb your sleep,” Lexa said as she stood up and began to fix the bed. “I’ll wake Madi to get her ready then.” Lexa announced and left the bedroom.

Clarke closed her eyes for a second, centering herself and removing any lustful thought that might have crossed her brain in the last few minutes. “I need to shower and get breakfast. Come on, Griffin.”

After a much-needed shower, Clarke began her work in the kitchen to prep the meals for the family and get her brain back to its usual self. Clarke packed some sandwiches for Madi’s lunch and Lexa’s.

“You got all your things, Madi?” Lexa asked as she fixed the last buttons of her button-up.

“Yup!” Madi replied, carrying her backpack.

“Okay, here is your lunchbox, Madi, and this is for you.” Clarke passed Madi her lunchbox and Lexa a food container. “This should hold you up for today,” Clarke said.

“Thanks,” Lexa said, smiling widely.

As the trio took the elevator to the parking lot, the vibes felt like they were a single group. As the doors of the lift opened, Clarke grabbed Madi’s hand to drive her to school, with Lexa heading to her work office.

“Have a great day at school, Madi.” Lexa kneeled and kissed the forehead of the little girl. she stood up, she leaned and kissed Clarke’s cheek as well. “You have a good day too, Clarke. See you two tonight.” Lexa departed to her car leaving Clarke paralyzed.

Clarke reached for the place where Lexa kissed her, the warmth spreading on her cheeks made her feel 16 again.

“You like Leksa’s kisses too, Mommy?” Madi asked as she watched her mother reeling from the kiss.

“I um… Yeah. I do.” Clarke smiled, finally heading to her car to drop Madi at school and then head to work.