Compensations (Life Lessons, #3.5) by Kaje Harper

This is a Life Lessons short story, occurring a week after Home Work (* contains spoilers for Home Work*).

Mac, Tony and the kids have had a long complicated year. Each of them has dealt with fears and losses, joys and triumphs. As December 31st approaches, it's time to look forward to the new year, and what may be in store. Mac and Tony figure whatever happens, they can handle it, as long as they go through it together (