Shortly after the kids are fed Steve would have sent Peggy and Bucky to get them ready for bed while he 'cleaned up'. After tidying the kitchen he set a plate of not-so-perfect chocolate chip cookies on the table with a note.
Peg and Bucky,
I love you, no matter what. You two should relax for a night. I'm going to take the kids and stay in Stevie and Mary Ellen's extra room so you can just...whatever. Have fun, don't worry too much, we'll be back after breakfast.
Love, Steve
P.S. There's ice cream in the freezer and whipped cream in the fridge too.