What I Love About You...

22

Present

Awakening to the kiss of the morning sun, I wince slightly, blinking in the suddenly bright world. To anyone else, it might seem a gentle awakening, but for me, the intensity was jarring.

Swinging my legs over the edge of the bed, I sit up, hissing slightly as I acknowledge the residual pain throbbing gently in between my thighs.

Behind me, I catch a glimpse of Christian's peaceful slumber, only half of his body being exposed under a carelessly thrown blanket.

I stand up, dismissing the discomfort as I pull on a pair of sweatpants from the nearby couch, thinking of eating food as I do so.

I pause by the doorway, taking in one last glance at Christian's tranquil silhouette before exiting soundlessly.

Stepping into the chilly air of the hallway, my socks insulate me against the cool, polished hardwood, beneath my feet.

A silent anticipation buzzes through me as I make my way to the kitchen.

Claire, beaming like the morning sun herself, greets me with a cheerful good morning, spatula wielded expertly in her right hand.

"Good morning, my love," Claire says with a bright smile.

I reciprocate her warm greeting with a sweet, "Morning."

My eyes fall to the enticing breakfast banquet she has prepared, the mouthwatering aroma of crispy bacon and fluffy eggs enveloping the room.

My stomach responds immediately with an impatient rumble.

Claire presents a beautifully arranged plate of delicious salty breakfast, every bite seasoned with a dollop of love.

"Thank you," I whisper, gratitude mirrored in my eyes as I accept the aromatic feast.

Beyond the grand window, I catch sight of Andrew.

His silhouette lounges casually over a modest, white table in the garden, carving into his breakfast.

I follow his path, through the back door, and onto the dewy grass.

I take my place beside him, on a chair still cool with the memory of the night. Taking a small bite, I let the savory flavors envelop my senses.

"Did you know," he said abruptly, his gaze fixed intently on the colorful spread of fruits and eggs before him, "He's so happy with you..."

I looked at him, taken aback but my lips curled into a wistful smile.

"He truly loves you..." He stated again, softer this time.

He turns to face me, a sincere gratitude shimmering in his gaze.

"You think so?" My voice slightly rises, and curiosity comes out as I swirl the remaining contents of my meal around with the silver fork.

"I know so." He nods confidently.

"He makes me very happy as well," I mention nonchalantly, trying to keep my emotions hidden as I take another bite with my fork.

"You two share a profound connection, just like two inseparable friends." He observes, his tone carrying a certain weight, popping a strawberry in his mouth as an afterthought.

A pleasant smile tugged at my lips, realizing how true his words rang. He is my best friend.

"If you know about me then you most likely know about, Danny." He said, the warm golden rays of the rising sun causing him to squint slightly.