If You Only Knew

Chapter 20

The morning light filters gently through the curtains, casting soft golden rays across the room. I wake to the soothing sound of Louis's voice, warm and loving, right beside me. His words are a tender caress against the stillness of the morning.

"Hazza, Curly, my love, sweetheart, it's time to wake up," Louis whispers, his breath hot against my ear, sending a pleasant shiver down my spine. Without warning, his fingers dig into my sides, tickling me mercilessly.

"L-Lou, s-stop t-tickles!" I laugh, trying to wriggle away from his relentless touch, but I can't help the giggles that escape my lips.

"Merry Christmas, baby," Louis smiles, his voice full of affection and mischief as he stops his playful assault, pulling back just enough to gaze at me with soft, loving eyes.

"Merry Christmas, Boobear," I smile back, feeling the warmth of his love wash over me, more than just a greeting. It feels like a promise—a promise that today will be full of love, laughter, and shared moments.

"We have to get going, love," Louis says as he pulls himself out of bed, the cool air of the room suddenly sweeping over me as I feel the warmth of the blankets leave my body. "It's 7:30, we need to be on the road in 30 minutes if we're going to make it to my house by 9:00 AM."

"Okay, Lou, can we stop and get coffee for the road?" I ask, still a little groggy from the morning but eager to make the most of the day ahead.

"Sounds great, babe," Louis responds, giving me a wink. "Now get your bit up and get in the shower with me!" His tone is playful, teasing, and it makes me giggle, springing out of bed in a burst of energy, ready to start the day.

I follow Louis to the bathroom, the sound of the shower turning on filling the air, the water starting to heat up as he turns toward me. "How are you feeling, baby?" His voice softens, concern lacing his words as his hands rest lightly on my shoulders.

"I'm good, embarrassed but good," I whisper, my cheeks flushing slightly as I think back to last night—the tenderness, the newness of it all.

Louis smiles softly, his thumb brushing over my cheek, his gaze warm and reassuring. "Don't be embarrassed, baby. I loved last night. Like I told you, I want to explore all of that with you." His words, simple yet profound, settle into my heart, and I feel an overwhelming wave of affection for him.

"I love you," I murmur, my voice thick with emotion, my heart full.

"I love you more, Haz," Louis replies with a grin, leaning in to press a soft kiss to my lips. "Come on, let's go shower now. We have to get going soon."

Louis begins to strip off his clothes, his movements fluid, and I follow his lead, my heart racing slightly as I undress. We step into the shower together, the steam rising around us, enveloping us in warmth. The sound of the water pounding against the tiles is soothing, like a backdrop to the intimacy we share. We take turns washing each other's bodies and hair, the closeness between us making me feel grounded, secure, and more in love than I ever thought possible. Each touch, each gentle stroke of his fingers, sends sparks of warmth through me, and I can't help but smile at the quiet joy of this moment.

Twenty minutes later, we step out of the shower, the cool air hitting our skin as we pull on the clothes we've picked out. We both opt for comfy sweaters—Louis wears mine, and I wear his—wanting the comfort of each other's scent as we head out into the world. The smell of his cologne mixed with the fresh scent of laundry fills my senses, making me feel like he's close even when we're apart. We both slip into sweats, the fabric soft and cozy, perfect for the chilly morning ahead.

"Ready to go, love?" Louis asks, his voice low, soft, and steady as I finish tying my shoes.

"Yeah, I'm ready, Louis. Do you want to drive, or do you want me to drive?" I yawn, the early morning still lingering in my eyes.