Cupcakes, Curls & Cuddles

Chapter 2

The next morning, Louis wakes up to the persistent sound of his alarm. He hits the snooze button and snuggles back under the covers for another 15 minutes of rest. When the second alarm blares, he reluctantly rolls out of bed, trudges into the bathroom, and adjusts the shower to a temperature that's initially too hot. "Damn it, every time," he mutters, turning the heat down and stepping under the water, avoiding the stream until it's just right. He quickly shampoos his hair with his vanilla coconut shampoo and scrubs his body clean before stepping out of the shower and dressing.

Once dressed, Louis tiptoes into Cassie's bedroom and sits on the edge of her bed. "Cassie, sweetie, it's time to wake up, baby girl," he whispers, gently rubbing her back. Cassie whines and burrows closer into his side. "I know you're sleepy, love, but we need to get up soon," Louis reassures her. "Otay Dadee, can you tarry me to bafoom?" Cassie mumbles, reaching for him with sleepy hands. Louis chuckles, scoops her up, and carries her to the bathroom, setting her on the counter. "Okay, love, do you want to bathe this morning or tonight?" "Tonight, Dadee." "Alright, sweetie," Louis agrees. He hands Cassie her toothbrush with watermelon toothpaste while he puts toothpaste on his own brush, and they brush their teeth together.

"Okay, love, what are we wearing today?" Louis asks. "Ummmm dis?" Cassie says, pointing to her purple cardigan. "What else?" Louis prompts. "Dadee pick?" Cassie requests. "Sure, how about this black t-shirt and leggings?" Louis suggests. "Otay, Dadee," Cassie smiles sleepily. Louis helps her get dressed, and they make their way downstairs.

"Alright, little munchkin, ready to head to the bakery for breakfast?" Louis asks as he helps Cassie tie her shoes. "Ready, Dadee!" Cassie cheers, taking Louis's hand as they head out to the car. Louis buckles her in and then climbs into the driver's seat, pulling out of the driveway.

They arrive at the café five minutes later and see a line of three or four people ahead of them. They join the back of the line. "Okay, love, what do you want today?" Louis asks. "Nana Muffin and Chocy Milk!" Cassie replies. Louis nods and they approach the counter. "Well, hello, Louis and Cassie! What can I get for you two this lovely morning?" Harry greets them cheerfully. "Hi 'Arreh!" Cassie waves excitedly, making Louis chuckle. "Hi Harry, can I get a banana muffin with chocolate milk, a Yorkshire tea with a little bit of milk, and a cheese tea biscuit, please?" Louis asks with a smile. "Of course! Why don't you two find a seat and I'll bring it over to you?"

Louis finishes paying and turns to Cassie. "Okay, where would you like to sit?" "Thewe, Dadee!" Cassie points to the spot they had sat at yesterday morning. "Sounds lovely!" Louis agrees. They walk to the table by the window where they can see the entire café. It's a charming, cozy place with brick walls adorned with various shades of greenery. In the back corner, there's a wall of books and a couple of cozy bean bags. The room is bathed in warm lighting, and the sun filters through the large windows, casting a golden glow. The only sounds are the quiet chatter of patrons and the gentle tinkle of the bell as people enter and leave.

A few minutes later, Harry arrives with a tray full of their items. He places each item in front of Cassie and Louis, smiling warmly. "Here you two are." "Tank you, 'Arreh!" Cassie beams. "You're welcome, Cassie," Harry replies. "'Arreh, what's your favowite colouw?" Cassie asks. "Mine are blue and orange. What are yours?" "Puwple and green!!" Cassie cheers. "Dadee loves wed!" she adds.

Harry chuckles and looks at Louis. "Is that so?" he muses. Louis smiles and nods. "Dark red, to be specific." "Hmm, I can see it. I bet dark red looks great on you," Harry grins. "T-thanks, Harry," Louis says, blushing and laughing awkwardly. "My Dadee is very hansome, 'Arreh! He has pwetty eyes too!" Cassie adds proudly. "That he does," Harry agrees, his dimples showing as he makes eye contact with Louis for a few moments before breaking the silence. "Well, I'd better get back to work. You two have an amazing rest of your day!"