Proof that Tony Stark has a Heart

Chapter 16

The next morning, I stirred awake to the rhythmic sound of rain pattering softly against the window. The faint aroma of something delicious wafted through the air, beckoning me to rise. Stretching languidly, I glanced outside; the gray clouds hung low, and the world seemed cocooned in the gentle embrace of the storm.

Reluctantly, I swung my legs over the edge of the bed, the cool floor beneath my feet sending a shiver up my spine. The warmth of the blankets tempted me to stay, but the enticing smell of breakfast and the soft murmur of voices downstairs convinced me otherwise.

Running a hand through my sleep-mussed hair, I grabbed my robe and made my way to the kitchen.

Rain tapped against the windows, harmonizing with the inviting aroma of pancakes. In the kitchen, Remus stood at the stove, focused on the sizzling bacon, while Lucas sat at the table, his pencil moving swiftly over paper.

"Good morning, Harry," Remus greeted with a smile, pouring a steaming cup of coffee, "Did you sleep well?"

"Yes, thank you," I replied, settling into a chair, "And you?"

"I slept soundly," he said, deftly flipping the bacon.

Turning to Lucas, I asked with curiosity, "What are you drawing, Lucas?"

"It's us, Daddy," he said proudly, holding the paper.

I chuckled, leaning closer to admire his work—a heartwarming sketch of Tony, Lucas, and me.

"It's wonderful," I praised, ruffling his hair.

Remus placed a platter of fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon on the table a few moments later.

"Breakfast is served," he announced with a flourish.

"This is delicious," I said, savoring the perfectly balanced flavors.

We sat together at the table, enjoying the simple pleasure of the meal. The pancakes were light and golden, topped with a drizzle of syrup, and the bacon was perfectly crisp. Lucas happily devoured his share, occasionally pausing to take a sip of juice or ask about the storm outside.

"So, what are we going to do today?" Lucas asked between bites, his eyes bright with curiosity.

"Well, we can see what the storm does, but I think we'll stay inside for now," Remus replied, wiping his hands on a dish towel as he finished his plate. "There's plenty to do around here."

We continued eating, the rhythm of our conversation mingling with the steady patter of rain. The storm outside intensified, the wind howling through the trees, and the windows rattling slightly in its force. But inside, we were warm and content, savoring our meal and the cozy atmosphere of the kitchen.

As we finished breakfast, the storm showed no signs of letting up. We cleared the table together, Lucas eagerly helping to stack the plates and utensils. Remus carried the leftover pancakes to the kitchen counter, while I started wiping down the table. The gentle hum of the storm outside made the house feel all the more inviting, and we lingered a little longer in the kitchen, not quite ready to move on to the next part of the day.

After breakfast, we settled into the living room, where the storm's growl could be heard through the windows. We stayed snug, passing the hours with games, books, and laughter under the cozy glow of wandlight.

We started by playing a few rounds of wizard's chess, Lucas giggling every time one of his pieces made a dramatic move or was toppled by an opponent. Remus and I took turns keeping the game lively, adding playful commentary for Lucas's benefit, while Lucas proudly made his own tactical decisions. When the wind outside howled through the trees, Lucas jumped in surprise, but Remus quickly reassured him with a laugh.