A/N Elle is 4, Gabi is 8!
It was early morning in Kansas City, the sun just beginning to rise, casting a warm glow through the windows of Taylor and Travis's home. The air inside was filled with a quiet tension, a mixture of anticipation and dread. Today was Joe's parenting visit with Elle, Taylor's daughter from her previous relationship. It was a rare and uncomfortable occurrence, as Joe had shown little interest in Elle's life since their breakup. Nevertheless, these visits were mandatory, and Taylor always wanted to make sure they went smoothly, for Elle's sake.
Travis, ever the supportive partner, had suggested they host the visit at their home. He believed it would make Elle feel safer and more comfortable in familiar surroundings. Taylor appreciated his thoughtfulness, though the idea of Joe stepping into their sanctuary unsettled her. Travis had reassured her, saying they'd handle it together, and that Drew, their security guard, would be there as well. Taylor nodded, taking comfort in his words.
As the clock ticked closer to the scheduled visit, Taylor went to wake Elle. She found her daughter still nestled in her bed, clutching her favorite stuffed animal, a well-loved plush bunny named Thumper. Taylor gently stroked Elle's hair and whispered, "Good morning, sweetheart. It's time to get up."
Elle stirred, blinking sleepily. "Mommy, I don't want to see him," she murmured, her voice small and uncertain.
Taylor's heart ached. She understood Elle's reluctance. Joe had never been a warm or affectionate figure in her life. "I know, sweetie," Taylor said softly, "but it's just for a little while. We'll all be here with you, okay?"
Elle nodded reluctantly. "Can Gabi help me get ready?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Of course," Taylor replied, smiling. She knew Elle felt a special bond with Gabi, one of their trusted staff members who had become like family. Taylor went to Gabi's room and gently knocked on the door. "Gabi, could you help Elle get ready? She's asking for you."
Gabi, a warm and caring woman in her late twenties, immediately agreed. She had a natural way with children, always patient and understanding. Together, they went back to Elle's room, where Gabi greeted her with a cheerful smile.
"Good morning, Elle! Let's pick out something nice for you to wear," Gabi said, opening Elle's closet. After a brief moment of deliberation, they decided on a knitted mini dress from Self-Portrait, perfect for the occasion. Elle also picked out a pair of white Nike socks, insisting she didn't want to wear shoes in the house. Gabi nodded in agreement, chuckling at Elle's logic.
Next, Gabi sat Elle in front of her vanity and gently combed her hair. Elle had beautiful, long hair that she usually wore loose, but today Gabi pulled it back into a simple, neat style. It was a small touch, but it made Elle feel a bit more put together.
Once Elle was ready, she and Gabi headed to Gabi's room. It was a ritual they enjoyed—Elle loved picking out Gabi's outfits, even if it was just for a simple day at home. Today, Elle chose a Ralph Lauren sleeveless day dress for Gabi and black socks. Gabi, amused by Elle's choices, accepted them with a smile and quickly got dressed. She then ran a brush through her own hair, deciding that was all the effort she needed to put in for the day.
As they prepared, Taylor was in the kitchen, making sure everything was set up for the visit. She felt a knot in her stomach, knowing how uncomfortable these visits could be. Travis entered, putting a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
"How's she doing?" he asked, his voice low and concerned.
"She's nervous," Taylor admitted. "But Gabi's with her. She's great with Elle."
Travis nodded. "We'll be here for her. And if it gets too much, we'll handle it. You're not alone in this, Tay."
Taylor smiled at him, grateful for his unwavering support. "Thank you, Trav," she whispered, leaning into him for a brief moment of comfort.
