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TOGETHER
-requested!-
I WAS STANDING at the stove, gently stirring the pot while my son, who was only two years old, sat on the cool marble floor, completely absorbed in playing with a toy. He kept me company as i hurried to prepare the meal before my husband, alejandro, returned home from training.
The sizzle of the pan and the bubbling sound of the boiling pot accompanied the soft hum of the gas stove. The kitchen was filled with the fragrance of the meal I was preparing. My little one was still immersed in his play, occasionally making small noises of enjoyment. Time seemed to pass slowly, and I found myself checking the clock more frequently, anxiously waiting for Alejandro to return.
As I put the last touch on the meal, I heard the sound of the front door opening. Alejandro had finally arrived. My son's head shot up, and a big smile spread across his face as he recognized his father's voice. He clumsily got up and toddled towards the living room, as fast as his short legs would allow.
I couldn't help but laugh at the sight of him, his toy in one hand, and his other hand grabbing on to the furniture to steady himself as he made his way out of the kitchen. I quickly turned off the stove and followed him into the living room, where I found Alejandro picking up our son and lifting him into his arms.
"hey there, little man," Alejandro greeted, ruffling his hair affectionately. Our son's face lit up with joy as he clung to his father, clearly thrilled to see him. I stood there, watching the two of them interact, my heart swelling with warmth.
Alejandro shot me a weary smile, exhaustion visible in his eyes. I knew he had been working extra hard at football training, pushing himself both physically and mentally. I walked up to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. "tough day?" I asked, rubbing my thumb over his tense muscles.
He nodded and let out a weary sigh. "yeah, it was rough," he replied, his voice a little hoarse from exhaustion. "coach was really pushing us today," he added, adjusting our son in his arms. The little one was now dozing off, lulled by the comfort of his father's embrace.
I couldn't help but smile at the sight of our son, peacefully asleep in alejandro's arms. but ialso noticed the weariness in his own eyes. I placed a gentle hand on his cheek. "you should rest," I said softly. "i've already made dinner. I'll take care of our son, you go lie down for a bit."
He hesitated for a moment, but then nodded in agreement. "i think i'll head to the shower before dinner" he admitted, carefully transferring our son into my arms. The little one stirred briefly but settled back against my chest.
As Alejandro left to freshen up, I cradled our son in my arms, his soft breaths warm against my skin. I gently swayed from side to side, rocking him slowly, enjoying this brief moment of quiet.
