Plawan shifted his focus to the task at hand, expertly preparing the dishes with precision and care. The scent of simmering broths and sizzling pans filled the kitchen, a familiar rhythm he had come to master over the years. Kluea, meanwhile, had Buea stationed beside him, letting the little one "help" as usual.
Buea, ever determined, was carefully handing Kluea small ingredients with a sense of importance only a child could muster. "Papa, salt!" Buea said proudly, holding up the tiny shaker, his chubby fingers gripping it with purpose.
Kluea couldn't help but smile at the toddler's serious expression. "Good job, Chef Buea," he praised, giving the boy a soft pat on the head. The alpha always indulged Buea's desire to assist, even if it slowed him down. It was a sight that never failed to bring warmth to Plawan's heart, though it also tugged at old memories he tried to keep buried.
As the kitchen neared rush hour, the intensity grew, and Kluea knew it was time to move Buea out. "Alright, little chef, it's almost time for the busy part. We need you to go help Uncle JJ now, okay?" Kluea said gently, lifting Buea into his arms.
Buea frowned, clearly not wanting to leave the action, but he trusted Kluea. "But... Bew hep Papa..." he murmured, leaning into Kluea's shoulder.
"You're a big help, but I need you to be our best server today, okay? Uncle JJ's waiting. You know how much the customers love you." Kluea smiled, playfully bouncing him before carrying him toward the door.
As they exited the kitchen, Buea perked up at the sight of JJ. The omega had a knack for keeping Buea entertained and adored the little boy as if he were his own.
"There's my favorite chef!" JJ exclaimed, reaching out to take Buea from Kluea's arms. The child's mood immediately shifted, his earlier reluctance forgotten as he wriggled excitedly in JJ's grip. "Ready to help me out front?"
"Yes, hep Uncle Jay!" Buea declared, his little voice filled with determination.
The restaurant's regular customers often came just to catch a glimpse of Buea, who had become something of a mini mascot for the establishment. His presence charmed everyone who walked through the doors. It wasn't uncommon for patrons to request that Buea "serve" their tables, if only to receive a napkin or to giggle at his mispronounced words.
JJ guided Buea around the dining area, the little boy holding a small menu as if he were the one in charge. One of the regulars, an elderly woman, smiled warmly as Buea toddled past her table. "Ah, there's my favorite server!" she cooed, making Buea giggle.
"Bew serve you!" Buea announced proudly, holding up the menu as if it were a grand gesture.
The woman chuckled. "I'm sure you'll take very good care of us, little one."
Back in the kitchen, Plawan couldn't help but smile to himself as he heard the familiar hum of happy chatter and Buea's voice filtering through the open doorway. The boy had become the heart of the restaurant, his bright presence a beacon for both staff and customers. It was moments like these that made Plawan grateful for the path he had chosen—despite everything.
As the kitchen's pace slowed after the lunch rush, Plawan took a moment to lean against the counter, wiping sweat from his brow. Kluea, noticing his fatigue, moved closer, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder.
"You should rest for a bit," Kluea said softly, his deep voice carrying warmth. He reached out and tucked a stray strand of hair behind Plawan's ear, the action tender and familiar.
Plawan smiled at him, his heart fluttering at the gesture. "I'm fine, Kluea. Just a little tired."
"You've been pushing yourself too hard," Kluea insisted, stepping closer until their bodies were almost touching. His hand slid down from Plawan's shoulder to his waist, resting there comfortably, as if it belonged. "Take a break. I can finish the rest of the prep."
