Always Loved

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The golden rays of the early morning sun streamed through the curtains, bathing the room in a warm glow. Stephen stirred, groaning softly as the scent of fresh coffee teased his senses. He blinked his eyes open to find Dec perched on the edge of the bed, grinning warmly, a steaming mug in hand.

"Morning, sleepyhead," Dec greeted, his voice soft. "Thought you'd like this before we get the day started."

Stephen sat up, rubbing his eyes, and accepted the mug with a grateful smile. "Thanks, Dec." He took a sip, savouring the perfect mix of cream and sugar. "You didn't have to bring it up, you know."

"Nonsense," Dec replied, ruffling Stephen's hair affectionately. "You've got a busy day ahead. We want to make sure you're taken care of, don't we, Ant?"

Ant appeared in the doorway, carrying a tray laden with toast, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruit. He set it down on the bedside table with a grin. "Absolutely. No running on empty, mate. You're too important for that."

Stephen chuckled but felt his chest tighten at their kindness. "You two are too good to me, seriously."

"Only because you deserve it," Ant said, sitting beside him and handing him a plate. "Now, eat up. We're not leaving this room until you're full."

Dec leaned in with a smirk. "And no sneaky tricks like pretending you're done when you're not. We're watching you."

Stephen laughed, warmth spreading through him as they playfully watched every bite he took, making sure his plate was empty. After breakfast, they insisted on helping him get ready for the day.

Dec rummaged through Stephen's suitcase, picking out an outfit. "This shirt brings out your eyes. Ant, don't you think?"

Ant glanced over and nodded. "Definitely. And these trousers match perfectly. Come on, little one, let's make you the best-looking guy in town."

Stephen rolled his eyes but couldn't suppress his grin. "You two do know I'm perfectly capable of dressing myself, right?"

"Of course," Ant said, guiding Stephen to sit while they sorted his clothes. "But we like looking after you. Just let us."

Their day was filled with laughter and affection. At lunch, Ant and Dec sat on either side of Stephen, practically taking turns offering him bites of their food to try. "You have to taste this pasta," Dec insisted, holding out a forkful.

"And this garlic bread," Ant added, waving a piece in front of Stephen's face.

"I have my own food, you know!" Stephen protested, though he couldn't help but indulge them.

By evening, they settled on the sofa for a movie night. Stephen curled up between Ant and Dec, feeling the warmth of their presence. Dec draped a blanket over him, while Ant handed him a bowl of popcorn.

"Are you comfy, baby boy?" Dec asked softly, brushing a hand through Stephen's hair.

Stephen nodded, his heart swelling at the nickname. "Yeah, I'm good."

Ant leaned over and kissed Stephen's temple. "Good, because we love you too much to let you feel anything less than perfect."

Dec echoed the sentiment with a gentle kiss on Stephen's cheek. "Always loved, always safe. Remember that."

As the movie played, Stephen drifted off, feeling cherished in a way he hadn't before. Whatever the world threw at him, he knew he had Ant and Dec to remind him of his worth.

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