**Chapter 15: Quiet Moments in the Library**
The soft sound of pages turning and the occasional shuffle of feet filled the library, creating a peaceful atmosphere that Max had come to appreciate more and more. Kota was sitting on the floor next to him, surrounded by picture books, his small fingers flipping through the brightly colored pages with fascination.
Max leaned back against one of the bookshelves, letting out a content sigh. It had become a bit of a routine for the two of them to visit the library in the afternoons—part of his new life that he hadn’t expected to enjoy so much. There was something calming about it, a stark contrast to the chaos of his old days.
Kota babbled excitedly, pointing to a picture of a lion on one of the pages. “Rahh!” he imitated, his little voice trying to mimic the roar of the lion.
Max chuckled, reaching over to ruffle Kota’s hair. “That’s right, buddy. Big scary lion. But don’t worry, your dad’s tougher than any lion, right?”
Kota giggled in response, clearly not understanding the full meaning of the words but enjoying the interaction nonetheless.
Just then, Noriko’s voice cut through the quiet of the library, soft but carrying a certain authority. “Max, I thought I’d find you here.”
Max turned to see Noriko approaching with a small stack of books in her arms, her usual warm smile on her face. She looked every bit the part of a bookstore manager—professional, poised, and yet somehow effortlessly approachable.
“Hey, Noriko,” Max greeted, offering her a smile as he stood up. “Kota and I are just taking in some quiet time. You know, enjoying the peaceful side of life.”
Noriko set the books down on a nearby table and joined them, kneeling beside Kota. “And what about you, Kota? Are you learning all about lions today?”
Kota gave her a big, toothy grin, holding up the book for her to see. “Rahh!” he repeated, clearly delighted with his newfound knowledge.
Noriko laughed softly, her eyes twinkling as she looked at Max. “He’s a quick learner. You must be proud.”
Max shrugged, trying to play it cool, though the pride was obvious in his voice. “Yeah, he’s a smart kid. Gets that from me, obviously.”
Noriko raised an eyebrow, her tone teasing. “Oh, obviously. I’m sure you were roaring like a lion in your school days too.”
Max chuckled. “Nah, more like a lost puppy trying to find my way through life. But hey, I’ve learned a few things since then.”
There was a comfortable ease between them now—something that had developed slowly but steadily over the past few weeks. The way Noriko had integrated into his and Kota’s life felt natural, like she belonged there. It wasn’t forced, and there were no grand gestures, just small, meaningful moments. Max couldn’t deny that he liked having her around.
“So,” Noriko said, leaning back on her heels, “any plans for the rest of the day?”
Max shook his head, glancing down at Kota, who had now moved on to another book, this one about dinosaurs. “Not really. Just hanging out with this little guy. Thought we’d head to the bookstore after this.”
Noriko’s face brightened. “Good! I actually have something for you at the bookstore. I think you’ll like it.”
Max raised an eyebrow, curious. “Oh? A surprise?”
Noriko nodded, standing up and brushing off her skirt. “You’ll see. Why don’t you stop by once Kota’s done learning about all the animals?”
Max grinned. “Alright, you’ve got me intrigued.”
After Noriko waved goodbye and returned to the bookstore, Max turned back to Kota, who was still engrossed in his dinosaur book. He couldn’t help but feel a growing sense of warmth whenever Noriko was around. It wasn’t just that she was helpful or that she made his life easier—it was the way she seemed to genuinely care, not just about Kota, but about him, too.
He pushed the thought aside, focusing instead on Kota, who was now attempting to make a dinosaur sound that sounded more like a high-pitched squeal. Max laughed, picking up the book and flipping through the pages with his son.
“Alright, kiddo, let’s finish up here. We’ve got a surprise waiting at the bookstore, and I bet it’s going to be something good.”
Kota clapped his hands excitedly, clearly just as eager for whatever adventure lay ahead.
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*End of Chapter 15.*
YOU ARE READING
THE FIRST TIME DADDY
RomanceMax never imagined his life would turn out like this: a single father raising a lively two-year-old while working at a quiet bookstore. Far from the successful man his wealthy parents hoped he'd become, Max is still finding his footing after years o...
