The next few days blurred into a whirl of excitement and quiet nerves as Louis, Harry, and Cassie prepared for her very first day of school. The house seemed to hum with energy—school supplies stacked neatly on the kitchen table, new shoes lined up by the door, and Cassie's tiny backpack packed and repacked at least a dozen times as she counted down the days with bubbling anticipation.
Louis and Harry had both arranged time off work, determined to be fully present for this milestone. It wasn't just about walking her into her classroom hand-in-hand on that first morning; they wanted to be close all day, ready if she needed them. A forgotten lunch, a nervous phone call, or simply the comfort of a familiar face—Cassie would never feel alone.
The weekend became a blend of fun and preparation. They labeled pencils in neat block letters, read bedtime stories about first days of school, and even practiced the walk from the parking lot to her classroom so she'd feel brave enough to lead the way herself. Nights settled into a tender rhythm: Louis curled beside her reading her favorite books, while Harry braided her hair with careful fingers, whispering reassurances that she could do anything she set her mind to.
By Sunday evening, her backpack was zipped, her lunch prepped, and her excitement practically vibrating off her. The little family agreed to an early bedtime, knowing Monday would be a big day—emotionally, for all of them.
Just before lights out, Cassie darted to her closet, pulling out a white floral summer dress. The fabric fluttered in her small hands as she turned to them with wide, hopeful eyes.
"Daddy, tan I wear dis dress? It's pwetty!"
Louis's face softened instantly. "Of course, Munchkin. It's perfect. The weather's still warm—it'll be lovely."
Cassie beamed, spinning once before rushing to Harry. "Papa, will you make my hair pwetty?"
Harry crouched to her level, smiling gently. "Do you want pigtails or braids today?"
"Two bwaids! Please!" she squealed, bouncing in place.
"Two braids it is," Harry chuckled, guiding her onto the little stool by the bed. Louis knelt to help her into the dress, smoothing the fabric over her shoulders before zipping it up. Cassie sat tall on the stool, her reflection glowing in the mirror as Harry's practiced fingers wove her hair.
When he tied off the last braid with a soft tug, Harry leaned back with a grin. "All done."
Cassie clapped her hands. "Pwetty!" She hopped down, threw her arms around Harry's neck, and planted a kiss on his cheek. "Thank you, Papa!"
Harry's chest warmed as he tucked a loose strand behind her ear. "Anything for you, my sweet girl."
Louis tapped the top of her head, smiling. "Ready, baby girl? If we want to stop by Papa's café before school, we'd better get moving."
"Yes, Dadee! Me ready!" Cassie declared, practically vibrating with excitement.
Together they guided her toward the door. Louis slung her tiny backpack over his shoulder while Harry crouched to slip on her shoes and fasten the Velcro straps. Once she was bundled and ready, Harry buckled her into her car seat with practiced ease before sliding into the passenger seat beside Louis.
As they pulled out of the driveway, the car filled with Cassie's chatter—a rapid stream of questions about school, new friends, and, most importantly, snacks. Louis and Harry exchanged a quiet glance, both smiling at the same thought: their little girl was ready for her next big adventure.
When they arrived at the café, they slipped into their usual spot—the cozy corner table by the window. Sunlight streamed through the glass, spilling golden warmth across the small engraved plaque in the center. Crafted by Harry's own hands, it read: Reserved Every Morning for Cassie, Louis & Harry.
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Cupcakes, Cuddles & Curls
FanfictionA tradition of early morning trips to the bakery sparks an unexpected friendship between a loving father, his sweet daughter, and a charming green-eyed baker. His daughter is his world, and all she wants is to see her dad smile. The green-eyed baker...
