September 10 2019
The door swung open just as AJ was bouncing a fussy Mateo on her hip. Her hair was pulled into a loose bun, she had a burp cloth draped over her shoulder, and a bottle in one hand.
AJ (half yelling)-If that's you, Martin, and you didn't bring food, I swear—
Martin (grinning, holding up takeout bags)- Does chicken and waffles earn me favorite-uncle status yet?
AJ (relieved)- Bless you. Get in here before I cry on you.
Martin stepped into the house and dropped the bags on the kitchen counter, then immediately walked over to AJ and Mateo.
Martin- Where's my nephew? Let me see the little burrito.
Mateo peeked up from AJ's shoulder, blinking with wide, curious eyes.
Martin (melting)- Yo... he got the lashes. Ain't no way this baby belongs to y'all.
AJ- Everyone says that. He's built like Dave but got my soft genes.
Martin- He's precious. Gimme.
He reached out and took Mateo like a pro.
Martin (soothing)-It's Uncle Martin time, lil man.
To AJ's surprise, Mateo settled almost instantly against Martin's chest, his little fists relaxing.
AJ (blinking)-Oh. He likes you.
Martin (smirking)- Of course he does. I'm chill. Babies love chill energy.
AJ (collapsing onto the couch)-Then you better stick around all week. I haven't peed in peace in four days.
Martin-I got you. I'll be your nanny-slash-hype-man until Sunday.
---
Later That Evening
Martin had taken over bottle duty while AJ finally got a chance to shower. He sat in the rocking chair in Mateo's nursery, humming a soft tune while Mateo drank.
Martin (quietly)-Your mom is the toughest person I know, little man. You better grow up and treat her like royalty.
Mateo let out a soft sigh and blinked up at him, the corners of his mouth curling in what almost looked like a smile.
Martin-I'll take that as a yes.
AJ peeked in from the doorway, towel-drying her hair.
AJ (smiling)-You're really good at this.
Martin-You surprised?
AJ-A little. You used to scream holding a baby doll in health class.
Martin-Growth, AJ. I'm a mature king now.
---
**The Next Morning**
Dave walked into the kitchen to see Martin wearing an apron that read "Professional Uncle" while flipping pancakes with Mateo strapped to his chest in a baby carrier.
Dave-What in the dad energy is this?
Martin (grinning)-Relax. He loves it. And I make bomb pancakes.
Mateo gave a happy kick.
AJ (sipping coffee)-Mateo has been a literal angel since Martin showed up. I'm not saying he's replacing you, but...
Dave (laughing)-Nah, it's cool. I'll just be the guy who buys the diapers.
Martin-Exactly. Know your role, King.
They all laughed as the morning sun lit up the kitchen, the smell of pancakes filling the house, and baby Mateo cooing softly in his uncle's arms — surrounded by love, laughter, and just enough chaos to make it home.
