New Life, New Love

- 04 -

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Liam and Madison continued their trek downstairs, Louis' laughter becoming louder and clearer as they neared closer to the kitchen. Liam's hand was holding her's tenderly and the trip was silent the way down.

When they walked into the entry way of the kitchen, Zayn and Louis came in sight and Madison couldn't help but feel confused as she watched them. Louis was squealing, laughing generously as Zayn tickled his sides, swinging him around the air, laughing with him. Louis seemed honestly happy. But why? Didn't they take him? Zayn stopped swinging him, holding him to his chest and pressing a kiss to his forehead. Louis snuggled his face into his shoulder and smiled.

I don't understand why he is so happy.

Louis gasped softly as his eyes landed on Madison.

"Madson!" Louis squealed in excitement, wiggling his feet to show the emotion.

Zayn turned his head, landing his eyes on the pair. Madison looked at him shyly, blushing softly as he gave her a warming smile.

"Did you sleep well, babygirl?"

She looked up at Zayn just to make sure he was talking to her. Even if she was the only girl in the house, she wanted to be sure.
When she was reassured he was, she sent him a couple nods, following Liam as he led her to a chair at the table. Madison squealed softly as Liam unexpectedly lifted her into the air and placed her down in one of the chairs surrounding the table. Liam chuckled at the scared expression on her face, realising she was a bit jumpy.

"Now, on most mornings you'll be sitting in a high chair. But since you're getting settled in we'll start off slowly," Zayn told her as he brought two plates of food to the table; one for Louis and one for her. Louis happily sat across from Madison, picking up the child's fork and digging into the pieces of food scattered on his plate.

"Louis, juice or milk," Asked Liam as he brought two sippy cups down on the counter, opening the fridge.

"Juice, please!"

"Okay, babe," Liam answered, turning towards the quite girl. "What about you, Maddie? Milk or juice?"

Madison didn't know what to say. It was a very simple question but she didn't like the attention put on her. This situation was still new and she couldn't help but feel overwhelmed all because a question over what to drink. Louis watched her intently, waiting for her response. He was so curious as to know what his sister's interests were. But, his staring made her anxious. Nervously, Madison stuttered, no complete words ever forming. She felt like she could just cry. But she didn't want to. That would make her seem like an actual baby and that was the last thing she wanted to do.

"Maddie? Milk or Juice?"

"I- uh- Mil-juice?" She answered Liam.  But it came out as a question. There wasn't a right or wrong answer but she felt like anything she said could go against her or her situation.
Madison noticed the worried glance Zayn and Liam shared after the child almost had a panic attack.
Her eyes shut tightly, breathing deeply, trying to calm herself down.

She barely flinched as Liam placed the two sippy cups on the table top, making sure the tops were tightly secure on the cups.

Liam placed his hand tenderly on her shoulder, causing her to flinch once again.  "Are you okay, baby? You don't have to be scared. No one is gonna hurt you."

She just kept her head down, ignoring his question. A deep sigh fell from Liam's lips. Madison felt the slightest pang of guilt. She never wanted to make him upset with her.