As dusk settled and the distance from home loomed, London's restlessness was unmistakable. Over the years, her vibrant spirit, always eager to connect and lend a hand, had become familiar to me.
Yet, after her encounter with him, a noticeable shift in her aura had taken root, hinting at deeper troubles she hadn't shared.
His unexpected presence in town had sparked an urgency within me, a protective instinct that lay dormant until now. If only I had been aware of his return sooner, I would have taken measures to shield London before she had to face him.
Arriving home, I took charge, carrying our essentials and little Kat inside.
London's unsettled state was clear as day, so I took it upon myself to set up a calming bath for her. I ambled upstairs, gently placing Katara on her play mat for a moment of serenity before heading to the bathroom.
There, I prepared a soothing soak with Epsom salts and aromatic essential oils, curating a sanctuary for London to decompress.
Just then, London's voice called out, a subtle reminder of her need for us. I responded by inviting her to the tranquility of the bathroom.
"Hey Tesoro, I can tell you're carrying a lot right now, so I've got a bath ready for you to help you chill. I'll look after little Kat tonight, you just take it easy." Her grateful nod was all the confirmation I needed.
I left her to bask in the solitude, sealing the gesture with a soft kiss on her forehead, then turned my attention to Katara. Slipping into some comfy clothes, I dressed Katara in her cozy onesie.
"Sai che sei una benedizione per la mamma, sì." Though she couldn't grasp my words just yet, she'd grow to understand them with time. I drifted into the living room, settling Katara in her play area and cueing up a Disney movie for a soothing backdrop.
Content that she was happy, I ventured into the kitchen to whip up dinner for London and me. I took out some meat, cleaned it, and started seasoning it, aiming for a comforting dish of garlic butter steak and skillet potatoes. As dinner came together and I began plating, London's hands found their way around my waist.
Turning, I saw her, a soft smile gracing her lips despite the lingering fatigue in her eyes-a hint of appreciation shining through. She leaned in, her kiss on my cheek sending a pleasant shiver down my spine.
"Thank you, my love," she murmured, weary yet filled with gratitude. My heart swelled with love for her resilience.
"I'd move mountains for you," I assured her, our hands intertwined. We sat down to the meal I'd prepared, savoring each bite. After I finished, I kissed London's forehead and set a bottle for Katara in the warmer.
Once London was done with her meal, she left her plate and took the warmed bottle. I cleaned up the kitchen and made sure everything upstairs was in order.
With Katara and a nearly-ready-for-bed London, I pulled out my phone, my thumb hovering over a particular group chat. Tapping into the conversation, I was met with the usual banter of our circle-Mrs. Puff's Boating Class.
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Mrs. Puff's Boating Class👀🦾Squidward Tentacle🦑🙄
YoSpongeBob SquarePants🧽👀
Look who finally decided to call usPatrick Star😶🌫️💊
Right, you've been MIA since London came✨
No tea, no shade to her though😜Squidward Tentacle🦑🙄
This is exactly why I don't bother with you two🫤
First off, you both know I didn't just dip out. I saw you both just two days ago...SpongeBob SquarePants🧽👀
That's beside the pointSquidward Tentacle🦑🙄
Don't start with me right nowSquideward Tenticle🦑🙄
Don't piss me off right nowPatrick Star😶🌫️💊
Now you bring up old newsSquideward Tenticle🦑🙄
Guys seriously, London's ex is back and causing problem for her and Kat.
I want to handle him the right way🧱.
You in📍?Spongebob Square pants🧽👀
Patrick Star😶🌫️💊
^