Quiet Morning
The aroma of a hearty breakfast wafted up the stairs.
Betty hummed softly to herself as she puttered around the newly stocked kitchen, her earlier nerves replaced by a sense of calm purpose.
-Wow, Zed said as he emerged from the bathroom, looking at how well Alice had made the bed and spruced things up. This is like turnout service, he laughed. I really appreciate it. You going to shower now?
Despite her initial reluctance, Alice took a small measure of pride in the room's transformation.
-Breakfast is almost ready! Betty called up from the kitchen. Why don't you two come on down whenever you're done freshening up?
While Alice showered, Zed headed to the kitchen and surprised Betty from behind as she fried bacon loudly.
-Two of my favorite things, he whispered in her ear as he held on to her by her love handles.
Betty giggled as Zed startled her, leaning back into his strong embrace.
-Oh, you charmer! she teased. Bacon and... me?
-You're everything babe, Zed said as he sucked gently on Betty's ear before stepping back to let her keep cooking.
Outside the house, unaware of the domestic bliss within, Flower approached the front door carrying a large basket filled with various herbs, candles, and goodies. She knelt down and carefully placed it at the door.
Zed caught a glimpse of Flower through the window.
-Betty, are you sure you don't want Flower to come in for a little while? he asked.
Betty paused in her cooking, glancing over at Zed. After a moment's consideration, she shook her head.
-No, I think it's best we have this time to ourselves today, sweetheart. Last night was quite... intense, and I believe we could all use some quality bonding time to reconnect and process things privately. Plus, she added with a wink, I want your undivided attention for our special breakfast date, mister. Just the three of us.
-That's fair babe, Zed said, pulling his phone out to text Flower. She's left the treats by the door, he added, assuming as much.
Glancing down at her phone outside, Flower read Zed's message, hopeful to be invited in.
“Enjoy your special morning, dear hearts”, she texted back. “I've left plenty of goodies by the door.”
With a satisfied nod, Flower tucked her phone away and began walking towards the quaint little park nestled between the houses a few blocks from Zed's place.
Just then, Alice entered the kitchen, having freshened up post-shower. She eyed the lavish breakfast spread before turning to Betty with a small smile.
-Something smells incredible, sis, Alice said. Looks like you've outdone yourself this morning.
-Isn't this fantastic? Zed asked.
-Thank you, Ali. I wanted to make something extra special for us today, Betty said, looking to Zed before turning to grab the syrup. Please, dig in everyone.
The three ate heartily, hungrier than they thought they were. It was Friday morning and they were catching up on carbs from a strenuous week.
As the trio enjoyed their filling breakfast, the conversation flowed easily, touching on lighter topics to give their minds a break from the heavy discussions earlier.
-You know what would be really nice? Betty said. I saw that cute little park when we walked into town the other day. Let's roll up some of what Flower dropped off for us and take a stroll there.