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The morning sun filtered through the sheer, floor-to-ceiling curtains, casting a warm golden glow across the bedroom. Aiah had been awake for a while, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the embroidery along the edge of Stacey’s blanket. The room was a perfect mix of understated luxury and that lived-in coziness, just like the life they’d built together.
Stacey’s love for elegance was obvious in the plush, handwoven pink rug that stretched across the polished hardwood floors—so soft under bare feet. The statement headboard, upholstered in rich velvet with those subtle gold accents, was the centerpiece, giving the room that quiet, classy vibe.
But, the space wasn’t all showy; it was full of personal touches: framed photos of Lily and Stanley capturing precious moments lined the walls, while Aiah’s minimalist nightstand held a photo of her and Stacey in Singapore, laughing together against the skyline, Stacey’s arm draped casually around her. Beside it was Stacey’s favorite lip balm, borrowed by Aiah once and never returned. A plush toy from Lily’s younger days sat nearby, adding a whimsical touch that always made Aiah smile.
The room’s neutral tones were Aiah’s choice for their calming effect, but Stacey’s bold design choices—those little pops of personality—were what really made it feel like home.
Though, it wasn’t always like this. There was a time when they slept in separate rooms—an unspoken distance hanging between them. Back then, it was the weight of their arranged marriage and the fragile dynamic of co-parenting. But now? Now, everything has changed. Since their confessions and the years of growing closer, their bed had transformed into a shared space filled with warmth, affection, and the deep, unwavering bond they had built together—a bond that had turned into something they hadn’t even dreamed of back then.
Aiah glanced at the clock—5:47 a.m. Her eyes shifted to Stacey, still blissfully tangled in the sheets beside her, soft snores filling the peaceful stillness of their Saturday morning. With no work pulling them out of bed, the day stretched ahead of them. Aiah couldn't help the tender smile that tugged at her lips.
Stacey, once all composed and locked behind the walls of her family's expectations and the role she'd been forced to play, had slowly shed those layers over the years. Aiah had now seen the real Stacey—the one who had always had a rebellious spark, just waiting to break free.
Leaning in closer, Aiah gently brushed a strand of hair from Stacey’s face, her fingers lingering for a moment before pressing a soft kiss to her temple. “Love, time to get up,” she whispered, her tone full of tenderness.
Stacey groaned, tugging the blanket over her head dramatically. Her voice, muffled but defiant, called out, “Aiah, I swear, if this is about jogging again—”
Aiah chuckled, her fingers tracing light patterns on Stacey’s bare arm through the blanket. “One fun jog lang. I swear, you’ll enjoy it.”
Stacey peeked out from beneath the blanket, her eyes barely open but catching the faintest smile on Aiah’s lips. “Jogging and fun in the same sentence? Delulu ka ba?”
With a mischievous grin, Aiah brushed her lips gently against the side of Stacey’s neck, letting them linger as they teasingly moved up toward her ear. Her breath, warm and featherlight, sent a pleasant shiver through Stacey’s body. Despite her hazy, half-asleep mind, Stacey’s heart skipped the same way it always did.
“What if I promise you a reward?” Aiah murmured, her voice dipping lower, smooth as silk.
Stacey cracked her eyes open just a little more, a smirk playing on her lips—though she was too sleepy to fully commit. “A reward, huh?”
Aiah kissed her neck again, slower this time, her lips trailing deliberately along Stacey’s skin, savoring the closeness. Her mouth brushed over the delicate curve of Stacey’s shoulder, noting the soft, graceful line of her slender frame, before returning to the tender spot just beneath her ear. Each lingering kiss sent waves of warmth coursing through Stacey, her body reacting instinctively, pulling her further from sleep but not quite enough to rise.
“A quiet morning, just us,” Aiah murmured between kisses, her voice low and teasing, “and maybe… a little something extra?”
Stacey let out a soft laugh, stretching lazily in bed, her body arching slightly into Aiah’s touch before sinking back into the softness of the sheets. “Hmm. Tempting,” she teased, her voice thoughtful. “Pero, I think you’ll have to sweeten the deal, babe.”
Aiah pulled back, her teasing expression softening into something warmer. She propped herself up on one elbow, studying Stacey with a soft smile. “Fine. What if I make you kornik with suka?” she offered, her voice rising in a singsong tone.
At the mention of her favorite snack, Stacey immediately turned toward her, a playful glint flashing in her half-lidded eyes. Raising a brow, she pretended to weigh her options. “Hmm. Not bad,” she mused, her lips curving into a mischievous grin. “Pero, may nakalimutan ka.”
Aiah tilted her head, a curious smile tugging at her lips. “What?”
Stacey leaned in, her breath warm and tantalizing as it brushed against Aiah’s skin. Her voice dropped to a teasing whisper, her words deliberate. “Asin.”
Aiah’s cheeks flushed, and she quickly looked away for a moment, taken aback by the closeness and Stacey’s playful teasing. No matter how many years had passed, Stacey still knew how to make her heart race. And now, with Stacey’s newfound confidence and flirtatious energy, Aiah couldn’t help but marvel at how effortlessly the role seemed to fit her. “How could I forget the salt?” she muttered, a mix of embarrassment and amusement coloring her voice.
Stacey chuckled softly, clearly enjoying how flustered Aiah had become. “Exactly. Pero love, come on, ang aga-aga pa oh! You can’t expect me to jump out of bed just like that.”
Aiah smiled, taking Stacey’s hand and giving it a soft squeeze. “Please?” she pouted, her voice sweet and coaxing. “One jog lang. And I’ll buy your favorite—with suka and asin.”
Stacey let out a small laugh, her smirk softening into a warm smile. “Ang cute mo, you know that?” she said, her voice laced with genuine fondness. “Fine. Pero isa beses lang, ha? Don’t expect me to join your morning workout cult or whatever.”
Aiah’s face lit up with pure joy, the excitement of finally convincing Stacey after weeks of playful persuasion making her feel giddy. She leaned in, pressing a quick, tender kiss to Stacey’s forehead before pulling away, her eyes sparkling. “Sheena’s not gonna believe this,” she muttered, shaking her head in disbelief.
In the bathroom, the two of them freshened up in a quiet, easy silence. Stacey splashed her face with cool water, feeling her sleepiness slowly melt away. Aiah, ever the efficient one, quickly brushed her hair into a neat ponytail, glancing over at Stacey, who was now casually rubbing sunscreen into her hands, a relaxed look on her face. Their eyes met, and they exchanged a small, knowing smile—the kind that came from years of shared mornings. Simple, routine, but always comforting.
When they were ready, Stacey slipped on her sneakers and turned to see Aiah fluffing up the pillows on their bed for the second time. Stacey shook her head, her laughter soft but amused. “You’re so OC, love. Cute.”
Aiah looked over, grinning as she slipped on her own shoes. She gave the pillow one last pat before standing.
Before heading out, they quietly checked on their kids. The soft morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. Lily, now a preteen, had fallen asleep in little Stanley’s room after their late-night cartoon marathon. She was sprawled on the edge of the bed, one arm draped protectively over the blanket. On the TV, the Netflix “Are you still watching?” prompt blinked.
Aiah tiptoed in and turned it off, her expression softening as she took in the scene.
Stanley was curled up beneath his blanket, his tiny frame pressed close to Lily’s side. His even breathing filled the room, a quiet, soothing rhythm. The way Lily’s loose sprawl contrasted with Stanley’s snug, tucked-in position made their moms’ hearts swell.
Grinning, Aiah grabbed a sticky note and pen from the nearby desk. Scribbling quickly, she left a message for Lily in case she woke up before they got back: Going for a jog. There’s cereal in the fridge. Love, Mama & Mommy.
Stacey leaned against the doorframe, a fond smile playing on her lips as she watched. “They look so peaceful. Makes me want to crawl back to bed, honestly.”
Aiah chuckled, shaking her head as she gently tugged Stacey’s hand. “Come on, sleepyhead. Naghihintay na yung kornik mo.”
With one last glance at their sleeping kids, they stepped outside, the crisp morning air brushing against their faces as they closed the door behind them.
Hand in hand, Stacey and Aiah walked down their driveway, the rising sun casting a golden glow over the peaceful, tree-lined streets. Their neighborhood, lined with modern houses, stood in stark contrast to the tighter, simpler homes just beyond the guarded gate. The distant hum of early-morning traffic mixed with the occasional bark of a dog and the steady footsteps of other joggers already out and about.
Aiah stretched with precision, her movements smooth and graceful, the result of years of early-morning runs. Stacey, meanwhile, stood beside her, looking less than thrilled, adjusting the strap of her sports bra while casually brushing a stray lock of hair away from her face.
“Are you ready?” Aiah asked, tilting her head, her playful smile catching the morning light.
Stacey groaned dramatically, placing her hands on her hips. “Not really,” she replied, rolling her eyes for effect. “Remember, isang beses lang ‘to, ha? Wag kang ma-attach.”
Aiah chuckled softly, her gaze lingering just a little longer on Stacey. The way the sunlight hit Stacey’s toned legs, accentuating her slim figure in her chic running shorts and sports bra, made Aiah pause.
Catching her stare, Stacey raised an eyebrow, a teasing smirk tugging at her lips. “Eyes up, Aiah. Di pa tayo nag-start, tinitignan mo na ako?"
Aiah just laughed, the sound light and playful, before they started jogging at an easy pace.
The quiet streets, framed by towering acacia trees, stretched out before them. The crisp morning air carried the faint rustle of leaves underfoot, mixed with the sound of neighbors starting their morning routines. From time to time, Aiah glanced back to check on Stacey, slowing her usual stride.
“Am I going too fast for you, love?” Aiah teased, her voice light but her eyes soft as she checked on Stacey.
“Nope,” Stacey said breezily, her breathing steady as she easily kept up. “Actually, baka ikaw pa ang ma-iwan.”
Aiah blinked in surprise. She’d expected Stacey to complain about aching legs or demand water after the first block. Instead, her wife looked totally chill, her strides smooth and confident, almost like she was enjoying this. Aiah couldn't help but smile to herself, admiring the way Stacey had become so much more than the woman she'd first met. The years together had softened her edges, but not the spark that made Aiah fall for her in the first place.
“You’ve been holding out on me, huh?” Aiah said, narrowing her eyes playfully.
“What can I say? I’m always full of surprises,” Stacey teased, her grin widening.
Without warning, Stacey surged ahead, her laughter ringing out as she darted in front of Aiah. Glancing over her shoulder, she called back, “Try to keep up!”
Aiah groaned, caught between amusement and exasperation, but she didn’t miss the view—Stacey moving with effortless grace, her form-fitting outfit hugging her in all the right places. Aiah’s heart raced, and she wasn’t sure it was just from the jogging.
When Aiah finally caught up, Stacey slowed her pace, her grin cheeky and full of mischief. “Oh, ano? Losing your edge, Mrs. Fitness Queen?”
“Oh, you’re so dead after this,” Aiah said, laughing as she tried to catch her breath.
Stacey smirked, jogging backward as she teased, “Guess I’m just naturally talented.”
Aiah rolled her eyes but didn’t skip a beat, grabbing Stacey’s hand and pulling her close to plant a quick kiss on her temple. “Talented, sabi mo? Let’s see kung kaya mo pa by the end of this route.”
With a sly grin, Aiah let go of her hand and picked up her pace, no longer holding back. Her usual stride returned, smooth and confident, as she surged forward.
Stacey’s eyes widened for a moment before determination set in. “Ganon, ha?” she called out, chasing after Aiah, her laughter light and carefree.
The sound of their playful banter echoed between them, blending with the soft rustle of the trees and the crisp morning breeze. It was a moment of pure joy—light, easy, and so perfectly them.
As they neared the final stretch of their jog, Stacey slowed her pace, an idea forming in her head. She came to a near stop, hands on her hips, exhaling dramatically. “Okay,” she declared, her voice tinged with exaggerated exhaustion, “I think I’m officially done.”
Aiah immediately slowed down beside her, her eyes scanning Stacey’s face with that familiar mix of concern and quiet admiration. Stacey’s cheeks had only the faintest flush, and not a single bead of sweat marked her forehead—like she had just gone for a casual stroll instead of a jog.
“Sure ka ba, Staks? But, grabe, ang galing mo, love. Seriously,” Aiah said, her tone a mix of pride and playful disbelief.
Leaning casually against a nearby lamppost, Stacey tried to even out her breathing, a sheepish smile tugging at her lips. “Thanks, pero honest, parang babagsak na yung legs ko,” she said, half-laughing.
Straightening slightly, she leaned in closer to Aiah, their proximity shrinking as her hand lightly brushed against Aiah’s. Stacey tilted her head, a mischievous gleam sparkling in her eyes. “Carry me?”
Aiah didn’t even hesitate. That knowing smile—a mix of fondness and amusement—curved on her lips as she stepped forward, smoothly sweeping Stacey up into her arms. Her movements were smooth and effortless, like she’d done this a hundred times before—because, let’s face it, she probably had.
Stacey let out a soft laugh, surprised but delighted. Her arms instinctively wrapped around Aiah’s neck as she tried to catch her breath. Being held like this always made her heart skip, the steady strength in Aiah’s arms grounding her. “Bilis mo ah,” she murmured, her voice still breathless.
Aiah didn’t answer right away. Instead, she leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to Stacey’s forehead, her lips lingering just a second longer than usual. It was gentle, a moment of quiet affection. Then, she adjusted her hold, making sure her wife was snug against her chest.
The sidewalk ahead stretched out, bathed in the golden glow of the morning sun. Around them, the neighborhood was starting to wake up. A few houses down, someone walked their fluffy white dog, while a young guy passed by while holding a paper bag full of fresh pandesal. Its warm, comforting scent floated in the breeze, blending with the soft buzz of the morning.
Aiah carried Stacey effortlessly, walking as if it was the most natural thing in the world. Her steps were relaxed, her expression unbothered, like this wasn’t a romantic movie moment but just another day.
From the corner of her eye, Aiah noticed one of their elderly neighbors stopping mid-sweep to look at them. The old man’s grin stretched wide, clearly amused. “Ang sweet niyo naman,” he teased, waving his walis ting-ting. “Kasama mo na yung asawa mo ngayong umaga, ah?”
Aiah laughed, flashing that signature charming smile of hers. “Yes po, na-convince ko na yung princess,” she replied, her tone dripping with pride.
Stacey, comfortably cradled in Aiah’s arms, gave the neighbor a playful smirk. “Isang beses lang po ’to, promise,” she quipped, raising a hand dramatically like she was making a solemn vow.
The neighbor chuckled, shaking his head with a grin before returning to his sweeping.
As they passed more houses, Stacey instinctively let her head rest on Aiah’s shoulder, her fingers lazily playing with the strap of Aiah’s tank top. “Hindi ka pa pagod?” she asked, her voice soft, almost teasing.
Aiah glanced down at her, her gaze immediately softening at the sight of Stacey’s flushed cheeks and the spark in her eyes. “No, love. Ang gaan mo kasi. Plus, I’m used to this na,” she replied with an easy grin.
Stacey let out a small, breathy laugh. “Wow ha, parang insult ata yan.”
Aiah leaned her head closer to Stacey, her grin widening. “Hindi insult, love. Part of the job description—wife, mom, jogging partner, and personal carrier,” she teased, her tone playful.
“Solid perks,” Stacey murmured, her voice light, her lips tugging into a soft smile.
Aiah held her wife just a little tighter, feeling the familiar weight of her in her arms. The intimacy of the moment—Stacey’s warmth, the feel of her close—felt so far removed from the days when they barely exchanged more than words about Lily. Back then, everything was tense, full of walls. But now? It was easy. Natural. With every step they took, Aiah was reminded of how much they’d grown.
As they neared the house, Stacey’s lips curved into a playful smirk. “Not even out of breath, hm? Now, I dunno if I should be impressed or annoyed,” she teased, her tone light but challenging.
Aiah chuckled, effortlessly carrying Stacey across the threshold like it was second nature. Her movements were so smooth, you’d think she did this every day—which, honestly, wasn’t far from the truth. “Impressed,” Aiah replied confidently, setting Stacey down gently onto her feet. “Definitely impressed.”
Stacey raised an eyebrow, her sly grin widening. “Sure ka? Kasi feeling ko, I could’ve made you work for it a little more,” she quipped, her voice laced with faux sassiness.
Aiah’s eyes lit up with amusement, a playful glint in them as she leaned closer. “Next time, siguro,” she shot back, her voice low, tinged with teasing challenge.
Stacey laughed softly, shaking her head as she headed inside. “Bahala ka,” she called out, glancing back briefly before making her way to check on their kids.
Meanwhile, Aiah stepped out onto the balcony, her phone already in hand. She leaned casually against the railing, letting the fresh morning air brush against her skin. The soft hum of the waking world outside mixed with the faint sounds of life inside the house. She dialed Sheena’s number, her fingers tapping lightly against the cool metal of the railing as she waited for the call to connect. The peaceful vibe of the morning was a refreshing contrast to the lively chaos she knew would kick in soon enough.
Sheena picked up on the fifth ring, her voice groggy but curious. “Ate Aiah? Why so early? Did you finally convince Stacey to—oh my God, you did, didn’t you?”
Aiah grinned, obviously proud. “Nag-jogging kami,” she sang teasingly. “And guess what? She even kept up with me while barely breaking a sweat!”
There was a brief pause before Sheena groaned dramatically. “Ugh, Gwen’s gonna rub this in my face. I owe her a plane trip!”
“Ano?” Aiah asked, her eyebrows shooting up in disbelief. “Nagpustahan talaga kayo kung magjo-jogging si Staks?”
“Siyempre naman!” Sheena replied matter-of-factly. “It’s Stacey we’re talking about. Trade heels for running shoes? Hello? Pero si Gwen, may faith. Ako? Wala. Guess who’s booking Switzerland tickets instead of Boracay now!”
Aiah shook her head, laughing. “Grabe, mga baliw talaga kayo.”
Sheena giggled, clearly enjoying herself. “Eh, ano? Spill na. Paano mo siya napa-jogging? Bribery? Charm? Manipulation?”
“None of the above,” Aiah said, her smile audible through the phone. “Just some good, old-fashioned persistence and… kornik with suka. And asin.”
Sheena burst out laughing. “Classic Stacey. Pinsan ko talaga.”
Aiah smiled as she glanced through the glass door. Stacey was now sitting on the living room floor, playfully smothering Stanley’s chubby cheeks with kisses. His giggles echoed through the room, making Aiah’s chest feel warm. “I’m just happy she gave it a shot. Alam mo naman, stepping out of her comfort zone isn’t easy for her.”
“Aww, mga bading!” Sheena teased, though her tone was affectionate. “Pero seryoso, good for you two. And hey, if you ever need a bet na sure win, tawagan mo lang ako. Game kami ni bebe Gwen.”
Aiah chuckled, shaking her head. “Boang.”
Sheena hummed, then asked, “So Ate, what’s next? Marathon? Triathlon? Baka mag-hike pa si Staks?”
Aiah laughed, her voice light. “One step at a time, Shee. Huwag natin siyang takutin.”
“Fair,” Sheena conceded, then added with a laugh, “Pero, props to you ha. Iba talaga kapag ikaw ang kumilos. Not even Tito could convince her to jog—and you know how he is.”
Aiah’s gaze softened as it drifted back to Stacey and Stanley. Stacey was now helping Stanley line up his toy cars, her laughter ringing out as Stanley proudly explained the rules of their ‘race.’ Warmth flooded through Aiah, her heart swelling with affection.
“Si Stacey pa?” Aiah said with a fond smile, shaking her head slightly. “Sure, it took weeks to convince her this time, pero kung may gusto talaga siyang gawin? She doesn’t need convincing—she’ll just do it. No one can stop her. Kaya nga, ang lakas ng loob ko, eh,” she added, her tone softening. “Back then, when we were suddenly thrown into being moms, Stacey was so scared. She didn’t think she’d be enough for Lily. Pero she tried—kahit na takot siya. Watching her put her heart into it, kahit uncertain siya, gave me strength. That’s just who she is—when she decides to love or commit, she’s all in.”
“Okay, okay, enough na,” Sheena huffed, though her voice was tinged with amusement. “You’re getting too cheesy for me this early. Mag-iyakan na lang kayo later sa anniversary niyo. I’m hanging up before you make me cry, ha!” She paused, then added with a teasing laugh, “Pero love you both. Ang sweet nyo, nakakainis.”
“Good idea,” Aiah teased, grinning. “Baka maiyak ka rin sa gastos ng plane tickets to Switzerland.”
Sheena groaned loudly, though they both knew spending wasn’t an issue. “Rude! Bye na, Ate.”
Aiah chuckled as she ended the call, her heart light from the morning’s success. The moment the door clicked shut behind her, Stacey looked up from the living room, a teasing glint in her eye. Stanley was now perched comfortably on her lap, giggling softly as Stacey’s fingers tickled his side.
“Well?” Stacey asked, her voice teasing, one eyebrow quirking up.
Aiah’s grin widened as she dramatically pulled a small bag of kornik from behind her back. The familiar scent wafted through the air, instantly making Stacey’s eyes light up, her delighted smile undeniable.
“Finally. You’re a woman of your word,” Stacey said, clearly pleased, her tone dripping with amusement.
Nestled in Stacey’s arms, Stanley shifted slightly, his wide eyes locking onto the bag. He didn’t grab for it, but his head tilted curiously, his little hands clinging to Stacey’s shirt as if asking, What’s that, Mommy?
Aiah placed the bag on the kitchen counter with flair, pouring a generous amount of kornik into a small bowl. She reached for the vinegar and salt, setting them beside the bowl like a pro. “You earned it, love. All that jogging,” she teased, her voice warm and lilting.
Stacey smirked, gently setting Stanley down on the living room floor. “Stay here muna, buddy,” she said sweetly, patting his soft hair before making her way to the counter with a saunter that spelled playful defiance.
Grabbing the bowl, she popped a piece of kornik into her mouth, letting out a satisfied crunch. “Joke’s on you,” Stacey said, her tone teasing but light, her eyes sparkling. “Next time, you’re jogging double to earn my kornik.”
Aiah laughed, leaning casually against the counter, her gaze fond and amused. “Is that so?” she replied with a grin, watching as Stacey poured a little vinegar over the kornik and sprinkled a little more salt than necessary.
Stacey took another bite, her expression blissful. “This,” she said, gesturing dramatically with the bowl, “is why I married you.”
Aiah shook her head, chuckling softly. “Oh, so it’s about the kornik now?”
“Obviously,” Stacey replied with a wink, popping another piece into her mouth. “Mmm, ang sarap talaga,” Stacey murmured, her voice muffled by the snack, a look of pure satisfaction on her face.
A soft giggle drew their attention downward. Stanley had toddled over, his toy car forgotten, standing beside them with a wide, gummy smile—an unmistakable mirror of Stacey’s. Aiah’s heart swelled at the sight; she loved how much their little boy resembled her wife. His quiet, endearing presence made her smile even wider.
Aiah crouched down, her tone gentle. “Stanley, baby, gusto mo din ba ng kornik?”
The little boy shook his head, his small hands fiddling with the hem of his shirt. He offered Aiah a shy smile. “No, thank you, Mama. Playing with car,” he said softly.
Aiah ruffled his hair with a warm smile. “Such a polite little man,” she said, her voice warm with admiration. “Okay, baby. You keep playing ha? Mama and Mommy are right here. I’ll cook breakfast soon.”
Stanley nodded, his grin widening just a bit before he turned back to the living room, the soft sound of his toy car rolling over the floor filling the wide space.
Stacey glanced at Aiah, her expression softening as she watched their little boy from the distance. “Grabe, love,” she said, her voice tinged with a bittersweet warmth. “Ang bilis niyang lumaki, ‘no?”
Aiah’s heart swelled as she followed Stacey’s gaze. “Oo nga,” she replied, her tone filled with quiet awe. “Parang kahapon lang, baby pa rin siya.”
Stacey chuckled softly, popping another piece of kornik into her mouth. “Baby pa rin natin siya, always,” she said with a playful smile, her voice blissful. Taking another bite, she sighed contentedly. “Sarap talaga nito.”
Then, a teasing glint lit up her eyes as she leaned closer to Aiah, her tone dropping mischievously. “Pero love, ‘di ba you promised me something else earlier?”
Aiah tilted her head, her brows furrowed slightly. “Something else?” she repeated, her voice a little puzzled. Then it clicked, and her expression softened, a playful grin creeping onto her face.
Stacey raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in her eyes as she slid her hands around Aiah’s hips, pulling her closer. “Hmm, quiet morning lang. Just us… and maybe something extra?” she teased, her voice dripping with playful intent.
Aiah chuckled softly, leaning into Stacey’s touch. “Ah, oo nga pala,” she murmured, her voice dropping to a soft, intimate tone. “I am a woman of my word.”
Stacey smirked, tilting her head slightly as Aiah leaned in, the space between them disappearing. Their laughter softened, the air humming with quiet, tender intimacy. Aiah pressed a gentle kiss to Stacey’s lips, her breath warm and light.
As their lips slightly parted, Stacey whispered with a soft smile, her voice filled with affection, “Always.”
But just as the moment was about to deepen, Stacey suddenly pulled back, a teasing glint in her eyes. Wrapping her arms loosely around Aiah’s neck, she said with a playful tone, “Pero love, before anything else—next time, get extra kornik. One bag? Kulang.”
Aiah blinked in mock disbelief before bursting into laughter, tightening her embrace around Stacey. The sunlight streamed through the windows, wrapping the room in a soft, golden glow—a perfect, cozy frame for their little family’s playful morning.