The next morning, Don woke up at his usual 4:30 AM and went through his morning routine with the same discipline that was becoming second nature.
By 6:30, he was back from his morning run, feeling invigorated despite the early hour. The kitchen was warm and inviting as he joined Samantha for breakfast. She was having eggs and toast, while he stuck to his usual oatmeal with mixed berries and a protein shake.
As they ate, Samantha looked at her plate, poking at her toast absentmindedly. "Maybe I should go on a diet," she muttered, a touch of self-consciousness in her voice. "I've really gained weight."
Don, chewing thoughtfully, raised an eyebrow. "It's the good kind of weight," he said casually, knowing just what to say to make her feel better.
Samantha laughed, shaking her head. "You're only saying that to make me feel better."
Feigning offense, Don put down his spoon. "You don't trust your own son? That hurts."
