The sun hung high in the sky, casting a golden hue over the bustling city streets. Inside a luxurious hotel, Alex, Dean, and Kikki settled around an elegant table, the atmosphere filled with a mix of chatter and clinking cutlery. The opulence of the place was reflected in the lavish decor, with plush velvet chairs and shimmering chandeliers. Kikki, unable to reach the table, watched Alex and Dean intently, his big, curious eyes sparkling.
Alex smiled at Kikki, sensing the little one's struggle to see the array of colorful dishes. "Let's make this easier," he said, gently lifting Kikki and placing him on his lap. Now, Kikki could reach the table, his tiny hands eager to explore the vibrant spread before him.
After a short wait, the waiter arrived, bringing forth an impressive feast. "Here we go," he announced, placing the dishes in front of them. "We have grilled salmon with lemon butter sauce, creamy mushroom risotto, a vibrant Mediterranean salad, and, of course, some delectable truffle fries."
Dean's eyes widened as he took in the delicious sight before him. "Wow, this looks amazing!" he exclaimed, beaming with excitement. "Thanks for bringing us here, Alex."
Alex chuckled, feeling a warm swell of happiness at Dean's reaction. "Only the best for my boys," he replied, dishing out some risotto onto Kikki's plate, ensuring the little one could enjoy the meal too.
Kikki's face lit up as he took his first bite. "Yummy!" he squealed, his tiny fingers grabbing at the food. Alex playfully fed him some salmon, delighting in the way Kikki's face scrunched up with delight. "Good, right?" Alex grinned, and Kikki nodded vigorously, making the three of them laugh.
The lunch passed in joyous laughter and lively conversation, with Kikki occasionally babbling about his toys and the fun he had at home. Dean and Alex exchanged playful banter, relishing the carefree atmosphere. After they finished their meal, Dean leaned back in his chair, a satisfied grin plastered across his face. "I don't think I can move," he joked, patting his stomach.
"Then you'll have to roll yourself out," Alex teased, eliciting a chuckle from Dean.
As they prepared to leave the restaurant, Alex turned to Dean, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "What do you want to do after this? Any ideas?"
Dean, still feeling the weight of the delicious food, perked up at the thought. "How about a movie? I haven't seen one in ages!"
"Sounds perfect. Let's find a good one," Alex agreed, and with that, they made their way to the car, Kikki still perched happily on Alex's lap.
As they drove toward the cinema, the city buzzed around them. Kikki clapped his hands in excitement, giggling at the passing scenery. "Car! Car!" he exclaimed, pointing out of the window at the vehicles zipping by.
Upon reaching the cinema, they were met with a plethora of movie posters displaying the latest films. "Okay, let's see what's playing," Alex said as they stepped inside.
After a quick look, they discovered three films: a new horror movie, an animated feature, and a romantic drama. Dean's eyes gleamed at the animation poster. "Can we see this one?" he asked, pointing enthusiastically. "I want to see the funny animals!"
Alex nodded in agreement, glancing at Kikki, who was bouncing in his seat, clearly excited. "I think that's the best choice. We can't scare Kikki with horror, and the romance can wait," he joked, and Dean laughed, feeling a little bit of relief at the idea of a fun-filled movie.
They purchased their tickets and made their way inside the theater. As they entered, Dean couldn't help but notice the other families scattered around, parents with their children, all eagerly anticipating the show.
"Look at all the kids," Dean whispered to Alex, a hint of embarrassment creeping into his voice. "They probably think we're a couple or something."
"Let them think what they want," Alex replied nonchalantly, shrugging off the idea. "Besides, we do look cute together." He winked at Dean, who felt his cheeks flush.
Settling into their seats, Dean found himself sitting next to Alex, Kikki nestled comfortably on his lap. The theater darkened, and the previews began, drawing the audience into a world of colorful animation.
As the main feature started, Kikki, with his big, round eyes, was fascinated but didn't fully understand what was happening. He occasionally pointed at the screen, saying, "Wow!" and giggling at the bright colors and silly sounds.
Dean, with one hand wrapped around Kikki, instinctively reached for the popcorn that Alex was holding. Their hands brushed against each other, and for a brief moment, time seemed to stand still. Both turned to look at each other, startled, their faces inches apart. The moment was broken by Kikki's delighted giggle as he pointed at the screen, pulling them back into the movie.
Dean chuckled nervously, feeling a heat rise to his cheeks. "This is so much fun," he said, trying to regain his composure.
"It really is!" Alex replied, unable to hide his smile. "Who knew a kids' movie could be this good?"
As the film progressed, Kikki occasionally squealed in delight at the antics on screen, his laughter infectious. Dean found himself laughing along, his worries about leaving the job momentarily forgotten. The three of them shared this lighthearted moment, a small family in their own right, lost in the joy of the day.
Finally, as the credits rolled, Kikki clapped his hands, looking up at Alex and Dean with sparkling eyes. "More! More!" he shouted, his excitement palpable.
Dean and Alex exchanged amused glances, both knowing that one viewing was more than enough but unable to resist the charm of Kikki's enthusiasm.
As they exited the theater, Dean's heart swelled with warmth. "Thanks for today, Alex. I really needed this," he said, genuinely grateful.
"Anytime, Dean," Alex replied, nudging him playfully. "Besides, it's not every day I get to be a dad for a day."
Dean chuckled, the bond between them growing stronger, filled with laughter and unspoken understanding. Today had been a delightful escape, and as they headed home, he couldn't help but feel that maybe, just maybe, staying wouldn't be so bad after all.