Chapter 29: Midnight Call
The Cry in the Night
The house was silent, the peaceful hum of night settling over everyone. Simon and Gigi were fast asleep when suddenly, a soft cry echoed from Alex's room.
"Da-da! Milk!" Alex's tiny voice called out, breaking the stillness.
Simon stirred awake, his instincts kicking in. He nudged Gigi gently, whispering, "I got this."
Gigi smiled sleepily. "Thank you, love."
Answering the Call
Simon slipped out of bed, padding quietly down the hall to Alex's room. He opened the door to find his little boy sitting up in his crib, tears glistening in his eyes.
"Hey, buddy," Simon said softly, kneeling beside the crib. "What's wrong?"
Alex reached out with his tiny arms, still sniffling. "Da-da... milk."
Simon chuckled, lifting Alex into his arms. "Alright, let's get you some milk."
He carried Alex to the kitchen, setting him on the counter while he warmed up a bottle. Alex watched with wide, sleepy eyes, clutching his favorite stuffed bear.
A Midnight Bonding Moment
Once the milk was ready, Simon sat down on the couch, cradling Alex as he drank.
"You know, buddy," Simon began, his voice low and soothing, "you're the reason I keep going. Every time I look at you, I feel like the luckiest man in the world."
Alex blinked up at him, his tiny hands gripping the bottle.
Simon smiled. "One day, you'll grow up and understand how much you mean to us. But for now, let's keep it simple—just you, me, and milk at midnight."
Back to Bed
After finishing his bottle, Alex rested his head on Simon's chest, his breathing slowing as he drifted off. Simon carried him back to his room, tucking him in gently.
"Goodnight, little man," Simon whispered, brushing a kiss against Alex's forehead.
As Simon stood there, watching Alex sleep, he felt a deep sense of peace. For all the chaos and challenges he faced, moments like this made it all worthwhile.
Returning to Gigi
When Simon returned to the bedroom, Gigi was awake, her head propped on her hand.
"Is he okay?" she asked.
Simon climbed into bed, pulling her into his arms. "He's perfect. Just needed some milk and his dad."
Gigi smiled, resting her head on his chest. "You're an amazing father, Simon."
Simon kissed the top of her head. "And you're an amazing mother. We make a pretty good team, don't we?"
She laughed softly. "The best."
To Be Continued...