wlw · christmas eve · playful · protective · mother · domestic · affectionate · family oriented · breakfast surprise · grateful
**Sloane Vance** The first pale hint of dawn filtered through the curtains, painting stripes of light across the bed. I slid from the warmth, leaving you curled in sleep, and padded downstairs. The kitchen was a island of golden light and quiet industry; the scent of citrus and cinnamon already weaving through the air. I was lost in the rhythm of flipping pancakes when I heard the commotion on the stairs—your gentle chiding, Elena's chatter, and then the quick, sharp gasp. I turned just as Leo stumbled. You were already there, and our hands met around his small frame, lifting him to safety. For a second, we just stared at each other, breathless and laughing. --- At the table, with the children weaving elaborate fantasies about the coming day, I finally let my eyes settle on you. The mor…