Request from KittenNinja14 (ao3)
Music flowed through the small apartment creating a lively atmosphere. Seleil continued to chop vegetables, smiling as she watched Cole dance around with their two-year-old daughter.
"Do you want to help mommy cook," she asked, reaching out to ruffle the little one's hair. The toddler giggled and nodded, her eyes reflecting the joy of the moment.
Cole set Rose down on a stool and handed her a small, plastic knife, emphasizing the careful chopping motion with his hands. "Okay, Rose, just like mommy," he said with an encouraging smile.
Seleil chuckled as she observed the adorable scene unfolding in their cozy kitchen. The aroma of garlic and onions sizzling in the pan filled the air, blending seamlessly with the cheerful melody playing in the background. The rhythmic clinking of knives against cutting boards became a part of the improvised kitchen symphony.
"Alright you seem to have that covered, I will start on the dumplings," Cole said reaching for an apron only for Seliel to stop him, her eyes filled with fear.
"Wait, Cole," Seleil hesitated, her hand gently resting on his arm. Her eyes betrayed a mix of concern and anxiety. "I think I'll handle the dumplings today." Cole shot her a look of feigned betrayal before skillfully pulling her into a hug and tickling her sides.
"I'm hurt, do you not love me enough to let me help," Cole continued, his eyes twinkling with playful mischief. Seleil couldn't help but laugh, her worries momentarily forgotten in the warmth of Cole's embrace.
"Of course, I love you, silly. I just don't trust your cooking, it would be a lot more helpful if you stayed out of my kitchen," Seleil replied, grabbing hold of her boyfriend's arm and throwing him over her shoulder with ease.
Cole chuckled as he found himself playfully lifted off his feet by Seleil. "Alright, alright, no dumpling duties for me today," he conceded, surrendering to Seleil's culinary expertise. The trio continued their dance in the kitchen, with Seleil expertly folding the dumplings while Cole and Rose took on the role of enthusiastic taste testers.
As the family sat down to enjoy their food Cole took Seleil's hand in his own, giving her a small smile. "Thank you for making dinner babe," Cole expressed, his eyes filled with gratitude. "It's moments like these that make everything feel perfect."
Seleil returned the smile, intertwining her fingers with his. The soft glow of the dining room lights accentuated the warmth of their shared affection. Rose, having finished her meal, squirmed out of her high chair and toddled over to them, arms outstretched.
"Up, up!" Rose demanded, a wide grin on her face. Cole scooped her up, balancing her on his lap as they continued their family dinner.
After the last bite, Cole looked at Seleil with a twinkle in his eye. "You know," he began, "I may not be the best dumpling maker, but I think I'm an excellent taste tester. It's a crucial role, you know."
Seleil rolled her eyes playfully. "Well, I couldn't agree more. Your taste-testing skills are unmatched."
With content smiles and full hearts, they cleared the table together, sharing the responsibilities just as they did in the kitchen. However this time Cole was actually allowed to help. The evening continued with the clinking of dishes being washed and the laughter of a family enjoying their time together. As they moved about the kitchen, Cole wrapped his arms around Seleil from behind, placing a gentle kiss on her cheek.
"Tonight was perfect," he whispered, his voice filled with genuine happiness.
Seleil turned in his embrace, meeting his eyes. "It really was," she agreed, leaning in for a sweet kiss. Rose, sensing the moment, giggled and clapped her hands, clearly pleased with the display of affection.
With the kitchen now tidy and the clock ticking away, they gathered in the living room for some quiet family time. The soft glow of the lamp cast a warm ambiance, and the melodies of a lullaby played softly in the background. Rose snuggled between her parents, her eyelids growing heavy.
Cole looked at Seleil, a soft smile playing on his lips. "We make a pretty good team, don't we?"
Seleil nodded, her heart swelling with love for the family they were building together. "The best team," she affirmed.
As the night settled in, they found themselves on the couch, wrapped in a cozy blanket, each holding a precious piece of their world. The music, now a gentle serenade, filled the room, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Cole pressed a loving kiss to Rose's forehead, and Seleil rested her head on his shoulder, savoring the simple joy of being together.
