Chapter 22

A Morning to Remember

Ethan had always been an early riser, and today was no exception. Despite the late night, he woke up before dawn, his body tuned to the rhythm of his demanding schedule. But this morning was different. There was no rush, no deadlines. He rolled over to see Preston sleeping soundly beside him, his chest rising and falling gently. A soft smile tugged at his lips. This was peace.

He reached for his phone and made a quick call to his personal assistant. "I'm taking a few days off. Forward anything urgent to Jason, and if it absolutely needs my signature, he'll handle it."

Next, he called Jason. "Morning," Ethan began. "You're in charge for the next few days. Preston's moved in with me, and I want to spend some quality time with him."

Jason chuckled on the other end. "Finally! Took you long enough. Enjoy your time, and don't worry—I've got everything here. Anything special planned for his birthday?"

Ethan grinned. "Plenty. We'll start the day at the orphanage for a small celebration, then while we're out, you and Annabel will decorate the house and make sure the car is delivered on time."

"Consider it done," Jason replied. "And Ethan—don't forget to relax."

After the calls, Ethan moved to the kitchen to prepare a simple breakfast. He wasn't much of a cook, but he managed toast, eggs, and fruit. Satisfied, he carried the tray back to the bedroom.

Preston was still asleep when Ethan entered. He placed the tray on the table and sat on the edge of the bed, watching him. Strands of hair fell across Preston's face, and Ethan couldn't resist reaching out to brush them aside. His hand lingered on Preston's cheek, and in that moment, Preston stirred, his eyes fluttering open.

"Good morning," Preston said with a sleepy smile.

"Good morning, my pretty boy," Ethan replied, his voice soft.

Preston stretched, his smile widening. "So it's not a dream? I'm really here with you?"

Ethan chuckled and pinched his arm gently.

"Ow! What was that for?" Preston protested.

"To prove it's real. We're here, in our own home, together."

Preston laughed and threw his arms around Ethan, pulling him close. "What time is it? Aren't you going to work?"

"I took some time off," Ethan said, running his fingers through Preston's hair. "Jason's handling everything. It's just you and me for the next few days. So, tell me—what do you want to do?"

Preston's eyes lit up with excitement. "Really? Okay! I want to go to the amusement park, play video games, watch a movie, go to the beach with you… I want to do all that and more. Is that okay?"

Ethan smiled warmly. "Anything for my pretty boy. But first, I made you breakfast."

Preston's face lit up as Ethan set the tray down. Ethan fed him a few bites, and Preston tried to return the gesture, but Ethan waved him off with a laugh.

"I'm not a morning person," Ethan said. "Coffee is all I need."

Preston pouted playfully. "You have to eat something! I won't eat if you don't."

Ethan chuckled, reaching out to ruffle Preston's hair. "Yes, sir. Whatever you say."

The morning passed in a blur of laughter and conversation. They talked about everything and nothing, sharing stories and teasing each other. Ethan couldn't stop touching Preston—holding his hand, brushing his hair, pulling him close. It felt like if he let go, Preston might disappear.

By noon, they decided to order takeout and spend the afternoon playing video games. Preston's laughter filled the room as he beat Ethan round after round, and Ethan couldn't help but let him win. Seeing that bright, carefree smile on Preston's face was all that mattered.

As the day went on, Ethan realized something profound: this was happiness. Not the success of his company or the wealth he'd accumulated, but this—these simple, perfect moments with Preston and this is all that he wants for both of them.