The cool morning air still lingered as I waved goodbye to my friends at the gate, their cheerful laughter echoing down the street. I stood there for a moment longer, watching them disappear around the corner.
"Don’t miss us too much, Keiy!" Daffin had called out with a wink.
"Yeah, yeah," I muttered under my breath, but I couldn’t help smiling.
Turning back toward the house, the scent of waffles and pancakes hit me the moment I opened the door. The sweet aroma was so strong it felt like it was wrapping me in a warm hug.
"Morning, Sunshine," Dad’s voice rang out from the kitchen. "You’re just in time to help set the table."
"Good morning to you too, Dad," I said, slipping off my shoes and stepping into the living room.
"Don’t fall for it, Keiy!" Wendy called from the dining room. "He’s trying to trick you into doing his work!"
"Excuse me," Dad’s voice was mock-indignant. "I am the architect of this breakfast masterpiece. The least you all can do is contribute."