The first rays of sunlight slipped through the window curtains, brushing across a man's face. His eyes blinked open at the sting of morning light. The room around him looked different—cleaner, brighter, and far more luxurious than the shabby apartment he used to crash in.
Brian stretched, rolled out of bed, and wandered into the spotless bathroom. The guy in the mirror stared back—same sharp jawline, a little scruff growing in like every guy in his late twenties trying to look "mature." He grabbed his toothbrush, scrubbed, rinsed, and then splashed his face with cold water. A moment later, the sound of running water filled the small space—then a sudden yelp broke through the steam.
"Shit! Burned!" Brian's deep voice echoed through the door vent, half-cursing, half-laughing.
When he finally stepped out, a towel wrapped around his waist, he went straight to his closet. The clothes were neatly hung—too neat for a guy like him. He picked a clean white shirt, blue jeans, and a pair of black socks before lacing up his sneakers.
Out in the kitchen, the smell hit him—bacon and fried eggs sizzling away. His stomach grumbled instantly. At the counter stood Katie, red hair catching the light, flipping bacon with casual grace.
She turned, smiling. "Morning, honey."
"What's cooking, babe?" he teased, voice rising playfully.
Katie shot him a mock glare but couldn't hide her grin. "bacon and eggs. Same as always." She slid a plate toward him.
"Perfect timing," he said, grinning wide. "Food made by my favorite girl? Hell, it's already the best day."
He bit into a strip of bacon, eyes lighting up. "Mmm! Damn, that's good."
"Don't exaggerate," she giggled.
He pulled her into a quick hug and kissed her cheek. "Pack me some to go, yeah?"
Katie laughed softly. "K, I'll wrap it up. Where you headed today?"
"The workshop, at nine," he said between bites. "Oh, and don't forget—macaroni for dinner tonight. Just, uh… easy on the pepper this time. Last time you almost killed me with that."
Katie snorted. "Kuhaha, Got it. And you? Still doing pizza delivery after class?"
Brian shrugged. "Yeah. Gotta keep my pockets full. The rent is due tomorrow, and i want no mama involved."
"Pretty sweet of you," she said, handing him a lunch box. "Being hardworking and a good son at the same time. She must be really proud of you." Kate put on a delightful smile.
He winked, taking the box. "Lock the door before you head to class, alright?"
"Alrighty,"