The morning sun streamed through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, blending with the sweet scent of breakfast that Aunt Babei was preparing in the kitchen. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of comfort and happiness. As I adjusted to the surroundings, I became aware of Aunt Babei standing there with a mischievous grin and a hint of playful curiosity sparkling in her eyes.

"You are finally awake, darling. Where's your man?" Aunt Babei asked, her tone teasing and filled with a knowing smirk. I couldn't help but chuckle at her playful demeanour.

"Oh yeah," I replied nonchalantly, stretching a bit as I sat up in bed. "He's still sleeping."

Just as the words left my lips, a deep, husky voice sounded from behind me, sending a delightful shiver down my spine. "Who says I'm still sleeping?"

I turned around to find Irwin, his tousled bedhead and sleep-filled eyes giving him an irresistibly dishevelled charm. Without any hesitation, he reached out and pulled me into an embrace, his strong arms enveloping me in a comforting warmth. Irwin pressed a tender kiss to my forehead, his lips lingering for a moment before he looked down at me with a playful glint in his eyes. Aunt Babei chuckled at the scene before her. "Well, well, it seems I've interrupted a cosy morning moment. I'll leave you two to enjoy your wake-up call. Breakfast is waiting downstairs whenever you decide to join the land of the living."

As Aunt Babei exited the room with a knowing smile, Irwin and I shared a laugh. The playful banter continued as Irwin grinned mischievously, the morning sunlight highlighting the crinkles around his eyes. "Good morning, my potatopie," he said with a playful smirk, using the endearing term he had coined for me. I couldn't help but roll my eyes, a smile tugging at the corners of my lips. "Stop it. Who the heck is your potato pie?"I whispered, feigning annoyance as I pinched his arm lightly. Before he could muster a protest, I leaned in, planting a sweet peck on his lips, catching him by surprise. His cheeks flushed a charming shade of red, and a soft, surprised gasp escaped him.

"Now look who's blushing," I teased, my laughter echoing in the room. I playfully stuck my tongue out at him, revelling in the morning warmth that filled the space between us. The lighthearted exchange added a touch of affectionate intimacy to our morning routine, creating a cocoon of shared laughter and love that set the perfect tone for the day ahead. Irwin's gaze softened as he looked at me, his eyes reflecting the warmth and fondness we shared. It was moments like these that made ordinary mornings extraordinary, turning simple gestures into expressions of love that lingered long after the laughter had faded.

As we continued our playful charade as a couple, there was an unspoken understanding between Irwin and me, a connection that transcended the pretense. Despite the teasing and banter, I could see genuine concern and tenderness in his gorgeous eyes, a depth that hinted at sincerity beneath the surface. Irwin, with his seemingly cold exterior, was revealing himself to be a cute little bundle of joy.

Amid the casual conversation, Irwin leaned in, his eyes softening with a warmth that went beyond our pretend relationship. "So, what's the plan for today?" he asked. I paused for a moment, contemplating the day ahead, then shrugged. "I don't really know either," I replied, my words muffled by a mouthful of pineapple. Irwin looked at me and burst into a genuine, hearty laugh-a sound I hadn't heard from him before. It was a cute, natural laugh that echoed through the room, highlighting the dimples on his cheeks.

Caught off guard by the unexpected display of joy, I couldn't help but ask, "What's so funny?" irritation lacing my tone.

He wiped away a tear from the corner of his eye, still chuckling. "Nothing. You're just looking cute." Irwin's compliment hit me unexpectedly, causing a blush to creep across my neck and cheeks.

This man, with his godly charm and hidden layers, had a way of surprising me at every turn. The genuine laughter and the sincere compliment added a new layer to our dynamic, blurring the lines between the playfulness of our charade and the authentic connection blossoming between us. As I walked out the door, the warm embrace of the summer sun enveloped me, and the gentle rustle of leaves accompanied my steps. Aunt Babei's garden sprawled out before me, a burst of colour and life. The vibrant hues of flowers painted the landscape, a dazzling palette that seemed to dance with the sunlight. Roses in shades of crimson, buttery daffodils, and lavender in full bloom adorned the garden, creating a visual symphony of nature's artistry.

The air was alive with the heady perfume of blossoms, a sweet and intoxicating fragrance that whispered the secrets of the season. Each breath I took seemed to carry the essence of summer itself, a blend of floral notes that tickled the senses. The symphony of buzzing bees and the occasional flutter of delicate butterfly wings added a harmonious backdrop to this botanical haven. As I approached Aunt Babei, who was tending to her garden with loving care, I couldn't help but pause and immerse myself in the sensory feast around me. Closing my eyes, I let the warmth of the sun kiss my skin while inhaling deeply, savouring the enchanting blend of floral aromas that swirled in the air. It was a moment of serenity, a brief escape into a world where time slowed down and the only rhythm was the pulse of nature.

Aunt Babei looked up from her gardening with a knowing smile, understanding the magic that her garden held. "Isn't it lovely, dear?" she remarked, her voice carrying the wisdom of someone intimately connected with the earth. I nodded, still lost in the reverie of scents and colors. The garden became a sanctuary, a place where the vibrant energy of summer converged with the tender touch of Aunt Babei's green thumb. It was a haven where the beauty of nature intertwined with the cherished memories of family gatherings and shared laughter. And as I opened my eyes, the world seemed a bit brighter, the colours more vivid, thanks to the enchantment of Aunt Babei's summer garden.

Aunt Babei's warm and inviting voice reached my ears as she looked up from her gardening tasks. "Abby, darling, you came just in time," she exclaimed with a wide, welcoming smile. The sun painted a golden halo around her as she stood amidst the kaleidoscope of blooms in her vibrant garden. "Josh and I are going to the restaurant. Can you and Irwin do me the favour of going to the local market to buy some fresh mushrooms and fish for today's lunch?" Her request hung in the air, and for a moment, the fragrant breeze seemed to hold its breath. The colours of the garden intensified, as if nature itself anticipated our response. I met Aunt Babei's gaze, her eyes filled with a mixture of warmth and a hint of anticipation, knowing that her request might not align with mine since I'm a vegan.

Without hesitation, I replied, "Yes, we can." A smile played on my lips, masking the subtle discomfort I felt at the thought of handling fish, a scent that clashed with the core of my plant-based lifestyle. Yet, in Aunt Babei's presence, it was inconceivable to turn down her request. Her joy at our agreement radiated like sunlight filtering through the leaves, casting a glow over the garden.

Aunt Babei's gratitude was reflected in the crinkle of her eyes, and she gently touched my shoulder. "You're a lifesaver, Abby, dear. I knew I could count on you and Irwin." Her words carried a sense of trust, the kind that binds families together. I nodded, acknowledging the unspoken connection that transcended dietary preferences. Leaving the enchanting garden behind, Irwin and I ventured into the bustling world beyond, on a mission to gather ingredients that would soon become a part of Aunt Babei's culinary masterpiece. The dichotomy between personal choices and familial obligations created a nuanced tapestry, weaving together the threads of love, sacrifice, and the enduring connection that defined our family narrative.

The market scene was a burst of vibrant colors and bustling activity. Stalls lined with fresh fruits and vegetables created a kaleidoscope of hues, and the air was filled with the enticing aromas of various spices and foods. It was a picturesque display, not at all what one would expect from a typical market. Irwin, seemingly caught off guard by the unexpected beauty of the surroundings, turned to his companion with a gentle smile. "Babe, hold on to my hand. I don't want you to get lost in this maze of colors and scents," he said softly, his voice barely audible above the lively chatter of vendors and customers.

"You know we can act normal here. Aunt Babei is nowhere in sight," I said blankly. Without any reply, he reached for my hands, the touch sending a jolt through me. His fingers wrapped around mine, holding on tightly, and the sensation was electric. It was as if our hands were drawn together, fingers intertwining effortlessly, creating a connection that felt both comforting and thrilling. As our hands clasped, a subtle smile played on his lips.

As we walked hand in hand, the bustling market surrounded us with vibrant colors and the melodic hum of chatter. Irwin's attention, however, was drawn elsewhere. I could sense a subtle shift in his demeanor, the lines on his forehead forming a frown as his gaze scanned the market stalls. Concerned, I asked, "What's wrong, Irwin?" His eyes met mine, a momentary hesitation before he replied, "Stay right here, I'm going to buy the fish." His tone held a hint of urgency.

As he moved through the lively market, I stood there, watching him navigate the sea of stalls and people. The scent of spices lingered in the air, and the vibrant displays of fruits and vegetables created a feast for the eyes. Irwin's silhouette weaved through the market, disappearing momentarily behind a crowd.