It was clear this was Asher’s first time holding a baby. His hands trembled slightly as he reached for Daniel, but as soon as Daniel felt the warmth of Asher’s touch, his initial unease melted into joyful laughter.
“Oh my! Master Daniel seems so happy! Isn’t that wonderful?” Fiona beamed with excitement.
“...Cute,” Asher whispered, his eyes widening as he stared at Daniel.
“Yes! Isn’t he the cutest?” Fiona agreed enthusiastically, unaware of Asher’s next words.
“I meant… you,” he murmured softly, his gaze softening as he looked at her.
* * *
Asher’s visits became more frequent, and soon, Fiona found herself seeing him every other day.
Despite his busy schedule managing the estate and royal-related affairs, Asher always made time for Daniel. It was particularly impressive given his young age and the fact that he had only recently inherited the title.
(Lord Asher is a remarkable man.)
Though she hadn’t known him long, Fiona could tell he was earnest and responsible. But because of that, she couldn’t understand why Daniel’s mother had left his side.
* * *
“I hear Daniel has started eating solid food,” Asher mentioned one day.
“Yes, he’s been enjoying bread and mashed vegetables. He doesn’t seem to have any dislikes yet and eats very well,” Fiona replied warmly.
It was evident that Asher had been asking the staff about Daniel’s progress, even during his busy days. His growing interest in Daniel’s life filled Fiona’s heart with warmth.
“...I wonder if he could start joining me for meals,” Asher said, gently holding Daniel’s tiny hand.
“And perhaps… you could join us as well,” he added, his eyes lingering on Fiona. A faint blush rose to his cheeks, though Fiona didn’t seem to notice.
“That’s a wonderful idea!” Fiona exclaimed, clapping her hands. “Master Daniel only eats once a day, but I’m sure he’d enjoy the time with you. Let’s arrange it right away.”
From that day forward, Daniel and Asher shared meals daily.
Though their meals were entirely different, and they simply occupied the same space, the change brought them closer. Fiona couldn’t have been happier.
“So… this is what a baby’s meal looks like?” Asher asked one day.
“What do you mean by ‘this is what it looks like’?” Fiona teased gently.
“It’s thicker than I imagined, and I didn’t expect you’d need to feed him so carefully like that,” Asher remarked, watching Fiona spoon-feed Daniel with meticulous care. He seemed genuinely surprised.
0 Comments