I’m not sure what I’ll find—maybe a chance to eavesdrop, snap photos, or catch a glimpse of their operations. Whatever it is, it’s my shot to bring justice to a group that thinks they’re above it.
I head out, the city buzzing with early morning energy.
The café where I’m meeting Jack is just a few blocks away, a cozy spot run by him and his Daddy, Logan. It’s a haven for Littles and Daddies, though they keep it subtle for the regular crowd apart from when they put on a nighttime party and anything goes!
I love it there—the warm vibe, the smell of fresh pastries, the way Jack’s eyes light up when he talks about Logan. It’s dreamy, and kind of a perfect glimpse into what life with a Forever Daddy could be like.
When I push open the café door, the bell jingles, and Jack’s already waving me over from a corner booth. His blonde hair bounces and shimmers, and his pastel pink apron’s dusted with flour. “Miles! Over here!” he calls, his voice bright.
I slide into the booth, grinning.
“Morning, sunshine,” I say. “You’re way too chipper for 8 AM.”
He sticks out his tongue. “Says the boy who probably didn’t sleep,” Jack giggles. “You look like you wrestled a bear.”
“Close. I wrestled a data breach.” I lean in, lowering my voice. “Big break on my case. I’m heading out of town later to check it out.”
Jack’s smile fades, his brows knitting.
“The whole vigilante thing?” Jack asks, his voice full of worry. “Miles, you gotta be careful. Those guys sound…scary.”
I wave him off, though his concern warms me.
“I’malwayscareful,” I say. “Besides, this is my chance to nail them. They can’t keep hiding forever.”
Jack sighs, pushing a plate of blueberry pancakes toward me. “Eat. You need fuel if you’re gonna play superhero.”
I dig in, the pancakes fluffy and sweet.
Jack’s always been my rock, ever since we met at a Little-friendly art class a couple of years ago. He’s a true Little, complete with a Daddy who dotes on him, and while I love my independence, I can’t help but envy him a little.
“How’s Logan?” I ask between bites.
His face lights up. “Amazing. He’s been teaching me to bake bread. I’m terrible at it, but he’s so patient.” Jack glances toward the counter, where Logan’s pouring coffee for a customer. He’s tall, broad, with a kind smile that screams Daddy. “I’m lucky, you know?”
“You are,” I say, meaning it. “He’s one of thegoodones.”
As if on cue, Logan strides over, a paper bag in hand.
“Heard you’re hitting the road, Miles,” Logan says, his voice warm but firm. “Made you a packed lunch. Turkey sandwich, some fruit, and a couple of cookies. Don’t skip meals, okay?”
I blush, taking the bag. “Thanks, Logan. You’re too good to me.”
Logan chuckles, ruffling Jack’s hair. “Gotta keep you Littles fed and safe.” He heads back to the counter, and I catch Jack’s adoring gaze following him.
“You’resoooolucky,” I say softly. “A Daddy like that? He’s gold.”
Jack nods, but his expression turns serious again. “Just… promise you’ll be careful today, okay? I don’t know what I’d do if something happened to you.”
I reach across the table, squeezing his hand. “I promise. I’m just scoping things out, not storming the castle. I’ll be fine.”
Jack doesn’t look convinced, but he lets it go.
I know I need to change the subject. We chat about lighter things—his latest coloring project, my obsession with Bean—until I check my watch.
Time to move.
I hug Jack tight, thanking him for the breakfast, and sling my bag over my shoulder. The packed lunch from Logan feels like a little piece of home, grounding me as I step out into the crisp morning air.
