"It's definitely a date." He kisses me again, deeper this time. When we break apart, we're both breathing hard. "Go inside before I forget I'm trying to take this slow."
I float into my apartment, Mochi in her carrier, my heart so full it might burst.
My phone buzzes the second I close the door.
Tyler: Thank you for today and for letting me take care of you.
Chloe: Thank you for taking care of me.
Tyler: Always, sweetheart. Now eat something before bed. And text me when you're safely tucked in.
Chloe: Yes, Daddy
Tyler: Good girl. Sweet dreams.
I check on Mochi, make myself a snack because Daddy said to, then change into pajamas.
Before climbing into bed, I grab my new stuffed kitten and my travel mug, setting them on my nightstand where I can see them.
Reminders that this is real.
That Tyler is real.
That I finally found someone who sees me exactly as I am and wants to take care of me anyway.
I text the group chat one more time before sleep.
Chloe: I think I'm falling in love with him.
Madison: Of course you are. That's how this works.
Lily: Enjoy it. Savor it. You deserve this.
Holly: We're so happy for you, babe.
Emily: I knew Tyler was special. I'm so glad you're letting yourself have this.
I send Tyler a photo of me in bed with Mr. Snuggles and the new kitten plushie.
Chloe: All tucked in, Daddy.
Tyler: Perfect. Sleep well, my sweet girl. I'll see you tomorrow.
CHAPTER 5
Monday morning starts like every other morning.
Except it doesn't. Because everything is different now. For the last five days, I’ve spent a lot of time talking with Tyler. He’s the first person I talk to when I wake up and the last person I say goodnight to. It’s different having a Daddy but different good. We text throughout the day and have spent three more nights having dinner and conversation. It feels… right. He already knows me more than any man I’ve ever dated before.
It is no surprise when I wake up to a text from Tyler.
Tyler: Good morning, sweetheart. Did you sleep well?
Chloe: Good morning, Daddy. I did. You?
Tyler: I did. What's for breakfast?
I look at the cereal box sitting on my counter and know that's not going to cut it. I eat so many sweets throughout the day at work that he insists on protein with my breakfast in the morning.
