11th November, 2022 - Los Angeles, California
"Baby, I know it's embarrassing but daddy needs you to be comfortable." Sebastian says, holding the small girls hand as he guides her through the store.
Lux whines, her eyes fixated on the ground as they walk. "But they fit." She mumbles, refusing to look up.
"Luxie, they most definitely do not. They were at least two sizes too big on you." Sebastian says, spotting the girls underwear section and steering her over to the organised racks.
He crouches down beside her, lowering himself to her eye level, and offers her a small smile. "It's not a big deal. We'll just find the right size, and I promise, we'll be done before you know it."
Lux huffs and crosses her arms, still avoiding his gaze. It was bad enough that she'd gotten her period. Now she was being forced to pick out new underwear since the original pairs were too big. This was humiliating to say the least.
Sebastian sighed softly, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. He knew this was hard for her - everything felt like the end of the world at her age - but he also knew he had to guide her through it. "How about this?" he offered, his voice calm and steady. "You pick the ones you like, and I won't say anything about the sizes or anything else. Just tell me which ones, and I'll handle the rest, okay?"
Lux shifted uncomfortably, biting her lip as she glanced at the racks in front of her. The bright colors and silly cartoon characters were enough to make her cringe. She was growing upâshe wanted to feel older, more mature - but there was no escaping the fact that she still needed clothes that actually fit.
After a moment, she finally peeked up at him, her arms still crossed tightly. "Can I at least pick ones that aren't... babyish?"
Sebastian grinned, sensing a crack in her stubborn resolve. "Of course. Whatever makes you feel comfortable, sweetheart. This is about you, not me." He let go of her hand, giving her a little space. "Take your time. I'll be right here."
Lux hesitated for a moment longer before stepping closer to the rack. She thumbed through the rows of neatly folded options, her expression somewhere between embarrassment and concentration.
She didn't want to admit it, but knowing Sebastian wasn't going to push her or tease her made it a little easier.
She finally pulled out a pair - simple, lightly coloured with a tiny lace trim that wasn't too much but still made her feel a little more grown up. "These," she said quietly, holding them out to him.
Sebastian took them with a warm smile. "Good choice. Do you want to grab a few more? You'll need enough to last the week, you know."
Lux groaned dramatically, her arms flopping to her sides. "Fine," she muttered, but her tone lacked the edge it had before. She quickly grabbed a few more pairs, making sure they were all in the same style. She handed them over without a word, her cheeks still pink.
Sebastian stood and patted her shoulder. "See? That wasn't so bad, was it?"
Lux shot him a glare. "It was terrible."
Sebastian chuckled softly, tucking the small pile of underwear under his arm as he began steering her towards the checkout counter. "Well, if that was 'terrible,' I think you handled it like a total pro. I'm proud of you, babe."
Lux rolled her eyes, though her lips twitched as if she were fighting a smile. "You're just saying that."
"Nope," Sebastian said, his tone playful but sincere. "I mean it. And to celebrate surviving this 'horrific' ordeal, how about we stop at a cafe on the way home? Grab a little treat?"
Lux hesitated, trying to hold onto her sour mood, but that offer was a little too tempting. "A treat?" She asked cautiously.
Sebastian nodded, handing over the underwear to the cashier who began to ring up their items. "Yeah, anything you want. Cupcakes, cookies, a nice warm drink... Does that sound tempting?"
Lux thought for a second before noting her head. "Yes, please." She whispered, watching as Sebastian took out his card to pay.
Sebastian smiled, knowing her resolve was breaking. He thanks the cashier, taking the bag from her before grabbing Lux's hand again. They left the store, the small bag swinging at Sebastian's side.
The city buzzed around them as they made their way down the sidewalk. The winter sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the pavement. Lux's small hand nestled in Sebastian's firm grip, and though she wouldn't admit it, it was comforting.
Lux hadn't realised how much she'd missed going out until today. Of course they didn't keep her locked up or anything but Lux had always been a city child so it was nice to be out again.
"Do you want to pick the place, or should I surprise you?" Sebastian asked, glancing down at her. His voice cut through the hum of the city like a soothing balm.
Lux thought about it for a moment, her lips twisting as she pretended to consider. "Surprise me."
Sebastian grinned. "Alright, surprise it is. But just so you know, I'm a man of excellent taste."
Lux rolled her eyes but couldn't help a small smile creeping onto her face. "Sure you are, daddy."
The warmth in her voice didn't go unnoticed. Sebastian gave her hand a little squeeze as they continued walking. A few blocks later, he paused in front of a quaint little café, its windows frosted with the beginnings of winter chill and twinkling fairy lights strung along the frame. The smell of freshly baked pastries and hot chocolate drifted out, wrapping around them like a hug.
"What do you think?" Sebastian asked, gesturing to the café with a dramatic flourish. "The best cupcakes in LA baby. Trust me, I did my research."
Lux raised an eyebrow, skeptical but intrigued. "Research?"
Sebastian chuckled, opening the door and ushering her inside. "Absolutely. Cupcakes are a serious business."
The warmth of the café embraced them as they stepped inside, the faint chime of the doorbell marking their arrival. It was rather empty in comparison to the bustling streets which was a nice change of pace and casted a much needed relaxing atmosphere over the pair.
Sebastian released her hand, letting her wander up to the counter. "Go on, take a look. Pick whatever you want," he said, his tone light and encouraging.
Lux pressed her little hands up on the glass as she took in the selection of treats - yummy pastries, colourful cupcakes, large cookies and plenty of other treats. She felt like a kid again.
"This one?" She asked, pointing to a chocolate cupcake with pink frosting onto. A single sugared raspberry perched neatly in the center. "And maybe... that one too," she added, eyeing a vanilla cupcake with chocolate icing.
Sebastian laughed softly. "Two cupcakes, huh? Someone's got a sweet tooth today." He waved the barista over and ordered her picks, along with a coffee for himself and a bottle of water for Lux - he knew she was bound to get thirsty with that amount of chocolate.
Once their order was ready, they carried the tray to a cozy corner of the café, where a cushioned booth awaited them. Lux slid into the seat, pulling her cupcake plate close as Sebastian set down the drinks. He then slid in beside her on the booth, wrapping an arm around her shoulder.
She picked up her chocolate cupcake, carefully inspecting it before taking a small, cautious bite. It was good. Really good.
Sebastian took a sip of his coffee, watching her closely. "Well? What do you think?"
Lux smiled, a genuine one this time, before taking another bite. "Okay, you were right. These are amazing."
He grinned, leaning back in his seat.
"Want a bite, daddy?" Lux offers, holding it up to him.
He chuckles, shaking his head. "It's all yours babe, you enjoy."
Lux nods, taking another bite. Her earlier embarrassment from the store seems like a distant memory now, replaced by the warmth of the cafe and the comfort of being with the older man.
Sebastian watches her with a contented smile, happy to see her finally relaxing. He hadn't expected the trip to be easy, but moments like this made it all worth it. They had their little routine, and no matter what, he always knew how to make her smile.
"Are papa n' Auggie at home?" Lux asks, chocolate smeared around her mouth.
Sebastian smiles at the sight of Lux, her small face marked with chocolate, and chuckles softly. "I think so, yeah."
He reaches over to grab a napkin from the dispenser, gently wiping the chocolate from her face causing Lux to wrinkle up her nose. Once done, he leans back, watching his little girl enjoy her cupcake. There's something so simple, so pure, about these moments.
The pair spend a little while more in the cafe, enjoying their treats in peaceful silence, the hum of background chatter around them adding to the coziness of the atmosphere. There was no rush or pressure. It was just them, enjoying a quiet moment together - a father and his little girl. Sebastian watched as Lux slowly finished both cupcakes, her cheeks soft and rosy. He was glad to see her all better.
They finished up in the cafe and went back to the car. Sebastian held the door open for Lux, who slipped into the passenger seat. He started the engine, the purring of the car's smooth acceleration filling the brief silence between them. Lux leaned back in her seat, feeling content, her full stomach and the warmth from the cafe still lingering. Her eyes wandered out the window, watching the city pass by in a blur of neon lights and bustling crowds.
"That was nice," she murmured, almost to herself.
Sebastian glanced over at her with a soft smile. "I'm glad you enjoyed it. It's been a while since it's just been you and me, huh?"
Lux nodded softly, letting out a yawn.
Sebastian glanced down at his watch, sighing slightly when he realised the time. It was around Lux's usual nap time which explained why she seemed a little drowsy all of a sudden.
"You getting sleepy, baby?" He asked, reaching his free hand over and running it through her hair a few times.
Lux nods, glancing over at him.
"Just one more stop, then we'll go home and you can have your nap, okay?" He reassures, placing both hands on the wheel again as he gets onto the freeway.
"Where are we going?" She asks curiously.
"I just need to pick up some paperwork from my office, that's all." He explains.
"We're going to your work?" Lux asks. That caught her attention. She'd always been intrigued about where he worked and his explanation from a few weeks ago of what they did for work had only heightened her curiosity about what their workplace looked like.
"Yup, just for a few minutes." Sebastian said with a smile.
As they drove, the towering skyscrapers of downtown grew larger, and Lux sat up straighter in her seat, trying to take it all in. She'd always known Sebastian's office was in a tall building, but seeing it now felt so different. She had only ever known him as 'daddy' so she wandered what the work version of Sebastian was like.
When they finally pulled into the underground parking lot, Sebastian found a spot near the elevator and killed the engine. He got out and walked around to Lux's side, opening her door for her. "Out you get." He says, taking her hand to help her out.
Lux hopped out, glancing around at the sleek cars parked nearby. She couldn't help but notice that every vehicle in the lot looked expensive, much like Sebastian's. It was a far cry from the usual parking lots she saw at the grocery store or park. This place oozed sophistication, and even though she was still a little drowsy, her curiosity kept her wide-eyed.
He pressed the button for the elevator, the metallic chime echoing softly in the quiet parking structure. He kept a firm but gentle hold on Lux's hand as they stepped inside, the doors sliding shut with a whisper. "Ready for a sneak peek into Daddy's world?" he asked, crouching slightly so he could look at her.
Lux nodded eagerly. "Is it really tall? Like, does it go above the clouds?"
Sebastian chuckled, his hand resting lightly on her shoulder. "Not quite above the clouds, but it's pretty high up. We've got a great view. You'll see."
As the elevator began its assent, Lux's eyes focused in on the digital screen showing the floor they were on, watching as the number got higher and higher. 56... 57... 58... 59... 60...
ding.
The elevator came to a halt.
The doors slid open with a soft chime, revealing a sleek, modern office space that seemed to stretch endlessly. The entire floor was wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a breathtaking view of the city below.
Her eyes widened as she stepped out of the elevator, clutching Sebastian's hand tightly. The space was unlike anything she'd ever seen - pristine white walls, contemporary furniture, and a few employees bustling quietly about, dressed sharply in suits and tailored dresses. Everything about it screamed "important."
"Whoa," she whispered, craning her neck to take it all in. "This is where you work?"
Sebastian smiled at her amazement. "This is it. Well, one of the floors, at least. What do you think?"
Lux didn't answer right away. Her gaze was locked on the massive chandelier hanging above the reception area. "It's... really big."
Sebastian chuckled and gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "It is. Come on, my office is just down the hall."
He guided her past the reception desk, where the receptionist greeted him with a warm smile. "Good afternoon, Mr. Sinclair."
"Afternoon, Julia," Sebastian replied smoothly. He nodded toward Lux. "Got a little helper with me today."
Julia's smile softened as her eyes landed on Lux. "Hi there, sweetheart."
Lux offered a shy wave, suddenly feeling small in such a grand space. She stayed close to Sebastian as they walked through the open office, her sneakers squeaking faintly against the polished floor.
"Almost there," Sebastian said, leading her down a quieter corridor. At the end of it was a large door with his nameâSebastian Sinclair, CEOâengraved on a sleek silver plaque.
So that was his name, Lux thought. Sebastian.
He pulled out a keycard from his pocket, swiped it over the reader, and pushed the door open.
Inside was a stunning office that looked more like a penthouse than a workplace. Floor-to-ceiling windows wrapped around two sides of the room, offering an even more spectacular view of the city. The sunlight spilled through the glass, illuminating a sleek desk made of dark wood and metal. Behind it was a high-backed leather chair, and to the side, there was a small sitting area with plush sofas and a glass coffee table. Shelves lined the walls, filled with books, awards, and framed photos.
There was even a photo of her that Lux didn't even know existed. In the image she was grinning ear-to-ear, a smudge of chocolate on her cheek, from what must have been a pudding or dessert that the men had given her. It made her pause, her little fingers brushing over the edge of the frame as she studied it.
"You keep a picture of me here?" Lux asked softly, looking up at Sebastian with wide eyes.
Sebastian, who was busy gathering some papers from his desk, glanced over and smiled warmly. "Of course I do, sweetheart. You're my pride and joy. How could I not?"
Lux felt a small surge of pride herself, though she tried to hide it by turning back to examine the other photos and trinkets on his shelves. It felt strange, in a good way, to know that even in this big, important place, she had a spot in his world.
"Is this where you do all your work?" she asked, running her hand along the smooth arm of one of the chairs by his desk.
"When I'm not working from home, yes." Sebastian replied, straightening a stack of files before placing them in a sleek leather briefcase. "When I need to focus or have meetings, this is where I come."
Lux nods, spinning around slowly as she takes in the room once more.
"You're so precious, sweetheart." Sebastian chuckles, glancing up from the papers he's packing into the briefcase.
Lux just hums in acknowledgment, rubbing her eyes again and letting out a yawn.
Sebastian noticed the way her little hand came up to rub at her eyes, her earlier curiosity starting to give way to drowsiness. He smiled softly and set the briefcase aside for a moment, stepping over to where she stood.
"Oh my, that was a big yawn Luxie. Getting sleepy again, huh?" he asked gently, crouching down to her level.
Lux nodded, her eyelids drooping slightly. "It's just... warm in here," she murmured, trying to fight the fatigue but losing the battle. She stifled a small yawn, her cheeks rosy and soft under the glow of the sunlight streaming through the windows.
Sebastian chuckled quietly, scooping her up in his arms with ease. She wrapped her arms around his neck instinctively, her head resting on his shoulder. "Alright, baby girl," he said, his voice low and soothing. "Let's get you home. You've had a big day."
Lux mumbled something incomprehensible, already halfway to dreamland as Sebastian held her close. He grabbed his briefcase in one hand, balancing her effortlessly in the other, and headed out of the office. His colleagues greeted him with polite nods and smiles as they passed, their eyes softening at the sight of the tiny girl snuggled up in his arms.
He stepped into the elevator, pressing the button which got them to the parking lot. Lux stirred slightly, her fingers curling into his shirt, but she didn't fully wake - still in that awkward position between sleep and wake. He pressed a gentle kiss to her temple, feeling the weight of her little body relax further against him.
By the time they reached the car, Lux was completely out, her breathing slow and even. Sebastian carefully buckled her into the passenger seat, tucking a soft blanket he kept in the car around her small frame. She looked so peaceful, so content, and for a moment, he just watched her, his heart swelling with affection.
The drive home was quiet, the city lights casting a soft glow over the car's interior as they sped along the freeway. When they finally pulled into the driveway of their sprawling home, Sebastian turned off the engine and sat there for a moment, glancing over at Lux. She was still fast asleep, her little hand clutching the edge of the blanket.
He stepped out and rounded the car, opening her door carefully. As he lifted her into his arms, she stirred slightly, murmuring something that sounded like "Daddy." His heart melted all over again.
"Shh, baby. Daddy's got you," he whispered, carrying her inside.
The house was quiet, the only sound coming from the faint sound of the TV in the other room. Vincent got up from the couch, entering the foyer, his eyes softening when he saw them.
"Long day?" Vincent asked, taking the briefcase from his husband.
Sebastian shrugged. "It's just her nap time so she started to get sleepy. Was a little antsy in the store but she handled it like a champ in the end."
Vincent stepped closer, brushing a hand gently over Lux's hair as she slept. "Want me to take her?"
Sebastian shook his head. "I've got her. Just going to get her settled upstairs. Did you put August down?"
Vincent nods. "Yeah, about 20 minuets ago."
Sebastian hummed in acknowledgement, giving the other man a small smile before turning to the stairs. Lux's soft, even breathing was the only sound as he carried her up to her room. Her small frame seemed even tinier in his arms, and he couldn't help but marvel at how deeply she trusted him to carry her through her sleepy haze.
Once he gets to her room, he sets her down on the bed, gently taking off her shoes.
She stirred slightly, her eyelids fluttering but never fully opening. "Daddy?" she mumbled groggily, her voice soft and slurred with sleep.
"I'm right here, baby," Sebastian said softly, brushing her hair back from her face. "You're home now. Just rest."
He pulled the blanket up over her, tucking it snugly around her. She shifted a little, her small hand trying to reach for her paci but unable to find it.
Sebastian smiled gently, reaching over to her bedside table where her pacifier rested. He picked it up, brushing it clean with his thumb before slipping it into her small hand. Lux's fingers curled around it instinctively, and she brought it to her mouth, her expression relaxing as she sucked on it softly.
"Good girl," Sebastian whispered, leaning down to press a tender kiss to her forehead.
These were the moments he cherished most, the quiet times when it was just him and his little girl, no distractions, no outside world - just her, safe and loved.
He stood and glanced around her room, making sure everything was as it should be. Her favorite stuffed bunny was on the nightstand within reach, and the soft nightlight by her bed cast a warm, gentle glow across the room. Satisfied, he adjusted the blanket one last time and turned to leave.
As he reached the door, Lux's soft, sleepy voice stopped him. "Daddy?"
He turned back, his heart melting at the sound of her voice. "Yes, baby?"
"Love you," she murmured, her eyes still closed but her words clear and filled with trust.
Sebastian felt a lump rise in his throat. He stepped back toward the bed, crouching down so he was at her level. "I love you too, Luxie. More than anything."
She didn't respond, already drifting back into the depths of her dreams, her little chest rising and falling steadily. Sebastian watched her for a moment longer, his heart full. Then, with a soft sigh, he rose and quietly left the room, pulling the door almost shut but leaving it open just enough to hear her if she called out.
~~~
hmmm, I think Lux and Avery need a playdate or something ð¤ð¤