Stephanie was sprawled on the couch in her favorite oversized hoodie and sweatpants, her hair in a loose bun. She was scrolling through her phone, half-watching a rom-com on the TV. Lila, their one-year-old, was snuggled against her, dozing off while clutching her favorite blanket. “I could stay like this all day,” Stephanie mumbled, glancing at Jake.

Jake, sitting in the armchair with a coffee mug in hand, was flipping through channels but not really watching anything. “You deserve to,” he said with a grin. “After chasing three kids every day, I’d say a lazy Monday is mandatory.”

Lilly, their five-year-old, was sprawled out on the living room floor, coloring pictures of princesses and castles. “Mommy, look at my drawing!” she called out. Stephanie leaned over to admire it. “It’s beautiful, sweetheart! Maybe you’ll be an artist one day.”

Layla, their three-year-old, was curled up on the rug, stacking blocks into a wobbly tower. Every so often, she’d knock it down on purpose and giggle uncontrollably. The family dog, Mac, lay nearby, lazily wagging his tail whenever Layla squealed with laughter.

“Leo has the right idea,” Jake said, gesturing at the dog. “Just chilling, no responsibilities.”

“Can I trade places with him for a day?” Stephanie joked, giving Lila a kiss on her forehead as the baby stirred in her sleep.

The entire house felt warm and cozy, the scent of pancakes from breakfast still lingering in the air. It wasn’t a day filled with big plans or errands—it was simply a day to recharge. No one was in a rush, and no one cared about getting out of their sweats.

“This is kind of perfect, isn’t it?” Stephanie said softly, her eyes meeting Jake’s.