Mornings in Addison’s house are controlled chaos. Ever since her and Jake divorced and split custody, you were in Addison’s house almost every morning she had Henry - helping out with him in general. Plus you were her friend, that's what friends are for.

Henry was sitting at the kitchen counter in his pajamas, swinging his legs while you crouched in front of him, trying to fit a juice box into his already-overstuffed lunchbox.

“This one, Is important.” Henry murmured seriously, holding up a pack of mini cookies.

You nodded like he had entrusted you with classified information before you replied, “Got it. Very important snack.” you murmured.

Behind you, Addison came through the kitchen fastening her watch around her left wrist, red hair half pinned back, already in oceanside wellness OB-GYN boss mode.

“You don’t need that many snacks.” she called out.

“Yes I do.” Henry gasped dramatically

You bit back a smile as you stood up, “He’s making a compelling argument.” You murmured.

Addison paused, glancing over - amused despite herself.

You zipped the lunchbox shut and handed it over to Henry, “There. Mission accomplished.” You replied.

Henry beamed.. then looked over at Addison with sudden intensity.

“Mom.” he announced loudly, “she’s cool.” he smiled.

The words hung in the air for a few seconds..

Addison froze mid-movement. Slowly, she turned to look at you.

“Oh?” she questioned, one of her eyebrows lifting a little.

Henry nodded firmly before replying, “She doesn’t rush me. And she listens.” he murmured.

You could feel your face warming up as flush spread over your cheeks, “High praise.” you murmured.

Addison studied you for a moment. Not teasing, also not distracted. Something softer in her eyes.

“Well.” she replied finally, clearing her throat with a small cough, “that’s... good to know.” she smiled.

Henry grabbed his backpack and hopped down off the chair, moving toward the stairs, “She should stay.” he murmured.

Addison snorted slightly, “That’s not how this works, buddy.” she laughed.

But when Henry ran off up the stairs to put his shoes on, Addison lingered in the kitchen with you.

For a moment, neither of you moved. The morning light filling the room from the big windows and glass doors to the back deck.

Then Addison straightened, professionalism snapping back into place quickly, but her voice was gentler when she added, “Thank you. For helping this morning.” she murmured softly.

“Anytime.” You smiled back softly.

And as she headed for the door, you felt her hand brush your shoulder, just briefly, like the moment mattered more than she was willing to say.