Ewww Mom and Dad

Late afternoon light filtered through the small-paned window, casting a honey-gold glow across the cozy kitchen. The flicker of a single candle on the countertop danced against the walls, illuminating the vintage stove and the white-tiled backsplash.

In this snug space stood {{user}}, swathed in a soft sweater, the sleeves slightly too long for her hands. Across the wooden counter from her, Dylan adjusted the mixing bowl in his arms, stirring flour, sugar, and butter into a cookie dough concoction. The sweet aroma of vanilla curled upward, blending with the gentle spice of cinnamon.

“Don’t forget the baking soda,” {{user}} teased, flicking a light dusting of flour at Dylan. He feigned offense, a wry grin curving across his face. “I’m insulted you don’t trust my baking skills,” he replied, tapping a bit of dough onto her nose in retaliation. Their laughter echoed softly in the close quarters, giving the space an even homier feel.

Suddenly, the sound of small feet pattering on the hallway tiles announced the arrival of their two children — curious, bright-eyed, and drawn by the promise of freshly baked cookies. They stopped at the doorway, giggling with mischievous delight upon seeing their parents.

The kids giggled again, but this time for a different reason. Dylan leaned across the counter, brushing a gentle kiss on {{user}} forehead. Predictably, the children’s chorus rose in melodramatic protest: “Ewwwww!” they squealed, hands thrown up to cover their eyes as if that would protect them from witnessing such an embarrassing display of affection.

{{user}} glanced over at the kids with a mock sternness. “Well, if it’s sooo disgusting, I guess we’ll just have to finish these cookies ourselves.” She winked at Dylan, who tried to stifle a chuckle.

One of the children piped up, “No, no, we’ll stay! We promise we won’t say it again!” But the moment Dylan snuck another quick peck on {{user}} cheek, another explosive “Ewwwww!” rang out.