I was standing at the stove cooking breakfast, when my niece walked into the kitchen. Dahlia wrapped her arms around me from behind and put her cheek against my back.
"Good morning!" She mumbled. "I didn't even feel you get out of bed this morning."
"That's because you were snoring like a chainsaw!" I teased. I turned around and returned her hug.
Dahlia pulled back, looking aghast. "I wasn't, was I? You should have shaken me! I'm so embarrassed!"
I pulled her in for a long warm kiss. "I'm just kidding! I woke up early, and you looked so cute and peaceful sleeping, I didn't want to disturb you. I slipped out of bed as quietly as I could. I already fed the horses, and figured the smell of cooking would rouse you eventually." I turned her toward the table and gave her butt a playful slap.
