--
Lila never thought a day of shopping with Theo and Kai would end up being... unforgettable.
After hours of trying on silly outfits, dodging perfume sprayers, and mock modeling in front of shop mirrors, the sun had started to dip. But none of them wanted to go home just yet.
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Evening Vibes
Kai suggested, "Let's go get ice cream. Night scoops hit different."
Lila lit up. "Only if I get to pick the flavor."
Theo groaned. "Please not mint chocolate again."
"Deal with it," she smirked.
They walked through the city lights, her in the middle, swinging the shopping bag that held the soft blue sweater Kai picked — and the mushroom fairy dress Theo dared her to buy (she did).
At the ice cream shop, Theo smeared a bit of cream on her nose.
"You're adorable with sprinkles," he teased.
She shoved her spoon into his scoop in revenge. "Oops, slipped."
Kai just chuckled quietly while watching them, eyes thoughtful, but lips smiling.
---
The Walk Home
Later, they offered to walk her home.
Theo carried her shopping bags.
Kai walked a little closer than usual.
And Lila? She didn't say much, just smiled softly, soaking in the rare peace between her boys.
When they reached her door, no one moved right away.
"Thanks, guys… for today," she said quietly.
Kai gave her a look. "Tired huh?"
"A little bit."
Theo was watching her like he always does — like he sees more than she's saying.
"Text me if you feel lonely," Theo added. "Or if you just want to talk."
She nodded. "Good night."
As she walked inside and closed the door, she leaned back against it and whispered,
"Why are they both so perfect?"
---
Meanwhile…
Outside, Kai and Theo started walking, quiet for a few seconds.
Then Kai asked, almost casually,
"You like her, don't you?"
Theo looked up at the sky. "Well I'm the one who should ask this."
They walked in silence again… but something had shifted.
Something real.
---