I woke the next morning to the smell of breakfast cooking. God, I love breakfast. I threw on some sweatpants, a t-shirt and went downstairs. As I got to the kitchen I could hear Sharon and Ashely chatting and giggling. I couldn't tell what they were talking about, but I was certain it was goofy girl talk.
"Good morning!" I announced as I entered the kitchen.
"Look who's here early, honey!" Sharon announced.
Ashely was at the stove preparing a breakfast meal. She was wearing one of her Mother's aprons. Underneath she had on a tight tank top resembling a sports bra that exposed her midriff, tight, short shorts, and tennis shoes - all of which predominantly showed off her youthful figure.
"Hey sweetie." I said, trying to gauge any possible awkwardness.
"Surprise Daddy!" Ashely said as she threw herself into me, wrapping her arms around me.
"You're early." I said.
"Isn't it a nice surprise?" said Mother. "It's been awhile since the whole family has been under the same roof. We should think about doing something fun together as a family."
"Uh, yeah. Sure." I replied.
"Oh, don't go changing your plans for today all on account of me." Ashely said. "Afterall, my arrival was rather unexpected. You two shouldn't feel obligated. Besides I've got a few days before I have to get back."
"You sure, honey? We want your visit to be memorable." said Mother.
"Yeah, I'm fine with just spending the day relaxing around the house. Maybe I'll take a soak in the hot tub." Ashely said as she tended to the food.
"Breakfast smells good," I said.
"I know how much you love your breakfast, Daddy. It's almost done. Grab a seat!" Ashely chimed.
I sat down at the table with Sharon while Ashely dished up plates of food for everyone.
"Here you go, Daddy."
The first bite was like euphoria! Oh, how I love the taste of breakfast. Ashely had made up a breakfast scramble with potatoes, bell peppers, onion, bacon, ham, spinach, eggs and cheese. And to top things off, she also made biscuits and gravy. And a tall glass of orange juice to boot. I was in heaven!
We all chatted over breakfast about how school was going, and plans for the future. Ashely seemed to be doing well. I couldn't help but think about last night. What I saw through the crack of my office door. My little girl pleasing herself right in my office chair. My babygirl, my little Ashely is all grown up. How did this happen so fast?
"Daddy... Daddy?" Ashely's voice rang through snapping me out of a trance.
"Honey, are you alright?" inquired Sharon.
"Oh, yeah. Sorry. I just have a lot on my mind." I replied.
"It's okay, Daddy. I understand." Ashley responded as she gathered up the used dishes, placing them in the counter next to the sink.