89. Gratitude

89. Gratitude
Alina's Pov 

I could still feel the electricity from our dance as I stood there, trying to steady my breath. Theodore's words, his touch, the intensity of our connection—it all lingered in the air around me. But as much as I was caught up in the emotions swirling between us, there was someone else who needed my attention.

“Yeah! We should…” my eyes traveled between Thea and Theodore before I continued. “We should cut the cake now.” I was sure my cheeks were completely red by now, my stomach was jittery and I was feeling hot after that little dance Theodore had with me. Man, did he make me feel things. Too many things all at once. I took a few deep breaths before calling out for Asher.  

I called out, "Asher! Sweetie, come here!"

Almost immediately, I heard the sound of his little feet padding across the floor. Asher came running, his Superman cape flapping behind him, a wide grin plastered on his face. He was the picture of joy and innocence, his excitement evident.

"Mommy!" he exclaimed, launching himself into my arms.

I scooped him up, feeling his small arms wrap around my neck. "Are you ready to cut your birthday cake, my big boy?" I asked, my voice full of affection.

"Yes, yes, yes!" he chanted, bouncing with enthusiasm.

Theodore stepped beside us, his presence reassuring and strong. He placed a gentle hand on Asher's back. "Let's go cut that cake, buddy," he said, his voice warm and full of pride.

Together, we made our way to the center of the hall where the massive cake stood on a decorated table. The guests gathered around, forming a circle of eager faces. I could see the excitement mirrored in their eyes, and it warmed my heart to see so many people here to celebrate our little boy.

Theodore and I lifted Asher together, holding him securely so he could reach the table. He giggled, his small hands grabbing the knife that had been laid out for him. His eyes sparkled with anticipation as he looked down at the cake.

"Ready, Asher?" Theodore asked, his voice filled with a gentle encouragement.

Asher nodded vigorously. "Ready!"

"Okay, on three," I said, counting down with him. "One, two, three!"

With a little help from us, Asher plunged the knife into the cake, cutting through the first slice. The crowd erupted in cheers and applause, the sound echoing off the walls of the hall. I could feel the happy energy around us, a bubble of joy that enveloped us all.

Flashbulbs popped, and I realized that people were taking pictures, capturing this precious moment. I smiled broadly, holding Asher close, feeling Theodore's arm around my waist. 

Asher beamed, proud of his accomplishment. "I did it, Mommy! I cut the cake!"

"Yes, you did, sweetie," I said, kissing his cheek. "You did an amazing job."

We set him down, and he eagerly reached for a piece of cake. Asher picked up a small piece of cake with his fingers and held it up to me. "Here, Mommy, have some cake!"

I leaned down, opening my mouth as he carefully fed me the cake. The sweetness of the cake mixed with the sweetness of the moment brought tears to my eyes. "Thank you, Asher," I said, my voice thick with emotion. "It's delicious."

He turned to Theodore, offering him a piece as well. "Daddy, your turn!”
Theodore smiled, leaning down to accept the cake from Asher's small hand. "Mmm, thank you, buddy," he said after savoring the bite. "You picked a great cake."

Then, with a playful glint in his eyes, Theodore picked up another piece of cake. He turned to me, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. "And now for Mommy.”
I raised an eyebrow, feeling a blush creep up my cheeks. Theodore moved closer, his eyes locking onto mine. Slowly, sensually, he brought the piece of cake to my lips. The world around us seemed to blur, the focus narrowing to just the two of us.

"Open wide," he murmured, his voice low and intimate. I parted my lips, feeling the tension between us crackle with electricity. He fed me the cake with a tenderness that made my heart flutter. The cake melted in my mouth, but it was the way he looked at me, the intensity of his gaze, that made the moment unforgettable.

The guests around us cheered and clapped, but it felt like a distant echo. In that moment, it was just Theodore, Asher, and me. Asher giggled, delighting in the attention and the shared joy. We set him down, and he eagerly reached for another piece of cake to share with his friends.

Soon, the cake was being served, and dinner followed. The guests mingled and chatted, enjoying the spread of delicious food. I watched as Asher flitted from one group to another, basking in the attention and affection from everyone around him.

Theodore came up beside me, handing me a plate with a knowing smile. "For you," he said softly.

"Thank you," I replied, taking the plate and feeling a surge of gratitude for everything he had done to make this day special.

We found a quiet corner where we could watch the festivities. Asher was surrounded by friends, laughing and playing, completely immersed in his own little world. I leaned into Theodore, feeling his warmth and strength. 

"This is perfect," I said quietly. "Thank you for making it all happen." I was genuinely happy for what Theodore did for Asher. It was actually the first time I saw him so carefree, so happy, having the best day of his life. And then a sour feeling settled in my stomach. It was all about money. Had I that much money, I could have given this to Asher again and again. I sighed, shoving the thought out of my mind. 

He looked down at me, his eyes filled with love. "Anything for you and Asher," he replied. "You both mean everything to me."