"A Moment of Normalcy"

As they waited for their cupcakes to arrive, Ashley and Avan chatted easily, discussing everything from work to their personal lives. Ender, seemingly content with the conversation, sat quietly, his eyes fixed on Avan. When the cupcakes arrived, Ender's face lit up, and he eagerly unwrapped his treat. He took a big bite, and his eyes widened in delight as the chocolate frosting melted in his mouth. "Mmmmm, this is so good!" he exclaimed, crumbs spilling from his mouth. Ashley and Avan laughed, happy to see Ender enjoying himself. As they chatted, Avan told Ashley about his recent projects at work, and Ashley shared stories about her own job. Ender continued to eat his cupcake, occasionally interjecting with a comment or a question. As Avan launched into a story about a recent meeting, Ender suddenly interrupted him. "Avan, I don't got a dad," he said bluntly, his mouth still full of cupcake. The conversation came to an abrupt halt. Avan's eyes met Ashley's, and for a moment, they just stared at each other. Ashley's face flushed a deep red as she tried to process Ender's sudden comment. She felt a pang of guilt for not preparing Avan for this possibility. Avan's expression softened, and he set his cupcake down, his eyes fixed on Ender. "I'm sorry to hear that, buddy," he said gently. "But I'm here for you, and I'm glad I get to spend time with you and your mom." Ender shrugged, his eyes dropping back to his cupcake. He took another bite, seemingly unbothered by the sudden shift in conversation. Ashley watched, feeling a mix of emotions: gratitude towards Avan for being understanding, and anxiety about how this would affect their relationship. As they sat there in awkward silence, Avan reached out and put a hand on Ashley's arm. "Hey, let's not focus on the negative, okay?" he said, his voice low and reassuring. "We're here, and we're having a good time. Let's enjoy it." Ashley smiled weakly, feeling a sense of appreciation for Avan's kindness. She nodded, and they sat there, Ender continuing to eat his cupcake, and Ashley and Avan trying to navigate this new, uncharted territory.