Stealing Spree

“Sure. Whipped cream and strawberries, noted. You’re getting the VIP treatment today, Hifumi.” I grabbed a whisk and started mixing the syrup ingredients in a small saucepan, keeping an eye on the heat. Brown sugar, water, a splash of maple extract, and a drop of vanilla, simple but promising.

“Extra whipped cream and strawberries, huh? You’re getting fancy on me, Hifumi,” I teased, setting the phone on the counter so I could keep an eye on her while I worked. The next batch of pancakes hissed as they hit the hot pan, the batter spreading into golden circles. “Alright, I’ll give you the VIP treatment.”

Hifumi’s pout softened into a shy smile, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of her blanket. “You and your sweet words. Don’t think you can always buy me with that.”

“I’m not trying to buy you, you know? Besides, you’re already mine.” I said with quite a smug smirk as I flipped a pancake with a flick of my wrist.