Baby business

"Just when i thought deadlines are stressful," Tim said as he sat down next to his wife

"Tell me about it," Carol replied, handing him a plate of food, "At least she's sleeping now."

Just as Carol muttered those words, Tabitha's wails filled the room, jolting them both. They looked at each other, before Carol broke the silence.

"I believe it's your turn."

"What makes you think that?" Tim exclaimed playfully

"Maybe because I carried her for whole nine months and gave birth to her?"

Tim shrugged, "Fair point." He kissed Carol on the cheek and headed towards Tabitha's room.

–

"Hey there, little miss troublemaker," Tim said with a playful grin as he picked up Tabitha.

Tabitha looked up at him with big, innocent eyes and Tim couldn't help but melt. "You know, you're lucky you're so cute," he whispered, rocking her gently in his arms.

"But you can't keep interrupting our meals like this, young lady. Mommy and Daddy need their fuel to keep up with your never-ending demands," Tim continued, pretending to scold her.

The baby cooed and giggled, seemingly understanding every word. Tim returned to the kitchen, Tabitha now content in his arms, and sat back on the couch beside Carol.

"Round two, huh?" Carol remarked, smirking.

Tim nodded, unable to hide his amusement. "It's a good thing we have a sense of humor, or we'd be in big trouble."

As they resumed eating their meal, Tabitha started babbling in her baby-language, trying to steal their attention once again. Tim and Carol exchanged a knowing smile and took turns talking to her in mock serious tones.

"Now, Tabitha, we understand you have a lot to say, but it's important to let Mommy and Daddy finish a conversation every once in a while," Carol said, raising an eyebrow.

Tim chimed in, pretending to be stern. "You need to learn some patience, young lady. Good things come to those who wait, you know."

Tabitha gurgled and waved her arms excitedly, seemingly agreeing to their playful reprimand. The couple burst into laughter as they realized the absurdity of their situation.

As they continued their treats, Tabitha started wailing again, demanding for her own meal. The couple looked at each other, now fully serious as they realized that Tabitha's hunger was getting the best of her.

"Alright, alright," Tim said with a sigh, getting up from his chair. "I think it's time for us to surrender to the demands of our little boss here."

Carol nodded in agreement. "You're right, it's time for her meal. I'll warm up her milk for you, honey."

As Carol headed to the counter, Tim scooped Tabitha up into his arms and bounced her gently, trying to soothe her wailing. He whispered funny stories and silly jokes in her ear, making her giggle in between her sobs.

"Alright, kiddo," Tim said, walking her around the room. "Let's keep this crying to a minimum, shall we? Mommy and Daddy need some peace and quiet to eat."

Tabitha, though still fussy, seemed to understand her dad's words and calmed down slightly. Carol returned with a warm bottle of milk, and Tim eagerly handed Tabitha over to her.

"Thank you, my hero," Carol joked, giving Tim a playful wink. "Now, let's give this little troublemaker what she wants."

Together, they sat back down at the table, plates half-eaten but still steaming with delicious food. As Tabitha hungrily drank her milk, Tim and Carol exchanged relieved smiles. They continued their meal, more grateful than ever for the little interruptions and joy that Tabitha brought to their lives.

Just as Tim was about to take another bite of his meal, he felt a sharp tug on his hair. Tabitha, with her small hands, had managed to grab onto Tim's locks as tightly as she could. Despite the pain, Tim couldn't help but chuckle as he tried to gently pry her fingers away.

"Looks like Tabitha wants to join in on the meal too." Tim grinned, his hair slightly tousled from her grip.

Carol laughed, her eyes filled with adoration for their little bundle of joy. "Well, she's certainly got a good grip."

Tim playfully pretended to offer her a spoonful of his dish, causing Tabitha to break into a toothless grin. "Sorry, little one, but this is Daddy's special recipe. You'll have to wait a few more years before you can try it."

As they continued to eat, Tabitha's curiosity couldn't be contained. She kicked her tiny legs against her highchair, making a cheerful noise that mixed with the clinking of utensils.

"I think she's trying to tell us something," Carol remarked

Tim nodded, still gently holding onto Tabitha's hand to prevent any further hair-pulling incidents. "Well, she certainly has a way of making her presence known."

Finally, when the couple managed to finish their meals, Carol picked Tabitha and cradled her in her arms, swaying back and forth. Tim watched with a mix of exhaustion and amusement as Carol tried everything to lull their little one to sleep.

"Hey, Tabitha, do you want to hear mommy's rendition of 'Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star?'" Tim joined in, trying to lighten the mood.

Tabitha's eyes widened and she kicked her tiny legs in excitement, clearly not quite ready to drift off to dreamland just yet. Tim and Carol exchanged tired but amused glances.

"Well, it looks like we've got a little night owl on our hands," Tim chuckled, gently reaching out to stroke Tabitha's soft hair.

Carol grinned and whispered, "She definitely takes after her dad when it comes to sleeping habits."

Tim raised an eyebrow playfully. "Are you suggesting I'm a night owl too, my dear?"

Carol rolled her eyes. "Oh, you know exactly what I mean. I've lost count of the number of times you've stayed up late working on your writing."

Tim feigned offense, placing a hand over his heart. "But Carol, those late-night hours are when creativity strikes!"

They both laughed, their fatigue temporarily forgotten as they made light of the situation. Tabitha giggled along, seemingly enjoying the banter between her parents.

As the night wore on and Tabitha's eyelids began to droop, Carol carefully placed her in her crib, and Tim kissed her forehead.

"Finally," Carol murmured, careful not to disturb their daughter

"I know right?" Tim replied as he followed Carol to their bedroom, hoping to get some sleep