"Yay! A Sylt Resort checking-in ticket?!" Sofia’s voice rang out, brimming with excitement as she held the confirmation slip like a treasure map.

The resort loomed before them, a striking blend of modern architecture and coastal charm. Its pristine white façade was accented by sleek black and earthy brown tones, giving it a sophisticated yet inviting feel. Rising seven stories high, it stood as a beacon of luxury amidst the winter chill.

A sprawling pool area dominated the grounds, its shimmering blue water defying the cold season thanks to discreet heating systems. Above it all, an infinity pool perched at the rooftop edge, seemingly merging with the horizon, offering breathtaking views of the North Sea.

Nestled against a nearby hill, the resort boasted a serene spa area. Steam rose invitingly from outdoor hot baths and saunas, framed by frosted greenery and the faint outline of a snow-dusted mountain. The combination of warmth and natural beauty created a sanctuary perfect for unwinding in the winter chill.

The three headed to their VIP room on the fourth floor, all bundled in thick winter jackets to shield themselves from the biting cold. Kai slipped the key card into the panel by the door, and with a soft beep, the door unlocked and swung open.

The room was stunning—a sleek, white interior with polished tiled floors that gleamed under the light of a grand golden lantern hanging from the ceiling.

"Wow!" Sofia and Hannah exclaimed in unison, their hands flying to their mouths like excited kids seeing magic for the first time.

Kai chuckled at their reactions as Sofia immediately darted inside, striking exaggerated, silly poses. "I look like a superstar in this room!" she declared, her voice full of playful confidence.

Hannah followed her inside, smiling warmly, while Kai trailed behind, shaking his head with amusement. Sofia hopped onto the bed, patting the mattress with dramatic flair.

"And here’s the bed! This is where you two will make the baby, right, Onii-chan?" Sofia teased, her innocent yet mischievous tone filling the room as she posed like a proud tour guide.

Hannah turned crimson, her face burning with embarrassment, while Kai burst out laughing, clearly entertained. "Sofia, if you keep bringing up the 'baby process,' you might just jinx yourself into becoming an aunt sooner than you think," he teased, his tone light and playful.

Hannah groaned, covering her face with her hands. "Sofia-chan, you’re going to give me a heart attack!" she muttered, though the corners of her lips twitched in amusement.

Sofia just grinned cheekily and flopped onto the bed like she owned the place. "Just saying, Onii-chan. No pressure!"

Kai slid the bag under the bed as Sofia and Hannah eagerly explored the room. The space was divided into three distinct sections: the living room, the kitchen, and the bedroom.

The bathroom was luxurious, featuring both cold and hot bath systems, along with a spacious bathtub that seemed fit for royalty. In the living room, a large flat-screen TV dominated one wall, complemented by a sleek air conditioning unit designed to maintain a cozy indoor temperature despite the winter chill outside.

Meanwhile, the kitchen was a modern chef's dream, equipped with state-of-the-art cooking appliances, premium utensils, and all the accessories anyone could need to whip up a gourmet meal.

Sofia ran her fingers over the smooth countertop in the kitchen, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Whoa! This kitchen looks like it's from a cooking show! Can I be the chef, Onii-chan?" she called out, her voice echoing playfully.

Hannah had wandered into the living room, marveling at the comfortable setup. "This is perfect," she said, plopping onto the couch and stretching out. "I can already imagine us unwinding here after a long day."

Kai leaned against the bedroom doorframe, smiling at their enthusiasm. "Glad you both approve. Now, who's cooking dinner?" he teased, earning a chorus of protests from both girls.

"I thought we were going to the beach, but winter had other plans," Sofia said, climbing onto the kitchen table and striking a series of exaggerated, funny poses. "But this is better! I'm the chef here now, Onii-chan!"

Kai and Hannah stepped into the kitchen, chuckling at Sofia’s antics.

"So, who's cooking dinner?" Kai asked, leaning casually against the counter with a small, amused smile, his gaze shifting between the two girls.

Sofia placed her hands on her hips, puffing out her chest like a tiny culinary commander. "Me, obviously! I’m the master chef!" she declared, grabbing an imaginary spatula and flipping invisible pancakes.

Hannah laughed, shaking her head. "Alright, Chef Sofia, but what’s on the menu? Cereal with milk or instant noodles?" she teased, leaning against the counter and raising a playful eyebrow.

Kai smirked. "I guess we should prepare for a gourmet feast, huh?"

Sofia huffed, crossing her arms with a mock pout. "Hey! You just wait and see. I’ll make... something edible! Probably..."

The three burst into laughter, the warmth of the moment melting away the winter chill.

Hannah looked at both of them with a soft smile. "You know, I think we should just skip the yacht plan. It's so much nicer here with you both," she said, her voice warm and full of affection as she glanced between Kai and Sofia.

Sofia gave a playful nod, her finger pointed up as if making a big decision. "Yeah, I’m all for it, Onii-chan! It’s better here anyway," she said, her tone light and carefree.

Kai smiled, feeling the warmth of the moment. "Alright, sounds good. I’ll head downstairs to grab some ingredients for dinner then. Let’s make this night perfect," he said, looking between them with a fond expression.

Hannah’s smile grew, her voice soft and loving. "You’re amazing, Kai. I’m so lucky to have you," she said, her words full of tenderness.

Sofia, grinning as always, casually added, "Just make sure to grab something good, Onii-chan. I’ll be ready to help with whatever you bring back!"

Kai chuckled and nodded. "I’ll make sure it’s worth the wait," he said before heading out the door.

Minutes passed…

Kai returned, bags in hand, his footsteps light as he opened the door with the keycard. As the door creaked open, he was met with a heartwarming sight. Hannah was sound asleep, her mouth forming a soft “o” as she breathed gently, lost in peaceful slumber. Sofia, equally tired, was curled up against her, her head resting on Hannah’s chest like a small child seeking comfort.

Kai smiled warmly at the tender scene before him. He quietly placed the bags on the dining table and began putting the ingredients into the fridge, careful not to disturb the tranquil moment. The warmth in his chest grew as he glanced back at the two girls, both nestled together in a peaceful rest.

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As Kai glanced over at the two girls—Hannah, peacefully asleep with her face relaxed, and Sofia snuggled up beside her, her small body curled protectively under the blankets—he felt a warmth in his chest. The quiet evening, the soft breathing of the two people he cared most about, made him want to do something special for them. Dinner, he thought. It needed to be comforting, hearty, and homely—something that would fill the room with warmth.

After a moment of contemplation, his mind landed on a classic German dish: Wiener Schnitzel with Kartoffelsalat (potato salad). It was a meal that was both familiar and special, one that would bring everyone together, filling the room with the mouthwatering scent of golden-brown meat and a tangy, creamy side salad. It was comfort food at its finest.

Kai stood from the table, his eyes lingering on the sleeping figures of the girls for a moment longer before moving to the kitchen. He retrieved the veal cutlets from the fridge, their tender texture a perfect choice for the dish. He laid them on the countertop, ready to begin.

He prepared the breading first, whisking eggs in one bowl and placing breadcrumbs in another. The breadcrumbs, he seasoned with salt, pepper, and a bit of paprika for depth. Then, he seasoned the veal with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper, before dipping the cutlets in the egg wash, followed by the breadcrumbs, making sure each piece was evenly coated.

With a frying pan heating up on the stove, Kai added a generous amount of butter. He waited for it to bubble and sizzle, then gently placed the breaded veal cutlets into the pan. The sound of the sizzling meat brought a small smile to his lips. He turned the schnitzels carefully, making sure they achieved a beautiful golden-brown color on both sides. The fragrance of crispy breading filled the kitchen, and the smell was nothing short of mouthwatering.

While the schnitzels cooked, Kai turned to the potato salad. He boiled some potatoes in salted water until they were tender, then drained them and let them cool slightly. He sliced the potatoes into thick rounds and set them aside.

In a separate bowl, he mixed together some mustard, white wine vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and a bit of salt. He then whisked in some olive oil until the dressing came together, smooth and tangy. Tossing the warm potatoes with the dressing, he added fresh herbs—dill and parsley—along with some finely chopped onions. The result was a creamy, slightly tangy potato salad that would perfectly complement the schnitzel.

The schnitzels were done—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. Kai carefully plated them, arranging the golden cutlets alongside a generous portion of the Kartoffelsalat. As he set the table, the aroma of the meal filled the room, comforting and inviting.

Kai looked over at the two girls again, still asleep, the peacefulness of the moment wrapping around him like a blanket. He hoped that when they woke, they’d be able to enjoy this little piece of home—a meal that was simple but made with love. He took a deep breath and smiled quietly to himself.

Then, with a soft sigh, he began to wake them. “Dinner’s ready,” he said gently, his voice warm and full of affection. The evening ahead promised warmth, laughter, and the comfort of a shared meal.

Hannah slowly woke, her eyes fluttering open to the sight of Sofia curled up against her, peaceful and unaware, her little body pressed gently to Hannah's chest. The sight was heartwarming, like a mother cradling her child. Hannah couldn't help but smile, her fingers brushing Sofia's hair affectionately as she marveled at the tender moment.

Turning her attention to the kitchen, she noticed Kai standing there shirtless, wearing only the shorts she had teased him into wearing earlier. His body was toned, the muscles in his chest and arms defined, and his presence exuded a calm confidence that made Hannah blush. Her heart skipped a beat as she took in the sight of him, momentarily captivated by his casual, yet intimate appearance.

Shaking herself out of her thoughts, Hannah gently turned to wake Sofia, whispering her name softly. "Sofia..." she murmured, shaking her shoulder lightly.

Sofia stretched slowly, her small body groaning with the effort as she tried to wake up, her sleep-filled eyes blinking open. At first, she seemed disoriented, but as soon as the aroma of dinner reached her nose, her senses sharpened. "Hannah-chan... why?" Sofia asked sleepily, her nose twitching as she caught the delicious smell wafting in from the kitchen.

Hannah smiled, a bit amused at Sofia’s groggy reaction. "Dinner is ready..." she said, her voice soft, yet playful, as she pulled away from their embrace. Sofia’s eyes widened with excitement, clearly eager to eat, as she pushed herself up from the bed.

Kai, still standing in the kitchen, couldn't help but watch the scene unfold. He smiled softly at the two, his heart warming at the sight of them. The calm, simple moments like these meant everything to him.

Hannah stood up, wiping her eyes as she stretched a little. Sofia was still groggy, lazily stretching her arms and letting out a soft yawn. Hannah walked toward the kitchen, where Kai was carefully setting plates on the dining table, his movements calm and methodical. She pulled out a chair and sat down, watching him with a soft smile. Moments later, Sofia padded over and plopped herself onto Kai’s lap without a second thought, making herself comfortable.

The rich aroma of the dishes filled the air, making Sofia’s nose twitch in delight. “Mmm, this smells so good!” she murmured, sniffing eagerly as she peeked at the plates.

“You’ll eat a lot, lil’ girl. Maybe even grow some big muscles like me,” Kai teased, pinching her tiny arm with a playful grin.

Sofia pouted, flexing her nonexistent muscles. “I already have muscles!” she shot back, giggling.

Hannah chimed in with a warm laugh. “Yeah, you’ll be the Darna of this family—our baby for now, while we don’t have one yet!” Her voice was full of playful affection, her eyes sparkling as she teased.

Kai chuckled at Hannah’s words, glancing at her with a mix of amusement and longing. Her comment stirred a thought in his mind—a future where they might have a child of their own. The idea filled him with a quiet warmth, but for now, he was content to enjoy this moment with the two most important girls in his life.

Kai filled his plate with Kartoffelsalat and Wiener Schnitzel, the hearty aroma filling the room. Beside him, Hannah carefully served herself some Kartoffelsalat, watching the two with a gentle smile. Kai turned his attention to Sofia, who sat eagerly on his lap, her nose twitching at the enticing smell of the food.

“Here, try this,” Kai said, scooping a bite of potato salad onto a spoon and guiding it to Sofia’s mouth.

Sofia’s eyes widened as soon as the flavors hit her tongue. “Mhmmmmm!” she hummed with delight, her voice full of playful excitement. “This is so good!” she exclaimed, her enthusiasm lighting up the room.

Hannah chuckled softly, resting her chin on her hand as she watched the pair. “You’re spoiling her,” she teased, taking a bite of her salad. Her tone was light, full of affection.

Kai grinned, leaning slightly toward Hannah. “Well, I did make it just for her,” he said, his voice warm with pride as he cut a piece of schnitzel for himself.

Sofia, still savoring her bite, beamed at her brother. “You’re the best cook, Onii-chan!” she declared dramatically, leaning back against him with exaggerated satisfaction.

Kai laughed softly, brushing a hand over her hair. “Glad you think so, little one,” he said, taking a bite of schnitzel himself. The rich, crispy flavors melted on his tongue, and he glanced at Hannah, who gave him a knowing smile.

The warmth of the meal and their shared moment made the cold outside feel worlds away.

As the three finished eating, Sofia leaned back lazily, still perched on Kai’s lap, her small hands rubbing her tummy dramatically. "Ugh, I’m so full… I think I’m gonna pop," she groaned, her head lolling back against Kai’s bare chest.

Kai chuckled, resting one arm loosely around her to keep her from toppling over. "I told you not to eat so much," he teased, poking her stomach gently. "What are you, a hamster storing food for winter?"

Sofia stuck her tongue out at him. "Says the guy who made it all taste too good. This is your fault, Onii-chan!"

Hannah, sitting across from them, wiped her mouth with a tissue, her lips curling into an affectionate smile as she watched the exchange. She stood up to clear the plates, but her gaze briefly landed on Kai. He was still shirtless, wearing nothing but the shorts she’d made him put on, and the sight sent a little blush creeping up her cheeks. She quickly looked away, focusing on the dishes.

Kai, noticing her flustered expression, grinned. "I’ll take care of those, love," he said, stopping her in her tracks.

Hannah turned halfway, plates in hand, and raised an eyebrow. "Oh, come on," she said with mock irritation. "I can’t just sit around like some spoiled queen while you do everything."

"But you are a spoiled queen," Kai shot back smoothly, smirking. He shifted his arm, giving Sofia a playful squeeze. "Just like this one here. Two spoiled girls under one roof—what did I get myself into?"

Sofia immediately perked up, puffing out her chest. "Hey! I’m not spoiled; I’m special!" she declared, pointing a finger at herself proudly.

Hannah snorted, setting the plates down on the counter with a shake of her head. "Specially spoiled, maybe," she quipped, glancing at Sofia fondly.

Sofia’s mischievous grin widened as she suddenly sat up straighter on Kai’s lap. "Speaking of special…" she began, her voice taking on a teasing lilt. She turned to Kai, pointing an accusing finger at him. "You and Hannah are lovebirds, right? Which means you’re gonna have a baby soon!"

Kai’s brow quirked, and a smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. "Oh really? Is that how it works?" he asked, playing along.

"Yup!" Sofia said, nodding enthusiastically. She slid off Kai’s lap, stood in front of them with her hands on her hips, and continued. "I’m the father, obviously. Kai, you’re the groom. And Hannah, you’re the bride. Now, you two have to kiss. It’s the rules."

Hannah froze mid-step, her face turning an impressive shade of red. "S-Sofia!" she sputtered, clutching a dish like it was her last line of defense. "What are you even talking about?!"

Kai leaned back in his chair, folding his arms behind his head and smirking lazily. "You heard her, love. It’s the rules," he teased, his eyes glinting with amusement.

Hannah shot him a flustered glare, her voice wobbling. "D-Don’t encourage her!"

Meanwhile, Sofia was already planning her next move. She pointed at Kai with mock authority. "Alright, Onii-chan, I pronounce you the kisser. Now go!"

Kai laughed, shaking his head as Hannah buried her face in her hands, mumbling something about needing to wash dishes. Sofia, triumphant, twirled in place and declared, "I’m the best matchmaker ever!"

"You’re something, alright," Kai muttered, still grinning as he watched Hannah flee to the sink, her ears pink.

Hannah stood at the sink, her hands submerged in warm water as she washed the dishes. She glanced over her shoulder at Sofia and Kai, her voice attempting to sound firm, though the slight blush and crack in her words betrayed her. “Sofia, you should stop with all the baby-making jokes about me and your brother. And you…” She turned to Kai, her tone playfully reproachful. “You shouldn’t encourage her to make us kiss. It’s inappropriate.”

Kai and Sofia shared a chuckle, clearly enjoying the playful banter, before Sofia plopped back onto Kai's lap with a grin. “Come on, you don’t want me to be alone, do you? Especially with Anna not being here anymore... It’s just sad for me.” Sofia’s voice carried a touch of lightheartedness, but there was also an underlying sadness that didn’t go unnoticed.

Kai, sensing the shift in Sofia’s mood, wrapped his arms around her gently, rubbing her back in a comforting gesture. “I know, Sof,” he said softly, his voice warm and reassuring. “We all miss One-chan.”

Sofia sighed, her tone quieter now, her head resting against Kai’s chest. “I miss her so much,” she whispered, the sadness in her voice clear.

Hannah stopped washing the dishes, her heart softening at the sight of Sofia’s vulnerability. She walked over and placed a hand on her shoulder, giving her a gentle smile. “We all do, Sof,” she said, her voice tender. “But you’re not alone. We’re all here, okay?”

Sofia looked up at them, her expression softening, a small smile tugging at the corner of her lips. “Thanks, Hannah-chan,” she said quietly, her earlier playfulness gone, replaced by a quiet sense of gratitude.

Kai smiled down at her, his tone light, trying to ease the moment. “And as for the baby stuff…” He grinned teasingly. “Maybe we can take a break from that for now?”

Sofia rolled her eyes playfully but couldn’t suppress a laugh. “Alright, alright,” she said, her mood lifting a little. “But I’m still going to make you two kiss eventually.”

Hannah laughed, shaking her head in mock exasperation, but there was warmth in her eyes. “You’re impossible,” she said with affection.

The three of them sat together for a moment, the lingering sadness melting away as they found comfort in each other’s presence. In that quiet space, it was clear: no matter the jokes, the teasing, or the moments of sadness, they would always have one another.