Aeris, Kira, and Two Jealous Dragons

Aeris sat comfortably on the plush couch, cradling baby Kira in her arms. The little princess had just woken up from a nap, her tiny hands curling around Aeris’s fingers as she let out a small yawn.

Aeris, smiling softly: “My sweet girl, you’re so adorable.”

She gently kissed Kira’s forehead, holding her close while humming a soft lullaby. The entire scene was peaceful, heartwarming, and—

Absolutely unbearable for the two dragons watching.

Standing a few feet away, Zephirion and Lorien stood side by side—arms crossed, expressions unreadable.

Except, it was very readable.

They were jealous.

And protective.

Kira was their little princess, their treasure, and yet—Aeris was hogging her.

Lorien’s Thoughts:

How come Mother gets to hold her all the time? I’m her big brother! I should be holding her!

Zephirion’s Thoughts:

Why does she get to cuddle Kira for so long? What about me? I am her father. Where is my turn?

The two dragons glanced at each other—and for the first time in their lives, they silently agreed on something.

Step 1: Get Kira away from Aeris.

Step 2: Hold her before the other one can.

Lorien made the first move. He casually walked up to Aeris, putting on his most innocent expression.

Lorien, sweetly: “Mother, don’t you think Kira should experience the strong and protective arms of her big brother?”

Aeris blinked. “…What?”

Before she could respond, Zephirion stepped in.

Zephirion, clearing his throat: “Actually, she should be in the arms of her father, who has far more experience in protecting his children.”

Lorien shot him a glare. “Excuse me? I am her brother. I was protecting her before she was even born!”

Zephirion, smugly: “And who was protecting her mother before she was born?”

Lorien: “…Tch.”

Aeris raised an eyebrow. “So, what you’re saying is…”

Both dragons (at the same time): “Give us the baby.”

Silence.

Aeris looked down at Kira, who was blinking up at her with innocent, sparkling eyes.

Unlike her brother, Kira was genuinely sweet.

Aeris sighed dramatically, then hugged Kira closer, smirking.

Aeris: “Nope.”

Zephirion and Lorien’s eyes widened in horror.

Aeris cuddled Kira even tighter. “My baby girl is staying with me. You two can fight over who gets to hold her next.”

The dragons exchanged a look of absolute betrayal.

Lorien, whispering: “…She’s evil.”

Zephirion, nodding solemnly: “I see where Kira gets it from.”

And so, Father and Son stood there, watching helplessly as Aeris showered Kira with all the cuddles and affection they wanted for themselves.