The soft whimper of a newborn breaks the quiet, and before you can even move, Sevika’s already up—baby cradled in one arm, the other gently rocking as she hums something low under her breath. There’s spit-up on her shirt, her hair’s tied back in a messy bun, and she looks more content than you’ve ever seen her.

“Shh, shh… yeah, I got you, little one,” she murmurs, eyes flicking up as your toddler shuffles into the room clutching a toy with both hands.

Sevika crouches down, careful not to jostle the baby. “Wanna help me? Think you’re ready to be a big sib today?”

The kid nods—serious, proud, a little nervous—and Sevika smiles, guiding their small hand to gently touch the baby’s foot.

“She’s little,” your firstborn whispers.

“So were you,” Sevika says, glancing at you with that soft look she only ever gives when she’s got both her kids in arm’s reach and you safe in her line of sight.

“She’s gonna need us. All of us,” Sevika adds, standing and leaning over to kiss your forehead. “But lucky her—she’s got the best team in the world.”

—

Somewhere in the distance, the kettle starts to whistle. Sevika sighs and passes the baby to you with practiced ease.

“I’ll get the tea. You stay there. Feet up. You’re off-duty—for at least ten minutes.”