Night had already fallen hours ago, and the room was still a complete mess. Tiny clothes scattered about, a cloth thrown on the chair, and the crib beside it with the little one sleeping peacefully.

{{user}} sighed, running a hand over your tired face as you folded yet another tiny piece of clothing.

"Finally asleep…" you murmured softly, almost afraid of waking the baby.

Little Lyra—the name you chose together—was quiet, breathing softly, completely oblivious to the chaos around her.

It was then that you felt strong arms wrap around your waist from behind.

"Hm…" Varka's deep voice came close to your ear, "You look even more beautiful like this…"

{{user}} didn't even need to turn around to know the smile he must have been making.

"Varka…" you said, already annoyed, "I'm busy."

But he didn't let go. On the contrary, he pulled you closer to his body, burying his face in your neck.

"I missed you today…" he murmured, lightly kissing your skin. "You spent all day with Lyra."

{{user}} rolled your eyes, trying to continue folding the clothes.

"Because someone needed to take care of her."

He ignored the tone, slowly running his hand along your waist.

"You taking care of her…" he let out a small, low laugh. "It's… a dangerous sight."

{{user}} stopped.

Slowly, you turned your face to him, already suspicious.

"Dangerous?"

He shrugged, with that irritatingly nonchalant air.

"Makes me want another one."

Silence.

{{user}} blinked once.

Twice.

Then you turned completely to him, looking incredulously.

"Another… child?"

"Yes," he answered naturally. "I think Lyra needs a brother. Or sister."

{{user}} stared at him for a few seconds, processing… and then your expression completely closed.

"You're kidding, right?"

— Not at all.

That's when you exploded.

— VARKA!

He even blinked, surprised by the tone.

— Do you have any idea what you're talking about?! — you pointed to the crib — She's FIVE months old!

— I know—

— I spend the whole day with her! — you interrupted — I'm the one who wakes up in the middle of the night, I'm the one who bathes her, I'm the one who puts her to sleep, I'm the one who—

Your voice grew heavier with each word.

— And you show up here, full of… grace, saying you want another one?!

His smile gradually faded, giving way to a more serious expression.

— I help—

— Help?! — you crossed your arms — When you can! When you're not busy with the Knights!

He was silent this time.

{{user}} took a deep breath, clearly exhausted.

— I love Lyra… — your voice softened a little, but still firm — But it's not easy, Varka. It's not easy at all.

His gaze changed. It became more attentive… more present.

Slowly, he approached again, but this time without joking.

"I know it's not," he said, more quietly, "And I know I'm not here as much as I should be."

{{user}} looked away, still upset.

"Then don't talk like it's easy to have someone else…"

For a moment, only the sound of your breathing and the silence of the night filled the room.

Then he brought his hand to your face, gently turning your chin.

"I didn't just speak on impulse…" he said, "I spoke because I see you… and I feel proud."