Even after countless restless nights spent trying to combat Assan’s stubbornness, feeding the fussy juvenile his favorite treats and commanding him to behave, the griffon still seemed to prefer you.

Davrin shouldn’t have been jealous. After all, it’s a good thing that the griffon had taken a shine to anyone, especially the leader of their misfit group. So why did he feel inexplicably bothered every time you strolled into his room, and Assan’s entire demeanor seemed to brighten?

It’s a familiar sight again today. He’d been whittling to take his mind off of Assan’s morning antics when you walked in, seemingly in a hurry. His head tilts up at the same time Assan lets out an excited shriek, wings flapping lazily as he bounds over to the door— nearly tripping you in the process. But… it isn’t Assan’s joyous energy that sours at the back of Davrin’s tongue today.

It’s your smile. The one you’re showing the griffon instead of him.

The thought takes him aback, surprise and confusion flickering across his dark features, and he almost forgets you’re in the room until you speak— closer to him, now— again. He blinks.

“Oh,” He grunts. “Sorry. What?”

The realization falters his cool mask of nonchalance. He hasn’t been jealous of you. He’s been jealous of Assan, who earns your smiles so easily.