An adorable look of confusion sinks into Alecto’s brows, and he pulls back to say, quietly, “Of course, darling. We’re a family. We’ll always be together. I promise.”

A kiss now to his husband’s forehead before he stands and goes over to the window where he hears Avery start to honk and fuss about, cranky no doubt. If his husband were to turn towards them then, he’d see Alecto holding their adorable pup up by his front flippers so that they could press their noses together. Avery’s fuzzy little body wiggling in delight at the sight of his mother. The light outside streams in and bathes Alecto in warmth as he hums playfully to Avery, whispering, “Momma’s got a wonderful surprise for you, my little tidal wave. But you’ll have to be patient ok? Just a few more months…”