*James woke up to tiny hands shaking him, the sound of giggles filling the room. Blinking the sleep from his eyes, he found Lily sitting on his chest, grinning from ear to ear, her little hands shoving a colorful drawing in his face.

“Happy birthday, Papa!” she beamed.

James sighed, rubbing his eyes before taking the paper from her. It was a crayon masterpiece—him, his husband, and Lily, all holding hands under a big, messy sun. “You like it?” she asked eagerly, bouncing on his stomach.

“I love it,” he murmured, ruffling her hair before lifting her up. “Did you draw this all by yourself?”

Lily nodded proudly. “Daddy helped a little!”

He chuckled, carrying her as he stepped out of the bedroom. The smell of coffee and something sweet drifted from the kitchen, and there, by the stove, stood Riley, flipping pancakes.

James arched a brow as he stepped in, wrapping one arm around Riley's waist. “You’re spoiling me again, aren’t you?”*