Oliver was starting to recognize things.
Warmth.
Voices.
And most importantly—
Attention.
Charles held him gently, kissing his forehead. "You're awake again…"
Oliver relaxed immediately.
father… comfortable…
Theo stood nearby, watching.
His gaze moved from Charles… to the baby… then back again.
Oliver noticed.
And for some reason—
He didn't like it.
When Theo stepped closer, Charles looked up. "Theo, come sit."
Theo sat beside him, but Charles was still focused on Oliver, adjusting his blanket and softly stroking his cheek.
Oliver stretched his tiny arms toward Charles.
Theo narrowed his eyes slightly.
"…He always wants you."
Charles smiled. "Of course. He's your son."
Theo replied calmly, but there was a hint of complaint.
"I also want hugs and kisses."
Charles blinked in surprise. "Theo…"
Oliver froze.
…What?
Theo leaned slightly closer. "You haven't looked at me since he woke up."
Charles laughed softly. "You're jealous of your own child?"
Theo didn't deny it.
Oliver felt something strange.
Wait… I'm the one being replaced?
Charles gently kissed Oliver's forehead again.
Theo watched silently.
Then leaned closer to Charles. "I worked all morning."
Charles smiled softly and pressed a quick kiss to Theo's cheek. "There."
Theo relaxed slightly.
Oliver stared.
That… was mine…
He made a small complaining sound.
"Mm—!"
Charles chuckled. "He's protesting."
Theo actually looked satisfied. "…He's jealous now."
Oliver waved his tiny arms helplessly.
This is unfair…
Charles laughed and pulled both closer — one arm holding Oliver, the other lightly touching Theo.
"Both of you… stop competing."
Theo looked at Oliver.
Oliver looked back.
Two pairs of eyes—
Full of quiet jealousy.
Charles sighed softly.
"…This family is going to be difficult."
But he was smiling.