CW: Pregnancy, fluff, passing mention of postpartum
WORD COUNT: 1.7k
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Kind of wrote this on a whim. Just something small and cute that came to mind!
Don't forget to like, comment, and reblog your favorite fics <3
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You stared at the clock, then at the time on your cellphone. Both read 11:48 PM. Of all the days for Viktor to stay late at the lab, it had to be today. Your knee bounced rapidly, impatiently. Gaze lingering on the TV, though you had no idea what was playing. Some show you swore for ages you’d get around to watching and never did. Now the volume was so low it was barely a hum. It joined the anxiety buzzing in the back of your skull.
Once again, you looked down at the object in your lap.
POSITIVE stared back at you. As it had for the last two days. No matter how many times you put the test down or hid it away in a box, that word remained. For two days nerves wrapped you in nausea, or maybe that was just the morning sickness talking. You were pregnant. The reality hardly set in. It just couldn’t seem to sink into your brain with any form of permenace. You were growing an entirely newly life that hadn’t existed before. That grew from two microscopic halves and would eventually become a whole new being.
You checked the clock again, then your cell phone. 11:53 PM. You had texted Jayce that morning, asking for him to muscle Viktor out of the lab early. You didn’t tell him a reason, only that you wanted your husband home before midnight. He had replied that it would be easy. Given the hour, it appeared it hadn’t been.
Chewing the inside of your lip, you looked at the test again. POSITIVE was still there. What would Viktor think? Children were a subject that was danced around in your household. The stance on it should’ve been made clear before your marriage. But was never established.
11:57 PM - the sound of a key being jammed into the front door lock. It was still three minutes to midnight, Jayce got lucky this time. A muttered curse came from the entry way. Then the uneven gait of Viktor’s footsteps as he came down the hall. They stopped at the entrance to the living room.
“Love, you’re still awake,” Viktor observed. He came up behind the couch, kissing the top of your head. “It’s late, you need your rest.”
“I like to stay up and wait for you,” you told him, praying your voice was steady.
“You don’t have to do that.” He came around and sat on the couch, leaning his cane against the arm. He looked at you with that smug expression you loved. “Though, I will admit - coming home and seeing you so immediately after a long day is my favorite.”
You smiled briefly, and Viktor’s expression changed. The test was pressed between your thighs, keeping it from sight. It was a hard rigid against the soft flesh that grew more uncomfortable the longer he stared at you. Your husband was sharp as ever, even as tired as he was. You never could keep anything away from that sharp gaze.
“Something is wrong,” Viktor stated, eyes searching. His hand sought yours, holding in on the cushion between you. “What is it?”
You drew in a shaking breath, staring down at your woven fingers. Your heart was in your throat, clawing at your ribs. You were sick with it. Even the tips of your ears burned.
“What…” you started. “What do you think about kids?”
Viktor sucked in a sharp breath, stilling in his seat. His fingers clamped aorund yours a little harder. “In general? Or…as in us?”
You swallowed, mouth tacky. “Us.”
“I…well, I -” He couldn’t seem to find the words, gaze wandering to the TV. The grinding of the gears in his mind almost audible. He muttered something under his breath. Then said, “I thought I had the count wrong. But I did not.”
You knew Viktor tracked your menstral cycles. It was even on a calendar on your fridge. He must’ve been doing the math in his head. Even being semi-irregular, your period exceedingly late.
“You’re pregnant,” he stated, turning back to you.
There was no doubt in his face. He was as sure about this as if he’d told you the sky was blue. In response, you pulled out the test. It still said POSITIVE. He took it from you with a shaking hand. Viktor was quiet for a long time, just staring at the digital screen. Like he was daring it to change its mind. You knew it wouldn’t.
“I know we didn’t talk about it before,” you admitted. “We should’ve…so, what do you think?”
Viktor didn’t move, replying sensibly, “That we will call the OB in the morning to set up and ultrasound and ensure all is well.”
You nodded. “And…other than that? I’d like to know what’s going on in Husbandland right now.”
Viktor’s eyes bounced to you, holding your gaze for but a moment, before they turned back to the test. “Do you think we are ready?”
“They say you’re never really ready for kids.”
Viktor’s mouth pressed into a flat line. “If I ask something, will you be truthful, my love?’
You squeezed the hand you were holding. “Always.”
“Will I be a terrible father? You know I never -” He cut himself off at the thought.
“I think the fact you’re nervous about it means you’re already a good one.”
The corner of his lip twitched, but his face remained blank. “I always figured if it was meant for me, then children would come. If it was not, then I would be fine with that too. - The same as before I met you. I thought that if love was meant for me, then it would find me. If I was to remain alone, then I would reconcile with that as well. Yet we are married and this test tells me that a little one will come. There is a surprising amount of fear in that.”
“I think you’re going to do great.” You scooted across the couch until your legs touched. Then leaned your head against his shoulder, your folded hands resting on your thigh. You stared at the test with him now. The only sounds in the room the murmur of the TV and the ticking of the clock on the wall.
“Jayce will be stupid excited,” Viktor finally uttered. Louder, he asked, “But what about work? Long nights in the lab cannot be avoided forever. They will happen. You will be alone.”
You shrugged. “We’ll figure it out when the time comes.”
“That is not fair you.”
“It’s what happens when I have a brilliant scientist as a husband.”
Viktor hummed. “I will need to do better…”
“You and I will figure it out down the line.” You squeezed his hand again.
Viktor’s cane clattered loudly as it slipped from its resting place. You both flinched. Viktor stared at it. “I will not be able to run with them. To do many things other fathers can.”
“Viktor,” you cooed, coaxing him to look at you. Panic was leaking through a careful mask. His eyes were wide, breathing a bit more rapid. You took his face in your hands, he leaned into the touch. “Our kid isn’t going to care about the stuff you can’t do. But they’ll always remember the things you can.”
“Like what?”
You leaned in a kissed him chastly. “Like vinegar and baking soda volcanos, and showing up to their games if they’re in sports, reading to them before bed - that sort of thing. They’ll just want time with you, how ever you can. - I’m also scared. What if I mess up? What if they don’t think I’m someone they can trust and come to when they get older? What if I accidentally feed them something they’re allergic to? I’m terrified of getting postpartum and doing something heinous.”
“I have no doubt you will as wonderful a parent as you are a partner. Whatever you need, I will do my best to accommodate.” Viktor cupped your cheek in one hand, running his thumb lightly across your skin. “I let you down enough as it stands. I don’t want to let the little one down, too.”
“You never let me down,” you whispered, a clot building in your throat. You swallowed against it. You were not going to cry right now. “You’ve frustrated me, sure - but never let me down.”
Viktor chuckled, the panic finally easing up. His eyes wandered back to the test. “So, it’s real and truly.”
You nodded. “I peed on two boxes worth of tests in the last three days, it was like Juno in here. They’re all stashed in a shopping bag under the bathroom sink if you want to see them.”
“That’s a bit overkill, don’t you think?” he teased, smirking.
Warm relief flodded through you, all your muscles relaxed for the first time in days. You laughed, shrugging. “Maybe - I wanted to be sure. Really sure before I told you. It’s like one of your experiments, right? You have to be sure you can replicate your results before you announce your findings.”
Viktor laughed rather heartily at that. “I suppose.”
“I’ll call the OB in the morning.”
Viktor nodded. “And I will make a list of questions for her. I have much to learn.”
“I’ll have to warn them when I make the appointment,” you joked, rolling your eyes. “You’re going to go overboard on research, aren’t you?”
“I would never dream of it,” scoffed Viktor, “I just want to make sure we are prepared. There is nothing wrong with that.”
You kissed him again. “Just make sure to enjoy the journey, too.”
Tentatively, Viktor placed a hand on your stomach, gently rubbing it through your shirt. You didn’t have a bump yet, but he seemed mesmerized all the same. He leaned his forehead to yours, then pressed a kiss to your lips.
You had left for a quick errand, telling Viktor and Jayce they’d be in charge of Elias for the afternoon. The moment the door clicked shut behind you, there was a brief silence before the two men exchanged a glance.
“Alright, I suppose we should start with the basics,” Viktor said, adjusting his glasses as he glanced down at the energetic toddler.
Jayce, who was still adjusting to the idea of spending one-on-one time with Elias, scratched the back of his neck. “You’re sure I’m ready for this?”
Viktor raised an eyebrow, his tone dry. “You’ve known Elias since he was born - he's 3 now. You should be fine. Besides, he loves you”
Jayce let out a nervous chuckle. “Yeah, but… he’s a handful, isn’t he?”
At that moment, Elias let out a gleeful squeal, running across the living room, his little legs carrying him faster than either man could anticipate. Jayce’s eyes widened, and he quickly reached out, only narrowly managing to catch Elias before he fell.
“Well, I suppose it’s too late to back out now,” Jayce muttered with a grin.
Viktor chuckled, watching his friend. “He’s faster than you’d think. Be prepared.”
After a few moments of playful chaos, with Jayce chasing Elias around the living room and Viktor trying to stop him from climbing the furniture, the little one finally stopped, turning to them both with a proud smile. He held up a small block, as if presenting his latest creation.
“Look!” Elias exclaimed, showing off the wobbly tower he had built.
Jayce blinked in surprise, crouching down beside him. “That’s… impressive. You built that all by yourself?”
Elias nodded vigorously, his hair falling over his eyes as he beamed. “Yeah! I’m smart like Papa!”
Viktor’s face softened at that, his heart swelling as he watched Elias proudly display his block tower. “You’re definitely smart like me,” Viktor agreed, his voice warm with affection.
Jayce, still somewhat in awe of the whole babysitting experience, chuckled. “Alright, let’s see if I can build one that’s just as good.”
For the next hour, the three of them worked together, stacking blocks and making silly noises when the tower fell over. Jayce, always the perfectionist, kept trying to make a tower that would impress Viktor, but Elias seemed to be the true expert in the room, laughing every time Jayce’s creation toppled.
Finally, after several failed attempts, Jayce plopped down on the floor in mock exhaustion, his hands raised in defeat. “Alright, I admit it. I’m not as good as you.”
Elias giggled and patted Jayce on the head. “It’s okay, Uncle Jay. You tried.”
Viktor couldn’t help but laugh, watching his son and his friend. “It’s the effort that counts, Jayce.”
As the afternoon went on, Elias eventually grew tired, curling up between Jayce and Viktor, both of them carefully making sure the little one was comfortable. Jayce, who never had much experience with young kids, found himself surprised by how natural it felt to simply be in that moment, watching Elias drift off to sleep in his arms.
When you finally returned, you were met with the sight of Viktor gently brushing Elias’s hair as Jayce, looking more at ease than when you left, sat beside them, a content smile on his face.
“Everything go okay?” you asked, raising an eyebrow as you looked between the two men.
Viktor nodded, the faintest smile curling at his lips. “Surprisingly well.”
Jayce glanced at you, his grin playful. “Guess Elias has a way of making even the hardest tasks seem easy.”
You couldn’t help but chuckle, your heart warmed by the sight of the three of them together. “I see someone might be getting the hang of this after all. Does this mean if me and Viktor want date night, you'll be free” You give him grin.
Jayce rolled his eyes but smiled. “Don’t get used to it.”
Viktor glanced down at Elias, who stood at the doorway of his workshop, clutching a small toy wrench and looking up with wide, hopeful eyes. You were leaning against the frame, clearly amused.
“Please, Tata? I’ll be careful,” Elias pleaded, his little voice tugging at Viktor’s heartstrings. (Dad)
Viktor sighed, running a hand through his hair. He loved his son dearly, but his workshop was his sanctuary—a place where precision and focus were paramount. Allowing a curious three-year-old to “help” felt like inviting chaos.
“He’s very determined,” you said with a grin. “I wonder where he gets that from?”
Viktor shot you a look but eventually relented. “Fine,” he said, holding up a finger. “But you must follow my instructions exactly, ano?” (Yes)
Elias nodded eagerly, bouncing on his toes.
Viktor cleared a small section of his workbench, setting aside tools and delicate parts. He found a few harmless scraps—old gears, a piece of tubing, and a dull screwdriver—and placed them in front of Elias. “Here. You can ‘fix’ this while I work,” he said.
Elias beamed and climbed onto the stool Viktor had pulled over for him. While Viktor tinkered with a more complex invention, Elias mimicked him, twisting screws and fitting pieces together in a way that made no functional sense but was utterly adorable.
You watched from the doorway, suppressing a laugh when Viktor occasionally glanced over, muttering, “Not like that—no, tighter... Well, close enough.”
After an hour, Elias held up his creation: a small contraption of mismatched parts. “Look, Tata! I made it!”
Viktor examined it with a serious expression, nodding thoughtfully. “Hmm. Very good, můj malý inženýr. Perhaps one day, you will surpass even me.” (My Little Engineer)
Elias beamed with pride, and you couldn’t resist stepping in to kiss the top of his head. “I think you’ve got a future genius on your hands, Viktor.”
“Or a future menace,” Viktor muttered, though the affection in his voice betrayed his words.
By the time Elias was 4, he had grown into a whirlwind of energy and curiosity. When Jayce came over one afternoon, Elias couldn’t wait to show off his latest creation.
“Uncle Jay! Uncle Jay!” Elias called, running into the living room with a small, clunky contraption in his hands.
Jayce knelt down to meet him, his smile broad and warm. “What’ve you got there, kiddo?”
Elias proudly held up the invention—a little wind-up toy made from leftover scraps Viktor had given him. When he turned the crank, it wobbled forward on unsteady legs, emitting a faint clicking sound.
Jayce feigned amazement, his eyes wide. “Wow! Did you make this all by yourself?”
Elias nodded enthusiastically. “Tata helped a little, but I did most of it!”
Viktor, who had been quietly observing from his chair, smirked. “By ‘helped,’ he means I stopped it from collapsing entirely.”
You swatted Viktor lightly on the shoulder. “Don’t listen to him, Elias. It’s wonderful.”
Jayce ruffled Elias’s hair. “You’re a natural, kid. I think we’ve got a future scientist—or an engineer—on our hands.”
Elias had his first vivid nightmare. You woke to the sound of his cries, your heart instantly clenching. Nudging Viktor awake, you hurried to Elias’s room, Viktor trailing close behind with his cane, his steps quick despite his usual careful gait.
Elias was sitting up in bed, his face wet with tears, clutching his blanket tightly, his little shoulders trembling. His favorite stuffed animal—a gift from his uncle, a well-loved, floppy rabbit Viktor had stitched back together more times than you could count—lay forgotten at his side.
“Mama... Tata...” he whimpered, his voice shaky.
You immediately wrapped him in your arms, stroking his hair and gently rocking him. “Shh, sweetheart. It’s okay. We’re here. What happened?”
“I-I dreamed a big monster was chasing me,” Elias stammered, his small hands clutching your shirt as though you might vanish if he let go.
Viktor lowered himself onto the edge of the bed with a soft grunt, resting his cane against the wall. He reached out, his hand brushing gently against Elias’s curls. “A monster, hm? That sounds frightening. But you know what?” His voice softened, carrying that steady reassurance Elias always seemed to find comfort in. “No monster would dare come near you. Not when you have us.”
Elias sniffled, his wide, teary eyes looking up at Viktor. “Really?”
“Of course,” Viktor said with a small, reassuring smile. “Your mama and I would never let anything harm you. And if any monsters try, I will invent something to scare them away. Perhaps a... monster-detecting alarm or a protective shield.”
Elias blinked, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “Like a big zapper?”
“Exactly,” Viktor replied, his eyes twinkling. “A zapper so powerful, no monster would stand a chance.”
You chuckled softly, brushing a kiss on Elias’s forehead. “And Mama will always be here to keep you safe, no matter what.”
Elias’s grip on you loosened slightly, his breathing starting to even out. He reached for his rabbit, hugging it tightly as he leaned against you.
“Do you think the zapper could have lights on it?” Elias murmured, his voice still thick with sleep but laced with curiosity.
“Lights?” Viktor asked, tilting his head. “Ah, of course. Bright enough to make the monsters regret ever appearing."
"Red and blue, perhaps?” You add.
“Green too,” Elias mumbled, his eyelids drooping.
Viktor nodded solemnly, as though taking serious mental notes. “Green as well. I’ll start designing it tomorrow.”
You smiled as Elias finally settled back into bed, his small frame relaxing against the mattress. Viktor stayed beside him, telling a soft, made-up story about a brave inventor and his little assistant who outsmarted all the monsters in the world with their clever creations.
By the time Elias drifted back to sleep, his breathing steady and peaceful, Viktor’s hand lingered on the boy’s curls. You exchanged a tender glance with Viktor, your heart full.
“He’s braver than he knows,” Viktor murmured, his voice barely audible as he stroked Elias’s hair one last time.
“He gets that from you,” you whispered, squeezing Viktor’s hand.
Viktor looked down at Elias, his expression soft and full of love. “And from you,” he said quietly. “You are his strength.”
Hand in hand, you led Viktor back to bed, pausing one last time at the doorway to watch Elias sleep, his rabbit tucked under his arm. The faint glow of the moon bathed him in light, and in that moment, all felt right with the world.
The next morning, Viktor wasted no time fulfilling his promise. In his workshop, surrounded by parts and tools, he carefully crafted a small, intricate device—part nightlight, part "zapper," as Elias had suggested. By the time evening came, he proudly presented it to Elias, who gasped in delight. The nightlight cast a soft glow, and as the lights flickered on, red, blue, and green stars shimmered across the ceiling, illuminating the room with a warm, magical glow. "Now no monster can hide from you," Viktor said with a smile, watching Elias's eyes light up with wonder. The little boy beamed, already feeling braver with his new invention guarding his dreams.
It was a rare occasion when you and Viktor decided to bring Elias to the labs, both of you needing to grab a few things and give your little one a peek at the bustling world you both were a part of. Jayce had offered to keep an eye on him, a warm smile on his face as he agreed to watch over his nephew while you both stepped out of the room to fetch the supplies.
"Just for a minute, Jayce," you had said, squeezing his shoulder. "We won’t be long."
Elias, looking up at the towering machines and the various pieces of equipment scattered around the lab, clung to your hand, eyes wide with excitement. "Wow... is that for real?" he asked, pointing to a huge contraption that hummed softly in the corner.
"Not yet," Viktor had replied with a smile. "Still working on that one."
With that, you and Viktor had stepped away, moving down the hall to fetch some materials. Jayce stood by, keeping a close eye on Elias, though the little boy was full of curiosity, his small feet shuffling from one side of the room to the other, trying to get a closer look at everything. Jayce was distracted for just a moment—fascinated by a new blueprint on the desk—and in that fleeting instant, Elias’s attention drifted to a small, unattended tool lying on the floor. A curious piece of sharp equipment, it gleamed innocently in the light, and Elias, always eager to explore, reached for it.
In a second, it happened. Elias’s small fingers brushed against the metal, causing him to wince as the sharp edge scraped his skin. He let out a quiet yelp, looking down at the tiny cut on his palm with wide, scared eyes.
Jayce’s heart skipped a beat as he turned to see Elias holding his hand, eyes already filling with tears. The sight sent his mind spiraling into panic. He rushed over, kneeling down beside the boy and grabbing his hand gently, his own trembling.
"Oh, no—Elias! What happened?!" Jayce’s voice cracked as he pulled the boy into his arms, frantic. The tiny cut, barely noticeable to anyone else, seemed like the end of the world to him. Tears welled up in his eyes as he held the boy close, his hands shaking as he tried to comfort him. "I—I’m so sorry, Elias. I should’ve been watching you more closely. Please, please don’t be hurt too bad."
Elias, already overwhelmed by the pain and his uncle’s distress, hiccupped between sobs. "I’m sorry, Uncle Jayce... it hurts..."
"No, no, you don’t have to apologize," Jayce whispered, his voice tight. "I’m the one who should’ve been more careful. It’s all my fault." He hugged Elias tightly, his own tears falling as he pressed his face into the boy’s soft hair. "I’m sorry, I’m sorry..."
Just as Viktor and you returned to the room, carrying the items you needed, you froze in the doorway. Viktor’s brows furrowed as he saw Jayce’s panicked state, the worried expression on his face mirrored in yours. The two of you rushed over.
"What happened?" you asked, kneeling beside Jayce, who looked utterly crushed.
Jayce barely looked up, his voice cracking as he finally spoke. "He got hurt... He got hurt and it’s all my fault, I wasn’t paying attention..." His hands were still gripping Elias tightly, as if he could protect him from everything with just that embrace.
Viktor, looking at the boy’s palm, shook his head. The cut was small, practically nothing to be concerned about, but he understood the anxiety. "Jayce," he said softly, kneeling beside him "It’s okay. It’s just a little scrape, see?" He carefully examined Elias’s hand, then looked up at you with a comforting smile. "He’s fine."
Elias sniffled, looking up at his uncle with wide eyes. "I... I’m okay, Uncle Jay..."
Jayce squeezed him a little tighter before finally letting out a shaky breath. "You scared me," he whispered, wiping his eyes. "I thought—"
You gently placed a hand on Jayce’s shoulder. "It’s okay," you reassured him, softly. "You did nothing wrong. You were watching him, and sometimes things just happen."
Viktor reached for a nearby cloth to gently clean the small cut, murmuring to Elias as he did. "See? All better. You’re tough"
Jayce slowly let go of Elias, still looking at him with a mixture of guilt and relief. "You’re okay, right?"
Elias nodded slowly, his lip still trembling, but he gave his uncle a small, reassuring smile. "I’m okay, Uncle Jay."
Jayce pulled him into another tight hug, murmuring once more, "I’m sorry," before finally managing to laugh, a soft chuckle escaping him. "I’m such an idiot, huh?"
You chuckled, rubbing his back. "No more than usual."
Elias giggled lightly between his sniffles, his arms wrapping around Jayce’s neck. "I love you, Uncle Jay."
Jayce’s face softened, and he gave the boy one final squeeze before pulling back. "I love you too, kiddo. I’ll be more careful next time."
One sunny afternoon, the three of you had decided to spend some time outside, enjoying the fresh air in the park. The air was warm, and the smell of flowers and earth filled the space. Elias, now a bit older, was running around with a burst of energy, his feet barely touching the ground as he chased after a butterfly that fluttered just out of his reach. Viktor and you sat on a nearby bench, watching your son’s joyous laughter echoing through the park.
"You think he’ll ever slow down?" you mused, a smile on your face as you watched Elias spin in circles, trying to catch the elusive butterfly.
Viktor chuckled, the deep sound rumbling through his chest. "Not likely. The boy's energy is endless."
You laughed, leaning against Viktor's shoulder. "He's definitely got your stamina, that's for sure. Even with your cane, you somehow manage to keep up with him."
Viktor smiled, a warm, affectionate look on his face as he watched Elias’s boundless enthusiasm. "Maybe," he said thoughtfully. "But I’d like to think he got his curiosity from you."
You raised an eyebrow, smirking at him. "Curiosity? What makes you say that?"
Viktor tilted his head slightly, his gaze never leaving Elias as he darted around. "He asks a thousand questions a day, and he wants to know how everything works, just like you. Sometimes, I think you might’ve had something to do with that."
You gave a mock huff. "Well, I suppose I can take credit for the curiosity, but you’re the one who gave him the love for machines." You winked. "It’s only a matter of time before he starts taking apart everything in sight."
Viktor laughed softly, his hand resting on your knee. "Then we’ll have a lot of rebuilding to do, I suppose." His eyes softened, and there was a pause in the air between the two of you, just the simple quiet of a peaceful moment.
Elias ran up to you both, his cheeks flushed with excitement. "Mama, Tata! Look what I found!" He proudly held out a small, shiny stone he’d found in the grass. "It’s a treasure!"
You smiled, taking the stone from him and examining it. It was smooth and glimmered in the sunlight. "It is a treasure, Elias. You’ve got a great eye."
Viktor raised an eyebrow and, with a teasing grin, leaned down to Elias. "What if I told you that stone could be used in one of my inventions? Maybe you’ve discovered something more than just a pretty rock."
Elias’s eyes grew wide, his excitement growing even more. "Really?! Can I help you with that? I want to make something too!"
You chuckled at how eager Elias was, his face lighting up with the idea of being involved in one of Viktor’s projects. "You know, I think your Tata might just have the perfect task for you."
Viktor smiled fondly, giving his son a nod. "We’ll see what we can do, little inventor. Maybe we’ll turn that treasure into something special."
Elias bounced on his toes, clutching the stone like it was the key to a great adventure. "I’m gonna help you, Tata! We’ll make something awesome!"
You and Viktor shared an amused glance, both of you amazed by Elias’s boundless imagination. "Let’s get you home, then," you said, standing up and ruffling Elias’s hair. "We’ve got work to do, don’t we?"
It was Viktor’s birthday, and the house was filled with laughter and warmth. The table was covered in an assortment of homemade food, the air smelling of fresh baked bread and a rich stew. Colorful candles flickered on a cake in the middle, casting a soft glow. Music hummed quietly in the background, and Elias was running around, giggling, playing with a new toy that Viktor had helped him put together. Jayce was there too, sitting with a drink in hand, chatting animatedly with both of you as you all celebrated together.
Viktor, though usually quiet about these sorts of occasions, had a bright smile as he opened his presents. A new set of tools from Jayce, a book of intricate engineering blueprints that Viktor had mentioned wanting for months, and a small gadget from Elias, who had worked on it with Viktor’s guidance, with all the innocent enthusiasm of a child eager to impress.
“Thank you, all of you,” Viktor said, his voice filled with genuine gratitude, his eyes gleaming. He leaned back in his chair, smiling at the gathering. “This has been perfect. Truly.”
As the laughter and chatter faded for a moment, you stood up, walking over to where Viktor sat, holding a small, delicate envelope in your hands. The golden glow of the candles seemed to highlight the simple envelope, giving it an almost magical presence.
"I've got one more for you." You say with a grin, holding out the envelope to him.
Viktor raised an eyebrow as he took it from you, his smile softening. “Another one?” He said, his voice filled with curiosity, as if he knew this one was different.
You simply smiled, nodding. “Just open it, love.”
Viktor carefully pulled the paper from the envelope, unfolding it with a little effort, the faintest crease of his brow showing as he read the small handwritten note. At first, it didn’t make sense. His mind raced, as he tried to process the familiar handwriting, and then... it hit him.
It was a small message that simply read: “Looks like your next big project is already in the works… and it’s not an invention.”
Viktor stared at it for a long moment, as if trying to make sure his eyes weren’t deceiving him. Then, when he realized what it meant, his breath caught in his throat. His eyes widened, his hands trembling ever so slightly as he looked up at you, disbelief and joy flooding through him all at once.
“I—I’m...?” he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. His gaze softened, and a tear slipped from the corner of his eye, but he quickly wiped it away, chuckling in disbelief. “Are you serious? Again!”
You nodded, eyes sparkling, and he stood up, pulling you into a tight embrace, as if he couldn’t quite believe the beautiful surprise. “I—this is..." Viktor is at a lost for words, he can only hug me tighter.
Elias, who had been playing nearby, came running over, looking up at you both with wide eyes. “What’s wrong, Mama? Tata?” His tiny voice was full of concern.
Jayce, who had been watching the exchange with a mixture of curiosity and confusion, remained seated for a moment, blinking at both of you in stunned silence. “Wait, what?” He said, furrowing his brow as his gaze shifted between you and Viktor.
Viktor and you pulled back from the hug, Viktor still in a dazed state, trying to fully process the idea that he was going to be a father once again. You, with a grin on your face, passed the small envelope over to Jayce. He stared at it for a moment, his mind clearly racing, before carefully opening it. As he read the words aloud, a soft chuckle escaped your lips.
"Looks like your next big project is already in the works… and it’s not an invention," Jayce read, his voice trailing off as he processed the message. His eyes widened, and his expression shifted from confusion to realization.
You watched as Jayce sat there for a moment, the words sinking in. Then, with a burst of laughter, he looked up at both of you. "Wait, seriously?" he said, still trying to make sense of it, before breaking into a wide grin. "Wow, looks like the surprise never stops with you two."
He let out a relieved sigh, wiping a hand over his face as if processing the surprise. “I swear, I thought the surprises were over after Elias,” he muttered with a laugh, still grinning from ear to ear.
Elias, who had been watching the exchange with curiosity, looked up at you both with wide, innocent eyes. "Mama? Tata?" His tiny voice was filled with concern as he tugged gently at your sleeve. "What happened? You’re happy, but... why is Tata crying?"
You knelt down to Elias, smiling warmly, your hand brushing through his hair. “It’s okay, sweetie. Tata’s not really crying. He’s just... really happy, because Mama has a little surprise for him.” You glanced up at Viktor, who was still in awe of the news, trying to process the fact that he was going to be a father again. "A very big surprise, actually."
Viktor wiped his eyes, his smile growing wider as he looked down at his son. "You’re going to be a big brother, Elias," he said softly, his voice filled with emotion. "We’re going to have another little one in the house."
Elias blinked, processing the words slowly, before a wide grin spread across his face. "Really? A baby?" He jumped up and down, his earlier concern replaced by excitement. "I’m going to be a big brother? I’ll take care of them! I’ll show them all the toys and help them with their inventions!" His enthusiasm was infectious, and you couldn't help but laugh at how eager he already was.
Jayce, still grinning, leaned down to Elias. "Looks like someone’s already got plans for the new baby. Just don’t go teaching them any dangerous inventions, okay?" he teased, ruffling Elias’s hair.
Elias nodded seriously, his little face filled with determination. "I’ll teach them everything I know! I promise!" he said, his voice full of confidence.
You and Viktor exchanged amused glances, both of you clearly amazed at how quickly Elias had embraced the idea of becoming a big brother. "You’re going to be an amazing big brother," you said, squeezing his hand. "I know it."
Viktor, still overwhelmed with emotion, finally sat down again, pulling Elias onto his lap and holding him close. "I couldn’t be prouder of you," he murmured, his voice thick with gratitude.
Jayce, leaning back in his chair with a chuckle, raised his glass. "To another little inventor in the making," he said, grinning widely. "You’ve got a lot of work ahead of you two" He raised his glass higher. "Cheers to surprises."
Viktor smiled, still processing the news, but more at peace now. "Cheers," he echoed, raising his own glass, the warmth of the evening filling the air. You follow in suit with your own drink, clinking it with the three of them. It was a moment of pure joy, surrounded by family, love, and the promise of new beginnings.
As the evening went on, laughter continued to fill the house. Elias ran around excitedly, talking non-stop about all the things he was going to do for the new baby, his imagination running wild with ideas of teaching them all his favorite things. Jayce made playful comments, teasing Viktor about all the new "projects" coming his way, and how the workshop was going to get crowded real quick. You watched the scene with a smile, your heart swelling as you saw Viktor, still in a daze, unable to wipe the smile from his face.
He kept glancing over at you, as if still processing the beautiful surprise you had given him. You could feel the warmth of the moment, the connection between you all growing stronger with every laugh and every word. Viktor’s eyes met yours, and the love in his gaze said everything that words couldn’t express.
A few months later, the day finally arrived. After hours of anticipation and a whirlwind of emotions, you held your healthy baby girl in your arms. Her tiny fingers curled around yours, and her soft cry filled the room, bringing a flood of relief and joy. Viktor sat besides, his eyes shimmering with pride and love, while Jayce, unable to hide his excitement, gently lifted Elias up to see his new baby sister. Elias's wide, curious eyes took in the tiny bundle in your arms, his face lighting up with awe. After a moment of quiet admiration, you both agreed on a name—Aurelia. It felt perfect, like a new light shining in your lives, a beautiful addition to the family that had already given you so much love.
Ok so here's the simp who asked for the silco lumen fic
Can i be called silco anon? Ill call myself silco anon. Anyways-
How would parents (characters +reader) react to their kid's lumens? Would they get worried who it would be? Or the fact that the kid could get hurt by it??
Like viktor, silco, etc.
don’t know a lumen is?? check here for info!
viktor: when his little girl wakes up squealing loud enough to echo down the hall, he has to keep his heart from rocketing out of his chest. you take one glance, curled into his side for warmth during the night, and snort before rolling out of bed to see what all the fuss is about. when the eight-year-old comes thundering into their room, a little ball of light in her hands, viktor suddenly realizes how fast time is going by. i think it’s a wake-up call for him. he spends so much time with her, he does, but now that her lumen is around he wants to dedicate even more focus to their relationship. someone will come sweeping her off her feet one day and he prays it won’t be for a while. he just wants his little princess to be his for as long as possible 🥺❤️
silco: has to stop himself from grabbing the damn thing and whispering threats into it. he would hope something gets across maybe a good clear “hurt my daughter and you die” but it’s too soon to know if his little girl has that type of lumen and he knows better than to steal something out of her hands. when she wants something, she gets it and he has spoiled her rotten. i think silco keeps a close eye on his baby after her lumen shows up, always waiting to see hints of her soulmate nearby so he can grab them and investigate if they’re truly good enough for her. you have to remind him lumens and their fate is between their soulmates and no one else, pinching his ear when he grumbles under his breath every time your little girl rants about how sweet her lumen is (and whatever their trait/talent is).
jinx: she is so excited when her baby boy shows off his lumen his first day with it. he was so afraid of not getting one, being in his preteens with no sign of a lumen. but once he gets it, you and her are celebrating. she loves to watch him talk to his lumen, always a chatterbox just like his mom as he tinkers away with his latest invention. you’ve often had to wipe some tears from her eyes because “he’s growing up so fast, trinket. think we’re doing okay?” you always assure her he is the best little goblin the two of you have ever raised, getting a laugh and big kiss on the cheek.
vi: big buff mama is glaring at the little ball of light. it’s not that she isn’t happy her baby is fated, she just doesn’t like the fact it showed up as soon as her kid just turned six years old. she’s an early bloomer for sure and mama ain’t happy to have her baby’s attention stolen away so quickly. you have to kiss her frown away for a week, reminding her that the lumen coming early doesn’t mean anything. “if anything, now she has something to keep her company when we’re busy, hon.” takes mama forever to stop being grumpy every time that lumen flies by with her little girl tow. but once she accepts it, she’s back to being the big mama bear we all know and love ❤️
ekko: he’s exceptionally happy to see his boy receive one. it was the single most greatest day of his life, so seeing it happen to his kid? makes him a bit emotional honestly. you rub his back, laughing when he sighs and shakes his head as if that’ll shake the emotions free. he makes sure to sit his boy down and remind him how exceptional a bond with a lumen is and how important it is to make sure he treats it with all the love he has. “if you’re lucky, you’ll get someone half as gorgeous as your (mother/father/dama (dad/mama))” “DAD!”
All these single father Viktor aus are slowly killing me, so have a small doodle of papa! Viktor and tiny baby! Yuri aka the most self indulgent piece of shit ive ever drawn
When the day finally came, you were in the lab with Viktor. He was focused on his work, the rhythmic sound of his tools providing a soothing background melody as you lounged nearby, flipping through a book. The quiet was suddenly interrupted by a sharp sensation, and then a warmth spreading beneath you. For a moment, you both froze, staring at each other in wide-eyed shock.
“He’s early,” you finally managed to whisper, your voice tinged with equal parts awe and panic.
Viktor’s gaze darted from you to the growing puddle on the floor, his mouth opening and closing as he tried to find the words. Before either of you could act, Jayce burst into the room, his usual exuberance filling the space.
“Did you two spill something again?” he teased, grinning, until his eyes caught the scene before him—your shocked expression, Viktor’s stunned silence, and the unmistakable evidence on the floor.
The color drained from his face as realization hit him. “Oh... oh no. Uh... I’ll get help! Hang on!” Jayce practically tripped over himself as he spun around and bolted out the door.
Moments later, amidst the chaos, Viktor helped you to your feet, his hands trembling slightly as he steadied you. The rush to the infirmary was a blur, and soon after, your son made his entrance into the world—weeks earlier than expected but healthy and strong.
When you finally held him in your arms, Viktor was right there by your side, his eyes shining with unshed tears. He sat beside you on the bed, his cane resting against it, his posture still and attentive, as though he feared disturbing the moment. His hands, steady despite the overwhelming emotion coursing through him, reached out, and with a reverence that made your heart swell, he cradled the tiny, squirming bundle.
"Hello, můj syn," he whispered, his voice cracking. (My son.) His thumb brushed gently over the baby’s soft cheek. "Welcome to the world."
The softness in his gaze wasn’t new—it was something you had come to recognize over the years, a quiet tenderness that had grown in him, evolving beyond his once-obsessive focus on his work, his innovations, and his ambitions. But seeing it now, as he cradled your son in his arms, it was different. It was deeper, more profound, as if the very essence of his being had shifted to make room for this fragile new life you had both brought into the world. His fingers traced the curve of your son’s tiny hand with such care, as though memorizing every detail, every precious moment, imprinting it into his heart.
The cane beside him, usually a symbol of his struggles and limitations, now seemed utterly irrelevant in the face of this new, beautiful reality. With every gentle shift, every tender movement of your son in his arms, Viktor seemed to shed the weight of everything else, becoming more at peace than you had ever seen him. This was the culmination of everything—the love, the pain, the trials—and it all led to this perfect moment. Together, you had built a family, and in this instant, nothing else mattered.
A day later, when the world had settled into a calm stillness, there came a soft knock at the door—a gentle tap, as if Jayce had been waiting for the perfect moment to intrude. He had given you both time, knowing how important it was for new parents to bond with their child before the rest of the world returned to reality.
The door creaked open just a little, and Jayce stepped inside, a quiet smile on his face. His eyes went immediately to your son, swaddled snugly in your arms, sleeping peacefully. He stepped closer, carrying a bundle of balloons in one hand, the bright colours a cheerful contrast to the soft tones of the room. In his other hand, he held a small teddy bear, its round face friendly and inviting.
“I thought it might be time to finally say hello,” Jayce said softly, his voice low and respectful of the serene moment you were all sharing. He puts the balloons in the corner of my room - the weight keeping them from flying around, before he walks quietly over to you, gently placing his hand on your arm, his gaze never leaving the tiny form in your arms. "Looks like he’s already got you both wrapped around his little finger.”
Viktor, who had been watching Jayce with a quiet appreciation, nodded slightly, but words weren’t necessary. The soft smile that crossed Viktor's face said everything.
Jayce reached over, lightly touching the teddy bear to your son's tiny hand, the gesture soft and filled with a kind of tenderness that matched the moment. “He’s perfect,” Jayce said, his voice barely a whisper, as if he didn’t want to disturb the fragile stillness of the room.
Viktor sat back slightly, his gaze never leaving the tiny bundle in your arms. There was a thoughtful pause before he broke the silence, his voice soft but warm.
“You know, Jayce…” Viktor began, his tone slightly teasing yet sincere. “If you’re interested, you’re welcome to hold him. He’s certainly not as intimidating as some of the machines you’ve built.”
Jayce hesitated, glancing from Viktor to the little one in your arms. His eyes flickered with uncertainty, and for a moment, you wondered if he might decline, still unsure of this delicate moment. But Viktor’s calm presence and your own gentle nod of encouragement seemed to reassure him.
You smiled, offering a soft, welcoming gesture. “It’s alright, Jayce. We’d love for you to hold him. He’d probably love meeting his uncle”
Jayce stood quietly for a moment, the uncertainty lingering in his gaze, before he slowly nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. He moved toward the chair beside your bed and sat down, his posture a little stiff but intent. Viktor gently lifted the swaddled baby from your arms, his movements slow and careful as he passed your son over to Jayce.
Jayce cradled the baby in his arms, his expression softening as he gazed down at the tiny, peaceful face. The tension in his shoulders relaxed, and a genuine warmth spread across his features. His eyes flickered up to Viktor and then back down to the newborn.
“So,” Jayce asked after a moment, his voice a little hushed in reverence. “What’s the name of the next great inventor?”
You and Viktor shared a look, a silent understanding passing between you both. Neither of you had quite expected this moment to feel so emotional, but there it was, the question hanging in the air, waiting for an answer.
With a gentle smile, you spoke, your voice filled with warmth and pride. “His name is Elias Jayce.”
Jayce froze, his eyes widening in shock. He glanced between you and Viktor, as though trying to grasp the full weight of the name. He blinked a couple of times, his breath catching in his throat. “Wait, what?” he stammered, his voice cracking slightly. “Elias... Jayce? Did I hear that right?”
You repeated it, this time with a soft chuckle, “Yes, Elias Jayce.”
The room was quiet for a beat before Jayce’s eyes welled up with tears, his lips trembling as he cradled little Elias in the nook of his arm. His free hand rose to his face, wiping away the tears that had started to fall. The emotion overwhelmed him in a way he hadn't expected, and he allowed himself the rare moment of vulnerability.
“I'm... I’m honoured,” Jayce whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “I never thought... never thought I’d have anything like this.” He blinked away more tears, his chest rising and falling as he took a deep breath, trying to compose himself. But the tears kept coming, a silent acknowledgment of the overwhelming love he felt in that moment.
Viktor, who had been watching Jayce with a quiet smile, gently placed a hand on his shoulder. “You’ve earned it, Jayce,” he said softly. “You’ve been a part of this journey from the beginning.”
With his other hand, Jayce wiped away the remaining tears, trying to regain his composure, but his eyes remained moist, his focus still on the little life in his arms. He didn’t speak again for a while, lost in the moment, and you and Viktor let him. It was a moment that needed no words—just the shared connection of love, family, and the bond between friends.
In the months that followed, your small home was filled with the soft, rhythmic sound of Elias’s breathing, the steady hum of the world outside, and the warmth of the little family you had built together. The first few weeks were nothing short of a whirlwind. Sleep was a distant memory, replaced with the sweet scent of baby lotion, the soothing lull of a rocking chair, and the sound of your quietly humming a tune while Elias lay in your arms.
There were nights when Elias would refuse to sleep, his cries filling the quiet room until, finally, exhausted, you both managed to calm him. One such night, after another hour of pacing and rocking, Viktor sighed, looking down at his son with an amused smile.
“He’s definitely mine,” Viktor said softly, his voice almost a whisper. “It’s as if he only wants to be awake when the sun is down.”
You chuckled, brushing your hand through your hair. “I’m starting to think he’s your son in more ways than one.”
Viktor’s lips quirked, and he laughed, the tiredness in his eyes replaced with a glimmer of affection. “Perhaps he’s a bit of a night owl, then. Like father, like son.”
As a year and a bit passes, those long nights gradually gave way to moments of light. Elias, a curious and active 1 and a half year old, began to explore the world around him. He took his first steps one crisp afternoon, his chubby legs wobbling with each movement. You were in the kitchen when it happened, your heart skipping a beat as you turned to see him standing on his own, a wobbly smile on his face.
“Elias,” you whispered, watching him take a shaky step, then another. “Come here, sweetheart.”
Viktor was right behind you, his eyes wide in disbelief. “He’s walking. He’s really walking.”
Elias took a few tentative steps, his little feet wobbling as he reached out for the nearby couch, his face lit up with concentration. But when he caught sight of you, he smiled, a joyful giggle escaping him as he took a few more steps forward.
You couldn’t help but gasp, watching in awe as your son wobbled but held steady on his own two feet.
Viktor’s gaze was fixed on him, his breath catching in his chest. For a moment, the room seemed to fade around him. He blinked, his fingers trembling slightly at his sides, as though his mind was processing what he was seeing.
“He’s walking,” Viktor repeated, his voice quieter this time, a note of awe in it. “But… he’s walking perfectly.”
You glanced at him, seeing the realization dawn on his face. Viktor stepped closer, his eyes never leaving Elias as he continued his little journey toward you. He was careful, slow, but every step seemed more confident than the last.
“His legs... they’re—” Viktor’s voice faltered, and for a moment, it seemed like he might not finish his sentence. “He’s… he’s not like me.”
You looked at Viktor, the weight of his words settling between you. He had always feared that his son would inherit the same struggles, the same deformities that had plagued him for years, making it difficult for him to walk, to move as freely as he wished. Yet here was Elias, barely more than a toddler, taking steps without hesitation, without the same limitations Viktor had learned to cope with.
Viktor’s breath caught in his throat as Elias reached toward him, his tiny arms outstretched in excitement, his face lighting up with a joyful grin.
Viktor froze for a moment, his heart thumping in his chest as he looked at his son, so small, so full of life. Slowly, as if the weight of the moment demanded it, Viktor sank to his knees, never breaking eye contact with Elias. The world seemed to pause, the air thick with emotion, as he opened his arms wide.
Elias giggled, his little feet shuffling excitedly as he toddled straight into his father’s embrace. Viktor caught him gently, pulling him into a tight hug, his heart soaring at the feel of his son in his arms. The sound of Elias’s laughter filled the room, a melody that Viktor would never tire of.
“You’re perfect,” Viktor whispered, his voice thick with emotion, his hands gently holding Elias as if he could hardly believe how real this moment was. The little boy squirmed in his father’s arms, eager to explore, but Viktor held him a little tighter, unwilling to let go of the quiet, precious moment they shared.
You watched them, your heart swelling with an overwhelming love for both of them. “He always would have been,” you replied softly, the words wrapped in warmth and tenderness, as you gazed at your son.
Elias, still nestled against Viktor’s chest, looked up at you with a wide, innocent grin, his eyes sparkling with pure joy. He let out a playful gurgle and reached for you, his tiny hands outstretched.
Chuckling, you crouched down, your arms open to him, and Elias immediately wriggled free from Viktor’s hold, eager to be in your arms. As you lifted him up, the three of you shared a quiet, sacred moment. The kind of silence that was heavy with unspoken love, the kind that filled the space between heartbeats.
Months pass and Elias, now 2 years old, spoke his first word. It wasn’t “mama” or “papa,” but “Viktor,” clear as day, as he reached out to his father one sunny morning, arms lifted high.
Both you and Viktor froze, staring at the boy in stunned silence.
“Did he just—” you began, but Viktor cut you off, his brows furrowed in disbelief.
“He said… my name?” Viktor echoed, his tone half awed, half puzzled. “Why would he—?”
Before you could respond, the door opened, and Jayce walked in with a bright grin and a bag of fresh pastries. “Good morning, favorite little genius!” he greeted Elias cheerfully. “Where’s Viktor, huh? Your papa’s the best, right?”
Both you and Viktor turned to Jayce, the realization dawning on you like a sunrise. Viktor pinched the bridge of his nose, muttering something in Czech, while you couldn’t help but laugh.
“Jayce,” you said, pointing at the now-giggling Elias. “I think we’ve figured out why his first word is Viktor.”
Jayce blinked, confused for a moment, before his face broke into a sheepish grin. “Oh. Well, can you blame me? I mean, the kid’s got good taste.”
Viktor sighed dramatically, though his eyes shone with pride as he lifted Elias into his arms. “First words, and it’s my name. I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised. I am rather impressive.”
Elias giggled, clutching his father’s shirt as Viktor kissed the top of his head. You rolled your eyes playfully, shaking your head at the both of them.
“Well, at least we know who to blame when his next word is ‘gear’ or ‘schematics,’” you teased, grinning at Jayce, who just laughed and shrugged.
But the biggest milestone came on the day Elias turned three. It was the day he went to nursery for the first time. The night before, you and Viktor had meticulously prepared everything—his tiny backpack, the lunch packed with love, and the first-day outfit that made him look far too grown-up for your liking. Elias was brimming with excitement, his wide, innocent grin lighting up the room as he bounced on his toes.
“Are you ready, love?” you asked, crouching down to his level to adjust the straps of his backpack.
“Ready!” Elias chirped, his voice filled with uncontainable joy.
The three of you stepped out together, Viktor leaning on his cane with practiced ease as he walked beside you. Elias darted ahead, his backpack bouncing with every enthusiastic step, but he always paused to look back, ensuring you and Viktor were keeping up.
When you finally arrived at the nursery, the bright colors of the building and the sound of children playing filled the air. Elias grabbed Viktor’s free hand, tugging him forward with a giddy laugh. Viktor chuckled softly, his steps slowing just slightly as they neared the door.
But as they stood there, with Elias peering up at the new adventure ahead, a strange look crossed Viktor’s face. His grip on his cane tightened, and his other hand gently ruffled Elias’s hair, as if committing this moment to memory.
“He’s growing up,” Viktor murmured, his voice low and tinged with emotion.
You glanced at him, noting the way his eyes glistened, and placed a reassuring hand on his arm. “It’s a good thing,” you reminded him gently. “He’s ready for this.”
“I know,” Viktor replied, blinking quickly as if to push the tears away. “But it doesn’t make it any easier.”
Elias turned to look up at Viktor, his small hand patting his father’s leg. “Papa, come on!” he urged, his innocent excitement drawing a soft laugh from you both.
With a deep breath, Viktor crouched slightly, his cane steadying him as he kissed Elias’s forehead. “You’ll do wonderfully, můj syn” he said quietly, his words thick with pride.
You smiled as Elias skipped through the nursery doors, his little wave goodbye filling your heart with both pride and a pang of longing. Viktor stood rooted to the spot for a moment, his eyes following Elias until he disappeared inside.
“He’ll be fine,” you said, leaning into Viktor slightly, your arm brushing his.
Viktor let out a quiet sigh, his lips curving into a faint smile. “I know. But I may need a moment.”
You chuckled softly, slipping your arm through his. “Come on. We’ll grab some tea and sit in the park. You can gush about how brilliant he’s going to be.”
As the two of you turned to leave, Viktor glanced back at the nursery doors one last time, his heart full of pride for the little family you had built together.
Elias had always been an energetic, curious child, and when his little sister Aurelia was born, he was overjoyed. He had been excited to be a big brother, ready to teach her everything he knew. He had spent weeks helping prepare her room, carefully selecting which of his old toys he thought she might like, and eagerly asking Viktor all sorts of questions about how babies worked. He had watched with wide, fascinated eyes when Aurelia first came home, unable to believe how tiny she was.
At first, everything was exciting. He loved sitting beside you as you rocked her to sleep, watching as Viktor hummed softly to her, his usually sharp and focused expression turning soft and full of warmth. Elias would proudly tell anyone who visited that he was a big brother now, and that it was his job to help keep Aurelia safe.
He loved showing her his toys, even if she was too little to play with them. He would sit beside her crib, explaining how each one worked, even if all she did was stare at him with wide, curious eyes. When she started to coo and babble, he would mimic her sounds, giggling when she responded. Viktor and you often watched with amusement as Elias took his self-assigned role as “big brother” very seriously, always eager to be involved in any way he could.
But as the months passed, something inside him started to feel different. He noticed how much time Mama and Tata spent with Aurelia—how they cooed over her, held her close, and soothed her when she cried. It wasn’t that they ignored him; they still read him bedtime stories, still let him help in the workshop, still hugged him tightly every night. But something was different, and he couldn’t shake the feeling that things had changed.
It started with small things. He would ask Viktor if they could work on a project together, and Viktor would say, "Later, Elias, I need to finish helping Mama with Aurelia." When he would run to you to show off a drawing he made, you would smile, tell him how wonderful it was—but then immediately turn back to the baby in your arms when she let out the smallest whimper. And sometimes, even when he wanted to crawl into bed between you both for extra cuddles, there was already a tiny bundle there, wrapped up safely in Viktor’s arms.
Elias tried not to let it bother him, but as time passed, the feeling of being left out grew heavier in his chest. He wasn’t sure how to explain it, but every time he saw you or Viktor holding Aurelia, he felt something squeeze inside him, like he was on the outside of something special.
=
One afternoon, when Viktor was in the workshop and you were rocking Aurelia to sleep, Elias found himself wandering over to Jayce’s place. He hadn't planned on going there, but his feet carried him anyway, his small hands balled into fists as he sniffled and tried his best not to cry.
His uncle was always happy to see him, greeting him with a grin and ruffling his hair before pulling him inside. “Hey there, kiddo,” Jayce said, crouching down to Elias’s level. “You look a little down. What’s up?”
Elias shuffled his feet, staring at the floor before finally mumbling, “Mama and Tata love Aurelia more than me.”
Jayce’s smile faded, and he gently lifted Elias onto the couch beside him. “Hey now, where’s this coming from?” he asked softly, his voice full of concern.
Elias hesitated before looking up at his uncle. “They always hold her, always talk to her, always take care of her. But I’m big now, so they don’t need me anymore.” His lower lip trembled, and he quickly rubbed his eyes with the back of his hand, not wanting to cry.
Jayce let out a sigh, wrapping an arm around Elias’s shoulders. “Elias, that’s not true. Not even a little bit.” He paused for a moment, trying to find the right words. “Your Mama and Tata love you just as much as they always have. It’s just… babies need a lot of attention. Aurelia is tiny—she can’t do anything by herself yet. But that doesn’t mean they love you any less.”
Elias sniffled, leaning into Jayce’s side. “But it feels like they do.”
Jayce ruffled his hair again, giving him a reassuring squeeze. “I get it, kid. It’s hard when things change. But you know what? You’re still their little boy. You always will be. And I bet if you told them how you feel, they’d make sure you know just how important you are.”
Elias was quiet for a moment before finally nodding. “Okay.”
=
Later that night, when Viktor came to tuck him in, Elias hesitated before speaking up. “Tata?”
Viktor paused, tilting his head. “Ano, můj malý inženýr?” (Yes, my little engineer?)
Elias bit his lip, gathering his courage. “Do you and mama still love me?”
The question hit Viktor harder than any challenge he had faced in the lab. His heart clenched, and in an instant, he was gathering Elias into his arms. “Oh, Elias,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to his son’s hair. “Of course we love you. More than anything. That will never change.”
Elias clung to his father, burying his face in his shoulder. “It just feels like… you love Aurelia more.”
Viktor pulled back slightly, cupping Elias’s face in his hands. “Never. You and Aurelia are both our hearts, both our everything. But she is small, and she needs us more right now. That doesn’t mean we love you less.” He paused, his voice warm. “We love you just as much as before. Maybe even more, because now you’re a big brother too. And that’s a very important job.”
Elias sniffled but nodded slowly. “Really?”
Viktor smiled. “Really. And if you ever feel this way again, you tell me, alright?”
Elias nodded again, his tiny arms wrapping around Viktor’s neck in a tight hug. “Okay, Tata.”
When you came in and saw them like that, Viktor gave you a look that told you everything. You joined them, wrapping your son in your arms as well, reassuring him in soft, gentle words that he was always, always loved. You promised that even if Aurelia needed more care, it didn’t mean you had any less love for him. Love didn’t get divided—it only grew.
From that day on, things got a little easier. You and Viktor made sure to carve out special time just for Elias—working on small inventions together, reading stories before bed, and sneaking in extra hugs and cuddles. You let him help more with Aurelia, making him feel like an important part of the family. Slowly, Elias began to understand. His parents’ love hadn’t changed; it had only grown, just like their family had.
A few years passed, and soon, Aurelia was old enough to start school. Though she was eager to learn, the thought of being away from home—and away from her big brother—filled her with nervousness. At just three years old, she was still small, clinging to familiarity and routine. The idea of being in a place without Mama, Tata, or Elias made her stomach twist with unease.
The night before her first day, Aurelia refused to sleep, curled up beside Elias in his bed with her stuffed rabbit tucked under her chin. Her big brown eyes peeked up at him in the dim glow of his bedside lamp.
“Do I have to go?” she whispered, her voice tiny and unsure.
Elias, now eight years old, stretched out beside her, turning onto his side to face her. “Yeah, Lia. But it’s not bad. School is fun, I promise.”
Aurelia scrunched her nose. “What if it’s not?”
Elias reached over and lightly poked her cheek, making her giggle despite herself. “It will be. You’ll meet new friends, play games, and learn fun stuff. And when you come home, you can tell me all about it.”
She still didn’t look convinced. “But what if I miss you and Mama and Tata?”
Elias thought for a moment before sitting up. He reached over to his nightstand, grabbed something small, and pressed it into Aurelia’s little hands. “Here,” he said.
Aurelia uncurled her fingers, revealing a small, smooth stone—the same one Elias had found years ago in the park, the ‘treasure’ he had given to Tata to use in an invention.
“Tata let me keep it,” Elias explained. “It’s a good luck rock. So, if you ever feel scared or miss home, you can hold it and remember that I’m always here, okay?”
Aurelia ran her fingers over the stone, eyes wide with wonder. “You’re giving it to me?”
Elias nodded. “Just for school. You have to give it back when you’re big and brave.”
Aurelia grinned at that, clutching the stone close to her chest. “Okay.”
=
The next morning, Aurelia woke up early, excitement and nerves twisting in her little belly. She ate her breakfast in small bites, barely able to finish her toast. You and Viktor reassured her gently, helping her into her tiny backpack and tucking her hair behind her ears. Viktor kneeled beside her, adjusting the straps of her bag. “You are going to do amazing,moje malá hvězda.” (My Little Star)
Aurelia held onto her good luck rock tightly, nodding, but when it was finally time to leave, she hesitated, staring at the front door with big, uncertain eyes.
Elias, already dressed and ready for the day, grabbed her hand without hesitation. “Come on, Lia. I’ll take you.”
And so, the four of you walked together, with Elias leading Aurelia down the familiar streets, their small hands clasped tightly. You and Viktor followed just a few steps behind, watching them with soft smiles. The morning sun painted everything in a golden light, and the gentle breeze rustled the trees as Aurelia clutched Elias’s hand like a lifeline.
“She’s really growing up,” you murmured to Viktor, watching the way Aurelia’s little legs hurried to match Elias’s strides.
“They both are,” Viktor agreed, his gaze fond as he watched their children. “I'm just glad they aren't doing is alone”
Ahead of you, Elias was chatting animatedly, trying to distract Aurelia from her nerves. “You know, school has the best crayons. The big, fancy ones. And they have paint too! I bet you’ll get to make a picture to bring home.”
Aurelia perked up slightly. “Really?”
Elias nodded. “Yeah! And they have a snack time with juice. You like juice, right?”
Aurelia nodded, though she was still holding onto him tightly as they approached the nursery gates. The playground was full of other children, some laughing, some running around, but it felt big. Loud. Overwhelming.
Elias crouched beside her, his hand still holding hers. “See? It’s not so bad.”
Aurelia shook her head, her lip wobbling. “It’s too big. I wanna go home.”
Elias sighed dramatically, but his voice was patient. “Lia, you can’t go home yet. You haven’t even tried it. How about this—you go in, meet your teacher, and if you don’t like it, I’ll tell Mama and Tata you should be the first kid to quit school.”
Aurelia blinked at him, sniffling. “Really?”
Elias grinned. “No, but you can still try it.”
Aurelia clung tightly to Elias’s hand, her small fingers gripping onto him as though letting go would make the world too big to handle. He gave her a reassuring squeeze, his voice gentle. “It’s going to be okay, Lia. You’ll meet new friends, play fun games, and learn cool stuff. And guess what?”
She peeked up at him, eyes wide with uncertainty. “What?”
“If you ever feel scared, just think about how brave you already are,” Elias said confidently. “And if you ever get lost…” He bent down slightly so he was at her eye level, his expression serious but kind. “Then I’ll come find you. I promise.”
Aurelia sniffled, hesitating, but the warmth of Elias’s hand around hers made her feel just a little bit stronger.
She huffed but didn’t let go of him as a teacher approached them. “Aurelia?” the teacher greeted warmly, crouching slightly to her height. “Are you ready for your first day?”
Aurelia looked up at the teacher, then back at Elias, her fingers still gripping his hand like a lifeline. Slowly, she shook her head furiously, pressing herself against her brother’s side.
Elias sighed, but then he stood up straighter, taking her other hand so he was holding both. “Lia, remember your rock?”
Aurelia glanced down at the small stone in her palm.
“It means I’m always with you, right?” Elias reminded her. “Even when you’re in class.”
Aurelia looked at the rock, then up at him, then back at the teacher. She hesitated for another long moment before finally nodding, though she still held onto Elias for a few more seconds.
The teacher smiled. “Would you like to come inside and see the toys we have?”
Aurelia perked up slightly at the mention of toys, peeking around the teacher into the colourful classroom. There were books, puzzles, and building blocks, all waiting for her. Slowly, she let go of Elias’s hand, though she looked back at him one last time.
“You promise you’ll be here later?” she asked.
Elias gave her a thumbs-up. “I promise.”
With one last nervous glance, Aurelia took a deep breath, clutching the rock in her little fist as she followed the teacher inside.
You and Viktor watched as Elias lingered at the gate, waiting just a moment longer, his expression serious despite the pride in his eyes. He stayed until Aurelia disappeared into the building, then turned back to you both with a grin. “She’ll be fine, right?”
Viktor chuckled, ruffling Elias’s hair. “Of course, she will. She has you.”
And just as he had promised, when the school day ended, Elias was the first one standing outside the classroom door, waiting for his little sister with open arms and an encouraging smile. Because no matter what, he would always be there to hold her hand.
More years passed, and as Aurelia grew, so did her confidence. She became more independent, making friends easily and eagerly learning everything she could. But no matter how much she grew, one thing remained the same—Elias was always by her side.
By the time Elias was ten and Aurelia was five, their bond had only deepened. He walked her to school every morning, making sure she had her backpack, her lunch, and, on particularly nervous days, her good luck rock. He would help her with her homework in the afternoons, patiently explaining things while she doodled in the margins of her notebook.
On weekends, they spent hours in Viktor’s workshop, where Elias would tinker with gadgets while Aurelia watched with wide, fascinated eyes. As she got older, she began to help, eagerly holding tools for him or asking endless questions about how everything worked. Viktor often looked on with a knowing smile, watching as his children followed in his footsteps in their own way.
=
One evening, as they sat together on the floor of the workshop, Elias showed her how to put together a simple little wind-up toy. Aurelia, always eager to be like her Tata and big brother, listened carefully, her small hands mimicking his movements as she twisted tiny screws into place.
“You’re really good at this, Lia,” Elias praised as she completed the toy, watching it wobble forward on unsteady legs.
Aurelia beamed. “Maybe I’ll build something super big one day! Like a—like a robot!”
Elias chuckled. “You definitely will. And when you do, I’ll help.”
Aurelia looked up at him with admiration. “You’re the best at building stuff, Elias. One day, I wanna be as smart as you.”
Elias laughed, ruffling her hair. “You’re already smart, Lia. Maybe one day, you’ll be even smarter than me.”
Aurelia gasped dramatically. “No way.”
“Yes way,” Elias teased. “You’re gonna invent something amazing. I just know it.”
As they worked, Viktor sat at his own workbench, a soft smile on his face as he observed them. He adjusted his glasses, pausing his own project to watch as Aurelia carefully followed Elias’s instructions, her small fingers tightening a tiny screw with fierce concentration.
“She is learning fast,” Viktor murmured to you, his voice tinged with quiet pride. “She has steady hands already.”
You chuckled, leaning against the doorway, arms crossed as you took in the sight of your children working side by side. “Well, she’s got the best teachers.”
Viktor glanced at you, a knowing smirk on his lips. “Yes. That she does.”
Aurelia sat up straight, holding up her finished wind-up toy triumphantly. “I did it!” she exclaimed, her excitement filling the room. She wound the tiny key, and the toy wobbled forward, its tiny legs clicking along the surface of the workbench.
Elias cheered. “Look at that! You made it all by yourself.”
Viktor nodded approvingly, walking over and placing a gentle hand on Aurelia’s head. “Very good, moje malá hvězda,” he praised, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “You are a natural.”
Aurelia beamed up at him, her chest puffed out with pride. “One day, I’ll build something even better than you and Uncle Jayce, Tata!”
Viktor chuckled, crouching slightly so they were eye-level. “Then I will be the proudest father in the world,” he said warmly.
You smiled, stepping forward to brush a stray lock of hair from Aurelia’s face. “You’re already making amazing things, sweetheart. And who knows? Maybe one day, you and Elias will build something together that changes the world.”
Aurelia turned to Elias, her eyes shining. “Would we, Elias?”
Elias grinned, nudging her shoulder. “Of course we will. Teamwork, right?”
“Teamwork!” Aurelia echoed excitedly, giving him a high five.
As the evening stretched on, the four of you stayed in the workshop, the comforting hum of machinery filling the air. Viktor continued working on his own project, occasionally glancing over to offer guidance to the children. You sat nearby, watching with quiet contentment, knowing that these moments—these evenings of laughter, learning, and love—were the foundation of something special.
Time passes and their bond remained unbreakable. When Elias (11) entered secondary school, Aurelia (6) worried about walking to school without him. She tried to be brave, but the first morning without her big brother by her side felt strange. As she hesitated at the gate, she heard her name being called and turned to see Elias waiting across the street, giving her a thumbs-up.
“Go on, Lia,” he called. “You’ve got this.”
With a deep breath, she nodded, gripping her backpack straps tightly before stepping forward.
That evening, Elias met her at the gate to walk her home, just like always. “See? You survived,” he teased.
“Barely,” Aurelia huffed. “School’s hard without you.”
Elias grinned. “You’ll get used to it.”
Over time, Aurelia grew bolder. She made more friends, joined clubs, and started exploring her own interests. Yet, no matter how much changed, she always turned to Elias first. Whether it was excitement over a new discovery or frustration over a difficult lesson, he was the one she ran to.
=
One evening, Aurelia came home with tears in her eyes, her school bag hanging limply from her shoulder. Viktor and you exchanged worried glances as she stormed past, her little face scrunched in frustration, her cheeks red from holding back sobs. She didn’t stop to explain, didn’t utter a word—she simply stomped down the hall and straight into Elias’s room, shutting the door behind her with a soft thud.
Elias, who had been lying on his bed reading, looked up in surprise. He watched as Aurelia flopped onto his bed, burying her face in his pillow with a dramatic groan.
“Uh, Lia?” Elias asked, setting his book aside and scooting closer.
A muffled voice responded, “School is stupid.”
Elias smirked, though concern flickered in his eyes. “That’s a new one,” he said, nudging her side gently. “What happened?”
Aurelia peeked up at him, her lower lip trembling. “Some kids were being mean,” she admitted, her voice quiet. “They said I was weird because I like machines and fixing things instead of dolls.”
Elias’s playful demeanour shifted instantly. His brows furrowed, and a flicker of protectiveness surged through him. “Who said that?”
Aurelia shrugged, rubbing her eyes with the sleeve of her sweater. “It doesn’t matter.”
Elias sighed, sitting cross-legged beside her. He thought for a moment, then gently poked her arm. “Lia, you know what I think?”
She sniffled, her voice still thick with emotion. “What?”
“I think they’re just jealous because you’re smarter than them,” Elias said, flashing her a grin. “They don’t get to build cool stuff like you do.”
Aurelia let out a tiny giggle, though her shoulders still sagged. “Maybe.”
“Definitely.” Elias nudged her again, this time more playfully. “Besides, you don’t need to be like everyone else. That’d be boring. You’re awesome just the way you are.”
Aurelia sat up, rubbing at her eyes again, but this time, there was a spark of hope behind them. “Really?”
“Really,” Elias said firmly. “And if anyone ever bothers you again, you tell me, okay?”
Aurelia hesitated for a moment before nodding. “Okay.”
There was a pause, then she suddenly lunged forward, wrapping her arms around him in a tight hug. Elias blinked in surprise before chuckling and hugging her back, ruffling her hair affectionately.
“Thanks, Elias,” she murmured into his shirt.
“Anytime, shorty,” Elias teased, though his voice was full of warmth.
=
That night, before bed, Aurelia snuck into his room again, like she used to when she was younger. She curled up beside him under the covers, her stuffed rabbit tucked under her arm.
“You’re the best big brother,” she mumbled sleepily, her voice barely above a whisper.
Elias smiled, reaching over to adjust her blanket so she wouldn’t get cold. “And you’re the best little sister.”
He watched as her breathing slowed, her face finally peaceful after the long, frustrating day. He knew there would be more days like this—days where the world didn’t understand her the way he did.
Years continued to pass, and as they grew, their bond never wavered. No matter what challenges life threw at them, Elias and Aurelia remained each other’s constant, each other’s safe place.
When Aurelia was seven and Elias was twelve, he helped her with her very first science project for school. She had wanted to build a miniature wind turbine, inspired by something she had read in one of Viktor’s books. They spent an entire week in the workshop, gathering scraps, assembling tiny blades, and wiring the little motor together. Viktor supervised, offering gentle guidance, while you ensured they didn’t completely turn the workshop into a disaster zone. Jayce had popped in halfway through, fascinated by the project, and ended up staying longer than he intended, giving them ideas and jokingly acting as their "assistant."
=
On the day of the presentation, the entire family insisted on coming to watch. Viktor adjusted his coat, making sure it was neatly in place before stepping inside the school with you. Jayce, ever the enthusiastic uncle, carried a small celebratory treat—a bag of her favourite sweets—tucked into his pocket for after the event. Elias walked beside Aurelia, proudly carrying her project while she bounced with excitement.
The school auditorium was packed with students and parents. Colourful trifold boards lined the tables, each showcasing a different science experiment. There were volcano models, solar system dioramas, and chemical reaction demonstrations, but nothing stood out to Elias more than the small table at the front where Aurelia’s wind turbine was placed.
Aurelia fidgeted with her sleeves, eyes darting toward her family as they took their seats near the back. Viktor gave her a small nod of encouragement, and you flashed her a reassuring smile. Jayce, unable to contain his excitement, gave her an exaggerated thumbs-up, making her giggle despite her nerves.
Elias crouched beside her before the presentation started. “You’re gonna do great,” he whispered. “Just pretend you’re explaining it to me at home.”
Aurelia took a deep breath and nodded. “Okay.”
When it was finally her turn, she walked up to the front with confidence, placing her hands on either side of her project. She cleared her throat and began explaining, her voice small at first but growing stronger as she got into the details. She spoke about wind energy, how it worked, and why it was important. Then, with a flourish, she turned on the tiny turbine, and to everyone’s amazement, the small motor kicked into action, the blades spinning gracefully as they harnessed the energy from a small handheld fan she had set up beside it.
The audience clapped, but no one was louder than Jayce, who let out a low whistle, nudging Viktor. “She’s got the brains, no doubt about it.”
Viktor, watching his daughter with an expression of pure pride, simply murmured, “She certainly does.”
Elias, still standing at the back, was grinning ear to ear. He could see the excitement in Aurelia’s face, the way she lit up when her project worked perfectly. He had seen that expression before—on Viktor when he completed an invention, on himself when he made something he was proud of. It was the look of someone who loved what they did, and it filled him with nothing but pride for his little sister.
The teacher walked up to the microphone, smiling. “And now, for our first-place winner in the science fair—Aurelia!”
Aurelia gasped, her hands flying to her mouth in shock before turning to look at her family. You clapped proudly, tears pricking the corners of your eyes, while Viktor gave a full smile, his chest swelling with pride. Jayce practically jumped out of his seat, nudging Elias. “Go on, go get her, champ.”
Before Aurelia could even fully process the moment, Elias had already closed the distance between them. She turned and launched herself into his arms, her tiny frame wrapping around him as he spun her around.
“I did it!” she squealed, her laughter ringing through the room.
Elias laughed with her, holding her tightly. “Of course, you did! You’re a genius!”
Viktor approached next, placing a firm but warm hand on her shoulder as she looked up at him with wide, excited eyes. “We are very proud of you, Aurelia,” he said, voice thick with emotion. “You worked hard, and it shows.”
Aurelia beamed, practically bouncing on her heels. “Tata, Mama, Uncle Jayce, did you see? It worked! The motor, the blades, everything!” Her excitement was infectious, her eyes gleaming with pride as she looked at her family.
Viktor nodded, his expression warm and full of pride. “Perfectly engineered. Just like I expected,” he said, his voice carrying the slightest hint of emotion. He placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, giving it a small squeeze. “You have truly outdone yourself."
You stepped forward, unable to hold back your own excitement as you pulled her into a tight hug. “You were amazing, sweetheart,” you murmured, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “We are so, so proud of you.”
Jayce, never one to miss a moment, ruffled her hair with a wide grin. “Not bad, kiddo. At this rate, you might end up running circles around all of us one day.”
Aurelia giggled, straightening her shoulders with mock confidence. “That’s the plan!” she declared, tilting her chin up proudly.
As they made their way out of the school, Aurelia clutched her trophy close, chattering excitedly about all the other projects she wanted to build in the future. Elias listened, nodding along, already making a mental list of materials they’d need for their next big idea.
=
That evening, the entire family celebrated with a special dinner. Aurelia sat between Elias and Viktor, proudly recounting every detail of her presentation. She had never felt prouder, never felt more supported, and as she leaned against Elias, basking in the warmth of her family’s love, she knew one thing for certain—no matter how much time passed, no matter how many projects she built, she would always have them by her side.
By the time Elias was sixteen and Aurelia was eleven, their childhood had started to shift into something new. Elias had begun his internship at the academy, working alongside some of the greatest minds in their field, and Aurelia couldn’t have been prouder. The day he got accepted, she had nearly tackled him with a hug, bouncing excitedly in place.
“One day, I’m gonna work there too!” she declared, determination blazing in her eyes.
Elias smirked, ruffling her hair. “Oh yeah? Gonna show me up?”
Aurelia grinned. “Obviously.”
Even as their schedules got busier, as Elias had more responsibilities and Aurelia grew more independent, they always found time for each other. Whether it was late-night talks on the rooftop, weekend tinkering sessions in the workshop, or impromptu races down the streets, they made sure to stay connected.
=
Some nights, after a long day of working at the academy, Elias would come home exhausted, throwing himself onto the couch with a dramatic groan. Aurelia, sitting cross-legged on the floor working on her latest blueprint, would glance up and smirk. “Rough day, genius?”
Elias cracked an eye open. “You have no idea.”
Aurelia scooted closer, pulling out a notepad and scribbling something down. “Did you get to work on anything cool?”
He let out a sigh, rubbing his temples. “Yeah, but it’s different now. I’m not just tinkering for fun anymore. It’s real work, real expectations. I don’t get to just build things because I want to—I have deadlines, requirements. It’s… a lot.”
Aurelia nodded thoughtfully. “Do you still like it?”
Elias sat up, looking over at her with a small smile. “Yeah. I do. It’s just… different from what I imagined.” He tapped her notepad. “What about you? What’s your latest invention?”
Aurelia grinned, turning the page around to reveal a rough sketch of a mechanical bird with tiny gears and wings that looked like they could actually move. “A flying automaton. But I want it to be able to follow commands, not just fly randomly.”
Elias raised an eyebrow, impressed. “That’s ambitious.”
“I know,” she said proudly. “That’s why I need you to help me figure out the mechanism.”
Elias chuckled. “So that’s why you’re being so nice.”
Aurelia gasped dramatically, placing a hand over her heart. “I’m always nice to you!”
Elias scoffed. “You stole my last piece of bread this morning.”
Aurelia shrugged. “Survival of the fittest.”
Even as they bickered like any siblings would, there was never any doubt about their bond. Whenever Elias had a particularly rough day, he knew he could count on Aurelia to lift his spirits. Likewise, whenever Aurelia doubted herself or struggled with her own projects, Elias was always the first to remind her just how capable she was.
=
One evening, after an especially challenging week, Elias found Aurelia sitting on the rooftop, her arms wrapped around her knees as she stared out at the city. He knew that look—she was frustrated about something.
He sat down beside her, nudging her gently with his shoulder. “Alright, spill it.”
Aurelia sighed, resting her chin on her knees. “It’s just… I feel like no matter how hard I try, I’ll never be as good as you or Tata.”
Elias frowned, tilting his head. “What are you talking about? You’re incredible.”
Aurelia shook her head. “I keep messing things up. My projects don’t work the way I want them to. I don’t get things as fast as you do.”
Elias was quiet for a moment before he leaned back on his hands, staring up at the night sky. The stars flickered above them, stretching endlessly, the same way their ambitions did. “You know, when I first started at the academy, I thought the same thing.”
Aurelia turned her head toward him, surprised. “Really?”
“Yeah,” Elias admitted. “I was surrounded by all these brilliant minds, and I felt like I was barely keeping up. Some days, I thought they had made a mistake letting me in. But then I realized something—failure is just part of the process. Every mistake teaches you something.”
Aurelia sighed, playing with a loose thread on her sleeve. “I know that, but it’s still frustrating.”
Elias chuckled. “Of course it is. But you’ll get there, Lia. You’re already amazing. And one day, I bet you’ll be better than all of us.”
Aurelia smirked, though there was warmth in her eyes. “You just don’t want to admit I’m gonna surpass you.”
Elias grinned. “I’ll admit it when you prove it.”
Aurelia’s frustration melted into laughter, and she leaned her head against his shoulder, finding comfort in the familiarity of it. “Thanks, Elias.”
“Anytime, shorty.”
=
Later that night, as they returned inside, Viktor caught sight of them from his workbench. He didn’t say anything at first, simply watching as Aurelia playfully nudged Elias before running ahead, laughing. Elias rolled his eyes but followed, their bond evident in every movement.
Viktor turned to you, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “They remind me of us,” he murmured.
You chuckled, leaning against him. “They do, don’t they?”
“They push each other forward,” Viktor continued, glancing down at the blueprints spread across his desk, ones that Elias had worked on, ones that Aurelia had excitedly scribbled her own ideas onto. “It is a good thing.”
You nodded. “They’ll always have each other.”
No matter how much time passed, no matter how many responsibilities came their way, one thing remained certain—Elias and Aurelia would always be each other’s biggest supporters.
At sixteen, Aurelia reached a milestone that she had dreamed of for years—she had been accepted into the academy. It was a moment she had worked tirelessly for, countless nights spent hunched over blueprints, endless trial and error with her inventions, pushing herself to learn more, to be more. And now, all that effort had finally paid off.
The acceptance letter arrived in the afternoon, delivered directly to their home. When she saw the academy’s insignia on the envelope, her heart nearly stopped. Hands trembling, she tore it open, scanning the words as her breath hitched.
Congratulations, Aurelia. We are pleased to inform you...
She didn’t even finish reading before she let out a loud squeal, bolting from the room. “I GOT IN!” she shouted, nearly tripping over herself as she ran to find her family.
Viktor and you were in the study when she burst in, waving the letter wildly in the air. “I GOT IN!” she repeated, out of breath, eyes shining with disbelief and excitement.
Viktor stood up immediately, his cane barely keeping up as he moved toward her. “What?” he asked, his voice softer but full of urgency.
“The academy! They accepted me!” Aurelia beamed, thrusting the letter into his hands.
Viktor’s eyes scanned the words carefully, and for a moment, he simply stared. Then, slowly, a proud smile stretched across his face. “moje malá hvězda” (My little star) he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. “You did it.”
Tears pricked at your eyes as you pulled her into a tight hug. “Oh, sweetheart, we are so, so proud of you.”
Before she could respond, heavy footsteps thundered down the hall. “What’s all the shouting—WAIT, DID YOU ACTUALLY GET IN?”
Jayce skidded into the room, eyes wide, looking between the letter in Viktor’s hands and Aurelia’s beaming face. “Of course I did!” she huffed, placing her hands on her hips. “Did you ever doubt me?”
Jayce let out a loud laugh, picking her up in a tight hug and spinning her around before setting her down. “You’re gonna be running that place in no time, kid!”
And then, before she could even turn, she was tackled into another hug—this one from a Elias.
“I knew it,” Elias murmured, arms wrapped tightly around her, his voice thick with emotion. “I knew you’d do it.”
Aurelia clung to him, squeezing back just as tightly. “I wouldn’t have made it without you.”
Elias pulled back just enough to smirk at her. “Well, yeah. Who else would have been your test subject for all those crazy inventions?”
Aurelia laughed, wiping at her eyes. “You love my inventions.”
“Yeah, yeah,” Elias teased before ruffling her hair. “But seriously, I’m so proud of you, Lia.”
=
That evening, the entire family celebrated. Viktor brought out a rare bottle of wine, something he had been saving for a special occasion, and Elias, now twenty-one, was finally allowed to share a proper toast. Aurelia, however, at only sixteen, was stuck with juice—at least, officially.
Jayce, ever the mischievous uncle, leaned over while Viktor and you were preoccupied, subtly sliding his glass toward Aurelia. “Go on, just a sip. A little celebratory drink never hurt anyone.”
Aurelia’s eyes widened with excitement, but she hesitated, glancing toward Viktor and you. “If Tata and Mama see—”
“They won’t,” Jayce assured her with a wink. “Just be cool about it.”
Elias, watching from across the table, snorted. “You’re the least subtle person in the world, Uncle Jayce. Tata and Mama absolutely see.”
Sure enough, Viktor had already turned his gaze toward them, one brow raised in silent warning. You, seated beside him, had your arms crossed, giving Jayce a knowing look. “Really, Jayce?” you said, exasperated but amused.
Jayce cleared his throat, pulling his glass back with an exaggerated innocence. “Right, right. Juice it is.”
Aurelia pouted but took it in stride, dramatically sighing as she lifted her glass of juice. “One day,” she muttered. “One day, I will get my moment.”
Viktor smirked, tapping the rim of his wine glass. “Not for another few years”
You reached over to ruffle Aurelia’s hair, laughing softly. “Enjoy your youth while you can, sweetheart.”
With that, the family finally made their proper toast. The house was filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and warm congratulations, marking the start of a new chapter in their lives.
=
Later, when the night had settled and the celebrations had quieted, Elias and Aurelia found themselves sitting on the rooftop, just like they always had. The sky was clear, the stars stretching endlessly above them, a familiar sight they had both grown up under. The cool night breeze carried the distant sounds of the city, but up there, it felt like they had their own world—just the two of them.
Aurelia sat with her knees tucked up to her chest, her acceptance letter still gripped in her hands. She stared at it for a long moment before letting out a soft breath. “It feels weird,” she admitted. “Actually being here, knowing it’s happening.”
Elias leaned back on his hands, glancing at her with an amused smile. “What, did you think they’d turn you down?”
She snorted. “No, I just… I don’t know. We used to talk about this like it was some far-off thing. Like ‘one day’ I’d get into the academy. And now ‘one day’ is today.”
Elias hummed thoughtfully, tilting his head back to look at the stars. “Yeah. We did a lot of dreaming up here, didn’t we?”
Aurelia smirked. “We still do.”
Elias chuckled, nudging her with his shoulder. “Guess that’s true.” He let the silence stretch between them for a moment before speaking again, this time quieter. “You know, you’re not the only one who’s realizing how fast time is moving.”
Aurelia turned to him, curiosity in her eyes. “What do you mean?”
Elias sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I guess I didn’t really think about how much we’ve grown until today. I mean, you’re not that little kid anymore who needed me to walk her to school or fix her broken toys.” He smirked. “Now you’re fixing things better than me.”
Aurelia gave him a playful nudge. “I learned from the best.”
His smirk softened into something more thoughtful. “Yeah, but still. It’s weird, you know? Watching you go from that tiny, nervous kid who clung to my hand on her first day of school to… this.” He gestured to her acceptance letter. “You’re about to do something incredible, Lia.”
She looked down at the letter, a small smile tugging at her lips. “You always believed I would.”
“Of course I did.” Elias nudged her again. “You’re my little sister. I knew from the start that you’d be something amazing.”
Aurelia bit her lip, hesitating for a moment before she reached into her pocket. Slowly, she pulled out something small and smooth—the tiny, worn rock Elias had given her all those years ago on her first day of school. She turned it over in her palm before holding it out to him.
Elias blinked, looking at the rock, then at her. “Lia…”
She smiled, pressing it into his hand. “I think it’s time I give this back.”
Elias stared at it for a long moment before closing his fingers around it. “You sure?”
Aurelia nodded. “Yeah. I don’t need it anymore.” She grinned. “Besides, maybe you do. You know, in case you ever forget how great you are.”
Elias laughed, shaking his head, but there was something fond in his expression as he tucked the rock safely into his pocket. “I don’t think I’ll ever forget, shorty. But… thanks.”
Aurelia leaned against him, her head resting on his shoulder. “We’ve come a long way, haven’t we?”
Elias smiled, draping an arm around her shoulders. “Yeah. We have.”
And in that moment, under the vast expanse of the sky, it became clearer than ever—no matter where life took them, no matter how much changed, Elias and Aurelia would always be each other’s greatest supporters.
Note: I'm officially rewriting an old Arcane fanfic I had written back in 2022. I'm no longer satisfied with the original one and feel like there is a lot to improve.
Also Read on Ao3
“Listen, do you hear that? Something’s under there…” One of the enforcers pointed out.
“It’s coughing. Someone’s under there! Quick, move the debris!”
The enforcers worked together to help clear the rubble. They took a step back, surprised to see what was trapped under there.
A young girl groaned in pain, her limbs cramped up from the rubble. An ashy substance covered her hair, face, and clothes. She coughed, the dust from the explosion still hung in the air. From what they could see, she’d only received a few minor cuts on her face that seemed would heal with time.
“A little girl?” one enforcer remarked.
Viktor blinked, frowning in confusion. When Professor Heimerdinger told him to go and note the situation, he agreed, as always. He had been under the assumption that all it would involve was taking dangerous items and a person into custody, as well as probably some paperwork.
Now, plans had changed. Finishing it was going to take longer than he thought. Finding a child slightly buried in rubble from the explosion was definitely not what he had in mind.
“Do you think she was involved with the robbery?” Jayce spoke up, ignoring how the cuffs had started to dig into his wrists.
“Not sure… we’ll probably have to question her,” Grayson answered.
Viktor bit down the urge to scoff. “Question her? Look at how young she is. How could she possibly be involved?”
“We question everyone who is a suspect. However, she needs to be examined for injuries first.”
The kid didn’t move. Her breathing began to grow louder as a masked enforcer started to reach their hand out to her.
Every thought in Viktor’s head was telling him to stay out of it. He had already said something. He didn’t need to interfere more. This wasn’t his job. But seeing the panicked breathing of the young girl was gnawing at him.
As he was about to speak up, Grayson beat him to it.
“I’ll examine her wounds. Being so young and in such a state, she is… intimidated by your mask.”
Viktor let out a breath of relief he didn’t know he’d been holding.
“Come on out of the rubble, child, it’s not safe. We need to make sure you’re okay, is all.” Grayson crouched down and held out her hand, hoping the girl would take it.
The girl’s breathing didn’t slow. She glanced around the room, meeting Viktor’s eyes. He tried giving her a subtle nod, signaling that they weren’t here to hurt her. Arline slowly reached out her hand before suddenly pulling back. She shut her eyes, quickly shaking her head no.
Grayson tried not to show her frustration. “Please, we’re running out of time here. We’re only trying to keep you safe.”
“If I may…” Viktor stammered for a second.
Every enforcer looked at him. Meanwhile, Jayce stayed silent. At least dragging this out meant he’d stay out of jail for a while longer.
She sighed. “Worth a shot, I suppose.”
Viktor slowly moved to crouch down in front of her.
The clothes she was wearing made him realize where she had come from. The familiar look of multiple layers to help with the cold, as well as multiple stitches from fixing each little hole or tear. He had no doubt that she was from the Undercity. Though she would need a new outfit, seeing as her current clothes were hardly useable anymore after the explosion.
“It’s okay, we’re not going to hurt you,” Viktor spoke gently. “You’re from the Undercity, right? I’m from there as well.”
Her eyes lit up in surprise. Her breathing slowed somewhat, realizing that she wasn’t in danger. She tilted her head, still giving him a wary look.
“Come on, all we want to do right now is to make sure you’re not hurt, well, hurt worse than those cuts on your face. Is that okay?” He held his hand out.
She stared at him before looking down and then back at him. Finally, she reached her hand out. Viktor held onto her hand as he pulled her out, using his cane to help him stand up again. She held on tight to his hand, as if he was a life raft. Viktor didn’t care, just relieved he was able to convince her to come out.
The enforcers were grateful for his help for once. His presence there meant they were able to clean and bandage any of her wounds, as well as check her for any signs of concussions.
“I’ll have the others take her to the station, and we will finally be able to resume our current investigation,” Grayson decided.
When one of the enforcers grabbed her hand, she immediately started to resist, crying and trying to break free.
“No! No!” She sobbed, struggling against the enforcer. “Let me go!”
“Wait.” Viktor found himself interjecting. “I can take her for now… I’ll speak with Councillor Heimerdinger about our situation.”
“This is highly irregular, but seeing as we have no other options, I’ll allow it.”
The enforcer let go of her hand and she immediately ran and hid behind Viktor, peeking her head out. Her crying had quieted down, only quiet sniffling at this point.
“It’s, um, it’s alright, dear.” He slightly patted her shoulder.
---
“Can’t believe Powder lost all the stuff, as usual,” Mylo scoffed. He held a tiny mirror in his hand, checking to see how badly he was bruised. His broken reflection stared back at him, the mirror had been cracked multiple times throughout the years.
“I did my best!” Powder argued. She pulled her knees to her chest, trying to ignore the burn in her throat.
“Guys, I thought I told you to knock it off,” Vi interjected. “Powder is safe. That’s what’s important.” She glanced over at her sister.
“Whatever, I’m just saying she had one job. Don’t lose the stuff. And what does she do? Lose it,” Mylo grumbled.
Vi furrowed her brows as she thought, her face slowly morphing into a frown. She got up from her spot and began to pace somewhat. Normally, Mylo’s griping wouldn’t get stuck on repeat in her head. Now, however…
“Vi? What is it?” Powder looked up at her.
“Don’t let Mylo’s whining get to you,” Claggor added.
“I was not whining—”
“Stop talking,” Vi commanded. She glanced down at the floor, briefly touching her chin as she thought.
Everyone immediately froze. This wasn’t her usual annoyed tone. They all looked at her, confused.
“Has anyone seen Arline?” Vi looked back up at them.
“What does that little pipsqueak have to do with anything?” Mylo rolled his eyes.
Vi quickly shushed him, earning an offended look back.
“Now that you mention it… she’s not hanging around us like she usually does.” Claggor furrowed his brows. “Which is nice for once, but…”
Powder was uncharacteristically silent. Vi met her gaze once again, noticing a weird look on her face.
“Powder… what do you know? Spill it,” Vi prompted.
She chewed on her bottom lip, trying to avoid her eyes for as long as she could.
“Okay, okay! I may have noticed Arline trying to follow us earlier…”
“And you didn’t think to say anything?” Vi’s eyes widened in shock.
“I didn’t think she would actually try to follow us!” she defended. “I thought it was impossible. She’s younger than I am!”
“Did either of you see her?” Vi looked at them.
“No, but she’s small, and she knows how to stay out of sight usually,” Claggor said.
“You know I would’ve said something if I had noticed another… obstacle join us.” Mylo shot Powder a dirty look.
She glared at him, turning away.
Vi muttered curses under her breath. This couldn’t be happening. After everything that happened, and now one of their own, potentially lost. She always knew the girl looked up to them, but to actually follow? She’d only done practice runs at this point, pick-pocketing at the most. But a full-blown heist?
“Vi? What are we gonna do?” Powder asked. She glanced down, not meeting her sister’s gaze.
Vi took a breath, sitting on the arm of the couch as she thought.
“We tell Vander none of this, understand?” She looked at them. “I’ll handle this. I’ll go looking for her. She must’ve gotten lost topside. Or… someone brought her in. She’s young enough, they’d help her.”
“You can’t, it’s too risky after today,” Claggor pointed out.
“I have to try.” She frowned. “And I’ll be careful, I promise.”
The rest of them shared an uneasy look.
“You three can try looking around here just in case. If Vander asks where I am, tell him I’m… tell him I’m out.”
“Out? Out doing what?” Mylo scoffed in disbelief.
“Getting something for Powder… or something. Anything that’s believable. We were out today with no problems.”
“That was before the explosions, though,” Claggor said.
“Guys, please.” She sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose.
They hesitantly nodded.
“We have to look out for our own. We know this,”
“Be careful, Vi,” Powder murmured.
“I know.” She gave her a reassuring smile.
---
Viktor had decided to take her to his place for now. She needed to rest and recover after the day she’d had. But he knew he’d have to deal with Heimerdinger and the enforcers about this soon. As well as the other case on top of that.
He sighed, placing his keys down on the table by the door. The girl still clung to him, eyes wide as she looked around the place.
“This is my home. You’re welcome to stay, um, at least right now.”
She felt brave enough to let go of his hand, slowly walking around the place and taking it in. Before he could say anything, she sat down on his couch, leaning into the cushion.
“It’ll be such a pain to clean off the soot…”
“Are you hungry?” he asked.
She nodded.
“What would you like? I believe I have some fruit around here… or maybe crackers…”
“Soup,”
“Finally, she speaks.” He thought.
“Um… that could be arranged. I think I still have a can of vegetable soup. Do you want that?”
“What?”
He had a puzzled look on his face. It wasn’t like he was talking extra quietly. Surely it wasn’t his accent.
“I said I have some vegetable soup. Do you want some?”
She nodded.
“Good, I’ll get started on that. In the meantime… would you want to clean up? You’d feel better after getting all of that mess off you,”
She glanced around, unsure.
“Oh, the bathroom is right down that hall.” He pointed. “It’s not too far and I’ll still be here if you need me.”
After some consideration, she got up from her spot and headed toward the bathroom.
Viktor hadn’t been around kids much. The only time he could think was whenever Heimerdinger wanted him to go with him to visit some of the youngest academy pupils. But that had been quite different.
Could a possible seven or eight-year-old run her own bath? Should she? He tried to remember what he could accomplish at that age, though it was fuzzy. And besides, not every kid was the same. Maybe she had someone at her home who helped her, parents, perhaps.
“Actually, you know what? I’ll draw a bath for you.” He quickly stepped in front of her right as she was reaching for the doorknob. “And I’ll have to get you something to wear…”
Now that would definitely be a problem. Where would he even find clothes for her? He should’ve thought this through more.
“You can wear one of my shirts as a gown for now… I guess.” He sighed, shrugging a bit.
---
After getting it worked out, she sat down at the table, waiting for her meal. Her hair and face were clean. He had to roll up the sleeves for her, otherwise the shirt would just completely swallow her up. It practically did, though she seemed calmer, so there was that.
Her old clothes, scraps more accurately, were left in a pile on the bathroom floor. Despite the state they were in, he couldn’t bring himself to throw them away. They were all she had currently.
Viktor stood in the small kitchen, facing away from her as he was getting ready to bring her soup over. “I was hoping maybe we could talk. What’s your name?”
“What?” she asked.
He held back a sigh. It didn’t seem like she was messing with him, but still, something was off. He ignored it for now, bringing her bowl over to where she was sitting. He sat down across from her.
“Careful, it might be a tad hot. I asked, what is your name?”
“Arline,” she answered.
Now they were getting somewhere.
“Arline, that’s a nice name.”
Arline allowed a small smile on her face. “Sometimes people get it wrong, they spell it like A-R-L-E-N-E, but there’s a I instead.”
“I know the feeling. I’m Viktor, with a K instead of a C.”
“Viktor?”
He nodded.
She repeated his name a couple of times under her breath, testing it out. The delicious smell of the soup got to her, and she immediately started scarfing it down.
“Hey, careful. I don’t want you to choke on it.” He warned.
She listened and began to take her time more.
He couldn’t really blame her. He remembered how long it took for him to adjust to Piltover meals at first. Viktor rested his face against the palm of his hand. A small frown slipped. This day wasn’t going like he’d planned. Though he figured he was dealing with it the best he could.
“So… do you want to talk about what happened?” He broke the silence.
Viktor knew the enforcers would want to question her eventually. Maybe if he could ask her a few questions himself, then she wouldn’t be forced to go through that.
Arline shifted in her seat. She glanced down at her soup, taking small bites as requested.
“Okay, let’s start with something easier. How old are you?”
“How old am I? Seven,” she answered.
“There’s no way a seven-year-old attempted that heist, maybe whoever did… left her? But… why?”
“Seven is a nice number to be,” Viktor commented.
Arline chuckled. “How old are you, Mister Viktor?”
“Very old. You’d never guess.” He joked to lighten the mood.
She giggled. “You don’t look old, old, just… grownup age.” She took another bite of her soup.
“Thank you.”
---
After a bit of coaxing, Viktor managed to get some important information about Arline. As he’d originally assumed, she hadn’t been involved with the heist whatsoever. No theft, no explosions. She had simply wanted to be included in her group and snuck away last minute. That also meant that she was most likely left behind by accident.
She wouldn’t say who was with her, no matter how much he tried to convince her. Yes, what they did was wrong, but he was more worried about not being able to reunite Arline with her group. He hoped whoever left her behind would come back to get her.
Later, the enforcers showed up at his place, demanding to question the kid. After explaining all that he knew, they seemed satisfied enough to leave her out of the main investigation. Though he knew the law would get involved again in trying to return her. Perhaps Heimerdinger could help instead. Though that was for another time.
For now, he had some time left with her before the trial and his work. After the slight questioning about what happened, their conversation turned more casual. She was starting to open up more, little by little.
“I like your stick, I mean cane! Sorry…” she spoke, looking at his cane currently propped up against the couch next to him.
Viktor chuckled shortly. “You’re fine, and thank you.”
“I could make something for it, like a little pocket bag thingy!” Her eyes lit up.
“You know how to sew?” he asked.
Viktor knew the basics of sewing, but it wasn’t something he particularly focused on perfecting. The majority of Zaunites knew at least how to hand-sew. It was often a lifesaving skill to have.
She nodded. “Yeah, I’ve made lots. I got to use a sewing machine one time. It rattled so loudly, but that’s because it was thrown away and then fixed up.”
“I know that there are a few sewing machines at least around the Academy… non-rattling ones. Perhaps I could borrow one that you could use. Would you like that?”
“Yes, please!”
“We will have to see.” He had a small smile on his face.
“I could fix my clothes,” Arline muttered to herself.
Viktor sighed. “I don’t know, dear… you could try.”
He knew her clothes were beyond basic repair. Maybe could be fixed with lots of patchwork. However, even that was a bit of a stretch. He didn’t want to crush her hopes of fixing it, so he kept this to himself.
Viktor glanced at the clock. He would be late if he didn’t get a move on. If it was later, he would’ve tried putting her to bed. However, it was still too early for that. It felt wrong to leave her by herself, but it didn’t feel right to bring her as well. All those people and prying eyes might leave her feeling overwhelmed.
Realization shone on his face. Sky was nearby. Or at least it seemed like it, since she had asked before in the past if they could walk home together after work. He wasn’t expecting her to babysit, but surely she would be open to helping in case of an emergency.
Using his cane, Viktor stood up from the couch, working his plan through his head.
Arline looked up at him, tilting her head. “Where are you going?”
“Listen, Arline… I have some errands I need to run, but I should be back tonight,” he hesitated. It was clear she had some separation anxiety. “I will be back tonight.” He corrected.
“But where are you going?” She stood up as well.
“It’s just some work stuff,”
“Can I come?” she asked.
Viktor sighed. “I think it would be better if you stayed here… but don’t worry, I’ll show you how to get in contact with me if anything happens. We use this… tube system. Are you familiar?”
She nodded. “A little.”
“Okay, good. If anything happens, you can send a message to Sky. She’s a friend, and then she’ll send a message to me, understood? I’ll show you how everything works before I go, okay?” he explained.
Arline glanced down at the floor for a moment, frowning but ultimately nodding.
“We also need to get your sleeping situation set up… the couch should suffice. I’ll grab an extra pillow and blanket for you.”
“Oh…” she murmured.
“What’s wrong?” He paused his slightly frantic planning for a second.
“I didn’t think I’d be away from home for so long…” She shrugged.
He gave her a sympathetic frown. “I know, and I’m sorry.”
“Thank you for letting me stay, Mistor Viktor,”
“You’re welcome, Arline.”
---
Viktor’s guilt grew louder in his head as he made it back to his apartment. He hadn’t meant to get so swept up in work… and Jayce’s discovery. But how could he not? This was groundbreaking. Reality set in as he worked on unlocking his door. The fact that he had left her all by herself, in a strange and new place… at least he had managed to let Heimerdinger know about what was going on currently.
He quietly opened the door, careful not to make too much noise. If Arline had a bedtime, she was well past it. The lights were off as well, but he’d navigated his place in the dark plenty of times, usually when he was awake working on stuff late at night. Thankfully, the curtains didn’t stop the bright moon from shining in somewhat as well.
Viktor sighed in relief when he found Arline fast asleep on the couch, curled up with the soft blanket he’d provided. She had been fine while he was gone, though the worry he’d felt didn’t feel worth it to him. He would have to be more mindful of his time.
He scoffed to himself, shaking his head. He was overthinking it. Arline was only supposed to be here temporarily, anyway. Viktor headed to his room, but not before he looked back at the girl one last time.
---
Vi sat down on the worn-out couch, a defeated look on her face. “I swear I looked all over, as much as I could manage with the enforcers breathing down our necks, and it’s like she just… vanished. Gone.”
“We looked all over down here too… nothing,” Claggor replied.
Mylo looked down at the floor, fidgeting with his hands. A genuine frown showed on his face.
“But… what if she’s still out there somewhere?” Powder asked, still hopeful.
“I’m not saying she’s not out there, Powder, but wherever she is, I can’t get to it.” She ran a hand down her face, exhausted from her search efforts. “And I’ve had to be extra careful…”
They immediately froze when they heard Vander walking down the rickety steps. Right as he entered, they tried acting as normal and nonchalant as they could.
“Have any of you seen Arline? She’s not at the bar asking me to make her a cup of juice as she normally does,” he asked.
“Oh, um, she’s off… playing with some of the youngers,” Vi responded casually.
“Right, just wanted to ask.” He sighed. “I know she’s not always around here, but she’s still young. Just keep an eye on her.”
“Of course,” Vi replied.
“Will do!” Mylo chuckled nervously as Vander went back up. “This is not good.” He whispered.
Vi ran a hand through her pink hair. She clenched her jaw. “If I can’t find her soon, I don’t know what’ll do.”
“I know you’ll find her, Vi.” Her sister gave her a reassuring smile, touching her arm.
“Thank you, Powder,”
---
Viktor sat in front of Professor Heimerdinger’s desk, giving him a general update as he’d requested. He subtly fiddled with his tie, anxious about the next piece of news he had to say.
“Also, I feel the need to inform you that it has been a week since Arline, the girl, was found in the explosion. No one has claimed her so far…”
“A week? Hm, I wasn’t aware,” he replied.
“What should we do, Professor?”
“I suppose we’ll have to find someone to be her guardian until she can eventually go back home,” Heimerdinger suggested.
“And what if, worse case, she won’t ever be able to go home? If they really don’t come and claim her…?” Viktor asked.
“Then… I guess the guardianship would be permanent, or I believe adoption is a more appropriate term,”
“She doesn’t trust anyone. She clearly still needs a lot of help to process all that she’s been through.” Viktor pointed out.
“She appears to trust you,” Heimerdinger responded.
Did she really? Trust was a strong word, but it did seem like he was the only one she felt safe around. And she couldn’t be convinced to be watched by someone else. Trust or not, they definitely had a bond.
“Maybe… Professor, where are you going with this?” He raised an eyebrow.
Heimerdinger ignored his question, pondering to himself. “Yes, that could work…”
“What could work, sir?”
“You could be a mentor of sorts to Arline! Yes, I think that would work splendidly. You could raise and look after her, my dear boy!” He clasped his hands together.
“I’m sorry, could you repeat that? I fear I may have heard you wrong…” He blinked.
“Arline could be a sort of apprentice to you. I think that would work out nicely! What do you say, Viktor? I think you two would be an excellent team, so to speak.”
His first instinct was to say no. This was supposed to be just for a few days, not a lifetime.
But before he could give his answer, he took time to seriously think it over. It could be good to have someone to pass down knowledge to. And Arline was a good kid. She sort of reminded him of himself when he was around her age.
Sometimes it got a little lonely being by himself, he had to admit. At least Jayce was his new friend and partner, but maybe another addition to his circle of relationships would be good. This couldn’t be for his benefit though, he couldn’t be selfish. Viktor had to decide what was best for her.
She would probably have more opportunities if she stayed with him. He recognized that she’d have a better life in general if he accepted this.
And it wasn’t even a hundred percent. There was always a chance she’d be taken back by her family, even if it grew slim with time.
“Yes…” Viktor agreed, albeit reluctantly.
“Wonderful, I’ll tell her the news!”
“Wait, I think I should be the one to…” Viktor tried to interject, but Heimerdinger was already making his way out of the office, heading toward Arline’s direction.
She had been waiting outside for Viktor, originally scribbling on some paper with a pen Heimerdinger had given her. Though she’d lost interest and began to explore the halls. Viktor grabbed his cane and followed the Professor.
“Arline! I’ve got great news to share,” he said.
“What?” She shouted.
“Over here, dear girl!”
Arline looked around until she spotted him. She ran towards him and Viktor.
“You really ought to get her hearing checked.” He joked to Viktor.
When he wasn’t looking, Viktor rolled his eyes and shook his head.
“What did you say? Mister Heim… Heimer…” She stuttered.
“Hei-mer-ding-er,” He corrected.
“Oh, sorry, Mister Heimerdinger,”
“It’s quite alright, I have news I need to share,”
“Okay,” she said, picking up the paper and pen she’d left on the floor.
“It has been decided that since nobody has come to claim you, Viktor will look after you until further notice,” he announced.
Viktor glared at him for how bluntly he said it, but Heimerdinger didn’t seem to notice.
“What?” Arline’s voice wavered.
“He’ll be your mentor, of sorts. He has lots to teach. I think you’ll learn great things from his teachings,” he explained.
Her eyes began to water, and she felt her chest tighten. “Nobody came to… get me?”
“Well… um… yes?” Heimerdinger tilted his head.
The tears in Arline’s eyes threatened to spill. Her throat began to sting. She started crying and hiccuping, unable to hold it back any longer.
“Nice going Heimerdinger…”
“Look, Arline, it’ll be okay. Let’s just take a second to take a deep breath,” Viktor interjected.
She took off running the opposite way, sobbing the whole time.
“I… thought she would’ve taken that better… hmm.” Heimerdinger frowned. His reaction was more of a calculation gone wrong rather than genuine concern.
Viktor sighed and facepalmed. He liked the Professor, but despite his wisdom, he really couldn’t read the room sometimes.
“I’ll go after her,” he said.
“Oh, are you sure? She ran quite far away. That’s a lot of walking…”
“I’ve got it handled, Professor,” Viktor interrupted.
“Alright, I’m terribly sorry for causing this. I really didn’t mean to make her upset…” he spoke.
“You should tell her that, not me.”
“I will after things have settled down,”
Viktor left him standing there, going after Arline.
---
“Arline? Arline!” Viktor called out as he searched for her.
Deep down, he had this small fear that she had decided to run away. Surely she couldn’t have gone far. She had to still be in the Academy building. His fears went away as soon as he could hear her sniffles and sad whimpers.
“Arline?” he asked.
He found her curled up alone in a corner. She hugged her knees close to her chest and hid her face. Beside her on the ground was her paper and pen, now displaying a sad doodle of herself with big tears running down. He frowned, his heart aching for her.
Viktor tapped her on the shoulder, causing her to jump and scream.
“It’s okay! It’s me, Viktor, you’re safe.” He quickly tried to calm her down, kneeling to her level.
“Don’t sneak up on me!” She reacted out of anger.
It took him by surprise. This was the first time he’d seen her angry, though he didn’t blame her.
“But I didn’t sneak up on you. I was calling your name the whole time… nevermind, it doesn’t matter. We need to talk.”
“I thought Mister Heim—Heimerdinger did that already,” she muttered, looking away.
“Err, well technically yes, but I think I could explain it better if you’d let me,”
“Fine…”
“But could we talk somewhere else? I know you’re sitting on the floor right now, but I think I need an actual seat at the moment,” he added. “You ran very far.”
“Okay, sorry…” Arline mumbled.
“It’s okay,”
She stood up, wiping her eyes, following Viktor.
---
As soon as Viktor unlocked the door, Arline walked into the living room and hopped onto the couch. She sat patiently, waiting for Viktor. She watched as he took some sort of pill with a glass of water.
“Are you sick?” she asked.
“No, no, not sick. My chronic pain is flaring particularly strong today, so I’m taking medicine to help with the pain,” he explained.
“Ohh… what’s chronic?”
“It means something that happens forever.” Viktor sat down beside her on the couch. “So… we need to talk. I don’t believe that this will be an easy conversation to have, but it is necessary,” he started.
Arline looked at him and furrowed her eyebrows.
“Let’s start with the facts. You’ve stayed here for a week,”
“That’s a long time…” she remarked.
“I’d say it is in this situation,” he added. “The longer you stay, the less likely it means that you could potentially go home… Since it’s been a week, the window is starting to close.”
“What do you mean?” Arline asked.
“I’m saying that I’m trying to prepare you for the worst outcome. That you wouldn’t ever be… claimed. Add two more weeks and it would have been almost a month…” Viktor wasn’t sure he was doing any better than Heimerdinger, but he was at least trying.
“So… I might not see my family again? Or go home?”
“That is a possibility…” He winced.
Arline stayed silent. She kept her gaze trained on the floor.
“They forgot about me… right?”
“Oh, I don’t think forgot is the right word. Sometimes some... barriers make it difficult,” Viktor spoke.
“I’m really screwing this up, aren’t I.”
“They gave up looking?” she asked.
Viktor sighed, struggling to keep a more neutral expression. How was he possibly supposed to explain a concept that even adults have trouble accepting?
“I am not saying that.”
“Then what?” she questioned.
“I… don’t know…” he admitted, fidgeting with his hands.
“What?”
“I said, I don’t know. I’m sorry, but I don’t have an answer as much as I would like to.” Viktor frowned. “I’m so sorry Arline.”
Her eyes started to well with tears. “But you’re a scientist! You have all the answers!”
“Unfortunately, that’s not always the case,”
Arline sunk back into the couch cushions, wiping her eyes. “They left me and didn’t come back…”
Viktor’s chest ached. There was no simple solution for this.
“It’s possible that they assumed you were taken in and cared for… I don’t know how likely that is, but it’s definitely a possibility.” He placed his hand on her shoulder. “I don’t know if knowing that helps or not…”
She turned away from him, curling up more on the couch.
“I know this isn’t the outcome you wanted, but I’ll try to help you in any way that I can. You deserve that after everything that’s happened,” Viktor spoke. “I’ll tell you if there are any updates about your situation, as long as you’re here, okay?”
She turned her head and nodded.
“I know you probably know this, but it’s okay to be sad, dear.”
She nodded again, wiping her eyes.
“So… am I going to be adopted?” she finally asked.
“Well, Mr. Heimerdinger was the one that suggested it, but only if you’d be okay with it. He says that I should be a mentor to you. Look after you. Be your guardian,” Viktor answered.
“So, like it is now?”
“Yeah, I suppose so, but more permanent?” he added. “Don’t make an immediate decision on this though, it’s a big choice,”
Arline thought for a while. She didn’t really know anyone else, and there was no way she’d get placed with a random family she didn’t know. Viktor was the best choice. He was genuinely kind to her and didn’t talk down to her like Mr. Jayce and the enforcers did.
“Okay, I’ll wait.”
“Alright, for now, I’ll try to help you get settled in here more. I’m still sorry about the situation…”
“Not your fault. Don’t say sorry,” she replied.
“You’re very smart, but I’m sure you know that already,” Viktor complimented.
Arline allowed a small smile to appear on her face. She leaned against him. “Thanks, Mister Viktor.”
---
After a long day, it was nice to lie down and drift off to sleep for the night. Viktor pulled the bed covers closer, slowly falling asleep.
Until he heard quiet footsteps.
He covered his eyes with his hands until he heard her walking closer. Viktor turned on his side, facing an Arline-shaped silhouette in the dark.
“Mister Viktor, can I have a cup of water?” She stood by the side of his bed, staring at him to make sure he was awake.
“Shh, whisper, please, and didn’t I already get you a cup earlier?” he murmured.
“I drank it,”
“All of it?”
She nodded.
“And you’re still thirsty?” he questioned.
Arline glanced down at the carpeted floor. She moved her foot against it, feeling the cool and fluffy texture.
“Not really…” she admitted, voice now timid.
Viktor begrudgingly sat up. “What’s really the matter, hm?”
“I had a nightmare… and I’m not used to sleeping all alone…”
Was Viktor about to lose sleep? Probably. Did he already do that on a regular basis? Pretty much.
“Okay, sleep on the other side.” He pointed to the empty side of his bed.
Arline smiled and ran to the opposite side. She pulled up the sheets and settled in comfortably. “This is a very nice bed, Mister.”
“That was one of the nice surprises I had found out about when I moved here,” he replied. “Anyway, I know your feet are cold, so don’t touch me with them.” Viktor joked.
“How do you know if I got cold feet?”
“It’s a… hypothesis,”
“So, a guess?” she asked.
“Go to sleep, Arline,”
“I need to tell you something first…”
“Okay.” He sighed, struggling to stay awake.
“Do you think I couldn’t be claimed because… they died somehow?” She whispered.
Viktor turned to face her, all the sleepiness suddenly shocked out of him.
“Let’s hope not. Why this question before bed?”
“That’s what the nightmare was about…” Arline confessed.
He cautiously reached his hand out to hold hers. “I’m sorry,” he murmured.
She squeezed his hand for comfort.
“One last thing before sleeping. Promise it’s not sad, okay?”
“Okay,”
“I can’t hear in my left ear,” she said.
“At all?” he asked.
“Yeah,”
All the times she had asked him to repeat something, every time she had trouble finding him when he called her, the times she would focus her gaze on people’s lips; lip reading. It all suddenly clicked in Viktor’s mind.
“I can’t believe Heimerdinger’s joke was right…”
“So, do you not like me now?” she asked.
He stared at her in disbelief. “What? Why wouldn’t I like you?”
“People get annoyed with me about it, that’s why I waited to tell you,” she said.
“Arline, I’m sorry if I made you feel like you couldn’t tell me until now. That’s not right.” He sighed.
“It’s not, um… personal. I don’t tell anyone till I know they’re nice,” she replied.
“Doesn’t make it right still, you deserve better,”
“Thanks,” she said.
“I know that one day you won’t have to do that, have to hide a part of yourself, hoping it’ll be sooner than later,” Viktor responded.
“Thanks for the talking. I’m ready to go to sleep now.” Arline smiled.
“If you want, we can talk more about it tomorrow,”
“Okay! Cool..” She murmured before falling asleep.
Viktor chuckled shortly to himself at how fast she’d fallen asleep. He turned back over, trying to settle in and get sleep as well.
