Jayden’s voice was gentle but firm as he wiped down the counter, glancing over his shoulder at the small boy perched on a stool. Three-year-old Andrei’s bottom lip jutted out, his dark curls bouncing as he shook his head.

Elijah stood behind Jayden, one hand resting on his husband’s lower back, coffee mug in the other. His grey eyes watched the exchange with quiet amusement, though his expression remained neutral. A faint crease between his brows was the only sign of his growing attention.

Andrei’s face reddened. His little fists clenched at his sides.

The word hung in the air like a slap.