Arbryanna's Bedtime

“You cannot expect to simply smile pretty and receive another story, dear girl.” Hawthorn laughs as he pulls the blankets up over the small girl’s frame.

Moving to a standing position on her bed, Arbryanna exclaims, “Frog says I just have to smile and you’ll give in to my every ask.” A giggle resounds through her room.

“Remember, Frog was the first of us to fall for that smile. Just like your mother’s, my sweet.” He coos and attempts to catch her wrist before she bolts for the door but he misses. That fiery colored hair bellowing behind her.

A hearty laugh filters around the corner as Kieran leans in the doorway scooping her up into his arms. “You go giving up our secrets and you’ll never get the last pumpkin tart ever again.” She struggles against his hold.

“Lockhart says you dote on me and that I’m going to be spoiled. Spoiled like sour meat? Or milk? Or-”

In unison, they respond, “Like your mother.” “Mommy’s not spoiled! She’s sweet like candy.” Her girlish giggle turns to a squeal. “Daddy, put me down.”

Kieran chuckles. “Only if you promise you’re curling up into bed and going to sleep.” Carrying her over to the bed she reaches out for Hawthorn who receives her gently.

“I promise.” She says. Tucking her in and placing a kiss on her forehead, Hawthorne whispers into her ears, “Remember little one, the deadliest flowers in the forests trap their prey with the sweetest candy.”

Kieran sat on her other side of the bed and leans over, “Good night, Princess Arbry, Evader of Bedtime.”

“Goodnight Frog, Goodnight Turnip.” She yawns and curls up on her side.

Taking his hand, Kieran leads Hawthorne out of the room and down the hallway.

“How do we always get stuck with bedtime?” He asks leaning over to place a chast kiss to the nape of Hawthorne’s neck.