Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Self-Care is something Janus values, he believes it's required for a healthy mindset, and for the most part, he's correct. He does tend to lean into selfish territory at times, usually, that's when one of the others will step in to shut down his ideas. However, in situations like these, he believes being selfish is acceptable. After all, Regression is a great way to relieve stress.

Janus hadn't done anything really. He definitely didn't slip two pieces of candy under each of the twin's door, or a coloring book under Patton's, or a Little Einstein DVD under Logan's, oh and he would never slide nightmare before Christmas under Virgil's door—because while a regular watch for all of them, if the anxious man watches it in a negative headspace, usually it causes him to regress. 

He resents the accusation.

In all honestly, he merely handed the match, he wasn't sure the flame would even be lit ablaze until he walked into the living room and noticed Roman wearing a red tutu with overalls and a stitch t-shirt underneath. To accessorize, rainbow knee-length socks clung to his legs and a variety of bracelets clang together. To top it off, a paper crown dangled in his hair, laying lopsided as a piece of tape held it in place. He seemed to be searching for something, well, Janus theorizes it was rather someone. Specifically, a certain demon child.

Yes, while they resent each other in big space, the twins are nearly inseparable in little space. Janus found it quite cute and has indeed blackmailed them with photos of the two of them holding hands and napping together before. Jokingly, of course, he knows how rocky their relationship is when they're mentally adults, so he usually uses it as a personal way to tease the two. What can he say? Flustering Roman is amusing, but he finally found something that Remus would blush over. He wasn't going to give that one-in-a-lifetime opportunity up after the many times Remus had his face lighting up like a bright red tomato.

He watched as Roman toddled around, Janus would be a fool not to notice that Remus was obviously hiding behind the couch. He said nothing on the matter and merely walked further into the living room, having a seat on the couch. He watched as Roman shifted his gaze over to him, his cheeks immediately flushing pink at his presence. He admired how little personalities can clash with big ones so greatly. Little Roman is extremely easy to fluster, it's quite cute.

"What are you doing, Little prince?" He questions, cocking his head to the side, urging him to explain the game.

Roman smiles, seemingly finding an ounce of confidence and fiddles with his tutu. "M'pwaying hide n' seek with Mus!"

Janus hums and allows his lips to quirk up. "Oh, are you now?"

Roman giggles and nods his head. "Uh-huh! And— Ands imma wins!" He declares, flashing a large grin, chest puffed out.

Chuckling, Janus nods. "I'm sure you are, keep searching. He's around here somewhere—"

"BOO!"

Roman screams a very manly scream and glares at Remus as he doubles over, clutching his stomach as he cackles. Janus hid behind his hand as he couldn't help but chuckle as well.

"Remus!" Roman whines, stomping his foot, his cheeks bright red as he crossed his arms.

Remus got out his last few giggles and Janus scanned over his outfit in amusement. He's wearing a neon green pair of overalls with a plain black shirt underneath. It seemed he was in the mood for bright colors, as he wore mismatched socks—one being a purple sock with red stripes, and the other being a colorful bug-themed sock with ladybugs and caterpillars spread across it. To go along with his neon theme, his bracelets shined with color, a few of them specifically used for teething as well—he has a tendency to chew on items that he shouldn't.

"Now Roman," Janus soothes, catching his slightly teary eyes. "Remus was only playing, I'm sure he didn't mean any harm. Would you like a hug?" He asks, sitting up. Roman sniffled and nodded, shuffling over. He plopped down on his lap, burying his face into his neck and Janus gently rubbed his back with one hand while he used the other to hook under his bottom as he stood. Roman squeaked and Janus suddenly had a feeling he knew why Roman was far more upset than he usually would be. He turned towards Remus, whose shoulders had slumped in guilt. He pouted at the ground and Janus hummed, carrying the other over before popping an extra set of arms out, ruffling Remus' hair, catching his attention.

"You aren't in trouble Goblin, Roman just got a bit frightened. How about I put on Sesame Street while I go help Roman with something? After we return, we'll all bake cookies," Janus offers, smirking as Remus perks up.

"Can I has gummies?" He asks, bringing his finger to his mouth. Janus quickly waved his hand away and nodded, summoning the gummy, knowing they're sensory heaven for the man, and handed them over after opening it for him. He ruffled his hair and Remus plopped down on the ground, grinning as Sesame Street is put on. He mostly enjoys the show for Oscar.

Carrying the other mentally aged toddler, Janus headed down the hall, bouncing Roman as he whined quietly into his shoulder. The man frowned as he heard a soft sniffle and shushed him softly. "Dear Prince, what's the matter?" He questions, entering his bedroom. The rooms are designed to suit their mental age. Depending on what age they're feeling, it's accustomed to what they need and want. Glancing around, Janus took note of the race car bed with bars on the sides, indicating he's definitely in about a toddler headspace. If Janus had to guess, possibly two or three.

Roman didn't give him an answer, he merely wiggled uncomfortably and began lightly chewing on his capelet. While merely a slight sensation, Janus was quick to push him off, ignoring his whine. "Ah, ah no chewing dear," He insists, swiping his thumb against his cheek, clicking his tongue at the stray tears.

"Why the tears?" He asks, cradling him as he sniffled yet again and fisted at his eyes. "It was an accident dear, no reason to feel embarrassed," He assures him, moving to grab a spare pull-up from the bottom drawer of his dresser.

"M'big bwoy," Roman murmurs. "Big bwoys not supposed to have accidents!"

"Now who told you that?" Janus counters, setting Roman on his feet momentarily to begin the changing process. He easily slid his tutu down before he worked on the overalls. He hushed Roman as he whined and wiggled, cheeks glowing at this point. Usually, Janus would allow him to change himself, but he didn't think he was mentally old enough to do so himself. He didn't want him putting it on wrong and causing leaks. Luckily, consent had been given at the beginning of their adventures through little space, so Janus knew he wasn't violating his privacy in any aspect that he hadn't consented to beforehand in big space.

"Lo dids!" Roman tattles, jutting out his bottom lips. Admittedly, the other had said it mostly out of anger as the two had been bickering, he didn't know he would take it to heart.

Janus raised an eyebrow at the claim and hummed. "Oh did he now?" He murmurs. "Well, Logan's silly, accidents are very normal, especially when Remus decides to scare you, don't feel embarrassed. Besides, that's what it's for," He assures him, cleaning him up before he tossed the soiled pull-up away and held out the new one, helping him step into it. After a small tumble, Janus secured the pamper and tugged his overalls and tutu up before scooping him back into his many arms.

"There we are, I bet that feels much better hm?" He teases, smirking mischievously as Roman buried his face into his neck again. He decided to have mercy and began carrying him towards the living room again when a soft giggle caught his enhanced snake hearing. He stopped in front of Patton's light blue door and raised an eyebrow. He stood there for a moment, double-checking that his ears weren't deceiving him before smirking as another string of sweet giggles rang in his eardrums.

He lightly knocked on the door, and a squeaky "Come in!" was all he needed before he cracked the door open, peeking in. Patton sat on the ground, the frozen themed coloring book he had slipped him earlier laid wide open with markers and crayons surrounding him. With a quick glance, Janus had a feeling he was about six or seven. His room is, of course, frozen themed with many stuffed toys and dolls scattered across the room. Patton glanced up from a pair of Lalaloopsy's and allowed them to drop the floor.

"Hi!" He chirps, waving both hands. He has an adorable headband on with a sparkly blue bow on it along with a few other hair accessories dancing around, probably falling loss in his curls. Janus didn't think the hairstyle was trendy but rather heart-clenching at how utterly adorable it is. He is also wearing baggy Frozen-themed pajamas with rainbow fuzzy socks, and many, many bracelets and rings. Janus swore he noticed his lips shimmering as well, possibly lip gloss had been applied. Janus wouldn't be surprised if so, they all enjoy experimenting with makeup in little space—well, Logan wasn't the biggest fan of it, but sometimes he's roped into makeovers as well.

"Hello little lamb," Janus greets, smirking as Patton's face heats up at the pet name. "Would you like to join us? We're going to be baking cookies and I know how much you love showing the little ones how to do it. You're my sweet little helper, aren't you Bambi?"

Patton gave a shy, bashful nod before standing. He carefully stepped over the mess he would clean later and grabbed at one of Janus' many hands. He followed him towards the living room, shifting a bit uncomfortably at the sight of Remus. Even in little space, the other tended to unnerve him.

Setting Roman next to his brother, he summoned two more packs of gummies and handed each of them to the two. "I have to grab Virgil and Logan as well, you three behave and sit here alright? Patton, I know you're a bit big for Sesame Street so," Janus begins, summoning a tablet. "You may play on this for a bit."

Patton beams, gladly taking the tablet. Janus makes a point to keep them away from tablets and laptops when little. The most technology they receive is the television. Not that they usually minded. It's nice to play dress-up games or funny dog games once in a while though.

With everyone entertained, for the time being, Janus decided to tackle Virgil first. He tapped his knuckles against his door and held his breath.

He wasn't surprised when he was met with a glare. However, peeking into his room, he recognized the somehow even more emo style of it all and concluded he had a moody teenager on his hands.

"What do you want?" He snips, headphones around his neck. His shoulders are rolled back and he curled into himself slightly. He's wearing his hoodie with a My Chemical Romance t-shirt underneath. Nothing much had changed except for the fact that his anxiety was probably off the roof and his mindset rivaled one of a teenager, or possibly even a preteen.

"My apologies," Janus calmly states. "Didn't mean to disturb Spiderling, we're making cookies, would you like to join us?"

He hesitated, pursing his lips. After a moment of fiddling with fingers, he shook his head.

Raising an eyebrow, Janus didn't push. "Would you like me to bring you some when they're done?"

"...yes."

Janus smirked and lightly ruffled his hair, snorting as Virgil glared at him and swatted at his hand. "You'll mess it up!"

"My hand slipped," He insists before his expression suddenly dropped to a serious tone. "If you need to talk Spiderling, my door is always open. I know how difficult teen space can be, remember, even teenagers can have hugs. Also, no coffee, it'll make you jittery. The cookies should be ready in about half an hour," He explains. With a nod, Virgil hesitates before slowly reaching for Janus. Janus' usual smirk is replaced with a soft smile as he gently tugs the other into a small hug. After a few moments, he plants a kiss on his head and pulls away, pleased with his flustered expression.

"You're lame," Virgil huffs.

"Oh hush and go on and listen to your screaming music."

Rolling his eyes, Virgil shuts the door. Janus glanced down the hall at the last door that lit up in a beautiful shade of indigo. While often forgotten in the rainbow, Janus hadn't forgotten about the logical side one bit. He was merely dreading it. Logan is the most stubborn one of them all, most of the time he practically has to force him into little space. He wishes he would comprehend how to relax.

Oh well, Janus will admit he enjoys watching Logan crumble. It's cute, he acts serious, and yet, with a little Einstein's DVD, he is left quietly singing along to the theme song, aware that anyone could hear him. He's left mindlessly playing with baby mind games, or, if older, playing with child safety-approved experiments—usually with the company of Remus. If older, say a dorky preteen who spends his days playing Minecraft, he remains without a necktie—unless it's dress-up time.

As Logan said, serious people wear neckties.

Strolling down towards the last door of the little ones, he gives the courtesy of knocking on his door. He had a feeling it would leave him nowhere, but, he had to give Logan the benefit of a doubt. Who knows, maybe he was already in headspace and babbling along to the DVD he had slipped him.

"What is it?" Logan's slightly irritated tone called out.

...Or not. No matter, plan B.

"May I come in?"

After a moment of hesitation, Logan sighs heavily. "Fine. Yes, enter."

Hiding a smirk, Janus gladly entered, his lips falling as he saw the DVD had not been moved, which also lead Janus to the assumption that the other hasn't left his room at all. He plucked it off the ground, his eyes scanning over the room. Logan isn't in little space yet, but Janus watched as he tightened his grip on his hair and knew that wouldn't last long.

"Ah yes, you need a break," Janus identifies, setting the DVD aside. He easily reached the other, grabbing his shoulder gently as he spun him around, not at all pleased by the tired bags forming beneath his eyes. Logan glared at Janus but he watched in satisfaction as it faltered as Janus narrowed his eyes in response to said glare.

"No I do not," Logan growls, attempting to shrug off Janus' hand, only to squeak as he lightly squeezed it.

"You do little owl."

"Don't call me that!"

Janus slowly grinned at the whine, watching as Logan pinched his face up, his cheeks flushing pink at the childish sound that slid past his lips. "Oh? Why not? Don't tell me someone's feeling small," He cooed, a devious edge to his tone. Logan knew he was mocking him, it was his way of breaking him down.

"I am not small, don't be ridiculous," Logan snaps, shoving his hand off. "Leave," He demands, clenching his fist as his voice involuntarily quivered.

"I don't think I will, I'd hate for such a small owl like yourself to be left alone. What if you fall over hm? Who will kiss your boo-boo? Or if you're hungry? Who will make your lunch and separate your food because you can't stand for it to be touching hm?" Janus lists, raising an eyebrow. "And heavens knows what a small thing like you would do if you had an accident. You'd probably get a rash—"

"Shut up!" Screams Logan, his cheeks lit ablaze while his eyes shined with tears. He stomped his foot and crossed his arms. "M'not a baby!"

"Oh? And why not?" Janus asks, softening his tone. He watched as Logan sniffled and dipped his fist under his glasses, nearly knocking them off.

"C-Cause- nobody listens to babies!"

Janus hummed softly and gently tugged Logan into a hug, which he accepted with little resistance. Digging his head into his chest, Logan clenched his fist around his shirt and melted in his hold. "Really? But babies always have so much to say, who wouldn't listen to a baby?" He croons, stroking his hair. "I think my tiny Raven is simply overthinking and that just won't do," Janus insists with a click of his tongue.

"B-But I—"

"How would my Robin like to make cookies with Patton and the twins? Afterward, I'll put on little Einstein and get you your cube with all the pretty shapes and colors and you can figure out where each shape goes. How does that sound dear?"

Biting his lip, Logan hesitates, but as Janus watches his bedroom shift to one of a nursery, he already knows the answer.

"S'ouds goods..."

Janus smirked in victory and pressed a kiss to his forehead. "Excellent, let us get you pampered and into far more age-appropriate clothing. You're far too little for a necktie."

Logan blushed red and bobbed his head, ducking it into his shirt with a whisper of "Kay."

Janus knew he would have five littles on his hands for a few days, their stress always creeps up on them whether they like it or not. No matter, Janus never minded, they're his dear babies and he would take care of them when they won't do it to themselves.

Chapter Text

Baking is an activity that often occurs in the mind palace. Many sweets are cooked to match their tastes, for example, Virgil's favorite sweet is the peanut butter cookie, while Patton's is the overly sweet sugar cookie with mountains of frosting and sprinkles. The twins share a love of cake, while Janus and Logan prefer pie over any other.

Their baking recipes aren't limited to the items listed, they enjoying trying new recipes, some are wins, other fails—aka the pickle pie monstrosity—but even so, each time is better than the last. 

Today is a baking day it seems. Janus had promised everyone that cookies would be made, so, he carried Logan off to the kitchen as he gathered up his little ones, not at all fazed by the amount of energy as they all seemed eager to bake and make a mess as always. In times like these, Janus deemed it acceptable to make a mess. What're cookies without flour right? 

He had dressed Logan in an age-appropriate outfit as promised, it consisted of an oversized black sweater with yellow stars on it with short overalls over it, and to match, the yellow was used in his knee-high socks as well. He had made sure to get him padded up just in case too, he didn't want any messes, well, any that don't involve sugar and flour that is. While flustered, Logan seemed to be letting go a bit as he easily slipped into headspace. He remains shy, but not overly so, instead of hiding his face away, he is now glancing around curiously while lightly chewing on his teething bracelet, the said chewing silicone parts are shaped like planets. 

"Cookies!" Remus chirps, growing impatient even if they had only just entered the kitchen. Janus snickered at his enthusiasm and wagged a playful finger at him. 

"Patience my dear goblin, you'll have your cookies." He assures him, chuckling as he sticks out his tongue. 

"Are we making chocolate chip?" Patton asks, a hopeful twinkle in his eye as he begins grabbing the milk and butter from the fridge.

"Yeah!" Cheered Roman while clapping his hands. "Chocolate chip! Chocolate chip!" 

Janus snorted and cradled Logan who rested his head on his shoulder, wiggling in his arms. Janus spared him a short glance before setting him on his feet. He immediately latched onto his side and buried his face into his neck. With a playful roll of his eyes, Janus lifted him onto the counter instead. 

"We can do chocolate chip," The caregiver assures, beginning to grab flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, chocolate chips, etc. He's made these cookies many times, but he knew everyone would want a turn in helping. Because of this fact, he brought all the ingredients over to their kitchen island, laying out the correct measuring materials and such before grabbing the youngest in headspace and plopping him into one of the chairs at the said island. 

"Alright, what do we do first before touching anything?" Janus questions them, specifically eyeing Remus who pouted at the question. 

"Wash our hands!" Chirps Patton before eagerly moving towards the sink. Nodding with a small smirk, he allowed Patton and Roman to go first, but seeing as Remus hadn't moved yet, he knew he would need a bit of persuading. 

"Remus," Janus cooed, only to be ignored as Remus turned to the side, his pout still present on his lips. "Don't you want to make cookies? You can't help if you don't wash your hands first, there are many germs on your fingers."

"Adds fwavor!" 

Janus cackled at such a claim, and his laughing earned a small smile from his Gremlin. "Well, if the cookies were just for you, then I wouldn't mind as much, however, they're for all of us, and while you enjoy your extra flavoring, I don't think any of us will. So, if you want to help with the cookies then you must wash your hands." 

Remus huffed but reluctantly dragged his feet over to the sink while Janus grabbed their aprons. He draped his on, that of course reads "Kiss the Cook" on it. It's bright pink as well, having been a gag gift. He refuses to wear it unless they're in little space. As he put it on, he ignored the little giggles from his babies and threw playful glares at them as he helped Logan with his galaxy-themed apron. 

"All clean!" Remus shrieks after washing his hands, while Janus suspected he didn't scrub along to the happy birthday song as he had taught him, he took the excess bubbles on his hands as a win—that means he actually used soap this time around. Because of his allergy, they had to experiment with different types of soap, and eventually found that scentless ones work best. 

"Great, then put on your apron," Janus insists as he carries Logan over to the sink to help him wash his hands as well, only to raise an eyebrow as the other pushes his hands away. 

"M'wanna do it," He says, beginning to pump soap on his hands, scrubbing it in. 

Janus shrugged and glanced over, narrowing his eyes as he noticed the twins attempting to sneak a few chocolate chips. He cleared his throat, catching their eyes as they froze, their expressions shifting to one of guilt. Well, Roman's did, Remus took the approach of "well I was already caught" and knocked back a handful of chocolate chips. 

"Boys," Janus scolds lightly, but, judging by his tone he wasn't upset. "We need those for the cookies, you can eat the extras after."

"Sorry," Roman says sheepishly, fiddling with the hem of his shirt. Janus smirked and beckoned his little lion over, ruffling his hair as he grew close enough. 

"It's alright, I'm not angry," He assures him. 

"Done," Logan exclaims, showing off his dripping hands. Janus chuckles and grabs a napkin, drying off his hands before carrying him back over to his seat. He clapped his hands together and glanced around at his audience. 

"Next step?" 

"Shouldn't you already know?" Remus complains, not one for being patient. 

"Yes well, it's been a minute, and I want to be sure you all know what to do as well," Janus insists, of course, he knows what's next on the agenda, but he wanted to know if they did, besides, if they didn't he would love to show them again. 

"Now we measure the ingredients!" Exclaims Patton, eager to help as he moved closer, hoping he would get a turn in measuring out the ingredients. 

With a nod, Janus hands one of the measurements over to Patton. "We'll need one cup of granulated sugar, you can be my little helper and scoop out the sugar can't you fawn?" 

Patton's cheeks burned a light pink, but he bobbed his head, eagerly taking the measuring cup from him and dipping it into the container of sugar. He was sure to wipe the excess off the top before tipping it into their big, orange bowl. 

"Does anyone remember what we do with the wet and dry ingredients?" Janus quizzes, standing clear in case any mess was made or he needed to stop a sudden disaster. 

Roman gasped and immediately bounced up and down. "I do! I do! We separate them!" 

Janus nodded his head and handed the measuring cup over to him once Patton was finished. "That's right, we need one cup of brown sugar as well."

"I wanna do one," Remus whines, followed up by a similar noise escaping Logan as well. 

Janus clicked his tongue and shook his head. "Patience, everyone will receive a turn, there are plenty of ingredients to be passed around, we have only just begun." 

After the brown sugar was dunked into the bowl as well, Janus thought of his next question. "What do we do when taking cookies out of the oven?" 

Remus pouted at the said question, feeling very targeted. "We put on da stupid hand covers," he grumbles. 

Janus smirked. "And why?" 

"So we don't get an owwie," Logan finishes, smiling shyly as Janus cooed. 

"What smart boys I have, Logan you can do the next one after Remus."

"I wanna do the flour!" Chirps Remus as he reached for the bag, only to whine as it was tugged out of his reach. 

"You wish Goblin, you're doing the baking soda," Janus insists, setting the flour to the side. He grabbed the measuring spoons and found the teaspoon and handed it off to Remus. The little monster punched a new hole in the box, ignoring the existing one, and tugged the spoon out so hard that some of the baking soda flung out. Remus glanced over at the mess, and then back at Janus with a cheeky grin. 

"Oops."

Janus snorted and shook his head. He'd clean the mess up later. 

After dumping the baking soda in, the spoons were handed off to Logan. He opted to act the complete opposite of Remus and his chaotic nature and used the half of a teaspoon to dip into the baking powder gently, carefully bringing it to the bowl before flipping it over. After, he beamed and glanced up at Janus, who pecked at his head. 

"Great job my little owl, very good. I'm proud of all of you, now for the flour—"

"I wanna do it!" Chirps Roman, suddenly grabbing at the bag. It fell forward, spilling everywhere, which only fueled Remus' excitement. 

"Snowball fight!" He cheers, taking a handful of the flour. 

"No Remus—" Janus was interrupted by a makeshift flour snowball being thrown at his face. He blew out, causing a wind of flour to fall off him, and the sound of his littles laughing had him grinning deviously. 

"Oh? You find this funny do you?" He asks, running his gloved hand over his face, wiping excess flour off as he moved their bowl of ingredients out of the way so they wouldn't ruin their progress so far. The giggling littles glanced at each other before nodding their heads, and suddenly, Janus was armed with his own "snowballs". 

" We'll see about that!" He exclaims, tossing a fleet of flour at Remus, he laughed at the impact and Janus yipped as Roman joined in, throwing his own ball of flour. 

"Take that viwwain!"

"I believe you're looking for the word 'villain' dear." Janus mocks playfully, dodging another cloud of white as Patton joined. 

"I said that!" 

"Nu-uh, you didn't," Logan insists matter of factly.

"See? Lo, you're on my side," Janus insists, suddenly grabbing the man, causing him to squeal and cling to his papa as he hid behind the island while his other group of littles mercilessly attacked the area with flour. 

"Coward!" 

"Now boys, can't we settle this over a nice cup of warm milk with a cookie?" Janus calls out while Logan giggles in his lap, beginning to grab his own "snowballs". 

" Can I throw one?" He whispers to Janus. 

Janus grins evilly and nods his head, carefully setting him to the side. Logan stands and peaks his head from behind the island before tossing the flour at Roman's face, laughing loudly at his startled expression. He stumbled back and whined, stomping his foot.

"Hey! Dat was means!"

"Was not! Papa said I could!"

"Okay, okay," Janus disputes, standing as well, wiping a bit of excess flour off his person. "Let's go back to baking yeah?"

Roman huffs and glares at Logan while the little genius merely sticks his nose up and struggles to climb back into the chair. With a bit of boost, he sat at the island and Janus brought the bowl back over after wiping some floor onto the ground, it's already covered in the substance anyway, no use trying to be clean when it's already a huge mess. 

"Flour?" Remus asks, scooping a handful of flour up, only to be quickly stopped by Janus. 

"No, no, we'll use the flour that's in the bag, I don't trust the table," Janus explains, reaching into the bag with the measuring cup. He began scooping each cup at a time, leaving the total amount of cups at three. Once in, he sped through the rest of the dry ingredients before switching out the bowls, grabbing a new one for the wet ingredients.

"Now," Janus begins. "Do we use the same type of measuring cup?" He questions. 

"No!" Patton squeaks, shuffling closer to Janus, wanting to be there to help. "We hafta use the liquid one!"

Janus nodded and smirked. "That's right, and with these liquid ingredients I'm going to help you all with pouring it in, we already have flour everywhere, we don't need milk as well." He explains, grabbing the correct measuring cup. He grabbed the milk off the table and opened it for Patton before handing it along. 

"Two hands dear fawn," Janus reminds, watching carefully as Patton holds it by its handle and supports the bottom with his second hand. Sticking out his tongue in concentration, he carefully poured the milk into the cup. Once finished he set it down and grinned, beaming at his achievement—even if he did spill a bit. 

"I did it!" He squeals, clapping his hands, only to whack his hand right into the jug, knocking it over. Janus immediately dove forward, grabbing the jug before it could spill further, and sighed, especially as Patton visibly inflated. 

"No, no dear it's alright," He assures as Patton opened his mouth to apologize. "At least it's on the table," He adds, easily swiping it up with a paper towel. He gave his head a quick peck and accepted a hug from his carebear. 

"Can we put them in the oven yet?" Complains Remus, growing bored of the activity, even though digging his toes into the flour of the ground was fun, watching the scene before him was not. 

"Patience Oscar," He teases, ignoring Remus' antics as he blew a raspberry at him.  "We can't have cookies without the ingredients. Unless you want me to pour them all by my lonesome?" 

"If Ree doesn't wanna do it then I call takin his turn!" Roman insists, leaning up against the table further while Remus huffed. 

"I wanna do it too!" 

"Then have patience." 

Remus huffed and slumped. He wanted to put his hand in the oven already! 

"Now, moving on."

---

As each ingredient was added one by one, with a surprisingly limited amount of spills and tears, Janus was finally able to combine both the dry and wet ingredients and mix them with an electric mixer. While the little ones wanted to mix as well, that was a hard no from Janus. No way in hell were they using the electric mixer that's for sure. 

Once mixed and chocolate chips folded in, he placed the cookies on the pans and carefully placed them in the oven. 

"Now, we wait," Janus announces, earning groans from his twins. He chuckled and merely lifted Roman onto the island. He ignored his puzzled expression and grabbed a rag, briefly wiping at the flour of his feet and face. Eager to be cleaned and pampered, Roman gladly sat still. 

Remus not so much. 

"Noooo! Don't wanna be cwean!" Remus whines, kicking his feet while Janus attempted to grab at his ankles. He wrinkled his nose at the very smell of them and managed to hold each leg still enough to wipe them down. Of course, it's a temporary solution, they would all need baths later, including himself, however, he wanted to get to work on the kitchen, which means the little ones will have to stick it out in the living room, which works out perfectly since they have to wait for the cookies to finish cooking. 

"Remus, that's enough now," Janus reprimands, carrying him and Roman to the living room, setting them on their feet. "Now go and play while I clean the kitchen."

"Papa m'wanna be cwean," Logan calls out, attempting to swipe at the flour of his overalls. Janus glanced over briefly and nodded. 

"I'll be right there Raven," He assures his littlest one. He turned his attention back to the twins and firmed his expression. "Don't step foot in the kitchen until I say so, understood? I don't want flour all over the house. You can even watch cartoons—"

"Deal!" They cheer in unison, stumbling over to the couch, away from the kitchen just like Janus wanted. With a breath of relief, he turned and had Patton cleaned as well, however, he left Logan in his seat. He was too small to leave alone, and Janus trusted him enough not to climb down. With all his littles occupied, he began sweeping the flour up. 

Even with the large messes and near arguments, Janus wouldn't have it any other way, cooking with his little ones is the highlight of his week. What he wasn't looking forward to was the massive sugar rush that would commence after their cookies and milk.

"Papa?" 

Janus glanced up from his sweeping to his baby Robin, raising a curious eyebrow. 

"Yes, dear?" 

Logan fidgeted for a moment. "M'wuv you."

Janus melted at his words, and an uncharacteristic smile fell on his lips. 

"I love you most my sweet Raven, would you like a bottle of milk as we wait for our cookies?"

Logan nodded his head, slipping a finger into his mouth, gently sucking on it. With a nod, Janus set the broom aside for a moment to fill a baby bottle filled with milk. He carried it to his baby and lifted him into his arms, holding the nub to his lips. With pink cheeks, Logan reluctantly latched on and nuzzled closer. Spouting his extra pair of arms, Janus used them to continue sweeping as he fed Logan his bottle. 

Janus wouldn't have it any other way. 

A loud crash had Janus' head shooting up, and he groaned to himself. 

"Jaaaan! Remus broke the table!" 

"I did not! It was Ro!" 

"Was not!" 

With a deadpan expression, Janus pressed his lips together. 

Yup, he wouldn't have it any other way. 

Chapter Text

Family game night is a typical family activity used to bond with the people around you and enjoy a fun, civil game. There's laughter and sometimes snacks. 

Well, that's overrated. 

Janus decided a game day was far more entertaining, besides, instead of merely board games, Janus expanded on their field of games, searching for board, card, and virtual games that could fit his littles interests. It was an entertaining experience to day the least, of course, it's a day dedicated to games, but that didn't mean it wasn't just a normal day of their routine as well. 

It was merely a coincidence he had manage to create game controller-shaped pancakes using a variety of dyed colors and a griddle. They came out better than he would have ever imagined, and served his littles with their desired toppings. It's not everyday they received pancakes for breakfast, so Virgil, his anxious little bat, stared suspiciously at the food rather than devouring it as Roman and Remus did. 

And yes, they did use their hands. 

And yes, they did become drenched in syrup, leaving Janus glad to his decision to leave them in their pajamas until after breakfast. He would have to pat himself on the back for that one. 

"Why are we having pancakes?" Virgil demands, watching with squinted eyes as Janus carefully cut Patton's pancakes up for him, the sleepy little barely registering his favorite breakfast item, having had a rough night due to horrific nightmares. Janus poured a generous amount of syrup over the pancakes and topped them with whip cream and sprinkles. At the sight, Patton smiled and took his plastic fork, eating the pancakes cheerfully. 

Glancing over at Virgil, Janus offered a sweet smile. "We're having a fun day today, just take a look at your pancakes." 

Virgil pursed his lips and wiped the whip cream off the top of his, eyeing the unusual pancake shape. "...a game controller?" 

"We're having a game day," He announces, catching the attention of his littles. 

"A game day?" Logan questions curiously. "Does that mean we can play Minecraft?" 

"We can play whatever you want, all day we'll be playing all sorts of games. We don't have to do it together, you guys can do it in pairs, individually, and so on. However, I figured we could all use a day of fun, so I've gathered many options of games we could play. What do you all say?"

The littles glanced at each other from their spots at the table and the twins broke out into identical grins. 

"That sounds awesome!" Cheers Roman, dropping his form into his syrup, allowing the sticky substance to transfer onto his sippy cup as he scooped it up and sucked at his orange juice. 

"Yeah! We can play Sorry!" Remus chirps, causing a chorus of groans do follow. Sorry is the most unforgiving board game alive, leaving it to be his and Janus' favorites. 

"It sounds lame," Virgil says, nibbling at his pancakes. "So I guess I'll join."

"That sentence is illogical," Logan huffs, leaving Virgil to smirk smugly at him. 

"So is your face." 

"That sentence is also illogical—"

"Boys," Janus calls, ending their bickering. "Enough bickering and eat your pancakes." 

"Papa m'all done!" Roman cheers, showing off his messy plate and stood, bouncing up and down. "We play now!" 

"After a bath," He insists, knowing there wasn't anyway he was going go to get out of having one. Remus turned, scowling at the sound of a bath, and wrinkled his nose. 

"No bath!"

"Yes bath," Janus argues, seeing as Remus wasn't in any better shape them Roman, he knew he would need one as well. He noticed syrup dripping down his cheek and frowned, running a hand through his hair and grimacing. 

"How'd you get it in your hair?!" 

"Hair gel!" Remus chirps, flashing a cheeky smile while Janus groaned. 

"Yup, definitely bath time," He grumbles. Glancing over at Patton, who, despite using a fork like a good boy, did still manage to smear syrup all over his face. Janus decided that was an easier task than his little demon twins and began wiping at his cheeks with a warm, damp washcloth. 

"Virgil, do me a favor and grab Roman and Remus a set of clothes will you? Bring them to the bathroom please," Janus requests, grabbing at the back of Remus' onesie as he went to run. 

Virgil merely nodded and stood, bringing his and the little ones plates to the sink before heading towards the twin's bedroom to grab their outfits for the day. 

Once Patton was all clean, he set the smallest of the bunch today on his feet. He immediately clung to his side instead of running off to play and Janus sighed and merely allowed his extra set of arms to appear do he could hold his three little ones. 

"Logan, why don't you pick out a game for us to play hm?" 

Logan glanced up from his pancakes, nearly finished as well, and tilted his head. "Just one for us?" 

Janus smiled and nodded. "Yes, just us, I want to play a game with each of you." 

Logan gave a small smile and nodded,   before heading off to do as told. Janus glanced at his three wiggling littles in his arms and sighed. 

"Alright, bath time."

---

Logan waited in the living room, Janus always seemed to go above and beyond when it came to themed days. The TV was far bigger than usual, towering over the furniture and had all types of different games towered near it, controllers and consoles scattered around as well, all to the users choosing. With the electronics set up, Janus also put in the effort to set out plenty of board games to choose from, and even then, would summon any other game for them to play if asked. He simply knows his little ones prefer seeing options instead of being asked an open ended question of "What would you like to play?" 

Games range beyond simple board games and electronics of course but Janus simply figured if they had something specific in mind they could ask. Logan didn't care either way, he had picked a checkers board for them to play, chess was a bit too advanced for him at the moment. He didn't feel too small, nor too big, more of an older kid. Definitely a big kid. 

He sat on a comfy beanbag, sinking into the beaded chair, waiting patiently for everyone to diverse. Even though he was definitely a big kid, he wasn't great at time keeping and according to him, Janus had been gone for at least two hours now, which was far too long. He was about to go looking for him when Virgil walked in, headphones around his neck, tucked loosely under his hood, his smudged eyeshadow darker than normal to emphasize his teenage edginess. 

"Is Pa- Janny coming?" Logan asks, swallowing a little at his slip. If Virgil noticed he didn't comment on it, merely shrugging as he took a seat on the couch, beginning to set up one of the gaming consoles. 

"Dunno, he was giving the twins a bath remember?"

Right, Logan thought with a soft frown. How long did baths take again? Hours? He wasn't sure. He was usually so good at telling time but the clock on the wall was confusing, was the big hand minutes or hours? He forgets. 

Logan was at his wits end a mere five minutes later. It must have been ages since they left! He was about ready to rush off and find his papa because what if something had happened? Though, his worries were eased as Janus stepped through the door frame, two now clean twins rushing off past him. Patton stayed on his hip though, gnawing on a bee themed teether, having been changed out of his sticky clothes from before as well and adorned a fuzzy cat onesie instead, a pacifier clip hanging on to the neckline and dangling there just in case he needed it. 

While Logan didn't spring to his feet and immediately tackle his caregiver into a hug like a small part of him itched to do, he did sit up a bit straighter and watched as Patton was set on the couch, his eyes trailing and watching the big screen, quickly enchanted by the classic tune of Mario playing over the speakers and bright colors of the game. 

"Hello dear Raven," Janus greets, sitting across from him with a soft smile. "My apologies of my absence love, I did try and speed things along, Remus simply put far more syrup in his hair that I anticipated." 

Logan felt a warmth wash over him at Janus' tone, it was so warm and soft, and made his stomach feel fuzzier and he admits, he didn't feel like such a big kid anymore. Before he wanted to play checkers but now the game Go fish had caught his eye, he adored marine life and he could see all the different kinds of fishies on the box! He realized Janus was staring at him, looking him over, most likely trying to decipher where his head at and swallowed a little. He was bigger earlier so he had to be as big now. It was game day, and playing games with babies is never fun. 

"It's okay," He says, fidgeting with his tie a little. Janus calls him his little business man when he wears a tie in little space. It's the only way he'll let him because ties are for serious people, and little ones don't need to be serious. He wasn't usually so anxious, that was more Virgil's forte, but his caregiver had been gone for so long which was scary. 

It's almost as if Janus could read his mind and just knew, somehow he always just knows when something was wrong! "Little owl, is something the matter?" His tone had shifted ,ever so slightly, concern dribbling through the sweetness, his eyebrows furrowing ever so slightly. This only made Logan squirm, his candor nature pulsing violently in his throat, itching to claw it's way up so he merely shook his head. That way, Janus couldn't taste his lie either. 

Little did he know, Janus wasn't an idiot and even if he couldn't taste that lie, he knows his little bird enough to know when he was feeling nervous or upset. But instead of praying, Janus' did what he does best, he decided to play a game. 

"Alright then dear, you wanted to play checkers then?" He asks, tapping at the board to emphasize his reasoning for the question. Logan gave a short nod, looking over the table. All he had to do was jump over his pieces, that's super simple! He could play this. "And," Logan glanced up as Janus' voice rang out again. "You're sure you don't want to play another game instead perhaps? I did just find a limited edition Star Trek designed Go Fish," Janus explains, flicking his wrist, having the said pack appear from what seemed like no where, a smirk gracing his features as Logan visibly perked, his lips falling open in awe at the trick, and the sight of the cards. 

"That one!" He blurts out without a second thought, bouncing slightly in his seat. "I wanna play that one!"

"Oh what a wonderful choice my sweet raven," Janus croons, easily setting the other game aside and began to deal the cards. "I'm sure you'll do quite well. We'll play a few rounds and then it'll be the twins turn to pick some game to play with me, how does that sound Robin?" 

Logan gave a mere bob of his head, entranced by the cards, barely paying attention to his words. Janus snickered low, and quiet, peering over at the twins who seemed to have opened up Trouble and decided that was their game for now. While the popping sound was always atrocious, everyone seemed quite happy for the time being so he went about his time, entertaining his little bird. Janus figured after he got through a few rounds with each of his little ones, they could find some kind of game to play together, even if two seemed to be on the littler side at the moment. 

With Janus playing along with such a simple game, he won a few rounds but ultimately allowed Logan to be the true victor, in which he celebrated with a small smile and a happy feet kick. "Well that was well played sweet one," Came Janus' praise as he packed up the cards. "You kicked my butt didn't you?"

Logan's smile shifted into a frown, and he gave a little shake of his head. Janus raised an eyebrow, slightly confused by his sudden solemn expression. "No? You didn't?" 

Another shake. "Didn't kick you," He insists, a slight worry intertwined in his tone and Janus had to hold back a laugh. Right, his little one was quite the literal thinker. 

"Oh I know little bird, I was being silly," He assures, gently tugging his beanbag forward so he could scoop him up, earning a soft squeak and a flare of.pink in his cheeks. Before another sweet moment between the two could progress, Janus' attention was dragged towards the sound of two twins bickering. 

"No I won! I got there first!!"

"You cheated! You skipped a space!"

"Did not!!"

"Did too!!"

"Boys," Janus scolds from his seat. "That's enough now." 

Roman slammed his fists against the ground, his eyes tearing as he pointed an accusing finger at his twin. "Papa he cheated!!"

"I did not!" Remus snaps, swatting at his finger. 

"Ow!"

"Boys," Janus says, firmer this time. Their bickering died nearly immediately. "Remus, we don't hit, and Roman, it's not nice to accuse someone of cheating just because they won. Now, Remus why don't you pick out a game for you and I to play together and Roman you'll be next, how does that sound?"

"Why does Remus get to go first?" Complains Roman as he crosses his arms with a frown. 

"Because he won," Janus says with a small wave of his hand. "You're next little prince, don't fret. Why don't you play Mario Cart with Virgil over there?" He asks, nodding towards Virgil, who groaned in response. 

"No, he sucks-"

"Virgil." Janus interrupts firmly, his gaze firm and leaving no room for argument. In response, he huffed out a loud breath and scowled. 

"Then I'm not playing." 

"Why don't you play a game you'll both enjoy?" Janus encourages, setting Logan down. 

"Can we play Minecraft?" Logan asks, scooting closer to the screen, earning a little excited gasp from Roman as he hopped a little. 

"Yeah! Minecraft!" 

"Fine," Virgil grumbles, beginning to set the controllers up for the other two. 

"Thank you darlings," Janus croons, peering back at Remus who was digging through the games, eventually deciding on playing Hungry Hungry Hippos. 

"This one!" He squeals, roughly dropping it onto the table. Janus snickered softly, shaking his head fondly. 

"Alright, alright, hungry hungry hippos it is."

Chapter Text

As the game of Hungry hungry hippos progressed, Janus found Remus enjoyed this game solely for the fact he could hit at the toy over and over as hard as he wanted, eating as many as the little pellets the hippo could. It certainly fit his chaotic little rat, though Janus was growing concerned. The plastic toy wouldn't hold up to all this punching.

"Darling," Janus croons after a round or so, his tone a bit exasperated. "We need to be gentle with the game. We could break it."

Remus, unfazed by the gentle reminder, peered up with a sharp grin. "That's the point!"

Janus sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Remus, if we break the game, we can't play it anymore." He continues, hoping to drive through his point, but Remus shrugged.

"Then that means I won!" He squeals out excitingly, scooping a great big handful of all the little plastic balls. Catching onto his idea, Janus tried to hurry to grab at his wrist to stop him, but it was too late. He had already thrown the little plastic balls up into the air like confetti.

"Remus-" Janus groaned as they scattered across the living room, bouncing every which way and rolling under furniture, never to resurface until the next deep cleaning. He gave a defeated sigh, glancing at Remus, who seemed quite pleased at himself, pulling a fond grin to his lips. How could he be upset with him when all he was doing was having fun? "You cheeky Possum, c'mon, you made the mess you clean it."

Remus just giggled, beginning to crawl around and scoop up the small toys as they rolled, unfazed by having to clean up. Janus merely shook his head and packed away the rest of the game, peering over at the other three who seemed bewitched by Minecraft. Janus admits he never got into it, no matter how many times he had each of them babbling about it to him and whatnot. He supposed if building things from blocks made them happy, it was no harm to him, that is, if they get along while doing it.

"Roman! What the fuck!"

Roman shrunk back at Virgils sudden, angry tone and scowled. "It was an accident! I was just-"

"You ruined my house!"

"Hey," Janus cuts in. "Virgil that's not how we-"

"Shut up!" He snaps, his lips curled into a sneer before he tensed up realizing he had yelled at Janus, whose expression was impassive, a single eyebrow raised, as if challenging Virgil to continue his outburst. He wisely sunk into his hoodie and tossed his controller down with a huff.

"Virgil, come here please," Janus insists, climbing off the ground, the atmosphere rather tense. Roman slowly placed his controller down as well, fidgeting with his sleeves as he watched Virgil get up in a huff and walk out of the room into the kitchen. Janus followed after him, lingering in the doorway for a moment as he peered down at his littlest ones. "Why don't you four pick out a game to play hm? Well, Patton may not join but try and include him anyway," He tells them, tone soft as he knows the tension and the yelling can be rather off putting.

He got a few nods in response, and satisfied with said reaction for now, he turned, in which he was met with a scowling Virgil whose eyes were firmly planted on the floor. His hands curled into the bottom of his jacket, sinking into himself like a scared kitten. Janus could even see a few tears welling up in his eyes.

"Spiderling," He murmurs, keeping his distance yet still stepping closer. "What's got you so upset, hm?" He asks, wanting to understand why he was just so angry.

He watched his press his lips together, open them, close them, and lightly kick at the ground. "Cause- I just- I don't know!" He stumbled out, snapping at the end and glaring at Janus as a lump formed in his throat. "I'm just- I'm just mad! Roman messed up my house!"

"Can the house be fixed?" Janus asks, slowly moving closer, as if one wrong move would cause him to scamper away.

Hesitantly, Virgil nodded. "But it took me forever to build!"

"That's very frustrating," Janus agrees with a nod. "Did Roman do it on purpose?"

Again, Virgil seemed to hesitate before he slowly shook his head. "But-"

"Alright, let's go from here. The house can be fixed, and it was an accident. Why don't you have Roman help you rebuild your home, and then it won't take as long this time?" He offers, somehow ending up right in front of him, which had Virgil shrinking a little, frustration just building under his skin. He wasn't that mad about it. It wasn't even a big deal, but now he was just mad! And he couldn't get it to go away.

"I don't," He swallowed hard, and Janus could see his eyes bubbling with a fountain of tears. "No! I don't want his help! I don't even wanna do it anymore!" He snaps, bringing his sleeve up to roughly rub at his eyes.

"Okay," Janus soothes, beginning to pull him into a hug, which he accepted, burying his face into his shoulder. "You can do it another time, dear. We don't have to worry about it right now at all. Why don't we find another game to play hm? Just one for you and me?" He suggests, rubbing at his back as he felt his shoulder grow damp.

He didn't receive a response at first, not that he minded, Virgil was clearly overwhelmed, so he just let him be. Eventually, his spiderling pulled off, rubbing at his cheeks, which had eyeshadow dribbling down while he sniffed, making an effort to keep his head low. He wasn't a big fan of people seeing him cry, but Janus gently lifted his head anyway, summoning a pack of makeup removal wipes and cleaning off his face, ignoring his low whine and squirming.

"Hush now," Janus said lovingly, rolling his eyes as Virgil glared at him. "Oh, so scary." The sarcasm rolled off his tongue easily, and he made a point of pecking his nose after just to watch his cheeks go pink and counter his attempt of a scary glare.

"Now," Janus begins, "Do you want to come play a game with me in the living room, or do you need some alone time in your room?" He asks, lightly brushing some hair out of his face while he fidgeted with his sleeves anxiously. "There's no wrong answer, darling. I just want you to be as comfortable as possible."

"I wanna play a game," came his little murmur, reaching a hand out to grab at his hand, holding it tightly with a soft sniffle. "Can we play Uno?"

Janus chuckled softly at his question and pecked his head. "Of course darling, let's go have a seat on the couch, and I'll have the game set up."

As they made their way back into the living room, it was obviously a bit more void of the chittering among the children. In fact, it was a bit off-putting to Janus at first as he stepped in, having to blink a few times seeing Remus and Logan resign themselves to begin setting up a new game, while Roman sat aside, curled in amongst himself with a troubling frown, picking at a loose thread on his pants. Remus and Logan seemed to take a hint regarding the sour interaction, leaving an awkward gap in their social knowledge, unable to decipher how to deal with it, both visibly relaxing as Janus stepped back in.

Janus held Virgil's hand but let him walk off as they entered, walking towards the endless pile of games Janus had stacked. As Virgil searched through, Janus made his way over to his Prince and kneeled down slowly, watching as Roman slumped further and turned his head away, his bottom lip already beginning to wobble.

"Dear Prince," He soothes quietly, pressing his lips into a firm line as he took in a shaky breath. "What's gotten you so upset?" He croons, gently placing a hand on his back, offering slow, circling movements as a comfort.

Roman sniffled in response. He hesitated for a moment and peered over to Virgil, who stubbornly kept his gaze on the games in front of him, not at all oblivious to the distant sniffles. "M'ade Vee mad..." He mumbles guiltily, lifting his palm to his eyes, rubbing at them harshly. Tears bubbled to the surface and Janus scolded himself for almost forgetting how sensitive his little prince could be.

"You did," He confirms lightly, earning a wide eyed stare. He quickly continued before the little one began sobbing. "Virgil spent alot of time making that house and it meant a lot to him. It made him very upset and angry, like the time Patton accidentally ripped a picture you made, do you remember that?" He asks him, watching as the little gears in his head began to spin. Slowly, he nodded his head in understanding.

"Remember how upset you were at Patton even though it was an accident?" Another nod. "But, even when we're mad at each other, do we love each other any less?"

Roman sniffles again, his tears drying as he shook his head.

"That's right. You did make Virgil upset, but Virgil loves you just the same." Janus assures, and finally Virgil peeks over at the two, just in time for Roman to look up, the two catching each other's gaze. Virgil quickly looked away but began walking over, fidgeting with the Uno card deck he had picked out. "Isn't that right Virgil?" Janus asks, knowing he had listened to the entire conversation, and peeked up at the teen, watching as his lips twisted into a small pout. His eyes narrowed at Janus, who simply smiled. He'd make the awkward teen communicate no matter how much he'd wish to sweep it under the rug.

"Yeah, it's whatever," He huffs lightly, uncomfortable around all these feelings. Janus rolled his eyes a little in exasperation while Roman sniffled worriedly.

"Promise?" He asks, holding out his pinky for Virgil to take, a little glint of hope in his eyes and Virgil groaned but hooked his pinky anyway.

"Ugh, yes I promise. Can we play uno now?"

Janus smirks a little while Roman gives a little smile as Virgil hooks his pinky and bounces on his heels. "Yay! Pinky promise!"

"Pinky promises are very special," Janus croons, pecking Roman's head. "Now run along and play with Remus and Logan, I promised Virgil a game of uno after all."

"Mkay!"

Virgil had already taken the liberty of sitting on the floor, leaning against the edge of the couch, shuffling the cards sloppily. Janus sat across from him and watched Virgil a few times before snorting and holding out his hand.

"Dear, end both of our suffering and give them here hm?"

Virgil glared at him but relented, handing them over and crossing his arms. Janus snickered, taking the cards and easily shuffled them with a smooth flick of his fingers. Virgil watched in a mix of awe and jealously. "I hate that you can do that so well," He grumbles.

"Practice dear," Janus teases before slowing his movements. He broke the deck in two. "Here dear, watch me. You break the deck in two like so. Or even break it again, it's easier to work with smaller sections at first." His hands most so the two decks face each other. "Now place your index finger against the back of the cards, your thumb on top, and support the bottom with your ring and middle finger. Use your thumbs to gently release the cards so they sink into each other," He explains, following his own directions as an example. "Your thumb does the flipping, your index supports the back and the rest of your fingers supports the bottom."

Virgil follows his instructions, tilting his head a little as he took half the deck and split it into another pair. He watched as Janus positioned his hands again and clumsily followed him. His fingers strained a little at the new position and after a few struggles, he managed to get the cards to drop at least. They didn't  line up well, and didn't  mix well, but Janus smiled anyway.

"Great job my little bat."

Virgil flushed at such a small praise and tried not to squeak. It didn't work of course, a little noise leaving his throat before he could stop himself, fueling Janus' teasing further it seems, if his smug smirk had any say in it.

"Aw, sweet thing," He croons while Virgil throws down the card to bury himself in his hands, groaning as Janus runs a hand through his hair, unfairly able to fluster him to no end while in his teens pace. He simply felt so awkward and embarrassed and the teasing, oh it turned his gears and made him squirm! He enjoyed the way it made his insides turn to mush but he didn't want Janus to know that! "My sweet baby bat, you always do so well, Mama is so proud of you."

Virgil would be meeting death soon it seems.

Janus had mercy, giving in after a couple more pecks around his head and face. He pulled off and lifted the cards back up with a shit-eating grin, easily doing one last shuffle before beginning to deal the stack back and forth. Virgil eventually peeked out from behind his fingers, watching as Janus silently counted the cards until they each had seven and set the remaining pile in between the two.

"Now, my sweet hatchling-" Virgil glared while Janus tilted his head sweetly, "Why don't you go first?"

"I hate you," He grumbles, flipping the top card off the deck and then eyeing his hand. He set down a red four and huffed.

"Oh yes, I'm aware," Janus chuckles. "You'll hate me more once I kick your little butt in uno." He declares, setting a yellow four down. 

"You're on old man," Virgil sneers, snapping a +2 down early into the game.

What a game it was.

---

Virgil growled and tossed down his cards as Janus once again ran out of his own with a soft song of "Uno out!" And that dumb triumph smirk on his face.

"Would you like to try again little hatchling?"

"Fuck off!" He snips, crossing his arms, earning a light bout of laughter.

"Oh poor dear, a sore loser aren't you?"

"...I hate you."

Janus snickers, unfazed by his claim knowing it held no real bite to it while he pouted, and stood. "Now, for my prize."

Virgil huffed, his cheeks warming up at the reminder if their deal made about three games in after the many times of "Double or nothing."

"No." He refuses, lightly kicking at the small table in petulant protest. Janus didn't seem bothered and merely smirked.

"Aw, but my sweet raccoon would look so cute in a little onesie." He gushes, earning a flustered glare and whine.

"You're such an ass-"

"Virgil," Janus warns, causing his lips to quickly clamp shut. "You know I don't mind if you curse in teenspace but in moderation, there are tiny ears nearby." He lectures lightly, earning a soft huff in response.

"They're not paying attention," Virgil grumbles, glancing at the rest of the little ones. They had built an entire village out of wooden blocks. Roman and Remus had taken charge of the game almost immediately (of course), and put a little crown on Patton. They deemed him the princess, and being so little he was overjoyed with the game, clapping along as Remus let out boisterous roars, mimicking a dragon as he stomped about, destroying a few towers and such, "guarding" the princess. Roman is the knight, and Logan opted to be his wizard companion who casts spells with a little wooden wand from a Harry Potter set to really sell it as he waved it around. It was quite an adorable sight.

"Be that as it may," Janus responds, placing his hands on his hips, rivaling a look of a disapproving mother. "Cut it down a notch."

"Kay," Virgil murmurs, rubbing his fingers over his knuckles, biting his lip while Janus quickly softened and leaned to give his head a kiss.

"Oh my dear, I'm not upset. And if you truly don't want to, I won't force you to wear your adorable little onesie."

Virgils cheeks bloomed at such a soft tone, sinking into it a bit, letting out a content sigh as Janus' hand found his back. He hadn't even realized he was holding his breath until the gentle motion. It grounded him. He focused on the circular movement and felt his mouth run dry and let out a little noise instead. Janus didn't tease him this time around, merely moving to adjust their positions, seating Virgil in his lap and cradling his spiderling. He dipped into the nook between his thighs and buried his face into his shirt, sinking further into headspace as his hand traveled up to his hair, absolutely gone with such a simple, soft gesture.

"There, there, Mama has you," Virgil swallowed hard, scooting his body up against the others as close as he could, whining low in his throat while Janus continued to shush him, summoning a little pacifier to slip past his lips.

Virgil's cheeks seared, but he melted further into his touch while Janus smiled. He was rather good at making his little ones fall rather young. It wasn't his fault that it was far too easy to ease them down a few notches. Besides, his little ones have been extra stressed as of late, and Janus would do what he could to relax his dears. Even if it meant breaking out a few dirty tricks of his.

"Mama! Mama!"

Janus turned his head towards the call and raised an eyebrow at his little prince who eagerly waved his arms.

"Yes, dear?"

"My turn?!" He squeals, stepping over the many, many toys now stacked and scrambled on the floor. Remus immediately whined at the loss of his twin and stomped his foot.

"Roman, we're playing!"

"Yeah, but I haven't gotten to play with Mama yet!" Roman complains, stomping his foot right back at his brother who huffs.

"Yeah, but -"

"How about," Janus cuts through their bickering, gently nudging Virgil off his lap, earning a muffled whine. "Virgil joins in while Roman and I play a game, and then after a few rounds, Roman can join back in?"

Remus pouts at the suggestion while Virgil glares, not a fan of being volunteered, but Janus merely nudged him again. "Well?"

"Fine," Remus relents while Roman cheers and rushes over, throwing himself towards Janus, who jumps a little, his hands shooting out to balance his prince. He let out a soft breath as he wrapped his arms around his waist, and Roman had the audacity to shoot him a cheeky grin. The twins certainly have their cheekiness in common.

"Hi Mama!" Roman giggles, a little loudly for being so close, yet, Janus merely rolled his eyes fondly.

"Hello sweetie," He croons, leaning in briefly to peck his nose, chuckling as Roman's giggling went up a few notches. "What game did my little pup have in mind?"

Roman wiggled in his lap, peering over at the pile of games. "Uhm, uhm!" He babbles, bouncing a little as a rush of overwhelming energy suddenly crashed over him. "Uhm- Jenga!" He squeaks, pointing to it.

Janus grunted a little as Roman bounced a little too hard, gently guiding him off his lap. He didn't take it too hard. Instead, he rushed over to the pile and eagerly popped the orange tube out and popped off the top. "Jenga! Jenga!"

"Okay, okay," Janus chuckles. "I'll happily play with you. Can you set it up, dear?"

"Of course I can!" Roman boasts, bumping out the many wooden blocks. "I'm a big boy."

Janus smiles. "Well, if you need help, don't hesitate to ask my love. Even big boys need help."

"I got it!"

Janus watched his Prince line up the blocks in a row of three, alternating the direction they faced until finally all the blocks were stacked high. Janus took it upon himself to straighten the tower, as it was a bit too crooked. "You did very well," He praises, pretending not to notice the way his prince lit up at such a  simple praise. "Why don't you go first?"

"Duh!" Roman laughs. "I always go first!"

Janus hums and resists the urge to roll his eyes. "Oh yes, yes, of course how silly of mama."

Roman nods in agreement, and Janus snickers quietly, watching as Roman taps his chin, eyeing the blocks. He eventually taps at one gently and grabs it from the other side, placing it on top.

"There! Your turn, Mama!" Roman's voice boomed off the walls, and Janus couldn't help but wince a little.

"My prince, let's lower our voice just a tad, alright?" Janus insists, earning a small pout.

"Sorry..."

Janus shakes his head. "It's alright, dear. I just have sensitive ears," Janus explains, easily slipping a block from the tower and setting it on top. "Do you remember why?"

"Because you're a snake?" Roman answers, a little questioning tilt in his tone.

"That's right!" Janus confirms, earning a proud smile from the other. "And snakes have sensitive senses."

"And they smell with their tongue!" Remus cuts in from across the room, sticking out his own tongue to emphasize his point. Janus sighs softly and rubs a hand over his face.

"Indeed they do."

"That's why you blep Mama," Roman giggles, popping the next block on top of the tower, wavering a little as the tower swayed for a moment.

"And because it's cute." Remus adds with a nod, grinning as Janus' cheeks dust pink, quickly waving the twins off.

"Anyway," Janus moves on. "Let's just keep over voices down, please."

"Mkay Mama! I be super duper quiet!" Roman chirps.

Janus sighed. Well, he tried. His expression of exaggeration quickly dispersed into a soft smile as he peered around the room, leaning back on his hand.

He didn't mind all that much, he admits.