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Chapter Text

Jacaerys knew that his father did not want him, he constantly repeated it to him, Jace knew that his parents were very young and forced them to have him, no matter how much his mother told him and repeated that he was her little miracle, the blows and screams of his father left the permanent memory on his skin, in his bones and in his mind, and when his mother was drunk she also reproached him for it.
Jace and his brother Luke attended their local elementary school while the youngest two-year-old Joff was left in charge of his neighbor, since his parents spent most of their time drunk or high.
Criston Cole, the father of the family, was twenty-nine years old and worked at an auto mechanic.
Lysa Dorne, the mother of the family, was twenty-eight years old and worked as a waitress in a restaurant.
Most of the money his parents earned went to drugs and alcohol, so Jace, who was only twelve years old, had to find ways to pay the rent and feed his siblings.
That day, after passing by Joff, she and Luke went up six floors to his apartment when they arrived. Something bad was happening. I really hoped that his father hadn't put his dealer in the apartment again. He opened the door carefully and found the doorman dead with half a bottle of beer in his chest, and his skull bleeding, his father passed out in the chair next to him with a baseball bat.
Jace didn't know what to do, he put his brothers in, carefully covering Luke's eyes and not allowing Joff to see, he entered the room that he shared with his brothers, he put Luke and Joff in the closet.
- Jace, what's wrong? "I'm hungry," asked little seven-year-old Luke.
- Nothing Luke, I just need you to have Joff here for a few minutes, right now I'll take out a bar and milk ok so you can eat Jace said, looking in his backpack for what he took from the cafeteria to give to Luke and a milk for Joff.
"Thanks Jace," Luke said.
Jace smiled, closing the closet door and then blocking it with a chair.
She closed the bedroom door and walked slowly to his parents' room, where she opened it and found his mother in bed. Pass out the alarm was ringing letting Jace know that it was time for his mother to leave. out to work.
"Mom, mom, you have to wake up, it's time to go to work," the oldest said, not wanting to remember the man in his living room.
"Jacaerys, go away, I don't work there anymore. I was fired last night," the woman said, pushing her son, causing him to fall on the ground.
Jace left the room angrily, walked through the living room for a second and found his father awake, taking some things out of the kitchen.
-Jacaerys come!!- said the man angrily.
"Yes sir," Jace said scared in a low voice, taking precautions.
- Help me clean this okay?!, go get bags, bleach, soap and gloves... what are you waiting for, go do it, NOW!!- said the man, Jace ran out to look for what they needed, he asked neighbors, he went into the maintenance area and I came back with everything a few minutes later.
His father put the little man in the bag, probably breaking some of his bones.
-Now bring your brother and start cleaning this up.- Cole said.
Jace stood there not knowing what to do, until he received a hard slap.
- I told you to go for your brother, if you don't want to receive another beating it would be better for you to go for your brother! - said the man.
Jace ran from the living room to the bedroom.
- Luke, come on we have to clean the room, father is there so I don't want you to see him or talk to him okay, only if he talks to you and always answers with sir and you never look him in the eyes. - Jace said taking Joff and positioning him in the stroller.
When we got to the living room Criston was drinking again.
- start cleaning! "They will not leave this house until everything is shiny again," said the man, leaving the living room and entering his room.
Jace and Luke began to clean the room, but the blood stain wouldn't come out and Joff was crying for attention. Luke was tending to him when Criston left the room angrily.
"What the hell is happening, I'm trying to sleep!" he shouted.
Jace got up telling Luke to go with Joff to hide in the bathroom, stopping to see his father.
The man grabbed him by the hair, hitting him against the wall.
- I told you I wanted this room clean I can still see the stain!! -
"I'm sorry, it won't go away... I tried it, I'll keep trying please," Jace said crying, the man grunted and threw him on the ground and then kicked him.
"You and your brother won't go out,  won't go to school,  won't eat, won't sleep, t won't do anything until that carpet is clean, you can only go to the bathroom and drink water, nothing more, that's understood," he said, lifting Jace by his hair. again, and giving him one last slap. before leaving the apartment.
Jace went to the bathroom door and knocked three times.
-Luke it's Jace you can come out,-
When Luke came out of the bathroom he saw Jace's face, his cheekbone was pink and his lips were bleeding.
"I'm fine, don't worry, Lucerys, okay," Jace said holding Luke's cheek.
He took Joff and put him in the stroller again they began to carve the carpet.
By the time his father returned home it was already the next morning Joff was asleep as was Luke but Jace woke him up and Luke continued carving with Jace, the man passed by ignoring his children.
Two days passed and the red stain had disappeared, being replaced by a pale grayish color one or two colors below the original color of the carpet, but since Jace's hands were so bruised and bleeding, Lysa his mother blessed them a shortly, Criston decided to leave the carpet and put his children in the car and bought them an ice cream, promising that it would not happen again.
On Monday, Jace was grateful that it was fall so he could wear gloves and no one would wonder why his cheekbone went from being reddish to purple, that was the problem but he could say that he played rough with some neighbors and that's why he got hurt. .

His day was very normal, only a teacher asked him about his face, but at the end of the day he was called to the principal's office, Luke was still there with Joff and his father too, in the man's legs, Jace stood up and carried him. his brother.
The principal was explaining to his father that there were only a few days left before school ended and they were going on vacation, but his father wanted to take them out now.
 His father stood up, took Jace and Luke by the arms and they left the school.
- They are not going to go to school anymore, we do not have the time or the money, Jacaerys, you will take care of your brothers.- Criston said while they were driving.
"Yes, father," Jace responded, scared, his father was driving very fast and they were not heading to his apartment, the car stank and Joff was upset. 

Criston drives like crazy and runs three red lights. Jace was scared, they passed by his mother who was drunk and brought more alcohol which the man started drinking too.
A few hours passed, Joffrey and Lucerys were asleep. Jace couldn't sleep. They had stopped at a gas station and his mother gave him money for gas, but since it was too late, they parked the car while his parents got high and rested.
Jace took Jof out in the car and Luke entered the gas station store. Looking for something to eat, he found some money between the seats of the car. Not being much, Jace hid some things in the car, promising to return to pay as he did. with everything.
He brought the bottles of water and some cookies, I paid, they went out and got into the car, he buckled his brothers, he buckled himself, he fell asleep, but he woke up when he heard the laughter of his parents who began to start the car, Jace was scared, his father was super drunk and high on something and his mother the same or worse.

A few minutes passed before they were stopped by the police, Officer Leanor Velaryon, the hero or knight who would save them, it turns out that the doorman was in the trunk of the car, so his parents were arrested and Jace, Luke and Joff were taken away. to a hospital 

At the hospital Jace took photos of all his bumps and injuries, they took his weight noting that he was extremely underweight, Jace who always preferred his brothers to eat rather than him doing it, he always ate when Luke assured him that he was no longer hungry as well. that Joff.
Luke was only a little underweight which bothered Jace, he made sure Luke ate three times a day plus snacks, Joff was in perfect weight and health. While they were healing Jace's hands, Officer Velaryon, the same one who had arrested his parents along with a lady with bright brown hair.
- Jacaerys, Lucerys and Joffrey, this is Mr. Harwin Strong, he will be their social worker, he will find them a good family to stay with while they investigate their parents, but for now I want to ask you and Lucerys some questions, is Jacaerys okay? the officer said
Jace nodded.
The questions were more about the treatment of the beatings, the man in the bag, his hands, the school.

When Jacaerys was released from the hospital they were taken to the Tyrell family.

Chapter Text

Rhaenyra and Alicent were always on time...well...most of the time they were on time. Unless one of them started... something before they left.
But that had only been once because when they were late for family dinner, Alli couldn't hide the new hickey from her. The family gave them shit all night.
The family was Rhaenyra's father, Viserys, his wife Alysanne along with Rhaenyra's half-sibling children, Aegon, Aemond, Helena and Daeron, Daemon Viserys's younger half-brother who was closer in age to Rhaenyra and Alicent than Viserys, his wife Leana and two daughters Rhaena and Baela
Daemon and Laena were usually on time because Daemond was never late for anything. Especially after his time in the army.
Viserys and Alysanne were almost always late, until they started hosting their weekly dinner at their house instead of moving every week. It was so much easier than trying to get her three kids ready and leave the house.

Tonight, however, it was Alicent and Rhaenyra who were late. The first time in months, as far as anyone knows.
"They're going to cut our asses for this," Rhaenyra whispered as she reached the door.
Allie rolled her eyes as she passed the cupcakes she baked from one hand to the other. They brought dessert, as they always did. Everyone loved Alicent's pastries. "Just don't look anyone in the eye. Maybe they'll see that I made cupcakes and forgive us."

"Let's wait, darling," Rhaenyra said before opening the door and walking inside. Alicent followed him.
The room was like a minefield of toys as they avoided breaking any of them. Daeron loved to crawl ever since he learned and left a trail behind him.
"Look who finally arrived," Alysanne's eldest son, Aegon, announced as they walked towards the dining room.
"They probably sucked their face in the car and lost track of time," Aemond added with a smile.
"That's not the only thing we were sucking on," Rhaenyra said a little too loudly.
Alicent felt her cheeks turn red as she walked back to the dining room after dropping the cupcakes in the kitchen.
"Oh come on Rhae!" Aegon shouted as he couldn't contain his laughter. "There are children here!"
"The children are too young to understand my words," Rhaenyra said, pointing at Daeron. "Or they're old enough to know everything."
"Please don't say that about my daughter," Laena pleaded.
"Just sit down so we can eat before it gets cold," Alysanne ordered and everyone always followed her orders.
Alicent pulled out the chair for Rhaenyra and waited for her to sit down before taking her seat. "It smells delicious."
"Stop trying to distract us from the fact that you're both late," Daemon said, shaking her finger at him.
"I'm late from work. I'm sorry," Rhaenyra apologized. He slid her hand under the table and placed it on Alicent's thigh.
Alicent also slid her hand under her and grabbed it to intertwine their fingers. "We have a free pass. You guys are late all the time."
"We have children," Alysanne argued. "It's not like that. Get your own children and then maybe we'll consider your tardiness."
Aemond patted Alicent on the back and said, "What about you two?"
Alicent hated being the center of attention. Since Rhaenyra was her best friend, she knew this. Then he responded in her place. "What's wrong with us, brother?"
"When are you two going to try to have kids?" Aegon asked as casually as if he were asking his sister how she was doing at work.
"Why did we want children?" Rhaenyra asked, sounding genuinely confused at the idea. Alicent tried to ignore how she made him feel that because it wasn't a good feeling.
"Because you've been together the longest of all of us. And no kids." Aempnd shrugged. "Almost 20 years together and nothing."
Alicent smiled. They had been together since their sophomore year of high school. They married after college. She had loved every second of it, but she would be lying if she said she didn't sometimes think about raising children with Rhaenyra.
They had talked before... well, Alicent had mentioned it and Rhaenyra had ignored it. Sure, Alicent wanted to be a Mother and she thought Rhaenyra would be a wonderful Mother, but that wasn't a deal breaker. She married Rhaenyra for Rhaenyra, and Rhaenyra alone.
"Well, we've tried," Rhaenyra joked. "Every night. We spend endless hours trying to conceive. Nothing is stuck yet."
The rest of the table laughed and Allie laughed with them.
"They would make good Mothers," Heleana said with a small smile. "Very good mothers."
"Of course we would. Perfect Sumos. But we will never have children," Rhaenyra said, turning to the food around them. "Can someone pass me the chicken? I'm starving."

"You're distracted," Rhaenyra said softly from across the table.
Alicent knew she was, but she was trying not to make it too obvious. "I'm sorry."
"Okay. What do you have in mind?" Rhea was giving him her full attention, like she always did.
Allie shrugged. She didn't want to bring it up because she already knew the answer.
"Is this about the conversation we had last night at family dinner?" Rhae sighed. "All the... little talk about gremlins."
Allie pouted, swirling the wine in her glass. "I guess hearing you say we'll never have kids made it sink in."
"Sorry, were you under the impression we'd be releasing a small one soon?" Rhae raised an eyebrow. "because you're a nurse, but you do know the basics of biology, right...?"
"Rhae. I'm serious."
"Okay. Serious conversation. Got it," Rhae said.
"Is it true? That we will never have children?" Alicent looked at her plate and frowned. "I mentioned it in the past, but you always said it wasn't the right time or some other excuse..."
"Well, we've always been busy, you with the law firm and me as a nurse. But now... we're fine. We're great." Alicent perked up, hoping Tony would too. "We have the house and you are the best lawyer."
"So what? Are you ready now?" Rhae asked in disbelief, her voice low.
"I think... I mean, maybe. Yes. I am. And I know you are too. We're not kids anymore." Allicent straightened the napkin on her lap.
"You don't need to remind me. If we had a child, when she's in high school I'll be her grandmother." She gestured toward her hair. "I already have grays."
"Come on," Alicent said, shaking his head. "You're not that old."
"I'm approaching 50," Nyra said.
"We have almost 7 years until we are 50, plus your father is 75 and Daeron is two." Alicent rolled her eyes.
"So why don't we adopt a five-year-old boy now? That way, when we're 50, he'll be 12 and he'll be almost a teenager."
Rhaenyra wasn't completely against the idea of ​​having children... especially if he wouldn't be old when they grew up, and Alicent just needed to be talked to her.
Funny how one conversation stung him and made him long for something he thought he'd never have.
Alicent had baby fever and had a bad time.
The next day, after thinking about it very carefully, Rhaenyra arrived home.
"Hey love, I'm home!" Rhae called as she walked into her house. Rhae knew Alicent had dinner ready because she could smell something delicious in the kitchen.
But there was no response from him.
"Allie?" She tried again, looking around the living room. All the lights were off and Allie wasn't around.
It wasn't until her kitchen that he saw her standing at the kitchen island with her laptop open. Her eyes were sad as she looked at what was on the screen.
"Honey, she was calling you," Rhae said, curious to see what was making Alicent feel so down.
"Sorry, she was just... looking at something." Alicent didn't move to show him her laptop.
"Are you OK?" Rhae asked, although he already knew the answer.
"Do you remember when you said that the other day?" Allie asked, finally looking at him.
Laughing, Rhae replied, "I say a lot of things, honey. You'll have to be more specific."
Alicent's next response was much more direct. Her eyes also shone brighter...with hope. "About adopting a five-year-old child."
Rhaenyra should have been prepared for this conversation, and she was. Actually. She practiced her version of the conversation during the car ride home. But now she was panicking.
So she did what she did best when she panicked. She denied everything in the hope that the problem would go away.
"What? Did I say that?"
Allie frowned. "Yeah."
Rhaenyra rubbed the back of her neck and said, "I mean, if I said something like that, it would just be a joke. It seems like something I'd joke about."
Alicent's frown deepened and somewhere, Daemond was yelling at her to speak. "Would you joke about us being Mothers?"
"Well, I mean... have you met us, baby?" Rhaenyra said, pointing towards her kitchen. This was not a home for children with Crystal and alcohol within her reach. Her date nights would also take a backseat until they disappeared.
"I met us and I think we would be wonderful Mothers." Allie turned the laptop away from her. "That's why I was already researching this adoption agency."
Tony made the mistake of looking at the screen. There were profiles of children staring back at him. Sad children without parents. Still, they were better off with nothing than having her as their Mother.
"There are so many children in foster care with no family. They move from house to house. They don't have anyone." Allie was looking at him with puppy eyes that Rhae was deliberately ignoring. Those were dangerous.
"Allie, it takes a special couple to adopt a foster child," Rhaenyra sighed.
"And aren't we special?"
"We are not equipped to take in a child," Rhaenyra said in her place, her voice a little too firm.
Allie stiffened and closed her laptop with more force than necessary. "I'm sorry you don't think we're special enough to be Mothers. I'm sorry for trying to have a conversation."
Rhaenyra knew she had screwed up when Alicent quickly stood up and turned around, leaving the kitchen. "Allie, wait..."
"I'm going to bed. My head hurts."
Rhaenyra looked at her back as she disappeared down the hallway and then looked at the two full plates on the table. "What about dinner, baby?"
"You can keep it. I'm not hungry." Then Alicent slammed the bedroom door shut. It wasn't too loud, but she had a little more strength than usual.
Rhaenyra sighed, wondering how she turned out so badly.
She looked at the laptop and brought it closer, even though everything in him was telling him no! "What are you doing, Rhaenyra?" She muttered to herself as she opened the screen.
The universe gave him a second chance to avoid instant heartbreak when the lock screen appeared. Rhaenyra hesitated with her fingers on her keyboard. She stared at the picture Allie had set as the background; It was Allie and Rhaenyra cuddling for a selfie during their trip to Diftmark last summer.
Surely those vacations wouldn't be as frequent when they had a child. Allie and Rhae were so happy to be together, just the two of them. Why should they try to change a perfect life?
And then Rhaenyra's mind did something horrible and she responded to that concern. She imagined what it would be like to have a different image as a background: the same pose but between them, a baby, her baby, held close to her.
She typed the password with that thought still in her head. The website filled the screen immediately and Rhae scrolled through pictures of children with a small biography written underneath.
There were everyone from toddlers to children and teenagers with one goal: to find a family that would love them.
I want a dad to fish with.
All I need is someone to tuck me in at night.
I love giving big to arms and kisses.
I just need someone to be proud of me.
Rhaenyra didn't even realize she was getting so emotional until her vision became too blurry to read the rest. She wiped her face and tried to breathe to calm herself.
"We are special enough to give one of these children a home."
Rhaenerys turned to see Allie standing in the doorway, looking at him. She had that look on her face that she usually had when Allie was right about something. Which was very common.
Rhaenyra wiped away her tears and said, "You cheated. Only a monster could look at that and say no."
Aññie smiled as she walked over and hugged Rhaenyra. For a moment, Rhae enjoyed the feeling of being held against Allie's chest.
Rhaenyra smiled, finding Allie's hand to hold. "Let's do this, honey. Let's have a baby."
The smile that appeared on Allie's face was worth any trouble this parenting idea got them into. Making Allie happy would always be worth it.

Chapter Text

"There are over half a million children in foster care. The system is overloaded. It doesn't need any more children; so for a child to be removed, the conditions have to be pretty... grim. They usually involve extreme abuse or neglect. "
Allie looked around the room where there were a dozen couples sitting in the audience of the two foster care workers.
She wondered if everyone was as nervous as her and Nyra.
"Unfortunately, my partner here is right. These children often languish in the system unless a wonderful family like you is willing to intervene." The taller woman seemed more approachable than the other as she smiled at the crowd.
"Now that we've covered the most important fact, I'll introduce myself. I'm Rhaenys. My partner is Corlys. Together, we'll take you through an 8-week foster parent course." Her eyes scanned the crowd, as if she were trying to decide which ones were special enough to continue.
Corlys continued softly with a smile, "Once you have your certification, we can match you with some foster children until they are adoptable."
Allie grabbed Rhaenyra's hand, thinking about the day they could bring a foster child into her own home. The excitement continued to grow every time she thought about her future with a child.
Of course, the tougher of the two couldn't let him pass without warning. "Let's get this straight though, folks. It won't be easy. These kids will test your will, put a strain on your relationship, and push buttons you didn't even know you had. I can already tell you all won." "We won't get out of this alive."
Rhae squeezed Allie's hand reassuringly. That warning did not worry him. she and Rhae were strong enough to handle this.
"Oh, come on," Rhaenys said, punching Corlys in the arm. "I believe in them." Well, on that note..." Corlys said, "We have a guest speaker who would like to share the story of her...Daenerys Black."
A young woman, not much older than a teenager, walked to the front of the room. She had white hair shaved on one side, wore dark eyeshadow and darker lipstick, and had some piercings in her ear. "Hey," she began, and Alicent wasn't sure how many times she had to give speeches like this, but she realized that she was still just a kid up there.
She smiled as she continued, despite the gravity of her words. "When I was 8, my mom and her boyfriend thought it would be a good idea to build a meth lab in our garage."
There were no murmurs as she spoke, but after she spoke those words, the room seemed to become even quieter.
"They forced me to deliver drugs to them. They abused me physically and sometimes their clients abused me sexually."
Allie felt sick. That baby was just that... a baby. How could someone hurt a child? How could anyone allow another person to hurt their child?
"When I was 11, our garage exploded." She made a popping motion with her hands. "I was thrown into the system and bounced from location to location. Pretty soon, I was 14 and didn't know anyone I wanted a teenager. I was getting ready to grow old..."
Allie didn't know this girl, but she knew she was tough. So, when she choked up during the next part of her speech, Alicent felt a chill.
"But the thing is, more than half of the kids who leave the foster system end up homeless, addicted, incarcerated or dead within two years." She let out a shaky breath. "I knew it. I was getting ready to be me. I was going to be an adult in this big, scary world with no family to help me choose a college, or come home for the holidays, or cry when My First Crush got her first crush." boyfriend... but then two very special people appeared.
Allie followed her gaze to her parents, who were sitting in two chairs against the wall. They also had teary eyes.
"I didn't make it easy for them. But no matter how much I pushed them away, they were always there with a hug and a car ride. I owe them my life. I wouldn't be here today if it weren't for them." She looked back at the audience as she continued, "And soon, there will be more kids like me, able to say they lived because of special people like you. So, thank you."
The couples around her burst into applause and Allie turned to Nyra with a smile. She didn't say a word, but she didn't need to. Nyra knew exactly what she was thinking.
"We're special, baby. We got this."

"Nyra and I have a special announcement we'd like to make," Alicent said, giving Rhae a secret smile when she said the special word.
"Did you bring brownies and cupcakes tonight?" Daemond guessed, licking his lips excitedly.
"Neither. It's a fruitcake ".
"Ugh," Daemond groaned loudly, causing Daeron to do the same in return.
"Don't listen to your uncle," Alyssane said. "The fruit is delicious."
"Anyway!" Nyra said as Allie smiled at the exchange between the parents and her children. God, her wife was already lost in Baby World. They hadn't even met her son yet. "This news has nothing to do with dessert..."
"We're adopting!" Allie announced, smiling widely at everyone.
The room erupted in cheers and congratulations. Nyra noticed Leana coming over to give her a hug. It was exactly what she needed.
"Hey, man, congratulations," Leana whispered in her ear as she hugged him tightly. "Do you guys talk about it?"
"Yes," Nyra said with a smile. "We did it."
"I'm glad, Nyra. This will be great for you. For both of us."
"How serious is this?" Viserys asked, looking at his daughter from where he was still sitting. He didn't look against her decision, but he didn't look entirely in favor of it either.
"We already went to an adoption center. We signed up for an 8-week course to get certified. Tomorrow we have our interview for things like background checks and all that." Allie was practically vibrating with excitement. How long did she want this and how long did Nyra deny it?
"Are you sure you really want to do this?" She asked, tentatively.
Nyra looked in her direction, friend or not, when she saw the way her tone made Allie deflate. "Yes. We are safe."
At her snap, Viserys raised his hands. "I don't want to bother anyone, but someone has to play devil's advocate here. Someone has to say it. This is not like buying a fish at a pet store."
"Don't compare children to pets," Nyra said. "I learned that."
"I'm saying this is a real, living, breathing child that you're bringing into your home. Kids who... have experienced things that you're not trained to handle." Viserya was choosing her words very carefully, but they were still harsh on Nyra's ears.
"None of the parents are qualified for anything," Allie said, tensely. "That doesn't mean we should avoid the call..."
"What 'so-called'? Because we all made a comment last week about you two adopting? It was just that, man. A comment. You...aren't the couple to have kids? You're the type to "You have to go out at night and be able to go out because you don't have children to worry about. Adopting will change that."
Allie sat up straight. "And I'm excited for that to change. I want to have a child to share our life with. Our family deserves to grow. You may enjoy the single life, but that's not all we are."
"I don't want you to change your mind. I just want you to know 100% what you're getting into," Viserys said, looking at Nyra, knowing that he was the rational one in this situation. Nyra acted with her mind; Allie acted from the heart.
Honestly, Nyra understood where her father was coming from. "I know you're worried, Dad. We're worried too. But... we're made for this. We'll get training before we can adopt, and we'll have a support group in the next while. We've thought it through and this is what What we want".
Nyra felt Allie grab her hand as she spoke. Nyra squeezed it and
Allie said, "Thank you for being so... cautious, Viserys. But we know what we're doing. We will be parents. We will be the best parents this world has ever seen."
God, Rhaenyra hoped so.
"Please sit down," Corlys said, pointing to the small office table. Rhaenys was already sitting in his chair, waiting.
Allie took the first step into the room and Nyra followed close behind. "It's so good to see you both again."
"Same here," Corly replied, pulling out a file once they said in front of the two of them.
"This won't take long," Rhaenys explained. "We just have a few questions so we can start looking for a compatible match, so that once you get your certification, you can be matched with a child right away."
"Of course," Nyra said as Allie took her hand and placed it in her lap.
"So you haven't changed your mind?" Corlys said, opening the file.
"Why? Do you want to try it?" Nyra challenged, raising an eyebrow. "Because it won't be the first time we've dealt with it."
"Oh really?" Rhaenys asked, leaning back comfortably in his seat. "How was that?"
"Uh, well, my dad was trying to play devil's advocate," Nyra said, putting quotes around the last two words. "We told him we are ready to do whatever it takes to be the best parents possible for this child."
"I'm glad to see how confident you are," Corlys said sincerely. "Our children need stable and secure parents because if they are not even sure of themselves before being fostered, what will happen when they foster a child?"
Ny se
He chuckled because that question should have made him hesitate. But it was not like that. He had confidence in himself thanks to one person. "You have my dear wife to thank for that."
"I didn't do anything but show you what you were already capable of, love," Allie said softly.
"They're a good team," Corlys said. "They would be good parents to a child."
"And he doesn't say that just because we're desperate," Rhaenys commented.
Corlys nudged him gently. “So why don't we get started? “We have his files here and his background checks passed.”
"Oh, good," Nyra joked, pointing at Allie. “I was really worried about this one. "It's a wild thing."
"Be serious, Nyra," Allie said without any warmth in her voice.
"What do you do for a living?" Corlys asked, ignoring her comment.
“I am a Lawyer and heir to Targaryen's Law firm,” Nyra responded.
"And your wife?" Corlys looked at Alicent and Rhaenyra stayed silent, letting Allie answer for himself.
"I work from home, I have a bakery at home," she clarified, almost timidly.
Corlys smiled softly. “So you can take care of this child 24 hours a day without worrying about work getting in the way?”
"Definitely," Alicent said. “I work from home and the orders are made by my brothers in law.”
Corlys scribbled some notes and said, “Okay. “Some of these children require 24-hour care.”
“Corlys is right. Depending on his background and his age... what age were you expecting, again?
Nyra and Allie exchanged a look before Steve responded, “We were expecting a boy between 8 and 12 years old. Boy or girl. “Any race.”
"We'll make a note of that," Corlys said, taking more notes. “Keep in mind that he can change his mind at any time during the process. If you want to change his age range and how many children you want to adopt.”
"Oh, no... I don't think we can handle more than one," Nyra said. Having one child terrified him, who knew what could go wrong with two?
"It's okay. Just keep that in mind if you change your mind." Corlys smiled, but Nyra knew it wasn't a smile without meaning behind it. She still hoped to change her mind before the 8 weeks were up.
“What will home life be like? Aunts and uncles? Grandparents?"
"The child will have many uncles and aunts. In addition to a handful of cousins, two grandparents." Nyra smiled, though not easily. "our son or daughter will always have family somewhere."
Allie smiled and turned to him. She reached out and took Nyra's hand. "Did you hear the words that came out of your mouth? Our child? We're going to have a baby."
Nyra smiled and Allie leaned down to kiss her lips. When he walked away from her, she said, "Well, that's up to them, honey."
"Don't worry... I think my partner and I agree that you two are perfect parents." Rhaenys smiled and closed the file on the table.
"Actually?" Allie asked, her smile growing wider. "Actually?"
"Yes. Really. Alicent and Rhaenyra Targaryen, welcome to Foster Care."

--

The next few weeks passed almost in a blur. They attended two classes a week to learn more about foster parenting. Lessons include CPR training; education about mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder; how to cope with the symptoms of trauma; and much more.
One day in particular focused on the heartbreaking reality of CSA survivors. Steve felt nauseous for the rest of the day. If anything, learning about monsters that hurt children like that only encouraged Allie even more to be a Mother. She might have the power to get a child out of a horrible situation like that and she might show him what true parental love feels like.
Allie wasn't familiar with any of this firsthand. Sure, she'd heard Howard talk to Nyra like she was nothing, but that wasn't her father. Her father loved him and his mother too. Together, she and Nyra were going to be the best parents to her child. It does not matter that.
Unfortunately, not all couples felt so firm in their resolve to become adoptive parents. The post-CSA meeting had three fewer couples than the previous 7 weeks.
This meeting had a much lighter theme, thank goodness. She hated him, but a part of him wanted to just forget him. He didn't want to think about the fact that every day children were sexually abused, especially by their own parents. It was horrible. It was bad enough that Steve didn't sleep the night after that meeting. Was he selfish in wanting to avoid a nightmare that was inevitable for too many children?
Nyra had told him that those feelings were normal, of course. Whether she meant it or she just wanted Steve not to feel bad, she promised Allie that it was normal to have thoughts like that.
Still, that didn't take away any of the guilt she felt as he sat in a chair.
gable in the middle of the room. She had a piece of paper taped to her chest that said "Child." The rest of the couples, including Nyra, were standing around her in a circle. They each held one end of a rope and Allie held the other ends of all of them. Her signs said different things like: teacher, coach, social worker, friend, etc.
Corlys stood outside the circle as he spoke to everyone: "Alright, everyone. I want you to imagine that you have this fancy new job. They give you a nice big office. There's even a frozen yogurt machine right there in the living room." rest. But deep down, you know you're not qualified, deep down in your heart you know you're not good enough and you're going to get fired."
"Ouch," someone murmured and Allie had to agree with her sentiment as she tried to figure out where this activity was leading them.
"You've lost the last three jobs you've had. In fact, you could leave this one to regain some control. So you're the one who decides to leave, for once. Hell, you could even knock down that frozen job." yogurt machine and trash the boss's office before getting your ass out."
Allie watched as Corlys began to walk around the circle, slowly cutting each thread as he went.
"What I'm trying to say is... the same thing happens with a displaced child." She waved her hand at Allie, who was sitting in the middle, slowly losing all of her rope connections. "These children
And you think you don't want them... how could you? They always take a step forward to be ready. Except, instead of grieving the loss of a job, they're losing connection to everything and everyone."
Corlys stopped cutting when only two people were left with threads intact. Her signs said brother and sister.
"But the only connection that can remain is that between siblings. Sometimes it's easier for siblings to adjust because they're not going through this alone."
Rhaenys stepped forward and said with a hopeful smile, "You might want to consider getting a pair of siblings."
Allie followed one of her threads to Nyra, who was apparently her sister in this. They looked into each other's eyes and Allie knew exactly what she was thinking because Allie was thinking it too.
There was no way they could handle the brothers.

--

The worst part about being a teenager in foster care was that no one really loved you. The other worst part was that the social workers were still parading you around like someone was really going to stop you and love you. Jace wasn't an idiot, though. He knew a couple wasn't going to pass up adorable children without the broken shards sticking out of every inch of them to reach a teenager like him.
So, these little games that Harwin dragged him into were nothing more than a waste of time.
In reality, he was never going to be chosen between one of these things, and neither were Luke and Joff. Because even if his little brothers were one of those adorable kids who ran around the park and attracted the attention of rich couples looking for their little orphan Annie, he would be shoved back into the discard pile when they realized he came with a eldest brother.
Luke and Joff hated these things as much as Jace.
"Luke, Harwin will be here any minute. Are you ready to go?" Jace in low, Jace rarely spoke out loud, only to his brothers and Harwin, Jace was by the bathroom door, with Joff was ready.,
"Hey! Your caseworker is at the door! Get your butts down here!" A scream was heard from somewhere in the house.
Jace jumped a little, he hated that they screamed, and Joff grabbed his hand tightly, Luke left the bathroom.
Jace straightened the shirt he was wearing. He was old and worn, but it didn't matter. Luke no Joff wasn't going to be in the group of kids shopping today.
"It's okay," Jace whispered.
Joff's wide eyes combined with a pout broke Jace's heart. "I do not want to go..."
"Me neither, Little Dragon," Jace sighed. "But at least it's a trip away from home. They always have good snacks at these things."
Even Jace's mouth watered thinking about all the food he would have this adoption fair. It's not that he was hungry in this house; They are given just a pinch more food than is necessary to starve. Jace always shared his portions with Luke and Joff, so he was always hungry, he preferred to starve before his little brothers got even a little hungry.
"Can I sit with you?" Joffrey reached out to hold his shirt and squeezed it tightly.
"I wish you could, Joff. But you know they separate us by age." Jace ran his fingers through his hair, trying to control some of the wild curls.
"Jaecarys! Lucerys! Joffrey! Now!"
The house was dirty and there were always things lying around. Nyra
They didn't even bother to straighten up when their caseworker arrived. They couldn't be bothered to do much to take care of the children except cash the checks that came with it.
The house wasn't too unpleasant and it wasn't the worst conditions they had lived in before. Their parents had taken them to abandoned houses to live on thin mattresses and threadbare blankets while they took drugs and drowned themselves in alcohol in another room with the friends they were hanging out with.
However, those houses still weren't the worst places they had lived.
It turned out that the worst places to live were two-story craftsman houses at the end of the block with a basketball hoop in the driveway. Walking past piles of dirty laundry and empty TV food wrappers in the middle of the living room was nothing compared to the shiny marble countertops and Chinese plates on display.
His fosters were waiting at the door with a pair of matching looks on their faces. Jace looked back at him. "They told you to be ready at 10. It's 10:03."
"Sorry" Luke rolled his eyes, Luke loved to talk, Joff barely knew a few words despite being five years old, since the little boy took a lot of things from his brother Jace.
The house may not be that clean but None of his foster parents would lay a finger on him; that he knew. That was one of the reasons Jace didn't mind living in that house.
"We'll be back later," he said as he opened the door and stepped out onto the porch. "Do not wait up."
The door closed before he even finished his sentence.
Harwin was in the car waiting and Jace was glad he didn't get impatient and made it to the door. He didn't want her to bring up the conversation that his foster parents weren't good enough. Jace didn't want to be moved from a home where he knew his little brothers were safe.
"Hey, guys," Harwin said as Jace opened the door for Joff and Luke. He made sure Joff was buckled into the car seat before turning around to enter the other side. Joff just had to sit in the booster seat and buckle himself in, but Jace felt the need to do it himself and make sure Joff was okay as well as Luke.
"Hello, Harwin," Luke said, as Jace now buckled himself up. "Drag us to another shitty auction?"
"Luke, that's not how you talk," Jace said in a very low voice, he was about to apologize.
"It's not an auction. We're not auctioning off children." Harwin glanced at him briefly in the rearview mirror. They had had this conversation every time he took them to an adoption fair.
"Oh, my mistake." Luke looked out the window, looking at each happy family he passed. "It's a zoo." Jace laughed a little Luke was right.
Harwin sighed and waited until they reached the next red light before speaking again, "How are you doing, Jace? Joff, are you excited to see other kids and maybe meet a family?"
Joff shrugged and stared at his lap.
Luke answered for him, "Don't sit here and try to get the boy's hopes up, Harwin. We know you're going to take us back to the Lanisters tonight without anyone being interested. Just like the last four times."
"You're going to find a family," Harwin said. "I know they will. The Lanisters are not your family."
"No," Jace spoke. "Because our mother is our family. Until she is ready to welcome us back, we will have to wait. And if that means we stay where we are, then we are fine. We are fed, we have a bed and we are not beaten."
"Those shouldn't be the only requirements for a house, Jace," Harwin said quietly.
"For us it is," he argued, looking out the window.
Harwin didn't deny it because he knew it was true. He had been with Jace, Luke and Joff from the beginning. He knew everything they had been through, so he should know not to push it.
The rest of the way was silent. Harwin took them to the park, Jace looked out the window Luke looked ahead and Joff stood still. When they parked in the full parking lot, Jace sighed. "Can't you just pretend you left us?" in a whisper
"You know I can't do that, Jace." Harwin was one of the only adults in this world who was a truly decent human being. he cared about him and his brothers. He protected them. Jace, Luke, Joff really felt safe being with him.
"We won't tell. Jace doesn't even talk to anyone else, Joff and I won't tell on you. Let's just...get fast food and park somewhere where no one will find us. Please."
Harwin hesitated and, for a moment, Jace thought he might pull out of the parking spot. But he turned off the car with a deep sigh. "I can't do that. God forbid we get caught, I'd lose my job and then I wouldn't be his caseworker anymore. I don't think any of us three want that."
He was right
work that. Getting a new caseworker meant letting another stranger into her life.
"Besides, I have a good feeling about this, kid. I think you might find your new family out there."
she scoffed and rolled her eyes. Jace he didn't need to find a new family. Luke and Joff were right next to him and his mother would eventually be released from prison. There was no need to replace it. Luke looked at Jace and Joff and said, "Whatever, Harwin. Come on, Jace, Joff, let's go watch the adults stalk the kids in the park and pick the ones we think look the cutest. Because that's nothing." creepy".
"Okay, well, when you put it like that..."

Chapter Text

"So you came out like a big kid after all," Corlys laughed as they sat in that office where they had their first interview weeks ago.

"We only met him for a second...but he left an impression," Allie said, taking a seat next to Nyra. She didn't expect to leave that fair with the name of a 15-year-old in mind, but she couldn't forget him. They even waited a weekend to think about it, and yet her answer was as clear as day.

"Jaecarys is a great kid," Rhaenys said. "He does well in school and..."

"You don't have to sell us out, Rhaenys," Nyra laughed. "We want that child."

"He entered care 3 years ago, when he was only 12," Corlys began to explain. "It took a lot of convincing for him to agree to be placed in a foster home."

"His Parents -."

"They were caught by the police when they were driving at excess speed, in addition to being highly intoxicated and drugged up to the ears with their children in the back and a man's body in the trunk."

Corlys sighed. "What he was going to say..."

"Before he told you how he is?"

"Before you jump, his mother has made many promises to him in recent years and it seems that he never keeps them, his father is not a problem since he is serving life in prison." Rhaenys had a sad expression on his face as he pulled out a file, presumably from Jaecarys.

"Where is his mother now?" Allie asked quietly, although there was no one to hide her words from.

"She was probably wearing an orange jumpsuit selling cigarettes in the garden," Rhaenys said, looking at Allie with a disapproving look on her face.

"I'm sure that's not accurate," Corlys began as he opened the file. The pause. "Huh. Turns out Jace's mom is finishing up a sentence in the county jail."

"Look," Rhaenys said, not even fazed. "I told you."

"Well, she never sought reunification and hasn't contacted her kids in two years, so...yeah, she's not a problem."
.
"Jace's parents are a product of the system. They never learned to take care of themselves, much less their three children."

I was there.

Nyra blinked a few times as she raised her hands to stop the conversation. "Wait. What? Three kids?"

"Yes..." Corlys continued slowly as she pulled a sheet of paper out of the file again. "Jaecarys and her little brothers Lucerys and Joffrey."

"We can't... Three kids and one of them is a teenager?" Nyra started to argue, but then Corlys slid two photos in front of them. They were two photos of two children, one about 10 years old and the other smaller, both with brown curls and big brown eyes, they were smiling at the camera,

"They're adorable," Allie whispered, holding up the photo to get a closer look. She reminded Allie a little of Nyra with her wild curls and brown eyes.

"They are ten and five years old," Corlys informed them.

That meant he had been in care since he was, 7 and 2 years old... oh, those poor babies.

"And we're not going to sugarcoat it. These children... come with stories and struggles. But with you two, finally giving them a home... they would really turn their lives into something more."

Allie didn't need the sales pitch for Jaecarys, and she certainly didn't need it for Lucerys and Joffrey. These were her boys. she she she knew it. "It's okay. We can work with them."

"Allie..."

"Nyra, look at them," Allie said, showing her the photos again. She placed it in her hand, wondering if she would feel the same shock of connection. "Tell me you feel something. Just like we felt when we saw Jaecarys."

Nyra hesitated and for a moment, Allie feared Nyra would shake her head and give up. And if she did, Allie wouldn't argue with her. They both had to want this. But in the end she nodded with a small smile. "Okay. Okay. Yes. Tell us about the kids," Nyra said, sounding much more confident.

Allie smiled at Nyra for a second longer before turning her attention away from her.
Let's go to Corlysl and Rhaenys.

"Jaecarys is quiet but extremely kind, he will say good morning, thank you, he is protective, very intelligent, Tenacious, he does not usually socialize and does not trust easily." Rhaenys spoke, looking at them both.

Nyra smiled and waved her hand. "Please.. It reminded me of Allie when she was 15."

"Lucerys and Joffrey?" Allie asked, curious since they hadn't met this one yet. "We didn't even see them at the fair and we talked to all the kids we saw in their age groups..."

"Luke talks too much, he has a soft tongue, he is usually rude, but it hasn't escalated to violence. The reason why they didn't see him is that he probably went into hiding just like Jace and Joffrey, he was with a partner the whole time but when he left "When they found out that I had brothers, they didn't want to anymore."

Allie frowned. "But if they hide, how will he find a family?"

"Sometimes, they've paired him up or seen him in these things. He's always

chosen quickly, but always abandoned soon after." Rhaenys spat the words as if they were poison to her tongue.

"Because they come with a teenage brother?"

"Yes, that's one of the reasons..."

"Don't beat around the bush," Nyra said. "What? Does he have a bedwetting problem? Does he have tantrums? Whatever it is, Allie and I can handle it."

Alicent nodded her head, but the next words out of Rhaenys' mouth made her wonder if she could really take it.

"Jace was physically abused by his second adoptive father when he was 12 and 13 years old, it was really brutal. Jace spent two weeks in intensive care in the hospital and continues to receive physical therapy."

"They've been in three foster homes since they were placed," Corlys began to explain. "Their first home didn't last more than a year. The couple wasn't abusive they just didn't really care about the children including feeding them and providing basic things of life."

That wasn't even the monster...

"And then they were placed with another foster. A single man who had deceived us all... He didn't know until a year after his placement that Jace was being abused, Luke called Harwin his social worker when the man beat Jace so badly. Jace he was unconscious."

Allie felt even sicker than she had after the two-hour class on this. Because this wasn't just a hypothetical child...he was a real child. This was Jaecarys, a boy whom Allie n had met once but whom she already felt fiercely protective of.

"Then we placed them with a new partner. They're not bad people. There's no abuse or neglect... but it's obvious they might be in it more for the money than the kids."

"Could be?" Rhaenys scoffed. "Please. The only reason I haven't taken these kids before is because it's safe for them, and I'm not going to take them out of the safe zone just to put them with another Alister."

Allie's eyes darted to Rhaenys. "Alister?"

"The man who abused Jace. His name was Alister." The pencil in Rhaenys's fist snapped in two.

"Hey, calm down... it's okay." Corlys said, rubbing his arm.

"None of this is right. And these are just three of the thousands of kids in these situations." Rhaenys pushed her chair and stood up to start walking.

Corlys watched her closely for a moment before looking back at Allie and Nyra. "We've tried to find them a family that loves them, but no one stays with them after finding out about Jace, and Luke." Rhaenys looked between the two. "We wouldn't be rooting for this union if we didn't believe in it. But we truly believe that you two are perfect and with a little love and care, these two children will flourish."

"Is there anything else we should know?" -Nyra asked. Allie hoped they would at least talk about it first.

"Jace, as I already mentioned, doesn't talk to anyone except his brothers. I never heard the boy say a word. Sometimes he mutters. And while his younger brothers remain sheltered behind their many walls, Luke wears all his emotions on his sleeve, speaking without filter and can be rude, and Joffrey lives attached to Jace and Luke, Jace has been the only fatherly figure he has ever known, it will be difficult to break that wall, the three of them need the love of their parents." Corlys hesitated and removed his hands. "I will give you time to discuss this, of course. We will understand if you change your mind on the matter... under these circumstances..."

"When can we meet them?"

"Sorry?" Corlys asked, and even Nyra stopped walking to look at Alicent.

"Well, we already met Jace. I think it's a good idea for us to meet Luke and Joffrey too and make sure he wants this combination too." Allie smiled, intertwining her fingers with Nyra's.

"Of course!" Corlys slammed his file shut, an emotion in her eyes that Allie hadn't seen in the eight weeks she'd known him. "We will arrange a visit immediately!"

"Thank you. We look forward to it." Allie smiled and stood next to Nyra.

Corlys held out his hand to them and each of them took turns shaking it. "No, thank you. Both of you. You have no idea how much this means to us."

"Don't thank us yet, Rhaenys. The boy has to like us too, you know?" Nyra chuckled.

"They will love you. I'm sure of it."

Allie turned to Nyra and gave her a look aimed only at him. "Me too. He'll love you. And I can't wait for us to meet him."

Jace couldn't believe it. He really he couldn't believe it. Harwin had told him that a couple had been interested in him since the fair,

and Jace knew that he had to be the couple he had hidden from hem. Nobody else even came.

Even then, he didn't think it was true. Not until her adoptive parents opened the door and the two woman were standing at the other end.

They entered and, for the first time since Jace had lived there,
 he felt embarrassed by the mess. He hurriedly picked up some crunchies from the ground as they slowly walked in.

To Jace, most people were rich, but these two seemed rich, rich.

They were not like their adoptive ones who were only looking for a check. They didn't need the money. Maybe they were really only interested in a boy?

"Hello, Jaecarys," said the red head one. "It's good to see you again." He seemed more nervous than during the fair when they caught him among the trees. But he was still not completely relaxed, suddenly a child flew towards them.

"It's a pleasure to meet you... I'm Luke Cole, ten years old I don't know what to call him," the little boy said with conviction, Jace was wiping his sweaty palms on his jeans. Why was he so nervous? This place was safe and reliable...what would his home be like with these two? Jace couldn't be sure...

"Oh, right... I'm Alicent and this is my wife, Rhaenyra," said The Redhead... Alicent. Jace tried to ignore the way his stomach flipped at the name. People shared names clearly even if they were a man and a woman. Just because one evil person had that name didn't mean that everyone else was evil. The name was just... tainted.

"It's nice to meet you, boy," Nyra said, giving him a smile. "Your brother made an excellent impression on us, so we decided to meet you."

Luke laughed, "yeah, well, Jace is the best" smiling at his brother, who smiled awkwardly.

"Good luck with that one. The charm will wear off real quick," the witch of heir "foster mom" taunted as they passed. "This guy thinks he's better than everyone else."

Jace stared at their retreating backs. He hated that they talked about Luke like that and that he couldn't defend his little brother, plus how embarrassed the comment made him feel in front of Alicent and Rhaenyra. He had nothing to prove to them. They didn't know him. Luke Still, he felt that he needed to apologize on his behalf. "I'm sorry for those two. They are..."

"Idiots?" Nyra asked, raising an eyebrow.

Luke burst out laughing before he could stop it. The comment took him by surprise, but she made him smile. He didn't get many genuine smiles anymore.

"That's more like it," Luke nodded before continuing sarcastically, "Wow, I'm really going to miss you." He realized his words too late and saw Jace's surprised face as he yelled at him. He couldn't get attached! He couldn't let his guard down. He was already forcing himself into his life. "I mean--."

"No, it's okay," Allie said, sensing her panic. She cleared her throat. "We wanted to get to know them more after meeting Jace at the fair."

. "Uh, Joff is outside if you want to come meet him."

"Lead the way." Alicent's voice was as warm as her smile. Jace wasn't used to them being so warm towards them,
They went out to the patio, once again embarrassed by the state he was in. There was trash strewn all over the yard and the fence around his property was rotting to nothing. This was the first time Jace wondered if the neighbors looked in and noticed how unpleasant they were living.

-”Joff, these are Alicent and Rhaenyra –Luce told him.

They were in the middle of a quiet conversation that ended with Allie squeezing Nyra's hand and giving her a reassuring smile. Joff ran into Jace's arms.

"It's nice to meet you," Allie said, giving him that warm smile again. "We've heard a lot of good things about you two...we just had to come meet you for ourselves."

Rhaenyra's voice wasn't as warm and gentle as Alicent's, but Jace still found it comforting. "We have a few hours to hang out... see if you like two old guys like us."

Joff laughed.

Nyra smiled some more as she looked at Joff. “You think he's funny, huh? You like that word? Fuddy-duddy.”

Joff nodded, biting his lip to suppress another giggle.

Jace smiled at Rhaenyra as he continued talking to Joff. He spoke to him as if he were a person and not a baby. He was refreshing. His brother was intelligent and brilliant.

"So what do you say? Do you want to play a game with us?" Nyra winked and squatted down to Joff's level.
They spent some time playing and Luke talking and joffing from time to time, Jace just nodded and smiled.
but Allie and Nyra already knew they wanted them with them..

Chapter Text

"Three kids, one of them a teenager. I can't believe it," Leana said, shaking her head as she took a bite of the slice of pizza in her hand.

"I know it's crazy, but we met them and fell in love," Allie said with a tired smile. There was flour on her face and on her clothes, and Nyra realized that she needed a good shower and some rest. Nyra needed the same, but Allie had been in the area while she was getting ready for the boys.

They had been working day and night trying to prepare the house for Jace, Luke, and Joff's arrival. They baby-proofed everything and redid one of the guest rooms into a bedroom for a teenager. Instead of having dinner normally, the gang came to her house to help finish it up.

Luke and Joff's room is done in a simple palette of blues themed with small sea animals. They had boxes of toys to sort through and see which one he liked. Allie and Nyra really weren't sure, so they almost bought the nearby toy store. Jacaerys' room was a little more difficult. She went with grays for a color scheme with red accents. Instead of toys, she gave him a TV with an X-Box and a computer on a desk.

Her rooms were connected to a private bathroom that was also recently redecorated for some children and a teenager. They decided not to theme it because even though Luke and Joff were kids, it was also Jace's bathroom and he probably didn't want cartoons on the shower curtain.

It had taken them all day to finish the last finishing touches, with all the help of her friends. Nyra could only hope that the boys liked it. Although, if they didn't, Allie wouldn't hesitate to paint it all over again. Nyra knew it without a doubt.

"how are they?" Helaena asked quietly, She was smiling and Nyra adored her little sister she knew she adored children.

“Jaecarys is a teenager, he is very quiet and shy, he does not speak, he is a very nervous boy but very protective of Lucerys and Joffrey, he likes to read, Lucerys is ten but acts like a teenager, he talks a lot, he loves the depths of the ocean, Very strong headed. But he is protective of Jace and Joff. “Joffrey is really sweet, really cute,” Allie shared enthusiastically.

“Jaecarys doesn't speak?” Aegon asked, raising his eyebrows. He had been quiet all day, but when Nyra called him to invite him to help, she didn't hesitate to come. Nyra knew that at the end of the day, she supported his decision, but that doesn't mean she made it easy for him.

"Not so far," Allie said, refusing to let that mean anything. “We only know a little about what happened and it makes sense. We just have to be patient with him.”

“Why did it happen?” Alyssane asked hesitantly.

Nyra and Allie exchanged a look at the question. They had not given her parents that much information because they had not asked her.

Was what they had been considered classified? If not, did they have the right to tell anyone? Nyra wasn't sure of the exact details, but she did know that these people would be in the children's lives frequently. They needed to know what to pay attention to so that there were no unwanted triggers later.

“His parents were alcoholics and drug addicts. Both are currently in prison, but lost custody of their children three years ago after driving under the influence and several accounts of abuse against their
children, the father with the same charges but more aggravated in addition to homicide and trying to cover it up. I don't know to what extent the abuse was, but then they were placed in a house where they lived. Terrible neglect. The second home...!”- Nyra took a deep breath

The truth terrified him, and even when they met that little boy, Nyra couldn't imagine how anyone could abuse him. Although she didn't understand how someone could abuse a person...she felt a million times worse when there was a child involved. That man must have been a monster.

"Jaecarys was physically abused for a year at second foster home," Allie continued for him. “Nobody didn't know until... later. After Lucerys called her caseworker and Jaecarys was admitted to intensive care for two weeks, They are now in a house with a couple who are obviously looking for money. They are not happy. The place is a garbage dump. I’m not even sure they are fed daily.”

"Oh my god. That's horrible," Laena murmured, her eyes filling with tears. Alysanne hugged her friend while she tried to stop her tears.

Daemon put down his plate and Nyra noticed that her face was a pale shade of green. "Christ. That's fucked."

Fortunately, the children were at a smaller table and too far away to hear their conversation.

“Is that bastard in jail?” Viserys asked in a dangerous choice.

"I'm assuming. We didn't get many details about the abuse, but I'm sure it's in her file if we want to know more. We just know that it continued from when she was twelve to thirteen." Allie also left her pizza and didn't look like she was going to Eat again tonight.

“Prison is too good for that sorry son of a bitch,” Daemond growled. “Death is too easy. Lock him in a room with me and I'll give him what he deserves, that piece of shit-” He stood up abruptly from the table. Even his daughters turned

to see what the fuss was about. "Excuse me. I need to go out for a few minutes."
The room fell silent as he stood up and walked to the children's table, kissing each of his children on the top of the head. They both looked at him worried and looked back at his mother.
"Poor baby," Alysanne whispered, pulling her chair closer to Viserys.
"We know it won't be an easy transition and we won't be perfect," Allie said, looking at Aemond, who had been very quiet through all of this. "But they've been passed over many times in the past because of Jace's age or well background...they deserve a family just as much as the other kids."
“They do,” Viserys agreed, hugging Alysanne. "And you're lucky to have them both."
"What do you think, Aemond?" Nyra asked her brother, nudging the bear for an answer. “Do you think we made a mistake by catching one of the children you warned us about?”
Aemond's response was immediate and honestly not what Tony expected. "Of course not. I don't think these kids should stay in the system. You two have taken all of this very seriously but I'm worried that if They're afraid of me, I don't look particularly friendly or you know with the eye pach, I'm afraid that if they'll be scared, that you'll stop inviting me to family activities.”
Nyra looked at him - "Of course not, you will never stop being by my side, you are my little brother" She hugged her brother.
Then Aemond said with a smile - "well in that case, when you want, I can help you with whatever you need, both Allie and Nyra."
Nyra turned to look around the table, full of smiling faces, who would drop everything to help her if she asked them to. They loved him and they were family,
Knowing this and having them by her side when she needed it helped fill the void left by a father who didn't care at all.

"Will we never go back there again?" Joff asked as Harwing parked in front of the strange new house they would be living in.

"Maybe not. We behaved and stayed." Almost in a whisper, Jace unbuckled Joff even though he was able to do it himself. Jace was always doing things like that: cutting his food, tying his shoes, making his bed... things that Joff and Luke could easily do themselves, but Jace liked to do anyway.
"Do we want to stay?" Joff started to get out of the car after Jace and Luke got out.
"Of course!" Harwin said cheerfully, smiling at them as he walked towards the sidewalk.
"He wasn't talking to you." Luke rolled his eyes, though there was no warmth in his voice. Luke turned to Joff, "we'll see if we want to stay. But you have to tell me if you ever feel uncomfortable."
Harwing paused and his face contorted as if he were sucking on a lemon. "Luke, they're not like him."
"You don't know, you said the same thing about our father," Luke snapped. "I just want you to be careful, Jace didn't say anything, I'm Making sure Joff does."
Harwing raised his hands defensively. "I don't disagree. But we have done extensive research on his background and many references to him."
"Just like you did with him?"
"Can we go in now?" Jace asked almost inaudibly, he knew when they were talking about Alister and that always made him feel uncomfortable. It is understandable that this is so.
"Of course, Brother. Let's go." He took Luke and Jace's hand, while he took Joff's and nodded towards the house. "After you."
Sighing, Harwing began to walk and The brothers followed him. The house in front of them was larger than any house they had ever lived in. nice lawn, bright flowers and perfectly painted house.
Harwing looked around the front yard as they walked. "There's plenty of room for you guys to play here."
Neither brother responded as they went up to the porch. Jace wouldn't talk anymore now that they were knocking on a stranger's door. Harwing was lucky Jace opened up around him. It was a rare feat.
Harwing knocked on the door a few times before dropping his arm to wait for the door to open.
The door opened almost instantly. "You must be Harwing Strong!"
Harwing entered and motioned for the brothers to do the same. "Am!" He held out his hand and the older one shook it first.
"Alicent Targaryen. And my wife, Rhaenyra." Alicent let go of Harwing's hand and Rhaenyra took it next.
Allie was shorter with green eyes and reddish hair. Nyra was the Tallest with violet eyes and platinum blonde hair. Jace could remember which was which. Referring to them as “Mrs Targaryen.” ” was not only complicated, but also confusing since both would have the same last name.
"I was told the house was checked yesterday, so I don't need to go around and search the rooms to make sure everything is adequate unless The Boys want me to," Harwing said, directing the request to them and not to they. the two women.
Luke shook his head. “No need, Harwing. But thanks."
Harwing nodded and smiled, turning to Alicent and Rhaenyra. “Here's my card in case you ever need anything. Of course, I'll be back soon for some routine checks. Just to make sure the kids are adjusting well.”
Allie took the card. “Of course, Mr. Strong. Many thanks for everything."
"I should be the one to thank you both." Harwing smiled and looked at The Cole Brothers “I have a bit of a soft spot for these three. I am glad to see them finally get a home where they will be loved and cared for the way they deserve.”
"You're free to come visit us anytime," Nyra said with a smile, though hers wasn't as bright as Allie's.
"Thank you." Harwing turned to face them again and crouched down to be more level with him. He lowered his voice even though Allie and Nyra could hear him anyway. “I'm always just a phone call away. It does not matter that. I promise."
"I know," Luke said as Jace nodded. He might not give a shit to Harwing about the stupid foster shit he pulled, but he still liked him. Harwing was one of the few adults Jace could trust. It was always comforting to know who they were safe with.
I hoped Alicent and Rhaenyra would be added to that list soon.
"Okay. I'll see you guys later. Have a good night." He pulled them into a group hug and Luke patted him weakly on the back while Jace and Joff squeezed him tightly. Harwing didn't let go until the boys were pulling back.
“Good evening, Harwing. See you later." Luke waved and watched her get up and walked out the door with one last glance over his shoulder. When she left, Jace waited for that moment where the air changed and grew colder. He waited for Alicent and Rhaenyra. They would change their attitudes once the companion left and they would be called brats and go to another room. That's how it was in two of the three previous homes. In the other house there was too much affection from the beginning. as a sign.
But now there was none of that.
Alicent didn't come over to hug them and kiss their heads. Rhaenyra didn't backhand Jace.
It was actually a little awkward. This was the first time he was so awkward. Maybe that was a sign of something good.
"Uh, so... this is her new home," Allie said, pointing to the open layout of the living room, dining room, and kitchen. "Would you like the tour?"
"Can we put our things somewhere first?" Luke asked, holding up the black trash bag in his hand. as Jace pulled a larger suitcase and two trash bags to Joff's feet.
"Oh! Of course. I'm sorry... stupid of me..."
"It's okay, love," Nyra said, gently rubbing Allie's arm. "Let's show them their bedrooms first."
Allie nodded with rosy cheeks and began walking towards the side hallway. "Your rooms are right here. Connected to your own bathroom."
Jace raised his eyebrows. They rarely had their own bedroom, much less their own bathroom.
"Here's the little ones' room," Allie said, smiling softly at Luke and Joff before opening the bedroom door on the left. The three entered, Joff looked at him with wide eyes.
He spun in a slow circle as he looked around the room. The walls were a light blue with small prints of sea animals and the rug in the middle of his room was a large, soft rug. Joff knelt down and ran his fingers across the carpet. He looked over his shoulder and smiled at Jace and Luke and ran to the bottom bunk bed. There was a stool next to the bed that she climbed onto to get on the mattress. He fell back, spreading his arms and legs as if he were making a snow angel on the blankets.
"We can go shopping if you want," Allie said, almost quickly. Joffrey agreed happily. "We can choose a quilt with the character from your favorite movie or TV show. Get matching pillows. Some stuffed animals."
Joff looked at Allie as she spoke and nodded his head with a smile. He then turned to Jace and Luke and grabbed their hands. Luke chuckled as he handed her his garbage bag, knowing exactly what he wanted.
"There you go, Joff." He ruffled Joff's hair as he began to throw everything inside onto his bed. There were some pajamas, some shirts, a pair of jeans, and the rest of his bag was full of teddy bears.
"Oh, you like your bears, huh, kid?" Nyra said, sounding a little surprised.
"It's all your court bears," Luke replied. "They give us a new one every time we go to family court." Joff shouted.
"Why don't we put them in a laundry basket?" Allie began to gather the few clothes Joff and Luke had. "We can wash yours for you too, Jaecarys, if you want."
Jace agreed and Luke knows it hurt Jace that he couldn't thank him. His brother was not rude. But Luke knew he wouldn't speak until he felt safe.
"Thank you, ma'am," Luke said and Joff gave a small -"Thank you"-
"Oh, no. You don't need to call me ma'am. Allie's fine."
Luke simply agreed, unable to pronounce that name so easily. Not when he was so conditioned to hate him since Alister Sand.
"Do you want to go see your room, Jaecarys?" Nyra asked, already at the door.
The boy nodded, picking up his trash bag and walking towards the door. He heard Luke and Joff's feet behind him and soon, he was grabbing Jace's waiting hand.
Allie followed them and Jace wished he didn't feel so uncomfortable about not being able to see him. Allie was a good person. While Alister had been a steadfast citizen since the first day of their meeting, in retrospect, he seemed out of place.
Nyra opened the door to her room and let Jace enter first with Luke and Joff. Jace looked around the room and saw that the scheme they chose here was gray with some red. He wasn't too happy. He smiled gratefully for what he had been given. Especially when his eyes fell on the flat screen TV on the wall with the newest X-Box beneath it. Luke's eyes widened as he turned to look at the girls. "That's...holy shit."
"Are they X-Box guys?" Allie asked, shifting anxiously at the door. "We weren't sure if they liked Playstation or X-Box. We can change it if they want."
"We're not any kind of people," Luke said, his eyes sliding to the sleek game console. "We've never played one before, so we're not a fan of either. Thank you. We'd appreciate it." Luke said.
"We'll go shopping too. For more clothes, toys, and school supplies. Whatever you need. Shoes. Food! We'll need to know your favorite snacks."
The only time Jace had been shopping was when he stole things for his little brothers and himself when his parents couldn't get them what they needed. He tried not to do it in foster homes because they gave them enough to not despair and once he did it and got caught, his first foster mother had hit him so hard that he couldn't sit up for a week.
"That would be nice," Jace said in a whisper, with Allie and Nyra listening, not sure why they would go through all this for them. Did they feel sorry for them? Probably. Most people did.
"And you can change your room too, Jaecarys," Nyra said, seeming much calmer than her husband. "If there's something you'd like, we'll add it."

Jace turned to look at Luke, he seemed to be asking him for something.
"He likes to be called Jace, I prefer Luke and Joff is Joff," Luke said with a smile.
-”Great, that's very good to know,” Nyra said.
- “Jace, Luke and Joff are very nice names, I prefer Allie and Rhaenyra prefers Nyra,” Allie said.
There was an awkward silence that Nyra ended.
"The bathroom between your Rooms is connected. I hope you don't mind sharing it."
Luke liked that at least Nyra and Allie always talked to Jace in conversation, even if he didn't respond. Most people talked to Luke about Jace as if he wasn't there.

Jace doubted they understood where they were coming from if they thought they'd be upset about the two of them sharing a bathroom. "It's okay, Nyra. We never have our own bathroom. I'd share anything with Jace and Joff."
Allie's smile softened. "Would you like to do the rest of the tour of the house before dinner or would you like to get some rest and settle into your rooms?"
Luke knew they had a tour planned and didn't have much to figure out anyway, so he said, "We'd love to see the rest of the house."
Allie brightened. "Awesome! Come on! I think you'll love the basement!"
Jace watched as he took Nyra's hand and began to lead them down the hallway. Jace, Luke, and Joff followed close behind, but when they were shown the rooms, Jace barely paid attention. He was too busy focusing on Allie and Nyra.
He hadn't realized until now, until he saw them holding hands and Nyra constantly kissing Allie before entering a room, that he had never seen a real couple like this in person before.
He had seen her mother with her father, but that was not love. He had seen others in the places where they crouched between the houses and he knew that was not love. His first fosters didn't even kiss in front of him and his last fosters were always arguing.
But this... Allie and Nyra loved each other.
Jace wondered if his mother ever felt even a fraction of what Allie and Nyra felt for either of their fathers. Probably not.
The tour ended after they showed the basement complete with a home theater and air hockey.
"Wow," Joff said happily, looking at the couch next to the giant flat screen that probably cost more than Luke had ever cost. "You are rich, rich."
Allie's smile softened. "Awesome! We knew you'd love the basement!"
"My job is in high demand," Nyra said, almost defensively. "Allie also makes a lot of money from her Desserts. That's why she has an industrial kitchen upstairs in the attic."
Luke must have missed that part of the tour, although everything got mixed up. "I always wondered what it would be like to live in a cool house," Luke admitted.
"Now you'll know," Nyra said with a wink. "The best in the neighborhood. The parties organized here are always magnificent."
Luke couldn't help but smile. "Parties?"
"Yes. We have friends and they like to party."
"But you're like 50 years old."
Nyra gasped, pressing a hand against her heart. "We are not even 45 years old! We are young, sir!"
Joff laughed and Jace covered his mouth with his hands. Luke wanted him to say something. Not because he didn't like the fact that he didn't talk, but because he knew Jace didn't like it. Jace loved to talk. Luke just wanted him to feel comfortable.
"I'm glad you believe me, peanut." Nyra sighed, shaking her head. He already liked to use their nicknames and they barely knew each other. It was a little strange. "Tell your older brother I don't look older than 21."
"We don't want to teach them to lie, my love," Allie said and her joke even made Luke laugh. It was nice to see him relaxed and not so stressed about impressing Jace or Luke or Joff.
"You hurt me! There's only one thing that can make me feel better." And Nyra pursed her lips, waiting. Allie smiled at Nyra before pulling him in for a kiss. For a moment it was as if they forgot they had an audience. Luke wondered if acting this cheesy was normal for them.
"You guys are ruining my appetite," Luke said, rolling his eyes.
"No way. Not when we have macaroni and cheese and chicken wings." Allie grabbed Nyra's hand to intertwine their fingers.
-"Yes, I love macaroni and cheese." Joff said jumping up and down.
Jace cheered at that. Luke smiled because Joff was excited. "The boss approves," he said.
"Excellent. Time for dinner, guys." Allie smiled before leading them out of the basement and returning to the kitchen.
Surprisingly, dinner went pretty well for them. Jace still hadn't said a word since he set foot inside, but he seemed to be enjoying everything.
Allie was already starting to pick up on her facial expressions to give her a clue. Her eyes especially showed exactly how she felt.
Joff after dinner, when his eyelids began to droop and he let out a big yawn, Allie knew it was time to sleep.
After the dishes were taken to the sink, Allie walked back to where Joff was practically nodding at the table. Not that Allie blamed him; She had a long day. "I think someone is ready to sleep."
Joff nodded, rubbing his eye with a clenched fist.
-"No!, Jacy Jacy I want Jacy" raising his arms towards his brother, Jace stood up and picked him up
Allie and Nyra wanted to say something but were interrupted.
"It's okay," Luke said, "Jace always gets us ready for bed. Good night."
"Do you want help? Or be tucked in."
"No," Luke said. "We'll be fine Jace always does. Thank you ma'am."
Lady. There was that lady again. Luke hadn't called her Allie once. Only ma'am. Even Nyra got her name. What was Allie doing wrong?
"If you need anything, just call. We're here." Allie pointed out the dinner mess they had to clean up.
"Well." Then Luke turned to Jace and Joff and said, "Come on, Jace and Joff. Let's go."
Allie watched as they walked down the hallway and disappeared. She let out a shaky breath as Nyra came up behind her and kissed her cheek.
"It's okay, love. They're adjusting."
"I'm ruining."
"No," Nyra disagreed. "You're doing your best and you're anxious. It's okay. Just give them time to calm down and give yourself time to calm down."
"I thought I was ready," Allie admitted, "but now I feel like I'm doing everything wrong."
"You're not doing things wrong," Nyra sighed, giving him a hug. She rubbed her back soothingly and Allie couldn't believe that before all this, Nyra was the one who was scared.
"I shouldn't have said..."
"Nothing of that." Nyra shook her head. "We'll talk to them tomorrow morning and figure this out. Joff is five. Jace probably already has a pre-decided routine and today they've been busy getting to know each other. We can ask for help tomorrow but that's a conversation that will happen tomorrow."

Allie nodded and helped Nyra clear the rest of the table. She heard Jace and Joff getting ready for bed in the bathroom before the bedroom doors began to open and close.
She knew that Jace was used to being Luke and Joff's sole guardian and having no help at bedtime. She also knew that she couldn't expect them to include Allie and Nyra on the first night.
That didn't mean she hurt any less when they went to bed without a "goodnight" from any of the three of them.

.

Chapter Text

Late at night, the house lay wrapped in a peaceful stillness, broken only by the occasional creak of wood. In the shared room, Lucerys and Joff lay in their respective beds, their soft breaths filling the air. But Joff, restless and troubled, couldn’t find solace. The shadows danced ominously in the corners of the room, and his mind replayed the frightening images from his nightmare. He squeezed his teddy bear tight, tears brimming in his eyes.

Unable to shake the dread that clung to him, Joff slid out of bed, careful not to wake Lucerys, whose gentle snoring created a comforting backdrop. Clutching his bear, he tiptoed across the hall and opened the door to Jace’s room, where the moonlight spilled softly onto the floor.

Jace lay sprawled across his bed, peaceful in sleep. As Joff stood hesitantly in the doorway, a whimper slipped from his lips, drawing Jace's attention. Instinctively, Jace’s eyes fluttered open. He could see Joff’s small frame silhouetted against the light, tears streaming down his cheeks.

"Jace," Joff whispered, his voice trembling, "I had a bad dream."

Without hesitation, Jace opened his arms wide, beckoning Joff to come to him. The moment Joff felt the warmth of Jace’s embrace, he rushed into his brother’s arms, burying his face in Jace’s chest.

Jace held him tightly, a protective barrier against the lingering shadows of the night. "It's okay, Joff," he murmured soothingly, feeling Joff’s small body tremble against him. "I’m here. You're safe."

Joff’s sobs turned into quiet whimpers as he clung to Jace, the warmth and comfort of his brother’s embrace gradually easing his fear. "Daddy, I was so scared," he cried softly, the word slipping out as it often did in moments of vulnerability. "You won't let anything bad happen, right?"

Jace’s heart ached at the sound of "Daddy." He gently kissed the top of Joff’s head and replied with a calming certainty, "No, nothing bad will happen. I promise. You're safe with me."

Feeling reassured, Joff’s tears began to dry, but he still looked up at Jace with wide, fearful eyes. "Can I sleep here with you?"

"Of course," Jace replied, shifting to make space for his younger brother under the covers. Joff climbed in and snuggled close, resting his head against Jace's chest.

As Jace lay there, one hand gently stroking Joff's hair, he felt a wave of protectiveness wash over him. He knew that no matter what happened, it was his job to shield his brothers from the harsh realities of their world. Even as Joff's breathing gradually became steadier, Jace remained awake, lost in thought as he listened to the sounds of the night.

The next morning, Jace awoke early, still cradling Joff in his arms. Lucerys appeared in the doorway, bleary-eyed and rubbing sleep from his eyes. "Is Joff here?" he mumbled, a hint of worry in his voice.

"Yeah," Jace replied softly, careful not to wake Joff. "He had a nightmare."

Lucerys nodded knowingly, used to this routine. "We should get ready for breakfast," he suggested, though he didn’t move from the doorway. Instead, he stood watching Jace and Joff, concern flickering in his gaze.

"Come here," Jace beckoned, and Lucerys climbed onto the bed beside them. The three brothers huddled together for a moment, a small island of warmth and security, before Jace nudged them gently. "Alright, time to get moving."

Reluctantly, Joff stirred awake, still clutching his bear, and climbed out of bed. Jace helped him straighten his clothes and brush his hair, ensuring he looked presentable. Lucerys, not wanting to be left out, eagerly followed suit. Jace made sure both of them were ready, checking collars and adjusting shoes, taking care of his younger siblings as he always did.

When they made their way to the kitchen, they found Rhaenyra and Alicent already preparing breakfast. Jace remained quiet, his usual demeanor around the two women, opting to let Joff and Lucerys take the lead. They greeted Rhaenyra and Alicent with soft “Good morning, Nyra, Madam,” their voices small yet filled with respect.

Jace, as was his custom, remained silent, observing the morning's bustle from the sidelines. His gaze lingered on his brothers, ensuring they felt at ease.

After breakfast was set on the table, Jace took a moment to arrange the chairs for Joff and Lucerys. He helped Joff climb into his seat, giving him an encouraging nod, and then he moved to assist Lucerys. Each gesture was filled with the quiet love and protection he felt for them.

As they settled down to eat, Rhaenyra placed a plate of fluffy pancakes in front of each of the boys. Jace watched as Joff's eyes widened in delight at the sight of the syrup and fruit. Lucerys dug right in, taking a big bite and grinning as he savored the sweetness.

While the room buzzed with Rhaenyra and Alicent’s conversation, Jace focused on making sure Joff and Lucerys were enjoying their meal. He cut up some pancakes for Joff, his hands working deftly as he avoided any mess. Joff beamed up at him, and Jace felt a swell of warmth in his chest.

“More fruit, please?” Lucerys asked, his mouth half-full.

Jace immediately reached for the platter, adding more slices of strawberries and blueberries to Lucerys's plate. He then turned to Joff, who was still munching thoughtfully. Jace subtly gestured for him to take smaller bites, a soft smile breaking through his otherwise serious demeanor.

The breakfast table was filled with soft laughter and the clinking of forks, creating a harmonious sound that was both comforting and cheerful. Jace's presence, though silent, provided an undeniable sense of security. He would never speak much around Rhaenyra or Alicent, but his attentive gaze and gentle gestures communicated his dedication to his brothers.

After the plates were emptied and laughter faded into contented sighs, Jace helped clear the table, moving with practiced efficiency. Joff and Lucerys followed his lead, eager to pitch in. Jace silently directed them, using nods and hand motions to guide their efforts.

As they finished cleaning up, the morning sun continued to brighten their new home, and Jace felt a sense of pride swell within him. This was just the beginning of their journey together, and he would do everything he could to ensure that Joff and Lucerys felt loved and secure in their new surroundings. Today was a fresh start, and he was determined to make it a good one.

Chapter Text

"Who's comin'?" Joff asked Jace as they sat on Jacaerys's bed. It felt weird...too normal. Jace was doing homework, marking notes in a textbook, Luce was playing videogames while Joff was coloring in a notebook. The three of them were dressed in new clothes without a stain or rip in them. Alicent and Nyra were getting ready for dinner.
Apparently, tonight was a family dinner night. Alicent warned them there were going to be a few people over and if they ever got overwhelmed, they could sneak off to their rooms. "Their siblings, I think. She said it was family, but not their parents yet. So I'm assuming…"
"Oh. Okay." Joff continued to scribble in the notebook. "Did you have fun at school today?"
"Eh. It was fine." Jace shrugged his shoulders. School sucked, but he wasn't about to tell that to Joff.
"Did you make any friends yet?"
Jace glanced at him as he kept drawing. "No. i dont think i will, you have to talk in order to do friends, Joff"
Joff's eyes widened and he dropped the crayon. "oh, Did You make friends Luce?"
“No. I don't need to make friends, Joff. We won't be here long." Lucerys Answerd
"Why not? Are they sending us back?"
"No. I don't think so," Luce answered quickly. "But Jace will be 18 soon." Jace stopped, he hadnt think about what would happened once he age out of the sistem, he could not really get a good job, with the selective mutisim, and with that he could never get custody, and yes he goes to therapy but he never talks there, he doesnt Trust her, apart form that, he can berly move his right arm, and his neck, due injuries he got from “The Attack” as Luce calls it.
"In three years! That's forever!"
"It'll be here before we know it and Jace have to be ready to take us away." Usually, Joff didn't argue with Luce when he said stuff like that, but now he didn't look convinced.
"But...I've made a friend here. I think."
"A friend? Joff, you haven't met any kids since we've been here, You start school on Monday. and you're a little old for imaginary friends." Luce eyed him suspiciously.
"No," Joff said slowly. "But Mrs. Alicent is my friend."
Oh no. Just what Luce was afraid of Joff was getting attached. It had only been a week so far! "Jofrey...we barely know her."
Jace didnt think it was something wrong with Joff befriending Alicent, he was scared, but he was scared of everyone.
"I'm with Mrs. Alicent all the time! We hang out while you two are at school and Nyra is at work. Mrs. Alicent even teaches me how to cook--."
"Please stop saying her name."
Joff went quiet and he started to chew at his fingernail. "Does she remind you of Alister?"
Even hearing the name had Jace close to throwing up. he knew Alicent was probably nothing like Alister, Jace still hadnt told anyone the extent of the abuse he endure in the hands of Alister, and he never will disclose it, with anyone.
"Mrs. Alicent is very nice," Jofrey said, making Jace flinch. "She takes care of me and is never mean. She's a good mom--."
"She is not our Mother," Jace warned with a sharp look. "Neither of them are our Mothers. We have a mother, that's it."
"I don't remember Mom…" Joff and Luce said
"She's been sick, but she's getting better and she'll take us back." Jace watched joff´s and Luce’s face for a reaction, but it didn't look like a good one.
"I don't really remember her. It's been a long time since I've seen her…" Luce made a face and Jace felt like he failed him and their mom.
"She's your mother." He turned around and fumbled for the wallet he kept in his side dresser. He pulled out a small photo he had of her with him...before everything. It was even before Luce or Joff were born. He shoved the picture in Joff's and Luce´s hands. "See? Remember her, Jellybeans?"
Joff and Luce furrowed heir brow as they stared at the photo, but he didn't see any recognition in his eyes. Jace didn't even know anything he could say that could remind him. She never had many memories with them. There were no lullabies or notes on school lunches. Every one his brother's good childhood memories were from Jace and no one else.
Knowing it was a lost battle, Jace put the photo back in his wallet. "Never-mind. Just...don't get so close to these women. They're not our family. They'll never be our family."
"But they're adopting us--."
"They're fostering. There's a difference," Luce pointed out, wishing Joff would understand., there was a knock at his bedroom door. “Who’s there?”
“Nyra,” came the reply from the other side of the shut door.
Luce rolled his eyes. He should’ve been grateful for the respect and privacy, but he didn’t want a reason to like Nyra. “You can open it.”
“Thank you,” Nyra said as he pushed open the door and stuck his head inside. “Company is already here if you wanna come say hi.”
Joff tilted his head as he stared over at Luce. Luce knew he was waiting on his approval because he would always protect him from the bad strangers. Luce doubted that any of Alicent´s or Nyra’s siblings were the bad kind.
Jace closed his textbook shut and stood up, Luce turn off the game an holding his hand to Joff . “I guess we can’t avoid it forever.”
“There’s no reason to be afraid. Only a few are here, but if at any point, it gets to be too much, you can excuse yourself and it’ll be quite alright,” Nyra reassured them.
Jace nodded his head, but Luce narrowed his eyes. “You think we can’t handle meeting people?” Were they all just waiting for the little foster kids to cry at the dinner table? Well, that wouldn’t happen.
Nyra looked frustrated and Luce considered it a win. “I think you’ll be okay. I know you’re both very strong. It’s just an option if you need it.”
“Alright. Okay. Let’s go, Jelly.” Luce at Joff, the three of them walked out the door, following Nyra as they walked to the kitchen where there were strangers sitting at the table. There was a pregnant woman sitting next to a lean man with eyes almost as violet as Nyras’s. Across from them was another couple, a man with long hair pulled into a bun, and eye pach, and a gorgeous woman with hair as red as her lips. Jace straightened up slightly when he saw her, pulling at the shirt he was wearing. He suddenly wished he was wearing one of the new shirts that Alicent and Nyra bought him, but it was to sticky, and really unconfable
“Hi,” he said weakly, clearing his throat and lowering his voice-- just a bit. “I’m Lucerys. This is my little brother, Joffrey, and my older brother Jacaerys”
The beautiful woman answered first because Harley was still looking right at her. “Hello, Lucerys, I’m Leana. You can call me Lei . And this is my husband, Daemon and our twin Dauthers Baela and Rhaena.” Jace actually reconize the they were at his class.
Luce faltered at the word husband. Even though he knew he didn’t have much of a chance, this was still more permanent than a boyfriend. the boy with the pach presented himself
“My name is Aemond im brothers to Rhaenyra.” He waved. Joff waved back timidly.
“Cool eye pach” Luce said, Jace kick his arm with his elbow. “Sorry sir” said Luce quickly.
“Its totally Fine kid, dont worry” said with a smile
“And I’m Helaena sister of Rhaenyra, this are My Fraternal twins Jaehera and Jaherys,” the pregnant woman said, showing her children that were Joff age
Joff ran forward, placing a hand on Helaena’s stomach. He woman laughed, but Lucerys felt mortified on his brother’s behalf. “Joffrey!” He gasped. “Oh, my God, Miss-- I’m so sorry--.”
“It’s quite alright.” Helaena said with a soft smile. She turned to Peter and said, “There're maelor in there.”
Joff stared up with wide eyes before letting out a little giggle. Luce was glad that he was doing okay; even Nyra looked relieved.
Luce turned back to the other Man, “im Aegon also a brother of Rhaenyra,,” the man
“That’s a cool name, like the conquer” Luce said, hating to take his eyes off of Laena.
Aegon chuckled softly. “Cool is one word for it.”
while Joff was enamored with Helaena’s belly. He stuck a hand in his pocket, trying to play it cool.Jace was just standing there, He hoped his hair wasn’t too messy.
"Oh!" Heleana's sudden gasp. "he kicking."
.Another couple walked inside after Nyra.
Nyra introduced them first, "This is my Dad Viserys and his wife Alyssa-- "
They both smiled at the siblings said, "I'm Lucerys and this is my brothers, Joffrey and Jacaerys."
"It's a pleasure to meet you boys," Alyssa said before walking over to give Nyra a hug. She didn't try to give one to either of them, which Luce was grateful for.
Viserys only nodded his head. "Nice to meet you both."
"Why don't we sit down and get ready to eat?" Nyra suggested as some silence had fallen upon them. Jace wondered if it was always quiet or that was because of the two elephants in the room.
"What about the Higtowers?" Rhodey asked, taking a seat next to Sam.
"My brother said he was running a little bit late," Alicent explained. "By the time Nyra brings out the food and we're all seated, he will be here."
Jace stood there on the side, with his hand onLuce 's shoulder awkwardly, and his oder hand on Joff´s hanh, He wasn't sure where to sit; their usual table was pushed on the other side of the kitchen to seven of the fifteen plates.

Alicent saved them for any further awkwardness of just standing there. "Do you, Jace and Joff want to sit over at the kid's table? Baela and Rhena, along with Jahearys and Jahera sit there they around your age you can get to
Alicent brought over the food, which was just pizza, but it still smelled delicious. Jace couldn't complain about food when they ate more in a day here than they had for a week in their last home.
"Hey,Allie," Aemond said as he was handed a slice full of meatballs. "What's for dessert?"
"I picked up some cookie dough at the store. No time for baking." Allie continued to pass out food.
"What? But you always--."
Aemond was cut off when Aegon elbowed him.
"Oh."
She always had time before the charity cases she was fostering.
"Cookies sound delicious," Helaena said, leaning over to connect the kids to the conversation. "Don't you think, Joff?"
Joff was surprised, probably that an adult was asking for his thoughts about an adult conversation. He nodded his head quickly though just as his stomach growled. His cheeks tinged pink as the rest of the room laughed.
"How about you worry about dinner first and then we'll fill your tummy up with cookies," Alicent said softly as she placed Joffs pizza in front of him. It was a plain slice, and Jace´s plate as well but Luce knew he was still going to have trouble with if. There was too much sauce on it, Jace hated the consistency of the sauce especially in pizza with tomato chunks. Jace didn't complain though. He just stared. its not like Alicent and Nyra knew, Jace didnt like pizza.
Luce knew he was staring at a particularly large tomato chunk by the crust. He wasn't going to eat that and he was used to going hungry, so skipping a meal wouldn't bother him. Jace will always go hungry just for Luce and Joff had something to eat, even when when they were little Jace always eat the ber mimium.
"It's alright," Luce whispered as he used a napkin to wipe off the excessive sauce. "I got it."
Jace took his chin and moved it forward to Luce means thank you. Alicent didn't notice as she gave a slice to Luce , and Luce was grateful for that.
Just as Alicent finished delivering slices to everyone, there was a new round of voices, a male and female voice.
“Hi im Gweyne and his is my wife Margary” the couple seems nice
Once everyone was sitting around the table and eating, it was no longer quiet. No one was really conversing, but there were noises at every second-- cups clinking, people chewing, some burps from the guys that were groaned about from the girls. It wasn't loud and it wasn't overwhelming. It was actually really nice.
"Hey, peanuts," Helaena said, noticing heir rambling too. "Give Joff's ear a break. Eat your food."
"But Daddy, Jace isn't eating either!" She whined loudly.
Everyone turned to look over at them. Jace quickly looked down at his untouched pizza.. No one usually cared if they didn't eat or not-- before Nyra and Alicent, at least. Though they were already aware of how picky Jace could be when it came to food. "He's just…" Harley really didn't have a believable excuse for him, but he didn't want anyone to think they were ungrateful for this food.
"Does he not like it? We have other kinds. Meatball, vegetarian, pepperoni…" Nyra started listing them all off on their fingers.
"He, uh, doesn't really like the sauce," Joff explained.
"Well, he can't skip dinner," Alicent said and Luce nodded his head.
"I know, miss, He'll will eat it--."
"Oh, no no!" Alicent shook his head, standing up and walking to the counter with all of the boxes. "How about a slice of calzone?"
Jace wasn't expecting to come back with something else for him to eat. The rest of the room thankfully went back to eating, giving them some kind of privacy. "It's dough and cheese."
The rest of dinner went pretty well. Jace had another slice of the calzone, and Luce had three slices of pizza, Joff had two. He didn’t feel so bad when there were six boxes on the stove.
suddenly a plate fall on the ground, Jace jump so quickley he fall in the ground panicking he’s breathing was forced and quick; he was coming quick to a panic attack. Luce took him by the hand geting him up and taking him away before Jace starts screaming.
“Do you want me to come?” Alicent offered.
Luce shook his head immediately. “No. Don’t worry about us. We’ll be fine.” being follow by Joff , They always were without adults. Adults were the ones that always made things worse. Make Jace afraid of taking, Make Jace not eat, Make Jace spend two week on hospital, Adults hurt pepole especially children, adults get higth and drink, adults drive with their children in back. Luce hates Adults
Once they were in Jace´s bedroom with the door shut but not locked, Jace started to cry. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to!”
“You didn’t do anything wrong,” Luce said firmly. “I promise.” As mad as he wanted to be at Daemond for being so careless (and for being Leana’s husband), he couldn’t be. Daemond didn’t mean to startle Jace by breaking the plate. He didn’t know any better.
“I--I won’t be bad again-- we--we c-can go back out,” Jace was sniffling more than he was taking in actual breaths.
“We’re not going back out there,” Jace said. “Not until you feel safe” He leaned over and grabbed a box of tissues off of the bedside table. He pulled one out and gave it to Jace
He rubbed his back soothingly as Jace’s panicked breathing slowly evened out.
By the time Jace wasn’t crying or sniffling, Joff was coddling in into Jace, himself sniffing too, joff was always was very attached to Jace feelings,
Luce cuddled even closer to Jace, minutes later Jace and Joff were cooduling and sleeping, Luce left heading back towards the kitchen. Those cookies smelled too good to pass up on, also thinking on getting some for Jace, Jace loved them.
He froze just before the doorway though when he heard a conversation he probably wasn’t supposed to hear. Daemond was talking to Alicent, though they weren’t being low with their voices. Luce wondered who else was an audience to this conversation.
“Sorry ‘bout scaring Jacaerys, Allie. I didn’t think.”

“It’s alright, Dae. You didn’t mean to scare him. I forgot to warn you about that.”
Luce’s face scrunched up as Alicent’s words echoed in his head. Just what exactly was he warning people about? Why did Jace, Joff and himself come with warnings? Because they were foster kids?
“I shoulda known though from what you told us. It makes sense. I even saw him flinch with Aegon-- I should have been better. I’ll be more careful next time. Promise.”
“Thank you, Daemond.”
“I feel so bad for the kid. I ruined his night. I was just teasin’ him. Like I do with Baela and Rhaena” Daemond explained and if anything, he gained a little more respect form Luce because he was just treating the three of them like he treated the other kids. That’s all Luce wanted.
Alicent, on the other hand...she was a different story. “I think that it’s best to hold off on that for now. He’s not those two, y’know? He’s been through a lot and with his...background, this behavior is expected.”
The conversation wasn’t over, but Luce couldn’t hear the rest of it over the pounding in his ear. He was livid at Alicent’s words. Jace was more than what he went through. He wasn’t just some file in the cabinet of a social worker. He was no longer in the mood for a cookie; he was no longer in the mood to even be here.
He turned on his feet, and marched right back into Jace’s room. He wanted to slam the door, but he didn’t want to wake Jace or Joff. So he shut it, cruising Alicent in his head as he went back to his spot on the bed. He didn’t care if people were waiting for him to come back out. He stayed there with huggin Joff in his arms.
Alicent tried coming to the door to tell him that they were watching a movie, and they were free to join if Jace was feeling better. Luce ignored him. Laena came to the door to let Luce know that they were leaving. Luce was too embarrassed to speak, afraid his voice would break mid-sentence. Nyra stopped by too after everyone had gone to say goodnight to them both, but Luce ignored him too.
He laid there for hours until finally sleep dragged him in