a book of parent!phan

12. stubborn pink clips.

It was late.

It was late for almost four year old Lily, at least, her bed time was 7:30, and it was almost nine. Dan and Phil let it slide- it was Saturday after all- but they hadn't considered how moody Lily would get after not having enough rest.

Dan looked up from his tense posture, hearing another groan of frustration from Lily and another tug of his hair. She was trying to stick a stubborn pink clip into his curly hair, her tounge peeking out of her lips.

She gave up after a cry of impatience, and she threw the clip across the room, starting to cry. "Daddy, it's not working," she sobbed.

"Okay, alright," sighed Dan. "I think it might be bedtime, honey-"

"NO!" Lily screamed as Dan tried to scoop her up. She kicked and fought, scrambling up the couch when she escaped him. Hot tears ran down her cheeks.

Phil walked in, and Lily cried and looked at him. "Papa," she whined, holding out her arms.

She's just tired, mouthed Dan to Phil, and he nodded knowingly. Phil picked Lily up, holding her close and rocking her softly, cooing in her ear.

Dan smiled. Lily always had a comfort preference for Phil, especially as a baby, as he was part of her genes. Even as a toddler, she would always turn to him for comfort, and it would work wonders.

Lily's sniffling subsided as Phil shushed and lulled her, and they both knew she was out in an instant. They made eye contact over Lily's shoulder, and Phil smirked boastfully.

Dan rolled his eyes playfully, walking over to give him a kiss. He saw Lily already asleep, and chuckled. "She's all yours," Dan muttered into his lips. Phil smirked.

"Next baby belongs to you, my love."

Dan's jaw dropped.