Mia smiled as she adjusted her grip on her brother Jason, who was cradled comfortably in her arms. The morning was their favorite time, a chance to enjoy the tranquility before the bustle of the day began. Jason, though twelve, was smaller for his age, making it easier for Mia to carry him like a cherished possession.

"Do you ever get tired of carrying me?" Jason asked, looking up at his sister with a teasing grin. "Never," Mia replied, her eyes twinkling. "You're like a cute little toy to me, and I’ll always carry you."

Tanja waved energetically as she reached them. "Hey, let me have a turn!" she exclaimed, reaching out to take Jason into her arms. Jason squirmed slightly, feigning discomfort, but Mia gently laid him in Tanja's embrace. "You're not heavy at all," Tanja laughed.

"See?" Mia teased, nudging Jason. "I could pick you up every day, and you'd still act like you don't like it." Jason, trying to maintain his serious facade, shrugged. "I hate it," he insisted, though his eyes betrayed his enjoyment.

Tanja glanced at Mia and Jason, her smile softening. "He might say he hates it, but we all know the truth," she said gently. "Yeah," Mia replied, glancing at her brother fondly. "It's our little secret."