Once they stepped into the orphanage, Sonic’s tail wagged excitedly, his grip tightening around Shadow’s arm as they followed behind several other couples, all searching for a child to welcome into their lives. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with soft pastel-coloured walls adorned with cheerful murals of Mobian families, painted to inspire hope in both the children and prospective parents.

The interior was thoughtfully arranged, each room designated for different age groups, ensuring that every child received the care and attention they needed. Babies rested in one room, toddlers played in another, and pre-school-aged children engaged in various activities under the watchful eyes of caretakers. Laughter and soft coos filled the air, creating a symphony of youthful innocence.

Many of the Mobian couples headed straight for the toddler and pre-school rooms, having already decided on the age range they were looking for. Sonic and Shadow, however, had their sights set on the baby room. The moment they stepped inside, Sonic’s eyes sparkled with delight, his heart melting at the sight of pudgy-faced Mobian infants nestled in their cots.

“Aww, Shads~! Look how cute they all are~!” Sonic cooed, his voice brimming with affection.

Shadow chuckled, watching as Sonic leaned over the cribs, making playful faces at the babies. The infants responded with giggles and squeaks, their tiny hands reaching out toward the blue blur, fascinated by his vibrant energy.

Sonic eagerly moved from one crib to another, gently picking up each baby and cradling them in his arms, showering them with warmth and affection. Shadow stood back, observing with a soft smile.

Sonic’s going to be an amazing father…

As Sonic carefully laid a baby back into its crib, he turned to Shadow with a hopeful grin.

“Shadow? Can we adopt all of them? Pleaseeee~?”

The black blur let out a small chuckle, stepping behind Sonic and wrapping his arms around his waist.

“I’m sorry, darling, but we only have space for one…”

Sonic pouted playfully, his ears drooping slightly before he continued his search.

After cuddling with several babies, Sonic’s gaze landed on two adorable twin hedgehoglets—a boy and a girl—nestled together in a shared crib. Their tiny quills were soft and barely developed, their round eyes filled with curiosity as they looked up at Sonic. Without hesitation, he scooped them both up, holding them securely in his arms. The twins giggled, their little hands reaching up toward Sonic’s ears, attempting to grab them.

“Hehe, easy there, cuties~! My ears are ticklish~” Sonic laughed, shifting them slightly so they wouldn’t tug too hard.

Shadow approached, glancing at the form attached to their crib. “Their names are Charlie and Holly~” he read aloud.

As Sonic continued to play with the twins, Shadow felt a gentle tug on his own fur. He turned to see a little female Mobian gazing up at him with wide, curious eyes. A soft smile formed on his muzzle as he reached down, brushing his fingers against her tan-colored muzzle. The infant let out a delighted giggle, kicking her tiny feet.

“Hello, little one~ What’s your name?” Shadow murmured, his voice unusually tender.

Sonic walked over, peering at the form beside her crib. “It says here that her name’s Sasha… That’s a really cute name~”

Despite the excitement, Shadow reminded Sonic that they still had other places to visit before making a decision. With a final farewell to the infants and staff, they left the orphanage, heading to a nearby diner for lunch.

The cosy establishment smelled of fresh coffee and warm pastries, the perfect place to unwind after an emotional morning.

Before Sonic could even pick up the menu, Shadow smirked knowingly. “Let me guess… chili dogs~?”

Sonic wagged his tail, grinning. “Of course~! They do the best ones here, Shads… aside from yours, of course~”

Shadow chuckled, taking a sip of his drink. Just as he set his cup down, his phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out, glancing at the number before answering.

"Hello?"

"Hello, is this Shadow Miller?"

"Speaking."

Sonic perked up, his ears twitching as he tried to listen in.

"This is Lucy from the Station Square adoption services. I believe you’re looking for a child for yourself and a loved one?"

"Yes, preferably a baby."

"I understand. Well, we have several available for adoption, and we’d love for you and your partner to come take a look."

"Excellent, we would love to."

"Perfect! We can book an appointment for you and your partner, but would it be okay for me to speak to your partner?"

Shadow handed the phone to Sonic, who eagerly took it.

"Hi there~! This is Shadow’s partner~"

"Ah, hello. Apologies, but is this Shadow Miller’s wife?"

Sonic’s ears lowered slightly. "Eh? Well, I’m his boyfriend, but I’m hoping to be his husband when the time comes~"

"I see. Sir, I hope you don’t mind me saying, but I think there must have been a mistake. I was told that Shadow had a wife."

Sonic’s heart sank.

"Well, I’m afraid that our agency only accepts male and female couples, not those of the same sex."

Shadow immediately noticed Sonic’s expression change, his hand instinctively resting atop Sonic’s in comfort.

Despite the setback, Shadow was determined. He held Sonic close, whispering softly, “We will find a way, my love. No matter what.”