That evening...
6:34 PM
The bedroom was quiet.
The balcony doors were open, allowing the cool evening breeze to drift inside. The curtains swayed gently as the last rays of sunlight painted the room in soft shades of gold and amber. The world outside was peaceful, the sounds of birdsong and distant leaves rustling creating a soothing melody.
Leo stood by the balcony, looking outside. His hands rested loosely on the railing, his gaze fixed on the horizon where the sun was slowly dipping below the treeline.
A few moments later, he felt a pair of soft arms wrap around his own.
Bella gently hugged his arm and rested her cheek against his shoulder. Her warmth seeped through his sleeve, grounding him.
Leo looked down.
Her eyes were slightly red.
"...What's wrong?" he asked softly.
Bella lowered her head for a moment before speaking. "...Thank you."
Leo waited.
"Thank you so much... for letting Grandpa stay with us."
She looked up at him with eyes already glistening with tears.
