With Alexis there, Evelyn and Daniel seemed a bit reserved.
Seeing Noreen there, Alexis felt at ease, so she soon left to catch her flight.
Now, only Leonel, Noreen, and the three kids remained.
After a while, they heard a car pulling away from downstairs.
It was obvious that Alexis had departed.
Noreen noticed the kids seemed a bit tense, so she grinned and said, âLetâs whip up some snacks and drinks.
Iâll ferry Evelyn and Daniel to their classes later.
For now, let them relax and play.
â
Evelyn really missed Leonel.
She hugged him tight, while Daniel sat quietly beside him, still peeved.
Leonel subtly shifted his leg.
Cordeliaâs weight was starting to make it throb.
He tried to chat with Daniel.
After some coaxing, Daniel reluctantly responded to him but it was clear their bond wasnât as strong as before.
It hit Leonel in the feels but he couldnât change it.
He kept holding Cordelia close.
Before long, Cordelia wanted to roam around.
She wriggled in her cute dress, giving Leonel an innocent look.
Daniel calmly remarked, âIt looks like sheâs itching to walk.
â
Leonel froze.
Even though he knew a nine-month-old could be guided to take a few steps, his legs couldnât handle itâ¦
He wanted to explain to his son but got choked up and was unable to find the words.
In that moment, Leonel felt completely lost.
He realized that if he wanted to be there for his kids as they grew, he had to come clean about his mobility issues, especially to Alexis, admitting he felt useless for not being able to walk properly again.
Seeing him still, Daniel asked, âAre your legs still bothering you? Mom says you need to cut back on drinking.
â
Leonel felt a tug at his heart.
After a moment, he murmured, âShould I listen to your mom?â
Daniel didnât reply and just took Cordelia from Leonelâs arms and helped her take a few steps.