"Thank you," Reyna beamed. "Though my real intention today was to invite you to see it once it's built."
Leo nodded without hesitation. "I'll be there."
"And…" Reyna's expression turned a little bashful, her gaze lowering for a moment before meeting his again. "Bring Bella with you."
He understood the meaning behind her words instantly—she didn't just want him to come, she wanted Bella to see the home she was building.
Leo's lips curved into a small, knowing smile. "I'll make sure she's there."
Reyna's shoulders eased when he agreed, and for a moment the air in the ward felt lighter. She glanced at Emilio again, brushing a hand over his arm in that absent, loving way of someone who had done it for decades.
"You know," she said quietly, "when he wakes and calls for Bella, there's a softness in his voice I haven't heard in years. I think… she's left a deep mark on his heart."
