Axel stood outside.
"B-Brother-in-law..." Stella greeted, relief and worry mixing in her voice. "How's sister Evelyn?"
"She's awake," Axel replied calmly. "She's in the next room. I came to get Oliver."
Before Stella could say another word, a small figure flew past her.
"Daddy!" Oliver rushed straight into Axel's arms.
Axel bent down instantly, lifting him up without effort. The worry in his son's eyes melted something profound inside his chest.
His round eyes blinked at him. "Mommy?" he asked urgently. "I want to meet Mommy now. I already had my breakfast... Please bring her to me now, Daddy."
"Easy, buddy," Axel murmured, holding him close.
"But you promised me," Oliver insisted, his brow furrowed. "I can see Mommy in the morning. It's already morning, and I look handsome now." Then he carefully tugged at his shirt, smoothing and neatening it as if preparing for an important meeting.
