Evelyn cuddled against his shoulder like a little puppy, softly murmuring, "Daddy!"

Holding her with one arm and supporting her back with the other, Leonel felt an overwhelming surge of emotion.

She was his own flesh and blood.

Ollie, the puppy, danced excitedly at his feet but settled down after being fed some dog food and water.

As Leonel resumed cooking, Evelyn clung to him like a small koala, whispering into her father's ear.