She refrained from embracing him either.

She lifted her head and spoke softly. “Mom mentioned divorce. Dad, I thought you said you wouldn't."

Leonel remained silent.

Eventually, he crouched down, placing a hand on Evelyn's shoulder and pulling her into an embrace.

Initially, Evelyn hesitated. Rumors from her classmates circulated, suggesting her father had an affair with a celebrity, and she'd soon have a stepmother, along with younger siblings.