Initially, Waylen disapproved of Leonel caring for Alexis, but after a night of kneeling before him, Leonel's persistence led Waylen to compromise. He conceded that the decision was ultimately up to Alexis when she woke up.

Evelyn approached with a pillow in her arms, quietly climbing onto the bed and holding Alexis' arm.

Leonel felt a pang of sadness as he watched.

He leaned over to tuck Evelyn in and asked softly, “Can't fall asleep? How about I tell you a story?"

Evelyn shook her head.

Burying her face in her mother's arms, she whispered, “I can't hear properly."

Leonel's heart twinged at her words. Gently stroking Evelyn's hair, he leaned in and whispered, “Evelyn, I'm sorry. It's all my fault."

Tears filled Evelyn's eyes.

At just ten years old, she was burdened with the inability to hear from one ear, and fear gripped her heart. But when she looked at Leonel, she couldn't help but feel sorry for him. Her grandfather's scolding, her grandmother's silence, and her mother's indifference all weighed heavily on him.

Despite her own struggles, Evelyn knew she had many people who loved her.

But it felt like no one wanted her father.

With tears in her eyes, Evelyn said in a low voice, “Dad, I'm really scared. But if you come back, it doesn't matter if I can't hear from one ear. I have another one. I don't have to pursue being a pianist. What matters more to me is that you and Mom can be together with me and Danny."

Leonel's heart shattered.

He held Evelyn tightly in his arms and whispered, "I promise I'll get your ear treated."

At that moment, Alexis regained consciousness.

She gazed at them calmly, as if she had heard their conversation.

Leonel tried to speak, but the words failed him.

Noticing Alexis awake, Evelyn rushed into her arms, softly calling her "Mom."

In the quiet of the night, Evelyn finally drifted off to sleep.

Despite her weakness, Alexis draped a coat over herself and settled on the sofa.