Yet, Leyla seemed unsure of herself.

“Go and say hello to him, Leyla," Dylan encouraged her gently, stroking her head.

They were only a few steps apart.

Leyla approached Raphael slowly, extending her hand elegantly when she reached him. She recognized Raphael, who had always watched her from afar.

Children were actually incredibly perceptive.

Meanwhile, Raphael was overwhelmed with mixed feelings, feeling remorseful for the little girl... He caressed Leyla's cheek tenderly but struggled to find the right words. Finally, he managed a wistful smile and said, "Be a good girl for your mom, and I hope you find happiness every day with her and Dylan."

His voice shook slightly as he spoke.

No amount of regret could alter the past.

His life was in turmoil, and Raphael didn't want Leyla caught in his chaotic world. Many people cared for her, and he believed it was best to remain distantly involved in her life.

Leyla looked up at Raphael.

Then, impulsively, she reached out and touched his face and whispered, "Mommy said that grown-ups never cry."

Moved by her words, Raphael embraced her tightly.

Leyla rested her head on his shoulder, intuitively understanding more than she was told.

She gently wiped away Raphael's tears.

Then she whispered, “I knew that you were my father!"

Raphael was stunned by her words.

Leyla's empathy shone through as she hugged him warmly and planted a tender kiss on his cheek... At that moment, Raphael nearly cried.

He fought hard to maintain his composure.

He held Leyla close for a long time before finally handing her over to Dylan... All the while, Dylan observed the exchange in silence.

"Take good care of her!" Raphael said in a hoarse voice.

Then he turned and hurried away.

Dylan cradled Leyla and watched Raphael disappear. Then he asked her gently, "You knew he was your father, didn't you?"

Leyla turned to wrap her arms around his neck but remained silent.

She didn't say anything after that. Dylan shook his head and resigned, holding her close without speaking further... Over the years, Dylan had been by Leyla's side more than Raphael ever had.