Her face, so much like her mother's, left him momentarily dazed.

After a pause, he said in a rough voice, “Let's go, baby girl.”

Leyla twiddled her fingers.

Raphael smiled and started the car. When they got to the restaurant, he parked and carried Leyla inside, not letting her walk. The decor was perfect for kids, with chairs shaped like little bears. The whole place looked incredibly cute, and kids sitting in those chairs all looked absolutely adorable.

Raphael ordered a kids' meal for Leyla.

It came with mashed potatoes and a small serving of pasta.

The pasta was short, just right for Little hands.

Raphael wanted to feed her, but Leyla insisted on doing it herself.

Even though she was small, she ate with surprising grace, not a drop of sauce on her bib or face.

Raphael watched her quietly. His heart swelled with tenderness.

He thought about how well the Evans family had cared for Leyla and felt grateful to Edwin. Without Edwin's help, things would have been much harder for Olivia. When he thought of Olivia, his expression grew serious.

Leyla asked, “Are you thinking about my mommy?"

Raphael smiled.

After a moment, he gently patted her head and said "I was just thinking about the past. You're as cute as your mommy!"

Leyla leaned into his hand, confident in her cuteness.

After all, Edwin told her every day how cute she was.

Just then, Edwin walked in, having received the message from Raphael earlier.

Leyla saw him and called out sweetly, "Uncle Edwin!" and reached out to be held. Raphael wiped her mouth and lifted her, reluctant to let go.

Edwin's face was serious. “This project will take about two months. Have you sorted everything out at home? I heard your wife's Little brother is now staying with you?"

Raphael felt a bit awkward. Elissa's father had always been worried about his reputation. But after he passed, family secrets spread quickly. Even Edwin knew about Brantley now.

He didn't hide anything, nodding and saying, "He's a pretty cute kid."

Edwin stared at him quietly.

Edwin, two years older than Raphael, had seen Raphael and Olivia through their ups and downs, and watched them find new paths. Olivia hadn't fully accepted Dylan yet, but Raphael had found new love.

Edwin noticed Raphael seemed happier lately.