Leo's heart warmed as Vivien's small arms wrapped tightly around him, her hug shining bright in the darkness of his mind. Her innocence reminds him of another little girl from his old life, a sweet, gentle child whom he'd protected, only to have her die from a reckless accident.
That loss had ignited his brutal way, and looking at Vivien, so similar to her in spirit. For a moment, he saw another life, where Chloe lived, their unborn child growing up content and safe. The thought of that child, dead even before even being born because of him, hit him like a truck, and he flinched, his smile faltering.
Vivien pulled back, her crimson eyes wide with concern. "Brother, what's wrong?"
Leo summoned a soft smile, pushing the pain down. "Just some old thoughts, Vivi. I'm fine."
She frowned,then reached up, her small hands awkwardly smoothing his hair.. "Don't be sad brother," she said, her voice small but genuine. "When sad memories arrive, think of happy things instead!"
