Chapter 52

• The park was serene, the morning dew still on the grass as Leo and Liana sat on a squeaky wooden bench. The air was filled with the faraway chattering of birds and the sound of soft leaves rustling. Leo shifted uncomfortably, his hands awkwardly positioned on his knees. He glanced over at Liana, who was busy tying the laces of her sneakers, her small fingers working diligently.
• "You like the park?" Leo asked, his voice gentle, trying to break the ice.
• Liana's eyes met his, her big brown eyes looking up at him. "Yeah, it's nice here. Mommy brings me sometimes." Her voice was soft, almost a whisper, but there was a spark of interest in her eyes.