"Dad."
That single word found its way into the deepest corner of Leo's heart.
His throat tightened. For the first time in a very long while, he didn't know what to say. He simply walked toward them, his expression softening completely as he reached for Eli.
"Come here."
Eli happily leaned toward him and Leo took him into his arms. Bella was still standing beside them and Leo pulled her into the embrace as well, wrapping both of them tightly against his chest.
Bella's eyes became misty.
Leo closed his eyes for a moment, holding them both as though he was afraid the moment might disappear if he let go.
He felt absurdly happy.
His little boy had called him Dad.
Not Tall Uncle.
Not Leo.
DAD.
The word echoed warmly through his heart.
Jay's face softened as he watched them.
Jace smiled.
Even the others seemed moved by the simple moment.
Bella, however, was staring at Eli with a different kind of emotion.
She was happy. So incredibly happy.
