I look down at the little boy, who has now hidden halfway behind his grandmother's legs, peeking out with big, curious eyes.
"Granny," I say, my voice warm and open. "Would it be alright if we said hello to your grandson? He's very charming."
The grandmother looks us over—two well-dressed young men, one clearly flustered and sweet, the other trying his best to look harmless. A soft, understanding smile touches her lips. "If Anio agrees, you may."
Anio. What a sweet name.
The little boy just blinks up at us, shy.
I kneel down, bringing myself to his eye level. "Hello, Anio. Can we be friends? I'll buy you a cake."
He blinks those huge, innocent eyes.
His grandmother nudges him gently. "Anio, greet the nice young men politely."
The boy peeks out a little more. "H'llo," he whispers, so soft it's almost lost.
I smile, my heart genuinely melting. "Such a sweet name, Anio. Can you help my friend here choose a delicious cake? He's having a very hard time deciding."
