Chapter 130. Family
"Hey, little brother," Leo said, voice light but full of quiet pride, "you’re walking without a crutch now?"
Lucian lifted his leg a bit, grinning wide, bold despite a slight shake in his stance. "Almost healed," he said, voice full of determination. "I’m working to get my strength back fast. I can’t let you carry all the burdens alone, brother."
Leo’s chuckle was warm, a spark of care in his eyes as he playfully nudged Lucian’s shoulder. "Big words for a kid," he teased, then softened, smile real.
"Happy birthday, Lucian."
Lucian’s grin grew, eyes shining with thanks. "Thanks, brother."
The brothers stood in the quiet hallway, heavy with unsaid words, and a momentary awkward silence between them. Lucian’s face shifted, uncertain, then brightened with a hopeful idea. "How about that girl and Vivien join us for tea?"
Leo’s laughter was soft, easy, a rare sound echoing down the hall. "Alright, let’s go." They started walking, boots tapping lightly, but Leo caught the slight limp in Lucian’s step, the hidden wince.
Without a word, he reached out, taking Lucian’s hand and draping his arm over his shoulder, steadying him with a gentle but strong grip. Lucian’s cheeks flushed, voice rising in protest. "I don’t need—"
"Shut up and walk with me, little brother," Leo cut in, tone firm but kind, a grin on his lips.