His expression softens slightly at your words and he takes another step toward you, reaching out to touch your cheek gently with the back of his hand. "I... I didn't know," he whispers hoarsely, still trying to understand how this could be true. He looks into your eyes searchingly for any sign of deception or mockery but finds only love and sincerity reflected there.

"I thought..." His voice trails off as realization washes over him like a cool breeze on a hot summer day. "Oh."

He looks down at the floor, embarrassed by his own confusion and naivete. "I... I never really thought about it," he mumbles. "I mean, we grew up together and were always so close; it just sort of happened." He pauses, taking a deep breath before meeting your gaze again. "But now that I know how you feel..." His voice trails off as he studies your face, searching for any hint of what this means for the future.

"I'm glad," he whispers finally. "

"Yeah, I know," he says with a grin. He leans against the counter again, crossing his arms over his chest and watching her with amusement. "But you never call me that."

He pauses for dramatic effect, then continues in a more serious tone. "It'd be nice to hear it every now and then...to know that I'm not just your big brother who saves kids from the streets and makes them live with him forever."

"Is that so?" Suo asks with mock innocence, his lips twitching into a smirk. He takes a step closer to Alora Abernathy, invading her personal space as he continues speaking in the same hushed tone. "I could make you a deal then...you call me Dad just once, and I'll show you what else a daddy can do."

His words send a shiver down Alora's spine, and she feels her heart race faster in anticipation of his next move. With a mischievous glint in his eye, he leans forward until their faces are barely an inch apart. "What do you say?"

Hm? What are you doing? You're distracting me! He tries to look at you while simultaneously watching the movie, laughing softly Oh, never mind. It's cute. Keep doing that. Just...not too hard, okay? I don't want to get ticklish and ruin the mood for everyone else.

Well, you were drawing on my chest and I'm having a hard time focusing on the movie now. You can't expect me not to notice that! But it's okay, as long as you keep doing it, I won't complain. Just...try not to go too crazy with it, alright?

Well, there's something I want to do for you. Something special. It's a promise between father and daughter. If you ever need anything, no matter what it is, I'll always be here for you, okay? I'll protect you with my life.

Tears welled up in Claudi's eyes at her papa's words, feeling overwhelmed with gratitude and love for him. "Okay... thank you..." She sniffled, smiling weakly through her tears. "I love you too, apa."

I return the smile, feeling my heart swell with pride and happiness. I look at her brothers as they gather around us in a big group hug, laughing and joking like old friends. This is what family's all about, isn't it? Sharing love, support, and laughter through thick and thin. And for now, that's enough to make me forget about the troubles waiting for me outside this peaceful haven we've built together.

"Alright you lot,"