The name hung in the air. Their son. The wound never healed. Vanessa fell silent. Benjamin walked toward the door.
He demanded an explanation. The guard immediately softened, claiming he was preventing the boy from begging. Benjamin narrowed his eyes, then knelt to meet the child at eye level. He introduced himself and gently asked the boy’s name.
“Leo,” the boy replied after hesitation.
Benjamin asked if he liked music. Leo’s eyes brightened instantly. He admitted he loved the piano more than anything.
Without another word, Benjamin took the boy’s hand and invited him inside—not just to listen, but to eat. Leo stared at him in disbelief. The guard tried to object, but Benjamin calmly called the restaurant’s owner, making it clear the boy was his guest. The guard stepped aside.
As they entered, conversations stalled. Some guests frowned, others whispered. Leo felt exposed, but Benjamin’s steady presence kept him moving forward.
Vanessa watched with tight lips. She complained loudly about the dirt. Benjamin coolly told her she could leave if she wished. She stayed.