“D… Daddy…”

Across the plaza, Adrian froze.

He had been halfway up the steps to his meeting when the sound hit his ears. His briefcase dropped with a clatter as he spun around.

“Daddy!”

The word was louder this time, trembling but clear.

Adrian’s vision blurred with tears as he sprinted toward her. He scooped Lila into his arms, clutching her as if the world itself might snatch her away.

“My God… my girl… you spoke…” he whispered, his voice breaking.

Lila clung to him, tears streaking her cheeks. She buried her face against his chest, her small shoulders shaking with sobs.