Daniel stood frozen. Anger rose in him—how dare this child trespass? Yet another voice inside him whispered something different: Look. Your daughter is alive again.

For months, the greatest doctors in the world had failed. Yet a barefoot boy, hungry and homeless, had done what millions couldn’t—he had given Emily her laughter back.

When Daniel finally walked down into the garden, Emily was still laughing, her cheeks flushed with happiness. The boy looked up, startled, ready to run.

“Wait,” Daniel said, holding out his hand. His tone was softer than he intended. “What’s your name?”

“Leo,” the boy whispered. His eyes darted nervously, as though expecting punishment.