"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?"
