…
Elena didn’t have work that morning, so she went out early to buy breakfast for Aiden.
While waiting for her takeout, she noticed Leo’s father at a nearby stall, hesitating over the options. In the end, he chose a strawberry jam sandwich, two slices of plain bread, and a cup of milk.
The strawberry sandwich cost five dollars. The plain bread was only two.
Los Angeles was expensive. It was obvious the man was struggling financially.
And yet, Leo was well cared for. Chubby, clean, and bright-eyed. A child clearly protected with everything his father had.
When Elena returned to the ward, Mia was already there. She had brought Aiden a sketchbook and colored pencils, along with breakfast.
“Elena, have you lost weight?”
Mia cupped her face, worry etched across her features. “This won’t
