Folding the document, I slip it into my pocket.
Then I walk past Rico without a word and head toward the living room where I know my men have allowed the two of them to repose.
I need to see her.
I need to see them both.
When I reach the living room, I stop in the doorway.
Angelica sits on the couch with her legs tucked under her.
Sofia stands in front of the Christmas tree, reaching up to touch the ornaments.
She moves from one to the next, her small fingers tracing the shapes.
Angelica watches her with an anxious expression, like she's nervous the child will break something or maybe she’s still scared of being here.
I wish she didn’t feel that way, and I realize my behavior is part of that reason, but this was a bit of a shock to all of us.
I didn't have time to think before reacting.
I step into the room and Sofia notices me immediately.
She freezes and takes a step back toward her mother, so I keep my distance and my voice calm.
"What are you doing?" I ask gently.
Sofia doesn't answer.
She looks at Angelica for guidance and Angelica nods slightly.
"She's looking at the ornaments," Angelica says, but her voice is flat.
I move closer to the tree.
Sofia watches me warily but doesn't run. I crouch down beside her so I’m at her level.
There are no words to describe what I'm feeling, how delicate this situation is.
My little girl.
So beautiful and so smart, and she's right here and has no clue I’m her father.
And she’s scared of me because I’m a monster.
"Do you like them?" I ask.
She nods.
"Which one is your favorite?"
She points to a gold bulb near the middle of the tree.
It catches the light and glows softly.
"That's a good choice," I tell her with a smile.
She relaxes slightly.
