- When Tenderness Has Paws.

Lara placed the first quesadilla on a plate.

“It’s not envy, Patricio. It’s just that... sometimes I wonder if Thiago notices the difference. If he’ll feel like he’s enough, when he sees his dad being fully present with other kids but only partly with him.”

“Thiago is a very loved child, I know that for sure,” he said firmly. “And you do more than enough to make sure he feels special.”

She smiled at him, a bit tired, and placed another quesadilla on the plate.

“Thanks. That’s why it’s so important for Leo to understand it’s not just about being there... it’s about how you’re there.”

Patricio took his first bite just as Lara turned off the stove and began serving the dishes. Then he reached for a small walkie-talkie on the shelf and pressed the button with an almost maternal gesture.

“Space Captain, do you copy?” he said with a gentle smile.

There was a brief buzz, and then Thiago’s excited voice responded from upstairs:

“Yes, Central Base! I’m ready for landing!”