Leo’s POV
Turning six didn't come with balloons or a big party, but I got something far better.
When I woke up on my birthday morning, Mom was already standing beside our small kitchen table with a wrapped box in her hands. She looked tired, with dark circles under her eyes from working long hours at the docks, but she still gave me a warm smile.
“Come here, birthday boy,” she said, placing the box in front of me. “But first, close your eyes.”
I did as she asked, sitting straight in my chair with my hands resting on my lap. I heard Maya giggling beside me, which made me suspect she knew what was inside.
“Can I open them now?” I asked.
“Not yet,” Maya said quickly. “You have to wait until Mommy says so.”
I sighed. “You're not the one getting a present. Why are you more excited than m
