Theo let out a soft chuckle. "Yeah. I guess I didn't think that far ahead."
Leon gave a faint smile, the first one Theo had seen on him. Dion, still clutching his stuffed animal, looked up and whispered, "Are you really leaving?"
Theo's expression softened. "Only when it's safe. I promise, I won't go until you're in good hands."
"Thank you so much, Mister. I won't ask your name," Leon said quietly, voice steadier now. "You probably don't want to say it if you want to keep your identity hidden. But… what matters is I know your face. And I'll remember it forever. I want to be as strong as you are."
Theo smiled at that, a soft nod in response. He glanced toward the dark sky, then looked back at the boys. "You survived all this. That makes you strong already. Just hold on a little longer."
As soon as the soldiers opened the hatch, Theo gave the boys a faint smile.
"I'll leave now," he said quietly.
