He promised you that when he returned everything would be different. He said it with that calm that always made you believe him. He kissed your forehead before leaving and asked you for patience, just a little more.

That night you cooked for him. It was almost eight. The house was silent, the food moving slowly, your mind full of simple scenes. You thought about the door opening. In his voice saying that he was already home.

The phone rang when you turned off the stove.

They told you that Leon had returned, only that there was a small change of plans. Leon was in the hospital and he didn't have much time left.

When you arrived, you found him awake. Pale. With a tired body, but eyes still looking for you. He smiled just when he saw you, as if your presence was enough for now. You took his hand.

You leaned towards him without being able to hold back the tears.

"Don't cry," he asked you, with a weak voice. “That way it's harder for me to leave.”