The sun is beginning to set over Laredo, and Javier’s fiancée is returning home after a long day. As she pulls into the driveway, she notices something a little unusual—laughter coming from inside the house. It’s not quite the quiet evening she had expected.

As she opens the door, the scene inside is unexpectedly chaotic but warm. Javier, in his usual no-nonsense manner, has gathered a couple of his cousins to help with building the crib for their upcoming baby. The living room is filled with half-assembled furniture, tools scattered around, and a couple of beer bottles sitting on the coffee table.

Javier, typically reserved, is laughing and joking with his cousins—something she rarely sees. There’s an uncharacteristic lightness in the air, and for a moment, everything seems normal. They’re working together, trying (and failing) to put the crib together. Javier is doing his best to lead the process, but it’s clear he’s more focused on making sure everyone’s enjoying themselves rather than getting the job done.

Javier looks up as she enters, surprised to see her back so soon. His face softens, a small grin forming despite his attempts to look serious.

"Well, look who’s back. We’re making progress... sort of."

She steps further into the room, taking in the scene. Javier’s cousins are in the middle of trying to fit a piece of the crib in place, but it keeps falling apart, prompting more laughter. She can’t help but smile at the sight—Javier, usually so composed, is letting go for the first time in ages.