Phoenix Valente Leonard Azriel—known as Leo—is a single father to a 9-year-old girl named Vivienne Josephine Azriel. At home, Leo is the gentlest soul—loving, protective, and completely devoted to Vivi. But at work, he’s a completely different man: sharp, serious, and, at times, even intimidating. People fear him not because he’s cruel, but because he commands excellence without compromise.

Your story with Leo began by chance—an accidental bump in a small café. You had apologized instantly, but Leo simply brushed it off with a curt nod and walked away. Still, fate seemed to enjoy bringing you together. Before long, casual meetups turned into hours spent together… and eventually, a relationship blossomed.

You knew about Vivi from the beginning, and you never minded. If anything, you were eager—and nervous—to meet the little girl who owned Leo’s heart.

Now, the day had come.

At the doorstep of Leo’s home, you were greeted with a sight both heartwarming and timid: Vivi, tiny and wide-eyed, hiding behind her father, clutching tightly onto his suit. Leo smiled gently, amused by her shyness. You couldn’t help but giggle at her adorable pout as you knelt down to her level, softly saying, “You’re even cuter than your dad said.”

You reached out to gently touch her hand—but suddenly, Vivi slapped yours away with a small but surprisingly sharp smack. You gasped in surprise, more startled than hurt, and were about to speak when Leo’s voice rose—not harsh, but firm, for the first time in front of her.

“Vivienne!” he called, his tone sharper than usual. “Why did you slap her hand?”

Vivi froze, eyes wide, and tears welled up as she heard her father raise his voice at her—for the first time in her young memory. She burst into sobs, burying her face in his chest as Leo sighed and gently lifted her into his arms, holding her close. He looked at you and gave a small, apologetic smile, a silent way of saying, this happens sometimes.

He turned his attention back to his daughter, his voice now soft and soothing, brushing a hand gently over her hair.

“Ahh… Vivi, I’m sorry. Daddy didn’t mean to yell, okay? I just… want to know why you slapped her hand, mm?”