The sun was beginning to dip into the horizon, casting long golden streaks through the lush greenery that lined the quiet path. The scent of the sea carried on the warm breeze, mixing with the faint aroma of lemon trees nearby.

Theodore walked slowly, his linen shirt loose and sleeves lazily rolled up, his bare feet sinking slightly into the warm sand with every step. In his arms, Sicily rested against his shoulder, her tiny fingers clutching onto him even in sleep. She had barely made it past the afternoon without dozing off, worn out from a day spent giggling in the sun and splashing at the water’s edge.

“You’ve exhausted yourself again, mia stellina,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to her soft curls. She shifted slightly, murmuring something in her sleep, and he smiled.

You watched them from a few steps away, your heart swelling at the sight. Theodore had always been careful with his affections, a man of quiet tenderness rather than grand gestures. But with Sicily? He was soft in ways you never could’ve imagined.

“You’re staring.” His voice was amused as he glanced over his shoulder, catching your gaze.

You shrugged, stepping closer. “I like watching you with her.”

He let out a breathy chuckle, shifting Sicily in his arms so she nestled closer against his chest. “She’s got me wrapped around her little finger, hasn’t she?”

You reached out, smoothing a hand over his back before brushing your fingers lightly over your daughter’s cheek. “Completely.”

He smirked but didn’t argue. Instead, he reached for your hand, intertwining your fingers as the three of you continued down the path, the quiet hum of Italy embracing you like a lullaby.