The evening was full of laughter, energy, and endless chatter.
Olivia was bubbling with excitement, jumping between snacks and movie scenes.
But the weight of the long day got the better of her, and she fell asleep snuggled up to you, her little hand on your lap.
Lando turns to you.
Amusement flashes in his eyes as he chuckles softly.
"Looks like someone didn't make it to the end." He whispers, reaching for the remote and turning off the TV.
He leans forward and gently lifts Olivia into his arms.
She stirs slightly and mumbles something before leaning against his chest.
Lando looks at you. "I'll put her to bed. Just wait here, okay?" His voice is quieter now.
You nod with a gentle smile and watch as he carries her down the hallway.
The house feels different now.
Quieter.
Softer.
You sigh, stretch your arms, and arch your back before pushing yourself up from the couch.
Oreo's, M&M's, and Chip's crumbs fall to the floor as you wipe your pants.
You grab your jacket from the rack and you slip one arm through the sleeve.
A small smile crosses your lips as Lando reappears.
"Well, I think...I should probably go." You say quietly.
"No. Wait." He says quickly.
For a moment, you're not sure if he even meant to say it out loud.
He hesitates, but then clears his throat and nervously rubs the back of his neck.
"Um...would you...maybe want to stay for a glass of wine?" He asks, shifting his feet.
A smile tugs at the corners of your mouth as you raise an eyebrow. "Wine?"
Lando laughs softly, a grin spreading across his lips.
Playful as always, but there's something else in his expression.
Something softer.
Something almost hesitant.
Like he wasn't sure if you'd say yes, but he hoped so.
"Well...I just think it would be nice to talk. You know...without an overexcited four year old interrupting every five seconds." He chuckles.
You laugh and look at him.
"So what do you say? Wine?" He asks again.