ANGELA'S PANIC

"We're fine, Antonio. But... Why do you ask? You sound worried. What's going on, son?"

Lucas asked curiously.

Antonio hesitated for a moment, trying to push down the fear gnawing at him.

He couldn't tell them the truth, no need to. He couldn't drag them into the chaos of his past life. He will explain later, not now.

So, he swallowed hard and forced himself to lie.

"It's nothing, really. I just... I had a nightmare. A bad one. I was worried about you both. I apologize for calling because of something as silly as this."

Lucas chuckled softly, clearly reassured.

"Ah, a nightmare, huh? Don't worry about us, Antonio. We're doing great. Gabi's cooking up a storm like always, and we were just talking about how much we miss you. When I saw your call, I thought my son would visit soon, but it gladdens my heart that you care about us this deeply, too".

Antonio smiled despite the tension in his chest.

"I miss you both, too. I just wanted to hear your voices. It... it makes me feel better."