Word Count: 648

Rated: PG

Description: Guang discovers Leo's love for kids

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     I was stunned by the amount of love he received in Mexico. It was highly greater than any country he has visited. His hometown was small enough to remember every neighbor's family. The roads were dusty, kids played with a worn out ball, stray dogs begged for food near food stands, and the delicious scent of meat danced around the air. The neighbors were similar like back home in China. They treated every stranger like family and invited them to their parties. It was a sweet bond in the neighborhood which Leo knew from heart. He told me his nostalgic memories of how he came back from school to only savor the rich Tres Leches Cake. Or how his friends invited him for an easy game of soccer even if it wasn't his sport. Through his long nostalgic lecture, I spotted the familiar twinkle in his eyes. The same shimmer that shone whenever the Mexican-American showed pride. I smiled. 

My feet kicking slightly away from the dusty sand, I commented. "You must really enjoy Mexico." My loose top began to trickle with sweat. It must've been the sun beaming angrily at its Mexican residents. "I really do. I enjoy it's food, traditions, and music." Leo replied shoving his hand down his pockets. He lifted his chin. "Especially the music." 

Turning my head, I observed a peek at the daily lives of Mexicans. Ones I've never had witnessed. Rags of damp clothes were hung on ropes meanwhile, the women washed the others by a rock. Elderly women snickered with their friends on the latest gossip. Then the young girls played with their dusty dolls. Not much was able to afford in this tiny neighborhood. It lacked a perfect paved road, tall skyscrapers, and gowns. Then I recalled how Leo told me that the big cities were farther north. I tried to sympathize Leo's love for his native place, yet I couldn't understand. 

With the sound of the American skater groaning, I turned. "Orale! Dame la pelota! Hey! Give me the ball!" Shouted a toddler. The American man kicked the ball towards the small crowd of kids. Before I was able to turn my back and continue the walk, a young girl approached us. "Pareces familiar. You look familiar." Leo raised an eyebrow. He kneeled fitting the same height as the girl. "¿De Verdad? Really?" I heard his Spanish voice. Although I couldn't understand their conversation, for I haven't mastered Spanish, Leo seemed surprised. Spreading his arms wide, the girl jumped into his arms. The toddler perfectly matched the space between his arms. She rested on his shoulder smiling. Meanwhile, Leo skimmed his hands around her tiny back, rubbing it. Then I heard her sobbing.

 "Eres mi inspiración, señor. Quiero ser como usted! You're my inspiration, mister. I want to be just like you!" 

Leo's eyes widen then he smiled and his eyes shimmered. He began to cradle her in his arms as if she were his daughter. The American man appeared like some sort of father. Then I thought: He looks swell as a dad. It was kinda idiotic to think how he'll look in the future if he had a child like that. Murmuring how much he adores his child almost like how he does to me. Wait, would we have a family! I instantly blushed. That'd be physically impossible, yet again I would take the role as a sweet and fun dad and Leo as the caring one who loves you no matter what. I brushed the thought off. 

After he waved off at the toddler he looked at me with a puzzled face. "You look extremely red and I don't think it's because of the heat." He points out. My hands touched my burning cheeks. Damn, that fantasy had caught me too hard!~