It's an even softer laugh on his breath to hear that. And a sharp twist in his heart, a pain he appreciates more than he did.

"That's why she can't know," He says. "And why she doesn't. For my Coco, her Papá is just sick, staying here to get better." He could've told her when he got home. Part of him wanted to. But even without it being her birthday, all the mess that would make... he and Imelda agreed, it wasn't the time.

"We have both gone a long time without one another. There's a lot I'd give to be with her now. But not her safety. Not her heart. I would not inflict that on anyone, but least of all her. I want her to have a full and happy life, even if I can't be in it. I'm sure your father would feel the same."