Page 18 of Babies at Coconuts

“I thought you were taking a break from the cop,” Suzy said.

Alex shrugged. “He’s good in bed.”

Obviously listening, food flew out of Luigi’s mouth. “I like these friends of yours, Jon.”

Winking, Bill said, “I like them too.”

Vinny grinned. “Americans.”

Everyone ate for several minutes in blissful silence until Mama Gia wiped her mouth and set her fork on the plate. “What’s the baby’s name?”

Vanessa’s mouth curved into a smile. “We’re still deciding. We might not know until we see her little face.”

Mama Gia pressed. “Want some suggestions?”

“No, Mama. We get that honor.”

Frowning, Mama Gia said, “But I have several ideas. Good family names. Good Italian names.”

Fernando shifted in his chair. “Thanks, Mama, but if any family names are used, I think it should come from Vanessa or Jon’s family, don’t you?”

“Speaking of—” Mama Gia fixed her stare on Vanessa. “Where are your parents?”

The young woman’s eyes welled with tears. “They’re, uh, they’re—”

“They’re not here,” Jon said.

Mama Gia crossed her arms. “Why not?”

Suzy noticed everyone’s forks were poised in mid-air as they studied a woeful Vanessa. Deciding to interject, she said, “Vanessa’s parents aren’t willing participants right now. Let’s leave it at that.”

Oblivious to Vanessa’s family dynamics, Mama Gia pressed. “Why not? Why aren’t they involved?”

“Anyone want more coffee or wine?” Suzy asked.

“I do.” Ken gave his wife a sideways glance. “I’ll get the chef.”

Suzy did her best to distract Mama Gia. “Decaf for me, hon, and maybe another half pour on the wine.”

Ken nodded knowing full well why his wife needed more wine. “Be right back.”

“But what about her parents?” Mama Gia asked.

Fernando made a face. “Mom. Enough.”

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