“I have to ask. Why didn’t anyone from the Brotherhood come?”
That has me pausing. “We both wanted a small wedding, but we also don’t want news of the marriage to break.”
“Because of Lili’s uncle?”
I nod. João is aware of everything happening within the Brotherhood. He’s even gone as far as reaching out to Adam Montgomery. The boy was more than happy to speak to my son, which is why I’m looking forward to the Brotherhood meeting being held tonight.
I say, “Lilith and I are postponing our honeymoon until everything is settled with her uncle.”
“Smart. Well, let me know if you need anything.”
“You’ve done enough, son. Thank you.”
“Eve and I are going to head out soon, but I’ll see you at the meeting.”
He gives me a quick hug before going to Eve’s side. Lilith makes her way to me, smiling.
“Everything okay?”
“Couldn’t be better.”
She says, “There’s something I want to show you.”
“Oh? Daddy is all ears.”
Her laugh rings out like bells. “That’s later.”
I let her lead me into the house, where Diego and Clara stand.
Lilith squats next to Diego. “Do you still want to do this?”
He nods.
Lilith looks up at me. “Diego has been making a lot of progress at therapy and he’d like to show you something.”
Diego looks at Lilith, who nods her head encouragingly.
“Hi,Papai.”
It takes me a moment to realize the words are coming out of his mouth. I look at Lilith for conformation.
Tears fill my eyes as I lower to my knees. “Hi, Diego.”
He smiles, leaning into Lilith’s side.
She hugs him and says, “Diego told me he wants to speak a little more. Clara and I have both agreed not to push him if he gets scared or still wants to be quiet.”
Clara sighs. “I don’t know why he’s scared. We’re safe now that we have a momma.”
This time it’s Lilith’s eyes that water.
“You’re right,” I say. “You’re both safe, and so are Isadora and Raquel.”
“Momma said Raquel is our sister now.” Clara pauses. “Are you going to have another baby?”
Lilith and I share a look. Has Clara overheard something?
“Why do you ask?”