Page 16 of Secret Baby's Second Shot

Elaine’s eyes sparkled with interest. “That’s wonderful. But what about her father? Does he share that creativity?”

Beside me, I could feel Enzo tense.

“Mom,” he said lightly, “let’s not overwhelm them with questions.”

Elaine raised an eyebrow, but her smile didn’t waver. “I’m just curious. Ava’s such a bright, wonderful child—I’m sure her father must be proud.”

“Of course he would be,” I said, my voice tight.

“And where is he these days?” Beth asked, her tone casual but her eyes sharp.

I felt my pulse quicken. “It’s… complicated,” I said, looking down at my plate.

“Complicated?” Richard asked, his brows knitting together.

“She’s been handling everything on her own,” Enzo interjected smoothly, his voice steady. “And doing an incredible job, too.”

Elaine’s gaze softened as she looked at me. “That must be so hard. Raising a child on your own is no small feat.”

“It’s worth it,” I said quietly, glancing at Ava, who was happily nibbling on a roll.

Richard nodded approvingly. “Well, you’ve done an amazing job. Ava is delightful.”

“Thank you,” I said, relieved to feel the conversation shifting.

The restof the meal passed with fewer questions, though I could feel the unspoken curiosity lingering in the air. Enzo’s family clearly adored Ava, but their unspoken questions about her father felt like a weight pressing down on me.

After dinner, Ava was whisked away by Beth to see a collection of family photographs in the living room. I stayed behind, helping Elaine clear the table while Enzo disappeared into the kitchen with his father.

“You’re a wonderful mother,” Elaine said as we rinsed the dishes.

“Thank you,” I said, glancing at her.

“I know it’s not easy,” she continued, her voice gentle. “But you’re doing an amazing job. And Enzo… well, he’s always had a soft spot for family. I’m glad to see him stepping up to help you and Ava.”

I forced a smile, not trusting myself to respond.

Elaine paused, her gaze soft but inquisitive. “You know, Enzo’s always been protective of the people he loves. I can tell he cares about you and Ava a great deal.”

Her words felt like a gentle nudge, but I wasn’t sure where she was trying to push me. “Enzo’s been a great help,” I said cautiously.

She smiled, patting my arm. “I’m glad to hear that. Family takes care of each other.”

By the time we left,Ava was nearly asleep in Enzo’s arms, her head resting against his shoulder.

“Your family is… lovely,” I said as we walked to the car.

“They liked you,” Enzo said, smiling.

“They liked Ava,” I corrected.

“They liked all of us,” he said, opening the car door for me.

I slid inside, glancing at him as he settled Ava into her seat. His words hung in the air as we drove home, and I couldn’t help but feel the weight of their meaning.

9

SUMMER

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