Page 31 of Fake It True

We collectively enthused over the project. Dora was so proud when Leo high-fived her and picked her up to spin her in a circle. As I watched them, my heart squeezed tight. Although I knew, chronologically-speaking, that their relationship was pretty new, you could literally feel the love Leo felt for her.

When Dora looked over at me, I lifted my hand and she slapped her small palm against mine. “That looks just like Mount Iliamna. Alaska has many volcanoes to choose from. We’re in the ring of fire,” I explained.

“What’s that?” Dora asked as Leo set her back on the floor.

“It’s a partial circle of volcanoes in the ocean near here,” I replied.

“Wow! That’s so cool you know that.” Her eyes sparkled as she smiled up at me.

“I read about Alaska before I moved here.”

A little while later, it was time for Dora and her grandmother to watch Dora’s favorite science show. She hugged Leo good night and offered me a hug as well. After she scampered downthe hallway to the TV room, Martha glanced over at me. “That went very well. It was lovely to meet you. Now, go and have a good night.”

After we walked into his house a few minutes later, I caught his eyes. “I didn’t consider feeling embarrassed about coming over here to stay with you.”

He chuckled. “We’re adults.”

“Easy for you to say, they’re your parents.” My cheeks got hot just thinking about it.

“I told them I was taking you home,” he added.

I rolled my eyes. “Leo, I think they know better.”

He waggled his brows and pulled me in for a kiss. Once again, I let myself get swept up in the fire he kindled inside of me.

Chapter Twenty-Five

CASEY

“Did you suspect?” I pressed, laughing a little when our therapist shrugged.

“I knew I was missing some information that was significant, but I wasn’t sure what that was. When couples come to see me for therapy, I’m not assessing just two individuals, but also the dynamic between them. I sensed a little discomfort and uncertainty between you two. But anybody can feel like that in a therapy appointment. I also sensed that you were holding something back. I’ve learned not to make assumptions and to wait because usually, the story comes out. I didn’t know if it was something big or small. I like this reason. It’s amusing. In the big scheme of things, as strange as this might sound, there are lies that I would be a lot more concerned about than this one. I love that you were both crushing on each other and that you’re a real couple now. You’ve used your time here in a productive way. So…” She sobered, her gaze bouncing between us. “I don’t just mean for the relationship issues.”

Before I knew it, tears splashed onto my cheeks, and Leo handed me a tissue.

“You’ve both been dealing with a lot. We never know what someone is actually going through, and I’m glad you’re able to talk about it here,” Delaney said softly.

I managed to collect myself, sniffling as I said, “I didn’t mean to lose it like that. It feels like everything is big right now. I met Dora.” I flung my hands in the air in emphasis.

“How do you feel like it went?” she asked.

“Good, I think?” I glanced at Leo.

He cast me an encouraging smile. “I thought it went well. Dora liked Casey. My parents were great. Dora got to show off the volcano model she’s building with my dad. My mom and Dora did their weekly TV night and slumber party. Like you suggested, we stuck to what we’d usually do that night and just added Casey to the mix.” He paused and ran a hand through his hair, one of his nervous gestures. “Dora told me before she met Casey that she wanted a new mommy, and now she thinks Casey could be that.” His eyes met mine, uncertainty flickering there.

“That’s understandable for her. She’s looking for stability,” Delaney said.

“I know, I just—” Leo leaned forward, running both hands through his hair and looking as flustered as I felt.

Delaney leaned forward, her gaze calm. “Leo, you could’ve had a girlfriend before you even found out about Dora, you could’ve been married. You had no idea Dora existed. It’s okay to have a relationship when you have a child. I absolutely support you taking it slow because of everything Dora has been through. From what I’m hearing from you, Dora is adjusting well, all things considered. The environment you have created for her sounds more stable than what she had before. That isn’t to be hurtful toward her mother, but it’s more of a practical understanding.”

“Okay, okay.” Leo let out a deep sigh. “I just don’t want to screw this up.”

“You’re doing as well as you can and that’s all any parent can do. I love that you’re bringing your questions here and that you and Casey are talking on your own. Just take it one step at a time. What do you think, Casey?”

Chapter Twenty-Six

LEO

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