Page 66 of Lorenzo & Lily

He took a long sip of his coffee, then sighed. “Yes, you’re right.”

“She might be able to provide some recommendations, though. Perhaps a substitute looking for a position?”

Lorenzo’s head tilted to the side, considering, then turned back to her. “I have a better idea. How about my sister, Carolina?”

“Is she a teacher? I didn’t realize.”

“She’s an artist, and works as an art teacher from time to time. She often teaches young children. Some Liliana’s age, some younger. She’s not certified as a primary school teacher, or even as a pre-school teacher, but she may be willing to help. As you said, it’s only for the next several months.”

Lily wasn’t sure how she felt about Carolina teaching her baby girl. On the one hand, Carolina didn’t have experience or certification, as Lorenzo had just pointed out. On the other hand, she could help guide Liliana in her new role as princess, while teaching her basic skills and knowledge she’d need for the next school year.

“Would she be willing to stay here for that long?”

“I think she might. The sea calls to her like it does to me.” His voice faded away as he stared off into the distance. A few moments later, he shook his head. “If you’re all right with that, I’ll ask her. No doubt, she’ll be coming with the rest of the family to meet you.”

Terror filled her, cutting her inside like tiny shards of glass. “Tomorrow, was it?”

“Likely, though maybe earlier. So? Shall we ask her?”

His parents would be here in less than a day.

Oh God. Oh God.

The truth would finally come out, she knew it.

The truth of who had separated her and Lorenzo five years ago.

The inescapable truth that it was one of his parents.

His parent had refused to take Lily’s calls for years. It wasn’t until earlier this year that Lily had finally gotten through, that she’d finally made them realize why she’d been reaching out.

She faced them once, when they came to see Liliana the first time. Once they’d seen her, they’d had no doubt about whose child it was, though they’d still done the DNA test to confirm.

Now, she’d have to face them for the first time with Lorenzo.

Oh God. Oh God.

She couldn’t help but picture Lorenzo’s face when he realized his parent was involved.Focus, Lily. Don’t think about tomorrow.

She cleared her throat.What had they been talking about?School. Liliana. “Yes. Yes, that’s fine, as long as Liliana learns more than just art. I don’t want her to fall behind once she starts school next year.”

“Neither do I. If Carolina’s not interested, we’ll come with a new plan.”

She nodded.

“Have you thought any more about my job offer?”

She’d barely had time to process anything. The last two days had been such a whirlwind. “Not really.”

“Are you opposed to the idea?”

“No. I’d like to be close to Liliana, and I enjoy event planning. I think I’d like the job.”

“But?”

“But, what about perception? Everyone will know I only got the job because we’re, well, whatever we are.”

He tensed. “We’re a family. That’s what we are.”

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