Chapter 2
“I can do an arrangement,” Elena said. “What’s the occasion?”
“Birthday.” The woman moved closer to the counter. Her eyes moved briefly to the back of the shop, where Sofia was visible through the open doorway, sitting at her small table with a book. The woman’s expression didn’t change, but she looked for a beat too long. “How old is she?”
Elena kept her voice even. “Four.”
The woman looked back at her. “She’s beautiful.” A pause. “She has her father’s eyes.”
The floor tilted.
Elena kept her hands flat on the counter. “I’m sorry?”
“My name is Carmela,” the woman said, still in the same pleasant, conversational tone. “I’m Marco’s mother. And before you tell me to leave, I want you to know that I came alone, I didn’t tell him I was coming, and I’m not here to threaten you or take anything from you.” She looked at Elena steadily. “I’m here because my son is about to make a decision that will affect that little girl for the rest of her life, and I thought you deserved to know before it happened.”
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Elena’s heart was beating very hard. She made herself breathe.
“Tell me,” she said.
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