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“Who all knows? Just us and the guys?”
Savannah shakes her head. “The three of us and Spencer. I begged him not to tell anyone until after your baby shower. I thought we all could get together and talk.”
Francesca nods and glances around the room, looking like she’s about to throw up. “Good idea.”
“Are you okay?” I ask, giving her a once over.
“I’m not feeling very well. I think it might be food poisoning. Rhett and I tried a new restaurant downtown last night, and the food tasted a bit off, so we left. I think I just need some fresh air.”
“Take your time. I’m going to get some food and then we will open presents.”
Savannah and I head to the food tables where Spencer and Joseph are deep in conversation as Rhett meets up with Francesca and they head outside.
Joseph smiles as I wrap my arm around his waist. “You should try the strawberry shortcake. It’s delicious.”
He feeds me a bite and I can’t help but moan. The sweetness of the strawberry burst on my tastebuds.
“Who made this or where did it come from? It has to be the best cake of my life.”
Spencer and Savannah laugh. “We made it.”
My eyes get wide. “You have to teach me. It’s incredible!”
Arturo’s voice cuts in as he gives me a side hug. “Congratulations, Alexandra.”
“Thank you, Grandpa. Oh, remind me to show you today’s ultrasound pictures. I left them at the condo, but I’ll make a copy for you.”
“I would love that. Thank you.”
Joseph pulls me into his chest. “And he’s Nonno, not Grandpa.”
“Nonno.” I repeat. “I like it. It suits you.”
“It’s grandfather in Italian.” Joseph explains before feeding me another bite of cake.
That makes sense.
Loud popping noises outside get all of our attention. The guests are still eating, laughing, and chatting as if no one heard anything.
“Maybe it was a car backfiring.” I whisper to the group.
We stand frozen. Joseph places his plate down and reaches for his gun. Spencer does the same before pushing me and Savannah behind them.
“Don’t make a scene.” Savannah whispers to Spencer.
He glares at her and whispers back, “Your safety is more important than a party. Sorry, Alexandra.”
“I understand.” I just hoped trouble wouldn’t find us today.
The main doors to the community center slowly open. Time seems to still as I try to prepare myself for what we might see.
Are Rhett and Francesca coming back in from getting air?
Are they coming in shot and bloodied from an unexpected attack?
Will it be a security officer looking for Arturo to tell him Giuseppe was just here and what we heard were their bullet shots?
My heart races as I peek over Joseph’s shoulder at the open doors.