Page 180 of A Convenient Secret

“Thank you,” Declan says as we turn the corner.

We put our heads down, huddling the kids against us as our two security guards escort us to the entrance.

Relieved we’re getting in undetected, I look up, and immediately there is a mic in my face. “Can you comment on the arrest of your cousin Timothy, Ms. Spinelli?”

Declan freezes, pushing the kids toward the entrance and snatching my hand. But I don’t move.

“Actually, it’s Mrs. Quinn, and that’s the only comment you get.” I smile and turn away. Amid blinding flashes and shouted questions, I lead my family inside.

“He got arrested?” Declan whispers as we wait for the hostess.

“Apparently.” I grin.

“I thought we said no secrets.” Declan narrows his eyes.

“This wasn’t a secret; it was a surprise. But we can talk about that later. Let’s enjoy the family time.”

We are ushered to a secluded table, and Declan orders way too many cakes for the kids.

“Is Lily ouw mommy now?” Zoya takes a huge bite of her scone.

My heart stumbles, and I glance at Declan, but his gaze is locked on his daughter, his expression soft.

“Lily is my wife, and that makes her your stepmom. Is that okay with you?”

Before she can answer, Zach’s sharp voice cuts through. “What if our real mom comes back?”

“I don’t want Lily to leave.” Zoya’s eyes dart between the two of us.

“My point exactly.” Zach deadpans.

“Oh,” Declan utters, looking stunned.

The baggage this family carries; the fear that has been buried beneath their excitement over new adventures, new homes, new routines; the fear that all of this—the safety, the love, the family—can be taken away.

I swallow against the burn in my throat. “Oh, baby. Come here.”

Zoya launches herself into my arms, and I hold her tight. Zach hesitates, but after a second he presses into my side, silent but seeking reassurance.

Declan wipes the corners of his mouth and drops his napkin. “Lily is my wife. That means she’s part of our family forever. She’s not going anywhere.”

I nod, pressing a kiss to Zoya’s temple. “No matter what happens, I will always be here. I love you both so much.”

Zoya sniffs against my shoulder, her small fingers gripping my coat. “But ouw weal mom—”

Declan’s voice turns firm, but still very kind. “Don’t worry about it, sweetheart. Neither of you. Lily chose us. And we choose her.”

Zach’s shoulders relax slightly, his expression contemplative. He looks up at me, assessing, as if testing the weight of Declan’s words. “Promise?”

I cup his cheek, my heart cracking a little at the seriousness in his eyes. “Promise.”

Zoya wipes her nose, then asks with all the confidence of a six-year-old, “So we can call you Mommy now?”

I blink. Declan chokes on a breath beside me.

Zach groans like his sister just ruined the moment. “You don’t have to call her that, Zoya.”

She shrugs, turning back to her scone like we didn’t just have a life-changing conversation. “I’m gonna twy it out.”