Page 68 of A Treasure To Keep (Leone Legacy #2)

Andrea

E l is about four seconds away from a mental breakdown, all because the store is out of the pretzels she loves.

In her defense, today was overwhelming, and now the only thing she could control isn’t going the way she had hoped.

I’ve had to be more patient during this pregnancy than expected.

What surprises everyone is that most of my patience is being tested with Marco, not El.

I’m deep in the hunt for the pretzels El loves when I turn the corner of this aisle and meet eyes with none other than her father.

I haven’t had many interactions with her parents, choosing to keep my distance.

It doesn’t matter how many interactions I have with them; I’ll never be good enough for her in their eyes.

El and I quickly noticed that if I kept my distance, her parents would bug her about me less.

Mr. Gallo approaches me, scanning my body up and down until he speaks. “Andrea.”

“Mr. Gallo.” I’m trying to figure out what to do with my hands.

If I put them in front of me, I could appear defensive, and if I put them behind me, it could come off that I have a superiority complex.

El went no contact with her parents after moving in, regardless of how much they tried to get hold of her.

The last thing I want to give the Gallos is another reason for them to disapprove of me by appearing disrespectful.

I settle with keeping my hands to my side, focusing on not nervously fiddling with my fingers.

If there’s anything I can pick up from El, it is how to fake confidence when it may be lacking.

Eventually, he breaks the tension between us and our metaphorical Western movie standoff. “I saw Eleanora when you two walked in. Is she pregnant?”

“Yes. Twenty weeks. We found out earlier today that we’re having a son.

We’re also engaged.” Once the words escaped my mouth, I realized that El and I haven’t decided whether we’re telling anyone outside of those who are required to know what we’re having.

In my defense, we found out this morning.

It’s better to ask for forgiveness than to ask for permission?

Is this the correct time to use that saying?

“I see. It’s unfortunate that she hasn’t told her own parents that she’s going to be a mother.” He accentuates the word own, proving that El isn’t the only one he will gaslight about our relationship.

I close my eyes for a second, reminding myself of what ma mère would always tell me.

Be kind, be respectful, be graceful. Those three rules will get you far in life.

“Mr. Gallo, with all due respect, El is setting boundaries. The more you and your wife disrespect our relationship, the more you’re pushing her away.

El and I are getting married and becoming parents.

No matter how you two view me or our relationship, it won’t stop any of that from happening. ”

He laughs while shaking his head, almost in disbelief at my response.

“That’s the most ridiculous thing I think I’ve ever heard.

My wife and I spent Eleanora’s life giving her everything she needs, including preparing her to find a husband who will give her the same lifestyle.

Shit, we handed her the husband who will provide that, and she tossed him aside, practically gifting him to another woman.

Her mother and I know what’s best for her.

She grew up in a specific lifestyle, and an apartment will never fit that.

She will see that one day, and when she does, my wife and I will be there to say I told you so. ” How dare he!

Ma mère’s rules go out the window as I’m prepared to speak emotionally when suddenly Mr. Gallo gasps, disappearing around the corner, away from me.

When I turn around, El is standing there, a defensive stare on her face.

Oh no, I know that face. I’m going to need some good sweet-talking to excuse this.

Especially considering that, other than my proposal plans, I’ve never hidden anything from her.

A few kisses, some puppy dog eyes, and a handshake later, I’ve got everything covered. At least for the time being.