Page 47 of Secret Baby for my Off-Limits Fiancé

My chest tightens.

I’ve already seen it. It’s not just the eyes. It’s also the way Vincent looks at him, the way their bond formed so naturally, so effortlessly, like it was always meant to be.

It scares the hell out of me.

Because how much longer can I really keep this secret?

“I don’t want to keep Vincent away from his dad,” I whisper, twisting my fingers in my lap. “I’d be repeating the same mistakes my mom did.”

Giana nods slowly. “But are you ready to tell him?”

I swallow hard. “Not in the slightest.”

She exhales, giving my hand a small squeeze. “Whenever you are, you know I’ve got your back.”

“Thanks, G.” I shake my head, forcing myself out of my spiraling thoughts. “Anyway, let’s move on. I need to pack for this weekend.”

She grins, bouncing up. “Lucky for you, your personal stylist is here. Okay, let’s see what we’re working with.”

I groan. “I don’t think I have anything nice enough to wear. The Marchettis are practically royalty.”

“Then we go shopping.” She beams. “Come on, I need to fix this fashion disaster.”

***

When my mom arrives to pick up Vincent, she’s immediately suspicious.

“So… this place you’re going this weekend,” she starts, watching me closely. “Is it for work?”

“You could say that,” I hedge, not meeting her gaze.

Her eyebrow lifts. “Is there some secret boyfriend I don’t know about?”

I nearly choke. “Mom!”

She turns to Giana. “Is she telling the truth?”

Giana grins, way too entertained by all of this. “I don’t know, Bella. You’re going to have to ask your daughter.”

I groan. “Mom, relax. If I had a boyfriend, you’d be the first to know.”

She doesn’t look entirely convinced, but thankfully, she lets it go. After a few more probing glances, she softens, crouching to scoop Vincent up into her arms. “Say bye to Mommy.”

Vincent presses a wet kiss to my cheek, wrapping his little arms around my neck. “Bye-bye, Mama!”

I hold him close for a second longer, inhaling his sweet, familiar scent. “Be good for Nonna, okay?”

He nods enthusiastically.

“he’s been a little tired lately, so try to get him to rest some, ok?”

“Of course. Is everything alright with him?”

“I’m sure it’s nothing, but you know me. I’m just a bit of a worrier. Just call me if he needs me, ok?”

She nods before carrying him toward the car, still giving me one last pointed I’m-watching-you glance before driving off.

Once they’re gone, Giana sighs dramatically, tossing an arm over my shoulder. “So, secret boyfriend, huh? I can’t believe you wouldn’t tell your own mother.”

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