Page 38 of Pregnant By the Mafia Boss

“How the hell did you know about that? I’ve not told anyone outside the family.”

“You should know you can’t keep anything from me.”

“You’re a goddamned witch, Kathy.”

She laughs. “I prefer fairy godmother. Now get out of my sight. The others will be here soon. It’ll be hard to tell them you’ve vanished if you’re still here when they turn up.”

I agree to drive us back, and we pile into the car. As we pull away from the hotel, a thought occurs to me, and I take a detour.

I stop at a florist and collect a bunch of irises, loading them into the car. I’m about to climb back in when I notice a baby and toddler store next door.

Antonio catches my eye and shakes his head, but I pretend not to notice.

“I’ll be right back.”

The woman behind the counter looks up as I walk in, her face turning pale. “Can I help you?” she asks.

Jesus. She thinks I’m about to rob the place.

“Looking for a gift for a newborn,” I say, glancing at the racks of clothes.

“Boy or girl?”

“We don’t know yet.”

“Well, have you got the basics yet?”

“The basics?”

“Crib, bottles, pacifiers?”

“I haven’t got anything yet.”

“Is this one your first?”

“That obvious?”

She manages a smile, holding out a book. “This has got a list of everything you will need, might need, and definitely don’t need. We sell all three categories here. Have a look through that, and I can order anything you might like.”

“Do you do bespoke?”

“Takes a while, but it can be done.”

“How about a crib with lilies painted on?”

“That could be done.”

“Great.” I dig out a business card and hand it to her. “I’ll call you to order everything I need.” I reach out and grab some clothes for a newborn.

“I’ll take these for now, and this.” There’s a huge teddy bear by the counter, and I pick it up.

“That’s not stock, I’m afraid. It’s part of the display. I couldn’t possibly part with it.”

I’ve heard that before. I’m a pro at buying things that aren’t for sale.

“I’ll give you five thousand dollars for it,” I say.

Her eyes widen. “And would sir like a ribbon for it?”

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