Page 21 of Finally Found You

“So, if we stay, what will happen to my school friends and my clothes and—”

“It’s a temporary arrangement,” I jump in, reassuring her. “It’s summer, so you don’t have to worry about school just yet—except for your summer reading assignments.”

She groans, her tone playful yet reluctant. “Do I have to?”

“Of course you have to,” Lysander says lightly. “We can find you a few summer camps around the area. If you want to work, we have plenty of places where you can help and earn a little income.”

“Child labor is illegal in this country,” Kenzy retorts sarcastically.

“Then summer camps it is.” Lysander laughs, his eyes twinkling with amusement. He then turns to me. “Would you like a job?”

“You’re just handing them out as if they’re candy?” I ask, raising an eyebrow in disbelief.

He nods. “We have plenty of places where you could give us a hand.” He gestures toward the food. “Why don’t we eat? We’ll have to furnish the penthouse and figure out the logistics of your stay.”

I don’t know what that entails, but I nod. Later today, I’ll speak to JJ and probably her aunt, who’s one of the best family lawyers in Colorado. She should be able to tell me how to handle this without getting in trouble with social services.

As I take a bite of food, my thoughts race, wondering how our lives will change. The uncertainty gnaws at me, but deep down I can’t deny a flicker of hope for Kenzy. She has a chance for a fresh start, a new beginning, and, hopefully, a loving family.

Kenzy meets my gaze, her eyes filled with a mixture of trepidation and excitement. I give her a reassuring smile, trying to convey that we’re in this together, no matter what.

Just as we finish eating, Lysander’s phone rings. He glances at the screen and frowns, clearly troubled by the caller. “I have to take this,” he says, excusing himself and stepping away.

The moment he’s out of earshot, Kenzy leans in and whispers, “What if this is a mistake?”

I squeeze her hand and whisper back, “Nothing is ever only a mistake. Most likely, this is a teaching moment. Whatever happens will be an experience. And I’m sure we’ll make it through like we always do.”

Lysander returns, his expression grave. He takes a deep breath and says, “They found your mother.”

My gut clenches because I don’t know what that means. I didn’t mention it to Kenzy, but the last time I spoke to Aunt Elsie, she said, “I don’t give two fucks about that bastard. Just throw her to the system and send me any money you make from Mom’s house.”

What am I supposed to do now?

Chapter Eleven

Camilla

This isn’t permanent, I remind myself, taking a deep breath as Kenzy and I step into the penthouse. We’re moving to one of the swankiest neighborhoods in San Francisco, Pacific Heights, and the thought of the unknown fills me with both excitement and anxiety. I feel a heavy weight of responsibility resting on my shoulders as I wonder if I’m doing the right thing for Kenzy.

I can’t help but be awestruck by the sheer elegance of the place. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a breathtaking view of San Francisco Bay. The sunlight streaming in casts a warm glow over the open living area. Everything about the space is luxurious and modern, yet it feels cozy and welcoming. This reminds me of the Dragos’ house—a mansion nestled in Cherry Hills, Colorado. I lived there for three years, and though I loved the place, it always felt too big for me.

“This is our place?” Kenzy asks, her voice filled with disbelief and wonder as we take in the new furniture.

Lysander pulled some strings and was able to get everything delivered within a couple of hours after we went to the store to choose what we liked.

I should tell Kenz this is a temporary move, but that only applies to me. If Lysander plays his cards right, she’ll be living here forever.Is that what’s best for Kenzy?

I glance at her, wondering if she’s going to be okay. In less than a month, she lost Nonna, she met her father, and she’s moving into a new place. It’s certainly a complicated situation. I can only imagine the whirlwind of emotions she must be feeling: anticipation, fear, hope, and of course, there’s grief—she lost Nonna. And like everyone in our family, she’s keeping all the negative emotions inside. I should suggest we search for a therapist who might be able to help her with everything that’s happening to her.

Since this is something I can’t fix right now, I propose we explore the penthouse. Kenzy’s room is spacious and inviting, with a wall of windows showcasing a stunning view of the city skyline. Her new plushy bed is already made and has the purple and teal comforter she wanted.

“Can we buy some posters for it?” she asks enthusiastically, her eyes sparkling excitedly.

“Probably, I’m sure we can find something affordable,” I assure her, trying to sound confident despite the uncertainties that cloud my thoughts.

My own bedroom is just as beautiful, with a cozy reading nook by the window, perfect for losing myself in a book. There’s an en suite bathroom and even a tub where I can relax. Who needs a luxury hotel when I can have a few weeks of this?

“There’s an office. Maybe you can ask for your job back,” Kenzy calls from somewhere in the house, her voice brimming with hope.

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