"But there are so many kinds," Sofia protests.
"You can have two now and two later. We'll save them for tomorrow."
Sofia sighs dramatically but agrees.
She takes her plate and finds a chair near the wall.
Angelica pours her a cup of hot chocolate and sits beside her.
I stand nearby and watch them together.
For a few perfect moments, all I feel is the happiness I've been craving my entire life.
Seeing Angelica mirror the love and affection I have for my daughter does something to my heart, and it only solidifies how I feel about them.
When we arrive home, I carry Sofia inside while Angelica follows.
We take her upstairs together and lay her gently on the bed.
Angelica removes her shoes and pulls the blanket over her.
Sofia murmurs something in her sleep but doesn't wake.
We stand beside the bed for a moment watching her.
Then Angelica turns to me and speaks quietly.
"Thank you for tonight. She had a wonderful time."
"So did I," I whisper, taking her hand. She doesn't shy away.
"Did you?"
"Yes. Watching her enjoy the music made it worth it."
Angelica studies my face. "You left for a while during the performance."
"I told you… I had to use the restroom…" I bring her hand to my lips and press a kiss to it. "Come. I'd love to sit and talk with you. We can share a nightcap." I let go, moving toward the door, and to my pleasant surprise, she follows.
Now as long as I can steer her away from questions about why I was gone so long, we'll have a good evening.
She doesn't need to know how Antonelli is escalating and I don’t need to tell her unless she brings it up first.
Tonight is about me showing her how hard I'm trying, and I hope she accepts it with an open mind.
17
ANGELICA
Ifollow Dante into his room knowing exactly what's about to happen.
My body is already feeling the electric current of arousal because it feels like the whole night was leading to this.
Tonight was sweet.
He stayed engaged with Sofia and me during the entire concert except for that bathroom break.
He held my hand during the carols.
