"Because I volunteer at a senior center. I took care of my own grandmother for years. I know what I'm doing."
"I'm sure you do, but—"
"What's the problem?" I look up at him with wide, innocent eyes. "Why don't you want your grandmother to live with us?"
He has no good answer.
Behind us, I hear footsteps. His mother appears in the hallway. "Santino? Is everything alright?"
"Fine," he manages. "Everything's fine."
Giovanna looks between us. "Liana, that was a very generous offer. For Nonna."
"Oh, it's not generous at all!" I turn to her. "It's just what family does, right? Take care of each other?"
I can see her struggling. She wants to say no. Wants to tell me this is inappropriate. But how can she? How can she argue against taking care of family?
"It's very thoughtful," she says carefully. "But perhaps you and Santino should discuss this further. It's a big decision. And she’s very happy where she is."
"Of course!" I link my arm through Santino's. "We'll definitely talk about it. But I'm sure he'll agree. Right, Santo?"
He looks at me. And for a moment, I see something in his eyes. Suspicion. Like he's trying to figure out if I'm really this clueless or if something else is happening.
But then it's gone, replaced by resignation.
"We'll discuss it," he says.
"Perfect!" I kiss his cheek. "I'm so glad we're on the same page about family values."
We return to the sitting room. Nonna is back in her chair, looking amused. When we walk over, she peers up at me.
"You're either very kind or very clever," she says, trying not to smile.
"Can't I be both?"
"Perhaps." Her eyes gleam as if the two of us have a secret. "Time will tell."
The rest of the evening passes in a blur. I'm charming. I'm enthusiastic. I ask everyone about their lives, their families, their hopes.
I'm exhausting.
I can see it in their faces. They're trying to like me. Trying to see what Santino sees in me. But they're also confused and overwhelmed. They’re wondering if this might not be a good idea after all.
When it's finally time to leave, Giovanna walks us to the door. "Thank you for coming, Liana."
"Thank you for having me! Your family is wonderful. I can't wait to be part of it."
She smiles, but it doesn't reach her eyes. "We'll see you soon."
In the car, Santino is silent. Completely silent.
I let it sit for a while, then ask, "Did I do something wrong?"
"No." His voice is tight. "You did exactly what you wanted to do."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"Nothing." He pulls out onto the main road. "Just... Liana. About my grandmother."
