We continued to talk about nothing in particular until he pulled up to the restaurant. Although I didn’t want to, I had changed before we left the trampoline place so my family wouldn’t question why I was in different clothing.
“Izzy! Come sit with us. Uncle Enzo finally gave me and Gio a break.”
I looked to Liam, wondering if he would mind having to deal with my family tonight since today was only supposed to be a friend night, but he was already walking over to them.
“I remember you… Rosalina, right?”
My cousin beamed.
“Yes, and this is Giovanni, Izzy’s brother. He’s her favorite, so be impressive.”
I scolded my cousin.
“Rosa! Don’t make him nervous.”
Rising from his seat, Giovanna shook Liam’s hand and then moved to the seat next to Rosalina so Liam and I could sit next to each other. We took our seats just as my father came over.
“Liam! Next Sunday, there is a race. You must come over early to watch with me and Izzy and then join us for family dinner.”
My jaw dropped. Papa never let outsiders come to family dinner. Even Marco had never even been invited. The whole table shut up in complete shock, but Liam didn’t seem to notice. Or at least, if he had, he knew not to mention it.
“I’d be honored, Mr. Bianco.”
“Call me Enzo. You’re family now.”
I fell out of my chair. Literally. Liam was on his feet instantly, moving to check on me.
“Are you okay?”
Laughing, I couldn’t help but remember how we had met this same way. Only this time, my heart was fluttering for different reasons. At least I hadn’t landed on my back. Embarrassed, I blinked up at him.
“I’m fine.”
Rosalina and my brother started to laugh as I took Liam’s hand so he could help me up. My father just shook his head.
“I’ll bring you zeppoles and you will feel better.”
My father ran off. I looked at the table.
Liam looked confused. “What was that? He didn’t get diagnosed with a fatal disease, did he?”
Rosalina explained, “Uncle Enzo has never let a non-family member come to family dinner. Andno oneunder the age of forty can call him Enzo. He must really like you.”
I felt Liam slip his hand into mine and met his gaze. I could tell he was pleased but also concerned about my reaction.
“Should I not come?”
Entwining my fingers with his, I smiled.
“Oh, you can’t say no. That would be the end of us. It’s not a bad thing. Just surprising.”
A grin came to his lips.
“I’m glad he likes me. How long did it take him to invite Marco?”
The three of us exchanged glances.
Giovanni whispered, “He knows about Marco?”
