Sarah’s expression shifted, concern giving way to something fiercer. “You’re going to win.” She paused. “Your father would be proud of you.”
My throat felt too tight to breathe. I nodded because speaking felt impossible.
Sarah’s expression shifted again, this time into something warmer. Teasing. “Now. Tell me about this date you mentioned.”
I blinked at the sudden change in topic.
“So tell me—are you in love?”
“I’m not in love. It’s been one date.”
“That’s not a denial about the possibility.”
I felt my face heat. “You’re impossible.”
“I’m curious. There’s a difference.” She leaned against the wall beside me. “Besides, watching Hector try to be smooth is getting old. I need new romance in my life.”
“He’s still smooth,” I said. “You look ridiculously happy every time he walks into a room.”
“That’s different. That’s marriage. I’m legally obligated to look happy.” But her smile said she was completely gone for him anyway.”
Lily’s voice carried from the kitchen. “Are you guys talking about boys? Can I hear? I want to know about boys!”
Sarah rolled her eyes. “We’re having adult conversation, sweetheart!”
“That means you’re definitely talking about boys!” Lily appeared in the doorway, empanada crumbs on her face, looking absolutely delighted with herself. “I want to be in love too. It sounds fun.”
“You’re eleven,” Sarah said.
“So? That’s old enough to understand romance. I read books about it.”
“Those books are fiction, baby. Real life is different.”
“But it’s still romantic, right? Like you and Dad?” Lily looked between us. “You’re always smiling at each other and holding hands. That’s love.”
Sarah’s face went soft in a way that made my chest ache. “Yes, that’s love. But you have plenty of time for that. Right now you should focus on ballet and school.”
“That’s boring advice.”
“That’s good advice.” Sarah grabbed Lily and pulled her into a hug despite her protests. “How about this. You can worry about love when you’re at least sixteen and have explained to your father why boys are worth the trouble.”
“He’ll never think boys are worth the trouble.”
“Exactly. So you have plenty of time to practice your arguments.” She kissed the top of Lily’s head. “Now go help Rosa clean up before your father gets home and sees the kitchen disaster we’ve made.”
Lily ran off and Sarah turned back to me, grinning. “Don’t let Hector hear her talking about boys. She will give him a panic attack.”
“She’s going to be trouble when she’s older.”
“She’s trouble now. I’m just preparing myself for teenage years.” Sarah shook her head, still smiling. “But seriously. About your guy. I’m happy for you. You deserve someone who makes you feel that way.”
“Thanks, Sarah.”
“And if he hurts you, let me know. Hector has connections.”
I laughed again. “Are you threatening him?”
“I’m just saying. Options exist.” She squeezed my arm once more. “Come on. Let’s go rescue your mother from Lily’s helpfulness before something else breaks.”
