“I do, yes. I love to talk. People are so interesting. Each one has a different life story. It’s this exchange that makes us grow.”
“You’re very mature for your age. When we met, I thought you were just a baby.”
“I’m not a baby. I’m a woman now,” she says proudly, smiling and winking.
I try not to dwell on the word, because more than anyone else, I know how much of a woman she is.
“Halloween is in a few weeks. Do you plan to dress up Nina?”
The question catches me off-guard. “I hadn’t thought about it.”
“I can look for a costume for her, if you want.”
“Valentina doesn’t eat sweets yet.”
“It’s just for fun, but okay. I shouldn’t meddle in these things.”
“No, tell me what you’re thinking.”
“You could organize a costume party at your parents’ house, just for the family. I think she would be thrilled to see relatives dressed as different characters, but I must warn you that babies don’t like monster costumes. It should be something that makes her laugh.”
“Do I have to dress up too?” The idea is absurd. How many years has it been since I wore a Halloween costume? I think the last time was before I was ten.
“Yes. Especially you.”
Even though I think I’ll regret it, I say, “Fine, but you’ll have to organize it. If Mom thinks it’ll be too much commotion for Dad, we can do it here.”
“Me? You mean I can come too?”
“Definitely, little firecracker. If I’m going to embarrass myself, you’ll have to do your part.”
“Alright,” she agrees, although she seems to want to say something more. “My turn to ask questions now. Did you only marry because of the pregnancy?”
“Yes. I intended to get married someday, but Layla and I were too different. It wouldn’t have been to her.”
“You didn’t need to get married. There are many parents who share custody.”
“I know, but I was afraid of losing my daughter. I value family a lot, Olívia. Plus, Layla didn’t want to be a mother. I had to negotiate for her to have a healthy pregnancy,” I start explaining, testing the waters.
“Negotiate . . . Are you talking about some kind of agreement?”
“Exactly. A financial agreement. I paid her to take care of herself enough for my daughter to come into the world healthy.”
“My God!”
I can see the shock on her face, but despite this topic being unpleasant for me, if I want her to know the truth, I need to tell her everything.
“Does Valentina spend time with her maternal grandparents?”
“No, they’re both dead. As far as I know, Nina only has one living relative on her mother’s side.”
“Do you know them?”
“Want more wine?”
“No, I’m good,” she replies, showing the glass that still has a finger of alcohol in it. “You know, maybe it would be goodfor Valentina to meet this relative. She might have stories to tell about your late wife that you don’t even suspect.”
I doubt it.
