Sofia’s expression immediately softens. “Oh god, I’m sorry,” she says. “You must need a break.”
“It’s okay,” I say quickly, even though my cheeks are still burning.
“Now that you’ve thoroughly embarrassed everyone,” Ray mutters, “maybe we can order?”
His tone is light, but there’s an edge to it.
The waiter appears and menus are placed in front of us.
I stare at mine, barely taking in the words. Everything sounds expensive and complicated.
“Order whatever you like,” Ray says quietly beside me, low enough that only I hear.
I nod, even though that doesn’t make it any easier.
The conversation splits after that. The men fall into business talk—numbers, deals, names I don’t recognise.
Sofia turns to me with a warm smile.
“So, how is she?” she asks gently. “Anika?”
I relax a little at the shift.
“She’s good,” I say. “Stronger than she gives herself credit for.”
Sofia nods. “That sounds about right.”
“And Mario?” I ask, leaning into safer territory. “How old is he now?”
Her whole face lights up.
“Four months,” she says, like it’s the best thing in the world. “And already ruling the house.”
I laugh. “Is he sleeping through yet?”
She groans. “Absolutely not.”
We both laugh, and for the first time since sitting down, I feel like I can breathe.
I stick to talking about her. I ask her everything from labour, routines, mum friends, and she answers like she’s been waiting for someone to talk to about it.
It’s easy. Natural. And I can relax knowing it’s not about me.
Across the table, I catch Ray watching me. Just for a second, but his expression is unreadable. Then he looks away, back to Vinn, like it never happened.
But the moment lingers.
And I don’t know why it makes my stomach flip.
Ray gets the bill, almost coming to blows with Vinn over it. It’s half serious, half ridiculous—two powerful men arguing over who gets to pay—until Vinn finally laughs and waves it off.
“To make it even,” he says, clapping Ray on the shoulder, “you’re coming to Enzo’s.”
Ray glances at me, already deciding. “Of course.”
The thought of alcohol makes my stomach churn, but I don’t get a say. Ray takes my hand, firm, unyielding, and leads me out of the restaurant.
Enzo’s is huge.
