157

Lorenzo:

I watched Erica disappear into her room. My stomach churned. I expected her to sit and chat with her parents.

I said nothing and continued to eat. I had no idea what was wrong with her and I only hoped that her parents wouldn't ask me.

"Lorenzo, do you by any chance know what is wrong with Erica?"

Her mother asked me politely as she wrestled with the triplets who were wrestling each other for her attention.

"She hasn't been feeling too well," I lied. "I think that she is a little overwhelmed by the early wedding plans. I'll check on her after lunch."

Her parents gave a nod and exhaled in relief. The answer was satisfactory, but now, I was obligated to check on her.

I tried my best to hide my anger about the wedding. So far, I had dodged questions about it and kept the conversations around work and the rebuilding of the pack.

"We cannot say how grateful we are for the aid we have gotten from you to fix the pack. They have been wonderful."

I smiled warmly but smirked inwardly.