Chapter 12

"Have you chosen what you're going to wear?" Fausto asked Stella.

"Yes. How are you feeling?" Stella reached out, checking Fausto's temperature. She sensed his stress, especially with their cousins around. She was waiting for Fausto to introduce her before dealing with those she suspected had something to do with Lauro's disappearance.

"I'm good, don't sweat it. You just gotta show 'em you're tough," Fausto advised.

Stella gave Fausto a small smile. "I promised to let you lead the way with my life decisions from now on."

Fausto smiled back, feeling proud of Stella's resilience. She'd toughened up since everything went down, and he might even owe a thanks to the guy who got her pregnant.

"Grandpa, I'd rather keep Zion under wraps, if possible," Stella confided.

Fausto understood. He didn't want word getting out about his great-grandson either, especially because he was a boy. Zion was staying where Stella grew up, and they could see him whenever. But Fausto didn't want Zion hidden