Chapter 102

“I know. Trust me, I get it. But—”

“But you’re scared.”

“Damn right, I’m scared to death,” I admit.

“Don’t be. He won’t go to jail.”

I wince. Considering everything lately, that kind of optimism feels hollow.

“And if he does, I think it’s great that the girl is with you. You’ll do wonderfully, Gabriela. I know you, remember? I know what you’re capable of.”

Her words are encouraging, and I cling to them like a lifeline. Cass had a really good relationship with her dad, and I know she thinks I can do it. Her faith warms my heart, but it doesn’t dispel my doubts.

Cass watches me closely.

“And you don’t have to be someone else, you know?”

I frown.

“I don’t know what you mean.”

“You don’t have to be a mother, or ‘Aunt Gabriela,’ or whatever the girl calls you. Be Gabriela, period. Be yourself. You’ll be fine.”

I lift a shoulder.

“Maybe. I don’t know. I’m a mess.”

“I know.” She puts her arm around me again