My sweet prostitute

Chapter20

POV Camila - If my daughters go into depression because of you, I'm going to England to kill you. That was Ally crying. It was scary, not because I did not understand what she felt, but because she always seemed too strong for me to shed a single tear. But his threatening tone still frightened me. "You can come visit us whenever you want." Lauren said, trying to defend herself. "And in the hands of whom I leave your company, you idiot?" - Just for a few days. If something goes wrong, you can put the blame on me. She sniffed, wiping her face. She could not stop staring at his incredibly red eyes. - All set, ma'am. When you want. Rick arrived, speaking a little loud because of the strong wind. I wondered if that would be the standard weather of all our travels. - OK then. - Lauren said, turning to Ally and hugging her. They stayed there for a long time. She might be saying something in her ear, but I could not tell because of the gale. Both were very quiet, and I wondered if by the time they pulled away, I could see Lauren thrilled. Well, almost. When I looked at her face, I saw that Lauren did not cry, but the sadness in her expression was evident. As I turned to Ally, I was gripped by his surprisingly strong embrace, though not uncomfortable. I wondered how long Lauren would stand between us and make a scandal over the minimum distance between someone and my belly, and the strength that might or might not be employed there. But she did not speak. "I wish I had known you better." She started, looking at me. "I'm sorry if I sometimes seemed cold. I just worry too much. But I know you're going to make her happy. I stared at her trying to deal with the painful lump in my throat. She still had that strong look and that aura of power, but I did not feel intimidated. Those last few weeks had helped me get over this. "I wish we'd met better, too." And not your worry about her happiness. If it's up to me, it's guaranteed. - I know that. - She said, holding my hands - The good part is that I think it really only depends on you. I smiled, knowing it was a little exaggeration. But for a change his eyes told me otherwise. - Take care. And be patient with her. Lauren is a bit of an exaggeration, but it's because she's completely in love with you.She finished, pointing at my belly. - I will have. I said, kissing his face and walking to the side of Lauren, who was already waiting for me by the open doors of his private plane. The farewell was painful. Lauren was trying to hide it, but it was noticeable how many times she swallowed to keep the tears from falling. Although I knew she was tough, I also knew that she was breaking away from her best (and perhaps only) friend. Many people could handle it, and it was, in a way, one of those cases. But I knew her too well to know that that farewell was eating away at her. Even if she allowed herself to corrode in silence. Suddenly, I felt sad. "Did you want to go?" She took her eyes from the small window that led out to the lane, and looked at me in surprise, probably wondering what I was talking about. - As? "Did you want to go to London?" Did you want to move there? She was visibly sad. I did not know to what extent that trip was for me, and how far it was for her. But it appeared that we were moving exclusively because of me. Because staying there was too risky for our happiness. What if she did not want to go? What if I was just doing this to hide from the memories they could find me? She laughed, turning back to the window, just to watch the asphalt running beneath us. As if my question had been too silly. - Yeah. I wanted to. Always wanted. I continued to stare curiously at her. - Because of Ally. She spoke simply, looking back at me as the wheels of the plane lost touch with the ground. Before that information could make any sense to me, she went on. "I decided to go one day, but she stopped me. He said he had an intuition so I could stay in the States. And that the time to go would arrive. I just had to wait a little. Lauren held my hand fondly and kissed her. I kept looking at her with a look that must have been funny. She giggled when I made it clear that I did not know what to say. Ally was ... - Creepy, right? She completed my thinking. "An angel ..." I stammered as I believed in that. From her look, she thought so too. - Wow. A sunny day in England. This is magic. Rick seemed genuinely surprised at the open time. Before she could speak, she might have been a bit drugged by the large amount of passion fruit juice she had eaten during the whole trip, since calming was totally forbidden during pregnancy. Since my nerves did not care about that, I opted for a natural tranquilizer. But that was not it. The day was really, really beautiful. "It must be spring." He completed, looking a little puffed up at the sky of a living blue. The day was not exactly cold, but the temperature was almost pleasant. - Are you alright? Lauren asked me to the ear, removing me from a slight state of lethargy. - Yeah. Just a little sleep. She grimaced and made mention of herself. I interrupted her. "I slept well at night. It has nothing to do with it. Lauren was being insistent about blaming herself for my sleepless night of sleep on the plane, saying "I should not have shared that single bed with you, that must have made you uncomfortable." Okay, I was even a little older now, but her care was always so great that there was simply no way to be uncomfortable in her arms. We got in the cab, heading for some place only Lauren knew. Though sleepy, I was excited. I allowed myself to completely forget bags, bags and everything that was not with me at that moment. She'd probably settled it somehow, and I knew that, in the end, all the luggage would end up showing up in the right place. I laid my head on her shoulder and relaxed. The taxi driver would do all the work. I did not have to look out the window to find myself and get used to that new place. There was plenty of time for that later. I dozed almost instantly, feeling the fresh wind from the crevice of one of the open windows and shaking lightly with some soft holes in the road.When we stopped-I could not say for sure how long afterward-I woke up feeling the lack of movement that was cradling me. I stared at the window, noticing an imposing and well-known gate opening slowly, for the cab to enter the garden. - I know you're tired ... It's just for a quick hello, then we're going home. I did not care about my tiredness. As the car pulled up in front of the front door, I was incredibly excited to see Clara and Michael and to tell them we were moving closer. So before Lauren could do anything, I opened the door and left, thanking the driver anyway. I walked slowly until I climbed the steps of the small staircase in the entrance and stopped, waiting. She was so aroused that she felt a strange urge to jump. I glanced back impatiently, watching Lauren pay the taxi driver and walk slowly to me. - Hurry up! Open! "I thought you were sleepy," she said in a good mood as she fumbled for the keys in her pocket. - I'll sleep later. After what seemed like weeks, Lauren found the right key in the sauce and turned the knob. She seemed calm, even a little amused by my agitation. I wanted to punch her. - Go! You up front! I said, already pushing her into the entrance hall. "What makes you think they want to see me before you?" I looked at her with a look of contempt, but I decided to ignore her, pushing her again. He wanted Clara to see her soon. For some reason, it felt oddly good to see her happy being close to Lauren. - Visits! She bellowed suddenly, scaring me. I stopped pushing her and waited by her side, wondering if it was possible that someone had not heard her voice and recognized her. Seconds later, as if they had rehearsed, Clara and Michael left the living room and office respectively, putting their heads out of the hall and making that scene funny. - Well well! - You arrived! They both had a splendid smile on their faces, and I felt a sudden urge to embrace them. But I restrained myself. It was when they passed by Lauren and they came to greet me that I was caught by surprise. - Oh, look at your belly! - It's almost the size of Taylor! - You look beautiful! I looked at Lauren, still a little stunned. - I am invisible. Lauren pointed out, smiling quietly. Okay. Maybe your question would not have been so stupid. Are you feeling all right? Do you want to seat? Clara kept talking to me, as if her daughter did not really exist. I started to enjoy that. - I'm fine thanks. "Ah, I was so glad to know it's a girl!" She continued, and I wondered when Lauren had told them that. "Is that what you wanted?" - That's what I wanted. Lauren said a little louder, calling her parents' attention to herself. "Daughter, I did not speak to you! Clara spoke innocently. - I know.- Lauren laughed, opening her arms and wrapping her in such a way that made Clara almost disappear into her chest. "I'm very happy to have you here again." I wish they would come more often ... - Well ... We'll stay. Lauren interrupted her, causing her to stare at her for some time, both still hugging. - For how long? Her eyes flashed. - Hmm ... Even the background, forever. Clara made a face of who not only had just discovered that Santa Claus existed, but also hugged him. - ARE YOU GOING TO CHANGE THEM? "Good not here exactly ... But two blocks away, yes. She joked. - AHHHH! Clara hugged and kissed Lauren effusively, ignoring anyone in that place. She looked incredibly happy, and I noticed that when she smiled, she looked younger and more beautiful. Being in the company of the children really did her good, and I inadvertently felt a little responsible for all that joy, since, one way or another, we were there for my sake. - Why did you come here? She asked, smiling and teary-eyed, still clinging to Lauren's waist. Camz liked it here. That was not true. Well, it was. But not the real reason. So I felt a little guilty for not deserving the look of gratitude that Clara addressed to me, and equally guilty for not being able to deny it. "But she always wanted to come." "I added, speaking that newly discovered truth." We made that decision together. Clara stared at Lauren again. "At least now I'm going to have a daughter next to me." I'll be able to see my granddaughter grow up! "Uh-oh ... I think you're going to have to put grills in the house, or you'll have an intrusive grandmother." Michael laughed quietly, and that was enough to remind everyone of his presence there. - You! She turned with a murderous look, walking slowly toward him like a tiger about to attack, and for the first time I was afraid of Clara - You knew! "Of course you did, my dear. I would not allow Lauren to come here and leave the branch of my company in the United States in the hands of anyone. "And why did not you tell me?" "Because she wanted to surprise you." She continued to stare at him, as if to find some reason to stick her nails into it. When he finally realized that argument was valid, he half-closed his eyes and let out an "Idiot!" And then punched him on the shoulder. And then the image struck me as incredibly familiar. It was like seeing myself giving Lauren a tantrum while wearing my favorite curse. - Panda Albina! The voice sounded lively and fun somewhere, and suddenly, standing to our left, Chris seemed to materialize. What was he doing there? Did not he live in Germany? - Genius! Lauren snapped back, hugging her brother. He turned to me, but like everyone who'd been staring at me lately, he kept his eyes on my belly for a while. - Damn it, Mila! So it is true! He said, giving me a quick kiss on the cheek. "I always thought my sister's sperm were too fresh to get anyone pregnant. Lucky girl you, huh? Or not. - Hi, Chris. - I answered - Another nephew for you. Or rather, niece. - Nice! Let's pray she did not pull that ugly face out of Lauren. He laughed. - Hey, Chris! I'll show you who looks ugly here. "She answered, and perhaps I was going to suppress her, if Taylor did not come out of nowhere by our side, hand in hand with Oliver. Damn, what was going on? "You always seem to be 13 years old. She spoke calmly. Lauren hugged her, trying to shape her newest form of pregnancy. Her belly really was bigger than mine, since we were about two months apart. "So they're going to be almost" twin cousins, "right? Oliver joked, pointing to our bellies as he greeted me. - Hey, Lauren. Be careful. If the guri is born with Taylor's fire, he'll want to trace his cousin early. "Do not be retarded, Chris. - Taylor said, ignoring his brother solemnly - Mila! That scene must have been funny, because the two bellies between us really messed up the hug. "So it's a boy?" I asked, putting my hand on her belly and wondering if she would feel anything. "Yes. A little shaken boy. The moment she said it, I felt an incredibly strong kick in my hand that was still in her belly button. I was scared.- Wow! "He's not quiet. I think I prefer it in there. When I leave, I'm sure my hours of sleep will decrease dramatically. - I already liked him. "Chris, why do not you shut up?" Your voice is pissing me off. She said, showing her mood clearly affected by the pregnancy. "That's exactly why I do not shut up." He replied simply, blinking at her. - Lauren and Mila come to live in London! They all turned to Clara, who seemed to be waiting for the right moment to release the news. Since no one stopped talking, she took advantage of the unique and rare second of silence to manifest. Oliver and Chris looked surprised. - Seriously? That Cool! The first one said, going to shake Lauren's hand. "And who was the company in the United States?" The second asked, after patting his back. - Allyson. She simply replied, and Chris nodded. - I think I already knew. Taylor spoke softly, but they all listened. "Lauren, how many people did you tell?" Clara asked, a bit of a whore. "She did not tell me." Taylor spoke again, trying to undo the misunderstanding. And everyone understood. "Hey, is the guy going to be weird like Taylor?" Chris tossed the wheel, and from the look on his expression, I was sure she planned to slit him while he slept. That conversation was in the same foyer. We were all very comfortable there, and no one had even remembered chairs or drinks. But as the conversation continued, I wondered why this family reunion. It was clear that Lauren's brothers were very fond of her, but it was not the case for an international trip for the sole purpose of being present at her change. Moments later, my question was answered. - Ready to get older, boss? Chris asked, punching his father in the shoulder. - Ever. It was Michael's birthday, and I had completely forgotten about it. I remembered Lauren mentioning her father's birthday in London springs one day, but lately I had been so distracted that the information had been left forgotten in some corner of my brain. So Chris, Taylor, Oliver and, in part, Lauren and I, were there. "What about you, Mila?" Ready ... Chris stopped short of speaking, without me understanding what was happening. Without thinking, I looked at Lauren and saw that she held a murderous glare at her brother, making him stop talking. "Ready to be Mom?" - Michael spoke loudly, as if everything was perfectly normal, and as if that were the same question that Chris would ask, if Lauren had not shot him with the eyes. But I knew that was not the same question. "I ..." I started, still finding everything very odd. "Yes, of course. Predictably. "Do you know that hell all they say the birthing is?" It is all exaggeration. You will see. Clara caught my attention, gradually making the momentarily weird situation go back to normal. "But ... Anyway, I think it's worth it to suffer a little." It's for a good cause, is not it? I said, already smoothing my belly tenderly unconsciously. Clara's eyes brightened again as she answered in a passionate voice: "Okay. It's the best feeling in the world. You and Taylor will understand that one day. Michael hugged his wife affectionately, seeing that probably all those pregnant women were making her more sensitive. "I did not know you liked children that much." He spoke, and I could see a soft gleam in his gaze, the same gleam in Lauren's eyes every time she would or would say something stupid. - You wanna make one? Clara elbowed her husband's chest and Oliver's eyes widened, making an 'o' with his mouth as if he was really shocked. Taylor started to laugh, and I just managed to follow her into a laugh. "Oh, you bitch, Dad!" Chris said, closing his eyes tightly. "That's disgusting!" "You're jealous, yes. - Taylor implied - Just because even the pope and the mama have to see and you're still single. "Shut up, Jabulani. "Do not swear at our sister, you shit. Lauren said in a joking tone. - Shut up, albino panda. Taylor flashed his tongue at him, and Chris stammered something like '' You're lucky to be pregnant, otherwise ... '' I was home. She was happy, comfortable, but also suspicious. For the time being, I allowed myself to relax and feel welcome, not just to London, but to Lauren's family.There it was, really, my favorite place in the world. But I knew there was something that was being hidden from me. Remembering Chris's weird scene and Taylor's weird look at Lauren, it was more than obvious that they knew something I did not know. And I wanted to know. Suddenly, I found myself imagining that the reason for their presence there was not only for the birthday of the patriarch Jauregui. There was something else. Something that, somehow, I would end up knowing. Whether it was finding out on its own or threatening Lauren to death. What would be a quick visit, just to give an "oi", extended for a few hours. Maybe because Taylor was there, chattering about her pregnancy and everything she'd ever learned from her. Or maybe because Clara insisted that we stay for the afternoon snack, as a pretext to keep the family together. Or because we did not want to go away, as if an invisible force held us there and made us want to go nowhere else or be in the company of nobody but those people. But since Lauren needed to know what had been made of our luggage (since I did not even know who they were), we left at 7:00 sharp, even if Clara insisted we sleep there. "We'll see you again tomorrow, Mom. We are actually two blocks away. There are less than a hundred steps. But how, in Lauren's unhealthy mind, walking was an exceptionally dangerous task for a pregnant woman, she did not give up another cab to our house. I decided not to contradict her, perhaps because I was tired and had back pain. We arrived a minute later. It was almost dark now. We stopped in front of an iron gate full of details, which was opened immediately by Lauren. As we passed through it, we entered a garden, and even though it was difficult to see well, I knew it was large-though modest compared to the Jauregui's. - Can you wait a minute here? There's something I have to do. Lauren squeezed my hand affectionately, speaking at the foot of my ear. - It depends. You will return? I asked rhetorically, feeling the wonderful smell of the grass take me all around and make me almost get into some kind of trance. She laughed. - One minute. And saying that, he walked forward. I followed her silhouette with her eyes, and it was only when Lauren disappeared behind a wall that I realized there was a house right in front of us. But it was difficult to describe it, as the night began to fall gradually. The noise of crickets was loud. Again, I inhaled sharply to smell the fresh scrub. Along with it, I could also feel the scent of some nocturnal flowers. They were sweet. Of an intense sweet, almost mystical. I felt good again. It was suddenly, and when I realized it, the images to the eyes. Many low lampposts lit up at the same time, some with white light and some with green light. The place had materialized around me, and I found myself in the most beautiful garden I had ever seen in my life. It was so green and intense that it looked freshly painted. Here and there, incredibly colorful tufts of flowers caught the eye, as if they were only there to give more life to something that was already beautiful. Some of the poles, now lit, were arranged in all places, distributed in a way that gave a view of every corner of that place. Some others aligned themselves with a perfect and neat trail that formed the path of flat stones, by which we had to pass so that the grass would remain beautiful and new in that way. It was more or less like being in an enchanted garden, and I would not be surprised at all if I met a fairy walking around. I looked forward, now facing the house a few feet from us, also lit up at many points by small lamps attached to the length of the walls. As Lauren had told me, it was even smaller than her parents' house. But that did not mean she was small at all. There was a veranda with classic benches and surrounded by a low wall, which seemed, almost in its entirety, covered by some sort of creeper. Very small and delicate white flowers hung from it, making a beautiful contrast with the living green of the bush.The seats matched the perfect white of the entire house, in a classic style much like Clara and Michael's. There were two floors here, the second showing two very large windows positioned exactly above the roof that covered the porch, making me conclude that there were at least two rooms in that house. The door was dark wood, contrasting with the light tone of the painting. There was a very large, crowded tree at the side of the house, lit by a particularly tall and strong post, which remained wrapped between the crooked branches. One saw, therefore, that the tree was totally filled with flowers of an incredibly alive rose. I rolled my eyes again, trying to put all the little details together and alive in my memory. Everything, absolutely everything there was perfect. And I had not even entered the house. - And then? I heard a voice again at the foot of my ear and I felt arms hugging me from behind. She came too close. Lauren's perfume had mingled with all those perfumes that weighed in the air, and I had the feeling that if there was a paradise, it must have been exactly that way. "I ... I do not know how to say this ..." I tried to organize my thoughts and failed miserably. - Liked? I let out a mocking laugh. It was a silly question, to say the least. The question was stupid. - It's humanly impossible not to like it here ... And '' inhuman '' too. I answered in a purposeful tone, wanting the sounds of the garden to remain louder than my voice. It was as if I was immersed in an atmosphere of magic, and I knew I was not dreaming. No dream could be so perfect. - Let's go. He spoke, pulling me gently with one hand. As we passed through the dark, mahogany door, I felt the warm climate, unlike the refreshing garden. It was not, however, unpleasant. The nights in England used to be cold, and having a warm house to warm up was ideal. I looked around and for a moment all I was aware of was a total darkness as all the lights inside the house remained blank. But the next second, Lauren reached for the switch and, with a click, five or six light bulbs lit up, showing that we were both standing in front of a hall, with the stairs immediately to the left, and to the right a large room be. Without waiting, I entered the room. The place was completely different from Lauren's apartment in the United States. If there the interior gave a minimalist impression and completely modern, with all the furniture following a straight pattern and very dry, limited to white and black, here the appearance was more classic, with chairs and armchairs fluffy and padded, very full of curves, and all in various shades of cream and brown. The floor was covered with a soft beige carpet, which did not prevent the existence of several smaller and colorful rugs, although they all pulled to the same tone. The tables, chairs, and furniture were carefully crafted, giving the environment an aspect of the Victorian era. At one corner, a large classic grand piano was set amid so many details, in front of one of the large curtains that covered the windows of the same size. A chandelier that appeared to be made of tiny pieces of crystals hung from the ceiling and illuminated everything around. There were cushions everywhere, a large fireplace with gold notches stood in front of the armchairs and sofas. Between them lay a mat rug that looked comfortable. On the other side, more chairs and sofas were arranged at the head of a gigantic piece of furniture, almost a bookcase, featuring, in addition to several antique decorations, a modern, thin television. And I was sure, though I did not know how, that this was the same TV that was in the living room of Lauren's apartment.- All right. "I heard someone talking, and as if I had been brought back, I looked at him. Since my expression must have been a bit confusing, she explained - The suitcases. They're all here. I stared at all the luggage, now neatly arranged on the floor near the bottom of the stairs. I realized that it might take a few days to notice her absence. I ignored her. I walked a little dazed, past a very large mirror and taking two steps into the kitchen. The floor was covered with pale wooden boards, so polished that they reflected all the small, strong points of light on the ceiling. In the center, a very large bench with darker marble was decorated around six tall benches, making it a kind of table, but still giving way to a large, bright sink and a six-burner stove. There was a huge fruit bowl right in the center, along with little ornaments. The four walls were completely covered by cabinets and mahogany countertops. - Liked? I ignored her again. Lauren had to stop asking. The mere fact that she was not sure how much my answer irritated me. I walked a little way down the hall with her behind me. On the left-hand side, a door opened into what looked like a library-office, covered from top to bottom and from corner to corner by empty wooden shelves. The large window in the opposite wall, shown by the curtains gathered, showed a part of the garden that I had not gotten to see. It was on the side of the house. Further on, another door showed a large dining room with a ten-seater table. Two chandeliers hung from the ceiling, and on the wall in the background another window showed the rest of the garden left in the previous room. At the end of the hall there was a room that left, on the right, the large service area. On the other side, you had to make a left turn to enter the room. There was a small kind of bar with some drinks on display. Yellow lights on very small points on the ceiling gave amber a tone to the place. Soon afterwards, some pool chairs were set at perfect angles, and after them, the pool itself. It was not straight, but full of edges, and of a blue so vivid that it became dark. The ladder was submerged, formed by the same tiles of the bottom. The place was closed. The left-most wall consisted of sliding, glass doors that showed the rest of the garden still lit outside and another leisure place with a barbecue and, apparently, a pool table. The other walls were massive and clear. The floor was made of dark wood boards, with small cracks between them. Through the corners came large pots of plants, giving a more natural tone to the place. In front of the glass door, a staircase led upstairs. I could not reason for a while. - Let's see the rest. I heard his voice behind me again, very close to my ear. I shivered a little, mechanically walking up the stairs. We got upstairs on a balcony type to the pool area. I imagined what a party would be like in that place. Further on, we entered a long, wide hallway. There were three doors to the right. The first belonged to a very comfortable and fully furnished double suite. The second belonged to a social bathroom, all in clear marble, with absolutely everything a bathroom could have. The latter housed a kind of video room, where one of the walls consisted entirely of a kind of rack with a home theater and the biggest TV I'd ever seen in my entire life. The other wall was, from one side to the other, occupied by a large, gigantic black sofa, incredibly fluffy in appearance, with pillows on all sides, even thrown on the rug. It was practically a private cinema. At the end of the corridor was the staircase leading downstairs into the entrance hall, where our luggage was still waiting. Just outside the movie theater, a perpendicular corridor showed three more doors: two on the right side (with the windows visible in front of the house) and one on the left. I opened the first door on the right and found a single, neutral suite. Also fully furnished. As I opened the second door, my heart leapt. The walls of the room were, in their upper half, white, and at the bottom, a very soft yellow. The incredibly delicate furniture was so white and small that it looked dirty and breakable at the slightest touch. In the brightest corner and suspended by two steps was a light crib covered by an elegant white mosquito net.Around her, several teddy bears and dolls of all kinds gave the room a fairytale look. That room belonged definitely to a princess. - Yellow is neutral. We will not need to paint another color if the next time children come. I kept preaching there, staring at everything with my mouth open. I did not care to look like an idiot anymore. I was dazzled by it, and I did not mean to pretend natural. "Uh ..." She resumed, as I remained in the same position for some time, perhaps not breathing. "Want to see our room?" I did not move. I was still analyzing every detail, however small it was. The ruffled couch, the little table and chairs in the Victorian style, the crystals hanging from the ceiling. The carved cabinet with minutiae, the fluffy carpet round and even, my God, a colorful rocking unicorn! - Love? Lauren insisted, perhaps afraid that I might be dead. I stared at her a little stunned. "Our room is missing ..." I moved on impulse, walking to the door on the other side of the wall and opening it without waiting for her. It was a large room. Gigantic. It would be easy to play pique-pick up there. On the opposite wall, facing the door, was the double bed with beige and brown sheets. It was elevated on two steps, giving that piece a superior effect to the rest of the room. There were many pillows arranged straight on the mattress, matching the fluffy comforter. Behind the headboard, only a thin line of light gave a brighter, brighter air to the wall where the bed lay. Two armchairs and a large light fixture were arranged in a corner for reading. The thin tv, attached to the wall at the front of the bed, was larger than the living room. The wall to the left was smooth, with a door only, giving the closet almost three times larger than that of Lauren's old apartment. On the wall to the right, another door opened into an equally large and spacious bathroom with china and marbles that blended into shades of black, tobacco, beige, and white. The tub was large and round and stood in one of the corners. The box immediately next to him was roomy and could easily accommodate ten people inside. There were two separate dark marble sinks, one for each of the occupants of the room. The toilet was the same marble. There was also a three-seat bench, two benches, and, as if that were not enough, a tiny garden. I returned to the middle of the room, and this process took ten counted steps. And then, I stopped. I did not know how to act. I did not know what to do or what to say. He did not even know where to look. - Did you like it? Lauren repeated. I stared at her, now completely aware of her presence there. It sounded like a rhetorical question to me, but she did it as if she did not really know the answer. "I-" "I could not go on." It was necessary to make clear what I was feeling, but I did not know if there was a certain combination of words that would allow me to do that. That was, to say the least, perfect. Simply perfect. In fact, it was more than perfect. It was even exaggerated. But Lauren, with her incredible ability not to understand my reactions, was quick to say, "We can change some things if you want, of course." I just did not let you in because I wanted to make a surprise, but we can ... I moved forward without thinking, and when I noticed that the movement would make me kiss her, I stopped less than an inch from her mouth, staring her in the eyes .- Shut up. I said, "And do not you dare change a single place pillow." I love, absolutely love everything here. Every color, every fabric, every inch. I love the weather, I love the style, I love the smell from here. I love everything this place makes me feel, I love the fact that you're here with me. I love you. I love you so much. And I still think it's all too perfect not to be a dream. So can I ask you something? I said, looking into her eyes and taking both her hands in mine, as if they fit in. "Please promise me that if I wake you, you'll be on my side." She smiled at my words, probably because they made no sense at all. But I did not care, staring at her as if waiting for an answer. - Promise. She finally spoke, leaning her forehead against mine. I kissed her once, and again, and again and again. His arms wrapped around my waist, pulling me closer to him. She deepened the kiss. I tucked her hair between my fingers and I did not allow her to move away an inch, and it was when all the hairs on my body were already bristling that Lauren, in a very fast motion, grabbed my legs and made them attach to her waist . I did not dare open my eyes, forcing my shoes with each of my feet and letting them fall anywhere. The next second, I felt myself sink completely into the soft mattress, getting lost in the middle of the duvets. She lay on top of me, running her mouth down my neck, and I felt somehow protected there. When his mouth returned to mine, I gripped her tightly, trying to take off his coat and his pants with a little haste. - Are we going to open the bed yet? She laughed softly in my ear as she moved away, giving me room to finally unbutton the buttons on her pants. I unzipped the buttons and the zipper of his pants, pulling it anyway down, along with the boxer. I could not even see what I was doing, but I knew that if I kept pushing away all the fabric my fingers touched, I could have it as I wanted it: Naked. I began to squirm, trying to get out of my own clothes. Lauren helped me, pulling my pants down and at the same time ripping the buttons off my shirt. When I felt my panties being tossed somewhere, I spread my legs and let her get between them on her knees in bed. I felt my hips drop over one of his hands, and a second later I felt his cock entering my pussy. It lasted a few minutes. My nails and teeth seemed to have a will of their own against her skin. I apologized a few times, but gave up as soon as I realized she did not seem to care, though her shoulders and back were probably raw. Lauren was already getting used to my libido, but at that moment she was a little bigger: Her scent, mixed with the smell of those pillows, was numbing me in such a way that I simply wanted to devour her. Maybe literally. And the less I cared about hurting her, the more careful she was with me. Although I deeply wanted Lauren to eat me harder, I began to accept that wild sex would have to stay for after the pregnancy. In the end, we were both too tired to get up. I clung to her and let her fingers play in my hair. - Did you really like it? She asked quietly, breaking a long silence and resuming the subject of before. "No. There is no steam sauna or tennis court. I replied, ironically, still with my eyes closed. - I can arrange that. There's room ... - Do that and I'll kill you. I answered, tweaking his arm willingly. "Was not everything enough that you spent to buy this mansion?" "I did not spend a cent on the house." She's always been mine. I looked at her curiously. - Seriously? - Seriously. Taylor and Chris have houses here too. I just had to furnish ... I groaned, hiding my face in her chest. I was quite convinced that the furniture alone should have cost a fortune.But anyway, it was really good to know that Lauren had not bought that house just to "guarantee my comfort," something that demanded much less than that palace. I prepared to answer something, but my stomach thundered. - I'm hungry. I said, a bit embarrassed by the noise. She slipped out of my embrace and stood up, standing by the bed and offering me a hand. - Let's take a bath. I'll prepare something for you later. I was really hungry. But for some reason, Lauren holding out my hand, beautifully naked and ready to bathe seemed more inviting. "Okay." I started, accepting her support and getting up. "Let's take a walk to the bathroom. I think I'm going to buy skates to get there faster. "Inexplicably, she was embarrassed, and immediately regretted playing the joke. "We can put the bed more in the corner ..." "Hey ..." I said, approaching her standing on the bed and holding her face in her hands. It's perfect. She stared at me, still doubtful, and her face of an abandoned puppy made me want to fill her with kisses. - I was not sure about the decoration, about the painting ... I did not know if it would be good for you ... - Lauren, everything is good for me, as long as you come included in the package. She smiled like a contented child and kissed the tip of my nose. - Now, let's go. I'm still hungry. And just to make the mood more relaxed, I jumped into his lap and, wrapping my legs around his waist, I added - But you take me. It's really far away. And she carried me like one carrying a baby on her lap, to the so, so distant bathroom. There were only two suitcases in the room: one of mine and one of Lauren's. The rest remained exactly where they had been all night before: At the foot of the stairs. We'd sort the cupboards later. - Good Morning! She greeted me with an enthusiastic voice in the kitchen, making some toast as she paced back and forth with a dishcloth strategically folded over her shoulder, making the home cook feel. - Good Morning. I replied, still sleepy, but as I stepped out of the corridor lined with a cream carpet (just like the rest of the house) and into the kitchen with a hardwood floor, the friction between my sock and the floor was not enough to keep me balanced . I slipped a little, skidding idiotically as I tried to re-establish balance and not fall. When I did, holding the door, I looked at her again. She was whiter than usual, one hand outstretched with a jar of honey in the air, her eyes so wide they nearly popped out of her sockets. Lauren was staring at me, speaking slowly, in shock. "No ... Fall ... I found it funny that she could utter those words without apparently moving any muscle. "I did not fall. "Almost." "I almost made a move to meet you, but she gave a strange, sharp scream, so I did not even move. "Fuck, do not scare me like that!" I said, wanting to slap her. - Do not move! She said, as if I were about to enter a war-field full of landmines. I waited until she came to me, leading me out of the kitchen back into the fluffy carpet in the hallway. She sighed. - Wait here. For God's sake, do not go into that kitchen. Lauren went up two steps and I waited, already laughing all alone of all that drama. When she returned, she carried two pink-chewing-gum slippers in her hands. - Put that on. It's rubbery underneath. I fit in without objections, but only because I was hungry. In normal situations, debating with Lauren about her overdone care was fun. - At the end of this pregnancy you will be more gray, anxious and stressed. "Only, for the love of all the saints, do not hurt yourself." - Okay. Can I go down the stair railing? She stared at me in shock, as if I'd just admitted she was using drugs. - I'm just kidding. I said, already afraid that she had seizures of panic. There was no denying that I amused myself with her exaggerations, although this was cruel. She really suffered for fear that something would happen to me, and consequently to her daughter, but her ideas of protection were so absurd that they were funny.We ate Lauren's breakfast very slowly. I wanted to see everything again, every little detail of that house now in daylight, but I knew I would have plenty of time for it later. So I enjoyed the whole loaves, the jellies, the juices and everything else that was at my disposal. "Let's have lunch at my parents' house." All right? She said, sitting on the bench next to me and her hand on my stomach as usual. "Are not we going to open our kitchen?" I asked, already a little discouraged, but not so much. Spending time with the Jauregui's was always fun. - I already have. She smirked at me. - But I do not. I made a face of betrayal. - We can debut later. She stammered at the foot of my ear, wrapping her other arm around my waist. "You can teach me how to make that dessert of yours." We can eat together tonight. I always found it incredible that Lauren had to be able to make a common conversation so quick with words or touches that she could not even speak what she wanted to say. And the only reason I did not complain about it was because I loved it. - It depends. - I answered, entering the game, facing her sweetly but trying to tease her - Are you going to eat everything? She let out a low moan, staring into my eyes. Lauren still could not seem so seductive and "fucked up" when I responded to her taunts on the same level, and instead gave in. - I will. She answered quietly, pulling the seat where I was sitting closer to her. "Like everything else you leave." With the greatest of naturalness, I picked up another toast with jelly and bit into it, making it look like a landscape. It was clear that I always tried to look casual at such times, but the truth was that I myself wanted to get out of the situation. Even if her closeness always drove me crazy to give her what she wanted. And as the pregnancy progressed, the more difficult it was to control these urges to throw her on a table, to tear off her pants and to mount her as if that grave was the last fuck of my life. - It's all right. I'll teach you how to do it tonight. I stopped, staring at her with a look of the situation, and I leaned one arm on the bench where she was sitting between her legs, making my arm deliberately and unceremoniously touch her cock already very excited - But if you leave a single drop ... She let out another groan, trying to control herself as she spoke even closer to my mouth and grabbing my arm without realizing it, pressing it with even more force against her dick: - I will not let ... You know that. "I continued to stare at her, as if defying her to lose control. When Lauren seemed about to beg to eat me, I stood and pulled away. - Okay. Let's go. Your parents and your brothers should be waiting for us. I picked up my plate and my glass, taking them to the sink on the same counter, and began to wash them, looking distracted. I did not look at her again, and she did not speak again. I finished cleaning things up, put on my slippers, and went upstairs to the bedroom, rushing her to do the same and bring her suitcases upstairs. It was not long, and Lauren appeared without a suitcase in her room. "Are you really going to leave me like this?" She asked as if demanding an answer. I misunderstood. - " As? - You know how. This pregnancy is making you cruel. I felt like laughing, but I held back. "I do not know what you're talking about." She approached me a little quick, and for a second I imagined she would attack me. But on the contrary, he stopped in front of me and, taking my hand without care, forced it against his cock again. He was hard as a rock. I'm talking about it. She said, looking at me like she was in pain."Can simple words do that to you?" I asked, pretending to be surprised. I knew she was that way without even needing to touch her. "You know you do. Lauren spoke like a sad girl, and that was lovely. "Well, we're already late ..." I started, but I was interrupted in the same second by words and very lively hands. - We can be late for a little longer. "No ..." I started, trying to pull myself out of her arms and mouth. - It's your fault! Do not judge me! I was struggling, but I knew it would not work, simply because I was not working hard enough. If I really made it clear that I did not want to, Lauren would stop it, even upset. But her ferocious hormones of a 17-year-old girl were infuriating my own hormones, to some extent controlled. - If your parents or your siblings to mention .our delay, I will make it clear that it was your fault. I grabbed her blouse by the collar and turned her around, pushing her onto the bed behind us and jumping on top of her like a tiger leaps over the prey. *** We were able to get ready 1 hour later. I left before, waiting for you in the garden. At that time of day, that place seemed brighter and more alive than at night. It was not, however, necessarily more beautiful. But now you could see the true extent of the place, with its many cute shrubs, colorful flowers filled with that time of year, trees of various sizes, and white benches scattered here and there. Both day and night, it was beautiful. Each of these moments had its own particular charm. When Lauren finally found me outside the house, she made it clear we were going by taxi. I ignored it solemnly, taking my purse and simply walking toward the gate. Ignoring his protests, I also reminded him of Dr. Carlos's health-related advice, which included, in addition to other things, short walks and moderate exposure to the sun. She finally gave in. The first thing I heard from Taylor as soon as we stepped into Lauren's parents' house was a "they're late !." I stared at Lauren with a murderous look, but she was not really angry. - I'm sure it's justified. - Oliver began, always trying to explain things - Changes always take a lot of time. - Of course, love. Taylor continued, holding her hand affectionately as she turned to Lauren again. "Next time, trance faster. I blushed at once, not at the provocation, but because it was Taylor. And Taylor was weird. And he always knew everything. - Hey, stop it. She said, hugging me affectionately from behind. "You're making my girlfriend boring." Taylor and Oliver looked at her in a weird way for a while. My shame went immediately to remember that there was still something hidden from me, and those looks were related to this mystery. - What's it? I asked, looking from the couple to Lauren. - Anything. She answered, giving me a smile and a kiss on the forehead. I ignored her. "Taylor, what is it?" - Your girlfriend is a slow one. She said, emphasizing the word "girlfriend." - Because? - I insisted. - We can talk? She asked, already pulling Lauren by the hand and moving away with her. Why the hell no one was telling me what was going on? "Oliver-" "I know nothing. I'm just the witch's husband. He answered, apologizing and retreating. And I was starting to get bitchy. I stood there for a while, maybe waiting for Lauren to come back and prepare my questions. - Camilita! I barely heard Chris's voice and I turned to him, holding him by the collar and throwing him against the first wall of the foyer. "What are you hiding from me?" I asked threateningly, tiptoeing over Chris's shoulder. It was a pathetic scene. He seemed a bit surprised, but still, fun. - Hiding? I do not know anything! - You do! You are laughing! - I do not know. Who's hiding anything from you? - Lauren! I know she is! "I swear I have no idea!" I undid his collar and he straightened again, trying to hide a mocking smile that insisted on appearing on his lips. I was frightened when Chris spoke suddenly, using an intonation of desperation in his voice. - My God! Mila, is she going to assume she's an albino panda? I punched him. - There! Why do you like to hit me so hard? He asked, scratching the pounded spot. - Because you like to annoy me! I said, already regretting the aggression. "Sorry. "Pregnant ..." He rolled his eyes theatrically. "What about the pregnant women?" Taylor appeared at his side, almost like someone who appears in a magical cloud. - Anything. - He answered, already walking away from his sister - They are sweethearts. - Taylor ... - I started, already a little without patience - What is ... - Mila, do you want to go to the mall? She interrupted me, looking excited. - How is it? Lauren had, like her sister, appeared in a magic smoke. "After lunch, of course." She added without even looking at her sister. - She can not go to the mall! Lauren warned, ignoring the fact that Taylor ignored her.- And why not? Chris asked, curious. - Because she's pregnant! That unpleasant silence formed. Taylor looked at Lauren as if looking at some insignificant but disgusting bacteria. Lauren probably thought she'd made a convincing case, and Chris just did not have the answer. I hid my face in my hands, ashamed. - O ... k ... - So, Mila ... Do you want to go? Taylor repeated, pretending that Lauren was not there. "I'm fucking serious!" That mall is full of people stuck! Imagine if anyone comes up against it? "It's true, Taytay. Someone can lean on Mila ... "Chris started, and if I did not know his ironic way of being, I would think he was really serious. Ironically, Lauren did not seem to notice that. - Right! And if anything happens to her or- "" Lauren, for God's sake! Let's go window shopping, stroll, have ice cream and take a ride on the roller coaster. It's no big deal! Lauren kept staring at her blankly. - Taylor ... She's turning green. Chris finished. "Take it back. I looked at her, already wanting to laugh, but I noticed that her face actually had a greenish tint. "Taylor, can we go to the mall tomorrow?" I have to convince her first. I said, already a little worried about her appearance. She sighed. - It's all right. And looking at Lauren, he said before leaving, "Snap." Chris followed, making a face of burial. "I always told you that your concern was exaggerated ..." "I do not care what they think. Please do not go to the mall with her. She begged, looking like an abandoned dog when she asked for it. - Lo, she was joking! Of course we will not go on the roller coaster. - Honey, Taylor's crazy. I do not doubt anything she says ... "" Well, if she's crazy, I'm not. You have to stop this neurosis, and I mean it. I can tell you what is dangerous or not, and just as you would not put our daughter at risk, I would not do that either. I am not incapable of taking care of myself, and its exaggeration sounds like mistrust. - I trust you! She said, a little desperate. - It's not what it looks like. I'm not a child, so please stop wanting to decide things for me. She searched for a few seconds to respond. When he finally realized that his collection of arguments had been exhausted, he sighed and looked sad. "You know ..." Clara appeared on the stairs, gracefully descending a step by step. "When my granddaughter arrives at my house, I expect to be told. She stepped down the last step and glared at Lauren, as if she were to blame. Then he smiled again, hugging me affectionately and placing his hand gently on my belly. - Did you like the house? - She asked. "There was no way I did not like it. It's wonderful.- I have to go there one day. Mike hid from me that he was furnishing the house at the behest of Lauren. - You can show up there when you want ... Right? And suddenly I looked at her, not wanting to ask her permission to say it. It was still hard to accept that house as mine, and to invite someone into it seemed wrong without the consent of the true mistress. - Of course. Lauren said with some disgust at understanding my hesitation. Clara went to hug her daughter, giving up on the idea of looking offended. We went to the kitchen with her for the sole purpose of talking. We found the cook who I remember being a bit grumpy. I stood in a corner, afraid of her. Clara spoke of the preparations for Mike's birthday party, which would be the night of the day after. It would be, as it always had been, an outdoor party for the family, work friends and some neighbors. The huge garden would be decorated with tables, chairs, benches, and lights for the occasion, and waiters would come and distribute champagne and non-alcoholic drinks, salty foods of various kinds and desserts among the giant tables filled with guests. It would be the kind of party that rich people usually do, and to which I had never been present. Taylor went into the kitchen and asked the cook if she wanted help. The woman scowled at her, as if to say "I can do my job very well, thank you," but Taylor did not care about it, returning a grimace. The woman laughed, and I was surprised. We kept talking, all four, waiting for lunch to leave. Oliver and Chris seemed to be playing video games somewhere in the house, and even if I insisted that Lauren join them (since the subjects in that kitchen were all related to pregnancy), she insisted on staying there. Even without having anything to say. It was as if she was afraid to leave me alone with people. Lauren was starting to look weirder than Taylor. - Hunger! I'm hungry! Stop knitting and make our food, women! Chris burst into the kitchen, screaming and scaring everyone, imitating a vick as he spoke. The cook, who had even entered into the pregnancy conversation and looked, now, a little more human and less threatening, glared at Chris. He mimicked a vicking again, pretending not to be afraid of her. "Have you started packing out?" Clara asked, very calmly. "Oliver and I were playing-" "Then you will not have lunch." - Fuck, mother! Watching Clara treating Chris as a seven-year-old who had not done his homework and would be punished was not only funny but surprisingly lovely. I forced myself not to laugh and make him even more upset. "Your big brute has got to be of some use." Taylor said, fiddling with a basket of loaves without much interest. "It's only tomorrow night." I'll have plenty of time to distribute those tables through the garden. "Do you know how many tables and how many chairs?" Clara teased. "About the same number every year, right?" "And you know how much that is?" "I know enough to say that I do the work." Chris spoke up."So you give me your word that everything will be arranged when it comes to storing cutlery, dishes, flower arrangements, and everything else?" - Of course yes. "Okay," Clara finished with a certainty of victory in disguise, and then I had a strange sense that Chris could not do what he said he would do. *** Taylor was drinking a juice rich in protein, vitamins and more, God knows what, and I wondered if she was clogging up with that because she was getting neurotic about her son's health or because she really liked an apple. Either way, it was scary to watch the amount of fluid her body carried, even during pregnancy, both throughout lunch and now, resting in the living room. Oliver was sitting next to her, serving almost like a great pillow for her comfort. Lauren was sitting in one of the giant armchairs in the room, able to easily behave two of me, even with a child. She pulled me carefully and made me sit between her legs while drinking some liquor and listening to Chris, with a bottle of beer in his hand, to say that it was cool people. "And you, my dear?" Do not you want to drink anything? Clara asked, touching my arm softly, and everyone was startled by Chris's scream. "ARE YOU BAD, WOMAN?" SHE IS PREGNANT! It took a while before we realized that this was another way to make fun of Lauren's face. I took the empty little glass from her hand before she tossed it at her brother and set it down on the low table beside us. Clara ignored Chris and continued to tell how lonely their lunches were, since Mike only came home from work at night (sometimes at dawn), and how happy he was to have the house full of people. Especially because this "people" was the family she rarely saw and missed. I figured maybe my lunches would start to look a lot like hers, and maybe we could keep each other company. The weather was pleasant and the conversation sounded like a lullaby in my ears, cradling me as Lauren paced her flat hand and her fingers across my belly carefree. Added to that, the weight of the food made me seem to be on the edge of unconsciousness, although it was possible that something served at that lunch had not done me very well. It was when I was about to fall asleep leaning on her that I felt something that made me wake up immediately. I stood still, waiting for something, though I did not know what. Maybe feel that way again. Maybe Lauren would manifest. I looked around and saw Clara staring at us strangely. I did not say anything. I remained motionless, having the feeling that this would happen again. Her hands no longer roamed my belly: Now they were still, waiting for what I expected too. - What's it? Oliver asked, also curious. I definitely felt something ... "Lauren said quietly, still motionless as me, and quite suddenly, as if they had just sprung up there, five hands were touching my belly. I looked confused at everyone, but they were also quiet, waiting, for a few seconds, for the next kick. Nothing happened. "Are you sure you did?" - Taylor asked, a little wryly - It may have been Mila's digestive system ... - I'm sure. Lauren replied confidently. Little by little, her hands came out, disappointed by the lack of movement and a little disbelieving. When the only remaining hand came back to Lauren's, I felt it again. Quite gentle, almost imperceptible, but definitely a tiny kick. - Again! She screamed like a pre-teenager, barely containing the excitement in her voice. "You're making it up!" Chris implied. - I'm not! Camz? - Is not. I felt it too. I did. As fast as the first time, my hands went back to my belly. And, again, nothing happened. - Oh, come on. Chris said disheartened. For the second time, the four hands left and the fifth remained in the same place. Immediately, the movement came again. Lauren laughed like a child whose dreams had all come true."I think she likes only her touch." I spoke distractedly, looking weakly at my own belly button. I would not see anything there, as pregnant women in advanced stages sometimes saw as they felt the baby's kicks. I was almost 5 months old, so the movements were not strong. On the contrary: They could go unnoticed if I were walking or doing something. But now, my curiosity was being fueled by the baby's behavior. Could she simply recognize Lauren's touch? Or would it be foolish to consider this possibility? Had she already grown accustomed to feeling her hands there, close to her, as they almost always were? - That's lovely! Clara said as she stared at her daughter with tears in her eyes. "I wish this plague would only stir when Oliver touched it. - Taylor said, referring to his own son and drinking more of the apple juice - But I think he already wants to be a rock star or something, because I never saw a child move so much ... But I was not listening. Lauren probably ignored anyone in that room other than the tiny little thing inside my belly, which insisted on subtly moving at her touch. I put my hands on my navel and waited. She did not move, and I felt a pang of jealousy. She pushed my hands away with one of hers, while the other remained in my belly. As soon as her hand remained flat there, I felt a slight movement again. I snorted. It was cute that she liked Lauren and everything, but damn it! It was I who carried it up and down. It was I who was giving space on my body for it to form. It would be nice if she liked me too, did not she? I continued to mumble a little longer, until I came to the shameful conclusion that I was demanding more attention from a fetus, just because I was jealous. I hated myself for it, but as soon as the movements stopped, I felt better. She tired. I finally spoke. Lauren looked a little sad, but did not take her hands off my belly for the rest of the afternoon. We went home at 6:00 p.m., under the pretext of having to pack the cupboards and the rest of the house. Lauren, though clearly opposed to the idea, let me take part in this task together with her, since I presented quite convincing theories that by the end of that pregnancy my life would be so monotonous that I could do absolutely nothing that I would end up cutting the wrists by depression. That was enough. She was so intent on feeling again the movements of my belly that she spent the rest of the night glued to it. I thought about reminding her of our sexual play related to dessert, but since I was feeling exceptionally drowsy and she seemed to care nothing but my belly button, I let it pass. I slept early, not hungry, getting ready for Mike's birthday the next day. *** - And then? Lauren chewed slowly, as if she were a true professional taster. I was waiting for her verdict a little anxious. Maybe he should have chosen something more common as a first recipe: Chicken capeleti with butter and sage sauce was not something everyone liked, even because it was a family recipe. And if the first lunch I had made for her was badly received, especially after I had given a certain amount of work and taken all the time of my day to prepare, perhaps I would refuse to cook again. It was likely that the food was already quite crushed inside her mouth, but she did not stop chewing. Perhaps it was my impatience as a pregnant woman that was getting on my nerves. Maybe she did not like it and was thinking about how she could say, politely and without hurting my feelings, that it was shit. When she swallowed the chewed cake, instead of talking, she brought another fork to her mouth. - Do not worry. I do not care if you like it. Take the time you need.I said sarcastically beside her. - It's divine. She answered, her mouth still a little full. I sighed in relief. - Swear? - Swear. I felt exaggeratedly happy with your response. Lately, it took very little to bring me to extremes of joy or sadness. I sat on the bench next to her, taking a plate and also serving me. When I made it clear that I could not eat more than that, she offered to finish the whole dish, swearing that if I continued to rake that kitchen, she would end up with about fifteen pounds more. "After lunch I go to my parents' house to see if my mother needs anything. She always gets busy at parties. - She started, after giving the last bite - If you want to stay here ... - I thought about going to the mall with Taylor. Lauren winced, then recovered. "I really do not think that's a good idea. - Because? We've already talked about not being an irresponsible, irresponsible, remember? "I know, but ... It's not just that. - What is it then? She hesitated, but not seeming to raise suspicions, she continued hastily. "You know she can ask more about your life ..." That was true. Lauren's family might discover our biggest secret in many different ways, and it was a reason for me to be a little afraid of being alone with them, at least for now. But for some reason, I felt more confident about it, and I'd even say I could handle whatever Taylor used to sound me. Although a little weird, I knew she was not sighted, and if I made it clear that I did not want to talk about a particular subject, she would not insist. But I knew Lauren too well to know that was not the real reason she did not want to leave me alone with her sister. "Lo, what are you hiding from me?" What are you all doing? - Hiding? She looked innocent, her eyes widening. "I'm not hiding anything from you." "The day we got here, Chris was going to ask me something-" "My dad finished the question later, do not you remember?" I stared at her, deliberately pausing and giving her time to stop acting. - Lauren, answer me sincerely: Do you think I'm an idiot? I asked, not in an offensive tone, but rather calmly. - Not! - Are you sure? - Of course I have, my love! "Then why are you trying to convince me of something that I know, and that you also know, that it's a lie?" She was speechless, trying to think of some clever answer. Nothing came to mind. She sighed sadly. "Is it serious?" I asked, bringing her back and making it clear that I was still waiting for an answer. "You'll know-" "Why do not you tell me now?" She looked at me a little desperate. "I promise you'll know." After my father's party. I snorted. There was no way to get it out of her, she just would not say. I gathered the leftover dishes from lunch in the sink and began to wash it, ignoring my morbid curiosity and the beginning of a little fear. Whatever it was, it seemed to be serious, and the fact that I did not know what that mystery was all about really started to make me really nervous. We were silent while I cleaned everything. I would not insist, because insisting increased my anxiety. When I finally finished the task and wiped my hands on the nearest dishcloth, trying to appear indifferent, Lauren spoke again. - Are you mad at me? - Not. I answered truthfully. "If all I can do is wait, I'll wait." But I do not want to talk about it any more. She nodded, looking a little sad. - I'll call Taylor. Can I at least take you there? - It's all right. - I answered, leaving the kitchen and going to the room to get ready - Let's just go. The faster I get things done, the faster the hours will go by.*** - Taylor, it's exactly 2pm. I believe that at 6:00 p.m. you will have done everything you- "" Do not bother! " She answered, opening the backseat door and leaving without saying goodbye. I looked at her from the passenger seat. "She said we'd be back by taxi ..." I started, trying to calm her down. - No need. When they're done, just call me. I'm coming ... "" Not coming. Taylor stuck his head in my window, giving me a fright. "Why get you out of here if we have a line of taxis at the entrance to the mall?" "No problem ..." "Lauren, I'm pregnant too, and I'm walking alone every day. Nothing ever happened to me, and I believe my son is well, healthy and comfortable. Do not make Mila an invalid. She snorted and she pulled her head out of the window, giving us privacy again, understanding that she had won that fight. "You have the credit card, do not you?" "I am, and I just realized that I never talked about him with you." I said, a little bitter. "Well, this conversation will have to wait. If I put you in that car for another minute, Taylor's going to take a revolver out of his bag and kill me. - It's all right. But I will not use it. I said, getting ready to leave. "And if you have something you want to buy?" "I will not want anything." - Can be. She said with a certain pleasure in her voice. "But no one leaves a mall empty-handed if I'm with my sister. - I'll leave. I said it decisively. She laughed. - Okay. So you can promise to use the card if you want something. Since you will not want anything at all ... I stared at Lauren for a while, thinking of my answer. - Damn, if you want to stay shopping with us, park the car and let's go! - Taylor spoke next to me, from the outside, already showing impatience. I unbuckled my seat belt and kissed it lovingly. - Be careful, okay? She said, returning the kiss. - Leave it to me. I got out of the car and joined Taylor, sitting on a stool nearby. - Use the! She screamed out the open window before she accelerated and disappeared. "Seriously, how can you handle my sister?" "She only cares too much." But it's still cute. Taylor grimaced, clearly disagreeing with me. We entered the mall and walked as if we were in a park. The place was not too full, though it was not empty either. - What do you want to buy? I asked, just to pull a conversation. - I need some clothes for tonight. You already have? - Yes I have. - How is it? - Do not know yet. But I know I have, somewhere. I answered. Something in the middle of that bunch of things that Lauren insisted on buying someday should suit the occasion. "Then you have nothing specific!" Let's buy! She said, as if I had just said something wonderful. "Taylor, I'm serious. Surely I have something ... - Right. Anything for a pregnant woman? I considered that question for some time, and it was this hesitation that made Taylor pull me by the hand and ran down the aisle like a happy little girl. - Let's go! This store has beautiful things. She stepped into place and ran against some of the hangers. A young lady came to greet us with a false smile on her face. Taylor said that as soon as she chose what she wanted, she would talk to her, and the woman made us comfortable. "Taylor ..." I started, trying to make her give up on the idea. "Ah, I've already found something that is your face. How bland. She stretched out in front of me a deliberately plush and wide plaid dress. "It's very beautiful, but-" "I'm being nice to you. I'm just asking you to try a single piece. Come on. If it gets ugly, I'll be the first to tell you. You can not trust what these saleswomen say.I sighed. The set was really handsome, but I knew that if it fell on me, Taylor would insist that I take it. And then I would have to use the credit card Lauren gave me. And that would make her happy in an annoying way. I walked to the tasters with her pushing me. When I entered, in a kind of waiting room, I was amazed at the size of the place. It was not at all like the usual dressing rooms that were seen in ordinary mall stores. It was huge, clear and mirrored on every wall. "I'll wait here." She said as she sat on a padded bench and picked up a magazine. "If you need me, yell." I walked slowly down the hall to the dressing rooms, afraid to get lost there. I entered the first booth and stripped off, then clad in the blessed set. I looked at myself in the mirror and found that yes, the clothes had looked pretty good on me. I looked for a while at the various mirrors arranged at different angles, giving me a complete view of my body. "Is she still alive?" She asked after some time outside, knocking without much force on the door. I left the cabin and she stared at me like I liked what I saw. - It was beautiful! Really, your face. And your belly is even disguised. I looked in the mirror again, seeing that she was speaking the truth. I did not look like a pregnant woman. "But if you want to conceal your pregnancy, I'd better give it up." She added, as if reading my thoughts. "I'm sure my sister will make a point of telling everyone at that party that you're expecting her child." But anyway, take it. It will match the look. She handed me an opaque black pantyhose, made of thick fabric. Taylor kept analyzing me with one hand on my chin, and I felt a Christmas tree being decorated. When he finally seemed to have an idea, he turned and left without giving me any satisfaction, returning a minute later with a black scarf in his hand. She finally wrapped the cloth around my neck with several extravagant knots and smiled. - Ready. Is perfect. I looked again in the mirror behind me and was pleased with my appearance. I tried to imagine myself in black tights and a low shoe, and the sight was definitely nice. - Wow ... I'm really pretty ... - Let's take it. - How much is it? I asked. She looked at me as if she did not understand what the question was. "How much is what?" - The dress. Once again, Taylor seemed a bit lost, as if she'd been caught off guard. As if it had simply never occurred to her to consider the price of what she was determined to buy. - I have no idea. But it looks beautiful on you, we have to take it. I stared at her for a while, thinking how rich people were strange. Maybe because they could afford to be unconcerned with everything, but that was still surreal. I closed the door and shifted, leaving the dressing room resolutely. - We have to see the price. I did. - Because? "Because the credit card I have is from Lauren. She looked at me as if I were talking completely misguided things. "Exactly because of her you can spend as much as you want." "Okay," I said, ignoring his logic. "Let's see how much it is, okay?" We asked the young lady who had treated us and she informed us the price. It was, as I imagined, quite loud. When I asked the woman to excuse us and told Taylor that she did not want the dress so badly, she attacked like a desperate child, saying that she would not admit that I did not wear that dress at her father's party. As she seemed to be getting really nervous, I thought it best not to contradict her because of her pregnancy (and also because she seemed to want to assault me). I bought the dress with the credit card, deciding to pay Lauren later, with the little money I still had. After that, Taylor seemed happy again, entering seven more stores and exiting each of them with two different bags. I began to worry about the weight she carried, making me available to share the bags. Lauren obviously would not know that.We snack and have ice cream. She tried to convince me, all the time, that we should visit the mom's stores, since my wardrobe would need to be changed anyway. It took a lot of perseverance to persuade her to leave it for some other day, even if it was the next day. My back was beginning to ache a little from the long period paced back and forth. When I looked at the clock, I realized that it was close to 5:00 PM, and told Taylor that we might as well go back, since Clara might need our help. She agreed, saying we'd walk into one last shop and then we'd leave. The store was exclusively of dresses, of different models and colors. Apparently, the store also stood out for making tailor made dresses. Taylor was interested in some dresses with specific characteristics, and when she separated from the others a long-sleeved green water, a little loose in the belly area and long, she faced me with a strange glow in her eyes. - Try it. I folded my arms in reproach. - Taylor! I already have my party dress! - I know! But, please, just try it. - I will not take it! - It's all right! I just want to see how it goes! - It makes no sense! "If you try it, we'll leave immediately." I looked at her, searching for some trace of lies in that. My back really hurt now. - Promise? I asked, still suspicious. - Promise. I took the piece from her hands and walked once more to the dressing rooms, changing the clothes and stuffing myself into the dress. I glanced at the mirror unwillingly, but even that was not enough to take away the beauty of it. I looked like a kind of medieval princess. The thin sleeves fit perfectly into my arms and the loose part completely disguised my slightly grown belly. I was surprised to notice that my waist still remained prominent. Taylor entered the booth without asking for permission, and when she saw me, her eyes brightened even more. - Mila ... - I know. It's beautiful. But I said I was not going to take ... - Yes, yes ... But this dress seems to have been made for you ... You're ... Beautiful. I thanked him, looking again in the mirror. Yes, I was beautiful. But in any case, this was not an outfit that would clothe one occasion like a birthday in the garden, even if the birthday was fancy at the level of the Jauregui's. "Why do not you buy it for yourself?" I asked, proud of my sudden idea. "I'm sure it would not do so well." - You can try. "No, I promised we'd leave. - She said, seeming little interested in my proposal - How tall are you? - 1,57 m, why? - Curiosity. She replied simply, and turned to let me change my clothes. Two minutes later, as promised, we left: I empty-handed and Taylor with the store contact card. *** When we arrived at the Jauregui's by taxi, we found Lauren, Chris, and Oliver tidying and lining tables and chairs through the garden at the back of the house. Clara looked out of the doorway, working with an unmistakable look of reason on her face. Chris looked a little irritated. "He was wrong when he said he'd have time to clean the tables and chairs by himself." And he hates to err. Taylor said, also noticing his brother's expression of disgust. "Mama is almost always right. And that's what makes you even pissier. I smiled at that scene. When Lauren saw us there, walking with several bags in her hands, she came running to us. "Taylor, do you do it on purpose?" She asked, pulling all the bags out of my hands and hers as well. "It's clothes, Lauren. Not stones. - Still, it's heavy on you! - Speak for yourself. I'm not fresh like you, I can carry some bags from time to time. Taylor replied, but he looked relieved when his hands were free. "Did you buy anything?" She asked, giving me a kiss on the cheek and smiling irritably, momentarily forgetting to fight Taylor. I did not answer, leaving her aside and going to meet Clara. It only made her giggle out of my face as she walked behind me. - My grandchildren have arrived! Clara said happily, kissing Taylor and me as we reached the door of the house, speaking directly to her daughter. "I hope none of these bags are to your father." I froze. I had gone to the mall on Mike's birthday.How the hell did I forget to buy him a fucking gift? I looked at Lauren half-desperate, deeply desiring her to understand me, and at the same time did not think I was an imbecile. - Love ... All right? "I forgot ..." I started low, praying that only she could hear. "I can not believe I forgot ..." "I did not have to buy anything," she replied, patting my shoulder comfortingly. "I already bought it. "But I did not!" I thought, still fucking myself by the gaffe, but a little more relieved to know that at least she had something to give. - Hey, Lauren! Chris shouted from a distance. "I do not want to take advantage of your willingness to help me, but could you please stop gossiping with the girls later?" She sighed beside me, handing the bags to Clara and muttering something like "there's always enough for me and Oliver ...". Taylor thanked me for the company that afternoon and asked me to go upstairs and get ready for the party. She wanted to do the same, but Lauren was still poking tables and chairs with her brother and brother-in-law, spreading them around the garden. I sat on the steps of the stairs and watched them work, waiting, unhurriedly, for the time when we could go home too. *** After a good hot bath, the "Taylor-clad" dress (with a slightly less extravagant knot and a low and basic black sneaker), a light and clear make-up, and a divine massage by Lauren (which greatly improved my back pain), we left the house for the party. We got there around 7:00 p.m. The place was lit by several points of light scattered across the giant garden at the back of the house. A few tall poles glowed white, others, but close to the plants, in a bright green hue. The scent of jasmine was soaked in the air, and for the first time I noticed that around me a sea of colorful Camellias spread among the tables, the waiters and the few guests already present. I stood there for some time, staring at the place. Lauren looked at me a little worried, wondering if I was feeling good, instantly taking her hand up to my belly. - I'm great. I replied, breathing deeply all the perfumes of that night. I grabbed her hand and grasped her arm, just because I wanted to feel her closer to me, and walked with her toward the tables. We saw Mike and went to talk to him. Lauren gave a big bear hug to her father and gave me space to greet him shortly thereafter. - Hey, it's my birthday today ... How about kicking Grandpa's hand? He started, with one hand on my belly, talking directly to her. When nothing happened, he continued, "No?" It's all right. - Nice try, dad. He spoke in a tone of victory. "But the exclusivity is still mine. Clara joined us, asking if I wanted anything to eat. A band with more or less six musicians played a very calm jazz in a corner. Mike took Lauren to the few guests present, introducing her as the youngest Jauregui to work at the company's headquarters. Lauren, in turn, took me along, introducing me as his girlfriend-and-mother-of-his-daughter. We saw Taylor, Oliver, and Chris sitting at one of the tables in the corner. When all the people there had been introduced to us and new people had arrived, we let Mike and Clara welcome the guests, and we went to join Lauren's brothers. "Why are you in a corner?" She asked, pulling up a chair so I would sit down and sit next to me next to her. "Because Taylor wants to eat the whole party, but the whole party does not fit inside." So this bush here will end up all vomiting without anyone needing to see it. Chris said quietly, sipping a beer. She smiled quietly, staring at us like "exactly."A waiter came pouring out Whiskey, and Lauren accepted, asking for a glass of juice for me. Some meals were also being served, and while Taylor accepted them all, Lauren accepted them all for me. I asked her to stop, reminding her that I could not eat all that. - Oliver, there are Brazilians in your family? Taylor asked suddenly, and it was so random that I had to pay attention. - No, why? - Because this child does not stop sambar in my fucking belly! - I can feel? I asked. - Clear. I put my hands there and felt the violent kicks inside. I was surprised by the intensity of the movements. "He must be pissed at this boring music. Chris stepped in, yelling upwards, as if the musicians on the other side of the garden could hear him - Touch Iron Maiden! The truth was that this was not a party with the intention of badherneiro that Chris wanted. No one would fill their faces and vomit on the couch, no one would jump naked in the fountain, and no one would dance madly on the dance floor. That party was for too serious people, business owners, and well-behaved businessmen. Even Mike and Clara were younger than the overwhelming majority of guests present, and people my age were practically nonexistent. "The way to drink. Lauren concluded, pouring herself another dose of Whiskey. We spent most of the night that way. Taylor ate everything they offered her, and I was watching the time she would explode if she did not really vomit on the nearest bush. Chris drank beer and told jokes, even if no one understood most of them. Oliver's jokes demanded less of our intelligence, and so we could laugh. Lauren spent a few minutes away from me, talking to people she "should know." But when he came back to my side, he alternated his actions between touching my hair, reaching out to my belly (making sure he would not miss any more kicks), kissing my ear, and looking at me to make sure I was not bored, and that the night was being pleasing to me. I began to notice the various doses of Whiskey she drank. By now there had been many. I had lost count, and certainly so did she. "Hey ... Do not you want to get light?" I whispered in his ear as Chris and Oliver talked about something and Taylor talked to a woman at another table. - With what? She answered in a shuffled voice, her eyes totally foggy and wet. "You've had enough. "Do not you like it when I drink?" "I have nothing against it. But I will not be able to hold you if I have to carry you up the stairs. "I'll ask Chris to carry me ..." "I think he's starting to get as drunk as you. She kept looking at me with her unfocused eyes. After some time without moving, he slipped one of the arms behind my back and turned completely to me, ignoring the subject we had. - I love you. She said, very close to my face. So close that I could emanate the scent of cream from her skin, completely ignoring the smell of alcohol in her breath. She was drunk, but those words never lost their value when they came out of her mouth, whatever the occasion. - I love you too. I said, even closer to his face. - Will you stay with me forever? I nodded, slapping the corner of his mouth. - Promise? She insisted, closing her eyes and pressing her forehead against mine, and for a moment I had the impression that she was a little excited.I wanted to grab her. Having Lauren drunk, needy, emotional and declaring himself in front of me was more than I could handle. - Promise. "I gave her another badge, wishing we were not surrounded by people. She held her lips to mine with a little strength and deepened the kiss, forgetting where we were. I still remembered, but I decided to take advantage of that moment, hoping that no one was paying attention to us. - Stop it! I'm getting embarrassed by this bitch! "Chris, seriously ... Fuck you ..." Lauren said in her drunken voice, rubbing her face around my neck like a cat, and for the first time I also told her to go fucking mentally. - Hey, Lauren. I looked up and saw a boy who looked about the same age as the people at our table. I had never seen him, but he seemed to look at me curiously, though he had not addressed me. Lauren took a moment to discover where the voice was coming from, and when she realized who was standing next to her, she stood up and shook the boy's hand, speaking in a slightly formal tone: "Hi, Jonathan. - How are things? The other spoke, stopping glaring at me. - Great. She said, offering me her hand to get up. When I got up, she continued - Camz, this is Jonathan, a friend. Jonathan, Camila. My girlfriend ... - It's a pleasure to meet you. He replied, squeezing my hand. - Equally. I replied pleasantly. - ... and mother of my daughter who is born in about 4 months. Lauren added, as if she were waiting for the performances to end to release it. The boy's eyes widened and he smiled. - Seriously? - He said, looking at my belly - My congratulations ... - Thank you ... - I said, smiling. But his smile faltered. "Lo, can I have a word with you?" "Okay," Lauren replied, hugging me and giving me a cute kiss. "I'll be right back, love. The two left the table, walking away, Jonathan sober and Lauren ziggling slightly. I did not know who that man was, but I had the feeling that whatever the "little word" he wanted to give my girlfriend was not good. "Oliver, I'm going to the bathroom." "I called the less drunk person at that table and retired, going after them. As the place was now quite full, I figured it would not be easy to find them, but the good thing was that no one was paying attention to me. My hunt could be done without raising suspicion. I went round the house looking for familiar voices, and miraculously found it. The voice trailed out from behind a pillar, in a quiet place, away from the party. There were only the two of them. What I heard was not much, but it was enough to hit me. - ... I'm just here to give the message: She's alone again ... I guess it did not work out with the other guy. Anyway, she came to spend a few weeks in London, and then back to Texas. I said I was coming to Mike's party and she figured you'd be here. She asked me to tell you that she is very sorry, and that you could come back together to the United States. I said I missed you and I do not know what. Lauren did not answer for a long time. The other continued. "I still do not think she deserves your pardon, but Beatrice is still my cousin. And I said I'd talk to you, but I saw that you're okay now. Anyway, the message is given. My chest began to ache. And that, decidedly, was not good for the pregnancy. I forced myself to keep my breath silent, though what I really wanted was to scream. ***