Richard smirked, unfazed. "Baby steps," he teased, his voice light.
Abby rolled her eyes, but there was no real heat in it. "Don't push your luck."
I watched the interaction, feeling a strange mix of emotions settle in my chest. There was something about the way they communicated; acceptance wrapped in layers of old resentment and unspoken affection. It reminded me of why Richard was the way he was. The Numero family didn't always say what they meant outright, but if you listened closely, if you really paid attention, you'd find the love buried beneath.
*****
The courtroom was tense and cold. The press had been locked out but we all knew that wouldn't stop the details from leaking. This case was a sweet one. And the Numero scandals had been known to be blockbusters.
Abby adjusted Queen in her arms, rocking and kissing her and whispering sweet things to her. Mr Numero was beside me with Chayara in his own arms while Richard sat in front beside his attorney.
