Page 233 of Lorenzo

“That is not a particularly high standard,” Ricardo says dryly.

“I was including you.”

“I assumed so.”

Mario picks up a folder from his desk and gives us the look that means the meeting has ended.

“Tonight, we go through the plan in full. Until then, nothing changes. No information leaves this room.”

Diego rises. “Understood.”

Ricardo stands as well, buttoning his jacket.

I push myself out of the chair.

“Lorenzo.”

I pause.

“Stay for a moment.”

Ricardo glances at me as he passes, but he does not ask why. Diego gives me a small shrug before following him toward the door.

A few seconds later, it closes behind them, leaving Mario and me alone. I remain standing for a moment before lowering myself back into the chair.

“What is it?”

Mario does not answer immediately.

That alone makes me suspicious.

My eldest brother is rarely hesitant about saying whatever is on his mind.

Mario sets the folder aside.

Finally, he says, “What did you mean about Mocha being around babies quite a lot?”

I stare at him.

Then I laugh. “You kept me behind for that?”

“Yes.”

“I was joking.”

“I know.”

“Apparently not, or we would both be doing something more useful right now.”

Mario’s expression does not change.

I know that expression too.

He is going to sit there until I answer whatever question he has asked.

“As I said, I meant your child,” I say. “Leonardo, Cecilia. Whatever additional children the two of you decide to produce.”

His mouth twitches.