“And what is that?” Liz called out.
“I’m out with Sofia,” he replied.
Sofia heard what sounded like giggling from Liz. “You’re going to start rumors that we’re involved.”
Dylan raised their hands, which were still joined. “Do I look like I care?”
She smiled and said, “No. And for the first time, I don’t either.”
“Good. You keep that attitude for when you meet with your parents,” he said.
That wasn’t going to be possible. “You won’t be holding my hand then.”
He shook his head. “I’ve seen how driven you are. It’s your time to make your move, go your own way. You don’t need me.”
No. But I want you.“You just made it all possible. Without your job offer and letting me stay at your place, I couldn’t do it. I have no idea why you’re so…good to me, but I really appreciate it.” She felt the muscles in his arm tighten for a moment. Had he forgotten this was all his idea? Did he have second thoughts? “Nothing has changed, has it?” She needed to know before she delivered the news to her parents.
“Nope. The offer stands.”
He never looked at her when he replied. She was about to press him further, but instead the elevator door opened and they got on, no longer alone. This wasn’t the time. And if Dylan really didn’t want her there, he’d tell her. Wouldn’t he? Guess I’m about to find out.
The ride wasn’t as productive as she’d hoped. Reading in a moving vehicle didn’t seem to be an issue; concentrating on what she read was. Dylan was right, she wasn’t a child and should present herself as a confident woman. It wasn’t lack of confidence or ability that had stood in her way all these years. Family was everything to her. No matter how she delivered the news that she was leaving Mama’s Place, it was going to hurt them. It was something she dreaded doing.
Dylan pulled the car up in front of the restaurant and shut off the engine. “Want me to come in or not?”
Sofia wanted to decline his offer, but said, “In, but let me do the talking, if that’s okay.” He agreed, and together they entered. Thankfully it was during the lull in business. Only one customer was seated at a table and another at the bar. Emily could handle everything while she spoke to her parents.
“Sofia, I thought you were gone for the day?” Emily said. “Do you guys want a table? There’s plenty to pick from,” she teased.
“Just popping in for a few minutes.”
“Oh. And you look serious too. Are you two getting—”
“No. We’re not. I think the man at the bar is waiting for his drink, Emily.” Sofia walked right past her and into the kitchen. Sure enough, her parents were there sitting down, taking their break, having a late lunch together. “Hi Mama, Papa, can we come in?”
“Of course. What are you two doing here?” Filippo asked.
She walked over and stood by the table. Dylan was right behind her. Was he there to support her or block her escape? Trapped was exactly how she felt at the moment. But the only way to change it was to say it.
“I needed to talk to you about…my working here. I’ve been offered a job that I really want and one that would make me very happy.”
Maria’s face saddened and she turned towards Filippo. He patted her hand and then Maria turned back to Sofia. “Tell us about this wonderful job.”
“Well, it really is. And I think you’d both approve of it, too. I’d be doing hands-on research, working as a liaison between people in need and the charity organizations that provide help. What I learn will directly affect how funds are distributed, in order to make the largest positive impact on the community.” And I finally get to put my education to use.
“Well, that does sound like a good job. We brought you up to know how one can make a difference. I guess you’re going to show us just what you can do now, aren’t you?” Maria asked.
“Yes, Mama. I’m sorry. I know that you dreamed of me being here always at Mama’s Place, but this is what makes me happy.” It really was, too. She wasn’t giving up on her dream to be an actress, but instead, diverting her energy in a way that made sense to her.
“All we want is for you to be happy,” her father added.
“I am,” she said. “And I’m sure you’ll find someone qualified to take my place. There have been plenty of applicants over the years.”
“No one could ever take your place, Sofia. You’re part of this place, just like we are, and Salvatore. You don’t have to work here to remain part of it. You are family, and this is a family business,” Filippo said.
“Thank you, Papa.” She turned to her mother, who was still very quiet. “Mama, don’t be angry with me.”
“I’m not. But you haven’t told us everything. Where is this new job?”