I noticed those words.
But I told myself she was simply excited.
Whenever I questioned another detail, Diane gave me the same reassuring smile.
“Trust me. You’ll appreciate everything once you see it.”
Levi noticed that I was becoming increasingly uncomfortable.
One evening, while we were cleaning the kitchen together, he stopped drying a plate and looked at me.
“Do you want me to talk to Mom?”
I shook my head.
“It’s okay.”
“Mel, she’s ignoring everything you asked for.”
“I know.”
“Then let me handle it.”
I hesitated.
“Levi, she’s going to be our son’s only grandmother.”
His expression softened.
I continued.
“I know how much I’d give to have my mother here for this. Diane has waited years for a grandchild. I don’t want to ruin something that means so much to her.”
He put down the dish towel.
“You’re allowed to enjoy your own baby shower too.”
“I know. I just don’t want to start a family argument.”
Levi sighed.
“It’s your decision. But I think you’re being far more patient than she deserves.”
I gave him a small smile.
“Probably.”
On the afternoon of the shower, Levi stopped me outside the restaurant.
“If you feel uncomfortable, tell me. We’ll leave. No explanations necessary.”
I squeezed his hand.
“I’ll be fine. It’s only a few hours.”
Then we walked inside.
And I immediately realized the celebration wasn’t what I’d imagined.
The restaurant was filled with strangers.
