Because it was the last one — the last minute of the life we had before, the one in which Luca was still Leo’s hero and our family was still the thing I believed it to be.

We were hiding from Luca to surprise him with our love.

We had no idea we were hiding from a stranger.

Chapter 4 — That’s Dad

Once Luca disappeared around the corner, we made our way to the gate, boarded, and slipped into our seats near the back of the cabin.

Leo leaned into me immediately.

“Do you think Dad knows?” “No chance.” “Can I tell a flight attendant?” “No, sweetie.” He grinned and pretended to zip his lips shut.

A few minutes later, the cabin door thudded closed, and the overhead speakers crackled to life, and Luca’s voice filled the plane.