7. I am Not Joking

Antonio’s smirk faltered for a moment as he glanced at River. “Well, Cara,” he began, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. At that moment, with that stupid expression on his face, he almost looked like a little boy who had done something wrong. “What is it?” Valerie asked, feeling dread pulling in her stomach as she imagined the worst. Why did he look so guilty? “There was a bit of a mix-up with the paperwork when you were rushed in. A… uh… misunderstanding.” He hesitated. Valerie frowned, her gaze shifting between the two men. “What kind of misunderstanding?” River took a deep breath and stepped forward. “Antonio…he signed the birth certificate as the baby’s father.” Val stared at the two men, uncomprehending. “He…WHAT?” she cried when she realized what was said, then quickly lowered her voice, remembering she was at the hospital. “I don’t understand,” she hissed. “By accident,” Antonio interjected quickly. “There was confusion, and the nurses needed the forms filled out. So, I may