The three of us sat there scrutinizing Roy, then Alex declared, “He doesn’t look even remotely related to Matteo.”
“Well, he is,” I said firmly. “He’s his cousin.”
“How come he’s blond, then?”
“What’s wrong with being blond?” Milena demanded. She touched her own golden locks defensively.
Alex’s eyes widened. “Nothing! I just meant— well, Matteo’s the opposite of blond. And this guy’s hair is as bright as a yellow highlighter.”
I gasped, offended on Roy’s behalf. I reached down to where he was sitting and covered his ears protectively. “It’s okay, buddy. Don’t listen to the mean man. He’s just jealous of your beautiful hair.”
Alex rolled his eyes, but Roy made a squeaking noise that I interpreted as his agreement. I sat back and leaned my head against Milena’s shoulder. She con
