An Unexpected Visit—and a Secret Elaine Can’t Ignore
A quiet Sunday afternoon turns into a scramble when Uncle Jake and Aunt Elaine unexpectedly arrive at Freddie’s apartment. Freddie and his sister, Isabella, hope to keep their guest, Paloma, out of sight. But their plan falls apart when Paloma, happily listening to music through her headphones, belts out a Mexican ranchera loud enough to entertain the entire apartment! Freddie freezes, looking ready to confess everything. Isabella quickly steps in. “I must have left the radio on!” she announces before rushing off to quiet Paloma. Moments later, she returns with a smile, hoping her explanation has settled the matter. Elaine smiles back—but she isn’t fooled. She suddenly announces that she and Jake have things to do at home. A bewildered Jake nearly spoils their exit until a quick nudge from Elaine gets him cooperating. As they leave, Freddie’s worry deepens. He knows Aunt Elaine well enough to recognize when she’s putting the pieces together. Back home over coffee, Elaine shares her sus...
