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Lexa looks pale and tired, but her eyes are bright and her smile is wide. She has a brace on her left knee and is holding a balloon that says “It’s a girl!”

“Lyss,” she says, her voice full of emotion. “Congratulations, you did it.”

I grin and hold out my arms. “Come here, sis.”

Valentina wheels Lexa over to me, and I hug her as best as I can. I don’t care about the tears in my eyes. I’m so happy. For both of us.

“Hi, baby,” I say, looking at the bundle in Raul’s arms. “These are your aunties Lexa and Valentina. They’re the best aunties you could ever have.”

Lexa looks at the baby and her expression softens. “Oh, wow. She’s so tiny.”

“And beautiful,” Valentina says. “She’s so precious.”

“Did I hear someone say precious?” my mom says, coming in behind Valentina. She has a bag in her hand and an old film camera around her neck. “I can’t wait to take pictures of her. She’s going to be a star.”

I smile at her, and then I notice two more figures behind her. One of them is Sofia and the other is Dad. He’s standing at the door, looking hesitant and awkward. He’s holding a bouquet of flowers, wearing a nervous expression.

“Can I come in?” he asks.

Raul glances at me, giving me the choice, and I nod.

We’ve all been through a lot, and I’m ready to leave the Tide in the past even though it still hurts. Maybe we can all start over.

“Sure,” I say. “Come on in.”

He walks in, passing Sofia, who’s already leaning over Valentina’s shoulder to get a better look at the baby.

“Wow,” Sofia says. “She’s so cute.”

“She is,” I agree. “She’s the most beautiful baby in the world.”

“What’s her name?” Valentina asks.

Raul clears his throat and watches my face. “We decided to call her Nelly. Nelly Reyes Delvaux.”

Valentina’s hand goes to her mouth. Sofia makes a small sound and grabs Valentina’s arm.

“Mama’s name,” Valentina whispers.

Raul nods and smiles.

Her name sounds perfect out loud. It sounds like us. Dad hands me the flowers with a misty smile.

“Congratulations, Alycia,” he says. “She’s beautiful. I’m so happy for you.”

“Thanks, Dad,” I say. “And thank you for the flowers. They’re lovely.”

“You’re welcome,” he says, and then looks at Raul. “And congratulations to you too, Raul. You’re going to be a great father.”

“Thank you, sir,” Raul says, shaking his hand. “I’ll try my best.”

Dad nods and then moves to the side, letting Mom take center stage. She’s already fiddling with her camera, taking pictures of everything and everyone.

“Oh, I’m so proud of you, Alycia,” she says. “You did so well. These are going on the wall.”

“Thanks, Mom,” I say, then look at Lexa. “Are you okay? Do you need anything?”

“I’m fine,” she says. “I’m just glad I’m here. I wouldn’t have missed this for the world.”