Meryl's POV
The words died in her throat as she stared at us, her eyes moving back and forth between Andre, Gavin, and me. I watched her face transform from confusion to dawning understanding, her expression shifting to one of realization, as if the pieces were clicking into place.
Her gaze locked onto Gavin, who had instinctively pressed closer to my legs, suddenly shy under the scrutiny of this stranger.
"Meryl," she said, her voice barely above a whisper, each word careful and deliberate, "is this your son?"
My heart hammered against my ribs as I nodded. "Yes, Mom. This is Gavin."
Andre remained silent beside us, his posture rigid, hands buried deep in his pockets. His face gave nothing away, but I could feel the tension radiating from him.
I crouched down to Gavin's level, smoothing his dark curls with gentle fingers. "Sweetheart, can you say hello to Grandma?"
