If He Had Been with Me, #2
If Only I Had Told Her
by Laura Nowlin
Contents
Autumn — Eleven
Overview
Autumn chooses a mini crib, but a shopping trip explodes into revelation: Mom arranged with John, Finny’s father, to use Finny’s hidden trust in exchange for access to the baby. Back home, Angelina confronts Mom, explaining they could sue as the heir instead. Autumn feels betrayed, weighing financial security against autonomy.
Summary
On a trip with Mom and Aunt Angelina to buy a mini crib at Vintage Mother Goose, Autumn affirms her plan for the baby to sleep in her room. Light banter turns tense when Angelina questions Autumn’s comment about using Dad’s money, hinting at a different funding source.
Pressed, Angelina reveals an arrangement involving John, Finny’s father: in exchange for whatever access or updates Autumn allows, Mom secured the use of Finny’s trust. Shocked, Autumn confronts Mom in the store, who deflects until they agree to talk at home.
At the kitchen table, Autumn demands answers. Angelina admits she told John about the pregnancy after Autumn’s hospitalization. Mom confesses she delayed telling Autumn, framing it as waiting for a calmer time. Angelina argues they could sue John on behalf of Finny’s heir, as John’s years of guilt funded a sizable account and bonds in Finny’s name.
They outline the stakes: suing would likely secure enough money to raise the baby and fund college; refusing contact means John keeps the money, forcing the family to rely on Autumn’s college fund or Angelina selling her house. Mom urges taking the funds to reduce the burdens of teen motherhood; Angelina condemns the secrecy and strings attached.
Autumn feels betrayed, likening the deal to selling a piece of herself. Mom apologizes repeatedly and notes John wants a role “in whatever capacity” Autumn allows. Autumn rejects his regrets and holds both adults accountable, leaving the decision unresolved and the Mothers divided.
Who Appears
- AutumnPregnant protagonist; selects a mini crib, discovers Mom’s secret deal with John, feels betrayed and conflicted about money versus autonomy.
- Mom (Claire)Arranged access to Finny’s trust with John in exchange for baby updates; apologetic but argues funds ease teen motherhood burdens.
- Aunt AngelinaSupports Autumn; reveals the deal, explains legal option to sue as heir; clashes with Mom over secrecy and strings attached.
- JohnFinny’s father, offstage; accumulated funds in Finny’s name, seeks access to the baby in exchange for releasing money.
- Vintage Mother Goose saleswomanElderly shopkeeper who assists with the crib purchase before the conflict erupts.