Page 49 of Exposed

“First thing we’re doing today is ditching your car. I’m buying you one in my name.”

“You arenotbuying a car for me,” I say emphatically.That’s exorbitant, and it’ll take me a decade to pay him back. In NYC, I use public transportation and never saved up for a car.

“You’re right. I’m not. I’m buying a safe vehicle for my son to ride in while I’m at work, and one that has zero connections to a fugitive,” he smirks.

“Fine. That’s fair,” I huff.

“Let’s go.”

“Okay.”

“Thanks for trusting me enough to tell me, Pep.” He wraps me in a bear hug for a few seconds until Simon whines on the floor next to us. Maybe he can help me out of this mess after all, then I’ll have to find a way to pay him back.

20

“DADDY MATT”

MATT

Four hours later, and it feels like Simon has cried twenty times and had six hundred dirty diapers. We’re finally leaving the second car lot we visited with a new Ford Escape SUV. I’m sparing no expense to have a safe car for Simon and Pepper.

“I’ll buy another car seat for Simon and install it for you tomorrow,” I say as I hand Pepper the keys.

“Thank you, Matt. I’ve never driven a new car,” she replies with an excited grin. I love spoiling her.

If and when she decides to leave me, I’ll give this SUV to her. Not telling her that now though. She isn’t ready to hear it. Although a large part of me hopes she chooses not to go back to her other life after we clear her name. I want her to stay with me.

“There’s a first time for everything. Besides, everyone needs someone to do nice things for them,” I respond simply.

I’d like Pepper to stay with me for a long time. I’ve never thought about forever with anyone besides Grace, but I can see it with Pepper. “Enjoy your last night catering.”

“I’ll be happy when it’s over,” she admits. “Being with you and Simon will be way better.”

I playfully tug on her little ponytail, then pull her in for a hug. “Same. Simon, tell Pepper bye.” I wave Simon’s little hand at her, and she gives us a group hug that Simon coos over.

Same, little buddy. Pepper’s hugs are the best.

“I’ll miss you, little man,” she whispers to Simon and rubs his head.

We’ll miss you, Pepper.

He smiles at her, and I smile when he grasps her finger and bucks his body like he wants to go to her. The bond they share is too cute, and another reason I hope she stays.

I refuse to think about her leaving. I guess I’m in denial, but I don’t want to dwell on it. It hurt like hell when the only other woman I’ve loved had to leave me. If I have anything to do with it, I’ll make sure Pepper stays.

She heads to work, and I drive to Simon’s first doctor’s appointment on Aveline Island.

People wave to me as I stop at red lights. Aveline is night and day different from Miami. My parents and grandparents have already shared with dozens of people here that they have a grandson. I’m half surprised that noone walks up to my car at a stop sign and asks me to roll down the window to see Simon.

When I’m pulling into a spot in pediatrician’s parking lot, my phone rings. A quick glance down shows Noah’s name on the screen, and I breathe a sigh of relief. This morning, I texted him that I needed to talk. At twenty-nine, he’s the oldest of our friend group and seems to have the resources to find anything.

Getting in the backseat so I can amuse Simon with a rattle, I lock my car doors to talk with Noah. No one can hear this conversation.

“Hey, Noah. Thanks for calling.”

“Sure. What’s up?”

“Daddy Matt!” I hear Deacon’s voice in the background. “Congrats on having a son!”

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