Page 131 of When the Smoke Clears

The day is gorgeous and chilly, just how I like it. I tug my boots on and head out to find the keys in the Defender. Just as I’m pulling up to the front porch, Sutton opens the front door and comes out with an insulated bag.

“What’s this?” I slide into the passenger side.

“Lunch.” He tucks the overstuffed bag in the floorboard and climbs into the driver’s seat. We head in the direction of Nopal Vista.

We talked over moving into The Lodge until our house is built, but decided not to. We’ll focus on getting it ready for guests, instead. Michael and Andi don’t bother us at The Big House, and the walls are surprisingly thick, giving us at least the illusion of being secluded for a few more months.

I love that we already spend so much time where we’ll be permanently, though. Building these memories from the literal ground up.

Together, we spread a comforter where the house will go, and Sutton starts removing food from the bag.

“Looks like a celebration.” I sink down to the blanket.

“Just lunch with my favorite person.”

My heart trips over itself right as my phone rings. “Wonder who that could be.” I yank it out. “It’s Hank.”

Our eyes lock. He doesn’t have news already, right? Maybe Alan told him to fuck off.

“Hi, Hank.” I wish my voice came out stronger. I can’t help but anticipate the worst.

“Hey, Maci.” His tone is neutral.

“Should I put you on speaker?”

“Sure, if you want.”

I press the button. “Go ahead.”

“Well, I have news. Alan’s lawyer called me just a few minutes ago.” Again, his tone gives nothing away. It’s not usually his style, and I’m wondering if he’s trying to calm me before he tells me I’m screwed.

“Alan has agreed to drop the civil lawsuit, with the counter request of all parties signing an NDA.”

“Who are ‘all parties’?” I chew my lip.

“You, Sutton, and Stephanie.”

“So, we could never use the bigamy.” Sutton studies the phone.

“Correct. Contractually, he would sign agreeing to drop any claims and refrain from filing anything new. Everyone else would sign not to pursue the bigamy or share any knowledge surrounding it.”

“Is that legal?” Sutton presses.

“People agree not to share all kinds of learned information,” Hank says. “It’s up to you, though.”

Sutton’s eyes bore into mine with a new hunger. We’re both so ready to be past this.

“Tell the lawyer we’ll do it. But I have my own requests. Alan has to also agree to give Stephanie an uncontested divorce. And she gets any insurance money from the house.”

Sutton smiles wickedly at me.

“The house?” Hank asks.

“Alan’s house burned down on Thanksgiving.”

“Oh, shit. He’s just taking it left and right.” Hank sounds more impressed than concerned. “Ok, I’ll let you know if there’s a problem. Otherwise, we’ll sign later this week.”

“Thanks, Hank.” I end the call and practically jump into Sutton’s lap.

---