Page 127 of Ryder

“And Aidan’s okay? I’m so sorry about what happened.”

“It was a helluva week. Ade had a couple of bad dreams, so we’ve decided to take him to a counselor, just to make sure that he’s not going to suffer any post trauma.”

“It’s a good idea. I heard how brave he was.”

Whenever I hear those words, it makes me tear up. Aidan did such an amazing job sounding the alarm. I’ll always be in awe of him, and of his daddy for coming home to me in one piece.

“I’m so proud of him.” I wipe my eyes. “But it’s taken an emotional toll. I think we’re going to have a vacation in the next few weeks to regroup. We need it.”

“That’s a great idea. Where are you thinking of going?”

“Disneyland,” I say. “We’d love to surprise Aidan.”

She smiles. “He’d love that, and you all deserve some time away.”

I think about her words long after I’ve left the house and I’m on my way home.

There is no doubt after seeing little Aubrey that I want more kids, but I’m also grateful for the kid I do have. If it’s only meant to be one, then I’m okay with that. I’m the luckiest woman alive to begin with.

When I pick up Ade from school, he’s already walking toward me, holding Pipes’ hand. Ever since the kidnapping, Pipes has been a little over the top.

Aidan sees me and lets go, running toward me at top speed. I give him a big hug and he starts rambling about everything he’s been doing. I listen but also shoot Pipes a look.

“Hey,” he says.

“Hey yourself.” I give him a ‘what gives?’ look and he shuffles on his feet.

“Don’t ask me, ask your husband. He wants someone here at all times before and after school.”

“He does, does he?”

“Well, I mean, just watchin’ out. Ade spotted me, so the jig was up.” He palms the back of his neck.

I get Ryder is worried about safety, but having bikers lurking around the school gates is only going to cause problems.

“I’ll talk to him,” I say. “I know he’s worried after… everything, but there are no more of Jimmy’s siblings hiding in the woodworks. Jett and Rock did a thorough check.”

“Mommy?” Ade pulls on the hem of my shirt.

“Yes, honey?”

“Can Pipes come to the bakery?”

I give Pipes another side eye. “Who said we’re going to the bakery?”

“We always go to the bakery on hump day,” he tells me. Then I remember Ryder usually picks up Ade mid-week, but we switched because Ryder got held up at work today clearing things up before our trip. I’m excited about going to California.

“Oh, you do, do you? Now I’m learning all the naughty things Daddy does when I’m not around.”

Pipes carries Aidan’s backpack on his shoulder and follows me to my car. “Yep, but you can come too, Mommy.” His earnest little face has my heart squeezing.

“That’s so nice of you to invite me.” I smile. “We probably could see if Aunt Indi is around, or Uncle Harlem.” Where Indigo is, Harlem usually isn’t far behind.

“Yay!” Aidan pumps his little fists in the air, making both me and Pipes laugh.

“I’ve been waitin’ all day for one of those cupcakes,” Pipes tells me leisurely. “Ryder always says you’re the party pooper, but I think he’s mistaken.”

I shove Pipes in the shoulder. He’s not a bad guy, and I admit I have a soft spot for him. I’m not sure Casey would agree, but I’m leaving that well alone. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”

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