Page 41 of Spring Break With a Baby Daddy
“I know.” Easton reaches for my hand. Curls his fingers around mine. “It didn’t take everyone long to see you didn’t do what you did for payment or even thanks, but, Vivi, you have to understand that we are all eternally grateful you were able to help Vail get Van back.”
The waiter silently places the check at Easton’s side, giving me a moment to gather my thoughts.
I listen with half an ear as Easton asks for my leftovers to be packed. I’m assuming he forgot about dessert. Not that I’m upset by that. I might love anything sweet, and while I’m not full because I barely touched my lunch, I don’t think I could put anything else in my stomach without throwing up.
“I want to go back to the apartment.” The words are out of my mouth before I even register the thought.
“We’ll go now.” He pushes his chair back and helps me out of mine. “Our driver has been over at the bar, waiting for us to finish. He’s already heading out to get the car.”
I’d been surprised when the black SUV showed up this morning bringing Luna to us. Easton hadn’t told me Vail, Laney, Van, and Luna had arrived in Atlanta last night and were staying in a hotel in town.
When Easton told me the driver was ours for the day, I was shocked. Only I shouldn’t have been. I’ve been on the receiving end of Vail’s care from the moment I agreed to stay in Love Beach until the police caught the dealer Van’s mother had gotten herself tangled up with.
It says a lot about how much I trust Laney and her new husband when I didn’t immediately leave when the LAPD informed us all persons of interest had been arrested back in January.
I hadn’t thought about what I’d do when the threat was gone. I guess I assumed I would return to LA. Except the idea held no appeal and I’ve let myself drift. For months.
And my living arrangements aren’t the only thing I’ve let slide. I haven’t taken a job since Laney asked me to help with Van. I’ve barely been online. I keep tabs on things but other than that, I’ve been a lady of leisure. Enjoying the freedom to do nothing for the first time in my life.
Maybe that’s what has me unsettled. I know if I get online for long enough, I’ll have everything we need to secure Cade.
Except for the first time in my adult life, I’m letting someone else call the shots.
Easton.
Even when I lived with Thomas, I didn’t allow him to make decisions. Not even shopping for groceries. And yet, in the last few days I’ve deferred to Easton at every turn.
Not that I’ve been against anything he’s decided on.
No, just the opposite. I actually agreed with the direction he’s gone from the moment his security system alerted us to Cade’s presence.
“You’re doing it again.” Easton’s hand slips into mine and squeezes. “C’mon, let’s go see how Cade’s doing.”
The relief that washes over me is knee-buckling. I knew I hated leaving Cade but until this very second I hadn’t acknowledged how much.
Or that I missed him so deeply it hurt.
How can someone so small, so new in my life, have a hold on me like no other?
“It’s okay.” Easton smiles down at me. “I miss him too.”
I’m sure my surprise is written all over my face.
“Yeah, I’m shocked too.”
“You. How?”
Pulling me into his side, he walks us through the restaurant. “I’m a quick study, and while I won’t say I’m an expert, I am getting to know the difference between your expressions. I did tell you I was a little obsessed with you, remember?”
“Yes. But...” I shake my head. “I’ve never had anyone read me the way you do. It’s disconcerting. And strange.”
“Strange good or strange bad?” He pulls open the door and ushers me though ahead of him.
When we’re on the sidewalk, I contemplate his question. Having him understand me is nice. I’ve had to over-explain myself most of my life. It’s refreshing not to do that for once.
Offering him a smile, I say, “I don’t hate it.”
“Good. Because while I’m not an expert on all things Vivi yet, I plan to be.”
