Page 202 of Saving Soul

“Like when I used the blender without permission and forgot to put the lid on?”

Laughter burst from my lips. “Oh, I remember that mess.”

“I’ve never forgotten to put the lid on since, though, have I?”

“No, you haven’t.”

“Maybe Adam won’t make the same mistake, either.”

All the air released from my lungs as I stared at the ceiling. “How did you get so smart, Finn Ryan?”

“Dad’s genes, I guess…”

“Oh, no, you didn’t!” I flipped over to tickle his ribs.

“Okay, okay!” he cried out. “I got it from my momma!”

“That’s better.” I gazed down into his twinkling green eyes. “I love you, Finn.”

“I love you, too, Mom.”

I kissed his forehead and turned off his bedside light. “Sweet dreams, my boy. Our new life begins tomorrow.”

“Mom,” Finn’s tiny voice floated through the darkness.

“Yeah?”

“Adam really likes you.”

I froze in the doorway. “He told you that?”

“No.” He yawned. “He didn’t have to.”

40

Our overnight, first-class flight to Los Angeles was an unexpected turn of events. We would’ve been in Albuquerque by now, had my car made it, with approximately 800 miles left to drive. But instead, we were stretched out, drinking hot cocoa, and watching a movie, while our car and possessions were transported by road.

It was absurd, but necessary. Adam was right. My car wasn’t safe. But what choice did I have? Two tickets on commercial flights would’ve blown my budget and set me back a month’s rent. I had to make every cent count now.

Once we arrived, another car was waiting to take us to Tash and Bryce’s house. Adam’s driver greeted us with a smile before piling our suitcases into the trunk. “Mr. Harlow instructed me to give you this.” He handed me a business card. “I will be your personal driver while your car is being repaired.”

“Repaired?”

“Adam had your car assessed on arrival, and the mechanic found an issue.”

“Oh.”

Finn sniggered. “Just one?”

I narrowed my eyes at my son.

“It should only take a week or so,” the driver continued. “Meanwhile, call or text my number and I’ll take you wherever you need to go.”

“I’m sure I can handle a week with no car.”

“Mom! How are you going to get me to school?”

“Um…bus?”