Single Mama's Got More Drama

I sipped my latte, stewing over Cynthia’s words. This was good. Very good. Once, I’d been dreading the meeting with Tassie and her lawyer, but now I couldn’t wait to see her and let her know the skeletons I’d dug out of her closet.

“So, is that helpful enough?” Cynthia asked.

“Are you kidding? It couldn’t be any better if you had photos of them in the act.”

“Good. I’m glad.”

“How did you find all of this out? Abortion clinic records?”

“A journalist never reveals her sources.”

“Okay,” I said. “I understand.”

“But, I will say that it helps to track down a former housekeeper with an axe to grind.”

“Oooh, you’re kidding?” I asked, my eyes as wide as saucers.

“Not at all. Gotta love the hired help.”

I laughed out loud.

“I won’t tell you her name—since it’s not important—but she pointed me in the right direction. It took me a while to find her, which is why I didn’t get back to you sooner.”

“Hey, you got back to me with gold. I’m not complaining.”

Cynthia sipped her latte. “Keep that whole tidbit about the former housekeeper to yourself, though. I promised the woman I wouldn’t say anything. In fact, don’t tell Tassie where you got the information. She doesn’t need to know.”

I mimed pulling a zipper across my lips…then burst into laughter.

Cynthia sighed with contentment. “Ah, sometimes, my job is deliciously fun.”

“I’ll remember to stay on your good side.”

Cynthia’s expression grew serious at my comment. “You were never on my bad side. And for the record, I’m sorry about how the story of you and Eli played out in the press.”

I waved away her apology. “I didn’t mean that personally.”

“Still, I’m sorry,” she went on. “I was just doing my job, but I know that’s little comfort.”

“It’s okay,” I told her. “That’s all behind me, and I’m moving forward. With your help,” I added with a smile.

“Speaking of which, I have a copy of all the proof you need.” She reached into her large purse and withdrew a manila envelope. She passed it across the table to me.