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I leaned back in the plush seat of my one-of-one Mercedes Maybach S, watching the city blur past through the tinted windows as Louis, my trusted driver, navigated the streets. I was on my way to Onika's job to bring her some lunch during her break. She knew I was coming, She'd been going through it, and I wanted to remind her that I'm here for her.
The bag of Jamaican food I picked up for her sat on the seat next to me. The smell filled the car, making my stomach growl, I made sure to get all her favorites, even that sorrel drink she loved so much.
I wasn't about to risk being recognized, though. So I kept myself covered. A black ski mask hid most of my face, leaving only my eyes and eyebrows visible, and gloves covered my hands to block the tattoos that could easily give me away.
I glanced at my phone, smiling as I saw Ava on FaceTime.
"I love you, princess. Make sure you have a good day at school, alright?" I said softly.
"Okay, Daddy! I love you!" she chirped, flashing me that same smile that always melted me.
"I love you more," I replied, my grin growing wider.
Sophie, appeared behind her in the frame. "Aubrey, don't—" she started, but I wasn't in the mood for her today. I hit the red button and ended the call before she could finish her sentence.
"Everything good, boss?" Louis asked, glancing at me through the rearview mirror.
"Yeah, all good," I replied, adjusting the food bag on the seat next to me.
We were only a few minutes away from the hospital now. I checked my reflection in the window, making sure my disguise was solid.
After all, it wasn't every day someone brought you your favorite food and went through all this trouble to keep things low-key.
I texted Onika that I was on my way and asked where she wanted to meet.
Me: I'm on my way right now. Where do you want to meet?
A few moments later, my phone buzzed with her reply.
Onika🥵: Meet me in the hospital cafeteria. I'll be there in 15.
I quickly typed back.
Me: Got you.
Louis, my driver, nodded as we cruised through the streets. "You want me to circle back in an hour?" he asked, keeping his eyes on the road.
"Yeah, that works," I replied, checking the time. "Just park out front, and I'll let you know when I'm done."
The ride through the city was smooth. We passed through bustling streets, the noise of New York fading in the background.
