The Free Pass

Chapter 23

Shawn

When I got back to Toronto, I posted one of the new ultrasound pics on Instagram and Twitter. I hadn't posted anything since I'd shared a handful of wedding photos.

Those had turned out fantastic, thanks to my photographer. The outdoor garden setting was beautiful and Mallory was glowing. Andrew had selected several photos for various news outlets. He'd granted one music news site the exclusive story, which meant I'd given them an interview about the wedding. I didn't like how it had turned into a big PR play, but I knew it had to be done.

My fans were reacting in a variety of ways. Most were supportive of my happiness, but those that weren't were extremely vocal and hostile. I'd learned to back off from social media, which was hard for me to do, since I'd always used it to get the pulse on my image and career status.

After I posted the new ultrasound picture, I decided I needed a drink. I loved seeing my baby again, but it was becoming more and more real that soon the genuine article would be here.

Don't get me wrong. I was dying to meet my child. I'd be lying if I didn't admit that I was also terrified. I had no idea how to care for a baby and I doubt Mal knew much more, despite her constant book-reading on the subject. She'd sent me home with several books this visit, but I figured I could wait until closer to the due date to study them.

I went to the liquor cabinet and saw that all I had was vodka, gin, and tequila. Those wouldn't do. I wanted either scotch, bourbon, or rye.

I decided to walk to a local bar and soon found myself sitting in front of Beth. I hadn't seen her since we'd hooked-up. As I sat on the bar stool it came to me that I'd never paid my tab that night.

She gave me a big smile. "Congratulations, married man!"

"Thanks. How are you?"

"I'm good. Business is slow, but that'll change when it gets warmer."

I pulled some cash out of my wallet and held it out to her. "This is for that night."

She looked at it and gave me a very dirty look. "I don't like what you're implying."

It took me a second to catch on. "Oh god, no! It's not for that. I never paid for my drinks that night!"

She laughed loudly. "I'm so glad that's what you meant. I'd hate to have to punch you." She then took the cash and put it in the register. "You want a drink?"

"Rye. Straight up."

She poured my drink and then went to attend to the other two customers. By the time she came back to me, I was done.

"Another, please."

This time she stayed after pouring.

"How's married life?" she asked.

There was no edge to her voice or anything that indicated she was jealous. That's what I liked about her. She knew what that night was and would never expect more.

"It's fine, but she's still at college. We haven't really started our life together."

"I'm glad you went through with it," she said as she dried a couple glasses. "I think you needed to. And your wedding pictures were beautiful."

I smiled. "Thanks. The wedding was really nice."

"Does her father still have anger towards you?"

"Probably, but he's making an effort. I'm trying not to hold anything against him."

"You are a good guy, Shawn."

I took a sip of my drink, savoring the flavor. She'd automatically given me the top shelf choice.