Page 136 of The Plus One Pact

That's a whole other level of intimacy.

"Mama, we've only been dating for three months." There's a playfulness to Romeo's voice. He's trying to make this seem easy. But I hear the strain too.

After all, it's one thing to lie about a relationship.

It's another to lie about your entire life.

Amara looks him in the eyes and laughs as if he's the silliest boy in the entire world. "Of course. I don't expect the same from you and Ivy I do from Daniel and Cynthia."

This doesn't placate him.

"She doesn't need to know how much you have in your 401k. Or exactly what you paid for your condo," she says. "Sweetheart, you know money bores me. Do I need to call in Daniel? To guide you."

"No. I've got it," he says.

"How do you pay for that condo?" She wonders aloud. "It's such a nice place."

His eyes flit to mine, but he doesn't say anything.

I should jump in, I know. I shouldn't watch him squirm.

But it feels good, after watching him run away from the chance to talk. And I won't let it go on for too long.

Just for one second.

I swear.

After all, he needs a story. If he wants her to trust him with her money, he needs to prove he's responsible with his.

Maybe he should tell her the truth. I'm sure it's impressive. If he can afford that beautiful apartment, he's making a lot of money. And all from his ability to sell himself.

So, she needs a different story.

And I know just what to say.

"Romeo has been lying to you," I say.

Horror spreads over his expression. "You don't have to explain, Ivy."

"No. I want to," I say. "The truth is, we didn't meet at a bar, to have a fun time. We met because I hired him."

His face goes pale.

"My friend recommended him. She worked with him after her divorce. That's what he does. He helps women get their groove back after divorce. Or after their husband dies," I say.

Amara's face loses similar color. "You mean, he…"

"Helps with their finances, yes," I say.

His shoulders fall.

She nods oh, of course.

I reach under the table and squeeze his hand. I try to send listen, I've got this vibes through the air. I don't. But I try. "He didn't want me to tell you. He thought you wouldn't approve of this kind of business."

"This is what you're doing?" she asks. "Helping divorcees get back on their feet?"

"And widows," he says. "Women who used to rely on their husbands to take care of the, ahem, finances. I help them with it. Show them how to invest their pay-outs, create a budget, stand on their own two feet."