Vixen Investigations: The Mayoral Affairs

by Ashley Papa

  “Maybe we can hit up McLoone’s before the end of the summer,” Liam suggested.

  My heart fluttered like it did those first days of us exchanging texts and phone calls. He mentioned actually wanting to hear more about the investigation process, too. We set up a real date when he got back from his family vacation in the Adirondacks. I was hopeful that things would return to how they used to be, minus the secrecy.

  AUGUST

  “HAPPY BIRTHDAY!” August 15th. My birthday rolling around always indicated three things for me: I am another year older, who my real friends are, and that the summer is nearing an end.

  I tried to keep a low profile for the last month following the news of Walter. Besides helping the authorities where I could, I didn’t take on any new business, nor was I trying to. There was now a federal case against Walter and his staff. It seemed like every day, local news was reporting on something new. The interim mayor seemed overwhelmed by the entire cleanup he was in store for as Walter was expected to step down soon. His former staff members were all fired and had quickly been replaced.

  Meanwhile, Victoria was already out in Santa Barbara with Piper. She decided to move there, indefinitely, while her daughter was about to start her second year of college. They felt it was better to both stay out of Manhattan and away from all the press. Their lavish penthouse apartment was still occupied by Walter, but Victoria was likely to get ownership once the divorce settlement is finalized. She still checks in with me every few days to let me know how she is doing. She is currently considering becoming a hiking guide at a resort in southern Utah once Piper is more mentally stable. She always had a love for hiking and the outdoors. She even thought about starting her own charity that takes underprivileged children on hiking trips.

  Lucy and her lovechild, Devin, were still being kept under wraps in the Hamptons, as they awaited more on Walter’s punishment. I haven’t spoken to her since the day we met by the river. I hoped she was being advised on what to do when Walter likely ends up in jail. I didn’t know how much loving and genuine support she really had, especially with another child on the way.

  “Make a wish, Miss Vixen Investigator!”

  I watched as the hunky waiter decked in white came out with a huge slice of Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake with two candles in it. The girls and Adam insisted on taking me out for my birthday at the restaurant of my choice.

  “Out of all the amazing restaurants in New York City and we have to come to The Cheesecake Factory in fucking Jersey. You’re so fucking strange, Paige,” Theresa complained while taking a sip of her Johnnie Walker on the rocks.

  “That’s $50 in the swear jar,” I teased.

  “Fuck you,” Theresa responded.

  We all laughed as the eyes of every parent in the establishment focused on us.

  “This place is my favorite. Plus, it’s my birthday.”

  I sucked in, blew hard, and made my wish.

  “Well, I have some beaucoup news for you, Paige, dear,” Theresa started.

  Uh-oh. The last time she started a conversation like this, I found out she was starring in some film about symphony players who moonlighted as escorts.

  “I might have another case for you already. I can’t tell you everything, because a lot is rumored. But, it involves a famous Hollywood couple,” she hinted.

  “I just told you, I’m laying low until the end of the summer!” I reiterated. “Let’s talk in a few weeks,” I said, raising my glass to initiate a cheers.

  Adam proceeded to push a gift my way. He smiled as I looked at him questionably. It was small and wrapped in gold paper with a perfectly tied bow. I carefully unwrapped the box. Inside rested a long gold chain with a mini magnifying glass dangling from it.

  “I love it!” I proclaimed and put it around my neck.

  He remembered my obsession with antique magnifying glasses and found a matching necklace for me.

  “It was undoubtedly my favorite case. You kicked ass,” he commended.

  “We kicked ass…we all did.”

  After three gorging hours at my favorite chain restaurant, the five of us stood for a minute in the parking lot before breaking off for the night. The moon was out in full force, creating enough light where I could see all of their faces.

  “So, what’s next for the Vixen Investigator?” April inquired.

  “Going to relax a little bit more. But, I’m needed. You should see my inbox,” I replied.

  “Geez, doesn’t anyone stay faithful these days?” Taylor’s question sounded more like a rhetorical one.

  “Fuck guys,” Theresa blurted.

  “Theresa?!” I shook my head at her. “Taylor, please get her home safely,” I urged.

  We all hugged goodbye and parted to our cars. In that moment, I was feeling extra thankful. With their help, I was able to turn that administration upside down. As I drove home, I wondered what my life would’ve been like if I had gone into teaching, nursing, or another job that would allow me to live a normal life. If we’re all put on this earth for a reason, is there even a point in worrying about what could’ve been? I knew I was made to investigate infidelity and I am pretty damn good at it.

  Ever since I could remember, I always wanted to be an author. The satisfaction of seeing Paige Turner come to life is unexplainable. All the time, energy, and emotion spent on Vixen Investigations and I’d still do it all over again. Keep up the good fight, vow enforcer and betrayer slayer, Vixen Investigator.

  A very special thank you to my mentors and friends, Lis Wiehl, Robi Ludwig, Cooper Lawrence, Lori Bizzoco, Brian Claypool, Leslie Marshall, Kevin McCullough, Lyss Stern, Brad Thor, Jenna McCarthy, Paul Hokemeyer, Annie Scranton, Stephanie, Genevieve, Dee, and always, Marcy. I do not go a day without appreciating the support you’ve given me throughout my writing career.

  Another huge thanks to all my friends and family who love and support me no matter what challenges I take on...even if it is competitive skydiving or log throwing. I love you all so much.

  How can I not thank my amazing agent—Maura, you’ve been the most encouraging of all. Throughout all the edits and planning you’ve always been right with me. I really couldn’t have achieved this goal without you.

  And, of course, my publishing team. A big thank you to them for making this dream a reality and taking their chances on me and Paige Turner.

  My German Shepherd children, Bruno and Hazel. Thank you for keeping me sane at times.

  Jay, who stood by me throughout this long and often steep road. I love you so much.

  Newswriter and relationship columnist Ashley Papa graduated with a degree in journalism and writes from her home in New Jersey. Her own tales of dating nightmares and her love of crime and investigative stories has led her to write her first book, Vixen Investigations.

  ashleypapa.com