I’m standing behind a table stacked with copies of my debut romcom, “One Night Stand-Off,” a title that winks at how Adam and I first crossed paths.
It’s my first book as Carlie Foxx, but the crowd here knows me better as Zoey Cummings, the steamy romance writer.
The big reveal was a gamble—like playing poker with your grandma and she’s surprisingly good at bluffing. True story.
A fan, clutching her new book, beams at me. “I couldn’t believe it when Zoey Cummings announced she’s actually Carlie Foxx! And you’re hilarious! This book had me laughing and swooning. I don’t know how you do it.”
I chuckle, signing her book. “Thanks. I thought it was time to show the world that I can write about more than just steamy scenes—though there’s plenty of that, too. Just with a side of laughter.”
After the last book is signed, my friends from the Dirty B’s converge around me.
Tasia, with her usual cool composure, gives me a firm nod. “You’ve outdone yourself, Carlie. One Night Stand-Off’is brilliant. Just look at how many people want to get a copy. It’s incredible.”
I beam back at her. “Hopefully, it’s helped pull a few more people into Dirty Books, too.”
“Oh, it definitely has,” Tasia says with a chuckle.
Lily, ever the enthusiast, wraps me in a bear hug. “I knew you had it in you. It’s like you’ve found your true voice.”
Vivian chimes in, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Speaking of voices, did anyone hear Quinn talking with the cute guy in the corner? I think there just might be a love connection happening over there.” She wiggles her eyes suggestively.
Lily bends closer. “Don’t tell Quinn, but London had a little something to do with that connection.”
My eyes widen and I clap my hands. “Oh, that’s so exciting. Quinn deserves some awesomeness in his life.”
“That he does,” Lily nods in agreement. “And lots of mind-blowing sex, too.”
We all burst into laughter, the kind that comes from years of shared secrets and mishaps.
As we’re laughing and chatting, I notice Vivian’s gaze drifting over to Anna, who’s discreetly—or maybe not so discreetly—peeking at her phone. I mean, it’s not entirely unlike her, but the flush of her cheeks is.
“Anna, you’re missing all the fun here,” I tease, but Anna just hums noncommittally, her eyes still fixed on her screen.
Vivian leans closer to Anna, peeking over her shoulder. “Is that a Joel Price video you’re watching? I thought you hated that guy,” she says, a teasing lilt in her voice.
Anna’s cheeks turn a shade pinker as she quickly locks her phone.
“Yeah, he’s an ass,” she mumbles, but the hint of a smile on her lips tells a different story.
Lily quirks an eyebrow and exchanges a knowing glance with me.
Anna rolls her eyes, trying to deflect with her usual nonchalance. “Anyway, Carlie, your book is going to be a massive hit. You’re a natural at romcom.”
“Thanks, Anna. That means a lot.” I laugh, letting the topic of Anna and her love-hate relationship with Joel slide for now.
Adam watches us with an affectionate smile from a few bookshelves over, his eyes meeting mine with that familiar warmth that still makes my heart flutter.
There are some days when I can’t even fathom how lucky I am.
A couple of stragglers come up to my table wanting signatures. So, I spend a few minutes with each, talking about books and my process as an author.
As the bookstore clears out, Adam wraps an arm around my waist, his eyes shining with love and pride. “You ready to head out, Mrs. Foxx?”
I nod, feeling a rush of happiness. “Absolutely, Mr. Foxx. Thank you for being here.”
“Of course, I’ll be here. Supporting my sexy author wife is my number one priority,” he says, his voice lowering into a seductive whisper.
I turn a knowing look toward him. “Number one priority, eh?”
A catlike grin creeps across his handsome face. “Okay, maybe my number two priority.”
A shiver runs down my spine at the promise those words carry because I know exactly what he thinks his number one priority is.
And I can’t wait to test out that theory later tonight.
I start packing up my things, sliding the leftover copies of “One Night Stand-Off” into a box. The bookstore, now quiet and calm, feels like the aftermath of a wonderful storm.
I glance over at Adam, who’s already stacking chairs, his sleeves rolled up, revealing those sexy forearms that I just can’t seem to get enough of.
“So, anyone up for round two at Adam’s event?” I ask, turning to the Dirty B’s. “There’s a Chamber of Commerce thing at Foxx Fitness tonight. Should be fun, and you’ll get to see Adam in his element.”
Tasia raises an eyebrow. “A gym event? Sounds ... energetic.”
Lily claps her hands together. “I’m totally in. It’s always a blast to see Adam showing off his gym. Plus, I’ve been meaning to check out the new yoga classes.” She nudges me with her shoulder and I know she’s insinuating the partner yoga Adam added to the programs as a reminder of our beginning.
Vivian nods enthusiastically. “Count me in. Maybe I’ll find my next gym crush there,” she says with a wink.
“Things still not great with Tyler?” I ask, folding the lid to the box over.
She shrugs noncommittally.
I turn to Anna, who’s just pocketed her phone. “How about you, Anna? Fancy some gym time?”
She hesitates for a moment, then quirks an eyebrow. “Do I look like someone who frequents gyms?”
“More like someone who points and laughs when someone hurts themselves,” Vivian quips.
We all blink at Vivian.
I mean, she’s not wrong.
I clear my throat. “Great, it’s settled then,” I say, excitement bubbling within me. “Let’s head over to Foxx Fitness and show the Chamber of Commerce how the Dirty B’s do it. Quinn, are you in?”
“Hmmm, what’s that hon?” Quinn says from the middle of the store.
“Coming with us to celebrate Foxx Fitness’s Chamber After Hours event?” I repeat.
He glances at the man standing next to him. He’s taller than Quinn but built like an athlete. His dark hair and chiseled jaw are the works of any romance novel, if you ask me.
“I mean, maybe?” Quinn finally calls back.
“Well, I’m excited,” Lily says, taking out her phone. “London says he’s already there. I can’t wait to have a look around.”
Adam walks over, his smile wide and welcoming. “It’s going to be a great night. And who knows, maybe you’ll all end up joining a class or two.”
Half of the group groans and the other half nods in enthusiastic agreement.
Over the past year, they’ve seen how much I’ve changed under Adam’s care. Between his workout routines at the gym … and his workout routines at home … it’s no wonder I’ve toned down to nearly my goal weight.
Tasia locks up and we all leave Dirty Books. The cool evening air is a refreshing change from the warmth of the bookstore. The walk to Foxx Fitness is short but filled with laughter and playful banter, the kind of camaraderie that comes from shared experiences and genuine affection.
As we approach Adam’s new gym, the buzz of conversation and music reaches us. The lights inside glow invitingly, and I feel a surge of pride for my husband.
He’s turned his dream into a reality, and it’s thriving.
Just like I always knew it would.
As we walk into the building, the atmosphere is electric, buzzing with the energy of a packed house. The state-of-the-art facility gleams under the bright lights, and I can’t help but feel a swell of pride in my chest as I look around. The gym is more than just a collection of equipment—it’s a vibrant community hub. A place where fitness, fun, and motivation meld seamlessly.
And it’s all thanks to the man at my side.
Adam takes the center stage, his voice booming over the crowd. “Welcome, everyone, to Foxx Fitness! For those of you who are new here, let’s set something straight right off the bat. We’re not just a gym—we’re a family. This is a place to embrace your fitness journey, absolutely. But we want you to also have fun, and find encouragement every step of the way.”
His passion is infectious, and I watch as he captivates the audience, pointing out the various sections of the gym.
“We’ve got everything from high-intensity interval training to yoga classes designed to challenge and inspire you. And yes,” he adds with a wink in my direction, “even partner yoga.”
I grin back at him, my heart warming with the memory.
The Dirty B’s disperse to explore the various spaces. Lily grabs hold of London’s hand and heads straight for the yoga studio, her eyes lighting up at the sight of the tranquil, welcoming space.
Vivian, ever the flirt, eyes a group of toned trainers with a mischievous grin on her face.
Tasia, standing beside me, nods appreciatively. “He’s done an incredible job here. Even I have to admit, it’s kind of awesome.”
I smile, watching Adam mingle and chat with guests. “He’s found his calling, just like I found mine.”
Quinn walks up, nodding towards a corner where a group is gathered around a high-tech treadmill. “Looks like the latest in fitness tech over there. Adam really went all out.”
“Absolutely,” I agree. “He wanted Foxx Fitness to be cutting-edge—but also a place where everyone, regardless of their fitness level, feels at home.”
“Well, I think he’s definitely accomplished that,” Quinn says, his gaze drifting over to the guy he was talking with at Dirty Books.
I nudge him with my hip. “So … What do you think of the guy?”
Quinn’s grin broadens, but he shrugs. “We’ll see. He’s hot, though.”
“That he is,” I nod with a laugh.
As the evening progresses, the sense of community becomes more and more palpable. People are laughing, trying out equipment, and signing up for classes. The staff, enthusiastic and knowledgeable, are on hand to offer even more guidance and support.
Later, as the crowd begins to thin, Adam finds me, his eyes alight with excitement and a hint of exhaustion. “How’d I do?” he asks, wrapping his arms around me.
“You were amazing,” I reply, standing on my tiptoes to plant a kiss on his cheek. “This place is amazing. You’re going to change so many lives here.”
He grins, pulling me close. “Only because I have you by my side. You inspire me every day, Carlie.”
I reach up onto my toes and kiss his lips. “You’re my inspiration.”
“Do I need to bust out some Bette Midler or are you two going to stop with the cuteness overload,” my grandmother says, coming up behind me.
I nearly let out a squeal of surprise.
She just snickers under her breath. “What? Didn’t expect to find me here?”
“Not entirely, no,” I admit, shaking my head.
“Well, even us old coots need to find a place to bend and snap, if you know what I mean.” She winks at me, clearly happy she got to use the new term I taught her out in the wild.
“Yeah, but I think you mean snap, crackle, and pop,” I fire back.
Adam covers up his laugh with the back of his hand. He’s had to deal with me and Grandma for months now—he knows the game.
“Oh, good one, dearie. Good one,” she says with pride in her eyes.
I catch Anna’s eye and give her a knowing smile. She just shakes her head, but I can see a newfound lightness in her demeanor, a subtle change that speaks volumes.
Adam wraps his arms around me from behind, whispering, “Thank you for being here and for supporting me.”
I lean back into him, feeling utterly content. “Always, Adam. Just like you’re always there for me.”
When the event comes to an end and it’s time to head home, the Dirty B’s, Adam, and I are the last to leave.
We step outside together, the night wrapping us in a serene embrace. I think about our friends, each on their own unique journey, and feel a wave of affection for them all.
And as Adam and I say our goodbyes and start walking home, hand in hand, I know that this is just the beginning of many more adventures to come. Adventures filled with love, laughter, and a little bit of gym sweat.
As we walk, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that brought me here.
From Zoey Cummings to Carlie Foxx. From steamy romance to laugh-out-loud romcoms … it’s been quite the ride. And through it all, I’ve learned the most important lesson—embracing who you are is the true key to happiness.
“Dirty books, dirty workouts, it’s all about getting a little dirty and a lot happy, right?” I say, nudging Adam playfully.
Adam laughs, his eyes twinkling under the starlit sky. “Exactly.”
As we approach our home, the warm light from the windows spills out onto the street, inviting and comforting.
Inside, I know we’ll find our own little slice of perfection, a world where love reigns supreme, and every day is an adventure. With Adam by my side, I’m ready for whatever comes next, ready to write the next chapter of our story.
And as we open the door, stepping into the warmth of our home, I smile to myself. The journey of Carlie Foxx, the romcom writer, and Carlie Foxx, the woman madly in love with her husband, is just getting started.
And I can’t wait to see where it takes us.
* * *
Loving the One Night Stand Club? YAY!
Then don’t miss out on Anna’s upcoming book,
Dirty Developments!
It’s gonna be all enemies-to-lovers, with tons of snarkastic goodness!
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See ya there, Dirty B!