Vince was motivated and optimistic as he stood outside the theater next to the poster of The Mall People. With his energy level high and his heart open to his old infatuation, it was easy to anticipate unlimited possibilities. The show had a unique concept, and it centered on the crazy antics of a group of people bonded together by their jobs at a local mall. The writers outdid themselves.
He was one lucky guy. A new show and another chance with the woman he’d never forgotten made his heart thump like a warrior’s drum. He never imagined he’d run into Sadie Layne on his trip to LA. She’d stepped out of his dreams. Now that he’d seen her, he couldn’t stop thinking about her. Not that she hadn’t popped into his mind now and then. Back home, in the seashore town of Point Pleasant, New Jersey, whenever he’d ride past the playhouse where they’d shared the infamous kiss, his pulse still raced. The glorious moment was embedded in his memory. She was beautiful, talented, supportive, and everything he’d ever wanted in a woman. He’d appreciated her efforts to come early for rehearsal and read lines with him.
Vince had regrets over not making a serious attempt to take her out when he’d had the chance. At the time, he didn’t have the confidence or much experience with the opposite sex. Sure, he dated, but never a girl like Sadie. She was out of his league.
Why had he listened to his friend Matt? He’d advised Vince to steer clear of Sadie, telling him that if he ever tried, she’d laugh in his face. Matt still lived in town, and he was on wife number two. Yeah, right…he knew.
The flow of people who stopped by to ask about the show was steady. Once the crowd thinned, an elderly couple approached, holding hands.
“How are you?” Vince offered them a welcoming smile, all the time thinking it must be nice to spend a lifetime with someone you love.
“Are you a movie star?” The white-haired woman stood beside Vince, clutching a purse that overpowered her tiny frame.
“No, but I am an actor. I’d like to invite you both to be members of the audience for a show I’m in.”
“We’d love to attend, young man. You’re very handsome. If you’re in it, it will be a hit.” She reached into her bag, took out a card, winked, and handed it to him. Vince offered another smile and gave her a leaflet.
“See you tonight.” The woman blew him a kiss.
He chuckled as he scanned her card. Mamie’s Psychic Readings. Unlikely, nevertheless, her kind words were appreciated.
The stars seemed to be lining up for him. Vince had learned a thing or two since he hung around with Sadie. The sweet tone of her voice and the way she offered him a demure grin as she’d checked him out made his insides rattle. There was no denying an electrifying attraction between them, and he wasn’t letting her go this time.
Positive vibes kept him sharp and on his toes. The long awaited uphill climb had begun. It was about time. The pilot fell into his lap, and then, a hot and desirable woman stepped out of his past. Life was finally going his way. Vince’s energy level held steady as he handed out the rest of the brochures.
In between potential viewers, he took a break and downed a bottled water and a protein bar. Nutrition and hydration were important to maintain a healthy weight. His head buzzed as he sampled the sweet scent of Sadie’s perfume she’d left behind on his shirt. He ran his hand across his abdomen. Hours of sweating and pumping iron at the gym had paid off. When he’d performed with Sadie in their last show together, he was all of one hundred and fifty pounds. A scrawny physique added to his insecurities back in the day. He’d worked hard to build muscle mass.
Vince was appreciative for the opportunity to star in The Mall People, but he wasn’t going to get his hopes up too high. The show wasn’t a shoo-in, and many of his comrades in the business had multiple pilots that had tanked. But deep in his gut he had a feeling this show was different. The producer was a true professional and totally invested in the project.
As Vince glanced over the colorful advertisement, he recognized the future held boundless promise. The countdown to a better life included Sadie, and now he had to show her how bad he’d always wanted her. She was the missing piece to the puzzle.
He took a deep breath and let it out slowly, his mind at ease. Nights spent eating peanut butter and jelly on stale English muffins were nearly coming to an end. It was a good thing he’d decided to hold onto a weekend position at Marseille’s Restaurant on the beach. Between the modeling jobs and the tips at the waterfront restaurant, he’d been able to keep a roof over his head. Every little bit had helped to pay the rent on his run-down studio at the beach. Thank goodness a few network commercials had come along, and he always jumped at the opportunity. All thanks to his cigarette-smoking, joke-cracking, yet persistent agent, Joey G. He wouldn’t have scored the role as Mickey, a rookie cop, in The Mall People without his unwavering agent.
A couple of stragglers passed by and Vince handed out the last of the invites. An overwhelming sense of appreciation found a place in his heart. A trial run of the pilot episode, scored by the public, was a step in the right direction. He crossed his arms and snuck a peek at his watch. It was time to pack up, grab something to eat, and prepare for the show. Vince slowly rolled up the poster and folded the easel.
His mind wandered to the soft feel of Sadie’s skin when his lips had brushed her cheek, and his heart thumped in his chest with the very thought of her. The way she swayed her hips when she walked sent his blood soaring through his veins. Sadie carried herself like a woman who knew what she wanted, and it was an appealing quality. Her confidence and upbeat attitude, especially after all she’d been through, was tantalizing. It made him want her even more. His gut told him there was something unsettling in her life, besides her recent illness. Whatever it was, it was her business. One day she’d let him inside her heart and trust him enough to share her deepest fears.
Vince took a moment to go over the opening scene of the show in his head. In between the punch lines, he imagined Sadie’s beautiful smile. It was hard to shift to work mode. He hadn’t felt like this in a long time. He’d better pull himself together to perform this evening’s show. Developing his craft had been first and foremost over the last few years.
His body felt wired and tingly when Sadie got close to him. Whatever the spell she cast over him, he was struck hard. He would score a date with Sadie while they were both in town for sure. Meeting across the map wasn’t a coincidence. It was fate. He felt it in his bones.
He lifted the easel, tucked the poster under his arm, and took off toward the elevators.
The fire in his spirit had kept him on the right course up until now. He’d learned how to plan and put his best foot forward. In the back of his mind sat the image of him as a scared, young boy. He’d been through hell. One eviction notice after the next disrupted any sense of normalcy in the De Carlo household. Anger still boiled in his gut for the way his father had always lied about paying the bills on time and had drank away the rent money. But it only made him push harder. Nothing was going to hold him back. He was hungry for a better life, and Sadie was going to be part of it. Sure, she had an established career, a house, and all that came along in the real world of a successful thirty-year-old. His time would come. It just took a little longer. A twinge in his gut about how Sadie’s life was at a different stage than his interrupted his upbeat state of mind, but he quickly dismissed it.
Vince held his head up and his shoulders back as he trotted through the lobby and up to his room. He’d touch base with the cast before show time. First things first. It was time to focus on his performance tonight. This was his big chance, and he wasn’t going to screw it up.
He made it upstairs, balancing the display in an attempt to avoid injuring anyone who got too close. Once inside, he stuck the easel in the corner and placed the artwork on the table, then left to go get some food. He’d found an organic shop one floor up when he scouted around earlier in the day.
The chicken salad with romaine lettuce looked good. His mouth watered from the aroma of the fresh grilled chicken and herbs. Vince placed his order.
The server wore a bright yellow apron with eye-catching white daisies around the borders. “Aren’t you the guy who played in the beer commercial?”
“You recognized me without the cowboy hat,” he teased, grinning at her.
“I sure do. I love that ad. I’ll put in some extra chicken,” she whispered.
The woman left to prepare his order, and Vince caught her as she peeked over her shoulder. Being recognized in public never got old.
His stomach growled as he waited, and he checked his messages. A string of good luck texts from his buddies at the gym and one from his mom made him smile. Stifled by the shock of seeing Sadie, he’d made the mistake of forgetting to exchange numbers with her.
While he waited for this order, he pondered his conversation with her and hoped she could convinced her friends to come to the show. Everything had changed. His chance of winning Sadie’s heart wasn’t lost after all. It would be great to spend time alone with her afterward, but he didn’t want to interrupt her plans with her friends. After all, it was a trip to celebrate. He’d find a way.
When the young woman returned with his order and handed it to him, her hands trembled. “Would you mind if I asked for your autograph?” she stammered.
He was touched by her request. “I wouldn’t mind at all.” He reached for the post-it pad she held. “What’s your name?”
“Angel.” She let out a squeal and jumped up and down. “Thank you so much.”
“It’s my pleasure. Here’s some information about being an audience member for a television pilot we’re filming.” He gave her a handout with the info. “I hope you can make it. It’s being filmed right here in the hotel. Our set is set up in a theater upstairs.”
“I’ll be there.” She waved, wearing a bright grin.
Vince returned to his room. He grabbed a sparkling water from the tiny refrigerator and sat at the table by the windows. He opened the bottle and took a sip. As he began to eat, he stared out at the glorious hills and down at the highway. LA was a grand town, full of opportunity. It’d be a dream come true to have his footprints on the Hollywood Walk of Fame one day.
Somehow, after his meeting with Sadie, he wanted it even more. He was determined before, but today wasn’t just an ordinary day. It carried so much more. Long gone were the days in his tiny bedroom in his mother’s rented house and the way he’d stared at the posters of his idols on the wall. One day it would be his poster encouraging a young dreamer. It brought him joy to make people smile and entertain them, washing away their pain or sorrow. He drew in a deep breath. One day he’d help his mother get the life she deserved. Sadie never held it against him back in the day when the kids teased him about his father’s drinking. He’d never forgotten how kind and accepting she was.
His cellphone vibrated in his pocket, and he reached for it. His manager’s number flashed on the screen. “Hey, what’s up?”
“I’m checking in on you. How’s it going? Are you ready for tonight?” Joey asked.
“I’m more than ready, I’m going to knock it out of the park.” Vince stood and moved over to the windows.
“Now that’s what I needed to hear. I’m finishing up some paperwork, but I’ll be there at ringside.”
“Great! I’ll catch up with you later, and thanks for everything.”
Joey gave a harsh cough. “This warm weather is getting to me.” He laughed. “I’m here for you, kid.”
Vince sat back down and finished eating. If he didn’t hurry, he’d be late. He peeled off his clothes and jumped into the shower. The warm water trickled down his head and onto his back, and it invigorated him. As his muscles relaxed, his mind wandered to Sadie and he had to turn the nozzle toward cold to combat his erotic thoughts. Boy, this woman drives me out of my mind. If she showed up tonight, it would be one hell of a treat all the way around.
He grabbed the terrycloth robe from the hook on the door, slipped it on, and went out to get his phone. He wanted to check on his co-star, Meg Talbot. She was as excited as him to be part of the team, and she’d already had a run in a hit show. With her along for the ride, the show had a better chance of making the cut.
* * * *
Sadie had a bounce in her step as she led the way to an area where shiny white lounge chairs were lined up next to a sparkling pool. Palm trees, tropical plants, and sections with yellow and white striped umbrellas gave it an upscale flare. She lifted her oversized sunglasses and couldn’t believe what a gorgeous shade of blue the sky was. The scent of suntan oil came at her from all angles.
“I could get used to this.” She held her face up to the sun. The warm rays brushed her skin, and she savored the burst of heat.
She inhaled the fresh air from the rooftop. With a panoramic view of LA, the pool area was the finest place in the hotel. Sadie had counted down the days on her calendar, with the trip being her light at the end of the tunnel.
After she dropped a beach bag on a nearby chaise, she slipped off her new beige fishnet cover-up. It was the moment she’d waited for. The big reveal. “How do you like it?” She held one hand on her hip.
A round of applause from her friends made her blush. “You look beautiful. The suit was made for you,” Jill said.
“Thank you. Let’s get wet, then bask in the sun all afternoon.” Luckily, she’d remembered to bring sunblock. Her pretty turquoise dress wouldn’t work to her advantage tonight if she looked like a lobster.
“I’m with you.” Jill placed her tote on a side table, flipped her hair, paraded over to the pool stairs, and sat with her feet in the water. She glanced up at the tan, muscular lifeguard, and smiled.
Sadie joined her and spoke close to her ear. “What are you doing?” Jill was looking for trouble. She had a great guy back home, but Sadie knew how her friend liked to indulge in an occasional harmless flirtation. “You know I love you and Tommy.” She sighed. The last thing she wanted was to hurt her friend’s feelings.
“Don’t worry, I’ll be good.” Jill partially covered her mouth and whispered, “My man is never around. His job is his whole world.”
“He’s trying to build a future for the both of you, sweetie. I wish I had someone so devoted.” Sadie didn’t plan on letting her feelings slip out. She’d divulge her infatuation with Vince in due time. First, she’d have to admit her reemerging feelings to herself.
“You’re beautiful, smart, and funny. You’ll meet someone who appreciates you. I’m sure of it.” Jill put her arm around Sadie’s shoulder.
“Maybe I’ve already met him.” She raised a shoulder. Oops. Me and my big mouth.
Millie strolled over and squeezed in between them. “It seems pretty intense over here.”
“We were discussing how fortunate Jill is to have a dedicated boyfriend,” Sadie said.
“Sadie is interested in someone from her past,” Jill blurted. “It’s that guy from your theater group, right?” She raised her voice. “I knew you were a little too eager to see his show. Didn’t you have a thing for him in school? That’s settled, we’re going,” Jill insisted.
Millie listened in and displayed a big smirk. “Your face is red, and it’s not from the sun.”
“Yes, I liked him, but no big deal. Vince is a great guy, and I’m ready this time around. Is that okay with you two?” She held back a grin. This new lease on life had taken on a whole new dimension.
“We’re ecstatic.” The two of them glanced at each other and giggled.
“Seriously, I think kismet has this one. How else can you explain running into him?” Jill added.
Sadie wasn’t about to argue. There was something to her friend’s candid statement. There was no rational explanation why she’d run into someone out of her past so far away from home.
“Could be.” Millie pursed her lips and nodded in agreement. “The water is so clear I can see the bottom perfectly.” She peeled off her graphic, oversized tee.
Sadie lowered herself in the pool. “It’s warm, yet cool enough to be refreshing.” She splashed her arms and chest. “Come on in.” She kicked her feet to stay afloat, feeling young and carefree. After a cold winter spent mostly indoors, heck, she’d skinny-dip if it was allowed. Her friends slowly sampled the water. After a few minutes, you’d have thought they were high school kids laughing and tossing around a beach ball.
“I can’t wait to check out this man that’s got you all excited. Oh, don’t get me wrong, I’m happy for you. I just want to make sure he’s good enough for you,” Millie announced as she rested her arms over the side of the pool.
“I’m with you, Millie. Our girl deserves a prince.”
“Thanks, you two.” It was a comfort to have friends so devoted. Sadie knew how much her best buddies loved her and she loved them too. It was a gift to have such caring friends, even if they drove her nuts sometimes.
* * * *
The three of them spent longer than expected at poolside, so they’d have to rush to grab a quick bite to eat before the show. “Who’s in the mood for pizza?” Sadie asked as she pushed aside her outfits in the closet, looking for her turquoise dress.
“Sounds good to me.” Jill stood in front of the mirror, checking her tan line.
“Me too.” Millie plugged in her phone charger and sat on the bed.
“Great. That’s about all we’ll have time for. I think there’s an Italian place in the food court.” Sadie was the first to jump into the shower.
“I’m next,” Jill insisted.
As soon as Sadie finished and came out, Jill made a dash into the bathroom. There was an outlet next to the mirrored dresser where Sadie plugged in the blow dryer. By the time she was halfway through with her hair, Jill shouted from behind the door. “Be right out, Millie.” In a few minutes, garbed in a terry cloth robe, Jill parked herself next to Sadie.
“I’m finished with my hair.” Sadie handed Jill the blow dryer, went over to the closet to grab her cosmetic bag, and went back in front of the mirror.
“You want to time me? Watch this.” Millie jolted into the bathroom. In less than ten minutes she came out. “I’m used to getting in and out.” She gave a cackle.
They’d set a record for quickest time getting ready for a night out. Sadie stopped in front of the mirror in the foyer. She fluffed her hair and took a closer look at her face.
“You look gorgeous. He won’t be able to resist you.” Jill picked up her purse from the bed.
“I’d say not. You’re a knock-out,” Millie insisted.
“Promise the teasing ends here.” Sadie tried to keep a serious face. She opened the door, stepped aside, and held her arm out. “You first.”
The girls filed out into the hallway. Sadie’s hands trembled. Her nerves were on edge, and she rode the elevator with her eyes closed to concentrate on a few deep breathing exercises.
“Are you okay?” Jill gave her a side look.
“I’m better than ever. A little anxious, but in a good way.”
* * * *
After a stop at the pizzeria in the hotel, Sadie reapplied her peachy lip-gloss. Butterflies filled her stomach. It was as if she was back on the opening night of her theater debut. She closed her eyes and silently assured herself that she’d do all right.
Sadie couldn’t wait to introduce her friends to Vince, but she didn’t want the girls to push too hard. If her instinct was right, he had more than a casual friendship in mind. Her spicy thoughts kept coming, and she went with them, instead of stuffing her emotions like she did in the past. There was nothing wrong with a harmless little fantasy, was there?
Clenching the program for the show in her hand, she smiled as they headed to the theater upstairs.
“Let’s hurry.” Sadie motioned. The three of them picked up speed as their heels clanked on the stunning marble floors.
There was a line of people waiting to go inside. The cast members stood outside the double door entrance, greeting each person as they entered. The buzz of congratulatory words and smiling faces set the tone for the evening.
As Sadie quietly chatted with her friends, her gaze lingered on Vince. His full head of dark hair was styled for a red carpet event. The gleam in his gorgeous eyes left her whole body weak. Her throat parched, she took out a cough drop and popped it into her mouth. His wide, welcoming smile helped her racing heart slow down.
“I’m so glad you could make it, Sadie.” He took her by surprise by offering a hug. “You look beautiful tonight.”
Her new sheath dress had made a hit. “Thank you. You look great too. Break a leg.” She gave him a big smile. “These are my friends, Jill and Millie.” She turned and gave them a wink, hoping they’d fix their faces. They both gawked at Vince as if he were a male stripper. Sadie’s fingers tingled as she tapped the lapel on his tailored black jacket. Even the most innocent touch sent her over the deep end.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, ladies.” Vince reached out to shake their hands. “I arranged for front row seats.”
He lightly touched Sadie’s back as he guided them toward the usher, and it sent an electric surge through her body.
“I hope you enjoy the show. Please accept my invitation to a party in the Midnight Rooftop Bar after the show,” Vince said.
Sadie found his hospitality along with his smile absolutely irresistible. He went out of his way to make a good impression. His thoughtfulness gave him brownie points for sure. As they made their way down the aisle, her legs shook. She’d been up on the stage next to him, and now she’d watch from the audience. Very different.
Jill dug her finger into Sadie’s side. “We’re going to that party.” She did a little shimmy.
“I know. Stop, he’s watching,” Sadie whispered.
Millie leaned in close and said, “It looks like your feelings are reciprocated.”
Sadie couldn’t help but gloat. First row center seats were perfect. Once they settled in, she stared at the curtain in anticipation of Vince’s performance. The cameras and lighting were all set and ready to go. It put her in mind of the days when all she wanted was to be on the stage. The cameramen scattered around the front. The lights brightened. A man came out to help energize the audience, and then the curtain opened.
* * * *
Vince took his bow and headed to the dressing area. His mind raced with things he would have done different, yet the audience’s laughter and applause had been steady. With the woman he’d never forgotten in the audience, his energy soared and he’d done his best to make sure his performance was near flawless. He thought it was anyway. Now he’d have to wait for the feedback.
His leading lady had worked the stage like a pro, and he knew by the laughter out front, she’d hit the mark. Her delivery was on point. The supporting cast did a great job. It all magically fell together. The hard work, rehearsal after rehearsal, long hours, and commitment had all paid off. It was one of the highlights of his life. Hopefully, the network would decide to pick up the show.
The director congratulated the cast as they gathered off stage. After Vince did a quick change, he hurried to catch the girls out front.
Sadie made her way over to him with a big smile on her face. Vince’s heart pranced as soon as she met his gaze.
“You were fantastic. I believe you have a hit on your hands,” she insisted.
“I have a good feeling too.” He was still on a high from the show, and it kicked up a notch when he stood side by side with the sexy and gorgeous woman from his past. She took his breath away, and the night was still young.
Jill and Millie appeared and gave him a round of applause.
“You rocked it.” Jill put her hand on his shoulder.
“I appreciate your support, ladies. Thank you.” His attention switched to Sadie. “Can you make it to the party?” It was funny how his insides rattled as he waited for her reply. He’d performed in front of an audience with no problem, but around Sadie, he was putty in her hands.
“We’re looking forward to it.” Sadie’s comment set him at ease. Vince shot a look over to the others.
“I’ll be able to stay for a bit, but I have to get my beauty sleep,” Jill said, then she gave Millie a nudge.
“Oh, umm…me too.”
He winked, in tune with what they were up to. He’d come to know how intuitive girlfriends could be. It was like they had psychic abilities or something. He recalled when a woman he’d dated briefly had introduced him to her close-knit group of friends. They’d zeroed in on his inability to commit to the relationship from the start. She wasn’t right for him, and his career goals came first. Sadie was here now, and he’d do whatever it took to win her heart.
In the elevator to the rooftop together, Sadie stood close. The sweet scent of her hair, along with her delicate perfume filled the small space, and it made him want her even more. An endorphin rush shot through his body, enhancing his senses. She embodied sexiness in a feminine, yet smart, classy way. It didn’t seem like she had to work hard to look beautiful. Nature took care of that.
Vince held his breath as they approached the bar. After all, it was his first celebratory party. It was important to him to make a good impression on Sadie and her friends. Glittering white lights hung around the perimeter and a dangling crystal ball hung over the dance floor. Scattered tall, round tables, love seats with plush red cushions, and modern black wrought iron tables were in the center. Servers dressed in black vests carried trays of finger foods, and others served champagne. People seemed to be enjoying themselves already. By the sound of the laughter in the audience, the show had struck a chord. With a beautiful woman at his side, life couldn’t get much better. All heads turned when Vince entered. A round of applause began, and he smiled and raised his hand to signal to go on with the fun. Out of the corner of his eye, he spotted his manager.
“I want you to meet someone,” Vince said. “I wouldn’t have gotten this role if it weren’t for my manager.” He motioned for Joey to join them.
Joey approached. He was a stout man with a thinning hairline. “You’re a superstar, my man,” Joey exclaimed. He shook Vince’s hand with a firm grip.
“I’d like you to meet an old friend, Sadie Layne, and her friends, Millie and Jill.” Vince’s heart swelled with pride as he enjoyed his moment of fame.
“It’s my pleasure, ladies.” Joey cleared his throat and patted Vince on the back. He waved his hand to a young man with a tray of drinks, and the server approached. “I’d like to propose a toast.” He handed them each a glass of champagne and took one for himself. “Everyone here is of drinking age, right?” he joked.
Vince appreciated his manager’s hard work on his behalf, but he hoped Joey refrained from cracking a string of his usual corny one-liners. Not tonight.
“To a talented cast, hardworking crew, and a long run on primetime.” Joey raised his glass in the air.
“To Vince, for much deserved happiness and continued success.” Sadie sipped her champagne and offered him a poised smile.
It took restraint on his part to keep from reaching over and kissing her right there on the rooftop. Her eyes sparkled under the bright lights, and the evening breeze made her hair flow gently, which gave him a clear view of her beauty. His heart stood still. For a moment, it seemed as if they were alone in the world.
Jill spoke and broke the spell. “I think you have a hit, Vince. I enjoyed the show, and the audience seemed to feel the same.” She moved close to Millie and slipped her arm through hers. “We have to get our rest. Thank you so much for inviting us. Sadie, I’m sure you want to stay a little longer. I’ll keep a nightlight on in the room.” One of the servers passed by carrying an empty tray, and she placed her glass on it.
Sadie remained quiet, and he was mesmerized as he kept his eyes on her. So far his plan was going smoothly. Just as he was about to sweep her into a spot where they could see the best view, the big guns approached.
“Great job tonight,” Dick Mann, the producer, said. With a great reputation and a couple of Emmys behind him, Dick had an eye for a potential award winner. His boisterous laugh and large stature commanded the room.
“Thanks. Everyone fed off the energy in the room. I’d like you to meet a friend of mine, Sadie Layne.”
“It’s very nice to meet you. Are you an actress?” Dick asked.
Sadie shifted her position and fiddled with her watch. “No, I’m a drama teacher.”
He nodded and smiled. “That’s fantastic. Did you enjoy the show?”
“I did. I loved it.” She caught Vince’s gaze and put on an endearing grin.
“Good. I’m glad to hear that. Well, enjoy the festivities.” The executive gave Vince a forceful pat on the back, and in moments, he moved on to the other cast members.
“Now, where was I?” Vince took Sadie by the hand and guided her to a quieter area. A large branch from a palm in the right position gave them a few minutes of privacy.
Sadie crossed her arms and shivered.
“Are you cold? It’s chilly up here tonight, but the stars are shining for us.” Vince slipped his arm around her.
“Maybe a little. I’m in awe of the view. This is such a gorgeous city.” Sadie snuggled up close.
“It is. Just as I’m getting used to it, I’m flying home soon,” he responded and wished they’d had more time.
“I’m here for the week.” She wiggled away and stood directly in front of him. She parted her lips and put on a sultry stare. Sadie took hold of his heart.
“You look more stunning than ever tonight.” Vince kept his voice low.
Then, he acted on impulse. He placed his hands on the sides of her face. When she responded with a smile, he couldn’t resist another minute. His heart soared as he gazed down at her. Sadie uttered a soft moan as their lips met. She reached up and placed her arms around his neck, quivered slightly, and nestled up against him, as if she’d wanted him to kiss her all along. His knees weakened as he sampled the sweet peach lip-gloss on her soft, luscious lips.
As he savored each moment, his heart pounded in his ears. If he didn’t break free, he wouldn’t be able to stop himself. He was afraid to open his eyes to find it was all a dream. Vince tried to keep his cool as his breathing sped up like he’d run a marathon. His head spun with thoughts of making love to this amazing woman. Oh, how he wanted to show her how much she meant to him, but he’d wait. One thing he had learned from the way his father had treated his mother was to respect a woman. Sadie deserved so much more. Once their tender moment ended, he stood back, lost in her gaze.
“I’m crazy about you, Sadie. I always have been, but if I’m going too fast, please stop me.” He spoke close to her ear. Vince ran his finger along her cheek and gently lifted her chin. “We met up again this many miles away from Jersey for a reason.” He pushed a strand of her silky, blonde hair away from her beautiful eyes.
“You might have something there,” she agreed. “Don’t worry, I’ll let you know if you get out of line.”
She gave him a seductive stare and devilish smirk, which was out of character for Sadie, but he liked it. She had always been warm and friendly, but not the kind of girl who’d make a first move. Although, she did mention how her cancer scare changed her views on life. Whatever the reason for exposing her sensual side, it was certainly working in his favor.
Vince dropped his arm to meet her waist and turned her to face the star-lit sky. A peace surrounded him as their bodies touched. He took a deep breath, all the time hoping he’d be able to leave early. When he snuck a quick look through the branches, he spotted Joey scanning the room.
“I’ll be right back. Wait for me here,” Vince said.
Sadie nodded and smiled. “I’m not going anywhere.”
He ducked and weaved to get to his manager. Joey appeared next to the buffet, and he reached out and tapped his shoulder. “Hey, buddy.”
Joey turned to face him, holding onto his plate.
“I have plans later, but I’ll stop over and make an appearance to all the big wigs before I leave.”
“I know what you’re up to, and I don’t blame you for one minute. If I had a babe like that, I’d do the same.” He gave a devilish grin.
“Hold on. Sadie is an old friend and a wonderful person.” On occasion, Vince had to remind Joey to mind his manners.
“I meant no harm. You know what I mean. Make the rounds and then get the hell out of here.” Joey gave Vince a friendly shove.
Once he showed his face in all the circles on the rooftop, Vince hurried back to Sadie. “I’m sorry, I had to pull a few strings, but we’re free to leave now,” he announced.
“I didn’t mind waiting. It gave me time to bask in the glory of this amazing city.”
Sadie was not only talented, gorgeous, and sexy, but her sweet, understanding personality had captured his heart. She’d spent many hours reading lines and coaching him back in the day. She had a natural talent for teaching. Her passion for the theater came across loud and clear. His heart raced with the thought of being alone with her. He needed to get his act together and not push too hard. She wouldn’t want a man who was too pushy.
Vince was relieved to be able to slip away with Sadie without the rest of the cast insisting he stay a little longer. At the elevator, he could relax and enjoy their time alone. The best of the evening was yet to come.
“I hope your friends won’t be annoyed that I took you away from your after-party so soon.” Her eyelashes fluttered, and her innocent flirtation made him want her more. One glass of champagne and he fell deeper under Sadie’s spell.
He steadied himself. “Not at all. Half of them won’t even remember the party. Anyway, how often do you run into someone as special as you after so many years?” In his heart knew every word of it was true. “Are you hungry?”
“Maybe a tiny bit. We stopped for a slice of pizza before the show. How about you?”
“I could go for a midnight snack. I have an idea. We could order room service and kick back in my suite. The night is still young, and this way we can catch up.”
“I’d like that.”
He didn’t want Sadie to get the wrong idea. Sure, he desired nothing more than to be alone with her, however, if she wanted to talk, he’d talk all night. Anything to be close to her.
Vince had an inkling when she had first approached him in the lobby, and by the more than flirtatious tone in her voice, that he’d finally have a chance with his former classmate. She’d grown into a mature woman, and he had a feeling Sadie knew all too well what she wanted. So he’d let her lead the way. He’d take things slow until he got a sign. One thing he wanted to make clear was that he didn’t want a one-night stand. He wanted to build something that would last. No matter what was going on in his career, he had time for Sadie. They’d make it work, somehow. He’d grab this second chance and never let go.