When Vince arrived at the hotel the chauffeur parked and opened the door for him. First class treatment was great.
Vince stepped out, relieved to have one more thing checked off his busy schedule. “Thank you. I appreciate it.” He gave a quick nod as the driver got back into the car.
He gazed up at the amazingly clear sky, inhaled the fresh air, and wished he was able to extend his trip a few days. He must have checked his phone every minute during the ride. Vince had hoped to hear from Sadie. He missed her already. Although, she was technically on a girls’ trip, and she might be busy having a great time. Don’t be selfish, he told himself. Hopefully, she missed him a little too. There wasn’t a moment to waste. One night with Sadie had made him realize what he’d been waiting for most of his adult life.
Why was he still feeling as uncertain as a high school student? He didn’t want to come across as demanding, but he had to see Sadie again. His neck muscles stiffened, and as he stretched, he took a slow, cleansing breath. Not only was he anxious about the possibility of his pilot being rejected, he didn’t want Sadie to think what they’d shared was a one-night stand. Sadie probably didn’t have time for a serious relationship. She had so much going on in her life already.
He twisted his mouth to one side, took his phone out of his pocket, and checked his messages. Sadie was difficult to read. The playful way she’d made the first move and the way she didn’t ask if he was going to call wasn’t what he’d expected. It only made him want her more. She was as elusive as a butterfly.
He might be overthinking. What else was new? In the old days, he’d ride his bike to the playhouse, and he knew Sadie had a car. His old insecurities about being from the wrong side of town snuck up on him. He’d been escorted to an interview in the backseat of a Mercedes Benz. So, why was he still feeling as if he was back in high school?
He removed his shades, stuck them into his pocket, and went inside the hotel. He’d call Sadie tonight if he didn’t hear from her first. It would be great if she had a free moment to squeeze him in. Vince tried to accept it for what it was—a night of passion with a woman from his past. That was what it was. Or was it?
Back in his room, he marched over to the wet bar and took out a bottle of water, opened it, and drank half of it. A cold brew was what he really could go for, but he had to resist. If he wanted to keep his body in shape, he’d refrain.
His stomach churned whenever he thought about what he’d missed out on by not pursuing Sadie in the past. She might have said yes. He’d never know, so he decided to read over a script for a made-for-TV movie his manager had thrown his way. The movie wasn’t a definite, just a maybe. At least he had a variety of projects to fall back on.
It was about time he quit stalling and called his mom to let her know how the show went. His biggest concern was how difficult it was for her since the separation. He admired how she’d gone back to school to become a nurse after his father’s drinking had caused him to lose job after job. Vince had faith she’d be able to take care of herself. Her caregiving nature was perfectly suited for nursing. Thank goodness she didn’t depend on him for financial help. Regret about not having a steady nine-to-five came in waves, however he’d always managed to rationalize his decision to keep his dream alive. He didn’t know how he was going to take Sadie to nice places and show her the best of life. He exhaled. All in due time.
He picked up his phone to make the call. “Hey, Mom. How are you?” he said when she answered. He pulled out the desk chair, sat, and stared out the window.
“Oh, hi. I was hoping you’d call.” Her upbeat, cheery tone helped to lessen some of his worries. “I did three twelve-hour shifts in a row this week. Glad it’s over.”
“You’re amazing.”
“I do what I have to do, but thanks. How did the pilot go? I said a prayer that you’d be great.”
“I think we did what we set out to do—entertain and make people laugh. The audience went wild over it. I’m still waiting to hear about the scores. You’ll never guess who I ran into in the hotel lobby.” He stood and began to pace in anticipation of his announcement. His mother already knew Sadie from their theater days.
“Who? Are you going to tell me or keep me hanging?” she said.
“Do you remember Sadie Layne from my theater group?”
“Oh, of course. You were crazy about her,” she replied in a high-pitched voice. “Sadie was a lovely person and a wonderful actress. “Has she moved to LA?”
“No, she still lives in town. She’s a drama teacher at the high school. It’s strange how we haven’t crossed paths much. I guess it’s because we travel in such different circles now.” He shrugged and continued pacing, his doubts about their relationship multiplying.
“That’s nice, but she was set on being in the theater. I wonder what changed her mind.”
“Who knows? She seems to enjoy what she’s doing. I may be jumping the gun, but we got together, and I think we’re going to see each other again. Maybe we’ll pick it up when we get home. We’ll see.” He stopped a minute and stared out at the spectacular view, not wanting to face the fact that he’d never be able to afford a relationship until things picked up. They weren’t kids anymore, and he’d feel like a failure asking Sadie to stay in and watch television. He began to see the veracity of timing.
“Oh, that would be fabulous. You have to bring her to the house for dinner. You two make a great couple.”
“I will, Mom. Get some rest. I’ll call you again before I leave.”
“Okay. I hope you enjoy the rest of your stay. Talk to you soon.”
Vince was pleased she had only good things to say about Sadie. He recalled that on the last night of their show, his mother and Sadie’s had sat next to one another in the audience. He swore he heard them cheering all the way up on the stage. Ms. Layne was the one who encouraged his mother to go to nursing school. He looked forward to making new memories together.
His stomach growled. After a quick shower, he would run out to get something at the food court. He hadn’t eaten since breakfast and he’d only had time to grab a protein bar. No wonder he was exhausted. The eucalyptus-scented body wash he bought in a shop in the hotel was supposed to be invigorating. He’d give it a try. The rain shower was just what he needed.
Once he lathered up, he let the water trickle down over his body. His mind wandered to the way Sadie ran her hand up and down his chest as she cuddled next to him. This magnificent woman had taken hold of his heart. Vince rinsed his hair, then he jumped out, toweled off, and got dressed. Jeans and a white t-shirt were the easiest. He’d only be out for a few minutes. For the rest of the night, he’d catch up on reading a few things his agent had given him.
He decided to go to his favorite place. Why play with perfection? This time he’d try a grilled chicken sandwich with a salad and a side of seasoned sweet potato fries.
He picked up his order from the counter and as he was about to leave, he decided to grab a bag of natural chocolate chip cookies and a container of milk. As he started back to his room, a few people in the lobby looked his way and whispered to one another. They must have recognized him from the pilot or maybe one of his commercials. It was nice to get a nod and a smile from strangers. As long as they enjoyed his work and he made them laugh, it was all worth it.
A few doors down from the restaurant, he stopped to check out the window in a jewelry shop. Diamond rings as bright as the sun were lined up in the front display. He glanced at them, and for a splint second, he envisioned putting one on Sadie’s finger. He shook his head, laughed at himself, and tried to get a grip. I’m a hopeless romantic with big dreams and empty pockets. It wasn’t the right time in his life to be thinking of such a thing. His friends were all in committed relationships. It was the time men his age thought about family, love, a house, and things like that. Strange how he didn’t think about it until he held Sadie in his arms.
He started toward the elevators. The doors opened and Vince was pleasantly surprised when Sadie stepped out.
“Hi, Vince. What are you up to?” She offered him a perky smile.
“I was just thinking about calling you.”
His heart danced in his chest. He pictured her wrapped in his arms and he had to fight the urge to plant a kiss on her luscious lips. He wasn’t sure how she felt or what she had in mind about what had happened between them.
“Where are your friends?” he asked.
“They’re getting ready. We’re going to a popular restaurant for dinner. I came down for a bottle of Tylenol.” She held up the bag with the medication and gave it a quick shake. “I took my last one on the plane.” Sadie squinted and rubbed her forehead.
“Are you okay?”
“Too long in the sun and too much shopping. Add a lack of sleep to the mix.” She put on a grin.
It wasn’t his motive to detain her, but boy did she looked alluring in a pair of pink ankle-length pants and a sleeveless, floral top. A stylish white jacket finished off her look, and he couldn’t take his eyes off her. “You look wonderful. I’d never guess you had a headache.”
“After being in front of a class of teenagers, you learn how to hide it and cope.” Sadie flipped her hand around and lifted a shoulder.
“You always were good at adapting to a situation.” He got a whiff of her perfume as she brushed him with her arm and his head spun. “Do you remember the time we had to change costumes in between scenes and your zipper broke? You taped it closed, and it worked.”
“I can’t believe you remember that. What a crazy night.” Sadie gave a sweet little giggle.
He moved aside and guided her to follow. “I don’t want to block the entrance. Do you have plans later tonight?”
Sadie took a step closer. “We have plans for dinner.”
She parted her lips, displaying the cutest expression. It made him want to sweep her up and carry her upstairs. The way her eyes glistened tantalized him to the core. She knew how to reel him in, and he was an easy catch. For her anyway. There was an honesty about Sadie that he’d always admired. She embodied the word integrity. He’d be proud to call her his girlfriend, if she’d have him.
“I’ll be up late reading a few scripts. Do you want to come over when you get back?” He held his breath as his blood rushed to his head.
“I was thinking about it. I could pop over.”
“Great! I’ll be waiting. Tell the girls I said hello, and have a good time.”
“I’ll tell them. Thank you. When we get home, you can come to my house. I’ll cook.” She turned to push the button on the elevator.
“I’d like that.”
They got inside together. After a short ride, Sadie got out on her floor. “I’ll see you tonight.”
He exhaled and mouthed a big yes. How did he get so lucky?
He wouldn’t be able to invite her over to his place anytime soon. It wasn’t a place you’d take a woman like Sadie. It was old, musty, cluttered with books, newspaper clippings, and mismatched furniture. A tiny studio and a bath, at his age, was embarrassing. His stomach tightened at the mere thought of her seeing where he lived. If he got a steady job, the first thing he would do was move to a bigger place. A steady job, besides waiting tables on weekends and modeling gigs, was long overdue.
The countdown had begun until he saw her again. He hurried up to his room, went over to the table, and opened the bag of food. The savory aroma made his mouth water. He dug in and finished it in minutes, saving the bag of cookies to share later with Sadie.
With a script in his hands, he plopped on the bed, kicked his shoes off, and arranged the pillows to be more comfortable. He’d promised Joey he’d read over a copy of the made-for-television movie. A long shot for sure. He’d had a busy couple of days. The pilot, a night with Sadie, an interview, and now another great night ahead of him. Less than halfway through the read, he couldn’t keep his eyes open, and before long he dozed off.
* * * *
After a delicious three-course dinner at an Italian restaurant in Beverly Hills, Sadie insisted that they order cappuccinos and dessert. Jill and Millie didn’t put up much of a fight.
Sadie sat up straight and proudly announced, “I dieted for this trip.”
“You’ve got a great figure, Sadie.” Millie took a spoonful of her crème brûlée.
“Thanks. I cut down to be able to indulge.”
“I feel like all eyes were on us tonight.” Jill sampled a rich chocolate cake with ganache icing. She hunched over and whispered, “Did you notice how many people were staring at us? We must look like celebrities.”
“I don’t think so,” Sadie replied. “Jill’s imagination is over-the-top. She should have been the actress. We were lucky to get reservations in a place where the A-list stars are known to hang out.”
The décor was modern and elegant, with gold and browns, leather booths, dark wood tables, vintage gold wall scones, and a huge bar with limestone granite. Throughout the meal, Sadie kept scanning the room, not wanting to miss someone famous. Despite an exquisite dining experience, she was a little disappointed that they didn’t get to see one of their favorite movie stars. Maybe next time.
A few flutters began in her stomach as the evening came to an end. It wasn’t over for her. A late night visit with Vince was the icing on the cake.
“You look all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. Are you seeing Vince tonight? Maybe another sleepover?” Jill gave a sly little smirk.
Millie opened her eyes wide and moved closer to Sadie.
Sadie didn’t want to come across as being rude, so she confessed, “Yes, I’m stopping by his room later.”
“You really like him, don’t you?” Millie asked.
“She more than likes him. She slept over, didn’t she?” Jill wouldn’t give up. “You know I want only the best for you.”
“I know you do, honey. It’s been a long time coming. We were close in the theater group, but there was nothing more than a friendship. He’s always been a great guy and so handsome.” She fanned herself.
“We get it.” Jill pushed her coffee cup away. “I’m stuffed.” She gave a sigh. “I wish Tommy made me feel the way Vince makes you feel. It shows all over your face.”
“I’m sorry the spark with Tommy is fading. Maybe you can rekindle it when we get back.”
“It needs more than a spark. More like a bonfire.” She motioned with her arms spread apart. “I wish we were more compatible.”
“You can talk to him about it. If it isn’t meant to be, someone else more suited for you will come along,” Sadie assured her. She believed her own words, especially since it had happened to her. A wild night with Vince had definitely been unexpected.
A surge of heat swept over her and she took a slow, deep breath. Sadie was glad she’d arranged for the driver to come back for them. He was right on time and parked outside waiting for them.
“That’s what I call service,” Jill said as they headed to the car.
Once they got buckled in, the driver took off.
Millie yawned. “What’s on the agenda for tomorrow?”
“I thought we might go to Universal Studios in the morning, and the hotel has a van to take us on a tour of the stars’ homes. I’ve always wanted to do it. I packed my expensive camera to take some great pictures.” Sadie hoped they didn’t think she was being bossy.
“I’m happy you plan things to do. If you left it up to us, we’d be out of luck. We can never make up our minds,” Millie admitted.
“Speak for yourself.” Jill laughed.
“It’s true and you know it,” Sadie said with a smile as she patted Jill’s hand.
“I suppose I do have a little trouble making decisions.” Jill put her head on Sadie’s shoulder. “You’re so good at it. Thanks for being organized. I’d love to go to the studio and on the tour. Let’s leave early. If you don’t stay out too late, we can get out early enough to enjoy the whole day.”
* * * *
When they got back to the room, Sadie made a beeline for the bathroom. She brushed her teeth and fluffed up her hair. A dap of lip-gloss and she was good to go. Before heading out, she checked her phone messages and deleted the ones she’d already heard. What a thrill to find that Vince had left a voicemail. Her heart soared as she listened to it. He was looking forward to seeing her again. Sadie gripped the phone tight and giggled. She realized she was acting like a teenager, but she’d set out to have fun, and she’d promised herself to live like there was no tomorrow.
Millie and Jill had already changed into their summery pajamas and slippers. The television blared and the two of them were sprawled out on their stomachs across the king-sized bed.
“What are you watching?”
“It’s chick flick night.” Jill kept her eyes glued on the screen.
“Well, I’m leaving. Wish me luck.”
“You don’t need luck. Vince is hooked.” Jill displayed an okay sign with her fingers.
“Yeah, sure. Thanks for the vote of confidence. We’ll see.” In her heart, she had a feeling it was true. It was scary to get involved with a guy you thought was only a friend. She’d heard of it happening to other people, but she never dreamed it would happen to her. Everyone said that being friends first was a good thing.
“Have a nice night.” Millie plumped her pillows and waved from under the covers.
Jill got up and scooted her along.
“Thanks.” Sadie took off like she was in a race.
On the way to his room she moistened her lips, excited to see him. Her belly filled with flutters.
When she knocked on Vince’s door he opened it in a flash and greeted her with a welcoming grin. “Come in. You’re here earlier than I’d expected.” He ushered her inside, closed the door, and held her around the waist.
A five o’clock shadow made him look even hotter than he already did, and in his faded, tight jeans, he couldn’t be any cuter.
“I’m sorry I didn’t shave again. I was so engrossed in reading. You might as well get used to the real me.” He held his arms out.
“I don’t see a problem.” She stood with one hand on her chin. “You do look great in distressed jeans.” If only she could keep her eyes in her head, she wouldn’t seem like a stalker. She swooned over the way the jeans hugged his muscular thighs. The form-fitting shirt didn’t look too shabby either. They’d spent the night together, had known each other since they were teenagers, and yet her insides still rattled. If he noticed the nervous twitch in her eye, she’d flip. She held her clutch close to her chest.
“Would you like something to drink?” He moved over to the tiny kitchenette and opened the refrigerator door. “There’s beer, water, and soda. I almost forgot, a woman sent me a vintage bottle of wine.” He motioned to a gift bag on the counter. “It came with a nice note about how much she enjoyed the show.”
“How nice of her. You’re a bigger star than you think.”
“I wouldn’t go that far, but I wish.”
“I’m in the mood for a glass of wine. Will you join me?” Sadie asked.
“Sure, I’ll have one.”
“It’s been so many years since our days in the theater group. We should have kept in touch.”
“If you’re not counting the reunion and the time we ran into one another at the grocery store,” he added.
Vince checked in a drawer and took out a corkscrew. Once the bottle was open, he grabbed two long-stemmed glasses from the top of the counter and poured the wine. He went over to dim the lights and then he turned on the stereo.
“Much better.” He handed Sadie a glass of wine and sat on the sofa, motioning for her to sit next to him.
She sat and took a sip. “This is good.” Her tongue darted in and out of her mouth.
“Don’t do that unless you want me to kiss you.”
“Do what?”
“Stick your tongue out.” He gave an admiring grin, and she shuddered when she got a peek at his dimples.
“I didn’t realized I did it. Or are you just trying to find an excuse to make out?” She poked his side and let out a laugh.
“Maybe.” He tilted his head, smiling. Draping his arm around her shoulder, he nestled close, giving her arm a gentle squeeze. “Isn’t this the life? It’s beautiful out tonight, and I’m here with you.”
“With the drapes wide open, the evening view is breathtaking. A gorgeous midnight blue sky with pinkish red streaks is as pretty as a painting.” Sadie sighed and closed her eyes for a moment, content with Vince by her side. “I never expected to be here with you, but I’m happy we ran into one another.”
Being next to Vince was where she wanted to be. His strong hands caressing her arm helped calm her rapid pulse. He nuzzled her neck gently as his lips roamed along her shoulder. A shiver ran down her spine. She’d kept her feelings to herself long enough. This was the right time. Their chance meeting was meant to be. Sadie decided to come clean.
She folded her hands and sat straight up. “I have a confession to make.” She was serious. Dead serious. Their relationship would never work based on a lie.
“You do? What is it?” He raised his brows and his smile slopped into a slight frown. He shifted his position. “Go ahead.”
“Yes. Umm…I wanted to tell you this last night, but I didn’t want to break the mood.” She took a deep breath and placed her hand on top of his. “I was attracted to you when we worked together in the theater company. I’m sorry I made you feel like you weren’t my type. It was a horrible thing to do.”
“No, it wasn’t. You never made me feel unaccepted. I thought I was too pushy.” He gave her hand a gentle squeeze. “I’m so happy you told me.” Vince ran his hand across the top of his head. “God, I thought you were about to tell me you had a boyfriend.” He exhaled and seemed to come back to life. “I had a feeling you liked me too. My buddy told me different. That jerk. All these years gone by.”
“We’re here now, and that’s what counts.” She put her arms around his neck and tears of joy filled her eyes. It was magnificent to have a second chance at life and at love. The minute she saw his face on the romance novel cover, an array of emotions too difficult to explain filled her body and soul.
He slowly reached for the sides of her face and gazed lovingly into her eyes. Her blood soared through her veins. When he gently lifted her chin and kissed her softly on the lips, she never wanted to let him go. She held her hand on his chest and felt the pounding of his heart. If she’d realized how wonderful falling in love with Vince was, she would have thrown herself at his feet years ago.
Vince sat back and kept his arm around her shoulders. He rested his head back and glanced out at the evening view, gently raking his fingers up and down her arm. Her mind and body relaxed to the magic of his touch.
“Have you heard anything about the show yet?” Sadie asked.
He stirred and turned to face her. “Nope. My manager doesn’t want me to get my hopes up. There’s so many pilots that never get picked up.” Vince shrugged. “For now, I’m not counting on it. Life goes on in the meantime.” He slouched down into the upholstery and crossed one leg over the other.
She closed her eyes and an idea popped into her head. It would be nice to have an assistant with the senior play. They worked well as a team. Although, she wouldn’t want to impose on him. He’s got to earn a living too, and this job is not a paying one. She’d wait. Now wasn’t the time to make a hasty decision.
“You’re awfully quiet all of a sudden.” Vince was so in tune with her.
“Oh, I was just thinking of something back home. I’m sorry. I’m all yours. Business set aside until after next Monday.”
“Good. I wish I was staying until then. I’m flying back tomorrow.” He held his lips tight together.
“You’re kidding?” Sadie’s whole mood did a complete turnaround. She put on a half-smile and tried to rally. “What time do you check out?”
“My flight is at ten in the morning.”
“I’m sorry you have to go home. At least Jersey weather is better now that spring is here.”
She tried to stay positive and not come across as overbearing. They’d see each other soon. For heaven’s sake, they lived in the same town. Yet their paths were so different. Vince had pursued an acting career, and he traveled regularly into the city for auditions. Sadie had school all day, with her students being a huge part of her life.
“Yeah, that’s true. But I’d rather be here with you.”
“Oh, you would?”
She felt a little sorry for him. He was extremely talented, and it made her sad to see him struggle to follow his dream. She didn’t have the guts to stick to hers. She’d never admit it to anyone, but tucked deep inside, Sadie knew teaching was second best.
“I’m enjoying the music. It’s serene and romantic.” She nestled up against his chest, his heartbeat next to her ear. The time spent together looking out at the star-filled sky was a moment to cherish. Vince slowly stroked her hair. While she listened to the soft music in the background, Sadie’s eyes got heavy.
She stirred to the sound of a cellphone voicemail alert, and she peeked at her watch. It was after two AM. She stretched and found Vince staring at her.
“Hi, sleepyhead,” he whispered close to her ear. “We must have fallen asleep. It’s funny, we both conked out at the same time.” He covered his mouth and yawned.
“I guess we needed the rest. Would you mind if I didn’t sleep over? I woke up with a slight headache, and besides, you have to be up and out early.”
“I don’t mind. You probably want to curl up and sleep until noon. You’ve been a busy girl, and you’ve had a rough year. I’m ready to fall back asleep anyway. Neither one of us got much rest last night.” Vince offered her an accepting grin.
Sadie stood and picked up her purse from the sleek, gold coffee table. Vince got up and put his arms around her waist. He pulled her close and kissed her as if he were leaving for duty overseas, his soft moans tempting her to stay.
He held onto her and stared into her eyes. “I want to take you out to a nice place for dinner as soon as you get back. On the water maybe. I remember how much you love Spring Lake. After dinner, we can take a stroll on the boardwalk to watch the sunset.”
“I’d like that. Do you remember when the bunch of us tried to light a campfire and the police came?”
“I sure do. I had to talk us out of being dragged into headquarters. I think the officer went to school with my father,” he recalled.
“It seems so long ago.” She smiled and turned to start toward the door.
Vince spun her around for one more kiss. He held her close up against his chest and ran his hand up and down her back, sending an electrifying surge through her. His mouth lingered on hers.
“Have a safe trip. I’ll see you soon.” Sadie stared into his eyes.
His passionate kiss made her a little tipsy, but Sadie had learned a thing or two about men. Her mother also advised to always keep an element of mystery, and most importantly, don’t be clingy. It wasn’t easy. How she managed to stay calm and cool, she’d never know. He opened the door and she left with uncertainties floating around in her head.
At least it was the last night she’d have to sneak into her room like a teen who was afraid of being grounded. Sadie craved a good night’s rest and time to gather her thoughts. Next week they’d be back in Jersey, and she wondered if things would pick up where they left off or if it was merely a vacation fling.
Millie and Jill were sound asleep when she got in. Sadie slipped into the bathroom to change. She pushed her bangs off her forehead with a headband and washed her face. She brushed her teeth and swished around some minty mouthwash as she stared at herself in the mirror. It was a relief to have a healthy glow back. She had been as pale as a ghost all winter.
Tucked under the covers with her thoughts centered on Vince, it wasn’t long before she drifted to sleep.