Vince left the window open next to his bed, and he pushed the sheer navy panels apart to let in the cool ocean air. It’d been a long day, and it felt good to crawl into his own bed.
He lifted the red, white, and blue patch quilt his grandmother had made for him when he’d graduated high school up to his chest. He could still smell the lilac scent from her garden. He missed his grandma and wished she was there to cheer him on. Her love of quilting kept her busy even into her eighties. She had always used patriotic designs, since his grandpa was a war hero.
The sound of the crickets outside helped him unwind. If only Sadie was alongside of him. Being with Sadie seemed as natural as taking a breath. He’d show her how much she meant to him this time around. Nothing was going to stand in his way. Second chances didn’t come along every day, and he wasn’t going to mess it up this time.
He grabbed onto an extra pillow and held it close with thoughts of Sadie lying next to him, until he drifted off to sleep.
The sound of a rock anthem blaring from the place upstairs woke Vince, and he strained to make out the time on the nightstand. One thing about the boarding house he didn’t like was the thin walls. An apartment change might come sooner than he thought.
He mumbled a few choice words, threw off the covers, and stretched. He had to hurry, since it was after eight. If he wanted to get back to his normal routine of jogging on the beach bright and early, he’d better set an alarm next time. His inner clock was still on LA time. Vince jumped out of bed and went into the bathroom. He washed his face and brushed his teeth, then he threw on a pair of shorts and a muscle tee. He grabbed a protein shake from the refrigerator, guzzled it, slicked his hair back before he put on a baseball hat, and was out the door. He’d try to fit in a workout at the gym another day. He didn’t want to lose momentum
With a slow, easy jog, he kicked up the gravel in the driveway as he headed toward the beach. The familiar sight of the shaded, tree-lined streets with pastel-painted homes, some with wraparound porches, and wildflower gardens never got old. The salty scent of the ocean was refreshing. Living down The Jersey Shore had a strong effect on his mood. It brought him peace and comfort. People were friendly and supportive, and life was a little slower here. He enjoyed the frenzy of The Big Apple, but going home to a peaceful place was the right move for him. He’d travel for long lengths of time if his work required his relocating temporarily, yet he’d always return to the seashore town he grew up in. The sound of waves hitting the shore greeted him as he made it up to the boardwalk.
After the jog, Vince had planned to practice his vocal prior to the audition in NYC. He’d have enough time to perfect the chords before he had to catch the train. So many amazing opportunities had come along all at once. He wanted to reach out and make one of them his own. This time he’d get to the next level.
Vince made a mental note to touch base with his mother when he got back from the beach. She was a strong woman and could take care of herself, nevertheless, he wanted to be sure she was okay. Her surprise visit yesterday got him thinking. Tucked in a corner of his heart, he wished his father success with his recovery. It was never too late. Somehow, having Sadie back in his life opened his eyes to what really matters. Family was important, no matter what. Resentments were only in the way of progress and individual growth. His counselor would be so proud of his revelation. Not that he didn’t always have it inside of him. He’d needed a push in the right direction, that was all. It all seemed so clear now. He’d heard love does crazy things, and if this change was love, anything was possible.
Once he reached the water’s edge, Vince picked up speed. The sea air invigorated him. There were only a few people with the same idea. He was glad it wasn’t crowded during the week until summer. The gulls flew in circles overhead, swooping down to search for nibbles of whatever they could find. He enjoyed the ocean breeze on his skin and, with the sky as clear as a painting without a cloud in sight, he’d jog a little farther. He sure hoped the good weather held up for his date with Sadie.
Back at his place, Vince took a quick shower. Wrapped in a lightweight robe, he sang a few bars from the songs in his repertoire before he got ready. His voice was in good form. I’ve got this. It took an hour to feel confident doing the song he chose to perform. He picked up his phone from the kitchen table and dialed his mom. He went over to the sofa and sat.
“Hey, how are you doing?” Vince asked.
“I’m fine. How’s your day going? Any news?”
“I’m going to the city today. I don’t know if you remember about my audition.”
“Of course I remember. I was going to call to wish you luck. You know, I have a good feeling about it.”
“You always have a good feeling about my auditions.” He appreciated her confidence in him.
“I mean it. I had a dream about Grandma. She was sitting in a theater applauding as you took a bow.”
“You probably had our conversation on your mind before you went to bed. Thanks for the positive thoughts. Are you okay? I mean, has Dad been behaving?” He played with the salt and pepper shaker.
“Yes, he has. I’m in a good place, and you don’t have to worry another second. You do your best. Let me know how it goes.”
“Okay. I was thinking I’d try to have a long talk with Dad one of these days.”
“That’s what I was hoping. He is your father. He’s still going to meetings, and he’s even working with a sponsor.”
“Great. I better run. Talk to you later.”
He’d decided on dark blue jeans and a short-sleeve royal blue shirt. He grabbed his keys, cellphone, and his briefcase with his photos, sheet music, and his publicity packet. He scanned the room to make sure he hadn’t forgotten anything. He hoped the train was on time. So far, things seemed to be in his favor. Vince vowed to stay optimistic. He’d made ends meet with modeling, and with two potential acting roles insight and a woman like Sadie in his corner, he had no reason to doubt good things were headed his way. As he was about to walk out of the door to go the train station, he got a call from Joey.
“Hey, buddy.”
“Got a minute?” Joey asked.
“Sure. What’s up?”
“Sorry to call last minute. I wanted to wish you luck. My man with the show has faith that you’re what they want.”
“What do you mean?” Vince swallowed hard. He went over to the counter, pulled out a stool, and sat. His head buzzed.
“They caught a glimpse of you in the off-Broadway production the night you got to step in for the lead, and they think you might be what they’re looking for. You go and prove you’ve got what it takes,” Joey said with confidence.
“That’s a big deal.” He felt like he was in a dream. What a break. “I sure will, man. Thanks for having faith in me. I won’t let you down.”
“I know you won’t. Before you go, I spoke to an executive about the pilot. It seems like a decision might take a while. So, what I’m trying to say is this Broadway show might be a blessing in disguise. It will put you out there and give you the break you deserve. And as far as the pilot goes, the timing would allow you to do both. Anyway, you can’t count on the show. You know how picky and fickle the networks can be.” He cleared his throat.
“Are you feeling okay?”
“Yeah. Just a bit of dust. That’s all. Don’t worry about me. I can take care of myself, but thanks for caring.”
“You know I’m here if you need me.”
“Get your butt moving. You’ve got to be in tip-top shape for today.”
“Aye-aye.” If they’d been face to face, he felt like a salute would be needed.
His agent gave him guidance above and beyond his realm of duties. He’d helped shape his career with his heart and soul. This was a great opportunity, and he was thankful for Joey’s constant support. All of the years he’d been in the business, he’d hoped that the right person would be in the audience and pluck him out of the show. Waiting with patience for what he wanted was starting to pay off in more ways than one. His heart filled with hope and he had just enough anxiety to help keep him on his toes.
Vince jumped in his car, buckled up, and rode along with the heat beating through his sunroof. He popped in the CD of the song he’d prepared and sang along. He couldn’t wait to share every detail with Sadie. He’d wait until he knew for sure and it was the right moment to make it about him. Today, it was more important for her to enjoy her time with her friends.
Once he squeezed into a parking spot, he hurried to the platform. He checked the board with the schedule. The train pulled in right on time. In minutes, he had boarded and was on his way.
Vince had more confidence this time. On the last audition for a play, he’d been jittery and unprepared. This romance thing did wonders for his self-esteem. It was strange how everything changed when you found the right partner. Sadie knew him so well—really knew him—and she believed in him. It was exactly what he’d needed to give him the extra boost. He’d do the same for her. She was a giving and loving woman, and he was sure her students adored her. There must be a way he’d be able to lend a hand with her senior production. But he wouldn’t say anything to her until he knew for sure he would have the time to do it. The last thing he wanted to do was let Sadie down.
Vince sat next to the window and stared out of it. He envisioned the way Sadie crinkled up her nose when she laughed. Her beauty and sweet disposition had won his heart. She was the kind of woman to build a life with, and the type you’d be able to take home to meet your mother. Luckily, his mother already loved her. Hopefully, he’d reconcile with his father one day soon, once he’d gained enough clean time, and then and only then would Vince bring him around Sadie.
Back in the old days when they’d perform, his father never showed up at a performance. Not even once. Vince had buried the sadness and feelings of rejection deep inside his heart. He greatly appreciated how his mother and grandmother gave him support, and he’d never questioned his dad about why he never showed up. Broken promises had been a daily occurrence at his house. This new-fangled notion to forgive his dad was a surprise even to him. Sure, he’d questioned his own motives. A time in grade school popped into his mind when his father had picked him up because he was sick with a sore throat, took him home, and tucked him into bed. Later, he surprised him with a junior guitar and a few of his favorite ice pops. For now, Vince was at peace with his decision.
* * * *
When the casting director called his name, Vince squared his shoulders and strode to center stage. He handed his portfolio to an assistant. She was a stylish, older woman with black hair and red highlights, dressed in a pair of skinny jeans. Her warm smile set him at ease. There were also quite a few familiar faces in the room, and besides, people in the business were usually friendly.
“Thank you, honey. Please, take your mark.”
He’d been disappointed with the turnout on so many previous attempts on Broadway roles. Maybe this time he’d get his big break. There was something different about this audition. The role was suited for him. People say things happen when they are supposed to happen. There just might be some truth in the old adage. He felt the heat from the lights on his face. Out of the corner of his eye, he spotted one of the producers peering over his glasses and whispering to the person next to him. His heart pounded. It could be a good sign.
He took a sip of water before he began. An inner strength and a deep desire to succeed guided him through. After a few minutes, it was time for him to do his solo vocal. Vince stepped over to a bench where he’d put his briefcase, opened it, and took out his music. He handed it to the young woman behind the piano. She offered an optimistic grin and a wink. Here goes. Vince gave it his all, and he felt like he’d really impressed them. He looked out at the vast space, adrenaline surging through his body like a wildfire. The stage was where he belonged. His voice fit the role like it was made for him. His range was high enough to hit the notes. His confidence seemed stronger this time around.
His positive attitude must have showed in his performance. The producer wanted him to sing again, this time with the female lead. She’d been chosen beforehand and was already well established in the theater world. If he got the part, he’d work hard to prove himself. Although he’d be crazy busy and might not get to spend as much time with Sadie. It would all be worth it in the end. He hoped she’d understand. Not that he had any of the jobs yet. It’d probably be better if he didn’t speculate. He couldn’t wait to tell Sadie everything about the audition and how amazing the theater was.
He carefully examined the expressions of the people in the front rows, trying to speculate. All eyes were on him. Vince felt a queasiness develop in his gut. There was so much at stake. Last time wasn’t this difficult. He exhaled. Now that he knew he’d been considered for the part, it made it real for him. His dream was getting closer to becoming a reality. Damn, he knew this play inside and out. He crossed his fingers and hoped his inkling was on target.
* * * *
The girls slept late and decided to order breakfast in. The array of pastries, croissants, homemade jams, gourmet muffins, coffee, and fresh fruits was fit for royalty. They sat around a table covered in a white linen tablecloth with an arrangement of spring flowers in the center next to the wall of windows in their room.
“This is the life.” Jill flipped her hair as she sipped a Mimosa.
“It sure is. I’m having the best time. Thank you for the trip of a lifetime. What a spread. It all smells so good.” Sadie picked a cranberry orange muffin and cut it in half. “I feel like I’m in bakery heaven.” She smiled as she stared out at the massive city. She took a deep breath, feeling more at peace with her life than she had in a long time.
Millie raised her glass and offered a toast. “To friendship, and to our blessings.”
“Thank you.” Sadie took a sip of her drink. “It’s so good.” She ran her tongue along her lips.
“Isn’t it great to be all together?” Jill reached over and took a banana nut muffin out of the basket, buttered it, and took a bite. “I could get used to this.” She chuckled.
“You and me both.” Sadie sampled a strawberry dipped in vanilla yogurt.
“Who would have thought you’d meet a man from your past here in LA?” Millie smiled as she piled a few pieces of fruit on her plate.
“You’re in love with him, aren’t you?” Jill blurted out of the blue.
“I think it’s a little soon to say the word love.” In her heart, she knew what she felt.
Vince was different than anyone she’d ever dated. He possessed all of the qualities she’d admired in a man, like honesty, integrity, strength, yet he wasn’t afraid to show his emotions. During their time together in the theater, they’d faced challenges, and he gave her support and his undivided attention when she needed it. She didn’t want to jump ahead and jinx their relationship. Some of her co-workers had shared tales of confessing their feelings too soon and scaring their men away. She’d try to take it slow. Sadie was afraid she might blink and wake up to find it had just been an amazing dream.
“You had a connection when you were in the theater, so it’s not as if you just met. All of these years Vince never forgot you, and you him. Am I right?”
Millie always said the wisest things. Sadie’s eyes filled with a few tears.
“Tell the truth, sweetie. We’re here for you,” Jill said in a softer tone.
Their concern was well appreciated. “I know you are. All right. Here it is. I’ve never forgotten Vince either. It’s just that our lives took different turns, and we moved on. I never thought he’d still be single. I’d heard most of the members of the group are married. No one really keeps in touch, and time went by so fast.” She took another sip of her breakfast pick-me-up. “Vince was shy, and that’s what appealed to me the most. He didn’t act like other guys who were as good looking as he was, and believe me, he was adorable, but he wasn’t a show-off like some of the jocks. I like his sensitive and artsy personality. He drove me wild when we did our love scenes.” She giggled. “I never knew he wanted me too. Vince never asked me out or let on that he had a crush on me. I thought he wasn’t interested. All that time we shared the same feelings for one another.” It was such a relief to get her emotions out. She sighed and gave them a tiny grin.
“That sounds like something out of a movie. You’re so lucky, and you deserve every bit of it,” Millie said.
Jill crossed her arms and tilted her head, with an expression on her face as if she had just witnessed a bride and groom at the altar. “Beautifully said.”
‘When are you going to see him again?” Millie spooned herself another portion of fruit.
“He’s taking me to my favorite restaurant in Spring Lake on Sunday.” She couldn’t contain her excitement. Her speech sped up. “I know exactly what I’m going to wear, and with a tan, the dress will look perfect. I can’t wait.” She held her arm up and asked, “Do you think I’m tan enough?” She’d wanted to discuss her good news since last night. Her life did an amazing turnaround, and she was ready to begin a new chapter.
“You’ve got great color. He’ll be all over you for sure,” Jill said.
“You look lovely. Whatever dress you choose, you’ll look divine in it.” Millie placed her dish aside and poured another cup of coffee. “What are we doing today?”
“We still haven’t been to Universal Studios Hollywood. It’s got a couple of new features, and we absolutely have to check it out. We can make arrangements downstairs.” Sadie wanted to organize activities that her friends agreed upon. So far the girls let her lead the way. She’d studied the guides for weeks while she was receiving treatment. “Are you with me?”
“It sounds great.” Jill pushed away from the table, stood, and went over to her side of the closet and pushed aside a few outfits. “Decisions, decisions.”
“Hey, Jill. It looks like today is going to be a scorcher.” Sadie pointed to the television as the weather lady was doing her report. “I’m wearing white shorts and a pink tank. No dresses for me today.” She moved her hair off her forehead. “Maybe even a slicked back hairdo.”
“You’ve become the fashionista of the group.” Jill stretched out on the bed.
“Come on, LA awaits.” Sadie went over and tapped the side of Jill’s leg. “Aren’t you going to get ready?”
“Yeah, yeah, yeah. I’ve been calling Tommy all morning. He’s not answering. I’m supposed to be the aloof one.”
Sadie sat on the edge of the bed. “I’m sure he’ll call. Maybe he was sleeping. There is a three hour difference, you know.”
Jill put her hand on the side of her face. “What was I thinking? He must think I’m a lunatic.” She burst out laughing. “I forgot all about the time.” She got up and hightailed it into the bathroom.
Millie stood in front of the mirror and fussed with her hair. “I’m putting my hair in a ponytail. Do you have any pretty hair ties?”
“Let me check.” Sadie went to her side of the double closet in the hallway and lifted her smaller bag with accessories. She brought it over to the bed, opened it, and sat. “Here are a couple of different types.” She handed them to her friend.
“Thanks. I’m going to miss the perks of staying with friends when we get back home. I wish we could stay longer,” Millie admitted as she played with her hair.
“I know. We have to go away more often. I’m having so much fun, but I have to admit, I’m looking forward to my date on Sunday.” She fumbled with a packet of rubber bands, knowing all too well how badly she wanted to feel Vince’s lips on hers, to feel his strong hands on her skin, and to spend the night wrapped in his loving embrace.
Millie turned to face her. “You seem nervous. Is something bothering you?”
Sadie’s gaze fell to the floor. “I’m okay. I miss Vince already. I’m in trouble, right?” She gave a half-smile.
“No, you’re not. You’re in luck. I wish I could say the same about my lame relationship.” Millie placed her hand on top of hers. “We all want to find that someone we can be ourselves with, and vice versa.”
“You’re right,” Sadie replied with her voice low.
“Is there something else you’re not telling me? You know you can trust me.”
She gave a quick shrug and sighed. “It’s my own self-doubt about my career choice. I haven’t given much thought to my acting career and how much I wanted it. I sort of let it go when I decided to teach.”
“Go on.” Millie sat beside her. “Why are you doubting your decision now? It seems like there is more to the story.”
“Vince never gave up his dream. I buckled when the going got tough. That’s all. Meeting him after all these years forced me to remember the way I used to be, and the times we had together talking about our goals.” It was hard to face her doubts head-on. The easy way worked better.
It had all come flooding back once she came face to face with the man who she shared her dreams with. She felt like such a hypocrite after making a vow to live her life differently after her cancer treatment had ended. Seize the moment and have no regrets was what she had told herself. Why was she doubting herself? Her heart was in the theater, however, she did love her students. They needed her, and she needed them.
“I think Jill is finished in there. I don’t want to put a damper on the day.” She waved her hand in the air and put one finger to her lips. She’d rather not prompt a group discussion about her doubts. Today was about having fun and exploring new things. “Thanks for listening.” Thank goodness her besties were always there to hear her out and not judge. Things always seemed a little better after a venting session to a dear and trusted friend.
“You’re welcome. You’d do the same for me.” Millie gave her a quick hug, got up, and went back to the mirror. “We’re going to have a marvelous day.”
“Tonight we can eat at another fancy restaurant. I’ll make reservations for the place with the great view in the hotel. We deserve to dine in style,” Sadie insisted as she got up and strolled over to the end table to pick up her bag.
“Did I miss anything?” Jill stood in the hall with her hand on her hip, modeling a yellow sleeveless jumpsuit and a large-brimmed white hat. “Do I look like a movie star or what?”
“Yes. Next thing you know you’ll have your own reality show.” Sadie chucked.
“I’m ready,” Millie announced as she gave Jill a once-over. “Love your outfits.”
The girls left and made their way down the hall like they owned the place, with their heads up, shoulders back, and tummies tucked. Out in front of the hotel, they hopped in the van that waited to take them to Universal. The driver did a quick head count and explained about the pick-up time before he took off.
Sadie couldn’t wait to enter the gates of the park. It was definitely a must-see in LA. The fun times of sightseeing in a magnificent city weren’t over yet, but in a couple of days she’d be back in New Jersey to begin the next chapter in her life. Hopefully, she’d find a way to accept her decision to give up her dreams of being on the stage and appreciate the path she’d chosen instead.
“Let’s take a ride in one of those trolleys that take you around the movie sets,” Jill said as she popped a piece of gum into her mouth.
“I’m all for it. How about you, Millie?”
“Why not? It sounds like fun. Later on, I’d love to take a stroll on Venice Beach. The atmosphere is so Bohemian.”
“I don’t know what got into you, but I love the new you.” Jill put her hand out and gave Millie’s a friendly slap.
The mini-van stopped and the driver jumped out to open the back door. The friends got out and filed in a line to get inside the park. Sadie swayed back and forth as excited as a kid in an amusement park.
“I don’t remember when I had such a fabulous time. I wonder if Vince was ever here,” Sadie said.
“I knew it,” Jill said as she gave Sadie a light tap on her arm.
“You knew what?” Sadie paid for the tickets.
“That you were falling hard for Mr. Good Looking.”
“I’ll tell him you have a new name for him.” She laughed.
Sadie’s sandal popped opened, and when she stopped to fasten it, her phone almost fell out of her bag. She caught it just in time. When she slipped it back into her purse, a photo of Vince appeared on the screen. It was a selfie standing in front of a theater in the city.
A knot formed in her gut. Why did she feel so uncomfortable all of a sudden? Her biggest concern was if he had to travel to LA for the pilot, not the show on Broadway. He’d be able to stay nearby if he got the part in the play. Then why did she wish he’d do the television show instead? Was she secretly envious of Vince achieving what she’d left behind?
A revolving globe was the center of attention and they stopped to get a better look. Sadie was in awe of the amazing design. She wobbled when she strained her neck to get a full view, and then she planted her feet firmly on the ground. Steady, girl. It took a few minutes to center herself and get a grip on her emotions.
She wasn’t about to let envy stand in the way. Her uneasiness over Vince and the theater wasn’t due to his talent; it was her lack of it that gnawed at her. He deserved a chance. Sadie shook off her sullen mood and trudged onward.
A grand arch led the way to a magical experience. Crowds filled the streets. Colors and light flickered all around. The sound of laughter came from all angles. People young and old had the same idea in mind on a beautiful late spring day.
“I know I sound like a dork, but can we visit the world of Harry Potter?” Sadie politely asked.
“We sure can. We’re off to see the wizard.” Jill’s voice was high-pitched, and she sounded like she’d entered her second childhood.
With a happy smile on her face, Sadie and her friends began an adventure they’d never forget. Sadie planned on capturing the day’s activities with lots of pictures and she’d show them all to Vince. They’d be home in a few days, and she’d be in Vince’s arms once again.
* * * *
Sadie jumped out of bed. “Hurry, we don’t want to miss our plane.” She’d sleep on the plane so she would look her best when Vince picked her up the following evening.
“I don’t want to go home.” Jill dragged herself out of bed.
“I’m with you,” Millie announced as she stuck her head out of the bathroom door.
“Let me in there,” Sadie said.
“I’ll be out in a few. You light a fire under slowpoke Jill.” Millie smiled and shut the door.
Sadie held her arms out and spun around like a dancer. “I’ll never forget this magnificent vacation.” She threw on a pair of tights and a comfortable pink fleece top, stuffed the last item inside her suitcase, and closed it. “You better hurry if we’re going to make it to the airport on time.” She reached out to give Jill her hand.
“I’ll be ready. Don’t worry. I showered and packed last night. Remember?”
“Oh yeah.” Sadie shrugged.
“You were on the phone with Lover Boy. You two are so cute.”
Millie came out of the bathroom and picked up her shoulder bag and placed it next to her suitcase on the floor. “I’m ready to go.”
Jill got it together as if she was running on caffeine. She raced around to get dressed. “I’m a pro at getting ready on a minute’s notice,” Jill bragged.
“I’ll be ready in a minute.” Sadie went into the bathroom. In a few minutes, she was done. “Well, this is it. Come on, girls. Let’s get out of here. New adventures await us.” She went over to the window and snuck one last look at the magnificent view, then waved at the Hollywood sign. “See you again one day.”