“I can’t believe I’m hearing the words. I’m listening, yet I have to hear you say it over again.” Vince gripped the phone and shouted, waving his free arm in the air.
It was hard to wrap his head around the news. His pulse sped up and his heart thumped. What a great feeling to have validation for the craft he loved. He couldn’t think of a career more suited for him. It all began as a child when he’d caught the bug to entertain, thanks to his mother, who had signed him up for a children’s theater group. She’d noticed how well he performed when he was in the talent show in school, and then one night she heard him singing in the tub and hurried to drag his father in to hear. At the time, Vince didn’t realize there was anything special about his abilities. It was all for fun.
“Believe it. You’ve earned it. Man, you’ve worked your ass off for it. Go out and celebrate,” Joey insisted with his authoritative tone. “I heard back from the producers of The Mall People, and it’s a no-go, so thank your lucky stars for this break, kid. They liked the premise, but it didn’t fit in this season. That’s how it rolls in the business.”
“I couldn’t ask for better timing. Sadie and I have reservations for the finest restaurant in Monmouth County for Sunday night. Now we’ve got something incredible to celebrate. Wait until I tell her.” Vince wanted to scream it to the world.
Deep inside, he felt a twinge of disappointment over the television show, nevertheless, Broadway was his first love. I got the part! The four words he’d wanted to say for so long were true, and it felt amazing. A lead role in a Broadway show and the chance to work with an established actress who’d won a Tony took time to absorb.
After he’d thanked Joey a zillion times, he hung up and placed his phone on the arm of the couch. Vince needed to take a minute to gather his thoughts. With his feet up on the old chest he used for a coffee table, Vince placed his hands in back of his neck and rested his head on the couch. While he stared up at the ceiling, his heart practically leaped out of his chest. He never wanted to forget this moment. Years of sacrifice were all worth it. He’d try his best to stay humble, work hard, and never take a job for granted.
The conversation twirled around in his mind, until it sunk in. Rehearsals would start soon, and he could hardly wait. Good thing he’d kept in shape and up to date with his dance steps. A regular workout plan and proper nutrition had given him extra stamina. Like his grandmother had assured him, good things come when you work hard.
In a few hours he’d be able to look into Sadie’s eyes, touch her silky hair, and all would be well in the world. He yearned to hold her close and bury his head on her chest, inhaling the sexy scent of her perfume. He’d already picked up his tan dress pants from the dry cleaners, along with his light blue shirt. Looking his best was a must for tonight. Maybe he’d even wear a tie. A fine bottle of champagne was needed for this occasion.
He closed his eyes and envisioned Sadie cradled in his arms. A few days apart made him want her more. He’d pledge to stay by her side. If she felt the same way, he’d do everything in his power to make her happy. He’d cherish each moment together and never let anything come between them. Vince wanted to shield her from all the evil in the world, if it was at all possible. She deserved a good life filled with the best of everything. For God’s sake, she was the only woman he’d ever wanted. Sadie was a beautiful and tempting woman, and he was at her command. A magical spell fell over him when she entered a room. It wasn’t like anything he’d read or seen in a movie. The feeling was unexplainable and impossible to resist.
He stood and decided to get some fresh air. Lack of sleep the previous night had started to affect him. After he yawned through a conversation with one of his neighbors on the front porch, Vince apologized and realized he needed a power nap. He’d stayed up later than usual after he’d spoken to Sadie when she’d arrived home last night.
Vince headed back inside. He pulled down the darkening shades in his studio and set his alarm to wake him in an hour and a half. The last thing he wanted was to be late to pick up Sadie. She lived in the other end of town, closer to the bay, and he couldn’t wait to see her house. Once his head hit the pillow, his whole body relaxed, and he heard himself snore before he zonked out.
* * * *
Now that she’d unpacked and organized her weekly planner, Sadie brewed a cup of ginger-peach tea, carried it out to the patio, and set it down on the table. She cranked open the red umbrella and sat. It was late May, and her garden had grown in a week’s time. Mr. Martin, her retired neighbor, had been nice enough to agree to water her flowers and grass while she was gone. Maybe next year she’d have a sprinkler installed. The fragrance from the annuals drifted her way. She inhaled the sweet scent as she sipped her tea. What a glorious day.
It was like a bird sanctuary in her backyard with all of the trees and the singing species. She’d gotten a nice tan, and with a seasonably warm day, she’d be able to wear one of her new dresses tonight. She put her legs up on another chair and took a deep breath. In a few hours, she’d be with Vince, and it was hard to believe they’d found each other in LA.
Her trip to California was embedded deep in her memory and she couldn’t wait to print the photos. There were even a couple of pictures of Vince in the batch. Jill had snapped them at the after-party. You could always count on her to capture memorable events. Sadie was glad to have a photo of their unofficial first date.
Luckily, Sadie didn’t have to go back to work until Monday, and then tryouts would begin soon after. The principal had been so understanding during her disability leave. She looked forward to being back with her students. They’d kept in touch during her treatment and sent cards, homemade cookies, and flowers. It touched her heart to receive their love and support.
The tea had warmed her insides and helped her relax. Sadie savored the last drop. Her heart fluttered and her hands trembled as it got closer to the moment she’d gaze into Vince’s smoldering eyes. She gathered the cup and coaster before heading back inside.
Once she rinsed the few things in the sink, she went upstairs to start getting ready. There was plenty of time, but it was best to be done early. A slow, steady whirlwind started in her belly as she scurried around her room. She bent over and straighten her lavender chenille bedspread and fluffed a pillow.
Vince might be beside her in her bed soon, if all went well. She imagined his bare chest up against her breasts as she ran her tongue along his neck moving toward his tempting lips. In the past, she’d never admit to wanting a man sexually. But things were different now. She’d realized that life didn’t wait for anyone. If Vince read her mind, they might not make it through dinner. It wasn’t a regular occurrence to bring a man home, but this wasn’t just any man. He was someone she’d fallen deeply for many years ago. Her foolishness and hang-ups held her back. This time she’d hold on tight and never let go.
It was time to get ready. She undressed and went into the bathroom. Just as she was about to get into the tub, her phone rang. She’d left it on the nightstand, so she grabbed a bath towel and ran out to answer it.
“You’re out of breath. I’m sorry to make you run,” Jill said.
“No problem. How’s it going?” Sadie held her towel around her and shivered. She went over to the switch next to the door and turned off the fan.
“I need another week off work. I didn’t get much sleep. Tommy must have missed me, because he’s acting like a romantic fool,” she said in a low tone.
“Is he listening?”
“No, I’m just tired.”
“Well, isn’t that a good thing?” Sadie laughed.
“Enough about my life. I’ll tell you when we have more time to chat. I called to wish you luck tonight with your man. I hope you have a fantastic night.”
“Me too. Thank you for calling. I’ll tell him you said hi.” Sadie started toward the bathroom.
“I’m so happy for you.”
“Go get some rest. Your voice is cracking.”
As soon as Sadie finished her bubble bath, she wrapped herself in a soft, white terrycloth towel and piled her hair up in a smaller one. She turned the extra-bright light on next to the mirror and used an exfoliating face wash. The cucumber scent was refreshing. Once it was time to rinse, she splashed warm water on her face and ran her hand over her cheeks, happy she didn’t have a last minute breakout. Her skin glowed. Sadie used a new toothpaste along with a whitening gel. She’d tried it while she was on vacation, and it surprised her when it worked. A luscious lavender-scented body cream made her legs feel like silk. If she hurried, she’d have time to light a couple of candles and put on her favorite instrumental CD to set the mood for the evening.
It took a few minutes in front of her closet to decide if she’d wear the black dress or the floral print. She’d purchased both since she couldn’t make up her mind. Since Vince was taking her to a fine dining restaurant, she went with the sleeveless black one. It had gold trim around a sexy V-neck, but it wasn’t too revealing. Just enough to keep him intrigued. A touch of stitching in the midriff added a nice effect. With a dainty vintage necklace, matching earrings, and strappy black sandals, she’d be sure to look her best.
Sadie slipped into her dress and sat on the bed. She fastened her sandals, and then she went over to her vanity and applied the finishing touches. Her hands shook slightly as she put on her mascara and added a pretty shade of glittery, pink lip-gloss. Hopefully, once Vince put his arms around her, she’d calm down.
Sadie stood in front of the full-length mirror in her room and took once last look at herself. She turned from side to side, admiring her dress. After she picked up her beaded clutch bag, she went downstairs. Tonight was the ideal time to light the mulled wine scented candle she’d received as a gift from one of her students last Christmas. She placed the decorative jar on the coffee table, lit it, and moved over to the stereo and popped in the soundtrack to Out of Africa. She’d watched the movie with her mother and found the music along with the cinematography beautiful.
When her phone rang, she lowered the music. “Hello, Mom. I’m about to go out on a date,” Sadie announced.
“I was calling to ask how your trip went. I’m sorry to call at a bad time.”
“That’s okay, Mom. I’ll fill you in tomorrow.” She ran her hand across the back of her hair. “Will you be home in the afternoon?” She paced around the room, anticipating Vince’s arrival.
She was grateful her mother already liked Vince, and she anticipated she’d be happy to hear they were dating. A couple of times, when they were teenagers, Sadie had invited Vince and a few of the other members of the cast over her house, and it was usually awkward. Her mother always thought Vince had a crush on her, yet he didn’t do a thing about it. She guessed Mom had been right. She smiled at the thought.
Funny how Mrs. De Carlo and her mom were already friends. They knew each other from various functions in town and had worked on committees for a charity together. It should be interesting to hear her mother’s reaction.
“I plan on going to the beach in the morning to take some photos, but I’ll be home early. I can’t wait to hear how it went. I love you. You deserve happiness, honey. Remember you come first,” her mother said before they hung up.
She knew her mom was onto her about her sadness over leaving her acting career in the wings. Many times she tried to encourage her to go for the career she was passionate about. Sadie told herself that teaching was her passion, but now she had serious doubts.
Sadie rested one knee on the sofa and peeked out the living room window. When she stood and turned to grab her compact from her purse, she heard the sound of tires on the gravel in her driveway and a door slam. Her insides rattled as she waited for Vince to ring the bell. It wasn’t a good idea to appear overly eager. Jill and Millie had given her tips on how to keep a man interested, and the first one was to keep him on his toes. They didn’t have the best relationships, but she knew their hearts were in the right place.
Vince rang the doorbell, and Sadie opened the door. Her heart leaped into her throat when he smiled and handed her a beautiful bouquet of brightly colored flowers. She welcomed him inside and he leaned down and gave her a gentle, yet passion-filled kiss on the lips. For a second, she felt like she’d been swept away to a far-off place. Vince did that to her. One touch and she was gone. She steadied herself. Somehow she knew he wouldn’t show up without a token of his affection. The Vince she’d kept in her heart was a hopeless romantic. She was happy he hadn’t changed. He’d only gotten better with age.
“You have no idea how happy I am to see you. It seems like we’ve been apart for ages,” he said with a sincerity in his voice that warmed her heart. Vince followed her when she took the flowers into the kitchen. “Do you need help with those?”
“I’m good.” She gave him a playful grin. “I’ve got the perfect pink crystal vase tucked under the sink.” She bent down to get it and sensed Vince watching her every move.
Sadie moved over to the counter and took a knife from a holder and carefully cut the stems, filled the vase with water, and arranged the beautiful selection of flowers.
“I’ll carry that for you.” Vince politely took the vase from her hands.
“I think they’ll look pretty on the dining room table.” She led the way.
Vince carried the vase into the dining room and set it down on the table. A sense of excitement made her feel like a girl on the way to her first dance. Her emotions were in charge of her mind. Sadie took a deep breath.
“You have a great place here. Did you hire an interior decorator?” Vince asked.
“I wish. I got the ideas from some of my favorite design magazines. With a touch of whimsy, I created my own style.”
“It shows your personality and reflects your artistic flair.”
Her heart pitter-pattered when Vince stood close. “Thank you.”
He possessed all of the qualities she’d ever wanted in a man. She’d told herself all chances of a romance with him were lost, since they hadn’t kept in touch, but as soon as she laid eyes on him standing in the lobby in LA, her blood sizzled through her veins.
“I’d love to stay here and have an intimate dinner for two, but we’ve got reservations,” Vince whispered close to her ear.
“So would I, but we can come back here later.”
Vince’s eyes held a sexy stare as he slipped his arm around her. He bent over and kissed her neck, sending an electrical current right down to her fingertips. She rested her head on his shoulder for a moment, feeling special, and then she stepped back. If they didn’t leave now, they’d never make it to the restaurant on time.
“I’ll get my things.” She couldn’t wait to curl up beside him in bed and make up for the time they’d spent apart. Sadie went into the kitchen, picked up her clutch from the counter, and reached inside to take her keys out. “I’m ready.”
Her heart nearly jumped out of her chest when she turned and found him staring at her, arms crossed with one hand on his chin, as if he was admiring a beautiful painting. The intensity in his gorgeous blue eyes almost made her stop and undress him in the foyer, but she’d wait. She had to force herself to keep it together. All it took was a look and she was all his. Sadie sucked in her stomach and held her head high as they left her place. They strolled down her walkway side by side, and as her hand brushed up against his, Sadie wanted to take hold of it, but she held back. It might be better to let him take charge.
Vince held the car door open while Sadie got in and buckled up. She placed her hand across the soft leather seats. He’d kept the older model in excellent shape. She ran her tongue along her lips with thoughts of after dinner creeping into her head. Sadie tried to focus on the moment, however, she craved his lips and his hands all over her body. The romantic phase had begun, and she was enjoying every minute of it.
“I’ve got so much to tell you,” Vince said.
“I’m all ears.” The excitement in his tone piqued her interest.
“I was going to give you an exclusive during dinner, but I can’t wait,” he openly confessed.
“What is it, Vince?” What did he have up his sleeve? Was he about to announce they’d have to hold off on getting too serious due to him traveling to LA to set up temporary housing? She fidgeted in her seat, her stomach in knots.
Before he pulled out, Vince blurted, “I scored the role as the lead in the Broadway show I auditioned for.” His eyes twinkled like a kid about to blow out his birthday candles.
“You what?” She couldn’t help but raise her voice as she put her hand over her mouth. He’d waited his whole life for this opportunity. “Wow, you’re kidding? I’m so happy for you. I knew you’d get a break sooner or later. You’re too talented not to.” Her words flowed as she struggled to keep her own insecurities tucked away.
It was only right to celebrate. She had made the choice to leave the business and pursue other avenues. If she had her doubts, it was her own fault. This was not the time to voice her deepest regrets. She put on a smile and reached over to touch his shoulder. Sadie ran her hand gently along his arm. He backed out and they were on their way.
Once they’d stopped at a red light in Spring Lake, Vince turned and placed his lips on hers. “I can’t get enough of you,” he admitted. His fingers laced through hers helped stop the clattering in her head.
When the light changed, Vince put his hands back on the wheel, and Sadie glanced out at the stately homes along the water. “It must be nice to wake up to a view like this every morning.”
“No matter where I travel, The Jersey Shore will always be the place for me. There’s something I can’t explain here. Maybe it’s because I spent my childhood with visions of the boardwalk in my head as I went to sleep at night.” He laughed. “Sorry I sound overly nostalgic.”
“I’m with you. It is a beautiful evening.” Sadie inhaled the sea air, wishing the night would never end.
She tried to focus on Vince’s good fortune instead of her regrets. Since they’d reconnected, all types of scenarios flooded her mind. She’d even pictured them strolling barefoot, hand and hand on the beach as they confessed their love for one another. Maybe she’d watched too many romantic movies lately, or maybe it was time to fall in love and it was all part of the process. Whatever her future held, Vince definitely had a place in it.
“What about the television show? Have you heard anything?” Sadie was curious how he’d juggle both.
“It’s funny.” He gave a lighthearted chuckle. “You know how they say when one door closes another one opens? The show didn’t get picked up for the fall season. I’m back where I belong, on the stage.”
Since he had such a huge smile on his face, she’d let it rest. She wasn’t about to divulge her insecurities over leaving the theater. He deserved to bask in his glory, not pity her for lost opportunities. It was her own fault. How she’d love to go back in time.
Vince pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant, shut off the car, and turned to face her. “It is a miracle to have found you again at this time in my life.” He took Sadie’s hand in his own. “I couldn’t be happier.”
“I feel the same way.” She held his gaze as her heart melted.
Vince hopped out and ran around to open the car door. She took his hand and stepped out onto the pavement, looked up at the sky, and thanked her lucky stars for this gift of love.
Once they were inside, a pleasant young woman dressed in a pale yellow, sleeveless dress escorted them to a corner table. There was just enough sunlight filtering in to set the mood for a romantic evening. Gold wall sconces, white linen tablecloths, and dainty pink flowers displayed in a crystal vase sat on each table. The soft sound of piano music played in the background. They were seated and handed an elegant red leather menu.
“I haven’t been here in years.” Sadie opened her napkin and placed it on her lap.
She glanced over the selections. Vince rested his arm on the table and reached over to caress her hand. Sadie didn’t know how much more attention she could take before she could no longer contain her emotions. All she wanted was to be alone with him. Her spicy thoughts wouldn’t quit.
“I’ve been here a few times over the last couple of years, but a business dinner can’t come close to spending time with you,” he said, never taking his eyes off her. “Do you remember when we had a party to celebrate opening night here?”
“Oh yeah. That was the night Marty proposed to Michelle. She delivered her lines in a trance throughout the whole show. We got the best reviews that night.” Sadie laughed.
“It seems like yesterday,” he added.
“I know. I can’t believe it’s been ten years since we’ve performed together.”
She’d never forgotten the sultry look in Vince’s eyes when he delivered his lines in their love scenes. Somehow she’d always known he was the one for her, even though he didn’t confess his feelings back then. Chemistry can’t be denied. It’s all in the timing, and the LA reunion was a blessing. She took a deep breath. If only she’d be able to keep her promise and let go of the recurring thoughts of giving up her own acting career. Her eyes welled up. Why won’t these feelings quit?
“Is something wrong?” Vince gave her a concerned look. He knew her all too well.
“I’m fine, and happy to be here with you.”
She’d better watch herself or he’d never give up on asking her about it. He’d always been able to read her mind. She’d almost forgotten how well. Sadie put on a smile.
“The new chef is even better than the one who opened the place. His specialty is seafood.”
“Great. I’m in the mood for shrimp,” she said as she scanned the seafood entrée section.
Once the waiter took their orders and poured a couple of glasses of white wine, Sadie was able to relax. After a delectable meal, she checked out the dessert menu.
All through coffee and dessert, they reminisced about the fun times they’d shared back in the day. Sadie felt the light brush of his leg under the table. An electric surge shot up her skirt, and she pressed her legs together while a shiver swept across her. He knew exactly what he was doing to her. After he paid the check, they walked outside to find the sky filled with stars, and the sea breeze made her skin tingle.
“It’s a nice night for a stroll on the boardwalk.” Vince stopped on the porch and placed his hands on the railing. “How about it?”
“I’d love it.”
Vince grabbed her hand, his touch gentle, and they headed to the beach. He took on a long stride, and she kept up with his pace. “If I didn’t step out of my comfort zone, I would have missed out on a splendid night like this.”
The sweet scent of honeysuckle lingered in the air, and the deep blue sky turned shades of red. As they got closer to the boardwalk, she had flashbacks of when they were younger and used to gather after rehearsals, start a bonfire, and roast marshmallows on the beach. That was if the police didn’t catch them. All they had wanted was to have some harmless fun, yet most of the time they’d have to put out the fire. Vince had serenaded her with his guitar on a summer night after the final reading, and she had hoped he’d lean in and steal a real-life kiss, unlike the scripted one they’d done minutes before on the stage, but he didn’t. It had seemed better to tuck the memories away in a safe place and leave the past alone. She had figured that he’d moved on by now. It seemed unimaginable that a great guy like Vince was still unattached.
“It’s so beautiful here. I’d love to be able to live so close to the water. Maybe one day.” She shrugged.
“You might just find yourself getting your wish. My buddy works as a realtor, and sometimes a great house goes on the market for an affordable price, especially if they want a quick sale,” he said, his tone soft.
“Is something wrong?” she asked.
“No, I’m fantastic. How could I be anything else while spending time with you?” He gave her hand a gentle squeeze.
Why wasn’t she convinced?
They stood at the light on Ocean Avenue and waited. Vince placed his arm around her shoulder and she nestled close. The woodsy scent of his cologne tempted her. She looked up at him, and he brushed the side of her face as if she was a found treasure.
It felt wonderful to feel desirable again. When her hair had thinned during her treatment and her eyelashes fell out, she’d stared in the mirror, wondering if she’d ever be her old self again. Now, she felt vibrant and alive. Every touch of Vince’s hand sent a rush of heat through her from the top of her head down to her toes.
“Those kids remind me of us.” She nodded toward the shore. A couple of teenagers gathered near the entrance to the beach. Sadie slipped her arm through Vince’s and gave a soft sigh.
“Yeah, I see what you mean. We had some great times, and I’m ready to build new memories with you, Sadie.” He stopped and turned to face her. “Do I sound like a Hallmark card?” He gave her an adoring grin.
“No way. It was sweet of you to say.” She smiled. “I mean it.”
Vince shared his feelings the way she’d always dreamed he would. He was one sexy dude, and she was floating on air.
He guided her to the railing next to the beach, and they stared out at the ocean. It held a mystery in the evening hours, with the sound of the gulls over the water’s edge. The soothing scent reminded Sadie of summer fun.
Vince turned to face her, gently lifting her chin, and then he took her in his arms and planted his lips softly against hers. He dipped his tongue in and out of her mouth while Sadie’s head spun. She was up in the clouds and falling hard for this wonderful man.