Vince wasn’t about to mess this up. Every grain of his being wanted to swoop Sadie up into his arms and carry her home to make mad love to her, but his gut instinct told him to hold back. This wasn’t all about sex.
He shifted back and forth while his palms got sweaty and his eye started to twitch. Sadie was the sweetest woman he’d even known. But his financial situation wouldn’t allow him to treat her like he wanted. He wasn’t able to take her on more romantic dinners or a weekend getaway; even a movie this week would set him back. He’d borrowed more than enough from his mother, and he wasn’t about to ask for more.
All he needed was a little time to devote to the upcoming Broadway show, and to earn a decent paycheck. He hung his head with guilt tearing at his heart. He’d do what he had to do to make it, before he lost her again. He was proud of his work and the multiple possibilities he had in the future.
“A penny for your thoughts,” Sadie said.
“My grandma used to say that.” He laughed.
Sadie smiled. “So did mine.” She tilted her head. “Well?”
“I was thinking how great it feels to be here with you.”
“That’s sweet. Thank you. I’m happy to be here with you too.”
“Let’s sit here and wait for the sunset.” He motioned to a bench. Vince would give it his best effort to enjoy the rest of the evening with this amazing woman. She was worth waiting for.
“That’s a wonderful idea. It’s going to be a spectacular one. The sky is already pink.” Sadie gave a cute little grin. She beat him to the bench and sat.
He sat next to her. “Come over here.” Vince pulled her close, placed his arm around her, and felt like all was well in the world.
His heart thumped hard when she laid her head on his shoulder and placed her delicate hand on his chest. He had to bite his lip to keep from weakening. Maybe if the show did well, then he’d move forward with a class act like Sadie. It broke him in two to let her down, however, his decision to take her home after their evening at the beach was made. The least he could do was offer to stop for an ice cream before he make an excuse about getting to bed early due to his schedule. Hopefully, she’d understand. Sadie was always thoughtful and understanding. His mind filled with reasons why he should leave his fears behind and go for it, yet his pride took hold of his emotions. In his gut, he knew he was doing the right thing.
“I could stay here with you forever,” Sadie confessed.
“Forever isn’t long enough, my sweet Sadie.”
“There’s no place I’d rather be.” Her sexy tone close to his ear made it difficult for him to think straight.
He ran his fingers across her silky hair, and he swallowed hard. She lifted her head and stared at him with a gleam in her eye that reached in and took hold of his heart. He must have done something right to deserve the affection and attention of a woman so precious.
“Why don’t we hurry down to the water and get our feet wet? There’s a few minutes to spare before the sun sets. We can snap a picture from the shoreline as the sun sets in back of us.” Sadie stood.
“Okay. Let’s go.” He hurried to take off his shoes and socks and toss them aside.
Sadie did the same, and they began a slow jog. She gave him a playful pat on the butt as he took the lead.
“I’ll get you back.” He started a slow chase as she jolted ahead of him.
The sand kicked up as he ran with the sound of Sadie’s laughter making him want her more. Vince caught hold of her at the water’s edge, and he twirled her around. They both laughed aloud.
He held her close and put his hands on the sides of her face. “You look radiant tonight.” He gazed deep into her eyes.
She made the move to kiss him this time. Sadie put her arms around his neck, went up on her tiptoes, and placed her lips on his. With their bodies pressed together, Vince almost gave up his plan to take it slow until he could afford to treat her right.
“Let’s get ready, the sun is about to go down,” Sadie said while she got her phone out of her crossover purse.
They stood with their backs to the water and put their heads together.
“Smile,” she said as she snapped a photo. She captured a few more shots and showed him the pictures. “I can send them to you if you’d like.”
“The first one of us as a couple. Hopefully, the first of many. This way I can see your smile first thing in the morning, and I can’t think of a better way to start the day,” he admitted.
“You flatter me. Even if you’re fibbing,” Sadie said.
“Why don’t you believe me? I’m crazy about you. I always have been.”
“Really?” She pushed her hair out of her eyes.
“Yes. Can’t you tell?”
“If you say so,” she teased and crossed her arms.
“Are you cold?”
“It’s getting a little cool.” Sadie shivered.
Vince wrapped his arms around her.
“I’m nice and warm now.” She looked up at him and gave a seductive grin.
“Let’s head back.” Vince took her hand.
They turned and headed to the spot they’d taken off their shoes.
He let go of her hand and picked up both pairs. “Are you ready?” he asked.
“It’s so peaceful on the beach at night, but I’m ready.”
Vince had every intention of spending plenty of nights on the beach with her. In due time. Now the hard part. He’d have to drive her home and say goodnight. He wasn’t telling a lie. An early morning meeting at the theater was scheduled. His stomach twisted, yet he’d stick to the plan.
They walked to the car and Vince held the passenger side door open as Sadie got in. He turned on the radio before he took off. On the drive home, Sadie was talkative. Vince nodded and listened as she shared a few details about her upcoming class auditions, all the time wishing she’d be next to him in bed when he woke up in the morning.
She definitely was not the kind of woman to take lightly. Their relationship needed nurturing, and he needed money to take her to all the places he wanted to. A sleepover wouldn’t be the way to go tonight. His rent was due and he needed to pay the car insurance next week. He’d be driving into the city for rehearsals, and he had to buy new tires for his old relic of a car. At least he’d kept it in good shape. Sadie seemed to like it.
Vince turned onto her street, and she got awfully quiet. He pulled into her driveway and left the motor running.
“Aren’t you coming inside?” she asked, her tone high-pitched.
He took a deep breath, turned to face her, and reached for her hand. “I’d love to, but I’ve got to get up bright and early to go into the city. A meeting with the cast. It’s mandatory. I’m sorry.” His whole mood had shifted. He hoped she didn’t mistake it for indifference. “I’ll call you tomorrow, if that’s all right with you.”
“That’s fine.” She scrunched up her forehead and hesitated, then gave a couple of tiny nods. “Thank you for a great evening.” She fumbled with her purse, and her smile turned into a frown. “Are you trying to tell me something?”
“I’m not trying to tell you anything but the truth.” He kept his tone even. “I’m sorry. I’ll make it up to you. I promise.”
Vince had hoped she’d understand, and maybe even be agreeable, since tomorrow was a work day. With a forced smile on his face, he gave her a long, hard stare and at the same time he tried to keep his cool. When he leaned over and reached for her, she pulled away at first.
“Come on, Sadie. We’re not kids anymore. You’ve got to know you’re the only woman for me.”
Sadie glanced down before she finally softened and responded to his touch. He cushioned her in an embrace, and as he kissed her, she reached down and massaged his thigh. Before it got too hot, he managed to divert her affections, and he placed his forehead on top of hers. With a soft flick of his lips, he kissed her head.
“I’ll walk you to the door.” He turned off the car and got out.
She opened her own door and waited. Vince took her hand and walked her to her doorstep.
“Get a good night’s sleep and I’ll talk to you tomorrow.” He smiled and turned back one more time before he made it down the walkway.
Sadie smiled and waved as she stood inside her foyer.
* * * *
Sadie had no idea what went wrong. They’d already made love, but now that they were back in town... What was going on? She wanted to believe him about an early meeting. Why was it she didn’t? Her intuition was usually right. Maybe he had a girlfriend to contend with. Her fears multiplied as she peeled off her clothes and went into the bathroom to wash her face. She used a peach-scented facial scrub and rubbed her skin hard, trying to figure him out.
He could have made his meeting if he’d stayed the night. Instead, the beautiful night had come to a harsh ending. It was probably for the best. He’d be starting his long journey to becoming a Broadway star, and maybe even be nominated for a Tony, while she stayed in this small town and led a group of high school kids in an amateur show. What a sideswipe to the life she’d dreamed about.
She put on a pair of soft cotton pajamas and went into the kitchen to make a cup of herbal tea. It was still early enough to call Jill. She had experience in the dating world. Once the water had boiled, Sadie poured the tea and grabbed a handful of chocolate chip cookies. She needed something sweet after her big letdown. Once she had curled up in an overstuffed down-filled chair in her living room, she dialed her friend.
“Hi. Are you in bed?”
“No, I’m watching an old movie. What’s wrong?”
“Oh, nothing.”
“Didn’t you have a date with Vince?”
“Yeah, I did.”
“You’re home early, aren’t you? And why does it sound like you’re about to cry?” Jill asked.
“I’m not going to cry. It...it’s just that I’m so confused.” Sadie took a deep breath.
“About what? Let me turn the television off.”
“It’s Vince. He’s acting different.” She picked up her tea and took a gulp.
“What do you mean? Does he have a girlfriend on the side? I knew it! That no good—”
“I don’t think he’s seeing someone else. We had a wonderful time tonight. The thing that worries me is that he didn’t come inside after the date. He gave me the excuse that he had an early meeting at the theater.” She sniffled.
“Well, maybe it’s the truth. Although it is strange for a man to not want a booty call. Right?”
“That’s exactly right. He did seem genuinely interested though.” She ran her hand along the back of her hair, feeling frustrated. Her heart pounded in her ears.
“You know he’s into you. Don’t worry, he must have a good reason. You make a great couple, and I saw the way he looked at you. Do you want me and Millie to come over? I can pick her up and we’ll be there in less than an hour.”
Her offer was sincere, and Sadie appreciated it. “I’ll be okay. I feel a little better. Thanks for listening.”
“Are you sure?” Jill asked.
“Yes, I’m sure. I’ll talk to you soon. I’ve got a big day tomorrow at school. Tryouts.”
“Okay. Goodnight, honey.”
It was a great comfort to have friends who cared. After she finished her tea, Sadie got up, turned off the lights, double-checked the door, and went into the bedroom. She pulled down the comforter and ran her hand across the crisp, clean, designer sheets. She’d changed them with hopes Vince would spend the night. Sadie thought they’d shared something special. Her heart felt heavy, yet she tried to remind herself she was operating on emotions, not logic. He wouldn’t have been as affectionate during dinner if he didn’t want her too.
As she was about to get under the covers her phone rang. When she picked it up, she was surprised to find it was Vince calling. Did he change his mind?
“I wanted to say goodnight and tell you how bad I feel about having to leave you,” he said. “I’m about to hop into bed, but I have you on my mind.”
“Me too,” she responded. “I understand.” She wasn’t about to let on how disappointed she was.
“You have no idea how good it is to hear that you understand. I wouldn’t have gone home if I didn’t have so much going on.”
“No problem. Good luck tomorrow.”
“Thanks. I hope you have a good turnout for the auditions.”
She had worried for no reason. Sadie shrugged and grabbed a book from the drawer in her nightstand before she crawled into bed. With a couple of pillows behind her back, she adjusted the clip-on light she’d received from her mother at Christmas. Reading might stop her from wishing she was going along with Vince to the theater and about to begin a promising career on the stage.
She didn’t realize she’d chosen an old book by Danielle Steele. Oh, well. Anything would do right now. Even a book she might have read before would work. As long as she got lost in the story.
She usually enjoyed a love story, but not tonight. It turned out to be a bad idea to read a romance. Her chest tightened as it got to the love scene. She tossed the book to the side and pulled the covers over her head. Sadie curled up on her side and the tears slowly started to fall.
* * * *
Vince jumped up when his alarm sounded, and he quickly decided to skip his morning jog. He yawned and dragged himself into the shower. After he brushed his teeth, shaved, and got dressed, he went to the kitchen and prepared a protein shake. He wasn’t in the mood for anything else. As he poured his drink, he combed his hair back. He couldn’t get Sadie off his mind. The image of the disappointed look in her eyes when he’d dropped her off stayed with him.
Before he left to catch the train, he double-checked the schedule on his phone. There was plenty of time. The traffic wasn’t bad in town, so he made it to the station in less than ten minutes. Once he parked, Vince started toward the platform. He’d purchase his ticket inside the train.
He proceeded with his head in the clouds, but stopped short when he saw his father sitting on a bench. Not today. He took a few deep breaths and decided not to ruin his day by showing resentment. He’d promised his mother he’d give his dad a chance.
Vince went over to the bench and sat down beside his father. “How’s it going?”
His dad looked like he’d seen a ghost. His face was pale, his eyes bulged, and he stuttered. “What…what…are you doing here this early?” His hands trembled as he reached into his shirt pocket and took out a lighter.
Vince knew he wasn’t drunk because there was no smell of alcohol on his breath. His dad always shook before he took his first drink of the day. “Sorry to startle you, Dad. I’ve got an early meeting with the members of the cast for a new show I’m set to star in.”
He stared at the dark circles and lines around his father’s eyes. The years of abuse he’d put his body through had taken their toll. There was a time when he had been a handsome dude. His mom always commented about how much Vince resembled his dad.
“That’s right. Your mother called me and filled me in.” He put his hand on Vince’s shoulder. “I’m incredibly proud of you, son.” He hit the bottom of a pack of cigarettes, took one out, and lit it.
There was a sincerity in his tone that was refreshing. Somehow, Vince believed him. “Thank you. You know you should stop smoking.”
“Let me work on one vice at a time.” He took a puff. “For a guy who just got a big break, you don’t look happy. Is there something you want to talk about?”
The last person Vince thought he’d be confining in was his father, but he had to get it off of his chest. “I am a little off-balance today. You see, I think I screwed up my chance with Sadie. Do you remember the girl I used to bring to the house once in a while back in school? We were in the theater company together.”
His father rubbed the top of his brow. “Oh yeah, I remember her. She was a sweet girl. You had a crush on her, didn’t you?” He grinned.
“I was crazy about her, I still am, and I think she feels the same about me.” Oddly enough, it felt good to share his feelings with the man he’d shunned for so long. “By the way, where are you going?”
“I have an interview,” he proudly announced.
“Great. Are you ready to go back to work?” Vince wanted desperately to forget how his father’s illness had robbed them of so many years, not to mention the mental anguish his mother had suffered. Deep inside, he’d hoped the day would come when they’d reconnect.
“I’ve got three months under my belt, and my sponsor supports me all the way. And if I get hired, I can still make meetings in the evenings.” He shifted his position.
“I’m thrilled to hear good news.” An overwhelming sense of relief rushed over him. He glanced up at the schedule to see if the train was on time.
“Why do you feel you lost your chance with Sadie?”
Vince took a deep breath, turned toward his father, and kept his tone low. “Long story, but I’ll make it short. I took her to a nice restaurant in Spring Lake for a romantic dinner. It’s one of Sadie’s favorite places.” Vince gave a reluctant sigh. “We had a great time, but I went way over my budget. You know I’m a waiter, and while I pursue my acting career, my finances haven’t exactly been stable.” Vince felt a twinge of uneasiness divulging his concerns to his father. It’d been so long since any chance of a connection was possible.
“So why do you think things went wrong? It sounds like you had a special evening. Didn’t you?” He moved a little closer.
“That’s where I went wrong. I split when I dropped her off, when I could have spent the night at her place.” Vince put his head down and felt a gnawing in his gut. The muscles in his back tightened. “I’m not in a position to get serious.”
“I’m going to tell you something I’ve learned, son.” His tone was one of authority as he straightened his shoulders and held his head up. “You aren’t in control of who you fall in love with and when it happens. It’s all in His hands.” He pointed up to the sky. “I want you to listen and don’t interrupt me. I’ve managed to put together a few bucks. I didn’t go through all of my inheritance like your mother might think. It was tied up for a while.”
“What are you saying?” Vince sat forward and raised his voice a notch.
“I told you not to butt in. Please, hear me out. The money recently became available. I was broke a few days ago too, but now I can finally do something worthy. I’m giving you a check to cover your expenses until you get on your feet.”
His father was usually a quiet man, but a transformation took place sitting on the platform. He’d used his wisdom to assist his son, instead of wallowing in self-destructive behavior.
“I can’t accept a handout. You need to take care of yourself.” Vince folded his hands and tried not to get overly emotional. He had to admit it felt great to get along, and it had been so long since he’d felt loved by his father; not that money was a way to show love. His heart showed in his words, and Vince appreciated his father’s generosity.
“I won’t take no for an answer.” He stood and stared directly into Vince’s eyes. “The train will be here in a minute. We can talk more about it on the ride into the city.”
Vince’s head throbbed the minute he stood. He rubbed the back of his neck. To his amazement, he detected a sincerity in his father’s words. The rent was due, and he’d pay him back. It was about time his dad did something for his family.
“I might just take you up on your offer,” Vince finally said.
His father nodded, a satisfied grin on his face. “Let’s go take care of business. We both have so much to be thankful for.”
* * * *
Sadie awoke to the sound of a beautiful Spanish guitar solo on the radio. As she stretched she peeked at the clock on her nightstand. She didn’t remember falling asleep, but she’d always felt better after a good cry. There was plenty of time to grab a light breakfast and get ready for work. Things made sense in the morning. Sadie had found a special man. After everything she’d been through over the past year, her emotions were all over the place. Their connection was real. There was no need for overreacting, and she was certainly not in a rush. Maybe PMS had clouded her senses. She was a little embarrassed by her behavior.
She was excited to begin auditions today. She picked up the book from her bed and was about to put it back in the drawer of her nightstand when she noticed a couple of envelopes had fallen on the floor. Strange how she didn’t see them last night. From the edge of the bed, she bent over to pick them up. Sadie opened one of the folded papers and her heart leaped into her throat. She trembled as she read it. It was her acceptance letter for The Actors Studio in NYC. Only a select few get to attend the prestigious school. Why did she forfeit her chance?
She stood at her bedside, still shaking. A tear fell down her cheek, and she reached for a tissue. She wiped her face and quickly stuck the letter back in the envelope. At the time, her mind had been made up. Her mother had supported her decision, and she went on to get a teaching degree. Her calling was not in the theater. She didn’t have what it took. Her skin was thin, not tough enough to take rejections, critics, and haters. So why did it hurt so badly?
Sadie fastened her robe and moved over to open the curtains. She stayed at the window for a moment. The grass was bright green and the light touch of morning dew made it glisten.
Enough of this self-pity mode. It was time to get ready. Her students needed her.
She sprinted into the bathroom, took off her pajamas, and jumped into the shower. The rain shower she recently had installed was heavenly. She lathered her body with a new body wash she’d found in a specialty shop downtown. It was invigorating. The light scent of citrus and ginger was ideal for a morning pick-me-up.
In less than fifteen minutes, she was dressed and parked on a stool at the kitchen counter with a cup of coffee, munching on an oversized cranberry-orange protein bar. She’d grab a banana and a handful of blueberries for later in the morning.
Sadie grabbed her keys from the table by the door and picked up her purse, along with her leather folder, and left for work. After a short drive, she arrived at school. The students rambled along as she headed to her classroom. Today’s lesson was centered on auditioning. It was a good lead into the big event after school. As she approached her desk, a message appeared on her phone. She took a moment to read it, and it brought a smile to her face. Vince wrote that he missed her and was thinking about her. He’d been in the city for an hour, and her heart skipped a beat when she read over his words. He couldn’t get me out of his mind.
* * * *
The school day went well, and it was finally the big moment. Sadie was lucky to have the director of the drama department, Ms. Cartwright, by her side. A middle-aged woman who was poised and professional, she greeted the students as they filed into the auditorium.
“We have our job cut out for us.” Ms. Cartwright smiled as she took a seat at the table. “There is so much talent in the group this year.” She raised her brows and tapped a pencil on her coffee cup.
The auditorium had recently been remodeled and it had a nice-sized stage with two sets of wooden stairs, one on each side. A red velvet curtain made it look like a theater in NYC. Paintings of scholars were strategically placed on the walls to inspire, and brand new, large windows allowed the room natural lighting. Ultra-modern lighting was available for special functions. The seats were comfortable with extra padding. One of the wealthy townspeople had donated a huge check to remodel the school auditorium. The area hadn’t been redone in over twenty years. You could still smell the fresh paint as soon as you entered the room. An area set up in the front of the stage gave them the perfect view.
An older, white-haired woman with dimples and a cackle for a laugh, who had played piano for them in the past, sat on the bench. She waved and winked when she was ready to go. “One, two, three, set to go.” She laughed.
Sadie chuckled to herself.
The lights were set to center stage. It was time to begin.
The students knew the material like true professionals, and they gave it their best shot. A few of them stood out, and Sadie had them do a second audition for the lead roles. Everyone got along. There was no jealousy or disruptive behavior. She’d taught them well.
One of the girls she had her eye on sat in the corner with her head down. Her name was Marla Miles. Sadie announced a fifteen minute break and went over to speak to her.
“I thought you’d be happy to be a top contender for the lead.” Sadie put her hand out in an effort to help Marla up. “Come on, let’s talk.”
“Thanks, Ms. Layne. I am happy. It’s just that Carolyn is a much better singer and actress than I am.” She looked away. “Why am I here and she didn’t get a second read?” Her hands trembled.
“You’re a very talented young woman. Roles are cast for multiple reasons. There was something special about the way you portrayed the character. The first and most important thing is to have faith in yourself.”
Sadie’s lecture to her student sounded exactly like the one she’d received from a guidance counselor when she was the same age. It was funny how things came full circle. She put her arm around Marla’s shoulder.
The memory of a similar situation popped into Sadie’s mind. Only it wasn’t as positive. Sadie didn’t display confidence in her abilities as a stage actress, and Ms. Nolan wasn’t exactly the cheerleader type. She could still hear the critical tone her old drama coach had in her voice, along with her cutting comment that Sadie didn’t have what it took to make it in the theater. Sadie realized far too late that the harsh remark was probably meant to motivate her, yet she took it to heart and it did exactly the opposite. It had changed the course of her life. Years of experience had helped her gain insight. She’d vowed never to crush a student’s dreams with a harsh comment. There was a better way to give constructive criticism.
“You’re extremely talented, Marla. If you’re selected to play this role, you’ll have to put your heart in your work and believe in yourself. Of course, we will guide you along the way.” She smiled. “You’re a natural.” She held onto Marla’s upper arms and gave a light squeeze. The clatter from backstage reminded her of opening night so many years ago. She raised her hand and rested it on her chest and sighed.
“Thank you, Ms. Lane. If I get the part, I’ll work hard. You can count on me.” Marla’s expression brightened. “I only hope my mother doesn’t need me to babysit.”
“Is there a problem at home?” Sadie asked curiously.
“No, everything is fine. My mom works in an emergency room, and she needs my help from time to time, but I’ll ask my Aunt Suzy to stand by if my mom needs to put in extra hours at work.”
“I see. You’re a considerate young woman. I’m sure your mother appreciates all you do.”
Marla smiled and rushed over to a small gathering at stage left.
Just as Sadie was about to take her place beside the director again, her cellphone buzzed in her pocket. She glanced at the screen and saw it was Vince calling her. “Excuse me. I need to take this.” She marched to the back of the room and out into the hallway. Her hands shook. Vince was supposed to be busy all day.
“I called to see how auditions were going,” Vince said.
“Very well. How’s everything with you?”
“Turn around and you’ll find out.”
“What?” She nearly fell over as she checked behind her. “You...you’re here?” Her jaw dropped.
He advanced toward her. “I had to come.” He took hold of her arms. “I treated you poorly last night, and I want to apologize.”
“No—”
“Shh…listen. I wanted desperately to spend the night with you. I was a fool to leave you hanging. Can you forgive me?”
“What about the show and rehearsals?” Her legs wobbled, and she steadied her stance.
“I have time before the rehearsals begin. I have time to give you a hand with the show. If you could use an extra hand that is. It would be like the old days.”
Her head spun and her heart filled with joy. “I would like that. I appreciate the offer.” She’d hoped he would be able to assist in the production. It would be fun. “Wait until I tell the kids, and Ms. Cartwright.” She smiled and took his hand. “Come inside. They’re waiting for me.”
All eyes were on them when they entered the room. Her face felt warm as an oven.
“I’m sorry to make you all wait. I’ve got a surprise. This is Vince De Carlo, an old friend from the theater. He’s starring in an upcoming Broadway musical, and he’s agreed to work with us on this year’s show.” She put on a big smile.
Vince waved as the students said a hello in unison. She led the way to the stage and being on it together under the bright lights felt like old times. It brought back some of her most treasured memories. Sadie glanced over at Vince and found him staring at her with a boyish grin on his face. It was as if they had gone back in a time machine and were at tryouts themselves. He’d given her the same supportive smile back then. Her secret crush had blossomed into an adult love affair. Who knew?
“How far along the process have you gotten?” he asked.
“Everyone has read once, and we’re about to do second readings. We’ve got a couple of great prospects.” Sadie smiled. She tried to focus, but since he’d arrived, she’d become giddy. She couldn’t take her eyes off his smile and the cute little dimple in his chin.
“Great. Let’s go,” he responded.
“Before we get started, I have to ask you a question.” She pulled him off to the side and whispered, “Did I say something to upset you at dinner last night?” Sadie had to get it out in the open if they were going to work together.
“Not at all. What makes you think you did?” Vince asked as he placed his hands in his pockets.
“I know you apologized and you had an early appointment, but I also know you wanted to come in instead of taking off so quick. What was the real reason? Is there someone else?” She took a deep breath, happy to get it out in the open. “It’s better to be honest before we get in too deep, if you know what I mean.” Sadie glanced over her shoulder to make sure no one was close enough to hear them.
If she had her wish, they’d be back at her place right now. Why does he have to be so darn sexy? She hoped she would be able to keep her hands off of him long enough to get through the auditions.
It was hard to stick to her new resolutions. Worry and self-doubt had a way of intruding into her thoughts. It might be time to jot down her affirmations and talk to someone about the reoccurring doubts relating to her career choice. She wished there was a way to turn back the clock. Now that she had a mortgage and a commitment to her students, she couldn’t leave it all behind and return to the sometimes unstable life of an actress. She squared her shoulders and held her head high.
“You are an amazing woman, and it was my mistake. I’m here now,” he said with sincerity.
“We’re about to get started,” Sadie said.
The students sat in wooden chairs, waiting for their turn, as the auditions continued. One by one, they read and sang a few bars. Sadie tried her best to stay calm and focused, all the time biting her lip and wondering if she’d see Vince later in the evening. Hot flashes shot through her body like a rapid fire. She was too young for frequent changes in body temperature. Sadie picked up a pitcher from the table, poured herself a glass of iced water, and took a few good-sized sips.
“Are you okay? It is awfully stuffy in here today.” Vince moved in closer to her.
“Oh, I’m fine. Just thirsty.” She sat back and wiped her neck with a napkin. He probably didn’t realize how being with him was affecting her.
After the last student tried out, Ms. Cartwright, Vince, and Sadie put their heads together to make the final decisions. Marla was the forerunner for the female lead, as Sadie had anticipated. Once they’d finished the selections, the announcements were made. Manny Cummings got the male lead and Marla Miles, the female. Hopefully, Marla had found a way to tuck her insecurities aside and go for it. Her talent certainly set her apart. By the sound of the cheers, the celebrations had begun.
Sadie stood. “Congratulations to all, and thank you everyone. The show is going to be a huge hit. If anyone wants to work backstage or help in another way, you are more than welcome.”
It was difficult to see the disappointed faces of the pupils who missed the mark on the roles they’d wanted, but most of them did get in the show. Even if they didn’t get the parts they’d tried out for, there was enough room for them in the chorus and swing roles.
Vince got up and was quickly surrounded by some of the cast members. Sadie watched as he answered their questions. It was wonderful to see him bask in his glory now that he was a Broadway performer himself. It was perfect timing.
After Sadie thanked Ms. Cartwright and the pianist, the ladies headed out. She and Vince were left to escort the kids out of the auditorium. She remembered how excited they were as teenagers when they had tryouts for a new show. There was nothing that compared to being selected for a role you’d prepared for.
The crowd around Vince finally broke up, and she smiled and walked over to him. “Are you ready?”
He put his arm around her shoulder. “I’m starving. Let’s go someplace quiet to grab a bite.”
“I know the best little place,” she said.
“Oh, you do?” Vince gave her a squeeze.
“Yes, my place.” Sadie gave a tiny grin and chuckled.
“Only if you let me make dinner.”
“What?” She never knew Vince to be much of a chef.
He snuck a kiss on the cheek. “I grill a mean steak.”
“If you insist, but I’ll help.”
“It’s your night off. I’ll take care of everything.” He gave her a quick peck on the cheek and took off.
Sadie loved the way he took charge. She’d show him how much she appreciated it after dinner. She found her newly liberated sexuality exciting. Their passion was blossoming, and she wanted to enjoy this phase of discovery with Vince.