Page 52

“Yeah, I know what you mean,” she said, sighing. “Hey, if I fell out of this thing, do you think I’d look like a shooting star?”

“What the fuck, Jeannie? Don’t jinx us.”

***

As beautiful as the view of the city was, Al couldn’t help but stare at the even more beautiful woman next to him. Hercheeks were flushed, and her eyes were bright with wonder. It had been a long time since he’d seen her smile so brightly.

Eventually their magical ride in the air came to an end, and they were slowly lowered back down to the boat. The landing was a little wobbly, and he took full advantage of holding on to Jeannie as they steadied themselves.

He stared into her eyes as he unbuckled her helmet. His hand smoothed through her tangled hair. “I probably shouldn’t say this, but I’m glad Jazz backed out. That was the most amazing experience I’ve ever had, and I’m glad I got to share it with you.”

“And that’s a wrap!” Lindsey shouted as the boat landed at the dock. “Great work tonight. Everybody can pack up and we’ll see you tomorrow night for the finale.”

“Jeannie, thanks for filling in,” Jazz said.

“It was my pleasure.” Jeannie smiled.

Jazz nodded, pausing before she walked toward the car. “I guess I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“Actually, I don’t think I’ll make the finale.” Jeannie looked away as she stepped out of the harness.

“What?” Al asked, shock coursing through his system. “What do you mean you won’t make it? I can’t film the finale without you.”

Jeannie rolled her eyes. “Of course you can. It’s not like I’m the director.” She looked around the crew. “Or even one of the camera people.”

He crossed his arms over his chest. “Are you seriously skipping it? What could be more important?”

Jeannie sighed. “I didn’t want to say anything, but it’s a job interview. A record label in the city offered me a marketing position. It’s a great opportunity, so I’m going to check it out.”

His eyes narrowed. “Is it one of those remote jobs?”

“Um, no, I don’t think so.”

“You don’t think so?” Al shook his head. “Are you leaving me?” What was she thinking? He’d done what she asked. How could she leave him now?

“No. Of course not. I mean, not yet anyway.” She shrugged her shoulders and looked up at the sky. “Like I said, it’s just an interview. And come on, Al, you might be engaged tomorrow. You’ll be so busy with your new fiancée you won’t even notice I’m gone.”

Al dropped his arms and looked down at his feet. “But I need you. You’re my …” He looked around, struggling for the words.

“Your what, Al?” she asked quietly.

My world. My heart.“My friend. My publicist. My neighbor.” God, what did she want to hear? “I need you.”

Jeannie shook her head. “No, you don’t. You’ve got multiple endorsement deals. You’re on two television shows and the star of one of them. In a few days, you’ll have enough money for Ben’s attorney.”

Al blinked and ran a hand through his hair. “I couldn’t have done any of that without you.”

Jeannie smiled. “You are right about that. But we did what we set out to do. All your wishes have come true. And now it’s time for me to move on.”

“Move on? But you can’t.” His heart cracked. “I still need you.”

“To be your publicist?”

Al ran his fingers through his hair. “Yeah. I mean, no.” Fuck, this was all going so wrong. But she’d made it clear that she didn’t want any declarations of love from him. He had no idea what to say anymore.

Jeannie stepped back, blinking quickly. “Well, that’s too bad. You don’t get to keep me. I want to see what else the world has to offer. I’ve been cooped up in that town for too long.”

Al wanted to get on his hands and knees and beg her to stay, but she was right. She deserved the world, and he’d be a selfish bastard to keep her from that. But did it have to be tomorrow?