Page 110 of Come to Me

I realize the truth in that as it pours out of me.

Yes, my relationship with Luke suffered. But, if I put that aside, as far as a career milestone goes... I can't think of anything better.

"Sounds like the bug's bitten you," Nicholas chuckles, his eyes gleaming with the knowledge of how I feel.

I nod.

"Yeah. But I don't know if I could do it full time. It took a lot out of me," I admit.

"It isn't for the faint of heart," he agrees, taking a step closer. "I'm sure your fiancé didn't love it."

"Uh... yes, I guess not," I say, uncomfortable with the comment.

Nicholas doesn't need to know every detail of my personal life. Maybe I gave him the wrong impression when I couldn't hide how I was feeling.

"This life is hard on significant others," he murmurs. "Especially those who aren't in the business."

"Sure," I agree, resisting the urge to step to the side.

I don't want to overreact.

"Don't let anyone hold you back," he says, his eyes locked on my own. "You were amazing in the show. A couple shows in, I would never have known it was your first time."

"That's really flattering." Did he inch closer or am I just imagining things? "You know, I think I better get ready to go. I don't want to keep Luke waiting."

I throw Luke's name in deliberately. Just in case I'm not overreacting.

Nicholas searches my face as he nods slowly.

"Sure. Anyway, I just wanted to touch base and let you know that I'd love to keep in touch. Call me if you need anything."

"Thank you," I murmur, stepping towards him, assuming he'd step back towards the door in reaction.

But he doesn't.

Instead, he takes it as invitation to pull me into a hug.

I pathis back a little awkwardly.

"You're still with the fiancé?" he asks, pulling back slightly, his hands still on my upper arms.

"Yes." I keep the answer short and firm.

He smiles slightly.

"Alright." He leans down and kisses me. It's on the cheek, but maybe it lingers just a touch too long? "I hope you make the right decision."

"Well, thank you for that," I say, the sarcasm not even thinly veiled.

Who does he think he is?

"I'll leave you be." He moves back, just a little, his eyes intent on my face. "You're one of the hardest people to read, you know that? We've spent so much time together, but I still feel like I haven't even scratched the surface with you." He shakes his head. "But I really do hope things work out for you and Luke. He may not deserve it, but you do."

"I appreciate your concern, but things are great. We're going to Hawaii. And we're engaged."

He nods. "I hope that works out."

I bite my tongue again. Whatever his intentions are, I'm not going to give him the satisfaction of showing doubt again.