Page 68 of Just Another Silly Love Song

“You do?” I asked.

Ben nodded. “I also donate the talent fee whenever I do something for the San Diego Zoo, as well as the Safari Park.”

What other surprises did this man have up his sleeve?

Ben had bought me mochas and cupcakes.

He donates his talent fees to charities.

And even though he didn’t think I noticed, I saw him in the reflection of the window at Bowers Jewelers in La Jolla when he slipped that homeless man some money.

There was nothing sexier in the world than a kind, generous, compassionate man.

And the fact that I just had that thought go through my head was very troubling.

Chapter Fourteen

BEN

The next day, our show was even better than the day before. We were gaining momentum and the way Lori and I were able to play off each other and give advice was amazing, I had to admit.

Once again, the social media engagement went through the roof. We were even getting messages and comments from other parts of the country, listeners who were tuning into our radio station online or through our mobile app. Our audience was exploding in a matter of days, and I was excited and nervous at the same time.

Since Kyle wasn’t available to meet after our show, Lori and I said goodbye, knowing we would see each other at the anniversary party later that evening. It would be our first time together with all of the employees of the radio station, and I was curious to see how we would be received in person and how many people would actually show up.

I pulled up to the front of the San Diego Maritime Museum, got out of the car, and handed my valet voucher to a man dressed in a black tuxedo.

I walked up the ramp leading to theStar of Indiaand onto the main deck where the chart room, galley, and passenger cabins were located. This was also where most of the party would take place, although we were free to wander the entire ship if we chose to.

We had the entire ship to ourselves and there would be live music, plenty of food, an open bar, a photo booth, and a few surprises from what they told me.

I scanned the main deck for Lori but didn’t see her yet.

“Hey, bud.” Dan slapped me on the back. He was always the first person to show up at radio station events since he was the promotions director. He typically had two to three assistants with him, as well.

I flipped around and smiled. “Hey. This ship is so cool.”

“Tell me about it. I’ve been wanting to do an event here for years. I’m glad it finally happened.”

“Me, too. Have you seen Lori?”

Dan shook his head. “Not yet.” He gave me the once-over, nodding at my clothes selection. “You certainly got dressed up this evening.”

“Me?” I glanced down at my clothes. “What are you talking about?”

My attire would be considered business-casual, slacks and a button-down shirt. All black. Nothing fancy, as Dan had suggested.

He analyzed my clothes again and shrugged. “Normally you wear your fancy jeans and a polo shirt, so I’m surprised.” He grinned. “It’s almost as if you’re trying to impress someone.”

I shook my head. “If I wanted to dress to impress, I would be wearing a suit or a tuxedo.” I gestured to my clothes. “These are just . . . normal, everyday clothes.”

Dan chuckled. “If you say so.” He pointed over my shoulder. “There’s Lori. It looks like she’s dressing to impress, too. Take a look at that.”

I swung around and spotted Lori walking up the ramp, stopping to talk to Kyle.

Wow.

She looked stunning in her lavender dress and white shoes.