The marquee lights reflected in Mark’s eyes as he studied the building’s architecture. “The restoration work is remarkable. You’ve preserved the original character.”
“That was exactly my goal,” Tori said. She glanced at the growing line of theatergoers. “I should get back to greeting my guests, but please, enjoy the show. And Darlene…” She paused, her expression softening. “It’s wonderful to see you out for the evening.”
They stepped into the theater’s restored lobby, the familiar space transformed by the evening crowd’s energy. She recognized faces all around her and their curious glances and whispered conversations weren’t lost on her. She ignored the stares—at least she tried to—as they made their way through the lobby.
“Your seat numbers?” the young usher asked, checking their tickets.
“Row F, seats six and seven,” Mark replied.
As they made their way down the aisle, she felt the weight of dozens of eyes following their progress. She caught the Jenkins twins pointing, their heads bent together in whispered conversation. Heat crept up her neck.
“Are you all right?” he whispered, his hand settling briefly on her lower back as she slipped into their row.
“Just fine,” she said as she quickly sat down. “Small town, you know. Everyone notices everything.”
“Ah.” His understanding smile put her at ease. “I suppose I’m giving them something to talk about.”
“We both are,” she admitted. “I don’t get out much these days.”
The lights dimmed, and a hush fell over the audience. She took a deep breath and tried to relax. In the darkness, she became aware of Mark’s presence beside her—the subtle scent of his cologne, the way his arm rested next to hers on their shared armrest.
The show began, a clever comedy about mistaken identities in a small coastal town. The dialogue sparkled with wit, and the local actors brought their characters to life with enthusiasm. She found herself laughing more than she had in months.
During a particularly funny scene, she turned to share her amusement with Mark and found him already looking at her, his expression soft in the reflected stage lights. Her laughter faded into a smile, and for a moment, the rest of the theater seemed to fade away.
When the final act concluded, the audience erupted in applause. Darlene and Mark rose with everyone else, joining in the standing ovation.
Her heart felt lighter than it had in ages, buoyed by the evening’s entertainment and Mark’s companionable presence beside her. As the cast took their final bows, she caught herself stealing glances at him, touched by the genuine enthusiasm in his expression. After three curtain calls, the heavy velvet curtain finally swooped closed for good, and the house lights gradually brightened.
“Brilliant performances,” Mark commented as he turned to her. She nodded in agreement, fumbling slightly with her wrap as the excitement of the evening still bubbled through her. He took the wrap and placed it gently around her shoulders, his hand brushing her skin momentarily, and she was honestly surprised not to see sparks flying between them.
She needed to get her thoughts under control. She took a step back as they waited patiently for the rows ahead of them to empty. They walked slowly up the aisle to the lobby. The theater doors were open, releasing a stream of chattering patrons into the warm evening air. She stepped out beside Mark, her smile lingering from the delightful performance. The sidewalk buzzed with energy as people gathered in small groups, discussing their favorite moments from the show.
Through the crowd, she spotted Eleanor and Jonah approaching. Eleanor’s hand rested gently on Jonah’s arm. Eleanor’s elegant dress and Jonah’s sharp sports coat suggested they’d made an evening of it too.
Eleanor caught her eye and raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a knowing smile. Darlene returned the look, acknowledging their shared understanding of stepping out of their comfort zones.
“Eleanor, Jonah,” Darlene waved. “I’d like you to meet Mark Donovan. He’s staying at the B&B.” She turned to Mark. “Mark, this is Eleanor Griffin and Jonah Burton, dear friends of mine.”
Mark stepped forward, extending his hand. “A pleasure to meet you both.”
“Likewise,” Jonah said, giving Mark’s hand a firm shake. “Did you enjoy the show?”
While the men exchanged pleasantries, Eleanor leaned close to Darlene’s ear. “Good for you,” she whispered, her eyes sparkling. “It’s nice to see you out on a date.”
“It’s not a date,” Darlene whispered back, though her cheeks warmed at the assumption. She glanced at Mark, who was deep in conversation with Jonah about the theater’s architecture. “I’m glad to see you out with Jonah.”
“We’re on anofficialdate.” Eleanor smiled. “You might be too, and you just don’t know it.”
“Shh…” she said quickly as the men turned back to them. She nodded at Mark. “We should probably get back home. I have to get up early tomorrow and get breakfast going for my guests.”
“It was good to see you, Darlene. Maybe the four of us could go out sometime,” Jonah suggested.
“I… uh…”
“Sounds like I good idea,” Mark said agreeably as he turned to her and placed her hand on his arm. “Let’s get you back home.”
Darlene and Mark walked up the steps to the B&B’s porch, the old boards creaking beneath their feet. The evening had been magical, filled with laughter and a definite connection she couldn’t deny. As they reached the door, she found herself reluctant to let the night end.
