Sam chuckles. “I wish I were. So I sat there and listened to the degradation of moral values because of these certain works of literature, and I literally couldn’t tell her I write books that she’ll probablywant on that list. Grown-ass man, and I can’t even tell my mama what I do for a living.”
The laugh that slips from me is gentle, sympathetic. “You’ll know when it’s right,” I say.
“I’ll have to do it soon after the Raleigh signing because Derek has plans to blast therealS. P. Rochelle all over social media. So I’ve got to get up the courage before then.”
“Sam,” I say quietly, reaching a hand out to cover his. His gaze remains steady on me, though. “You should be proud of what you’ve accomplished and while some people may not understand it, you can’t let it devalue who you are as a person. I, for one, am so proud of you and I’ll be your biggest fan. I’ve already started readingThe Shadow Princess, and I am hooked!”
“You’re reading one of my books?” he asks, clearly awed.
“I’m devouring it,” I clarify. “You’re really talented.”
He meets my eyes, and there’s something grateful there, quiet and deep. “That helps more than you know.”
“Awesome. Now, I have a favor to ask.”
“What’s that?”
“Think you can swing me a ticket to the signing?”
“Actually, I was going to ask if you’d come, but I really didn’t want to take you away from the diner.” He pokes at his pie. “But it would mean a lot to have you there.”
For a second, I just stare, and then I feel it—that spark, new and dizzying as it blooms in my chest. “You know how to make a girl feel special.” I pretend to think it over, tapping my chin. “And I’d love to come. I’ll make it work.”
His smile widens, relief breaking through like sunlight. “Thank you.”
“Don’t thank me yet. I plan on being your loudest cheerleader. Possibly with a poster. You could get embarrassed.”
He groans playfully. “Derek’s going to love that.”
Sam finishes his pie and pushes the plate away, looking more settled than when he came in. “I should head out. I’m putting Derek to work and we’re going to move all my stuff over to the new house.”
I gasp and can feel a huge grin taking over my face. “You’re moving in?”
“Yeah… figured if I’m going all in, I should live in the damn thing.”
“Moving on up. I love it.” I tap on the counter.
Sam stands from the stool and reaches into his back pocket for his wallet.
“Don’t you dare take out money. I told you that was on me.”
He smiles and tucks it away. “That’s fine since tonight’s our dinner date. I suggest you dress fancy for whereI’m taking you.”
I clap my hands with excitement, bouncing on my toes. “Dressing fancy can only mean one thing… Clementine’s!”
Sam laughs. “That’s right. First dates should be special, after all.”
“And I have the perfect dress for it.”
“Can’t wait to see it on you,” he says and tips his head to me. He starts to turn away, but then turns back after a consideration. “Oh, I really believe in being prepared for all contingencies and you seem like the sort of woman who appreciates the same.”
“I do enjoy a well-considered plan.” I laugh.
“Good. Just to give you a heads-up, I’m absolutely going to kiss you tonight when I take you home.”
Heat blooms in the center of my chest, and yeah… I even get a little tingly all over. I decide to be honest in return. “That’s good because I was hoping you would.”
His grin turns brighter. “Excellent. See you tonight, Penny.”
