He let out a dry laugh. “I was afraid that was the answer.”
“There is one plus-side to moving to Virginia.”
“What’s what?”
Leaning toward him, she nudged her arm against his. “Northern Virginia is my territory. You’ll have a built-in friend who can show the hidden gems of the region.”
“You’re joking, right?”
“Not a bit. I grew up in Richmond, but live and work in Alexandria now.”
His eyes widened with astonishment. “Our new building is in Alexandria. How haven’t we talked about where you live yet?”
“Not sure. I guess we were waiting for the right moment.” She smiled, trying to ignore the delight that James might end up living near her. They both had clear issues to work through before thinking about relationships. Not that they would be thinking about a relationship even if they were in the right mental place.
Oh, good grief, Cece. Stop your inner ramblings and enjoy the moment.
She laughed at herself and her inner monologue.
James’s lips curled. “I’m not sure what you’re laughing at, but I much prefer that over the tears.”
“I was laughing at myself and how ridiculous I can be when I get inside my head.” A breeze blew and she pulled her sweater closer. “Two hours ago, I thought this was the worst night of my life. Then you show up at my door and talked me through my insanity while you were dealing with your own mess that put mine into perspective.”
“I’m glad I could help, but don’t let my pain negate yours. My grief may be different than yours, but we’re both dealing with loss. It stinks no matter the circumstances.”
“True.” She stopped and turned to him. “Why did you stop by earlier? I kind of bamboozled you with a meltdown and didn’t even ask.”
“I was going to ask if you and Anya wanted to join me for karaoke at a café in town.”
“That would have been fun. I’m sorry if I messed up your plans.
“Don’t be.” He reached out and touched her arm lightly. “Tonight turned out better than I expected. It helps to know other people are going through problems as well. Like you said, sometimes you just need to get out of your own head.”
“That’s my biggest obstacle. If you notice me slipping into it, feel free to knock me upside the head.”
“I don’t know if I can do that, but I’ll call you out on it if you do the same for me.”
“You’ve got a deal. Let’s shake on it.” She held her hand, and when James took hold of it, they shook firmly.
“We’re in agreement,” he declared. “We’re going to overcome these thought battles.”
A yawn inadvertently slipped out. “I’m sorry. The sugar rush must be crashing.”
James winked. “With the level of sugar you consumed, that crash is going to hit hard.”
She groaned. “Don’t remind me.”
“Let’s get you back to your room before you pass out here.” He turned on a heel to go back toward the castle and she followed him.
A few more yawns escaped before they made it inside and up the stairs. Her eyes were heavy, and she fought to keep them open. Bed and sleep sounded like a dream.
She unlocked her door. “Good night.”
“Goodnight.” His gaze locked with hers. He suddenly reached into his jacket pocket. “I forgot to give you this yesterday. I was going to drop it off earlier when I came by.”
“What is it?” she asked, leaning against the doorjamb.
“A postcard from the royal gardens with Forester on it. I saw how much you adored the plush but didn’t want to be impractical. I thought a postcard would be a nice souvenir for you.”
