A half smile surfaced to his face. “I’ll see you at six-thirty.”
“Six-thirty,” she repeated.
He walked backward, slowly, to the door, their eyes locked at all moments.
A weight landed on her heart and unbidden tears burned her eyes. Tears of joy, for the friendship she’d found with him, and tears of sorrow that tomorrow would tear them apart. She closed the door after him, firmly reminding herself of what she’d said only minutes ago.
Tomorrow would come soon enough. She couldn’t afford to waste time lamenting his departure. They had tonight, and she would make the most of her last hours with James.
Chapter Fourteen
Never in his wildest dreams had James imagined he’d take advantage of the tuxedo fitting that Grant had reserved for him. He’d scoffed at the very notion of the ball and had thought only gullible and desperate people would attend.
That’s what he got for his judgmental attitude.
Not only was he attending the ball tonight, but he was also taking a date.
How had that happened? One minute he’d been livid at Grant for tricking him into a vacation, and the next he’d formed a fast friendship with wonderful people he prayed would remain in his life long after this trip.
Anya, though she’d left early, had become another sister to him. Her passion for literacy and love for her family combined with her zest for life brought joy to all around her. He’d already spoken with Grant about working with her charity. He’d readily agreed to consider it, and when they both returned to the states, they’d sit down with their community affairs manager to plan what they could do.
Then there were Edwin and Kate. He’d met many interesting people throughout his life and career, but Edwin and Kate were at the top of the list. Entertainers often had a bad reputation for being flighty and non-committal, refusing to take life seriously. Edwin and Kate were anything but. Two more joyful people he had never met. However, he would like to finally beat Edwin in a game of chess, but he didn’t see that happening. Edwin was a savant in the game.
Finally, Cece. What could he say? They’d had an instant connection. Maybe they saw grieving souls in each other and that’s what bonded them. All he knew was that his heart had healed more this week than it had in the last two years. He had no clue what the future held for them. Maybe they’d leave Finlovia and without the fairy tale charm, these budding feelings would remain at friendship.
No matter what happened, he would be eternally grateful for this week—not that he’d admit that to Grant anytime soon. He almost wished he could stay longer. Could he? Would that be crazy?
Yes.
Escape was nice, but so was reality. With the upcoming move, he’d have his hands busy from sunup to sundown. He scowled. Busyness didn’t hold the same allure as a week ago. Changes were coming once he got home.
He’d take time for himself and find a balance between work and life, even if that meant his mind had time to think and wander. Not every second of his day would be planned. He’d try a new meal and even new restaurants. He’d find his way back to church.
Life would be different. Better.
Bringing his thoughts to the present, he checked his image in the mirror. He ran a comb through his hair a final time, ensuring not a one was out of place. The tux he’d been fitted for earlier in the week fit perfectly. He’d often found them uncomfortable but the exact fit and high-quality fabric made this one bearable. The shoes on the other hand…he could do without. They pinched his toes, but he’d survive in them for a few hours. A small sacrifice to spend time with Cece.
He grabbed the flower he’d bought for her and left his room. His heart raced. A decade had passed since he’d been on his last first date, and he’d never expected to have one again. In reality, this would probably be an only date, but he’d make the most of the night.
After he knocked on her door, he flexed his hands while waiting, working out his nervous energy. All ability to speak left him when Cece opened the door.
Loose tendrils of hair framed her face while the rest of her hair had been curled and fell freely over her elegant shoulders. He’d only seen her wear lip gloss until now, but she had full makeup on that still managed to look natural but added a glow to her face.
Her dress was…stunning. A solid ivory color with lace and satin and silk (or so it looked to him). The off the shoulder sleeves showcased her trim figure while maintaining decency. The full skirt flowed and floated with each of her movements. He’d subconsciously considered Cece to be pretty, but tonight he was very aware of her full attractiveness.
He cleared his throat and found his voice. “You are beautiful.”
“Thank you.” She smiled at him bashfully.
“I brought you a gift.” He handed her the flower. “Live flowers didn’t seem practical, but I found this crystal cornflower.”
“Finlovia’s national flower.”
“Yes.”
“I love it.” She accepted his gift and admired it from all angles. “Thank you.”
She stepped aside and placed it carefully on the dressing table then picked up a small purse.
