“I love this concept, Noia.” Her eyes are bright with excitement. “Especially the idea of a series focused on women with extraordinary abilities who aren’t defined by their romantic relationships.”
“Thank you.” I can’t stop smiling. “I’ve been playing it safe for too long, writing what was expected of me rather than what truly inspires me.”
“Well, I’m thrilled you reached out. I’d love to see more once you have it. Would you be comfortable sending me the first three chapters when they’re ready?”
“Absolutely.”
After we hang up, I practically float around the house. Even Goonie picks up on my mood, racing around the living room like a furry tornado.
“This calls for a celebration,” I tell him, grabbing my purse. “I’m going to get us some treats.”
I grab my purse and head into town. The weather is sunny with just enough breeze to keep it from being too hot. I roll down the windows as I drive, singing along to the radio at the top of my lungs.
The grocery store is first on my list, followed by the post office and the hardware store for some supplies to fix the leaky bathroom faucet.
My phone rings as I’m walking back to my car, arms loaded with bags.
“Hey, Sash.” Juggling my phone and groceries, I unlock the trunk.
“How’d your meeting go?”
“Amazing!” I load the bags into the trunk. “Jasmine loved my pitch. She wants to see the first three chapters as soon as I’m finished.”
“I knew she would.” Her voice is full of pride. “I have a feeling this is going to be the fresh start you need.”
“I haven’t felt this excited about writing in... gosh, I don’t even know how long.” I slam the trunk closed and start walking down the sidewalk, eager to stop at the coffee shop for an iced latte before heading home. “It’s like everything just clicked into place.”
“Tell me more about this series. Super-powered women saving the day sounds badass.”
I launch into an explanation, describing each of the four main characters and how their stories will interconnect.
“God, I love it so much,” Sasha gushes. “It’s so... you. The real you, not the one that’s been trying to please everyone else.”
“That’s exactly how it feels.”
“Any word from Ryder?”
I sigh, my good mood dimming slightly. “Just the usual texts.But honestly? I’m okay. I mean, I miss him, but I’m not falling apart anymore. I’ve got my own life to live, you know?”
“That’s my girl. Independent woman and all that shit.”
There’s something to be said about distraction, and love is definitely one of them.
I glance up and my heart stutters to a stop.
Across the street, Ryder is standing outside Skin & Ink.
My heart starts up again, skipping several beats as I take him in. He looks good wearing a white T-shirt that stretches across his broad shoulders and tight faded jeans. His hair is a bit longer, curling slightly at the nape of his neck.
As if sensing my presence, he glances up. Our eyes lock and the world seems to fade away.
“Noia? You still there?” Sasha’s voice sounds distant in my ear.
“I gotta go,” I say absentmindedly, never breaking eye contact with the man across the street. “I’ll call you later.”
Pulse racing, I hang up without waiting for a response.
A slow smile spreads across his face, and I answer it with one of my own.
