“What happened to locking me in your bedroom? Not going to lie, I’m a little disappointed.” The look on her face is completely serious.
“I’m still satisfied from our Mile High Club induction. It’s going to live rent-free in my memories forever.” I allow my eyes to glaze over and grip my chin, pretending to think. “Speaking of, I believe we have a tattoo date. I’ll have Arty schedule something.’
“If you don’t have to keep your promises, I shouldn’t have to keep mine.” Vivienne crosses her arms over her chest playfully and sulks.
“Maybe if you agree to leave with me, I’ll make it worth your while with a happy ending.” I wink. “How long do you need to get ready?”
To my surprise, she replies, “Forty-five minutes.”
I sit on the bed to book a ride and email Arty about more than a few things. When I look up a few minutes later, Vivienne’s wearing one of my black waffle knit sweaters and a pair of holey jeans with what looks like black leggings underneath. She tucked the front of my sweater into her jeans and is in the process of slipping on a pair of shoes.
Quietly, I sneak up behind her and wrap my arms around her waist. “I like you in my clothes.”
She giggles. “All I have are tank tops and T-shirts.”
“I’m very disappointed in your packing skills,” I tease, releasing her so I can get some clothes on.
“Hey, not fair. My packing is perfect for Florida,” she argues, her gaze flitting over me and lingering as I dress.
Once we’re both ready, we head downstairs to meet the driver. After getting situated in the SUV, I go over the itinerary with the driver. First, a stop for bagels and coffee, then a trip into Manhattan for a pair of boots and a winter coat. She’s going to need a jacket and a pair of boots for her stay. I already know she’s not going to want me to buy them, which is exactly why I need caffeine first.
A few minutes later, we glide to a stop in front of a bagel shop. I asked the driver just to pick one at random since there’s plenty to choose from on our way. He opens the door for us and lets me know to message him when we’re ready to be picked up.
Vivienne hasn’t stopped staring. It’s a cute little shop nestled in with a few other stores and buildings. I grab her hand and gently lead her inside. There are a few customers eating at tables and one person ahead of us in line. Behind the counter, two college-aged girls are working together, toasting the bagels and taking orders.
“Good morning,” the girl at the register says as we step up to the counter. She looks at me, then to her co-worker, who is also staring then looks back at me. “Are you, Cas Wilder?”
I nod, flashing my rockstar smile. “Any chance this can be our little secret?”
“Oh my gosh, Mr. Wilder, of course we can keep a secret. No one will ever know you were here,” she says, pretending to zip her lips.
The other girl has scooted over next to the register and exclaims excitedly, “I can’t believe this is actually happening!” They look at each other, whisper-squeal, then jump up and down.
“Ladies, ladies. Be cool,” I reply, pinning them with my gaze.
“Okay. Okay, we can be cool,” they say practically in unison.
“Is that…” the girl at the register whispers, nodding her head at Vivienne.
“Yeah, this is Vivienne,” I squeeze her hand, introducing her.
She gives an awkward wave.
Toaster girl gushes, “Oh my god. You’re, like, so cool. What’s it like to be super famous?”
I chuckle under my breath as Vivienne replies politely, “I’m not that famous.”
The girls look even more star-struck. “No way you broke into a male-dominated industry and were one of the first female artists to do so many things.”
“That’s Callie,” register girl says, “She’s a huge nerd and loves to cosplay.”
“Guilty,” Callie laughs. “Do you think it would be cool if we took a picture and maybe you could sign something for me?”
I look at Vivienne with pride as she smiles warmly and says, “Heck yes, of course we can.”
Register girl must feel bad for me because she chimes in, “Don’t worry, Cas, we’d love a pic with both of you.”
I shake my head with a smile. “I wasn’t worried, just super proud of my girl.”
