Chapter 29 #2
“I have a list of questions to lead the discussion, but they are only a guide to keep us focused. But feel free to speak up with any questions or opinions you may have. I would ask that we respect one another as well as the author who has kindly provided us with signed copies for everyone to take home today.”
Everyone smiled and nodded along, so I asked the first question. Luckily, the group was a lively bunch who bounced comments off each other. Even Grant joined in the conversation when I assumed he was there to observe.
The expressions of joy plastered across the patrons’ faces as they discussed the book filled my heart with so much hope.
My passion continued to reignite as I asked a new question, and most members of the group chimed in.
There were moments when we were all laughing, crying, or swooning over the romantic aspect of the story.
I was saddened as we neared the end of the discussion. I met Grant’s eyes again, who walked toward me in what seemed to be slow motion, or maybe I was that captivated by him.
“You’re off right now, right?”
“Yeah, I have to hand out the signed books, and then I’ll be good to go,” I responded.
He leaned toward me, speaking quietly, “I’m so beyond proud of you. I’ll wait outside for you, and then we’re going to go celebrate.”
He walked toward the door before I could respond. My happiness was all consuming as I watched him go. I didn't know how I would ever repay him for all he had done to ease my nervousness for tonight. And for believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself.
I finished handing out the books and went to grab my stuff from my locker. Grant was standing next to my car as I came out.
“Here she comes, the lady of the hour,” he said, bowing to me.
I rolled my eyes with a laugh. “Oh, stop,” I said, shooing him away.
He smirked. “I’ll drive us. We can come get your car later.”
I nodded and followed him to his truck. I was still riding the high of how well the book club went. “It went really well, didn’t it?” I asked shyly.
“Serenity,” he said with a pause, “I say this with all the honesty that I can conjure, you were phenomenal. You spoke clearly and guided the discussion so everyone had a chance to speak. And you know your stuff! There was nothing they brought up that you didn’t have a theory about. I must confess, I have a crush on you.”
“Is that so?” I smiled slyly at him. “I’m pretty fond of you myself.”
He reached out and squeezed my hand. “We’re here.”
“Where’s here?” I asked in amusement because we were parked at the top of a mountain.
“You’ll see,” he said, getting out of the truck and walking around to open my door. He gave me his hand to assist in jumping down. We walked hand in hand to a bench that overlooked the city. The stars sparkled a lot brighter from atop the mountain.
I had a sudden rush of emotion. He knew my safe space was on top of a mountain overlooking the trees, but since it was nighttime, the mountain top overlooked a sky full of stars. How he showed me how much he listened and cared about me made me feel warm and safe. Did I deserve it?
“Where’d you go?” he asked, putting his arm around me.
“I’m overthinking. You give me all these wonderful moments of assurance. It’s hard to believe I even deserve it.” I looked away.
“Please look at me, pretty girl.” I did as he asked with tears forming in my eyes.
“You have become my favorite part of my day. Everything else is routine and monotonous, but you come around, and suddenly life lights up. Colors are more vibrant. Food has more flavor. Workouts make me stronger. I even sleep the best when I know I’ll get to see you the next day.
” He used his thumb to wipe the single tear that escaped.
“All that to say, I care about you more than you’ll probably ever understand.
That care only increases the more time I spend with you and the more I get to know your soul.
Your oh so beautiful soul.” He squeezed my shoulder with reassurance.
“I don't know how to show I have that same care for you. I feel like you deserve better than what I can give you just because of my messed-up past.” I looked down at my hands.
“You are the best person I have met in this life.” He lifted my chin, so our eyes met. “You deserve absolutely everything, Serenity. I will continue to do everything I can to prove that to you.”
“You’re one of the good ones, Grant. I hope you know that, too. Can I ask a question?”
“Always,” he responded.
“I had the best sleep I’ve had in a long time when I slept at your house. Maybe I can come over tonight, but maybe you can sleep in the bed with me this time.”
I watched his lips go up in a smirk. “Are you asking to sleep with me, pretty girl?” He laughed.
“Just sleep, yes. Maybe some cuddling.”
“On one condition,” he said.
“What’s that?” I looked up at the stars to bask in the moment with him.
“I get to be the little spoon.” I burst out laughing, especially since he was practically a foot taller than me.
“I will gladly hold you like a baby.” I kissed him lightly on the lips.
“Then let's get out of here so we can get your car and stop at your place to pack an overnight bag. It’s almost my bedtime.”
“Mine too,” I said.
“Wow, the stars were beautiful tonight. Not nearly as beautiful as you, though.”
I bumped my hip into him playfully. “They were pretty magnificent.”
“Stargazing with you was truly out of this world,” he said with a wink.
“Okay, lover boy. Let’s get you home.”
“Us,” he corrected.