Page 129 of When There Was You
A loud laugh erupts from my mouth. “And let me guess, a purple tuxedo?”
“Andnopurple tuxedo.”
“And this prom is where and when?”
“Next month. It’s an annual event for adults about an hour south of here, and I know you didn’t go to yours, so I thought maybe I could take you to this one.”
Oh shit. Oh shit. Oh shit.Insta-tears.
“Jacqui? You there?”
“Mm-hmm,” I manage.Get a hold of yourself.
“Is that a yes?”
I’m at a loss for words. I swallow and take a deep breath. “You took me off guard there, Lumberjack…in the best boyfriendy way. It’s ahell yes.”
“Had me worried there for a minute.”
“It’s really a prom?” I breathe.
“I’ve never been, but it’s supposedly the real deal. Cheeseball decorations, a professional portrait photographer, disco ball and DJ, formalwear, the works.”
“Oh my god. That’s epic.” So cool. “I’m touched you remembered.”
“I remember everything you’ve said, Sundance.”
I’m goo. Scrape me off the floor. “And no way I can get you into a purple tux?”
“If that’s a requirement, I must rescind my invitation, beautiful.”
“I’m kidding. But you are expecting to get laid, if I heard your earlier reference correctly?”
“I don’t mean to presume, but it’s customary for the girl to put out on prom night.”
We share a laugh. Of course I’m putting out. No prom required. “But it’s formal?”
“Formal-ish. Men don’t need to wear black tie, for instance. A suit will suffice.”
“Mmm…I’m kind of drooling about Daddy Lumberjack in a suit.”
“I will do anything to get you drooling, baby. Especially if it involves my dick.”
I chuckle. “Is it going to be, like, old folks?”
“Maybe? I’m not sure. But ask me if I care.”
“I’m betting not.”
“All I care about is taking my hot girlfriend to prom, because every woman should experience that in her lifetime if it’s what she wishes.”
“Have I told you how much I love you today, Butch?”
“Nope.”
“You are the most wonderful man—and you’ve straight-up ruined me for anyone else.”
“That was my evil plan. And baby…there’s no one for me but you.”
