Page 88 of Booked on You
I stand, grabbing her empty plate.
“Thank you, Ezra,” Scarlett says, moving to the coffeepot to refill her mug. She moves close to me and kisses me on the cheek. “You inspire me.”
“Coming from you, that’s the best fuckin’ compliment. I’ll see you after your four thousand words?”
“I’m going to try to write as much as I possibly can. Maybe I’ll cash in five O-coins.”
I chuckle as Scarlett moves toward the back door. I rinse our plates, washing away the lingering crumbs. My mind drifts to the look on Scarlett’s face when she saw her handwriting in my mother’s book. She was surprised but was just as touched as I was.
I smile like a fool in love, as inspiration suddenly pulses through me.
I refill my coffee cup, then I send her a quick message.
Ezra
When you finish your writing session, meet me on the third floor.
Scarlett
It might be a while.
Ezra
Totally fine. I’ll be there until dark. Cheering you on! Can’t wait to see you.
Scarlett
Mmm. Me too!
Pocketing my phone,I head toward the stairs. Each step I take is filled with anticipation.
Scarlett has shared so much of herself with me that it’s time I finally show her exactly who I am, too.
CHAPTER 21
SCARLETT
Itype the last sentence of the chapter and just sit for a second to take it all in.
My fingers hover over the keys as satisfaction settles into my chest.
I’ve written over eight thousand words today and found my stride. My deadline feels closer than ever, but I’ll make it.
This book is pouring forth from a place inside me I thought was dried up. Or maybe I’ve just been waiting for someone like Ezra to remind me of things I’d forgotten existed.
I lean back in the chair and twist my body, cracking my spine. I unlock my phone and check my notifications, scrolling through the last conversation I had with Ezra. It was nearly twelve hours ago. He told me to meet him on the third floor when I was finished. Wondering if he’s still up there, I open the door of the cottage and glance up, seeing the lights in his house are still on, shining like a beacon in the night.
My heart races at the thought of being with him.
Without wasting more time, I move to my suitcase, digging through it until my fingers brush the fabric of a pretty pink sundress with white flowers.
The material is delicate and almost sheer against my skin. I slip it over my head, letting it cascade down my body without anything underneath. The sensation of cool fabric brushing over sensitive places sends a thrill through me.
My reflection in the mirror stops me as I pass, cheeks flushed, eyes bright with anticipation. I run my fingers through my hair, wondering why I’m so nervous. Ezra brings out a bold and playful side of me. It’s enthralling, addictive, and I don’t want this to end anytime soon. I enjoy Ezra’s company and appreciate how he makes me feel safe, cherished, and valued. It’s the trifecta, what every woman wants in life.
After I put on a touch of lip stain, I exit the cottage.
Evening has settled in, and the crickets are chirping as I cut across the backyard. I imagine Ezra taking this same path to see his mom.
