Page 16 of Polly

He huffed a laugh. “Okay, good.”

They watched the movie together over the phone, laughing and making comments about the show, until finally she fell asleep.

* * *

Flynn

Flynn would recognize that makeup-less face anywhere. The blond he waited for entered the baggage area at the airport, her hat pulled low and her face unmarked to keep recognition down.

He whistled to catch her attention, and her eyes shot to him. He smiled, pulling his own hat low but flashing a dimple at her. She nodded acknowledgement.

He approached her, knocked her playfully with his hip, and helped grab her bag.

“Hey,” he said simply.

“Hey,” she responded with a smile.

They left the airport as fast as possible, before one of them was spotted. He led her to the inconspicuous black town car in the parking lot and they ducked into the backseat.

“Let’s go back to the hotel,” Flynn told the driver, who nodded and began driving.

Flynn turned his gaze to Polly. “Did you bring your camera?”

“I did.”

Flynn nodded. “Good. Can you take some pics at the award show for me?”

Polly smiled. “Sure.”

“Awesome. Also, we’re going out later.”

“You going to elaborate?”

“Nope. When do you have to be back?”

“I have to be in Richmond on Saturday morning.”

He nodded. “It’s what, Wednesday? I’ve got...” He mentally calculated. “Until Friday before I have to be back on the bus. I can probably make that Saturday if I fly instead. I’ll play it by ear.”

“The awards show is tonight?”

Flynn nodded. “Yes. Then after that, you and I are going out.”

She frowned. “What does that mean?”

“You’ll see.”

“Not helpful.”

Flynn laughed. “I’ve never pretended to be helpful.”

Polly shook her head. “Fine. Keep your secret. What award are you guys up for, anyway?”

“Late Nyght Smoke got nominated for Song of the Year at the Synergic Awards.”

“Awesome. That’s a big deal.”

Flynn smiled. “We got nominated, but I don’t expect a win. Still, it’s an honor for the nomination.”

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