Page 37 of Thick Girls Take Chances

that have moved for an extended period of time? Or sold all their belongings, bought an RV, and hit the road.”

There’ve been a lot, that’s for sure. One nice thing about being a full-time writer is that you can do it anywhere.

I heard Aunt Winnie walking up the stairs and took it as an opportunity to change the subject.

“Hold on,” I said to Grace just before I stood and headed to the door. I opened it just as my aunt stepped on the upstairs landing. “Aunt Winnie, Grace is on Facetime. Come in and say hello.”

I thought about what Grace said as the two chatted. I’ll admit the thought of staying another few weeks has crossed my mind. I wonder how Max will feel about that. Not that he owns the town of Seaside, but still. We’ve been spending so much time together. Would he feel obligated for this to continue or would it just stop if I stayed longer?

“It was so nice talking to you. Good night.”

“Good night, Aunt Winnie.”

Thankfully I got out of my head long enough to hear that exchange. Aunt Winnie stood and squeezed my arm.

“I’m going out to dinner,” she said. “So I’ll see you later.”

I sat back behind the desk and said good night to Grace.

“Think about what I said,” she said.

“I will.”

“I’m serious.”

“So am I.”

It’s not like I have to make a decision tonight. I’m not scheduled to leave for another three weeks. Hopefully by then I’ll figure out what to do.

Max

“How was your day?” I asked after greeting Eve with a kiss.

“It was wonderful. I typed ‘The End’ on my manuscript.”

I picked her up and spun her around then set her down on the sand.

“That’s amazing.”

She placed her hand on her chest and looked up at me.

“You have no idea how relieved I feel. I was so stuck for so long…” She trailed off and shook her head. “I have to do a final read-through but after that, it’s off to my editor.”

“I’m so happy for you.”

I put my arm around her shoulders and pulled her close to kiss the top of her head, then held her hand as we walked down the beach toward my place. We have a couple things to talk about and I figured a quiet night in would be perfect for an important conversation. Normally I’d just pick her up, but tonight I suggested meeting on the beach and taking a slow stroll.

We talked about the book she’d just written and all the ones she’s published. When I looked her up online, I was impressed with her extensive catalog. I’m not much of a reader, but I do plan to read one of her books at some point.

“So what’s next?” I asked. “Will you take a break?”

“I’ll probably jump into the next book. You know, strike while the iron’s hot.”

As we approached the steps to my deck, Eve looked around.

“God I’ll miss this view,” she said.

I hadn’t planned on discussing this until we were sitting down to dinner. But I can't ignore the fact that she just gave me the perfect opening.

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