Page 113 of The Romance Library

‘Agreed!’ We stepped through the large glass doors, then down the small steps onto the main floor, our heads spinning as we took in the thousands of books lining the shelves.

There was every genre you could think of, but of course we headed straight to the first floor, where the romance books were.

Thanks to Theo’s kindness and the bag of goodies Mrs Davis had left for me, I already had most of the books I would’ve bought, but of course, I couldn’t resist picking up a few more.

And when Theo said he needed the toilet, I raced to the thrillers section, scooped up some novels I’d heard were popular, then took them to the till.

‘These are for you!’ I handed Theo the bag.

‘You bought me books?’ He reached inside.

‘Yep! Remember, I want to cheer you up. And every bookworm knows that buying new books is the secret to happiness.’

‘Obviously.’ He grinned. ‘Thank you. Not just for the books, but for everything. You’ve made a sad day memorable for good reasons.’

‘You’re welcome.’ I wrapped my arm around his waist. ‘Now let’s get you back to Sunshine Bay so you can video-call your brothers and share your memories about your lovely mum.’

36

Jess

Today was the day.

In less than half an hour, I’d be presenting to Edwin, and in a few hours I’d know my fate. Either I’d be starting a new life as the manager of a romance library, or I’d be calling my old bosses to ask for more home support, cleaning and bar shifts.

The suspense was killing me. I’d already been to the toilet twice in the last hour and my stomach was in knots. I wished I had a crystal ball to see what was going to happen, but all I could do now was try to stay calm and do my best in the pitch.

If I said that I’d spent every second over the past week and a bit fine-tuning my presentation, I’d be lying because I’d been swept away with Theo.

Although during the working day we’d been disciplined and stayed in our rooms, as soon as the clock struck five, we’d dive straight into each other’s arms.

We always made a point of dragging ourselves away for a walk on the beach in the evenings, where we’d sit and read on what had become our special bench.

After that we’d head back and either have dinner at the fish and chips restaurant (the last few times we’d opted for grilled fish and potatoes with veg) or put something in the oven at the B&B and eat together.

Then we’d go to Theo’s room and read together (usually after having sex) before I fell asleep on his chest.

Normally when I woke up, Theo had gone for a run, but he’d always come back with fresh crumpets and coffee for breakfast. And once he’d showered, we’d eat together until it was time to start work. It’d been bliss.

Last night, just like we’d agreed, we’d slept in our own beds. I’d really missed having Theo close to me and reading together. But this was an important day. For both of us.

I hated the fact that Theo was supposed to be my rival. That his success would be my failure and if I succeeded, everything he’d worked for would go up in smoke.

But we couldn’t change the situation. So we just had to get on with it.

Whatever happened, we’d said that after the presentation, we’d spend this weekend together. Maybe go somewhere along the coast. I couldn’t wait. We still hadn’t discussed what would happen after that, though.

After tucking my red blouse into my floaty knee-length blue-and-yellow-patterned skirt and stepping into my heels, I was ready to go.

When I arrived, there was a huge flashy car in the Seaview High car park, which was strange.

‘Welcome!’ Edwin opened the door for me with his trademark smile.

‘Thanks!’ I said, wondering where Theo was. He was always early, and I was sure I’d heard him leave his room. ‘How are you?’

‘I’m great! Looking forward to hearing what you two have come up with. Glenda tells me that you and Theo have become very close.’ His smile was mischievous. By now I was sure most of the town knew we’d become more than ‘friends’.

‘Theo’s lovely,’ I swooned before catching myself. I couldn’t afford for my mind to start playing a highlights reel from the time I’d spent with him. I had to get into business mode. ‘I’m looking forward to sharing my ideas for the library with you.’

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