Page 111 of Play Book

Back on the runway.

Another rose from Canyon.

Cat calls and cheering from the Phantoms.

Before I know it, it’s over and Stevie’s a blubbering mess backstage while Bailey is radiant.

“This is one of the best nights of my life professionally,” she says as we start to change into our street clothes.

“It was fun,” I agree.

“Are you sure you want to retire?” Chey asks me, pulling on a pair of tight black jeans and an emerald-green turtleneck.

“I’m ready,” I say, “but I’ll always model for Alexa. Any time, any place, even for free.”

“Will work for dresses!” Stevie calls out, laughing.

“I love you guys,” Alexa yells, holding up her glass of champagne. “Thank you for being here tonight.”

“Thank you for doing this for me,” Stevie says quietly, her eyes filling with tears. “I don’t know that I ever would have come back to New York if you hadn’t found a way to lure me here.”

“Like she said, she’ll work for dresses!” Alexa teases.

Everyone laughs and I turn to find our friends in the adjoining reception area.

And Canyon.

Who is more than a friend.

The most gorgeous, kind, and caring man I know.

And he’s mine.

THIRTY-THREE

Canyon

There are no words to describe how amazing it was watching Saylor on stage. In her element. One of the top supermodels in the world and when she’d come out, the first person she’d looked for was me. The rose was Ivan’s idea—he’s been dating a supermodel longer than I have—but I’m so glad I took his advice.

“Hi.” She throws her arms around my neck, and my hands move to her hips.

“You’re fucking stunning,” I say. “Breathtaking. Watching you out there… it’s so cool how you guys make it look easy.”

“Our adoring fans are waiting,” Alexa calls out. “Everyone please take a moment to do at least one interview each. Pretty please?”

“I’m on it,” Chey calls out, heading for the ante room where the press is waiting.

“I guess you’re not done yet,” Canyon whispers to me.

“No, but you can come with me.”

“Of course.” I slide my arm around her waist as we walk into the media room. Flashbulbs and cameras start going off, and Saylor is immediately surrounded.

“Saylor, is it true you’re retiring?” someone asks.

“What’s next for you, Saylor?”

“I’m going to focus on my art gallery in Los Angeles.”

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