Theo stands up, stretching his arms over his head. “Well, if we’re going to get all this done, we’re going to need more coffee. I’ll get another pot started.”
As he heads toward the kitchen, Sarah leans in. “Grace, I’ve got to say, you’ve got something really special here. I’m really impressed.”
“Thanks, Sarah. That means a lot.”
Devon flips through another stack of papers, his expression serious.
“Okay, so we’ve got Rand’s show next week, the nonprofit rollout afterward, and we’ll start strategizing around the charity angle. Anything else we need to cover today?”
I shake my head, feeling a bit dazed by how quickly everything is moving. “I think that’s enough for one day,” I say with a laugh.
Devon grins, closing the folder in front of him. “Fair enough. But just know, it might all be overwhelming at the moment, but we’re in for a hell of a ride.”
This is happening.The engagement, the nonprofit, everything.
It doesn’t feel overwhelming; it feels right.
22
THEO
Istep out of the sleek black car, reaching back to help Grace as she adjusts her dress and heels. Camera flashes pop like firecrackers, and photographers call our names, hoping to capture the perfect shot.
Grace’s fingers intertwine with mine, and we share a look—excited, maybe a little nervous.
“Ready?” I ask, squeezing her hand.
She grins, that signature sparkle in her eyes that has me hooked. “More than ready.”
Inside the studio, the atmosphere shifts from chaotic to intimate in its own way. Crew members rush around, headsets and clipboards in hand, adjusting lights and shouting cues.
There’s a low hum of excitement from the audience. I spot Rand Davis on stage, chatting with his producer. He catches sight of us, gives us a big grin, and waves us over.
“Look who’s finally here!” he says, offering a hand as he pulls me in for a quick hug.
“And Grace, you look stunning as ever. You guys ready to spill the beans?”
“Think so,” I say, glancing at Grace. She nods, her cheeks slightly flushed, but she squeezes my hand gently.
Rand chuckles, tapping his chin as he eyes us with a playful skepticism.
“Something tells me this is going to be my best episode yet. I am so grateful and beyond flattered that you chose me to make this announcement with you.”
“Couldn’t have thought of anyone better,” I say. “I’ve always appreciated how you stood up for me when the rest of Hollywood condemned me.”
“I believe that we can tell the reality of someone’s personality regardless of the mask they wear for the rest of the world. And you, sir, are a good human.”
“He certainly is,” Grace breathes as she gazes up at me adoringly.
The audience settles, and we take our places behind the backdrop before we’re revealed to the audience.
A couple of deep breaths calm the jittery excitement bubbling in my chest while Grace nestles in close, her leg brushing against mine.
Our hands find each other naturally, and I squeeze her fingers, feeling the warmth of her touch.
“And we’re live in three... two... one!”
The “Rand Davis Show” theme blares through the speakers, and the audience cheers wildly. Rand steps forward, waving to the crowd.