Page 348 of The Sinner: James

RAIN

Christmas,New York

This ismy first book signing in New York.

It was my idea to start the book tour at the bookstore where I used to work. The place is under new ownership, and Candy and Angel no longer work here.

The place has been spruced up a bit. The furniture has been replaced, and more lights were added.

A gourmet coffee house is part of the retail space now.

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee is mixed with the smell of new books, while the soothing music creates a cozy atmosphere.

A line of book fans forms inside the store before five in the afternoon.

Minutes later, I scribble down autographs. Embossed golden words shine across the covers of my books.

Owned, A Fairytale by L. Carter.

Some people linger a little longer, giving me their words of appreciation, while others want to take a picture with me.

“I didn’t think I’d be in your book,” a man says, inching closer to the table, sliding his copy in front of me.

I push my gaze up.

“David?”

A smile colors his gaze.

I push out of my chair, round the table, and hug him.

“How did you know I was going to be here today?” I ask, opening the book.

“Your future husband told me,” he says.

My eyes flick up.

“My what?”

He swivels his head and points to the street, where a tall, dark-haired man leans against his car and lights a cigarette.

My cheeks are warm with a blush.

“Did he really say that?” I ask, intrigued.

He flashes a grin.

“He didn’t need to.”

I lower my eyes.

With trembling hands, I grab his book and sign it for him.

‘To David. Thank you for throwing me a lifeline when I needed it the most,”

L. Carter.

He scoops up the book, a grin beaming on his face.

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