Page 73 of Free to Believe
Jake’s unusually quiet as he makes his way back to his seat. “So, you do believe.”
My senses go on high alert. Warily, I ask, “In what?”
“In love.”
“Believing in it isn’t the same as accepting you’re deserving of it.”
He goes to open his mouth when the band fortuitously comes on stage. The crowd goes nuts. Leaning forward, he makes it so his voice is heard in my ear. “This conversation isn’t over.”
But it is,I think as I turn around in my stool to watch the lead singer step up to the mic.
It never should have started to begin with.
Because by even letting him in that much, I weakened myself and I damn well know it.
* * *
Another beer and hours later,I’m lost in the sweet summer air. I don’t know the words to any of the songs, but my hips are swaying back and forth in my seat. I totally get why Jake wants Brendan to listen to this group. I’d pay a hell of a lot more than the price of a few beers to listen to them. And inspiration strikes.
“I’ll be right back,” I yell over the cheering crowd. Snagging a waitress, I ask if I can see the manager. She points out an attractive middle-aged gentleman standing back with his arm hooked around a woman. Weaving my way between people, I approach them.
“Hi. I’m sorry to intrude, but I understand you’re the manager?”
The man grins. “Actually, my wife and I co-own Cisco with our partners.”
Pay dirt. “Even better. My name is Emily Freeman.” I hold out my hand, and we all shake. “My company is always looking for good products and good talent. You have both here. But since we’re family owned and operated, I was wondering if you’d permit me to take a video of the band playing and maybe buy a case of each of your whiskey, wine, and a selection of your beers.”
The owners exchange surprised glances. “What company do you work for, Ms. Freeman?” the woman asks warily.
I smile. All the times Ali’s had us interviewed for industry magazines is about to pay off. And not just for us. “Amaryllis Events out of Collyer, Connecticut.” I let that sink in before I add the coup de grace. “And I was just personally asked to do a show at Bridal Fashion Week in October. We’re having an after-party that my sister is in charge of catering. If you think you might want to supply the liquor for that…” I let my voice trail off.
“Why don’t you enjoy your day here at Cisco, Ms. Freeman? Drop by my office during the week and let’s talk.” Reaching into his back pocket, the owner pulls out a business card.
“In the meantime, we’ll let our staff know you’re allowed to video the live performance,” his wife says breathlessly.
“Fantastic!” I exclaim. “I think once my siblings”—and Brendan, I think silently—“get a good understanding of your operation, Connecticut is going to be a huge fan of Cisco.”
Out of the corner of my eye, I see Jake stand up trying to locate me. “I’d better go. My date has no idea where I’ve run off to,” I admit sheepishly.
“Go, enjoy your afternoon. And I’ll look forward to hearing from you during the week.” We exchange handshakes all around before I return to Jake with a smug smile on my face.
Helping me into my chair, he growls into my ear, “What was that all about?”
I grin. I can’t help it. Cassidy and Ali must be rubbing off on me. “That, Jacob, was killing two birds or more with one stone,” I declare haughtily. “Not only did I just get you the rights to record the band, but I might have just secured Cisco to supply liquor for one of our catering events. I have to come back later this week to talk with the owners. Now, smile. They’re looking our way.” I wave over at them.
“Are you kidding?” Jake says incredulously. I shake my head, setting my curls dancing.
“You are incredible. Do you know what you just did?” he breathes, right before he lowers his head and kisses me softly in front of half of Nantucket.
A few moments later when we break apart, I ask dreamily, “Can I do it again?”
Jake laughs. Just then, our waitress comes up with a Reserved sign for our table and small glasses of whiskey. “Compliments of the owners, Ms. Freeman. Anytime you want to start recording, you’re free to do so.”
“Thanks.” I expect Jake to pull out his phone immediately, but instead, he pulls me to my feet. “What are you doing?”
Without a word, he leads me into a throng of bodies crushed together on the dirt-packed dance floor. “This.” Dragging me into his arms, we start swaying together just as one song ends.
“Oh.” I’m filled with disappointment. I start to move away from him, but his arms close around me tighter.
