Page 29 of About Time You Noticed

Sarah blasted a bark of laughter. “You say it was awesome, but you looked pretty scared from where I was sitting. You were sideways, and your head was bouncing, so I can’t be sure.”

He patted Trixi’s side and said nothing.

“It's okay to admit you're scared sometimes, Tom."

"You can read me well. And you're right. I don't need to hide it from you. You’re not one to judge. I do get scared sometimes. Even now." He looked intently into her eyes. "Do you know what I’m most afraid of?"

Birds chirped in the trees about them. A dog barked down the street. Tommy’s stare dared her to guess. She glanced away. "I don't read minds. It’s against my religion.” She smirked.

"Huh. Well, I don't know myself half the time. My mind is all over the place lately."

She studied him. "Does it have to do with the other night when you came over and weren't well?"

"Yes. The confusion definitely started then. I haven't been the same since. Maybe I'll get over it soon, and things will go back to normal."

“Maybe.”

Chapter Nine

AFTER THEIR REGULAR Tuesday pool game, the group headed to Cobbler’s Steakhouse for coffee and cake. Sarah sat at the table observing her dearest friends. Emily had a glow about her. It was so good to see Ethan and Em finally married and content.

Sarah bit into her mud cake and let the rich chocolate flavors melt over her tongue. Tommy sat across from her and smiled. He tapped the side of his mouth and stared at hers. She dipped her head and wiped the crumbs from her lips. He’d been more attentive lately and adorably thoughtful.

Jake placed his arm over Kaitlyn’s and nodded at Ethan. "My wife tells me ticket sales are out of control. Will you be able to add seats, or do you plan to run the program extra nights?"

Ethan rubbed his chin. "It's a five-day production. We’re thinking about making it seven days now."

"That's fantastic.” Jake rolled his bottom lip and nodded. “The little theatre is in full swing."

"Yep." Emily grinned. "The grant for renovations came through quickly, and Anthony and Dion went through and had all the old equipment updated. Brought it into the 21st-century."

Damien leaned forward. "Looking forward to the show. Sarah is going to take me.”

Ethan’s brows twitched. “Is that right?” He cocked his head to one side.

Damien nodded at Emily. “Sarah said you might be able to show me backstage and meet the actors in the green room."

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