Page 51 of Totally Kiss Cammed

Okay. Maybe a tiny bit a date.

My phone buzzes again.

PR:Dinner is confirmed at The Finch. Cameras on arrival and first course.

I stare at the screen for half a second longer than necessary.

“That’s smart,” I say.

Paige raises a brow. “You say that like you’re relieved.”

“I like knowing the parameters,” I say. “Timing. Cameras. When I’m officially on.”

Nancy smiles faintly. “You like knowing control points.”

I ignore that and reach for my shoes.

Paige hops off the bed and pulls me into a hug. “You’re going to be great.”

“I know.”

“You’re allowed to enjoy it.”

“I am enjoying it,” I say, which is technically true. I enjoy being prepared. I enjoy having a plan. I enjoy not being surprised.

Nancy stands and smooths my sleeve, precise as always. “Just remember, you don’t owe anyone a performance.”

That lands harder than I expect.

***

The car pulls up outside right on time.

I grab my coat, take one last look in the mirror, and straighten my shoulders.

This is controlled.

This is contained.

This is… not exactly a date.

The Nashville air is sharp when I step outside, winter biting just enough to keep me alert. Cameras are already positioned, discreet but present. I school my expression into something calm, pleasant and practiced.

The car door opens. I slide in, composed.

As we pull away, my reflection stares back at me in the tinted glass.

I look like I have everything handled.

In about 20 minutes, the restaurant comes into view, warm lights glowing against the cold. I step out, coat on, posture set.

And then I see him.

Colby Hayes is waiting near the entrance, hands in his pockets, relaxed like this isn’t being tracked, timed, and archived.

He looks up.

Our eyes meet.