Page 127 of Love Unscripted
It reminded him of Scarlette. How, no matter where he was playing a game, if she couldn’t be there to support him, she wouldn’t go to sleep until he called her. Before, the memory used to bring a sharp, aching grief.
Now, as he thought of Scarlette, he felt something gentler. Gratitude. Happiness for the time they had been given, forthe memories that would always remain, and most of all—for Madison. He knew that the healing in his heart was God’s grace. And he also knew, if he was honest, that God used Camille to be part of that healing.
After promising Madison he would call again the next day, he ended the call and sat quietly for a long moment, the glow of the city reflecting against the glass. Then, with a slow breath, he turned to his laptop. He logged onto the jeweler’s website, selected the Camille marquise diamond ring, and paid extra for next-day delivery.
~*~*~*~
Aaron and Camille’s next stop was Phoenix where they spent two packed days moving between virtual interviews and in-studio appearances. By the end of it, they were exhausted—but encouraged. The response had been strong everywhere, and the conversation around the film—and their chemistry—was very complimentary.
On their last night, Ray suggested they all go out to celebrate.
Before Aaron could answer, the elevator doors opened and Chris stepped out, tablet in hand, expression sharp with quiet satisfaction.
“Perfect timing,” he said. “Just got off a call with the studio. The numbers are strong. Engagement’s exactly where we want it.”
They drifted into the small lounge as Chris began outlining the next phase—trailers, press, screenings, a full campaign that would carry them straight through to the premiere.
Aaron listened, but only in part.
Across from him, Camille had slipped into one of the low chairs, one leg crossed over the other, her attention fixed politely on Chris. She nodded at the right moments, asked a briefquestion about scheduling—but every now and then, her gaze flicked to Aaron.
Just for a second.
Just enough to make it difficult to focus.
“…global press, major markets, back-to-back appearances,” Chris was saying. “It’s going to be intense.”
Camille shifted slightly, adjusting the sleeve of her blouse. Aaron’s eyes followed the movement before he could stop himself. When she glanced up and caught him, something unspoken passed between them—quick, charged.
He looked away first.
“Bottom line,” Chris said, lowering the tablet, “if this holds, the film doesn’t just open well. It dominates.”
A brief silence followed.
Ray clapped his hands once. “Then we’re definitely celebrating. Dinner—my treat.”
Aaron shook his head. “I’m going to pass tonight.”
Ray lifted a brow. “You sure?”
“Yeah,” he said, keeping his tone easy. “I’ve got plans.”
There was the slightest pause.
Camille didn’t look at him—but he saw the way her fingers stilled against her arm.
Chris gave a small nod. “Enjoy it. Things are about to get busy.”
Aaron slipped his hand into his pocket, his fingers brushing the velvet box.
Across the room, Camille finally glanced up.
This time, she didn’t look away.
Busy… was one word for it.
~*~*~*~
