Page 173 of Dream Chaser

“I told you it would be,” Scarlett said. “If you have open spots for brand photography next month, we’d love to use your services for the new perfume launch.”

Nova beamed. “Thank you, Scar. I’m booked for most of February, but I’m sure I can fit you in.”

I dropped a kiss on top of her head. “How about dinner?”

I’d reserved a table at the rooftop restaurant in the same building. After all the time and effort Nova poured into the exhibition, she deserved to be celebrated. Not only tonight—every day.

Scarlett winked. “Sounds amazing. Lead the way.”

At the restaurant, the smiling hostess accompanied us to our table. Emerport’s lights glittered behind the floor-to-ceiling windows as I uncorked a bottle of champagne and filled everyone’s glasses.

“To Nova,” I said, raising my flute.

“To Nova,” everyone echoed. Eleanor and Miles gave Nova a tight hug; so did Asher, Kaia, and Scarlett. As we settled at the table, Nova wrapped her fingers around my wrist. “Can I steal you for a minute?”

“Always.”

She led me to the restaurant’s terrace. As soon as we stepped onto the deck, she wrapped her arms around my neck. “Thank you, Ale.”

I tucked a loose strand framing her face behind her ear. “For what, amor?”

“This,” she said. “Being here for me. Telling me two years ago I should chase my dreams.”

“And you did.” I kissed her softly. “My brilliant, brave dream chaser.”

Her fingertips skated over my stubble. “I learned from the best, boss.”

I pressed my thumb to her plump bottom lip. “Thought we had an agreement.”

“We did.”

Nova freed herself from my arms and headed for the restaurant’s entrance. When she was about to go in, she glanced at her watch, then tossed me a heart-stopping smile over her shoulder. “Only a few hours left.”

“Left until what?” I asked.

“Until I call you Ale.”

END