Standing on the outskirts of the group, I watch them proudly. Theydeserve to celebrate. I was invited to the after-party, but if I go, it won’t be for long. I want nothing more than to snuggle with my Irishman and drink a bottle of wine. A hand touches my elbow, pulling me from my thoughts, and I turn to find Dr. Andrews smiling at me.
“You should be celebrating with them, Norah. It’s because of you that we even have interviews with any media outlet.”
I shake my head. “That’s not true. Every aspect of the production was incredible, and you are the one who chose a modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast. We just embellished and brought it to life.”
He laughs heartily. “Well, I guess there’s some truth to that. But I’m convinced you could have turned any idea of mine into pure magic. You have a gift, Ms. Grady. I hope you’ll consider staying on with the department after graduation. You’ll always have a place here.”
The relief I feel knowing that I have a job after graduation no matter what is overwhelming.
“Thank you, Dr. Andrews. You have no idea how much that means to me. Working with you and the department has been an absolute dream come true. I’m planning to spend the holiday break coming up with a game plan. If I stay in the area, I can’t imagine working anywhere else.” I tell him honestly.
Most seniors know what they want to do at the start of the Fall Semester, but I haven’t given it much thought past getting my business degree. I love what I do, and I love living in Wilmington.
“I’m glad to hear that. Go celebrate. I’ll see you bright and early for the interview,” he says before sauntering off.
It’s nearly ten o’clock before I leave the theater, and I’m dead on my feet. I’m anxious to see Eamon and tell him about the interview. He was at the performance tonight, but I never had a chance to do more than wave at him. He messaged me earlier saying that he would pick me up and take me for a celebratory drink at Paddy’s. I haven’t seen Paddy and Alicia in ages, and I miss them, but I don’t think I’ll make it through a pint without falling asleep in it.
I step outside, thankful I had the foresight to bring a thicker jacket with me,as there’s a chill breeze blowing through the parking lot. Eamon is leaning against his car, holding up a single yellow rose and looking absolutely mouthwatering all dressed up in gray slacks and a black button-up.
“Well, don’t you look handsome,” I tell him, walking directly into his waiting arms.
“Aye, it’s a special occasion,” he says, caressing my cheek with the soft rose petals. “That was incredible, love. I’ve never been much into plays, but I can honestly say that was pure quality. I’m so proud of you.”
“Thank you,” I say, mouth curving into a grin. “You’ll never believe what happened after the final curtain!”
“Tell me on the way to Paddy’s. I know it’s late and you’re exhausted, but humor me.” He winks and kisses me quickly.
Before he can pull away, I bury my fingers in his hair and deepen the kiss. He grunts in surprise but doesn’t put up much of a fight. The hand he had on my waist is now squeezing my ass.
“Can we just go home?” I murmur against his mouth.
Eamon groans in frustration as I press my hips into him. “You’re killing me, Norah.”
“There’s an easy solution. Take me home, Eamon. We can go to Paddy’s tomorrow night,” I beg him, trailing my hands down to his waistband.
He circles both of my wrists with one hand. “No, love, we can’t. I promised to deliver you to Paddy’s as soon as you left the theater.”
My eyes narrow in suspicion. “Promised who? And why?”
“Please do me a favor and cooperate. I’ll make it up to you later. With gusto,” he promises with a wink.
I scrunch my nose at him. “Ugh. Fine. This better be good, Kennedy.”
We climb into Eamon’s SUV and head towards Paddy’s. As we’re driving, I turn in my seat to tell him about my conversation with Miranda Sanchez.
“And then she told me they’re thinking about doing a TV series and featuring UNCW! I don’t even know what all that would entail, but it could be huge for the department!”
“You’re kidding!” Eamon exclaims, glancing over at me. “Ah, Acushla, that’s incredible!”
I look at him curiously. “Acushla. What does that mean? Paddy has called me that a time or two.”
He reaches for my hand, bringing it up to kiss my knuckles. “It’s Irish Gaelic formy darling.Is it too much?”
My darling. Swoon.
“No! I think it’s lovely. I’ll have to find a term of endearment for you now,” I tease him.
Eamon chuckles. “You can always go withEamon, the incredibly handsome and most amazing lover.I’d respond well to that.”
