“I hope you come,” Will added. “We’re friends, after all.”
His comment warmed her. When they left, she smiled at the next person who approached her. This was the man who had come to her last signing in Syracuse. He stared oddly at her. “Hello, Noreen.”
“Hello.”
“Do you remember me from the last book signing?”
“Ah, no I’m afraid I don’t.”
Which was a lie. She even remembered he said he didn’t read female authors.
“That’s okay. Do you like my flowers?” He gestured to the bouquet on the cookie table.
“I thought the store provided them but thank you.”
He scowled at that. Then he shook it off and held out a book. “I want another copy for my aunt.”
She smiled. “What’s her name?”
“Celia.”
She signed the page and he left the table smiling. She’d overreacted to him. Nothing to worry about here, she guessed.
Two more friendly faces appeared before her. “Well, hello there. When did you two get back?”
Pax greeted her. “A couple of days ago. We couldn’t miss this.”
Steph gushed, “This is so cool, Noreen. You’re famous.”
“I’m making my mark in the literary world, I guess. Do you want me to sign it to both of you?”
“Yes.” Pax again.
“How was the honeymoon?” She shrugged. “I feel foolish even asking you that.”
Steph got a dreamy expression on her face and leaned into Pax. “It was spectacular.”
“You’re both tanned. Looks good on you.”
“Thanks. Enjoy the rest of this. We’re going to go talk to Jackson and Maisy.”
Noreen grinned broadly. This was so much fun.
She recognized other familiar faces in the crowd like the shopkeeper across from the clinic, the woman from a coffee shop, and two neighbors. Her spirits were high the entire time. The last fan came to the table. She was thrilled at the sight of him, though she tried not to be. He was dressed down in jeans that fit him well and a navy cashmere sweater with a matching quilted vest.
“Hello, Noreen.”
“Hello, Nick. I didn’t expect to see you today.”
“From what I hear, the whole town’s came out. Congratulations on your success.”
“Have you read the first book yet?”
“No, I haven’t. I’ve been busy with Pax’s case. I want both of them now.”
Her hand shook as she reached for her novels. He placed his over hers. “Don’t be nervous, Noreen. I’m here as a professional friend, like you wanted. I don’t want to spoil this for you.”
“You aren’t. You…”
