Page 100 of The Last Autograph
“Well, you didn’t hear this from me, but after you left, she moped around the house, reading romance novels and crying over soppy movies. She even went off chocolate there for a while, or so she said.” Gloria stopped to finish her cake. “They used to call it being lovesick back in my day. I have no idea what you Gen X, Z and Alphas call it these days. So, will you go?”
“In a heartbeat.”
Gloria slapped a hand on the table as if pleased with herself, then stood with the aid of her cane. “Right, my job here is done. But don’t mess around. She’s already had one guy after her… handsome devil he was as well. And don’t bother correcting me if I’m wrong, but I reckon you love her too.”
So much.“Yes, I do. And thanks for the advice. You’ve given me plenty to think about.”
“Pfft. What’s to think? You love Molly, and she loves you, so don’t overcomplicate it. And if you let that mother of yours interfere, you’re not the man I imagined you to be, so put her back in her place if she strays out of line.”
“Okay!”
As they walked toward the counter, Jake wondered whether he should mention his plans for next year but decided against it. He couldn’t imagine Gloria being the discreet type.
“Right, where’s that young man with my pastries?”
Jake picked up the box Ari had left for her on the counter. “I’ll walk you out.”
“But I haven’t paid yet.”
“Don’t worry. It’s on me.”
40
Jake stood in the background and watched Molly hurry through the airport terminal to the luggage pickup area. Dressed for winter travel in a long mustard-colored coat and suede boots, and with her hair skimming her shoulders, she looked as stunning as ever, but there was a weariness in her expression that he hadn’t seen in a while.
He’d contemplated this moment many times throughout the day, wondering if he still had a chance to rekindle what they’d had. While dining with his parents the night before, he’d admitted he was in love with Molly, and was shocked by how understanding his mother seemed.
Later, when they were alone in the kitchen, his father’s only piece of advice was, “Don’t mess this up,” followed by an affectionate punch on the arm.
Jake approached her and placed a hand on the small of her back. “Can I help you with your bag?”
She spun around as if in fright and frowned. “Jake! What are you doing here?”
“Just a pickup.”
“Oh, okay.” She looked him up and down. “How are you?”
“Pretty good. And you?”
“I’m fine.” Molly stepped forward, pulled a suitcase off the carousel, and extended its handle. She glanced past him as if looking for someone. “Anyway, I should head outside. CeCe’s probably parked in the five-minute zone.”
“She’s not coming.”
“Sorry?”
He chuckled and shook his head, then reached for her case and motioned for her to go ahead. “You’ve had a haircut.”
Molly ran her fingers through her long bob. “Wait. You’re my ride?”
“Yes. Is that okay?” He started walking toward the main doors, Molly scrambling to keep up.
“Where’s CeCe?”
“She’s busy. You hungry?” He glanced over hisshoulder before crossing the short-term pickup area and heading into the main parking lot.
“Why, did you bring éclairs?”
“No, but we could grab a pizza at Gino’s.” Jake stopped at the passenger door of his truck and opened it for her. “I’d like to talk to you about next year.”
