He cleared his throat and glanced at Lily, steadying himself again.
“I wrote this book when I was twenty-two years old,” he continued. “I was a college senior with grand plans that didn’t come to fruition. I lied about my backstory for several personal reasons. I’m sorry that I made you all believe I was someone that I’m not. What’s true is that I am the author of The Elves of Ceradon. This story and its characters came from deep inside of me. I needed Deko to survive despite the many life challenges he experienced, because I needed to survive the challenges in my life too. I gave up on this book and the idea of being an author, but I’ve learned that sometimes we’re lucky enough to get a second chance. I’m so thankful for everyone here who had a hand giving Elves a new life.” He paused. “But I didn’t come here tonight to talk about my book.”
There were a few confused murmurs, but Nick focused his gaze on Lily again. She was beautiful and still. He didn’t take his eyes off her as he continued to speak.
“I came to the party because I was looking for someone who means a lot to me,” he said. “More than my career. More than anything, really. She is the best part of my life, and I want her to know that if she’ll let me, I’ll spend forever returning the favor.” He stepped away from the podium, eyes still on Lily. Then he awkwardly leaned toward the mic again and said, “Thank you. Have a good night.”
There was a spattering of enthusiastic if not bemused applause. Zara was patting Nick on his shoulder, but he didn’t register any of it. He was moving toward Lily, and those in the crowd watched him curiously, stepping out of his way.
Lily stood there, waiting for Nick. She grinned at him, shaking her head in delighted wonder. She couldn’t believe that he was here. Her heart was bursting.
Nick reached her and stepped close, leaving but a breath of space between them. She stared up into his face. His gaze was soft and intent as he took her hands in his.
“I love you,” he said. “I’ve loved you since you sent me that first email last year. You found me when I didn’t want to be found. You saved me.”
Lily blinked at him, speechless.
“I’m sorry about what I said on the phone the other day,” he continued. “All of the things you said were right.” He lifted his hand to cradle her cheek. “I told my parents about everything, including you. I just want you to know that I’m trying.”
“I know you are,” she said, her chest filling with lightness. “And so am I.” She brought his face down closer to hers. “I love you too.”
Then she kissed him, and Nick held his hands on either side of her face, deepening the kiss. The crowd whistled and cheered, and it was only then that she remembered they weren’t alone. Lily laughed and blushed.
“You two are absolutely adorable,” Zara gushed, materializing next to them. “Just imagine what that heartfelt speech is going to do for your career, Nick! You had everyone eating out of the palm of your hand! Our first-week sales will be through the roof!”
“I can’t believe you showed up!” Marcus said, popping up on Nick’s other side. “I’m so proud of you, bro. And hey, Lily, is it true that you just quit? Somebody said they heard Edith throwing a tantrum about it in the bathroom.”
Nick turned to Lily, eyes wide. “You quit?”
“Yes.” She beamed.
“Proud of you,” he said, smiling too. Then, “Wanna get out of here?”
She nodded. “Definitely.”
Once they were outside in front of the hotel, neither knew what to say. They were both overwhelmed in the best way.
“I wanted to tell you that I was flying back today,” Nick said. “I tried calling you, but—”
“My phone died!” Lily pulled her phone out of her bag and showed him her blank screen. “I was going to fly to you, actually. Right after I bought a new charger.”
He smiled. “I didn’t want you to have to seek me out this time. I wanted to show up for you. And for myself.”
His smile was so breathtakingly beautiful and tender, it made Lily’s heart ache. “I’m glad you did.”
“I needed to see you,” he said. “But I have to go back to North Carolina for a few more days. They still need my help.”
“I know.” Lily gently laced her fingers through his. “I’ll be here when you get back.”
Nick brought her hand to his mouth and kissed it.
“So, you really quit,” he said. She grinned, nodding, and he laughed. “You wanna tell me that story?”