Page 103 of Pages of Amber

“Good afternoon, Miss Coleman. After a review of your manuscript submitted to us via your agent, Miss Beth Weathers, we are pleased to inform you–”

Noah jumped off the bed, a loud whoop leaving him. He had the widest smile she’d seen on him as he yelled in joy. “You did it! You did it!”

Amber blinked, disbelief settling in her bones. Her chest rose and fell rapidly, her heart about to beat out of her chest. She had been accepted.

“I did?”

“I knew you could do it! You’re gonna be an author, Amber!”

A gasp left her, her brain kick starting as Noah spelt it out for her. A tingle started in her fingertips, her cheeks hurting from the wide smile that graced her face.

“I did it.” The affirmation followed a shriek of excitement. “I’m gonna be an author!” she exclaimed, joining in the celebration. Shock washed away, leaving an abundance of joy and tears. Noah whooped again, sweeping her off her feet and into his arms. She held on to his neck, laughter escaping her freely. Her hair formed a curtain around them as he pulled back and kissed her, skyrocketing her pulse.

The boy she loved was kissing her.

And she would never tire of it.

“I’m so proud of you, m’lady. I hope you know that,” he whispered.

“I know,” she nodded, her forehead falling against his as she savored the moment with Noah, storing it into the deepest part of her. Her eyes flew open when she realized their families were right outside, also waiting on the news.

“We need to tell everyone,” she gasped.

Noah lowered her and they rushed downstairs to the yard. Throwing open the door, Amber stepped out first, her phone high in the air like she was waving a victory flag.

“I’m going to be a published author!”

The yard exploded with shrieks and cheers as they raced toward her and Noah on the deck. She was passed from one person to another, each one congratulating her, telling her how happy they were for her. The tears she’d struggled to hold back now cascaded down her cheeks. Her mom was in a similar state. She held on tight to Amber’s shoulders, pressing a soft kiss onto her daughter’s forehead.

“I’m so proud of you, Amber. I haven’t been the best mom, but I’m proud of the woman you’ve become despite everything I did. If you can find it in your heart to forgive me, I promise I’ll be there for every milestone and every celebration. I promise to be better for you and to make it up to you.”

Amber embraced her mom. For years, there hadn’t been any warm hugs or gentle kisses. No one was perfect. She didn’t expect her mom to become whole overnight. But she was here with her and making an effort to do all she’d promised. For Amber, that was enough. And she told her mom that.

“I love you, Mom,” she added.

“What did I do to deserve you?” Her mom cried. “I love you, Amber. You are the greatest treasure I could have ever wished for.”

Finally, she landed back in Noah’s arms. His grin hadn’t dimmed a single bit, his eyes wide and bright as he stared at her like she was the most precious thing to him. “This is only the beginning. You ready for the ups and down?”

“Bring it on. I’m ready for this new chapter.”

“Then let’s turn the page, m’lady.”