What did surprise Randi was the longing she felt in her heart when Eden rested her head on her shoulder. Eden had never said Randi wasn’t good enough for her; that was Randi’s conclusion. She’d always felt she wasn’t steady enough for Eden because Randi’s interests could change on a whim. However, Eden was the one who Randi usually convinced to come withher when trying something new. Maybe Eden’s structured, analytical life needed Randi’s random, spontaneous adventures.
Randi smiled. “In your dreams,” she muttered.
Eden stood off to the side of the line that had formed in front of Cari’s table. She was smiling, interacting with each fan, and signing books. But Eden’s eyes were on Randi.
Eden smiled as she watched Randi walk down the line stopping to talk with waiting fans. She passed out stickers and bookmarks, but what really got Eden’s attention was when she overheard Randi asking questions.
She engaged the readers and fans in conversation about Cari’s books. They talked about her current release and the things they loved in it. Randi asked thoughtful questions about the characters and listened to their answers. Then she followed it up with insightful comments adding to the conversation.
Eden had taken Randi out to breakfast this morning in hopes of easing any anxiety or nerves she was feeling about her first author event. After Eden explained what to expect Randi seemed to relax. Once they got to the bookstore Eden helped Randi set things up just the way she wanted them.
Now she looked on as the Randi she knew, loved, and had seen thrive in these situations came alive. Eden couldn’t keep her eyes off her and the smile never left her lips.
Every so often Randi circled back to Cari to make sure she had everything she needed even though Analise was assisting at the table. Eden was helping here and there when needed. The turnout was better than they expected and the event was running smoothly.
Eden had taken a moment to talk to a few fans at the back of the line and thank them for their patience as well as being at the event. She stopped to watch Randi because she was really good at this and Eden loved to see her shine. It was almost like watching her favorite player have a great game and make the winning shot.
Randi looked her way occasionally and smiled that special smile or gave her a wink. The delight in her eyes was contagious. Eden suddenly thought how lucky the woman who was Randi’s girlfriend would be. Her heart skipped a beat when Randi smiled her way again.
“I don’t know if these fans are swooning for Cari or Randi,” Analise said.
Eden had been so focused on Randi she hadn’t noticed Analise walk up beside her. She took a breath, calming her pounding heart. “Cari seems to have worked through her nerves,” she said.
“With your and Randi’s help,” Analise replied. “I think she’s actually enjoying herself.”
“I know Randi is.” Eden chuckled. “She is such a people person.”
“I saw her smiling your way,” Analise said. “You can’t take your eyes off her.”
Eden scoffed then shrugged. “I love to see her like this.”
“Uh huh.” Analise stared at Eden.
“What?”
Analise shook her head. “I can’t believe you and Randi have never dated. Why is that?”
Eden had been asked that question several times over the years and she was usually quick to answer, but not today. “There was a time when we thought about it for a minute, but we were afraid to screw up our friendship. At the time, we were all we had.”
“Aren’t you still?” Analise asked.
Eden swallowed and took a deep breath.
“I mean, you’re always there for each other. Is there anyone you are more comfortable with than Randi?”
Eden couldn’t keep from thinking back to the end of last night. When they were standing in Randi’s kitchen and she put her arm around Eden, it felt like the most natural thing in the world to lie her head on Randi’s shoulder.
“You know Randi best,” Analise continued. “What would the right woman for her be like?”
“Hmm,” Eden murmured. “Let’s see. Randi is a free spirit so you’d think she’d need someone like that. Honestly, she needs someone who is grounded but will let her spirit soar.” She paused. “Her girlfriend would have to be open to adventure, but she doesn’t go along easily. Randi loves to encourage and coax.” She smiled and couldn’t help but think back to several times when Randi talked her into various activities. “She needs to be tolerant. Someone who is by the book or a rule follower would get frustrated with Randi. If she likes to laugh and likes to be surprised then Randi is her girl because Randi likes to make people happy. That’s when she’s happy.”
“Isn’t that interesting,” Analise said. “I think I remember you telling me thatyouwanted to find a woman who is like Randi.”
Eden nodded and smiled as she continued to watch Randi. “Yep, I’ve said that.”
“Well, the woman you just described sounds a lot like you.”
Eden whipped her head around to stare at Analise. Before she could say anything Tennie walked up.
