Page 98 of Unscripted with Mila

“I told my mom more. She talked to Dad, then he and I talked. I told him we had a relationship and I wanted him to give you a fair shot. I think I told him to stay calm.”

“He was great.”

I had smiled. “He is.”

I poured a cup of coffee and sat down, hearing Nick and Sammy talking. She came into the kitchen. “Oh good, I thought I smelled a fresh pot.”

“Yeah, I need it.”

She grinned as she filled a travel mug and carried it to the table. I knew she was leaving soon to head into the production studio to work on her piece.

“Where is Nick?” I asked, surprised he hadn’t followed her.

“He went for a run.”

“Again?”

“Energizer bunny.” She winked. “Lucky girl.” She chuckled. “You look exhausted, though.”

“We, ah, were up most of the night. I have no idea how he is still going.”

“And chatty. So exuberant about being here. About the movie—everything really. Very upbeat.”

I nodded, something twigging in my brain, but I couldn’t place it.

“He certainly loved Mom’s pie yesterday. And the Chinese food. He said it was the best he ever tasted.”

“He said everything smelled better here too,” I mused.

“Yes, he said that to me as well.” She grinned. “I’m going to spend the rest of the day working at the studio. I’ll probably stay overnight in Toronto since it’ll be late and I want to work on Luke’s piece tomorrow.”

“Thanks, Sammy.”

She smiled. “At least I won’t have to keep the volume down when I video-call him naked this time.”

“You didn’t last time either,” I said with an exaggerated grimace. “Thank God for headphones.”

She laughed. “Oops, my bad.”

Then she left, and the house was quiet.

When Nick returned, I was sure he’d be tired, except he was anything but. By the time ten rolled around, I couldn’t keep my eyes open. I headed upstairs, getting ready for bed. Nick followed, a book in hand.

“That’s one of mine,” I said.

“I know. I haven’t read this one.”

“How many have you read?”

“All but two.”

“Wow. I had no idea.”

He smiled. “I fell in love with your words and imagination, Shortcake. I think somehow my heart fell in love before we ever met you. I think we were waiting for you.”

I felt tears fill my eyes. “Nick,” I whispered.

He cupped my face. “I fell in love with your heart once we met. With all of you.”