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Jan bounded over, practically bouncing with enthusiasm. “I’m so excited to discuss The Rosie Project tonight,” she gushed. “That Don character is hilarious!”
I laughed. “He has a unique perspective on relationships.” I glanced over at Alexander, wondering if he saw any similarities between himself and Don. Probably not, I thought. Alexander was far more socially adept.
The rest of the group filtered in—Lucia, Henry, Clara, and others from around town. We settled into the cozy nook Marla had set up, with plush armchairs, blankets, and various snacks and drinks. I ended up sitting next to Alexander, hyper-aware of his proximity. This was going to be an exciting discussion.
Marla called the meeting to order, and we dove into a lively debate about the book. The quirky characters and lighthearted plot provided plenty of fodder for humorous observations.
I cleared my throat, ready to share my thoughts on the book. “I loved the novel’s quirky take on relationships,” I began. “Don’s almost scientific approach to finding love was amusing, but it made me think about how we all have these preconceived ideas about what we want in a partner.”
I stole a quick look at Alexander, who was leaning forward, listening intently. “Sometimes, if we’re too rigid about what we think we need, we can miss out on someone special right in front of us.”
Alexander raised an eyebrow. “But Don’s logic was sound,” he argued lightly. “Collecting data, establishing criteria—that’s smart. Just because his methods were unconventional doesn’t mean he didn’t have the right idea.”
I laughed. “I suppose, but love isn’t always logical, right?” Our eyes met, and a little jolt went through me. I hoped no one else noticed.
“I think Etta makes an excellent point,” Lucia chimed in. “The heart wants what it wants, no matter how we try to control it.” She gave me a knowing look that made me blush.
The debate continued, with Jan arguing Don’s approach was endearing while Henry felt it was too clinical. Throughout the lively discussion, Alexander and I exchanged smiles and stolen glances. I was hyper-aware of his arm brushing mine as we reached for snacks.
I felt my cheeks flush as Clara commented teasingly about life imitating art. The others chuckled knowingly, and Alexander gave me a sly grin that made my heart skip.
“I don’t know what you mean, Clara,” I replied, trying to keep my tone light despite the butterflies in my stomach. “This is purely a professional book discussion between colleagues.”
“Mm-hmm, purely professional,” Jan said with an exaggerated wink. More laughter from the group.
I risked a glance at Alexander. His eyes were twinkling with humor. “Well, I suppose there are some...intriguing parallels between the characters and people we know,” he said diplomatically.
“Oh yes, quite intriguing,” Lucia agreed, a mischievous smile on her face.
I took a sip of wine to buy myself a moment. They weren’t wrong about the parallels, but having it called out so directly was mortifying.
I could feel my cheeks burning as Marla suggested Alexander and I collaborate on a book together. Her playful tone made it clear she was hinting at more than just our professional compatibility.
I risked a sideways glance at Alexander. To my surprise, a faint blush colored his cheeks, too. Our eyes met for a moment before we both quickly looked away.
“Oh, I don’t know about that,” I said, trying to keep my voice light despite the fluttering in my stomach. “Alexander is the expert when it comes to publishing. I doubt I could keep up with him.”
Alexander gave a small chuckle. “On the contrary, I think your fresh perspective would complement my experience well,” he said. Was I imagining the extra warmth in his voice? “Your writing has an emotional depth that provides an intriguing counterpoint to my more analytical approach.”
I felt myself blushing again at the compliment. “Well, I suppose our styles might balance each other out...” I trailed off, suddenly unable to form a coherent thought as I processed the idea of collaborating creatively with Alexander.
“See! You two would make a great team,” Marla said enthusiastically. “Just imagine the possibilities.”
Alexander and I shared another quick, shy glance. I could see the corners of his mouth turned up in a subtle, crooked smile. The others chimed in with their agreement and encouragement.
“Who knows, maybe someday we could try working on something together,” Alexander said, looking at me thoughtfully. “If you were interested, that is.”
My heart did a little somersault. “I think I’d like that,” I managed to reply, hoping my voice didn’t betray the eager nervousness I felt inside. Alexander’s smile broadened. I couldn’t stop myself from smiling.
The rest of the group exchanged knowing looks I tried my best to ignore. It seemed Marla’s playful suggestion had brought to light a collaborative spark between Alexander and myself that just maybe held the potential for something more.
***
We stayed behind to help Marla clean up after the lively book club discussion. While Alexander busied himself tidying books and straightening displays in the main area of Whisper of Pages, I joined Marla in the cozy little kitchen in the back.
“Thanks for your help, Etta,” Marla said as she rinsed the wineglasses in the sink, the soapy water splashing gently. I watched her graceful movements, reminded of how she used to dance across the stage in our high school musicals.
Her words pulled me from my reminiscing. “You know, when I was younger, I was so focused on my career that I didn’t make enough time for relationships.” She paused, gazing out the window above the sink, lost in her own memories. “Don’t make the same mistake I did.”
