Page 149 of Press Play

“Theodore Torres, I called ahead for four.”

“Please, follow me.”

Theo steps back so Brandy and Mia can go ahead of us. He places his hand in mine again, kissing my temple. “Have I told you how beautiful you are?”

“Every day.” I smile shyly.

“But have I told you today?”

“You said I was ‘fucking perfect.’ Does that count?”

He cocks his head to the side and presses his lips together. “Close enough.”

Brandy and Mia get comfortable beside one another, and as our hostess distributes our menus, Theo pulls out a chair and says, “Do you have a separate gluten-free menu, or does this one state all allergens?”

Brandy meets my gaze with wide, impressed eyes, and I can’t help but blush. I always hate asking these questions, but Theo doesn’t give two shits.

“The menu has special icons that will show you what’s gluten-free. Don’t worry, your waitress will take good care of you,” the woman answers with no sign of annoyance.

“Thank you.” I smile, and she returns the gesture.

“Enjoy your evening.”

As I flip through the menu, my heart soars at all the prospects. I don’t think I’ve ever been somewhere like this, certainly not with twenty-plus options at my disposal.

“See anything you like?” Theo asks.

“I don’t know where to start,” I say in awe.

“Get whatever you want.” My chair screeches against the hardwood as he brings me closer, allowing our thighs to touch. The subtle gesture makes me smile.

“All right, I can’t take it any longer,” Mia says out of nowhere, earning my attention. “You said you had something to tell us?”

“Your patience never ceases to astound me.” Brandy continues to flip through the menu.

“My stomach has been in knots all day!”

“Okay, okay,” I chuckle, placing the menu down. “Do you want to go first, or shall I?”

“It’s nothing grand,” Theo starts with a small shrug. “I decided to stop recording.”

All at once, the chatter in the room dies down, almost as if we gained everyone’s attention.

“Seriously?” Brandy asks, finally looking at us.

“I’ve wanted to for a while, and now that I have Wren?—”

“I think I’m gonna cry.” Mia sniffles. “This is the definition of grand. A true testament to your love.”

“We need to cut you off from rom-coms,” I laugh.

“I’m sorry. Please, continue.”

“Theo is going to start streaming video games, and. . . I quit my job.”

“What!?” Brandy and Mia all but shout.

“Relax. I’m going back to school to become a dietitian. Finally make a true difference and help people—the way I needed help.”

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