Page 8 of Fielder's Choice

“I think the universe has other plans,” Luna assures. “I feel like you were meant to run into him today.”

“I know literally nothing about him, Lu. He was there with his friend. Neither told me who they were and only said they worked in ‘entertainment.’ Not a lot to go on.”

“Entertainment, huh?” Violet cocks her eyebrow. “Is he like a porn star or something?”

I choke on my coffee. “I have no idea, but a porn star isnotwhat I need. More like the exact opposite. But he sure had the look that would work for that.”

Violet and Luna glance at each other, unreadable expressions on their faces. They’re doing that thing they always do, speaking to each other with only their eyes.

I fucking hate that.

“Something you’d like to share with the class?” I chide.

“It’s just cute,” Vi says gently. “I haven’t heard you express any interest in a man in six years. It’s nice to see.”

I purse my lips.

She’s right. After everything I’ve gone through, I choose to ignore men aside from my dad and brother. I’ve glanced at some, sure, but it’s not been deeper than that.

But that guy today. What was it abouthimthat had me so captivated?

The cocky side grin?

The gentle eyes?

The calming presence?

I’m not sure. But I don’t think I’d be mad about running into him again…

I love Tuesday mornings.

Tuesday is the only day I’m working at the studio right now, and I absolutely adore my student.

Dancing is finally making me feel like my old self again, and I really missed the version of me I lost six years ago. It’s nice to see her again.

After I shower and dry my hair, I pull it up into a tight ballet bun, making sure it will stay in place through the lesson. Nowdressed in a pair of black tights, a long-sleeve black leotard, a sheer black skirt, and pink legwarmers, I’m almost ready to go.

I shrug on my jacket and slip into a pair of boots before grabbing my pointe shoes and tossing them into my bag.

Before I go, I step in front of my bedroom mirror and take a few deep breaths to relax.

“I am courageous. I am loved. I am not my trauma.”

And then I’m out the door.

four

Lane

“Holdmyhand,Lovebug,”I say, putting my hand out for Sage to grab onto. “You ready to dance?”

“Yes!” she shrieks excitedly. “Daddy come dance today.”

I smile down at my daughter. “Daddy is coming to dance today, Sagie. I’m so excited for you to show me everything you’ve learned when Aunt Rory would bring you.”

Sage smiles brightly as we step down the sidewalk, heading to Greenwich Village. We had to make a quick stop before class today—I needed to try a new drink from Urban Grind.

And it’s really damn good, just like Liv said.

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