Page 72 of Making the Call
“What’s happening?” he quickly asks, his voice still filled with concern. I can picture him starting to pace, like he does when he takes business calls and doesn’t know if the news is good or bad.
I take a deep breath to steady my nerves. Who knew I’d get so worked up over this. “My book’s getting picked up for a movie deal. You know, the one I told you about.”
“Seriously?” he asks with shock filling his tone. “That’s incredible. I knew you could do it. I really enjoyed that book.”
His confidence and support fill my heart to the brim. “I’m so excited. I’ll know more about the details later this week, but Sam seems to think it’s a done deal.”
“I’m so proud of you, Danika. When you get out to Nashville next week, we’ll have to celebrate.”
“Yes, we will!” I boast into the phone, still riding the high. “I’ve never been to Nashville. Will you be able to get away from the team and show me around?”
“I’m sure I can manage something. But Mama will likely show you all around before I get the chance. I will carve out some time each day to do something special with you.”
“Luke, I don’t want to keep you from your work.” He’s so busy as it is, there’s no way I want to be a burden.
“Danika, if you’re in town, I want to spend as much time with you as possible. Besides, my day’s usually done earlier when we’re on the road. We don’t stay back East often, and the practice facilities are only available for so much of the day. The team still gets their workouts in, but our meetings are cut a little shorter. Since I’m from that area, I’d planned to spend time with my family as well.”
“Are you sure you want me to come?” I ask hesitantly. Sure, I want to see him and meet his family, but I don’t want to take any time away from them spending time together.
“Absolutely. I had no idea how much I wanted you there until I spent last night alone in my big empty bed.”
“So… you just want me there to warm your bed,” I tease, then chew on my lower lip to keep from saying anything else. Shit, why did I say that? I’m sure I know the answer to this accusation, but now that I’ve said it aloud, I need to hear his words.
“Danika.” All humor is gone in an instant. “I want you in my life both in and out of the bedroom. Yes, having you in my bed’s a huge bonus, but I want to show you around my hometown and spend time with you.”You should know that,is heavily implied in his meaning with his last statement. And God, does it feel good to hear it.
“Me, too,” I whisper honestly. “I feel the same way.”
“Good.” I hear some noise in the background then Luke says, “Listen. I need to get back to practice.”
“Go,” I urge, then tack on, “Sorry to interrupt. I was just so excited about my news, I didn’t think about interrupting your work.”
“You can call anytime, Danika. If I’m able, I’ll answer. Congratulations on the movie deal. I can’t wait to hear more when I get home.”
“Thanks.” I end the call with excitement still buzzing throughout my body.
