by J Q Anderson
He listened thoughtfully. “Okay…What about your contract?”
“I’ll talk to Andrew.”
He let out a long sigh. “Camila…is this what you really want?”
I pressed my forehead to his. “I miss home, Sebas. I want us to live here. Would that be okay with you?”
“Sweetheart, I told you, I’ll live wherever you want. But are you sure you’re not doing this for me? I know you worry about me traveling back and forth.”
“I promise. It’s not just that. This is home.”
His brow furrowed in thought, and he took in a long breath, his eyes focused somewhere in the distance.
“I thought you’d be happier,” I said, brushing a few strands of hair off his forehead.
“In New York, we can be normal people,” he said sternly. “Here, I’m a Palacios. Even after walking away from the docks.”
I rolled my eyes. “Oh, for Christ’s sake, you can switch the tux for a burlap sack any day and you would still be a Palacios. And I love that about you. We decide, not them.”
His arms wrapped around my waist. “Our life will change. We won’t be able to escape the public eye. It will mean having protection wherever we go. Photographers.” His mouth twisted in disgust. “It will be a constant fight for privacy.”
“It would also mean an air conditioner in the summer, and your huge bed every night, and this house, and being close to my parents and Nata and…” My eyes widened. “Marcél!” I held his face in my hands and kissed him. “Marcél would spoil us, and you’ll stop complaining I don’t eat enough.”
His eyes assessed me with a doubtful expression.
“This is what you really want?”
“Yes! Can you just tell me I’m awesome and go with it?” I said, quoting his very words to me when he decided to move to New York.
“You are awesome.” He smiled. “Okay. Home it is, then.” His arms tightened around me, and he kissed me deeply. “My beautiful, brave wife-to-be.” He smiled wickedly. “You know…the cabin has a very big bed too. Let me give you a tour.” He gave me a soft kiss and lifted me up with him, then carried me into the cabin.
“I guess we’ll see how brave you really are,” I said, grinning.
“Why is that?”
“Because in a couple of hours, you’ll have to tell Papá that you’re marrying his favorite daughter.”
FIN
Acknowledgments
I have many people I want to thank…
First, my husband and kids. My husband is my rock, my lifeline, and my best cheerleader. Your endless support kept me going, especially when I wanted to give up, all those times. My appreciation to you, and to the kids is endless. Your unconditional love, your wicked sense of humor, your joy, and your big hearts, have been my inspiration to go after my dreams. You make me believe anything is possible, and for that, I am grateful every day.
Thanks to my virtual writing group, the originals! Lavina, Jamie, and Carol. You cheered me on and taught me so much! You will always have a special place in my heart. And yes, I still hear your voices and corrections in my head!
Another big thank you to my writing group at San Diego Writer’s Ink. You guys have been my teachers throughout all the versions of this book!
Special thanks to Tammy G.’s contribution. Thank you for your editorial reviews, your feedback, and your endless knowledge of the world of ballet.
Thank you, Leslie, you are the best beta reader! Your feedback made me rethink key things in this book, and you helped me make it better.
Huge thanks my editor, Chih. I am so grateful for your thoroughness, your skills, your input, and your manner.
A big thank you to all the professional ballet dancers, from the Colón theater and from around the world, who shared insider’s tips and their knowledge of a dancer’s life.
And lastly, to my family and friends, in Buenos Aires and the U.S., for your enthusiasm and support along this journey. I love you all!
Other books by J.Q. Anderson: Intercepted, a Love Story
