I turn a knowing look toward him. “Number one priority, eh?”
A catlike grin creeps across his handsome face. “Okay, maybe my numbertwopriority.”
A shiver runs down my spine at the promise those words carry because I know exactly what he thinks his number one priority is.
And I can’t wait to test out that theory later tonight.
I start packing up my things, sliding the leftover copies of“One Night Stand-Off”into a box. The bookstore, now quiet and calm, feels like the aftermath of a wonderful storm.
I glance over at Adam, who’s already stacking chairs, his sleeves rolled up, revealing those sexy forearms that I just can’t seem to get enough of.
“So, anyone up for round two at Adam’s event?” I ask, turning to the Dirty B’s. “There’s a Chamber of Commerce thing at Foxx Fitness tonight. Should be fun, and you’ll get to see Adam in his element.”
Tasia raises an eyebrow. “A gym event? Sounds ...energetic.”
Lily claps her hands together. “I’m totally in. It’s always a blast to see Adam showing off his gym. Plus, I’ve been meaning to check out the new yoga classes.” She nudges me with her shoulder and I know she’s insinuating the partner yoga Adam added to the programs as a reminder of our beginning.
Vivian nods enthusiastically. “Count me in. Maybe I’ll find my next gym crush there,” she says with a wink.
“Things still not great with Tyler?” I ask, folding the lid to the box over.
She shrugs noncommittally.
I turn to Anna, who’s just pocketed her phone. “How about you, Anna? Fancy some gym time?”
She hesitates for a moment, then quirks an eyebrow. “Do I look like someone who frequents gyms?”
“More like someone who points and laughs when someone hurts themselves,” Vivian quips.
We all blink at Vivian.
I mean, she’s not wrong.
I clear my throat. “Great, it’s settled then,” I say, excitement bubbling within me. “Let’s head over to Foxx Fitness and show the Chamber of Commerce how the Dirty B’s do it. Quinn, are you in?”
“Hmmm, what’s that hon?” Quinn says from the middle of the store.
“Coming with us to celebrate Foxx Fitness’s Chamber After Hours event?” I repeat.
He glances at the man standing next to him. He’s taller than Quinn but built like an athlete. His dark hair and chiseled jaw are the works of any romance novel, if you ask me.
“I mean, maybe?” Quinn finally calls back.
“Well, I’m excited,” Lily says, taking out her phone. “London says he’s already there. I can’t wait to have a look around.”
Adam walks over, his smile wide and welcoming. “It’s going to be a great night. And who knows, maybe you’ll all end up joining a class or two.”
Half of the group groans and the other half nods in enthusiastic agreement.
Over the past year, they’ve seen how much I’ve changed under Adam’s care. Between his workout routines at the gym … and his workout routines at home … it’s no wonder I’ve toned down to nearly my goal weight.
Tasia locks up and we all leave Dirty Books. The cool evening air is a refreshing change from the warmth of the bookstore. The walk to Foxx Fitness is short but filled with laughter and playful banter, the kind of camaraderie that comes from shared experiences and genuine affection.
As we approach Adam’s new gym, the buzz of conversation and music reaches us. The lights inside glow invitingly, and I feel a surge of pride for my husband.
He’s turned his dream into a reality, and it’s thriving.
Just like I always knew it would.