BookshopGirl: Never mind, that wasn’t me fishing for compliments. I brought this up because I wanted to thank you for understanding that I need time.

I blink. Well, now it feels wrong to tell her. But I can’t keep waiting around indefinitely, either. So I carefully type a message and press send:

RJ.Reads: I do understand, but I think we have something here. Something that could be real. But we won’t ever know unless we give it a chance. Unless you don’t feel the same way?

There’s an excruciatingly long pause as I wait for her reply.

BookshopGirl: No, I do.

My breath rushes out in relief.

BookshopGirl: But again—I’m scared, RJ. Could you give me a little more time?

I’ll give her anything. Even if it’s killing me. Even if I’m starting to worry that this whole thing is going to end with my heart shattered, that I’ve gone and done it again, letting myself fall for someone who doesn’t feel the same way.

Sighing, I stare at the phone. The only thing I know for sure is that nothing can happen between us in real life until she knows the truth. I’m going to have to be patient—but she’s worth it. No question.

RJ.Reads: Of course. But please, not forever.

BookshopGirl: No, not forever. I promise.

25

Josie

Never in a million years would I have imagined I’d have the time of my life talking to a group of teenagers in outlandish costumes about a fictional dystopian world. But here we are.

The event is part of our plan to bring in a new demographic to the combined bookstore: a discussion about the Hunger Games series, inviting participants to dress up—and these kids delivered. I underestimated how awesome teenage book nerds are. Some came in gray and brown clothes to represent the districts, others in colorful feathers and sequins to represent the Capitol. And they were all fully engaged, expanding on the topics I brought up with insightful comments. It was exhilarating and fascinating.

Plus, those kids spent money—or their parents’ money; we sold thousands of dollars of stock tonight, and not just from our new YA section. I wasn’t surprised by the kids who wandered into Ryan’s side and found romances to add to their TBRs. I was surprised (and thrilled) by how many came over to my side and asked for recommendations.

“That was incredible,” Ryan says. Everyone is finally gone, and we’re alone. “You were great with those kids.”

“It was so much fun! Different from talking with adults—more challenging. But rewarding. Your staff was great, too.” I think of the distrustful glances they kept sending my way and add, “Even though they hate me.”

He frowns but doesn’t deny it. “They’ll come around.”