“I know. I’m grateful.”

“Thanks.”

“For what?”

“I know you’re trying to help me relax.”

“I am. I love you.”

“Love you too.”

Charlotte spoke more words we couldn’t hear. If I strained, I could make out bits and pieces. It sounded as though she was explaining to the crowd about how she came to find the faces of Ender and Elliot on her search for the perfect cover models.

I would never regret answering that ad.

Then it was our turn. Sergio received a message through his earpiece and ushered us forward. They guided us next door to the event room. There was a pause, then we were escorted through the doors, Blondie ahead, and Sergio taking up the rear.

The moment the crowd saw us, the squeals and screams were deafening. It was an overwhelming moment. Charlotte stood at the podium, smiling down at us.

Instead of yelling our names, they called us by the characters’ names. It made me laugh and relax a fraction more. That’s what this was. It was who we were to these people. They didn’t want Atticus and Asher Charming, they wanted Ender and Elliot Bridgestone. So that’s who we gave them.

I didn’t let go of Asher’s hand while we walked the path that led to the staging area. We waved and smiled at the crowd, blowing kisses and soaking up the love. We kept close to one another, shoulders brushing.

Once on stage, the volume didn’t decrease, in fact, they got wilder and crazier by the minute. Playing it up, Asher wrapped his hand around my nape and tugged me closer, our bodies aligning as he nuzzled my ear and whispered, “Holy fuck. This is insane.”

The close contact just fired everyone’s blood, and they squealed with delight. I lifted Asher’s head from my shoulder where he’d shied away and stroked his cheek for show before pecking a gentle kiss beside his mouth. He smiled wide enough to bring out the ridiculous dimples I loved, so I kissed them too.

I glanced around to find Jay, our announcer and moderator for the event. He was ensuring Charlotte got safely away before taking his place at the front of the stage with a handheld microphone.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” he said, waiting for them to calm. “I know it’s exciting. If we can settle down, we can get started with introductions and questions.”

It took time. Jay had to repeat himself more than once, but the buzz eventually calmed.

Jay laughed once he had a modicum of control. “Wow. I’m starting to think you guys are excited or something.”

They laughed with him.

“Of course, with these two getting all snuggly up here, I don’t blame you. How about we start with a short introduction? Do you recognize these two cuties?”

There was clapping and cheering again in acknowledgment.