Andrew put his hand on the small of Kelly’s back, and they followed their host to the other side of the rooftop. A pergola was covered in what must’ve been two thousand twinkle lights. Beneath it there were tall heaters and a small round table for two.

Andrew pulled out the chair for Kelly. “Wow. They’re really treating you right.”

He lifted his glass of wine. “To the Four Square Valentine’s Day Champion.”

She lifted hers. “Thank you.”

“Wait. I’m not done.”

“Oh?”

“To the only woman I’d want to be with on Valentine’s Day. I miss you.”

She caught a breath.

“I want to be a part of all of your tomorrows. Will you be my Valentine tonight?”

She lowered her eyes, then smiled and nodded as she touched her glass to his.

After a perfect dinner, Brenda came to the table. “I hope you’ve enjoyed your night.”

“It’s been wonderful,” Kelly said. “The most romantic dinner I could ever imagine.”

“The fun is just beginning,” she announced, waving a folder. “Let’s go downstairs so they can clean up here.”

“You knew the whole time, didn’t you?” Kelly said to her as they walked to the elevator.

“Yeah. Lori and I both knew. We were so worried when Andrew saw you on the street that you’d blow it at dinner. I can’t believe you made it through the night with no slips.”

“Man of my word,” Andrew said.

“I’m a rule-follower,” Kelly said. “But it wasn’t easy.”

They went into Kelly’s dressing room and sat together on the couch. Brenda reviewed the commitments Kelly needed to fulfill over the next two days.

“I’m going to be very busy,” Kelly said, glancing over toward Andrew.

“It’s going to be great,” he said. “I’m so happy for you.”

Kelly cocked her head then turned to Brenda. “Could Andrew come with me?”

“I don’t see why not.” Brenda smiled. “In fact, it might be a real plus. Sit tight.” She pulled out her phone and made a call. When she came back, she wore a huge smile. “I have good news. You should see all the posts on social media about you two. You’re the darlings of the Internet tonight. I asked the show about extending Andrew’s stay. They approved it.” She turned to him. “If that’s okay with you. Don’t be surprised if they drag you on stage too, though.”

“Will you come?” she asked.

“This is your win. All you.”

“I want to share the experience with you. Come on. We’ll have fun,” she said. “Please?”

“Then I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Andrew kissed the inside of her hand.

She pulled her hands together, wanting to hold that kiss forever close to her heart.

Chapter Thirty-Five

Chapter Thirty-Five