She thought back on just a few nights prior, standing downstage, her hand firmly in Carly’s as they took their final bows and said farewell to characters who they not only loved, but who had been instrumental in their own relationship. Starry Nights was what brought Carly to her and made Lauren step out of her comfort zone in a million different other capacities as well. The whole experience had been a dream come true, and Lauren was a different human for it.

“We’ll see you back in a few weeks?” Wilks asked, as she performed the bittersweet task of cleaning out her dressing room the next day. Luckily, the stage management office was just down the hall, and she wouldn’t have to travel far.

She smiled at him. “I have no reason to say no at this point.”

“Until you do.” His face held affection and understanding.

She shrugged. “This business, Wilks…I’m not sure I’ll ever have a true handle on how it works, and I’ve been at it for years.”

“That’s because it’s always changing, presenting one surprise after another. One of the reasons we love it.” He opened his arms for a hug, and she moved easily into them. Since she’d started work at The McAllister, Wilks had been not only a solid boss, but a kind mentor. He’d shared his wisdom with her, and she trusted him.

“Thank you for everything,” she said. “I mean that.” This wasn’t necessarily good-bye, but it felt like it.

He released her. “I feel I should be saying those words to you. You’re a class act, Lauren Prescott.” He shook his finger at her as he walked away. “And for selfish reasons, I’m going to pray you walk through those doors in a few weeks. I have a theater to run, you know.”

“Good-bye, Wilks. I’ll miss you.” He kept walking. He was a sweet man, but sentimentality made him a little itchy.

Saying good-bye to Carly had been a different story. They’d be apart for under a week, but after the intensity of the last month and a half, she’d feel empty without Carly by her side. They’d become an inseparable team, both at work and after.

“Do you have something to put on in case you get cold?” Lauren had asked, as they stood outside of her place, waiting for the private car that would take Carly to the airport.

Carly gestured to her Chanel bag. “I have a cardigan tucked away, just in case.”

“Good. What about snacks for the plane?”

“I’m flying first class, but if you want me to carry a sack lunch, I can. We can write my name in my clothes, too.” She grinned.