As she says the words, it hits me yet again that there’s a very real possibility of that happening. I mean, how exciting would that be? To dance professionally on stage for a living?
“I guess you’ll just have to come and visit me every single chance you get!”
Just as we’re walking to the glass doors of the theater, my phone rings.
I know it has to be Roan.
He wanted so badly to be here with me but there’s an away game today. So he’s sitting on a bus. There’s so much background noise, I have to press my hand against my other ear so I can hear him clearly.
“Hey, babe, are you there yet?”
Hearing his voice is like being wrapped up in a warm comfy blanket. Everything within me instantly calms. “Yeah, we’re just about to head inside the theater and check in.”
His voice deepens as if what he’s about to say is important. “You’re going to be great, you know that, right?”
I squeeze my eyes tightly shut as his words, and their meaning, pour over me. “I hope so,” I whisper. It’s awesome having Lexie with me but I wish he was here, too. I wish he could wrap me up in those big muscular arms of his and hold me tight. Give me a kiss for good luck.
Even though he chuckles, it’s low. Not at all like his normal lighthearted one or the sexy gravelly laugh that sends little shivers scampering down my spine before arrowing straight to my core. This one seems tinged with sadness. “I really wish I could be there with you, Ivy. I’m just glad you didn’t have to make the trip by yourself.”
“Me, too. Lexie and I are going to walk around the city after this. Do a little shopping before heading home.”
“Sounds fun. Are you planning on driving all the way back tonight?”
“Yeah. The audition is at noon and we’ll leave by six, probably roll in around midnight.” I’m really hoping it goes well or the rest of the day is going to be a complete bust for me. I won’t be able to stop myself from mentally critiquing my performance. Over and over and over again. And Lexie deserves a little shopping after carting my ass here. Still tired and groggy, we hit the road this morning around four. And she did all the driving so I could sleep. The girl is a total trooper.
“Sounds good, babe. Can’t wait to see you tonight.”
“Me, too. Have a great game.”
“I’m planning on it. I’ll call you after it’s done to see how everything went but I know you’re going to be amazing. You always are, Ivy.”
I can’t help but smile as I whisper, “Right back at you, King.”
It’s on the tip of my tongue to tell him that I love him but I rein it back in at the last minute. We’re almost to that point but I don’t want to do it over the phone. Not when he’s so far away from me, sitting on a bus full of rowdy, jacked up teammates. When I finally tell Roan how much I care about him, it’ll be when we’re together. Alone.
Again he pitches his voice low. “I’m really hoping you’ll be slipping into my bed later on tonight.”
Which is exactly what I’d intended. No matter how late it is. “Sounds like a date.”
“Okay, I’m going to let you go so you can get checked in. And I’m not going to wish you luck because this isn’t about luck, it’s about being prepared and talented and you are, Ivy. I’m proud of you, baby.”
“Oh, Roan,” I whisper, “I can’t wait to see you tonight.”
“Right back at you, Kaster.”
I can’t help but laugh. “Okay, I’m hanging up now.” As I glance at the building and the dancers now filtering past us, obviously here for the same audition, nerves start to once again chew at my insides.
Saying our goodbyes, I hit the end button.
“Ivy?” Lexie’s wide eyes fasten onto mine as I pocket the phone. “You ready for this?”
Inhaling a deep breath, I force it out slowly before saying, “I’ve been ready my entire life.”
Together we pull open the doors to the Aronoff Center before walking inside.
Chapter Thirty-One
Another winning game where Roan King was literally on fire. It’s as if every single pass thrown to him couldn’t have gone anywhere but in those big strong hands of his. Bulldog fever has never been more out of control. If you’re not a Bulldog fan, you might as well pack up your bags and get the hell out of town. Once again, Roan King proves that he’s NFL ready. And he’s never looked so good doing it either… KingOfCampus.com
“Have you heard anything yet?”
Biting my nails, I shake my head. It’s been three days since the audition in Cincinnati. I thought for sure I would have heard something by now. If not by the company itself, then by Eric who is friends with one of the chorographers. I’ve been on pins and needles ever since. Every time my phone buzzes, I find myself pouncing on it.