Sammy in Italy (Single Wide Female Travels #2) by Lillianna Blake

Author:Lillianna Blake [Blake, Lillianna]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Sassy Women’s Fiction
Published: 2016-02-14T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 19

I reminded myself that Max was there. Somewhere in the sea of faces his smile waited to greet me.

With slow even breaths I watched each of the girls before me walk out onto the runway. As each one returned without any stumbles or nosedives I reminded myself that it could be done. Then it was my turn.

I blanketed myself in the passion I had for the dress I wore and the cause it supported. Even if I couldn’t be confident, I could be proud.

With long even strides I made my way down to the end of the runway. At the end, I placed one hand on my hip, swirled my body around, and began to walk back. As I did, another model approached me. It struck me that earlier in the day I’d moved to the edge of the runway, not because there wasn’t enough room, but out of habit. I often gave plenty of room to people around me, as if I were a mountain rather than a woman.

I forced myself to stay on the same path. We didn’t come close to touching.

When I made it behind the curtain I nearly collapsed with relief. Applause from the audience let me know that the show had come to an end.

It was over. I’d done it. My heart still pounded as if it might burst, but I’d done it. A thin sheen of sweat covered my skin.

“Samantha.”

Alistair’s voice drew my attention. Was he pleased? Was he upset?

I looked into his eyes as he walked up to me.

“Thank you. Thank you for being present on the runway tonight. I’ve already received several amazing responses to the dress. As a gift, I’d like for you to keep it. I couldn’t imagine it being on anyone else.” He looked over the dress and then back up at me. “You gave it life.”

“Thank you, Alistair. At first I was a little upset about doing this, but now I’m very grateful for the opportunity.”

“I’m glad.” He gave my hand a firm shake. “Any time you are back in Venice let me know. I’d love to get you on the runway again.”

I smiled as he walked away, yet the very thought still filled me with horror.

“Hey, beautiful!” Max’s arms wrapped around me from behind. “You were breathtaking. Just like I knew you would be.”

“Thanks, Max.” I turned in his arms to look into his eyes.

“Were you able to get centered? You sure seemed to be.”

“No.” I sighed. “Not really. I was able to cover it up, but I was still terrified. I really need to figure out what has me so frazzled.”

“Should we take a walk along the water and talk about it?” Max slipped his hand into mine.

“I don’t know. Do we have time for that?” My heart lurched anxiously.

“Sammy, we don’t have any other plans for two days. We have plenty of time. We can try the gondola ride again. Plus, I have something special planned for us tomorrow.” He stroked the back of my hand.

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