“It wouldn’t have been possible without both of you,” Vicki said. “Thanks again. You’ve been very generous.”
“I’m just doing my part for the city,” Camilla replied. “Besides, April made an impression on me at that ball.”
“She has that effect on people.”
April’s speech ended. The crowd broke out into applause. April stood there for a moment, glowing with pride, before descending the stairs.
“You’ll have to bring April to the manor sometime,” Camilla said. “It’s been a while since you’ve visited.”
“April would love that,” Vicki replied.
“You too, Vanessa. Bring Mel along. And, if you come in the next month or so, you’ll get to meet my guest.”
“Your guest?” Vicki asked. “I’m intrigued.”
“I think you’d like her,” Camilla said, her eyes sparkling.
Before Vicki could question Camilla further, April approached them.
“We’ll leave you two alone,” Camilla
said. She gave them a warm smile before wandering off with Vanessa.
Vicki wrapped her arms around April’s waist. “You were incredible up there.”
April grinned. “Thanks.”
“Seriously, do you have any idea what an amazing woman you are?”
April wrapped her arms around Vicki’s neck. “You may have told me once or twice.”
Vicki drew April in for a kiss. She heard the flash of a camera going off.
“Caught in the act again,” April said.
“I don’t care if you don’t,” Vicki said.
“We better make sure they get a good picture.”
April kissed Vicki, harder this time. Her fiery kisses still set Vicki alight. Right now, she wanted nothing more than to find an empty room and tear off that pretty, delicate dress April was wearing.
Vicki broke off the kiss before she could get too carried away.
April gazed around the room. “I just can’t believe we pulled this off.”
“It was all you,” Vicki said.
“I couldn’t have done it without you. And all those friends of yours.”
“They only helped get things off the ground. You’re the one who brought the new library to life. You’re the reason that all these people are here tonight.”
“About that,” April said. “I’ve made my decision. I’m going to run for city council.”
“That’s great,” Vicki said. “You’re definitely going to win. Everyone in West Heights loves you for everything you’ve done with the library.”
“You think so?”
“I know so. And you’re destined for far bigger things. Who knows, maybe in a few years you’ll be Mayor.”