Page 67 of When I Had You

We do the deed and get in the car. As soon as she starts the engine, she says, “I have a few interviews in LA.”

Although the news comes as a surprise, I’m happy for her since she’s started to worry more about her career. “That’s great.” She backs out of the parking spot and drives toward the gate. “When do you leave?”

“Tomorrow morning. I’m going to set you up with some meals.”

“You don’t have to do that.”

She smiles when she glances my way. “I want to.”

“I’m not going to complain. I love your cooking.” My selfish side asks, needing to prepare for her absence. “How long will you be gone?” I like having my best friend around. She’s not only a comfort to me but she’s also fun to talk to and watch TV with before we retire to our rooms each night.

“I promised my parents I’d visit after LA, so I’m flying to Beacon right after.”

“You’ll still make the premiere next weekend? I really want you there.”

Smiling, she glances my way. “I wouldn’t miss it. Anyway, I have to make sure they pamper the movie's star, and I’ll be there for any wardrobe malfunctions.”

“Are we expecting a wardrobe malfunction?”

“It might boost the career if you reveal a little nip.”

I burst out laughing. “That will do nothing but get me shunned in Hollywood, so let’s hope there are no nip slips.”

“I’m your girl.”

Her words remind me of the conversation I had with Cash last night. I’m his girl, and he’s my guy, to put it simply. We’re more complex than that, but it’s fun to feel this excited about being with someone. I miss him.

I even miss the soreness.

He touched parts of me that had never been reached before and woke my body up to the possibilities. Getting him off my mind has been impossible, which has miraculously dulled all other concerns. “Poppy?”

As memories of his face between my legs swirl around my head, my face warms, and heat creeps across my chest.

She glances over with worry, threading her brows together. “What is it?”

I press my hands to my cheeks, hoping to cool them down, but grin stupidly at her instead. “I need to tell someone, and I know we can tell each other anything, so I—”

“Oh my God, Marina, you’re freaking me out. Is this good news? Just tell me.”

“It’s not a big deal.” I cackle in delight. “He’s huge . . . it’s a huge deal.”

Looping around toward the street that leads to the apartment, she laughs and reaches over to feel my forehead. “Are you feeling all right?”

“Better than ever.”

“Okay then, spit it out.” The puns just come without even trying. If she only knew what she was saying.

“There was no spitting involved.”

“Marina, what the hell?” She bursts out laughing. Slowing for a red light as soon as she stops, she says, “Tell me every dirty detail.”

I can’t keep it to myself any longer. “He gave me the best orgasms of my life.”

“I knew it! I knew something was up with you all glowing and walking on sunshine.” Her mouth then falls open. “Wait, as in plural?”

I nod erratically. “As. In. Plural.”

“Oh wow, Marina. Lucky girl.” She glances at me once more before driving again. Taking a turn into the garage, she’s grinning as if she’s the one who scored. “I miss sex.”

---