Page 23 of Apple Martinis

“Yes. Wait, let me give you my number.” I mutter, embarrassed a little that we’ve not already exchanged phone numbers.

“I got it this morning while you were sleeping. I called myself from your phone then called your number back so you’d have mine. Don’t worry, I did not snoop on your phone. Only dialed my phone number. Promise.”

“I believe you.” I realize at that moment that I completely trust him. “You better go, Mocha will need her time or she might decide she needs a new owner.”

Walking him to the door, he kisses me one more time before he’s gone. I let out a huge sigh when the door shut fully. Last night was everything I could have ever hoped for.

Deciding I should call the girls to check to see when they’ll be coming down, I grab my phone and go outside to the balcony with a fresh cup of coffee.

It rings only a few times when Bianca answers the phone and I make her wait until I can add in calls to the other girls until we are all on the line together.

“Bianca said you’ve found a summer fling!” Faye gushes as soon as she’s on the line.

“I hope she’s finally getting laid.” Rose deadpans and everyone laughs.

My cheeks flush red and I’m glad they aren’t here to see my reaction.

“I’m just hoping she doesn’t get attached.” Bianca cuts through the laughter.

“That’s mean, Bianca.” Faye says with exasperation and I agree with her.

“Don’t you all remember how she got with Ben to begin with? He was supposed to be a fling but she got attached and now look where that got her!”

“Why are you three all talking about me as if I’m not right here on the phone with you?” I roll my eyes, taking a big gulp of coffee.

“Sorry. We all just worry for you. That’s all.”

“Well none of you know Rome so if you all could just keep your judgments to yourselves, that would be great.”

“I’m not judging. Who’s judging?” Bianca says innocently.

“Well, tell us then. Are you sleeping with him yet?” Rose giggles.

“Yes, tell us everything!” Faye demands dramatically.

I spend the next hour answering most of their questions but I refuse to answer the ones pertaining to mine and Rome’s sex life.

That’s something that is between Rome and I. No one else should ever know those details.

“I need to get back to work. I have a meeting in a few minutes.” Bianca says.

“Okay. When are you three planning to come down?” I ask.

“Day after tomorrow. We all plan to meet at Bianca’s and ride together in the one vehicle.” Rose answers first.

“When you all get here, go to the front office first. They’ll need some information from each of you before giving you all a key.”

A few minutes later, I’m getting dressed for a day of shopping. Maybe I’ll buy something sexy just to wear for Rome later tonight.

With a huge grin on my face, I grab my purse and head out the door, looking forward to the rest of the day.

Rome

I’ve had a smile on my face all day since leaving Piper’s room this morning. To think she really thought that I didn’t want her.

Obviously the woman doesn’t know how damn beautiful she is.

Looking up, I nod at August standing in the corner talking to a cute brunette who looks to be exactly his type. He came out tonight after finding out about Piper.

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