Page 74 of The Player's Obsession

“Because you’ve not mentioned she’s reached out to you at all this past week. I know your life was not easy, and you’re a perfectionist who will make sure you do things differently with your kids.”

I can’t argue with him.

“True.” I finish eating, put my fork on the plate, and place the cover over it. I take another sip of my coffee.

“Don’t drink too much caffeine, there are mimosas at the spa.”

“No, it’s supposed to be healthy, you mean they drink alcohol there?”

“Sure.”

“What kind of alcohol?”

“Probably more champagne. When we get home, I have to get back into eating healthy.”

We. He said when we get home. Of course, he did. He can't leave me here. It doesn’t mean I’m moving in with him. It must be his way of staying in character.

“If I didn’t know better, I’d have no clue we only met a week ago.”

“Right? Crazy, isn’t it?” I reply.

“Yes.” The room fills with a comfortable silence. We’re sitting here relaxing like lovers over breakfast.Snap out of it, Penelope.

My phone rings, it’s Lucinda.

I excuse myself and head to a bathroom the size of two bedrooms and close the door.

“What’s up? I’m making sure you’re alive and well as a good friend should.”

“Thanks, how are you?”

“Peachy. Now, we’re on to you.”

I sit on the side of the tub and catch a glimpse of myself in the large mirror over the double sink vanity. I have a bad case of bedhead, and my eyes are a bit puffy.

“It was fantastic. The drive, his friends, the singing, and the sex— over the top.”

“Ooh, romance is in the air.”

“I challenge any woman to be close to this man and not give in to his boyish charm. His body rivals Michelangelo’s David, and I’m talking the entire package.”

Lucinda squeals. This sets me off, and I laugh. Then, we feed each other’s laughter until we both end up giggling like children.

I start the bathtub. Judging from the time on my phone, I have enough time to take a quick dip.

“Is that water?”

“Mm. Oliver and I are doing it underwater.”

She’s quiet, too quiet.

“Relax, I’m taking a quick bath in a tub the size of a jacuzzi before I join the girls at the spa.”

“Spa? Jacuzzi tubs? Oh man, I wish I was with you,” she groans.

“Hey, make sure you’re free on game night. The guys are renting a box for all of us, and you’re invited.”

“Wow! You must have made an impression.”

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