Page 116 of Rhet

“Craig?” I reply.

“No, that’s your ex’s name. I am talking about Tarek. What’s your problem? You didn’t get the rich dick quota for today?” She smiles as she digs in her bag.

“I don’t know what the hell you’re talking about. Wait, you’re hanging out with Tarek? Rhet’s people.” I wait for her to tell me what’s going on.

“Finally. Yes. He is amazing. But I rolled out his bed and I haven’t called him since,” Penny says as she pulls out her sunglasses and put them on.

I am still in shock over the fact that she is hanging out with Tarek. “You slept with him, Penny?” My mouth falls open as I stare at her.

“It was great too. I mean he is a ten in bed,” Penny states as she continues walking.

“Ok why did you leave?” I need to know. A horn blares, and a taxi zooms past us.

“It’s a long story.” She says and she begins to walk.

“What? Tell me.” I adjust my bag on my shoulders.

“Tell me what’s bothering you?” she counters.

“Nothing” I reply.

I don’t tell her about Rhet. If I do, I will have to come to conclusions I’m not ready to face.

“Okay, fine. Just know, whatever is about to blow up in your head. My doors are always open.”

“I don’t know what I did to get a bestie like you.” I pull her to start walking with me.

“You don’t deserve me, but every goddess needs someone to worship her.”

I pull back. “Who’s the goddess in this relationship?”

She smirks. “If you have to ask, you know it’s not you.”

All I can do is laugh.

“So, Tarek.” I push my thoughts to the back of my mind and try to focus on the here and now.

“Perfect in all the right places. I am some months older that he is” She licks her lips at the thought of this guy.

“Okay, cougar.”

“First, it’s puma not cougar. I’m too young to be a cougar.” Pen clutches her hoodie collar like she was offended.

“Puma, did you screw his brains out?” I need something sweet. Maybe after shopping, I will take Penny for dessert.

“You weren’t listening. Yes, it was amazing.”

“How does your back feel?” I look at my friend’s cherry cheeks.

“A chiropractor couldn’t do the job this man did.” She closes her eyes for a second.

“Good for you. Let’s check out this boutique.” I point to a golden door.

I pull her into the store. It’s the first shop that looks like I might find something in. This gala is a big deal.

“You should do Mr. Fine and Rich. I’m just saying.” Pen made up the Mr. Fine and Rich title for Rhet the first time she googled him. The bell of the boutique chimes as we enter.

“Hi welcome to Salome’s. I’m Gen, how can I help?”

---