Page 79 of The Light to My Darkness (The Light to My Darkness 1)

I put my hand on the side of my neck. I had forgotten that James' kisses had probably left a mark.

"Or the fact that I heard you two fucking in that restroom a few hours ago and you very much enjoying it. Or that he threatened to kill me if I hit on you."

"He did not." My words were meaningless. I had seen James pull Matt off the dance floor. Of course he had threatened him. I didn't doubt it for a second.

Matt shrugged. "Regardless, I'm not hitting on you. I'm being a good friend. You know that, Penny." He gave me the signature Caldwell smile.

"Fine. I'll take that hug now." I didn't care that it was inappropriate to be hugging Matt in his boxers. I didn't care that James would probably be upset. Because right now, I just needed a hug.

He laughed and wrapped his arms around me.

And for just a second, I didn't feel so alone. Was that really what was bothering me? Did I feel abandoned? I tried to shake away the thought. Scarlett loved me. She was just scared. And James would be back soon enough.

"You're not going to die, Penny. I'm sure James has you going to the best doctors."

I didn't respond. "You should probably get back to your room."

"There's no rush. Tiffany already fell asleep. Or was her name Stephanie?"

I laughed. "You're ridiculous."

"It was definitely Tiffany. Actually, I was thinking about it and maybe I should give that online dating thing a try."

"Really?"

He released me from his hug. "Yeah. Maybe you could help me sign up to one of those sites?"

"Um...yes!"

"I'm glad you're smiling, but I don't mean right this second. Why are you so excited about this anyway?"

"I met James when I was young. I know people who did the whole online dating thing, but I never experienced it. I think it'll be fun."

"Maybe for you. You won't have to go on the dates."

"Right. I just get to catfish a bunch of people for you."

"What? No. I meant you could help me set up a profile. Not respond to people. I don't want you to pretend to be me."

"We'll see."

He shook his head.

"And what about Tiffany? You don't want to date her?"

He shrugged. "I want a woman who cries when I leave. Not snores and rolls over."

"Someone needy? Got it."

"Not needy, Penny. Just someone who needs me."

"I get that."

"But I probably should get back to the snorer. If you're good?"

"I'm good."

He smiled. "Night, Penny."

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