Page 56 of Our Scorching Summer

“Of course, Lil. I’m not saying you can’t or shouldn’t. It’s fucked up that we live in a world where women are shamed for wanting sex. As though the people judging have forgotten they’re usually the ones sleeping with them.”

“Correct. But it’s typical of you to think a man made me the way I am.”

“I’m only assuming here, but did younger Lily have a trail of broken hearts following her around?”

Quite the opposite.

Ten years ago, I was soft, naive, and easy to break. Chuck may have been the catalyst for my evolution, but he’s not the only reason. I’ve worked hard to grow into the woman I am today.

“Not that many.” I don’t elaborate on the question any further. “Did younger Nico ever fuck anything up?”

“No,” he says. “Breaking hearts isn’t my thing. I don’t date without being clear about the situation.”

“Okay, what’s your version of clarity?”

“I don’t really stick around, not because I don’t want to or am afraid to, but because something inside me never settles. I’m respectful and patient. Hell, sometimes I get with a woman and it’s enough to enjoy her company.” My heart sinks into my stomach for no apparent reason. “I just make sure to be very clear that I don’t anchor.”

“Well, then it’s good that this is temporary,” I remind him as much as myself.

It’s safer this way.

“I know you don’t want me to ask any more questions about the fuckface who hurt you, but thanks for telling me.” He looks at me with an almost sympathetic expression, setting me on edge. I skip away from the unnecessary pity.

“Yeah…”

“I guess it’s settled.”

I cross two Xs on the page, beneath our stack of rules, and sign on the line before handing the journal and pen over to him.

“We’ll go back to normal after this month,” I say. “No fucking up the friendship or ruining the family dynamics.”

He signs his name. “Easy.” His pupils widen again, and the predatory look returns. It’s a stare that’s becoming all too familiar.

I blink at him. “And, Nico, do me a favor.”

“Anything, pretty girl.”

“Don’t become obsessed with me.”

He laughs with his whole body. “Done.”

“I’m serious. I’m like a drug.”

Nico lifts me into his chest and presses me close enough to hear the racing rhythm of his heartbeat. “Don’t worry,princesa, I won’t fall in love with you. Promise.”

* * *

June 12th

Hi,my lovers,

What do you get when you mix a hot surf instructor, one broken vibrator, a jealousfriend,and a nice new tan? A friends-with-benefits situation with someone who has proven to be very skilled with his hands.

I always like to say inspiration can come from anywhere, and it so happens this time inspiration came not once, not twice, but four different times.

To celebrate, Icomebearing exciting news.

Coastal Flingmade it onto the USA bestseller list. If you haven’t already seen the article from Ever Printing, you can read ithere.For my international friends, when I get back from vacay, I’ll be sure to get the book uploaded for your enjoyment as well. I can’t wait to takeCoastal Flingworldwide.

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