“Please, you need to get laid, simple as that. And it wouldn’t even be that hard. Sex is easy. It’s relationships that are the problem.”
As long as I’d known her, Tiff hadn’t had a relationship last past a couple of weeks.
I hummed in agreement. “I’m not even thinking about a relationship right now. Work is crazy. It’s only been six months since we started, and David’s keen for me to launch the new MacMillan rum.” I wiped off a line of condensation from the glass. “Did you know it’ll be a year next week since the divorce?”
“I remembered.” She placed a warm hand on my knee. “How are you feeling?”
“Good,” I answered, honestly. “The only thing about it that worries me is if tonight is any indication, it’s going to keep me single forever.”
“Don’t be like that. It was one date.”
I scoffed, frustrated by how tonight had gone and my situation in general. “I might as well just buy shares in an adult toy store now. I’m pretty sure no man may touch me again.” Tiff barked out a laugh, and I continued. “Which is all I really want. Do you know how long it’s been since I’ve been kissed? I mean, like, really made out. Let alone touched, and God, just forget about being fucked.”
I knocked back the last of my drink, then said, “It’s all I dream about.”
Tiff’s voice dripped with disdain. “After ten years with Brad, anyone would feel that way.”
I laughed, handing over my drink so she could top me up. “Oh, I’m talking beyond the typical repressed horniness of a sexless marriage. I feel like a teenager in heat half the time. I swear to God, Tiff, I saw a YouTube comment the other day about an actor’s long fingers, and my mind went straight into the gutter. I practically had to shut the computer down to stop myself from mentally accosting a man I’ve never met.” I covered my face in my hands as she chuckled.
Tiff bumped my hand with my now refilled drink, still laughing as she sat back down. “Stop being embarrassed. I think it’s great you’re exploring what you want. Now you just have to find a guy to give it to you.” She added a wink for good measure.
Nodding, I knew she was right, but I had no idea where to start. “I just don’t ever want to feel like I did with Brad. I finally feel like myself again, you know? I barely even knew who I was after the divorce, and the last thing I want is to lose everything I’ve built over the last year just to traipse after some guy.”
“But …?” Damn, she could read me well.
“But I’m so ready to get laid.”
“Atta, girl.” She downed the rest of her drink and slapped the glass onto the coffee table before fully turning toward me. “Look, if sex is all you’re after, then easy! One-night stands are a dime a dozen. But you can’t treat it like you would a normal date.”
“Why’s that?”
“Because you’re not interested in finding out their views on politics or their favorite childhood memory. It’s not about long conversations or a deep emotional connection. You’re just looking for someone who you’re attracted to and who is down for something quick and dirty.”
“But what if they’re a dick?”
She pinched her lips together. “I so badly want to make the obvious joke here. Look, if they’re an ass, you leave. Simple as that. But come on, haven’t you ever just seen someone who turned you on and wanted to know what their skin tasted like?”
I remembered the man in the leather jacket and felt heat rise to my face. “Of course, I can name at least ten celebrities right now who top that list.”
“Ok, and they’re great inspiration for some quality you time, but I’m talking about a purely physical relationship with someone you just met.”
“I mean … it’s not like I’m opposed to the idea, but I don’t know if I’ll be any good at it.”
“Good?” She shook her head. “Auds, you’re thinking about it all wrong. It’s not something you’re good or bad at; it’s just about being upfront. Make sure you tell these guys that you’re only after something casual, and they’ll pretty much do the rest.”
“Really?”
“Usually. But never do anything with anyone you don’t want to, always text me where you’re going, and don’t fuck anyone who doesn’t respect you. I don’t care how big their dick is. If they don’t come prepared, they can go fuck themselves. Literally.”
“I don’t know …” On the one hand, the idea was exciting. On the other, the reality was terrifying. “I do want to try something new … but where would I even start?”
“Oh, that’s easy. I can help with that.” Oh God, there was no backing out now, not if Tiff had anything to do with it.
And yet, I couldn’t deny the thrill that ran through me, a buzz that went beyond the alcohol.
3
Jackson
