It’s obvious she’s been sent as a distraction to get me out of the penthouse so my friends can set up for my birthday. I haven’t had nearly enough sleep, but I go along with it.
When I get up from the bed, I feel every second of last night with Eros, and Chantel doesn’t miss it.
“Should I be concerned about why you’re walking like that, or did you get railed within an inch of your life last night?”
“It was the latter. I’ll be fine after a shower, I think.”
I hope.
Chantel perks up. “A marathon session, huh? Got any burning questions for your friendly undercover sex columnist?”
I think about it before I nod. “Is it normal for a guy to keep going multiple times a night?”
“It depends on the guy,” she says. “Refractory periods vary from person to person. Some men only need a few minutes torecover, others require hours or even days. Age, health, and dopamine levels all play a role. But yes—it’s totally possible. Psychological arousal is a big one. For example, a man who’s very, very into you can definitely have more stamina.”
“Good to know.”
“Sooo…” Chantel drawls. “Was he very, very into you last night?”
A hint of a smile betrays my resolve to remain neutral. “I suppose you could say that.”
“But not in love with you.” She smirks.
“I’m showering now,” I call over my shoulder as I head into the bathroom, her laughter following me.
I try not to let my thoughts consume me, but as the warm water washes over me, there’s one thing I can’t seem to forget.
Once upon a time, Romeo used to draw pictures of me, too.
28
GABRIELA
Chantel takesme for a light breakfast at a cozy café, and we spend some time browsing a bookstore before we head to a local boutique. After picking out some ridiculously fluffy slippers and a new tote bag, we head back to the penthouse.
“Are you going to give me any idea of what I should expect?” I ask Chantel as we ride the elevator up with Julian.
“Sorry.” She smiles. “I’ve been sworn to secrecy.”
My friends get creative when it comes to planning parties. We always celebrate each other’s birthdays in some fashion or another. Some of the more notable themes have included pastel picnics, mystery dinners, royal garden parties, 90s nostalgia, and Barbie glam.
I don’t usually like surprises because I don’t know how to react, but these parties are the exception. I never have to worry about feeling out of place among my friends.
Given the brief Chantel gave me this morning to aim for a coquette look, I anticipate a more relaxed day, which is perfectly fine by me.
I settled on a vintage-cut ivory lace dress with a blush-pink cardigan, and Chantel styled my hair into two loose braids, ribbons tied at the ends.
As for her, she opted for a dark lavender midi dress with a ruched bodice instead of her usual deep, rich palette.
In our current state, it’s hard to tell since it’s now November and I’m wrapped in a pink faux-fur coat while Chantel dons a gray cashmere wrap.
With Julian trailing after us in his typical rough-edged style, we had plenty of curious looks while we were out.
When the elevator doors open into the penthouse, we step into a pastel daydream of pink and soft cream.
Bouquets of peonies spill from vases, while fairy lights, throw pillows, and blankets soften the rest of the space.
I also notice there’s a flower wall for photos and a tree of fancy hats.
