Eli:Are you crying?
Penny:. . . No. *wipes at face*
Eli:So you’re telling me, beneath the sarcastic sociopath, there’s a sensitive side to you?
Penny:I thought we established you were the sociopath.
Eli:Either way, I like it. You don’t have to be so tough all the time.
Penny:Is that what you think I am? Tough?
Eli:Yeah, I think you sort of have a wall up. I’m getting to know you, but there’s still a defensive barrier, and it’s your humor and teasing.
Penny:Weren’t you saying I have all different sides to me? Well, here is another one. Apparently, I cry at the mention of a gift.
Eli:Well, keep your expectations low because it’s not that big of a deal.
Penny:I think you could give me an old rabbit’s turd, and I’d be happy.
Eli:Well, it’s not a rabbit’s turd, so get that out of your head.
Penny:Sad, could have been a lovely gift.
Eli:You are so strange. I don’t know which one of your many personalities is going to show up.
Penny:So you’re saying it’s been a fun roller coaster so far?
Eli:Yes, that’s exactly what I’m saying. Shy at first, then a fucking fire in bed, then shy and extremely awkward, then teasing, then angry, now fun and charming. Anything else I need to worry about?
Penny:Nope, I think that just about covers it, but I suggest you don’t sleep on a new side of me. You never know what might appear.
Eli:Got it. Okay, see you tonight, or in the morning. I’ll try not to wake you up when I get in.
Penny:Don’t worry about it. Good luck tonight. Bruise someone’s ribs.
Eli:Haha. I’ll try.
Penny:Oh and Eli? I am excited to see you tonight.
Eli:Ditto.
ChapterSeventeen
PENNY
The front door clicks shut, followed by the sound of the lock being put into place. I glance over at my nightstand clock and see that it’s nearly one.
I’ve drifted in and out of sleep for the past few hours but woke up the moment I heard the front door open. The boys won tonight, bringing them that much closer to a spot in the playoffs. Unfortunately, with how rough their second half of the season has been, they’re not going to win the division, but they’re a possible shoo-in for the wild card. I’m sure it’s not their preferred way to make it to the playoffs, but at least there’s a chance.
Eli’s feet shuffle down the hallway, and he slowly opens the door, peeking in.
“Hey,” I say so he doesn’t think he has to be super quiet.
“You’re up. It’s late, Penny.”
“I’ve been in and out of sleep.” I press my hand to my chest. “Been dealing with some serious heartburn lately.”
“Really? You said everything was good,” he says in a concerned voice as he comes over to my side of the bed and takes a seat.
