She slowly nods. “Well, I guess that’s it.”
“Why do you look so upset? It’s my love life, not yours.”
“Correct, but it’s hard being a partner to a professional hockey player. It would have been nice if you joined the club.”
“Well, there’s always Posey.”
Penny’s nose turns up. “No, you are not the girl who will fit into Posey’s bologna-loving life. Not a match, putting that out there now. Don’t even consider it.”
I chuckle. “What about OC?”
“Ehh . . . isn’t he more like a brother to you than Halsey?”
“Yeah, he is, just testing to make sure you’re looking out for my best interests and not just trying to hook me up with anyone.”
“If that were the case, I would have thrown a party over the suggestion of Posey. That man is desperate for love.”
“You seem desperate to find me love.”
She shrugs. “Isn’t that always the case with people who are in love, they want everyone around them to be in love as well?”
“I guess so.” I stand from my chair. “But I’m good for now. Thank you.”
“Are you leaving?”
“Yeah, I need to take care of a few things while I have the time here.”
“Okay. Thank you for the cookies.”
“Thank you for all of the help.”
“You know I’m here for you, always. Remember that as you start . . . making decisions.”
I roll my eyes. “Subtle much?”
“I thought it was. I could have said something like if you moved to a new job you wouldn’t have the same unconditional support that you get from me.” She gives me a cheeky grin. “See, I was subtle.”
“Very.” She lifts up from her chair and I give her a hug. “I adore you.”
“Just remember how much.”
HALSEY
Penny:SHE CONSIDERS YOU HER BROTHER!!
I stare down at the text, my mind barely processing the words in front of me as my foot soaks in the ice bath.
What?
Why the hell would she say that?
I quickly type Penny back.
Halsey:What?
Posey:Wait . . . hold on . . . do not fucking tell me we’ve been friend-zoned. I will chuck my bologna sandwich across the room right now!
Pacey:Please chuck it into the trash, it smells disgusting.
