Penny: I don’t understand why y’all are so hellbent on something happening.
Carly: Don’t play. I’ve noticed the way you look at him way before you two started working on the ice rink.
Well, shit.
It’s true—I’ve always thought Miles was attractive. But have I really been that obvious all this time? That’s embarrassing.
Penny: Y’all can believe me or not. I just wanted you to know that I’m home safe and sound.
Carly: Okay, okay. No need to get sassy! I can only speak for myself here, but there are times that I see you around Miles and notice a special chemistry between you two.
The jolt of excitement in my chest is the undeniable proof that I know Carly is right, even though I can’t tell them that.
Miles and I have chemistry, yes. But it doesn’t mean we’re compatible.
Rain: When are we seeing each other next? Maybe Penny will be more willing to talk after a drink or two. *WinkEmoji*
Penny: I’d love to meet up soon! I’m not sure how much you can drink, Rain. But I’m ready for whatever, especially before the holidays kick off.
Mia: Sorry for jumping in just now. I guess I’m the only one with a 24/7 job *SighEmoji* I’m definitely down for a meet up. Carly and I are spending Christmas in the DR. *ManicureEmoji*
Rain: Oh, I know! Do you want to have a cookie exchange party? Sugar and alcohol. What could go wrong? And before my perfect twin feels the need to remind me we’re pregnant, yes, there are yummy mocktails you and I can drink, Ruin. *Wink Emoji*
Ruin: *EyerollEmoji* *EyerollEmoji* But yay for the cookie exchange party! I’m happy to host if everyone is okay with that. The boys can meet here too, so they can take care of the twins.
Ruin: Thank you for letting us know you’re safe, Penny. Love you all so much!
Penny: I’ll have to ask my mom if there are any Colombian cookies I can make. Looking forward to seeing you all.
I’m glad the girls ignored my sass and started planning a meet-up instead. Their friendship means more to me than Ican explain, even though I still don’t understand why grown women use that many emojis.
Then again, maybe I shouldn’t judge anyone while I’m over here still thinking about the damn good orgasm at the hands of a handsome devil.
Chapter 13
Penny
“Hey, Mami,” I call as I enter my childhood home, stomping snow off my boots.
“Mi amor, hi,” she greets me from the chaise on the three-season porch. “I wasn’t expecting to see you today. To what do I owe thepleasure?”
I shrug out of my coat, suddenly exhausted. Between the endless snow, the long drives to Azalea Creek, and work eating up every waking hour, I’ve barely felt human lately.
Not to mention my shoes are getting ruined by the salt and ice melt around the construction site.
I feel terrible not having made the time to meet with Easton yet. I just haven’t felt up to seeing anyone besides my parents—I still have dinner with them at least once a week.
Miles—his very capable hands—have occupied an embarrassing amount of space in my brain too. Besides work, obviously.
The girls have been great at checking in on me. I’ve never really been big on texting or constantly keeping up with friends, but this group of women somehow makes it easy.
The cookie exchange party has been set for the first weekend in December, and even though I can’t bake to save my life, I suddenly feel the need to show up with the most amazing recipe.
And no, the fact that Miles will be there has absolutely nothing to do with my sudden interest in baking.
I mean, the man’s great in the kitchen. I don’t need to be too.
I glance at the book she set on the side table. “What are you reading?” I ask instead of answering her question.
