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My head jerks back and I gasp. “Of course, I am!”

Bruce wags his index finger at me. “Not just a good kisser. Anyone, including Dr. Dickhead, could be a good kisser. I need to know if you’re an epic, once in a lifetime kind of kisser.”

West takes a step closer to me, studying my mouth. “I bet he is, he has the right lips.”

Remy’s eyebrows draw together as he studies me. “I think you’re right. The perfect amount of pout.”

Mitch quirks a brow. “But does he know what to do with his tongue?”

My face twists up. “You are not asking me about tongue action.”

Mitch’s face is flat, void of emotion. “Some guys don’t know what to do with their tongues while kissing. Andie told me some horror stories.”

West clears his throat. “But do you have a tongue tie? That can be an issue too. Mel dated some guy named Jeff who had a tongue tie. Horrible experience.”

“My tongue is fine,” I say with a groan. “Perfect actually.”

Bruce tips his chin in a serious nod, then writes on the mirror:

7. Give Noel a kiss she can’t forget. Tasteful amount of tongue included.

* * *

The next day, I arrive back home from an early morning practice with the team. I already showered in the locker room at the Eagles’ iceplex, so I strip down to my boxer briefs and settle in my big bed for a long nap. With a tired sigh, I pick up The Hobbit from my nightstand, and open it up. I’m on chapter five and I’m hoping to finish another chapter before drifting off, but first, I snap a pic of myself holding it and send it to Noel.

I’m pleasantly surprised when she texts right back.

Noel

Seriously? Now I’m getting selfies of you in bed?

I laugh, letting my head fall back against my wood headboard, then look down at myself. I’m covered from the waist down with my navy bedspread. But it totally appears like I’m nude in the photo.

Colby

I notice you focused on me in bed… but didn’t even notice I’m holding a book.

Noel

I noticed the book!

Colby

Riiiiiiiiiiight. *wink emoji*

Noel

You give me a headache. Hope you’re enjoying the book.

Colby

Enjoying it so far. Although, the author is a little wordy.

Noel

Professor Tolkien is a master with words! He was a philologist, after all. Have YOU done anything as cool as inventing multiple languages? I think not. Trust the process.

Colby