Page 35 of Exclusive

“I keep telling you, I’m old. Let’s get back to the kissing and its impact on my productivity. How do I get the dishes done?”

She waved an arm back and forth and closed her eyes. “We’ve skipped a step. I didn’t even know you were dating anyone.”

“Exactly. I’m not. I’m just doing the kissing.”

“Huh.” She nodded, absorbing. “And enjoying it apparently.”

“Immensely. I look forward to more.”

“Skyler. Who are you kissing?”

I paused. “Carrie. Caroline McNamara of TV fame.”

“Oh, man. Does Sarah know?”

“She does not. You’re first. Honored?”

“Gloating. Sarah’s always first.” A smile. She was more energetic now, which felt like a win. While I was happy to add a little spice to what might have been an otherwise depressing day, everything I’d said was wholeheartedly genuine, and I welcomed any girl talk, advice, or even admonishment. Though I couldn’t imagine why.

“There have been two instances of the kissing, if you can even call it that. Making out is probably more appropriate, and now I’m not normal anymore. I’m a hyperexaggerated version of myself that smiles and exhales a lot.”

Emory pointed at me. “Well, you’re doing it right now.”

“Of course I am. It’s my new look. Is there an angle I’m missing, though?”

She paused. “Well, definition, for one. You said you’re not dating, just kissing. As someone who places a lot of value on you and thinks you’re a fantastic person, I question her intentions and want to protect your heart like a guard dog.”

“There is that.”

“So you have real feelings for her?”

“It’s early, but yeah…I think I could. Not that I’m ready to declare to her officially.” I shook my head, trying to dissect it all. “I don’t want to come off as someone not able to handle a little no-strings-attached entanglement, but at the same time? I’ve been there, done that with Kacey, and that only works for so long.”

Emory’s eyes took on fire. “See? You’re already very aware of what your needs are and what does not work for you. Don’t be afraid to voice those things. Sooner rather than later would be good.”

The idea, while incredibly practical, was terrifying. “I think I’ll just play things by ear. See where it takes us.”

Emory marinated on this for a beat. “Promise one thing. Don’t let her status cloud your perspective. This is a woman with more life experience than you, who you’ve looked up to for quite some time.”

“You should see her very grown-up garden. I could never.”

She smiled. “That doesn’t mean she gets the upper hand, okay?”

I nodded.

She closed one eye. “Can I say one last thing?”

“Yes. I’m paying attention to everything you’re throwing at me.”

She took my hand. “You’re very excited about all this, but don’t confuse your excitement for feelings. They’re different.”

Okay, that was sobering, but also a valid point.

“Give yourself time to get to know the true her before deciding this is right.”

“Fair enough. I like it. I will channel my inner reporter and get the whole story before reaching any kind of conclusion.” It actually sounded like the best kind of project, and I wanted to get started right away. I fell back onto the bed and threw my arm over my head. “Did I mention the kissing, though?”

She grabbed my cheeks and gave my face an affectionate shake. “I think you said something about it.”

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