Page 63 of Hostile for the Holidays

It’s simple and domesticated, and I want this with Stella forever.

We leave the cabin Saturday afternoon and when I drop her at her house, she wraps her legs around my waist and kisses me like I’m the oxygen she needs to breathe. No one is there to witness it.

“I’ll be in wedding planning jail for the next few days,” she says, kissing me like she’s got a life sentence.

“I’ll see you on the other side.” I steal another kiss.

“Don’t forget about me.” She nibbles at my jaw.

“That would be impossible.”

We part on a final kiss, but after our time together this weekend, I know it’s only the beginning.

TWENTY

STELLA

From my bedroom window,I watch Jasper’s parents’ car pull out of their driveway, then reach for my phone. After days of being Sadie’s bitch—I mean helpful bridesmaid—I feel like Rapunzel staring down from her tower looking for an escape. Also, I haven’t seen Jasper in two days and I’m going through withdrawals, not to mention the urgent issue that we haven’t had sex yet.

What’s up?

Finishing up with some work. What are you up to?

Casually stalking your house to see when you might be alone.

I’m honored. And alone. My parents went to a movie and Juniper is hanging out with friends downtown.

I’m coming over.

See you in a minute.

I drop my phone on my bed and run to the bathroom. I use mouthwash, and put deodorant on, spritz some perfume, before giving my makeup and hair a quick once over.

Jasper and I are going to have sex.

I’m more nervous now than I was a few days ago when I thought we’d be having a ton of sex on our getaway. I don’t question why, because there’s no time for that. Jasper and I need to have sex before the universe gets in the way again.

On my way out of my bedroom, I grab my phone and type out a quick text to Pippa.

Jasper and I are having sex.

She responds right away.

Right now? Why are you texting me?!

No, silly. We’re going to. Finally. I’m so nervous! Tell me not to be nervous.

It’s normal. You’re nervous because you like him.

Careful…

It’s a teasing warning, but it also makes me stop and think. She’s right. I do like Jasper. I told him at the cabin. I might more than like him.

I need to write a sex scene in this book. Take notes so my characters can live vicariously through you.

I laugh, but also wish my friend could get out from behind her computer.

I’m happy for you, but also be careful. I don’t want to see you get hurt.

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