Page 20 of Seer

“Actually, the police ringing my boss interrupted me, hitting third base, I think.” I tilt my head and try to remember how baseball works.

“Say what now?” I nod as I count in my head.

“Yup, definitely third. Kissing, groping, oral.” I tick them off and scrunch my nose.

It was probably best we stopped before that. I do need a shower, something bad. I started walking to the bathroom door, totally set to wash my night away, and completely forgot about my best friend on the phone until her screaming made me stumble.

“YOU FUCKING DID WHAT? WITH WHO? WHERE?” How do I always manage to do this to myself?

“Annie, I know you’re a journalist, but I am not a news story. Can you chill, please? I’m still processing it myself.” I turn on the water and place the phone on the sink, turning it to speaker.

I close the door and lock it cause lord knows I’m done with surprises today.

“I’m sorry, but this is big news! Please tell me it was all you’ve dreamed of.” I smile as I drop the sheet to the floor and survey myself in the full-length mirror of this rather exquisite and clean bathroom.

“Aren’t men supposed to be slobs?” I comment as I check out the space more thoroughly.

A ginormous claw-foot tub sits in a corner with a fancy tray table full of oils, body washes, sponges, and a candle. A book tray is leaning up against it, and Phoebe’s outraged face crosses my mind. She must read in the tub.

Trepidation once again enters my mind.

I understand the dynamic of Polyamory from an education standpoint, but as a woman from my background, it has always intrigued me how the human response comes into play.

Logically, most mammals are not monogamous by nature. So why are humans thought to be? It’s the very reason why I went into this field and the whole basis of my thesis.

“Oh God,” I grab the sink so I don’t collapse.

“What? Talk to me, Leah!” Annie’s voice snaps me out of my head again.

“How do you put up with me? I’m sorry I keep not answering you.” I let the remnants of my nightie fall off my shoulders.

“I’m at Seer’s house. That answers who and where. The men were him and Kai, but only Seer kissed and touched me. I’m a ship lost at sea, Annie. My entire life literally went up in smoke last night. All my research for graduation is gone. I’m standingin my Boss’s bathroom in the only underwear I own. I think this is rock bottom.” I sit on the edge of the tub and hang my head.

“Well, good thing you know how to climb bitch. Stop feeling sorry for yourself. Didn’t that man make you cum? I swear these men nowadays don’t know their dicks from their big toe.” I laugh as a tear slides down my cheek.

“Um, the phone call from the cops kinda stopped that part.” I bit my lip as memories of the experience warm my chest just enough to chase the sadness away.

“AH FUCK! I COCK BLOCKED YOU?” I’m just about to answer when a knock on the door stops me.

“Annie, hang on.” I go to the door and take a deep breath before unlocking it.

I keep my body behind it as I open it slightly to stare Seer in the face.

“I believe I’m the person who was cock blocked. Wouldn’t it be cunt stunt for ladies?” His eyes are full of humor as the color drains out of mine.

I’m about to tell him not to encourage her when Annie jumps right on in.

“You, sir, are on my shit list! My bestie is in major distress and in need of the serotonin boost!” Oh lord, please, how can this day get worse?

“Well, now, to be fair, Cher. Your intervention via police challenges is the reason for that, so shouldn’t you be putting the blame on yourself?” His voice changes towards the end, and his eyes do not linger on my face.

Instead, they’re on the full-length mirror behind me, showing him my nearly naked body.

“Are those for me? Thank you. I’m going to shower now. Be right out.” I grab the bag Seer is holding before promptly closing the door in his face and locking it again.

“Annie, you have been the bain of my entire existence today. Stop calling the police! I love you, I’m fine. I’ll call you tomorrow. Bye!” I hit the end button on the phone.

I sigh and take a second to center myself.

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