Page 7 of Protect Home
This is what I want. I want a home bursting at the seams with comfort and so much love, managing it all would be a struggle.
The perfect problem to have.
I understand it sounds like a pipe dream, and my sarcastic sense of humor does me no favors in ever meeting someone who would actually chance dating me for the potential of that kind of future.
Because I’m the girl who never settles.
The one available to fuck but never anything more.
That’s how I protect myself from ever getting hurt.
Kodi and Navy carry on their conversation as I relax, lost in thought. It’s not until a question is directed at me that I finally clue myself in.
“Tenley.”
My head swings in Navy’s direction, missing her question entirely. “Huh?” They cast me a quizzical grin, and I can’t help but smirk, eventually chuckling alongside them.
“I said…you seem stressed,” Navy says, trying to be as kind as possible. I know it’s only coming from concern because, well, I am stressed. Sometimes, I don’t even know why.
I’m lost in this current of mediocre contentment. Also, about to make a huge life change that I’m working hard to prepare for.
“I just have a lot on my mind,” I tell them honestly.
Kodi takes a sip of her wine. “Anything you need to talk about? You know we’re always here for you, Ten. You don’t have to be tough with us.”
I smile softly, nodding at her kindness. “I know. It would help if I knew what I was actually stressed about, though.” I exhale, my eyes resting closed for a moment. “I think the best way to describe how I’m feeling is…overstimulated. I mean, you girls know the change that’s coming for me, so I don’t even have to harp on that part.”
I knew as soon as I talked to my mom about getting the procedure done that I needed to tell Navy and Kodi. They’re my best friends and were nothing but supportive of my choice.
Shocked but supportive.
“Proud of you for that, by the way. Has work been stressful?” Navy asks with concern.
I shake my head. “Actually, no. I’m happier than I’ve ever been. Coach Leggins finally upgraded my cubicle to an actual office, so I have space to work freely. It’s been nice.”
“Then what is it?” Kodi reaches for my hand beside her.
I send her a small smile before admitting it out loud for the very first time. “I think I’m just lonely,” I murmur, feeling embarrassed but also relieved. “God, I sound ridiculous.”
“Oh, no, no, no. We are not doing this pity shit, my girl. No, we are not. You are Tenley, I don’t even know yourmiddle name, Abrams. How do I not know your middle name?” Navy laughs through her self-deprecation.
“Belle. My middle name is Belle,” I tell her in giggles.
Navy’s eyes launch open. “Belle? Your middle name is Belle? Tenley Belle?”
I nod, and not a second later, wine splatters into the cool air, shooting from Kodi’s mouth, Navy’s snorts echoing in the back patio.
“You bitches,” I groan, fighting to hold back my own laugh.
“Why do I keep thinking of the Disney princess, Belle? You’re the least princess-y person of us all, Tenley Belle,” Navy chokes on a shout, and I have to admit, it is hilarious.
“My mom hates me,” I exclaim, the giggles never leaving.
Kodi waves her hand in the air, attempting to settle us before taking another swig of her drink. “Attention,” she calls, demanding the floor. “I have a solution for this!”
“Oh, this should be interesting. Let’s hear it, Kodi girl,” Navy tells her, sitting back in her chair like the queen she is. “However do you plan to fix Tenley Belle Abrams’ overstimulated loneliness?”
I wait for what’s coming, examining Kodi. Her thick brown hair is tossed on top of her head, bringing attention to her bronzed skin and bright hazel eyes.
