“I’m still all achy and needing him.” I hear her sit up fast. “Do you have a dildo?”
Laughter bursts out of me then. “I have Derek.”
“Not all week! What are you hiding? I bet you have a stash.”
Picking up the remote, I start the kaleidoscope of channels again. “I hate to disappoint you, Miss Gold Tie, but I’m not hiding a toy collection.”
“Hmm. Neither am I. We should do some research tomorrow night when I’m there.”
“What are you eating?” I’m back to watching the faces flash past on the screen.
“Popcorn. Do you want me to run by the store before I come over? After school?”
“Yes. Get chips and salsa, guacamole, tamales…”
“Real and virgin margaritas.” She pauses for a moment. “Are you doing okay? Really? This has to be bothering you.”
I stop switching channels on a talent competition and hit mute. “I’m not sure how I feel. Derek’s so convinced I’m in danger, and I can’t change his mind. I won’t let my mind travel to what he might do—the lengths he might go to.”
“Patrick’s there. He won’t let anything happen they can’t sit on. Or get out of.”
I know she’s right, but I know something more. My mind drifts to my conversation with Patrick a week ago. “He promised me…”
Elaine keeps talking. “I gotta be honest, I don’t know how you two can keep up the long distance. I hate it.”
“No shit. I’m starting to remember how obnoxious you were before Patrick relocated.” Bending my elbow so I can prop my head on my hand, I gaze out the window at the swaying sea oats. “We’ve agreed to end it after this job, but even if that means more time for me in Princeton, I’m not giving up my place here.”
“I love your cottage. I wish it were warm enough to sunbathe all weekend. You’ve got the best spot for going topless.”
Lying back, I stretch my arms over my head. “One more month and you can attempt to get arrested on my beach all you like.”
She laughs. “I have a feeling your beach sees plenty of risky business without me. Besides, we’ve got connections. See you tomorrow.”
“Night, Lainey.”
For a few minutes after disconnecting, I lie there and flip through photos of Derek on my phone until I can’t decide if it makes me feel better or worse. I stand and go to the kitchen to heat water in the kettle. Maybe chamomile tea will help me relax.
Turning my back to the counter to wait for the whistle, I type up a text. He’s probably not in a position to reply, but I want him to know…
Miss you so much. It’s hard to sleep outside your arms.
Holding my phone, I think of his lovely face on my pillow. At least the bed still smells like him, even if I’m not clutched tight against his chest. My phone vibrates.
Miss you too. Hope to finish here soon.
Imagining our reunion provokes a little tingle. I have a special red nightie waiting for you.
You’re beautiful in red.
You’re beautiful in everything.
You’re beautiful in nothing. My favorite.
A pouty sigh escapes my lips, and I’m as frustrated as Elaine. I want him here now. Please be careful. Remember Dex and I need you.
No matter where I am, you are all I see.
My insides melt, and I kiss my phone face before typing. I love you.