“It stands for ‘Battery Operated Boyfriend.’”
Angie stares for what seems like years before offering one hell-of-a laugh. “Kyra, that’s genius,” she exclaims, taking a seat beside me. “I have about thirty different B.O.B.s, and like ten O.B.s. Those without batteries.” The grin she gives hints I should be happy for her, but what does one need with forty sex-toys?
“I’m…happy for you?” I giggle.
“Thank you, and it’s perfect. The color, size, ridges, and all three different extensions. You even got me the vibrating tongue that moisturizes while it licks–ohhh, and look, this long one wiggles, twists, vibrates, and pulses–the secondary does too! It’s an upgrade from my limited edition.”
“Yep. It’s an Angie exclusive gift which is why your name is on this side.” I point where her thumb sits. “And its name is on the other.”
She strokes a finger over her name and flips it to the other side, reading out loud, “Tri-Pleasure.” The vibrator has two pink shafts with red tips and an extended red tongue. “Tri-Pleasure B.O.B.,” she says, holding it with wonder. “I love it. Though nine inches is a little much, I’d rather have more than less.”
“I figured on certain days you’ll need a little extra for those deep itches you can’t scratch. But the second one’s seven inches, if that helps,” I laugh at how we’re having this conversation of all things. “But I’m glad you like it.”
We continue on the topic, and I divulge how Russ put me in touch with the fay Ethan placed on the mountains; since they’re friends. If anyone could remember what her favorite toy looked like, it was him. We made a deal that if Angie loved her gift, I’d try rekindling things between the two of them, but I made no promises. If she declines, all bets are off. I am not pressuring her.
I keep the last bitto myself for now.
In the midst of girl talk, my phone pings with a distinctive melody, a snippet from a song I’ve come to love. After my first round of hacking, liberties were taken to customize my phone. Each contact has its own ringtone and message sound, and Alex, who is messaging me, happens to beBabydollby Ari Abdul.
During one of our past conversations, Angie had me on the floor laughing with stories about her making him watch mortal movies. She said they viewedSucker Punch, and he spent the entire time going over how horrible it was. Thus, this song.
I know he hates the main character.
ALEX
Don’t respond, but I’m hoping you’re in bed resting. You left before our conversation was finished, so I’ll come by when the sun reaches your window. There are a few things we need to discuss. If I’ve awakened you, do try going back to sleep. See you in the morning.
Off instinct alone, my thumbs ready themselves, but he advised me against responding, so I don’t. However, he is sweet for caring about my rest.But why so early?
“What’s this?” Angie asks, pointing at the little brown book Mr. ‘I’d Rather Be a Ghost’ gave me.
“Blaise and I made a bet. If I can remember him come tomorrow, he’ll grant me reading access.” I check the time on my phone. “And it’s now eleven forty-five. He never said my time starts when the sun comes up. Once the clock strikes twelve, this little book is getting opened.”
We both laugh, and my phone pings again, startling me.Did Blaise somehow hear us?But a snippet ofMonstersby Ruelle plays, telling me Raine is sending his goodnight text.
I’m smiling before opening the messaging app.
SHINING KNIGHT
Tell me, are you in bed or still at Haven’s Hole?
Are we getting possessive now? Do I have a curfew?
SHINING KNIGHT
I have my answer. You wouldn’t respond so quickly if the night continued claiming you.
Shit, he’s good.
Boooo, you’re no fun. LMAO. Yes, I’m in bed and you should be sleeping, sir. You have a mission in the morning.
SHINING KNIGHT
Not before telling you goodnight. I’ve yet to miss a morning and night since starting, don’t expect me to stop.
Well, excuse me.
Uh huh. We’ll see how long it takes until you become bored. Go to sleep. We both have an early start.
