Page 160 of The Way I Hate Him
Maggie:I was hot and tingly the moment you told me he came in the grass. I don’t know why, but I find that incredibly erotic. Couldn’t come on you because you’re far too precious, so he came on the grass. Hot!
Hattie:It was really hot, the most intense sexual experience of my life, and he didn’t even penetrate me.
Maggie:Which can only mean one thing . . . you need to get over this whole taking it slow thing. You’re missing out, girl. Think of all the orgasms this man can deliver. They are world-class.
Hattie:I know. After tonight, I’m not sure I’ll be able to hold back.
Maggie:See, told you. Men like Hayes don’t come along very often. Take advantage of it.
Hattie:I really want to do this right, though. I don’t want to end up being another one of his roadies.
Maggie:You know that’s not the case. I doubt he’s had intimate conversations with those women. You’re different.
Hattie:I think I am too, but I want to be sure, you know?
Maggie:I get it. So how did the date end?
Hattie:We stared up at the stars a while longer. He told me about the meteor showers he used to watch, and then he took me back home. He walked me up to the front door, gently kissed me, and told me he’d see me tomorrow.
Maggie:What’s tomorrow?
Hattie:Apparently, I’m still working for him.
Maggie:Oh, what a shame.
Hattie:You don’t think it’s weird?
Maggie:Uh, co-workers to lovers, yeah, I’m not complaining about that. Don’t bend over in front of him too much, might entice him to plow you from behind.
Hattie:Seriously, what is wrong with you?
Maggie:Frankly, I don’t know. I think this business is getting the best of me. Plus I was reading a book one of the bridesmaids recommended to me about a hockey player and a ten-year age gap. **Whispers** He fucks her in her dorm. I’ve never been more turned on.
Hattie:What have you done to my best friend?
Maggie:She’s overworked, exhausted, and horny. This is what you get.
Hattie:Fair. Do you need help? I mean, I don’t really want to work with you, I’m too scared it could hurt our friendship, but I can always assist in any way you need.
Maggie:I appreciate it, but I think you’re right. We need to keep things separate. I’ll be okay. I have the next two days off, and I’m going to do nothing but read and binge Only Murders in the Building. Selena is queen.
Hattie:She is. Okay, I’ll let you get to sleep.
Maggie:I’m so happy for you and your clit. Live in the moment and don’t overthink it, okay?
Hattie:Thank you. Love you.
Maggie:Love you.
* * *
I thought workingwith Hayes was distracting before, but now that he’s more comfortable with me in his house because we’re dating, seeing him walk around with his shirt off in nothing but a pair of jeans, strumming his guitar, I’m getting nothing done.
And I mean nothing.
“Can you put a godforsaken shirt on?” I yell over his guitar playing.
He pauses and looks up at me from where he’s sitting on the hearth in his lounge room.
