Page 83 of Let's Kiss and Tell

“I know.” She clenches her eyes shut. “I know.”

I swallow and wipe a palm over my face. I push away all thoughts of taking my hand and putting it down Lucy’s jeans, fingering her until her eyes roll to the back of her head as I whisper more dirty thoughts in her ear.

“I should go,” I say.

“Yeah.” She nods. “Good idea.”

When I get back into my car I throw my head back, shutting my eyes. We’re in trouble.

16

Lucy

Eman peeks over my cubicle while I’m mid-bite of a pretty gnarly breakfast burrito. “Lucy, the clicks to your story this morning are insane.”

“Really?” I say through a mouthful of Tater Tots and bacon.

“The team has beenso happy,” she emphasizes. “And brands have reached out about some sponsored posts to your column.”

I wipe my mouth with a napkin. “That’s amazing, Eman.”

“The timing is just incredible. I know last time we talked things were kind of new but…” Eman swings around the cubicle and sits in an empty chair. “You two are reallyofficial?”

“It’s official.” I smile, trying to match her energy. “I have a boyfriend.”

“Lucy!” Eman squeezes my hand. “Congratulations, that’shuge!”

“It’s notthathuge.” I laugh. “It’s just a boyfriend.”

“Yeah, but like, you haven’t been official with anyone since I’ve known you. This guy must be someone great. I mean, hesoundsgreat from what I’m reading.”

I smile. “He is.”

“What’s his name?”

“Mar—” I hesitate for a moment. “K…Mark.”

“Mark,” Eman repeats. “Hot.”

“Mhm,” I agree.

“How did you meet? What does he do? I’m so invested.”

“We met at a bar…” I say slowly, hoping Eman doesn’t ask too many questions.

“Do you have a photo?” Eman asks directly.

I frown. “I, um, do not. But he’s tall? Brown hair, glasses…”

“I’m going to be impatiently waiting for you two to post a photo,” Eman prods.

“Oh, I don’t think that’ll happen anytime soon.” I shake my head. “I’m enjoying keeping things private right now. Being in our bubble.”

“I get it.” Eman stands up. “I’m just so happy you’re happy! And, Lucy, thank you for writing about it. Navigating the dynamic of a new relationship isn’t easy, and the fact that you’re willing to put it all out there is really appreciated.”

“No worries, Eman. I’m happy to,” I say. “There’s not a lot Iwouldn’tdo for my job.”

“I know there isn’t,” Eman says sincerely and then starts to head down the hall.