“She’s as annoying as a nest of ticks, I hate to tell you. She brought you up and social media stuff.” I felt my stomach turn at the thought of him being affected by her stupidity.

“That’s alarming. That means you’re being stalked.” He hugged me harder.

“I’m sorry.” I offered to his chin.

“Please. For what? I’m so grateful you’re here and not living with her anymore. We need to make sure to be careful, and maybe investigate a restraining order.”

I nodded against his chest.

“Hey. I have an idea. I have a friend that has a house out on the beach. This weekend, let’s go there. I bet Parker and Tinsley would love to watch Axel for us. We can reset.” He kissed my forehead and I twirled the ring on his thumb.

“That sounds awesome, Tinsley isn’t angry anymore?” I sat forward so I could see his reaction.

“Oh, no, she’s still angry. But me going away with you will make her happy. And I’m pretty sure Parker will turn Axel into a marathon runner by the time we get back.” Austin leaned down and kissed my lips. He was so, so good at it.

“I’ll go anywhere with you.” I couldn’t believe this was my life now. I was this lucky.

Later that evening, I texted Peaches while Austin edited pictures of me on his computer.

ME: WE ARE GOING TO A BEACH HOUSE.

ME: ALONE.

Peach responded right away.

PEACHES: Holy crap. This is real. Real. Like you will know what color everything is. And what it tastes like. I bet it tastes like cake and mangos.

ME: That’s my hope. That he's made of part unicorn and I have all human scents.

PEACHES: Don’t let me make you nervous. You are a snack. With a six pack. Paddy whack.

ME: Are you drunk? It’s Monday for crap’s sake.

PEACHES: I’m not drunk. I’m just me.

ME: I apologize. I know you have a weirdness in you that needs to come out.

PEACHES: Thank you.

PEACHES: I’m so excited about the beach house. Give me the address and I will be waiting in the driveway.

ME: Absolutely not.

PEACHES: It was a worth a try. But you owe me a blow-by-blow. I want to know how minds get blown. Penises get blown. I want to know it all.

ME: I feel like I owe you a tasteful summary.

PEACHES: Emphasis on taste.

I sent an emoji with the tongue sticking out.

ME: Seriously. I have to pack for the weekend. I mean, I have time, but I think I need new everything.

PEACHES: Definitely. Don’t bring the grandma drawers.

ME: Stop remembering that happened.