“So he friend-zoned you after he got what he wanted?” Katie looked disappointed.

“Nope. He asked me what I wanted. We’re staying friends and just friends because I want to.”

“Really? You don’t want to date him?”

“I do, but I don’t.” Justine sipped her drink and thought about it. “I mean, I’d love a relationship with someone who put me first for once. But I don’t want to tempt fate by losing the first guy friend I’ve had in... Well, in forever. Xavier’s so great. He doesn’t push me for anything I don’t want to give. But maybe that’s because we’re just friends right now. And yes, before you’re skeevy little mind can add ‘with benefits,’ fine, with benefits. But I think maybe we should just keep it to that one time.”

“You mean that one morning.”

Justine grinned. “It was a morning I’ll always treasure.”

They ate in silence for a bit before Katie said, “I see your point. I mean, you and Xavier are vibing as friends. You need more friends, and guys give you a perspective we just don’t have. I have to say, I like the guy. He’s pretty funny and seems self-confident. He held his own with you on Friday night, and apparently on Saturday.”

“Katie.”

Katie laughed. “You know what I mean. I’m happy for you, really.”

After a pause, Justine nudged her. “But...?”

“But I think you’re letting fear of failure stop you from maybe having a kickass boyfriend. Before you come at me, I know you just got out of a mess with Mitch. And you really should have quality me-time before hooking up with someone else. Normally. But how many Xaviers are there? He’s handsome, smart, independent, funny, and likes you for you. I’m just saying. Friendship is great, but so is the possibility for more. Just think about it.”

“I know. You’re right. But it feels...” Justine didn’t know how to explain it. Her sexual marathon with Xavier had been idyllic. Almost unreal. Then she’d floated back down to earth to have a mature conversation with a man who wanted to let her set the pace. Xavier hadn’t pressured her or made her feel awkward for having been with him. She’d never experienced that kind of liberation before, and she wanted to see where that feeling took her.

Plus, he’d been adamant that he didn’t want their friendship to change. Knowing he valued her for more than her boobs gave her all the warm fuzzies.

Katie put a hand over Justine’s on the table. “I’m not badgering you. I swear. I only want my best friend to be happy.”

Justine glanced at their hands and smirked. “Does this mean I’m on a higher tier of best friend than Jon?” Katie’s other best pal and a really funny guy. Unfortunately, Justine and he never seemed to be in the same place at the same time. He had a very odd schedule.

“Yes, but don’t tell him that.” Katie looked around, as if Jon would pop up unexpectedly. “Besides, he doesn’t need me as much. He’s got a fiancé now.”