Total pages in book: 23
Estimated words: 21644 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 108(@200wpm)___ 87(@250wpm)___ 72(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 21644 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 108(@200wpm)___ 87(@250wpm)___ 72(@300wpm)
“Ugh, don’t remind me because I have no idea. College doesn’t really appeal, but I know that’s what my parents want me to do because supposedly, college is the equivalent of high school today. But I just can’t see myself paying thousands of dollars in tuition for more school. It sounds really painful, not to mention a terrible investment. Wait, did you go to college?”
I nod.
“I did, and I enjoyed it. In fact, I’d say it was the best four years of my life, but I can see how that wouldn’t hold true for everyone. Folks need to follow their own path, and maybe yours leads elsewhere.”
Colleen sighs and gazes outwards, taking in the tropical foliage.
“Yes, I think you’re right. Sometimes I dream about starting my own business. It could be fun, and I’m pretty crafty so maybe I could sell stuff I make. You know, like knit hats and hand-made jewelry. My parents wouldn’t go for it because it’s not exactly prestigious, but Judy and Bill aren’t the ones living my life. I need to figure this out for myself.”
I nod, squeezing her small palm.
“Exactly. You live for yourself, and not for them. Besides, that sounds like a wonderful business idea. What kind of jewelry do you make?”
Colleen blushes.
“Oh just simple stuff with glass beads, wire, and lobster clasps. But it looks really ornate and intricate, so I’ve been able to sell a few items to friends and family. They seem to like it, so maybe there are others who would buy my things. Maybe.”
I squeeze her hand encouragingly again.
“You won’t know unless you try,” I growl. “Just let me know if you need capital, sweetheart. All new businesses need money to start-up and I’m sure I could invest a bit. For a price, of course.”
She giggles.
“What price?”
I take the opportunity to pull the curvy girl into my lap, grateful that we have the cab to ourselves.
“The kind where sweet girls get kissed all over before they’re taken long and hard.”
Colleen giggles again, nestling against my broad chest.
“You know, I’ve heard rumors about you, Carl,” she murmurs with a naughty smile. “From even before we were formally introduced.”
I lean back to look at her.
“What do you mean?”
She giggles then.
“Well, Cindy McAdams was talking about how her sister went on a date with you. You know, Karen McAdams? The blonde girl who’s a cashier at the drugstore downtown. Evidently, Karen was super sore after you two were together, to the point where she was limping and had to take an Epson bath to soothe her aches.”
I laugh. “And? Now that you’ve tried me yourself, do you think Karen was right?”
“Yes, she was,” Colleen whispers, her eyes bright. “I’ve taken an Epson bath myself in the last week,” she admits.
I cuddle her more closely, leaning down to press a kiss to that plush pout. “And are you sore right now?”
She nods and blushes fiery hot once more. “Yes, in the best way possible though. I adore the way you make me feel, Carl.”
We kiss again, and exit the park before driving back to my place. Then I hustle Colleen into my house under the cover of evening. Usually, the sweet girl waits until her parents are asleep before sneaking down the road for a night of hedonism in my arms. But tonight, I can’t wait. I want the curvy girl, and the truth is that I’ve grown used to having her in my arms. Who would have guessed? This sweet girl appears to be the right woman for a reformed rake, and now, it’s me who can’t get enough.
7
Colleen
I sit on my bed with my buddy April. It’s officially our last semester of our senior year in high school, and even though we’d love to do nothing for the next few months, our teachers aren’t having it. There’s a history exam on Friday that we’re not prepared for, which is why we’re hitting the books.
But of course, nothing’s getting done and instead April and I are gabbing. I have a lot to tell her because I’ve been so busy with Carl the last few months that I haven’t seen my bestie much, short of a few rushed conversations at school.
“I’ve missed you!” she whines, tucking a curl behind one ear. “What gives?”
“I know,” I say in a repentant tone. “I’m sorry I’ve been a bad friend lately.”
April shakes her head. “No, it’s fine. You’re clearly happy with Carl, and I want that for you. I’ve never seen you so happy, Colleen. Besides, I need to live vicariously through you. Ugh, the boys in high school are so awful, so you’re lucky to be with an older man.”
I roll my eyes.
“Okay, what happened this time?”
April frowns.
“Well, Joey Sliss, you know the one who often has the cowlick, took me out last week. But guess where he took me?”