Don’t Believe Me? Just Watch

*These events happened in January 2015*
**Editor’s note: I know it’s been a long time, but I’m going to fill you guys in on Penny’s life for the past month and then come back with even better adventures! Thanks for reading!**

“Wake up,” someone said, gently shaking my shoulder.

“What the? Where?” I said, groggily, looking around to see my office and Anna standing over me. “Dammit.”

I had fallen asleep in my office again. It was day four of the media tour blitz for the show and I was exhausted.

“Did you sleep here again?” she asked.

“Yes,” I sighed, looking at my watch and realizing it was 8 a.m.

I grabbed my phone and immediately texted Trent, because I knew he’d be worried and then I saw my duffel bag next to me with a note from him.

Figured you fell asleep in the office again, so I dropped off some clean clothes and your toothbrush. Just make sure you shower before your debut as being a guest on your own show….Love, Me.

I really did love that man. And he was right, today was the day I was going to actually be a guest on Jimmy’s show instead of writing for it or performing in a sketch and it was the oddest feeling.

“Anna, what else do I have today besides The Tonight Show?” I asked, brushing my hair and trying to make it presentable to at least walk into the gym without looking like I’m doing the walk of shame.

“An interview with People magazine at 1 p.m., The Tonight Show and then you need to pack for Arizona and Los Angeles,” she said.

“Right. Los Angeles.”

******************************************************

“How was People?” Trent said, as I collapsed on his couch before the show.

“Fine. Magazine and online interviews are super easy. Even radio isn’t bad. It’s the TV I hate. I like being behind the scenes.”

“But your Jimmy Fallon’s protege, his star child, everyone wants to meet you.”

“I know and there’s such high expectations. But what if the show is a bust?” I asked, curling into him as he sat next to me.

“Then, you keep writing until everyone loves it,” he said, kissing me. “But you’re an amazingly talented writer. No one will hate it.”

“You’re biased,” I said, rubbing his thigh.

He raised his eyebrows, “Do we have time?”

“Why not? I could use a little stress reliever,” I said, kissing him and straddling him.

As I lowered myself onto him, I let all my nerves go and enjoyed the moment. I realized in the last few weeks that I was stressing out way too much and I needed to stop and enjoy the little things, like quickies in Trent’s office, long workouts at the gym and dancing to Nick Jonas (don’t hate, you love “Chains” too!)

*****************************************

“Hey pal!” Jimmy said, as I settled into the seat across from him.

“Hey boss.”

“That’s right. I am your boss, shouldn’t you be working right now?” he asked, laughing. “So, in case anyone doesn’t know, you started on Late Night as a digital producer and well….”

“Right and you took me under your wing and let me choreograph some amazing digital shorts, all while putting me in ridiculous sketches….”

“Haha. Yes! Didn’t you go on a date with Chip from that dating show?”

“Among other things, yes.”

“And now, now you have your own show!”

“Yes, thanks to you!” I said, finally relaxing and forgetting there was an audience. It was just like hanging with Jimmy in his office, except without the cursing since the whole world would soon see me.

“So, tell everyone about it. It’s on Netflix, right?”

“Yes, it’s on Netflix, February 12. And it stars Aubrey Plaza as a 20-something navigating her way through life on Long Island and the city.”

“It’s loosely based on your life?”

“Yes. But most of the situations are exaggerated. My amazing co-writer, Matt, has this knack for taking a simple idea of, say, me going on an online date, and turning into the most ridiculous situation.”

“And you have some pretty big guest stars on the show.”

“Yes! Again, thanks to you. I’ve been lucky enough to come across some big names, such as Channing Tatum. Some play themselves, some play a character. It’s just a really good time.”

“Well, let’s show a clip.”

*********************************************************

“Babe! That was amazing. You did great!” Trent said, rubbing my back as we watched the show later that night.

“Ugh. No. It was horrible.”

“You are beautiful. And your show is going to be a success,” he said, kissing me and grabbing my boobs. “Now, I bet I can get you off in 20 seconds.”

“Doubt it,” I said, closing my legs.

He eased them open and slipped his hands down my pants. “Don’t believe me?” he asked. “Just watch.”

I gasped as he slid two fingers inside me and worked his magic. And sure enough, within 15 seconds, I got off.

“Damn you,” I said, kissing him and pushing him away. “Let’s do this properly before I leave you for over a week.”

He kissed my neck, as I tugged off his pants. He pushed into me and once again, all the stress of the previous few weeks and the upcoming weeks went away. I just needed to get through to February 12 and then I’d be OK. Right?

Relationship Fast Lane

*These events happened in January 2015*
**Editor’s note: I know it’s been a long time, but I’m going to fill you guys in on Penny’s life for the past month and then come back with even better adventures! Thanks for reading!**

“Where do you see us in, say, a year?” Trent asked over dinner.

“Hmmmm. I don’t know. Living together?” I offered.

The truth was, I hadn’t really given it much thought. I liked where we were, and I was afraid to think about the future with him. Any time I thought about a future with a past boyfriend, it ended shortly after we did something about it. Or maybe I was a commitment-phobe. Granted Tony was a jerk, I did throw myself into work to get my show up and running. But now that it was getting launched in a month, I really should take a step back.

“I like that idea,” he said, smiling.

“What?”

“What do you think about a baby?” he said.

“Oh. In a year?” I said, feeling suddenly light-headed.

“Well, I am in my 40s, so I would like at least one more soon.”

“Trent, where is this coming from? I mean, I’m not against it, I just didn’t even factor kids into my….”

He looked disappointed.

“Let me back track. I’ve been so focused on us and the show. I hadn’t really thought about children for at least a few years. I didn’t think age was an issue….”

“It’s not. Well, it is,” he started. “I mean, I don’t know. I’ve just always wanted to give Nick a sibling. And…”

“And, what?”

“I heard that Melanie is pregnant.”

And there it was.

“Oh Trent. I’m sorry. I just….is it a competition though?” I said, treading lightly.

“No. I guess I just always thought his brother or sister would be one of my own children. And I love you and I know this is going in that direction…But you’re right. Now is not the time for you. Your career should come first…”

And then I realized that I was doing exactly what Melanie did to him. I was putting my career ahead of my relationship and the possibility of a family with him. But was this something I wanted? It’s not that I ever felt our relationship moved too fast, but suddenly I felt like I was living it in the fast lane. I needed to convince him that I wasn’t her. But I wasn’t sure of that myself.

I put my hand on his. “Look at me,” I said, gently.

“I love you. And I would love to have a child with you. I just don’t think right now is the right time. It’s not just my career. There’s also the fact that we haven’t even been dating for a year…”

“You’re right, I’m sorry,” he said, suddenly changing his tune. “I shouldn’t have brought it up. I guess I’m just upset by this news from Melanie. I have to shake it off. Let’s talk about something else.”

“OK,” I said, getting a pit in my stomach. “Are you sure?”

“Yes,” he said, as he leaned over to kiss me. “Tell me about your media blitz.”

As I got into the details of my tour, which was going to coincide with the Tonight Show Arizona show, as well as the Los Angeles weeklong shows, I couldn’t help but wonder if the baby conversation was really over. The truth was, after that scare with Tony a few months before we broke up, I knew I wasn’t ready for a child. And I always knew that Trent and I were at different points of our career and life. He has always been supportive, but I fear that he may resent me for it just as Tony did. But that’s my baggage. Unfortunately, it’s Trent’s baggage with Melanie too.

**********************************************

“What’s up with you?” Matt said.

We were doing more planning for season two and possibly season three of the show. He was only going to be at a few events during the media blitz, so he was also prepping me for being in the spotlight. Luckily, it was really the cast that would get the cameras on them, but lots of media want to meet the brains behind the whole thing.

“Nothing,” I said, still shaken up by the baby conversation a few days earlier.

“Liar.”

“Trent wants a baby.”

“Doesn’t he have a kid?”

“Yes. He wants another one.”

“So what’s the big deal? You want kids too.”

“He wants it like right now.”

“Oh. Hmmmm.”

“Yea.”

“Write about it?” Matt offered.

“Ha. It’s fine. I’ll deal with it.”

“For what it’s worth, I think you’d be a great mom. I mean, I could totally see us sitting here with a bouncer in the corner of your office.”

“Enough. I’m not telling you things anymore.”

“I’m just saying, don’t discount the idea just yet. You’re not getting any younger.”

“Oh my God, enough!” I said, throwing paper at him.

*************************************

“Hey, I’m sorry to throw all that baby stuff at you the other day,” Trent said, as we cuddled in bed.

“Trent, it’s fine.”

“No, it’s not. I don’t want to scare you away.”

“But if it’s what you really want, a discussion needed to be had.”

“True. It is what I want at some point. But you were right. it’s not a competition with Melanie.”

I smiled. Perhaps I was freaking out about nothing. Though, as he kissed down my body, I couldn’t get rid of that nagging feeling that not everything was OK.

Happy New Year to Me

It amazes me how I was in a completely different place last year at this time. Last year, I was pissed at Tony and the whole New Year’s Eve kiss, this year I just kept it low key at home with my man.

“Look what I got you babe,” Trent said, coming up the stairs to my place.

He proudly held up three bottles of my favorite wine and a 12-pack of beer for himself.

“Yum! And I got us funny 2015 glasses, so we’re all set for Penny and Trent’s low-key New Year’s Extravaganza!” I said, kissing him.

“I also got you this,” he said, handing me another bag.

I looked inside and saw a vibrator, and this one was much bigger than the one he got me a few months ago, along with some fuzzy handcuffs.

“Feeling frisky?” I asked, raising my eyebrows and pressing my body against him.

“Always.”

“Well, then what are you waiting for? Who’s cuffing who?”

“Whoever gets in there first, gets to tie up the other person.”

I made a bee-line for the bedroom, but he gently tossed me aside and ran in first.

“Damn you!”

“Get in here now,” he said.

I quickly undressed in the hallway and walked in like it was nothing.

“God, you’re beautiful. Now lay down and take it like a lady.”

I crawled over to the edge of the bed and started to button his pants.

“You’re not playing fair,” he said, kissing my neck.

“You didn’t tell me the rules yet.”

He kissed me and pulled my hands off of him. He knelt on the bed with me and crawled on top of me. I could feel him getting hard.

“Take these off,” I murmured in his ear and tugged at his pants.

“Patience,” he said, as he snapped one handcuff on my right wrist. He expertly weaved them around the bed post and snapped it on my other wrist. “Now, behave.”

He then took out a scarf from my side table and tied it around my head.

“Not fair,” I said, pouting. I then gasp has he took a nipple in his teeth.

“What was that?” he asked after he made each nipple hard, as he licked and bit each one gently.

“Nothing.”

“I thought so,” he said, as he moved his hands down my body. I got goosebumps as he very lightly ran his hands over my inner thighs. I bucked slightly as he teased my sweet spot. Just as I was about to go over the edge, he stopped and slipped two fingers inside me. The waves kept coming as he continued to lick and tease me.

“I want to touch you,” I whimpered after I came down from my orgasm.

“Not yet,” he said, kissing me.

I could hear him unzip his pants and toss them off the bed. He kissed back up my body as he settled himself between my legs.

“Please,” I begged, as I could feel the tip of him against me.

“You really need to learn how to be patient…” he said, kissing me hard as he thrust deep inside me.

“MMMMMmmmm,” we both moaned at the same time.

**************************************

“3….2…..1!”

We heard the countdown on the TV behind us, and we both came at the same time in our third round.

“Happy New Year, Penny.”

“Happy New Year, Trent. Oh boo, we never used the other thing you got me.”

“Round four?” he said, raising his eyebrows.

**************************************

“So what did you guys do for New Year’s?” Lizzy asked the following Monday.

“Stayed in, watched the ball drop. You?”

“Went to a party at a catering hall my friend was throwing. It was fun. So no drama?”

“No drama. It was perfect,” I said. “Hey, has Miriam went over details for the Super Bowl trip yet? Or is that what this meeting is about?”

“Meeting. Ugh. I don’t want to take another trip.”

“It will be fun! Remember how fun Orlando was?”

“What is there to do in Arizona though?”

“Oh lots! I was Googling it this weekend. Plus we’ll only be gone for a couple days. At least that’s the impression I get anyway.”

“When is your launch party?” Lizzy asked, changing subjects.

“Feb. 12. Should be fun.”

“Is Mr. Tatum going to be there?”

“Oh, I don’t know. I know I told Anna to invite him.”

“Ladies, meeting in 5. Get in the conference room,” our boss Miriam said poking her head in the office.

**************************************

“Anna, I emailed you the agenda for the Arizona trip. Can you make sure it gets on my calendar?” I asked, later on in the week in my show office.

“Yes. When do you want to go over the agenda for the media blitz tour?” she asked.

“Let’s do it tomorrow. I want to meet with Matt later to talk about season two. I’d like to know where the show is going before I go on this tour so I’ll be prepared for those questions.”

So far, 2015 is starting out just like 2014 though. Me being super busy. But I have a supportive boyfriend this time. Lots of fun things are on the horizon for me. I really just want this show to premiere already though. I’m preparing myself for lots of criticism, but am hoping for the best. Once that premieres, I’m thinking of my next move career-wise. And then I need a big vacation.

That’s a Wrap

“OK, Penny, just move a little closer to Aubrey. Great…stay right there! Wow, I can’t believe how similar you two are,” said the photographer.

I did all I could not to roll my eyes. It was the last promo shoot before we launched them on Jan. 1. Then my January would be filled with a media tour, all the while I’d be getting the Tonight Show page ready for our Super Bowl special. Needless to say, 2015 was going to start off crazy, but I was loving every second of it.

But this photographer was crazy. Wanting us to pose in all these weird positions. Make the same faces, etc. I mean, did he not understand the point of us looking alike was on purpose? She was playing my alter-ego in a series I created. Whatever. We made the most of it.

“That’s a wrap ladies! Thanks for being awesome!” he said.

“So, what are you doing for the holidays?” Aubrey Plaza asked as we collected our things after the shoot.

“Christmas Eve I’ll be heading to Trent’s uncle’s house and then Christmas Day I’ll be going to see my parents. You?” I asked.

“Heading to L.A. tonight to see the family. Well, enjoy and I’ll see you next year for our media tour. You’re doing great for a first-time writer/producer,” she said, giving me a hug.

“Thanks!”

After the shoot, I headed into the Tonight Show offices to grab a couple things so that I could work from home while I was off for the next week and a half. Yes! You read that right. I was actually going to be off and doing nothing for 12 days straight. And of course, I’d be working, but in the comfort of my sweats and a big glass of wine.

“Hey babe, almost done,” I said, swinging by Trent’s office before I headed out.

“Yes,” he said smiling. “Want to get a drink?”

“Sure. Can we drop this stuff off at your place though?” I asked, motioning to the bag full of notebooks and my laptop.

“Yea. But there’s no guarantee we’ll make it back out,” he said, raising his eyebrows.

“Oh really?”

“It’s been a long time, baby. I’m horny.”

“Trent! It’s been three days!” I said, laughing.

“That’s three days I haven’t been inside you…”

“True. OK. I’ll get us some beer on the way to your place and I’ll be waiting for you…”

“Naked?” he finished for me.

“Yes, naked.”

************

“Hmmmmm. Perhaps I underestimated just how much I missed you?” I said, as he slipped two fingers inside me and continued working his tongue magic.

I screamed out and arched my back, pushing myself further as he brought me over the edge and kept me there.

“Welcome back,” he said, as he kissed me and hovered over me.

“Oh no, baby. After that, I need a short intermission, roll over,” I said, pushing him on his back and kissing my way down his body.

After a while of him squirming as I swirled my tongue around him, he said, “Baby, if you want to fuck, you better get on top of me now, I’m really close.”

I happily obliged and rode him until we both came. OK. Well, he let me come a few times and then came. But who’s counting?

************************

“And this is my aunt Gertie and uncle Dave,” Trent said, introducing me to the rest of his family. It was the first time I was meeting his extended family and I was only a little overwhelmed. Not by meeting everyone, but by how welcoming they were. In all my relationships, I rarely, if ever, met anyone’s family. But Trent was so eager to introduce me and I could see why. They were fantastic. I immediately felt comfortable and quickly fell into conversation with Gertie about work.

After dinner, I curled up on the couch with Nick as he showed me some of the presents he got. I looked up and saw Trent smiling at us across the room and I knew there was nowhere else in the world I’d rather be than right here with Trent and his family.

Christmas Day was just as amazing at my parents house.

We exchanged gifts later that night, and each one (and there were several which I wasn’t expecting), was more perfect than the one I previously opened. I honestly didn’t even know when he had time to shop for me, but he put so much thought into each one, it almost brought me to tears.

“Merry Christmas, baby,” he said as we cuddled in bed that night.

“Merry Christmas. Thank you for an amazing holiday season,” I said, kissing him.

“Thank you! I didn’t know how this year would pan out with my divorce, but meeting you was the best thing that could happen to me.”

“I love you,” I said smiling.

That night we made love nice and slow before we drifted off to sleep with smiles on our faces. Yea, I had a pretty good feeling 2015 was going to be an even better year.

Last Christmas

“What started out as doing me a favor because I had just met a guy, turned into something amazing for Jess. Who knew that a sort of blind date would turn into something forever. And when Jason proposed at the Islanders game, we all knew they were perfect for each other. So let’s raise a glass for Jason and Jess!” I said, holding up my glass, while everyone clinked and said cheers.

After my speech, I headed out into the hallway. I didn’t feel like listening to Tony’s best man speech. Plus my maid of honor duties would be over soon.

“That was a great speech, babe,” Trent said, putting his arms around me from behind and kissing my neck.

“Thanks,” I said, turning around to face him. “Crap.”

“What?” Trent said, turning around to see Hillary coming up to us.

“Hey Penny,” she said, looking from me to him.

“Hey Hillary, this is Trent,” I said introducing them as they shook hands.

“Do you think we can go somewhere to talk for a bit?” she asked.

I had managed to avoid her for much of the night, but I knew it was inevitable. The truth was, I knew she wanted to talk about Tony and her relationship, and possibly ask questions about our relationship, since I wasn’t entirely sure how much she actually knew. But I just didn’t want to open old wounds. It was over. And now with April pregnant, there was just no way I could ever even consider staying friends with Tony.

“Um, sure,” I said.

Trent gave me a look to ask if I was OK, but he knew I would be. He kissed my cheek.

“Nice to meet you, Hillary,” he said.

“He seems nice,” she said, after he walked away.

“He is. He’s great. So what did you want to talk about?”

“Do you want to go get a drink at the bar?”

“Sure.”

We walked over and sat down in the lounge area.

“I just want to apologize to you. It seems that Tony wasn’t entirely honest with me about your relationship. I had no idea you guys dated for over a year. I actually found out from Jess and Jason a little while ago…”

“Hillary, I told you at the engagement party we had lived together…”

“He had just said he was crashing on a friend’s couch while his mom updated the house he had lived in.”

“And you didn’t find it strange that you were never invited to that said friend’s house,” I said, using air quotes.

“No, he’d just come and pick me up when we’d go out. And then he kissed me at the New Year’s party…”

“Wait, he kissed you?” I said, raising my eyebrows.

“Yea. And when I asked what your relationship was with him, he brushed it off and said you guys were just friends.”

“And you didn’t find it strange that we went to bed together that night?”

“Not really. He and I sleep, well slept, in the same bed all the time. But since he started dating April…”

“Hillary,” I said, cutting her off. I’d heard enough. “I appreciate your apology. I know it probably wasn’t easy coming to me like this.”

“I just didn’t want there to be hard feelings between us. I feel horrible for the way I’d treated you. I just had no clue.”

“It’s fine. I get it. We got played, well, sort of,” I said. “But I’ve moved on and I’m in a really good place. And I hope you are too.”

“I am. Well, I’m dating some people. So we’ll see how they pan out. We should hang out again for real, though.”

“We should,” I said. “You know how to reach me.”

*******************************

“So are you going to hang out?” Emily asked later that night.

“Meh. I’ll see how I feel and where I’m at. She just reminds me of him. It’s unfortunate.”

“Who cares? Let’s go dance!” she said, pulling me on the dance floor with the girls.

As a slow song came on, I looked around for Trent and made eye contact with Tony. Ahh! He started to make his way over, but Trent intercepted before he could reach me.

“There you are!” I said, wrapping my arms around his neck and kissing him.

“How did your chat go?” he asked.

“As expected.”

“I can’t wait to spend the holidays with you this year,” he said, changing the subject.

“Me too. It’s amazing how fast this year went and what a better place I’m in this Christmas than last. Thank you,” I said.

“For what?”

“For being you and making me smile each and every day.”

I could see Tony out of the corner of my eye. I felt a very small pang in my heart. But it wasn’t a pang of longing or regret. It was a pang because I felt bad. I just hoped he’d be happy with April or whoever he’ll end up with. Yes, he hurt me. But we’ve all been hurt before. And sometimes people just aren’t right for each other. And that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Life and love are about trial and error. But eventually you’ll land on your feet and be really, really happy.

“What are you thinking about?” Trent asked.

“Life.”

“You’re nuts. You know that?”

“So, you’ve told me. Now, let’s get out of here. I’m horny.”

“And she’s back, folks,” he said, laughing and leading me off the dance floor.

Snow Turned Into Rain

You know that song “Same Old Lang Syne” by Dan Fogelberg? I only listen to it during Christmas time, but it’s not really a Christmas song. Anyway, I’m writing this while Jess gets ready to walk down the aisle, literally. And that song came on the radio and I just laughed because I knew that it would be a long while for Tony and I to get to that point when I’d actually want to be in the same room with him to catch up, just as the song is about.

There is someone I would like to catch up with who came up randomly this week. I guess being very happy in my relationship with Trent made me a little curious about what Scott was up to. Lizzy and I decided to look up him up on Facebook. And imagine my surprise when I saw photos from his wedding. And I had a slight pang of jealously and then I just smiled because he seemed genuinely happy. It’s not that I don’t think he was happy when we were together, but it’s a different kind of happy. I understand now that some people just aren’t made for each other. When you realize that, it’s easy to let all those sad and depressed feelings fall away and be happy for someone who you used to love. And that’s how I felt when I saw photos of him and her. All those times he tried to catch up, I had brushed him off and treated him like crap wasn’t really right of me. But I guess seeing as how deep down I wasn’t in the right relationship myself I could see why I felt that way. Now, though, now I could almost see myself reaching out to catch up and get to know the girl. Almost.

That said, the rest of the week went by pretty smoothly. The photo shoots were a nightmare, but I got through them. Mostly because they wanted me in them and I HATE being in front of the camera or the spotlight. I guess I should have thought twice about that before I decided to make my own TV series. It’s different when Jimmy features me in segments because I’m playing a stupid part or bit.

And then Thursday rolled around. I told Trent not to worry about taking off for the rehearsal dinner because it would just be chaotic non-sense. But in the end, I wish I had him there.

*********

“OK. Can I have the maid of honor and best man, please?” said the wedding coordinator.

Tony and I smiled politely at each other as the coordinator explained to us that after the ceremony we’d have to go back into the church to sign the marriage certificates. We went through the motions during the rehearsal, me walking down the aisle by myself and then linking arms with Tony going back down. I could see April burning a hole through me as that happened, which was completely unnecessary.

“Oh my God,” Emily said, handing me a glass of wine. “Did you see her? She’s a house.”

“Oh, I saw her,” I said, taking a gulp. “She was glaring at me the whole time. Which is really, really dumb. I don’t want her stupid baby daddy.”

“Maybe she’s just jealous because she’s fat now.”

“Well, she should have thought about that before getting knocked up.”

“I hope their baby is ugly,” Emily said.

I almost spit out my wine. “You’re awesome,” I said, smiling.

“Come on, let’s go be social,” she said, and we walked back into the restaurant.

My phone buzzed a little while later, right before cake.

Hey babe, I’m outside the restaurant, should I just come in? Trent texted.

I practically ran outside and into his arms.

“You’re here!” I said, kissing him.

“I am. I knew you’d need me, so I left right after the show,” he said, hugging me tightly.

“I love you,” I said, not able to wipe the smile off my face. “Let’s go in, they are about to do cake.”

“Great! I love cake,” he said.

“No you don’t,” I said, laughing.

“I know, but I love you.”

As we walked inside, it was more than April who was staring a hole into me. Tony was glaring at me as April hit his shoulder, bringing him back to reality.

“Is that him?” Trent whispered to me as everyone moved around the table to make room for him.

“Yup.”

“Wow, she’s huge,” he giggled. “And not very attractive. I definitely am the winner in all this.”

“I didn’t know it was a game,” I said.

“It’s always a game, sweetie. Should I go introduce myself?” he said, laughing and kissing me gently.

“There will be plenty of time for that on Saturday. Behave yourself for tonight. And you can get your prize later.”

He just raised his eyebrows as I brushed my hand between his legs underneath the table.

*******

On the way out of the restaurant, my phone buzzed with an email. It was from Hillary. I hadn’t seen her since the shower, and even then we were both just cordial toward each other.

To: Penny R.
From: Hillary
Saturday

Hey Penny.

I just wanted to see how you were holding up. I know the rehearsal was probably tough for you. I was hoping we could chat a bit before the wedding, but it looks like we’ve run out of time. I hope that I could get your ear a bit on Saturday, though. I think I need to clear the air about some things.
-Hillary

That was something I wasn’t expecting. The problem is, I think I already know what she’s going to say. But I did email her back and said I looked forward to chatting with her at the wedding.

Well, the snow has turned to rain or rather has disappeared, so Jess is pumped. And I’m being called to take some photos before the church. You’ll hear all about the wedding soon!

Most Wonderful Time of the Year

“OK, you have an interview with EW Wednesday morning, then US Weekly. But you can phone that one in. Then, I have a list of questions that you can just answer by Thursday morning for some other websites that want to feature stories on your show,” Anna said, as we went over my week’s schedule on Tuesday.

Monday, I basically went straight from the airport to work, which was fine because I was thoroughly relaxed and fucked. I was actually surprised I got a tan down there, as we spent a lot of time in the hotel room.

“Grrr. That’s a lot of interviews,” I said, sighing. I hated being the center of attention. I almost wished I could send a proxy ‘me’ out on these media things, but I know it’s important for my face to be seen. And it’s been getting a lot of buzz. Anna has been doing a great job with the social media aspect.

“Well, only one is in person, and you love Entertainment Weekly, so I figured you’d want to be there for that one,” she said. “Then, do you want to go over next week’s schedule?”

“Sure, why not?” I said. I knew I had signed up for this, but it was just getting so crazy.

“Monday and Tuesday, you have to be there for the promo shoots, which are in a studio in mid-town. Thursday night is the dress rehearsal for Jess’ wedding. Saturday morning you have an early appointment for hair and make-up….”

“Got it. And then the wedding I’ve been dreading for the past eight months is in the afternoon…”

“Why dreading?” she asked, then realized why I said it. “Right. Sorry.”

“It’s fine. I’ll just have to see him and her one last time, then that’s it. I won’t ever have to see them again.”

“At least Trent is coming with you,” she offered.

I smiled. “Yea.”

It was a good thing that I was so busy, because I hadn’t really give that much thought into seeing Tony and April at the wedding. I could picture it already though. With her pregnant, he’ll probably get really, really drunk and embarrass himself or something. Whenever he’d get together with Jason, that’s what they’d do anyway. Which is why I wasn’t planning on getting drunk. Just a couple drinks to loosen up, and then maybe sneak off with Trent somewhere.

*********

“So I have some news,” Josie announced at the girls dinner Thursday night. I normally don’t make the girls dinners because I’m working at the Tonight Show, but with the show’s cancellation due to Jimmy’s new baby (yes, I kept that one a secret too), I joined them at the last minute.

“You’re pregnant!” Mandy said, guessing for us all.

“Yup! I’m due in June,” she said, smiling.

“Ohhh! Jayden will have a birthday month buddy!” Emily said, getting excited.

“So many babies and weddings!” I said, actually happy for everyone this time around. I had a lot to be thankful and happy about.

“When are you getting married?” Mandy said, looking at me.

“Really? You’ve been with Jeff for like two years now. I should be asking you that,” I said, turning the attention off me.

The truth was, I had a really good feeling that things may be headed in that direction with Trent, and I didn’t want to ruin it by talking about it. Plus it was scary. The last time I had that discussion with a guy, he broke up with me. It was a sore subject. And it was a good time of year for good things to be happening. The tension was high last year around this time with Tony, and after such a great Thanksgiving with Trent, I knew Christmas would be even better.

**********************

“What do you want for Christmas?” I asked Trent as we lay in bed together Friday night.

As he lazily ran his hand up and down my stomach, I ran my along his back.

“Oooo, baby. That feels so good,” he said. “I just want you in a bow.”

“Really? Well, now you ruined my surprise,” I said.

He looked up at me and smiled. “I love you.”

“I love you too. But seriously, what do you want? You have everything already.”

“I’m sure you’ll think of something. I don’t really want anything though. I don’t want you spending a lot on me.”

“I know that, but I have to get you something!”

“Socks?” he offered.

“You do seem to need socks, I’m always washing the ones you leave here.”

“My feet are always cold, just like yours,” he said, putting his feet on mine. “Like ice.”

“Yes.”

“You’re perfect, Penny,” he said, kissing my belly button and moved lower. “Now, what do you want for Christmas?”

“You to stay down there all night,” I said, moaning and pushing my hips up for easier access.

“Done,” he said, smiling as he dipped his head and licked my sweet spot.

Yes, it was going to be a very good Christmas this year. Now, I just had to get through this crazy wedding weekend for Jess and I could focus on everything else.

Greetings from Puerto Rico!

*Editor’s Note: This entry was written a few days ago.*

What a difference the second time around makes? I’m sitting here, sipping on some fruity frozen cocktail while enjoying the sun and listening to my honey sleep beside me. Who knew over six months ago I would be this happy?

Thanksgiving was a whirlwind, but so much fun. In fact, I can’t even remember the last Thanksgiving I had that was just so fun. Trent helped me put the finishing touches on my desserts, lots of cookies and treats and then we headed to my parents. While Trent had met my parents already, and they loved him, it would be the first time meeting my grandmother and my aunts and uncles. And not surprising, they loved him too. But it was funny to see my aunts get all flustered around him because he was a ‘celebrity.’

“So, what’s it like to meet celebrities?” my one aunt asked.

“Um, you guys know I meet them a lot more than Trent does right?” I said, insulted.

“You don’t count,” said my uncle, laughing.

“OK. I’ll be sure to remember that when I write you out of my show…” I said, laughing too.

“How is your show going?” my cousin asked.

“It’s great! We finished filming a few weeks ago and now we’re editing. The launch date for Netflix is in February,” I said smiling, as Trent squeezed my hand.

“Wow, that’s so exciting!” she said.

“Yea, and nerve-wrecking. After it launches, the network will let us know if we get a green light for a second season, but I still have to outline everything in case we do…”

“They would start filming pretty quickly after the first one is released,” Trent finished.

“How do you find the time between that and Jimmy?” she asked.

“Um…I sleep when I can. My mind is always going a billion miles a minute with ideas for the show and for Jimmy. I can’t keep them straight sometimes. But I do have my own assistant, which is so foreign to me.”

“And we’re going to Puerto Rico tomorrow and we’re not thinking about work for three days,” Trent said.

“That’s right! You really do live the life,” she said.

It was nice to be home and bring me back down from my crazy cloud of work and non-sense. After Trent went to pick up his son to go to his parents, I gossiped with my cousins some more about him. Because what else would we do?

“He’s really nice! So personable!” she said.

“Yea, he’s a good one.”

“Is it weird with his son? Or his ex-wife?”

“Eh. We’re limiting time with his son for a bit. We need to figure out what we’re doing. We know this is for real, but don’t want to upset his ex or get attached too quickly. And his ex is a whole other story…” I said, launching into the craziness that was Melanie for a while.

****************************************

We took an early flight Friday morning so we could maximize our time down there. After sleeping the way down, we headed straight to the hotel room to break in the bed.

“You are so sexy,” Trent said, as I put on my bikini. “I can’t keep my hands off you.”

He untied my bikini bottom, as he caressed my ass.

“We’re never going to make it to the beach at this rate,” I said, as he pushed me on the bed and kissed my thighs.

I moaned as he worked magic with his tongue.

“I don’t hear you complaining too much,” he said, looking up at me.

“Shhh. Don’t stop,” I said, pushing his head back down.

After I came at least three times, I reached down and tugged on his shorts.

“No, no. We have to go to the beach. There’s drinks with our names on them…” he said, moving out of my grasp.

“Not so fast mister,” I said, pulling him back down. I reached down and stroked him until he was hard again. “Mmmm. That didn’t take much.”

“It’s you Pen. You do incredible things to me. I’m always turned on,” he said as he slipped inside me.

**************************

And as Trent sleeps beside me, I know I shouldn’t be on my laptop, but I can’t help it! I’m so happy I’m afraid the other shoe will drop. But I have to go with it. I plan to just lay here for the rest of the trip and get drunk and have sloppy sex. And then wake up and do it all over again for another day before heading back to the craziness that is my life. But I wouldn’t change a thing.

Will I Have Time to Bake?

Before you chastise me for being such a slacker, hear me out. I have never been this busy in my life. But I have also never been this happy. As busy as I have been, I never get shit for it. Trent and I manage to find time for each other. Stealing lunches at work and quickies before we both pass out from exhaustion.

Right after Lizzy’s wedding, work at the Tonight Show was busy because she was out, so I was doing the work for two web producers, which was absolutely fine, because I really do love what I do. On top of that, I was waking up early each day to head to the editing sessions for the show. We got a release date for February, which would be here before I knew it. The second batch of promos are almost finished and I’m super nervous how it will work out. BUT, since I had such a great reaction at Comic Con, that puts my mind at ease.

Last weekend, was Jess’ bachelorette party. I swear, it’s like all that extra money I’m pulling in is going right out to partying and weddings. It is money well spent though. This time around, a certain pregnant woman who’s name I shall not mention was not invited. It was just our close knit group of friends and her sisters. At her urging, we took a tour of Nassau Coliseum and got to ride the zamboni at the Islanders game. Then we walked over to the hotel across the street and got drunk at the hotel bar. It was the perfect night for Jess. Nothing too wild, and included her favorite team. Oh, and they won, so that was a bonus.

“I still don’t understand why they won’t let us get married at center ice!” Jess moaned into her beer.

“Jess, they said you could, it would have cost double the amount of what you’re paying for the wedding now though…” I reasoned.

“I know, but how cool would that be?”

“It would be pretty cool. Now drink up, those boys wanted to buy us drinks,” I said, nodding in their direction.

****************

“How was your night last night?” Trent asked the next day.

“It was fun. Nothing crazy happened.”

“No one asked you to cuddle?”

“No. But I did get a lot of free drinks. It was a cheap night once we got to the bar.”

“That’s my girl,” he said, kissing me. “Now, come to bed, I missed you.”

*****************

“So, this week, you have two editing sessions. You’re at the Tonight Show three evenings. Then your flight leaves on Friday morning. You get back Monday night,” Anna said.

We were going over my schedule for the week today. Trent and I were going to Puerto Rico for a long weekend. I found a great deal that wasn’t going to cost us too much. It would be nice to relax for a bit. And this time, I wasn’t running away. I was pumped to take a trip with him.

“Wait, do I have time to bake? I don’t want to be making cookies at midnight,” I said, panicked. I had told my mother I’d bring dessert for Thanksgiving. Trent was going to come by for a bit before picking up his son and going to his parents. Since the incident with Melanie a few months ago, we were keeping interactions with his son limited, which was OK with me. We figured by Christmas, we could all have a small celebration to exchange presents, and I was really looking forward to it.

“Yes. You don’t have dinner at your parents until 2pm. You OK with baking in the AM?” she asked.

“That’s perfect. I can bake while I watch the parade.”

“You’re so cute,” Trent said, coming by to pick me up for lunch before I had to head into work. “You almost ready?”

“Yes,” I said. “Anna, was there anything else?”

“Nothing for today. But the network is going to wait to start setting up some press interviews and such. Should I have them wait until you’re back?”

“Yes, please. Thank you.”

“Fancy, you’re being the one interviewed now…” he said, as we walked to his car.

“Ugh, I know. I wish I could send in a proxy or something.”

“I’ll prep you, baby. You’ll be great. Just remember the TV stuff will just be quotes usually from you. The magazines and papers are much easier. You know this.”

“I know. It’s still nerve-wrecking. I’m so glad we’re getting away for a bit before the whirlwind kicks up again.”

“And I’m excited to meet the rest of your family!”

“Me too. They are going to love you. Just like I do,” I said, smiling.

Yea, life was really good right now. Almost too good. I feel like the last time I said that shit hit the fan. We shall see. Hopefully the next time I write I’ll be writing from a beach!

You Make Me Wanna

“Baby, the cab’s here,” Trent said, as I grabbed my sweater and purse off the table and ran outside.

We were headed to Lizzy’s reception and decided to cab it since it was so close to my apartment. However, once inside the cab, I realized we might have been better chancing it, as our driver was high on something.

“So, that Ebola doctor news is nuts, right?” I asked Trent.

“RIGHT??? That’s what I said,” the driver said, turning around to face us, but continuing his drive down the tight side street.

“Yea, man,” Trent said.

I raised my eyebrows and nodded toward my phone.

“I’m frightened!” I texted.

Trent looked down and chuckled, then held my hand.

“Eh, what the fuck is this?” the driver said, as we waited in a little bit of traffic for the train to come. And then he got out of the car to see what the hold up was.

“Seriously, what is HE DOING?” I texted.

Trent laughed. “It’s fine baby, we’ll be there soon.”

As we swerved our way to the mansion, my knuckles got whiter and whiter. I made a mental note of the cab number when we got out, so that we didn’t get him one our way home.

“Wow,” Trent said, after the cab pulled away.

“You were totally scared too!” I said, playfully hitting him.

“I was. But I didn’t want to make you more worried. Come on, let’s go in.”

We found our table number and headed into the cocktail hour. I mingled with the ladies from her bachelorette party and introduced Trent. We paced ourselves with the drinks as we sampled all the different cuisines. After we said our hellos and congratulations to Lizzy and Paul, we made our way into reception hall.

The room was decorated with high flowing flowers, with the bridal table in the front and a seven-piece band in the back. We introduced ourselves to the table. It was a little frustrating, as many people recognized Trent, but thankfully no one asked for an autograph or photo. We made our way to the dance floor for the first dance.

I wrapped my arms around his neck and smiled.

“What?” he said, kissing me.

“You make me really happy. Thank you for coming tonight,” I said, slowly running my hands over his neck.

“Mmmm. Of course, there’s no where else I’d rather be.”

We danced for a few more songs before we enjoyed the first course. The waiter came by with some wine.

“Oooh. That’s my favorite wine!” I said, as I eyed the bottle.

Trent called the waiter over and he poured me a glass.

“Would you like me to leave the bottle, mam?” the waiter asked.

“Oh no, that’s not necessary.”

Ten minutes later, we’re signaling for the waiter again.

“You can leave it this time,” I said, as he poured another glass.

Trent laughed.

“What? This is literally my favorite wine! It’s in my fridge right now.”

“I believe you.”

As we worked our way through dinner and I put a good dent in the wine, OK, I finished it, I was feeling frisky.

“I’m horny,” I whispered, as I ran my hand up Trent’s leg. “Meet me upstairs by the men’s room.”

Luckily, that closet I saw was unlocked. I grabbed Trent’s arm and pulled him in.

“God, Pen, it’s time’s like this that you really make me wanna be with you forever.”

“Me too. Now fuck me,” I said, turning around and hiking up my dress.

I could hear him unzip his pants as he pushed my panties aside. I felt his fingers first.

“Baby, you’re so wet already,” he said, moaning and pushing into me.

“I told you,” I said, pushing back onto him.

He moved my hips in time to the music on the floor below us.

“Oh God, I’m going to cum,” I whispered.

A couple more thrusts and we came together. I looked around for tissues or a paper towel to clean up, but turned up empty. I slipped my panties off, cleaned up and tossed them in the trash pail.

“That was really classy, Pen,” he said, laughing.

“Really? We just fucked in a closet at a wedding,” I said, raising my eyebrows.

“Good point.”

We made our way back down to the party and danced the rest of the night. We did make sure to take advantage of the fondue pot, pastries and cigar-rolling station. On the way out, we took some treats of cookies and hot pretzels before waiting for the cab.

“Is it wrong that I’m really turned on knowing that you aren’t wearing panties,” Trent whispered in my ear as his hand grazed my ass. “Oh and have I told you how amazing your ass looks in this dress?”

“Behave yourself Mr. Gregory, I think that’s the alcohol talking,” I said, kissing him.

“You know, I’m not really that drunk,” he said.

“I know, me too.”

The cab pulled up and we piled in.

“Oh way, never mind,” Trent said, as we took a much smoother ride back.

**********

“Well, since we already fucked, you want to drink some more?” I said, as we got home and started to get into comfy clothes.

“OK,” he said, kissing me. “Do you want to watch ‘I Love You, Man?'”

“Yes, but don’t tell Emily, she’ll be mad we’re not watching with her,” I said, pouring myself another glass of wine and opening a beer for him.

************

“You looked so hot tonight baby,” I said, as we climbed into bed about an hour or two later. “You should wear that suit when we get married at City Hall.”

“Oh baby, I’d rent a tux for our wedding,” he said, sleepily, as he curled up behind me.

“You shouldn’t say stuff like that, it makes me fall harder in love with you.”

“What can I say? I love you,” he said.