Ruthless Creatures by J.T. Geissinger

“It’s either that or a Siamese cat. I figured you’d take the
iguana.”
Chuckling, she says, “At least you haven’t lost your sense
of humor.”
I wipe my nose on the sleeve of my shirt and blow out a
hard breath. “Thank you, Slo. I absolutely hate what you just
said, but thank you. You’re the only person who doesn’t tiptoe
around me like I’m made of glass.”
“You’re my best friend. I love you more than people in my
own family. I would cut a bitch for you. Don’t ever forget it.”
I can’t help but laugh.
“Are we good to hang up now?”
“Yes,” I say, sniffling. “We’re good.”
“And are you going to march next door and get your freak
on with that fine piece of manhood?”
“No, but my vagina thanks you for your concern.”
“Okay, but don’t complain to me when the next guy who
asks you out has genital warts and killer halitosis.”
“Thank you for that vote of confidence.”
“You’re welcome. Talk tomorrow?”
“Yep. Talk then.”
“But call me before then if you accidentally slip and fall on
Kage’s enormous pe—”
“Goodbye!”
I hang up on her, smiling. It’s only with Sloane that I can
go from sobs to laughter within the space of one minute.
I’m lucky to have her. I have a sneaking suspicion that all
these years she’s been more for me than just a best friend and a
shoulder to cry on.
I think she’s been saving my life.
The doorbell rings, distracting me from my thoughts. I
grab a tissue from the box on the coffee table, blow my nose,