Page 78 of Body Shot

I reach up a hand to catch it.

And press it against my chest.

TWENTY-EIGHT

Claudia

I’mup early on Monday morning, anxious to be starting my first job as an adult. I’d worked a little in college, and over the summer, but this is different. This is my career. I’m making six figures, with the potential to get stock in the company, depending on what happens in the next two years. There’s a lot riding on this working out, so it’s no surprise I barely slept.

Anders and I had talked until almost two in the morning, when he told me I needed to rest. I dozed until five thirty, but now I’m up and ready to get in the shower.

Standing in front of the mirror, I stare at my naked body curiously. Almost as if I’ve never really looked at it before. I have, of course, but there’s something different about it now.

Now that a man has had his hands, mouth, and other body parts all over me.

Now that Anders had shown me that it’s more than just a vessel that carries around my brain.

And the hickeys covering my breasts remind me of all the things we’d spent the last few days doing.

Anders had worked hard on those hickeys, determined to leave me physical reminders of what we’d shared.

Like I could forget.

I reach up and cup my breasts, squeezing lightly. I’ve always thought they’re kind of saggy and boring. They’re full C cups that sometimes get heavy when I wear push-up bras, and I’d convinced myself they were ugly. Staring at them now—and remembering how much Anders loves touching, kissing, and sucking on them—I feel differently. With Anders’ help, they bring me so much pleasure, and all I can think about is buying more lingerie to surprise him with.

I shower, dry my hair, and carefully apply my makeup. I bought a new pantsuit for today, even though I’d been told to dress business casual. I want to make a good impression, especially the first week. Once I settle in, I’ll figure out what to wear, but for now, this feels right.

Navy pinstripes, a cream-colored blouse, and low-heeled navy pumps.

The epitome of professionalism.

At least, I hope so.

My phone buzzes and I see a text from Anders.

ANDERS: I bet you’re already up and ready to go.

CLAUDIA: How do you know me so well?

ANDERS: Did you sleep at all?

CLAUDIA: Maybe three or four hours.

That’s an exaggeration but it’ll make him feel better.

ANDERS: Liar. You were scrolling social media hours ago.

CLAUDIA: Okay, stop stalking me! LOL

ANDERS: No. You need to rest.

CLAUDIA: I’m sure I’ll crash hard tonight, once I get past the first-day jitters. What about you? Ready for training camp?

ANDERS: It’s mostly about the rookies this week. We just have to go in and do some paperwork, meet with Coach Petrov, get our lockers ready to go. A group of us is going to lunch and then golfing. VERY hard at work.

CLAUDIA: LOL Have fun. I’ll call you tonight when I get home.

ANDERS: Have a great first day, babe.

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