Page 39 of Off Limits

“Hi, personal business.”

“I always tell you!”

“That doesn’t mean I want to know. Can I continue?”

“Please do.” She motions with her hand that I may, in fact, continue.

“Okay, so around New Year’s. We were at his house, watching TV, and he kissed me. He said he wanted to do more, I let him, and it led to sex.” I keep my voice as neutral as possible.

“That’s it? That’s all I get?” She looks disappointed, as her stories are usually much longer and far more informative.

“I’m not giving you intimate details.”

“At least tell me how it was. Or I guess, is.”

“It’s…incredible.” So incredible.

“Aw, yay, Shay. I’m so happy for you. I knew you’d find somebody that makes you happy.”

“I really am.” Happy doesn’t even feel strong enough to describe it. Happy is how you feel after eating ice cream or drinking a good cup of coffee. This is more in line with absolute, life-altering elation.

“Okay, so, do you want to go buy, like, lingerie before your trip?”

I hadn’t thought about that. Is it something Lochlyn would like? Or expects at some point? It’d make a nice birthday present, I’m pretty sure. Isn’t it something all guys want?

“I don’t know. Should I?” I’m not sure it’s right to trust Chelsea on this, but I’m going to, anyway. She’d never intentionally lead me down the wrong path, but the guys she’s interested in and Lochlyn are so different.

“I mean, you know I love every and any excuse to shop. Is he the sort of guy that would like lingerie? Most do, so it’s usually a safe bet.”

“I’m not sure. It hasn’t come up, not that it would, I guess. How do I know if he’s the sort of guy?” Confusion swirls in my mind.

“Like I said, most guys do. But if he hasn’t hinted at it or anything, maybe not? Why don’t we run over to the mall and take a look around. Maybe you’ll find something you like. I know it’s probably a little uncomfortable and different for you. And if he seems happy and content with what’s going on, then maybe don’t go too crazy?” This is one of the times I’m so thankful for Chelsea. She knows how I feel about it, and isn’t being pushy or eager.

“I guess I can do that. Mall sounds good.”

She flips her books closed and hops off the bed. “Okay, good, let’s go now.”

“Chelsea. Studying? Does that meananythingto you?” Not that I can really concentrate right now, but I’d be able to power through. I think.

“Nope. Let’s go.”

Sighing, I close my books. I know I’ll be fine, but I worry about Chelsea. I put it out of my mind as I let her lead me through the mall and help me pick out a few things to try on, leaving the ultimate decision up to me.

Trying on lingerie is such a foreign concept to me. Even bras and panties are more of a necessity than something I do thinking I want to look sexy. But being with Lochlyn, knowing he’s going to see it, I want to find something that will amaze him. Looking at myself in the mirror, Ifeelsexy, for the first time ever.

That night, while I’m on the phone with Lochlyn, I feel a little giddy.

“What’s going on, babe? You sound excited.” There’s a lilt in his tone that tells me he’s smiling.

“I’m looking forward to this weekend. To seeing you.” I’m so wired I can barely sit still, pacing my room and fiddling with things on my desk.

“I am too, but you sound almost…secretive.”

“I may have bought one or two things at the mall today.” I had decided on a lacy red bra and panty set and a tight lacy black bustier with matching panties.

“Oh, really?” His deepened voice sends shock waves through me.

“Yeah. I’m kind of excited for you to see them.”

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