Member-only story
This Present Doesn’t Need Unwrapping
What’s on your grown-up Christmas list?
I can tell you’ve got something planned from the way you stoke the fire for a night in. Snow falls in soft tufts outside, and you haven’t glanced my way since we shared a homemade pasta dinner you made especially for me.
Normally, I’d worry I had done something to make you irritated since I know the holidays are a sore spot for you. But tonight I feel my heart beat double-time as I wonder where the night will lead.
It’s saying something that you brought me here when your parents were out of town. Sure, we’ve been exclusive for a while, but it’s still a big step. You aren’t the type to make a move like that without some careful planning involved.
I wonder if there might be a ring involved. But that’s too much to hope for, right? We didn’t even know each other last Christmas. And it’s still new, the idea of us and what could come to pass with just the right timing.
Since you’re still by the fireplace, I take the opportunity to escape the living room and retreat to the bathroom. There, in my overnight bag, I retrieve the little secret I’ve been keeping. It’s red, lacy, and almost sheer enough to be too risque. I slip on the lingerie and stare at my reflection too long in the mirror. I feel as if my skin’s on fire just…
