“I’m nervous.” “Don’t be nervous, Mari. The pain isn’t nearly as bad as you might think.” “No, I’m not scared of the pain. I’m scared of you seeing me… like this. Seeing all of me… you know…” She motions to her chest, and Lottie laughs. “You’re hardly the first naked woman I’ve seen.” Blushing, she says, “But you are the first I’ve seen, and the first whom I’ll let see me. And it doesn’t help that you’re so—” “So sour?” Lottie interrupts coldly. She shakes her head and looks down, playing with her necklace. “I was going to say beautiful.” Lottie stiffens at the sudden compliment. “I’m
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