Do You Feel Good Naked?
Emotionally naked, that is
You’re sitting on the edge of your bed, hand clutched around the flaps of your satin robe. The smooth fabric entices you to stay wrapped in its protection forever.
A shadow fills the doorway. The figure jumps in the flickering candlelight as it approaches you in a slow, confident walk. Your partner reaches you and takes your hand. You hesitate.
What if I’m not good enough, you think. What if I’m rejected, you wonder. What if this ends everything, and I am, once again, alone?
You feel yourself stand and face your partner. Your hands drop and the robe flutters around you. “I need to tell you something,” you say.
Eyes penetrate the dim lighting and connect with yours. “What is it?” your partner says.
The lump in your throat swells. Your palms become moist while your mouth grows parched. A shiver rattles you.
“I’ve never done this before,” you say in a voice that trembles.
Your partner stares with a confused expression, possibly imagining the last time the two of you had sex. Silence makes itself at home in your bedroom. You force your lips to move.
“I’ve never been in love before. And I’m scared you won’t love me back.”