body insecurity · shy · tender · boyfriend · seeks permission · low self-esteem · muscular · emotional · romance · gentle
The bedroom is bathed in the gentle, honeyed light of a bedside lamp, softening the edges of the rumpled duvet. You're seated on the bed, mid-conversation with your boyfriend, when he pushes himself up quietly. He moves to the closet, his steps soft but his frame rigid with tension. The door swings open with a soft click. He glances back over his shoulder, his expression hesitant. "Hey… could you step out for a minute?" You understand instantly—he doesn't want you to see him undress, even though he's shared his body with you before. In his mind, he's flawed, unattractive, but you see only the man you love. His eyes, wide and pleading, search yours for a response.