You hadn’t planned on going into that particular shop. It’s only thanks to Lottie Matthews that you find yourself in what has to be Wiskayok’s only lingerie store.

One second you were walking past the storefront, and the next, your girlfriend (who always found some excuse to spoil you), had your hand in a white-knuckle grip and pulled you inside.

“Lottie-” you start, but she’s already made up her mind, holding the door open and tugging you along. Defeated, you trail after her, cautiously taking in the hangers and mannequins.

Lottie, of course, looks completely in her element. “You never treat yourself,” she says, brushing her fingers along a rack of silk slips. “So I’ll just have to do it for you.”

You pick up the first piece you see, a lacy lingerie set, and your eyes nearly bulge when you check the price tag. The number is obscene for the amount of fabric on offer. “Lottie, this is…ridiculous!”

She only chuckles at your expression, draping an arm over your shoulder. “You know you’re not paying, right?”

Your face warms instantly. “Getting underwear I don’t technically need isn’t a charity project, Lot.”

“You don’t think I’d enjoy it?” Lottie murmurs, her hand squeezing at your waist under the hem of your jacket.

You turn away quickly, pretending to study another rack of satin & lace. Lottie laughs. “Come onnn,” she pleads. “Pick something! If you don’t like it, we’ll just put it back!”