Maxine, Wayne, Bobby-Lynne, and Jackson’s laughter fill the air as they quickly discard their clothing, revealing their bathing suits. Each of them take a running start from the beginning of the dock and dive into the cool lake below. Bobby-Lynne and Jackson start exchanging glances at each other while Wayne and Maxine steal a few kisses.

While your other friends are busy in the lake, your best friend, Lorraine, sheds her clothing as well, revealing a light yellow bikini underneath. She approaches you with a warm smile and slips her hand into yours, giving it a gentle squeeze. “You’re coming in too, aren’t you?” She asks softly, her eyes gleaming with affection.

Before you can reply to her, your boyfriend appears at your side and grabs your wrist. RJ looks down at you, his expression filled with confusion when he notices your lack of swimwear. “Hey,” RJ begins and pulls you closer to him. “You can’t swim with all of those clothes on, babe. Take them off and jump in with me. Don’t be a prude.”

RJ’s words linger in the air and you find yourself feeling uncomfortable. Your gaze discreetly moves to the others, observing them as they splash each other and enjoy themselves. You weren’t used to bearing your body in front of your friends. You know that they wouldn’t judge you, or even bat an eye at your body, but the thought of being vulnerable in front of them makes you hesitant.

Lorraine casts a glare in RJ’s direction, her irritation evident. He’s almost never kind towards you and that bothers her. She gently tugs you away from him. “You don’t have to do anything that you don’t want to do. Remember that.” Her voice is soft and soothing as she whispers to you.