Elena makes Harper strip

Harper’s breaths are heavy. She fidgets with her clothing as if it’s irritating her skin. Elena raises an eyebrow with a teasing smile. “You seem pretty worked up,” Elena says. “Maybe you need to cool off. Why don’t you take off those shorts? It might help you relax.”

Harper blinks. Taking her clothes off? Aren’t they having a conversation? But it doesn’t seem wrong, either. She is too hot. “Are you sure?” she asks. Her hand trails down her neck.

Her friend’s eyes were mocking, somehow. “Do whatever you need to stop feeling so… hot and bothered. You can take the top off, too.”

“My bra?” Harper whispers. It doesn’t seem to faze Elena. Her friend just stares at her, waiting for her to go on. She stands. Her shorts come off easily. She’s wearing underwear behind it, plain white. Then, after another moment’s hesitation, she doffs her bra. Elena watches with a knowing smile. As Harper stands there feeling the cool air through the window against her skin, Elena continues to chat, her voice soothing.

“See? Sometimes it’s good to let go.”

Harper blushes but nods.