Trying to Explain

You take a deep breath, trying to ignore how the Office Tease shirt clings to your curves and threatens to pop open again. David's proximity on the couch makes your newly enhanced body react in ways you're still not used to—a flutter in your stomach, a heightened awareness of his cologne.

"Yes, I am having dinner with Clara tonight," you admit, tucking a strand of copper hair behind your ear. "But I was thinking... maybe the three of us could meet tomorrow? To discuss a proper plan?"

David's expression shifts, a flicker of disappointment quickly masked by practiced composure. "The three of us?"

"It might be easier," you continue, finding yourself fidgeting with the hem of your too-tight skirt. "When I was Matt, I was strictly into women, you know? I'm just... not ready for anything steamy with a guy." Your cheeks flush as you add, "At least not yet. And definitely not with you, David."

The words hang between you, more blunt than you'd intended. David leans back slightly, creating space as he processes what you've said. The third button on your shirt chooses this exact moment to pop open again, as if the app is deliberately testing your resolve.

"Right," David says after a moment, his tone carefully neutral as his eyes flick to your exposed cleavage then back to your face. "Of course. That makes perfect sense."

You hastily refasten the button, your fingers trembling slightly. "I'm sorry, that came out wrong. It's just—you're Matt's friend. You're *my* friend. And this whole situation is confusing enough without..."

"Without crossing that line," David finishes for you. He runs a hand through his hair, a gesture you recognize from when he's thinking hard. "No, you're absolutely right. Boundaries are good. Smart, even."

There's a slight edge to his voice you can't quite place—disappointment, perhaps, or something more complex. He stands up and moves back to his original seat, creating deliberate distance between you.

"Tomorrow works," he continues, voice shifting to a more businesslike tone. "We should approach this methodically. Track the points, anticipate what tasks might be coming, prepare contingencies."

You nod, relieved at the shift toward problem-solving. "Exactly. And Clara might have insights too. She's been really supportive."

"I bet she has," David mutters, then catches himself. "Sorry. That was unfair. I'm glad she's been there for you."

A notification chimes from your phone—a text from Clara: "Thinking about what to wear tonight... or not wear "

You quickly flip the phone over, but not before David glimpses the message. His jaw tightens almost imperceptibly.

"Well," he says, standing up and collecting the empty food containers, "you should probably get ready for your date. I've got some work to catch up on anyway."

"It's not exactly a—" you begin, but he's already heading toward the kitchen, effectively ending the conversation.

You sit alone on the couch, feeling the weight of your new body and the complications it brings. The fourth button on your shirt mysteriously loosens as you exhale, as if the app is reminding you that no matter what boundaries you try to set, it's still pulling the strings.

15:45 | Sunday 3 August 2025 | Living room, Putney flat

All daily tasks completed!

Return Points: 25/100

Babe Bucks: 10