Culture Shock

“Kendra dropped pizza on herself last night. She was wearing her clothes for today. I won’t let her wear them ’cause she wouldn’t normally. That’s all she has left.”

“No way,” said Elaine, covering a laugh.

“Oh, shut up. You don’t look much better.”

Chelsea looked Elaine up and down and said, “I think she looks hot. Never better, Elaine.”

“Thanks.” Elaine tried not to blush but it was too late.

“And I look like a fucking hooker, right?” Kendra snapped then pouted.

“I hope those double knots hold,” giggled Chelsea, pulling at the bikini string tied behind Kendra’s neck. “Wouldn’t want any guys to be able to cause accidents.”

Kendra slapped Chelsea’s hands away. “Stop it!” she whined.

Elaine leaned against the kitchen counter, sipping her cup of coffee. She couldn’t help herself. “Love the skirt. Isn’t it the one you wear dancing?” Elaine asked, barely containing a giggle.

“Yes. Satisfied?”

Elaine figured Kendra deserved a bit of teasing. “No, I’m not. Stand up and lift your hem. I have to check you’re not cheating. God knows I would if I was wearing that!” Elaine exploded into giggles and so did Chelsea.

“Chelsea already checked,” said Kendra, her pout accentuating.

“That was half an hour ago, before you went to the bathroom. You could have slipped some knickers on in there.”

“Oh, for fucks sake.” Kendra abruptly stood and peeled the hem of her shiny gold skirt almost up to the wide white belt that encircled her hips. “Happy now?”

Elaine just stared. The sight of Kendra revealing her pussy in such a short, tight skirt, coupled with her bobbing breasts barely held in a bikini top she’d normally only wear to the beach, was breathtaking.

“You won’t make it,” said Elaine.

“That’s what I said,” agreed Chelsea.

Fixing her skirt and sitting back down, Kendra looked daggers at Elaine. “Your turn.”

Elaine knew this was coming, sooner or later. Putting down her cup, she reached for her skirt as Chelsea reached for Kendra’s purse, saying, “Hey, can I borrow five buck-”

Utterly distracted from Elaine’s impending show, Kendra snatched her purse from Chelsea, screaming, “Don’t!”

“What the hell?” said Chelsea, looking at Elaine. They both looked at Kendra, then at the purse in her hands. “Hand it over,” said Chelsea.

“I’ll get it,” said Kendra, blushing like Elaine had never seen before.

“I said hand it over. That reaction was uncalled for. I’m not after money now. You’re hiding something.”

“Fuck,” said Kendra, pulling from her purse a pair of clean white bikini panties. Elaine’s jaw dropped. She couldn’t believe it. Kendra’s shoulders slumped. “All right. I lose. I’ll do the damned stairs.”

“What about the Brazilian?”

“I’m bare. It’s pointless.”

Chelsea was relentless. “You would have held Elaine or I to it, so I think you should have to pay a different penance.” By this time she was looking for an ally.

“Oh, yeah,” agreed Elaine, still giggling. “Something at least as bad.”

Kendra just shook her head. “Anything. Just don’t make me go out like this.”

“That’s it!” cried Chelsea.

“What?” laughed Elaine.

Turning to Kendra, Chelsea said, “Your punishment is you have to wear what you are wearing right now, until tonight!”

“No! That’s not fair! I lost. This bet is over.”

Elaine bit her lip, wondering what Chelsea would say.

“It’s over after you streak down the stairs and back up again. And unless you want to do it in broad daylight, you’re stuck in those clothes till after eight tonight. Right, Elaine?”

“Right. Two against one.” Elaine was surprised at how good it felt to turn the tables.

“Guys, please. I just put them in my purse, ‘in case’. I was only going to wear them if the teasing was unbearable.”

“Bullshit,” said Chelsea. “You said yourself you only have two classes today. You could do it standing on your head.”

Kendra sighed and visibly swallowed. For a moment Elaine felt sorry for her and it occurred to her that, while it was a technicality, Kendra hadn’t actually put them on. She was about to mention it when Kendra took a different tack.

“Since it’s not over till I streak the stairs, it’s only fair if you guys can’t change either. Or wear panties.”

“Deal,” said Chelsea. Of course Chelsea was immaculately dressed.

Elaine’s jaw dropped again. She hadn’t realised how relieved she was that she hadn’t lost. “Hey, wait a minute!” she interrupted. “It’s Kendra’s penance, not mine. I’m putting undies on right now.”

“She’s got a point,” said Chelsea, looking to Kendra for her reaction.

“Oh for Christ’s sake,” said Kendra. “Whatever. I need to go to the bathroom. I’m scared shitless now. Thanks.”

As she watched Kendra’s back, Elaine couldn’t believe it. It was all over. Turning to rinse her cup, she was joined by Chelsea at the sink, standing elbow to elbow. “You do look really good, you know,” she said. “You should put on a thong and think about keeping the outfit as it is anyway.”

“I don’t think so,” scoffed Elaine.

“I guess you don’t get off on it like Kendra does.”

“What do you mean?”

“I think she lost on purpose. How else do you explain why she didn’t argue like crazy? Under the façade, she’s enjoying being a show-off. She’s probably been flashing half the school and getting off on it. She wanted to lose, I bet.”

Chelsea’s theory would haunt Elaine all day. As did her own reaction, which was to do exactly as Chelsea suggested and slip on a thong while keeping the rest of her outfit intact. She surprised herself with how easily she made the decision, though she wasn’t sure why.

She knew how though. It was the dull throbbing in her frustrated loins. Either that or it was the silky, skin-coloured thong hugging her pussy. It always made her feel sexy, and this was no exception. That she might choose to dress like this, somehow gave Elaine a sense of how Kendra might have felt, at least if what Chelsea had said was true. The clothes she wore exhibited her body, and after the trauma of yesterday’s initiation, wearing them didn’t seem quite as frightening, even though she’d still look naked if her skirt flipped up at the back. Her nipples tingled, tightening at the thought.

Within minutes all three of the girls had stepped out the front door.

*************************

“Are you ready?” Chelsea squealed. “You have to make sure she goes right down to the bottom!”

“Yes. I’m at the bottom of the stairs!” replied Elaine into her mobile phone. She had to shout over the voices of the crowd around her. Elaine had left her roommates at the top of the stairs, with Kendra wrapped in nothing but a bath towel. Giggling into the phone, Elaine said, “I can’t believe you told your whole Education class!”

As she stood at the foot of the stairs, with upturned faces all around her, Elaine watched as, with a flourish, Chelsea whipped off Kendra’s bath towel, and the crowd roared!

They must have brought their friends too! thought Elaine, glancing around again and laughing. If Kendra hadn’t been such a good sport about the whole thing, saying she was determined to enjoy it and that it was something she’d never have the chance to do again, then the whole situation might have been less, well… public at least. Elaine just couldn’t believe she was witnessing it.

Kendra didn’t run. She’d already told Elaine and Chelsea that she wasn’t going to look like a complete idiot with her tits flopping all over the place while she scrambled down and back up the stairs. She said she was going to walk slowly and confidently, with her head held high. That was when Chelsea suggested she borrow Elaine’s pumps.

Elaine had started giggling again when Kendra replied, “Why not? In fact, why don’t you invite your whole class?”

“Okay, I will,” Chelsea had replied, reaching for her phone. Kendra hadn’t even protested! When she finally retired to her room, Elaine had the bizarre thought that Kendra was going to masturbate. Elaine had chastised herself, immediately extinguishing the lewd image that had thrust itself into her mind.

Compared to that, the sight of Kendra slowly walking down the stairs almost completely naked, was artistic. Looking up at the sight of Kendra, her body glowing orange in the setting sun with her hand lightly holding the handrail, Elaine thought she looked beautiful. Kendra was smiling the whole time, her teeth flashing as she looked out over the sea of faces, swinging her hips slowly as she basked in the experience.

The whistling and shouting died down in moments and an intimate hush came over the crowd. Silently we witnessed Kendra’s beauty in its most natural state, and Elaine thought she could have heard a pin drop. Now and then Kendra would giggle or make a comment, like, ‘This is intense!‘ while murmurs of agreement rolled around.

Inside a minute Kendra was leaning on Elaine’s shoulder and slipping off the pumps. “Not my size,” she said, then winked and started back up the stairs. When she stood at the top and Chelsea held out the towel for her, Kendra refused, instead turning back to the crowd below, waving both hands over her head. Good-natured cheering and applauding spontaneously broke out, building suddenly in intensity. Carrying the high heels, Elaine ran back up the stairs, laughing and taking two steps at a time.

“Oh! My! God!” they’d chorused as the front door closed behind them. Even from inside their apartment all three could still hear the clapping, and they cracked up in nervous, adrenaline-charged laughter. Kendra took off for her room, returning five minutes later to sheepishly grin and announce she was having a shower. Chelsea and Elaine sat on the sofa with the radio on in the background while they giggled and shook their heads.

Elaine wasn’t sure what to say or even think! While she could imagine herself sneaking down and up the stairs sometime after midnight with barely a soul around, what she’d just witnessed Kendra do was staggering. And she actually seemed to enjoy it! There was no way Elaine could have paraded naked like that in front of a crowd. No way!

Still, the idea of doing what Kendra had done sent a shockwave of pleasure through her stomach and down her quivering thighs. Elaine crossed her fingers in her mind, hoping her roommates were going out. Checking her watch, she smiled to herself. In fifteen minutes Gary would be coming online. She hoped. Her hands started to tremble and she gripped the arms of the chair, making to get to her feet. “Are you guys going anywhere tonight?”

“We’re going to the Spotlight, then to a party. I wouldn’t expect us home before sun up. Do you want to come with us?” Chelsea asked.

“Maybe next time,” Elaine replied honestly, thinking it might actually be fun. Standing and preparing to head for the sanctuary of her bedroom, she said, “I have a few things I want to do tonight.”

Chapter 12

After booting up the Internet and logging on to Messenger, Elaine was notified of two new messages in her email box.

She knew one was from herself. She’d emailed a whole host of links she’d unearthed after Googling the names ‘Gloria Brame’ and ‘Jay Wiseman’ on the library’s computer earlier in the day. They were the authors that had set Gary on his path. Between classes she’d had a bit of spare time and the library seemed to be the logical and safest place to go. At the time she hadn’t been so sure whether it had been better to be ogled by the geeks or by the general population of the college. She’d plumped for the geeks. At least they’d been quiet about it. Thank God for libraries.

In any case, some of the quotes and extracts she’d read from the two respected authors had stuck in her mind, and during the ensuing hours, Elaine had decided that rather than following the links, she’d take the plunge and buy the books that appeared to be the most recommended. So she deleted the email.

The other email was from Gary and she held her breath as she opened it.

Greetings Elaine,

Forgive me but I’m having dinner with my mother tonight. She’s out from California and is going home on Sunday. I told her I was meeting someone online at 9.30 P.M. but if it’s okay with you, I’ll make it 10.00 P.M. so she thinks I put off my ‘date’ for her. She’ll love me for it. She thinks I’m crazy as it is, meeting with someone online.

Also, I spoke with Nica. She won’t think you are a nut now. 😉

Gary

Elaine swallowed as she clicked the reply button and sent a ‘thank you for letting me know, Sir’ email. With over an hour of free time that she wasn’t expecting, she was determined to use it well and not think about Nica. Opening her Amazon.com account, she ran a simple search on the authors for whom she was looking.

After purchasing SM101 — A Realistic Introduction, she couldn’t help but throw in Tricks to Please a Man, both by Jay Wiseman. To these publications she added the legendary Different Loving – A Complete Exploration of the World of Sexual Dominance and Submission, by William and Gloria Brame, then practically busted her monthly book allowance by also buying Come Hither — A Commonsense Guide to Kinky Sex, by Gloria Brame alone.

I hope they’re delivered in plain paper, Elaine thought, smiling to herself.

It wasn’t until she was trying to figure out when the books would be delivered that she realised she’d probably have to hide them. She could keep them in her closet with her toys, she supposed.

No, dammit. I’ll put them with my other books. I’m not ashamed. I WON’T be ashamed.

Her diary, sitting quietly beside her computer where she’d left it, distracted her. Inside it was Nica’s number. She hadn’t thought about it much at all, but knowing Gary had done the prelim work with Nica was strange. There was a woman out there who would be able to tell Elaine that Gary was really who he said he was, and she was waiting for her call. Elaine knew that Simone, ‘acquiescent’, had said as much in the chat room, but talking on the phone to someone who actually knew Gary was a bizarre prospect.

Without thinking, she picked up her bag from beside her desk and went through it, finding her mobile.

I’ll put her number in, just in case I decide to call.

Elaine could feel herself blushing while she did it. It was there now. Just a few buttons away. For a moment her phone fascinated her and she stared.

She’s so close. She could tell me I was okay. She could tell me I was not just okay, but that I was on the right track. I could find out. I promised myself I’d check. How far do I want to go before I check? It’s not something he can fake is it? A female voice? I have to call her…

She pressed the buttons and held the phone to her ear. It started ringing.

I can’t believe I’m doing this…

“Hello? This is Nica.”

“Um, hi. This is Elaine speaking, a friend of Gary’s. I’m sorry to bother you at this hour but-”

“Elaine! Hello! I was not expecting your call for a few weeks yet!”

She had an accent. Puerto Rican? Elaine had no idea. “Hello, Nica. I’m pleased to meet you, over the phone at least.”

“This is a very nice surprise. I did not know you would call so soon, baby!”

“I’m sorry.”

“Ah, don’t you worry. I feel like a big fat mother hen. If you were here in front of me, I would hug you!”

Elaine giggled. She wondered what Nica was like… She’d assumed she was a subbie like her, but maybe she was wrong. “Thank you. I’m so nervous.”

“Ah, Elaine. C’mon. I’d say that’s normal. Now, what would you like to know?”

Elaine’s mind went momentarily blank. I should have thought this over! “Um, how long have you known Gary?” she asked, it being the only question that came to her.

“Antonio and I know Gary maybe five years now. He’s a good man. He’s wasting away.”

Elaine bit her lip. “Can you explain that?” she asked, a little worried.

“I just mean he’s so shy! I ask him, come to the Ren Fest. No he’s busy. I say, come to the city with us. Oh, no. What about this and that, no he’s busy. I don’t know. He needs to open up again. Not be afraid of being hurt.”

“I won’t hurt him. I’m worried about me, not him.”

“I know this, sweetie. I hear it in your voice.”

Elaine smiled again. Her cheeks were starting to hurt. “He’s a good man?”

“Oh yes. Fine man. He will treat you well. You will be safe with him. I must tell you something even Gary does not know.”

“Yes?”

“When Leah leave… you know Leah?”

“Yes.”

“When she leave, she say to me, she say, ‘Nica, you tell him, is not his fault.’ I never get the chance to say to him this.”

“Why not?”

“Ah, this and that. We not go to the last couple of parties. Before that, Gary not come.”

“So you haven’t seen him in a while?”

“Oh, no. We see him last week. We buy a horse. Gary is getting a good, how you say… reputation for horses. He will do well. We stay for dinner. He can cook too.” Nica laughed heartily.

Elaine sighed with relief. “So he knows what he is doing?”

“Oh, yes. I have seen him work. He is very good.”

Elaine’s stock of off-the-cuff questions was exhausted and she didn’t know what else to say. “Thank you, Nica,” was all that occurred to her.

“You welcome, baby. Nica is very impressed. Is that all?”

“I can’t think of anything else to ask. I should have thought about it first but I just rang.”

“Nica is glad you did. You can trust Nica to tell the truth. I promise this, Gary is a good Master, and if you can make him yours, you will not be sorry.”

A tear fell down Elaine’s cheek. “Thank you, Nica. Thank you so much. Maybe I’ll meet you one day and we can laugh about this.”

“Maybe one day. Antonio needs me, I gotta go, okay?”

“Yes, thanks again.”

“You welcome. Bye-bye, baby.”

“Bye, Nica.”

Well, thought Elaine, still staring at her cell after disconnecting the call. That certainly wasn’t Gary putting on an accent!

Wow.

Glancing at the computer, Elaine was pleased to see that Gary hadn’t messaged her while she was on the phone. Checking the time, she saw it was nine thirty-eight P.M. She had to keep an eye on it in case he arrived early.

She was so anxious to play she decided to get her toys out so she’d be ready. Sitting beside them on the bed, she checked them out again to make sure they were clean and the batteries in the vibrator worked. They did, but they were a little weak. She decided to run down the old ones then change them. She grinned. It felt awesome when she put new batteries in. It was like, whoa! Lots of fun.

Licking her lips subconsciously, she remembered Gary’s words. ‘No playing until after we’ve talked’. That was the agreement. It wasn’t an order. It was more like a promise. And there was never a question of Elaine breaking the promise. No matter how casually the gauntlet had been thrown down, she knew it was a gauntlet all the same. It was true that she’d only had a couple of opportunities, but she was glad she’d been able to resist. She was also glad it wasn’t later in her cycle. That would have been hell.

At a mental dead-end, and with nothing left to do while waiting for Gary to arrive, Elaine’s mind wandered as she sat on the edge of her bed.

What would it be like to be naked in front of someone, especially if they were fully clothed?

Kendra knew.

Maybe Chelsea was right. Maybe Kendra DID want to know what it was like. Or at least she wanted to ‘know if she could do it’. Elaine couldn’t have done it. Not before a crowd. Not even in her dreams had she been naked in front of a whole crowd of people.

But what about in front of Gary?

Goose bumps rose on Elaine’s arms and legs as the fine hairs stood to attention. There was something about being naked in front of someone clothed… something erotic… so vulnerable and exposed. The difference between what she saw in her mind and what Kendra had done was fairly plain.

Intimacy.

Taking another look at the computer, Elaine soon found herself staring as she took hold of her t-shirt and drew it up her body and over her head. Almost mechanically she stood by her bed and undid the buttons on her skirt, letting it fall to the floor.

I want to be naked in front of him. For me, Elaine thought to herself. I won’t mention it but I won’t lie.

A tremble ran over her skin, electrifying enough to make her close her eyes and mentally hold on. When she opened them, she was looking down at her toys. The idea of using them, even just attaching the clamps, crossed her mind. She wanted to feel the butt plug again too, and the dildo pumping in her cunt and the vibe on her clit, and…

Fuck! she said when she glanced at the computer again, her heart leaping at the message that had popped up on the screen. Dashing over to her desk, she sat down and pulled her towel-covered chair under her ass, hardly believing she was completely naked.

If only he knew!

The message read, “Hello Elaine.”

“Greetings, Sir,” she typed. “I’m sorry if you were waiting. I was in a dream world.”

“That’s okay. It was only a moment. How was school?”

“It was all right. Um, I have a confession to make. Well not really a confession…”

“I’m listening.”

Elaine proceeded to tell Gary all about the bet she and her roommates had wagered, how it had turned out, and she even shared Chelsea’s theory about Kendra’s exhibitionism. She’d insisted it was just a theory. And she hadn’t used names. And she’d told him ‘in the strictest confidence’. He listened quietly as she told him about the crowd of people who watched and how amazed she’d been.

Elaine suddenly realised she’d been talking about it for ten minutes. “Ugh, listen to me. I’m a motor mouth.”

“I like listening to you.”

She bit her lip and typed, “Thank you, Sir.”

“Did the bet interfere with your schoolwork?”

“Um, yeah. A bit.”

“Then it probably wasn’t a good idea.”

“No. It was a really stupid idea and I can’t believe I decided to be in it. I don’t know what I would have done if I’d lost.”

“You’d have run the stairs.”

“Probably.”

“I’m sure of it.”

Elaine stared at his words. “I’m glad I didn’t lose.”

“Me too,” Gary typed. Elaine was a little lost for words, thinking about what he’d just said. As usual, Gary seemed to read her mind. “Talking hypothetically again, if we had agreed that you would participate in the bet, and you lost, then you’d definitely have been doing the stairs.”

Elaine swallowed. Had she made a big mistake? Did he think less of her for doing such a silly thing? “Yes, Sir,” she typed, her hands trembling. “Would we have agreed to my taking part?”

“I don’t know. We would have discussed it before I let you decide. I think I would have pointed out that your schoolwork might suffer. Apart from that, I’d say it was an educational experience. Though I think you could have made the same discoveries without making a wager with your roommates.”

“You mean going without panties…”

“Yes. You learned you could do it, didn’t you?”

Elaine’s body was tingling all over. All this talk was turning her on fiercely. “Yes. I learned I could go without panties. I learned it was incredibly distracting too.”

“Which is what I would have pointed out.”

“Because you want me to do well in school?”

“I want you to be who you want to be. I want you to succeed in anything you choose to do.”

Elaine smiled. Gary was typing again so she sat quietly.

“Nica called me a few minutes ago.”

Elaine swallowed. “That was fast.”

“She promised she’d call if you did.”

Elaine was unsure how to proceed. “She’s wonderful. How old is she?”

“Late thirties I think. A gentleman doesn’t ask,” he typed, then winked.

A stony silence settled between them. Elaine wasn’t sure if Gary was waiting for her or not, so she typed, “I don’t know what to say.”

“Well, you could say I passed. Unless I flunked.”

“Oh, God. Sorry. No. I mean, yes. You passed, Sir.”

“Chuckles. Thanks for telling me. I was considering strangling Nica for a moment there.”

“Oh, please don’t!” Elaine sent a huge grin.

“I won’t. She said you sounded lovely.”

“Please thank her for me.”

“I will.”

A more comfortable silence developed and Elaine could hear herself breathing. Her fingers started typing like they were remotely controlled. She had no idea where they were taking her. Later she thought it was fate… “I feel safer now. Knowing someone who respects you is a great comfort. Having my doubts removed is a feeling I’m not sure I’m comfortable with, but it’s a big relief all the same.”

“I’m glad.”

“Me too.”

“I bet you are. So now that you are satisfied, what changes?”

“Um, it opens the door.”

“To what?”

“To a meeting.”

“That’s right.”

Elaine hesitated. “I’m scared.”

“Of what?”

“I don’t know.”

“Think about it.”

Elaine did.

Probably her biggest fear was losing control. Not just control over herself, but control over her life. What would be expected of her? Would it be like a detention centre where there were homework demands and grade expectations and lights out times? Would he tell her what to wear or how to act? How much would she have to change and how much would she have to learn? Would she be punished if she failed?

Would she be ‘coached’ to please him, both in public and in private? She wasn’t sure if she could do it… was she trainable? Did she want to be trained? Would he take his time and help her explore her abilities and limits?

She didn’t even know what he expected of her.

What would he do? Would it be hard?

Then there was another thing. Something just as important. She was afraid of herself… afraid of her potential reactions. What if she hated D/s or didn’t like Gary? Could she back out quietly and safely? What if she wasn’t good at something or couldn’t do something that was asked of her? Would he be forgiving?

Elaine’s mind was swirling.

What if he makes fun of me? What if I can’t control myself and I leave myself open to… to… anything? What if I make a fool of myself? God, she thought. What if I love it?

“I’m afraid of exposing all I am to someone,” she typed, gritting her teeth and fighting to keep her knees apart. The embers of passion were burning brightly within her, stoked by a soft breeze, as if on the verge of ignition.

“The first time is the hardest. I remember being so nervous. I think being potentially Dominant and relatively gregarious went in my favour. But you won’t be meeting a group of people. At first it will only be me.”

“I’m still scared.”

“I know. I’ll take your lead on this.”

“You don’t know how much I appreciate you saying that.”

“Sure I do. But I want you to remember, it’s just a meeting that you are contemplating. One hour. Somewhere public. I expect you to have a ‘call back’ too.”

“What’s a ‘call back’?”

“Someone who calls during our meeting to check on you. Make up a code. For example, let’s use your mother. What’s her name?”

“Angelina,” said Elaine.

“Then for example, when she rings to check up on you, if you call her Angelina, then everything is fine. However, if you call her ‘Angie’, then, ‘Something is wrong! Come and get me the hell out of here!’”

“That’s a good idea.”

“It’s not original.”

“Thank you anyway.”

“Welcome. The good thing is, you don’t have to admit to your ‘call back’ that our meeting is ‘part of the lifestyle’. Having someone checking up on you is simply a good idea when meeting online friends.”

“I understand. It’s still ‘crossing over’ though…”

“Yeah, I know. I guess what I’m saying is, don’t let your imagination confuse the issue. It’s just a meeting. One hour. Somewhere safe. There is nothing to fear.”

“I’m hearing your words, Sir. Maybe I just need to sleep on it…”

“Nods softly. Calling Nica was very brave. I’m proud of you.”

Elaine’s chest swelled. She sat up straighter. “Um, I’ve also been er, good.”

“You haven’t played?”

“No, Sir.”

“Then I am proud of you for what you have achieved this week. You’ve impressed me, Elaine.”

“Thank you, Sir.”

“I expect you to celebrate.”

Elaine swallowed. Celebrate? She wasn’t sure what he meant. Did he mean by playing? Like, joyfully? She giggled. “What do you mean, Sir?” she typed, willing herself not to add a tongue poking out.

“I’m so pleased you asked,” he sent, winking. “Well, if you were good, and had impressed me and made me proud, how do you think I might reward you?”

“Um, I don’t know?”

“I’d reward you by giving you pleasure, Elaine. Wouldn’t I?”

“I… I guess so.”

“So therefore, I’d like you to give yourself pleasure, as I would.”

Elaine stared at his words, her hands frozen over the keys as images paraded themselves before her eyes. She had no idea what to type. She couldn’t ask, ‘how’? Could she?

“Do you understand?” he asked.

“I think so,” Elaine typed, hands beginning to tremble. “I can try.”

“It would please me if you did.”

“Then I’ll definitely try.”

“And you’ll sleep on the idea of meeting.”

The trembling didn’t stop. If anything, it got worse. “Yes, Sir. I’ll sleep on it.”

“Okay, and I want you to remember a few things.”

“Yes, Sir?”

“Firstly, I want you to remember that we are simply two people who are curious about each other. Secondly, that we appear to ‘connect’ and very importantly we can laugh together. And lastly, we are attracted to one another. It’s as simple as that. We like each other. In this way, we are no different to any other potential couple in the world. If we keep things simple, then there’s no reason why we shouldn’t meet.”

Elaine knew his words sounded reassuring. They were reassuring. Perhaps it was just ‘relinquishing control’ that she was afraid of confronting. Elaine thought that made sense. “Thank you for your words.”

“Welcome. Let’s just keep it simple, okay?”

“Yes. Thank you.”

“It’s okay. Hear my voice. I’m looking into your eyes and whispering… It’s okay.”

“Nods slowly.”

“Good girl. Take your time. You know how I feel. And you know I want to meet you. I don’t need to repeat it, do I?”

“No, Sir.”

“Okay. I want your questions, Elaine. I want them all. Not right now, as it’s getting late, but answering them would please me, understand?”

“Yes.”

“Good. Next time we talk, we will examine and discuss our limits, okay?”

Elaine swallowed. Yes! “Okay, Sir.”

“It will be an intimate conversation. Do you understand that?”

“We’ll be talking about the kinds of things I could do and could not do. And the kinds of things you could do and could not do.”

“That’s very good. We’ll be talking about your body and my body. We’ll be talking about what we like and what we don’t like, and of course, what we imagine we might desire of each other. We’ll be assessing frankly, calling a spade a spade.”

Elaine’s breath was becoming ragged, and her heart felt too big for her chest. Somehow she typed, “I’m looking forward to it.” She almost giggled at her audacity. Instead she shook her head.

“So am I,” Gary typed back, with a grin. “I’ve almost finished describing the items in the list you had question marks over. I’ll send it back to you tomorrow. Let me know when you’ve finished it. Then we’ll talk about it, okay?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Okay. Good.” He started typing again. “I’m just trying to think of anything I might have forgotten. Well, there is one thing. I want you to remain realistic. I’m not perfect. Don’t expect some perfect man or perfect gentleman or perfect lover. I make mistakes just like anyone else. I forget things and I can’t do everything on my own. I recognise my imperfections and I’m not averse to talking about them. I like to know when I screw up so I can do something about it.”

“That’s a good trait, Sir.”

“And I just thought of something else.”

“Yes?”

“Before we meet, I want you to get used to calling me, ‘Gary’. I have appreciated and enjoyed the respect you have extended to me, Elaine. But if we are going to meet as equals, I want you to think of me as Gary first, and as Sir second.”

“How do I do that?” Elaine asked. “I’m sorry, I just don’t want to do something wrong.”

“It’s okay. How about mixing it up a bit? You may still call me Sir whenever you like. At some moments or points in our conversations, one or the other may appear to be more appropriate, but when we’re just chatting, I’m encouraging you to think of me as Gary.”

“I understand,” Elaine typed. “Thank you for helping me with this.”

“You’re welcome.”

“Sometimes I don’t know what to ask. You are making it very easy for me.”

“That’s my aim.”

Elaine nodded. Realising Gary couldn’t see her nod, she typed, “Thanks, Sir.” She giggled at her words. “I mean, Gary.” She sent a big grin and he sent one back.

“You are most welcome, Elaine. Now, if you don’t mind, I am going to go masturbate and think about you. So you may go and play now.” He winked.

If Elaine had been nursing a cup of coffee, she would have spilled it all over herself. A shudder ran through her body that grew in intensity the more clearly the image in her head appeared. Playtime was close and her body knew it. As her thighs clenched and her mouth opened, a flood of pleasure pulsed through her veins. For a second she held onto the seat of her chair, steadying herself and willing her knees to part.

When she opened her eyes, she saw Gary had sent another message.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes. I’m just… Argh! I’m very horny, Sir. The thought of you playing just sends me. I need to play so badly. And I’m not going to last long either.”

“Keep talking like that and nor will I.”

Elaine blushed crimson, and she suddenly felt hot all over. She licked her lips, soothing her dry mouth. “I have to go. I can’t think any more. I’m sorry.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment. Good night, Elaine.”

She wanted to thank Gary again. Shit, she wanted to hug him. “Good night, Gary. And thank you for being understanding. For everything.”

“Shhh. Go play.”

“Yes, Sir. I’m going.”

Elaine felt light-headed as she switched off the computer and sat in her chair a moment, staring at the blank screen. Her nipples were so tight they hurt. Somehow she’d kept them at the back of her mind, though they’d been hard for over an hour. Maybe longer. God. On and off they’d been hard for days. Reaching up, Elaine lightly brushed her fingertips over them. They were so hard they bent at the base. A soft murmur of pleasure escaped from her lips, turning into an anguished groan as she caught her nipples between her fingers and thumbs, pinching them lightly.

Shuddering again, her eyes started to flutter closed but she stopped them. Turning in the chair, she spied her toys on the bed. She swallowed again, trying to quench the desert in her mouth. Her legs felt weak as she stood and almost stumbled across the room, giggling and astounded at the same time.

It only took one step to notice how hot and wet her pussy was. Before she’d taken a second one, her hand was between her legs. She didn’t want to drip everywhere. She didn’t have the same concern for her bed as she sat down, distracted by the small cache of playthings. Taking short hard breaths, she picked up the ball gag, thinking, I’m going to need this. Fitting it between her teeth and buckling it, her eyes strayed to the rest of her toys, focussing on the one she hadn’t tried.

The dildo.

The similarity in colour to the shirt she’d worn made her giggle behind the gag. Her eyes flicked to the butt plug but the thoughts she had were discarded as too ambitious. Turning to her bedside table, Elaine fished around until she’d found the new batteries she’d bought, setting them on the tabletop and turning the light down until it was almost dark.

Leaning back on the bed, she grabbed the vibrator and turned it on, raking it over her torso and breasts. They felt so hard, like speed bumps on her body. Another pass over each nipple made her groan. Nakedly she threw her legs open, reaching for the dildo and angling it for penetration between her legs.

He’d tease me, she thought, groaning in frustration as she put aside the idea of fucking herself hard and immediately. Instead she closed her eyes, holding her breath as the toy approached, awaiting the feel of the blunt tool parting her lips.

Barely touch yourself, he’d say. Her skin crackled with pleasure, her nipples throbbed and her scalp prickled. Still the toy descended, agonisingly slowly, her hips rising off the bed in anticipation.

Stop, his voice commanded. Elaine froze, an erotic sculpture in the making, the toy a hair’s breadth from making contact. She whimpered. She was already a wreck. With control bordering on the obsessive, Elaine’s tightly wound body held its form, arched in search of her single-minded pleasure.

Gently, he admonished. At his direction, she touched her slick lips with the cool tip of the toy, moving slowly upward, parting the folds before it. Swirling it downward, coating it with her copious juices, Elaine gasped as it pressed into her core.

Don’t cum.

Gritting her teeth into the gag, for a moment she held the toy poised, the head wedging open the bubbling pit of her self-induced agony. Her stomach muscles rippled. Just the feeling of an inch of penetration was almost enough to send her over the edge. She held her breath.

Nice and slow.

Elaine began a deep anguished groan as she sank the thick toy slowly into herself. The muscles in her legs and ass twitched and her eyes slowly rolled back into her head. “Nnnngggggggg!!!” Pressing the pink invader further into herself caused her to gasp through her nose. She froze with the toy deep inside, reaching desperately for her vibrator. She switched it on and just the sound and feel of it in her hand was enough to make her moan. Trailing it down her stomach made her clench her ass, tightening down on the pink latex cock buried in her pussy. The dildo had stretched her open deep inside. It was a feeling she hadn’t experienced and one she knew she’d want again and again.

Sliding the ridged, latex shaft gradually out was sweet torture. Before she’d had a chance to mourn its loss, she slid it back in. Her hips jerked, steadily building a rhythm as her self-control wilted. The buzzing vibrator skimmed over her pubic bone, sending shockwaves of pleasure crashing into her clit. “Nnnngggggggg!!!”

In frantic need, Elaine’s hips arched even higher and as she drove the dildo into herself and held it. A rolling hum like the sound of an approaching train began in her ears. She could almost feel its approach as the ground started shaking. Louder and louder came the sound in her ears. Her body was a tuning fork, trembling at the speed of sound. It barely registered that she’d pressed the vibe against her throbbing clit.

Cum for me!

The elastic band attaching her to reality snapped. With a plaintive cry, Elaine’s train of pleasure crashed into her. Maniacally thrusting her hips into the air, she would have been glad the gag between her teeth effectively muffled her screams of delight. But she didn’t hear herself. The train was rolling right over her, ringing in her ears as her bones rattled and shook.

When she came to, less than ten minutes later, she was lying in a very wet spot on the bed. Realising such a short time had passed was a wicked relief that sent a chill through her body. She wanted more!

Actually making it happen was a different story. Elaine had little strength in her rubbery arms and legs, rendering movement physically exhausting. For a moment she relaxed, planning her next move.

I should have put the clamps on, that would have been insane, she thought. But he didn’t tell me to, came the reply that made her blink. If he knew I wanted more he’d make me put them on. He’d use me progressively more deeply, getting into my head and my body. Her breath shuddered in her chest and her pussy fluttered up and down the length the toy still deeply embedded. The hand lying passively in her crotch twitched and came alive, stretching to lightly caress the lips of her pussy stretched tightly around the toy.

I’m so wet. I feel like I’m on fire!

Just the slightest touch had caused her clitoris to rise up again, unhooded and aching for attention. But she dared not touch herself there. Not until she’d replaced the batteries in the vibe. Leaning on her elbow, she found the plastic toy and retrieved the new batteries, silently going about the task.

He’s going to torment me. I just know it.

She whimpered as she lay back down. A glance at her body was enough to confirm her nipples were still as hard as ever. She turned the vibrator on low, feeling her heart palpitate as the toy leapt to life. Dragging it across her nipples, her back arched and she almost sobbed.

Clamp them.

Leaving the buzzing toy leaning against her hip, she found the iniquitous devices. With trembling fingers, she tightened each one down on the pebble-like balls of flesh that her nipples had become. Dragging her nails up her thighs, she moaned softly when she thought she was done.

Tighter.

She groaned as contractions swept the length of her pussy, her hands reaching for each clamp, adjusting them to a tight pinch that made her see stars. They almost burned! ‘Ooh, Goddd, ‘ went through her mind, leaving her mouth as a strangled cry. Feverishly she attacked her pussy, slowly withdrawing the dildo sending paroxysms of pleasure through her loins. Resisting the temptation to shove it firmly back in, the desire to see how wet she was swamped her mind.

She shuddered again as the toy came free, holding it up so it entered her vision. She took one look at the glistening latex phallus, and watched amazed as liquid with a honey-like consistency slowly coagulated into droplets that adorned the toy, running together and threatening to drip off onto her body.

Hold it over your face. Let it drip on you.

Her eyes were glued to the tip of the toy as she held it over herself. The drop forming there slowly ballooned before reaching critical mass. Fascinated, Elaine beheld the sight of her own juices, stretching thin and reaching down to touch her face as if in slow motion. The gossamer thread snapped and she flinched as the tail fell wetly on her cheek.

Wipe the toy across your face.

Her cheeks burned hotly and her pussy throbbed. Her nipples tingled somewhere between pleasure and pain, while her pulsing clit ached for her touch. She was on edge again! Complying fitfully, she closed her eyes as she crisscrossed her face with the sides of the toy, smearing her juices all over herself.

Such a dirty girl…

A tight contraction deep in her cunt sent Elaine’s thighs snapping together and clenching tightly, squeezing the bud of her clitoris and magnifying the gratuitous pleasure. “Nnngggggggggg!!!” she groaned pitifully.

Get on your hands and knees, then fuck your pussy for me.

She could hardly wait as she scrambled into position, taking the toy into her hand and reaching under herself, between her legs. The pretty baubles swayed from the ends of the clamps, sparkling in the light from her bedside lamp as her wet face contorted into a determined grimace. Sliding the dildo slowly into herself, in moments she was being fucked again.

“NNNGGGGGGGGG!!!”

You love it…

She fucked herself harder at the thought, submitting to her desires. Her breath whistled through her nose and she gasped around the gag as she fought for oxygen. Within a minute she was fucking herself hard, using the full length of the six-inch toy and wishing it was longer. And wider!

Glimpsing her approaching climax, she fumbled for the vibrator, finding it and flicking the switch on the end to ‘high’.

Wait. Fuck yourself harder.

‘Oh, please!‘ were her intended words as electricity charged through her body. Distorted by the gag, a desperate moan for release gurgled in her throat. With each thrust of the dildo, every nerve ending between her knees and her neck was firing, causing contractions in her muscles that grew in intensity the closer they were to her cunt.

Harder. Put your weight on your chest. Pull a pillow under yourself.

The toy plunged incessantly into her frothing pussy and Elaine could feel rivulets of juices running down her legs. Oh God forgive me, I love being fucked! With her chin she manoeuvred her pillow under the top of her chest. Her nipples dragged across the sheet as she lowered her upper body, taking her weight. She shuddered, her orgasm threatening to burst. Willing herself back from the inferno blazing seemingly inches away, Elaine gritted her teeth around the gag.

Hold the vibe hard against your clit and fuck yourself as fast as you can. Don’t cum for ten seconds.

The sound of her own voice echoed in her head as everything went black. A strange calm seemed to flow into the corners of her mind as the fire of her destiny consumed her body. Her almost violent climax built and built, finally shattering and taking with it every last ounce of her being. Incredibly, as her body shuddered and twitched, she managed to remain conscious. Opening her eyes widely, she could feel her pussy bearing down, fighting the blur of the thrusting dildo.

I’m going to cum again!

Her clit leapt and spasmed, the vibe still buzzing shrilly against it. Wetness pulsed around the dildo, running in waves down her thighs as she fucked herself even harder. Elaine’s mind seemed crystal clear as a burning climax ripped through her.

Surrendering her control, a moment of unbridled joy hit Elaine like a truck. Squealing her pleasure around the gag, her body went rigid, suspended in time for a moment, then shook like a sapling in a tornado. Collapsing forward in the midst of her orgasm, the tight clamps rolled off her nipples, sending twin spikes of pain into her mind, the waves of which radiated across her chest.

“Nnnggggggg…” she complained softly, squeezing her eyes shut as the blood pounded. The withdrawn toys fell from her grasp and for long minutes her body quivered, a mass of spent jelly.

Silence greeted her as her senses reawakened. She rolled onto her side, her chest heaving with the effort. With the little strength she had left she unbuckled and removed the gag, stretching her jaw as she laid her head down on the pillow. She promised herself she’d get up in a minute, as soon as the feeling in her legs returned.

Fuck.

That was amazing.

How can I even contemplate the idea of NOT liking sex?

Random ripples of pleasure rolled over her skin as her breathing calmed. Blushing hotly, she hoped she’d be able to retain her self-respect when she was finally with a man.

What if I can’t control myself? she wondered, frowning.

Then I’ll need controlling…

She giggled at the thought, covering her mouth as if she might be heard. That just made her laugh even louder. She rolled onto her back, her hands holding her smooth tummy as she rejoiced in her satiation. She was elated and adrenaline pumped through her veins. Smiling broadly at the folly of her thoughts and the exhaustion of her needs, she shook her head and swung her legs off the bed. It was two eighteen A.M.

Time to get cleaned up, and to get some sleep, she decided as she giggled again, tiptoeing nakedly to the bathroom.

Chapter 13

Despite the late night, the next morning Elaine felt energised and bounced out of bed in a good mood. A long hot shower was in order, and she indulged herself. Emerging with wet hair, a smile, and wrapped in a soft towel, Elaine made coffee while her roommates slept. She hadn’t even heard them come in, and it didn’t bother her one bit. She felt like she was walking on air!

What’s wrong with me? she wondered, giggling quietly. Carrying her coffee to the lounge room, she postponed getting dressed, instead slipping her favourite U2 Live DVD into the machine, resisting the temptation to crank it up. As Bono serenaded her, Elaine relaxed into the couch, cradling the mug of coffee in her hands and closing her eyes.

She could hardly wipe the smile from her face. Crossing her legs only enhanced the feeling of being ‘well fucked’. Her pussy was warm and swollen. Muscles ached that she’d never used before. She was exhausted. And yet her skin tingled and her mind was doing somersaults!

She had almost heard his voice, telling her what to do. Where did her ability to construct such things come from? She knew she had a fertile fantasy world from which to draw, and she knew that postponement of her orgasm would raise its intensity, but her willingness to blindly follow her own suggestions, albeit imagined as Gary’s, made her shake her head and blush.

Would it be like that? she wondered.

If I don’t meet him, I’ll never know.

Sighing softly, she buried herself deeper into the sofa. God I love U2, she thought. It was almost like she’d grown up with them, like they’d shared everything that had happened to her. And in a way, they had. They’d been there through every traumatic moment in her life. Bono was a surrogate father, helping to fortify her moral backbone, giving her a vision of how things might be. Edge was her unbridled passion, her soaring hopes and dreams. And Adam, with the amazingly perfect biceps; he was her heartbeat, her rhythm, her grounding.

Opening her eyes and smiling at her thoughts, out loud she wondered, “So where does Gary fit in?”

“Huh?” asked Chelsea, shielding her eyes from the bright sunlight streaming in the window above the stereo. She collapsed on the other end of the sofa, crossing her arms and yawning. “Who’s Gary?”

“Just… someone I met.”

“You met someone?” Chelsea asked, feigning astonishment and sitting up straighter. “I can’t believe it.”

Elaine didn’t feel like sharing Gary with Chelsea, at least not while she was in a teasing mood. Instead she rolled her eyes and asked Chelsea if she wanted a coffee.

“Yeah. Thanks. Don’t worry about Kendra, though. She’s not here.”

“Oh?”

“She went to a party with some friends from school. I didn’t see her after about two-thirty. Actually, I couldn’t see much of anything after about two-thirty. She’ll drag her sorry ass in sometime today. Don’t worry about her.”

“All right. I’ll get you that coffee,” said Elaine, heading for the kitchen. “Do you want some toast? I’m making some. It’s no trouble.”

Chelsea said, “You’re an angel.” That made Elaine smile.

When she returned with coffee and a plate of toast, Elaine noticed Chelsea was rolling a marihuana cigarette. “What are you doing?” Elaine asked. “It’s not even half past nine!”

“Coffee and a joint. Breakfast of champions.”

Elaine laughed as she sat down. “I didn’t realise they gave out medals for the most brain cells destroyed in a semester.”

“If they did…” Chelsea said, picking up a piece of toast. “Kendra would win hands down.”

“Well, congratulations on getting the silver,” said Elaine, sipping from her coffee and grinning.

“No one ever remembers who came second.”

“No one ever remembers anything in this contest.”

Now it was Chelsea’s turn to laugh. “That’s true.” When she’d finished munching through her second piece of toast, she sat back with her coffee and lit the joint. “So who is this guy?”

Elaine figured Chelsea was in a better mood. “His name’s Gary. I’m trying to decide if I should meet him or not.”

“You haven’t met him? Don’t tell me it’s through a dating agency.”

“No, nothing like that. I met him in a chat room and-”

“You met him in a chat room? Are you crazy?”

“What do you mean?”

“Well, this Gary guy could be anyone. Chat rooms are supposed to be worse than dating agencies. He might be a rapist or an axe murderer.” Chelsea had moved to the edge of the couch.

“I don’t think I’d disagree with that, but he’s not.”

“How do you know?”

“I checked.”

“How?”

“He gave me the number of someone who could tell me about him. A friend. A woman.”

“And you called her?”

“Yes.”

“I still say you’re crazy.”

Elaine sighed. “You could be right.”

After taking a long draw on the joint, Chelsea offered it to Elaine. “Join me. I don’t like getting high on my own.”

“Pusher. Oh, all right.” Elaine took a small toke and held it out for Chelsea to take back.

“If you get high on that, I’ll wear my panties on my head for a week,” she said, nodding at the joint. “Have a proper go at it.”

Elaine giggled at the thought. She took a longer draw and held it in for a few seconds. “Better?” she choked out, blowing blue smoke.

“Lightweight,” Chelsea said, winking and taking back the joint and sinking into the sofa. “So you’re going to meet him?”

“I think so,” replied Elaine, enjoying her coffee.

“Where?”

“I don’t know yet. Somewhere public. Nearby.”

“When?”

“I don’t know that either. I’ll have to talk to him. Letting him decide is appealing.”

“Do you know anything about him? What does he do? What does he look like?”

“We’ve been chatting online for a while. He owns a business and he’s doing okay.” Elaine wasn’t sure whether she was prepared to show Gary’s picture to Chelsea. But unless she lied, she didn’t know how she could conceal it. “He looks good. I’ve seen his picture.”

“He sent it to you?”

“Yeah.” Damn.

“Do you still have it?”

“Yes.”

“Well? Let’s take a look, you ninny. You’re harder to get blood out of than a stone, Elaine. What are you hiding? What’s wrong with him?”

“Nothing.” It was a matter of pride now. “Come on. It’s on the computer.”

“Cool,” said Chelsea, picking up her own coffee and following Elaine down to her bedroom. Once the machine was booted up and Elaine had produced Gary’s photo, full screen and in living colour, Chelsea hesitated and stared for a moment. “Um, sorry. Did you say he had a brother?”

Elaine laughed nervously. “I don’t think so. Maybe. There’s a lot we haven’t talked about.”

Chelsea was still staring. “He has weird eyes. They kind of see into you. Jesus, Elaine. He’s hot. He’s a bit older though isn’t he?”

“Yeah. Thirty-four.”

“Jeez. Well he looks pretty good for thirty-four.”

“C’mon Chelsea, he looks like a frigging model. I feel a bit intimidated actually.”

“Has he seen your picture?”

“Yes.”

“And?”

“He’s interested.”

“So what’s stopping you?”

Elaine wasn’t sure. “I don’t know.”

“I’m getting the munchies,” Chelsea said. “Let’s finish the toast.” Elaine nodded and they headed back out to the lounge room. When they were settled again, Chelsea said, “Well, if you don’t want to meet him, I will. I’d park my slippers under his bed anytime.”

“So you think I should?” Elaine could feel herself blushing.

“Let’s see. He likes me. I like him. I’ve checked up on him and he isn’t an axe murderer. And he’s hot. Yeah. I’d meet him in a minute.”

“But what if I don’t like him?”

“Then you leave. Jeez, Elaine. You said you’d meet him in a public place. It’s not like he could blindfold you, tie you up, and throw you in the boot.”

Maybe not throw me in the boot, thought Elaine, blushing harder and suppressing a giggle. “You’re right.”

“Cool. So you’re going to make a date?”

“I guess. I’ll wait until the time is right. I’m going to need a favour, though.”

“You want me to come too? I’d love to meet him. Maybe I could steal him from you.” Chelsea winked.

Elaine wasn’t so sure Chelsea was kidding. But she wasn’t worried. She was pretty sure Chelsea wouldn’t impress Gary at all. Kendra even less so! Still, the idea was perversely attractive, just to see what would happen. “I don’t think so. Not the first time. But I do want someone to call me on my cell phone in the middle of our meeting and ask how things are going.”

“I could do that.”

“I’d really appreciate it.”

“What if he’s holding a knife to your throat? How would I know?”

“I’ll call you ‘Chelse’, instead of Chelsea.”

“And then what?”

“Call the place where we were supposed to meet. If I’m not there, call the police.”

“Okay. I can do that. You’ve thought this over, haven’t you?”

“Yeah. I’m just trying to be cautious.”

“I’d say we’ve got him covered.”

“I hope so.”

For a moment they sipped from their cups and stared at the T.V. screen. Bono was mesmerising as he tore into an oldie, ‘Electric Co.‘ “Thanks for asking me,” Chelsea muttered, taking a dig at Kendra in her absence.

“I couldn’t have asked Kendra,” Elaine replied with a grin. “I wouldn’t have known how to shorten her name.”

“How about ‘Bitch’?”

They looked at each other and cracked up hysterically. Elaine laughed so hard she spilt coffee on the towel that was still wrapped around her body. She was completely taken aback by the fact that she was still in just a towel after being up for over an hour. “Um, I better get changed.”

“You’ve already changed.”

Elaine stopped climbing out of the chair. “What do you mean?”

“I dunno. You just seem to have changed lately. You seem more… three dimensional.”

“Really?” Elaine smiled warily. It was a strange thing for Chelsea to have said.

“Yeah. Like, you hardly talked to us for the first half of semester. Even though the past week has been weird, I feel like I know you better. I mean, look at you sitting there in a towel while you have your coffee. You wouldn’t have done that two weeks ago.”

“I guess I feel like I know you guys better too. Maybe it’s because we’ve seen each other’s cunts.” They burst out laughing again and Elaine took off for her bedroom before she embarrassed herself any further.

Of course she hadn’t been in her room for five seconds before she noticed Gary’s picture on her computer screen. Once she’d changed into shorts and a sleeveless t-shirt, she plonked into the chair and stared at him.

Who are you?

Are you real?

Elaine booted up the Internet and logged onto Messenger, feeling strangely relieved that Gary wasn’t online. At least he doesn’t spend all his spare time sitting on the computer, she thought, biting her lip. Taking the shortcut to her email account, she found there was an email from him in her mailbox, titled ‘Explanation of Queries’. She clicked on it and sent it to the back. She also found her copy of the BDSM checklist and opened it up, also sending it to the back. She planned to take a look at them in a minute.

Elaine took a deep breath. Bringing up a new email, she typed and pressed ‘send’ before she could change her mind.

Dear Gary,

I want to meet with you.

‘Mario’s Coffee House’.

Tell me when.

Elaine

She stared at the ‘sent message confirmation’ page, her heart thumping.

Tap. Tap. Tap. “Um, sorry,” Chelsea said, pushing open Elaine’s bedroom door. “I didn’t mean to interrupt.”

“It’s okay,” said Elaine. “I was just thinking about how crazy I must be.”

“You mailed him?”

“Yes!”

“Then I’d say ‘certifiable’.” Chelsea winked. “Just kidding. I’m going to do the shopping. Do you want anything special?”

“No. But hang on. I’ll give you some money.”

A minute later Elaine heard the front door close. She tried not to think about the fact that Messenger was still open as she brought Gary’s email to the front and read it. As she expected, he had given concise explanations of the terms she hadn’t been sure about.

She worked through her checklist, filling in the blanks and getting more nervous by the minute. As she reread her answers, images and feelings inundated her. Staring at the hundreds of answers she’d given, she had a thought.

I should send this to him.

The next thought didn’t take long in coming.

Wait until after you’ve met. ‘Take your time’. Remember?

With her chest thumping, she lay down on her bed and wondered what she was getting into. Elaine placed her left hand over her heart, feeling it pound, while her hardened nipple pulsed against the inside of her wrist.

It took her a little by surprise to feel her nipple so stiff, and she raised her right hand to the other one to see if it was the same. Running her fingers lightly over it confirmed the fact, making her breath catch in her chest. In one move, she raised her knees and separated them, her feet flat on the bed. The shorts she’d chosen tightened and she brushed her fingers over the material that now outlined her pussy. Her eyes fluttered closed.

“Mmmmmmm,” she moaned softly.

Her eyes shot open at the sound of the front door opening and closing. Glancing at her bedroom door, she noticed it was open and quickly sat up and got herself together as footsteps approached down the hallway.

“Are you here?” Kendra asked, tapping on Elaine’s door.

“Yeah,” Elaine said, a little out of breath. “Sure. Come in.”

Kendra had a big smile on her face as she bounced into Elaine’s room and sat on her computer chair, swivelling to face her. “Can you believe last night? I can’t believe I did that.”

“No! I can’t!” For once Elaine was glad Kendra was self-absorbed.

“It gave me such a charge. And guess what?”

“What?”

“My phone’s been ringing off the hook. I’ve got dates with three different guys next week!”

Elaine giggled. “Slut!”

“I knowww… But it’s so fun.” Kendra grinned.

“Did you um… Oh, never mind.”

“Tell me. Ask me anything.”

“I was just going to ask, did you like it? Being naked in front of all those people…”

“Scary and exhilarating. That’s what I’d call it. I always dreamed of doing something like that. I can’t believe I actually did it.”

Elaine nodded, silently comparing Kendra’s feelings to her own. “I know what you mean.”

“What are you thinking about? You look like you’re a million miles away.”

“Well,” said Elaine, figuring Chelsea would tell Kendra anyway. “There’s this guy. I met him on the net and I’ve decided to meet with him in person.”

Kendra looked at Elaine a moment. “I don’t imagine you’d take any chances. You’re sure you’ll be safe?”

“I’m pretty sure.”

“You could meet him here.”

“I’d rather meet him at Mario’s, in case I don’t like him.”

“Yeah, good idea. And it’s always busy there.”

“That’s what I thought.”

“I’ll come with you if you want.”

Elaine looked at Kendra, searching her face for a hint of sarcasm… or anything. Finding nothing, she said, “It’s okay. I’ll be fine.”

“Okay. Well, if you change your mind…”

“Thanks, Kendra.”

“You’re welcome. You need to get out more. I don’t understand the fascination with the ‘net, but we were talking about it in a tutorial the other day. Lot’s of people meet others that way, apparently. You have to be careful though. Where did you meet him?”

The conversation was veering back onto ground that Elaine wasn’t comfortable sharing. “In a chat room. So, did you have a good time last night? Where did you end up?”

“Oh, God. I tell you, I didn’t even feel human until an hour ago. I think I’m still half-trashed,” Kendra said, a goofy smile crossing her face. “I got fucked in the ass, too. First time.”

“No way,” said Elaine, shocked at Kendra’s sudden and frank admission. She blushed uncontrollably, wishing she’d never asked her anything!

“Yes! It still feels like I have a ball of air up there,” said Kendra, chuckling and shaking her head.

Elaine wasn’t sure what to say. Talking to Kendra like they were best friends was almost as weird as her chosen topic of conversation. A whole bunch of questions occurred to her, like whether it hurt or whether she’d do it again. But she couldn’t bring herself to open her mouth and ask.

“It wasn’t too bad, really. I was glad I was toasted though. Doing it when I’m straight might not be as much fun. Anyway, are you hungry? I’m going to make a sandwich. You want one?” she said as she rose to her feet.

“That would be good,” Elaine replied as Kendra made for the door. “Chelsea should be home soon. She went grocery shopping.”

“Cool. Hey if you want to come to Spotlight with us tonight, it might be fun.”

“Maybe. We’ll see.”

“Okay.”

The door closed at almost exactly the same time an email ‘bonged’ from the computer. Glancing at the door, Elaine ran over and sat in the chair, bringing it up. It was from Gary. She read it and her heart began to race.

I am SO pleased. Meet me at Mario’s at three P.M.

Today.

Yes, today.

Gary

Elaine looked at her watch. Two hours. Mechanically she picked up her towel and headed to the bathroom. Remembering the sandwiches, she called to Kendra from the bathroom doorway. “I’m going to take a shower, I’ll be there in a minute.”

“Okay!” Kendra replied from the kitchen.

Stripping off her clothes, Elaine appraised herself in the mirror. Leaning closer, she studied her face and frowned at a small pinkish spot just below the corner of her mouth.

Trust me to have a pimple.

She’d wear a little makeup to cover it. Something told her Gary wouldn’t want her to wear much. Glancing lower in the mirror, she noted her nipples were already hard.

I should wear a bra too.

Or should I let him see what all this does to me?

Damn it…

Elaine turned on the water and stepped into the shower.

She didn’t think Gary would be flirting with her. She tried to imagine how Gary might act… Or what he might want… Or how she might impress him…

He’ll probably be quite cool toward me until I decide what I want to do. Maybe I should dress business-like. Noooo… That’s stupid. It’s Saturday afternoon. Smart-casual? That makes more sense. Not too relaxed. I could wear my jeans. He’ll probably be in jeans and a t-shirt. Okay, that’s what I’ll wear. And scuffs. He’ll probably wear runners. Or maybe boots. If he wears cowboy boots I’ll just die.

She giggled then coughed when water went up her nose.

Back in her room, Elaine was sorting through her clothes when there was a tap on the door. She’d slipped on her black thong but was otherwise naked. “Come in,” she said, forgetting she was half dressed.

“These are getting dry-” began Kendra, a plate of sandwiches in her hands.

“Oops!” Elaine gasped as she realised, picking up her jeans and holding them in front of her chest.

“Hehe. Going somewhere?”

“Um, yeah. And ah, I don’t think I could hold anything down.”

“Why?” Kendra asked, smirking. She wasn’t leaving.

“I’ve got a date. Well, not a date really. A meeting. Today.” She looked at her watch. “In an hour and a half!”

“You might need your strength,” Kendra said, walking across the room to put the plate on Elaine’s bed. She noticed the jeans and pointed at them. “You’re not wearing those, are you?”

“I thought I would.”

“Why don’t you wear something that shows off your legs? You have good legs.”

Elaine looked down. “I need a tan though. Do you think I should?”

“I would. I’d wear something sexy. I guess the jeans are pretty tight. They show off your ass nicely.”

Elaine swallowed. “We’ll just be talking.”

“What if you hit it off? Or what if you would have hit it off if you wore something sexier? You’d never know.”

“I think I know what he’s expecting.”

“Don’t worry about what he’s expecting. Wear what you want to wear.”

It wasn’t bad advice and Elaine was momentarily tongue-tied. Kendra was right. “Thanks. I think I will. And thanks for the sandwiches.”

Kendra headed for the doorway and turned around. She was about to say something when the front door opened and closed behind her. She glanced toward it then turned back to Elaine. “Chelsea’s home. I bet she’ll agree with me,” she said, then looked over her shoulder again. “Chelsea? What do you think Elaine should wear on her date?”

“It’s not a date,” Elaine said, as she heard Chelsea dump the groceries in the entranceway and walk down the hall. Kendra pushed Elaine’s door wide open. Elaine still stood there holding her jeans against her chest, riveted to the spot as Chelsea stepped into the doorway.

“Give the poor girl some privacy, jeez, Kendra. Come and help me with the groceries. I’m beat after all those steps.”

“You could have called up,” Kendra said, lingering. “You usually do.”

“I thought I could make it.” Then to Elaine, she said, “Just make your choices and come model for us.”

“Thanks, Chelsea.” Elaine could feel how hot her cheeks were. She was getting wet too, but her thighs were together tightly and she was confident they couldn’t tell. Still, the thought made her even wetter. She took a deep breath and let it out as the door closed behind them. Her body shuddered with bottled tension as she laid her jeans on the bed and sat beside them.

“Maybe I should wear makeup,” she thought aloud, then bit her lip.

What the hell am I doing?

She looked at her computer. Gary’s email was right there on the screen.

It’s only Mario’s, for God’s sake…

She took a few deep breaths.

I’ll be okay. And he wouldn’t enjoy me making a spectacle. Kendra was right about one thing. I’ll just be myself.

Smart-casual, Elaine thought as she looked in the mirror, then twisted and checked out her ass. The jeans were snug, but with a thong it was much more comfortable than when she’d gone without. Just the thought of that day was enough to make her tingle, which didn’t help. She smoothed over her ass with the palms of her hands and lingered. The best part about wearing tight jeans with a thong was how her ass looked. Facing the mirror again, she was glad she put her nice little white bra on. It adequately camouflaged her hard nipples, thought they weren’t completely concealed. The black and red Mr. Bungle t-shirt was pretty tight and, happy with the look, she put on her white small heeled scuffs and went to model for the girls.

“That’s you,” said Chelsea, when Elaine stood in front of the stereo and pirouetted.

“She should wear a skirt,” said Kendra.

“I don’t want to play games,” said Elaine, hands on hips.

“I think she looks good,” Chelsea retorted. “The shoes bring attention to her legs, making someone wonder, without giving anything away. Her t-shirt says something about her choice in music though. Do you know what kind he likes?”

“I know he doesn’t go to line-dancing bars. He’s not into ‘Country and Western’. Led Zeppelin he mentioned. Um, that’s all I know. Do you think I should change it?”

Kendra asked, “What’s wrong with Country and Western?”

Chelsea rolled her eyes and addressed Elaine. “I’d leave it. You feel comfortable, don’t you?”

“Yeah,” Elaine replied, twisting and showing her ass. “These are getting a bit tight.”

“Leave those. God,” said Kendra.

“Are you trying to be helpful?” Chelsea asked Kendra.

“Oh, come on. You’d think she was going on a date with the Pope. Why isn’t she showing some skin?”

“Because it’s not a date,” said Chelsea. “It’s a pre-date meeting, and since she’s meeting someone from online, I think it’s a fucking good idea not to act too sexy.”

Kendra thought for a moment and said, “You’re right. Sorry. You don’t know anything about this guy for sure, do you?”

“Only what he’s told me,” said Elaine. “And what one other person said.”

“One other person?”

“He gave me the number of someone who could vouch for him. I called her.”

“Okay, okay,” Kendra decided. “You look fine then.”

“I agree,” said Chelsea.

“Where are you meeting him?” asked Kendra.

“Mario’s. In an hour!”

Chelsea asked, “Do you want me to do your makeup?”

“Oh, let me!” squealed Kendra.

“Not on your life,” Elaine said to Kendra. Turning to Chelsea, she said, “I’ll be fine. I’m just going to do my eyes and maybe some lippy.”

“Sounds good,” Chelsea said. “I’ll drive you if you want.”

Elaine could hardly believe all the support she was getting, half expecting it all to turn into a joke at any minute. “It’s all right, I feel like walking.”

“Okay,” said Chelsea with a nod, holding Elaine’s gaze. The nod told Elaine that Chelsea remembered their conversation, but Elaine was going to check. She decided to do so after she’d done her makeup. “Go on then. You have shit to do,” said Chelsea, apparently reading her mind.

“I still say she’d look better in a skirt,” said Kendra, crossing her arms.

“Maybe next time,” Elaine said, smiling and heading to her room.

She had to roll the computer chair over and sit sidesaddle in front of the mirror to do her makeup. Working on her eyes first, she applied mascara and light eyeliner. She looked at herself and puckered her lips. Glancing at her hair, she decided on a plan. Elaine picked up her light pink lipstick and applied it. After working a bit of gel into her hair, she dug around in the dresser for her white headband.

Taking one last look, Elaine thought she was ready.

Let’s do this, she said to herself, glancing at the bedside clock. She was right on time.

“Let’s do a shot,” said Kendra, jumping to her feet as Elaine entered the living room, joining her roommates.

“I don’t think so,” Elaine said, checking her watch again. Kendra was heading for the kitchen to get the bottle and glasses anyway. At least it gave Elaine time to talk to Chelsea. “You’ve got my number, right?”

“You gave it to me ages ago.”

“Okay. Can you call at three-thirty?”

“Yeah. ‘Chelsea’ means everything is fine. ‘Chelse’ means something is wrong.”

“That’s right. Thanks.”

“Welcome. And call if you want to bail on him. You have my number too, right?”

“Yeah, from last night. It’s in my phone. You’ll hear from me if I need you.”

“All right.”

Kendra sat down with the bottle of JD and glasses and set them up. “Just one to settle your nerves, okay?”

“Oh, okay. I’ll still have to brush my teeth anyway.”

“Just one,” echoed Chelsea, picking up her shot glass.

Elaine gave the girls a glance, hesitating before she took her shot. “Are you guys going out? Um, and at what time?” She giggled.

Kendra and Chelsea looked at each other. Chelsea spoke up. “Not until nine-thirty or so I don’t think.”

“If you’re not back before we leave, I’ll be worried,” said Kendra, taking her shot.

“Agreed,” Elaine said, picking up her glass and toasting. They all banged their glasses on the table at the same time.

For a moment silence reigned.

Finally Elaine spoke up. “Okay. Now I’m scared.”

Chapter 14

Elaine touched up her lipstick and went to the toilet again. She’d eaten little and her stomach warred against her. When she returned, she slid twenty bucks and her front door key into her pocket and stood in front of the mirror in her bedroom, taking a deep breath. Her heart was thumping and she couldn’t stop trembling. Her reflection stared back at her.

I don’t know if I can do this.

The faces of her roommates appeared at her door. “What’s taking so long?” asked Kendra.

“You’re going to be late,” Chelsea warned.

Elaine looked at her watch. “I still have a few minutes.”

“You’re shaking,” Chelsea said. “Are you okay?”

“She’s pale too,” agreed Kendra.

“I’m okay,” Elaine insisted. She looked in the mirror again. She didn’t think she looked pale but she pinched her cheeks anyway.

“C’mon, Elaine,” Kendra said. “It’s just a guy.”

Chelsea tried to be helpful. “It’ll be fun. God, Elaine. You’ll have him eating out of the palm of your hand in no time. Stop worrying. And if he’s a goose, you can bail when I call you. Do you want me to call a bit earlier? I can call at quarter past if you want.”

Elaine swallowed. “Half past is okay. I might not figure him out until then.”

“Elaine,” Kendra said, with her hands on hips. “You don’t need to ‘figure guys out’. All you have to do is decide which head you want them think with.” Elaine’s roommates thought that was hilarious.

Elaine rolled her eyes and looked at the mirror again. “Y… You don’t understand.” She made fists and shook them out, hoping to ease the tension. She took another deep breath.

“We could come if you want,” said Kendra.

“Or arrive five minutes after you… Sit close by…” Chelsea winked.

“I don’t think so,” Elaine mumbled. She glanced at the two girls. They had no idea what she was getting into. To her reflection she said, “I can do this. I want to do this.”

“Go get him, girl,” said Chelsea.

“Yeah. Knock him dead,” agreed Kendra.

It was one of those cosy, late summer days. Thin clouds drifted laconically across the azure sky. Semester was coming to a close and Fall was around the corner. Being a Saturday afternoon, traffic was light. It would thicken later, when the nightclubs started to open. A light breeze blew off the mountains and it had rained a little before sun up, producing freshness in the air that was reminiscent of Spring.

Elaine thought memories were made of days like these. She committed herself to putting one foot after the other and soon enough she’d travelled three of the three and a half blocks. Waiting at the lights, she looked ahead and saw a figure standing outside Mario’s.

Could it be him?

She wanted to walk across the intersection, but she didn’t trust herself. It looked clear. But her head wasn’t. She glanced up and down the road again and thankfully the lights started changing.

I know it’s him.

The male figure up ahead was obviously waiting for someone. For a moment Elaine slowed down, hoping her heart would too. He looked right at her as she got closer, and then looked around, then back again. Then he started staring. The smile that spread across Elaine’s face was unbidden. There was no way to control it. She wanted to be cool. She wanted to be calm. But her heart felt like it was about to leap right out of her chest!

It’s him.

In the shadows of the awning in front of the coffee shop, little about him was discernable from fifty yards. He was tall and wearing a brown leather jacket over a white t-shirt, jeans and runners. Elaine almost giggled with relief. She allowed herself to think that maybe she did know him.

Whoa, girl.

Play it straight.

She bit her lip hard, trying at least to get a grip. It worked a little. As the distance between them diminished, she saw his smile, and it relit hers.

“I’m very glad you could make it,” Gary said as Elaine drew within speaking distance.

His smile was almost mesmerising, but Elaine managed to slow down and stop, instead of walking straight into his arms. Out of reach, she managed to say what she’d been practicing all the way there. “I’m pleased to meet you. I’m Elaine.”

“And I’m Gary. Let’s get a coffee and talk.”

Elaine swallowed and nodded. She could hardly tear her eyes from him, and when she could, she was glad she didn’t need to say anything for a few minutes. Like a gentleman he opened the door to Mario’s and ushered her in before him.

A waitress approached. Briefly glancing at Elaine, she addressed Gary. “How can I help you folks?”

“I rang earlier. A booking in the name of Duke.”

“Yes, Sir. Please follow me.” She glanced at Elaine again and spun on her heels, heading deep into the restaurant. Following the waitress, Elaine thought they were heading toward the undercover area at the rear of the restaurant. Instead they veered through hanging beads and up a staircase that looked like it had been carpeted in the eighties. Elaine had never been into this part of Mario’s before. She didn’t even know it existed!

The stairwell itself was skinny, and Gary fell in behind her. She had the distinct impression he was checking out her ass and she glanced over her shoulder. Sure enough, his eyes were on her butt as she climbed the stairs. She poked her tongue out and grinned, hearing him say, “Feisty,” as she mounted the last of the steps.

At the top, the waitress pointed out the bathrooms then pushed open French doors into the sunshine. “Your table, Sir… and Miss,” she said, her arm out, guiding them in the direction of their destination.

Elaine stepped onto the balcony with Gary right behind her. Another couple were at the other end and Elaine nodded courteously toward them before heading where the waitress had indicated. As if out of nowhere, Gary appeared and held out her chair.

Feeling a little like a princess, Elaine let Gary slide the chair under her. The table itself was draped in white lace and made of wrought iron, matching the comfortably cushioned chairs.

There was a long-stemmed rose on the table in front of her and she stared at it, unsure what to do.

“I thought I’d at least make it memorable,” Gary said, breaking the silence.

Elaine tried to find her voice. “It’s unexpected.” Her eyes met his. This wasn’t going to be easy.

“Pretend it’s not there.”

“What if I don’t want to?”

“Then pretend it is there.” He picked up the rose and placed it on the far side of the table. For a split second she wanted it. Badly.

The waitress interrupted the exchange, handing them menus. “Will you be eating?”

Gary looked questioningly at Elaine and she blushed, shaking her head. He replied, “No, thank you.”

The waitress promptly picked up the cutlery then with pen at the ready, asked, “What would you folks like today?”

“Two cappuccinos,” Gary decided, watching Elaine. She nodded almost imperceptibly. “White,” he said, and she nodded again. “No su-” Elaine shook her head slowly, enjoying the game. “One with no sugar, one with one.” Elaine grinned. “And cinnamon snaps. Enough for both of us.”

“Yes, Sir,” said the waitress, taking the menus and disappearing.

Elaine smiled at Gary, unsure what to say. He took off his jacket and hung it on the back of his chair, grinning at her. If anything he looked better than his picture, and Elaine could hardly believe she was sitting right in front of him. She had to concentrate on more than how he filled his t-shirt.

“You can almost see my house from here.”

Elaine blinked. “Sorry?”

“Look,” he said, nodding over the balcony. Elaine turned her eyes, and for the first time she noticed the incredible view. From the balcony she could see right over the tops of suburbia, all the way to the blue hills in the distance. “I live at the foot of those hills. Well… Maybe just on the other side.”

Elaine nodded, unable to speak as she stared.

“I’m glad you came. I didn’t give you much time. I was sorry about that for a few minutes, but I’m not any more.”

“I, um,” Elaine began, clearing her throat. “I didn’t take long to decide.”

He grinned. “Will you forgive me?”

Elaine tried to suppress a smile but it didn’t work. “Yes.”

“Good.”

“I hope you drove carefully.” Elaine looked at Gary and immediately knew she’d made a mistake. A quizzical look crossed his face, as if she’d said something strange.

He simply said, “Trust me.”

Elaine wasn’t sure what he was talking about, but almost immediately she had an epiphany.

It doesn’t matter.

She looked into his eyes and for a split second it was all there. Everything she hoped for… everything she’d dreamed. This man was different. “I trust you,” she whispered.

“Not so fast. I just meant about driving.” He grinned. He was having fun.

Elaine returned to the present with a rush. “I…”

“Just relax. Take a few deep, head-clearing breaths.”

Elaine did. She started to feel better just as the waitress returned. “Will there be anything else, Sir? Miss?” Elaine shook her head, her eyes flicking to Gary’s momentarily.

“Everything is fine,” he said. “Thank you.”

“I’ll be back to check on you soon.” With that the waitress disappeared again.

Elaine leaned forward, adding sugar to her coffee and stirring it. She glanced at Gary and he was staring at her. “What?” she asked playfully.

“You don’t want to know,” he replied softly.

Elaine raised an eyebrow and froze like a statue. “I don’t?”

“No… You don’t.” His grin held a fascination of future possibilities. His eyes too told a story. There was something wise about them. “But I can assure you that in the future, you won’t have to wait long to know what’s on my mind.”

Elaine’s cheeks reddened and a ripple of pleasure scorched her skin. She broke his gaze, staring instead at her cup. There was no way she could pick it up. Her hands were shaking too much! She tried sitting up straighter in an attempt to get herself together. She had to open her mouth to stop her breath hissing through her clenched teeth.

Seconds ticked by.

“And I thought I was nervous,” Gary said and winked. “Would you like to talk, or would you rather I did?” he asked.

Elaine swallowed again. Her nipples were throbbing harder than they ever had. “Y… You,” she whispered. “Please.”

“All right. Show me how well you can listen, okay?”

Elaine brightened a little. She could do that. “Okay.”

He sipped his coffee and licked the foam from his top lip. “I was thinking on the way over here… Well, I’ve been thinking a lot for the last week really, but I had some interesting thoughts on the way here…”

Elaine nodded and sipped too, watching Gary’s eyes. She glanced at his lips. God, they were beautiful. They started moving.

“As you know, when we first met I was intrigued by you. Intelligent. Fresh. Innocent. Lots of words come to mind. Did you know that asking questions is one of the most important traits of a new submissive?”

Elaine shook her head.

“It is,” he continued, lowering his voice and leaning closer. “Asking questions gives you the opportunity to listen. Submissives who don’t listen aren’t very good submissives, are they?”

Elaine shook her head again.

“That’s right. But it’s also true to say that Dominants who don’t listen aren’t very good Dominants. From the beginning, I’ve tried to listen very carefully to everything you’ve said. I feel like I know you. The real you. The you inside. And I like you. That’s why I’m here.”

“Th… Thank you, Gary.” Elaine bit her lip hard. She hoped it wasn’t bleeding.

“It’s okay to be nervous. So am I.”

“Why?”

“Why am I nervous?”

Elaine nodded.

“I’m nervous because I’m in the presence of a beautiful woman.”

He’s gotta stop smiling like that.

Elaine giggled. “Charmer.”

“There she is,” he said. “There’s the girl I’ve been talking to.”

Elaine felt herself blush all over again, this time in pleasure. “I… I’m sorry. I’m not good at this. I haven’t had much practice.”

“Which, to me, means you haven’t learned bad habits.”

“Oh.” She hadn’t thought of it like that.

“Raw clay.”

“Sorry?”

Just then, the waitress arrived, interrupting their conversation. “Excuse me. I’m sorry, but there are two girls downstairs who wanted to track down someone called Elaine. You fit the description, Miss. Is this your phone?” She held out the mobile phone and Elaine laughed nervously and nodded. The waitress glanced at Gary then back to Elaine. “They said they’d call soon.”

“Thank you,” said Elaine, blushing deeply. She took the phone and placed it on the table. Within a minute of the waitress leaving, it rang. “I’ll just get this,” she said to Gary, shaking her head as she picked it up.

Caller ID told her it was Chelsea. “Hey, Chelsea,” she said. Gary just smiled and watched her.

“Oh, thank God you’re okay,” Chelsea gasped. “I rang earlier, you know just in case, and the bloody thing went off in your room, you ditz.”

“So now I’m a ditz?” asked Elaine. She winked at Gary and he chuckled.

“Yes! We ran all the way here! Kendra nearly needed a paramedic!”

“Oh stop it.”

“Okay, I’m kidding. Actually we stopped for some juice. I’m glad he’s not an axe murderer, though.”

“No,” said Elaine. “He’s not an axe murderer.”

Gary laughed out loud.

“Is that him?” asked Chelsea.

“Yeah,” said Elaine.

“He sounds gorgeous.”

“Go home.”

Chelsea told Kendra that Elaine wanted them to go home. Elaine heard Kendra say, “No way. I want to check him out!”

“I think you’ve been outvoted.”

“Ugh. All right. I gotta go.”

“We won’t make a scene. Don’t worry.”

“Okay. And thanks.”

“No problem. Chat later.”

Elaine pressed the end call button, put down the phone and chuckled. “Sorry about that.”

“Ditz,” Gary teased.

“Axe murderer,” Elaine replied. They both laughed. “I can’t believe I forgot my frigging phone.”

“I’m just glad everything is okay.”

Their eyes met again. Elaine whispered, “Yeah. Me too.”

Gary picked up his cup. “Feeling better?”

“Yes. Thanks for being patient with me.”

“My pleasure.”

Two simple words. ‘My pleasure’. They touched something deep inside Elaine and her eyes misted over. For a moment she thought she was going to cry. She shook her head and blinked.

Gary regarded her intently. His eyes said he knew she was affected by something, but he didn’t push. “Before your well organised and executed call back…” He winked. “I mentioned ‘raw clay’…”

“That’s right.” Despite her plans going belly-up, Elaine felt better. The laughter must have helped.

“Well, I’m not happy with the metaphor, but I meant you were yet to be moulded.”

“I’m yet to be a lot of things.”

“Yeah. Let’s steer clear of that subject.” Gary winked again.

Elaine looked down and whispered, “Yes, Sir.” She didn’t mean to say it. It just popped out. When she looked up at him, his smile was so gentle, so genuine, she melted.

“We have a lot to talk about, but not today.”

“Is… Is it all right to want something?”

“It depends what it is.”

“I want… I want a moment. Something to hold onto.”

“Give me permission to touch you.”

“Please… touch me.”

Moving his chair closer, Gary held out his hands, palms open. “Give me your hands.”

Elaine did. When they made contact, it was electric.

“Close your eyes.”

Elaine swallowed and did as she was told.

He took her wrists, raising her hands to his face and laying them gently on his skin. “Keep your eyes closed. Pretend you are blind.”

Elaine’s heart hammered in her chest as she caressed his face as gently as she could. She trailed her fingertips along his square jaw, on down his neck, feeling the beat of his pulse. He was warm. And masculine. Hard muscle under tight skin. Back up she traversed, tracing his cheekbones, his eyes and eyebrows.

“Mmmmm,” he murmured quietly.

With her fingertips Elaine could feel that his eyes were closed. Down the sides of his nose they trekked, lingering as she enjoyed the smooth, soft feel of his lips.

“All right,” said Gary quietly. “Enough. You can open your eyes now.”

Elaine glowed. “Thank you, Si… Gary.”

He grinned and gazed into her eyes. Again he whispered, “My pleasure.”

She gulped. Each time he said it, her skin prickled with delight. “Please,” her mouth said, before her brain had a chance to stop it. “Do me.”

Gary chuckled. “Would you like to rephrase that?”

“Oh, my God. I… I meant…”

“Shhh… Relax. I’m teasing.”

Elaine’s cheeks were so hot. Her skin tingled in anticipation. Their eyes met again, and this time he closed his. Elaine’s eyes closed too and she tried not to moan as the feeling of his gentle, yet firm hands caressed her face. He investigated every curve and hollow as if trying to remember them. He explored her lips, very slowly brushing across the bottom one with his thumb, barely touching. Elaine couldn’t help herself. She gasped for breath, her mouth opening and her tongue instinctively making contact.

Her eyes shot open and he was staring at her and smiling softly. She swallowed again but it was no use. Her mouth was completely dry. She couldn’t have spoken even if she knew what to say.

“Our time is almost up.”

“We don’t have to stop now. We only just got here.”

“The coffee is cold, Elaine. Look at your watch.”

It was almost four P.M. “I can’t believe it…”

He smiled again. “We should always stick to our plans. Besides, I have things to do at home.”

“Oh, yes. I’m sorry. I…”

“C’mon, I’ll walk you to the door and let your roommates satisfy their curiosity.”

“They’re gonna flip.”

Gary tilted his head, as though he had no idea what Elaine was talking about. “What do they know about me?”

“Almost nothing.” Elaine grinned. “Just regular stuff.”

“Good girl,” Gary said, then realised what he’d said. “Aw, shit. Sorry. I wasn’t going to let that slip.”

“It’s okay. Don’t take it back. I want it.”

“It’s yours.”

“Thank you.”

Gary stood but Elaine didn’t trust her legs. She needed a second.

“This is yours too,” said Gary, holding out the single rose. “If you’d like it.”

“Yes! I mean, yes. Please. Thank you, Sir. I mean Gary.” Elaine giggled. “This went well, didn’t it?” she laughed and rolled her eyes. Gratefully she took the rose and climbed unsteadily to her feet, adjusting her jeans. She leaned on the table.

“Are you okay?” Gary asked.

“Yes. I’m… fine. I shouldn’t tell you how turned on I am, should I?”

Gary shook his head and smiled. “No. You shouldn’t.” He winked boyishly and Elaine’s knees trembled but held. He said, “I’ll go first down those stairs.”

“Thanks.” Elaine picked up her phone and slipped it into her pocket.

“Yeah, don’t forget that.”

Elaine laughed easily. At the top of the stairs Gary took a step and looked back at her. “Hold my shoulder. I don’t want you falling.”

Stepping in behind him, Elaine’s scanned his broad back. He was carrying his folded jacket in one hand and there was nothing but a thin white t-shirt between his skin and Elaine’s fingers. She slipped them around his shoulder, the muscle hard and hot and alive. She was holding the stem of the rose in her other hand and she was sure thorns were piercing her skin, but she couldn’t even feel it.

“I’m paying. Don’t complain,” Gary said softly when they reached the foot of the stairs.

“Thank you.” Elaine slipped her hand around Gary’s bicep as they stood at the register taking care of things. She searched out her roommates and found them sitting by the window. Chelsea made eyes and Kendra shook her hand like she’d burnt it. Elaine hushed them and looked up at Gary. He’d caught the exchange and Elaine blushed even more.

Gary leaned down and breathed in her ear. “I’m not going to kiss you on the mouth, so don’t expect it.”

She nodded, unsure whether she was relieved or disappointed.

He led her to the front door of the coffee shop. Glancing at her roommates, Elaine had to try hard not to laugh. Both of them were staring at Gary with their mouths open as they passed by. Elaine glanced up at him but he hadn’t even looked at them.

He held open the front door so she could step outside. He joined her and held her gently by the shoulders, smiling down on her. “Would you like a hug?”

She nodded. “Yes.”

Gary wrapped his arms around Elaine and all kinds of emotions crashed through her. Being careful with the rose, she held his waist and bathed in his scent, turning her head, resting her cheek against his chest. His hands ran slowly up and down her back. It seemed to go on and on forever and it felt like heaven.

“I have to go,” Gary said finally.

“Okay.”

“I’ll talk to you tonight.”

“At nine?” Elaine asked, remembering his mother was visiting.

“Maybe earlier.”

Kiss me. Kiss me. Kiss me. Elaine blushed hotly at the thought. “I… I’ll leave the thingy on. I mean, Messenger.”

“I’ll get there when I can.”

“Okay.”

“Thank you, Elaine. You’ve made my day.” He grinned. “Who am I kidding? You’ve made my year.”

Elaine felt playful and light-headed. “Just your year?” She took a step back and pouted like an overpaid actress.

Gary chuckled. “Don’t get cocky.”

“What if I want to get cocky?” She glanced ‘down below’ and surprised the life out of herself by noticing the distinct outline of his thick cock in his jeans. She could hardly tear her eyes from it. She gulped and looked up at him. He was posing with a fist on his hip, the other hand hanging loosely, holding his jacket.

“See something you like?” he teased.

“No! I mean… I’m not saying anything!” Elaine giggled and covered her mouth, glancing at the window of Mario’s. The windows were tinted and from the outside one couldn’t see in. She suddenly felt like she was naked.

Gary folded his jacket over his arm, covering his crotch. “Is that better?”

Elaine was feeling mischievous. “I don’t know about better.”

“Stop it. You’re making it worse. I have to go.”

Elaine didn’t know what came over her, but she found enough courage to step closer and look up at him, their mouths inches apart. “Thank you for meeting me,” she whispered, their bodies almost touching.

Gary’s smile morphed into an intense stare that captured Elaine like a fly in a web.

In the blink of an eye, butterflies attacked. Her chest strained for air as larger and larger breaths were needed to stay ahead of the surging adrenaline. She couldn’t move, and she couldn’t look away. As soon as she squeezed her thighs together, her pussy clenched hard, then spasmed in cruel flutters across the surfaces of her slick inner membranes, sending hot blood throbbing into her clit.

“I have to go, now,” Gary hissed through clenched teeth, breaking the moment into a million pieces and turning on his heel. In moments he was walking away from her and Elaine gasped, watching him, hoping and praying he’d look back.

Just before he rounded the block, he stopped and looked back at her.

He smiled and then he was gone.

“Oh. My. God!” It was Kendra, bouncing out of the café, side by side with Chelsea.

Chelsea had to get in on the act. “He IS a fucking God!”

“Jesus, Elaine! Are there any more like him at home? I’ll take a dozen!” Kendra shrieked.

Chelsea noticed something wasn’t right. “Are you okay?” she asked, patting Elaine’s back lightly.

“What’s wrong?” asked Kendra. “Don’t tell me he dumped you.”

“No,” Elaine said, trying to catch her breath. “It’s… It’s not that.”

“Then what is it?”

“Yeah, tell us.”

“He likes me,” Elaine replied, almost too stunned for words.

Chelsea and Kendra looked at each other then burst out laughing. “You’re nuts,” said Kendra, threading her arm through Elaine’s.

“Yeah. Certifiable,” said Chelsea, taking Elaine’s other arm and heading for home.

“Totally,” agreed Elaine.

*************************

Opening a new email, Elaine stared at it as though it would write itself. Nothing came to her. Nothing needed to be said. She attached her BDSM checklist to it and typed in Gary’s address. Reluctant to press ‘send’, she stared at the screen.

Glancing at the single, long-stemmed rose in the slim glass vase beside the computer, her skin flushed, fingers suspended over the keyboard. She was about to share her sexual and BDSM preferences with him. She took a deep breath.

He’ll know what turns me on… He’ll know what I want… And he’ll know how far I’m willing to go…

She swallowed.

This is SCARY.

He’s going to know what makes me tick… He’s going to know everything…

Everything…

Another part of her psyche intervened.

If he doesn’t know the truth, then you won’t connect.

It’s as simple as that.

You have to risk it.

Elaine clicked ‘send’.

She stared at the screen.