a few minutes, I’d like to talk to you about our scene at the club. I would have called before, but I don’t have your phone number.”
She hesitated. “I… Um, of course.”
He ran a finger down her cheek. “It’s not an exam, Professor. There are no right or wrong answers.”
With a low laugh, she relaxed. “In that case, ask away.”
Better. Now to ease into what he wanted to know… “First, at lunch, you mentioned you had an interest and maybe a need for learning self-defense.”
“Well, yes.”
“If you don’t mind private lessons, I can show you the basics.”
“Really?” Her blue eyes lit. “I’d love it.”
“We’ll tackle the essentials: how to break free, how and where to strike. It won’t make you a contender in martial arts, of course. But I’d like to improve your chances of getting to safety.”
The thought of her in danger was one he simply couldn’t tolerate.
When she nodded, he smiled. “Good.” He dug into his pocket and pulled out one of his cards. “Here’s my number. Give me a call, and we’ll work out times.”
She was smiling. “I will. Thank you.”
Now to move into trickier territory.
She’d said she didn’t want to be involved with anyone. However, as an experienced Dom, he could read body language and knew she also felt the chemistry between them.
So…he’d invite her to explore more while leaving her room to retreat if she needed.
“You have a beautiful place here,” she murmured. “Beth showed me some of the hidden spots—she calls them garden rooms.”
He chuckled. She’d given him an excellent opening. “There are many things about this place that aren’t immediately noticeable.” Arm around her waist, he leaned on the railing over the patio and pointed down. “Like the steel eyebolts in the lanai posts and beams.”
She leaned forward. “There are a lot of them. Did Jessica have a fondness for hanging plants?”
A laugh escaped him. “No, they’re for dangling submissives. The eyebolts are anchors for restraints.”
Oh gods. Valerie’s eyes widened. Who would have thought? Master Z would restrain Jessica right out there on the patio? She swallowed hard. “I suppose someone who owns a BDSM club would be interested in bondage.”
“No question about it. Then again, a lot of people enjoy bondage.” Finn tugged on her hair. “How about you? Did you enjoy being strapped down?”
Aaand as if he’d flipped a switch, she was far too aware of the rock-hard arm around her waist. Of his fresh aquatic-citrus scent that made her want to burrow her face against his neck and sniff.
No. Remember, Valerie, no involvement. Then again, she’d decided simple hookups would be all right.
What would this Shadowlands Master do if she admitted she’d loved being tied down?
Under the impact of his keen green eyes, hers dropped. “I did. Yes.”
“Sweetheart, look at me.”
She lifted her gaze.
He wasn’t smiling, but a crease appeared in his cheek. “Everything we did—including my restraining you—was fun. Isn’t enjoyment the point?”
It was, and she should get over feeling wrong about having sexual feelings. Blame it on her upbringing. Too many men in both American and Arabic cultures pushed their beliefs that “good” women shouldn’t like sex.
But she was old enough and smart enough to see past those biases. To identify—if not conquer—her insecurities.
Really, she’d been fine when she and Barry visited the BDSM group parties. Her loss of confidence had started when he wanted a slave. When he said she wasn’t meeting his needs. Then came Alisha and Kahlua with their constant put-downs—and Barry’s delegating her to only being his housemaid and financial support.
Her mouth firmed. It was going to take work, but in time, she’d get past her lack of confidence. After all, she’d managed to overcome the feeling of being worthless instilled by her parents. At least until this past year.
“You’re right.” She pulled in a determined breath. “In fact, I hope you’ll feel like doing it again. Doing more.” Her words were firm, although inside, she was shaking. What if he—
“Now, I was hoping you’d say that. Especially since I saw—and approved—your application for membership in the Shadowlands.” He pulled her closer and kissed her temple. “I won’t ask you to stay tonight since you don’t know me well enough. But Friday or Saturday, I’d like to see you at the club. We’ll find out what else you’re interested in.”
She stared down at the eyebolts on the post and felt the quiver of excitement. It was why she’d joined the club, right?
But…no relationship. She hesitated. Be clear so you don’t lead someone on. “I