book with pictures or should I bring some movies to Girls Night?” Jasmine’s laugh was throatier. “When two people like each other…”
Ashley made a huffing sound. “I know a lot, Miss Proper Wife. What I mean is, what’s she into?”
Hale shook her head.
Jasmine dropped her voice. “She’s into everything. She’s a real dirty girl.”
Hale raised both hands in the universal sign for stop. “Stop, I don’t want to upset Maria. She’s probably lurking around and I don’t want to get into trouble. I think she still believes that she can ground me.”
“If only she knew some of the shit you’ve done, she would lock you in your room for five years.” Jasmine shook her finger at Hale.
“I definitely want to know more. I’ll double the order for booze for our sleepover.” Ashley practically bounced in her chair.
“Just remember, you two, anything you ask me, I can ask you. So, be careful.” Hale warned.
Ashley stood and took her mug to the sink. “Wow, this is gonna be great.”
“Hush, you can stop talking about my sex life.” She tried to look severe. “Now get to work.”
“Yes, boss.” Ashley shot Hale a huge smile as she sauntered out of the kitchen.
“Stop calling me that,” Hale yelled after her.
“Maybe she will start calling you Mistress or ma’am after she hears a few stories.”
Hale tried to sound exasperated as she shot Jasmine an evil look. “No she won’t, that lifestyle wasn’t for me. Some parts are awesome, but I couldn’t commit.”
“I like it when Izzy restrains me, but I don’t get that master-slave thing.”
“It’s about the dynamic and finding what you need and someone to interact with.”
“So, Major can give you what you need?” Jasmine raised her eyebrows.
“Not so far, but he is a slow mover. I’m giving him some time. He kisses me on the cheek, and held my hand once. We’ll see.” Hale shrugged. She was lying; she had no sexual chemistry with the man. Throughout her many sexploits, she had never found anyone that made her as hot or feel as much as Finn. Finally she concluded that what they had was a once in a lifetime kind of chemistry.
Hale stood in the Benton’s backyard, wondering what time it was and how soon she could escape. This party had been a mistake. She was ready to bolt, go home and turn off the phones. Oh God, why had she come with Major? He was hovering, smothering her, adding to the misery.
“Do you need anything to drink?” Major leaned into Hale’s side.
“No, I’m good.” She held her beer bottle up and shook it gently.
“I can ask the bartender for a glass. A lady shouldn’t have to drink from a bottle.” He sniffed.
She was growing so tired of Major’s thoughts on how ladies should behave. “It’s a casual party, so I think the etiquette rules are relaxed.” She stated through gritted teeth. “You should go on, mix and mingle.” She hoped he would take the hint.
“Well, all right, I’ll be back to check on you.”
He tried to kiss her cheek, but she turned to take a long pull on her beer, he collided with her hair. After a flustered second, he left. Finally alone, she took the opportunity to unwind, until she felt eyes on her. She scanned the backyard space and saw Finn looking in her direction.
He raised his beer in salute.
“Fuck,” she mumbled to herself. She knew he had witnessed the defensive move to avoid Major’s lips.
“Now what’s wrong?” Jasmine stood with her hands on her hips.
“Nothing’s wrong. It’s going to be a great night.” Hale tried to pump enthusiasm into her voice. Jasmine claimed that she had invited only twenty people, it seemed like a few extra had shown, plus seven or eight kids ranging in age from seven to mid-teens.
“You need to mingle with the guests, not stand to the side and hide.”
“I’m not hiding, I’m standing in one place by the gate to greet any stragglers.” Her answer was weak. She was hiding.
“Come on, I’ll walk with you. I think that you know almost everyone here.” Jasmine scanned her deck and patio area. “Well, maybe not the plus ones, but almost everyone.”
“I think Major is expecting me to be here when he gets back.”
“All the more reason to move—he’s practically glued to you.” Jasmine frowned.
“I shouldn’t have let him drive me here, he thinks he’s my date and so he’s being extra clingy.” Hale admitted to her friend.
“I told you to bring Miller and your stuff to stay the