in the know. 'Okay.' I utter the word quietly before I talk my way out of it, and he nods ever so slightly, almost thoughtfully.
He stands and I let him lead me into the entrance hall and to the bottom of the stairs. I gaze up to the massive gallery landing, hearing the comings and goings of people in and out of rooms. I let Jesse slowly tug me up the stairs. I know he's taking it leisurely to give me time to retract my decision, and I want to tell him to hurry up before I do. We reach the top and start circling the landing until we arrive at the stain glass window. There are people milling around everywhere, all fully dressed, some outside rooms, some just chatting. It's bizarre.
'We need to get cracking on those next week.' Jesse says, pointing through the archway to the extension. I can see now why he needs to. 'Ready?' he asks.
He turns into me and I know he's watching me as I stare up at the double doors that lead into the communal room. My eyes are pulled to his like the magnets they absolutely are and his deep green pierces me. He knows everything about this place makes me immensely uncomfortable. Why wouldn't he? I've given him no reason to suggest otherwise, but he doesn't seem pissed off that I clearly find his establishment sleazy and dark. He's not offended. It's like he almost approves of my reaction and aversion.
He moves closer, preserving the eye connection until we are stood chest to chest. 'You're curious.' he murmurs.
'Yes.' I confess without hesitation. I am.
'You don't have to be so apprehensive. I'll be with you, guiding you through. If you want to leave, say the word and you're out of there.' His attempt at reassuring me is weirdly working. He squeezes my hand and I'm calmer, more comfortable and at ease, as he gives me a gentle tug towards the stairs. I kick my feet into gear and let him lead me up the stairs, my heart jumping a little harder as we get closer.
'There will be various acts in progression. Some will be mild, some not so much. It's important for you to remember that everything transpiring is because all parties have agreed. Just by being in this room doesn't necessary show your desire to participate in any of the acts.' He looks down and grins. 'Not that you ever will. I'm making it my mission objective to ensure that every man knows what the consequences will be if they approach you.' He returns his eyes forward. 'I might send a memo out.' he muses.
A small laugh escapes my mouth. He probably would as well. He flicks me mischievous eyes and a soft smile and my love for him intensifies further.
I let him lead me through the open, dark wood double doors and into the communal room.
Chapter 23
As the full room comes into view, I concentrate on maintaining my steady breathing. It's hard. The background music that is overwhelming my hearing is the absolute essence of sex and only increases my heartbeat further.
The vast room is as beautiful as I remember it, with all of the exposed beams prominent and the gold chandeliers dimly lit. The Austrian blinds are all drawn at the Georgian sash windows and that, mixed with the dusky light from the chandeliers, gives it the key element; sensual and erotic, but not in a sleazy way. I can't put my finger on exactly why this is. How ironic that I'm surrounded by semi and fully naked people, and I'm admiring the decor.
Fucking hell. Naked people everywhere!
Jesse acknowledges numerous naked people as we make our way through the room. The women swoon and straighten their backs when they spot his presence, even though he has a firm hold of my hand. I feel so out of place, mainly because I'm fully dressed. I look up at him and see how unperturbed he is by the surroundings. Why would he be? This is normal for him. Unfolding before my eyes are various scenes, all of which muddle my mind, but at the same time totally captivate me. It's difficult not to look.
He glances down at me and smiles, giving my hand a little squeeze. 'Okay?' he asks, as he comes to a stop and turns to face me.
I nod and offer him a small smile. I look down at our joined hands when I feel him run his