It cracked open slightly.
“Lucinda, dear.” Carol’s voice was soft and sweet, but she sounded tired. Keeping up with a boat full of kinky people must be exhausting.
“I’m up.” I jumped off the bed. With my short frame, I jumped off most furniture.
“How are you feeling?” She stepped inside. “If you’re ready, I can escort you back to your room.”
“I’m good and that would be nice.”
She motioned for the door.
I grabbed my robe and stepped into the hallway.
“Was your scene everything you hoped it would be?” she asked.
“It was epic and amazing.” I heard the childlike wonder in my voice. I always got giddy after a scene, but after tonight’s scene, I wanted to skip and dance.
“You sound surprised.” She laughed and stopped in front of my door.
“I am. Nothing in life ever turns out like you planned, so that was unexpected.” I covered my mouth to suppress the giggle threatening to escape.
“You’re still on a sub high.” Carol smiled with a small glint of envy in her expression. “Enjoy it.”
“I will.” I stepped into my room and gasped. A charcuterie board with assorted fruit, meat and cheeses sat on the coffee table in front of the small sitting area near the window.
“Marcus thought you might like a little snack after your scene.” She nodded and then turned.
“Carol.”
She stopped at the door.
I couldn’t bring myself to ask her, although I wanted to know everything about Marcus and they seemed familiar with each other. I chickened out. “Is there anything else interesting going on tonight?”
“Most everyone else is finishing up scenes or have turned in.” She tapped her tablet. “There are a few people up on the sky deck enjoying the night air and drinks.”
She looked from me to the tray and back again. “It’s been a long day for everyone and it’s just the first night.” She grinned. “Pace yourself, sweetie.”
I nodded. “You’re right. Thank you.”
She nodded back and closed the door behind her.
The energy flowing through me was hard to contain, but the sub high would be short-lived. My bed looked inviting, but first, food.
I shimmied out of the robe and flopped on the small couch. The assortment of fruit covered every shade of the rainbow. A green grape burst between my teeth, its sweetness flooding my mouth while memories of the scene replayed in my mind. It felt so natural submitting to Marcus. And, his control was firm but not unkind. One rule I had for myself in the club was not to fall for any Dom. I would have never propositioned a Dom for more in a scene, but I couldn’t deny the fact I wanted more. No, I wanted him.
If I read it correctly, he wanted me, too.
The next morning, I woke up early and went to the dining room, hoping to catch Marcus. I wanted to have the opportunity to get to know more about him.
The day-after effects from my flogging were subtle, but present. The deck bustled with people. A booming laugh drew my attention. Marcus sat at a table near the railing with two men.
They both looked older than me but well dressed. Both men had a definite morning-after glow. I scanned the area and saw that most everyone had a pep in their step this morning. Me included.
Marcus turned and spotted me and smiled.
My insides lit up.
He waved me over. “Good morning, Lucinda.” He stood and took my hand. “How did you sleep last night?”