Mistress Vivienne’s eyes swept over me, appraising me in a way. She didn’t smile, but the faintest nod of approval to the girls settled my nerves a micro.
“Good,” she said softly, almost as if talking to herself. “He’ll like this.”
I exhaled slowly, keeping my shoulders back.
He’ll like this.
Was I dressing for him? Or was this for me? Did I even know right now?
She motioned for me to turn in front of her, which I did without delay, slowly so she could finish her examination.
As I turned, the lace brushed against my thighs. The cool air kissed my skin as my heart thudded against my chest. The white fabric made my skin look tanner than I was, even my breasts as they gave the fabric a run for its money. I’d never worn anything like this, there had never been a reason.
Until now.
Milly bent down and gathered the towel while Candy picked up the rest of the lotions, and they both disappeared without a word, leaving me alone with Mistress Vivienne.
I gulped.
She stepped up to me, adjusting the strap that had fallen down my shoulder.
“Remember, my dear,” she whispered. “One word stops everything.”
I nodded. “Yes, Mistress.”
“Good girl.” She ran her fingers down my arm before she turned toward the door. “Follow.”
Mistress Vivienne opened the door and stepped into the corridor without looking back to see if I followed. The wood floor was cold on my bare feet as I shuffled behind her.
The hall was dim, lit only by the sconces on the wall casting soft amber light. A faint trace of incense drifted in the air. Spice, smoke, and something I couldn’t quite place.
We passed several closed doors, each marked only with a number. Behind some came the muted sounds of music, a gasp, a low voice. I couldn’t tell if they were real or just my imagination feeding on my nerves.
At the far end of the corridor, a single door stood ajar. Mistress Vivienne stopped in front of it and turned to me.
“This is as far as I go.” Her voice softened. “He’s waiting.”
I stared at the door. My fingers tightened on the hem of the fabric.
“Remember why you’re here.”
I nodded, not trusting my voice.
Mistress Vivienne held out a black blindfold. I hadn’t even noticed it until now.
“You read his rules?” she asked.
I swallowed. “Yes.”
Her eyes searched mine. “Then you know this part is his first request.” She lifted the blindfold a little higher. “You may refuse. Or you can choose to submit, and I’ll put it on you.”
I stared at the silk as if it would lash out and bite me.
“This is the time to ask questions before you cross the threshold.”
I exhaled slowly and stood a little taller. “One word?”
Her lips curved up in the corner for a split second before she pursed them together again. “Yes. You are in control here.”
