"And it worked." A tear escaped, sliding down my cheek. "Too well. Because now I feel safe, and I shouldn't. I don't even know you."
His hand stilled. "Safety isn't a bad thing."
"It is when it's not real." I pulled back slightly, wrapping my arms around myself under the blanket. "This is a moment outside of time. When we leave this room, it's over. We don't know each other. We never will."
"Is that what you want?"
The question hung in the air between us.
I didn't know how to answer. What I wanted was impossible.
"I need a minute," I said finally, voice shaking. "Just… a minute to pull myself together."
"Of course." He stood, giving me space. "Take all the time you need. I'll clean up."
As he moved toward the bathroom, I heard the familiar sound of water splashing. The sound felt far away, muffled by the ringing in my ears.
This was my chance.
I grabbed my clothes with shaking hands and dressed quickly in my bra, panties, and the black dress I could barely zip on my own. My fingers fumbled with the clasp, my hair was a mess, but I didn't care.
I could slip out now. Leave before we had to do the awkward after-talk. Before the spell broke completely.
Before I had to face what we'd just done.
I grabbed my purse, checked that my mask was secure, and moved to the door. The water was still running in the bathroom.
My hand was on the doorknob.
I didn't look back.
Easton
I heard the outer door click shut while I was washing my hands.
For a second, I froze, certain I'd imagined it. Then, I stepped into the main room.
Empty.
Her perfume still hung in the air. The silk restraints were slightly askew where I'd untied them. The blanket we'd shared was rumpled on the couch.
But she was gone.
"Fuck."
I checked the hallway.
Nothing.
She'd vanished like smoke.
My phone buzzed with a notification from Sassy's automated system.
Your guest has checked out. Thank you for your professionalism.
I sank onto the bench, dropping my head into my hands.
She'd bolted during aftercare.
