"We know," Madison says. "Now let's talk about something else before I get too invested in your sex life."
Just like the last two days with Ethan, the girls and I talk for hours. We chat about relationships and boundaries and what it means to give yourself to someone completely. The girls share their own experiences including the good, the bad, the messy.
Madison talks about the first time Ty disciplined her and how it changed their entire dynamic for the better.
Holly shares that Justin is more of a soft Dom, preferring praise and guidance over anything physical, although occasionally he absolutely will give her a hard spanking if she deserves it, and how that balance works perfectly for her.
Emily admits she's explored something similar before but hasn't found the right person to commit to yet. Chloe, Maya, and Amber listen with fascination, asking questions, sharing observations.
By the time I leave, I feel steadier. More confident in what Ethan and I are building.
My phone buzzes as I'm driving home.
Ethan: How was your meeting?
Lily: I told them everything.
Ethan: Everything?
Lily: About the spanking. The dynamic. Calling you Daddy.
Ethan: And?
Lily: They were amazing. Supportive. They want to meet you officially.
Ethan: I miss you already.
Lily: I miss you too, Daddy.
Ethan: Good girl. Drive safe.
I pull into traffic, a smile spreading across my face.
I have friends who love me for exactly who I am.
I have a career that might finally be taking off.
For the first time in my life, I'm not trying to be someone I'm not.
I'm just being me.
And that's more than enough.
Ethan: Are you free for dinner tomorrow?
Lily: With you? Always.
Ethan: Good. I want to take you somewhere nice. Celebrate properly.
Lily: Celebrate what?
Ethan: Us.
CHAPTER 9
The restaurant Ethan chooses is the kind of place I've only seen in magazines.
I look around at the soft lighting, white tablecloths, and the sommelier who takes wine selection very seriously and immediately feel out of place.
