He raised an eyebrow at me.
“The idea of having someone feed me is interesting.”
“Are you saying that to be polite?” He motioned toward the classroom. “Since I suggested it.”
“No, actually, I witnessed it in the cafeteria the other day. I hadn’t ever thought of that being part of a relationship.”
“Well, we share an interest. Would you like to try?”
“I’m sure you heard my stomach growl in class.” I pulled the fruit leather out of my bag.
He nodded, looked around, then pointed. “How would you feel about sitting over there? Is that too public? We don’t have much time before the next class.”
This was the perfect opportunity. It was a kink I wanted to explore. Someone kind was offering to try it with me. And it involved no sexual activity. I took a deep breath.
“It’s okay to say no,” he said. “I can leave you to eat on your own or simply keep you company.”
Trying to have more optimism than nerves, I offered an upbeat, “Thank you. Let’s try it.”
I sat on the bench and handed him the snack. Absolutely no pressure.
But also no connection.
He carefully opened the package in a way that it could be resealed, just the way I like. Bonus point for that.
He held the fruit strip up. “Would you like a bite, Penny?”
I considered how to answer—yes… yes, Sir… Daddy was out of the question. He didn’t have Daddy energy. I settled for a nod.
He moved the strawberry treat to my mouth and waited. His hand was so close to my face I could smell the vanilla musk of his cologne. It wasn’t bad, but it was the only good thing in the moment.
I opened my mouth, leaned the tiny bit forward, and had to force my mouth closed to take a bite, which was oddly awkward when someone else was holding the food.
I sat back and chewed while realizing he wasn’t the guy for me. At least I’d tried.
He waited patiently for me to finish, having lowered the bar to his lap then lifted it again, “Ready for another?”
“Actually, I don’t think this is for me.” The truth was thathewasn’t for me.
“Hey, Penny,” Phoenix grumbled from a few feet in front of us. How had I not noticed him approach?
Had he watched Damon feed me? What did he think?
“Hello, Phoenix” I said, swallowing the lump of guilt in my throat as if I’d cheated on him.
“Enjoying a snack?” Irritation radiated from him and he made no effort to acknowledge Damon.
Uncomfortable talking about what just happened, I asked, “How are the arrangements coming for the unicorn party?”
“We’re on track. I was going to see if you wanted to check it out. I could give you a piggyback ride.” His gaze never left mine, which wouldn’t be a big deal, but Damon was right there.
No matter how hard I tried not to think about what he meant, it derailed my brain.
“I forgot something in my room. I better go get it before my next class.” I jumped up so fast that I stumbled on the pebbled path. Phoenix’s firm hand caught my arm.
“Are you okay?” His words were slow and deliberate. For the first time, his gaze moved to Damon then back to me. His intent became clear. He must have noticed my discomfort and wanted to make sure Damon wasn’t pressuring me. That was the kind of Daddy energy I was looking for.
“Yes, I’m fine.” I rushed away.
