Page 39 of Axe Marks the Spot

Lindsey

Thank you, Sir. It feels good to know you’re happy with me. And while I was annoyed at first with your request to pack my future lunches, it did feel good to get it out of the way before tomorrow.

Lindsey’s reply to my most recent message came later than I expected—around eleven, nearly two hours after she first sent it. I answered the photo of the cute purple lunch box she sent with my praise within minutes, but then there was nothing. As the time dragged on and I went through my usual nightly routine—settling into my chair, messaging my other submissives, answering emails—I started to wonder if she’d been called back into work.

I already know from the schedule she sent me that she’s running herself ragged taking extra shifts and working overtime. I’m not surprised she hit snooze on her alarm this morning. Even without her scrolling social media late into the night, she probably would have done it anyway. She’s exhausted. I’d be exhausted if I was her.

I type out an answer after reading over her response again.

Me

It pleases me to hear that. Have you done your nightly routine yet? It’s getting close to midnight.

I’m surprised when the bubbles pop up right away given her last response took so long to come in, but I’m happy to see them. Happier than I probably should be. But I brush it off as me being glad she’s okay after not hearing from her for so long.

Lindsey

I did. I’m in bed right now.

Me

Good girl. How did the routine feel for you?

The bubbles telling me she’s typing pop up and then stop. Then pop up again. And then stop. This happens a few more times before one word comes through.

Lindsey

Hard.

I recline in my chair. All my other submissives are taken care of for tonight, and my work is done, which I’m glad for. I can give my focus to Lindsey, who seems to very much need it.

Me

Would you like to tell me why it was hard?

Again, the bubbles reappear then disappear multiple times, showing me she’s struggling to find the answer. Several minutes later, it finally comes through.

Lindsey

It’s hard for me to take time for myself, even if it’s something as small as doing my new nightly routine.

Me

Why do you think that is?

When no answer arrives after a minute, I become irritated. She needs guidance, and a messaging app isn’t the place for it.

Me

I’m going to call you, is that alright?

Her answer comes through quickly this time.

Lindsey

Like on the phone?

I chuckle to myself as I answer.