CHAPTER 6

E lle

Simon placed an arm around me and steered me out of the room. We stopped in front of a door marked Pod Three . He opened the door and revealed a tiny room. The futon mattress was against the wall and covered with blankets and soft cushions. A vast beanbag leaned against the bed, and a canopy of material extended over it like a tent with an open flap. Fairy lights dangled from the top of the room. It looked like one of my childhood dens but bigger and squashier. A warm feeling settled in my centre.

“That’s your private bathroom.” Simon pointed to a door to the left.

“It’s cute in here.” I walked inside, my toes sinking into the thick carpet.

“Hence the name, pod. We found people needed time and space to decompress. The rooms aim to enhance the sense of safety.”

I nodded. Sense of safety? I might never leave ! The pod suites here were cheaper than the hotel rooms, but I chose it based on the information pack indicating it was best for single guests.

“Let’s get you settled. Your things are here.” He gestured to my small suitcase that I hadn’t noticed behind the door.

He arranged the blankets and cushions and moved me about like a doll. Once situated, he made me drink half a bottle of water, then turned me over and smoothed some cream into my sore bottom.

“You like being bossy.” I smiled at him.

“I’m a Dom who enjoys aftercare. And brat taming.” He winked as he rubbed my heated skin.

“Will you stay?” I glanced away. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t ask that.”

“You should always ask for what you want. I can stay until you fall asleep, but then I must go.” He pulled my leggings back up.

The disappointment that filled me surprised me with its intensity. Gene had left, and it seemed natural, but being parted from Simon seemed more acute. I turned away, sitting up and attempting to hide the disappointment on my face.

“But I would like to play again. Would you consider attending again as my guest?” Simon looked up at me as I settled back against the pillows.

“I’d love that,” I said, really meaning it.

His energy and confidence were just what I looked for in a sexual relationship. Having fulfilled my seasonal kink, I was supposed to be looking for a boyfriend, not a play-Dom, but if I ended up this satisfied every weekend, then I’d use my next bonus on a six-month membership. I worked hard and deserved the stress relief. Simon might be the Dom to explore all of my kinks with. I couldn’t quite believe how much we’d covered in one night. I said so to Simon as he wedged in next to me.

His chuckle warmed me. “That’s not usual. Most people need a slower lead-in. Learning their edges slowly, but you took to it like a duck to water.”

“I’m not sure I have any limits,” I mused.

“Everyone has them, but we’ll explore where they are.” His smile was seductive, and even my exhausted body felt a ripple of excitement.

I knew I’d be walking funny by tomorrow, but it was worth it. It was vindicating to know that I wasn’t a freak. It was nice not to have to force my partners into trying things. The multiple relationships I’d been through trying to be more adventurous paled compared to tonight.

I couldn’t wait to tell my best friend Zoe when she returned for Christmas. She’d roll her eyes and then demand to know every detail. The NDA I signed about Gene’s identity and members here meant I couldn’t discuss them outside the forum, but I could describe things broadly. Should I text her or wait to see her face?

“What’s got you smiling?” Simon asked.

“Just imagining texting my best friend and telling her I finally shagged Santa.” I coughed. “Two Santas.”

Simon let out a booming laugh. “You are a brat.”

“I prefer the term spirited.” I grinned at him. “I can’t wait to play again.

“Sleep first, and we’ll explore another day.” He ran a finger down my cheek, and something lightened inside my chest.

My bones were tired, but I was deeply content. Apparently, I’d only been out about half an hour earlier. Only long enough for Simon to be sure I was asleep before fucking me back awake. A tiny burst of lust flared through my tired system. That was something I wanted to do again.

I snuggled down, letting my eyes fall shut.

I woke buried in blankets and roasting hot. I sat up and looked around the room. Definitely alone . Flopping back onto the soft covers, I basked in last night’s replay as I smoothed my hand over the soft blankets, smiling.

Best Christmas Ever.