Page 137 of Risks of Temptation

I kiss Malin on the cheek and rise. "Please."

He pats my ass. "I'll be in the other room."

"All right."

He helps Bernadette with the carts then disappears. Everything is hanging in plastic or bags. She smiles. "Can I see what you got?"

"Yes. I was going to ask if you can do my makeup tonight? I don't know how to do it. Maybe you could show me?"

Her eyes twinkle. "Sure. And are you doing okay?"

"Yes. You were right about everything."

She nods. "I see."

"And I understand why you did what you did during training. Thank you."

She takes a deep breath. "Malin didn't do anything with those women. I gave you those photos so you would hate him and make it through."

"I know. He told me. You don't have to explain anything."

Her eyes meet mine. "You understand all eyes are still on you? Malin and you will still need to prove over the next few weeks to months that you have submitted to him?"

"Yes. But I have."

"It's him I'm worried about."

I nod. "Me, too."

She puts her hand on her neck and steps to the window. "I've never had anyone to talk to about any of this. If there's anything you want to discuss..."

"I want to know about tonight."

She turns. "What aspect?"

"Will it be similar to the room?"

"You mean, will there be sex everywhere?"

My stomach flutters. "Yes."

She crosses her arms. "At some point. There are no set standards. It will seem like an ordinary dinner party at first, minus the conversation. You and Malin will not be on display and can leave when he chooses. But no one is being auctioned, gifted, or exhibited."

I go to the first cart and raise the plastic. A rose pink, almost nude, minidress is under it. "What are you wearing tonight? I don't normally wear these types of clothes."

She smiles and comes over. "Wear that dress. You'll look gorgeous in it."

"The neckline is perfect for my collar."

She puts her hand on mine. "Malin won't make you wear it tonight."

"But I can, right?"

Surprise fills her face. "If he allows it."

"Then I'm wearing it."

She tilts her head. "Why?"