Page 28 of The Games We Play (Balance of Power #3)

NAOMI

Present Day

“ T hank you, everyone, for joining me today.” I welcome the class and introduce myself to the unexpectedly large group of people. Ember is standing at the edge of the open theater area, counting heads and looking gorgeous as ever with her long, red hair and sophisticated jumpsuit.

She’s young, maybe in her early to mid-twenties, but wise, far beyond her years, exuding a confidence I don’t see in many people.

She’s been able to coordinate this event in a short amount of time, and the promotion of it was so well marketed, that she shattered the original goal of ten couples and there is now a waitlist for the next class.

We had planned to have the class in the mid-afternoon, before the club officially opened so it was private and more intimate. That way we could use the open theater area instead of clearing out the private room with less space.

So, instead of teaching in front of a small class of people, I’m currently on a stage and I’m going to be guiding people through the sensuality of tantric massage .

I’ve never been nervous teaching, but this is definitely a whole other level.

We were able to comfortably get fifteen couples in here, some cuddling closely together holding each other, while some others sit next to each other holding notepads. It’s easy to tell who will be more willing to participate or not.

This club is the perfect setting for this class, knowing the openness that people need to have during the session.

All of the couples are all members and none I recognize. However, I do spot Window Yelling Guy, who Ember introduced me to before class started as Dane. Apparently, he went to school with Hudson and has been friends with the guys for quite some time.

Even though I only chatted with him for a couple of minutes, we immediately connected due to his lighthearted, fun personality. He is definitely more easy going than both Hudson and Seamus, who both hold a more serious demeanor in different ways.

Hudson is professional and kind. Seamus is just…Seamus.

Especially right now.

Standing like a statue in the corner of the room, he looks extra cranky today.

His dark eyes match his all black, fitted to perfection black suit, dressed like a secret service agent runway model.

His broad shoulders hold the confidence of someone in his position, his body in full control, giving nothing away.

Still, he looks delicious and edible, and it’s so annoying.

I’m unsure how it’s possible that I was attracted to young, playful Seamus and now, I’m drawn to the older doppelg?nger, stick-in-the-mud Seamus. They are night and day, two different people, which leads me to believe that maybe I don’t have a specific type of guy. Maybe my type is just Seamus.

“Today we’re going to be learning the art of Tantric massage.

For those of you who are not aware—” I glance around and see Dane sitting, all smiles next to Hudson, and I snort out a giggle.

Ember definitely didn’t give them details about what this class is, if Hudson agreed to be here as Dane’s partner.

“—Tantric massage is a sensual, full body experience.”

Hudson’s brows pinch together as he turns to look at Dane. Dane isn’t fazed by this, giving me his full attention.

“You will begin by meditating with your partner. During this time, we will focus on breath-work, using only your sight and hearing to build a connection with each other. Once you reach the full height of sexual energy, we will focus on exploring each other with touch, allowing your partner to feel all of your senses together, as one.” I wander slowly around the room as my soft, meditative voice radiates through the crowded space.

Seamus stands at the back, stoic and stern, with his arms crossed over each other. His typically unreadable demeanor appears to be slightly uncomfortable as he shifts his stance, his eyes bouncing over the room and back at me.

“Some of you may like to watch and observe, while others may want to participate with their partner openly in this room. I ask that everyone be considerate of each other’s choices.”

Hudson’s eyes widen as he leans over to Dane, whispering something.

Seamus shifts his stance again, uncrossing his arms, then crossing them again.

“Before we begin our breathing techniques, I will demonstrate the Tantric massage techniques for those who would like to experience that while you are here with your partner in a meditative state. Again, I ask that everyone be respectful of those partners who would like to experience that here today, as it is all part of the journey together, riding with the sexual energy that you both are feeling.”

I walk back up to the front so I can see everyone clearly.

“There may be some of you who have never done anything like this, and can’t imagine doing it openly in public.

However, when you hit that peak of sexual energy, it can be quite persuasive, and you may find yourself doing things you typically wouldn’t do.

” Glancing around the room at a few timid couples, I give them a reassuring smile, because I’ve seen it before.

“Now, can I get a volunteer as my partner for the demonstration?” I announce to the room. Dane’s hand shoots straight up. Seamus’ arms drop to his sides as he looks around the room, then over at Dane.

“I’ll be performing the massage on your body in order to teach the technique to the class, that way everyone has a visual example. So, before you agree, you need to be comfortable with that type of public exposure and consent to me touching you.”

It happens all at once: Dane—with his arm still stretched in the air—switches from a seated position to a kneeling position, putting himself higher amongst the crowd. Hudson palms his face, and Seamus immediately begins to march over to where the guys are sitting.

“I volunteer. I volunteer as tribute!” Dane yells and the class chuckles.

I can’t help my smile as I walk over to the class clown.

He’s full of positive, but hyper energy. It may be difficult to get him in a relaxed and meditative state, but it would make for a fun class.

Squatting down in front of him, I glance between him and Hudson, knowing they wouldn’t be able to partner up together, and it would probably be best for Dane to have an experienced partner.

I need to make sure he’s fully aware of what this all entails. I ask just as Seamus comes up beside us, “Are you aware that a tantric massage is full body, including genital massage?”