Page 46 of Don't Fall For Your Best Friend

“Why not take a few days off and you can have a few extra days on your article, Hartford. Where are you staying? I know your parents’ house is still under renovations, right?”

I nod. “I’m staying with Paxton Atwood.”

Mr. Charleston gives me a knowing smile. “Ah, yes. I know the Atwoods.” Doesn’t everyone. “You and Paxton have always been close, right?”

“Yes.”

“Well, I hope your place gets fixed soon. And tell your Aunt Nora I said hi.”

I crack a small smile. Mr. Charleston has had the hots for my aunt for many years but has never acted on it. I sort of wish he would, because my aunt may be on a spiritual journey, traveling the globe, but I know she’s lonely. If her texts and pics are anything to go by.

“Will do.” I leave his office and rush to my cubicle down the hall to get some work done.

At my desk, however, I can’t think about anything but Paxton. The sound of his breathing. The way he moved closer to me throughout the night. The feel of his arms around me.

Like I said, sleeping with Paxton is a nightmare.

Tonight, I’m going to make sure we put pillows between us. So it doesn’t happen again.

I force him out of my mind and work for a few hours interviewing Natalie via phone, and a few other people from the munch who wanted to be interviewed, trying my best to make sense of my notes on BDSM. After doing more internet searches, and reading articles on different fetishes, I analyze why Paxton and I aren’t having any luck with our BDSM scenes.

Maybe I just need to let loose and have a little fun. Stop overthinking.

I find my phone and send Pax a text.

What time do you get off tonight?

He replies back within seconds.

Should be done around six? Why?

I was thinking we could try another scene at your place.

You know I’m always down to help.

There’s that word again—help. Paxton’s the type of guy to help anyone. He’s the one who helps the old woman cross the road. He’ll walk down the street and see a woman with groceries in her hand and offer to carry them for her. It’s how I know he doesn’t have the same feelings I’m having for him. He’s just a friendly guy who helps.

Well, I’m going to have him help me in a sexual way. We’re practicing scenes and I need his help.

Maybe Dom/sub stuff?

Absolutely. Master.

No, you’ll be the Master.

That’s even better.

My insides coil at the thought of Paxton dominating me. What will he say? What will he demand I do?

I’m all up in my thoughts when another text comes through.

The owner of Club Greed invited me for a free night at their club. We could always go there.

My eyes nearly bulge out of my head. The intrigue is there. Club Greed is exclusive. It’s legendary, and I’m sure they’re like an encyclopedia of BDSM.

Okay.

I’ll see you tonight then.

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