Page 98 of The Masquerade: Room 2

“Bitch,” she jests.

“It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it.”

“I volunteer as tribute!” I burst out laughing as she waves her hand in the air.

“Do you have a new Dom yet?”

“No. It’s hard to find a Dom who’s going to get excited about a single mom.”

“Don’t sell yourself short, Cel. You’re a catch, and Belle is the cutest munchkin on the planet. The right guy is out there.”

“Is he? Her father sure as hell wasn’t it.”

“Does he know you’re in the lifestyle?”

“No. He’s not around, and I need it to stay that way. He’d try to take Belle if he knew. Not because he wants to be a father to her. He’d do it out of spite.”

“Could he really gain custody, though if he’s been absent this whole time?”

“I don’t think so, but it doesn’t stop me being terrified he’s going to show up and cause problems for us.”

“I’m so sorry, Cel. I hate that for you. For both of you.”

“Thanks. It’s what I get for always picking the bad boy.”

“What happened with your last Dom, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“He found out I have a kid.”

“Seriously?”

“I can’t blame him. He wanted low maintenance, not a ready-made family.”

“So, are you casually seeing anyone at the club?”

“Not really. I’m not in the mood for friends with benefits right now. It wouldn’t be fair to a Dom for me to get involved. My head’s all over the place.”

“Why have you let me prattle on about my crap when you’re going through so much?”

“We all have problems, Frey. I’d say you’ve got more than a little ‘crap’ going on.”

“Promise me you’ll talk to me, and if there is anything I can do, you’ll let me know.”

“Yes, and the same goes for you. Master Harrison is a good man.”

“I promise. No more burying our heads in the sand. We’re friends who sometimes watch each other get off, and that’s… kinda awesome.”

Celest throws back her head and laughs. “I’ll take it. Some girls braid each other’s hair. We trade orgasms. I’m good with that.”

We sit for a while longer, moving on to lighter topics and making plans to have drinks at the club later this week. I lose all track of time, only realizing when my phone rings that I’m late to meet Pierce.

“Hey, little one. Is everything okay?”

“I’m so sorry, Daddy.” Celest makes a love heart sign with her hands. “I’m with Celest. I didn’t realize the time. I’ll be at the club in ten minutes.”

“Don’t rush. It’s fine. We’re not staying at the club tonight anyway. I have other plans for you. I’ll just grab a drink and wait at the bar. Come find me when you’re done.”

“Okay. Only if you’re sure.”

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