Page 7 of Roped By Ryan

Thank you for tonight. I’m excited and nervous for tomorrow night.

I hold my breath, watching as the three little dots blink on the screen.

Ryan

Don’t worry, kitten. I’ll take care of you.

Me

I know you will.

Ryan

See you tomorrow. I can’t wait to kiss every goddamn inch of your luscious body.

Me

Just great. You tell me something like that, and now I have to try to get some sleep while I’m all hot and bothered. I’m going to take a nice cold shower.

Ryan

Touch yourself and think of me.

Me

I’m going to take that shower now.

Ryan

Goodnight, kitten.

Me

Goodnight, caveman.

Smiling,I place my phone on the nightstand and lie back, finally allowing myself to believe in the possibility of happiness with Ryan.

Chapter 5

Ryan

The city lightscast fleeting patterns on Michela's face as we drive, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. I give her fingers a gentle squeeze, offering a reassuring smile.

“We're almost there,” I say calmly, glancing at her. “Are you sure about this?”

She nods, a mix of curiosity and apprehension in her eyes. “Yeah, just a little nervous. My overactive imagination is on overdrive, and I have no idea what to expect, but I trust you.”

The Sterling Rope is not just any club; it’s exclusive and deeply private. You don’t simply walk in—you’re invited, vetted, andtrusted. The building, tucked away in a nondescript part of town, doesn’t reveal its true nature from the outside. We pull up to the entrance, and I park the car. The anticipation in the air is palpable.

“Ready?” I ask, turning to her.

“As ready as I’ll ever be,” she says, giving a small, brave smile.

We step out into the cool night, and I lead her to the back door. I scan my watch against the black plate on the wall, and the heavy metal door opens. The back door security, a familiar presence, nods at me.

“Evening, Ryan. Playing tonight?”

“Yes, James. This is Michela.” His eyebrow shoots up to his hairline, and I realize I managed to shock the unflappable fucker.

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