Page 75 of Daddy Sees Snakes

Iris

The sun filters through the trees, dappling the dark wood exterior of the Desire House as I pull up the winding gravel drive.

This luxurious log cabin tucked in the woods has been a godsend the past few weeks, taking some of the heat and attention off Satin Dreams while still servicing our top clientele.

I cut the engine and step out, my black leather boots crunching on the white stones.

Adjusting my lace camisole and fur coat, I make my way up the wooden steps to the wrap-around porch.

The door is unlocked as always for me.

"Morning, ladies," I call out as I enter the spacious great room with its high, exposed-beam ceilings.

Plush couches and armchairs are artfully arranged atop the colorful Persian rugs.

Rosa looks up from where she's curled on the sofa, long legs tucked under her, studying a well-worn romance novel.

Her face lights up when she sees me. "Iris! I didn't expect you this morning. Everything okay at the club?"

She sets her book aside, sitting up straighter.

I wave a dismissive hand as I sink into the buttery leather armchair across from her. "Yeah, things are fine. Just wanted to check in, see how it's going out here."

Rosa stands and stretches languidly. "Oh, you know, the usual. Plenty of powerful men letting loose their deepest, darkest desires within these walls. And paying handsomely for the privilege, I might add."

"Music to my ears." I grin at her.

This place has been an unexpected boon—the privacy and seclusion is perfect for our most elite clientele.

Bankers, politicians, CEOs...men who can't risk being seen frequenting Satin Dreams.

"I have to say, I've been enjoying the change of scenery myself," Rosa admits, making her way over to the side table to pour us both a glass of cucumber water from a frosty pitcher. "It's nice getting away from the noise and chaos of the city."

"I bet." I accept the glass she offers me, condensation cooling my fingertips. "You don't miss the catcalls and the grabby regulars pawing at you every night?"

Rosa laughs, a rich, melodic sound. "Oh, you know I can handle myself with those clowns. But I'd be lying if I said I'm not appreciating the...selectiveness of the Desire House crowd."

I nod, sipping my water.

She's not wrong.

The men who come here drop some serious cash.

And expect impeccable service and discretion in return.

"How are the other girls enjoying it?" I ask, glancing around.

The cabin seems quiet, tranquil.

A far cry from the pounding music and flashing neon of Satin Dreams.

"They love it," Rosa assures me. "Sable and Jade were just saying the other day how much more relaxed they feel outhere. And you know Lana's always up for anything new and adventurous."

"Good, that's good to hear." I lean back, crossing one leather-clad leg over the other.

I'd been a little worried some of them might balk at being so isolated, preferring the 24/7 glitz and excitement of being right in the best part of town.

But it seems to be suiting everyone well so far.

---