Page 238 of Daddy's Naughty List

And then, suddenly, his expression changed. "Hey, I have an idea. What if we do a live storytelling event as part of the carnival? Some of the Littles can dress up as the characters. Bring the lovely creatures from your book to life!"

Lulu’s face broke into a grin, excitement bubbling up inside her. "That's a great idea!" she exclaimed, her earlier nervousness forgotten.

She reached for a pencil to jot this down, but Ben went for the same one. Their hands brushed, a jolt of electricity passing between them at the contact. Lulu quickly withdrew hers, her cheeks flushing a deep pink. She glanced up at Ben, noticing the softness in his eyes as he looked at her, a gentle smile playing on his lips. The air felt thick with unspoken tension.

He's just being nice because we're working together.

It doesn’t mean anything.

But if it didn’t mean anything, why was her heart still pounding? And why was he looking at her like that? Like a wolf, eyeing a lamb.

Her mind flashed back to their first meeting, when he’d pulled away from her. Told her “it was a big ranch” so they might not run into one another. It had felt like he was making a quick escape. The memory stung, reinforcing her doubts. Someone as experienced and successful as Ben wouldn't be interested in a novice like her, still navigating her own Little identity.

Determined to maintain a professional demeanor, Lulu refocused her attention on the carnival plans. "What if we had a costume contest?" she suggested, her voice a bit too bright. "We could have different categories, like most creative, cutest, and best book character!"

Ben grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "That's a great idea! We could even have a little parade where they show off their costumes."

As they continued to plan, she couldn't help but steal glances at Ben, admiring the way his strong hands gestured enthusiastically as he spoke, the genuine excitement in his voice.

"You're so good with Littles," she blurted out, immediately feeling shy. "I mean, the way you come up with these ideas . . . they're going to love it."

Ben's smile softened, his blue eyes meeting hers. "Thanks, Lulu. I have quite a bit of experience working with Littles. It’s my passion.”

Lulu hesitated, her heart pounding as she gathered the courage to ask the question that had been on her mind. "Ben, are you . . . are you a Daddy Dom?" She bit her lip, her cheeks flushing with a mix of curiosity and nervousness.

Ben's eyes widened slightly, but a warm grin spread across his face. "Yes, I am," he confirmed, his voice gentle yet confident. "I run an ageplay night club back home, so it would be a little strange if I wasn't," he added with a chuckle.

Lulu’s mind raced, imagining the countless Littles Ben must have encountered. "So, you've met, like, atonof Littles?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

He nodded, his expression softening. "I have, but each Little is unique and special in their own way."

Lulu had never had a Daddy before, and the thought of Ben's vast experience made her feel like a complete novice.

Ben, as if sensing her unease, leaned forward, his eyes filled with genuine concern. "Lulu, have you ever had a Daddy before?"

She shook her head, her voice catching in her throat. "No, I haven't."

He nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Is there anyone here at the ranch who you think you might be compatible with?" His voice sounded hoarse all of a sudden.

Lulu’s mind immediately went to Ben, but she quickly pushed the thought away. "I . . . I don't know," she stammered. She forced a smile, trying to mask the turmoil within. "I'm sure there are plenty of wonderful people here," she said, her voice strained. "But right now, I think it's best if I focus on the carnival and getting settled in."

Ben's eyes searched hers, as if trying to read the truth behind her words, but he simply nodded, respecting her decision. "Of course, Lulu. We're all here to support you, in whatever way you need."

Lulu took a deep breath, pushing aside her swirling emotions. "So, about the carnival decorations," she began, her voice bright with forced enthusiasm. "I was thinking we could have a giant gingerbread house as the centerpiece, with twinkling lights and candy canes all around."

Ben nodded. “Love it. We could even have a gingerbread decorating station for the Littles."

"Ooh, and a hot-cocoa stand, with all sorts of toppings and flavors!"

As they brainstormed, the tension between them melted away, replaced by a shared sense of purpose and joy. Lulu found herself laughing easily, caught up in the magic of their vision.

"You know," Ben said softly, his gaze warm and appreciative, "I can tell this carnival means a lot to you. The way your eyes light up when you talk about it . . . it's really special."

Lulu ducked her head, a blush creeping up her cheeks. "I just want to create something amazing for everyone," she murmured. "Growing up, Christmas was always a bit lonely for me. I want to make sure no one feels that way here."

Ben reached out, his hand gently covering hers. "With you at the helm, I have no doubt this will be the most incredible Christmas carnival Littlecreek Ranch has ever seen."

Lulu’s heart fluttered at his touch, a wave of warmth spreading through her. For a moment, she allowed herself to bask in the connection, in the feeling of being seen and understood.

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