Page 7 of Tempted By Eden

Hailee joins the women on stage. “Welcome to Le Jardin, gentlemen. If you’re participating this evening, you have already received your number. We’ve kept you waiting long enough; it’s time to commence your selection.” The bar’s energy shifts, the tension intensifying as the men prepare for the ritual that’s about to unfold.

One by one, each man approaches the stage to make his selection. He attaches a black leash to the wrist of his chosen goddess and leads her out of the bar to their assigned rooms for the evening. Some of the goddesses follow on their hands and knees, guided by the gentle tugs of the leash, while others walk confidently beside their partners.

What the actual fuck?

Madame Sophia, as if reading my mind, offers an explanation. “The client instructs the goddess to either walk or crawl to their room,” she says. “Some men enjoy the theatrics of it.” She shrugs, her nonchalance only adding to the surreal nature of what I’m witnessing.

My eyebrows shoot up, and I find myself wondering why I’m not more repulsed by the idea. Instead, a curious heat gathers in my core, a swirl of wonder and want that I can’t quite unravel.

Why is that so hot?

Once the ten goddesses are escorted out, the room buzzes with animated chatter. Soft music begins to play in the background. It’s as if a switch has been flipped, transforming the space from one of intense anticipation to a laidback lounge where powerful men can unwind.

I take a moment to process everything I’ve witnessed, chewing on my bottom lip as I contemplate my next move. Turning to Madame Sophia, I confess, “I’m not sure I can do this—I mean, if this is the job?” She nods curtly. “This is all… new to me. What if the client wants something I can’t do?”

She smiles understandingly, as if she’s heard this exact concern countless times before.

“It’s a lot to take in, I know. That’s why we ask new recruits to come back and serve for one night before deciding to participate in Le Jardin. The only training you need to know for your trial is to avoid eye contact with clients until given permission and kneel when serving their drinks. It’s not much more than that.”

Her tone is reassuring. I’m still not sure about Le Jardin, but I could certainly give serving a try.

“This isn’t a hardcore BDSM club, Cora,” she continues softly. “Occasionally, a client may want to explore a particular fetish that involves costumes or equipment. But this will always be discussed and agreed upon beforehand. Only experienced clients with formal training are allowed to engage in riskier kinks. Plus, there will always be security present during your session to ensure safe play.”

She walks over to her desk and picks up a folder. “Here,” she hands it over with a patient smile. “This is your paperwork. Even though we’re not a BDSM club, you still need to fill out your limits list, indicating what you’re comfortable with and what’s a hard pass. We also use the standard safe word, ‘red,’ which can be used anywhere in the building. The safety and privacy of my goddesses are of utmost importance. You will also need to sign an NDA and hand over your phone to security upon arrival. This is expected of our clients as well.”

I exhale loudly and nod, trying to keep up with everything she’s saying. My mind is racing, but I can’t deny the temptation of it all—the allure of a world so far from my everyday life, and the excitement of doing something completely out of my comfort zone.

“Come back tomorrow night before making any decisions,” she says. “Just remember to give your completed paperwork to Hailee so we can pay you for the trial, even if you decide it’s not for you. You have nothing to lose and a thousand dollars to gain.” She sits down at her desk with a secretive smile on her lips.

“What?!” I splutter, my eyes widening in disbelief.

“Our rates are five thousand per night for Le Jardin. For bar work, it’s one thousand for a six-hour shift. Hair and makeup are done on-site by professional stylists, and the black gowns worn by all the goddesses are provided.”

Shit. This is too good to be true.

I can handle the bar work, but Le Jardin…? What if I’m chosen by someone I find repulsive? Could I actually go through with it?

I turn away from Madame Sophia and study the bar once more. The lush surroundings, the well-dressed men, and the beautiful women should make this an easy decision. The money alone is enough to solve a few of my problems. But my dignity…

Dignity isn’t going to pay my bills.

And yet, it’s more than that. My body’s reaction to everything I’ve seen and heard tonight is undeniable. My panties are drenched, and I’m horny as hell right now.

I shake my head, trying to push the thoughts aside, but they keep creeping back in. Since having Leo, my sex life has been non-existent, so maybe… maybe this is what I need to kick-start my libido. Get back on the horse, so to speak. And getting paid for it? That’s just the cherry on top. Five grand for one night of kinky sex is hard to pass up. It’s a lot of money.

But is it worth it?

I’ve got to do something. Dad’s medical bills aren’t going to pay themselves, and Leo needs more than just a roof over his head. One night of work could make a world of difference.

“Hope to see you tomorrow night, Cora,” Madame Sophia says, interrupting my thoughts. Her eyes are fixed on me with that same perceptive smile.

I give a small nod, trying to appear professional. “Thank you, Madame Sophia. I’ll… I’ll think about it.”

She offers her hand and I shake it. “Take your time,” she says, the calmness in her tone reassuring. “We’ll be here when you’re ready.”

I leave her office, my mind racing. The echo of my heels on the marble floor seems louder than before as I make my way back down the corridor, past the closed doors, and through the foyer.

With one last glance at the mansion, I walk away. But even as I step into the humid night air, I know I’ll be back.

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