Page 161 of Tell Me What You Want

She doesn’t mention our encounters in the gym, nor what happened the day before. I don’t either. I feel strange hiding it, but I keep the secret, not quite understanding why.

Eric grabs my waist and pulls me to him.

“They were at the Roaring Twenties party we went to in Zahara. Since then, Marisa hasn’t stopped emailing, asking to meet you.”

When I turn to her, she’s smiling.

“I’m dying to taste you, Judith.”

I don’t respond. I can’t. All I can see is how that woman runs her lustful gaze over my body, pausing at my breasts. She reminds me of Sylvester the Cat when he’s licking his lips before trying to devour Tweety Bird.

Eric makes a sly face. He likes what he sees; it pleases and excites him.

“My girlfriend is very ... very desirable.”

He kisses me. When he releases me, out of the corner of my eye I see Marisa and her husband whispering while drinking champagne. Eric picks up a long silk handkerchief off the couch.

“Remember this?”

“Yes.”

“I might want to tie you to the bed at some point, to offer you. Any objections?”

“I trust you,” I whisper, but I’m scared to death.

His eyes sparkle. He comes back, close to me.

“Marisa is a very active person, and she’s dying to play with you. Of course, I gave my consent.”

“What?”

Eric grins and kisses my shoulder.

“That’s today’s punishment, love.”

“Eric, no,” I say, my mouth dry.

“No?”

I whisper in his ear, “You know women don’t do it for me.”

He grins.

“That’s why it’s your punishment. But it’s all right. I offer you so she can play with you. You don’t have to do anything except enjoy it.”

I’m stupefied.

“C’mon, Miss Flores, be consistent with your whims.”

My stomach is tied in knots as I look at Marisa. Just thinking about what Eric has asked of me makes me want to run.

Mario has set himself down on the couch while Marisa watches us. My nerves feel like they’re about to sizzle.

“Eric.”

“Yes, Jude?”

“I don’t want to do this ... I don’t.”

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