Page 157 of Tell Me What You Want

“Of course, sir.”

As soon as I step out of his office, I feel relief.

Arguing with Eric wipes me out. We can never come to an understanding.

Eric doesn’t come out of his office for the rest of the morning. At lunch, I’m surprised when my supervisor tells me Eric has left for the day.

I don’t call him. I don’t text. I give him his space.

I go to the gym. I need to vent. I run into Marisa, and she introduces me to two friends, Rebeca and Lorena. The four of us take an aerobics class, and when we’re finished, all sweaty, we head for the showers.

After the gym, we go to the pub next door for a drink. We exchange cell numbers and agree to get together for dinner one night, with our partners. Then Lorena talks us into going with her to a store to pick up something she’s ordered. While we wait, I look over the merchandise on display, and the owner encourages us to try on anything we like. I select a pair of very sexy panties and a bra I’m sure Eric will love.

“They look great on you,” says Rebeca as she comes into the dressing room.

“You think?”

She nods as she drapes a couple of ensembles on the bench.

“You should get them. I’m sure your guy will love you in them.”

“Yes, I’m sure he will.” I can imagine Eric’s face.

Suddenly, Rebeca grabs my hand.

“Beautiful ring.”

I’m still enchanted by it.

“My boyfriend gave it to me.”

“He has very good taste.”

“Thank you.”

I look in the mirror while she undresses to try on another ensemble.

“Here—try this on,” she says, handing me a black leather corset.

I take off the bra I have on and stand there naked, like her, in the dressing room. I bend to take off my panties and see she’s also bending. When I stand up, she’s face to face with my tattoo. I don’t move; I just look at her. She slides a finger on my slit and gives me a kiss. I jerk away.

“What are you doing?”

She stands and steps up close to me.

“Marisa told me she saw you play at a little party in Zahara. Is that true?”

I’m uncomfortable with this.

“Yes, but I only play in the presence of my partner.”

“Is that your norm?”

“Yes.”

She stops where she is.

“Your guy doesn’t have to know. It can be our secret.”

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