"Am I allowed to speak?" Mallory finally breaks the silence.
"Of course." Sebastian has his laptop out in front of him working away.
"I know I have known you since I was a little girl, but I literally know nothing about you."
"What do you want to know? I’m an open book."
Mallory hesitates for a moment, her mind racing with questions. "Well, for starters, what do you like to do in your free time when you're not working?"
Sebastian's lips curve into a faint smile. "I have a few interests. I enjoy fine dining, exploring different cuisines. I'm also a fan of classic literature and art. But my work does tend to consume a significant portion of my time."
Mallory nods, absorbing this new insight into Sebastian's world. "And what about your family? Do you have any siblings or close relatives?"
Sebastian's gaze grows distant for a moment. "I don't have any siblings, and my parents passed away when I was quite young. My closest ties are to friends who have become like family over the years."
"Sebastian," she begins, her voice hesitant, "there's something I've been curious about."
Sebastian looks up from his laptop, his eyes meeting hers. "What's on your mind, Mallory?"
"Well," she starts, "I couldn't help but notice that you seem to have a very... unique lifestyle. I mean, the way you carry yourself, your preferences, and even the way you conduct business."
Sebastian nods, his expression calm. "Go on."
Mallory takes a deep breath, choosing her words carefully. "I've heard people mention the term BDSM before, and it seems like some aspects of your life might be related to that. Would you mind explaining how you got into it, if you're comfortable sharing?"
Sebastian leans back in his seat, appearing to consider her question. After a moment, speaks. "BDSM, Mallory, is a complex and multifaceted world. It's not just about the physical aspects, but also about trust, communication, and the exploration of desires."
Mallory listens intently, her curiosity growing. "So, how did you become a part of it?"
Sebastian's gaze turns introspective as he recalls his past. "It started years ago, during my time in Europe. I was in a place of self-discovery, trying to understand my desires and boundaries. That's when I encountered someone who introduced me to the world of BDSM."
Mallory's eyes widen with interest. "And how did it change you?"
Sebastian smiles, a hint of nostalgia in his eyes. "It opened up a world of exploration, self-acceptance, and connection. It'snot for everyone, but for those who find resonance in it, it can be deeply fulfilling. It's about trust, consent, and pushing boundaries, all while maintaining a deep respect for one another."
Mallory nods, absorbing his words. "It sounds like it's about more than just physical pleasure."
Sebastian nods in agreement. "Exactly. It's about the psychological and emotional connection as much as the physical. It's a world of intense sensations and profound trust."
"Why did you agree to teach me?" Mallory asks curiously.
Sebastian's eyes gleams with amusement. "I saw potential in you, Mallory. I sensed a curiosity and an eagerness to learn. And, as you've already discovered, trust is a crucial aspect of BDSM. I trusted you enough to introduce you to this world."
Mallory nods, her mind still swirling with questions and newfound curiosity. As the plane soars over the Atlantic, she realizes that this journey with Sebastian is going to be so much more than just a business trip to Paris. It is a journey of self-discovery, exploration, and trust. She can't wait to see where it will lead.
"What's the most important lesson you think I should learn, to please you? To connect with you, as your submissive?"
Sebastian grins, his gaze deep and intense.
"The most important lesson to learn is the power of communication. In any relationship, it is essential to establish trust and mutual understanding by communicating openly and honestly. When it comes to BDSM, it is even more important to be able to communicate about your wants and needs, boundaries, and limits. That is the only way to create a safe experience and to ensure that both parties are comfortable and respected."
Mallory turns her attention to the window. It is still dark, but she can see the sun coming up in the distance. They haveseveral hours left to go on this journey and she still has so many questions she wants to ask him.
When she glances back at Sebastian he is back on his computer working. Would he grow tired of her insistent questioning? Maybe she will leave it alone for now.
Chapter Sixteen
"We should develop some ground rules." Sebastian speaks, breaking her train of thought.