Page 16 of Pretending with the Mountain Man
"You're a natural student," she comments as our time draws to a close. "May I ask what sparked your interest?"
I consider the question carefully. "I've always been curious. But recently, I met someone who makes me want to explore more deeply."
"Someone experienced in the lifestyle?"
"Very," I confirm, thinking of Malik's confident dominance even in our brief interactions.
Dr. Tru nods thoughtfully. "A word of advice, if I may. New relationships and new dynamics can be intoxicating. Remember that you can be submissive in the bedroom without surrendering your agency outside of it."
"Is that a common mistake?"
"More common than you'd think." She hands me a small stack of books she's selected. "These should help. Basic guides, personal accounts, ethical considerations. And my card, if you have questions."
I'm leafing through one of the books when the door opens and Malik returns. His eyes immediately find mine, assessing.
"Productive session?" he asks, looking between us.
"Very," Dr. Tru replies. "Melody is a quick study. I've recommended some reading material and offered my services for future discussions."
Malik nods, his expression giving nothing away. "Thank you, Maya."
"My pleasure." She gathers her notes. "Remember what we discussed, Melody. Especially about communication and boundaries."
After she leaves, Malik moves closer, examining the books in my hands. "Decent selections. How are you feeling?"
"Overwhelmed. Intrigued." I meet his gaze directly. "Ready for that talk we promised each other."
His mouth quirks up at one corner. "Direct I see."
"Is that a problem?"
"No." He takes the books from my hands, setting them aside. "It's one of the things I like about you."
The admission, small as it is, makes my heart rate kick up. "What else do you like about me?"
Malik steps closer, his presence filling my senses. "Your courage. Your curiosity. The way you don't back down from challenges."
"Even when the challenge is you?"
"Especially then." His hand rises to cup my cheek, thumb tracing my lower lip. "I warned you last night that I'm not a safe choice, Melody."
I lean into his touch. "I'm tired of playing it safe."
"Like I told you, this won't be casual for me," he says, voice dropping lower. "If we do this, I'll expect your submission. Your trust. Your honesty."
"And what will I get in return?" I ask, even as my body responds to his words.
"Protection. Pleasure." His eyes hold mine. "And my complete attention."
The promise in those words makes my knees weak. "What about Sage?"
"That’s a real concern." His honesty is refreshing after Jason's endless manipulation. "This won't be easy. But I'm willing to navigate those complications if you are."
In answer, I rise on my toes and press my lips to his. Unlike last night's explosive passion, this kiss is deliberate, a conscious choice rather than an impulse. His arms wrap around me, pulling me against his solid chest as he deepens the kiss.
When we part, both breathing heavily, he rests his forehead against mine. "Is that a yes?"
"Yes," I whisper. "I want this. I want you."
