Page 43 of The Sadist and the Brat

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Jack stood in James’ basement, looking over the large guest bedroom he was planning to use for the scene. “This’ll work for the role-play scenario I’ve worked out. Do you still keep supplies in the nightstands?”

James nodded. “Lube and condoms, plus a few other odds and ends.”

Jack circled the bed and opened the top drawer. “Clover clamps. Nice.”

“I often think so.”

“I have my toy bag, but those might come in handy.” He shut the drawer.

“If she shows up.”

“Oh, she’ll show up,” Jack said confidently. “She’s got too much pride not to.”

James led the way out of the bedroom. “Is that how you got her to agree to this?”

“Pretty much.” Jack flicked off the lights and followed James into the main basement.

“You know you can’t actually hold her to the bet, right?”

The mild tone didn’t fool Jack. One of the more experienced members of their group, James often took on the role of protector. He looked out for the submissives and had a particular soft spot for Sadie.

“I do,” Jack said. “She knows it, too.”

“I have no doubt.” James walked over to the bar that occupied one side of the finished basement. “Join me?”

“Sure.” Jack settled into one of the club chairs flanking the fireplace on the other side of the room. He took the glass James offered with a murmur of thanks.

“So.” James settled in to the chair opposite Jack. “Sadie.”

Jack met his friend’s gaze head-on. “It surprises you.”

“Not at all,” James said, and Jack blinked in surprise. “I’ve been wondering when you’d make your move.”

Jack let out a chuckle. “I’ve been waiting for the right moment.”

“The bet,” James said.

Jack grinned into his Scotch. “Best idea I’ve had in a long time.”

“She’s a brat,” James pointed out.

“That’s at least half of what I like about her.”

“And the other half?”

“I’m still figuring that out.”

“Which brings me to the big question.”

Jack sipped his Scotch. “Which is?”

“Is this play date just a play date, or something more?”

“That’ll be up to Sadie,” Jack hedged, then thought,what the hell. “But I want her. And I like her.”

“Does she like you?”

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