It was wonderful to watch him work. So methodical and sure of himself.
Once satisfied with the fire, Marcus joined me on the couch. He turned to face me, his expression thoughtful. My heartbeat quickened at the intensity in his piercing blue eyes.
"So, there's something important I'd like to discuss with you," he began softly.
I swallowed hard, sensing the gravity in his tone. "What is it?"
Marcus took a deep breath. "I've been working on something. A contract, of sorts."
My eyes widened. A contract? Like the ones between Daddy Doms and Littles? I'd read about those online, but never imagined I'd be part of one myself. Excitement bubbled up inside me.
"A contract?" I echoed, my voice barely above a whisper.
Marcus nodded, his gaze steady. "I want us to be on the same page about our dynamic. To establish clear boundaries and expectations."
I couldn't quite believe this was happening. My palms felt sweaty and I wiped them discreetly on my jeans. "I'd like that," I managed.
"Really?" Relief flooded Marcus's features. "I wasn't sure how you'd react."
I reached out, taking his hand in mine. "I'm excited, Marcus. Nervous too, but in a good way."
He squeezed my hand gently. "We'll go through it together, okay? Nothing's set in stone. This is about figuring out what works for us."
I nodded, a mix of anticipation and nerves fluttering in my stomach. As Marcus reached for a folder on the coffee table, I realized this truly was going to be a night to remember.
"In relationships like ours, with power dynamics, clear communication is key," he explained. "This contract isn't legally binding. It's about mutual understanding. And ultimately abouttrust. Because it’s not legally binding, both parties have to trust each other."
I nodded, hanging on his every word. "That makes sense."
"It helps us both feel comfortable," Marcus continued. "We'll know each other's limits and expectations. Plus, it can boost confidence. I'll know what you're into, what you're not."
A shiver ran down my spine. The idea of Marcus knowing my deepest desires, my boundaries—it was thrilling and terrifying all at once.
"What if . . ." I hesitated, then pushed on. "What if I'm not sure about something?"
Marcus's smile was reassuring. "Then we talk about it. Nothing's set in stone, Lucy. And I won’t be upset. I can promise you that."
I let out a breath I didn't realize I'd been holding. "Okay. I can do that."
He reached out, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. The gesture was so tender, so intimate, I felt my cheeks flush.
“So,” I said, “you’re pretty knowledgeable about all this stuff?”
He gave me a funny smile. “Well, I—uh—I wouldn’t say I’mthatknowledgeable," Marcus said, a hint of shyness creeping into his voice. "I did some research today. And last night, after you were asleep. Wanted to make sure I approached this the right way."
"Research?" I raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued.
He chuckled, looking a bit sheepish. "Yeah, some sneaky Googling. I wanted to get it right, you know?"
Warmth bloomed in my chest. The thought of Marcus, hunched over his computer, carefully researching—it was oddly touching.
"That means a lot," I said softly. "That you'd put in that effort."
Marcus's eyes met mine, intense and sincere. "I want this to be good for you, Lucy. When I discipline you, or in the bedroom—I want you to enjoy it. To feel safe."
My breath caught. The way he said 'discipline' sent a jolt through me. This was really happening. And the thought of sharing a bedroom with him was making my heart race.
"I trust you," I whispered, surprised by how true it felt.