Page 34 of Small Town Daddy

“Good. That’s what this is all about.” He squeezed my hand. "Let's go through this together, okay?"

I nodded, both nervous and excited for what was to come. I took a deep breath, my heart racing. "I'm glad you've done this," I said, meeting Marcus's eyes. "I've been thinking about it too—you know, the, uh, practicalities of the relationship, but... I wasn't sure how to bring it up."

A small, embarrassed laugh escaped me. "This is all new to me. I've never been in a relationship like this before." My fingers fidgeted with the hem of my shirt. "But knowing we're going to have everything laid out . . . it sets my mind at ease, you know?"

Marcus's gaze softened. "That's exactly why I wanted to do this," he said. "I want you to feel safe, Lucy. Understood?"

A flutter of excitement mixed with relief washed over me. The care he was putting into this, into us—it made me feel valued in a way I hadn't expected.

Marcus leaned forward, reaching for something on the coffee table. "I found a template we can use as a starting point," he said, picking up a neatly organized folder.

My eyebrows raised. Of course he'd have everything perfectly arranged.

"But," he continued, holding the folder out to me, "I want us to go through it together. Tailor it to fit us."

I reached for the folder, my fingers brushing against his as I took it. The brief contact sent a shiver through me, intimate ina way that surprised me. This was more than just paperwork—it was trust, made tangible.

"Together," I echoed softly, clutching the folder to my chest. "I like the sound of that."

I opened the folder, the crisp pages rustling as I spread them out on the coffee table. Marcus leaned in close, his warmth radiating against my side.

"How do you envision our roles?" he asked, his blue eyes searching mine.

I bit my lip, considering. "I want to fully embrace my 'little' side," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper. "To feel safe, cared for. Like I can let go of all the adult worries for a while, you know?"

Marcus nodded, a gentle smile playing at his lips. "And I want to be that safe place for you," he said. "To nurture and protect."

My heart swelled. This was exactly what I'd been craving, even if I hadn't known how to ask for it.

"What about day-to-day stuff?" I asked. "Like, do we check in every morning? Or . . ."

"We could," Marcus mused. "Maybe a good morning text? You know, if we’re not staying at the same place. And I'd like to know how your day's going, make sure you're taking care of yourself."

I grinned. "What, making sure I eat my vegetables?"

He chuckled, but his eyes were serious. "Among other things. Your well-being matters to me, Lucy."

We continued down the list, discussing routines and ways to support each other. It felt surreal, but in the best way possible.

Then Marcus's tone grew more serious. "Now, we need to talk about hard limits," he said. "Things that are absolutely off the table. It's crucial that we both feel safe. Please, be honest about anything you're uncomfortable with."

I nodded, grateful for his directness. "Well," I started, feeling a blush creep up my neck, "I'm not into humiliation. At all. And public stuff is a big no for me."

Marcus jotted down notes, his expression neutral but attentive. "Completely understandable," he said. "Those are off-limits for me too. I'd also add anything involving bodily fluids beyond the basics."

I let out a breath I didn't realize I'd been holding. His openness made it easier for me to be honest too.

"This feels good," I said softly. "Like we're really building something solid here."

Marcus reached over, giving my hand a gentle squeeze. "That's the goal," he murmured.

I squeezed back, feeling a warmth spread through me that had nothing to do with the crackling fire.

I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the next part. "So, um . . . soft limits?" I ventured, my voice barely above a whisper.

Marcus nodded, his blue eyes gentle. "Things we might consider with time and increased trust," he explained. "No pressure at all."

I bit my lip, feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement. "There are some things I'm curious about but not ready to try just yet," I admitted.

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