Page 14 of Master My Love

“I’m sorry, sir,” she dutifully replied.

She glanced at the members beside her and the large mirror behind the bar. “It’s funny, except for the half-naked women, I’d think I was at a regular nightclub.”

Eric chuckled. “When was the last time you were in a nightclub? What I’ve seen the women wear in the vanilla clubs in LA exposes more than most of our submissives here in the lounge.”

“Oh? I guess it has been a while.”

“Once you get to the dungeon, that will change.” Signaling to Samson, his bar manager, he ordered a bottle of water for himself, before turning to Val. “Order whatever you’d like.”

“You’re not having a cocktail?”

“No, I’m on duty.”

“The boss rarely imbibes, little missy,” Sam explained in his deep, gravelly voice. “An occasional shot of Gran Centenario Tequila or a sip of champagne is all I’ve ever seen him consume. What can I get you?”

“I’ll have the same as Master Eric, please.”

Quirking a brow, he nodded and moved off.

“You don’t have to abstain on my account.”

“I’m not a big drinker, other than a frozen margarita on a night out with friends. It’s probably best if I keep a clear head, anyway. I have to drive home to Long Beach tonight.”

“Smart girl,” he said, turning her stool so she faced the room. “What do you think of our little club so far?”

“It’s glitzy yet elegant.” She gave him a sidelong glance, a small smile curving her lips. “One might say decadent, sir.”

“One might, eh?” he replied with a chuckle. “Excellent, exactly what we were going for—without being too pretentious.”

“Did you have a hand in the decor?”

“Only final approval. My sister Emily did the design. She owns a studio nearby in Rancho Park.”

“Did she live here already?”

“She moved to LA when I did. We’re the only family we have left, so we try to stay close.”

“Is she a member here?”

“No, other than designing them, she isn’t in the club scene.”

“I’m sure that’s a relief to you. Having your sister around could get awkward in a place like this.”

Eric fought to keep a straight face over that comment. She didn’t know the half of it—yet.

“Would it be alright to pose a personal question?”

“Ask away,” he replied, pleased by her inquisitive nature.

“Master T was kind and helpful to me, but I sensed a tension between the two of you.”

“Don’t let his boyish good looks and charm fool you,” he scoffed. “He’s a lady-killer. And he likes older women. He was involved with my sister a few years ago and broke her heart. I haven’t forgiven him for it yet.”

“Really? He seemed genuine,” she said, frowning. “It must be hard to work with him.”

“He’s a genuine pain in the ass,” he grunted. “But enough about Lil T. I want to know about you.”

She burst out laughing, her hand coming up to contain it but failing. And he was glad because it was as lovely as she was. Light and tinkling it encompassed him. Several other members turned to look charmed as well.

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