Page 32 of Possess

“I’m not going to say they’re not doing it right. Everyone has their own idea of the lifestyle, and if it suits them, it’s fine. But I’m with likeminded people who are seriously in the lifestyle, and it’s not about abuse. It’s about a power exchange. A give and take between Dom and sub.”

“I’ve heard of the power exchange, but I don’t fully understand. Isn’t there always a give and take between Dom and sub?”

“Yes, but this is a connection that is both physical and mental.”

Allyson thought about his words. “So you’re not one of those overbearing men who expects me to obey his every word?” A shiver ran up her spine. She’d seen enough of those in Seattle and, after a few near-misses, stayed clear of them.

“I’m not. I like my sex kinky. I’m in charge in the bedroom, but I don’t want to take over your life.”

“That’s a relief.” She sagged in her chair.

“That’s not to say I won’t protect you.”

“Like when you insisted on checking out my apartment before I entered.”

“Right.”

“I can live with that.” She could. His protectiveness actually made her feel cherished and safe.

“Have you used toys?”

This time she couldn’t stop the heat that crept into her neck and face.

“Hmm, do I take your embarrassment as a yes?”

Allyson bit her lip. “Depends on what you mean by toys. A vibrator, yes. Not much else.”

“That’s fine. So you know your body and what arouses you.”

She covered her face with her hands. “Can we talk about something else, please?” Why was she so embarrassed? Was it because they were in public?

His husky chuckle reached her ears. “There’s nothing to be embarrassed or upset about. Most of us are sexual beings.”

Allyson lowered her hands to find Zeke staring at her. His eyes held amusement. “True. But you said sex isn’t the goal.” She took a sip of her tea.

“Right.”

“But it’s always been mine.” Well, crap. She’d blurted a private thought once again.

“Why is that?”

“Because that’s what I know.” Okay, her mouth was running away without her brain being engaged. She was telling Zeke things she never mentioned to anyone, except maybe Dani, but she’d known Dani since she was fourteen.

“Unacceptable.” He shook his head. “Dessert?”

“No, I’m fine.” She sipped her tea, wondering at the change of subject.

“Okay.” Zeke motioned to the waiter. “Our check please.”

“Of course, sir. Was the coffee not to your liking?” He motioned to Zeke’s full cup.

“It’s fine; we were just talking.”

The waiter walked away, and Zeke picked up his cup and drained it. Allyson finished up her tea, recognizing that Zeke was, rather abruptly, ready to leave. “Do you have a problem with what I said?” she asked.

“Absolutely not. We need privacy for the rest of our conversation.”

Private conversation. Oh boy, that could mean a lot. Allyson nodded as Zeke paid the bill, picked up their food, and escorted her back to his truck. The drive back to her place was quiet. Her body hummed with tension. Was Zeke going to walk away from her? It was possible. Her gut clenched at the thought of Zeke leaving her and then seeing him through work.

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