Page 63 of Bling

“No. You tell them that we are two consenting adults who are attracted to each other and exploring a relationship outside of work.”

Her eyes went wide. “Are you really ready to be the boyfriend and deal with my family?”

He chuckled. “How bad can it be?”

Isabelle giggled. “You haven’t spent much time with them. Just wait until the family reunion. You’ll regret it.”

Garrett rolled his eyes as if he didn’t believe her.

“I should get going. I have some work at the Glenview before the board meeting tonight,” Hunter said as he stood. “I’ll have Lori at the hotel help you get set up with classes.”

When Isabelle stood, Hunter pulled her into a hug. “Don’t fight the help. We just want to see you happy.”

“I appreciate it,” she said, squeezing him tight.

When he released her, she started for the door, but Garrett’s stern voice stopped her. “Sit back down, Doll.”

Hunter winked as he brushed past her. “I’ll see you kids this weekend,” he said, shutting the door.

She dropped into her chair again and waited for Garrett to speak.

“I just want to make sure I understand something. You’re working for me during the day, working for Hunter at night, and putting in time at Solitaire on weekends. On top of that, you’re taking care of two teenage girls. When exactly do you have time for yourself, Isabelle?”

“You sound pissed,” she whispered.

“I’m not pissed, I’m concerned. I wonder if spanking you was enough. I’m not a Dom that controls his sub’s free time or puts her on a strict schedule, but you’re making me reconsider that. Answer my question.”

“Solitaire is time for me.”

“Bullshit. You work the bar, you work the front desk, you help set up the suites and cabins, and it’s rare for you to miss set-up and teardown. You do three times what’s required of a house submissive. It’s like a third job for you and I’m almost convinced you need to step down from the program.”

“No!” Panic clawed at her. “Please don’t take that away from me. It’s my secret place away from my family. My one escape. Please don’t take it from me just because you think I work too hard.” Her voice trembled and tears threatened to fall.

Garrett’s face softened and he pushed away from his desk and came to sit next to her.

“I’m not trying to upset you or take anything away from you. I’m sorry. I can see it means a lot to you.”

She picked at an imaginary crumb on her skirt.

“I’ll be honest, Isabelle. I’m not used to seeing women outside of the club so I’m new to this, but I do want to take care of you and I definitely want to keep seeing you outside the club. I don’t give a damn about your family, or the viral kiss. I just want you to be happy, healthy, and mine.”

“I love being yours, Sir. I’m sorry my life is a complicated mess.”

“I can fix most of it for you if you would let me.”

Her head shook vehemently. “There are some things I’ll let you help with, but nothing concerning my family. That’s just something I have to handle on my own.”

He sighed. “I don’t get that, but I’ll respect it.”

“Can I get to work, please?”

He reached for her hand. “Hey, I feel like I’ve upset you.”

She shook her head. “No. Not upset. I’m just tired and overwhelmed.”

His domly scowl returned. “Do you need to go home and take a nap?”

She fisted the hem of her blazer into her hands. “Please, Garrett. Just let me work.”

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