“Okay. Look, I’m not asking for a declaration of love or anything,” I go on. “I just want to know that you feel something for me. I know you're not into everyday, lovey dovey stuff. I know you're darker and kinkier than that, and I love that about you. I just need some reassurances sometimes. You understand, right?”

“Absolutely, and I assure you that I’m with you. As long as you understand that I’m not into flowers and chocolates. I prefer handcuffs and floggers.”

My face loses the battle between happy and angry, and I flash a smile. “Me, too.”

“Good,” Nas says, finally feeling free to smile as he sits down, looking very relieved that the storm has passed. He takes a second to breathe deeply before saying, “In that case, I need to know if you have anything planned for tonight after you get off work.”

“I didn't have anything planned,” I reply. “I was just expecting to come back here.”

“Ah, well I have a thing tonight with Keisha. But I’m going to see you later. After you get off, come back here and let yourself in. Eat before you come, and be here at eight on the dot. If I’m not here, just come to the Kingdom and wait for me like before.”

“You going to make me wait while you sit in your office again?” I ask, half joking, but Nas doesn’t flinch.

“You remember our first night here? The night I asked you about your limits?”

“Yeah. Why?”

“Well, I have something special planned tonight.”

“Something special?”

“Yes, and I need you to remember your safe word. It’s vitally important that you remember the kinks you agreed to, and your safe word. Do you understand?”

I frown as I think about what Nas might be talking about. “Yes, I understand. You certainly have me intrigued. Is this how you show me I’m special to you?”

Nas smiles, and I see the devil in his grin. “This will be the most intense, special thing we’ve ever done, Baby Girl. Just make sure you don't forget your safe word.”

Chapter Thirty