"Carter's been dealing with it," Gemma adds."He says they've handled it, but it's definitely increased security at the club."
I frown, handing Summer's phone back."Do they know who leaked the photos?"
"Not yet," Gemma shakes her head."But they're looking into it."
An uncomfortable silence falls over the table.Club Red has always been a safe haven, a place where consent and discretion are paramount.The idea that someone violated that trust is disturbing.
"Anyway," Summer says finally, clearly trying to lighten the mood, "let's focus on happier things.Like Skye's hot date tonight."
"It's not a date," I protest automatically.
"Whatever you say," Gemma grins."Just promise to give us all the juicy details tomorrow."
"Not happening," I laugh, grateful for the shift in topic.
As lunch continues, we chat about everything from Gemma's wedding to Summer's plans to redecorate Knox's house.It's normal, comforting, and for a little while, I almost forget about the anticipation building inside me for the next time I see him.
Almost.
The evening air is warm as I step out of my car in the Club Red parking lot, my heart hammering in my chest.I run my fingers down the hem of my short black skirt, smoothing invisible wrinkles.The drive to Club Red felt like an eternity, my thoughts looping over and over.Now that I'm here, the thought of turning around and leaving is even stronger.What is it about Gage that gets to me like this?I've played with other Doms before, and have enjoyed my experiences, but nothing has made me feel this off-balance, this...on edge.
By the time I step into Club Red, the pulse of music and the low hum of conversation ground me somewhat.I walk with purpose, heading straight for the bar where Jax greets me with an amused smirk.
"Gage is already here," he says."He said to send you straight up when you arrived."
My breath catches."Up?"
"Third floor," he clarifies."He has a suite there."
This is unexpected.The third floor is reserved for founding members and VIPs.I'd known Gage was a regular, but I hadn't realized he was that connected.
"Thanks," I manage, trying to hide my surprise.
I bypass the main floor and head directly to the elevator, pressing the button for the third floor and using the code Gage gave me.As the doors slide closed, I take a deep breath, trying to center myself.This is just play, I remind myself.Just a scene with a new Dom.
But as the elevator climbs, I can't shake the feeling that tonight might be the beginning of something more than I bargained for.
The elevator doors open directly into a small lobby area.Gage is waiting, leaning against the wall with casual grace.He's dressed in dark jeans and a charcoal button-down, sleeves rolled up to reveal strong forearms with a hint of tattoos.The sight of him sends a jolt of electricity through me.
"Right on time," he says, pushing off the wall and approaching me."I appreciate punctuality."
"I aim to please," I reply, trying to keep my voice steady.
His eyes darken as he takes me in, his gaze traveling slowly from my face down to my feet and back up again."Yes," he says softly, "I believe you do.Can I touch you?"
Club Red is big on consent, and I like the fact that he is asking about it before we move any further.
"Yes," I say.
He offers me his hand, and I take it, allowing him to lead me down a hallway.One door has a group of men stationed outside, and I vaguely recognize Mase in the corner, his presence unmistakable.He watches, but his eyes never meet mine.He nods at Gage, and Gage nods back, but neither says a word.
We pass several doors before stopping at one on the end.He swipes a keycard, and the door opens to reveal a spacious suite.
It's not what I expected.Rather than the dungeon-like atmosphere of the playrooms on the second floor, this is more like a luxury apartment.There's a sitting area with elegant furniture, a small kitchenette, and doors that presumably lead to other rooms.
"Drink?"Gage offers, moving to a small bar in the corner.
"Water, please," I reply, not wanting alcohol to dull my senses tonight.