Safeword: Davenport(42)

She sighed. “We went out a few times, and I submitted to him last weekend, but now... I don't know. I like him, but I feel like I need more experience—more something — before I head into another relationship. Does that make sense?"

"It makes perfect sense. I think you should Top someone, to see how it is, get a feel for it. “

"Oh, gee. No, I don't think so. I wouldn't mind bottoming without submitting, but I'm not interested in Topping."

"Maybe not, but I believe you'd benefit from the perspective. Once you understand what it takes to Top, and can appreciate the emotional differences of Topping versus bottoming, I'm certain it will dissolve some of the conflict you're feeling. But, of course, it's entirely up to you. Do you have plans for the weekend? We're going to the club Saturday evening—if you'd like to drive up early we can talk, have dinner, and you can go as our guest. We have a spare bedroom you're more than welcome to, if you'd like to spend the night before returning home the next day."

"Oh, Sir Brent. That's a very generous offer.” She thought fast, deciding what she was comfortable with. “What if I drive up and spend part of the day with you, decide if I'm up for visiting the club once I'm there? If I am then great, if not I'll head home. I'd love to hang out with you, catch up on lost time, and meet your new... what do I call him? Boyfriend? Partner? Submissive?"

She could hear the gentle smile in his voice as he said, “His name is Jacob, and you can call him any of those things. They're all true, in one way or another."

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Chapter Fourteen

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Dana changed outfits three times before taking the elevator downstairs and crossing the alley into Coolidge Park. She needed to dress nice for the restaurant, but didn't want to look sexy, and her business clothes were too professional for a date. She finally settled on taupe dress pants, a cream-colored flowing silk shirt, and a knee length burnt sienna cashmere cardigan sweater. It wasn't until she was passing the mirror on her way out the door that she realized she wasn't wearing any color, and realized it fit her mood.

Zach was watching the kids on the carousel when she walked up and he gave her a tentative smile, as if he wasn't sure how to greet her. She felt guilty for putting that look on his face, but she didn't know how to greet him, either. She chose the easy route. “Hungry?"

"I could eat. How was your day?"

"It was... you know what? It was better than the other days this week. Thank you for giving me some space. I'm sorry I hurt you by taking it, and I'm not promising I won't need more while I figure a few things out, but I'll explain where my head is right now, and trust you'll understand. Do you think we can work with that?"

His gaze flickered over her face, his eyes considering. “Yes, I'm pretty sure we can. Let's walk down to the Delta Queen. As much as I enjoy the carousel, I'm fascinated by this old boat."

"I think boat is an understatement."

"Point. You sound better today than you did yesterday on the phone."

"I am better. Garnet's mother came to my office after I talked with you. I hadn't returned her calls either, and she's not one to cotton to being ignored. She told me Marcie was wrong, apologized on her behalf, said she was glad I'm finally moving on, and gave me her blessings. It lifted this huge weight off my heart—I hadn't realized how much I needed to hear it from her.” She paused as kids ran in front of them, chasing a runaway hula-hoop. “I also made a few decisions, but let's get seated before I go into them. How's your wind-power project coming?"

"I've put it to the side while I explore the light-bulb moment I had over the weekend. It's come together fast, and I'm writing proposals already, with one functioning prototype built, and a way to build it better, I think."

"Oh wow! That's great. Congrats."

They walked across the permanent pier onto the ship, making their way to the restaurant. Dana was fascinated by the old riverboat—the people who'd been on it, the craftsmanship that'd gone into building it. She was busy looking around, admiring the woodwork, when Zach said, “It's too bad she can't carry passengers anymore. I understand the need for fire codes, but when they put a piece of history out of business, it's just sad. I'm glad the owners found a way to keep her in service, even if she is just a floating hotel these days."

Their talk remained casual as they made their way to the restaurant and were seated. Zach ordered a bottle of wine, and their waiter brought it out with a flourish, doing the formal wine presentation thing. They placed their orders and were finally left alone, with silence between them.