shook her head. “No thanks.” In the last couple of days, Hunter had told her all about the lifestylers’ club, and she had to admit, an evening out with him was very tempting. “I need to get an early night. I’ve a job interview in the morning.”
“Chill, Zoë. You’re entitled to have some fun.”
“As soon as I get a job, then I’ll chill. I just don’t feel right depending on you like this. I’m used to paying my way.”
“I’ve already told you about Matthew and Ethan, the brothers who own Club Submission. If I ask, they’ll find you a job.”
Zoë laughed. “Now that would be just plain crazy, Hunter, and you know it. How would you like me, watching you in action? Let me see, while I’m serving behind the bar, I could take notes, rating your sexual performance.”
Hunter considered her answer for a moment. “Maybe you’re right, Zoë. I hadn’t really thought about it. So what would you rate me on?” His penetrating blue eyes held hers, and a wicked grin spread on his lips, as he waited for her answer.
Zoë giggled. “Not that I’ve been to a BDSM club or anything like it, so I’m guessing here, but stamina, sexual prowess, and mastery of your sub, would all be rated on a sliding scale of one to ten. Although, I should warn you, I’ve never ever been known to give a score of ten.” Mike, her ex boyfriend had barely managed a five. She figured Hunter would rate far more highly.
Hunter laughed, and playfully touched her arm. “I love your sense of humor, Peaches. I’m so glad you came back with me. I’d forgotten how much fun we had teasing each other when we were kids at St. Mark’s.” He turned and put the last of the dried dishes in the cupboard. “So tell me more about this job interview tomorrow. Where is it?”
“It’s in Boston. There’s a club taking on exotic dancers.”
He frowned. “I thought you were done with all that, Zoë?”
“It’s all I know.”
Hunter put his hands on her shoulders, and stared down into her eyes. “I mean this in the best possible way, but aren’t you getting a little old for flashing your tits and ass?”
Zoë felt her shoulders stiffen, and she bristled indignantly. Everyone thought she was getting too old, including herself. “I may not be as hot as the young girls, but I’ve got experience on my side. It takes years to achieve that sort of professionalism. Young girls may have the bodies to die for, but they just don’t connect with the guys as much as us older girls. A dancer has to make the man feel special.”
“Then maybe you should be teaching them instead, Peaches. Have you ever thought of running classes?”
“No, but it sounds like a really good idea. Maybe I’ll look into it if I don’t have any luck tomorrow.”
“Good.” Hunter leaned forward and kissed her cheek. “I’m gonna go and get ready. In case I don’t see you before morning, good luck with the interview.”
“Yeah, thanks.”
It hadn’t been the hardest decision she’d ever made to return to Boston with Hunter. The only thing that unsettled Zoë was her financial dependence on him. But as Hunter had pointed out, what was left for her in Pittsburgh anyway? It had felt wonderful when she’d locked the door to the crummy apartment for the very last time. She wouldn’t miss it one little bit. Her time in Pittsburgh had been tough. Now it was time for a new life, and a new beginning.
In some ways, she felt like they’d never been apart. The intervening fourteen years had simply melted away. Underlying their relationship was a deep physical attraction. She wondered if their friendship would end, if they started having sex. Just the subtle looks they gave one another throughout the day emphasized their deep-rooted longing for each other.
She watched his tall, well-built frame stride purposefully from the kitchen. Hunter was all man, and ever since he’d kissed her in the playroom, she couldn’t shake the thought of him dominating her