She peered back at Edge. “I’m going to be honest.”
Edge nodded. “I’d appreciate that.”
“As I mentioned earlier, I’m working on my doctorate. The basis of my dissertation is on human sexuality, relating to Domination and submission and the power play that occurs within. More specifically, I’m looking to prove my thesis statement with substantial evidence showing the utmost power in a D/s relationship is in fact held by the submissive.
“As of now, most of my discoveries are in direct correlation to the interviews I’ve performed, as well as the books I’ve read—both fiction and nonfiction. However, I’m a long way from proving anything. Now that I’m in the door here, I’m hoping to expand my interviewee pool dramatically, have more opportunities to prove my theory.”
Edge’s hands lowered to his sides. Slowly. He looked angry. Enough that it had Jamie taking a step back and me standing tall. I didn’t know why I felt the need to protect her should he lose it, but that was where I was at.
“Before you get upset…” she said quickly.
“Too late for that,” he snarled.
“I’m not writing about the club or the members. There will be nothing that even mentions this place.”
That seemed to settle the big guy a little.
“However, I am looking to get more interaction with both Dominants and submissives. Specifically, I’d like to interview and observe.”
“No,” he barked.
When most people would’ve turned and run, Edge’s definitive response seemed to trigger her need to argue.
“Only with your permission.”
“No,” he repeated, his tone leaving no room for argument.
I stepped into the room, decided to offer my two cents. “I have a suggestion.”
Edge’s eyes cut to me, slicing through me with barely restrained fury.
Ignoring his irrational response, I smiled. “What if Jamie was a submissive? Assigned to a Dom? Rather than observe from the sidelines, she could get a firsthand account. See what the power exchange is truly about.”
“That’s a great idea,” she said approvingly. “What do you say, Edge? Is there a Dom who would be interested in giving me the experience?”
Something shifted inside Edge. I saw it with my own two eyes as he took a step toward her. I watched in awe as his hand lifted, gripping her chin firmly between thumb and forefinger. “You’re pushing it, sweetness.”
I was captivated by the transformation in Jamie. Her mouth opened slowly. Her chest began to rise and fall more rapidly. Clearly, his tone and his aggressive response had turned her on, the way he’d taken the reins. She didn’t back down, didn’t move away. No, this woman was submitting, and I doubted she even realized it.
“I don’t mean any disrespect,” she whispered.
His hand dropped as though he hadn’t meant to touch her. The disappointment on her face matched my own. For a second there, I thought we were moving in the right direction.
“I’m not looking to overstep,” she said more firmly, as though realizing she was not winning this argument. “Cav’s idea could work though. I would appreciate the full experience. I’ll admit, I can interview as many people as I want, but that doesn’t mean I’ll truly understand. I can’t get that from textbook education, either. So, while I truly appreciate you walking me around and pointing out equipment, that’s not really the reason I’m here.” Her spine straightened.
“If I don’t agree?” he prompted.
Her gaze slid to the floor. “Well, if you’re not willing to help, I can assure you I will get the experience somewhere.” Her eyes returned to his face. “After all, Zeke won’t be able to intimidate all club owners forever and eventually I will get into a kink club to experience it for myself.”
Damn. She all but threatened the big, bad Dom. She certainly knew how to lay it on the line. I was torn between being impressed and wanting to throw her over my lap and paddle her ass. I figured Edge was, as well, because he didn’t say anything.
“I’m not asking you to be my Dom,” she said when he continued with the silent treatment. “I’m simply asking you to assign someone who’ll allow me to explore this world like any other submissive would.” Her eyes shot over to me. “Perhaps Master Cav would be willing.”
A low growl sounded from Edge.
I was fairly certain she knew what that last statement did to the Dominant in Edge. It brought out the possessive instincts that were a natural part of his chemical makeup. And though I tended to keep situations relatively light, I knew not to overstep in that regard, so I kept my mouth shut.
“You want to know what it’s like to be a submissive?” Edge asked, his expression hard, jaw ticking.
“Yes.” She paused, swallowed. “And I’d like you to be my teacher, but I understand if I’m not a suitable submissive for you.”
Ah, hell. Another challenge.
“Do you have any idea what you’re asking for?” Edge growled, his shoulders tense.
