Chapter 70

Four hours later, I stare at myself in the mirror, scrutinizing the dress I’ve chosen to wear. It’s flattering—dark red, hugging my figure without making me feel self-conscious. It has a scoop neck and drapes down to just above my knees. It is smart enough to wear out to dinner, yet casual enough for the company of a friend.

Which Ethan didn’t always used to be.

He’s the one person during my time at The Red Room, other than David, who managed to get me to agree to sub for him. He was the only one who had ever intrigued me enough. It was my first time playing that part of the dynamic, and he was always nothing but compassionate and comforting as we explored our roles together.

Three years ago, when he told me he was leaving to explore the world, I felt heartbroken. And at the time, I think I was.

Ethan had seeped into my personal li