I’ve never been with a virgin, but the thought thrills me.

  “I think I would,” I confess, shocked when the words leave my lips.

  Christy chuckles lightly. “He wouldn’t last long that first time. Think you would enjoy that?”

  My insides tremble at the thought of having sex with Brent. He’s such a good guy, but there has to be something inside of him that wants to give in to his desires.

  I fan myself with my hand. “If Brent’s a virgin and he gets a taste of what being with a woman is like, there is no doubt he’ll be all up for round two. Maybe even three or four. I would be more than happy to teach him a few things.”

  There’s no one in the hallway, but Christy moves closer, her voice just above a whisper. “You know, you can always request a virgin for the Dark Room. There are a few I know of. It seems like it’s something you might be interested in.”

  Being with a man who hasn’t slept with someone is intriguing, but if there are male virgins in their late twenties and older, there has to be something wrong with them. Then again, Brent could seriously still be a virgin. I noticed the way he acted in the club, at how nervous he was to stare at all the bare flesh walking past him. His family are very religious, just like mine. I, on the other hand, wanted to get away from all of that. I have my faith, and I fully believe I’m a good person; I’m just not the type to walk around like I’m holier than thou.

  “Have you seen these so-called virgins?” I inquire.

  Christy smirks. “I have. And you’ve seen a lot of our male members in the club. They’re all pretty damn hot if you ask me. I would never do you wrong.”

  Am I seriously going to do this? I think I’m the only employee of Society X who hasn’t partaken in one of the sex rooms. In a way, I am a virgin.

  “Okay,” I give in, squeezing my eyes shut. “I want to try the Dark Room.”

  Christy squeals and flings her arms around my neck. “You won’t be disappointed.” She lets me go quickly and takes my purse, nudging me toward the door at the end of the hallway that leads back into the main club. “I’ll hold your stuff since you’re not allowed to have your phone in the club. I talked to Jared a few minutes ago; he should still be there. Go find him and get scheduled up.”

  My pulse races as I leave her and walk into the main part of the club. There are so many people around, but I spot Jared almost immediately. He’s so tall that he towers over almost everyone. He turns around before I can even tap his shoulder.

  “Hey,” he says, smiling curiously at me. “Are my eyes deceiving me? I don’t think you’ve ever sought me out before.”

  Rolling my eyes, I clutch his wrist and nod toward the exit. “I haven’t. Now let’s go somewhere and talk before I change my mind.”

  Jared and I leave the main club and head back to the administrative wing of the building. Christy is still waiting for me and hands me my purse before giving Jared a wink and strolling away.

  He takes me into the same room where I filled out all my paperwork to become an employee of Society X. Jared sits down on the other side of the desk, his blue eyes crinkling around the edges from smiling.

  “You’re nervous, aren’t you?”

  I can feel a bead of sweat drip down my back. “A little,” I confess.

  How could I not be? I’m about to schedule a sex date in the Dark Room. Never in my wildest dreams growing up did I imagine there was such a place like Society X.

  “But I’m ready,” I add confidently.

  Jared turns to his computer and chuckles. “It’s about time. I’m assuming you want the Dark Room?” He glances over at me, and I reply with a nod. His fingers work quickly over the keys. “What are your requirements for a partner? I know you won’t be able to see him, but I can put you with someone who will take control . . . or someone who you can take control of?” He shrugs and opens his arms wide. “Anything you ask for, you’ll get. I can assure you of that.”

  “All right,” I say, leaning back in my chair with excitement bubbling through my chest. I envision Brent in my head and the words just leave my lips. “I want someone inexperienced, someone I can have my way with.”

  Jared’s eyes widen. “Wow. So, you want a virgin? We have a couple of them in our database. No one has requested them yet. Most women want experienced men who know what they’re doing.”

  “That may be true, but I want to see what it’s like to be the one in control.” Jared turns back to his computer, his eyes twinkling with delight. “I think I have the perfect guy for you. How does tomorrow night at nine o’clock sound? I see you have the rest of the weekend off.”

  Tomorrow night? The anticipation trembles through me, and I have to catch my breath.

  “Tomorrow sounds great,” I answer.

  Jared finishes on the computer and stands. “Do you want me to walk you through everything?”

  Shaking my head, I get to my feet. “No, I remember how it works.”

  He flourishes a hand toward the door. “Well, then, I’ll see you tomorrow night.”

  We say our goodbyes and I exit the building to the back parking lot. Once in my car, I pull out my phone and blow out a slow breath. I read Brent’s text again and smile.

  Me: Hey Brent! I would love to see you again. I’m busy tomorrow night, but we could meet for lunch! Does that work?

  I start up my car and before I can drive away, he texts back.

  Brent: That works! I’ll call you in the morning and work out all the details. Can’t wait to see you again.

  Me: Same. Goodnight! I’ll talk to you tomorrow.

  The whole way home, I find it hard not to smile. Brent was always an easy person to talk to. I haven’t been able to find someone like that since I moved to Portland. What I want is a true connection with someone, but there are times when I don’t think it’ll happen. So, for now, I’m going to enjoy my time in the Dark Room. Heaven knows I need the release.

  FIVE

  Brent

  Fridays aren’t supposed to be stressful. They’re the “dress in jeans and polo type days,” which are meant to be relaxing. Except, I went and scheduled a lunch date with Scotlyn. The same Scotlyn that has a starring role in every dirty fantasy I have ever had. Which, by my assessment, is a lot since I ran into her at Society X.

  I can’t sleep, think, or even shower without picturing the object of my wet dreams, naked and doing things to my body or me doing things to hers. Somehow, my virginal mind has been able to conjure up the most vivid images of acts I have never even come close to doing, let alone actually knowing how to do them. Like, how do I know when to flip someone over and tell them to get on all fours? Or tell someone to suck my . . . What do I even say? Dick? Cock?

  Thanks to Google and internet porn, I have a vague grasp on how this whole sex thing works. I’ve learned a few things, well as much as one can learn from reading and watching choreographed sex. At least, I think I have. One thing is for sure, I’m going to get my cock milked. Apparently, this happens to all guys. I know I’ll be the exception because I probably don’t work right.

  I look down from the computer screen at my growing erection. It’s embarrassing. All I have to do is think about Scotlyn and my friend starts to rise, as if he’s being called for duty. As much as I hate thinking about being in the Dark Room with someone I don’t know, I think it’s the right move for me. I want to get the initial first-time crap out of the way and then maybe I’ll have enough courage to put the moves on Scotlyn.

  Oh, who am I kidding? I don’t have moves. I’m not slick or smooth with the ladies. There isn’t one thing about me that attracts women like Scotlyn. She’s going to lunch with me today because we were friends in high school. Although we technically dated, I have long suspected I was the safe choice and kept her out of trouble. I can count on one hand how many times I kissed her. Actually, she is the one who initiated the kiss. That moment is a blur and for all I know I spit in her mouth.

  Nope, can’t think about that because Lana Lovegood loves it when big beefy men with thick juicy cocks spit in her mouth.

  I hang my head, embarrassed by my thoughts and thankful my coworkers have no idea what’s going on in my mind. I blame them, my deplorable sex-deprived coworkers, for taking me to that stupid club. Yes, I know if I hadn’t gone, I wouldn’t have run into Scotlyn, but let’s be honest, ever since seeing her, I’ve become one of those sex-deprived people who are the bane of my existence right now.

  The alarm on my phone sounds. I shut it off and then power down my workstation. I know that once I leave, the others will sit around and gab for the rest of the day. It’s what employees do and is another reason why I had to come to Portland to fix their shit.

  “I’m gone for the rest of the day,” I say as I walk out the door. I don’t bother pinpointing my message to anyone in particular.

  I tap the address Scotlyn gave me and see how bad traffic is and whether I can walk or not. I turn on the guidance for walking and set out to find the bistro where we’re meeting. While I like Portland, I miss Texas. Mostly the weather and the food. I love the Texas heat. The “authentic” restaurants downtown are okay and they’re trying their best, but the food back home is better.

  After a twenty-minute walk, which should’ve taken me ten if there hadn’t been a group of people having a dance battle on the street corner that I stopped to watch, and then taking a wrong turn, I arrive at the restaurant a little later than planned. Thankfully, Scotlyn has the day off and didn’t sound too upset when I texted her to let her know I was running late.

  The host shows me to the table. The bistro is definitely worth the walk. It’s in an open-air mall and the ceiling over the restaurant is all glass. Very chic. When I get to the table, I kiss Scotlyn on her cheek. She holds her cheek against my lips. Or at least I think she does. I could be imagining it because it’s what I want.

  “I’m sorry for keeping you waiting.”

  “Not a problem,” she says. “Do you have to go back soon?”

  “No, I’m done for the day.” I put my napkin in my lap, along with my clasped hands. “I figured if I’m having lunch with a gorgeous woman on a beautiful day, I might as well take the rest of the day off and enjoy my fortune.”

  “Ah, that’s so sweet.” Scotlyn blushes. “I’m glad we could do this. Honestly, I’m glad your friends brought you into the club the other night.”

  “They’re definitely not my friends,” I tell her. “I’m their boss and I think they invited me to be nice. As much as I wish I hadn’t seen what I had, I am grateful.”

  “It’s not that bad, ya know.”

  “So you said the other night.”

  We pause our conversation when the waiter arrives to take our drink order. I stick with water, while Scotlyn orders a glass of white wine.

  “And if you remember,” she says after the waiter leaves. “I also told you no one is there against their will. Society X is a well-run establishment and highly sought after. I was lucky to get the job I have.”

  “No high turnover?”

  She shakes her head. “People tend to stay there for a long time or as long as their bodies can handle it. But it’s not just dancing.”

  “Right, the rooms.”

  She nods. “Those and if you need entertainment for a function.”

  I can’t help but smile, and not in a good way. “What kind of function requires stripping?”

  Scotlyn adjusts in her chair. “Have you ever been to a casino?”

  I nod.

  “Did any of the tables have dancers on them?”

  Another nod.

  “Imagine your firm having a casino night. If you want it to be like Vegas, you bring in dancers. At Society X, you can hire any of the dancers for your event. Or, say you need someone to carry those giant cards with whatever round it is for a boxing match. Our staff does those sorts of things.”

  “What about jumping out of a cake?”

  Scotlyn’s eyes widen. “Yes!”

  “I get it,” I tell her. “It’s just not my thing.”

  Even though I’m going to hopefully utilize a feature.

  “It’s not for everyone.”

  “So, I’ve got to ask, do you feel comfortable working at the club? I’m not judging, but it feels so different from what your dreams were when we were in high school. I’m just curious. I don’t know, I guess I feel this way because I’ve never been into a strip club before.”

  The waiter returns with our drinks and asks for our order. I haven’t even looked at the menu because I’m too busy admiring Scotlyn. I glance quickly, see a club sandwich, and tell the waiter. Scotlyn orders an alfredo pasta dish, which sounds delicious.

  “Of course, I feel comfortable at the club,” she says, laughing as if it’s an absurd question. “Our security guys are the best.” She shrugs and smiles. “I feel safer there than anywhere else in the city.”

  Our food arrives and we take a few minutes to dig in.

  “Okay, now tell me what’s going on with you. Married, divorced, kids?” she asks.

  “None of the above,” I tell her and then add, “No girlfriend, either. Or boyfriend.”

  “Boyfriend? Are you . . .?”

  My eyes widen and my mouth drops open. Did I give her that impression? Shit, I must’ve. “No, I’m not,” I tell her. “And nothing against those who are. I’m attracted to women.”

  Believe me, I’m attracted to you.

  Scotlyn smiles, and I want to think it’s because she likes me, even though it’s a far-fetched notion. She can get any guy she wants. There’s no way she’s attracted to me—not with the men she must see on a daily basis at Society X. I’m plain, boring, and a virgin. I wouldn’t even know how to satisfy her. Not to mention it would be embarrassing for me when I shy away from her touch.

  I need help.

  “Do you ever think about going back to Texas?” I ask, changing the subject. I have to get my mind off sex and sex with her because neither are going to happen.

  “At times. I do miss the weather, but Portland has a lot to offer. An hour plus west or east and you’re at the beach or at the mountain. It’s kind of like having the best of both worlds in a sense.”

  “It rains a lot.”

  “It does, but springtime is gorgeous when everything blooms, and they have an amazing festival here in June. That’s when the ships come in.”

  “Ships?”

  She nods. “Fleet week.”

  Ah, so she’s referring to sailors who defend our country. Yep, she’s out of my league.

  “How’s your mom?” she asks.

  “She’s doing well,” I tell her. “Retired and living in some community for people her age, driving around in a golf cart but not golfing.”

  “Really?”

  “Yep, she claims she’s golfing but it’s like a gab session.”

  “Sounds like book club,” Scotlyn says. “When I moved in with Christy, she had a weekly book club meeting. I thought, ‘oh, finally, someone I can talk to about books’ but it’s anything but books. It’s a lot of drama. Who is sleeping around on their spouses and so on. Scandalous neighborhood excitement. I know more about Christy’s friends’ lives than I care to admit. But it’s fun and a way to relax.”

  “You ladies probably talk about the club.”

  “I think only one of her friends is a member, but Christy wouldn’t know what her friends do there. She only handles the male clients. Jared handles all the female clients.”

  “I find the concept fascinating.”

  “It’s definitely unique.”

  “And popular. I saw a commercial for it on TV last night,” I say as the waiter brings our bill and I hand over my credit card.

  “You’ll have to let me treat you to something,” Scotlyn says.

  “How about a movie tomorrow night since you’ve got plans tonight?”

  “That’s perfect.”

  After I pay, I walk Scotlyn out, fully aware of the men staring at her. If I had any machismo, I’d hold my head up high and smirk. But these guys would probably laugh if I did so now.

  Outside, we hug, and she promises to check in with me tomorrow. I stand there, watching her walk away, wishing I could be more outgoing and not so reserved. It’s frustrating—the way I am with women—and I’m hoping something comes to fruition at the club. If I had a little more confidence in myself, I’d make a move on Scotlyn.

  When she’s no longer in view, I turn and head in the opposite direction. My phone vibrates in my pocket, and I excitedly take it out, hoping it’s a text from Scotlyn telling me she’s canceled her plans. It’s not.

  Christy: Tonight, 9 pm. Are you available?

  I look over my shoulder, wondering if I’m being punked. This can’t be real. I type back that I’ll be there and then look at the time. I have seven hours until I’m no longer a virgin.

  How does one prepare to lose their virginity?

  “Ah, shit.”

  SIX

  Scotlyn

  I can’t believe what I’m about to do.

  Am I seriously about to go into the Dark Room and have my way with a virgin? Why, yes, I am. But why am I nervous? If I was the virgin, I could see why I would be, but I’m the experienced one. Maybe that’s the issue. The guy I’m about to have sex with has never been with a woman. I don’t want to disappoint him. I want him to remember every single detail for the rest of his life. Hell, I am definitely going to remember it.

  Heart pounding, I pull into the Society X parking lot and enter through the back door where Jared is waiting on me. It’s almost nine o’clock. I guess you can say I had to give myself a pep talk the whole way here, and that took longer than expected. A part of me wants to back out, but I need to let loose. It’s been so long since I’ve had any kind of carnal fun with a man; my body needs it.

  What I really want is to find someone I can connect with. Dating hasn’t been very successful for me. It’s probably because I haven’t really made the time to meet anyone. Seeing Brent again changed that. There was a time when I had a connection with him. In just the small amount of time I’ve spent with him, I felt it again.

 

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