Page 29 of The Star in Room 7

“Wow… That’s… I wouldn’t have thought of any of that.”

“Perhaps not, but a good Dom will.”

He nods, picking at the pastry.

Should I keep talking, or does he have all the information he needs?

When he’s been quiet for some time, I say, “If you were interested, we’d start with a short scene. Just a few minutes long, with the type of eyemask you can sleep in. Something comfortable.”

“And you’d hold me?” he asks, his voice so quiet it’s barely audible above the waves.

“Yes.”

“I… I think I’d like to try that.”

“Are you sure?”

He nods slowly. “Not here. Not now. But soon. Maybe.”

I brush my fingertips over his hand. “Just say the word, Zach.”

“Where?” He swallows hard and then clears his throat. “Where would we…? All the spaces downstairs at Halo House are too public, and you’re not allowed onto the first floor.” He squeezes his eyes shut for a second. “Second floor. Sorry. I still haven’t got used to that.”

“Two countries, divided by one language,” I say with a chuckle.

“You can say that again.”

“As for the where… We could go to my place, or there are rooms on the first floor that we’re allowed to use. I’ve slept there more times than I can count when a boy has needed me to stay late to take care of them. Think about it. There’s no pressure from me. I want to take care of you and help you regain your confidence. That doesn’t have to involve kink at all.”

“I know. But… It might help. I… I’m so tense all the time. I relax a little when you’re around, especially when you hold me, but not fully.”

“I’ll give you whatever you need.”

He smiles and lays his head on my shoulder again. “I know. Thank you. You’re amazing. I’m so glad Phoenix introduced us.”

I rest my chin on the top of his head. “So am I.” I resist the urge to kiss his hair. “You’re amazing, too.”

9

ZACH

We spend the rest of the day on the beach. I still can’t believe we’re on a private beach belonging to a film star. After breakfast has settled, we take our sandals off and splash in the sea, race each other along the beach until we’re exhausted, then we flop onto the picnic blanket in the shade, dozing to the sound of the waves. We eat the remaining pastries for lunch and spend the afternoon lazing around and talking about something and nothing. It’s low-pressure and fun. I find myself relaxing more and more. Not fully. Never fully. But more than I’ve been able to since she broke into my apartment.

Around mid-afternoon, we head back to the car, and Nate drives me back to Halo House. He stops the car in front of the house.

“I had a great day, thanks,” I say.

“You’re welcome. My client won’t be home for a month, so if you fancy another beach day before then, let me know.”

I smile, heat warming my cheeks for some reason. “I might just do that.”

The front door opens, and Puck runs out and sits on the porch steps. They’re clutching their teddy, messing up and then smoothing its fur. They give Nate and me a little wave.

“Will I see you tomorrow?” I ask Nate.

“If you want to.”

“Don’t you have work and stuff?”