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Probably no need for that now.

But I saved the document just in case. Once it was saved, I archived the file into a folder and opened my inbox.

TO: Alexander Stone

FROM: Krystina Cole

SUBJECT: My Apologies

To The Devil On My Shoulder,

Thank you for taking care of me last night, but I must apologize for being such a lush. I am not in the habit of losing control the way I did, and I hope you do not use last night as a reflection of my true character. But, either way, after my behavior, I would completely understand it if you wanted to cancel our plans for this evening.

Sincerely,

Krystina

I thought my words were apologetic and tactful all at the same time. I’d given him the chance to withdraw his invitation without sounding too pathetic.

Perfect.

Pleased with my email, I hit the send button.

However, after I’d clicked the key to send my apology into the world of cyber communications, a wave of sadness came over me. I felt like I was saying goodbye in a strange way. Alexander had cracked open a door I had managed to keep closed for so long, and it pained me to think I would have to close it again.

What if he decides to take me up on my offer and cancel our plans for tonight?

For the first time in years, I had left myself vulnerable, and I was afraid of rejection.

Maybe I shouldn’t have given him such an easy out.

After ten minutes had passed, my computer pinged, signaling the arrival of a new email. It was from Alexander. I eagerly opened the incoming message.

TO: Krystina Cole

FROM: Alexander Stone

SUBJECT: No Apologies Needed

To My Angel,

No worries. It happens to the best of us. As for your behavior, I must admit I rather enjoyed your loose tongue. You gave me a small insight into what you are really thinking, something I find myself struggling with frequently.

I am looking forward to our evening together. Do not consider canceling. I’ll be waiting in anticipation until I can see you again.

Until later,

Your Anxious Devil

I smiled to myself. It looked like I was about to have a very busy day.

I knew I couldn’t go to Alexander’s tonight without a lick of knowledge about BDSM. He was insistent I knew what I was getting into. And if I was honest with myself, I knew practically nothing. Research was key to a better understanding. I had felt very naïve last night, more times than I’d cared to admit. I needed to broaden my horizons, expand on my awareness—if for no other reason than to protect myself. This was an unknown world to me, but one I wanted to explore. Walking into it blindly would be extremely foolish.

I made myself comfortable in sweats and a T-shirt before sprawling out on my bed with my laptop. It was time to get an education.

My initial search results of BDSM turned up descriptive online encyclopedia definitions and various shopping pages.

Boring.