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Soently "It’s ht, Cinderella, and the dance is over"

"What?" She blinked at his shook She looked up at hi her deeply Gently

"I e had more ti slowpokes out" He kissed her again, this ti her in place "I’ht back"

By the time she’d used the bathroom to freshen up, he had returned After she dressed, he escorted her down the stairs

"Hey, Dan!" Standing by the front door, a fas waved thenized the DM from Monday

"Olivia," Master Dan said

"Nice to see you using the private rooly slow and appreciative look before she turned back to Dan "If you’re interested, I’ your pretty sub and come play"

"Ah--" Sir started

"Don’t say no It’s been far too long since you partied with us," the DM said "We uilt flickered in Master Dan’s eyes His id, then dropped away from her waist

"I can’t make it Sorry" His voice sounded as if the life had drained out of it

"Oh, honey, I’ently and o," Master Dan said to Kari

As she stepped out into the night, the humid air blanketed her, the scent of tropical flowers and swa The loss of Sir’s touch created an ache inside her as he silently walked beside her to the tree-lined parking lot Others were leaving also, faceless figures in the shadows and hts

Taking her keys, he unlocked her car and opened the door She looked up, hoping for a kiss, a hug…soaze was as re, Kari" His fingertips brushed her cheek, featherlight

Her lips tightened No htened her lips against a betraying quiver He had only pro was over, and she never caused scenes All those etiquette lessons froone to waste She slid into the car, then forced a smile and a cool tone, "Thank you for the lesson, Master Dan I do appreciate the time you’ve spent with ered in the lines of his face "Drive carefully" He put her keys into her hand and closed the door softly

Chapter Twelve

Dan’s chest ached like he’d cracked all his ribs He rubbed his sternum as he walked back to the Shadowlands Why Olivia’s invitation had hit hi off well- off subs too He re eyes had filled with confusion, then hurt Hisinside hi with her a second tiain

Not bothering to knock, Dan walked into Z’s office "Got a"Daniel Did you have a good evening?"