Chapter 34
CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR
In the dimly lit hallway, James leaned casually against the wall, his eyes fixed on the bathroom door. The anticipation coursed through his veins as he watched her graceful figure emerge, a soft glow emanating from her. His gaze locked onto her, tracing every movement as she approached, her presence captivating him with an alluring aura.
From her posture, it seemed Laura had decided to put some distance between the two of them. Frustration gripped his gut, and his jaw tensed. Every time he believed they were making progress, she shut him out or pulled away. The weight of unmet expectations settled on his shoulders, stirring a restless energy within him. Folding his arms in front of his chest, he struggled to contain the exasperation that simmered just beneath the surface.
He loved being with her – their chemistry was undeniable – but James wanted all of her. In his mind, he formed a plan. First on his agenda was attending the workshop. Later, in private, he was determined to break down this final barrier – and he was convinced this was the last one.
James took a deep breath and swung an arm around Laura’s shoulder.
In the center space of the main room, a stocky man with his long hair in a ponytail stood clutching a bundle of rope. He introduced himself as J.D. and began the workshop.
James, a regular attendee of these workshops, found himself drawn to the educational atmosphere and the opportunity to expand his knowledge of bondage. Despite his proficiency in the subject, he approached each workshop with an open mind, eager to learn something new.
With a confident presence, J.D. guided them through the intricacies of different rope types, discussing the potential drawbacks such as burning or chafing, as well as the importance of proper cleaning. After the education on rope, J.D. demonstrated various knots, explaining their uses, and highlighting key pressure points. He emphasized the need for attentiveness, sharing warning signs to watch out for during rope play.
As J.D. delved into the intricacies of rope techniques, James’s attention remained divided between absorbing the information and observing Laura. With a keen eye, he monitored her body language, attuned to the subtle cues that revealed her level of arousal or any signs of distress. It was important to James that their exploration of BDSM was always a consensual and pleasurable experience for both of them.
The moment arrived when J.D. announced it was time for the attendees to put their newfound knowledge into practice. Excitement tingled through the air as participants scattered throughout the room, finding partners or setting up their own stations. James’s anticipation surged, a thrill coursing through him at the prospect of exploring and experimenting with Laura. With a confident yet gentle touch, he guided her to a secluded corner, their own intimate space within the workshop’s bustling energy.
Under J.D.’s expert guidance, Laura felt a mix of anticipation and vulnerability as James began to bind her with the ropes. She watched his hands move with precision and purpose, marveling at his skill and the way he seamlessly incorporated the art of bondage into their intimate exploration.
To Laura’s immense relief, she got to keep her clothes on.
As James carefully maneuvered the ropes around her body, Laura's senses heightened, acutely aware of each touch and sensation. She surrendered herself to the experience, trusting James to navigate the intricate patterns that would envelop her. With each gentle tug and strategic placement, a web of ropes took shape, creating a beautiful tapestry that symbolized their connection.
Laura discovered she found the bondage comforting. The tugging and weaving James was doing lulled her into a dreamlike state.
As the bindings secured her limbs, Laura felt a subtle shift in her mindset. The ropes, once seen as a symbol of vulnerability, now became a source of empowerment. She surrendered control to James, finding solace in the trust they had built. With each knot he tied, Laura's arousal grew, her body responding to the unique blend of restriction and freedom.
In this intimate moment of bondage, Laura found herself immersed in a dance of sensation and trust. She marveled at James' attentiveness, his keen eye for her body's cues, and his ability to create an experience that pushed their boundaries while keeping them safe. As the ropes encompassed her, Laura discovered a newfound freedom, a liberation that existed within the embrace of their shared desires.
She wasn’t aware when James undid the bindings and thanked J.D. for the lesson.
As James effortlessly lifted her into his arms, a wave of tranquility washed over Laura. Nestling herself against his strong frame, she surrendered to the comfort of his embrace. The world around her seemed to fade away, leaving only the warmth of his body and the rhythmic beat of his heart.
In his arms, she found solace, a sanctuary from the worries and fears that plagued her mind. Every step he took resonated with a sense of security, as if he held the power to ward off any harm that dared to approach. With each gentle sway of his movements, she felt a deep trust envelop her, a belief that he would shield her from pain and shield her from the shadows that lurked in the corners of her thoughts.
As he moved her through the club, Laura let go of all her cares and concerns. She allowed herself to be carried, both physically and emotionally, knowing that in James' embrace, she was shielded from the uncertainties of the world. There, in the sanctuary of his arms, she found a respite from the chaos, a haven where fear and pain could not penetrate .
Wrapped in his protective hold, Laura drifted into a state of serenity, her worries melting away. She closed her eyes, breathing in his presence and finding peace in the knowledge that she was cherished, cherished enough to be carried with such tender care. In that moment, there was no room for fear or doubt, only the blissful contentment of being held by the one who had become her guardian, her protector, and her solace.
When Laura became aware of her surroundings again, she didn’t know how much time had passed. It was relatively quiet in the club. Enslave me by Sara Noxx played in the background.
She blinked and realized she was on James’s lap. He was sitting down beside the open floor space in one of the chairs. Several people were scattered around and focused on something in the middle of the room. Laura looked in the same direction, where Julie was hanging from the ceiling, totally still with a completely relaxed expression on her face.
Laura turned her attention to Mitch. He wasn’t a particularly good-looking man and until now he hadn’t held any appeal for Laura. But the way he was looking now – completely in control of the space, the scene, and the woman in front of him – he was devastatingly handsome.
James pressed a kiss to her head and handed her a bottle of water. “You’re back with us. How do you feel?”
“I don’t know. Looks like I missed some of the events,” she replied, trying not to pout.
James hummed. “Looks like being tied fulfills some need. You were off in subspace in no time, honey.”
“Was that subspace?” She struggled to sit more upright and to clear the fog in her mind. “It felt a bit like dreaming to me. Like an out-of-body experience. Then, when you carried me, I felt so safe and at peace.”
“Good girl.” James pressed another kiss to her head. “I’m glad your subconscious mind is telling you that you can trust me and let go of your control.”
Before she could ponder that statement or react, he focused her attention on the scene. “What do you think of them?” James asked in a low tone.
Momentarily free from doubts and fears, Laura honestly replied, “I’m amazed by how good they look. Julie is beautiful to see. She’s relaxed, still, and peaceful. It’s such a contrast with the way she usually is.” She took a sip of water and continued, “I’m even more surprised by Mitch. The focus in his gaze and posture. The way he commands the stage and the rope. I don’t have words to describe it.”
James agreed and they continued to talk quietly so they didn’t disturb Mitch and Julie. Laura was positive they were so into the scene and each other, they probably weren’t aware of their surroundings. It was beautiful indeed.
After Mitch had ended the scene, he coaxed Julie from rope-space with body contact, water, and squares of chocolate. Laura watched as Julie accepted these gestures of care, witnessing the tender support offered to help her transition back to a grounded state of emotional well-being.
Laura was content on James’s lap as Mitch and Julie and Kate joined them. Soon after, Chris and Sonja approached, their bodies still radiating the afterglow of their scene. Sonja leaned against Chris, her expression one of contentment and satisfaction.
Henry and Lincoln rejoined the group, their presence drawing attention. Lincoln, now adorned with clothes and a leather collar secured around his throat, exuded a radiant glow. Chris couldn't help but remark on the new accessory, playfully teasing, "What's this? Going for permanent?"
Henry responded with a smile, explaining, "It's a play collar for now, but we're considering a permanent collaring. Lincoln and I have decided to move in together, and we'll see how our relationship progresses."
Congratulations and well wishes echoed through the room as everyone celebrated the joyous news. As the anticipation grew for the approach of midnight, they all stood, gathering together in readiness for the countdown.
“THREE … TWO … ONE! HAPPY NEW YEAR!” everybody shouted and James claimed her mouth with his, both his hands under her buttocks pulling her into him.
“Happy New Year, honey. These last few months with you have been amazing and I can’t wait to see what the new year will bring.”
Before Laura could answer, Kate came up to them holding a tray with champagne flutes.
“Happy New Year, Kate,” they said in unison, and each took a flute from the tray.
“Back at you both.” Kate kissed them on the cheek before she hurried away to give the others champagne and her good wishes.
A flurry of well-wishers surrounded them, offering warm embraces and heartfelt “Happy New Years.” Laura found herself immersed in a whirlwind of kisses and hugs, realizing it had been quite some time since she had shared such affectionate moments with so many people. The room was alive with laughter, chatter, and the joyous energy of the New Year's Eve celebration.
It was around 2:00 am when they entered James’s condo. They were both exhausted, but James felt he had to address what happened in the bathroom.
Laura sighed. “You noticed that did you? Tonight has been a rollercoaster for me. I realized as I was washing my hands how I almost understood Lincoln’s slave mindset. Then I remembered how much control over my life I’d given Jake and I never want that sort of relationship again.” She placed her fingertip on his lips before he could get a word in edgewise and continued, “However, when I was in subspace, I realized you’d never harm me and would always protect me. You said it was my subconscious talking and you might be right. I realize the actions of one man don’t define how others might behave. I understand it isn’t fair to you or us to keep what Jake did between us.”
James locked his gaze with hers, hoping she could read his sincerity. His fingertips traced gentle, comforting paths along her arms, trying to offer solace. "I'm glad you feel comfortable enough to share this with me," he told her. "I want all of you, but I understand the importance of giving you the time and space to come to terms with your past. Remember, the past has nothing to do with our future together."
“I want what we have together,” she said softly, scarcely above a whisper, “but I’m also scared by the intensity of it.”
James tightened his embrace, showing her he could and would be her anchor. "I know, honey," he replied equally softly. "But please, promise me that you'll give this, give us , a chance. Don't shut me out when fear creeps in. Talk to me, share your thoughts and fears. Trust me to be there for you, to navigate through the uncertainties together." Images of what-could-be flashed through his mind, and the tiny hairs on his arms and at the back of his neck lifted.
Tears streamed down Laura's cheeks as she clung to him. "Oh, I do, James. I trust you," she whispered, her voice laced with vulnerability. She clung to him as he held her close. It was as much of a commitment as he could get from her and the unspoken promise made him tingle all over his body and caused his stomach to flutter.