Free Made For Sex by Joan Elizabeth Lloyd Page A

describe what I’m going to do if it’s the first time and I don’t have to worry about going too far. The safe word is there so they can yell, ‘Please stop,’ and know I won’t, but be sure I’ll stop when that’s what they really want.”
    â€œThat sounds reasonable,” Carla said, still catching her breath after the phone call.
    â€œAlso, no heavy drinking, although a glass or two loosens things up. No drugs of any kind and, as you know, I insist that my friends use condoms. He can have seventeen blood tests or whatever, but condoms are mandatory. Period.”
    Carla nodded. Everything that Ronnie said seemed, if anything, overly cautious.
    â€œYou’re still interested, aren’t you?” Ronnie said.
    Carla took a deep breath. “After that phone call,” she said, “more than ever. But I’m a little apprehensive about where to start.”
    â€œI have a suggestion,” Ronnie said, stretching out on the sofa and crossing her long legs at the ankles. “An old friend called me a few weeks ago. His name’s Bryce and I’ve known him for over a year.”
    Carla had learned in college that Ronnie’s particularly delightful, slightly mischievous smile meant that she was deeply involved in hatching an inventive plot. When Ronnie didn’t continue, Carla said, “And….”
    Ronnie picked up the glass of wine from the table next to her and took a sip. “He’s had an ongoing fantasy about wedding nights and seduction. He’s heavily into romance, music, wine, all that.” Carla could see the dreamy look in Ronnie’s eyes. “He’s also into a bit of control, which I think you’ll find irresistable. And he’s dynamite in bed, a deliciously creative man who gets his satisfaction from giving as well as taking pleasure. We’ve spent some memorable nights together.”
    â€œHe sounds too good to be true. Is he married? And if he is, why does his wife let him out of her sight?”
    â€œHis wife died several years ago and part of the reason he plays with me is that he’s surrounded with matchmaking friends who bombard him with suitable women. I think that, when he’s with me, he’s comfortable. We have wonderful times together, great sex, and there are no strings, no commitments.” Ronnie smiled. “I hope you don’t mind but we talked about you.”
    â€œYou knew that I was going to do this, didn’t you.”
    â€œYou’re not expert at hiding your feelings, and I know you pretty well.”
    Carla smiled and pulled on her jeans. “You certainly used to, and after that game we just played with Rick Holloway, you know me even better.”
    Ronnie laughed. “True. Anyway, I think he’d be a wonderful first time for you. He’d love it and, I can guarantee, so would you.”
    â€œIt sounds like he’s your friend.”
    â€œHe’s a special man, but he’s just a friend. And I think you’d enjoy being together.”
    â€œBut….”
    â€œListen, Carla. I don’t know whether you should do this at all. I understand myself and I’ve been doing what I do for almost four years. I love it.”
    â€œI know you do. I’ve given this entire situation a lot of thought and, well, it titillates me. I’ve told you that I don’t know much about off-center sex, but I know that I want to find out more.”
    â€œAnd, of course, you can call things off at any time and go back to Bronxville and sell real estate,” responded Ronnie. Each woman wrinkled her nose.
    The phone rang and Ronnie and Carla listened as the answering machine picked up. “This is Black Enterprises. Please leave a message at the sound of the beep, and thanks for calling.”
    â€œHi, Ronnie and Snow White, this is Rick Holloway. You’re probably both listening right now so I wanted to tell you that I feel great. I’m