Daniel had been to the Hokkaido Steak House before but had never known that there was a back room for special guests. He was even more surprised when the lovely Japanese hostess greeted him by name.
"Good afternoon, Mr. Morganson. Welcome to Hokkaido Steak House."
"Uh, thank you." He tucked his sunglasses into his suit pocket, looking every inch the successful lawyer. "I'm here to meet someone … "
"Yes, Mr. Morganson." She handed him a white linen envelope. "Please follow me."
He fought the urge to open it as he followed the woman down a long hallway and up a set of stairs. Another hallway, this time a shorter one, connected to a large wooden door with carved kanji handles and she threw it open, revealing a burlwood table set with delicate Mikasa porcelain and Waterford crystal.
"This is beautiful!"
"
Arigato.
I hope you enjoy your lunch."
"Thanks." Daniel turned and watched her shut the door, his eyes drawn to the snow-white envelope in his shaking fingers. Slowly, he pulled the flap back and drew the textured paper out.
Hello, Daniel. I hope that you are reading this on your knees …
He dropped to his knees, cursing himself and vowing to scourge himself when he got home. "
But if you are not, this time, and this time only, I will give you the benefit of my kindness and allow you to pass with punishment that I will allow you to choose.
Daniel slumped with relief, wiping the tears from his eyes and lowered his forehead to the floor, silently whispering words of worship to his Mistress.
In the corner, near the head of the table, you will find a red velvet pillow. Undress, lay your clothes neatly on the chair and wait until I arrive.
Daniel immediately did as the letter asked and knelt on the pillow, the letter folded and held reverently in his hands. Though his head was bowed, he could see the time on his Patek Phillipe and knew that noon had come and gone. At twelve forty-five, the door opened and he saw three pairs of feet enter the room, one belonging to the hostess and the others to two people who seated themselves at the table.
A gentle hand fell on his head, stroking his thick, dark hair and he bowed, touching his forehead to the top of her foot. He spoke no words. He prayed that his supplication would touch her heart.
"You have him trained already?" The sound of Frank's derisive laughter made Daniel grit his teeth in anger. "You're good, girl.
Really
good!"
"Shush, Franklin." Her voice was still gentle as was her touch. He trembled as she stroked his hair, her fingers weaving through his tresses. "Daniel is the best I've ever seen."
"He's just playing with you. All he wants is to be the Ringmaster's pet."
