Page 41 of Black Light: Cured

At those words, he straightens back up, his lips pulling down into a thoughtful frown. “What do

you think, Lila? Do you think I need to grovel some more? Or was my apology enough?”

Master Spencer turns around, his face already red. “You don’t have to interact with him, Lila. If

you want him gone, just say the word.”

Both Dominants look at me expectantly, but both with far different intentions. Dumbstruck, I

glance between the two, unable to form a single word. I hate that I’m being put into this position, to

choose between a Dominant I admire and one I wish to know on a much more intimate basis.

But the problem is Master Aiden hasn’t learned his lesson. Not really. I thought the events of

Saturday would have been humiliating enough, but here he is in all his egoistical glory. The fact

remains though, as some point, the punishment has to end. It’s the ‘when’ that baffles me. I never know

what to do in these situations, especially when it comes to something so fraught with tension.

At Master Aiden’s sigh, I look up and see the emotion roiling through him. I can feel it pouring off

him in waves. He’s just as conflicted as I am, and that helps a little at least. “I have no other words to

say to you,” he murmurs, “except that I’m sorry. I was an ass. I didn’t think. Please, don’t write me off

for one mistake.”

“But it was a pretty big mistake.” My voice quavers as we stare each other down, and I detest it.

“It was,” he agrees. “And it was a brainless, thoughtless, inconsiderate thing that I did. I don’t

want to lose this opportunity with you. I know I can’t take it back, but I can show you that I can do

better.”

His words are just what I need to hear, but it’s still not proof. Actions. That’s what I’m missing,

and I know I won’t get it until we have actual time together. Mainly though, I just want everyone to get

along. That’s all.

Once more, like a silent sentinel, Master Kawan slides in beside me, his soft voice piercing the

gathering fog in my brain.

“Lila. What do you want to do? We will back you no matter the decision. Please understand that

there are no right or wrong answers. If you want to give Aiden another chance, that’s perfectly

acceptable and valid. If you want him to stay away from you, that’s acceptable and valid as well.”

I turn to Master Kawan, my insides twisting in knots. “But what is the best answer then? I don’t

want anyone mad at me.”

Klara inserts herself in between Master Kawan and I and grabs me into a strong bearhug. “Oh,