by Hayes, Emily
Quinn had started the initiative, and it was always a popular activity. Mickey and Chelsea wanted to continue the tradition, although Mickey was getting a little bored of the role. Still, she wanted to be a good sport, and she knew that it added to the night's festive vibe.
“Yes, I’ll play Santa Claus, like I do every year.” Mickey gave Chelsea a look, and Chelsea clapped her hands together with joy. “Yay, that’s great, Mickey. The guests absolutely love you, and it’s such a good cause. Quinn got in touch with me to let me know that both she and Lauren are coming, so we need to make sure that this event is a success.”
“All good, Chelsea. You can count on me,” Mickey replied. After inspecting the patio, the pair went back inside to greet the staff, many of whom had started to arrive for their shifts. Chelsea moved behind the bar to assist with set up, counting both tills before returning to Mickey.
The two made their way to the office to complete their checklists. Closing the door, Chelsea pulled up a chair and plunked down on it while Mickey took a seat at the desk to face the computer.
“So, do you like her?” Chelsea asked. “Is there a spark between you, or do you think it will remain casual?”
Mickey kept her eyes on the screen as she filled out the inventory fields. “Hmmm, what?” Mickey was distracted as she focused on her task. She moved her eyes from the screen to Chelsea. “Sorry, what did you ask me?”
Chelsea gave an impatient groan. “Katrina! Do you like her?”
Mickey nodded and said lightly. “Yeah, I do. She is really sweet and funny. Oh, and cute too. She also seems very responsible. Did I tell you that she is the mom of a six year old?” Mickey glanced around the room as she thought more about Katrina. Yeah, I definitely like her. Maybe too much right now. Better play it cool and see what happens.
“What is her background? I know you mentioned in your profile that pride in one’s ethnicity was important to you,”
Chelsea inquired.
“She is Mexidorian. Do you know what that is?” Mickey asked.
“Oh, sure! I have a friend who is Mexidorian, actually.
Wow, that is cool,” Chelsea chirped. “Mickey, I must say.
It’s like pulling teeth to get you to talk about her. What’s that all about anyway? My guess is that you aren’t all that into her, or you are so into her that you are scared to talk about it in fear of jinxing anything. Am I right?” Chelsea raised an eyebrow and studied Mickey intently.
“Wow, look at the psychologist over here! I guess you have me all figured out, huh?” Mickey playfully joked with Chelsea, but inside, she was quite startled that Chelsea could read her so well.
“Okay, I’ll be honest, but only because it’s you and I trust that you will keep this in confidence, right?” Mickey asked.
Chelsea’s eyes widened. “Oh my god, of course, you can trust me! What’s going on?”
Mickey conceded to opening up. Taking a deep breath, she started, “Okay. I like Katrina. A lot. I honestly found her irresistible, and when we were in the car together, everything seemed to flow so naturally.”
Mickey brought her hands to her temples and exhaled.
“I guess I just want to take it slow, and I’m a bit worried that I rushed things a bit. My desire got the best of me, but I also want her to know that I respect her too.” Mickey looked at Chelsea. “She asked about Lix too.”
Chelsea remarked, “Oh yeah? As she been here before?”
Mickey answered, “No, but she seemed curious about it.
Like, she seemed to be into the concept, so it seems like she is pretty open-minded.”
“Well, that's great! It sounds like things are off to a great start. And it's cool that she is at least open about where you work. Trust me, there are some women out there that would not be okay with dating a woman who worked at a place like Lix.” She gave Mickey a grin. “We are an acquired taste, and not everyone can hang. Consider that a blessing.”
“Yeah, you’re right. She is mad cool. I think I'm just processing everything, still. And to be honest, I am not sure how I feel about her visiting Lix yet.” Mickey noticed the expression on Chelsea's face before continuing. “Yes, Chelsea, I promise you will meet her at some point if all goes well. But for now, I just want to get to know her a bit more.”
Mickey then grew thoughtful. “Besides, it would be weird if she was to come here and hook up with someone in front of my face. And if that were to happen, it's fine, and we could be cool, but it would mean that things between her and I wouldn't go any further.”
Chelsea nodded, “That's fair, I understand. It can be hard in that way, working here. There are a lot of lines that become blurred, and if couples haven't discussed their boundaries or comfort levels, a lot could go wrong.”
Chelsea added, “But on the other hand, if you do have a solid relationship or even if you are single, then exploring your sexuality and fantasies at Lix can be an incredibly hot and liberating experience. I think communication is the key.
Actually, can I ask you something?”
Mickey replied as she leaned back in her chair. “Sure, ask me anything.”
“I know that you have played with randoms at Lix before but that you have never played with a girlfriend here, as in someone you are in a relationship with. So, I guess I’m wondering, with the right woman, would you ever bring a girlfriend here? You know, like the way that Lauren and Quinn visit from time to time?”
Mickey looked up towards the ceiling and pondered Chelsea's question. In theory, Mickey would consider the option, but for her, it was more an issue of making herself physically and sexually vulnerable in front of guests.
Mickey continued to mull over the question before answering Chelsea. “Um, yes, I think I would. But only if the relationship felt right. I think my fear is feeling so
exposed in front of guests and the staff, you know? It just feels weird to me, especially considering the position that we hold here. I think I would Top, you know, give. Don’t you agree?”
Chelsea shook her head. “Honestly, Mickey, I respect where you are coming from, but I am not on the same page as you. Sure, I think it's important that we remain professional when we are on shift, and of course, we should uphold the club's values, regardless of whether we are working. But I also feel that it is okay for us to enjoy this amazing atmosphere for ourselves. Like, as gay women, we are so lucky to have this space, and if anything, the staff should be setting an example of sex-positivity.”
Chelsea went on to explain further. “In particular, as people in a management position, I think it can make us look more powerful, not less, when we allow ourselves to indulge and be one with the people. Otherwise, it could appear like we are too standoffish, too separate from the community that all of us created!”
Chelsea took a breath. “Sorry if it sounds like I’m preaching from my soapbox, but I feel pretty passionate about this topic. But hey, to each their own and however you want to engage is totally cool with me. You know I would support you, no matter what, Mickey. I just want you to feel comfortable here. No one would judge you.”
Mickey nodded, following Chelsea's every word.
“Hmmm, I can dig that. A lot of what you’re saying does make sense. But I don't know. I think I need time to assess how I feel about everything, but I really appreciate this point of view.”
Chelsea smiled. “No problem, friend!” Turning her head to look at the clock, she exclaimed, “Oh shit, girl. We need to get out there; the doors have opened already.”
“Okay, cool. And seriously, Chelsea, thank you so much. I love that you have my back, and you know I have yours.”
Mickey stood up and smiled gratefully at her friend.
The two exited the office and entered into the magical world of sapphic pleasures, which already seemed to be in full swing.
14
Katrina was thrilled about her second date with Mickey. She had been wrought with anxiety after Mickey had dropped her off after their first encounter, not kn
owing if Mickey would call post-cunnilingus. But on Tuesday, she had received a text from Mickey, asking Katrina if she wanted to come over to her place for dinner.
A surge of excitement shot through her body while Katrina typed that she could be free on Thursday evening.
Oh my goodness, I think she may actually like me after all.
During the drive over to Mickey’s, Katrina spoke to her subconscious, talking herself through the night. She wanted to feel secure in any decisions that she may or may not make and feel as though she was on solid footing.
Okay, Katrina. I know you’re hot for Mickey, and if the date ends up being intimate again, that would be great. But maybe you should check in with Mickey to see what she is actually looking for, whether it’s a girlfriend or just a fling.
You are an empowered woman, and you should have a clear idea of Mickey’s intentions so that you don’t find yourself feeling insecure or confused. Just communicate, and everything will be fine!
While Katrina’s cerebral logic tried to set the tone, her primal, sexual urges told a different story. The two forces seemed to be competing in Katrina’s head as she turned on to Mickey’s quiet, suburban street.
Mmmm, Mickey is so sexy. Katrina, you know how badly you want her again--just go for it, girl! Do you remember how good she made you feel last time? Don’t lie to yourself; you want more of that for sure! Besides, it’s been quite a while since you got some action. You deserve to feel wanted and sexy. Just enjoy yourself and try not to overthink anything.
When Katrina was younger, she was a lot freer with her body. She had always been sexually open and had little issue with hot, one-night stands or casual flings. But since becoming a mom, her priorities took a major shift, and Katrina had lost touch with that sensual, free spirit. She missed the connection to her sexual identity; which Mickey had awakened within her.
Still, she struggled with her duplicitous nature. Katrina no longer had the time to waste on women who weren’t serious about her. Jackson came first, and work came second. If she was going to pursue someone and give her body to them, she wanted to feel as though it was worth the effort.
From her car, Katrina scanned the house numbers until she found Mickey’s address. She rolled her car into the driveway and parked. Before getting out of the vehicle, Katrina wanted to calm her nerves.
She was also slightly nervous about telling Mickey that she and some of the other women from Minx were going to visit Lix on Sunday. Katrina inhaled and exhaled a few times and checked her makeup in the rearview mirror.
Okay, ready!
Katrina made her way to the door and knocked. Mickey opened it, greeting her warmly.
“Hi, Katrina. I am so glad you made it!” Mickey opened her arms for a hug, which immediately put Katrina at ease.
Katrina felt slightly disarmed by Mickey’s handsome presentation. She was wearing another dress shirt sans tie, and the buttoned sleeves were rolled, showing off her muscular forearms. Mickey’s dreaded locks swung around her dark, velvety skin and her smile revealed gleaming white teeth that seemed to light up her entire face.
“Hi, Mickey! Thank you so much for having me. I was excited to see you again.” Katrina embraced Mickey and caught a whiff of her cologne. “Mmmm, you smell good!”
“Come in, make yourself at home. I am just finishing up dinner in the kitchen, but have a seat in the living room.”
Mickey pointed to the cozy sitting area off the foyer.
“Would you like some wine?”
“Sure. But just one glass, I’m driving,” Katrina said, grateful for the offer of libations, which would help to soothe her nervous tummy.
Mickey gave her a sly smile and a wink. “No problem. I hope you like ackee and saltfish. It’s my specialty!”
Katrina smiled as a laugh escaped from her. “I have never tried that before, but I do not doubt that you are a great cook.”
Mickey ducked into the kitchen while Katrina looked around the living room. It was small but clean and welcoming. It was decorated with brightly colored furniture with beautiful framed art hanging from the walls. The energy seemed light and cheerful.
Mickey reappeared with two glasses of white wine, handing one to Katrina. “Dinner will be ready in about ten minutes, but I thought we would start with a drink.”
Katrina took the glass and sipped the slightly sweet, acidic liquid. “So, how was your week?”
Mickey replied, “It was good but busy with the holidays approaching. We’re planning our annual Christmas Eve party at Lix.” Mickey gave a sheepish smile. “I’m playing
Santa Claus. It’s part of a fundraiser that we do every year, where women sit on my lap and get their picture taken for five dollars. The proceeds then go to a women’s shelter.”
“Oh, wow, that sounds cool. And what a great cause!”
Katrina exclaimed. “Boy, I remember the days of Christmas parties. But since Jackson was born, I now have new traditions. Not as wild as late nights out but so meaningful.
He is growing up so fast already.” Katrina found herself reminiscing back to when Jackson was a baby. Focus, Katrina. You are on a date, remember. Get out of mommy mode!
“Oh, yeah? Tell me about how you celebrate Christmas Eve?” Mickey asked, taking another sip of wine.
Katrina smiled shyly and twirled her wine glass. “Well, after dinner, we make cookies for Santa, which we then put out on a tray beside the tree. Then, we watch Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Katrina added, “It’s a family tradition. I watched it with my family as a child, and I wanted to pass on the ritual to my son.”
Mickey interrupted, “Are you serious? I love that movie; it’s my favorite holiday flick too!”
Katrina exclaimed, “Oh yeah? No way!” Katrina continued, “Then, I read him ‘The Night Before Christmas,’
and he goes to bed. Then mom spends the remainder of the night playing Santa’s elf, getting presents prepared and such.” Katrina shrugged. “That’s how we do it at my house!”
Mickey nodded and grinned. “That sounds like a fun way to celebrate.” Suddenly, she paused. “Oh, excuse me for a moment. I think dinner is done. I’ll bring us out some plates.”
While Mickey disappeared into the kitchen, Katrina took another gulp of her wine. Hmmm, maybe this a good time to bring up Lix. I would rather just get it out of the way now before we eat.
Mickey reappeared with two plates. “Dinner is served.
We can eat in here, on the coffee table.” Katrina took her dish from Mickey, inhaling the fragrant aromas. “Wow, Mickey, this looks wonderful.”
Mickey beamed with pride. “It’s actually a traditional Jamaican breakfast dish, but personally, I could eat this anytime. And it’s not spicy, so I figured you would like it.”
Mickey pointed to the items on Katrina’s plate. “Besides the saltfish, there is breadfruit, hard dough bread, dumplings, and fried plantain.”
“This is so impressive!” Katrina dug into her food, savoring a morsel of salted cod alongside the sweet and tender ackee fruit. Okay, here goes nothing!
Clearing her throat, Katrina began, “So, Mickey, I wanted to tell you something.” Mickey looked up from her food and swallowed. “Mmmm, sure, Katrina. What is it?”
Katrina picked at the plate with her fork. “Um, so a few of the women that I work with at Minx wanted to visit Lix on Sunday. I-I am not asking for a guest list or anything, but, I guess, I just wanted to let you know ahead of time so that you wouldn’t be surprised or weirded out to see me there.” Katrina then paused and waited to see Mickey’s reaction.
Mickey looked down and nodded slowly. It seemed to Katrina that she was processing the statement. “Okay.
Okay, sure, that’s cool. And if you want guest list, Katrina, I am happy to give it to you.”
Katrina melted at Mickey’s generosity. “That’s very sweet of you, Mickey, but that’s not why I was telling you. I just don’t want you to think that I’m, like, playing with these women. It’s a staff ou
ting, basically.” Katrina chuckled softly. “I actually tried to get out of the plan, but one co-worker kind of roped me in to going. She has a pretty strong personality!”
Mickey kept her voice and expression neutral. “I see. It’s no problem. It would be great for you all to see the place.”
Katrina felt as though she was trying to convey something that wasn’t being heard. She wanted Mickey to understand that she liked her, but she didn’t know how to express herself. Overcompensating, she continued to explain herself.
“I mean, I know that I don’t have to tell you that I am not there to play with anyone. I-I guess I am just trying to let you know that I respect your workplace, and I respect you, and I am excited about whatever is happening between us.” Katrina shook her head in an effort to find her words. “I just don’t want you to think anything weird.”
Mickey put down her fork and looked directly into Katrina’s eyes. “Katrina, it’s okay. Really. I hear you, and I believe you. I don’t feel any kind of way about it. But I do appreciate the heads up.” Mickey licked her lips and studied Katrina’s face in a way that gave her butterflies.
“Katrina, you know I like you, right?” Mickey asked.
“Because in case that isn’t clear, I do.” Mickey reached over to touch Katrina’s arm.
Katrina felt her heart soar with happiness as a huge smile formed on her face. “Oh, Mickey. I like you too. Thank you for letting me know that.” She took Mickey’s hand in hers and squeezed it. Katrina almost felt too excited to eat.
“Thank you for understanding and for being so cool about everything. And to be honest, I am excited to visit Lix for the first time.” Katrina felt as though a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. “And I will try not to bother you while you are working. But it would be okay to say hi, right?”
Mickey nodded enthusiastically. “Of course, Katrina. I can even give your group a tour of the place if you want.
You don’t have to ignore me. I mean, we’re on a date right now and everything. You aren’t a stranger, and I would never treat you like one.”
Katrina exhaled. “Okay, okay, great. Wow, I am excited now!” She turned her attention to her food, suddenly
