Our company, M&W, holds subsidiaries operating in different trades. We have three tech companies developing new gadgets and a large construction company specialising in high rise buildings. There are a number of smaller businesses, but all our endeavours are about innovation . We’ve made a name for ourselves by being fair trading partners who are tough at the negotiation table but reliable in the delivery of high-quality products. Our big break came when we snapped up a project for the Olympic Games.

After that success, Coop and I agreed to stop further expansion. No more new acquisitions. Instead, we’re building our brand with a focus on reliability and advancement. We both have more money than we could ever want and there’s no need to be greedy. That’s why I really shouldn’t be surprised by Coop’s suggestion regarding a general manager.

"I don't know, Coop—"

"Think about it, that's all I ask. We'll talk about it when I'm back. We’ll only do it if we both agree to it." He’s serious and the thought of slowing down a bit does sound more than appealing. But what do I slow down for?

A ping pulls me from my thoughts. I turn my phone around and see a message from Amelia.

Amelia

Okay, I may have some more questions.

Is now a good time?

There’s a knock on my door but I ignore it.

"Come in," Coop calls out. My eyes are trained on my phone.

Me

I told you. Any time. What questions do you have?

“Hey, Ben.” Lizzie grins at me.

“Hey, Giggles and Laughter,” I smirk.

“Oh my god, can you cut it out?” Lizzie protests before kissing Coop. “It’s been over fifteen years.”

“Yeah, but it’s still the most ridiculous answer I’ve ever been given in a job interview.” I chuckle. It was definitely an interview I’ll never forget. Not only did she turn up late, she also said the most absurd things. I asked her what her strengths were and she said giggles and laughter. Hence my nickname for her. The only thing Coop and I agreed on at the end was that we wouldn't hire her. I thought she was a tiny bit nuts―to be honest, I still think she is a bit nuts, but in a good way. Coop thought she was adorable, though not meant for that job. They became good friends and the rest is history.

Coop and Lizzie start their usually flirty bickering which allows me to ignore them for a few moments.

Amelia

How do you ask someone to be your pleasure dom?

I take a deep breath and my heart rate increases. Is she asking hypothetically or is she asking me? Another ping.

Amelia

My Cat was wondering.

Oh, that sounded funnier in my head.

A small smile appears on my lips.

“What the fuck is going on?” Coop chuckles and brings me back to the room.

“Nothing,” I reply, but I can't wipe the grin of my face.

“Who is she?” Lizzie probes with a knowing smirk.

“A cat lady,” is the only answer I give her. “But you two bugger off on your holiday. How many suitcases do you have this time, Giggles?”

Lizzie gives me an evil look. “One!”

"Well, off you go. Have a good time in Canada and don't freeze your toes or other extremities off," I laugh.

Lizzie keeps probing me about the message, but over my dead body will I mention Amelia's name just as they are about to leave on a two-week holiday. Nobody knows more about what happened than Coop, and he would worry the whole time they are away. I can't let that happen.

Eventually, I manage to usher them out of the office. I relax back in my chair and start to type a reply to Amelia.

Me

Is your pussy cat looking for a pleasure dom?

I hold my breath until the next message appears.

Amelia

Maybe. :-)

My fingers fly over the screen.

Me

Well, you can attend workshops in the scene or forums to meet people. Or you can join apps like this one. Sorry, your pussy cat can ;-)

Amelia

And once you’ve found one?

Me

You get to know each other a little and then meet up, like with any dating really. I usually meet people in a public place like a pub or restaurant first so we both feel comfortable. I mean, I told you that there are some shady characters on this app.

Amelia

Why do you hide your face in your profile?

Fair question, I guess, and I knew it would come at some point.

Me

I have my own business and some of the people I do business with and their wives are on here. I don't need anyone to know about my private life.

Amelia