Page 42 of Unwrapping Ember
At one point, Baine catches my eye, a knowing smile playing on his lips as we both recall our earlier encounter in the snow. When Koda teases about hanging mistletoe, I feel my cheeks flush.
“If we hang it up, are you two going to finally kiss under it?” He winks. “Or do you need another ‘boost of encouragement’?”
“Maybe more than just a kiss,” I mutter under my breath, exchanging a conspiratorial look withBaine.
The energy in the kitchen suddenly changes, and Everest leans over to whisper something to Koda, who nods with enthusiasm
“Dinner’s just about ready—who wants to help serve?”
The table is set, adorned with a festive centerpiece. As we gather around, I take a moment to appreciate the warmth of this makeshift family we’ve created. Baine reaches for my hand, his thumb brushing over my knuckles, igniting a small spark between us.
Dinner unfolds in an easy flow of conversations, jokes, and plenty of laughter. At one point, Koda leans back in his chair, resting his hands behind his head with a sly grin.
“This is nice... I could get used to this. But wait, I have one more surprise for you all after dinner.”
My heart races again, curiosity clawing at me. “What is it?” I ask, intrigued. “A surprise for everyone, or just for me?” I joke, but Koda shakes his head with a smirk.
“One that might just test your resolve, Ember.”
Once the dishes are cleared, we return to the living room, where Koda pulls out a large red sack from behind the couch.
“Alright, everyone,” he announces dramatically, “it’s time to unleash the jolly spirit—or maybe just some mischief.” He reaches into the sack and pulls out a blindfold, holding it up for everyone to see. “We’re playing a game. But first, we need one brave volunteer...”
My heart sinks for a moment. The blindfold screams "shenanigans," and I can only imagine what kind of situations might arise. I glance at Baine for approval, but he just smirks, clearly enjoying my impending predicament.
Koda’s gaze lands on me, and suddenly the room is silent. “Ember, how about you?”
The laughter fades into a collective anticipation as I take a deep breath, weighing the thrill of the challenge against the nervous energy in my stomach.
“Alright—game on,” I declare, embracing the moment and the unknown.
Koda ties the blindfold around my eyes, and the world around me vanishes into darkness.
“What are you going to do to me?” I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.
"Just fucking trust me. You’re going toloveit,” he promises, that mischievous glint returning to his eyes that I can’t see but can tell it’s there.
In the next instant, I feel hands guiding me forward, laughter bubbling up around me.
“Just remember, Ember,” Baine calls to me, “sometimes the best surprises come with a little risk.”
My heart races as I step into the unknown, ready for whatever festive chaos Koda has in store.
ten
Spankings From Santa
Christmas Eve
Koda
The sweet aroma of sugar cookies and cinnamon fills the air, enveloping the house in a festive warmth. Hip-hop Christmas music pulses through the speakers, creating an inviting atmosphere, especially with candles flickering in nearly every room.
That’s Ember—she’s truly making herself at home, and I can't help but cherish it. I want her to stay, and maybe she will.Baine mentioned she’s been contemplating the idea of transferring here, and the thought of it sends a thrill through me.
I relax against the soft leather couch, a glass of spiked eggnog in hand, my eyes drawn to Ember as she dances around the room. She’s unapologetically stunning—every inch of her, a perfect blend of innocence and allure. But there's a part of me that craves to corrupt that purity, to introduce her to a side of me she has yet to see. I haven’t shown her my true self; it would be a lot for her to handle—possibly too much.
The guysand I don’t just perform at private parties—we also delve into the darker aspects of our desires. You might be surprised to know that Baine was the one who first drew us into this underworld. That quiet guy has a wild side, hidden beneath a calm exterior. Everest, on the other hand, isn't shy about his tastes; everyone knows he embraces his freaky side with pride. As for me? I prefer my darker nature to remain a secret—partly because of my past, which leaves me vulnerable to judgment.