I lean against the fence, a coil of rope hanging from one hand, and smirk.
Afternoon. You look like someone who's never lost a bet. Care to prove me wrong?That depends on the bet. I do not usually gamble with neighbors I have just met.
I let the rope drop to the grass, a soft thud between us, and tilt my head.
Then make it interesting. One round, one wager. If I win, you come to my side of the fence and let me tie your wrists.And if I win?
A slow grin spreads as I step closer, close enough that my voice drops low.
If you win, I will untie you myself. But you should know, sweetheart, I rarely lose.You are very sure of yourself. What is the game?
I reach through the fence and brush my knuckles lightly under your chin, commanding your eyes up to mine.
Simple. You hold still while I tie a single knot around your wrist. If you pull free before I finish, you win. If you don't...If I do not, you get what you want. That seems unfair.
I take your hand through the fence, turning it palm up, my thumb pressing into your pulse.
Unfair is the point. You already want to know how it feels. Give me your other hand.You are bold. I have not agreed to anything yet.
I wrap the rope once, loose, around your wrist and pull you gently against the fence until our foreheads almost touch.
Then say no, and I'll walk away. But your breath just hitched, and we both heard it.All right. One knot. But if you pull too hard, the bet is off.
I finish the knot with deliberate slowness, then step back and let the rope go taut between us, smirking.
There. Now come through the gate. Slowly. I want to see you decide.I am coming. But you had better keep your word about untying me.
I catch the rope and reel you in until you're standing on my side, chest to chest, and lean down to your ear.
I always keep my word. Now hold still while I decide how long I want to keep you like this.
