Harem House Chapter 33 Part 3

Lynn found The Garden Wok easily. It was the only Asian Fusion restaurant in Reedville, just as Mindy said. The small town had a quaint suburban feel compared to the city Lynn grew up in. There were very few shops here, most of them food-related, and the entire row of buildings and businesses gave off a brick-and-mortar ‘middle class’ vibe. Lynn stepped out of her sleek Ford Mustang and double-checked the locks. The police car parked in the same parking lot was encouraging, at least. 

She put her sunglasses on as she walked, though it wasn’t terribly bright or warm. She looked the part of a starlet with high-waisted striped print leggings of blue and gold tucked into her heeled ankle boots. She wore a cropped white sweetheart neckline top that fit her, showing off the taper of her torso from her breasts to her waist. The leggings showed off every curve of her ass and hips, hugging her like a second skin with their soft cotton lycra. Over her shoulders and arms, she wore a cropped denim bolero jacket that was mostly sleeves. It couldn’t close over her breasts, but looked cute and sexy, framing her cleavage to perfection. 

Lynn stepped into the Garden Wok as if she were ready to step into a Hollywood movie set, her hair, nails, and makeup done with extreme skill. The interior was quaint, with a polished and clean dining area beyond the foyer with its hostess counter. Korean decor hung on the bamboo-stained wood-paneled walls. The matching benches, chairs, and tables were padded with green and pink pastels that clashed with everything Lynn wore. Still, the place smelled good. There was something spicy wafting from the kitchen, and a few heads at the tables showed it wasn’t a total bust. The Tuesday lunch crowd wasn’t their busiest, but people still needed to eat. 

The policeman before her in line made Lynn smile. He’d been speaking with the hostess when she entered and turned to give her a long, lingering once-over from her polished toes to her framed breasts, where he’d gotten stuck. 

Lynn stuck out her hip, then gasped. The hostess surprised her by smacking the policeman across the back of the head. She had to move to her toes to do it.  

“Jun-Ho!” The older woman said as if it were an insult, but judging by the J. on the man’s nametag, it was the policeman’s name. 

“Umma!” The policeman protested as he rubbed the back of his head and returned his attention to the hostess. “You can’t do that when I’m on duty. That's assaulting an officer. I could arrest you.” 

The woman behind the hostess counter didn’t protest or argue. She huffed in annoyance or challenge, and her mouth pinched closed. She raised her eyebrow as she stared down the much taller, attractive young man.

“It’s okay.” Lynn said, her voice high and girlish. She covered her mouth, trying to hide her smile. “I don’t mind, especially when the guy is hot.” 

The cop actually blushed at that, and Lynn took off her sunglasses to get a better look at him. Her eye makeup was stunning if his reaction was anything to judge by. He stammered something, but Lynn didn’t make it out. It might have been Korean. He was cute, tall, broad-shouldered, and fit. Young, too. A hot young cop to play with? Her day was looking up more and more. She could use someone like that. 

“Besides.” Lynn said, smiling as she tucked the sunglasses into her purse. “I like a man in uniform.” 

“Oh, uh…” The cop shifted, looking away as Lynn leaned forward to put away her glasses, acting oblivious to the view he had down her top. 

Lynn giggled, brushing her hair behind her ear and turning her hand out as if she were nervous. “I was about to eat lunch alone, but if you’re ready for a break… Do cops eat lunch?” 

“We do, but I–” 

“He’s married!” The woman behind the counter said, grabbing the young man’s hand and showing Lynn the ring on his left ring finger. She’d noticed it but wouldn’t let that stop her from having fun. 

Lynn pouted. “Happily?” 

The cop’s eyes went wide. The hostess’ eyes narrowed. 

Lynn laughed, waving her hand in front of her face. “I’m just kidding, I promise.” She said. “Teasing you is fun. Think of it as payback for leering. It’s only fair.” 

The cop blushed again. “Well, uh… yeah. I should get going anyway… I’ll see you later, Umma. Oh, and Judy wanted me to thank you for inviting her to your girls’ night with Ji-Min. She had a great time.” 

The older woman glared at the cop again, and he retreated, waving goodbye. 

Just for fun, Lynn winked at him with her back turned to the hostess as he left. He practically stumbled through the front door, making Lynn laugh. 

The hostess looked angry, but Lynn couldn’t tell if she was annoyed at her or at the cop for leering and flirting. 

“I’m sorry for him.” The hostess said, frowning as if it was her face’s natural expression. “He knows better.” 

“Oh, it’s okay.” Lynn said. “Honestly. It happens all the time.” 

The older woman grunted but didn’t argue or comment. “Are you here to pick up, or would you like a table?” 

“Oh, actually, I’m here to meet Mindy.” Lynn said, lying through her teeth while baring them in a smile. 

“You know, Mindy?” The hostess asked, followed almost immediately by a follow-up question that sounded even more surprised. “She’s coming here for lunch?” 

“I was supposed to meet her and her girlfriend Rani here.” Lynn said. “For a moment there, I thought the cop was going to spare me from being the third wheel and turn it into a proper double date.” She sighed. “Oh well.” 

The hostess gave Lynn a funny look, but Lynn expected that. She was gambling. Mindy’s parents were Korean Methodists. Everything on their social media told her that if they knew about Mindy’s sexuality, they weren’t proud of it. Chances were, they didn’t know. Mindy’s socials didn’t suggest she was Bi either unless you looked at her interests and spotted the pattern. 

Lynn kept her smile on as if nothing she said should be confusing. “Is Mindy here already?” She asked, checking her phone as if she might have a text from the girl. 

“How do you know Mindy?” The hostess asked, her eyes narrowing and her brow creasing.

“Oh, I’m one of her new housemates.” Lynn said. “We’re all renting from the same guy.” 

“I thought the owner was a lady? Deb Clarke?” The hostess asked. 

“Oh, sure.” Lynn said. “She and her husband George own the house, but her son Arthur manages the property. He’s a friend of mine. A friend to all of us girls, really.” 

“You’d better take a table.” The hostess said, eyeing the people coming in behind Lynn as they approached the door. 

“Thanks!” Lynn said. “Do you know if Mindy’s parents are here?” She asked as if she hadn’t seen Mrs. Tae’s picture online. “I’d love to meet them, and I know they own the restaurant.” 

“I’m Mindy’s Umma.” The hostess said, moving sharply to pick up three menus and take Lynn to her table. 

“Is that Korean for sister?” Lynn asked, following her to a table by the exotic aquarium built into the wall. She sat on the bench-side as if she needed a good view of the entrance to spot Mindy and Rani’s arrival. If her attempt to flatter Mrs. Tae worked, the older woman made no sign of it. 

“It means mother.” Mrs. Tae corrected her. 

“Oh!” Lynn said, as if unaware of who she’d been talking to this entire time. “It’s so nice to meet you! Mindy says the loveliest things about you!” 

The woman didn’t seem sure how to take that. She looked at Lynn in confusion. “Like what?”

“Oh, the usual.” Lynn said, recalling her research from social media flawlessly. “Watching Korean tv shows together,  your taste in coffee, that kind of thing. Mostly, she babbles about how lovely it is to have parents break the stereotypes and support her lifestyle.” Lynn shrugged. “She and Rani are so cute together, too. But you know that.” 

The older woman looked toward the kitchen, then to her hostess counter, where a group of three waited for her. She returned her gaze to Lynn and frowned. “One moment. I’ll be right back. Don’t go anywhere.” 

“I’ll be here!” Lynn said cheerily as she opened the menu. She crossed her legs under the table and smiled a wicked grin as she reviewed her options. She already knew what she’d be eating. 

Mindy’s mom shuffled the three newcomers to their seats, then spoke quickly to the only other waitress working the floor. The server came over to Lynn’s table with water and asked if she was ready to order. 

Lynn ordered her usual sushi order, though she doubted it would be as fresh or good as the sushi in the city. She was taking a risk here, but she enjoyed her sushi, and if she got sick, she’d make Mindy pay all the more for it. Win-win. 

Mindy’s mother joined her a minute later, sliding into the seat across from Lynn and leaning forward. 

“Before Mindy gets here. What did you mean about Mindy’s lifestyle?” She asked.

“Oh, you know…” Lynn said, glancing side to side. “That she’s a lesbian? Not a lot of Asian parents would be okay with that, and I know you’re religious.” She eyed the cross necklace Mindy's mom wore. “So I think it’s really great you accept her for who she is.” 

“My daughter is not a lesbian.” She shook her head. “I think you misunderstand.” 

“Oh.” Lynn said, laughing at herself. “That’s right. She said bisexual.” Lynn said. “But between you and me? I think she’s just saying that because she’s holding back. I’m not sure bisexuality is really a thing. They’re just gay people who aren’t brave enough to commit to being gay. I’m sure she’ll discover her sexuality with Rani. She’s very experienced.” 

Mrs. Tae shook her head. “No. Rani is…” She looked around. “Queer.” She said in a hushed tone. Lynn couldn’t tell if she was embarrassed to say the word out loud or trying to respect Rani’s privacy. “But Rani has a boyfriend.” 

“Oh, you mean Arthur?” Lynn asked. She pulled out her phone. If she was surprised that Mrs. Tae knew about Arthur, she didn’t show it. Instead, she showed Mrs. Tae a picture of Arthur and Kelly she’d taken without their knowledge at homecoming. The two of them sat side-by-side in the bleachers as the game went on. “No, that’s Arthur’s girlfriend. Kelly. She’s living with us too, of course.” 

Mrs. Tae looked at the picture and frowned. She looked more confused than before. So Mindy hadn’t told her parents about being bisexual or the harem. Perfect. 

Lynn turned her phone toward herself and looked surprised. Acting like she’d just gotten a message, she rolled her eyes. “Looks like I’m on my own for lunch.” She sighed. “Mindy said she and Rani got distracted… They do this a lot. You know how lovebirds are.” 

Mrs. Tae sat across from her, dumbfounded. 

“It’s okay. More sushi for me!” She giggled. “But maybe I’ll take it to go?” 

Mrs. Tae nodded. She didn’t say anything. She left the table and strode into the kitchen as if unaware she was walking. 

Lynn laughed. “Call me dumb again, whore. I dare you.” She put her phone away, folded her hands on the table, and waited. 

~~~

The school cafeteria overflowed with people during the height of lunch. Round tables squeezed in as many chairs as they could. Chatter and conversations across the tables filled the dining hall like water, making the air thick with sound as Katelyn moved through it. She lost Kat somewhere in line for food but knew she’d find her again eventually. 

Balancing her tray with her plate on was manageable as long as she had the counter bars to rest her tray. Doing everything one-handed was taking some getting used to, but she supposed she should be thankful it wasn’t her dominant arm in the sling. 

“Here, let me carry that for you.” 

A baritone voice surprised her as Arthur reached past Katelyn and took her tray. 

“Oh.” Katelyn said, eyeing him. He wore a navy blue suit with a white collared shirt, the top button open. He looked good, in an almost textbook definition of ‘business casual.’ “Thank you.” 

Arthur nodded. “What other food would you like?” 

“Oh, uh… some fries.” Katelyn said. 

Arthur nodded and took her plate to the bar, where the server gave them a serving of french fries. Katelyn smiled. Having him playing waiter for her was strange, but she wasn’t complaining. It was better to have three hands than one. 

“Anything else?” Arthur asked, looking at the vast array of cafeteria food. 

“No, that should be good.” Katelyn said, eyeing her sandwich and fries. 

“Where would you like to sit?” Arthur asked, surveying the dining hall. 

They spotted Kat simultaneously as she knelt on her chair to wave them over. She’d set up at a table with some of the volleyball girls, most of whom were finishing up their lunches by the time they arrived. Arthur set Katelyn’s tray beside Kat, kissed Kat’s forehead when she lifted it toward him and then returned to the cafeteria for his own tray. 

“Ooo.” One of the girls cooed at Kat. “Three questions: Where the fuck did you find him? When did you get a boyfriend? And does he have a brother?” 

Kat rolled her eyes. “It’s new.” She admitted and glanced at Katelyn. “But we’re polyamorous.” 

“So anybody can fuck him?” The girl asked, leaning to look past Kat. 

“No.” Kat answered. “It’s a very exclusive club. Just because we’re polyamorous doesn’t mean we’re open.” 

A few of them stared at Kat. 

“So, who else are you dating?” The girl asked. 

“Well, I’m not really–” 

Katelyn cut Kat off by raising her hand. “Me, kind of.” 

“No, we’re–” 

“I knew it!” One of the other girls exclaimed, pointing at Kat, then Katelyn. “You two are so gay for each other; it’s adorable.” 

“What?” Kat asked, shocked. “No, we’re–”  

Katelyn laughed. 

“We’re all just dating the same guy.” Selene said, joining the conversation after she joined the table Arthur pointed out to her. 

The four other girls at the table stared at Selene, then Arthur as he approached the table with his tray of food. They eyed him with raised eyebrows and curious expressions, and more than one of them let their eyes linger on his crotch. Katelyn wanted to apologize for her friends, but Arthur sat, and their eyes finally lifted. 

“Arthur, this is Ava, Sophie, Claire, and Kennedy, friends from our intramural volleyball team.” Kat said, making the awkward introductions. “Everyone, this is my–sorry, our–boyfriend Arthur.” 

Ava, an African-American junior, was almost as tall as Arthur. Her athletic build looked like she should have been on the official school team rather than the intramural. Katelyn always wondered why she didn’t try out for the school team, but it was a much bigger commitment, and Ava did everything for fun. Her dreadlocked black hair contained streaks of dyed blonde twisting through the braids, and her smile could light up a room. She didn’t smile as she looked at Arthur. 

Sophie smiled, her curly black hair twisting and wild as it fell to her mid-back. She was as tall as Katelyn but built more like Kat, with curves. She wasn’t the prettiest of the girls, but she was the only other one with a boyfriend, at least until Kat snagged Arthur. Katelyn supposed she was back in that grouping, too, though she wondered about that. 

Claire scoffed at Kat’s correction, shaking her head but not being rude. She was athletic in her build like Ava but flatter in every respect. Her short, buzzed hair made her look almost masculine, but her narrow chin and the feminine features of her face were unmistakable. She was the only one not looking at Arthur like he must be some kind of sex-god. 

Kennedy, Ava’s identical twin, had her hair loose but cut shorter than her sister’s. She was the only one to answer as Arthur took his seat. “It’s nice to meet you.” 

“The pleasure’s all mine.” Arthur said. 

“We’ve been wondering what kind of man could tame Kat.” Sophie said, laughing at her joke. “And you’ve got other girlfriends besides?” 

Arthur nodded. “Yeah, we’re trying Polyamory.” He said. “It’s unconventional, I know, but…” 

“I think it’s great.” Sophie assured him as he trailed off. “Love is love, right girls?” 

Ava and Kennedy nodded. Claire rolled her eyes. 

“So, how many people are you dating, exactly?” Sophie asked. “And are all of them girls, or…” 

“Uh, well, there’s seven of us, including Katelyn.” Arthur said. “And we’re all in a polycule, so some lines cross, others don’t. But we’re still figuring things out.” 

“Are we including me?” Katelyn asked, looking at Arthur with an expression intended to challenge his statement. “It’s been kinda quiet since Sunday…” 

“Trouble in paradise already?” Sophie asked, looking between Kat and Katelyn. 

“That’s my fault.” Arthur said. “I should have reached out to you yesterday. I keep forgetting you’re not in the group chats.” 

“The two of you need to go on a date.” Selene said, glancing between them. “So you can really get to know one another.” 

Arthur nodded. “That’s a great idea.” He looked at Katelyn. “Would you be interested in a date? Just the two of us?” 

Katelyn considered the question, eyeing Arthur and judging whether he made the offer because he wanted to, Selene wanted him to, or because he felt pressured. The volleyball girls were watching, Kat was looking at her plate, and Selene was smiling. 

“We don’t have to if you don’t want to.” Katelyn said. 

Arthur smiled softly. “Of course, but I want to get to know you better.” 

“When can you fit in a date?” Kat asked. “You’re already strapped for time.” 

Arthur frowned, conceding Kat’s point without saying as much. 

Katelyn wondered how that would work long-term. Six girlfriends? One for every day of the week if he took the seventh off. Even God rested on the seventh day, right? 

“How about… right now?” Arthur asked, looking at Katelyn. 

“What?” Katelyn asked, confused. 

“A lunch date.” Arthur explained. “We can take our lunches outside or take a walk together after we finish our food?” 

“Don’t you have work?” Kat asked. 

“I have the afternoon off because of the photo shoot, but I have some time before then, and I can skip my afternoon class.” Arthur offered. 

Katelyn considered it. Was he willing to skip a class to make time for her? That was sweet. Everything she heard from Kelly was how studious and responsible he was. She knew he wasn’t the type to look for an excuse to blow off his classes, unlike a particular ex. 

A lunch date was honestly a cute idea. Her afternoon class wasn’t until later, and she’d wanted some time with him. Guilt swelled in her chest as she looked at Kat, though. Was she stealing Kat’s boyfriend from her? Or Selene’s? 

“Go.” Kat said, nodding toward the exit. “Let the rest of us eat in peace.” 

“You don’t want to come?” Katelyn asked, tilting her head. 

“We’ll go if you want us to.” Selene said, volunteering Kat in her answer. “But we both have class, and you need some one-on-one time without us distracting you.” 

Kat nodded. 

Arthur stood. “I’ll be right back. Let me grab some to-go containers.” He left the table. 

“Poly sounds like a lot of work.” Sophie said, watching them. “Is that all it is? Just figuring out scheduling?” 

Selene giggled. 

“There’s more of that than I expected, yeah.” Kat said, half her face pulled into a smile. 

“Do you ever all just… dogpile him?” Ava asked. She kept her eyes on Arthur as he tangoed through the tables. 

Claire choked on her water, making Kennedy and Sophie laugh and pat her on the back until she recovered. 

Katelyn, Kat, and Selene blushed and looked down at their food instead of answering. 

“Oooo.” Kennedy cooed, teasing them as she elbowed Kat. “That’s a yes!” 

“Disgusting.” Claire said. “Aren’t you two sisters?” She pointed to Kat and Selene. 

“Yeah, but it’s not like we do anything with each other.” Kat said. “Get your mind out of the gutter, Claire.” 

Claire rolled her eyes. 

“No judgment.” Ava said, raising her hands in surrender. “I shouldn’t have asked.” 

Arthur returned, and the girls fell quiet. He glanced at Kat, who nodded. Selene smiled at him, looking to all the world like she was ready to leave with him. He set the to-go container in front of Katelyn’s plate and looked at her for permission. She nodded, and they watched silently as he moved Katelyn’s food, then his own, to the to-go containers. 

“Ready?” He asked Katelyn. 

Katelyn nodded, pushing her chair back and standing as Arthur offered her his hand for stability. He carried their food and waved goodbye to Selene and Kat, who responded in kind. 

“It doesn’t bother you, knowing they’re going to go have lunch without you?” Sophie asked, unable to contain her curiosity any longer. 

“The FOMO is real.” Kat said. “But bearable.” She shifted in her seat, closing her eyes as she did so as if Arthur was hugging her from behind. 

Selene smiled, and they continued their lunch while Katelyn and Arthur left the dining hall behind. 

~~~

“So, this is not smoothies on Friday.” Thalia said, sitting down with her wrap and veggies from the cafe. 

“No.” Kelly agreed, opening her grilled chicken salad. “But since we ran into each other, I thought it might be good to catch up before your shoot with Rani and Arthur tonight.” 

Thalia nodded. “It’s okay with me.” 

Kelly smiled, smoothing her calf-length skirt in her lap and placing her napkin over it. Her gray dress was plain but styled with a built-in white blouse beneath its straps to the squared neckline. The woolen polyester blend hugged her frame, and the long white sleeves ended in ruches at her wrists. The vintage, narrow-chained silver watch on her left wrist ticked away the time. 

Thalia crossed her legs under the table and tugged the higher left-hand side of her asymmetrical skirt down to her upper thigh. She eyed Kelly with a small smile and started eating her wrap. 

“So…” Kelly said. 

“So. The housewife Kelly is in a polyamorous relationship now?” Thalia asked. 

Kelly nodded. She pressed her lips together, sipped a gulp of water from her water bottle, and inhaled deeply. She knew Thalia would want answers, but needed a second to calm her nerves.

“So how does that work with you only wanting a serious, dedicated relationship and not being open to casual sex? Have you changed your mind over the summer?” Thalia asked. “Or is it a serious, committed relationship with each of them?” 

Kelly sighed. “Both?” 

Thalia looked doubtful, but she was kind enough not to press. Kelly was thankful for that. 

“I owe you an apology.” Kelly said. “I’m really sorry for reacting like I did when you suggested a casual relationship.” 

Thalia looked surprised but nodded as Kelly’s sincere gaze retained her eye contact. “It’s okay. I shouldn’t have said what I did about you being bi, either. I shouldn’t have said that. It was narrow-minded. And I should have been more sensitive to your feelings. I’m sorry.” 

Kelly swallowed, closing her eyes against the water that threatened them and blinking. Thalia had never meant for her comments to be cruel. She hadn’t known Kelly’s previous struggles with her sexuality. Kelly knew that. “I appreciate you saying that.” 

Thalia reached across the table and placed her hand over Kelly’s. “I really am sorry.” 

Kelly clasped her other hand over Thalia’s and nodded. “Me too.” 

“Friends?” Thalia asked. 

“Friends.” Kelly said. 

“Good.” Thalia said. “Now, tell me how you came to date this gym husband and these girls.”  

Kelly smiled. “Well… I thought a lot about what you said over the summer.” Kelly explained. “And you were right. I was too attached and too invested. You hadn’t even given me any hints to make me think you were interested in a committed relationship. I took our flirting way too seriously, and when we got together… I understand now how I scared you away. So… when Arthur asked me out, I decided we should be casual until after graduation.” 

Thalia ate her wrap while she listened, interested but also hungry. She didn’t protest that Kelly scared her away, either. 

“That lasted for a few days, maybe.” Kelly said, laughing at herself. 

“You’ve crushed on him a while and his girlfriend.” Thalia said. “I know this.” 

Kelly nodded. “Lori broke up with him last semester after you and I… had our misunderstanding.” 

“So she is not part of your new relationship?” Thalia asked. 

“No. She transferred to a different school.” Kelly explained. She took another bite of her salad. The black and tan chicken amongst the fork full of greens disappeared piece by piece. 

“Because of the breakup?” Thalia asked. “She was so upset she left?” 

“Other way around.” Kelly said. Lori hadn’t left because she’d broken up with Arthur. She broke up with Arthur so she could leave. 

“Ah.” Thalia nodded. “So, how did you go from casually dating one man to one man and many hot women?” 

“Well, since I suggested keeping things casual, he asked about other partners.” Kelly said. “Then I met them, and it all just kinda… clicked.” She shrugged. 

“So you’re free to date anyone and open to casual relationships now?” Thalia asked, raising an eyebrow. 

Kelly looked down at her plate and frowned. “Not exactly. We agreed to close the polycule for now. So we can focus on our relationship. We’re exclusive to each other, at least most of the time.” 

“So it’s serious. Most of the time. What does most of the time mean?” Thalia asked. 

“There are exceptions to the rules.” Kelly said. “But only with everyone’s agreement, or Arthur’s involvement, or one of us with him, in his case.” A butchered summary, perhaps, but succinct.

“So if you wanted to spend the night with me again, you’d need permission?” Thalia asked. 

Kelly blushed. “And Arthur would have to be with us.” She tried to cool off by taking another sip of water. 

“That sounds hot if you like men.” Thalia said. “I understand why he would want that, but why would you agree to such a thing? It sounds very unfair to me.” 

Kelly shrugged. “It’s… It sounds bad, I admit, but Arthur’s not like that. Honestly? I’m fine with it because I’d want him there. I know he’d look out for me, and I’d be safe, even if it was a one-night stand or something totally crazy.” 

Thalia considered her answer for a moment. “So he’s like… your boyfriend bodyguard?” She laughed. “More like booty-guard.” 

Kelly laughed with her. “You’re not wrong.” She trusted Arthur to protect her, even if she didn’t need his protection. She could fight her battles and was definitely a better fighter than her pacifist boyfriend. Still, Arthur was the person she felt safe beside. She could let her guard down when he was around. Her anxiety melted away in the warmth of his presence, and she could play.

“This shoot should be fun.” Thalia said. “Will you be there?” 

“I’m busy tonight.” Kelly said, frowning. “But Arthur and Rani will be there.” 

“And if they ask me to fuck?” Thalia asked. “Will you be jealous?” 

Kelly rolled her eyes. “Rani probably will ask you.” 

“Your boyfriend won’t?” Thalia asked. “Even though he has freedom you don't?”

“Probably not.” Kelly said. “He’ll go with what Rani suggests, though, which is what we've agreed to. If you let him take the lead after that, you’ll have a good time.” 

“You won’t be jealous if I fuck your photographer girlfriend?” Thalia asked. 

“I’ll be sad I missed out.” Kelly answered. “And maybe a little jealous about Arthur. But Arthur and Rani have my permission to do whatever they want so long as they follow the rules of our relationship.” 

Thalia smiled. “It sounds like you’re giving me permission to fuck your boyfriend and your girlfriend.” 

Kelly laughed. “I guess I am.” 

Thalia looked surprised. 

Kelly shrugged. “We’ve all opened up our sexual boundaries a lot in the last couple of weeks.” She explained. “Just tell Rani I’ll want to see the pictures.” She winked. 

Thalia laughed. “And here I thought you were always so clingy and prudish.” 

“I’m not a prude.” Kelly said. “I’ve just… I’ve had time to think and open up to new experiences. I’m actively trying to work on my clinginess with Arthur.” She explained. “Arthur has helped me do that. The whole harem has helped, really.” 

“Harem?” Thalia asked, surprised. 

“It’s what we call ourselves.” Kelly said. “I think Mindy or Selene started it. Probably Selene.” 

“These girls all sound very interesting. You must love having the best of both worlds. Hot boyfriend, multiple girlfriends, you have your cake and eat it too.” Thalia said. “Maybe I’m the jealous one.” 

Kelly laughed and continued eating her salad. “Maybe you should be.” She said. She wiped the corner of her mouth with her thumb to catch some errant dressing and wiped it on her napkin. 

“I’d offer to join your club, but I don’t like the idea of being unable to take other partners.” Thalia said. “And I’m a full lesbian, not half a one.”

Kelly rolled her eyes but nodded. “I know. I didn’t think you’d changed your mind about that. The exclusivity thing, not the sexuality, obviously.” 

“I have not.” Thalia said, agreeing with Kelly. “It is best not to settle down.” 

“Agree to disagree.” Kelly said. “But I’m glad we can be friends again.” 

“Of course!” Thalia said. “Now, to the real gossip. Have you seen the field hockey games this season? They did so much better when you were on the team.” 

Kelly laughed, and the conversation turned to the women’s field hockey season and its final upcoming game. 

~~~

“So, where do you wanna eat?” Katelyn asked as they left the dining hall. She followed Arthur’s lead but had no idea where they were going as she walked beside him. 

Arthur carried her lunch for her, which she appreciated, but she didn’t initiate or hold onto his arm like she might have with Sean. Awkwardness hung between them. He’d seen her naked. He’d seen her do things in vulnerable, humiliating positions. He’d split her in half with that massive pole between his legs, and she’d thanked him for it and called him names she’d never called anyone before. 

She tilted her eyes to his face, wondering what thoughts were floating through his head. 

“I have no idea.” Arthur answered honestly. “Would you prefer outside or inside?” 

“I don’t care.” Katelyn answered, honestly unable to think of a preference. 

Arthur sighed. “I guess I should make the decisions. Everyone wants me to be more dominant outside the bedroom.” 

Katelyn didn’t know if she’d put it that way, but she didn’t mind him making the decisions. 

“Let’s eat outside.” Arthur said. “There’s a gazebo in the park; if it’s unoccupied, we can eat there.” 

“Okay.” Katelyn said, knowing the place he was talking about. The walk wasn’t far, and while a path toward the campus admin building passed the gazebo, it wasn’t close and was separated from the pond by a row of trees. In the summertime, the private homes in the distance fenced in a lovely view of the flowery field. In the autumn, it became a lake of leaves, which was beautiful in its own way.  

Arthur led her to it and offered her his hand to help her step up to the wooden platform. She didn’t need it but took it and sat with her back to the trees, looking out over the meadow. Arthur sat beside her and opened her food box. She set it in her lap, parallel to the ground, as Arthur did the same. 

“So…” Arthur said, opening his utensil pack. “How have you been since Sunday?” 

Kat smiled. “I’ve been okay. Things were a little awkward getting back to the usual routine on Monday after all the craziness this weekend.” 

Arthur nodded. “I’m pretty sure my schedule will never be normal again.” 

“Because of all the girlfriends?” Katelyn asked, teasing him. 

“Yeah.” Arthur said. “Not that I’m complaining.” 

Katelyn laughed. “Of course not.” She said, but she imagined it must be hell trying to juggle six different schedules instead of one. 

“How are you feeling about… well, everything, I guess?” Arthur asked. 

Katelyn considered the question as she ate a fry. “I don’t know, honestly.” She said. “I love the girls but feel like I’m on the outside of things with them. Like… It’s their club, and I’m just Kelly’s plus one. Or Kat’s plus one, I guess.” 

“I can understand that.” Arthur said. “To be honest, you’re the first person we’ve really considered adding since we established all the rules, and that surprised some of them because Kat was so adamant about not adding anyone for a while.” 

“Kat’s the one who invited me.” Katelyn said, even though she knew Arthur already knew that. 

“I know.” Arthur said. “It’s… it was a whole thing.” He said. “I’m sure she explained some of it to you. As for the rest, well… women are confusing, sure, but Kat is one of the most confusing women I know.” 

Katelyn nodded as if understanding. “She doesn’t explain herself well.” 

“You can say that again.” Arthur said, scoffing. “But I think I’m starting to understand her, slash, speak her language.” 

Katelyn nodded. “Do you think you can handle it? The responsibility of being with so many people, and not just sexually, but like… maintaining a relationship with each and putting the work in? Don't get me wrong, the sex was great, like… holy shit. But I'm also looking for more than sex, you know? Kelly is, too.” 

“I know, and I hope I don't disappoint anyone in that regard.” Arthur said. “I'm not in it for only sex either. I care about everyone, and I’d hate for anyone to get hurt. That’s why communication is so important, and we regularly check in with each other.” 

Katelyn nodded. That made sense. Though, she still had her doubts. Intentions didn't always produce reality. Silence fell between them while they ate. Katelyn watched the leaves skitter across the grass. 

“Do you even have time for another girlfriend?” Katelyn asked. “Or should I expect to be on my own most of the time if we start dating?” 

Arthur considered her question before answering. He chewed and swallowed. “I think time will be more readily available when we’re in the house and not all living in different places.” 

That was a fair point. Most of their time away from each other was because they lived in different apartments, sleeping in different towns. Having everyone in one place would erase that time away and lead to more shoulder-to-shoulder time, at the very least. Their meals would be together, and the sense of community would be stronger for it. 

“And no.” Arthur said. “I can’t guarantee I’ll be around twenty-four-seven, but each of my partners is a priority in my life and to each other. So even when we’re not together, you’ll have the harem looking out for you like Kelly does now, and we can stay in touch more through the messenger apps.” 

Another good point, Katelyn thought. 

“So, how does this work?” Katelyn asked. “You and I have our lunch date, and then you decide if I make the cut?” 

Arthur smiled softly. “Are you interested in dating me?” 

“Um…” Katelyn looked away from him, moving her eyes to her food. 

“Let me put it this way.” Arthur said, taking a softer tone. “If the harem didn’t exist. If I was single, and Kelly introduced us, would you want to date me?” 

“Absolutely.” Katelyn said, nodding. “You’re… you’re totally my type. Tall, strong, protective, not angry or aggressive, and how you always look out for everyone around you? It’s… I don’t know. It’s very attractive.” 

Arthur nodded. “Thanks.” He said. 

“But I fucked things up.” Katelyn said. 

“And I already forgave you for that.” Arthur said. “Besides, we’re past that now, after everything we did this weekend. We know we’re sexually compatible.” 

“I know, but I still feel guilty about it.” Katelyn said.

Arthur nodded. “It wasn’t as bad as you think, trust me. You didn’t cross the line. There’s a difference between someone going through something and making a mistake and someone who doesn’t believe they can make mistakes and does what they want anyway. You’re not a bad person, Katelyn. You made a mistake, but you let me stop you and made apologies and amends since.” 

Katelyn looked confused when he started talking but appeased by the end. Arthur spoke slowly, choosing his words carefully and looking off into the distance. He was right. She’d apologized to him and his girlfriends, done her best to make it up to him, and they’d forgiven and included her. Even Kat forgave her, and Kat could hold a grudge. 

Arthur laughed, startling her. “Do you want me to spank you for it?” He asked. “I can throw you over my knee right here if you want me to.” 

Katelyn giggled, covering her full mouth with her hand. “No, thank you. I actually didn’t enjoy spanking as much as I thought I would. It hurt too much.” 

Arthur nodded. “Well, it is a punishment.” 

“The others all seem to enjoy it!” Katelyn protested louder than she meant to. She shrank and looked abashed. 

“You’re not them.” Arthur said simply. “You strike me as someone who enjoys the gentler aspects of dominance and submission more than the sadism and masochism aspects. You responded well to me providing a safe space for your submission. You were pretty eager to obey me and Kelly, but viewing spanking as an actual punishment you don’t enjoy might be good.” 

“Really?” Katelyn asked. 

“Sure.” Arthur nodded. “It gives me something I can punish you with when you misbehave or need motivation. It’s an empty threat to the others because they enjoy it. I have to motivate them with different things.” 

Katelyn shook her head. “Like, how would that work? What would you motivate me to do?” 

Arthur pondered the question for a moment. “Well, for example, your swearing.” He said. “You’re trying to curb it because you want to be an elementary teacher, and Kelly’s constantly reminding you hasn’t been completely effective, right? What if we said ten spanks for every curse word you used?” 

“Shit, that’d add up fast.” Katelyn said, not saying no to the idea. The more she pictured it, the hotter she got. “We’ll see.” 

Arthur smiled. “So if you don’t enjoy spanking, what did you enjoy from the weekend? Anything?” 

Katelyn thought back to their time at the hotel and replayed some of the memories she’d considered since. “When you talked to me in the bedroom before we started, I appreciated how accommodating you were and how safe you made me feel.” 

Arthur waited for her to continue. 

“I enjoyed the fun of it. Pretending to be a pet was fun, kinda endearing. Don't get me wrong, it was weird, but… I dunno. Then you were accepting of the kinks I wanted to try, even encouraging. Sean never did that.” Katelyn said. 

“That’s one of the things we do as a group.” Arthur said. “We explore. We have fun with it.” 

“I know.” Katelyn said. “That’s what Kat and Kelly said, too, but it was better to see it in action. And… woof. Seeing you with the others was hot, and when you and I…” Katelyn blushed, cutting herself off and staring at her food. “The way you were with me when we… It was everything I wanted it to be. You were perfect.” 

“You’re not so bad yourself.” Arthur said, deflecting the compliment. “I’m glad you enjoyed it.” 

Katelyn nodded. “I know my kinks are weird, even compared to the others.” 

Arthur shrugged. “There’s nothing weird about wanting to feel safe with a partner. Safe enough to be yourself or to let your inner child out with them. To play and enjoy yourself. Sex can be more than just pleasure; it can be a lot of fun with the right partners.”

Katelyn nodded. She understood that better now than before their stay at the Ashwood Hotel. “The harem seem like the right partners.” 

Arthur closed his now-empty to-go container. 

“And you definitely are.” Katelyn said. She let her eyes wander over to Arthur, watching his face. “You’re so gentle with me, and you take care of me, even with the small things… It’s really nice.” 

Arthur blushed a little, looking awkward for a moment but recovering. “I don’t want you to feel pressured to join the harem.” He said. “But I want you to join us if you want to.” 

“I want to.” Katelyn said, saying it as she decided. “I don’t know that I’ll be into everything that everyone else is, though… is that okay?” 

“That’s more than okay.” Arthur said, smiling in a way that made Katelyn’s heart flutter. “It’s encouraged. You can be your own woman and determine what you like. Any partners, myself included, will respect that.” 

“So what’s next?” Katelyn asked. She wasn't sure if there was a process the other girls went through. Should she kiss him? She looked at his lips. Her eyes dipped to his crotch. “Do I… suck your cock?” 

Arthur laughed, startling Katelyn slightly and making her laugh with him. 

“Do you want to?” Arthur asked. 

Katelyn shrugged with one shoulder. “I can’t do much else with my arm like this.” 

Arthur shook his head. “It’s a little too open here for that. And I’m honestly not sure where we fall with permission from the whole group right now. I was thinking we’d just eat our lunches, honestly.” 

“I’m having trouble finishing mine.” Katelyn laughed. “I need two hands for this sandwich.” 

“Oh, I have a solution for that.” Arthur said, reaching over before she could say anything. “Let me feed you.” 

“Like a baby bird?” Katelyn asked. The idea disgusted her. 

Arthur laughed. “I meant I’d hold your sandwich so you could eat it comfortably.” He scooted closer to her until they sat hip to hip, and her thigh was against his. 

“Oh.” Katelyn said, blushing at her stupidity. “That makes so much more sense.” 

Arthur shook his head and reached into her container with his right hand, reaching across himself and her as she sat on his left. He put his left arm behind her on the gazebo’s bench. Katelyn looked at him for a moment and nodded. 

He withdrew her sandwich and offered it up to her lips. His hands were bigger than hers, and he only needed one to hold the food. 

She shifted her head forward and took a bite, tearing off a piece of the sandwich while she chewed. Arthur watched her, holding her food in place for her. With her left arm in a sling from her dislocated shoulder she was trying to let it rest, but still, this wasn’t entirely necessary. She wasn’t going to point that out. 

“Can you put your arm around me? Like, around my hips?” Katelyn asked, leaning forward.

Arthur obliged, wrapping his arm behind her and putting his left hand on her left hip. She was skinny, and he didn’t have to reach far with his long arms. His arm wouldn’t make the most comfortable cushion between her and the bench, but she didn’t press into the bench. She leaned into him, and he squeezed her gently, cuddling her with one arm and feeding her with the other. 

She ate her sandwich in small, delicate bites. Piece by piece. It wasn’t sexual, not really, but intimate. Katelyn was closer to him than she thought possible, eating her lunch bite by bite because Arthur was taking care of her. She melted into him, confident in her decision. He smelled like smoky pine, and the faint, crisp scent of dying leaves surrounding them blew in on the wind. 

When she finished her sandwich, Arthur moved his hand away, but she pulled it back to her lips and sucked on his finger, cleaning crumbs and residue with her tongue. She sucked on each of his fingertips, then his thumb, closing her eyes as she pushed each finger into her mouth.

Arthur pulled his hand away after she sucked his thumb, picked up his napkin, and wiped her face for her. He lingered by the corner of her mouth and looked at her. She looked up into his hazel eyes with her large doe-brown eyes. She expected him to look hungry, or horny, or… vaguely sexually threatening. Instead, he looked warm, affectionate, and calm. His presence was a warm blanket against the chilly autumn weather, and she turned her gaze to his lips. 

“Thank you.” Katelyn said.

“You’re welcome.” Arthur answered. He folded up her to-go container and added it to his.

A couple walked past them, holding hands. Katelyn rested her head on Arthur’s shoulder and closed her eyes. They sat like that, embracing and still, while the world moved around them. People went about their lives, and Katelyn couldn't wait to tell the girls she wanted in.