"We will learn together, then, what it is that brings you the most pleasure."

His hand on her hip remains in place, though he begins to draw slow circles against her skin with his thumb, the contrast of the woven linen and her bare flesh helping to keep his focus in this moment.

"And I will teach you what brings mine."

A pause.

"You must promise me, this...if at any point, anything that I do is unpleasant, or makes you unsettled...you will speak up. I do not think that will be a concern...but if it is, I would stop, without argument."