masquerade

welcome, everyone. i have for you my newest story. i want to thank you for taking the time out of your day to read my contribution. i do hope that you enjoy masquerade.

masquerade

☼

behind the mask, the reluctance to be free is abandoned – enchanted.ladybug.

Christian and Malak have been married for eight years. He worked as an editor for a national magazine, she worked as a general manager at a hotel and resort. Demanding schedules took a toll on the couple and sometimes made it difficult to spend quality time with one another. They were very much in love…always excited to see one another after a long day. But busy schedules also meant that time in the bedroom was being neglected. Over the years, sexual intimacy had become painfully dull and predictable. The sensitive subject was on each of their minds, but neither of them wanted to be the one to bring it up; it was the pink elephant in the room that they danced gracefully around in an effort to spare the others feelings.

So on those nights they didn’t have to work late, they found themselves at home together, talking over a romantic dinner, enjoying dessert, and watching a movie together on the couch. Tonight was one of those nights. Lemon pomegranate panna cotta was firming in the fridge, Chicken Vesuvio warming in the oven.

Tonight was also the night they addressed the fact that their lovemaking had dwindled.

It was raining; the wind was blowing so hard that drops were lashing at the windows. In the bedroom, the couple found themselves in the missionary position. Christian wasn’t very imaginative in bed and most times it seemed like he was just going through the motions, like his mind had completely shut down. She wanted more and tried to introduce romantic baths and pillow talk into their routine, but talking dirty in bed was not something he was particularly good at, and there were nights they were just too tired to be intimate.

After several near noiseless moments, his body stiffened. “Did you come yet?” he panted.

If you have to ask…no. Malak forced a smile and nodded. After a quick kiss on the cheek, he rolled onto his side of the bed.

“Are you having an affair?” The thought that was a source of irritation and worry had manifested on her tongue.

“What?”

“You heard me, Christian.” It was quiet. Too quiet. But she braced herself for his answer.

“No. Look, I know I haven’t been very attentive lately.”

“It’s not just you. Our schedules conflict and get in the way of quality time.” She stopped briefly, “We’re drifting apart intimately; I mean it’s only a matter of time before…” Malak almost choked on her own words, and couldn’t bring herself to say anymore.

He turned, embraced her tightly from behind and nuzzled the back of her neck. “No. Don’t say that. That’s not going to happen to us. I won’t let it.”

“We have to do something,” her tone dripped with her desire to fill the emptiness that filled their alone time.

“I know, and we will figure it out. Together.” He struggled to contain his own tears. The thought that their marriage was in jeopardy was not a bridge he wanted to cross.

The following morning after breakfast, they both agreed that they would take some time out to find ways to enhance things in the bedroom, then discuss their ideas over dinner.

☼

That evening after the dishes were done, the couple curled up on the couch. Christian had purchased a few books on sexual positions, videos, and naughty games from an adult store.

Malak had something a little more adventuruous in mind. She’d read an article and two blogs online about sex clubs. Her research on the internet revealed that sex clubs, or lifestyle clubs are establishments where members engage in organized sexual activities with other members. The thought of her husband having intercourse with another woman, when things were already shakey between them turned her off from the idea- until she’d stumbled upon a genre that piqued her interest: masturbation clubs. Members masturbate privately or publicly and sex was not allowed. Taboo, a sex club located about twenty minutes away from their home acommodated themed co-ed masturbation parties.

The Eros Club is an exclusive organization that met two Saturdays a month at Taboo and next month, they would be hosting a masquerade party. They had a website, which she had read frontwards and backwards before regestering and applying for the party.

When Malak explained that these events were very organized, that there were rules, her husband replied with, “What? No.”

“Chris it’s not a free for all, there’s no sex. Kissing on the mouth and breasts are allowed but that’s it.”

“Oh so you are perfectly content watching some random woman kiss me while she gives me a hand job in front of you? Because I’ll be damned if I watch some strange man put his hands you!”

“No, it’s not like that at all. It’s so well structured. You don’t even have to do anything at these events if you don’t want to.”

“Then why go? And then you send in an application for us without discussing it with me first? How could you?”

“I don’t even know if our application has been approved. I thought we were trying-” she was interrupted.

“Look, I know. And I love you enough to want to fix this. But not…not like this, Malak.”

“Will you at least think about it?”

“I said no!” Christian yelled. The sting of his words caused her to shiver. He stormed out of the living room. Moments later, she heard water running in the bathroom. He never returned to the living room after his shower; she fell asleep on the couch watching television. The next day, he apologized with flowers.

☼

One Week Later

Thank you for registering with The Eros Club online. Your application for our Masquerade Party has been approved. The cover charge is $55.00 per person, to be paid at the door. Please bring the invitations that will be mailed to you at the address you provided.

The Eros Club maintains a safe and welcoming atmosphere for like-minded members. Personal information regarding our members is strictly confidential and will never be shared with anyone.

Please dress appropriately for our events; street clothes are not allowed but sexy lingerie and nudity are encouraged.

Members are not obligated to play at all – in fact some members just enjoy watching other members play.

It is admissible for men to orgasm on their partners or on the floor. Intercourse, anal and oral sex are strictly prohibited.

Prepare for a wonderful experience – and remember, what happens at Eros, stays at Eros!

Malak read the email three times before she printed it out.

“Hey, do you want some coffee? The guy is coming around with the breakfast cart.” Ava asked, poking her head inside of Malak’s office.

“Black, two sugars. Thanks, Ava.”

“You okay?”

“Yeah. Why’d you ask?”

“You didn’t ask for a danish.” Ava smiled, letting herself in and taking a seat. “What’s wrong?”

Ava wasn’t just a co-worker, she was a good friend. Being nine years Malak’s senior didn’t stop them from playing tennis together, and taking a Just Us Girls cruise each spring; this year they were going to the Bahamas. So talking about something so personal wasn’t an issue, besides Malak needed some advice. “Ava, do things ever get stale between you and Jon?”

Furrowing her brow, Ava asked, “Stale?”

“In the bedroom.”

“Ohhh. Well, sweetie, we’ve been married for twelve years now; we’re not going at it like rabbits, but it’s not stale.”

“Things have just been kinda….blah at home. At first it was all fireworks. Now….now it’s an effort. It’s not very satisfying at all.”

“I think all couples go through that. Jon and I hit a dry spell about two years ago. We started trying new things to spice it up in the bedroom. We role play, I took a few pole dancing classes, and we’re even entertaining the idea of a threesome.”

“Really? And he’s into it?”

“Sweetie, it was his idea. I call him my dirty little secret.” Ava smiled widely, tucking her short wavy hair behind her ear.

Malak envied her bold friend and her husband for being open enough to try new things. It’s probably why they’d never find themselves in divorce court. “I….suggested something about a week ago.”

“And? What happened?” Ava scooted to the edge of her seat, like she was about to hear a juicy secret.

“We were talking, trying to figure out how to make things more exciting. I told him about these sex clubs that host adult-themed parties. This particular one is for masturbation only. No sex whatsoever. Christian didn’t take it well.” Malak sighed, and passed her friend the approval letter she received by email. “We got in, but he doesn’t know yet.”

After reading it, Ava asked, “Wow, so what are you gonna do?”

Malak shrugged and shook her head. “I don’t know. You and Jon should go to Taboo, especially if you’re considering a threesome. I think you two would enjoy it.”

“Are you kidding? I’m going on their website right now to register and fill out a questionnaire. This is way better than pole dancing.”

☼

Telling her husband wasn’t going to be easy. She debated with herself on the way home: tell him. don’t tell him. Before the song on the radio ended, she took the next exit off the highway. The mall would be open for another hour, and that gave her just enough time to do a little shopping.

“Hey, you. I ordered a pizza, it should be here soon.” Christian crossed the room and greeted his wife with a kiss. “What’s in the bags?”

Taking her shoes off at the door, she answered, “I went to the mall. Earlier today, I got an email. An approval letter actually…from the Eros Club. They’ve invited us to their party next Saturday.” She watched for her husband’s reaction.

“I thought we talked about this, Malak.”

“I know. But you didn’t even consider the possibility.”

“I’m not comfortable with the concept. How come you can’t respect that?”

“And I’m trying to make our marriage work; not argue.” Her tone dripped with frustration.

Chrisitan turned his back to her. “I just need some time to warm up to the idea.”

“I’m going, Chris. I’m extending the invitation to you, and I’d love for you to escort me, but I am going,” she stated boldly.

Moments later, the sound of the doorbell interrupted their heated conversation, almost the way a bell rings during a boxing match when it’s time for the fighting to stop. Another verbal exchanged pushed to the backs of their minds.

☼

Saturday

Christian called home from work; the buddy of a co-worker backed out of a poker game at the last minute and he was asked to fill in. Malak told him to have fun and not to bet the house; an exchange of I love you’s ended the call. She emptied the contents of her shopping mall bags onto the bed: a nightgown, a masquerade mask and a pair of silk panties. Not just any panties. These, according to the store associate, were vibrating panties, and the remote control could be operated from 19 feet away.

After a shower, she dressed for her night out. Normally one to to wear her naturally curly hair down, tonight it was pulled into a high ponytail. Turning in the mirrior, she hiked up the nightgown, looking at the way the edge of the panties hugged her plump cheeks. She loved the idea of the discreet pleasure they would bring and thought about the hands free stimulation she’d enjoy later in the evening.

After pulling on a trench coat, she grabbed her keys, the mask, the invitation and headed out.

On the way to Eros, the smooth timbre of the radio announcer came through the speakers to introduce the next artist. While listening to Amp Fiddler, her mind became curious about the party; what she should do and say…what she should expect. What would be expected of her? It would have been nice if her husband could have been there to share this experience with her.

☼

The Eros Club

“Is this your first time?” asked a woman with bright pink hair and a friendly face behind the reception desk.

“Yes. Yes it is.” Malak handed over her invitation and the entrance fee.

“Well, welcome to Eros. Do you need a mask?”

Before she could answer, the back of her hand was stamped. “Oh, I have one, thanks.” She stared in the place where ink should have been, expecting to see a colored smiley face or solar image.

“It’s invisible ink.” Just then, the friendly woman held out a small pocket lamp. “See? It’s totatlly non-toxic.” Her smiling eyes assured her that it was safe. “Enjoy the party!”

“Thanks, I will. Oh…is there a place to check coats?”

The pink haired hostess smiled and pointed her in the direction of the coat room area.

Malak had stepped into another world. One that was wanton, yet fanciful and filled with people of all shapes and sizes, their identities hidden behind a mask. Some were plastic and plain; others were elaborate, like the kind you would find at a Venetian carnival. Hers fell somewhere in between: it was turquoise blue, bordered with a sequin braid and finished with matching jewels and glittery swirls. After checking her coat, she donned her mask and looked around, silently cursing herself for not buying lingerie that was more alluring. All around her women and men were beautifully dressed in attire such as cocktail and mini dresses, barely there g-string teddies, dinner jackets and evening suits. It was an elaborate look compared to her ensemble: a satin, short black nightgown.

Just then, someone bumped into her and said excuse me. It was a woman wearing a gothic punk styled corset and skirt, and a red mask with lots of feathers. Malak entered the scene, tugging at her gown as she slowly walked around. She knew from the website that the early evening hours were devoted to enjoying the place; connecting with other guests while listening to a diverse mix of music. At the stroke of midnight, a new vibe would develop. For now, she wanted to explore the tasteful ambiance.

☼

The main floor made up the social area, complete with a large round platform in the middle of the dance floor, seating areas and restrooms. Suspended from the high ceilings were two large birdcages with dancers inside of them. A stairwell led to the second floor of the club. Located here were the DJ booth and loft area with private beds for guests who wanted a little seclusion. Just behind the social area was an entrance that led to the Red Room; a theater for those that wanted to watch adult movies. It was a lot to take in, but Malak had no place else to be.

She took a seat to watch the caged dancers. “Is this your first time?” A woman wearing a half mask and green cocktail dress sat down next to her.

“Is it that obvious?”

“A little. Newbies always have that kid in a candy store look in their eyes.”

Extending her hand, she smiled, “I’m Malak.”

“I’m Janice, nice to meet you. And that man over there dressed like the Phantom of the Opera is my husband, Derrick,” Janice said, shaking Malak’s hand.

She nodded and looked in his direction. “So Janice, what exactly happens after midnight?”

An expansive smile decorated Janice’s face. “Oh, honey. That’s when the fun begins. The Lord of the house comes out to annouce the playing hour. You’ll see people undress and scatter off to different areas of the club.” Malak’s eyes followed the direction of Janice’s fingers. “Some will stay in the main area, others go upstairs or to the Red Room.”

“And the approval letter said you didn’t have to….”

“Oh no. That’s what’s so great about this place. You can just watch all night if you want to. Listen,” Janice began, “if you want, I can ditch my old man later and show you around. We’ve been coming to the Eros parties for three years, I know how it is to be the new girl.”

“I just might do that. Thank you.”

Janice placed a hand on her shoulder. “Just let go and have fun, honey. You come find me if you want.” Standing to leave, she winked. “Cute mask, by the way.” While watching her walk away, Malak felt a little less nervous.

As the evening carried on, and thanks to her new friend Janice, she found herself having polite conversation with several other guests. Some singles, some couples. All very open minded, sexual and ready to explore without limits. While she was chatting, she felt a sensation: a vibration between her legs beating right against her clitoris that caught her by surprise and caused her to flinch. She’d forgotten about the massager tucked away inside her panties. She drew in a sharp breath. “Are you okay?” the couple asked in unison. Even if the remote had been activated by accident, she was too far away from it to feel it buzzing. Then she remembered: she didn’t even bring the remote to the party.

“I’m fine, just a little nervous.” she lied. It happened again, only the pulsation lasted longer. She wondered for just a moment if the panties were defective, and even, for just a moment, entertained a thought.

As the couple consoled her, the lights suddenly went out. When they came on, the club was dim with sensual lighting. A clock chimed; indicating the midnight hour.

Everyone grew silent.

A chariot being pulled by several women entered the social area. They escorted a cloaked figure onto the platform. The hood completely covered the face underneath. Gloved hands were lifted shoulder high. The Lord’s voice was deep and robust as he welcomed his guests:

Greetings, hedonists! The night is filled with mystery! Prepare to flirt, tease and explore with abandon. Here, the voyage is a way of life. Indulge your senses, stimulate your mind…and welcome…to Eros!

Following a thunderous round of applause, people began to undress and disperse, just as Janice indicated. Malak decided to visit the Red Room first. As she made her way to the back, she staggered, feeling the rapid tremor again. Turning, she searched among the piles of clothes, bodies and low lighting. There he was, sitting on a couch wearing a suit and tie and a mask he probably picked up at the reception desk. Her heart raced as she hurried to her husband.

“You came!” she beamed.

Christian stood and kissed her softly. “I came. You look gorgeous,” he said, admiring the African American and German vision before him. “Where were you headed?” He wound his finger around a small ringlet in her ponytail.

“To the theater, but I’ve got an idea,” she bit her lip and beckoned him with her index finger.

At the staircase leading to the second level, Malak glanced over her shoulder and made a slight gesture with her head.

☼

There was an empty room at the end of the hall that she quickly stepped into. Christian was about to join her. “Stay,” she said, insisting that he remain on the other side of the sheer curtain as she removed her nightgown. After sitting on the bed with her back against the wall, she explored the soft contours of her breasts. The dark areola around her nipples wrinkled as her fingers skimmed over them. She sighed deeply, rolling the puckered flesh between her thumb and forefinger. He activated the remote again. The vibrator became powerful against her clit. She forced her pelvis downward against the bed, circling her hips against the insert.

While one hand kneaded her breast, the other drifted past her belly and into her panties. She whimpered softly as her fingers parted her swollen lips. Christian watched with fascination as his wife’s hand moved up and down between her thighs. The halls echoed with the punctuated moans of members who occupied the other rooms in the loft, but the lazy look displayed on Malak’s face suggested that she was in ecstasy.

She winked at him then shifted a little to remove the panties and spread her legs. From where he stood, he could see her clitoris peeking from its hood and couldn’t help but cup his manhood, as if doing so would prevent the bulge in his pants from growing.

Her hand slid past her mons and stopped at her bud. She stroked it, moved it in circles, from side to side, held it between the narrow space of her index and middle finger and then pressed her fingertips inside of her pussy. Watching the push and pull of her hand caused Christian to abandon the remote control and unzip his pants. When she removed her fingers and sucked them, he used the clear liquid that pooled on the head of his dick as lubricant and stroked himself.

It wasn’t long before she reached for a pillow, straddled it, squeezed it between her legs and began working her vulva against the pillowcase. Christian watched his wife’s slightly hunched body writhing in slow, sensual circles. Her steady sighs and the way her ass clenched with each thrust was such a beautiful sight.

“So good,” she chanted, grinding faster; finding just the right spot to create the friction she needed against her tender spot. He invited himself in the small room, his own orgasm begging to be released. Working his hand frantically up and down the length of his growing arousal, Christian stood over his wife watching her hips squirming wildly. His uncountable shallow panting joined her sharp cries. When he was fully erect, his hand twisted around his shaft with long, firm strokes. Once he established a steady rhythm, his breathing became accelerated and he began thrusting his pelvis; recreating intercourse with his hand. The newness of this vigorous pattern was a pleasant experience. His eyes, the color of blue curacao and filled with intense emotion, met hers.

“Oh shit!” Malak gripped the sheets, twisting her hips like a mechanical device as her pleasure crested. Lust overwhelmed her bucking, moaning body. In that final moment of frenzy, her body jerked against the pillow a few times before her climax shot through her body. Her screams broke free from her mouth and traveled past the sheer curtains, becoming united with the erotic chorus that filled the hallway.

Every nerve in Christian’s body caught his attention as short, impassioned gasps poured from his mouth. His face twisted in pleasure…then he surrendered himself to pleasure and emptied himself; milky white ropes arced into the air and landed on Malak’s backside.

After shuddering, her sweaty body collapsed quietly on the bed. While she caught her breath, he knelt beside her, leaning over to meet her kiss with a fiery enthusiasm that excited them both.

☼

About a week later, Malak recieved an email from The Eros Club. An invitation for two to their next party: A Night in Egypt. She smiled, printing the approval letter. “Sweetie….”

© enchanted.ladybug 07.29.2012