Mistress Susan considered the invitation for a moment, her eyes flicking from one member of the group to another. They were all smiling, and there was an undercurrent of warmth and genuine friendship between them. She appreciated the sincerity of their intentions, but we don’t always get what we want. 

With a gentle expression on her face, she said, “I appreciate the invitation, but I must decline. I just remembered that I have another engagement to attend to tonight, and as you all know, timing is everything in this game.”

Their chagrined faces told her that they were genuinely disappointed. This sentiment warmed her heart more than any pizza ever could. “Thank you for understanding,” she added softly. “Perhaps next time.”

“I guess this is goodbye then,” the birthday boy said. “You gave me a lot to think about and I’m grateful for everything that happened. Will you allow me to contact you in the future to discuss other things related to hypnosis?”

“Of course, Brandon. We can have another session or simply talk if that’s all you want. The best way to reach me is via email. Ask any of your friends for it and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible, okay? Oh, and be sure to sign as Birthday Boy so I never forget who you are…” she chuckled.

“Will do.”

“It was an absolute pleasure meeting you and being part of your special day,” she said, her eyes twinkling with warmth. “I hope you have a fantastic evening, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.”

Brandon felt a lump form in his throat as he hugged Mistress Susan with gratitude. “Thank you so much. You’ve truly changed everything for me.”

“You’re the best,” Ava interjected, giving Mistress Susan a tight hug before stepping back. “You’re the best hypnodomme in the world.”

“You’re too kind, my dear. I’m glad you feel that way. Remember to always stay curious and open-minded, such qualities are invaluable in life.”

“I will,” Ava promised.

Peter and Travis were next to say their goodbyes, whispering in unison,

“There’s never a dull moment with you around, Mistress Susan.”

“It’s a shame you can’t stay for dinner,” Travis muttered. “I was already envisioning another fun game for us to play.”

“What sort of game?” she asked. “I’m always looking for new ideas, so hit me with your best shot.”

“Something involving fractionation… Going deeper every time one takes a bite. Have you ever done anything like that?”

“Not with food, no. Now, you’re making me regret my decision.”

“Any chance you can still change your mind?” Peter asked. “Because that sounds amazing.”

“I can’t, sorry, but if you guys want another group session, I think that can be arranged too.”

“I’d be down for that,” Ava said. “Do we have another birthday coming up soon?”

Joan raised her hand, frowning at her friend’s forgetfulness. “I’m next,” she said. “It’s still two months away, though.”

“That’s a long time to wait. Something sooner would be better,” Brandon said. “We can do it here again if everyone is up for it.”

“I’ll never say no to spending more time with Mistress Susan,” Ava said.

“Neither will I,” Travis muttered.

“Add me to that list,” Peter nodded.

“You know I feel the same way,” Joan nodded. “I just wish I had gotten here sooner today.”

The businesswoman took a deep breath, gathering her courage to say something. She didn’t want to intrude on Mistress Susan’s time, but it was now or never. “Mistress, before you leave, may I ask you a favor?”

The hypnodomme’s gaze shifted to Joan, a spark of intrigue filling the space between them. Whatever was on the young woman’s mind was bothering her.

“Of course, dear Joan. What would you like to ask of me?”

“I know this may sound selfish and it’s not your fault I arrived late, but you entranced everyone at the party but me and I…” she blushed. “I was wondering if we could have a quick session. It’s on short notice, yes, and I understand if the answer is no, but it would make my day if you said yes.”

“I always have a lot of fun playing with you, my dear,” Mistress Susan held her hands and rubbed them with her long, delicate fingers. “I’m sure I can think of something quick enough for us to do, but do you want to do it in private or are you comfortable with them watching?”

“Either way is fine by me…” Joan sighed. “It was a long day and I could use a break from my mind before I go to bed. “They can watch, it’s okay.”

“Oh, now this should be amazing!” Travis exclaimed.

“Why?” Brandon asked.

“You thought Ava’s trance was impressive? Joan is an absolute beast when she’s under.”

“It’s true,” Peter agreed. “We pale in comparison in physical and mental responses. Then again, she had more training than all of us combined.”

“Is it wrong for me to say that now I’m curious and want to see that too?” Brandon shook his head.

“Be as curious as you wish. It’s your special day after all,” Joan replied. “I’ve had some mind-blowing reactions to trance states before, yes, but I’d settle for something small and cozy right now if you’ll be so kind to indulge me, Mistress Susan.”

“I can stay a few more minutes to help you get rid of that itch. My appointment is about in an hour. If I see I’m running out of time, will any of you drive me to my destination?”

“I’ll happily do it, Mistress Susan,” Brandon noted. “It would be an honor to be your chauffeur.”

“And the pizza?” Peter asked. “Are we still going to order it or not?”

“Let Joan have her moment,” Brandon retorted. “She deserves it after what she pulled off tonight.”

“It’s settled then,” Mistress Susan checked her phone and then rubbed her hands. “Please take a seat while I get things ready.”

“Thank you, Mistress,” Joan was giddy with excitement. “Where do you want me?”

“Wherever you wish to be, it doesn’t matter.”

“No long induction this time, I suppose,” Ava said.

“I don’t need long inductions with Joan, do I, pet?” Mistress Susan clicked her fingers.

Joan’s eyes immediately turned glassy as the soothing warmth of trance filled her mind. The game was on once again.