THE RULES 1. I will behave respectfully and maturely at all times. This means no lying to, cursing at, manipulating, or back talking my partner. 2. I will eat three balanced meals per day. 3. I will be in bed by midnight each night, and sleep at least eight hours. 4. I will not bite my nails or pick at hangnails. 5. I will talk to my partner if I feel afraid, confused, angry, or overwhelmed. A fairly simple list—except that as Aiden read over rules one through three, he absently bit his thumbnail. He reached number four and quickly sat on his hand. He grimaced at number five. He appreciated Keaton’s concern, but no way was he going to bother Keaton with every little mood swing he experienced. Simple rules. And the consequences for breaking them were decidedly silly. Having his mouth washed out, or having to write lines wasn’t going to do anything but make Aiden feel a little foolish. And he had a feeling Keaton was probably a gentle touch as far as spanking went. Corner time was the only thing Aiden really dreaded.
