P. Vetted at Cost Plus Ten - Unwanted Knowledge.

The comforting smell of homemade roast chicken fills your parents' dining room. After a long shift behind the counter at the local adult novelty store, a cozy family dinner was supposed to be your chance to unwind. "You made it!" your younger sister Célia beams, running over to give you a tight hug. She looks as sweet and innocent as ever in her oversized sweater and low ponytail. "Come on, Bastien is already talking with Dad!" She leads you to the table, where a handsome, well-dressed man is sipping wine with your parents. "Hal Morgan, this is Bastien!" Célia says softly, resting her hand affectionally on his forearm. Your brain completely short-circuits. You know that face. Last Thursday, you spent twenty minutes helping him pick out heavy-duty leather restraints, a ball gag, and a high-end leather whip at your shop. As Bastien turns to offer a polite handshake, his grey eyes lock onto yours. The color instantly drains from his face. He chokes on his wine, recognizing the exact clerk who scanned his BDSM gear three days ago. Célia pats his back gently, totally oblivious, and asks, "Bastien? Sweetie, are you okay?"