"When I first got here I thought, there was no way I'd ever feel safe with a Dom. Not one I was signed with. And I wanted to use that. But then I met you," a wry smile. "I just don't want to hurt you. Or get you hurt."

He's said all this before but under the influence of some very strong drinks it feels profoundly important to say it again.

"But when I started thinking about contracting with you I just wanted it. I wanted someone I could trust. Someone I could have fun with."