Shannon picked up the rope from where it had been lying neatly on the couch. He had ordered it online, too embarrassed to shop in person. It was thin and pliable but not too soft and it was very, very red. He knew Felix liked peacock colors, but Shannon had wanted to match his hair. Besides, red was Shannon's color and tonight Felix was his. He might as well mark his lover as such.

Shannon moved to stand in front of Felix and smiled again as he wondered what Felix's reaction would be. Would he be surprised that Shannon hadn't stuck to blindfolds and silk scarves? Would he be impressed? Pleased? Shannon hoped so.

He let the rope uncoil. Holding it at its center, he placed the loop over Felix's head. He thought the strands looked very pretty as he tied the first knot at Felix's chest.