• Friendship first: The four of us (two couples who were already close friends) had known each other for years. That foundation of trust made it easier to discuss fantasies without fear of judgment.
• Clear consent: Before any plans were made, we each wrote down our personal boundaries, “hard limits,” and “soft limits.” We also listed any specific activities we were curious about. The list was shared in a group chat, and each person explicitly gave enthusiastic consent to move forward.

The loft on the 12th floor had always been the perfect hideaway—floor‑to‑ceiling windows that framed the glittering skyline, low‑light amber bulbs that turned the space into a private cocoon, and a sprawling couch that seemed built for more than just lounging. Tonight, it was set for something else entirely.