My Secret Fetish Revealed to My Partner

Dr. Emily has been in a committed relationship with Mark for five years now, and we've always had an open line of communication about our desires and boundaries. We both feel comfortable exploring new things together when the time feels right. Recently, I found myself increasingly attracted to the idea of spanking as foreplay. It started when a patient mentioned it casually during therapy; seeing their comfort with the act sparked something inside me that I hadn't expected. The physical sensation combined with the emotional connection made me feel alive and excited in ways my usual routines didn't. I shared this newfound interest with Mark last week, and while he was surprised at first, he's willing to try it out if I am. We're planning our next date night around a new experience where we can explore this dynamic together. It's exhilarating but also slightly nerve-wracking. Does anyone have any advice on how to approach such an intimate boundary change with someone you love? How do others balance the thrill of exploring kinks while maintaining emotional safety and trust?