“I thought we were going out for dinner,” I whispered as unwelcome panic clawed up my spine.
“Oh no, little one.” The words rolled off his tongue in a slow, seductive purr. “I’m a greedy bastard. I’m keeping you all to myself... at least for tomorrow night. I don’t want to share the sight of you with another man.”
“Oh,” I whispered as visions of the night we’d spent together tangled through my head.
“Will you do something for me?”
Was he asking for something simple, like passing the butter, or something far more difficult, like a submissive task? This was what I’d been afraid of in the bathroom with Sanna… he’d assume my apology, or acceptance of his dinner invitation, meant I was ready to plunge head first into submission. He was in for a rude awakening.
“I don’t know. It depends on what it is,” I challenged with a wary glance.
“Hrmm, you’re not ready yet. Let me re-think this. We’ll talk about it over dinner tomorrow night.”
The man was smooth, no doubt about it. I had a feeling he’d purposefully piqued my curiosity, but wild horses wouldn’t drag a single question about his request out of me. If I was going to venture down the submissive road again, I planned to take it at my own pace—whether it be like a rabbit or a snail. I wasn’t about to leap into the fire simply because he fanned the enticing flames.
“Make no mistake about it, Mellie. I’m on a mission. I’m going to peel back the layers you’re hiding behind, one by one. And when I think you’re ready, I intend to bring you face to face with the beautiful submissive inside. Let you see how fucking gorgeous she is so that you’ll never think of hiding her away again.”
I swallowed tightly. He wanted to strip me bare and revive my dormant desires. The thought of emotionally exposing myself to the man sent a rush of panic through my system. Strangely, the tingling sensation also held a level of excitement and my inner sub began emerging from her slumber. I couldn’t see a way to keep her imprisoned when everything about the man called to her. It pained me to acknowledge the fact that I didn’t possess the willpower to refuse the freedom Joshua’s Dominance offered. It was too strong, too compelling, too tempting.
Could I give Joshua the power to dominate me for the rest of my stay in Chicago? While the idea stirred a level of unease, it also brought me an unexpected feeling of peace.
Still, I wasn’t a fool. Setting my submission free would be a costly gamble. I’d lose a piece of my heart, and in the end, pay a very high price. My head and my heart were at war. Internally weighing the pros and cons of such a daunting decision, I couldn’t emphatically choose yes or no… at least not there on the spot. I needed more time, but my visit would end before Joshua and I could manage to foster the level of trust necessary to enter into a power exchange… or could we? I still wasn’t convinced it was what I truly wanted.
Right, the voice in my head scoffed.
“That wasn’t meant to scare you, little one. I’m simply being honest and voicing my desires… well, some of them, at least.” Joshua smiled, but I didn’t. He pursed his lips and issued a thoughtful hum. “Stop analyzing it, Mellie. Let’s just take one step at a time. Can you do that?”
“Yes, I think I can.” I nodded.
“Good, now let’s kick back and enjoy the party. What do you say?”
“I say that’s a wonderful idea.” A smile did curl on my lips and Joshua grinned.
Sitting at the table, we talked, ate, drank and laughed. Julianna and Mika gave poignant speeches as they toasted the bride and groom before the happy couple made their way to the dance floor. They looked stupidly in love with one another, and I couldn’t help but smile.
Watching Tony’s father float Leagh across the wooden floor while her groom danced with his mother, bittersweet tears stung the backs of my eyes. Someday Sanna would be in the exact same place, but there would be no father to hold her and share one last precious dance as guardian of her world. No mother for either Dylan or Nick to sway with the soft music, vowing to keep her little girl happy, healthy and protected.
Stealing a glance Savannah’s way, I watched her dab a tear from her cheek. I knew our thoughts had traveled down the same path. I’d done my best to provide for her when we were orphaned, but the inability to bring back the center of our lives was a void neither of us could ever replace.
Dylan bent and kissed away her tears before cupping her chin. Holding her in a sublime, cherished gaze, he smiled. “I love you, kitten.” His words were softly spoken, yet suffused with such riotous emotion I had to look away.
It wasn’t jealousy that pricked my heart, but a never-ending longing that rushed to the surface and caught me off guard. The chances that I’d find love like Sanna’s grew slimmer each day. Joshua drew a circle over the back of my hand with his fingertips. Turning, I stared into his eyes. A tender smile softened his handsome features.
“You’ll never have to worry, Mellie. Savannah will always be thoroughly loved,” Joshua murmured in my ear.
“Yes, I know.” I smiled with a secure nod.
“What about you, though? Is there a part of you that aches to be loved the same way?”
His question took me aback. My knee-jerk reaction was to lie through my teeth, but I’d promised him honestly.
“Of course. All girls dream of being Cinderella and finding her handsome prince, but girls grow into women, and reality conquers childish fantasies.”
“Ouch.” Joshua chuckled, clutching his hand to his chest in mock injury.
“What?” I laughed. “It’s true. We grow up and kiss what we believe to be Prince Charming, only to discover we’ve been making out with a toad covered in warts.”
Joshua shook his head. His eyes twinkled in delight. Gliding his hand to the nape of my neck, he pulled me in close. “I may not have a castle or ride a white horse, but you already know I don’t have warts. Come on, my cynical gorgeous beauty. Let’s dance.”
He stood and extended his hand. A ripple of delight zipped through me as I slid my fingers into his palm. Drawing me tight against his toned body, I closed my eyes as Joshua guided me over the dance floor. Clearing the fears and worries that had cluttered my brain, I let the sure command of his palm at small of my back and the decadent heat that leached beneath his dark suit consume me. It was enough... more than enough.
“You haven’t asked why I didn’t call you yesterday. Were you not curious?”
“Oh no, I was very curious.”
“Then why didn’t you ask me?”
Quirking one brow, I shrugged.
“Should I start keeping a list of punishments?” he asked in such a soft, serene tone, I wondered if I’d heard him correctly.
“Punishments? What for?” I blinked in surprise.
“Communication, little one. I expect simple, honest communication.”
Joshua wanted to flex his Dominant muscles. Fine, but I had no intention of rolling over to show him my underbelly… at least not yet.
“Well, since we’ve not had five minutes alone to even talk about the weather, I don’t think it’s fair that you want to punish me for not blurting out such a personal question in front of everyone at the table.”
“You’re such a sassy thing,” he chuckled.
“I prefer to call it playful.”
“Playfully telling me what you think I should do as a Dominant, huh?” He smirked.
“Uh, yeah,” I answered incredulously.
He scowled. “Since you’ve not accepted what I’m offering, I’ll let your cheeky retort slide. Just be aware, once you decide to give me your submission, you can bet that sexy ass of yours that I will keep lists… lots and lots of them, I have a feeling.”
A rush of heat washed through me, followed by a quiver of anticipation. Should I dare tell him I looked forward to it? No, not yet. It was still too soon.
“So, my slate clean?” I asked with an impish grin. He shook his head. “So I’m not misunderstanding things, in regard to punishments you think I’ve earned. Do I get to plead my case or am I guilty without due process?”
Joshua threw his head back and laughed. “You’re going to have a red ass twenty-four seven. You know that, right?”
I couldn’t help but giggle.
“Okay, since I don’t want you to think I’m a heartless bastard…”
“Just a greedy one,” I reminded with a grin.
“Indeed,” he chuckled. “I’ll give you one last chance to ask why I didn’t call you. Then we’ll be starting with a clean slate. But, fair warning, I’m not usually this generous, so don’t expect an offer like this again.”
“I expect a lot of things from you, Josh… errr, Master Stephen, but leniency isn’t one of them.” I smirked.
“Oh really?” His brows arched with intrigue. “Like what?”
“Like keeping me on my toes and walking the straight and narrow.”
“Pretty much.” He nodded. “Now stop evading and ask your question, girl.”
“Okay, okay,” I conceded. “Why didn’t you call me Friday?”
“Nice, little one. Direct and to the point. I like that.” He reached up and stroked my cheek, and damn if I didn’t want to close my eyes and nuzzle his hand. “I got a phone call from Nick after you’d gone to bed last Thursday. He called to congratulate me on the opening.”
“He did, did he?” I drawled in a derisive tone.
“You can’t imagine my surprise when I discovered that Mellie Carson was the sexy older sister of his darling submissive, Savannah.”
“That rat bast—”
“Ah, ah, little one. Watch your language. At least he didn’t call, taunting that the most beautiful woman in the world was curled up in a bed under his roof. Nick doesn’t have a malicious bone in his body.”
“No, just a couple of underhand ones, it seems.”
“Now that’s a possibility,” Joshua laughed.
“I’m sure Nick’s revelation was completely unexpected, but it still doesn’t explain why you didn’t call.” I reminded with a playful tug of his tie.
“What? And spoil the look on your face when you turned to watch Leagh walk down the aisle and saw me instead?”
“You’re evil,” I scolded with a mock growl. “These past two days I couldn’t…”
“Couldn’t what?”
“Ugh. I don’t want to say it.” I cringed.
Pulling me in closer, Joshua dipped his mouth to my neck. He swirled the tip of his tongue in a lurid path to my ear and I quivered. “Tell me, girl,” he murmured in a penetrating demand that vibrated all the way to my toes.
“I… I couldn’t stop,” I stuttered as he continued to dance his tongue in a lurid waltz down my neck and along my jaw.
“Keep going.” Motivating me beneath an onslaught of sensual sensations, he inched his palm to the base of my spine and pressed me in against his steely erection.
“Ahhh,” I moaned shamelessly. “Couldn’t stop thinking about you.”
“Good girl.” Slanting his lips over mine, he delved in deep with a sweep of his tongue.
Threading his fingers through my hair, Joshua clutched me to his mouth. Opening wider, I exhaled on a tiny whimper.
Someone bumped into us and Joshua raised his head. “Get a room,” Dylan chuckled with a goofy grin.
“Marvelous idea,” Joshua agreed with a feral grin.
“No. Not yet,” Sanna scolded. “You promised to come to the club tonight, Mel.”
Joshua’s eyes widened. “Oh, you did? Fantastic. That’ll work for me.”
The grin fell from my face as anxiety wormed its way in. Floating us toward the back of the dance floor, near the orchestra, Joshua placed his fingers beneath my chin. Gazing into my eyes, his expression grew serious.
“Settle down, Mellie. Nothing’s going to happen at Genesis that you don’t consent to. So erase that flicker of fear from those beautiful brown eyes of yours for me, little one.”
I slowly nodded as the panic began to bleed from my veins.
“I want a verbal answer, Mellie.” His tone bore absolute command.
“Yes.”
“Good. Now where were we?” he asked. A mischievous grin crawled across his face before he sobered and claimed my lips in a panty-melting kiss. I clung to him. The strength of his toned body and the feel of his masterful hands wrapped around my nape and pressed against my spine, combined with the smooth glide of his tongue, vanquished the last of my fears.
“How is it that I never saw you at the club before when I’ve been there with Sanna and the guys?” I asked.
“I don’t know. I definitely would have remembered seeing you, that’s for sure,” he murmured with a wolfish little smile.
We danced, talked, and kissed for hours, stopping only to watch Tony and Leagh cut the cake, toss the bouquet, and sling the garter. The short times I was free of his embrace, I felt an uncomfortable, foreign void inside. I wasn’t sure what to make of it, but I didn’t like it.
Standing outside the church, we tossed bird seed as Tony and Leagh raced to their car. A strange sadness that my time with Joshua was almost over seeped into my core. Even though we’d be seeing each other again in an hour or so at the club, this carefree easiness between us would probably vanish. I’d be on edge, as usual, and he’d likely be suffused in a dazzling Dominant head space. I questioned whether or not I’d be strong enough to keep from falling into his bed. My greater fear was ending up falling at his feet.
Yes, please.
My inner sub had grown stronger, and so did my inclination to let her take over. I needed to find a way to hold onto my self-restraint and keep my wits about me.
Slinging his arm around my waist, Joshua broke my mental pondering and escorted me to Nick’s truck. As the others climbed inside, Joshua pushed me up against the door. Burying his face against my neck, he sunk his teeth into the tender flesh with a low growl.
“I’ll see you at you the club, little one. Wear something skimpy for me… something I can easily bite away.”
A tremor of need shook my body and my throat tightened. I couldn’t even answer him. I simply nodded before he cupped his hands around my cheeks and kissed me… hard. Pulling away, Joshua opened the back passenger door.
“Soon, little one,” he promised. Fire flickered in his erotic eyes and I bit back a moan.
On our way back to the house, Sanna and her Masters discussed the wedding and upcoming collaring ceremony. I zoned out, reveling in the words Joshua had whispered in my ear, each luscious stroke of his tongue, and every passionate kiss that stole my breath.
It suddenly dawned on me that I’d already given him the power to hurt me. When? How? I didn’t remember making a conscious decision. Panic swelled inside, as the little voice inside my head took control.
Go with it and see what happens. He might never let you down, if you’d give him half a chance. Stop assuming the worse when it comes to men. For once, follow your heart not your head… see what happens. It’s not like you’ll die if he breaks your heart.
I knew giving him my submission wasn’t going to kill me—at least not physically. But could it really be that simple? How the hell was I supposed to trust a man I barely knew?
You’ll never know unless you try. Stop being such a wuss. Pathetic isn’t in your vocabulary when it comes to business. Let him in for crying out loud. Loosen the reins on your submission for a week or so. You know you’ll enjoy it.
The battle within wasn’t going to end in a peaceful truce, and I knew it. Yes, I could give some of my power to Joshua. When it was over, I might end up dispensing a ton of self-induced ass kicking, but I’d give it a shot. The greedy sub side me giggled with glee while I tried to wrap my head around having just made the most insane decision of my life.
Once back at the house, we all piled out of the truck. Dylan chased Sanna inside, playfully swatting her ass as she squealed and giggled, while Nick hung back. His face was tinged with traces of guilt. I’d never seen Nick wear anything akin to remorse, and he didn’t wear it well; in fact, he looked like hell.
“Mel, I need to talk to you for a minute.” He was nervous and I had a pretty good idea what he wanted to say.
“Sure,” I replied.
“I don’t know what you and Stephen, err, Joshua talked about on the dance floor, but I need to tell you something.”
“He told me that you called him, Nick. I’m not mad about it, but I’m disappointed you didn’t tell me that you knew who he was the night I came home from the opening.”
“I didn’t realize how… attached you’d gotten to him until last night. If I’d known he’d touched you so deeply, I wouldn’t have called him, because I’d never purposefully hurt your feelings, sweetheart. I’m sorry, Mellie.”
“You didn’t hurt my feelings. I just feel like I’ve been played by you both.”
“It wasn’t like that, Mel, honest. Joshua wanted to surprise you at the wedding today. I didn’t think there’d be any harm in that, but that wasn’t my decision to make, it was yours.”
“I accept your apology, Nick.” Extending my index finger, I poked his rock-solid chest. “But I’m not going to forget that I spent two days wondering why he hadn’t called. That, Mr. Nick Masters, is your fault.”
“Shit,” Nick grumbled.
“Oh, lighten up. I’m not mad. I forgive you.”
“You do, huh?” Nick chuckled. “What made you decide to do that?”
“Joshua’s kiss… It was all worth it then,” I replied on a dreamy sigh.
“That must have been some kiss.” He grinned.
“It was amazing,” I laughed.
“Then I’d say he’s doing a fine job,” Nick chuckled. He draped his thick arm across my shoulders and we walked inside the house.
#
An hour later we sat at a table inside Club Genesis, surrounded by friends. The excitement in the air was contagious. Drake, Trevor, Mika, and Julianna had joined us. I couldn’t stop laughing at the things coming out of Trevor’s mouth. The young man had absolutely no filter whatsoever. Even the stern looks Drake shot his way didn’t slow the young man down one bit.
Glancing at the thick velvet curtain, I nervously tugged on the corset and short black leather skirt Sanna had let me borrow. Feeling near naked, I feared my boobs would spill from the ivory lace corset with every breath. Checking my make-up and hair in the small mirror inside my clutch, I exhaled a nervous breath. As I tucked it away, my cell phone vibrated.
My heart fluttered and a smile tugged my lips when I read Joshua’s message.
Look toward the bar, my beautiful vixen.
Snapping my head up, I skimmed the members clustered around the bar. Slightly to the left of the crowd, I saw Joshua standing in the alcove that led to the private rooms. My body began to quiver as the conversations around me lost all meaning. Friends and members melted from view as I watched the tall handsome Dom with his piercing green eyes stride toward the table.
Drawn to his possessive aurora, I wanted to bolt from my chair and rush to his arms, but I tempered my urges and focused on his slow, deliberate gait. Checking my billowing breasts once more, I stopped myself from tugging the fabric. Joshua wouldn’t like it if I tried to cover myself from his view.
Lord, I’d already began to think like a sub.
I swallowed the ball of unease rising in my throat as he stepped up to the table.
“Do you have room for one more?” Joshua asked, giving Mika a slap on the back.
“Stephen,” Mika announced cheerfully as both men shook hands. “Of course. Grab a chair and join us.”
“Don’t mind if I do,” he smiled. Sliding a chair in next to mine, Joshua sat down.
A smile curled one side of his mouth as he gazed at my overflowing breasts. Raising his eyes, he shot me an animalistic look of approval.
“Good evening, Master Stephen.” I smiled demurely.
“It’s always a good evening when I sit next to a beautiful woman whose breasts taunt me to ravage them endlessly.”
Heat crawled up my face and my nipples tingled in agreement.
“No offense, Master Stephen,” Trevor began. “But from my vantage point at the reception you’ve already decimated Mellie from the neck up. It might be time to move on down for a while.”
“Boy,” Drake bellowed with a scowl.
“What, Master?” Trevor gasped. “It’s the truth.”
“How would you like to spend the night cuffed to the bar naked with a fat ball gag shoved in your mouth?” Drake scolded.
“No, Daddy. Please. Not that,” Trevor begged in a mournful plea.
“Apologize to Stephen, boy.”
“I’m sorry if I offended you, Master Stephen,” Trevor contritely offered before casting his eyes downward.
“Thank you, boy, but you’ve only stated the truth. No harm done,” Joshua softly laughed.
“Thank you, Master Stephen,” Trevor respectfully replied.
“Can I have your attention please?” Standing at the front of the room next to a tall padded table, Tony spoke into a silver microphone. Immediately a hush fell over the dungeon. “Thank you. As you know, I will be formally collaring my wife and sub Leagh this evening. We’ll get that fun started in just a little bit, but first there’s a bit of punishment that needs to be dealt with before we begin the ceremony.”
“What did Leagh do to piss him off already?” Trevor whispered with a groan.
“Last night at Maurizio’s…”
“Oh shit,” I blurted out, flashing a look of concern first at Sanna, then Julianna and Trevor; each wore a look that mimicked my outburst.
“I don’t like that kind of language, little one.” Joshua frowned.
Duly chastised, I cringed. “Sorry,” I mumbled.
“There was an incident involving several of our subs, mine included,” Tony continued. “We Doms have spoken, and have come to a mutual agreement. The guilty parties must be punished en mass.”
“Oh, Sanna,” I whispered as I shot an imploring look her Masters’ way. “It was an accident.”
“Shhh,” Nick instructed with a stern shake of his head.
I pinched my lips together and issued a heavy sigh as I reached beneath the table and gripped Sanna’s hand in support.
“I need the following subs come to up with their owner’s please: Leagh, Emerald, Trevor, Savannah, and our one un-owned girl, Mellie.”
“Me?” I squeaked as my eyes grew wide and my knees started to tremble.
Mika, Drake, Nick and Dylan all leapt from their chairs as if they couldn’t wait to rush to the front of the dungeon. Julianna—known as Emerald at the club—slowly rose to her feet, as did Trevor and Sanna. Dylan cleared his throat and arched his brow as he extended his hand toward me. Freaked out and dumbfounded, I stared at it for a long moment.
“I’ll protect you, Mellie.” Reinforcing his words, Dylan issued a tender smile.
“So you were part of the blazing butt-plug of destruction as well, little one?” Joshua chuckled.
I issued him a slight nod before rising up on trembling knees. Taking Dylan’s hand, he led me toward the scening area. Glancing back, I spied Joshua following close behind.
A wave of relief washed over me. He’d be nearby if I needed him.
Leagh joined Tony. Trepidation replaced the happy smile she’d worn all day.
Lined up in a row like criminals before a firing squad, we exchanged pensive glances with one another.
“Remove any clothing that covers your asses,” Tony instructed with a wolfish grin.
“Sanna,” I whispered in a tone of pure panic.
“You don’t have to take off your thong,” she whispered in reassurance. “Masters won’t let anything bad happen to you, and neither will I. You don’t even have to do this… I’ll take your punishment for you if you need me to.”
Her fervent declaration melted away my fears and filled me with determination. I wasn’t about to let Sanna take my portion of the blame, even though the whole damn thing had been a fucking accident—which none of the Doms seemed to give a shit about. Wanting to howl in outrage, I jumped when Mika slipped his hand around my elbow and led me away from the others.
Compassion and understanding shimmered in his unique amber eyes.
“In my club all acts are strictly consensual, Mellie. If you’re unwilling to participate in the punishment, you can forego the little spanking we’ve planned, and work behind the bar for an hour. The choice is yours.”
“I understand, Sir. Thank you,” I replied. “I find it ridiculous that any of us are being punished for an accident. But since our fate has been decided, I’d prefer to take my punishment alongside the others, if it’s all the same.”
“As you wish.” Mika flashed an intimidating scowl. “Drop your skirt, feisty one, and go stand next to your sister.”
Closing my eyes, I slid the soft leather off my hips, placing both it and my purse with the other subs’ clothing on a low table. My heart hammered in my chest as I watched Drake cinch a meaty hand in Trevor’s hair before marching him to the tall table.
“Bend over, boy,” Drake instructed with a tone that brooked no argument.
“You’re next, my blushing bride,” Tony chuckled as he helped Leagh into position.
One by one they lined up and bent over.
“Emerald, you’re next, my beautiful slave.” Mika grinned.
“Honestly, Master. I’d like to communicate with you, but you’re not listening. The company is to blame, not us. You should write a letter telling them the dangers of putting alcohol in lube. Not only is it a fire hazard, it can dry out and damage tender tissue,” Julianna protested.
Mika flashed a stern frown, then swatted her on the ass before forcibly bending her over the table. “Your objection has been duly noted, my sassy little wench. Now, not another word or I’ll add orgasm denial to your punishment. Am I clear?”
Julianna pinched her lips together and nodded vigorously.
“Kitten.” Dylan patted the foam surface and crooked his finger.
“Good luck,” I whispered to my sister.
“You too,” she mumbled back.
“Mellie,” Dylan called to me as Nick moved in behind my sister’s proffered ass.
Sucking in a deep breath, I squared my shoulders and marched to the table to join my partners in crime.
“Would you prefer me or Nick to hand down your punishment?” he asked.
What? Oh god. No. I couldn’t stand the idea of Sanna taking extra punishment because I’d chickened out, but the thought of Dylan or Nick’s hands on my ass felt so grossly incestuous I had no other choice. Not to mention they expected me to pick one of them? That was so not happening.
“Um,” My stomach roiled as I darted a frantic glance first to Dylan, then to Mika. Swallowing tightly, I sucked in a deep breath. “Mika, Sir—”
“I’ll do it,” Joshua volunteered, stepping forward wearing a serious but gentle expression. “That is, of course, with your consent, Mellie?”
Relief and gratitude careened through me. “Yes, thank you, Master Stephen.”
Before I lowered myself to the table, I watched Joshua move in close to my bare backside. Dylan sidled up next to him and leaned in close.
“Don’t you dare hurt her.” His threat was a low growl.
“What? Slow down, Dylan. I have no intention of doing anything of the kind. What the hell have I ever done to make you think—”
“It’s not you,” Dylan hissed. “Mellie’s been… Listen, she’s fragile. This is the first time she’s… shit. It’s not my story to tell, it’s hers. Just… go easy on her, okay?”
“I give you my word.” Joshua’s vow teemed in conviction.
Great, he’d want to know all about my embarrassing past. I wasn’t sure I could bring myself to tell him, so soon. A new kind of panic pricked. I jumped when Joshua pressed his strong hand against the small of my back. Leaning over my body, his delicious heat surrounded me.
“Can you give me a little piece of your trust?”
His hot breath caressed my ear. “Yes, Sir.”
“Thank you, sweetheart. I’ll treat it like priceless gold.” Placing a soft kiss on my shoulder, he stood. The loss of his body heat left me feeling brutally barren.
“Four subs. Four swats. And Mellie shall receive an obligatory four as well,” Tony announced in wicked glee. “Drake, you have the honor of first punishment, my friend.”
“My pleasure,” he chuckled. Then in a raspy growl he commanded Trevor to count.
The sound of Drake’s angry paw meeting Trevor’s ass reverberated in my ears. The bench we four lay across jerked beneath the power of the Dom’s blow.
“One, Master,” Trevor cried out in a howl of pain.
Fear gripped me in an icy hold. I wasn’t a pain slut by any stretch of the imagination. I couldn’t handle what Trevor was being subjected to. I wouldn’t last past the first slap.
Snapping my head toward Sanna, I stared into my sister’s chocolate brown eyes, desperately trying to temper my panic.
“Trevor likes pain. Drake’s doing it hard so Trev won’t enjoy it. We’re not going to get spanked that hard, I promise,” she whispered softly.
“No talking, precious,” Nick admonished.
Sanna’s explanation slightly eased my fears. Still, the longing to bolt from the table and run from the club rode me hard. I’d given Joshua a vow of trust. If I took it back now, it would be the same as confessing I couldn’t place my faith in him.
“Two, Master,” Trevor’s voice cracked.
The young man wailed inconsolably before he choked out the last number, and my heart was breaking for all he’d endured. Drake let out a heavy sigh, then scooped his crying sub into his burly arms, clutching him tightly to his chest. Trailing kisses over Trevor’s mouth, Drake captured the young man’s lips and drank in his mournful sobs. As I watched the poignant exchange, I gained a new understanding of their relationship. Tears stung my eyes at the sheer beauty of it.
“Your turn, my beautiful bride.” Tony announced before landing a quick succession of loud slaps over Leagh’s ass.
I didn’t understand why Leagh was being punished. She had nothing to do with the chain of events leading up to the fire. Maybe Tony decided she’d been guilty by association by some screwy Dominant-Caveman way. I smartly kept my opinion to myself, even though it made absolutely no sense to me at all.
Even before Tony had gathered his new bride into his arms, Mika sank his fingers into Julianna’s red, springy curls.
“Let this serve as a reminder,” Mika warned, aligning a sharp slap across her backside. Julianna let out a yelp. “Always.” Slap. “Read.” Slap. “The ingredients.” Slap.
“Yes, Masterrrr,” she keened through clenched teeth.
Mika pulled her to his chest, smoothing back the riot of ringlets from her face.
“My precious girl. You make me proud.” Mika’s smile reflected the depth of honor Julianna had brought him. Leaning close in an ardent rush, he kissed her ruthlessly.
“Ah, my naughty Savannah,” Nick began in a tone imbued with regret. “Tell me, love…whose idea was it to purchase the elephant-sized butt plug that caught on fire?”
“It was mine, Master.”
“I see,” he chuckled. “Was there a particular reason you wanted such a scary slab of rubber for the centerpiece of your little soirée?”
“Yes, Sir. I bought it for Leagh as a joke.”
“Ironic… none of you seem to be laughing now, are you?”
“No, Master,” Sanna closed her eyes and her chin began to quiver.
Nick’s questions bordered on humiliation. I was getting madder by the second knowing his interrogation was far worse than any physical punishment he could inflict on her.
“I’m sorry for embarrassing you and Master Dylan, Sir.”
“You’re never an embarrassment, kitten,” Dylan corrected. “You light up our days and nights.”
A contented smile curled on her lips as each of her Doms landed two firm swats on her ass. I issued a sigh of relief for Savannah as both Doms covered her with their big bodies and lifted her from the table. Trailing kisses over her lips, jaw, and neck, they whispered praises as they led her away. Dylan stopped before they got very far, watching Joshua closely, like a concerned big brother.
I was next. Sucking in a lungful of apprehension, Joshua lowered over me once again leaning in close to my ear I closed my eyes and absorbed the feel of hard chest pressed against my back and his heated breath as it fluttered across my neck.
“If you get scared, use your safe word for me. Do you remember it, little one?”
“Yes, Sir. Fantasy.”
“Good girl,” he praised.
Standing, and stealing that soothing warmth once again, I braced myself for the impact of his hand. Squeezing my eyes shut, I held my breath. When Joshua skimmed his wide palm over my flesh instead of spanking it, I jolted. With a rush, I exhaled the air I’d trapped in my lungs, waiting for pain that never came. Caressing my ass, he moved his other hand to brush the hair from my face. Trailing the back of his knuckle over my cheek, I quivered.
“Open for me, little one,” he instructed, as he tickled my lips with his fingertips.
What? Legs? Mouth?
My hesitation earned a quick slap to my left butt cheek. It didn’t hurt, but stung with a delicious little burn. Tickling my lips with his fingers again, I took a chance and opened my mouth. Joshua leaned in, whispering his approval as he slid one finger past my lips and onto my tongue.
“Show me, little one. Remind me how your silky, hot mouth felt wrapped around my cock.”
With a tiny whimper I sucked, licked, and nibbled, exactly as I’d done to his ample erection a few nights before. Joshua landed another quick slap, slightly harder than the first. I couldn’t help but moan.
“You’re not as fragile as they think, are you gorgeous girl?”
Shaking my head slightly, I worshiped his finger as if it were his shaft, swirling my tongue around him and sucking hard.
“I think it’s time to let you feel a little fire with the next one. You’d like that wouldn’t you, little one?” He traced the tip of his tongue over the shell of my ear, and I moaned in agreement.
The smack of his hand echoed in my ears as a sweet burn flowed up my spine and ebbed down my legs. Seemingly weightless, I floated on the liberating sensations.
“Give it to her, Stephen. She likes it harder than that.” The malevolent voice of Davis Walker—my former Master—thundered in my ears and instantly shattered the euphoric splendor.
Bolting upright from the table, I whipped my neck toward the direction of his voice. There, stranding among a sea of curious faces, Davis smiled. Only I could see past his mask, see the contempt glistening in his cold, heartless eyes. Bile rose in my throat and I coughed. Every graceless emotion—embarrassment, degradation, rage, and fear—galloped through me leaving a trail of slimy disgust. Trembling like a leaf, I flashed a glance toward Sanna. I needed a lifeline to pull me in from the choppy, volatile water I felt like I was drowning in. Meshed between her Masters, my sister’s confused frown creased her brow. Both Dylan and Nick volleyed their attention between Joshua and my former Master.
“It’s been a long time, bunny. I’ve missed you.” Davis addressed me in the club name he’d given me. The sound of it after so many years made my blood run cold. He flashed me a smile I found repulsive and vile as he took a step toward me.
Inching back, Joshua put his arms around me, reinforcing his presence. Davis smirked as if pleased to see my overt fear.
Sliding his attention back to Joshua, he nodded. “Don’t let me interrupt, Stephen. I’m thoroughly enjoying the show, but there’s one thing I need to know… does her ass still feel as soft as cotton? I imagine it does. I’ve never forgotten the feel of her flesh. Go on, slap her again; hard. I can’t tell you how much I’ve missed hearing her lusty cries.”
“Then don’t,” Joshua commanded in a tone colder than stone. Turning his back on Davis, he shot Mika a look of controlled fury as his arms remained cinched around me in a protective hold. “She’s done here.”
“Yes, indeed.” Mika nodded as his hulking body seemed to expand. “Master Kerr, I need a word with you upstairs, please.”
It wasn’t a question—it was an order.
Joshua gripped my quaking body against him tighter. Even the heat pouring off him did nothing to stop my nervous tremors.
“I’ve got you, Mellie. Relax, baby. You’re safe… totally safe.”
“Seriously?” Incredulity wrinkled Davis’ face. “Come on, Mika, I was just giving Stephen some pointers, that’s all.”
“I don’t believe he asked for any. Stephen needs no help in any Dominant fashion, not from you, me, or anyone,” Mika countered, his tone dripping with contempt. “We can do this here, or in private. I really don’t give a fuck. But we are going to have a conversation, Kerr.”
“Oh for the love of… fine. Fuck it. Let’s go,” Davis spat.
Before turning to follow the club owner, Walker turned and pinned me with a contemptuous look. Riddled with insecurities, I dropped my gaze as Drake rushed past the back of the padded table. Peeking up, I watched the three men round the archway to the hall of private rooms.
“Are you all right?” Joshua whispered as his narrow eyes delved into mine.
“Yeah.” I nodded, still shaking uncontrollably.
“Okay folks. Show’s over,” Tony announced through the mic. “If you’ll all sit back and relax for a bit, we’ll begin the ceremony shortly.”
“Mel?” Sanna asked on a quivering voice ripe with fear. I turned my head. Panic etched my sister’s face. “Was that…him?”
“Yes.” I nodded, grateful that the members were gravitating toward their seats.
“What’s he doing here?”
“I don’t know. I don’t know how he found me, or if he was even looking.” The combination of shock, anger, and fear had tears threatening to spring forth. I blinked them away as Sanna bent and handed me my skirt, but my fingers were trembling so badly it slipped back to the floor.
“Here, let me help you.”
I clung to Joshua’s chest as Sanna picked up the garment then waited. When I turned, Joshua’s hands supported my waist and I stepped inside the opening before she pulled it up around my waist. Everything and everyone around me seemed to be moving at the speed of light. My muddled brain made it difficult to focus on anything other than the all-encompassing bewilderment surrounding me.
Scattered thoughts flitted through my brain, like buying a lottery ticket. I felt the odds of Davis showing up the first time I dipped my toes into the submission waters had to be so outlandishly high, I should try my luck on something far less frightening. What the hell was Davis Walker doing at Genesis in the first place? Was he visiting or was he a member? But why would Mika allow a player like Davis inside his club? Dizzied by the barrage of questions, I braced my hand on the spanking bench and drew in a deep breath.
“Stephen. Why don’t you let us take Mellie to our room? She can sit down for a bit, in private, and relax,” Nick suggested.
“I’d like to take her, if you don’t mind.”
“Of course.” Nick nodded.
“Wait,” I protested through chattering teeth. “We’ll miss the collaring ceremony.”
“No, we won’t,” Sanna assured me before racing off toward Trevor. The two exchanged words, then she kissed his cheek and rushed back.
“It’s all set. Trevor will come get us before it starts. Come on, sis. You’re as pale as a sheet. You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”
“I have,” I mumbled.
Passing Trevor, he reached out and squeezed my hand. “Don’t worry, sis. Mika’s got this under control. And if Kerr needs his ass kicked, Daddy will be happy to do it. He’s way pissed.”
“Thanksss.” I shivered, forcing a tight smile.
“Come on, little one. You need a warm blanket and a stiff drink,” Joshua urged. He held me tight against his side and we followed Sanna and her Masters down the long hallway.
“I’ll be back in a few,” Dylan announced as Nick unlocked the door. There was a far-away look in Dylan’s usual jovial eyes. The man looked downright scary.
“Don’t call me to bail your ass out of jail, bro,” Nick warned with a derisive smirk.
“I won’t be the one going to jail,” Dylan assured him before marching toward an open doorway near the end of the hall.
Once inside the private room, Sanna sought shelter in Nick’s arms. Her face clouded in worry. “What’s he going to do, Master?”
“Nothing, precious. Dylan will be fine. I was only teasing him. He’s mad, but he’ll get over it. Don’t worry, love.”
Joshua tugged a blanket from the foot of the bed, shook it open and wrapped it around me. “Sit down and try to get warm,” he directed.
“I’m not cold, I’m just…I don’t know. Maybe shocked is a better word,” I explained as I plopped down on the bed.
In unison, Sanna and Joshua each took a seat beside me, enveloping me in their arms. My sister gave me a reassuring smile, but it didn’t reach her eyes. She was worried about me.
“Really, I’m fine, sis. I’m not made of china.” Reaching out, I held her hand.
“I know, but he scared you. I want to kick his fu…” She stopped short and peeked up at Nick.
“Dylan’s taking care of that for you, precious,” Nick laughed as he handed Joshua a glass of amber liquid.
I blanched. “He is?”
“Well, that all depends. Mika’s going to handle it, but I know Dylan. He’ll offer to bury the body.” Nick smiled.
“I’d gladly help with that,” Joshua groused as he took a gulp from the glass.
“Umm, that was supposed to be for Mellie, bro,” Nick chuckled. “Oh, what the hell. You probably need it as much as she does.”
“Just testing it for her, man,” Joshua smiled. Holding the glass to my lips, his warm breath caressed my cheek. “It’s strong, so take little sips. Okay?”
The pungent odor of alcohol wafted up my nose. I took a swallow and almost spit it out. Whatever was in the glass tasted like sweaty gym socks soaked in kerosene, and it burned like acid. I sputtered and coughed then wrinkled my nose.
“That’s nasty.”
“You’re not a Scotch girl, I take it?” he chuckled.
“No. Do you have a margarita or cosmopolitan?”
“Not tonight, little one. Tomorrow. I’ll let you have both, if you’d like.”
“Oh, so you’re going to ply me with alcohol and take advantage of me?” I asked with a playful smile.
“I don’t think he’ll have to get you drunk to do that,” Sanna giggled.
“Sanna,” I gasped. “I can’t believe you said that.”
“What?” She grinned. It was a welcome change of her demeanor.
“That was some display of control out there, Stephen. I’m not sure how you kept from knocking that bastard on his ass.”
“You have no idea,” Joshua assured her. Turning toward me, he caressed my cheek with his hand. “My first responsibility is to protect Mellie. But I plan to have a talk with Kerr, very soon.”
“I appreciate that.” I smiled. “You know though, I could kick his ass if there weren’t so many Doms in line ahead of me,” I teased.
Joshua cracked a small smile, but I could tell something heavy weighed on his mind. “Will you tell me about your history with Kerr?”
I knew Joshua’s curiosity would lead to questions; I simply hadn’t expected it to be so soon.
“Yes, but I’d like some information first, okay?”
“Of course. Just don’t attempt to sidetrack me, little one. It won’t work.”
“I won’t,” I replied solemnly. “How long has Davis… Master Kerr been a member of Genesis?”
“About… what would you say, Nick? Maybe six months or so?”
“About that.” Nick nodded.
“So he must live here in Chicago now.” I mused aloud.
“Yes. He’s told several of us that his job transferred him here and was happy to find our community,” Nick informed me.
“Has he done anything…”
“You mean has he repeated his old behavior?” Nick prompted.
“Yes.” I nodded.
“No. He’s not collared anyone. Kerr scenes with a lot of subs, but he hasn’t set his sights on a particular girl yet. At least not that I know of.”
“He uses them like paper towels. I get the impression he likes to show off to the other members… kind of like someone else I know,” Joshua groused with a sour expression. “He’s always shown respect and honored the code… until tonight; when he shit all over it.”
“Do you think Mika will rescind his membership?” Sanna asked as she nibbled her bottom lip.
“I don’t know, precious,” Nick replied.
“You don’t think Mika will let Kerr hurt Dylan do you?” she whispered.
Nick chortled. “It’s not Dylan you need to worry about, precious. Stop worrying. Mika will keep him from killing Kerr.”
My head swam with images of bloodied faces and broken knuckles. Surely Dylan wouldn’t risk assault charges for me, would he?
Joshua tipped back the glass and downed the Scotch. He picked up my hand and placed a tender kiss in my palm. “Tell me your secrets, little one,” he whispered.
The compassion swimming in his beautiful green eyes gave me the courage to spill the embarrassing saga of Davis’s uncollaring. I skimmed over the details of running away and leaving Sanna to fend for herself. There were some things too raw to share with anyone but my sister. Joshua absorbed my disconcerting story without a question or comment. When I was done, he gathered me into his arms.
“He never deserved you or your gifts, little one.”
I closed my eyes and inhaled his scent, drank in his warmth, and thanked the heavens that my truths hadn’t turned Joshua away.
Still wrapped in his arms, I realized that I’d been a pawn in Davis Walker’s game. Not only had he shown his true colors to the people of my former club, but the members of Genesis now, too. The embarrassment that I’d hauled around like an anvil around my neck had never been mine to begin with. I wasn’t a reflection of Davis’s ineptness; he was responsible for that, all on his own. He was an asshole and a player, and probably always would be.
Yes, I’d been naïve to believe his lies, but I’d been a bigger fool to give him the power to toss aside the passion and fulfillment of my submission. Eight years denying my desires was long enough. No more.
“He won’t bother you again, little one,” Joshua vowed.
Sanna jutted out her chin. “No he won’t, cuz I’ll cut his—”
“Stand down, precious. Pull your claws back in. If any Dom needs to be dealt with, we’ll handle it. You stay in your place for Dylan and me. Got it?”
“Yes, Sir.” Sanna pouted.
There was a soft tap on the door. Nick opened it and Trevor bounded in wearing a huge smile.
“It’s almost time,” he announced. Then he zeroed in on me. “Are you doing okay?”
“I’m good as gold,” I assured him.
“Good. We’ve saved you some seats and oh, just so you know. Mika asked Monster…errr I mean Master Kerr to leave,” Trevor made a funny ‘ooops’ face and laughed. “You hold your head high, girly-girl, and prance that sexy lil ass of yours out to the dungeon. It’s partayyyy time.”
“God, I love you, Trevor,” I laughed.
He blew me a kiss. “It’s mutual, dahhhling. Come on, they’re about ready to start.” With a squeal of excitement, Trevor skipped out the door.
I squared my shoulders and raised my chin as we paraded back inside the dungeon. Of course Joshua’s arm banded around my waist bolstered my self-assurance, but I’d made up my mind Davis Walker no longer had the power to unhinge me, ever again.
Drake, Trevor, and Dylan sat in the front row. Dylan wore no visible signs of a fight—thank goodness—just a smug, confident smile poised on his lips. Once seated, Joshua slipped his arm around my shoulder and I settled in against him.
Moments later, Mika stepped onto a raised platform at the front of the room and placed a fluffy red pillow on the floor. Facing the crowd, he placed his hands behind his back, spread his legs in an imposing Dom stance, and stared toward the back of the room.