Loose Id, LLC
www.loose-id.com

Copyright ©2012

First published in 2012

NOTICE: This work is copyrighted. It is licensed only for use by the original purchaser. Making copies of this work or distributing it to any unauthorized person by any means, including without limit email, floppy disk, file transfer, paper print out, or any other method constitutes a violation of International copyright law and subjects the violator to severe fines or imprisonment.

CONTENTS

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Loose Id Titles by Stacey Kennedy

Stacey Kennedy

* * * *

Warning

This e-book contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language and may be considered offensive to some readers. Loose Id LLC's e-books are for sale to adults ONLY, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.

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Pact of Seduction 2: Beg for It

Copyright (C) May 2012 by Stacey Kennedy

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This e-book is a work of fiction. While reference might be made to actual historical events or existing locations, the names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

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Chapter One

The warm scent of vanilla drifted through Bella's nostrils as the soft feminine body molded against hers. Raven's sparkling green eyes stared back at her, and even her silky, long brown hair invited Bella to take her pleasures.

Then why didn't she feel aroused?

Even the atmosphere called to her fantasies. Stone walls surrounded her, candles along the floor provided a romantic glow, and a large king-size bed fitted with black silk sheets rested in the center of the bare room.

Raven wore a mauve lace thong, matching bra, and sleek black heels. Her body was nothing less than a perfect ten. Her perky breasts along with her creamy-colored skin should entice Bella. But her dry panties declared her arousal was nonexistent.

Pushing her reservations aside, Bella, who'd dressed in crimson lingerie, pressed her lips against Raven's. Beneath her touch, the woman's skin was flawless as she ran her hands over a soft back.

A gentle mouth melted against hers, which was so different than a man's demanding kiss. Bella parted her lips and welcomed the light swipe of Raven's tongue; then Bella's muscles bunched as an unexpected bubble of emotion rose.

She broke the kiss and burst out laughing. “Shit. Sorry."

Raven dropped her hands that trailed Bella's arms, then frowned. “Is something about this amusing to you?"

"No. No. I can do this.” She twined her fingers through Raven's silky hair and yanked the woman forward. “I want this.” Pressing her lips against Raven's mouth, she swirled her tongue with Raven's and searched down deep to get her motor running.

Delicate hands slid along her back to rest on her ass and squeeze. Bella sucked in a harsh breath and fought against the reaction burning in her gut, but failed miserably. Her laughter tore from her throat.

"Oh God.” She placed her hand over her mouth in an attempt to hide her smile. “I'm sorry."

Raven folded her arms. “This is getting old."

"I know. I thought I wanted this, but when I kiss you, it feels all wrong."

"Then let's end this. I won't be offended.” Raven's tight features relaxed. “You tried something new, and I give you credit for that. But clearly, you're not turned on by women."

Bella's cheeks warmed. “Clearly not."

Raven strode over to her robe that rested on the floor by the bed. “You're a lovely woman, Bella.” She grabbed it, dressed, then handed the other robe to Bella. “I hope you find what you're looking for. Preferably with someone whom you don't laugh at when kissing.” With a sweet smile good-bye, she spun on her heels and left the room.

Bella sighed, stared at the now closed door, and wrapped the robe around herself. She was relieved to see Raven go to end this embarrassment, but she was pissed too. She'd made a mess of this, hadn't she?

The pact of seduction formed with her best friends hung over her. Tonight was her night to fulfill that promise. She thought a woman had been her ultimate fantasy. How wrong had she been?

Failure burned wicked in her body.

She entered the dressing area located at the back of the room, then dropped the robe and slid back into her tight black minidress. Leaving the robe on the bench, she strode out of the room and slammed the door with a loud bang.

Without a hitch to her step, she passed door after door to rooms that probably contained people treating themselves to their sexual fantasies, exactly what she should've been doing.

She hurried down the staircase, and the sound of her heels against the wood echoed in the open space.

After a nod at the bouncer who guarded the entrance of Castle Dolce Vita, she opened the thick wooden door and made it to her silver Honda Civic. Her seat belt was fastened, car was started, and she hightailed it out of the parking lot in a single breath.

Darkness surrounded her on the drive from Bowleys Quarters back to Baltimore, and that was fitting since it matched her mood. Each light she passed on the half-hour drive brought her closer to home, which only increased the pout on her face.

After she turned onto the tree-lined street of the two-story colonial-style house that she shared with her three friends, she pulled into the driveway. She parked behind Marley's SUV, cut the ignition, and heaved a sigh.

A warm glow spread out from the living-room window, indicating everyone was still awake. Not much of a surprise. They had all been on pins and needles when Marley went to fulfill her fantasy. They'd be waiting for her too.

What should I tell them?

Exhaustion weighed her down, leaving her needy and craving a hug. Not a state she enjoyed. She gulped back the emotions pinning her to the seat, exited the car, then approached the house. Be strong, Bella.

At the front door, she ground her teeth to keep from showing her disappointment and entered the home. All three of her best friends, who were watching a movie, looked toward her.

She forced a smile. “Hi."

"Why are you home?” Marley's green eyes narrowed on her. “And so soon?"

She shut the door behind her, shed her coat, then kicked off her shoes. Sadie and Kyra shifted along the cushions to make room, and she plopped down into the plush couch. “I couldn't do it."

Kyra made a face and flicked her black hair over her shoulder. “Couldn't do what?"

"My night with Raven."

Sadie leaned forward, which gave Bella an unwanted view of her newly purchased breasts. “What happened?"

She ran her hands over her face, then dropped them to glance between the women. “Well, we were kissing, and"—she groaned at the memory—"I laughed in her face."

A pause followed; then laughter erupted, and Bella couldn't help but chuckle too. The heavy weight in her chest released and her muscles relaxed.

Of course they'd understand.

"So you're not attracted to women,” Marley said, her dark curls bouncing off her shoulders as she shook with silent laughter.

She grunted. “Not at all."

"What's the plan now, then?” Sadie glanced at Marley and Kyra before her warm chocolate-colored eyes focused back on Bella. “I mean, not that I don't understand, but we made this pact.” Her look became knowing. “You'll have to come up with another fantasy."

She nibbled her bottom lip. “I don't have any other fantasies, though.” She was aware that she hadn't looked at Marley. BDSM made her confused and curious all at the same time.

Kyra offered a kind smile. “You've got time to sort it out. Sit on it for the next week and see if you can think of anything.” She waved her hand dramatically. “Lord knows the castle has everything and anything you could dream up."

Always the voice of reason, Kyra was. “True.” She released her teeth that dug into her lip and pushed the frustration behind her, more than done with it all. “Is Reed's party tomorrow night still a go?"

Marley nodded. “Yes, and you're going.” She gave a shit-eating grin. “If you're not getting all hot and bothered this weekend, you might as well get drunk."

At least there was that.

On Saturday night, Kole finished stocking the beer in the fridge and heard the crowd behind him grow louder. He grabbed a beer for himself and cracked it open.

After a big gulp of the brew, he moaned from the crisp aftertaste, then scanned his condo that he shared with Reed. Both were criminal lawyers with a top firm in Baltimore, but that wasn't their only shared connection; they were both sexual dominants.

The roommate relationship had worked out well, and with the shared mortgage, they could afford the luxurious condo.

Their living room was full of friends from the castle, some from the law firm, and others just personal friends. It always amused him to watch those who didn't live the D/s lifestyle mix with people who did.

For most, they'd never notice the way the submissives doted over their Masters, seated lower than the ones who commanded them. But Kole saw it clearly, and it created an ache in the pit of his stomach.

While he didn't want a submissive 24-7, he had wanted one when he demanded it. And he'd never found a submissive who intrigued him enough to start a long-term relationship with.

As he continued to survey the room, one woman caught his eye, and the tension in his muscles increased.

Bella sat on the couch, a gin and tonic in her hand, while her three best friends laughed around her. He'd never seen the woman look so depressed. She'd always been full of sass and the life of the party.

All the reasons he craved to have her under his command. As a man, he appreciated her saucy attitude and the strength she portrayed. As a Dom, he'd enjoy seeing her lose it when she gave him control.

More to the point, her beauty appealed to him; her long blonde hair flowed beautifully over her shoulders, and her tight body aroused him. But the submissive buried inside her tempted him repeatedly.

A low laugh dragged Kole out of his thoughts. He flicked his gaze away from Bella to find amused blue eyes staring back at him. Reed cocked his head. His dirty-blond hair fell over his eyebrow. “Hiding in here, are you?"

"Not hiding, watching."

"Ah, the Dom in you can't help but study.” Reed grabbed a beer out of the fridge, opened it, then took a sip. “Who are we studying?"

Kole glanced over at Bella, and her gaze that normally sparkled with life only held dismay. “What's going on with Bella?"

"You just won't leave it alone, will you?"

He ignored the jab that Bella shouldn't intrigue him since she hadn't shown an interest in him for anything more than friendship or in BDSM. “I can't help but notice she seems out of sorts.” He looked back at Reed. “And that's unlike her. She's always so put together."

Reed leaned his hip against the kitchen table and examined Bella. “From what Marley told me, she went to the castle for her night with Raven but couldn't go through with it."

Kole shifted on his feet, and his chest constricted at the thought of her being with anyone. “I could've saved her the embarrassment and told her that myself; she's not a lesbian."

Reed nodded firmly. “I'd imagine she realizes that now."

Kole gazed over Bella, pondering the complex puzzle that she was. He'd seen from day one that she had submissive tendencies. But it wasn't his place to inform her, nor was it his place to put her under his command, even if it'd please him.

With a grunt, he glanced at Reed. “What's with the long face, though?"

"Marley said she's frustrated because she failed.” Reed's stare became pointed. “You know Bella. I'm sure her pride is playing a part here."

Kole took another gulp of his beer; then he shook his head in frustration. “It's bothering me much more than it ought to, knowing that I could guide her way."

Reed snickered. “Back to this, are we?"

It wasn't a secret that Kole had an interest in Bella. Hell, how could he hide it? Every time they all went out to a dance club or even met at a pub for Sunday Night Football, she teased him. But he wasn't the only one captured by a woman. “Marley spun you just as hard."

Reed inclined his head. “Got me there.” Then, his expression firmed. “But this is different. Marley knew the lifestyle interested her. Bella doesn't. If you plan to stick to vanilla sex, then by all means"—he waved out toward Bella—"enjoy yourself. But it should stop there."

Vanilla sex didn't interest Kole. Even if Bella could use a good lay to brighten her mood, he didn't have it in him not to demand her submission, especially once he settled himself between her luscious thighs.

Reed continued, “If Bella finally realizes that her tastes extend to BDSM, then it's my responsibility as Marley's Dom—and boyfriend—to place her with the right one.” He lifted his chin, his voice deepening. “That's not you."

Kole snorted. “Thanks for the high opinion, jackass."

"You know what I'm saying, Kole.” Reed's tone softened, and he placed a hand on Kole's shoulder. “You've never taken a newbie who's as innocent as Bella into a scene."

"I don't think she's as innocent as she puts off,” Kole retorted. “There's a feisty woman in her, and that strength I'd imagine would make for a sub I'd enjoy."

"Strengthwise, yes,” Reed countered. “But she's not submissive in nature. I doubt she has it in her to give you the control you want.” He dropped his hand, folded his arms. “And then I'll be placed in a position to explain why she can't sit for a week since her ass will be marked for her disobedience."

Kole was well aware of who he was and that he enjoyed pushing his subs to extremes that Reed would never go in order to show their submission to him. Plus that he tolerated much less than Reed did from a submissive.

But something existed between him and Bella, and that told him that Reed's worries were irrelevant. He wouldn't be drawn to a submissive who couldn't give him what he needed as a Dom.

Reed stared hard into Kole's eyes and finally sighed. “Fuck, my talk is pointless, isn't it? You're going to go after her, aren't you?"

Nothing Reed had said would dissuade him. An opportunity had presented itself that he wouldn't let pass him by. Bella needed a fantasy. And he'd give her the one he knew she craved, even if she didn't realize it. “I'll introduce the idea and let her decide if she wants to pursue it."

"Introduce, huh?"

Kole grinned. “I'll awaken that dormant submissive in her, let her squirm awhile until she realizes I'm exactly what she needs."

Reed exhaled, long and deep. “Promise me you won't push her excessively if she doesn't submit to you as you'd like?"

"You know"—he glared at Reed—"for my roommate and friend, your opinion of me is discouraging."

Reed's expression was measured. “I'm well aware that you push subs when they're under your command.” He gestured toward Bella. “Be careful with her, or Marley will rip into me, and I won't hear the end of it."

"I won't push past her limits, even if those limits are way too low.” He cocked his head and sighed in exasperation. “Does that suffice?"

Reed nodded. “That'll do.” He grabbed another beer out of the fridge, then left the kitchen to join Marley.

Kole leaned against the counter, pursed his lips, and regarded Bella. He had no doubt if he offered himself to her for a night of blistering hot sex, she'd jump on the chance, but getting her into a scene might prove difficult.

She clearly sensed his gaze on her, since she'd glanced at him. A pretty blush filled her cheeks, and she looked down at the glass in her hands. A reaction he enjoyed.

He suspected when Bella wanted a man, she didn't hold back and went after him. But when it came to him, she was a shy little thing who couldn't hold his gaze.

Submissive.

Tonight, he needed to open the doorway so she'd finally stop ignoring her interests in BDSM.

You've got your work cut out for you.

Good thing he loved a challenge.

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter Two

Only one thing would save Bella now—a stiff drink. Reed and Kole's parties were always fun, and it was nice to see new friends she'd made over the past month. But her mood was right in the toilet. It'd been that way all day and had only gotten worse since she joined the party. She shouldn't have come.

She cursed on a low breath. How in the hell was she going to get out of her current predicament? Originally, it'd been she who offered the idea of the pact of seduction, and she couldn't even commit. Pathetic.

Marley's giggle drew her attention, and Reed had pulled her onto his lap, nibbling at her neck. As horrible as it was, jealously surged. Maybe she had hoped that her fantasy would fill that empty void in her soul. Sure, it was meant as something sexually fun, but Bella craved something...

A part of her remained unfulfilled, even if she didn't understand exactly what was missing. All she knew, her life at this moment was boring with a side of totally sucks.

She glanced over at Kyra, who laughed with Sadie, and nudged her arm. “I'll be back. I need some air."

"Sure.” Kyra's green eyes were a little glassy. The wine clearly had gotten to her. “Want some company?"

"Nah.” She plastered on a fake smile. “I won't be long."

Kyra gave a nod, then turned her attention back at Sadie as the two chuckled about something Sadie had said. If only Bella had something to laugh about. She rose from the couch and made her way through the crowd.

As she passed, she noticed a man sitting on the ottoman and a woman knelt at his feet with her arms over his legs. The position appeared casual enough, but it also looked...different. As if the woman enjoyed being at his feet. Another spurt of jealously soared, and she gave her head a good hard shake. She was apparently envious of everyone who had a relationship. And since when had she been jealous of a BDSM relationship?

What's gotten into you?

She made her way through the living room and stepped out onto the balcony. The cool air brushed against her skin, and she shivered. Winter still hung on in Baltimore, but what a strange winter it'd been—snow one day, mild the next. Tonight was brisk, but that only seemed to help cool off the annoyance burning her blood.

With her glass in her hands, she leaned on the railing and glanced over the city. Reed and Kole's condo had an amazing view and the lights twinkled below.

She sipped at her drink and pondered her situation. How could she plan another fantasy when the only one she wanted she had yet to fully accept herself? And why was she acting like a bitter idiot?

After a long gulp that had her cringing from the aftertaste, a deep voice interrupted her useless thoughts. “I heard last night didn't go well."

She lowered the glass, licked the moisture on her lips, and looked next to her to find Kole. Like always in his presence, butterflies fluttered in her stomach, but she squashed them and kept her voice controlled. “That's putting it lightly."

His blond stylish hair framed a face worth a second look, and his dark blue eyes shone with a power that made her melt. He leaned against the railing beside her, cocked his head, and she felt the weight of his stare right down to her toes. “Tell me about it."

She sipped her drink, mortified to her bones that she had to admit this to Kole. “It wasn't Raven's fault. I"—she drew in a deep breath and said quickly—"I always thought my fantasy was to be with a woman, but clearly it's not."

"Ah, I see.” He took a gulp of his beer before he lowered it. “You didn't get off, I'm assuming?"

She snorted. “If laughing in her face means that I didn't get off, then yes, I didn't get off."

He chuckled, the sound so seductive Bella quivered. In response to that odd reaction, she examined him and couldn't stop from admiring the view.

He was dressed in a pair of dark jeans that no doubt hugged his fine ass, and a black T-shirt that was snug around the muscles beneath. Good God. She licked her lips for reasons that had nothing to do with her drink.

"You didn't follow through with your part of the pact, then?"

Her gaze lifted to his face. The glint in his eyes declared he'd been quite aware of her admiring him. Hell, she'd lusted after him since the day they met. A strong sexual attraction existed between them that she hadn't experienced before with any man, especially a Dom.

She blinked and focused away from the warmth that formed between her thighs. “That's right. I bailed on the pact."

His gaze became penetrating as his tone dipped lower. “Why don't you arrange another night with someone else for your fantasy?"

"Because"—her muscles stiffened, and after a long sigh, she grimaced—"I have no idea what that fantasy is now."

"Such a problem for a woman to have,” he mused.

She gulped at the way his voice seemed to carry into her soul; then she lowered her head to avoid eye contact with him. He raised his bottle to his mouth, and his arm brushed against hers. Tingles zinged through her, and she squeezed her thighs together to ease the throb of her clit.

How did he make her body do that? Every time he was near, she all but sizzled, and when he touched her, everything was amplified.

"I see that you need help, then, in finding what you're looking for."

It hadn't sounded like a question, which she was glad for since her tight throat made it impossible to answer. He slid his finger along her arm, slowly and with clear intent to unravel her.

She bit her bottom lip. “W-what does that mean?"

He tucked his finger under her chin and lifted her head. “I think we both know what I mean.” Those eyes of his burned with the lust that he had obviously contained. “You enjoy my attention, and I'd enjoy you under my command."

Then he pressed a finger on the back of her hand and danced his touch up her arm. His gaze followed his caresses every step of the way. And damn him if she didn't close her eyes and shudder.

A scrape of his nail along her skin drew her eyes open, and he grinned with sin. “Look how beautifully you react to me.” He finally reached her shoulder, and she trembled under the softness of his touch that seemed to contradict that power oozing from him. He tucked his fingers back under her chin, drew her head up, and stared intently into her eyes.

Searching for what, she had no idea.

His hold tensed, a shift in his gaze appeared that made her stomach flip-flop, and her panties were now soaked. He leaned in, pressed his lips against hers, and the world froze. His luscious and damn well perfect mouth molded with hers as his silky tongue swept her away. When had anyone ever kissed her like this?

Oh, right—never.

He kissed her thoroughly, leaving no part of her mouth untouched; then he backed away but kept hold of her chin. “It's time to stop ignoring what your body needs and accept that you want to be dominated."

Hell, how right was he? Maybe BDSM wasn't her fantasy when she made the pact of seduction with her friends, but after hearing about it from Marley, her interest had grown. She lifted a lazy shoulder to appear nonchalant. “I suppose if I set up a scene with you, that would be a solution to my problem."

"Not good enough.” His gaze hardened. “Do you want me to take you into a scene, Bella?"

At his pause, she realized she needed to give a better answer, and she nodded. “I do."

He examined her for a long moment before he finally said, “Now what are your interests in BDSM?"

She melted at the way he stared at her now. So intense. So wicked. Was this a hint of what he'd look like in a scene? Her body flushed, yet she held her focus and lifted her chin. She had always prided herself on staying strong around powerful men.

Her job as a stockbroker in Baltimore's top lending investment firm meant she swam with the sharks. Most of her coworkers were authoritative men. If she'd showed weakness, she wouldn't be where she was today, and she'd worked hard for her position.

"I'm interested in"—her throat went dry. All these fantasies she hadn't admitted to anyone. Was she really going through with this? Her soaking panties declared it so—"ropes, sex toys, floggers, to be controlled, pleasure, and pain.” She raised her glass to her mouth and tried to ignore the way her hands shook.

Before the rim could reach her lips, Kole snatched the glass from her hands and set it on the ground next to him. “If we're discussing this and you are serious, you will stop drinking."

A flare of irritation rose up that he'd be so bold to take her drink right out of her hands, yet Marley had said that Castle Dolce Vita Doms never allowed submissives to drink alcohol in a scene to ensure they were clearheaded. And since they were discussing what would happen between them, she let it go. “Okay."

He gave a short nod. “Now I want to make sure you're well aware of what will happen and what I expect of you.” His gaze searched hers, seemingly looking right through her. “And I need to be sure that I'm the correct Dom for you."

"I don't want anyone else,” she blurted out before she could stop herself.

His eyebrows rose. “I don't mind your answer, Bella.” A small grin turned up the corners of his mouth. “But do tell—have you put more thought into this than you're letting on?"

Her cheeks had never burned so hot, but she wouldn't be that woman who'd stumble around a man. She stuffed her nervousness away, clasped her hands, and demanded her voice to be strong. “Maybe once or twice."

She'd been aware of the mutual attraction between them, so two could play his game. “Are you trying to deny you haven't thought about it too?"

He winked. “Maybe once or twice."

A flutter whipped around inside her, her palms grew clammy, and she squeezed her fingers. Why did he make her act so...knocked off her axis?

"One thing that needs to be discussed is my expectations.” He glanced at her hands for a moment as if he took in her reaction before he looked back into her eyes. “From what I know of you as you are now, you'd struggle to meet them. And I want to make that clear so you know what you're getting yourself into."

"What's that supposed to mean?” she snapped. “Why would I struggle to meet your demands?"

He gave his head a slow shake. “I'm not saying it to insult you, but to give you a stern warning. I don't play lightly."

"Well, I...” Her entire face burned hot as if she had a high-grade fever. Marley had told her all about Kole. How he enjoyed pain play. How strict he was in how a submissive behaved. And all it'd done was increase the throb between her thighs. Solidified the fantasy. “I think I might like that."

He gave a delicious smile. “I have no doubt you would."

And then his lips were back on hers as he swept her away in another leg-wobbling kiss before those plush lips tore away from hers.

"You'll arrive at the castle next Friday at seven o'clock. I'll have a room reserved.” He dropped his head, his eyes in the direct line of hers. “When you arrive, remove your clothes, kneel in the center of the room, and wait for me. Clear?"

Heat spread across her body at the images playing in her head. Nude? Kneeling? Oh God! She quivered in anticipation.

At his expectant expression, she nodded instead of offering him a breathy response.

"Good.” He took her mouth again playfully, nibbled on the corners of her lips, and flicked her lips with his tongue. And when he had her body ramped up to a fever pitch, he backed away to trail his thumb over her lips. “Can you be honest and open with me?"

Drool, honest-to-God drool, formed in her mouth. Everyday Kole was sexy. Dom Kole was to die for. The sheer power that exuded from him, intensity in his features, it all captivated her. He'd asked her to be honest with him—how hard could that be? “I can do that."

He nodded in approval, skimmed her mouth again with his thumb, while his gaze stayed focused there. The smile he gave, the possessiveness held in the depths of his eyes, liquefied her insides.

Something sparked through his touch, only increasing with his kiss, and even more so by the way he looked at her now. One of those duh moments. Had what she wanted—desired—been standing right in front of her this entire time?

In less than a week, she'd have the answer.

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter Three

The candlelight in the dungeon cast a lovely glow over Bella's naked body. Kole stood over her and loved the defiance in her eyes that appeared when he ordered her to look at the floor. Her frisky attitude aroused him as she presented a challenge.

Could he get her to yield?

Warmth pooled into his gut as she responded to his request, even though she fought against his command. He'd noticed submissive mannerisms in her before through their casual time together, but last week his touch awakened her. Beautifully submissive. His kiss had made her melt. Responsive.

To her tonight might be about indulging in BDSM to dive deeper into her desires. For him, a juicy piece of steak had been laid out in front of him, and like a lion, he planned to devour it. “Eyes to me, Bella."

Those lovely ocean-blue eyes twinkled in wonderment at him. Damn her, she'd mesmerized him, and his hard cock pressed against the zipper of his pants. He'd removed his shirt the moment he entered the room, leaving his black slacks on, and it was a good thing since the sight of her warmed him from head to toe. “Tonight, your safe word is ‘thorn.’ Use this if you need the scene to stop. Let me hear it."

"Thorn,” she replied, and her nose scrunched up.

He grinned at how awkward that sounded from her. “Since you're new to the lifestyle, if I'm doing something that has you worried, but you don't necessarily want me to stop, you'll say ‘rose.’ Say it."

"Rose."

"Excellent. If you say your soft-limit word, I can take measure of you, see if I agree, and we can discuss how you're feeling.” He leaned in and tilted his head. “I'll decide if I should keep going, or if we should move on to something else."

"I understand,” she rasped.

He hadn't even touched her yet, and she was thoroughly aroused, her pupils dilated. The little spitfire held zero comprehension that she'd shine tonight. “I've asked you a direct question, so your response will be ‘yes, Sir,’ even ‘okay, Sir,’ or ‘I understand, Sir.’ If you want to make me very happy, you might say, ‘yes, Master Kole.’”

A burn filled her gaze, and Kole understood. Bella had always kept everyone at a distance. He'd seen it time and time again. How she'd pushed everyone away with her brisk, snappy attitude, and he doubted she'd call him “Master.” The “Sir” would suffice for now.

"Yes, Sir."

It'd been years since he had anyone new under his command. He usually enjoyed skilled submissives that he could push. Pain along with pleasure could leave women boneless. Yet he appreciated the innocence of Bella. Furthermore, he enjoyed Bella, the woman.

He inhaled and caught a waft of luscious woman mixed with cinnamon body spray. As he gazed over her naked flesh, his cock twitched. Her perky breasts with rosy nipples delighted him. The curves and hard lines detailing her athletic frame and shaved pussy invited him. His daydreaming over what she looked like beneath her clothes wasn't even close to how beautiful she really was.

Perfect.

Leaving her kneeling in the center of the room, he strode over toward the tray of items he gathered for the scene. Each item was chosen carefully from her list of limits she gave him when she signed the waiver required by the castle.

He grabbed the four leather cuffs with fur inside and also took the black ropes off the tray, then returned to her. “Stand."

She rose, awkwardly, which he'd not fault her for. Most times, he'd never tolerate such jerky movements from a submissive, but Bella wasn't his usual submissive. Something he reminded himself of as he wrapped the cuff around her left wrist, then repeated the move on the other. Her sharp inhale and the tremor that ran through her made him smile.

Very responsive.

Once her wrists were bound, he stepped in behind her and grasped her wrists at her back. Then, he laced one of the ropes through the loops on the cuffs.

Bella softened beneath his touch.

Lovely.

He pulled on the rope slightly until she backed up; then he attached the loose ends of the rope onto the wooden post in the center of the room. He added the cuff to her ankle and ran another piece of rope down to the loop on the floor to place her in an inverted Y position.

By the time he finished with the knot on her other leg, she panted in heavy breaths, and her muscles quivered. “Rose,” she whispered.

"I'm pleased that you're aware when you should use your safe word. But I'm binding you because there's some trust between us since we've known each other for a while now.” He brushed his fingers along her calf to soothe her. “If you go into a scene with another Dom, you're to refuse this until you trust him more.” He tilted his head and studied her. “Now then, why are you worried?"

"I can't move, Sir."

"Breathe against your worry and grow comfortable within the restraints.” He strode toward the wall to give her space, squatted down, watching for any sign that being bound was something she couldn't handle. The little woman trembled in fear, but those taut nipples couldn't lie. This aroused her.

Within a few minutes, the heavy rise and fall of her chest eased, and the redness in her cheeks faded. He approached, her wanton gaze and enticing scent drawing him to her. “You handled that well, Bella.” A slow show of trust he appreciated. “You have your safe word. Remind yourself of that."

"I will."

He grabbed her chin, angled her head back to ensure he garnered her attention. “I explained my rules to you when we discussed your limits and have also given you a reminder a moment ago.” Her eyes widen in slight, but he carried on. “If I have to remind you again of how to address me, you'll be punished"

"Yes, Sir."

She might have bitten out the word, but he expected nothing less. Right now, she was playing along to see where this would take her, not giving him the respect he deserved. He sought to change that. “Very good."

Drawing in a long deep breath, he considered her. From what she'd told him and shown him, she had a curiosity toward being bound and flogged, but she was skittish. Proceed with caution, or she'll end this. Not on his life.

This little hellion made him curious, and now having her here, a desire rose to show her what she'd been missing in her life. And that included him being in it.

Not pissing around any longer, he reached forward, palmed her sex, and silkiness warmed his fingers. “So wet already, Bella.” Her lips parted, a soft moan escaping at his caress. “You might fear the restraints, but listen to your body. It likes it."

He pressed his palm against her clit, and her eyes rolled back into her head. Then he slid his finger into the warm wet space, and her inner walls squeezed against him as he worked her pleasure.

Her breath deepened; she sighed against every touch, and her body liquefied around him. Thrusting in deep, he rubbed the pads of his fingertips against her G-spot. With a loud gasp, her eyes went huge, and moisture flooded his fingers.

He chuckled and withdrew his fingers, and she made unhappy noises. Greedy woman. She wasn't used to a man stopping once he started. Now this is fun!

Leaving her bound to the pole, he approached a candle sitting along the stone ledge that ran across the middle of the room. He took the white pure paraffin wax candle and turned back to her.

Her eyes widened and her cheeks flushed. Stopping in front of her, he held the candle up to show her the wax pooled within. “Wax decorates a body so beautifully, and I enjoy seeing it on a woman's breasts."

That pretty gaze of hers stayed trained on the candle before she shut her eyes tight. “Rose."

Taking reflection of her, he lowered the candle, and once she opened her eyes, the worry of the unknown raged hard in their depths, changing the crystal blue to almost navy in color. “You're afraid.” He said it more of a statement than a question, and she didn't reply.

He skimmed his fingers down the middle of her chest, circled one of her hardened nipples that awaited him, and sensed the tension in her muscles. But how this little lady burned with lust and trembled against his touch.

"The fear is caused from the lack of control in the situation.” She released a lovely sigh as he continued to swirl the taut knot. “Remember, you have the power to stop this scene with your hard-limit safe word. Push past your need to bolt."

He gave her nipple a squeeze, and she gasped. “I'd like you try this once because I believe you'll enjoy it.” He slid his knuckles over the swell of her breast. “This candle burns at a very low temperature. It'll be nice and warm. No pain.” He playfully traced her creamy flesh. “If you don't enjoy the feel of the wax, we can move on. Yes?"

Her lips parted, but then she closed them, and took a deep breath through her nose. She finally said, “Yes, Sir."

"Excellent.” He placed the candle on the floor, approached the tray, and grabbed the black blindfold. “I'm covering your eyes for no other reason than for your safety. Wax and eyes don't mix."

"Yes, Sir."

He placed the blindfold over her head and settled it into place, and then picked up the candle. Lifting the candle to her shoulder, he tilted it ever so slightly to allow a drop of the wax to land on her skin.

She inhaled a sharp breath, yet didn't pull her safe word, and the eager shakes of her body begged for more.

Moving the candle toward her breast, he then poured wax over her nipple. She groaned, a seductive sound of pleasure, and his groin tightened. He craved to hear it again.

He lowered his free hand to her pussy, slid his fingers into her slick heat, and pumped them. Then, he poured more wax onto the other nipple, and kept on pouring.

Nothing looked more beautiful than her shaking against the binds, her head thrown back, and the shouts that sang from her throat.

Leaving his fingers in her warm, wet space, he blew out the candle and tossed it to the floor. “Very good, Bella.” He removed her blindfold. “You trusted me and pushed past your fear. That pleases me.” He grabbed her waist and finger fucked her, hard and fast.

Her screams—mixed from her reaction to the wax and the force of his hard thrusts—drifted across him. Convulsions gave her pleasure away. But he had no intention of giving her what she sought. The moment her tremors increased, he withdrew his hand.

She jerked her head up and her eyes narrowed on him at his refusal of her climax. Yet, like a good girl she stayed quiet when he suspected she craved to order him to continue.

Progress.

Turning away from her, he grabbed the flogger off the tray. The cool leather was perfect in his hand. Once he approached her again, her cheeks were now flushed, but her features went blank as her gaze landed on the flogger.

He raised the flogger, her eyes went huge, and she sputtered, “R-rose."

Three times now she'd used her soft-limit safe word. He understood her nervousness thus far was all about her keeping control. Her issue wasn't her fear, but her inability to allow him to do whatever he wanted to her. Even if she didn't realize it, she was topping from the bottom, which was why he focused on reassuring her instead of reprimanding her for throwing out a safe word so quickly, but his tolerance now faded.

"While I don't mind that you're unsure about this, I do mind you overusing the power of words. If you say the safe word again, and if I don't believe you're honestly afraid, we'll be done."

She blinked. Her mouth dropped open before she whispered, “Forever, Sir?"

"You need to trust me.” He tucked the flogger under his arm and stared at this beauty of a woman, making a statement of his own that he, not she, was in control. “Right now, you only trust your safe word."

He brushed his finger over her cheek, and he enjoyed when she leaned into his touch. “I won't hurt you, Bella, beyond what you can take. You've set out your limits in the questionnaire we did together. But you must trust me."

Her blink came again, and she stared at him with a vacant expression. “Okay, Sir."

He smiled. “The ‘Sir’ is coming easier for you now. That's very good, Bella.” He raised the flogger and lightly tapped her thigh. No flinch. No squeak. No safe word. Not a surprise.

This woman had strength in spades, and if she allowed him the right, he'd prove it to her. Open her to new possibilities. How she could use the sensation of pain to give her extreme pleasures.

He tapped again, harder this time along the same thigh, and she groaned. Reaching forward, he pinched one of her wax-coated nipples; then he hit harder with the flogger. He lowered his hand and swirled her dampness along her clit before he pushed his finger through her heat.

She jerked against his touch and thrust her hips forward. Totally expected. He'd brought her to the very edge of her orgasm and had denied it. Now overwhelmed with foreign sensations to her with the wax and the flogger, her body responded.

"Holy fuuuccck!” she shouted.

Again, he dropped his hand. Instead of allowing her to climax, he raised the flogger and came at her with a steady stream of heavy thuds in a figure-eight pattern. Her loud shouts spoke to the uncomfortable nature of the hits since she wasn't used to the sensation. But she hadn't pulled her safe word, and pleasure shone in her gaze, making her eyelids hooded.

Lovely red coloration decorated her torso and thighs, and damn, she was a beautiful sight. Her eyes glazed over, not really seeing him. Not acceptable.

Continuing with flogging her, he reached up and pinched a wax-coated nipple hard. “Awareness, please."

Her gaze became alert, and after a couple blinks, her focus returned to him. “Ow,” she snapped. “Ouch."

Oh, the sass. How he adored it. The flogger wasn't what she objected to, but the hard pinch he issued. “Stay in the present, and you won't get pinched."

He increased his speed with the flogger as the color of her skin along her thighs and hips deepened. A beautiful shade of red that impressed the Dom in him. Her head was lowered as she vocalized the intensity he pushed upon her.

Here was the limit she'd drawn. If she were any other submissive, he'd push her past this moment, increase the pain when she thought she couldn't take more, but he kept at the same intensity to avoid overstepping her boundaries.

He didn't intend to end this scene. Not now. Not with the woman who had enthralled him from a moment's glance was under his command. She'd yield to him by night's end. Or fuck, he'd die trying.

Dropping the flogger to the ground, he pushed his fingers into her slick heat, pumped them within her hot folds, and her body shook violently.

"Oh God!” she screamed.

"Not a bad way to address me, sweetheart.” He gave a low chuckle, laced his fingers into her hair, and angled her head back. “Are you going to come, Bella?"

"Oh God, yes,” she gasped. Her eyes were so deep and ravenous. “Oh God, Sir."

Holding her tight, unable to move from the binds around her extremities, and now her head captured in his hold, he lowered his voice. Here was her test. “Beg for it, Bella."

The pleasure widening her eyes faded. Her brow creased as if she fought herself. And that reaction didn't shock him. Asking that of her was pushing her to her very limits.

Bella had probably never begged for anything in her life. He suspected she'd think it a weakness. But here was his limit too. She either gave him total control, or he'd not touch her again, no matter that something existed between them. At her silence, he yanked his fingers from her pussy when her climax peaked. A whimper escaped her as she sagged against the binds. He dropped down, undid the rope on her feet, then tossed the rope aside.

Keeping a good hold of her, he unlatched her wrists from the pole. With her arms still bound at her back, he stepped in behind her, drawing her in close, and placed his arm across her middle. Damn, did her sexy body feel amazing against him. Little. Tight. Perfect.

He slid his hand over her curvy hip, reached her clit, and circled it with the pad of his finger. Quick movements that had her body quivering in need. He rolled, flicked, and pinched at the bundle of nerves.

Her deep sigh made his groin tighten further. He skimmed the hand around her middle, up to her chest where he tweaked a taut bud, and fondled her beautiful breast. Her answering moans implored him.

He pressed his lips against her shoulder, bit down on her soft skin, which earned him a loud gasp from her. She ground her pussy against his hand, and he smiled along her silky skin. Fuck, he enjoyed her.

Pushing hard against her clit, he rolled the bud beneath his fingertips until she panted. Keeping a hold on her, he leaned around her, slid his fingers through her soft, damp lips, and thrust inward.

Her wet pussy tightened around his fingers. Slowing his strokes, he used light touches to refuse her orgasm. Having no doubt that if he thrust in hard once, she'd erupt.

Her breath became ragged. Body visibly shook. Head remained bowed to the ground. “I can't keep doing this.” No voice had ever sounded so exhausted. “I don't want to stop you, but..."

Too much?

He removed his fingers, stepped around to take measure of her, and kept a good hold on her arm since she swayed. Frustration rested heavy in her gaze but also held a hint of surrender. One wall was coming down.

Ah yes, she was unable to continue, exhausted from fighting against him, but she was also at the brink of handing him control. “You can. You will."

Her whimper didn't stop him from going right back to her splendid pussy.

Staying in front of her, he caressed her clit, moving it beneath his fingertip, and her eyes became hooded. She shuddered, and he thrust his fingers back into her center, groaning as she tightened around him. He wanted his cock right there, strangled by her orgasm.

Her eyes became dark before they shut. Although he would have demanded she look at him, he restrained the order. Baby steps would bring him to a final reward.

To deepen her pleasure, he moved his free hand up the middle of her chest, cupped her nape, and then pressed his mouth against hers.

Lips parted for his intrusion. Her tongue swirled and accepted his. Slowing his movements, he stroked her with a light touch. Tension radiated off her—an obvious fight not to give herself over to him.

Behavior he'd fix. A firm bite on her lip had her cringing, but a deep moan contradicted her body's reaction. He backed away and tangled his fingers in her hair, roughly shifting her head closer to him. “You like control, don't you?"

At her whimper, he added, “What does it feel like to not be treated like a princess that everyone tiptoes around?” Her pussy convulsed, and moisture flooded his hand. He jerked her head again. “To be handled as if you won't break?"

Her breath rushed from her lungs, her gaze wildly ravenous, and her cheeks were bright red. “I enjoy it, Sir."

He had no doubt she did, which was exactly why he upped the tension in the scene. To prove he wouldn't back down and, in fact, would only come harder at her if she refused. This power struggle she wouldn't win.

Tightening his grip on her hair, not allowing her to move, he stilled his hand. “Then enough fucking around, Bella.” His voice was deep and threatening as he intended to push her. “Beg for it."

He thrust his fingers within her, fast and hard, as he called to her release. Demanded it. Made it impossible for her to refuse him.

Everyone bowed to Bella—he'd seen it with her best friends—because of her overpowering personality. Not him. A low sigh from her mouth echoed in the room before her pussy clamped down on his fingers. At the first sign of her approaching climax, he yanked out of her, and she cried out in frustration.

Before she had a chance to catch her breath, he thrust back in, demanding her orgasm to rise. Her pussy seized against his fingers, and his balls grew heavy.

"I'll count to ten.” He stared intently at the struggling woman. “I'd learn to beg, or you'll be left here. Like this.” Her eyes widened, mouth parted to no doubt argue with him, and he'd have none of it. “Ten."

"No—"

"Nine."

She shook her head frantic. “Wait—"

"Eight."

He thrust two fingers into her pussy.

"Seven."

He withdrew; then he pushed back through her heat.

"Six."

He flicked her G-spot.

"Five."

Her deep sigh sent a wave of heat straight to his cock.

"Four."

Her pussy vibrated against him.

"Three."

Her lips parted.

"Two."

She gasped a loud breath, and those eyes...oh, those sweet sexy eyes of hers cleared with determination. “Please. Sir."

He lifted an eyebrow. “Please, what?"

Blue beauties twinkled at him. And for the first time tonight, he witnessed her desire to give him control, her expression wide open for him. Fuck, he'd give her all he had; she only had to ask.

Her ravenous eyes begged him, but that wasn't enough. He needed to hear her submission. She finally sighed, everything about her went lax, shoulders sank, and her body softened against his. “All right,” she whispered, sounding on the edge of fatigue. “Sir, I beg you to let me come."

Her submission empowered him in ways he didn't anticipate. He gazed at her, and within the depths of her eyes, he witnessed a Bella he hadn't met yet.

Soft and sweet. Willing and giving. He saw trust. In him.

"Now that sounded lovely.” He tightened his jaw as he pumped his fingers, using the full force of his muscles to render the woman cross-eyed. But here was a powerful lesson for her too. “And that is exactly the type of behavior that gets rewarded."

Her slick heat tightened around his fingers, making him work harder, but no sound came from her mouth until she screamed, “Yeeessss."

As her final shout of release echoed in the empty room, he withdrew his fingers but rubbed her clit to intensify the lingering effects of her orgasm. Christ, she looked beautiful, all boneless and flushed.

He twined his tongue with hers, and she kissed him in return with no restraint. Elation soared through his soul. Her trust in him touched him. A warm sensation that made him smile.

Once he backed away from her, he discovered he wasn't the only one grinning.

"Wow.” She exhaled with puffy lips. “I think I just came so hard that I, for all of a second, died.” At his arched eyebrow, she added, “Thank you, Sir."

He chuckled. “That, my Bella, was to get you out of this"—he tapped her forehead—"and to get this"—he smacked her pussy with a hard hit, and she gasped—"warmed up."

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter Four

Tremors rocked Bella from the tips of her toes all the way up to her head as Kole removed the cuffs from her wrists. She was satisfied to her very bones. Never...not once...had she come like that. It was more than a wave of pleasure washing over her—nothing less than a soul-deep explosion of euphoria.

Every nerve ending awakened and seemed to detonate from within. She'd never felt more alive than under the command of Kole, experiencing sensations she'd never dreamed possible.

While she realized that she'd finally succumbed to him, and wasn't quite sure how she felt about that, she recognized it pleased him. And that in turn gave her unexpected pleasure.

Following him with her hazy vision, he strode over to the tray, then deposited the cuffs and rope. Her pulse kicked up a notch as she studied him. This man hadn't used his cock, and she about up and died.

What next?

More pleasure.

More pain.

More Kole.

Oh, such sweet delights.

Turning back to her, he held a long piece of black silk in his hand. He ran his hands over it, twining it between his fingers, and she couldn't look away. The heat that had settled between her thighs now flared back to life.

He slid the silk down her arm. Good God! The softness of the fabric was utterly sexy—thrilling.

He placed the loose fabric over her neck, and it rested against her shoulders. Then, he wrapped it under her armpits and around her back.

Using a crisscross motion, he fitted the silk around her until her breasts were supported and her torso was covered, with thin areas of her skin showing. The last of the silk enclosed over her hips, where he tied a knot at the back, fastening it tight.

He returned to her front, and his gaze zoned in on her breasts accentuated by the silk, and burned a trail of hot passion down her stomach. “You're lovely presented this way.” He finally glanced back up at her eyes, his expression curious and probing, and the side of his mouth quirked. “Describe how this feels for you."

No one had ever looked at her as he did—pride, adoration, and wicked intent. She gulped to find her voice and considered how the smooth fabric held her. “Like I'm being hugged by soft hands."

He inclined his head, seemingly pleased that she understood his intent. “You presented like this makes me want to lay you out, spread you wide, and fuck you.” He lifted an eyebrow. “Something you might want to remember for the future."

Future?

How to read that? Did he mean future as in tonight, or that he wanted more from her as in a relationship? Her heart pitter-pattered at the latter.

"Have you ever been spanked, Bella?"

His commanding tone dragged her from her thoughts, and he grinned at her. “I've made your thighs and hips a lovely color, but I'm fixing to make that ass rosy."

"No, Sir.” And why did the thought of being spanked tip her arousal into full gear?

Stepping in beside her, he slapped her ass while he sank his fingers into her hair and pulled her head to the side. “Yes, that's a lovely shade on you.” She exhaled, low and deep as her ass burned.

"Thank you, Sir.” Instinctively, she shut her legs reacting to the sting that wouldn't go away.

"Legs out."

The barked order made her widen her stance, and he issued another blow to her bottom.

"I don't intend to treat you like a princess, Bella.” Smack. “I intend for you to earn that sort of treatment by giving me your submission.” Another hard hit stung her ass cheek, leaving her bottom to burn.

She gasped, desperately trying not to move, but each hit was fierce, and pain flooded her. But oh shit...so did pleasure, right into her pussy. “I like it, Sir."

"Of course you do.” He chuckled. “I also know that you grow tired of everyone bowing to you.” He latched on to a nipple, tweaked the bud and pinched it.

Gasping from the sharp pain, she attempted to move away, but his hold on her hair pinned her. “Ouch."

"Don't move, sweetheart. I like you right here.” He gripped her breast and squeezed; then he released it to issue the same attention along the other nipple.

Gritting her teeth, she groaned against the sensation, all the while wanting to arch her back and beg for more.

"You have beautiful tits.” He slapped each one, then smacked her ass and massaged her bottom. “And a spectacular ass."

"Thank you, Sir,” she managed.

Keeping his grip on her hair, he stepped in behind her. “Your body tempts me.” He rubbed the plump part of her ass before issuing another hit. “Makes me crave to add color to it.” He slapped again, harder this time. “In fact, so much so, I'm enticed to put you on your knees, slam my cock into that slick, sweet pussy, and get a better view of your ass while I take my pleasures."

She squirmed and tried to avoid his hits, fighting all the while to stand still as he issued hit after hit. Each flat-handed smack on her ass caused more pain than the one before. But hot damn, she relished the sensation, and the way he spoke to her so roughly only increased her arousal.

"So rosy.” His voice dipped low. “Fucking sexy."

Smack.

Burn.

Whack.

Her nerve endings awakened and became responsive to each hit, more aroused than ever. Kole didn't bring sensations forth; he demanded them with the hard blows, and her body rose to his claim. Overwhelming her. Making her crazed with need.

He rubbed her bottom with his palm in soft circles and pressed his hard cock against her thigh. “Be proud of how much I want you. Hard as steel, yes?"

"Yes, Sir, I'm proud.” Weak-kneed too.

Two more blows hit her ass. God, she was becoming a desperate, entirely ravenous woman. Each hit only increased her need as his fingertips dug into her skin. One last hard hit rocked through her; then he stepped away. “Present yourself."

She stood still for a moment, wobbling slightly, and pondered. She didn't know much about presenting herself, only what Marley had told her in the few conversations they'd had. He liked her kneeling before. Would that please him?

In hopes that it would, she lowered to her knees and remembered what he said about the silk. She dropped her chest down to the ground, flicked her hair over her shoulder, and exposed her back so he'd get a splendid display of her skin wrapped in the fabric. She spread her legs wide and angled her hips to fully expose her pussy to him.

Oh my God, am I really doing this?

"Now that is a beautiful view.” He slid his fingers over her aching folds. “A pussy made to fuck, nice and tight."

She bit her lip as he pushed in and flicked a sensitive area. “I'm glad it pleases you, Sir."

Withdrawing his fingers, he rubbed her bottom again, which was warm from his swats. His attention on her scorching flesh only seemed to cause more heat to rise within her. Then, he smacked her pussy...hard.

She flinched and was shocked again when another hit came upon her ass. It jolted her into a woman she never knew. Desperate.

Take me. Take me now.

She wiggled her bottom, imploring for more.

He slid his finger into her center and thrust in twice. “You've got a greedy pussy that's aching for my cock, Bella, don't you?"

"Yes, Sir.” Greedy. It was downright painful with an ache that his fingers couldn't satisfy. She pushed against him, demanding more. Needing him to thrust hard and ease the building tension.

He issued another firm hit on her backside. “Not enough for you?"

She pressed farther back in a plea that he'd go deeper. Thrust harder. Do anything to free her from the insatiable need. “It's good, Sir."

"Now darlin', don't lie. Not enough for you?"

Even after he added another finger, it didn't appease her, and only made her desperation soar. Did he do this deliberately? Force her to near insanity until her arousal stole over her coherent thoughts?

No, she couldn't handle this torture. All she had to do was beg, and he'd give her what she wanted. “I want your cock, Sir."

"That sounds much better, and I see that you do.” He issued another hard blow on her bottom, withdrew his fingers, then strode toward the tray.

There, he dropped his pants. His thick, long erection sprang free, and he slid a condom over his shaft.

Bella's mouth dried. Her gaze remained glued on his every step as he returned to her, his hand working up and down his erection in leisurely strokes. Nothing had ever looked that good.

"Ah, I see you approve of me.” His voice held a husky edge. “Best I see to that ache of yours. We don't want a little submissive to whimper in need any more than she already is."

He grinned, and if Bella hadn't been on her knees, she would've ended up there. “I'm going to take my pleasure in you now, Bella."

That thick cock could drive her to places she'd never gone and she doubted she'd return from. “I think it's going to ease my ache...and then some, Sir."

A low chuckle followed as he stepped in behind her. His presence was now hidden. That was until he pressed the tip of his cock against her swollen, throbbing entrance.

With a gentleness that she hadn't expected from him, he inched his way in, slowly, letting her body adjust to his size. He stretched her so fully, and this was exactly what she craved.

Once seated to the hilt, he delivered another hard slap on her ass before he grabbed both of her cheeks, gripping firmly. He leaned down over her and all but growled, “I don't fuck gently."

He didn't give her a chance to respond. He straightened up and pounded his cock into her pussy. Skin slapped skin as his cock drove her to foreign sensations. Maybe it'd been too long since she last had sex, or maybe it'd been how hot he'd gotten her, but screams tore from her throat.

Where had her ability to breathe gone? And he wasn't giving her the chance to catch it.

One thrust after another rammed her from behind—over and over again—unforgivingly hard thrusts that she couldn't keep up with. The sound of his low groans filled her ears as her pussy tightened. Her eyes shut, and she drifted away with the pleasure.

A hard hit on her ass snapped her back into the present. “You won't come unless I allow it."

"Yes"—she gritted her teeth to fight off the hints of her climax—"Sir."

He spread her ass cheeks, and he drove deeper into her.

Oh fuck, I'm... “Going to come. So hard. Sir."

"No.” His harsh demand echoed around her as he intensified his thrusts, pumping into her ruthlessly. “I plan to use you up, nice and good."

Her fists clenched, and she dug her fingernails into her palms, trying not to fail him. Kole was tough. But so was she. I can't fail. I can take more. I'm his equal.

He delivered another couple of smacks on her bottom, only awakening more sensations. Heat zinged from her ass cheek all the way to her swollen clit. “I'm inclined to do this for hours."

Hours?

Not possible.

She wanted to please him, to comply with his demand, but his cock continued to drive her to a place that left her mindless.

Biting her lip, she fought off her impending release and focused away from it. The wetness grew between her thighs, her inner walls convulsing, and her body gave her no escape.

A low chuckle sounded behind her. “You're right there, aren't you?"

As a last resort, she bit her palm, desperate to not climax.

Beg. Hell, that was the answer. “Please, Sir. I beg to come."

Had he sped up?

Another whack on her ass made her squeal as his voice echoed against the stone walls. “No."

Crying out in frustration, she panted against the way her muscles strained. The pleasure now turned to pain that burned awful. Her climax hung, forced by his brutal movement yet denied. It made her crazed.

He reached down, pinched her clit before he massaged the nub. “I love hearing you beg. Let's hear it again. Beg for me to let you blow."

She released her teeth from skin, and her voice sounded breathless. “I beg, Sir."

Smack. “No."

The sting arched her back, and she pressed herself against him.

Hard.

Intense.

Never-ending thrusts.

At the next hit he issued, her skin flushed too hot. Too out of control. Had she really given him this much power? To deny this? Had she lost her damn mind?

Slap.

His balls banged against her clit, and her breathing stopped. She couldn't fail. Not now. Not after this. But his cock, the pleasure, the hot burn on her ass—she was so wet, and her pussy contracted... Need to stop!

Before she could process what her mind was telling her and what her body wanted, she heard herself scream out, “Rose."

Kole was out of her in a second flat, leaving Bella nearly sobbing. He ran his hand over her sore bottom in a gentle, sweet embrace. “We're done, Bella."

She attempted to catch her breath and control her brain that appeared lost. “Wait! What?"

He continued to skim his hand along her back so delicately as if she'd break, and his voice was tender. “Stay there for a moment, darlin'.” He strode toward the tray, deposited the empty condom, then returned to her.

"I warned you about using your soft-limit word again.” Squatting down next to her, he offered a warm smile as he brushed his knuckles over her cheek. “But more than that, you've had enough for tonight."

No. This can't happen!

"I was a little overwhelmed and needed a break, which you said I'd get with the soft word.” Oh Lord, she even sounded desperate. “Please, let's continue, Sir."

"You're right—I did say that about the safe word, but I also said that I'd take measure of you and determine if I agreed.” His features remained tender, as did his tone. “In this case, I did, and you've had enough."

He lifted her and placed her on her bottom, the cool floor an utter relief to her tender skin. Then he removed the silk around her body.

Icy fingertips trailed up her spine as she cringed against the silk's departure. The sensation equaled to his hands leaving her body.

He grabbed a blanket off the tray, wrapped it around her, and gathered her in his arms, effortlessly.

Then he strode toward the back wall and took a seat on the bench and pulled her onto his lap, tucking her head against his shoulder.

"You've done well tonight.” He stroked her hair. “Don't take shame that you couldn't handle the last bit there. It'll come in time."

But all she experienced was disappointment. Her body stripped of its release left her sickened, which only increased with the knowledge that she'd failed.

For the first time, she'd lowered her shields that protected her—that made her able to stand up to the arrogant men she worked with and hold her chin high—and she'd been proven not an equal.

"I warned you what would happen tonight and of my expectations.” He tucked his finger under her chin, seemingly staring into the very depths of her. “You need to trust me, and this is how we gain that.” He smiled gently. “I pushed you far tonight, as I told you I would. Be proud of what you've accomplished."

She dropped her head, not even able to meet his eye. Her body was used up, especially emotionally. Now with the sensations over, she realized she could have held off. Why had she panicked?

"Talk to me.” His voice was soft and so unlike the demeanor he'd shown thus far. He forced her gaze back to his by lifting her chin. “How are you feeling?"

Her mind was so lost in the mess of confusion and anger. “I'm not sure what I'm feeling right now,” she told him honestly. “But I know I enjoyed everything you did to me."

"Are you surprised by how compliant you were?"

Understatement!

It shocked the hell right out of her. “I didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I did."

He inclined his head as if he had already known her answer. “Nothing you didn't like?"

She shook her head, unable to say to him that she prided herself on being strong, and in the face of a test, she nosedived. Yeah, she fucking hated that.

"Lived up to your expectations, then?"

A lump formed in her throat, and she forced her voice to work. “It exceeded them."

Her stomach churned. Why had she done this? Her feelings for Kole were apparent before tonight. Now they were out front and center, and she couldn't keep up with him, wasn't enough for him.

He suddenly stiffened, and his hand tightened in her hair. A flash of emotion rushed along his face too quick to identify. “Tell me your thoughts."

Tell him or not?

She studied him for a moment to read him. To her horror, disappointment shone in his gaze. And that part of her that had doubts about giving him control rebounded. Her defenses rose, and she stood, holding the blanket over herself. “Nothing."

Darkness washed over his gaze. “Back to this, are we?"

"Back to what?” she snapped.

His eyes narrowed. “Bella, why do you get tough and shut everyone out?"

"I—"Oh God, I have to get out of here. “Thank you for this. For helping me fulfill the pact with the girls."

"Bella,” he said sternly. “Answer me."

She stared into his eyes that demanded an answer, but now she only felt trapped. What had she done? How had she let this happen to her?

She'd given a man total control, weakened herself, and became that woman who offered herself like a doormat. “I should get home. The girls will be waiting. I'm fine."

He frowned. “Now that I don't believe."

She plastered a fake smile onto her face, something she was an expert at now. “Really, I'm great. Promise.” The room closed in on her. Exit. Where's the damn exit? “I had an incredible time."

One sleek eyebrow arched as he stood with fluid grace. His hand closed on her shoulder. “Don't lie to me, Bella."

Reason, Bella. Give him a reason. “I-I just need some time to think all this over.” Never show weakness. Never get hurt.

Kole had somehow stripped away the very fiber that made her what she was. He'd made her lose sight of the fight to always be strong. Why the fuck did she give him that control? For what? An orgasm.

"All right, Bella.” He lowered his hand, and she exhaled, glad for the freedom. “I warn you that you better not be hiding anything from me.” He gestured toward the door. “But if you wish, you may go off and think."

What had he meant by that? She wasn't lying. Not really. Just not telling him her innermost personal thoughts. That was different, right?

She couldn't care to figure it out.

Without a kiss good-bye, hug, or even a wave, she hightailed it for the door. She yanked it open and let it slam behind her.

Hugging herself, she hurried to the women's changing room. Confusion clouded her thoughts, leaving her unable to focus.

I need my girls.

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter Five

Outside of her house, Bella noticed the lights were still on the living room, indicating everyone was awake. No doubt the girls were excited to hear how the night had gone, considering how surprised they'd been when she told them of her arrangement with Kole. Marley's only response was “I sure as hell hope you know what you're getting yourself into."

Now she regretted this whole idea.

She hadn't ever thought of herself as a woman who needed a man to dote over her, but with Kole she desired it. Clearly, she cared for him far more than she'd thought she did, and seeing the disappointment in his eyes made her feel shunned.

With a long, deep exhale, she made her way to the front door; then she strode in. Kyra and Sadie were curled up on the couch watching a movie, but Bella was surprised to see Reed sitting on the recliner with Marley on his lap.

Kyra straightened up on the couch, nearly bouncing in her seat. “How'd it go?"

Bella's breath hitched. Dammit, she didn't want to break down with Reed here, but her hidden emotions were now exposed. Even the usual wall she threw up to stay strong crumbled.

In the comfort of her friends, she broke. “I...” She drew in a shuddering breath, then burst into tears.

All three friends were off the couch in a second and embraced her. Reed remained on the chair, but his stern gaze that normally would shut down all her emotions didn't have an impact.

Marley stared wide-eyed. “Jeez, Bella, what happened?"

Bella sniffed, tried to find her voice, but she was too afraid if she opened her mouth, it'd come out in a sob.

"Did it not go well, sweetie?” Sadie asked softly.

At Bella's continuing pause, Kyra looked around at the other girls with a wary glance, then focused back at Bella. “Seriously, why are you crying?"

She wiped her tears, gulping back the lump in her throat, and kept her gaze on Marley. “It was...” She tried to control her tears, but that only made her cry harder. “Kole, he...hurt..."

Marley's brow creased before she looked back at Reed. He stood with clenched fists, his voice all but a growl. “What did he do to you?"

Bella parted her mouth, but nothing came out. I gave him control, and now I'm lost. “He...” She'd always been the strong one of the group. Right now her soul was weak.

Reed approached Marley, his features tight, and he frowned. “I'll call you soon.” He kissed her cheek, then strode toward the door.

"Where are you going?” Marley called.

Reed never responded, merely closed the door behind him with a slam.

Marley finally sighed, then pulled Bella over to the couch, taking a seat next to her on the cushion. “What happened?” Her gaze probed Bella's. “Did he do something bad to you?"

Bella wiped her tears and pulled herself together with a deep breath. “I just realized that I care..."

Marley gasped with fake surprise and held a hand over her heart. “Oh Lord, she's going to admit it."

Bella rolled her eyes. “Okay, so I've got a thing for him."

Kyra snorted. “When did you get your first clue?"

"Leave her alone,” Sadie interjected. “I don't understand why you're so sad, though. You said he hurt you. Did he physically harm you?"

"Well, he hurt me...a little, but I liked it.” The girls giggled, and she added, “He didn't do anything but give me a night I'll never forget."

Kyra's lip curled. “And this is a problem because..."

"Because he doesn't share the same feelings that I have for him."

"I don't believe that,” Marley retorted. “Whenever you're around, his gaze follows you. Even if you haven't noticed, I have.” Her look was knowing. “That man has been after your ass since day one. Reed even said as much."

Bella shook her head, her lip quivered, and failure sank deep into her gut. “Not anymore."

"What do you mean?” Sadie asked.

Lie?

Not an option. A vow of truth existed between the four of them and was the reason they'd been so close since childhood. “I used my safe word, and he stopped the scene."

Kyra's gaze darted to Marley and Sadie before returning to Bella. “I have no idea about this BDSM stuff, but from what Marley has said, isn't it a good thing that he listened to you?"

Marley nodded. “Exactly. I don't get why you're so upset about that."

Bella shrugged. “I think it's because I'm not enough for him. He didn't seem happy with me. You know how Kole is.” Marley gave a nod of agreement, and Bella continued, “You've told me that he gets intense and likes to push his subs."

Rage burned in Marley's eyes. “So he did hurt you?"

The pain he offered wasn't the problem, and even that surprised Bella. How it made her so hot and brought her body to life in ways she'd never dreamed of, and offered new sensations that made vanilla sex boring in comparison. “It wasn't like that. He refused to let me orgasm, and I tried to hold off, but I couldn't."

"BDSM is weird.” Sadie's nose wrinkled. “Why would anyone want to refuse an orgasm? Isn't that the point of having sex?"

"It makes it more intense.” Marley dismissed Sadie's question with a flick of her hand. “Did he tell you he was disappointed?"

"No. But I saw it in his eyes."

"Hmm...well, I don't know why he'd be disappointed in you.” Marley tapped her lip as she studied Bella. “But besides that, did you enjoy yourself? Are you feeling okay...you know, with it all?"

"I loved it.” Bella bowed her head and tangled her fingers together, her heart breaking into pieces. “I enjoyed him."

A long pause followed as her friends just stared at her, offering comfort in their soft expressions. Then Sadie said, “Sooo...what did he do to you exactly?"

"'What didn't he do?’ is more like it.” She glanced between her friends. “Honest to God, I thought more than once I was going to die from pleasure."

Kyra laughed. “That sounds like a good thing, even if you'd never catch me being tied up and hit with anything. The man would have a black eye and a broken nose if he dared to boss me around."

"Oh yes, you'd just rather have two dicks,” Marley countered. “You're up next. Let's just wait to see what you end up doing."

Kyra blushed right to her hairline and focused on Bella, diverting the conversation. “What went wrong, then?"

"I don't know.” God, how pathetic do I sound? “He was being really sweet and stuff, cuddling me afterward; then when I looked at him, everything changed, and he was cold."

Marley patted her leg and gave a reassuring smile. “Kole is a tough Dom. Even, I, who've been in the lifestyle now for a little while, couldn't—and would never in my life be inclined to—be with him. He pushes in ways others wouldn't.” She gave her a hard look. “I told you this about him when I first noticed this thing between you two."

"Yes, I remember, but I needed to fulfill a fantasy, and well...he was there, and I wanted..."

"His junk,” Kyra finished for her.

Bella snorted. “To put it simply."

"But I'm still not getting what bothered him,” Marley said. “Are you sure you're not misreading him? Did you not talk afterward? I mean, that's why you discuss things during aftercare, so you can figure it all out."

Bella gulped at the rise of emotions, which were ready to burst. “Yeah, we talked and everything. But it wasn't what he said that was the problem. It was the look he gave me. Like I failed him or something."

Yeah, that was what bothered her. A look she'd seen so many times from other men. Like she wasn't enough. Hadn't been strong enough to hold her own.

With Kole, she let him in more than she had anyone else, which included giving him total control, and he spat on it, or the disappointment in his gaze did.

Marley took her hand and squeezed. “It was your first scene, Bella. Cut yourself a break. Tonight, I'm sure you went through lots of emotional crap. I know I did the first time. It can be overwhelming, so let yourself just soak it all in.” Her gaze firmed. “And let me tell you, if Kole is disappointed in you, he's a total dick, and you should stay away from him."

All this, though, wasn't about her night. It was about the ache in her heart and the hard truth that she craved Kole's approval. And she'd never needed anyone's approval of her.

For the first time in so long, she opened herself, gave Kole all of herself, and... He let me down just like men always do.

Not only the ones at work, but the list of men she dated and the relationships that had gone nowhere but down the toilet.

Marley smiled softly. “I'm really sorry that you came away from your scene so upset, but I'm sure Reed will get to the bottom of this."

No way. Reed was so not cleaning up her mess. She forced her emotions away, feeling foolish for crying over this. Good God, where was her strength?

She stood, pushed away the ache, and left the warmth of her friends and the comfort they always offered. “What's to find out? I couldn't keep up or give him what he needed. He wants a woman who can. Nuff said."

Marley's brow puckered. “Bella, but—"

"No,” she interrupted. “I'm done talking about it. I'm feeling better now. I'm just tired, and I guess it overwhelmed me.” She looked at each of her friends. “Sorry I got so emotional. Tomorrow I'll be a hundred percent. Tonight I'm just..."

"Sore?” Kyra offered.

She forced a grin, which made her friends giggle. “Exactly."

Kole raised his beer to his mouth and chugged it back, as he sat at the kitchen table. He thought he'd gotten to Bella. It appeared that he'd made ground with her, and she opened up to him.

The woman he'd seen during their scene was the one he knew lived within her, past all those defenses she put up. Then, she clammed up and returned to the same old standoffish Bella.

He racked his mind trying to figure out what had changed. Was it something he said that put her on edge?

The change in her demeanor was obvious, and it disappointed him. He wanted the Bella he'd seen tonight. Who gave him control because she trusted him and even more so, was happy with him. That woman he adored.

Maybe he'd been foolish to think something more would come out of their night together. But there it was. He wanted her as his submissive. And he hadn't any idea what he'd done to fuck it up.

Damn it all to hell!

The front door of the condo slammed open and dragged Kole away from his thoughts. Reed entered the kitchen, fists clenched and veins protruding from his forehead. “What the fuck did you do?” Reed strode forward, and before Kole could catch up, Reed sucker punched him, sending Kole flying out of his chair to land on the floor.

Reed stood over him, his eyes burning with fury. “I told you to leave her alone, that it wasn't a good idea to take her into a scene.” He pounced and attempted another punch, but Kole grabbed his arms, pulled him down to the ground, and tried to get the upper hand.

"It's not your business."

"It fucking is my business when Marley wrings my neck because of you. You promised you'd not be tough on her.” Reed groaned as Kole kneed him in the gut. “What were you thinking?"

Reed pushed Kole's head to the side, squeezed his thighs around him, and Kole moaned as his cheek squished into the hard floor. “Get the hell off me!” He shifted his hips up, pushed Reed off, and reversed their positions.

"I warned you about this.” Reed punched, but Kole dodged the hit by grabbing his arm and pinning it. “You played with someone you shouldn't have, and you broke her."

Kole jumped off, breathing heavily, but that statement surprised him. He held his hands up in surrender. “What do you mean I broke her?"

Reed pushed himself off the floor, and his fists remained clenched at his sides. “She returned to the house in tears."

Hot rage flowed through Kole's veins. So she had been hiding from him. But her reaction gave him hope too. Whatever had upset her, he didn't understand, but if something made her cry, it meant she cared more than she showed. “Is that so?"

"I will ask again only one more time before I beat your ass.” Reed raised his fists. “What did you do to her?"

Not much of a surprise that Reed attacked first and asked questions later. Wasn't that what brothers did? And their relationship was that close.

"I didn't do anything to her.” He drew in a deep breath, pondered this, and was unsure of where to go from here, only knowing Bella was in trouble—serious trouble.

"She's a lovely submissive, but she refuses it. I played with that and had her submitting after a while. Yes, there was some pain—not much, I might add—but she loved every minute of it.” He'd not forget that simmering heat in her gaze anytime soon. “That's it. That's all, jackass."

Reed's stern features didn't waver. “I don't believe you."

"Believe it or not, I could care less.” Kole shrugged. “What's it to you, anyway?"

"You, of all people, should understand the demands you make on a submissive. Whatever you did left her in tears, Kole.” He huffed out a frustrated breath. “Why am I even having this fucking conversation? You're an experienced Dom. You know better."

"When she left me, she was the strong Bella, as always. Completely closed off and showing no emotion.” He ground his teeth together. “She said she needed time to think, and I acknowledged that since she outright told me she was fine. Of course, she's a sneaky little woman and hides her emotions well."

Reed's expression became knowing. “You clearly got to her."

"I suppose. But she never said a word about it, even after I pressed her.” He clenched his fists “And she certainly never asked for anything more."

A huge smile spread across Reed's face. “Say it ain't so.” At Kole's arched eyebrow, Reed added, “You're in love with her."

Kole exhaled through his nose. Why deny it? They both knew it was true. He'd never believed in love at first sight. But he definitely believed in lust at first sight. He'd wanted Bella under his command from day one. Now that he'd had her, something else developed—his desire to keep her. “The woman has woven a damn spell over me."

"The challenge of her?” Reed offered.

Kole inclined his head. “I'll tell you this much—not once did I miss how far some submissives will go for me, and that surprised me."

"She keeps you content, then?"

"Bella could make me want no other.” And knowing she was hurting created a heaviness like a rock in his gut, even if anger tinged it. “Fuck, she's in tears now?"

"Was when I left, but I'm sure the girls have calmed her down."

He grunted. “I could have helped her—talked her through it.” He stared at his friend, and Reed returned the knowing look. “This hiding nonsense will stop."

Reed gave a firm, approving nod, seemingly agreeing with Kole's intent to make things right with Bella. “What's your plan?"

He stood and glanced down at Reed. “Her time to think things over has ended.” Now he was fueled by motivation to fetch his sub and teach her a lesson. “I'm going to straighten her out."

"I'll call Marley and tell her you're on your way so that the girls don't kick your boys when you get there."

Kole said nothing more, wound up tight, and he exited the condo. He made quick time to his car in the parking lot and approached his black Dodge Charger.

The lights in the parking lot were dim, but the shine of the paint on his car glistened. Yeah, his car could make him smile, even though right now his unhappiness at Bella masked it.

Once at his car, he pressed the Key Lock button to open the doors, just as a voice sounded behind him. “Give me your money."

Kole slowly turned. “Pardon me?"

"Your money.” The kid of no older than seventeen appeared hopped up on some hard drugs waved a gun at him. “Give it to me."

"Kid, go home."

Wide brown eyes stared at him so bloodshot and crazed. The teenager glanced around frantically before waving the gun at him again. “Now. Give it to me."

He heaved a sigh, wanting to get to Bella—to deal with her, not this shit in front of him. He reached into his back pocket, took out the four twenty-dollar bills in his wallet, then handed them to the kid.

"The credit cards too."

Kole narrowed his eyes. “No."

"No?"

"I've given you money. My generosity stops there.” His fist tightened in preparation for the fight ahead, readying to knock this kid out. “Go home."

A long second passed before the teen lurched forward. Kole grabbed the hand closest to him and twisted to get him on the ground, but at the same time, the teen hit him above the eyebrow with the gun. Pain laced his forehead, and a warm gush of blood slid down his cheek.

He groaned, kicking the kid and sending him sprawling to the ground. The idiot, with gun in hand, scrambled away and ran.

Go beat the kid?

Another gush of blood along his face reminded him that he had a slice in his head. Cursing, he yanked his shirt off and held the cotton against the wound to stop the bleeding.

He opened the door to his car and sank into the seat. Then he glanced up into the rearview mirror and pulled his shirt away—the deep wound needed stitches.

Fuck.

He started the engine, tied the shirt around his head, and made a beeline out of the parking lot.

Stitches first, then Bella.

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter Six

Heat burned through Bella as she replayed the night with Kole in her mind—the sensations he offered, ones she never knew possible. More than just getting off, more than just a simple orgasm, an explosion of sensations that held no beginning and no end.

The time that passed, which should have been her sleeping, was actually spent tossing and turning as she mulled over what happened between them. How her pride had made her leave him.

She had opened herself up to him, expected him to say...something. Ask her on a date, for another scene...just something. When all that stared back at her was disappointment, failure entered her soul, and her walls rebounded.

Never let anyone in. Be stronger than the men around you. Prove your worth.

She'd let Kole in more than anyone before. Let him overpower her, make her beg for him, and she had been exposed. His disapproval sickened her.

A creak of her bedroom door, followed by Marley's voice, interrupted her thoughts. “See, I told you he's not here. I waited a good hour, but when he didn't show up after you called, I knew something was wrong."

Bella rolled over just as Marley shut the door. Pushing off her blankets, she slid out of bed, dressed in yoga pants and T-shirt, then hurried out of the room to find Marley and Reed standing in the living room. “What's wrong?"

"Did Kole come to see you?” Reed asked. “I know Marley never saw him, but maybe he came and left."

She shook her head. “Why would he?"

Reed frowned before he focused back on Marley. “You're right. Something is wrong."

"What do you mean?” Her heart thumped. “What's going on?"

Reed never answered. Instead, he tucked his hand into his pocket and pulled out his phone. He dialed quickly, then raised it to his ear, and a moment later, he ended the call.

"He's still not answering. It's going straight to voice mail.” He stared at Marley with concerned eyes. “This isn't like him. If he said he was coming here, he would have."

Bella couldn't catch up. “Kole was coming here?"

But before anyone could respond, Kyra's yawn sounded behind Bella. “Why are y'all being so loud?” Kyra said, peeking out from her bedroom door. “You woke me up."

"Kole's missing,” Marley said.

Kyra strode quickly into the living room, wide awake now. “Missing?"

"We need to call around to the hospitals and see if he's there,” Reed instructed. “His car wasn't at the condo."

"On it.” Kyra shifted into serious mode, which fit her so well.

Reed continued, “I'll contact the castle and see if he went there."

Fury so intense and wicked soared through Bella's body, making her hands tremble. He's at the castle with another woman—another submissive.

Jealousy split her open like a knife in the gut. She should hope he was there, unharmed, but the thought of him being with anyone else crippled her.

Everyone was in a flurry of activity, unbeknownst to Sadie who remained asleep. Reed was on the phone with the castle. Kyra was in the kitchen calling the hospitals. Marley was pacing in front Reed. Bella just stood there, unable to move.

The past hours had been nothing but a whirlwind, leaving her mind a complete mess. Kole's missing?

Reed tucked his phone back into his pocket. “He's not at the castle."

Bella couldn't even process what that meant. Relief that he wasn't, but then where was he?

Right then, Kyra hurried into the room, breathless. “He's at Johns Hopkins."

"Why?” Bella squeaked, glancing from face to face, then finally settled back on Kyra. “Is he hurt?"

"The nurse wouldn't say.” Kyra grabbed Bella's coat off the hook and shoved it at her, while Marley and Reed put their shoes on. “Confidentiality and all. But she told me enough that I got the impression he's not critical or anything."

Her muscles relaxed, heart slowed. Good news. She stuffed her feet into her clogs and fumbled with the buttons on her coat as her hands trembled. Why was she trembling? Drawing in a deep breath, she calmed herself. Reed smiled at her, then did up the buttons.

"Thank you,” she whispered.

He gave a firm nod, opened the door, and ushered Bella and Marley out. “Let's go."

In quick time, they were in his truck and on the road. The late night was almost a blessing because the roads were dead. Reed paused at the red lights, but when the street was clear, he ran them.

Mere minutes passed before Reed squealed his tires, coming to a stop in the hospital parking lot. They were out in a flash and jogged to the front doors. The emergency room was full of patients all awaiting treatment. They hurried to the desk where a nurse sat talking on the telephone.

Reed tapped his hand on the desk, but the nurse raised a finger at him, not looking up.

Bella gritted her teeth as she listened to the nurse having a personal conversation, and even though only seconds passed, her patience fled.

She leaned over the counter, grabbed the phone from the woman, then slammed it on the receiver. The nurse jerked her head up and scowled. “Excuse me?"

"Where's Kole Walsh?” At the nurse's silence and continuing frown, Bella smacked her hand on the desk with a loud bang. “Where is he?"

Marley snickered. “Oh look, Bella's back."

The nurse pursed her lips, then glanced over a chart. Her sneer returned to Bella. “Room one hundred and twelve."

Without a thank-you, because the nurse didn't deserve one, Bella with Reed and Marley in tow dashed down the hall. Bella scanned the numbers on the doors until she reached Kole's. She took one step into the room, then froze.

Kole was lying on the bed, bare chested, one knee up and an ice pack on his forehead. Her breath whooshed from her lungs. The memory of their time together flooded her mind. Her body awakened, as if his presence ignited a spark in her that made her fully aware of him.

Brushing past her, Reed strode into the room, his voice deep and curt. “What happened?"

Kole turned his head to the side, and his gaze landed on Bella. He didn't look disappointed like he had earlier tonight. Fire burned in the depths of his eyes, but as he glanced at Reed, that rage faded.

Is he angry at me?

"Got mugged,” he replied.

"Seriously?” Marley asked, stepping up next to the bed.

"Stupid junkie wanted money and pulled a gun on me."

Bella's heart skipped a beat. “Gun?"

Kole didn't even look at her. He completely disregarded her as if she hadn't said anything. As if she wasn't standing there worrying about him. Her own irritation flared to life.

What did I do to him?

Kole continued, “He knocked me in the head with his gun. Idiot was too high to realize shooting me would have done the trick."

Reed took a seat in the chair beside the bed. “Did you subdue him?"

"Thought about it.” His fingers clenched and jaw tightened. “But I had other things to deal with."

"What happened after he hit you?” She asked, proud her voice sounded strong.

Once again, he didn't even acknowledge her, and her muscles tensed. She took a further step into the room and glared at him. “Stop ignoring me."

Reed glanced over his shoulder at her, frowning. Marley jerked her head to Bella and shook her head slowly, as if warning her. But she didn't deserve to be treated in this manner. She'd done nothing wrong and held her ground.

Kole rose up on his elbow, lowered the ice pack to display a good five stitches over his eyebrow, and pinned her with his stare. His voice flowed through the room, sounding smooth like velvet, but stern. “Bella. Take a seat. Stay quiet."

A wave of emotion washed over her, compelling her to listen. Normally if a man spoke to her in that manner, she'd curse at him and probably flip him off. But she found her legs moving her toward the chair and was shocked at herself when she sat down.

He finally removed his steely gaze from her and looked at Reed. “Came here thinking they'd stitch me up and send me on my way. Only to find out they had to report it to the cops, and I spent an hour answering questions. Then, the doc thought I should stay until the morning just to be sure I didn't have a concussion."

Bella clasped her hands in her lap, looking down, and a swell of emotion bubbled up. Pissed might have been an understatement. And his unhappiness with her now was worse than his disappointment.

"You should've called us, dipshit,” Reed chastised.

Kole snorted. “It was late. I thought you'd all be asleep, and I wasn't in serious condition, so why bother?"

She peeked up at him under her lashes. His gaze was on Reed, and she'd never felt so ignored. She yearned for him to look at her, offer a glance of the appreciation that she'd seen tonight, and his refusal made her throat tight.

"All right.” Reed stood. “Marley will drive your car home. Then I'll come back in the morning to get you."

Kole reached into his pocket, took out his keys, then handed them to Marley. “I parked in the far left corner of the parking lot. Wreck my baby and there'll be hell to pay."

"I'll drive carefully, and I'm glad to see you in one piece.” Marley turned on her heels and started toward the door. She gave Bella a knowing look and whispered, “You, my friend, have pissed him off."

"Yeah, no shit."

Marley patted her shoulder and offered a kind smile. “Don't worry. His reaction tells me your concerns are for nothing."

"Which means?"

"He wouldn't punish you like that if he didn't care."

"Punish?"

Marley laughed under her breath and gave her a quick hug. “I'll wait for you in the hallway. Just don't go Bella on him and you'll do fine.” Then, she left the room, leaving Bella to focus back on the men.

Reed squeezed Kole's shoulder, spoke in a soft voice. “Had me worried there, man."

"Got a bad headache, is all. Just added decoration to the black eye you already gave me.” He closed his eyes and grunted. “Come as soon as you get up. I want out of this place ASAP."

"Sure.” Reed turned away from the bed, then headed for the door. Once next to Bella, he stared at her intently, as if he understood why she was sitting in the seat not saying a word. Bella hadn't even understood the reasons.

He eventually freed her from his hard examination, and as he strode by, she stood and glanced over at Kole resting on the bed looking relaxed. Then, she turned to leave.

"Bella,” Kole called, cool and collected. “Come here."

With a deep breath for bravery, she approached him as he said, “We have to talk, don't we?"

The curtness in his voice made her realize he really was angry with her. She had to wonder if it was because she disappointed him earlier, and now with the event he experienced, was he taking his frustrations out on her?

Instead of being enraged like she normally would be, she only experienced shame and sadness. Her heart bled. Now was the time to be honest. “I tried, you know."

"Tried, what?"

"To be what you needed.” She heaved a sigh. “I know that you might find me boring compared to the others, but I can—"

He raised his hand, cutting her off. “Do you believe that I'm upset because of something that happened in the scene?"

"Aren't you?” Her lip trembled, and she hated that. She wanted to be stronger than this, to fight to prove that she could handle the likes of Kole. But her heart broke at his dismissal of her and left her feeling bare.

"Come sit on the bed with me.” She settled in next to him, and he wrapped an arm around her as he continued, “You lied to me."

"I didn't lie."

"Oh no?” He arched an eyebrow. “You told me you were fine. Promised it, if I remember correctly. But then I find out from Reed that you arrived home quite upset.” His eyes narrowed on her. “Explain that."

Heat burned in her cheeks. This was what it was all about—it had nothing to do with her pulling her safe word, and everything to do with why she kept him at arm's length. Would he make her admit she cared for him? “It's not what you think."

"Then what is it, Bella?"

Only the truth would save her now. “I like you."

He leaned back against the bed and stared at her, really looked at her as if she surprised him. “You like me?"

Glancing down at her lap, she twined her fingers and held on tight. “I..."

His finger came under her chin and lifted her head. His eyes were welcoming and warm, and his voice was equally soft. “Tell me."

"I know I disappointed you."

He frowned. “Don't read into me, especially considering you're reading me wrong.” He tightened his fingers on her chin. “I'm disappointed with you for not sharing what was mine to hear. Those feelings you experienced revolved around my interaction with you. I deserved to hear your thoughts. Not your friends'."

"It's not so easy for me to admit this to you."

He swiped his finger so delicately over her jaw in a way that fully contradicted his last move. “We're finally getting somewhere.” His mouth arched up ever so slightly. “I told you, Bella, I'm not going to treat you like a princess. I'm not a knight sweeping in to rescue you. You don't need it, and frankly, I'm not made for that."

"I don't want anyone to rescue me."

"Then speak your mind, woman. You're so very strong, but yet you hide away like a skittish cat. Why is that?"

"I don't know.” At his arched eyebrow, she quickly corrected herself. “I don't enjoy looking weak. I've had to fight hard in my life to prove myself, and I guess...I wanted to prove myself stronger than you."

"Thank you for that honesty.” He slid his fingers along her jawline. “And you thought that submitting to me weakened you?"

"I...” She shut her mouth, knowing she had been about to lie, drew in a deep breath, and tried again. “It scared me. I dropped all my guards with you. I wasn't expecting that. I didn't think I'd ever give that control to someone, and I'm not sure if I can give you what you need. So, yeah, that worries me."

"I believe that's for me to decide if you can give me what I need. Not you.” His tight expression warned her not to assume on his behalf. “You don't have to be a perfect submissive, Bella. You need only to be my submissive."

The possessive claim sent sheer joy in a form of a quiver rippling through her. “But then why were you upset at me after?"

"You closed yourself off to me. You think I didn't see it in your face? Feel it in your body when you tensed?” He shook his head, slow and steady. “If you really listened to what I told you instead of hearing what you believed, then you would've understood what upset me.

"It's why the exchange of words is so important in a D/s relationship, because in that moment you'll be exposed, your emotions raw. You need to let me in, so we can work through it together."

His jaw clenched, and he continued, “But your issue with trust is something that cannot be overlooked.” At her parted lips, he raised his hand. “I'm not talking about you using your safe word. That's there for good reason. I want you to use it if you're not comfortable."

Okay, that relieved her some.

"But you won't grow either as a submissive or in trust if you don't believe that I know what you need. You were overwhelmed and panicked. Totally understandable."

He understood; she hadn't expected that.

He gave her a measured look. “I had pushed you enough, which is why I ended the scene. You needed to see that I would listen to your safe word. That's how trust is earned, and I needed to earn that, Bella.” He tapped the tip of her nose. “And you needed to learn that if you use those words, it comes at a consequence, which means you need to use them wisely."

"Oh."

He chuckled softly, leaned in, and kissed her forehead. “Now tell me, when I ignored you before, how did that feel?"

"Horrible."

He backed away, stared at her, and his gaze was tender. “And now you know exactly what I experienced when you did the same to me."

Awareness struck her. Marley had said he punished her, and that must have been what she meant. He'd done exactly what she did to him, so she'd fully understand what he experienced.

"Not pleasant to have someone ignore you like you're not there, is it?"

Odd way of doing a punishment, but it had the desired effect. “I was wrong."

"Indeed.” He smiled in kind. “As to the other matter about how I felt, I was proud of you, in fact. You pushed yourself and submitted like a lovely sub should, which is exactly what I told you and seemingly that you chose to ignore. Thinking otherwise—that's all on you."

"I'm sorry."

Had she really concocted this all in her head? All he wanted was for her not to treat him like the men who'd hurt her before. And she realized in that moment that Kole was the first man who'd ever really seen her...for her. That he didn't want the Bella that she'd become from past experiences; he wanted the real her. More so, she finally understood that he deserved her heart because he'd never mistreat it.

He gave a low chuckle. “Now isn't this nice? And wouldn't this have been so much better if you discussed this after our scene instead of getting yourself worked up in a frenzy?"

At her nod, since she now realized how foolish she'd been, he studied her for a long moment, then said, “Tomorrow night we're going to fix this issue between us so we can move on."

Bella stared into that heated gaze, and her stomach swarmed with butterflies. How could he do that to her with a single look? But the only thing that truly mattered was what she wanted all along; he wanted more from her, and she could redeem herself.

"Yes, Sir."

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter Seven

The door to the dungeon room shut behind Kole. His cock went from soft to steel so quickly it stole his breath. Bella was nude except for a pair of shiny black heels. Her hair was pulled back into a tight ponytail that left the ends to sit at the middle of her back. Her legs were spread wide, and her arms were up above her head. Black silk had been wrapped around her wrists, binding her to the ring above, and covered all the way down her arms.

He had instructed Bella to prepare herself, and she had clearly gained the help from one of the assistants who worked at the castle. Her effort paid off. She had pleased him. Desire to take her engulfed him.

Once he approached her, he settled at her back, and the glow from the candlelit room made her creamy skin appear more delectable. Every line of her body was utter perfection.

Sliding his fingers down her torso, he caressed her side and down her hip. He inhaled, catching a waft of her cinnamon scent mixed with aroused woman. “You look lovely. Stunning, in fact."

"Thank you, Sir,” she rasped.

Grasping her hip, he spun her around, and the metal ring holding her screeched as she turned. He scanned over her breasts, the taut nipples that awaited him, and the lines of her stomach that moved with her deep breaths.

When he looked back into her eyes and found them rich with desire. He grinned his approval, then slapped her thigh with a light hit. “Beautiful."

He turned away from her and strode to the tray of items he requested the assistant leave for him. He took the black crop, then returned to Bella. Her focus was on the crop for a mere second before her gaze returned to his. Oh, how the sub sizzled.

He slid the crop over each nipple, and she sighed and trembled, which made his cock jump. But as he stared into her pretty eyes, she appeared conflicted. She had clearly done some thinking since she left him at the hospital last night.

"I see questions on your mind, Bella.” His voice was low as he intended. “Now is the time to ask them."

A pause followed, her expression thoughtful before she finally said, “How will this work? I mean with us...will we...do I...?"

He chuckled. “I don't want a slave, Bella. But you will learn when I demand submission. Good indicators would be when we're in the castle or in the bedroom. At all other times, then I'm Kole. Not Master Kole or Sir."

"Okay, well, that's good.” She drew in a sharp breath, looked down, and avoided his gaze. “Do you have other submissives, Sir?"

He tapped the crop under her chin. “Eyes on me, Bella.” She immediately lifted her head, but her features were tight. “There are more, yes."

Darkness seeped into her features before her focus went back to the floor. “I see, Sir."

"Is this something that displeases you?” He hit under her chin, harder this time, and she jerked her head up. “Speak freely, Bella."

She flinched from the hit; her voice held a slight tremble. “I don't want there to be anyone else, Sir."

He ran the crop over the swell of her stomach and enjoyed when she sucked in a deep breath. “You prefer me to give them up?"

Her gaze zoned in on him, focused and intent, and the Bella that he'd grown fond of appeared, the strong woman who knew what she wanted and dived headfirst to snatch it up. “I would, Sir."

That's my girl. This Bella in front of him was who he adored. Not the frightened one who ran from him.

"You're interested to see where this goes, then?” He tapped lightly along her thigh, and her muscles tensed. “You want to be exclusive?"

"Yes, Sir."

"What you ask of me is not to be taken lightly.” He ran the crop up her thigh, along her pelvis, tapping her clit with the flat part of the crop, and she moaned. “Tell me, why I would place my subs with another Dom for only you?” He intended to, but she needed to understand what it meant for him to do that.

Another hit had her drawing in a breath through her teeth. “Because there's something between us—something special—and I think we need to explore this."

He marveled at her strength. “You're much more beautiful when you're honest. And I agree with you, but Bella, you've already proved to be disobedient when you weren't truthful in our last scene together."

"I was unaware, Sir."

He moved the crop lower down to rest at her entrance. With his free hand, he palmed her clit to show her that her answer was exactly right. “Explain why?"

"Because...” She hummed as he rolled the bud beneath his touch. Her eyes fluttered closed for a mere second before she snapped them open. “Because I never talked to you. If I had said how I felt and asked if you were disappointed instead of assuming it, then this wouldn't have happened."

He lowered the crop, then slid his fingers through her damp folds and worked her center with prodding fingers. “And because of your behavior, what happened?"

"You withdrew from me and punished me by not acknowledging me to show me how you felt when I did that to you.” She dropped her head on her arm and thrust her pussy against his hand. “Which I deserved, because I clearly shouldn't assume what others are thinking."

He pulled his hand away. The chain above Bella protested as it carried some of her weight with a loud clang. “Are you aware now of what will happen if you behave in this manner again?"

"We'll be over."

He snapped his fingers in front of her face. “Just like that.” He tucked the crop under his arm. “If a Dom and sub don't have openness and trust between them, the relationship will fail.” He cupped her face and leaned in, his lips nearly on hers. “No lies. Total honesty. Yes?"

"From here on out, Sir."

He smiled. “Nice to hear.” He slid his hand along her jaw, took her chin, and held her firm. Her sincerity pleased him. And she'd understood his actions at the hospital. Sometimes experiencing something firsthand was much easier than explaining it. And she learned from it, but here was her test to see if she was truly honest with him. “Now that you've had time to think things over like you requested...” Her eyes widened, unease filled her features, and he expected such a reaction from her. “Answer my question. Why do you get tough and shut everyone out?"

"What—"

He narrowed his eyes. “Now, now, don't going ruining how well you've done and make me punish you in ways that are unpleasant."

Restraining his grin proved difficult, seeing the full-body shudder she gave at the idea of his punishment. “I was very kind last night to simply ignore you. My generosity will not happen again."

She nibbled her lip for only a second before her shoulders relaxed. “I've been hurt before.” Tears welled in her eyes, and his heart clenched seeing her pain. “I suppose because of that, I closed myself off so you couldn't do the same."

All things he expected to hear, but it was refreshing that she finally spoke the truth. “Does it feel good to always be forcing others away?"

She shook her head, and more tears fell. “No, Sir."

He couldn't stand not touching her any longer. He cupped her cheeks, and brushed away the wetness. “If you feel that you need to protect yourself, then yes, I believe shutting out anyone who would mistreat you is wise.” He swirled his fingers along her cheeks. “But am I a man who will disrespect you?"

"No, Sir."

His heart warmed at the softness of her. Sweet woman. And he wanted to lash out at the men who had mishandled her emotions “We're in agreement, then, that those walls you put up to protect yourself don't belong when you're with me?"

"Yes, Sir."

"That sounds much better, darlin'.” He reached up for the hook above her and unlatched it.

As she lowered her arms, she sighed, and he caught the sound with his mouth. He swiped his tongue in a perfect rhythm with hers as he cupped her nape. A perfect, wet mouth he could get lost in.

She melted under his touch, squirmed against him, and damn, she tested his control.

Backing away from her, he rested his forehead on hers and kept his hand tight on her neck. “It's not a question of will I give up my other submissives for you.” He stared into her eyes that had entranced him at first glance and hoped she read his emotion. “It's that I always needed more than one to satisfy me. With you, I need no one else. Bella, I'm in love with you, sweetheart."

"I love you too."

He grinned. “Not just like?"

She laughed, the sweetest sound he'd ever heard. “No, Sir, love."

He took her mouth and kissed her as if tomorrow was his last. Her tongue followed his as he guided her. He enjoyed the soft, wet mouth of hers that he could hardly wait to have around his cock.

Once he'd thoroughly kissed her to leave her panting and shivering in excitement, he backed away. “Further questions?"

"None, Sir."

He ran his hand over her stomach, and a tremor rippled beneath his touch. “We'll use the same safe words. ‘Rose’ as your soft limit. ‘Thorn’ as your hard. Yes?"

"Yes, Sir."

Leaving her there, trembling in her arousal, he strode to the other side of the room, then pulled two thin benches with cushioned tops to the center of the room.

After positioning them with a gap between them that would be comfortable for her, he crooked his finger at her. “Come to me."

Once she was before him, he removed the silk from her arms, then helped her on top of the benches. On all fours, with her left side supported by one bench and her right side supported by the other, she was spread wide. He took four ropes off the tray, then, he strapped her arms and her calves to the benches.

"Tonight I'm going to push your limits, Bella. I'm going to show you that your fears about not being able to keep up with me are without merit. You enjoy a little pain with sex as much as I enjoy offering it, yes?"

"I-I think so, Sir."

He held her gaze as he removed his pants and tossed them into the corner of the room, along with his socks and shoes. He returned to her and grabbed the crop off the floor.

"Now then, you have your safe word in case things become too much for you. I want you to use it if you need to.” At her nod, he continued, “But trust that I'm giving you what you need, not what you might want. Your body has told me enough that you will enjoy this."

"I trust you, Sir."

Had anything ever sounded as beautiful as that?

Stepping into the open space between the benches, he positioned his erection in front of her face, and she stared at it. His cock jumped at how she licked her lips, at the way she practically fucked him with her gaze.

His voice took on a husky tone even to his ears. “Your plush lips are made to suck cock. Soft. Warm. They invite me."

She looked from his cock to his face. Her eyelids were lowered, cheeks a perfect pink, and her mouth was parted. “Yes, Sir."

"Off you go, Bella."

With a soft moan, she leaned forward, yet the rope along her limbs stopped her. She frowned at him. “I can't reach you, Sir."

"Looks like you're going to have to work harder then.” He smacked her ass with the crop, and she flinched. “And take this as a warning I do not approve of being frowned at."

"Yes, Sir.” Her tongue flicked out, reaching for the tip of his cock, and it barely made contact. “I want to taste you, Sir."

"I as well, darlin'. Best you find a way.” He raised the crop and hit her bottom in endless slaps. “The longer you take to suck me off, the more hits you'll receive. I want to take pleasure in your mouth, and I'm growing impatient."

Groaning from the force of his hits, she reached for him. He glanced at the binds on her arms and calves, and they dug into her skin. Her tongue connected with the tip of his cock, and she moaned as she drew his precum into her mouth.

Then she licked the slit of his cock, and he threw his head back, relishing in her slick tongue. Wet. Skilled. Impressive. Fuck, she was good at that.

He lowered his head, stopped the force of the crop, and looked at the binds along her arms.

Discoloration informed him that she strained. It must've hurt, which proved to him that, as he thought all along, she could handle more pain than she gave herself credit for. Her trembling, her face flushing hot—oh yeah, she enjoyed some pain with her sex.

"That's very good, Bella. Now take more of me into that hot mouth of yours.” He raised the crop and smacked her ass, and she gasped. But she returned immediately and deliciously caressed the head of his cock.

Another hard hit caused her bottom to flame. Damn, he liked seeing her ass rosy.

Good thing Bella had an attitude that would no doubt warrant punishment often, especially once she grew more comfortable with him, because he'd take enjoyment in seeing that ass red often.

Her tongue snaked out again, as she desperately tried to please him. He appreciated her effort. “Yes, sub, you do that well and make me want to fuck your mouth."

Taking a step forward, he closed in on her. Her gaze remained on his, and he glanced over her blonde hair trailing along her creamy skin. Her smooth back and red ass all enticed him enough that he reached down to tweak a nipple.

She rubbed her face over his erection. His muscles tensed, and fuck, the woman could make him come by doing just that. Instead, she parted her lips, and he pushed the tip of his cock into her mouth.

The feel of her lips—the feel of his Bella—on his cock compared to no other sensation. She bobbed on the tip of his cock to suck him dry, and she was well on her way to doing just that.

When she slid forward, taking him all the way into her throat, he grasped her head and held her there.

Her ravenous eyes remained on his, and she massaged him with her tongue. “Bella, you are enjoying this far too much."

Whack.

Smack.

He grunted as he slid out from her, only to return to the very spot that he had now decided was paradise. Her lips created a suction that made him feel strangled and ready to blow.

She slowly released him, and she'd never looked so beautiful. Nothing had ever appealed to him so much as this little spitfire bound, ready for him. Damn this. That pussy is mine.

In haste, he rid her of the ropes and grasped her arms, lifted her off the benches, then placed her on her feet. He took her in a forceful kiss that tangled his tongue with hers. She gave him an answering moan, and in greed, he ate those moans, ready to intensify them. She squirmed against him, her stomach stroking his cock, and she whimpered.

With a nibble on her bottom lip, he backed away from her sweet mouth, staring into the eyes of the one woman who made him want no other. To give up every submissive so he only controlled one. The one woman whom he thought he'd never have and now had no intention of ever letting go.

"Know this, Bella.” He pointed to her and then to him. “This thing between us I've wanted for some time. Nothing pleases me more than to have you here, under my command, and have your body open to my pleasures, as well as your heart."

She smiled, a bit playful yet full of emotion. “I'm yours, Master Kole."

The floor had dropped right out from underneath him. It wasn't what she said that thrilled him. It was her voice, her soft expression, the willingness, the acceptance, and the way she fully trusted him.

He pressed his body against hers to overpower her as her submission spilled over him. What started out as friendship, curiosity between them for maybe more, had now entered into a full D/s relationship. “That show of respect is one I welcome."

Then he spun her around, brought her back against his chest, shoved his erection into the seam of her ass, and walked forward to grab a condom off the tray on his way.

At the wall, he pushed her against the stone, trapping her with his hand between her shoulder blades as he ripped the condom wrapper open with his teeth. He sheathed his cock and kicked open her legs, then angled her hips.

After he placed his cock at her entrance, he pushed through her tight center. A sound of pleasure and relief sounded from her throat as he thrust upward.

He ran his hand up her shoulders and held the base of her neck, pinning her to the wall. And she melted under his touch. Her pussy contracted against him as her wetness spread over his balls. The earlier scene had no doubt aroused her beyond measure, and fuck, if it hadn't done the same to him too.

"Don't move.” His voice sounded on a throaty growl as he spoke in her ear. “Now I will take my pleasure in this sweet little cunt, my Bella."

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter Eight

Sweet Jesus!

Kole's weight pressed against Bella's neck, and she'd never been so comfortable. Safe. Here under his hold, her world aligned. And her body was set aflame.

She'd never been so wet—so wanton—and the lingering pain from the ropes on her arms and calves only amplified her need for him, awakening every nerve ending in her body.

His cock was pushing inside her, stretching her in ways that no man had ever done before, touching her as she'd never been touched.

Her heart burst wide open, and for the first time, she was doing exactly what she knew was missing in her life. It wasn't anything she needed to find; it was something she needed to give in to—to put all of her trust in Kole and allow him the right to take care of her.

Being here. Just like this. Restrained under him and open for his pleasures. His submissive. And that part of her that refused his claim on her settled because she wanted to give him all of herself.

He deserved nothing less.

Skin slapped skin as sweat coated her body, and the dampness of Kole's flesh brushed against her own. His low groans remained right by her ear as he thrust exactly as he had before, ruthlessly.

The grip he held her by was firm. Her face pressed against the cold stone wall, his grip holding her so tight she doubted her cheek would get scratched, because he wasn't allowing her to move enough to warrant it.

Kole grunted, and she mirrored the sound as his moves became easier, faster, and smoother. Everything tightened. Her muscles clenched with her impending release. Light danced behind her closed eyes. Flutters tickled up her legs and spread warmth into her belly. Legs trembling, she attempted to fight it off, but the sensation rose and took hold, overpowering her.

"Sir. Need. To. Come."

He smacked her ass with a firm hit, then squeezed her cheek as he continued to thrust into her savagely. “No."

She gritted her teeth. Her breath sucked back into her body as that hit awakened her nerve endings to soar into a soul battle that shook her bones. All her muscles surged with awareness. She parted her mouth, and a scream of frustration spread throughout the room.

Through her fight she suddenly realized the lack of sensation. She hadn't known Kole had pulled out and hugged her from behind. Too lost in the battle against her orgasm, she knew nothing but the high he denied her.

Backing away from her, he squeezed her neck. “Stay in this position.” His skin left hers and she mourned the loss. How her legs trembled and insides quivered.

He approached the tray again, and she closed her eyes, listening, needing to understand what he was up to. She heard him remove his condom, which didn't please her, but heard the rip of another wrapper. Then a click, almost as if he opened a bottle.

The moment he returned to her and slid his hand over her bottom, his intent became clear. She tensed. “Rose."

His hands stilled, his body leaned against hers, and he came close to her cheek. “Shh...only touching, for now."

Continuing his descent, he slipped his fingers between the seam of her ass and pressed his finger against the tight bud, smoothing a warm liquid over her skin. “Your ass has never been touched."

It didn't sound like a question, and she didn't respond. Fear crept up. Her pulse hammered. No, her ass had never been fondled or fucked. Not that she wasn't interested or curious, but no man had ever asked before.

She debated pulling out her hard-limit safe word, but the ache in her pussy disagreed. Kole wanted his pleasure. And his pleasure he would take.

She might not know what this sensation would be like, but she trusted that it'd bring her some type of pleasure, as Kole had proven to do effortlessly.

His voice was so low it vibrated right through her and raised the little hairs on the back of her neck. “Relax.” At her exhale, he pressed against the bud, his finger demanding entry. “Objections?"

"No, Sir,” she squeaked.

Gently but quickly he slipped the tip of his finger through the rim. Bella whined, in slight hesitation and also in wonderment over the odd feeling. No pain, but pressure. Pleasure, slowly building.

"Feels good?” he whispered

"Different, Sir, but not unpleasant."

He withdrew from her, spun her around, and pressed on her chest so her back met the wall. He squatted, angled her hip back, then placed her leg over his shoulder. He inserted his finger again—and his tongue discovered her clit. And Lord, he discovered it well.

Her eyes fluttered closed as he licked her clit from side to side, pressed against the little bud, and flicked it. She swirled her hips, asking for more from both his finger and his mouth. An odd sensation, but more... Yes, she needed more.

His chuckle sent a warm breath of air over her scorching pussy. “Frustrated?"

"Not enough, Sir,” she groaned.

He removed his finger and then stood, but kept her leg hooked on his arm. His dark gaze sent flickers of sheer need between her thighs. She tried to listen to his instructions to relax as he placed the tip of his cock against her straining ass. “Objections?"

Pressure. Her body clenched, and muscles tightened to refuse him. Too full. “Rose, Sir. Rose."

He stilled, leaned away from her, and stared at her for a moment before he said, “Are you wanting to use your hard-limit word, but are worried to?"

"No, Sir.” She sucked in a deep breath, realizing she was about to be less than truthful, and corrected herself. “I'm afraid enough right now that I think I might use it.” Even to her own ears, her voice sounded shaky. “I've just never done this before, and I'm scared—like seriously very, very nervous."

"When we discussed your limits and I brought up anal sex, you squirmed in your seat. Your mind might be stopping you because of fear, but your body wants this. You are so very wet, Bella."

She nodded in agreement. Why lie? They both knew it was true. Clearly, her body was far braver than her mind. “I've always been curious. I like how erotic it is. I'm just trying to figure out how to relax enough to let it happen."

"All right, Bella.” He lowered her leg, then strode over to the tray.

He returned a moment later and squatted down at her feet. “Lift your leg and step into this, darlin'. If fear is so present in your mind, then we'll just have to remove it."

"Yes, Sir."

Glancing down, she put her leg through the strap, and her heart skipped a beat. He was placing a vibrator against her. Oh hell...

He slid the harness up her thighs, then fastened it around her hips and positioned the vibe over her clit.

"All set.” He smiled a grin that could have been from the devil himself, then offered his hand. “Kneel, sweetheart."

With his assistance, she lowered down, and he nudged her knee with his foot. “I want a good view of your pussy, Bella."

After she complied, he gave her a once-over, then nodded, seemingly approving of her look. “I'm not expecting anything from you here.” He turned and headed toward the far wall. There, he crouched, and his focus remained on her. “You don't need to hold any position. Just enjoy."

Before she had a chance to ask what he planned, he raised the remote control in his hand and turned the vibrator on. Her eyes widened. “Oh...good...God."

"Ah, she likes the vibe.” Not only the device—hell, she'd used them herself—but with Kole watching her, enjoying her, pleasure rocketed into every molecule of her body. “Now then, let's see how much you like it."

The buzz increased as he clicked the vibe to a higher speed. She clenched her fists at her sides, the sensation all but making her cross-eyed.

Lowering her head, she breathed through the first zings of pleasure spreading through her.

Another click.

Her head snapped back up and Kole grinned at her. Dark, seductive eyes stared back at her. Her vision grew hazy, and she blinked to keep her focus on him while the vibe tormented her clit.

Wetness spread between her legs. So much, in fact, that it became uncomfortable. She squirmed, but that brutal buzz followed her. And when Kole clicked the speed again, she jolted up fully on her knees, unable to sit back on her legs.

"Oh.” A shudder rocked through her. “Oh. My. God."

Kole stood then, approached the tray, and grabbed some long ropes, then returned to her. “Look at you, darlin', practically purring like a kitten."

With her legs spread wide, he slid his hand below the vibe, dragging his fingers through her damp folds until he reached her anus. There, he inserted his finger, then another while he worked her pleasure to unspeakable limits.

She gripped his forearm, and his muscles bunched under her touch. She trembled as an orgasm different than the one before, not so deep but equally as wonderful, built.

Her body quivered as her climax reached its peak; then Kole surprised her by removing his finger in haste and lifting her off the ground.

She could barely focus on the world around her as he took the ropes and wrapped her body in them. The sound of the rope sliding across metal, and the tug against the binds on her skin, informed her he was tying the rope to the rings on the wall.

With a skill that would have impressed her if she wasn't focused on the vibe, he strung her up. Her body was completely suspended off the ground, spread wide open for him, and her bottom was now at the level with his cock. Her weight against the rope burned yet only added more sensations building her pleasure.

Leaving her hanging there, ready and in near desperation for him to take her, he returned to the tray and grabbed the flogger. He spun the flogger in his hands, and Bella struggled for breath as he stood in front of her.

"That was to get you excited.” Those powerful eyes of his stayed trained on her. “This is to make you forget everything around you entirely."

Without a chance to catch her breath, he hit her with the flogger, along her thighs, breasts, and stomach. At first, slow taps that brought no pain and only increased her arousal. Then, he increased the speed, now doing just what he said. Pushing her past a place that she thought she could handle or enjoy.

Thud. Thud. Thud.

Each hit of the flogger made heat soar through her—the leather feeling like nothing less than a hundred fingertips caressing her body in the most beautiful of ways, the hits bringing forth a stinging sensation that zinged straight to her pussy.

And he didn't stop.

Not once.

Never slowed.

He continued to rouse her body and force her mind to be aware of only the sensations he gave her. That he wanted her body rosy and warm for the flogger. Relaxed and accepting of what he wanted to take from her.

And she wanted to give it all to him.

He increased his speed and she arched her back even in the binds, offering herself. The burn that touched her skin only fueled the pleasure inside her—a slow buildup to a fast, hard urgency, imploring for more.

She had lost sight of him now. Her eyes must have closed as her body tingled from head to toe. Heat scorched her skin and made her feel more alive than ever. The pain of the hits had morphed into awareness all through her. As if time slowed, her breathing became more shallow, and her heartbeat a mesmerizing rhythm in her ears.

A sharp pain awakened her, and she gasped, snapping her eyes open. She blinked once, then saw Kole grinning at her as he tweaked a nipple hard.

"Well on your way to subspace, weren't you?” His eyes, though raging with lust, appeared wide with surprise. “Sweetheart, you're not quite ready to go there, but I'm pleased by how easily you could have gone under."

Her head moved from side to side, everything in her body loose and needy. Subspace? She couldn't even comprehend what that term was. It sounded familiar, but thoughts were unreachable now.

Kole lowered down, held on to the ropes holding her open for him, and pressed his cock against her anus. “Focus on the vibe."

How could she not? He had clicked the last speed of the vibrator before dropping the remote to the ground, and nothing mattered except easing the pressure building inside her. Pressure that rapidly increased as his cock pushed through the rim.

She was no longer tense against him, and it took only a moment for the tip of his cock to dip through the tight rim. Little flickers of pleasure mixed with the pain in her bottom. It all seemed to conflict against each other rising euphoria that she couldn't control. She groaned as her anus stretched to accommodate him. The width of him made her ache, but she relished in it.

More.

All this blissful pleasure, the tingle of her skin from the flogger—it all brought her to a place that she'd never gone, a ride she never wanted to come down from.

"You're there."

Kole's strangled tone forced her eyes open, and she noticed his pelvis pressed against her bottom, now fully seated inside of her. He started to move, slowly easing himself in and out.

With her arms semibound, she placed her hands on his chest, caressed the squared pecs, and ran her hands down, exploring the valley of his muscles. Until now, she hadn't been allowed to touch him. And how she'd been missing out. Kole was all man—hard, delicious, and drenched in sweat.

His deep moans filled the air, causing goose bumps to form along her skin. The enjoyment and rich pleasure he received rested hard in his features. Pride from within intensified the heat building inside her. And when Kole grabbed a nipple and twisted, pain shot through her, yet the force threatened to bring forth a climax powerful enough to make her eyes go huge.

"You won't come until I allow it, Bella.” His voice dropped an octave. The speed of his thrusts increased.

Her breath was lost—only he remained.

He grasped her ass cheeks, squeezed so tight it stole her silence, and a scream raged from her throat. He delivered a round of gentle but quick thrusts, jolting her into full awareness of her body. Removing her from the sensation of hanging on the very edge. He smacked her ass, and it forced her back into the present. Right; she couldn't come yet. And as before, the same overwhelming sensation rose within her as her body fought to release. But she didn't want to disappoint him. She wanted to be the submissive he needed, and he enjoyed pushing his subs. She could do this.

She panted in heavy breaths, struggling for the very last ounce of control. His gaze stayed focused on hers, and his eyes shone in silent approval of her submission. And she was aware he appreciated that she fought against the very tremors that rocked her to the core.

Now she understood what he wanted from her. He was never going to go easy on her. It didn't matter that the last time she pulled the safe word was during straight intercourse. He wasn't going to repeat the same scene to get her past it. He set up a scene that tested her further and pushed her to the very limits she set.

This wasn't about the orgasm. This was about her fully submitting to him. He had upped her pleasure to unspeakable limits and now expected that she'd give him all the control.

The pressure in her bottom and the buzz on her clit made tears rush down her cheeks. Her body was on the edge of an explosion, but here, locked in his gaze, she'd not fail him.

He asked this of her—no, demanded it—and she gritted her teeth, focused away from the tightness engulfing her, and gave him utter control over her body.

He grinned, a delicious smile that held so much pride. “And there it is. Beautiful submission.” He increased his speed, pumping into her, and only his gaze on her allowed her not to erupt around him.

Reaching forward, he grasped her nipples and twisted, holding on so tight. “Beg for it, sweetheart."

The pain tightened her jaw but sent a zing straight to her pussy. “Master Kole, please, may I come?"

The smile that swept along his face was one of sheer adoration for her. However, a note of pure sin appeared in his gaze before he twisted her nipples further, and agony drifted across her in a marvelous embrace.

"Hold your breath, darlin'. This is going to be intense."

After she inhaled, he released his fingers on her nipples. Blood rushed into them so quick that the pain jolted her body into the highest level of pleasure. As her scream filled the air, he squeezed both breasts and thrust his cock into her. “Come. Now."

The sensations slammed into her like an order she couldn't dare refuse. Her back arched, body tightened, and eyes leaked with tears of satisfaction.

She jerked against the ropes, convulsed against his body, and screamed as if that would free her from the intense release bombarding her. Heat exploded. Light danced before her eyes. A rush of pleasure soared through her, releasing all her tension. And with a loud roar, Kole buried himself in her ass and soared into his own climax.

When her muscles loosened, the aftereffects of her release left her a quivering mess. A tremble so deep in her soul that if she opened her mouth, she had no doubt her teeth would have chattered.

Kole panted in heavy breaths as he rested his forehead against hers. “Good girl, Bella."

After a long pause, he kissed her cheek. “I'll be only a minute, darlin'.” He shifted his hips, pulling out of her, then strode toward the tray. After he removed the condom and cleaned himself with a wipe, he returned to her; then he cleaned her.

Once he deposited the wipe in the garbage, he proceeded to remove the ropes from her body. She hissed when he placed her feet on the ground, as all the blood rushed back into her body from where the ropes had restrained her.

He dropped to the ground, sitting against the wall, and pulled her onto his lap. She inhaled his scent of sandalwood mixed with sex and sweat. Her chest rose and fell as she fought to catch her breath.

He pressed his lips against hers, softly, not rough like before. Tongues tangled in a dance as his plush lips made her heart warm. Safe. Adored.

"You succeeded,” he whispered with an amused tone, drawing her out of her haze.

"Succeeded, Sir?"

"You didn't come when I pushed you.” He chuckled, low and throaty. “You could have come very hard many times during our scene, yes?"

"So hard, Sir, and a lot."

"Be proud of yourself, Bella. You overcame something that you couldn't do in that last scene. That's very good.” Skimming his lips from her neck to her cheek, he licked his way to her mouth, where he pressed his lips against hers. His kisses weren't a simple embrace; they held meaning and told her she pleased him.

After a nibble on her bottom lip, he backed away and stared at her. “Any worries now that you can't keep up?"

She shook her head, dazed, but now understood why he'd done this scene tonight. He was shedding her worries that she wasn't enough for him. He hadn't held back, and he issued a lot of pain and refusal of orgasms, which she managed. Pride in herself, yes, she was touched by that.

"None at all. And if that was any indicator of what I've been missing out on trying new things, then gimme more."

He grinned. “How about I take you to dinner first?"

"Better idea"—she licked his bottom lip—"skip dinner, and how about you tie me up for dessert?"

He gripped her chin, darkness seeped into his eyes, and power radiated from him. “Watch that mouth, Miss. I don't take to kindly to demands made of me and have more than a few ways to make sure you remember that fact."

"I'll be sure not to forget.” Although. Maybe... “What would be my punishment if I forgot, Sir?"

"Something entirely wicked and kinky.” He gave a dark, seductive smile. “And you'd enjoy that, wouldn't you?"

"Yes, Sir."

THE END

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Loose Id Titles by Stacey Kennedy

The PACT OF SEDUCTION Series

Bind Me

Beg for It

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Stacey Kennedy

Stacey Kennedy's urban fantasy/paranormal and erotic romance series have hit Amazon Kindle and All Romance Ebooks Bestseller lists. If she isn't plugging away at her next novel or tending to her two little ones, she's got her nose deep in a good book. She lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband. Be sure to drop her a line at www.staceykennedy.com; she loves to chat with her readers.

Visit www.loose-id.com for information on additional titles by this and other authors.