by Piper Stone
But as he’d told me, he wasn’t a murderer.
“I might have opened the door to enjoy the ocean.”
“Then you know what that means.”
I swung from side to side, pouting my lips. “Don’t I get a pass this one time?”
“Not in my house. Undress for me, bad girl.”
His voice had dipped to a dangerously low level, the huskiness sending another wave of electricity shooting into me. My mouth watered to have his cock inside, my thirst knowing no bounds. I did as I was told but instead of doing so immediately, I twirled, giving him a sexy little dance.
I could feel his predatory eyes, could hear his ragged breathing and that only fueled the fire deep within. For the first time in days, I felt utterly free. This was my new life.
This was the love of my life.
I eased my hands down my dress, lifting the hem in a provocative manner. All the while his eyes never left me even as he moved behind the counter. Laughing, I twirled again, turning away from him and lowering first one strap then the other on my dress. The sound of a drawer being opened made me cringe and when I turned, I bit my lip seeing the implements he’d already positioned on top of the granite surface.
Damn him. I wasn’t getting out of this one.
I allowed gravity to take the dress to the floor, shimmying several times before sliding my fingers under the elastic of my thong. I kicked off my shoes, laughing when they both hit the wall.
“Don’t tease me, little girl, or you know what’s going to happen,” he huffed.
I lowered the panties, kicking out of them, turning once again and continuing my sexy dance. I lifted my arms, running my fingers through my hair as I swayed back and forth, yelping when he grabbed my wrist, pulling me over his lap as he thumped down in the chair.
“You are going to learn to obey me one way or the other,” he said as he rolled his knuckles down my back.
“Yes, sir.” I tossed my head, trying to see what method of pain he was going to choose. A wooden spoon. Ugh.
“Uh-huh. Why do I have the distinct feeling that you’re going to disobey me every chance you get?” He issued two hard smacks on both sides of my bottom, the cracking sound reverberating into the room.
“No. No! I won’t.”
“I think we’re going to have to give you daily spankings for the time being.” Matteo delivered six more in rapid succession, moving from side to side.
The pain was biting, shifting down both legs. I panted as I tried to keep my hands on the floor even as I rolled my hips across his lap. I knew I was driving him crazy.
“So bad,” he whispered, cracking several more, hitting my sit spot just so.
I threw back my arm, wiggling again. “Ouch!”
“Pain is good for your soul.” He grabbed my wrist, holding it as he peppered several more smacks in rapid succession.
“It is not!” I bit back a cry as he continued with the spanking, even shifting to another implement. A freaking spatula. He was using a spatula to spank me. I moaned as the anguish increased along with my raging desire. With every hard strike, I was even more breathless.
He rubbed my bottom and I could almost feel the heat exploding in his fingertips. I could just imagine the color of my bottom, the bright crimson a reminder that he was very much in control.
I smiled inwardly at the thought as he started again.
“Ouch. Ouch. Ouch!” I pitched and rolled as the spanking became more intense, enough so I was wailing like a schoolgirl.
“Five more.”
I bit back a nasty retort, holding my breath as he gave me the last five. By the time he was finished I was panting, wet and hot all over.
When he pulled me up onto his lap, brushing hair from my face, I could see such adoration in his eyes, enough so it almost crowded out the lust.
Almost.
I raked my fingers down his chest, tugging at his shirt.
“Is my baby girl hungry for something?”
“Very much so.” I continued fighting until I was able to slide my hands underneath, caressing his heated skin.
“Damn, woman. You are on fire.”
“You have no idea.”
He laughed softly then fought to jerk off his shirt, tossing it across the room. As I pressed my lips against his neck, he tossed his head, issuing several husky moans. I licked up and down then nipped his earlobe, still wiggling back and forth, the friction increasing.
“I can’t take it any longer,” he huffed, pushing me gently off his lap and unfastening his pants.
I took over, jerking both sides of material as he lifted off the chair, allowing me to drag the trousers and underwear down to his feet. I gingerly removed one shoe then the other before yanking the unwanted items away.
“Come here. You need to sit on my cock. Now.” His tone was gruff, his fingers beckoning.
I took a step backwards, still teasing, adoring the look in his eyes.
When he crooked a single finger, shaking his head, only then did I inch forward, straddling his lap. “Are you desperate for my pussy?”
“You have no idea.”
I rubbed back and forth until I knew he could take my taunting no longer. He gripped my hips, positioning me over the tip of his fully erect cock, the tip already glistening with pre-cum. As he guided the tip just past my swollen folds, I let out an exaggerated sigh.
“You’re not in control, my sweet girl,” he whispered a split second before pulling me all the way down.
“Oh, God!” His cock was so large, swelling, my muscles trying to accept his thick invasion. Whimpering, I eased my arms over his shoulders, staring him straight in the eyes as I began to rock him, moving forward and backward.
Matteo’s fingers dug into my skin as he held me, his eyes glistening. He was nothing but a savage and I loved every minute of taking what little control I would have.
As I moved into an even motion, he jutted his hips, pumping into me in a brutal fashion. We rocked together, explosive sensations rocketing through me. I tossed my head back and forth, my heart hammering, my blood surging through my veins. Nothing mattered but this moment together, unbridled passion.
“That’s it, baby. Ride me. Ride me hard,” he instructed, brushing one hand up my spine and fisting my hair.
Lights flashed in front of my eyes as the hard fucking continued, the chair rocking, our bodies grinding together. This was a pure slice of heaven. I squeezed my muscles until he let out a loud roar, a carnal look crossing his face.
With every hard thrust, I was losing the battle. I wanted this to last, to continue for hours, but my body betrayed me much like it had the first time.
I couldn’t get enough of him.
As a climax began to build, I captured his mouth, shoving my tongue inside. He held me fast as my body began to shake. I became a wild woman, lifting almost all the way off then slamming down, pushing us both harder. I could feel him tensing, could tell he was as ready to come.
Harder.
Faster.
More.
I couldn’t hold back any longer, breaking the kiss and watching his eyes as he moved into the throes of ecstasy just as the giant wave washed over me. As I threw my head back, the scream little more than scattered pants, I could feel him erupting inside.
This was perfect and there was no place I’d rather be.
As our breathing slowed, he cupped my face, rubbing a single finger back and forth.
“I love you,” I whispered, emotions running high.
“I love you, sweet Winter. My rock. My light. My salvation.”
I rested my head on his shoulder, drinking in the scent of him, so intoxicating. He was my drug, my lover.
My life.
As the sound of the phone filtered into the kitchen, I heard Matteo’s intense sigh.
“I need to get that,” he whispered.
“I know.” I eased off his lap, leaning against the counter as he moved to grab the phone.
“Christian,” he sai
d pensively.
As his shoulders slumped, my stomach cramped, and the breath caught in my throat. He said no other words before ending the call, remaining turned away from me for several seconds. When he turned, I could see tears in his eyes.
“That was about Stephanie and the baby.”
* * *
One week later
Matteo took my hand into his as we walked toward the house. There was no way of knowing what to expect. From what he’d told me, the reactions had been mixed within the sect regarding the reformation and total changes within the Council, including considering abolishing every old tradition. While many felt secure in the old ways, there had been too many betrayals, too much sadness. Losing another Council member to betrayal had rocked the entire community, enough so that people were skittish as to who they could trust.
I hadn’t asked what had happened to the man and in truth I didn’t want to know, but both he and his family had disappeared.
I also knew so much remained heavy on Matteo’s mind and in his heart. I only hoped that the one present I knew he needed wasn’t the one that would tear us apart.
The downfall from Senator Bellows’ press conference had been substantial, many of his employees indicted on various charges and the man disgraced. He’d rescinded the investigation on the sect as well as the Taglioni crime syndicate, citing tainted evidence. There would be no additional talk about him running for the White House again given he also resigned his position in the Senate.
Sadly, only days later, his body had washed up on shore. Some said it had been a mafia hit, others suicide. At least he was out of the sect’s life for good.
Just before we reached the house, Matteo stopped, bringing my hand to his mouth, kissing my knuckles. “Are you okay with this?”
I turned to gaze at my parents’ house, once again seeing the same tent that had disgusted me before. They’d tried to make amends, my father spending significant time attempting to apologize for his actions. Things weren’t perfect, and they never would be, but I was in a much better place than I’d been before. There were more cars lined up than I thought there would be. Perhaps the sect members could come together when needed after all.
“I’m perfectly fine.” The day had already been thrilling, my acceptance for a position at the local hospital exactly what I’d always wanted. It seemed like I was getting the life I’d longed for after all.
Matteo squeezed my fingers then winked. “Then come on, beautiful lady. Let me show you off.”
Grinning, I still realized I had butterflies in my stomach as we walked through the front door. This time there weren’t a hundred caterers racing through the house, only a few. As we walked outside, I was pleasantly surprised that everything was more private, as it should be for this kind of event.
“So many people are here,” I said, shocked seeing at least one hundred and fifty people.
“They have a good reason to be here.”
I nodded, scanning the crowd as the tension increased.
“I see your parents,” Matteo whispered in my ear.
I tightened my hand around his, plastering a smile my face as he walked us through the crowd. As my mother turned around, I was forced to press my hand across my mouth. The always prim and proper woman no longer had the look of a Stepford wife, her hair hanging below her shoulders and the simple dress and flats not something I could ever imagine her wearing. But the best part was her genuine smile.
As she rushed forward, she hugged Matteo first, gushing over him. “I’m so glad you’re both here.”
“You look... amazing,” I said, almost stunned in seeing my father more relaxed than I’d ever seen him, his golf shirt like nothing I’d seen hanging in his wardrobe.
“Just something I pulled out of the closet,” she said, winking. “I have a couple things to do before the guests of honor get here but get yourself a drink.” She kissed me on the cheek before walking off, humming to whatever music was playing.
“We are in the Twilight Zone,” I murmured.
“Changes can be good,” Matteo said, laughing.
I felt him stiffen. “What’s wrong?”
“My parents are here.”
“Because they should be.” I turned to face him, giving him a stern look. “Never forget that you belong here. You are important to the sect and to this woman standing in front of you. You are a true saint.”
“I’m a sinner, Winter, but I love you. Never forget that.”
There were so many things to say before I gave him his present, but they would have to wait. Christian approached, his eyes roaming the grounds.
“Brother,” Matteo said in such a reserved voice.
Christian finally smiled, pulling him into an embrace. “I’m happy to see you, brother.” He reached out for my hand, pulling me closer. “You’ve both become very important to me.”
“Are you ready for this?” Matteo asked as they broke the embrace.
Laughing, Christian once again eyed the crowd. “I wasn’t expecting to see so many community members here.”
“They care,” I said, trying to keep the tears from forming.
“Well, I guess they do. I’m really sorry that you had to cancel the wedding.” Christian shook his head. “The sect has a way of interfering.”
I glanced at Matteo, his face stoic.
“It was for the best.” Matteo’s voice sounded far away.
As my mother moved toward the tent, the band she’d hired changed the music, making certain everyone was aware that it was time for an announcement.
“Please, everyone come closer,” my mother said, motioning with her arms.
“Great. I hate this shit,” Christian huffed then squeezed Matteo’s arm. “You’ll both be right there. Won’t you?”
“We wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Matteo finally grinned, giving him a nod of respect.
We trailed behind him, moving toward the front of the tent, the same position as when I’d opened the wretched Box. How things had changed.
“Welcome to our home,” my father said, taking a moment to gaze at the group of people. “We are happy to have you here for this special occasion. However, this isn’t about me. Christian?”
As Christian walked closer, I could see such strength in the man, very much like his brother.
“Thank you all for coming. I won’t tell you how difficult this has been.” Christian’s strong voice faltered. “Stephanie and I appreciate all your prayers and good thoughts.” He hesitated then issued a huge smile. “I’m pleased to present Alicia Winter Capodanno and her beautiful mother, my lovely wife, Stephanie.”
As the crowd clapped, I was able to see only a few dry eyes. Tears slipped past my lashes, my heart exploding with pride and joy. “What an honor,” I managed, my voice cracking. I hadn’t been told my name would be used.
“That’s because you are part of the family,” Matteo said as he wrapped his arm around me.
Christian was finally beaming, his beautiful baby daughter healthy, Stephanie recovering with no permanent damage to her heart. “I’d also like to present Alicia’s godparents. Miss Winter O’Brien and my brother, Matteo.”
Matteo grinned, allowing the partygoers a hefty round of applause before lifting his hand. “Christian. You made a mistake.”
Christian lifted his eyebrows as he turned to his brother. “Oh, yeah? What’s that?”
“Godparents, Mr. and Mrs. Matteo Capodanno. We were married almost ten days ago in a quiet ceremony on Jekyll Island.”
The shocked looks were quickly followed by exclamations of joy and for the next few minutes, the entire group of people rushed forward, issuing words of congratulations.
For the first time, I realized just how important family was. I noticed Matteo’s mother, her smile an acknowledgement of exactly the way I felt. Happiness. Joy.
Life.
Only when the celebration calmed did I take Matteo aside, pulling both his hands into mine. “Do you love me, my husband?”
“I never did give you your wedding present.”
“A new car?” he asked, shaking his head. “You have given me more than you know.”
“Do you trust me?”
“Hmm... Yes, with my life.”
“Then come with me and don’t ask any questions.”
He looked at me warily but allowed me to take him toward my very favorite place, the greenhouse.
“Oh, now I see,” he said, swatting me on the bottom. “One wicked girl.”
“Go inside with an open heart and know I love you.” When he hesitated, I cupped his face. “Trust me.”
His smile faded, but he finally nodded, taking a deep breath before walking inside. I stayed behind him, keeping my distance and hiding in the shadows.
And for the first time, I prayed I’d done the right thing.
“Mother, what are you doing here?” Matteo asked, his voice holding an edge.
“We need to talk,” she said. In her hand was an envelope.
I could barely breathe, my heart skipping several beats.
“About what?” he demanded.
Her hand shaking, she reached out for him, exhaling when he pulled away. “I love you, my beautiful baby boy. You are very special to me.”
“Is that why you lied to me, Mother? Is that why you had an affair? Is that why you didn’t tell me about who my real father is?” There was so much pain in Matteo’s voice. “I don’t know what this shit is, but I’m not staying here.”
“Matteo, Joseph McGivney isn’t your father.”
“What? More lies?”
She faltered then stood to her full height. “I was wrong. I did have a brief affair with him. Your father and I were going through a miserable time. That was sinful and I’ve repented, even telling your father, but you are not Joseph’s son. He simply wanted you to be more than anything. He was a broken man, but one who adored me. I couldn’t fight the attraction, but I knew what we shared was wrong. When I ended it and he found out I was pregnant a couple months later, he assumed you were his child.”
