Table of Contents
Books by LM Somerton
Title Page
Legal Page
Book Description
Dedication
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Chapter Seventeen
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About the Publisher
About the Author
Pride Publishing books by L.M. Somerton
Single title
Mountain Rescue
Black Dog
The Portrait
Stroke Rate
Chemical Bonds
Testing Lysander
Owned by the Sea
The Wyverns
Mantrap
Deathtrap
Rattrap
Sand Trap
Steel Trap
Tales from The Edge
Reaching the Edge
Living on the Edge
Dancing on the Edge
A Double-Edged Sword
Rough Around the Edges
Scorched Edges
Driven to the Edge
Binding the Edges
Investigating Love
Investigating Love: Rasputin’s Kiss
Investigating Love: Evil’s Embrace
Investigating Love: Tarot’s Love
Warlocks
Warlocks: Elemental Love
Warlocks: Elemental Hope
The Retreat
Serving Him
Trusting Him
Fairground Attractions
Ghost Train
Anthologies
Racing Hearts: Keeping the Luck
His Rules: Tagging Mackenzie
The Retreat
TRUSTING HIM
L.M. SOMERTON
Trusting Him
ISBN # 978-1-78651-734-0
©Copyright L.M. Somerton 2019
Cover Art by Melody Pond ©Copyright April 2019
Interior text design by Claire Siemaszkiewicz
Pride Publishing
This is a work of fiction. All characters, places and events are from the author’s imagination and should not be confused with fact. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, events or places is purely coincidental.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material form, whether by printing, photocopying, scanning or otherwise without the written permission of the publisher, Pride Publishing.
Applications should be addressed in the first instance, in writing, to Pride Publishing. Unauthorised or restricted acts in relation to this publication may result in civil proceedings and/or criminal prosecution.
The author and illustrator have asserted their respective rights under the Copyright Designs and Patents Acts 1988 (as amended) to be identified as the author of this book and illustrator of the artwork.
Published in 2019 by Pride Publishing, United Kingdom.
No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the authors’ rights. Purchase only authorised copies.
Pride Publishing is an imprint of Totally Entwined Group Limited.
If you purchased this book without a cover you should be aware that this book is stolen property. It was reported as “unsold and destroyed” to the publisher and neither the author nor the publisher has received any payment for this “stripped book”.
TRUSTING HIM
Book two in The Retreat
Trust is hard earned and all too easy to lose.
Luke Redding’s military background is an asset when it comes to managing The Retreat, but it hasn’t helped him find the submissive he longs for. A secluded life in the New Forest, witnessing a stream of happy couples playing out their fantasies, doesn’t provide much opportunity to develop a relationship either. When a friend’s manipulations lead to him taking on silver-haired Skye as a trainee sub, Luke finds it hard to trust in his own ability to provide the guidance Skye needs.
Skye Ingham wants to explore his submissive nature but the noise and crowds at The Underground are overwhelming. He can’t believe his luck to be taken under Luke’s wing and offered a job at The Retreat. As Luke tests his boundaries, Skye trusts him implicitly, but how can he convince his new Dominant to have faith in himself?
Amid the bustle and excitement of a big house party at The Retreat, Luke and Skye edge their way toward a deeper understanding of each other’s needs and desires. But it will take a final leap of faith to secure their future and open a path to love.
Dedication
For all my friends in the BDSM community,
thank you.
Chapter One
The mellow notes of Smokestack Lightning gave the atmosphere in the club a relaxed vibe, the volume not too high to make the music intrusive. Luke ran a finger through the condensation coating his tumbler of iced water. A slice of lime jostled for space with ice cubes riding on bubbles of carbonation, its color a splash of neon brightness in the dim light. He breathed deeply, taking in the scent of leather and wax furniture polish. The Underground’s Friday lunchtime crowd filled the tables around him and he caught the edges of innocuous conversations about jobs and families and holidays. A love of kink didn’t wipe away the mundane, everyday aspects of life, though it did make them a little more interesting.
Luke watched a young submissive, kneeling next to his Master’s chair, rest his head on the Dominant’s thigh. The sub’s expression when the Dom ruffled his hair was one of pure bliss. Luke wondered, as he often did, what it would feel like to put that expression on another man’s face. He couldn’t imagine anything more satisfying. Caring for somebody who wanted to be cared for, who craved his attention and guidance, was something that Luke could only aspire to. He hoped that one day the right man would come along and he’d get the chance to live the lifestyle he desired, but it hadn’t happened yet.
He sipped his drink, wondering at his own contemplative mood. It wasn’t like him to mope over what he didn’t yet have. He fancied that his job as general manager of The Retreat put him in a position where he could witness too many loving D/s relationships and it was beginning to have an effect on his psyche.
He knew the moment Carey Hoffman came into the dining room. There was a subtle change in the atmosphere and a slight rise in the noise level as staff and club members offered their greetings and exchanged the latest news. Carey was the definition of enigmatic. He had a powerful presence that drew people’s attention—they wanted him to notice them. Immaculate as always in a dark suit, light blue shirt and patterned tie, Carey strolled across the room with purpose, pausing now and again for a few words with people he knew well. Those he was less familiar with got a nod of acknowledgment at the very least. Nobody was excluded. His attitude was fundamental to the club’s success. Even the newest member was made to feel at home.
Carey arrived at Luke’s table and Luke stood to greet him, offering his hand. To his surprise, he found himself pulled into an embrace.
“It’s great to see you, Luke. I’ve been remiss in keeping up with your news. Life’s so busy, it’s difficult to get down to Hampshire as often as I’d like.” Carey took a seat at the table.
“It’s hectic for both of us. I hope my weekly reports have given
you all the information you need about happenings at The Retreat.”
“They have, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the way you’re running things. I’ve had nothing but praise from customers who have dropped into the club after their stay, as well as emails and phone calls, all singing your praises. Tor’s cooking gets no end of compliments. The only thing close to a complaint I’ve had is men saying they put on weight during their stay.”
“I can understand that,” Luke said. “I have to ration myself or I’d be spending five hours a day in the gym on top of running every morning.”
Carey chuckled. “It’s fortunate for me that I have Alistair to make sure I keep in trim. There’s nothing like a young, willing submissive to keep a man active.”
“I’m sure. Is he around today? I’d like to say hello.”
“I’m afraid not. He has a new show opening next week at a small gallery in Mayfair. He’s over there setting everything up. No doubt he’ll get back later, flustered and stressed out—you’ll see him then. He’s excited that you’re staying over with us.”
“And you’ll be right here to calm him down.”
“One of my favorite jobs.” Carey gestured toward the nearest server, who came scurrying over.
“What can I get you, Sir?” The young man bounced on his bare toes, arse jiggling beneath his short leather kilt.
“My usual please, Gordy. Luke, would you like a refill?”
“Please.” Luke swallowed the last of his drink and handed the glass to Gordy, who skipped toward the bar. “Is he always that energetic?”
“I’m afraid so,” Carey said, his tone wry. “He needs a good Dom to wear him out a bit. He makes me tired watching him.”
The fresh drinks were soon delivered and Luke settled back in his chair. “So, I assume you’re going to tell me why you called me up here? Not that I object to the change of scenery.”
“Yes, I suppose I should. I wanted to talk to you about the big group you have arriving next week and your requirements for additional staff.”
“There are five couples coming, all members of the Manchester club Collars and Cuffs. They’re staying for five days and have a few theme nights planned, which should be exciting. They’re bringing their own costumes but have ordered some interesting outfits for the houseboys. Tor is matching his menus to their themes. He has a full complement of catering staff—two assistants. I think you know Benjy and Frank because they’ve done a stint here too. He has requested a dedicated server to help out. Normally Tor or his kitchen assistants wait on the guests, but with this number of people he thinks they’ll be too busy. I reckon one person should be enough. I still have two houseboys in residence—Fergus and Henry, who were both approved by the guests—and Rayne will be in his usual role as chauffeur. I have two additional cars on call should they be needed and Rayne has access to a minibus if they all want to go on an outing together. But you know all this from the plan I sent you.” Luke gave him a quizzical glance. “I was hoping you had some news for me about a potential server.”
“I’m going to send Goran down to run the bar, keep things stocked and generally help out,” Carey said.
“He’ll be a very welcome addition. I can leave him to get on with that side of things—he certainly doesn’t need my interference. But he’s not a server.”
“He can deal with the wine, but I have someone else in mind for table and room service. I have a young man here who has been helping out, but he’s a little nervous. The noise and the number of people in the club can be a bit overwhelming at times.”
“Does he have any other experience?” Luke asked, his curiosity piqued.
“Silver service training at a restaurant with two Michelin stars. He’s been taught to be invisible and he’s good at it.”
“A sub?”
“Yes. He has huge potential. He hasn’t played with anyone yet but I’ve seen him watching. He’s interested. I don’t suppose he would have applied for a job here if he wasn’t, but he’s still finding his feet and he’s shy. I think it would give his confidence a boost if he went down to The Retreat for a while. With your guidance, he’ll have time to work out what it is he wants in a less intimidating environment.”
“He sounds ideal. Do I get to meet him?”
“Of course. That’s why you’re here.”
“Just one thing,” Luke said. “If he’s nervous, is he going to be okay with the dress code?”
“He understands it’s a condition of the role. He hasn’t had a problem with the uniform here as you’ll see.” Carey waved at Gordy, who immediately came to his side.
“Has Skye arrived for his shift yet?”
“Yes, Sir. He’s getting changed, I think. He’ll be out in a minute or two.”
“When he’s ready, ask him to come over and join us please.”
Gordy took off at a run and Carey rolled his eyes. “I’m amazed that boy doesn’t fall headlong over the furniture, or someone’s legs. He moves like a jack rabbit.”
“Someone needs to put him on a leash.”
“Indeed. I don’t think it will be that long before they do. He has a sweet nature and I’ve had a few enquiries about him. Ah.” Carey glanced over his shoulder. “Here’s Skye now.”
It wasn’t dignified, but Luke twisted around in his seat to take a look at his potential employee as he wound his way between the tables. He hadn’t formed an impression of what Skye might look like, but the reality was better than anything Luke’s imagination could have conjured. Skye was slight, delicate, maybe five feet six or seven, no more. His skin was lightly tan, a coloring that Luke guessed came from his heritage rather than the sun. He had no tattoos that Luke could see and considering that all he wore was a short leather kilt, that didn’t leave much room to hide any. The wavy hair Luke had assumed was pale blond was in fact silver-gray, though the boy’s eyelashes and brows were a much darker shade, which made Luke wonder if the silver was natural.
Skye stopped in front of the table facing Luke and Carey. He clasped his hands behind his back and ducked his head. “Gordy said you wanted to see me, Mr. Hoffman.” Skye’s voice was so soft Luke had to concentrate to catch his words.
“I did, Skye. You remember I spoke to you about a job at The Retreat in Hampshire?”
Nodding, Skye darted a quick look at Luke. Luke caught a glimpse of violet-blue eyes before Skye focused his gaze on the carpet once more.
“Well, this is Mr. Redding. He’s in charge of The Retreat. I want you to wait on us over lunchtime and show him what you can do.”
“Hello, Skye,” Luke said, keeping his voice low and trying to project reassurance. “I hear you’ve had excellent training. We have a mixture of guests staying at The Retreat, but they all have something in common. They love their food. We have a dedicated chef and customers can pick their own menus and eat as much as they want. That means a lot of serving both at table and in the guests’ rooms. Do you think you can handle that?”
Skye scuffed his bare toes into the carpet. “Yes, Sir.”
“And you understand that The Retreat caters for men who are in the BDSM lifestyle, just like here at the club?” Skye nodded and a light pink flush bloomed on his cheekbones. “Sometimes, you might be required to wear very little or nothing at all. Does that worry you?”
“No, Sir.” Skye’s response was barely audible.
Luke wanted to make eye contact with the shy young man but Skye kept his gaze lowered.
“Remove your kilt, Skye,” Carey ordered.
Luke tightened his grip on his drink. He expected Skye to bolt but instead he undid the buckle at his hip, let the leather garment drop to the floor then stepped out of it.
“Hands behind your back,” Carey instructed.
Luke glanced around the restaurant. Almost every man in the place had turned to watch. Skye stood absolutely still, clad only in the mesh thong that was issued to all the serving staff at The Underground to wear under their kilts.
“Fetch two menus, pleas
e.”
Luke watched, entranced, as Skye walked away, hips swaying. He might as well have been naked for all the coverage his underwear gave him. He had natural grace and if it weren’t for the slight tension in his shoulders, Luke might have believed he was entirely comfortable following Carey’s orders.
“You’re testing him. Why?” Luke didn’t take his eyes away from Skye as he collected two menus and returned to the table.
“Because you need to be confident that he will do as you ask, when he’d prefer to run and hide.”
“He’s attracting a lot of attention.”
“Are you surprised?”
“Not at all. He’s stunning.”
Carey’s smile turned into a smirk. “Then you can handle him from now on.”
Luke accepted the menu Skye handed him. He pointed to a spot on the carpet next to his chair. “You’ll only be serving us, Skye. Kneel here while we make our choices.”
Skye hurried to do as he was asked. He dropped to his knees next to Luke’s chair, resting his hands palms down on his thighs, his arse on his heels. Luke found it extremely difficult to concentrate on the menu selection. The printed letters kept dancing a jig in front of his eyes.
“The chef here makes fantastic risotto,” Carey offered.
“Then I’ll have that. Anything you recommend is bound to be good,” Luke said, relieved not to have to think about it any further.
“I’ll have the same,” Carey said. “Bring a selection of chef’s appetizers while we wait for the main course.”
Skye raised his eyes, looking to Luke for permission to move. Luke got his first complete view of Skye’s eyes, which were a startling, unusual color. They, combined with his silver hair and delicate features, made him beautiful.
“You may go.” Luke handed both menus back to Skye. He noticed that the young man’s hands were trembling as he took the leather-bound cartes du jour, but he was steady on his feet as he walked back to the kitchen. “He’s got courage.”
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