There were so many thoughts buzzing around Skye’s head he didn’t think he’d be able to sleep at all.
“You may go, Skye. Try to find time to practice being still. It will help your focus.”
“Yes, Sir.” Skye left the office, pausing outside to let out the breath he’d been holding. He felt a little lightheaded and his arse ached. Luke had the effect of making all Skye’s blood drain south toward his cock. Not that it did him any good—the weight of the chastity device seemed to have increased and he wondered how long it would be before Luke saw fit to release him. Shrugging, he made his way toward his room. Whether or not he ever got to come again was Luke’s decision—worrying about it was a waste of energy. He had enough to be anxious about with a whole group of strangers arriving the next day as well as his new colleagues to get to know. Skye wanted to make Luke proud of him and that wouldn’t happen if he dropped food into someone’s lap or launched a room service order down the stairs because he was tired. He headed for his room, determined to get some rest.
Chapter Four
When he realized he’d read the same page three times without taking in a word, Luke pushed his paperwork away in disgust. He leaned back in his chair, rolling his shoulders to relieve some muscle tension. His concentration was shot to pieces and all because of one beautiful, innocent young man. Laying that single stripe across Skye’s perfect skin had been the point of no return. With his mark on Skye’s body, every possessive, protective gene in Luke’s makeup told him that he’d never be able to let Skye go. The temptation to bend Skye even farther over his desk, to take him hard, had been difficult to resist.
He picked up the cane from where it rested on the edge of his desk and rolled it across his palm before slapping it down hard. He curled his fingers into a fist, gripping the pain.
“I wonder how you’re feeling now, Skye.” I shouldn’t have left him alone. He tidied his desk then headed for his suite of rooms where he collected a tube of soothing balm. It was only a short walk to the far end of the corridor and Skye’s door, to which he gave two rapid taps. Skye opened the door wearing a towel wrapped around his hips and nothing more.
“Luke…I mean, Mr. Redding. Is there something I can do for you?”
“Go and lie face down on the bed please, Skye. Remove the towel.”
Skye’s pretty eyes widened, but he obeyed without question. He lay with his head resting on his arms.
Luke admired the view for a few seconds before approaching the bed. “I should have taken better care of you earlier. Your first taste of discipline is not something to be dismissed lightly.” Luke trailed his fingers down Skye’s back to his arse. The livid red stripe across Skye’s backside was hot beneath Luke’s fingers. He uncapped the balm then smoothed some of the clear gel across Skye’s skin.
“It feels good, Sir. Cool.”
“After-care is important. I should have done this downstairs rather than invading your privacy because I felt guilty for abandoning you. I’m sorry.” Luke touched for longer than he needed to, the act self-indulgent. “Fading already. I don’t think you’ll have a bruise, though it might be a bit sore tomorrow.”
Skye twisted his head, trying to get a look. “I don’t mind if it does bruise, Sir.”
“You might not be so accommodating when you’re on your feet all day working. Roll over. Spread your legs.” Luke took the key to Skye’s chastity device from his pocket. He undid the cage then removed it with care. Skye’s cock hardened in seconds. “Do you want to come, Skye?” The question was superfluous, but Luke wanted to hear Skye’s answer.
Skye fisted the bed clothes and whimpered. “Please, Sir.” He spread his legs a little wider.
“You’ve done well today. I’m proud of you.” Luke wrapped his fingers around Skye’s erection. He rubbed his thumb over the head then dug his nail into the slit. That was all it took. Skye’s back arched and his arse left the bed as he came with a hot gush into Luke’s hand. Luke gave a low chuckle. “The impetuousness of youth. I don’t believe I gave you permission.” He still had hold of Skye’s softening shaft.
“Sorry, Sir.” Skye’s lips were parted, his cheeks flushed. He took rapid, panting breaths. “I couldn’t help it.”
“No, you’re not. But that’s okay. This time.” Luke went to the en suite where he washed his hands and dampened a flannel before returning to give Skye a quick clean-up. As soon as he was done, he refitted the chastity device and pocketed the key. “I’ll leave you to get some rest now.”
Skye looked shell-shocked, caught between the aftermath of his orgasm and the realization that his dick was once again imprisoned. Luke didn’t wait for him to respond, just left the room, closing the door after him. He paused in the corridor and couldn’t help but smile. He had plenty of material to fuel some inspiring dreams.
Being the manager of The Retreat had some benefits. Luke’s suite had a sitting room as well as a large bedroom and bathroom. He had also installed a fridge to hold his stash of mineral water and a few bottles of decent white wine, the latter being an occasional indulgence. Now seemed to be a good time for a treat, so he poured himself a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio before parking his behind on the sectional couch in front of the flat screen. He caught the end of the news then surfed the channel guide until he found a documentary on rogue waves. Anything to do with the sea always caught his attention but on this occasion the footage of towering surf wasn’t enough to drag his thoughts away from Skye.
He sipped his wine, enjoying the light, refreshing taste. It had been a while since he had indulged in a glass and as this would be the only one for some time, he intended to savor it. He never drank when there were guests in residence at The Retreat, needing to keep a clear head for the myriad small issues that always cropped up in the running of the business. He wondered how Skye would cope. Even though The Retreat was a less hectic environment than The Underground, clients paying a vast amount of money for their stay could be demanding. Luke resolved to keep a close eye on him, as much as he could without being obvious about it. He didn’t want to come across as a mother hen or an irritating micromanager. Skye would think he wasn’t trusted.
He thought about the scene in his office and Skye’s willingness to submit to his control. Skye bending forward, perfect arse exposed, was a situation Luke couldn’t wait to repeat. He loosened his waistband then slipped his hand into his underwear to fondle his rock-hard dick. He closed his eyes, picturing Skye’s face. His fingers moved of their own volition, squeezing to the point of pain. His orgasm arrived to the accompaniment of a violent storm on the television, something that made him laugh out loud. The weather might be calmer in the New Forest, but there was a tempest of unfamiliar emotions building in Luke’s head.
Sleep eluded Luke for some time, leaving him tired the following morning—ironic, considering his advice to Skye. He stuck to his routine and went for a run at five-thirty. The Retreat’s grounds were large enough that he could circle the perimeter twice and get five miles in. It was rough ground, but he’d always enjoyed the challenge of cross-country and he returned muddy but content. After a quick shower, he headed for the staff dining room shortly after six-thirty. Tor was finishing his meeting in the kitchen so Luke grabbed a seat at the table and took advantage of first go at the coffee pot, which had been left in the middle of the table for any early risers. A few minutes later, Skye arrived carrying a tray loaded with cutlery.
“Oh, I’m sorry, Sir. I didn’t realize you were in here.” Skye ducked his head.
“Ignore me and carry on,” Luke said. “I have coffee. I’m a happy man.”
Skye grinned. He made efficient progress around the table before making more trips to deliver condiments and crockery. By the time he was done, Fergus, Henry and Rayne had arrived and Tor had joined them at the table. Skye cleared his throat. “Benjy and Frank will cook to order this morning, so if you would like to tell me your breakfast choices I’ll get those sorted out for you.”
Luke observed that
Skye didn’t have a notepad but stood waiting expectantly.
“I’ll have two lightly poached eggs on granary toast, please.” Luke put in his order first then watched as the others listed their choices.
“Thanks, everyone. I’ll be back with some fresh fruit. In the meantime you’ll find cereals, yoghurts and some pastries on the side.”
“This is great,” Rayne exclaimed. “I usually have to rummage around for food in the mornings.”
“You do not, brat, but this is good practice for Skye,” Tor said. “But don’t get too used to it. You’re here to work, not be treated like you’re staying in a five-star hotel.”
Rayne poked his tongue out when Tor turned away from him.
“Tor, I think Rayne would benefit from some discipline later today. Perhaps you could oblige,” Luke said.
Rayne gaped. “But—”
Luke silenced his protest with a disapproving glare.
“It would be my very great pleasure,” Tor said.
“Excellent.”
Rayne looked from Luke to Tor then back again, mouth open. For once he didn’t have a mouthy retort to hand, a miracle in itself.
Skye returned with a big dish of fresh fruit. “I’ve placed your orders. Is there anything else I can get for anyone?”
“Sit down and join us, Skye.” Tor gave him a reassuring smile. “This lot can help themselves from now on.”
Luke made eye contact with Skye then patted the chair next to him. Skye slipped into the seat with an audible sigh of relief. “You did fine,” Luke said. “It’s not easy, remembering everything.”
“I don’t have a problem with food orders,” Skye said. “I’ve always been able to remember those. But Tor has a hundred cupboards in that kitchen then there’s different places for the linen, glassware, silverware…” He sounded a bit panicked.
“Eat something, it’ll make you feel better.”
“I’m not sure I can,” Skye said. “I’ll be fine once the guests arrive and we get into the swing of things.”
He did look pale, but served himself some fruit then picked at it. Luke didn’t hassle him but resolved to keep an eye on how much Skye ate. He was too slim to skip meals.
Once the hot food was ready, Skye scurried in and out of the kitchen fetching plates, until everyone had their meal. Every order was one-hundred-percent accurate. Once Benjy and Frank joined them, the noise level around the table rose as everyone enjoyed breakfast and got ready for the day. Skye nibbled a piece of toast but didn’t have anything else.
Luke cleared his throat to get everyone’s attention. “Fergus, Henry and Skye, dress for today is black leather trousers and boots, no shirts, house collars. I want you all in the entrance hall at ten o’clock, which is when our guests are due to arrive. I’m not sure how many cars they’re bringing between them, but, Rayne, be ready to move them to the garages. Goran should be here around eleven.” He paused, acknowledging the various nods of understanding from around the table. Fergus and Henry were experienced subs and he had no concerns about their abilities. Rayne was a known quantity and behaved himself around the guests. Skye needed some personal attention.
“Sir, I don’t have any leather trousers,” Skye said, worry lines appearing around his eyes.
“You’ll find a pair in your wardrobe,” Luke reassured him. “Mr. Hoffman had your sizes emailed and the boys have sorted out your clothes from the stock we keep here. Everything you need related to your job will be provided.”
“Thank you, Sir.”
“If Tor has nothing for you to do until our guests arrive, I’d like you to join me in my office.”
Rayne giggled, earning himself a glower from Tor.
“That’s another two strokes added to your discipline, brat,” Tor said, not sounding at all disappointed.
“I think it’s time everybody got to work,” Luke said.
“Would you like me to clear the table?” Skye asked, directing his question to Tor.
“Thank you for the offer, Skye but that’s not necessary. It won’t take a moment to put out the plates of pastries we’ve made to serve with hot drinks later. You go along with Luke. Once you’ve greeted the guests, come back here. You can relay any specific requests about lunch to me and any calls for room service will come through to the kitchen.”
“He’ll be here,” Luke said. “Have a good day, everybody.”
There was a palpable air of excitement as everyone went about their duties. Luke enjoyed the anticipation as much as anyone, though he had more to worry about. He felt responsible for each and every detail at The Retreat. Guests paid significant money for their stay and expected perfection. A never-ending pile of paperwork waited in his office and there was little else he could do for the next two hours. If he lurked near the kitchen as Tor swung into action, he risked a harder spanking than Rayne was due for. The boys wouldn’t say anything, but he got under their feet if he hovered and they all knew what they were doing. He had to step back and let them get on with it.
“I stay out of the way from now until the guests arrive,” Luke said to Skye, who was trailing behind him as he walked. “It’s safer.” As if illustrating his point, Fergus ran past, almost hidden behind a huge bunch of flowers. Luke was about to shout a reprimand but changed his mind and shook his head instead. His office provided sanctuary from the mayhem. Once he and Skye were inside, Luke closed the door, sealing them away from the outside world. “Sanctuary. Take your clothes off and don’t worry, I’ll make sure you have plenty of time to get ready for our guests.”
It was clear from Skye’s bewildered expression that he had not expected the order. He undressed anyway, a pink blush that Luke found endearing spreading across his cheeks. “Hands behind your back, legs apart.” Luke walked around Skye, inspecting every inch of his body. The marks on his backside had disappeared completely. The chastity device glinted in the low light.
“Is the cage causing you any problems? Any sore spots or chafing?”
Skye shook his head. “I wouldn’t call it comfortable, Sir, but it doesn’t hurt.”
“Good.” Luke placed a cushion on the floor to the side of his chair. “Kneel on that.” He waited while Skye made himself comfortable. “There’s purpose behind everything I do with you, Skye. I know you’re anxious about today and I want you to be as relaxed as possible. I’m going to blindfold you and, while I get some work done, I want you to focus on being as still and silent as you can be. Do you understand?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“Tell me your safe word.”
“Napoleon, Sir. I decided to choose a name from military history.”
“Good choice. Not a name you’re likely to shout in the throes of passion. At least I hope not.” Skye giggled then stopped as if uncertain whether laughing was allowed. “I like to hear you laugh. I want you to enjoy your time here.” Luke retrieved a leather blindfold from the stash of equipment in a box under his desk. He could have used a soft strip of cloth but had a preference for heavier materials. He buckled the blindfold around Skye’s head, making sure it was correctly positioned. Skye moved his head from side to side as if attempting to see, but there was no chance any light would penetrate the thick cloth.
“I’m not going to leave you. You won’t be alone for a moment and you have your safe word. Use it and this stops.” Luke used a set of steel cuffs to bind Skye’s hands behind his back. “Let me know if you have any tingling in your fingers.”
“Yes, Sir.” Skye’s breathing, which had sped up, slowed again.
“Are you warm enough?”
Skye nodded so Luke sat behind his desk and began to work. Every now and again he ruffled Skye’s hair but found that he was able to concentrate on future guest bookings despite the beautiful, naked submissive kneeling next to him. He tapped away on his keyboard and time passed quickly. Skye didn’t make a sound. His head dipped, his muscles relaxed. Luke was sorry he had to disturb him when the time came.
“Skye, it’s time for you to get
ready.” He stroked Skye’s silver hair as he undid the blindfold. Skye blinked at him, then smiled and Luke’s heart melted just a little bit. He undid the cuffs before helping Skye to stand. “How are your legs? Any pins and needles?” To his surprise, Skye leaned against him, nuzzling against his chest. “Bondage suits you, doesn’t it?” He wrapped his arms around Skye’s lean frame, holding him close.
“Makes me feel safe, Sir,” Skye murmured. “I feel so much calmer now.”
Luke ran a hand down Skye’s back to cup his arse. “I’ll always keep you safe.” Skye’s caged dick pressed against Luke’s thigh. Holding him felt good and Luke had no inclination to let go, but he had to.
“Sadly, you and I have jobs to do. You have twenty minutes to change and get back down here, okay?”
Nodding, Skye pulled on his clothes. “Sorry, Sir. I didn’t mean to…”
Luke pressed a finger against Skye’s lips. “Hush now. You haven’t done anything wrong. We’ll talk about this scene tonight, before your discipline.”
“Yes, Sir.”
As Skye slipped out of the door, socks and boots in his hand, Luke couldn’t help but smile. Skye was already getting under his skin and it wasn’t an uncomfortable feeling.
Chapter Five
Skye needed a liberal amount of talcum powder to get into the leather trousers he found in his wardrobe. His first attempt, wearing underwear, had failed despite some heroic wiggling. He discarded his boxer briefs with a sigh then squirmed into the skin-tight garment by lying on the floor and pretending to be a caterpillar. Once they were on, the trousers were comfortable, the fine, supple leather molding to his body. They were low slung, so much so that the top of his treasure trail was visible, as was the outline of his caged cock.
Trusting Him Page 4
