Leather Paddles

by Brina Brady

  “It’s still too soon, but when I’m with him, I feel so much better about myself. He gives me the confidence that I can get through the pain of Master Sam leaving me.”

  “There’s no rush, but try to enjoy yourself with him. Tons of Doms will be chasing you.”

  “Chasing me?” Jesse asked.

  “Why not? You’re a praiseworthy sub who any Dom would want. It doesn’t hurt that you’re cute, either.”

  “Thanks. Master Sam didn’t think so.”

  “Is Andrew taking you to the puppy race at the club this weekend?”

  “He hasn’t said anything about it. He wants to hang out tonight. We’re going to pick up some items for the club.”

  “That’s great. It would be nice if you could go with or without him this weekend. You could go with us. Then I’ll have two pups in the race.”

  “Thanks. I haven’t been in one of those puppy races in a long time, but I had a lot of fun.” Jesse smiled. He remembered the puppy races three years ago, when Master Sam had loved him or at least liked him.

  “I see a smile on your face. You were fast too as I remember.”

  “I had a lot of fun puppy racing.”

  “That’s what I want for you. You deserve some happiness. You were fast too if I remember correctly.”

  “Charlie said you have to work for three days. Is there something I can do around here to help, Sir?”

  “I already gave Charlie a list. You can help him when you’re not working. Don’t you dare turn down spending time with Andrew though. Charlie is used to being alone at night.”

  “I love spending time with Charlie, Sir. I really appreciate you taking me in.”

  “You’re family to us. I wish I’d stepped in sooner when you were with Sam. For the last year you looked so sad. We both hated it.”

  “I guess I didn’t get the memo about Master Sam being done with me.”

  “Do me a favor. Don’t call him Master anymore because Sam isn’t one.”

  “You’re right. Andrew said no good Dom would leave the way he did.”

  “If you want to call someone Master, call Andrew, Master Andrew.”

  “I asked him what to call him, and he said Andrew and that he’d become Master Andrew when I’m his sub.”

  Master Jake laughed. “So he has a plan. Take your time.”

  “I will.”

  His phone buzzed, and Jesse read the message.

  “He’s here. See you later.”

  “Have fun,” Master Jake said.

  Jesse rushed out the door and into Master Andrew’s car.

  “Hey, you look great,” Master Andrew said.

  “Thanks. You smell delicious.” The minute Jesse saw Master Andrew, his spirits lifted. He supposed he was just rebounding.

  “Stop teasing me, Jesse.” Master Andrew ran his hand through Jesse’s hair.

  CHAPTER SEVEN

  Jesse

  They entered the Brass Rings BDSM store. Jesse had been here before, and he laughed when he read the new sign “Keep it in your pants, folks.” Part of the store was filled with shelves of DVDs and books, while the rest was dedicated to adult toys and BDSM items. Master Andrew walked down the second aisle, which contained costume accessories. He stopped at the fur tails with butt plugs attached.

  “Which one do you like?” Master Andrew asked.

  Jesse studied the tails and checked out the diameter of the plugs. He chose one that was not too big and showed it to Master Andrew.

  “That’s a small plug.” He grinned at Jesse.

  “If you want the pups to run, they can’t be in pain, Sir.”

  “True. I’ve never worn one.”

  “Maybe you should test things out before you expect others to wear them, Sir.” Jesse immediately covered his mouth. He shouldn’t be telling a Dom what to do, but it had just slipped out. He felt so comfortable with Master Andrew that he’d forgotten he was shopping with a Dom.

  “I’ve been told that before. I just don’t think I could bring myself to be a puppy.”

  “I like being one.”

  “On Saturday night we’re having a puppy race. Would you be my puppy for the night?”

  “I’d love to be your puppy. Sir.”

  “Now I’m excited. I’m going to have a puppy in the race.” Master Andrew picked up a basket.

  “Me, too.” A warm glow of happiness filled Jesse. Master Andrew was definitely good for his spirits and self-worth.

  “You can pick out five of the furry tails and get them in different colors. You can also choose five sets of paws. Make sure they match with the tails.”

  While Jesse counted out the sets of paws, Master Andrew dropped two collars into the basket. One was a simple blue one; the other was black, adorned with little silver studs. A pink-haired male clerk named Marty took the basket from Master Andrew and handed him an empty one. Jesse had seen him on campus a few times.

  “I’ll keep your basket at the register, Sir.” Marty was wearing hot pink shorts and a matching tank top with Sex Kitten written on it in black.

  “Thank you, Marty. This is Jesse. He’s going to be my pup for the Saturday night pup race.”

  “I know Jesse, Sir. Hi, Jesse, I thought you were Master Sam’s sub,” Marty said.

  “Not anymore,” Jesse said. Marty used to flirt with Sam when they’d shopped here. Of course, Sam had told him to keep his eyes lowered, but he’d cheated sometimes. He hadn’t forgotten Kitty Marty.

  “You two were a cute couple, but Master Andrew is much better for you.”

  “Hey, don’t forget Leather Paddles is having a puppy race on Saturday at eight. Jesse’s going to be my pup,” Master Andrew said.

  “Master Cody is taking me. Can I be a kitten instead of a puppy, Sir?”

  “Sure, as long as you have a tail and paws.”

  “Thank you, Sir. You made my day, Sir.” Marty took the filled basket to the register.

  “Are the pups going to be naked, Sir?” Jesse asked.

  “Naked? No. They can be if they want. We have chaps for those who don’t have them. Do you have chaps?”

  “Yes, Sir. What else do you need?” Jesse asked.

  “Some cuffs, but I want to check out some of the impact implements first.”

  Master Andrew checked the spanking paddles hanging on the wall; they came in all shapes, sizes, and mediums. Jesse imagined Master Andrew spanking him, and his heart beat a little faster.

  “Do you only play with paddles, Sir?” Jesse asked.

  “No, not at all. Why would you think that?”

  “Your club is named Leather Paddles. So I was just wondering if you limited your play to paddles.”

  “I’ve used every implement possible. I like to switch things up and surprise my sub.” Master Andrew lifted one eyebrow and smirked as if he were proud.

  “Sounds like fun.”

  “Are you limited to paddles?” Master Andrew asked.

  “No, Sir.”

  “But I do like them a lot. Have a look at these hanging on the wall. See those hardwood paddles?” He pointed to them. “They leave more marks, whereas the lighter wood and metal ones just intimidate. They could all be used lightly for a warm-up or with more force, bringing more pain and maybe having a sub drop into subspace. They might leave a bruise, depending on how hard the Dom hits.”

  “What about leather paddles, Sir?” Jesse loved impact play more than anything else, and as he examined these paddles and discussed them with Master Andrew, his cock grew inside his jeans. He missed Sam spanking him in a million different ways. Sam was good in that regard. He’d always ended up taking Jesse to subspace. Would he ever find someone who could meet his spanking needs again?

  “Leather paddles deliver a hard slap or a soft thud, depending on how hard you strike. They have leather wrapped around wood, plastic, or bamboo. Some have padding to ease the bite, but without padding, you have a better chance of bringing a sub to subspace with enough pressure. But of course, that only happens if
the sub needs pain. It’s different for everyone.”

  “Have you ever used a paddle that had a word imprinted on it?”

  “Yes, those are nifty too. Of course, you have to paddle the same spot many times to make the word to show up.”

  “I like all kinds of spanking implements except whips,” Jesse said.

  “What do you think of those bondage ropes?” Master Andrew pointed to the ropes displayed on the wall.

  “Wow. Why would you use rope?” Jesse hoped he could gain some insight about Master Andrew’s behavior in the spanking and bondage department.

  “So my sub can’t move and is at my mercy. Some Doms will test your trust level by keeping you tied up for a certain length of time. Have you ever been hogtied?”

  “Yes, Sir.”

  “Did you like it?”

  “Sometimes, but not when I had major cramping.”

  “That’s when you use your safeword.”

  “Trust and respect are the most important elements in a BDSM relationship,” Jesse said.

  “You’re right, Jesse. Did you trust Sam?”

  “I did, but whatever trust I had in him is gone for good. Right now, I hate his guts. The more I think about what I allowed to go on between us, the angrier I’m with myself. I should have said no to some of the things he wanted to do to me. They didn’t feel right, but I just wanted to please him.”

  “Don’t be angry with yourself. This was your first BDSM relationship. I believe your actions came from your heart. Sam is the one who was in the wrong. You deserve much better.”

  “I hope you’re right. I’m sure Sam would say it was my fault and he just didn’t want me around anymore.”

  “Hey, Jesse. What color tail do you want?”

  “Blue.”

  “I’ll put the blue one aside for you and the other things for Saturday.”

  “Thanks. Master Jake and Charlie plan to go too.”

  “That’s great. We can all hang out,” Master Andrew said. He then walked to the counter and paid for all the items.

  Marty gave Jesse a wrapped box. “This is a belated birthday gift, Jesse, but open it when you’re alone.”

  “How did you know I had a birthday?”

  “Word gets around. So, happy belated birthday.”

  “Thanks.”

  Master Andrew and Jess left the shop and entered a nearby tavern through a hard wooden door. They were welcomed the smell of alcohol, roasted meats, and fried foods. Surfing memorabilia decorated the walls. The place was packed, with several tables pushed together. As they approached the bar, conversation stopped, and curious eyes were following them. Judging by their similar shirts with logo, the primary clientele belonged to some kind of organization. After a few seconds, the patrons picked up their talks again, keeping to themselves. Most of the stools at the bar were occupied, but some of the smaller tables at the back were free.

  The bartender greeted them, “Hey, Andrew. What can I get you guys?”

  “Chicken wings and a pitcher of beer, please.”

  Jesse followed Master Andrew to a small table against the wall.

  “So, I really enjoy hanging out with you,” Master Andrew said.

  “Thanks. Can I ask you some questions about BDSM? I can’t talk to Master Jake or Charlie because they get too emotional and don’t understand.”

  “Of course. And I’ll always be honest with you, so go ahead.”

  “If a sub doesn’t like certain things after they’ve agreed to them, can they change their mind and still be in good standing with their Dom?”

  “Absolutely. Nothing happens unless the sub agrees. When a sub changes his mind about an activity, he must speak up with honesty to his Dom. We aren’t mind readers.”

  “Do you think it’s normal for a Dom to keep his sub from having friendships with other people?”

  “That depends. I wouldn’t want my sub hanging out with drug addicts or active criminals, but for the most part, a Dom should encourage his sub to make friends with other subs.”

  “What about other Doms?”

  “I’d say yes, unless I thought the Dom had other motives for the friendship.”

  “Did you know Sam wouldn’t allow me to have any friends except Charlie?”

  “No, I didn’t. But you’re not with Sam anymore, so you can make some friends. You need that, Jesse.”

  “He even wanted to keep me from Charlie, but I told him I would leave him. That was the only reason I was allowed to have Charlie as a friend.”

  “See. If only you understood the power you have as a sub. You managed to keep Charlie because you put your foot down. Charlie matters to you, so you fought to keep him no matter what. Work on your inner power.”

  “I guess I should have fought for my dignity as well.”

  ***

  When Jesse returned home alone in his bedroom, he opened Marty’s gift. Inside was a miniature furry blue bear with a note.

  Dear Jesse,

  I knew you had a hard time with Master Sam. He wouldn’t allow us to be friends. Now that you aren’t with him, I’d like to be your friend. This little friend will keep you company when you are alone You can always call me. I’m off on Thursdays, so maybe we can meet for lunch to celebrate your birthday. My number is 555-1076.

  Marty

  Jesse wiped a tear away after he had read the note.

  CHAPTER EIGHT

  Master Andrew

  Andrew picked Jesse up at Jake’s home. He’d sent a text for him to come outside. When Jesse walked out the door, Andrew did a double take. He was wearing chaps over tight denim shorts and a harness, revealing his firm muscles; he wasn’t too skinny at all. Sam must have been out of his mind to leave Jesse. He was handsome, with his blond hair falling across his light-skinned face and curious deep blue eyes flashing through the haphazard strands. He had a small curve to his full lips, as if he thought about something funny. Andrew caught that brief, wicked glance, that hint of flirting, and he liked it. Jesse toying with him stirred his cock. Jesse was dangerously hot! How could Sam throw this gorgeous man away?

  Once they arrived at the club, Andrew brought Jesse into his office. They’d arrived an hour before the race to give them time to talk. Immediately, Jesse saw the opened scrapbook with the pictures of him and Sam on the desk. He’d forgotten to put it away. Damn! He didn’t want him to see the pictures and be reminded about Sam.

  “Did you look me up?” Jesse asked.

  “I did. You looked happy that day with Sam.”

  “I was. It still bothers me that I don’t know why he left or where he went. We had three good years, but during the last year, he changed.” Jesse stiffened while he stared at the pictures.

  “Come here,” Andrew ordered.

  Jesse took a step closer to Andrew, then another until he stood in front of him.

  “I’m going to take you as my temporary sub tonight, so I’m going to collar you. That means you’ll address me as Master Andrew or Sir for the evening.”

  Jesse smiled. It was one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it. It lasted through when Andrew picked up the blue collar he recognized from their shopping spree, but now it had his name on it. His face reddened while Andrew clasped it around his neck. Andrew slipped his pinky between the collar and his neck to make sure it wasn’t choking him.

  “Does it fit okay?”

  “Yes, Sir. It fits perfectly.” Jesse beamed.

  Andrew’s heart beat faster as Jesse’s innocent face moved nearer to his own. Without thinking, he pulled Jesse closer and almost rested his lips on Jesse’s, leaving the tiniest space between them. Andrew stroked Jesse’s face, then put his arms around him. They stared into each other’s eyes for an awkward second before Andrew leaned down and Jesse brought his head up. Their lips connected, and Andrew deepened the kiss by pushing his tongue into Jesse’s mouth. He tasted like peppermint, so refreshing. Andrew’s cock stirred, wanting more, but Andrew knew Jesse wasn’t ready for him. He pulled
away and ran his hand through Jesse’s shiny hair.

  “That was a surprise,” Jesse whispered.

  “I’m full of them. Stick around me, and you’ll see.”

  “I can’t believe you put my name on it,” Jesse said, rubbing his collar with his fingers.

  “I’m hoping you might be my sub someday.”

  “I don’t know about that.” Jesse spoke with a slight hesitation. “But it sure is an interesting idea.”

  “Right, it’s an interesting idea that might turn to reality at some point.” Andrew was mildly disappointed, but he’d expected as much. He’d planted the thought in Jesse’s mind. Now he hoped that Jess mulled it over. Sure, it was too soon for Jesse to want another Dom, especially after Sam had hurt him so much.

  “What’s your safeword?”

  “Berry, Sir.”

  “I like it. If you feel uncomfortable tonight, use your safeword. I’ll have to walk around and greet guests, and I want you with me, but I’m not going to attach the leash unless we sit down. I don’t want you crawling around before the race. You have to be in top shape.”

  “Thank you, Sir.”

  Andrew opened a door in the far wall of the office. “What do you think?”

  Jesse stepped into the room and looked around, eyes wide as saucers. He swallowed before speaking again. “Wow, that’s…that’s…wow.” The space wasn’t huge, but it had everything to make it a dungeon, perfect for a Master and his sub to play. In the middle stood a wooden spanking bench with a black leather seat and cuffs. The dark gray walls displayed crops, rubber hoses, floggers, and martinets.

  “I imagine you would use the spanking bench for a bad sub.”

  “Oh, I would if I had a sub to spank. Have you ever been on one?”

  “No, Sir.”

  “Want to try it out?” Andrew asked.

  Jesse walked over to the spanking bench, taking his time, not sure if he’d like it but eager to try. He eyed the spanking implements on the wall. “Okay. Are you going to buckle me up?”