Well, My smile quickly turned into a scowl when the guard waved his hand in front of My face, attempting to gain My attention.
“What part of ‘Ms. Foster isn’t allowed visitors’ don’t you understand?” he inquired.
It was becoming increasingly difficult to keep My temper in check. This guy was really testing Me. My voice had already gotten louder, causing people to stop and stare. The last thing I wanted to do was make a spectacle of Myself. I took a few deep breaths before responding to the condescending jab.
“For the third time, I am not a visitor. I want to drop some things off for her. Calling Me a visitor would imply I’m staying. I’ll be leaving as soon as I give her these things. Can you simply call her and tell her that her . . .”
Wait, what was I? I couldn’t very well tell this asshole that I was a Dom and micah was under My tutelage. So I thought of the next best thing, something he’d understand.
“Tell ms. foster that Rick is here to see her.”
“And just who are you to Ms. Foster, Rick?”
Who am I? Yeah, I knew he’d ask. The asshole seemed a little defensive in his inquisition. Was this part of his job or was he busting My balls because he had a crush on My pretty girl?
Sorry, guy, your world is about to come crumbling the fuck down.
Since My hands were full, I couldn’t get in His face like I wanted to, so I leaned across the security desk far enough for there to be no mistaking the intent behind My words. “I’m her Boyfriend.”
The guard’s face deflated. Reluctantly, he leaned over his partner’s shoulder and picked up the phone on the desk.
“I’ll call her now.”
A victorious grin curled My lips. My stake had been claimed.
“Thank you very much,” I said, displaying My biggest and brightest smile. Normally, I’m not the jealous type—I’m secure in My shit—but when you try to assert power you don’t have just to bust My balls because you’re lusting after someone who doesn’t even know you exist, then you just made it to number one on My shit list. In My line of work, I deal with all types, but to deal with an antagonistic personality in this instance? No way, not happening.
“Yes. Hi, Ms. Foster? It’s Jim from security. We have someone here named Rick claiming to be your boyfriend at the desk near the L-17 entrance. He has some things to give you. If you could come downstairs as soon as possible, I’d appreciate it.”
I leaned against the desk, taking in My surroundings. Glad that shit was nipped in the bud. micah appeared a few moments later, sauntering toward Me and looking striking in an orange tank that emphasized her mouthwatering cleavage and a blue pencil skirt that hugged her hips.
she was runway perfect, at least in My eyes. Maybe Jim’s, too. He was looking a little too hard at My girl, and as much as I wanted to show him who he was dealing with, I had to reel it in for micah’s sake. No sense in making a scene at her place of employment.
As she made her approach, I took the opportunity to assess her from toe to head. The strappy sandals she wore matched the color of her skirt. The heels defined her shapely calves even more.
Everything about micah was sexy.
Last night her hair was in soft waves; today it was styled in some sort of curly afro. I loved it. she was perfect.
micah’s face was impassive as she made her way toward the security desk.
I knew My visit was spontaneous, and she was likely very busy, but I just had to see her.
Was she glad to see Me? Leaving a note was considerate, but I would have much preferred that she had woken Me up before leaving. she left while I was sleeping, and that nagged at Me.
My question was answered when she arrived at the security desk wearing a megawatt smile.
Happily, I bent down to greet her with a kiss on the lips. It was a struggle not to drop everything and wrap My arms around her curvy little body. Those lips of hers were so damn tasty, I could suck on them all day.
“Hi, micah.”
For a brief moment, her face flashed alarm and she hesitated in her response.
We hadn’t yet established proper public protocol. I’m sure she was concerned about how to address Me. Of course, the nosy guard watched our every move. I gave a slight nod before clearing My throat.
“Hi, Honey,” she replied with a smile and a wink.
A sly smile graced My lips. Atta girl.
“I come bearing gifts. I missed you this morning, micah. you left without saying good-bye.”
“Thank You,” she replied, accepting My offerings.
I leaned forward to whisper in her ear, “I was hoping to wake up to your delectable naked form, but you took that opportunity away from Me. Tsk, tsk.”
she looked flustered. “i-i had to make sure i made it to work on time. i’m sorry. i was sure to leave You a note.”
“I know, I saw. Much appreciated.”
As she sniffed the bouquet, I gently grabbed her elbow and led her away from the guard’s prying ears.
Now that My hands were free, I relished in touching her. Bending, I kissed her again, My lips lingering against hers before moving to her neck. “Nice save, sweetheart,” I said, inhaling deeply just behind her ear.
My God, did she make My mouth water.
“i’m sorry if i was out of line, but i knew i couldn’t call you ‘Sir’ without raising a few brows.” With the vase of roses tucked tightly against her hip, she stepped away from Me, leaning against the wall as she raised her eyebrow. “We haven’t established how You prefer to be addressed, so i just went with what came to mind.”
I waved off her comment. “It’s fine. I appreciate the quick thinking.”
she dropped her gaze and shifted where she stood.
“you know, micah,” I said, taking a step toward her and raising her chin so she could meet My eyes, “we still have a lot to talk about.”
her eyelids fluttered before she blinked slowly. her long lashes curled in a way that called to Me, drawing Me in closer and closer.
I rested My hand against her cheek. So soft. So warm. So beautiful . . .
“Sir?” she whispered.
I swallowed and blinked, remembering why I was there. It was so easy to get lost in those wide, dark brown eyes of hers.
“Thank you for the note; it was much appreciated. Like I said, I would’ve preferred to wake up to you naked beside Me. I hope you not disturbing Me wasn’t due to any embarrassment.”
she gave me what appeared to be a shy smile. “You’re welcome, Sir,” she replied, hesitating a moment before continuing, “i enjoyed last night.”
I think if micah had been of a lighter hue, she’d be blushing.
“It was early when i woke, and i thought it be best that i slip out quietly. my intention was to call You during my lunch hour.”
Hmm, she didn’t address being embarrassed. Interesting. “Well, there’s no need for a call now.” I brushed a stray curl off her face. “Next time, be sure to wake Me.”
“Of course, Sir.”
“We can discuss how to address Me in public in greater detail later, but when we’re among business associates, vanilla friends, or family, Rick is fine.”
I wanted her to meet every damn person I knew. I’d take great pride having micah on My arm. “Sweetheart, Honey, Baby, and whatever charming nicety you want to use is also acceptable. When we’re in private, amongst like-minded individuals, or when we play, it’s Sir, unless different rules have been agreed upon. Is that understood?”
she nodded.
“Verbalize your response, please,” I replied with a pointed look. she’d have to work on that.
“Yes, Sir, i understand.”
I glanced over to the security desk to see the guard frowning at Me and micah. Fuck that guy.
“So how long has that asshole had his sights on you?” I asked, nodding toward the guard.
she let out a hearty laugh, and My dick jerked in My jeans. Really? Was there anything about her that wouldn’t turn Me on?
“He’s
harmless, Sir, but he’s asked me out for coffee a few times. i’ve always declined his offers. I think You being here and identifying Yourself as my Boyfriend pretty much put a halt to him asking me again, so thank You.”
“No need to thank Me. To outsiders, I am your Boyfriend, micah, but we both know I’m more than that. Remember what I said about exclusivity?”
she looked down at her bouquet and flicked a petal with her thumb. “Well, we never had a formal conversation about it, Sir. i wasn’t sure what to make of Your statement.”
“Well, it’s not the best location, but we’re having a formal conversation now. How’s this for clarity? I want you, and only you. What uncertainty do you have, micah? I don’t cheat and I don’t share.”
she looked up at My face momentarily before fiddling with the rose petals. her attention then shifted to the guards’ station. “i should really get back upstairs. There’s lots of work to be done,” she replied.
she was running away.
Sure, I had My own issues, but I was trying. I needed her to do the same.
“micah, if you have reservations, talk to Me, but don’t pull away, please. I’m trying here, but it goes both ways. I’d love for us to continue moving forward. I would like to see you again tonight since I’m back on rotation for the rest of the week. Seeing each other might be impossible then.”
she ceased toying with the petals and met My gaze. she did that lip-biting thing I’d grown accustomed to.
“So what do you say? Will you please stay with Me tonight?”
“i’m not sure what time i’ll get out of here. i’ve been in meetings all day, and with the opening happening soon, i might not leave until after eight. Before i could even think about heading to Your place, Sir, i’d have to eat, shower, and pack a bag. The timing is iffy.”
micah probably had a rejection handy for every situation.
“Here’s what I need you to do for Me, micah. After work, go home and get your things. I’ll take care of the rest.”
Moments passed and she still hadn’t given Me an answer. Fucking frustrating.
“micah? Stop thinking so hard. I’m pretty sure you’re out of excuses. micah?” I probed.
she sighed. “Okay. i’ll call You when i’m on my way, Sir.”
Why the sigh? I was honestly confused. she seemed excited to see Me and said she enjoyed last night. Women—so goddamn frustrating.
“Please take a cab, I don’t want you on the subway at such a late hour. Once you call Me and let Me know you’re en route, I’ll wait in the lobby and take care of the cab fare.”
I bent down to give her a kiss good-bye. I couldn’t help imagining My face between her thighs. This woman did all kinds of shit to My head—the big one and the not-so-little one.
“I’ll see you tonight,” I whispered in her ear.
she licked her lips.
That lone gesture made Me want to push her up against a wall and fuck her silly. I had plans for micah, but I needed to keep the head above My shoulders in the game and not let the head below My waist cloud My judgment.
Cupid was taunting Me.
Was this love at first sight? I didn’t know. Lust was certainly prevalent.
I could fall for her—I was falling for her. Moving at micah’s pace was going to be agony, pure agony.
she gave Me one last peck on the lips.
“Thank You again for lunch and the flowers. i’ll see You tonight, Honey,” she said loud enough for the guard to hear before turning on her heel and heading to the elevators. she glanced back to give Me a wink before disappearing from My view.
The silly grin micah inspired turned into a taunting smirk when My gaze shifted to the security desk. Jim stood there staring daggers at Me.
micah
i was still reeling from Rick’s surprise appearance. i can’t believe He took time out of His day to bring me lunch and flowers. Inwardly, i was squealing like a teenage girl.
Rick didn’t just bring any flowers, He brought the most beautiful red roses i had ever had the pleasure of receiving. His impeccable taste didn’t truly surprise me; His clothing and His home were aesthetic and now i could add His choice of florists to the growing list.
i wasn’t sure what to make of His request to see Me tonight. i was excited but still reserved. Hell, i was still processing all that happened.
i had called kisa early this morning, while i was in a cab en route to my apartment after leaving Rick’s. First i had to let her know that i was okay because i didn’t check in last night, and then i wanted to share all the details of my amazing night.
kisa hung on my every word but not before reprimanding me for not calling her sooner. i apologized profusely. It had never been my intention to worry her, but knowing kisa, she would never let me live that down.
While i sat in my office eating the lunch Rick brought me, i recalled kisa’s words.
“micah, i’m really happy for you. Things sound like they went really well last night, but i wouldn’t be a good friend if i didn’t tell you to be careful.”
“Careful? He wouldn’t hurt Me, kisa. i don’t get that vibe from Him.”
“i wasn’t referring to physical harm. It sounds like you’re getting emotionally attached to this Guy. Don’t go too fast too soon, micah. i know you’re a die-hard romantic, but take it easy, chica.”
Was she serious?
she fucked Doms every which way from Sunday trying to find her glass dick, but she was telling me to slow down? Cinderella had nothing on kisa. The fairy-tale princess was an amateur.
i loved the woman like a sister, but she should have given me some credit. i wasn’t some glassy-eyed ditz.
While i valued kisa’s opinion, i was offended that she would think i wasn’t using good judgment. What happened last night wasn’t the norm for me. It wasn’t something that i did, ever. i may scene with Men at clubs, but it doesn’t get this personal. It’s never this personal. kisa was well aware of how out of character this was for me. i have a hard and fast rule: Never get emotionally invested. But it was clear from the way things were going with Rick that that rule had changed.
“kisa, when have you ever known me to spend the night with a Man i barely knew, allow Him to tie me up, blindfold me, eat me out, and then spoon me and treat me as if i were the most precious gem on the face of the earth? Hmm?”
kisa huffed and attempted to get in a rebuttal but i cut her off before she had the chance. “Would ‘never’ be an accurate response?” i asked.
i paused and took a deep breath. i was upset that she would think so little of me.
“micah, calm down. Don’t get upset. i’m just trying to provide some perspective. i hope this is it, i really do, but guard your heart. If He’s true, He will work for you. He will want to earn you. Don’t invest too much in Him until He proves Himself worthy. And if you’re not ready for this, leave now before you’re in too deep.”
kisa may have her priorities screwed but she was right. If Rick was serious about me, He would do whatever possible to make it work between us. i just had to be smart about it and let His actions speak for themselves. So far, He was doing well. Really, really, really well.
i had to stop pulling back. He was trying, and i couldn’t keep sending mixed messages. i wanted something real, and if Rick was the One to give it to me, i had to let Him in and not be afraid to let go.
But was He it for me?
* * *
It was approaching 10:45 p.m. and i was exhausted. Going over the mountain of paperwork Joan dropped off earlier had kept me in the office until a little after nine. i had to be escorted out of the museum by an armed guard. Rarely had i ever worked that late, but when Cruella beckoned before an opening, you listened. Two of my staffers also stayed late to make the process go that much faster. Bless their little hearts.
The distance from my place to Rick’s wasn’t far, and with the late hour, you’d think the cab would practically fly there. But New York is the city that never sleeps; ther
e was always something popping off. The crosstown drive should have taken fifteen minutes, tops. Tonight it took twice as long.
Time and my overactive mind were not good company. When the cab finally pulled up to Rick’s building, my nerves almost had me begging the cabbie to turn around.
Before i could open my mouth, a kindly looking middle-aged man opened the cab door and welcomed me to the building. The man barely finished his sentence before the smooth bass of the Man that had been in my head all day interrupted him.
“I’ll take it from here, Paul.” Rick’s smiling face filled my vision and i forgot my own name. He reached in and handed the driver a twenty. “Keep the change.”
i gathered my purse and overnight bag before Rick took my hand and helped me from the cab.
“Doctor Thomas, would you like me to bring your guest’s bag to the elevator?” the door attendant asked.
“No, that won’t be necessary, Paul. By the way, this is micah, micah foster, My girlfriend. You’ll be seeing her around a lot more.”
Paul raised a curious brow, and my stomach chose that exact moment to do a mini somersault.
From the look on Paul’s face i could tell Rick didn’t use the title of “girlfriend” often. He also mentioned that He didn’t bring women to His playroom, so i assumed that meant His apartment in general. This was big. i felt pretty damn special.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Micah,” the door attendant said, extending his hand.
i reached out to shake it. “Nice to meet you as well, Paul.”
“You two have a good night,” Paul said before we made our way through the lobby.
“And you as well, Paul,” Rick replied while taking my overnight bag in one hand and placing the other on the small of my back. Once we reached the elevators, He removed His hand from my back and pressed the button. Almost immediately, one set of elevator doors sprung open. He allowed me to enter first, following closely behind.
As soon as the doors closed, He was all over me.
Rick delivered a trail of feather-light kisses along my jawline and neck. His kisses continued, each one more needy than the last. my nipples perked up. He soon changed His path, and His lips forcefully met mine.
The Sweetest Taboo: An Unconventional Romance Page 9
