“Shit, I’m... we’re sorry. We were just getting, that is, we need more napkins for the bar. In the crate...” He pauses, and points right past us. “Over there.”
The guy’s skinny, but cute, I guess. Not my type, but not unattractive. He’s got a girl with him that’s dressed in tight leather. Not one of the auction slaves, but definitely a participant. Pretty sure getting napkins wasn’t his only plan in here. For several long moments, we all stare at each other.
Then there’s another voice. “What’s going on in here? Oh, is that you, Caleb? What are you... oh.”
Great. Susan. Who’s missing? Mason? A surprise visit from my parents? Caleb pulls his pants back up, tucking away his already softening cock. I feel cheated of my reward, but there’s very little sexy about getting busted. Twice. God, it’s like being being caught behind the bleachers back in high school.
Susan sounds about as embarrassed as I feel. “I—I’m sorry to interrupt... whatever you’re all doing in here. I needed to talk to Caleb about tomorrow’s schedule, and...” She trails off, out of things to say. Blushing like a tomato, she turns and walks out, apparently just expecting Caleb to follow. It’s strange that any of us should get weird about this after the demo earlier today, but somehow this seems so much more personal.
Pointing his hand at the door, Caleb just says the one word, using his bouncer voice and wearing his bouncer face. “Out!” Susan’s already gone, but the couple that burst in before her take off like a couple of kids caught stealing apples out of his backyard. He looks pissed. Not too thrilled myself.
He turns to me, grabs my upper arms and lifts me right to my feet. Our eyes meet for a long moment, neither of us saying anything. His eyes burn with an icy blue fire, looking almost desperate. I’m totally ready to drop back down and finish the job, but he holds me in place. Quiet. Just staring, like he’s thinking something over.
Then the corners of his eyes crinkle, making deep crow’s feet. His face splits in a broad grin as he lets go of me. The first laugh is like a bark, but then more follows, a deep rolling laughter that’s infectious. Before long I’m laughing with him, first giggling into my hand, then laughing the best belly laugh I’ve had in a long time.
We can’t stop. Each time one of us seems to wind down, our eyes meet and we both go off again. I haven’t laughed so hard in months, and I don’t know if it’s embarrassment, or just the ridiculousness of it all, but it feels really nice. If there’s anyone listening outside the door, they’ll think we’re crazy.
Finally, Caleb sits on a crate, wiping his eyes and his laughter mostly reduced to quiet chortles. “Jesus, I haven’t gotten caught like that since high school. Guess that’s what I get for sneaking around in back rooms like a kid.” He looks up at me, and it’s all I can do to not burst out giggling again.. “At least I got caught with the prettiest girl in school. This can only do good things for my dude cred.”
His mischievous grin threatens to break into another laughter attack. I have to look away so I don’t get caught up again, but he keeps it under control. “So, this isn’t the time or place. I guess we’ve learned that. At least twice.”
I snort, keeping my eyes away. Not going to lose it again. Not going to lose it.
He steps closer and suddenly his voice is dark and commanding again. “I’m not done with you.” That sends a chill down my back. “Not by a long shot. I have to go do my duty, since I promised Susan to help her out. I shouldn’t have snuck in here with you to begin with, but fuck, you’re hard to resist.” His hand comes to my ass, squeezing it hard, making me whimper.
Suddenly, I’m right back where I was, ready to drop in front of him and finish the job, but I can tell by his stance it’s not going to happen.
He smiles, as if he’s reading my mind. “Believe me, I’m fucking ready. But, much as I hate to, I’m going to release you for tonight.” He leans in close, and this time his grin is feral, rather than mischievous. “But tomorrow? Tomorrow I’m going to have you. All of you, so be ready. I’ll be.”
He leans in suddenly and puts another kiss on my lips, putting a hand behind my neck to hold me close. I melt into him, ready to do whatever he wants, but the kiss doesn’t last, and he breaks away far too soon. “Sorry, Pet. I can’t believe I agreed to this on party night, but then again, I hadn’t really planned to buy anyone tonight.”
I arch my eyebrow at him. “No? Not even a little?”
“Don’t get smart with me, slave.” His smile takes the seriousness out of it. “Alright, maybe a little. You know, to make sure you didn’t get bought by the wrong kind of person.”
“Right.” I let one of my hands slide down between my legs suggestively. “You have no idea how frustrated I am right now.” My pussy’s aching for release. I might just wait for him to go and take matters into my own hand right in here.
“You and me both. Jesus, I was close. But you know what? That load’s still for you. And if I’m saving up, then you’re saving up. Get my drift?” He pierces me with a knowing stare.
“I wasn’t going to, I mean, not right...”
“Don’t lie, Slave. You were. As soon as I was out of the room, you’d be right down there on that crate...” He moves closer again. “Your sexy longs legs spread wide...” Oh God. “Making yourself come right here in the store room.” He’s so close his shirt rubs against my breasts. Even that soft touch sends sparks shooting from my oversensitive nipples. “Tell me I’m wrong. I dare you”
I shake my head, but it’s embarrassment, not denial. “You’re right.”
“No playing with yourself until I give you permission. Got it? That’s an order.”
Jesus, I won’t be getting any sleep tonight. “Yes, Master.”
“Good. Now I have to get going. Sleep well.” The mischievous grin’s back. “If you can.” Then he leaves, leaving the door open behind him.
What have I gotten myself into?
Chapter 13
Vivian
Somehow, in spite of everything, I slept pretty well. Rubbing my eyes, I squint at the blinding sunlight pouring in through the window of my bedroom. The harsh stone walls definitely set the mood for the place, but I’m pretty sure living in a castle isn’t my thing. I didn’t pack slippers, and the idea of putting my feet on the ice cold slate floor makes me wince.
Yesterday was... intense.
Caleb takes control, and there I am, doing whatever he wants. I’ve always loved submissive play, but I think he wants to go all out. Maybe full time. Is that sort of relationship really what I want? I never thought so before, not even with Gabe, but on the other hand, it’s so... so fucking sexy. He makes me crave things that honestly scare me a little.
And I’m still horny! I’m usually a cup of coffee and checking my e-mail first kinda girl, but today all I can think about is what he has in store for me. I’m nervous too, but I can’t wait. We were so close yesterday. I blow out slowly, ballooning my cheeks. Talk about frustrating.
I brush my fingers lightly over my clit. Will Caleb be able to tell if I take the edge off, just a little? I sigh. Almost definitely. He has the ability to look right through me, and just the thought of trying to lie to him gives me chills.
Last night everything was so clear and simple. I was his. All I had to do was obey. No worries. No decisions. No awkwardness. Well, not with Caleb anyway. Let’s just say I won’t be looking Susan right in the eyes at breakfast.
Alright, might as well get this morning stuff over with. Resisting the temptation to spend a little quality time with myself under the covers, I sit up and throw my legs over the edge of the bed. I’m still naked, though I did remember to take off the cuffs.
Picking through my bag, I find a skirt and a t-shirt. I even have a clean bra and panties in there. After my rushed packing job, I call that a success. Putting on clothes feels like admitting last night is really over, and for some stupid reason that bugs me, but I do it anyway.
Caleb and I don’t have anything scheduled until after lunch, so I can avoid him
for a bit while I figure things out. Maybe a little time on my own will do me good. Why are these relationship things so hard?
Someone said something about a rope workshop in the armory, one of the few things I picked up while Caleb led me around last night. Noon, I think. He said he wouldn’t make it, so I’ll go to that.
Plans made, I go searching for some breakfast.
*****
I make it in just before the workshop starts. There are a few familiar faces, but no Caleb in sight, thankfully. Mason’s here, though. Not sure I want to run into him either, but he’s seen me and it’ll be weird if I back out now.
Alright. Let’s get this over with. I smile in recognition.
“Vivian.” He’s turning on the charm today, his frustration over losing last night forgotten. He has a really nice smile, I’ll give him that. There’s still something off with him, but I can’t put my finger on it. Maybe it’s just Caleb’s reaction to him that’s spooked me.
“Hey Mason. Are you doing the rope workshop too?” Bubbly isn’t my thing, but I can try for friendly, at least.
“Nah, I’m here for the barbecue.” He rubs his stomach.
“Huh?” What am I missing?
“Sorry, bad joke.” His smile turns apologetic. “Want to partner up?” Already holding several lengths of rope, he must’ve been a good little boyscout, because he seems to have come prepared.
“Yeah, sure. Why not?” I don’t have a good reason to tell him no. Besides, he hasn’t actually done anything to deserve my mistrust.
I hide a yawn behind my hand as Moira, the instructor, goes on and on about rope safety. Apparently this is a beginner’s course, which I hadn’t caught last night. Good stuff to know, sure, but as someone who’s been tied up more times than I can remember, it’s not exactly earth shattering material. And could she be more monotone? It sounds like she’s presenting a monastic chant in powerpoint form.
Mason leans in and whispers, “Moira? More like Snoira, am I right?” I can’t quite keep the snort quiet.
She sends us a sharp glare. “Please pay attention. I’m only going through this once.” We nod, keeping our faces straight. Best not to draw the ire of the lecturing dragon.
Mason’s jokes need work, but he’s not too far off the truth. My eyes are glazing over when he nudges me. “Wake up. We’re supposed to do column ties. What’s Moira going to say if you fall asleep? You might get another nasty glare.”
Alright, the conspiratorial whisper makes me smirk. Maybe he’s not that bad after all.
The others around us have already started, so I present my wrists to Mason, who’s waiting eagerly with his pile of colored ropes. He winds the rope with practiced motions. It’s not his first time, obviously.
“So.” He draws it out as if he’s unsure how to say whatever’s on his mind. “What did you think of the auction? Ten grand. That’s insane.” Three coils. Four coils.
Considering how he was the loser in that bidding war, I’m surprised he’s bringing it up. “Yeah, I know, right? I still don’t quite believe it. That’s a crazy amount of cash to lay down for one evening. He didn’t even get his money’s worth.” I blush. Oversharing.
He looks away, but only briefly, then he turns his dark eyes right back at me, filled with that same intensity I’d seen the first time I met him. “I’m sure he did. If I’d had ten grand to spend, I would’ve taken him on.”
Whoa. I try to laugh it off. Suddenly having him in control of the ropes makes me a little uncomfortable. “That’s madness. If it wasn’t going to a good cause, I’d make him take it back. Maybe he just feels really strongly about abandoned pets.”
He winds the rope between my hands, then cinches. The tightening rope pulls my wrists closer as he ties off the knot. He checks each tie with his pinkie to make sure it’s not too tight. “I think he feels strongly about you, not the stupid pets. He wants to own you. Control you.”
Mason makes it sound negative, but I can’t deny the thrill that rushes through me at the thought. God, he’s right. I’m still not totally sure why, but Caleb wants me. What do I have to offer him? Myself? Is that enough? I’m scatterbrained, can’t hold down a job and I tried to ruin his best friend’s relationship. What does he even see in me?
And what do I want? Someone to take care of me? Am I that helpless? Seems that way sometimes. Get myself a Dom so I can be scared straight? No, he wants more than that. He plays, but it’s not play. Ever since the first demo. He’s serious about me, and that’s scary and exciting, all at once.
“Earth to Vivian. You in there?” Mason waves his hand in front of my face. He’s grinning, but there’s something about the set of his eyes. Annoyance?
“Yeah, sorry. Just got to thinking about something.”
“Shouldn’t ever get too distracted when someone’s got you tied up.” He winks. “Who knows what I might do?”
“Right. I’m scared now.” Arching my eyebrow at him, I wiggle my wrists. “Oh no, I’m trapped. Won’t someone please save me from the ropes workshop?”
He laughs, but stops short when someone steps up behind me. Moira’s voice is cold. “If you don’t feel that this workshop is challenging enough for you, maybe you could hold your own. Someplace else.”
Right. Clear message. “Sorry, Moira.” Man, for someone instructing a rope workshop, she’s pretty uptight. “Maybe we’ll go do something else, so we don’t disturb the newbies.”
“I think I’d like that. Thank you.” To judge by her icy voice, I can roll over and die for all she cares, so long as I don’t interrupt her lecture.
Alright. I get the message. Holding my arms out, I offer them to Mason. “Here, wanna untie me so we can get out of here?”
He smirks. “Not really.”
I roll my eyes at him.
“Yeah, yeah.” Reluctantly, he unknots the rope and gently unwinds it. “I think it looks better on, though.” He throws the ropes aside. “Want to see if the dining hall’s set up yet? We get first dibs on lunch if we get there before all the workshops let out.”
I’m still pretty full from my late breakfast, but I don’t really have any better ideas. “Lead the way.”
We cross the courtyard, gravel crunching under our feet. “So what are your plans for the day?” He asks over his shoulder.
“Nothing big, I guess. At least not until our demo this afternoon.” I follow him towards the dining hall. “Lunch.”
“Another demo with Caleb?”
“Yeah. I forget what the topic is, but it doesn’t matter. It’ll end with him punishing me in some way, regardless.” I laugh, getting an awkward smile in return. Alright, I was amused, anyway.
“You two do a lot of demos together. Is it serious?” The question seems guarded.
Is it? I think of the kisses last night. The way he makes me feel when we play. Even when we’re just together, he makes everything better. At the wedding, or putting my landlord in his place. Even just hanging out while we wait for his expensive car to cool down. The thought of him being with anyone else makes my stomach hurt.
How would I feel without him? Without his forceful touch, his hard voice, not to mention his hard body. Without that easy smile when his bouncer mask isn’t on. We haven’t played for long, but if I fall, I know he’ll catch me. He makes me laugh. He makes my insides tingle.
Mason and I are just entering the hallway to the dining hall when it hits me like a truck. You’re falling in love, Viv.
Holy shit.
“I think I need to go do something.” Where’s Caleb supposed to be? I look around as if I expect to find him right there, waiting for me. Of course, we’re alone. Everyone’s at the workshops. Or lectures. He’s doing a lecture now, he’d said. I turn, ready to run back out. “I have to go.”
I don’t get two feet before a hand grabs my arm, stopping me, followed by a presence flush against my back as another hand comes around to my face with a wet cloth.
What? Mason?
Everything goes dark.
Chapter 14
Caleb
I haven’t seen Viv since last night and I can’t stop pacing. Where is she? I covered for her when she didn’t show for our demo, but she’d better have a damn good excuse.
I hate to admit it, but I’m getting really fucking worried. I could look for her again, but after three walks around the place, I don’t even know where else to look. It doesn’t make any sense.
Someone saw her at a workshop around noon so she’s been around, but no one’s seen her since. This doesn’t feel right. She couldn’t have left on her own, could she? No, I gave her a ride, after all. Hope she hasn’t gotten herself into trouble, though I can’t imagine what that would be.
My phone buzzes. It’s a text from Viv, finally!
Sorry, but things are getting too heavy for me. I checked out, and I’m on the bus home. I convinced someone to give me a ride to the bus depot. Please don’t call me. I need time. I’m sorry.
What the...
Something’s fucked up here. Why would she do this? I thought we had something going. Damnit, we do have something going and I know she feels it too. No one’s ever made my heart beat faster or my cock harder. Fuck, this is nuts. I’m not letting her get away with ending this with a stupid text.
A couple of taps on my phone and I’m calling her back. Or I would be, if it didn’t go straight to voicemail. Is she blocking me? What the hell happened? What is she thinking?
“Please leave your message at the tone.”
“Viv. I don’t know what the fuck you’re thinking, but we will talk this out in person. Maybe Gabe let you run off without a word, but with me? That. Is. Not. An. Option.” I draw a breath, not sure where to go from here. I hate feeling helpless. “Pick up your damn phone. If you don’t have a really good reason for acting like this, then I’m going to tan your ass so hard you won’t sit for a week. We’re not done.”
I hang up in frustration. Mobile phones are handy, but they’re sorely lacking in one thing: a receiver to slam on the hook. An angry thumb tap just isn’t the same.
Keep Me: A BDSM Romance Page 9
