“Mia.” He caught up with me halfway down the corridor and grabbed my arm. “Never walk away from me.” He flinched when he saw my tears. “Mia?”
I was riddled with confusion.
“Surely we just cleared this up?” He pointed to his shirt.
Sharing my feelings now would very likely end this. With every breath, I betrayed Richard. And despite his betrayal, my guilt refused to lift. How, I wondered, could Richard feel okay about Cameron being with me? Doing all those things to me? Richard had warned me that Cameron had the ability to tie his subs up in more than just knots. Yet he’d given me over to him without hesitation.
“Tell me your thoughts,” said Cameron. “Mia, have I not earned the right to them?”
I licked my lips to moisten the dryness of fear.
“These thoughts are hurting you,” he said. “Let them out.”
My lips trembled. “I know you both see other women. It’s just hard for me.”
“Not true,” he said firmly. “I just proved to you without a shadow of a doubt how this lipstick got here.”
“I meant Richard.”
“This triggered a fear for you?”
“Kind of brought back a memory.”
“Of what?”
My gaze shot to his.
“Mia, Richard’s waiting for you. He loves you and would never hurt you. What is going on here with you and me is an arrangement. He’s mature enough to allow this to happen. He wanted this.”
“I know he’s seeing someone else,” I muttered. “I saw them together.”
“What? When?”
“And I saw a text from her on his cell. Some girl called Jasmine. I know you lie for him. He’s your best friend.”
“Jasmine Tate?”
I let out a sob. He’d just confirmed my worst fear.
“Were they sexting?” he said.
“No.”
“I’ve never lied to you.” He seemed to measure his words. “I admit to being overpowering. It’s who I am. But I’ve never feared the truth. And neither should you. Knowledge is power after all.”
“I know what I saw.”
“When did you see them together?”
“Outside Pendulum. Richard forgot his phone. So I had Leo drive after him.”
He looked shocked. “Leo told me you missed Richard.”
“I lied to him. I knew Leo would tell you. I had every intention of giving Richard his phone back but then I saw him and Jasmine together. The way they were with each other. They were holding hands.”
“Leo didn’t see him?”
“I had him park around the corner.”
He stepped back. “That’s the same day you got your tattoo.”
I flinched at that revelation.
“No, no, no, Mia. You’ve got it all wrong. Richard was merely escorting Jasmine into the house. He didn’t stay. I know this because I met him there and we went for drinks at The Strand. Right after I left you sleeping on the couch.”
“Why did he take her there?”
“As a favor. It’s how it’s done at Pendulum. Her master was out of the country. I fucking hate the place.”
“Is it a club?”
“Not exactly.”
“Well, what is it?”
“We’ll take the Benz. Fly up and speak to Jasmine personally,” he said. “She lives near Big Bear. I’ll let her know we’re on our way. It’s best we have her explain Pendulum.”
“Just tell me.”
“Not while you’re in this state.”
“What happens in there?”
Cameron was too busy dragging me along the hallway to answer.
CHAPTER 30
THE BLADES SLICED through the air as we banked right over the crest of the hill. This safe feeling of being suspended high in the air was the illusion of flying in a helicopter. My heart was firmly lodged in my throat even though I had full confidence in Cameron’s piloting skills. He controlled his EC145 Mercedes-Benz with the same self-assuredness he dealt with every other aspect of his life. His fingers wrapped around that gearstick proved his ability to control at will.
Cameron weakened my resolve, throwing heart-stopping smiles my way in-between flicking switches here and there and occasionally speaking to a discarnate voice from air traffic control. Their chatter wafted clearly in my headphones. Their verbal sparring revealed they were already acquainted.
This adventure brought back memories of when Cameron had flown me to Napa Valley to see my father. This memory encroached on our precious time together, so I pushed it far from my thoughts, refusing to go there. A tried and tested coping mechanism that I’d come to appreciate. Time with Dr. Laura had helped me come to terms with that at least. Cameron had taken me the rest of the way by shining a light on the truth and proving I wasn’t to blame. Out of my time spent at Chrysalis, I’d always have that.
Every second with Cameron was precious and I wanted no other thoughts to come between us. This was my first time outside that Bel Air manor and I wanted to savor it. Savor him. He didn’t need to know I was falling for him. Knowing him, it might end my training, and I was so far in, the thought of abandoning it sent me spiraling. The only time I felt centered was during a session. I wasn’t willing to give this up. Not after I’d come so far and risked so much.
Our descent was smooth.
Cameron eased the Benz down onto a grassy bank, leaves, twigs, and earth scattering. We were landing behind an enormous property. The house was all glass and white walls, the yellow lighting dispersing shadows and almost making the place look mystical. In any other circumstance I might have been impressed, but knowing who we were coming to visit threw me off balance.
The whir of the propellers came to a stop.
Leaving behind the safe refuge of the warm cocoon of the Benz, Cameron assisted me out of the cabin and placed me firmly on the ground. He took my hand and we headed towards the back of the house. Leaves spiraled around our feet, the autumn chill making me wish I’d worn warmer clothes.
Jasmine waited for us on the back steps of the property, the helicopter having announced our arrival. Her big smile and wave would have been a welcome greeting if I didn’t loathe her. Envy saturated my thoughts that she’d stolen time with Richard.
As we got closer, I could see her appeal. Jasmine was strikingly beautiful. The kind of pretty where despite wearing no makeup she looked like she was. Long blonde hair, big brown eyes, and naturally rouged lips oozed elegance with a hint of elf. Dressed in a T-shirt and skimpy shorts, she either didn’t care how she looked or was using her long lean legs to lure Cameron.
Still, holding onto that strand of hope I was mistaken about her and Richard, I forced a polite smile. Cameron remained close to my side as though ready to police any unforeseen outburst on my part.
Yes, but you are here with your master, who just so happens to be a sexpert. One who frequently takes you through your erotic paces. So you’re a fine one to talk.
Double standards came to mind. Guilt lessened as I reminded myself ours was an agreement arranged by Richard. Very different to Jasmine making moves on my man. Was I about to meet the woman who’d stolen his heart?
There were so many questions.
The myth that was Pendulum was growing ever more intriguing. Knowing we’d have to wade through the pleasantries of a first meeting, I tried not to show my frustration. I needed to know, now.
“I’ve made Cosmopolitans,” she announced with an accent I couldn’t quite place. She kissed Cameron on each cheek.
“Thank you, Jasmine,” he said. “I’m flying, but I’m sure Mia would love one.”
Need more like.
“Especially after that.” Jasmine stared at the helicopter. “To what do I owe the honor of having Master Cole visit?”
“Shall we go inside and talk,” he said. “It’s freezing out here.”
“Now I am intrigued.” She offered her hand to me. “Mia, I haven’t heard anything about you. Seems like you’re a well kept sec
ret.”
Cameron’s arm came around my waist and he pulled me into him. “Jasmine’s Irish. Did you guess?”
“Why are you living here then?” It came out wrong, but I didn’t care.
Jasmine laughed. “I’m a model. More work here.” She beamed at Cameron and headed on inside.
He hugged me tighter as we made our way through the open plan house. Hardwood floors and crisp white walls revealed a minimalistic taste and the size of the place screamed money. I wondered if this house was hers. Cameron sat on the central cream couch and I ambled off towards the bay window to check out the view. Jasmine circled the bar and got to work on our drinks.
There was a large flat screen TV on the wall behind the bar. Cameron grabbed the remote from the coffee table and turned it off. He stretched out his arms on either side, making himself comfortable.
The view was spectacular, breathtaking really, but I was in no mood for a landscape of endless snow covered trees. I turned around to face the room again. “What’s Pendulum?”
“Whoa,” said Cameron, flashing his irritation. “Mia, not so fast.”
Jasmine ceased mid-pour and glared at him. “What is this?”
He rose to his feet and rounded the bar towards her. “An issue has arisen and I need your help to clear it up.”
She looked unexpectedly vulnerable.
“Let’s start with the truth,” he addressed us both. “That’s always the best way to proceed.”
Oh God. Here it comes.
“Why don’t we sit down?” He gestured to the round table.
“Pendulum doesn’t exist,” said Jasmine. “That’s pretty much all you need to know.” She handed me the Cosmo.
“Really,” I said. “So how come I saw you enter the place with Richard Booth?”
She sat opposite me and took a leisurely sip of her Cosmo. “Were you spying on us?”
“No, I was going to give Richard his phone back.”
She rolled her eyes as though choosing not to believe that. “Phones aren’t allowed.”
“You mean in the place that doesn’t exist?”
“Cameron, you know the rules,” she said.
“Mia believes you’re having an affair with Richard.”
“This is why you’re here?” She looked relieved. “It’s unlike the great Cameron Cole to care about gossip.”
I couldn’t bear to read the truth in her face.
“Mia, you can be rest assured I’ve never been intimate with Richard Booth. Ever,” she said. “My master’s in London. Richard was kind enough to step up as my escort. My master asked him to take me as a favor.”
“Jasmine, everything discussed in this room will remain private,” said Cameron. “You have our word.”
She shuffled in her seat. “What about the clause?”
“I’ve spoken with the board,” he said. “They’ve permitted this meeting.”
That didn’t sound sinister at all.
Jasmine chewed her lip. “What’s your thing, Mia? What gets you off?”
I looked to Cameron for his support.
“We’re still working on discovering her tastes,” he said, “But Mia thrives under domination.”
I glared at him.
Cameron reached out and picked up my drink. “Jasmine is about to reveal a very personal aspect of herself.” He took a sip of my Cosmo.
Damn, despite being annoyed with Cameron right now, he even made sipping a Cosmo look hot. That lick of his lips, that glint of appreciation, the way he ruled the room when it wasn’t even his.
“Well done,” he said. “Best I’ve tasted in years.”
“Sure you don’t want one?” she said.
With a shake of his head, he declined.
“Want another?” Jasmine asked me.
“Maybe later,” I said, my throat dry despite my drink.
“What do you say, Jasmine?” said Cameron.
She took a large sip of Cosmo. “Oh, go on then.”
“I’ll kick us off,” said Cameron. “Spoiler alert. Jasmine’s a nymphomaniac.”
She beamed at him. “A happy nymph.”
“And why is that, Jasmine?” he said.
“Because I get to live out my fantasy in an intense experience that is Pendulum.” She turned to me. “You two are fucking then?”
“We are,” said Cameron.
“Lucky you.” She arched a brow my way.
“The reason Pendulum doesn’t exist is because…” Cameron gestured for her to continue.
“It’s a house for unique clients who seek an S & M experience,” she added. “Those who hold public office—politicians, lawyers, sportsmen, senior bankers, you get the idea. Both married and unmarried men and women who can never be discovered having any links to BDSM.” She watched my reaction.
“We are discreet at Chrysalis,” said Cameron. “But if you’re being tailed by the press, you’re compromised. Which in turn means we’re compromised. We discourage unwanted attention.”
“And there’s also the controversial issue,” said Jasmine, “of Pendulum being unsupervised.”
“The subs are alone in there with no one to monitor the play,” Cameron threw in.
Again, she feigned horror.
I swallowed, hard trying to ignore this cranberry and vodka rising in my throat. “And Richard encourages this?”
“Contracts are signed,” said Cameron. “Consent is given.”
“That’s how you know Richard?” I said.
“We met at Chrysalis when my master took me there for training,” she said. “The night you saw us, Richard was escorting me into Pendulum. He began the role-play per a preordained script. You get the picture. He’s the unforgiving top dropping off his bottom at a private residence because she’s been so disobedient. She needs harsh discipline. And boy do you get it at Pendulum.” She held her hands up to cover her face in mock horror, her high-pitched tone mimicking distress. “Oh no, this can’t be happening to me. What’s going on? Who are you?” She beamed at me. “That’s my kink.”
Scrutinizing her, I tried to see if she had any idea of the risk. “I take it the women are carefully screened?”
“I like to think so,” said Cameron.
“If Mia’s so hung up on Richard,” said Jasmine, “why are you fucking her?”
“I’m training her.”
Jasmine smiled at me. “How’s it going?”
“Great,” I said. “Why did Richard take you to Pendulum?”
“She’s a firecracker, isn’t she?” said Jasmine.
“She really is,” said Cameron.
“Rick escorted me inside and went over the rules with my new dom.”
“He doesn’t like being called Rick,” I said.
She smirked. “My master asked this as a favor of Richard, because he couldn’t be there. This was a one off favor. Richard was reluctant but I begged him. Nagged him really. Once I got settled in and my dom took over, Rick left.”
My hairs prickled on my forearms.
She pouted suggestively. “Want to come in the Jacuzzi with me?”
“Maybe next time,” said Cameron.
I downed the rest of my drink.
“If it’s something you want to try,” said Jasmine. “Pendulum, I mean, we can arrange it.”
“No, thank you,” I said.
Jasmine wiped a trickle of liquor from the side of her glass and sucked her fingertip. “One day the client could be wearing head to toe latex while fucking you like an animal,” she said, “and the next day you see them on television accepting their Oscar, or winning the NBA, or on the cover of Forbes magazine after being promoted to CEO. It’s a hoot.”
My imagination ran wild with what they did to her in there. Though somewhere in the far reaches of my addled brain, I remembered Cameron had told me he didn’t approve. If using a whip on a woman re-wired her brain, I wondered what being trapped in there might do. Yet Jasmine seemed so normal, sweet even, and now that I no longer wanted to gouge her ey
es out, she was actually pretty cool.
“So we’re all good?” said Cameron.
“Your master,” I said to Jasmine. “Why didn’t he escort you in?”
“There’s a general election going on in London.” She beamed at Cameron. “He’s kind of busy.”
“He’s a politician?” I said.
“Now there’s a glorious bunch of deviants if ever I met one,” said Cameron. “The members of British Parliament take perversion to a whole new level.”
“I’m thinking of moving back,” said Jasmine with a glint of mischief. “Nothing better than getting my kink on with a young fucked-up and frisky lord.”
“And your master doesn’t mind sharing you?” I said. “That’s his kink?”
“It’s right there in our contract,” she said cheerfully. “And I never want to disappoint him.” She dragged her teeth along her bottom lip, flirting with Cameron.
He gestured to the window. “You’ve got quite a view.”
“Still nothing matches east coast autumn colors,” she said. “Or should I say fall?”
The pleasantries continued as though there’d been no discussion of Pendulum. My thoughts screeched all over the map as I realized this conversation had never happened.
Yet I still had so many questions left for Cameron, and began asking them as soon as we were back in the Benz, placing miles between us and Jasmine.
“Let’s talk about it over dinner,” he said.
Those thoughts and more ate up my brain as darkness closed in around us. The view of lights on the horizon called us home. Though when we began our descent, I recognized nothing. The landscape was covered in snow.
“Where are we?” I said, my toes curling with excitement.
“You only ate a salad for lunch,” said Cameron, his voice husky in my earpiece. “I imagine you’re hungry.”
I seemed light-years away from eating that shrimp salad beside the pool. Time really didn’t matter when it came to spending it with Cameron. And the fact he was keeping track of what I ate once again reminded me just how much of a control freak he was. Cameron had been at work when I’d eaten lunch with Dominic. I wondered if there was some kind of note-taking going on while I was at Chrysalis. Someone keeping track of my every move. The thought made me shudder.
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