by Stone, Piper
I sucked in my breath, realizing they wouldn’t stop until they had a story. “I’ll make a call to the newspaper.”
“You think you can control everyone. More power to you, brother.” He laughed, shaking his head. “Nice choice of a house.”
I could tell my brother was chiding me on both accounts. I loathed reporters. They’d been the bane of my existence since I was a small child. As far as the house? I’d sworn I’d never purchase a place in the Hamptons if my life depended on it. “I had no choice.” I took a chug of my drink, wishing the liquor would burn so I’d feel anything but anger.
“We all have to do things we don’t want to. Suits you though. Might need a few decorating tips.”
I gave him a stern look. “Very funny. I’ll leave that to the wife.”
“Said like such a romantic.”
A moment of tension eased between us. I adored my brother but his insistence that the sect was righteous had always caused a rift between us.
“I need your help.” I hated asking anyone for help, especially family and Matteo knew it.
“With?”
“We’ll be gone for a few days. I want to make certain my companies stay in good working order.”
Laughing, Matteo inched closer. “Don’t you have staff for that? I think I saw two bodyguard type men belonging to you floating around here somewhere.”
“You’re the only person I can trust.”
He seemed surprised. “One day you’re going to have to tell me why and what’s really going on, but I’ll be happy to look over the corporation while you’re gone.”
I knew that Matteo would at least have my best interests at heart, even if he had never had any desire to work with me. I knew in my gut this was a prime opportunity for someone to try a forced takeover given the various threats I’d received. That wasn’t going to happen.
“Don’t look now but Father is making his way over,” Matteo said in a hushed voice. “Try not to start a fight, dear brother. This is your wedding day after all.” He meandered off, as tired of the family politics as I was.
“And where is that lovely bride of yours? I told you she was perfect,” my father asked, nearly sloshing a portion of his drink onto the floor as he entered the room.
I could see that my father was already drunk, and it was barely seven in the evening. I hated loss of control, yet my father was famous for making scenes, at least as of the past few years. Even with his increasing weaknesses, Nicolas Capodanno was still considered one of the most powerful and influential men in the United States, a title I was well on my way to achieving. Much like a mafia Don, he ruled with an iron fist, his wealth garnered by retaliation and what he called vindication. He was responsible for various real estate developments, securing support from dozens of important government officials. Everyone looked the other way.
I called his methods extortion and murder, but who was I to complain? I was now worth millions.
I’d also used the very same tactics, but on a much more selective level.
“Perfect,” I repeated. “Only if she’s able to be broken in.” I studied the various guests, the majority remaining a part of the regime. The rest were necessary invites, including two of my most trusted employees, men who were more like soldiers than corporate moguls. I paid them well for their extreme loyalty.
Both Trevor and Rex were mingling, enjoying the particular scenery, even as they performed their job for the evening—keeping the riffraff from entering my home. The dozens of families living in the Hamptons were considered celebrities, various reporters longing for pictures of any illustrious event. Tonight was no exception, the wedding deemed a Cinderella story.
“Such a beautiful ceremony, sweetheart,” my mother said in her genteel manner.
I could see my mother standing behind my father, her fake smile one I’d grown accustomed to, but her haunted eyes told another story.
“Thank you, Mother. It was fitting for the cause,” I answered.
“Do not speak of our system that way!” my father demanded.
My father was a brutal man, my mother a gentle soul. They were not a match made in heaven. Then again, they’d put forced together by the great Box as well. Another reason I loathed the tradition. Why did I ever think I’d be allowed out of the curse?
I took a swig of my gin and tonic before answering. I’d kept an eye on Stephanie during the reception. She wasn’t going to pretend to give a damn. Even the moment of seduction would all but be forgotten, her need to maintain some level of control remaining. However, after tonight, she’d be forced to learn and accept the rules.
“I will speak of this system any way I please, Father. You no longer have any control over me or my household. And my lovely bride is freshening up, Father. Stephanie is required to look her best at all times. Just like Mother.”
I could see the irritation crossing his face, his desire to initiate his preferred method of discipline. Unfortunately, only my mother was required to succumb to his punishments.
“You will need to learn to control her and I suggest you do so quickly,” my father insisted as he darted a look in my mother’s direction.
I had very little respect for the man and this was a clear indication why. His words reminded me of yet another threat. “I’ll handle her as I see fit.”
“You will learn that there are far more important aspects of life than the weakness of falling in love.”
His words struck me oddly and the utter sadness on my mother’s face was a nasty reminder of the components of our community.
“I’ll keep that in mind, Father.” My words were meant as a dismissal. At least he knew when not to push me.
“You were always difficult,” my father huffed.
“Lovely party, son,” my mother said in passing before trailing behind him.
All I wanted was peace and quiet. I took a minute to myself, walking around my desk and typing in my password on the computer. From what I could tell, the stocks were up six full points. No doubt from the news of my nuptials. Fear of the unknown, a possible increase in my power had worked in my favor. I knew that wouldn’t last for long. There’d been sharks in the water for almost a year, waiting for blood to be spilled.
I had several enemies, only some of whom had anything to do with the sect.
Yes, I would learn to use this marriage to my benefit. Fuck, I hated the thought. I might be the monster she’d accused me of being, but I had no desire to use her as a pawn.
Even if our coupling had brought so many possibilities.
After a few minutes, I knew I couldn’t avoid the inevitable, finally moving back into the main room.
Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Stephanie gliding down the stairs from the second floor, her maid of honor by her side. My bride had changed her attire without my permission.
Still in flaming red. Still as sexy as ever.
My mouth watered as I watched her being more gracious than I would have imagined, smiling as she talked with our guests. My cock twitched once again. Without a doubt, she was as beautiful as she was intelligent. My hunger only increased, my blood pumping wildly.
Yes... I did crave every inch of her. There was no denying my feelings. She belonged to me in every way. Some would say my fated mate. I certainly planned on enjoying what was mine.
“I daresay that girl just might eat you alive,” my father said in jest, lifting his glass in appreciation.
“Enjoy the party, Father. Try not to make a fool of yourself.” Disgusted, I walked away, my gaze passing over my mother’s sunken eyes. She’d grown weary of my father’s behavior.
We all had. I’d even had a conversation with Father McGivney on more than one occasion, but my father’s authority was not to be questioned. I walked closer until I was able to inhale the subtle yet dazzling scent of her perfume. The exotic fragrance was perfect for her demeanor. Spicy.
I noticed the glass of wine in her hand and it certainly wasn’t the first one. She’d already overind
ulged in an effort to block out the day’s festivities.
“I think that you’ve had enough,” I said as quietly as possible. There was no sense in making a scene. Besides, I was exhausted from the long day and the bullshit I’d been forced to endure. We were leaving for a brief but necessary honeymoon in the late morning, a private residence located just off Hilton Head. I also had business requiring attention, but that would come later.
After my lovely wife’s training had begun.
Stephanie barely gave me acknowledgement. “And I think you need to mind your own business.”
Even her best friend seemed shocked, backing away as if Stephanie’s behavior would have ill effect on her as well.
There was a collective gasp in the crowd, at least from those living under the reign of the Box and the sacred teachings. Just thinking about the barbaric system truly filled me with disgust, but for appearances and in order to gain power, I would play along.
Even Matteo seemed anxious, already making his way out of the room. I can’t say I blamed him.
I gripped her elbow, pulling her away, narrowing my eyes. “You will not speak to me that way, especially in front of the others. You will give me respect as your husband.”
“You mean as my captor? Over my dead body.” Stephanie tossed the remnants of her wine in my face, delighted with her actions, the smile crossing her face brighter than I’d seen all day.
It seemed that everyone had taken a step back, but even as one of the hostesses handed me a napkin, I could read their expressions clearly.
They expected punishment.
I wanted to rail at her, to allow my... wife to see my rage, but perhaps for the first time, I actually felt sorry for her. She had no idea what was in store. She obviously hadn’t been told of the possibilities and was fighting the old ways in every manner she deemed necessary.
Or she had been told and refused to comply.
My cock continued to twitch, the anticipation of fucking her in every hole exciting every one of my senses.
The drink was suddenly removed from my hand in full anticipation I would react as required.
The rules had been clearly stated over a hundred years before and she’d crossed the line. Women were required to obey their husbands no matter the circumstances.
What a crock of shit. While I was a dominating man, even savage in nature, I was no barbarian.
Once again, I gripped her arm, pulling her to the center of the room. “You are my wife and you’re required to act appropriately in public. Do you understand?” I could tell by the defiant look in her eyes that she simply refused to accept.
She darted a look over my shoulder as one of the guests positioned a hardback chair in the center of the room. I didn’t need to look to know what they were doing. I’d seen this before, the requirement for punishment in front of those who’d witnessed any moment of rebellion. My father had been utter perfection in explaining every concept of discipline expected.
“What I understand is that I was railroaded into a fake marriage. If I want to have a little fun, then I’m going to do it.” Her words were stilted, almost breathless. She was beginning to comprehend just how far she’d crossed the line.
Stephanie attempted to jerk out of my hold, her lower lip quivering when my fingers dug into her skin. The force I used was just enough that she dropped her glass, the shattering sound as the thin crystal smashed against the marble tile enough to bring resentment to her eyes.
“You’re going nowhere,” I said softly. Jesus Christ, the group had moved into a complete circle surrounding the area, leaving a mere fifteen feet of clearance. This was ridiculous. Whatever discipline that was required should be handled in private.
She glanced from right to left as she pressed her hand against my chest, finally finding her parents in the crowd. “What is this?”
Sighing, I tugged her closer to the chair, taking both her hands into mine. “You’re going to be punished as required.”
“What? Are you crazy? I’m an adult.”
She looked around again, a hint of raw fear in her eyes. I could see her pulse increased by the thump in her neck. At that moment, she seemed far less defiant, almost defenseless and my protective side reared its head.
I noticed my father lifting his glass, as well as a few of the other men, encouraging me. This was some sick shit, but I’d learned to select my battles carefully and this wasn’t one to wage.
As Father McGivney approached, I almost laughed. In his hand was a traditional strap that was used by so many of our male figures. I should have known he’d be lurking in the shadows, waiting.
Watching.
Even drooling with anticipation.
He said nothing as he handed me the implement and Stephanie took that opportunity to try to bolt.
I could tell the others wouldn’t have allowed her to leave, including my employees, although their faces were filled with morbid curiosity. When I grabbed her arm, I cupped her face this time, lowering my head until I was able to whisper, “Don’t. This has to occur and you’re going to be a very good girl. You know what’s expected and you will obey my rules. Do you understand me?”
There was such resentment on her face, but it was as if she suddenly realized that she had no recourse, nowhere to go. She’d signed the contract, placing her name beside mine. This was as much her choice as it was mine. When she nodded, I felt a sense of relief.
For the time being.
I was a firm believer in discipline, punishment necessary in a relationship, but not this way. My choice. My method. This was absolute bullshit. Thank God we wouldn’t be forced to endure another wretched manner of public display for some time. Unless we were called upon.
Disgusted, I eased onto the chair, pulling her over my lap.
“What is this?” one of the outsiders asked, their tone smothered in disbelief.
There were several whispers before Stephanie’s father guided the small group out of the room. I could only imagine his explanation of what was about to occur. I had the distinct feeling that those who remained, all traditional members of our illustrious society wanted to break into a chant.
A sneer shifted across my face as I fisted a portion of her dress, snaking it over her rounded bottom. The sight of a thin strip of material, red in color and stimulating in every way, slipped into the cleft of her ass was entirely too delicious. However, exposing her in any manner enraged the fuck out of me. Still, my cock was throbbing, a reminder that I was very much a man and she belonged to me. I might as well get this the fuck over with.
Then the real fun would begin.
“No. No... I can’t do this.” Stephanie’s whimper was short-lived as Father McGivney crouched on the floor, whispering something I wasn’t privy to.
Maybe I didn’t want to know.
I brushed my hand along her spine, the spiciness of her exotic perfume filling my nostrils, igniting the fuel I’d long since thought snuffed out permanently. My needs were considered sadistic, the few women I’d cared enough to share my desires with unused to my particular longings. No woman had ever tolerated my darkness.
And I doubted any woman ever would.
“Atonement for sin,” Father McGivney stated while backing away.
He was lucky I didn’t launch into him, my anger off the charts. I rubbed my fingers across the well-worn leather, imagining just how many women the implement had been used on.
“Get this over with,” Stephanie whispered between clenched teeth.
For once, I agreed with her.
I issued two hard smacks across her bottom, moving from one side to the other, her immediate moans floating into my ears. While the room was surprisingly silent, I blocked out the concept that we were being watched.
Studied.
Like animals in a zoo.
She had defied me, my orders, and the rules. She deserved harsh punishment. I heard the snapping of my wrist as I smacked her several times, moving methodically, one coming after the other. My hear
t raced, every muscle in my body tensing as her skin turned a warm blush color, the strap creating myriad marks across her naked skin.
She jerked up, throwing back her arm, forcing me to hold her wrist while I continued the strapping. One way or the other, she would learn to obey.
“Oh, that hurts,” she managed, still struggling, her legs kicking out.
“I suggest you take your punishment, little girl, or it’ll be much worse later.” My own words sounded hollow, practiced. I was just putting on a show, something I loathed more than anything. As she wiggled across my lap, the friction creating an absolute wave of burning desire, I closed my eyes.
The hard-cracking sound filled the air as I smacked her rounded bottom, the heat building. I adored the redness covering both ass cheeks, the moans slipping past her lips.
I caught a glimpse of the crowd, the men reveling in the utter control, the women pensive yet aroused. The shame of it all wasn’t lost on me, the concept that I’d been lured into the trap of the Box.
And my imagination started to roll, my thoughts shifting to all the nasty, filthy things I would do to her.
Fucking her.
Spanking her.
Feasting on her.
Chaining her.
I was wired to the point the increased adrenaline was almost suffocating, my throat tightening as the desire built to a brutal level. I had to have her. I craved every inch of her naked body.
My wife.
My possession.
My toy.
The Sacred Sect had no understanding of what they’d done, two enemies brought together in a marriage made of sin.
They’d unleashed a beast, one that would take over full control.
The regime will be mine, sayeth the Lord...
Chapter Three
Twenty-three years before
The Basilica Parish of the Sacred Hearts
Sinner.
Saint.
Redeemer.
The concept flowed freely within the hallowed halls, flowing freely over the congregation.
Father Joseph McGivney looked out on his parish as the organ music played behind him, filling his soul with the same kind of joy the day would provide. The beautiful rendition of ‘Take My Life and Let it Be’ sung as if from the very angels above.
