Lost and Found - Megan Fields

Lost and Found By Megan Fields

Text Copyright © 2014 Megan Fields All Rights Reserved Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the author of this book. This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with or sponsored by the trademark owners.

Adult Content Warning The content you are about to read included adult language and graphic descriptions of nudity and sexual activity. This book is intended for adult readers 18 years of age and older.

“Don’t let your fears stand in the way of your dreams”

Table of Contents Lost and Found Text Copyright © 2014 Prologue Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14 Epilogue Acknowledgements Keep in touch What’s next? Sneak peak from Unexpected Chances by A.M. Willard

Prologue “Please, Eric. Let me go. I won’t say anything, I promise.” Struggling against the ropes, caused them to bite into my skin, but I refused to show him any sign of the pain; I had a feeling he would get off on it. He runs his hand down my bruised and beaten body and I shudder; it makes me want to throw up. “Now why would I let you go? It’s much more fun to keep you here.” I look at the ceiling and take a deep breath when I hear a knock at the door. Please let this be someone looking for me. How many days have I been here now? Lottie must be worried sick about me. “It’s time for some fun.” He mutters in my ear, before leaving. I hear the front door open and close, then the sound of another man’s voice. I start to panic, my heart races, as the voices come closer. Eric enters the room and he’s not

alone. A man I’ve seen only a handful of times since we started dating follows him in, his eyes devouring my naked body. “Eric?” Before I can ask anything else he gags me with a scarf. I thrash about, feeling the ropes to cut into my skin. Eric strokes my forehead and I stare up at him, pleading with my eyes. “Shush now my love. Be a good girl for me.” I catch a glimpse of movement out the corner of my eye and see that the man has unzipped his pants and is stroking his cock. Slowly he approaches me. I feel the bed dip as he crawls toward me and I buck against my restraints, but it’s no use. As the man hovers over me, ready to rape me, I close my eyes to try and block it out. Tears course down the sides of my face, staining the pillow and in one thrust he’s inside me. I bolt upright in my bed, breathless, tears sliding down my cheeks. It takes me a moment to realize it was just a

nightmare. Eric's rotting in prison and he can't hurt me anymore.

Chapter 1 Ella “You need a new submissive.” I cover my mouth in an attempt to not spit coffee over my best friend, “Izzy!” I can’t believe she’s bringing up my sex life in the middle of the local coffee shop. “What?” She asks casually. She’s sitting opposite me, her legs crossed at the knee and an arm draped over the back of her chair. Her free hand caresses her cup, almost seductively. I look around to see who may’ve overheard, “Keep your voice down.” I whisper, as my eyes land on a table in the corner. “You know I'm right.” She says smugly. “You may be right, but do you have to speak so loud that

Mrs Bartlett from the flower shop can probably hear you?” I look over to the prim and proper lady; she’s reading and glances up briefly, her eyes narrowing at me before returning to her book. “Who cares what old Mrs. B thinks? She’s probably just jealous. I should-” I raise my hand. “Stop that thought right there.” I see the mischief in her eyes. “You don't think she'd enjoy Master Owen working her over with a flogger, in the dungeon perhaps?” She grins wickedly. “Thanks for the imagery. The thought of seeing Mrs B bent over the whipping bench receiving a flogging, isn’t something I’m going to be able to wipe from my brain anytime soon.” “You’re welcome.” She winks and I shake my head. “So what do you think? Want to come out and make a subs

dream come true?” She asks, leaning forward and focusing on me rather intently. “I want a quiet night in.” I rarely get a night off these days and I’m looking forward to some me time. She snorts, “A quiet night in is for old people.” She leans back in her chair and plays with her long blonde hair, wrapping it around her fingers. “You should come and play; you know, relieve some of that tension I can see rolling off you. There’re plenty of subs at the club who’ve expressed an interest in you.” I sit up and straighten my shoulders. “What tension? I’m fine.” “When was the last time you had sex then?” She asks, raising her eyebrow at me. “That’s none of your concern,” I say shifting in my seat. Okay so it’s been a while, but I’m not telling her that. “I’m just not in the mood to take on a new sub at the moment.” I

tell her, hoping she’ll drop it. “God, I didn’t mean that; just find someone to play with for the night.” She goes back to drinking her coffee and I look out at the grey clouds rolling in. I’ve been feeling a little restless recently and I just want to meet someone different. Just then I feel a chill pour through me and as I turn toward the counter, I can’t believe my eyes. “Jack.” My eyes widen as his name slips from my mouth. He turns my way and I whip my head back to Izzy. “Jack what? And why’s your face bright red? I haven't seen you blush since I first met you.” Looking toward the counter a sly smile creeps across Izzy's face. “Nice.” “No, you don't understand Izzy.” I whisper. “I haven't seen him in over ten years and he broke my heart when he left.” Watching her eyes as they move to look past me I know he’s walking toward us. It’s been so long since I last saw him. I close my eyes in anticipation and take a deep breath.

“Ella?” He’s looking at me like I’m some kind of mirage. Jack was my high school sweetheart and my first... first love, first everything. “Jack!” I stand up and his big arms wrap around me holding me tight to his body. He nestles his beautiful face into my neck and takes a deep breath. As he breathes out, the warm air leaves a trail of tingles across my shoulder and I involuntarily shudder. I do the same, breathing in his scent and the fragrance of his soap is intoxicating. I pull back to look at his face, “It's good to see you. What’re you doing here?” Feeling at home in his arms, I let my hands glide down his back, his body tapering in as I settle them on his waist. “It’s good to see you too.” His aqua blue eyes bore into me as he shoves his hand into his sandy blonde hair and steps away from me slightly. He looks rough and manly and I itch to feel the stubble on his face beneath my fingers. Just

as my hand moves up to touch him, Izzy clears her throat and I come back down to earth with a bump. Christ two minutes in his arms and I was putty in his hands! I turn to Izzy who’s looking at me expectantly. Right introductions are needed. “Jack, this is Izzy. Izzy meet Jack, my friend from high school.” “Hi Izzy,” He says reaching out a hand. Her eyes take in all six-feet of him from head to toe. “It’s nice to meet you Jack.” She says shaking his hand. “Listen Ella, I have to dash,” she vacates her chair and offers it to him. I stare at her trying to communicate for her not to leave. She clearly gets the message, but winks and excuses herself, leaving me to stare daggers at her back as she sashays out of the coffee shop. As the door closes, I reluctantly return my attention to Jack. Slowly lowering myself into my seat, noticing he looks a little nervous. He’s not the only one since I feel like I’m sixteen again! Except

that I’m not. I’m twenty-eight and a Dominatrix! We sit in silence for what seems like an eternity and I fiddle with my drink nervously. “So how’ve you been?” Oh my God, what a ridiculous thing to ask. I’m so thrown from seeing him I lose my nerve. I’ve been a Mistress for three years now, commanding men to do, well whatever I want them to with ease and confidence. Yet this man has my brain malfunctioning and has me tongue-tied. I will always remember the first time I saw Jack, half naked in my front garden. He was wearing a just pair of shorts; his body stretched out over the bonnet of my mum’s car, cleaning it. I’d wandered into the kitchen that morning to get some breakfast when I saw him out of the window and was halted in my tracks. I’m so glad he didn’t see me, as I’m sure I wasn’t a pretty sight; hair mussed up, eyes wide and jaw on the floor. I’m fairly certain there was drooling involved. Turned out he was trying to make a little

money, by washing cars in the local area. He came from money, but his Dad wanted to teach him about the importance of earning yourself. He looks at me now and I almost melt. His hair is shorter, but I know I could still pull it. Pull it hard! I clear my throat and try to keep my wayward thoughts in check. This is Jack, not some submissive I can bend to my will.

Jack I was just leaving the apartment when my phone rings. It’s my brother “Hey, Alex. I’m just on my way.” I answer, before he can complain about me not being at work yet. “Okay great. Can you pick us up a couple of coffees on your way in please? The electrician’s here and the power is off.” “Yeah okay, see you in about 15 minutes.” I hang up and cross the street, heading to the perfect place to go. The bell over the door rings as I enter and I head to the counter. “Two black coffees with a shot of espresso in each please.” While I wait I feel like I’m being watched. I casually look around until my eyes widen as they land on a table near the back. Ella! I blinked. Is it really her? Quickly I made my way over to her table. One hug and an introduction to her friend that she

obviously didn’t want to leave, I find myself sitting across from her. I feel like an idiot just sitting next to her in silence. Thankfully she starts the conversation, as all my brain - okay my cock - can think about is spreading her out on the coffee shop floor and making her come. I can’t believe how amazing she looks and I wonder if her light auburn hair, that’s flowing over one shoulder, would feel as silky to touch as it looks, if my hand were wrapped around it tightly, pulling her head to the side, so I had complete access to kiss and lick her neck. “I’ve been good, thanks,” I finally reply, mentally slapping my cock down and telling it to behave. She smiles as she looks at me intently, “Good.” She realises she’s been staring at me too long and looks away. “That’s really good.” She takes a sip of her now probably cold drink. “How’ve you been?” I ask. This is feeling slightly

awkward. I didn’t want to meet like this. She adjusts her position and crosses her legs, which show off her toned calves. Shit I just got a little hard. I return my gaze to her face and concentrate on what she’s saying. “I’ve been good too. What’re you doing back in London?” I can’t quite grasp the emotion behind the tone in her voice. Is she happy or pissed off to see me? “I just moved back with Alex a couple of weeks ago and we’re opening a photography and art studio. My brother’s quite the little artist now.” I wonder if she’s seeing anyone. No ring, so I’m pretty sure she’s not married at least. She raises her eyebrows at me and crosses her arms across her chest. “Alex is back as well? Watch out London, the Cole brothers have returned.” I smirk at her comment. “You did always like taking pictures. I still have that one of us sitting under the big oak tree at school.” “Ah, the good old days.” I try to keep my voice upbeat,

but I see the pain flash across her features as we bring up the past. It was hard for both of us to say goodbye that summer.

I wipe the tears rolling down her cheeks and lean in to whisper in her ear, “I love you Ella.” It just makes her cry harder though and she wraps her arms around my neck tightly. “I love you Jack. More than you know. Promise me you’ll come back to me.” She’s holding me so tight her feet are almost off the floor and I pull her to me. “I promise.” My mum taps me on my shoulder and I slowly let go of her. Lottie’s standing right next to her and wraps her arm around her waist. “I promise.” I say before kissing her one last time. Our hands are the last thing to part and it kills me to leave her as I turn and walk with my family to the plane that will take me three-thousand miles away from the girl I love.

“So Alex still claiming he’s the older brother?” She asks, changing the subject and breaking me from my walk down memory lane. Alex and I are fraternal twins born 3 minutes apart, although we were opposites in more ways than just our looks. Mum had never told us who had been born first and it had led to many arguments. He always had to have the last word. “Alex is the same as always - stubborn, controlling and dominant!” Her eyes widen, as she sucks in her breath and visibly pales at my description. She doesn’t comment, leaving me to wonder about her reaction. I decide to play it off and continue. “How’re your parents and your sister?” She looks down and doesn’t immediately reply. “Ella?” She looks back up at me, with unshed tears in her eyes and I quickly hand her a napkin, my eyes searching her face for the cause of her sadness. “My parents died in a car crash eight years ago.” She takes the tissue, but just

scrunches it up in her fist. “I’m so sorry Ella.” I reach for her hand, but she pulls it away to pick up her cup. I can see that she needs a minute to control her emotions, so I wait patiently for her to continue. “Charlotte had been in the car with them and was hurt pretty badly. She doesn’t remember the accident thankfully, but she struggled with it for a long time. Once she came out of hospital she moved in with me and I’ve been stuck taking care of her ever since.” She smiles half-heartedly at me. Charlotte and Ella had always been close and I’m not surprised they live together. The waitress brings me over my order and I pop open the lid to take a sip. “So how’s Charlotte now?” I ask. She eyes the two drinks in front of me. “One’s for Alex, I’m on coffee duty.” I’m sure he’s cursing me. I told him I’d be there ten minutes ago.

“Lottie, as she now likes to be called, is, how can I put it nicely, a pain in my ass. She says she doesn’t know what she wants to be, but I think she’s hiding from the fact that she wants to be a writer, like mum was. She’s currently working at a local restaurant. It’s the longest job she’s had and she seems to enjoy it, which I guess is what matters most!” She says shrugging her shoulders. “I’m sure she’ll figure it out soon.” “I hope so... it’s time she grew up!” Her eyes are so expressive when she is worked up, I can feel my pants getting uncomfortably tighter. Down boy. Leaning back in my chair, I cross my arms over my chest. “Well it looks like you’re all grown up.” I suddenly have a vision of her naked, writhing beneath me. Moaning, as I drive her slowly to the edge, making her beg for me to let her fall. “What do you do for a living now?” I ask, trying to remain calm. She’s about to respond, when her phone

beeps alerting her to a text message. “Boyfriend?” I blurt out, immediately regretting it. Okay, so I’d like to pummel any man she has gone out with, but I know it’s no longer my place to do so. As she looks at me I’m afraid she can see the greeneyed monster. “No, it’s Izzy.”As soon as she reads the text, the atmosphere changes. I see panic cross her face, and she seemingly has an internal battle with herself. “Is everything okay?” She stands abruptly almost knocking her chair over. “Sorry Jack I have to go.” She turns and flees before I have chance to stop her. I dash out of the shop and shout after her, but she’s vanished into the bustling crowd. I’m suddenly aware of my phone ringing incessantly. I yank it out of my pocket furiously. I can’t believe she just took off like that. “Hello?” I answer, not even looking at the caller ID.

“Have you flown to Colombia to handpick the coffee beans?” Alex asks. I sigh and walk back into the shop. “On my way now.” I hang up, grab our drinks and head to the studio. I can’t help but worry about Ella. What was that message all about? As I enter the studio Alex shouts down to me from the mezzanine. “About bloody time! What the hell took you so long?” I ignore him and make my way upstairs, handing him his drink, before sinking down on to the sofa. “Well?” He asks. “I ran into Ella.” “Shit. How’d that go?” He leans against his desk with his arms and legs crossed, awaiting my answer. He knows the state I was in when we first got to New York. I was a bit of a wild child for the first year, but my brother stuck by me through thick and thin. Not only had I lost the person I loved, but I also ended up losing my family. In the end Alex and I

were all we had. “It was okay I guess. Bit awkward to begin with and definitely not easy keeping my dick in check, but we had a good chat. Okay, so she ran off at the end, which wasn’t good, but how do I know if it was because of me?” I didn’t know for sure, but I damn well was going to find out. “She ran off? What happened exactly?” He asked cocking his eyebrow at me. “I bumped into her in the coffee house. We hugged, we chatted and...” “And?” “That’s it. She got a text message and the next thing I know she’s disappearing into the crowd.” “What did you say to her?” I hold my hands up in defence. “I didn’t say anything. I told you, she got a text and all of sudden she was gone before I could stop her.” He eyes me suspiciously. Ella was

like a sister to him and he’d always been very protective over both her and Charlotte. “Hmmm, okay. Tell you what, why don’t you invite her to the studio opening? If she comes, you’ll know it wasn’t you and if she doesn’t... well.” Alex pats me on the shoulder and heads downstairs. I decided to start unpacking boxes and settle into the studio, but I couldn’t get Ella off my mind. Especially the way she’d looked and felt in my arms. She was a perfect fit. She always had been.

“Jack stop...please” I loved to tickle Ella and hear her laugh. Her laughter sounded like heaven to me. “Kiss me and I will stop.” I let up momentarily and she wraps her hand around my neck pulling me down so our lips meet in a searing kiss. We wrap our limbs around each other, fitting together like two pieces of a puzzle. I needed to find out what was going on with her.

Chapter 2 Ella It only takes me five minutes to walk to where I live and as I cross through the park opposite my apartment, I enjoy the rare glimpse of sun poking through the clouds. Pushing through the heavy doors into the foyer, I check for any mail before making my way upstairs. I open my door and close it quickly behind me. Taking a moment, I lean back against it and close my eyes, letting out a deep breath. “Hey sis.” “Lottie.” I sigh looking toward the front room where I see her sitting, feet up, TV on and my secret stash of chocolate in her lap. She looks a little guilty, but pops another piece in her mouth and smiles at me. I go to the kitchen and pour a cool glass of water, gulping it down as if I’m going to die of thirst.

“Hey, do you mind if a few friends come over tonight to watch a movie on the big screen?” She asks. I face her and wipe my mouth with the back of my hand; she’s looking at me with puppy dog eyes. “Lottie, why ask when you always do what you want anyway?” I grumble. “I just thought I better check if you were working tonight.” I walk to the sofa and place my hands on the back of it. Glimpsing up at the TV to see Buffy the Vampire Slayer’s on. Buffy and Angel are locked in a kiss and all I can think of is how good it felt when Jack wrapped his arms around me. Lottie offers me a piece of chocolate, “How thoughtful of you,” I say sarcastically. “I was supposed to be having the night off, but Izzy’s just asked me to come in. So you can have your friends over, but please clean up after yourselves.” She salutes me and says jauntily, “Yes Mistress.” I shake my head and go to my room to take a shower. I love how

loyal and supportive she is of my lifestyle. In the shower my thoughts turn to Jack. God he’d smelled and felt so good. As I run my soapy hands over my body I can almost imagine they’re his. I drag my nails up my thighs and a small moan escapes my lips. I haven’t thought about Jack in a sexual way for a long time and these new feelings running through me make my body hum. I wash the shampoo from my hair and let my hands glide down the sides of my neck and over my breasts. My nipples are hard and as I pinch them my head falls back. I leave my left hand caressing my breast and slide my right hand down to my clit, which has started to throb with need. I think back to the one and only night I slept with Jack; my first time. As my finger rubs my sensitive nub I can see Jack’s face as he went down on me and made me come for the first time. I pretend it’s his tongue now on my clit, I picture him knelt before me in the shower worshipping my body. Imagine him

slipping a finger inside me as his tongue does wicked things to me. I gasp as an orgasm suddenly rips through me. It pulses through my body and it’s so strong I have to lean back against the tiled wall, to keep myself from falling. My knees are ready to buckle. Shaking from the aftermath, I stand there panting hard, my heart beating so loudly I can hear it in my ears. The hot water beats down on my side, as I let it wash over my sensitive skin. Standing there I let my emotions get the better of me and the tears come before I can stop them. When I’m all cried out I wrap myself in a big fluffy towel and get ready for work. I need to focus and keep Jack out of my head and my heart. I won’t let myself get hurt again. Leaving my sister and her friends to enjoy their movie, I grab a taxi to the club. There’s a slight chill in the air, but it’s March and hopefully spring is around the corner, though you never know in England. I’ve known London to have snow in

April in the past. Traffic is fairly light for rush hour and as the driver winds his way through the streets I lean my head back against the seat and close my eyes. I wonder what’s in store tonight and why Izzy wants me to come in. I run through my calendar in my head for the week and can’t fathom what could’ve popped up. I have some training sessions set up for next week with some new subs and need to make sure I line up some Dominants to help out with one of the classes. I make a mental note to speak to a couple of them tonight. The weekends are all about playtime though, so I’m intrigued. I pay the driver and head to the entrance, where I’m faced with two very large bouncers. “Ms Blake.” Tony says, while Steve opens the door. They are like cold stone statues, they definitely found their calling. Velvet is a large club with three floors and a basement. On the outside it

looks like a typical Victorian house, but inside, it’s anything but. As I step inside, my posture changes. My back straightens and my stride becomes more focused. Being here puts me in the right frame of mind and I welcome the distraction. I head straight for Izzy’s office and find her with a submissive buried between her legs. Her eyes are dark with arousal and her tongue slips out to moisten her deep red lips. “So what do you need? I thought tonight was my night off?” I sit cross-legged in the chair opposite her and glance at the man between her legs. He’s a home-grown sub trained here at the club and, if I didn’t know Izzy better, I’d think she had a soft spot for him. “How’d coffee go?” She asks. “It was fine thank you.” I should’ve known she’d want the low down, but all I want to do is forget about it.

“So who was he?” She really isn’t going to let this go. I take a deep breath. I may as well tell her now and get it over and done with. “He was my high school sweetheart and first love. His parents dragged him to America ten years ago and I haven’t seen or spoken to him since. There’s nothing more to it.” She looks at me disbelievingly and the sub stops, sensing something’s up. “Continue.” She commands without looking at him; he obeys immediately. We stare at each other for a beat longer and she drops the subject for now. “We have a pro Dom coming for a tour of the club and I need you to show him around. He’s just moved to the city and comes recommended from Raul in New York.” I raise my eyebrow in interest. Being recommended by Raul is a great honour. “Is the club ready?” I ask. “Yes,” she says almost panting. Dean must be hitting the right spot. Izzy’s hand grabs his hair and pulls him tightly to

her. “The crew has worked hard all day in preparation.” I need no further information at this point, so I head to my office to change. As I close her door I hear her scream loudly as her orgasm hits her. Entering my office, I flick the lights on and lock the door behind me. It’s a good size space and I throw my purse on the large sofa, as I walk to my desk. Plugging in my iPod, I select my favourite playlist and hit shuffle. I love listening to music while I dress and as I walk to my wardrobe my speaker’s hiss into life. Justin Timberlake starts to play and I strip out of my clothes. This new Dom sounds important, so I better dress to impress. I go for my knee high black boots, a black skirt that barely covers my ass along with a purple thong and a purple corset to match. I let down my hair and add some extra curls to enhance my look. I’m just putting the finishing touches on my light pink lipstick when there’s a knock at my door. Dean stands before me

wearing only black leather trousers with his hands behind his back and his head bowed. “Yes?” I ask. “Mistress Isobel has asked me to inform you that the Dom will be here in 10 minutes.” “Very well.” I close the door and give myself a final check in the mirror. I make sure my office is tidy in case he wants to see the operational side to the business and go down to the bar where Izzy’s talking with a tall man, his back to me. He must be the new Dom and I walk over to introduce myself. “Ah Master Cole, let me introduce you to Mistress Blake.” The man turns to me and I stop abruptly, my hand flying to my mouth. “Ella?” “Alex?” He looks as shocked as I am. The new Dom is Jack’s brother!

I stand facing him, unable to break eye contact. “You two know each other?” Izzy sounds amused by the situation I find myself in. “Um yes.” I stutter. “Alex, I mean Master Cole is...” I struggle for the right words and he fills in the blanks. “Mistress Blake and I are old friends, shall we say?” He looks at me, a small smile playing at the corner of his mouth. “Yes... old friends.” I repeat, plastering a fake smile on my face as I look over to Izzy. “Okay. Well then you’re in good hands. I’ll leave you to it. If you need anything further please don’t hesitate to let me know.” He shakes her hand and she leaves to monitor play in the dungeon. If it wasn’t so disrespectful I would drag him to my office, but I can’t; especially in front of gathering clients. “If you’ll follow me, I’ll show you around.” I snap. He nods

dutifully and gestures for me to lead the way. I walk to the top of the club, with him following closely behind. “Here on the top floor, we have a large meeting area with a stage and some private rooms that members can use.” I turn to walk back down wanting this to be over as soon as possible. “Hold on.” He walks into the centre of the large room, folds his arms across his chest and looks around. “What do you use this area for?” His eyes meet mine and I know he’s challenging me. I prop my hands on my hips and slowly move to stand in front of him. “We use this room for monthly auctions and some of the classes that we run for training. Happy?” “Ecstatic. Let’s continue shall we?” His arms drop to his sides and he walks to the entrance, waiting for me to lead the way. I narrow my eyes at him, as I pass by and head down to the first floor.

“As you can see, we have various zones set up for play here, with seating in the centre for patrons to observe. Would you like to take a look around?” I ask a little sardonically. He raises his eyebrows at the tone in my voice. “No, it’s fine. I understand the purpose of this area. I may have some more questions at a later date, but nothing that needs answering right this minute.” We make it back to the ground floor and I walk up to the bartender. “Usual please Dan; anything for you Master Cole?” “Scotch. Neat.” He leans his hip into the bar and peruses the floor. “This is your social area?” I lean my back against the bar. “It is. This is the main bar and we have one out in the back, leading to a private garden. In the far corner over there we have a small stage set up for Dom’s who want their subs to perform for them

and others.” “Here you go Ms Blake.” Dan slides us our drinks. I pick up my brandy, taking a large sip and look over to Alex who’s holding his glass out to me. “Sorry, cheers.” I clink my glass with his and drink the rest. Alex takes a sip of his scotch, “Shouldn’t you be taking it easy? Aren’t you on duty?” “Not really. It was supposed to be my night off, but I had to come in and escort some new Dom around.” I stare at him pointedly. “Think I deserve a drink don’t you?” He tosses back his scotch and places his glass back on the bar. “By all means, let’s continue. I wouldn’t want to keep you longer than necessary.” “Follow me.” I head to a corner of the room and down a stone staircase lit by electric candles, to the basement. I love the cool stone of the walls and it gives off a dangerous dungeon vibe. I stop as we enter an open room, which is lit

by wall lights on low. “It’s a little dark down here, so let your eyes adjust.” “I’m fine.” He replies, walking past me to look around. “Welcome to our dungeon. As you can see this area is open to observe play, but down there,” I point to a hallway in the corner, “are private rooms.” “This is incredible. I’ve seen some dungeons in my time, but this is one of the better ones. The stone walls make it really cool down here and add to the overall effect. This must really help people get in the right frame of mind.” I love that he sounds impressed and I feel a sense of pride for my club. “Come on, let’s go upstairs and we can talk more privately.” We finally end up at my office, he ushers me in and locks the door behind us. I swivel to face him. “You’re a Dom?” “I am. And you’re a Mistress.” I approach him slowly and even in my six inch heels he’s

taller. His hair is darker than Jack’s, making his blue eyes pop and he has a similar build. “Does Jack know?” I ask. “Not about you, clearly.” He replies. “He knows about you?” I’m still in shock; I can’t believe Alex is a Dom. “Yes, he knows.” I let out a breath and move over to the one-way window overlooking the first floor. “Ella.” I can tell from the direction of his voice that he’s moved to the sofa. I face him and lean against the glass. “How long?” He asks. “Three years.” I reply. “Nearly four if you count my training.” He looks a little surprised and shakes his head “I don’t believe it. Little Ella Blake, a Mistress.” I walk over to him and stick my heel between his thighs aggressively. “You will refer to me as Eleanor or Miss Blake in the future. I’m a Mistress, this is my club and I deserve respect.”

His eyes lock with mine and we size each other up. He still has an amused look on his face, but he holds his hands up in a sign of surrender. “As you wish Miss Blake.” I remove my foot and sit next to him. “I never thought it’d be you walking through those doors tonight.” We look at each other and suddenly burst out laughing. It helped to dispel some of the tension that had been mounting since his arrival. “So,” I say once I’ve caught my breath. “What do you think of Velvet?” “I think it’s outstanding, but there’s always room for improvement.” He replies. I’d been thinking the same recently and looked forward to hearing his views. “Look...” I pause searching for the right words, but again he fills in the blanks. “I won’t tell Jack.” “Thank you.”

“Is that why you ran away from him today?” “Yes. We were catching up and having a nice chat when I got a text from Izzy asking me to come in and I freaked out about him finding out I’m a dominatrix; seems silly now.” “Not silly. Being a Mistress is a way of life and you have to be with someone who understands and accepts that.” “Still I shouldn’t have run. It’s just, seeing Jack brought back so many memories.” “Of course it would. You loved each other. There are a lot of memories for us all from back then.” I face Alex to find him deep in thought, our eyes meet and we share a smile. “I’m not going to tell him Alex. Not yet, at least. Who knows how often I’ll even see him.” “That’s your choice. I think we’re all in new territory here and we’ll have to feel our way. Your secret is safe with me.” Alex stands, offering a hand to help me up. He gives me a brief hug and walks to the door.

“Master Cole? Welcome to Velvet. It’s always nice to have fresh blood.” He flashes a dark smile and leaves my office. I take a moment to process what just happened and straighten myself up in the mirror. The rest of the evening runs smoothly and all the subs are excited about Alex. He moves about the club observing scenes and talking to various people. After an emotional day, I decide to leave early. Its midnight, but the club will be in full swing till at least 3am. On my way out, I spot Izzy at the bar. “Hey. I’m going to head on home okay?” “Yeah no problem, thanks for coming in tonight. Who’d have thought you’d know him.” She says, nodding toward Alex. “So that’s two old friends you’ve run into today. Funny how they look similar; some might even say they look related. Wouldn’t you?” “Yes Sherlock. Some might say they look related. That

might be because they’re brothers.” I admit. “I knew it! So one brother’s a Dom and one isn’t. Interesting. Does Jack know about Alex?” “Yes he does actually. He doesn’t know about me though and Alex has promised not to tell him either.” “Okay. Do you think that’s a good idea?” “For now it is. I’m not planning on getting involved with him anytime soon. I don’t even know if he has a girlfriend.” She snorts. “He doesn’t have a girlfriend.” “How can you possibly know that?” “Because he wanted to eat you up earlier; I was only there for a couple of minutes, but all that man wanted to do was strip you naked and devour you. I could see it in his eyes.” I prop my hand on my hips. “Well even if he did, that does not mean he doesn’t have someone or that anything’s going to happen between us.” I say with conviction.

She shakes her head. “Uh huh... keep telling yourself that and maybe you’ll believe it.” She kisses me on the cheek and goes to her office; I turn to leave, when Alex shouts. “Eleanor” I find him saying a few goodbyes and walking toward me. “Can I offer you a lift home?” He asks. I frown, “Are you sure you want to leave?” I know the subs will be disappointed. “Yes, it’s fine.” I bid goodnight to the bouncers. It’s a short walk to Alex’s car and I’m surprised when we reach it. It’s a Noble M600 in black. I know that these go for at least two hundred thousand pounds. My eyes widen. “Wow you must be one hell of an artist!” I comment. He chuckles as we slide into the low, sexy car. “I’ve been fairly successful in the states and I hope to be as popular here, but it’s also my work in the community that helps pay

for my lifestyle.” I give him my address and he starts the engine, letting it purr. He takes the long way round, obviously wanting to show off what it can do. He parks near my apartment and even though I protest he walks me to my door. “Would you like a drink?” It’s nearly 1am and I assume Lottie will be in bed by now. “Yes, please.” I open the door and listen for a minute. All appears to be quiet. “Brandy, Vodka, coffee?” I ask, making my way to the kitchen, dropping my bag on the counter. “Coffee, please.” He sits down at the breakfast bar and I make us a drink. We talk for a while about his artwork and life as a Dom. Just as he begins telling me about a painting he’s working on, I hear a commotion at the door. Lottie stumbles in drunk, but Alex moves quickly, gripping her arms to stop her from falling over. As she looks in his eyes, I can almost see sparks flying.

“Al... Alex?” She slurs. He’s about to respond when she bends over and throws up. Alex quickly jumps to her side and holds her hair out of the line of fire. I grab a bowl and rub her back as she brings up the rest of what looks like pure alcohol. I glance at Alex and can see both concern and anger in his eyes. Lottie finally stops being sick and before I can say anything he picks her up in his arms. “Which way to her room?” He asks. I point to her door and I watch him effortlessly carry her. I follow him and help put her to bed, watching him as he gently brushes her hair from her face. He mutters something, but I don’t hear him. I stand in front of the mess Lottie left behind. “So much for an early night.” “Want some help to clean up?” He asks. “No it’s fine. I can sort this out.” I show Alex to the door and he pauses as he glances toward her bedroom. He looks like he wants to say something, but changes his mind

and leaves silently. Sighing, I turn my attention to cleaning up Lottie’s mess. It isn’t long before thoughts of Lottie’s behaviour and what could’ve happened to her invade my mind. A shudder racks my body, as I stand up and toss the soiled towels in the bin. Deciding to check on her once more before going to bed, I tiptoe into her room. She’s sleeping soundly and I sit and watch her for a few minutes. It’s something I haven’t done since our parents died. I used to sit for hours and watch Lottie sleep, as she’d frequently have nightmares and I wanted to be close by in case she needed me. Satisfied she was out for the count, I head to bed. The events of the day had exhausted me and I fell into a deep sleep.

Chapter 3 Ella Saturday morning arrives and I’m up as usual, at 7am, regardless of the little sleep I’ve had, I make a cup of tea and relax on the sofa wrapping myself in a warm blanket. I’m checking my work emails and quietly listening to Sarah McLachlan, when I see an email from Alex. Date: 8th March 2014 03:17 Subject: Home Improvements Ella How’s Lottie? Hope you grounded her for pulling that shit tonight, or at least revoked her drinking privileges. Thanks for the tour of the club. Although I could never have foreseen you being there, I’m glad you were. I’d also like to discuss some possible improvements with both you and Izzy. Please let me know when’s suitable for you and I’ll check my schedule.

See you later Alex

I re-read his email. He must think Lottie’s still fifteen years old! I can’t remember the last time I heard the word grounded. Being a Dom he’ll have a control streak a mile wide though. I’m curious about his ideas for the club and hit reply. Date: 8th March 2014 07:41 Subject: Re: Home Improvements Alex, Lottie’s still asleep, but as soon as she gets up we’ll be having a little talk. I look forward to hearing about your improvement ideas. Izzy and I meet every Wednesday at 2pm before the club opens to discuss business. You’re more than welcome to join us. Please let me know if this suits you Ella

I make myself another cup of tea when my phone alerts

me to a text message. I see a Whatsapp message from an unknown number. You’re up early. You should be doing more than having a little talk with her. I’ll be at the club this Weds for the meeting. AC

It’s Alex. How the hell did he get my number? Always up early! Leave Lottie to me. I know how to handle her. How’d you get my number? E

Why’s he so hell bent on punishing Lottie. It doesn’t take long for a message to come in. Fine. Izzy kindly obliged. See you later. AC

I hear a door, followed by footsteps and look up from my phone to see my sister plonk herself down next to me and pinch most of my blanket. “Morning; want a cup of tea?” I hear a grunt and take that as a yes, so make us both a drink. “How’re you feeling?” She rubs her forehead. “Did I throw up on your date?” She asks.

“No. You almost threw up on Alex! Don’t you remember?” She buries her face in her hands. “Oh my God, how embarrassing. Wait, what was he doing here? Are you brother hopping?” I stare at her with a bemused look on my face until I realise she’s being deadly serious. “No, of course not!” I raise my voice and she winces. “What’s he doing in London?” Thank God she hasn’t asked me how I met up with him last night. I finish replying to an email before I respond. It gives me enough time to think up something that I know will keep her mind occupied. “He and Jack have moved here and opened a photography/art studio.” Her jaw nearly hits the ground. “Jack’s here too? Have you seen him?” Her eyes bore into mine and she’s almost on the edge of her seat.

I knew Jack would side-track her. “Yes, I saw him yesterday afternoon.” “Oh. My. God! Why didn’t you tell me? How is he? Is he single? Is he still gorgeous?” I hold my hands up in surrender. “Whoa!” She sits crosslegged and focuses all her attention on me. “Okay, one, I forgot to tell you,” I didn’t, but couldn’t face telling her, “Two, he’s fine. Three, I’ve no idea if he’s single.” The thought that he might not be is like a knife in my heart. “And four, he’s all grown up now, but he’s still Jack at the same time.” “That means he’s gorgeous!” She winks. I take a sip of my tea thinking he’s more than gorgeous. He’s super, freaking hot! Just being across from him had made me wetter than I’d been in a good long while. Lottie smacks her hand to her forehead. “Oh, my god I threw up in front of Alex! Major turn off.” I’d forgotten Lottie had a crush on him when we were younger.

“Don’t go getting any ideas about Alex!” I say in a stern voice. “Why not?” She asks. “He’s too old for you!” I reply. She snorts. “I’ve dated older.” I whip my head to her and she’s staring at me wide-eyed with her hand across her mouth. “What?” I ask. “Nothing.” She jumps up off the couch and makes a mad dash for her room. I’m about to go after her when my phone rings. “Saved by the bell!” I shout to her halfway through answering. “Hello? Ella? You okay?” It’s Alex. “You just gave Lottie a temporary get out of jail free card!” I say crossly. “Ah, are you disciplining her for her behaviour?” He asks.

I’m not in the mood for him after Lottie’s omission. “What do you want, Alexander?” After the email, the text and now the phone call. I’m almost on stalker alert. “I just have a few questions about the club and protocol, but if you’d prefer I can talk to Isobel?” I sigh. “No, its fine, how can I help?” We discuss the ins and outs of how the club operates and I grudgingly agree to let him pick me up tonight to take me to the club. Lottie is still AWOL and I leave her to stew. I need to talk to her about her behaviour. There’s no need to go overboard like I know Alex would like to, but she needs to be more aware of her drinking limits. I’d hate to think about her going through something like I did all because she drank too much and made herself vulnerable. I decide to go back to bed for a mid-morning nap to catch up on lost sleep. I feel rested when I wake a couple of hours later to the smell of something cooking. I grab my robe and head to the

kitchen to see Lottie making pancakes. She eyes me cautiously as I sit at the breakfast bar and she pushes a glass of orange juice toward me. “Thanks.” I take a sip, as she hands me a plate with two rolled up pancakes sprinkled with sugar. Just the way I like them. She smiles apologetically at me, but she’s not getting out of this one easily. “You know, it’s going to take more than pancakes.” I tell her, as I shove a slice in my mouth. Mmm, just like mum used to make. “I’m sorry.” She replies sheepishly. “Do you have any idea how drunk you were last night?” She starts to open her mouth to respond and I hold my hand up halting her in her tracks. “Not only did you throw up on my floor, embarrass yourself in front of Alex, and wake up this morning feeling like crap, but anything could’ve happened to you!” My voice has started to rise and she hangs her head low. “Lottie, you could’ve been hurt or

worse-” the last word catches in my throat and she looks up at me to see a tear slide down my cheek. She comes round and pulls me into a tight hug and I fight back my emotions. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to let myself get that out of control, but one drink lead to another and-” I pull back to look at her, cupping her face in my hands. “If anything ever happened to you-you’re all I’ve got. I can’t lose you” “I know Ella. I’m so sorry. I promise to not let myself get into that state again.” I look her in the eyes. They are hazel just like mine and are rimmed with unshed tears. Our eyes are where our similarities end though. Lottie’s the spitting image of our mum from her facial features and dark brown hair, to her build and even her voice. While some people may find it hard to be around someone that reminds you of such a hard loss in your life, I couldn’t imagine not seeing her every day. It makes me feel like mum’s still here. I kiss

her on the forehead and she wipes it away in a silly gesture like she used to do when we were little. “Yuck, I’m not a baby anymore Ella.” I chuckle and go back to eating my pancakes. After lunch I take a hot bath and relax. I’m wrapped in my silk robe, painting my toe nails when there’s a knock at the door. Hobbling to the door on my heels, so as not to smear my fresh polish, I peer through the eye finder and gasp; “Jack.” I can’t see him looking like this. I’m not dressed and my hair’s piled messily on top of my head. I’m about to walk away, when I hear him speak up.

Jack Alex peers over my shoulder. “Who’re you looking for?” “Ella. I’m guessing she still lives locally. I need to see her.” I‘m using 192.com to find Ella’s address, providing she’s registered to vote. I hit search and wait for the results. “Are you sure that’s a good idea? What happened to inviting her to the opening, and seeing if she shows up?” He walks to the kitchen and flicks the kettle on. “Maybe you should give her some space.” “She’s had ten years of space. I should’ve contacted her before now.” I reply forcefully. “I’ve regretted not keeping in contact with her and I’m not going to go another day without talking to her.” I stare at his back, my fists clenched. “Well just go careful brother. It’s been a long time and she may not be the same girl you remember.” I eye him suspiciously, but his face remains stoic.

“What aren’t you telling me?” I ask. He faces me, crossing his arms across his chest. “Nothing, but people change. Are you still the same person you were when you were seventeen?” He challenges. I push my hand through my hair. “Of course I’m not, but I can’t believe she could’ve changed that much. She seemed like the same Ella to me yesterday.” I reason. “Okay, but I’m just looking out for you, both of you really. I know we had no control over moving away, but it broke both of you back then.” “Well thank you for your concern, but we’re both adults now and can take care of ourselves. I know it hurt like hell to leave Ella, but things are different now. Just being with her for a brief moment yesterday made me realise I’ve never gotten over her.” He joins me at the dining room table with a cup of coffee. “How was the club last night?” I ask changing the subject. I try to stay out of his affairs when it comes to

him being a Dom. It’s not that I disapprove or anything, I just like my women to have a bit of fight in them. I love women who own who they are and are confident about what they want. “The club was interesting. It needs a little work, but the foundations are solid. I met up with a few Dominants that I’ve been conversing with. It was nice to finally meet them face to face...” As Alex is talking, I notice my search has finished and I’m now looking at Ella’s address. I can’t believe she lives so close. I can be at her apartment in the next ten minutes. I barely hear what Alex is saying. “... Jack? Jack, are you listening to me?” “Yeah, sorry.” I cast him an apologetic look. “You found her?” He asks. “Yeah and she lives closer than I thought, opposite Richmond Green.” I’m already putting my shoes on and grabbing my coat. The decision already made to go and

see her before I realised what I was doing. “Go. I hope I don’t have to say I told you so though.” I glance back at him before I leave, his face is still blank. Shrugging off his curious attitude, I quickly headed out the door. I walk to Ella’s place, my pace quicker than usual, taking the short cut through the park and find myself outside her building staring stupidly at the intercom. I really don’t want to buzz her, but how else am I going to get inside. Lingering for a bit, I finally make the decision to stop being a pussy and push the button for her apartment, when someone comes out. He kindly holds the door open for me and I quickly enter, flying up the stairs two at a time. Feeling hesitant, I knock on her door and push Alex’s concerns to the back of my mind. I see a shadow move in the crack under her door, so I know she’s in there. She must’ve looked through the view hole and seen it was me though.

Okay, maybe Alex was right and she needs space, as she clearly doesn’t want to see me. I give her a few more seconds and then make the decision for her, “Ella? I can see your shadow under the door.” The door unlocks and my jaw almost hits the floor, as she opens it. “Hey, Jack.” She fidgets and pulls her robe tighter. I clear my throat and try to get my raging hormones under control, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt.” We linger in the doorway awkwardly, until she holds it open further in silent invitation. As I walk in, I take in the details of her apartment. I don’t know how I know, but it so fits Ella. From the projector I see for movies, to the way she’s decorated it with warm honey tones. It gives the room a welcoming homey feeling. Family photos are spread out around the room and I’m surprised to see the one of us both under the oak tree at school. It reaffirms to me that she hasn’t

changed all that much over the years. She gestures for us to go sit in the living room and we sit at opposite ends of the sofa. Turning to face her, the sight of her takes my breath away. “You okay?” I ask. She frowns at my question, “I’m fine. Why?” “You ran out on me so fast yesterday.” She looks down at her hands fiddling in her lap. She looks so nervous and all I want to do is reach out and touch her. “I'm sorry Jack. Seeing you again, it just brought up a lot of feelings and memories and I... I panicked I guess.” I’m sure that’s not the reason she took off and I’m a little hurt that she can’t confide in me. I guess I can’t expect her to though, so I go along with it for now. I get up and sit on the coffee table opposite her, needing to close the distance between us. “I'm sorry. I wanted our first meeting to be anything but awkward, but I guess it was inevitable really.” I rest my elbows on my thighs and look down at the floor. My

hands are so close to touching her that I have to look away to control myself. She tucks her legs up on the sofa, but in doing so her robe slides open exposing her thigh. My eyes drift to the expanse of skin and I swallow hard, as I reach out to pull her robe over her leg, my knuckles graze her skin. A static shock catches me off guard and crackles in the silence of the room. I’d heard of the old cliché of people feeling a touch of electric from someone else, but this is a shock so strong it makes the hairs on my arms all stand to attention. My hand lingers on her skin and her eyes meet mine. My fingers slowly caress her softly. Withdrawing my hand, I watch as her eyes close briefly. The moment is spoiled when the front door’s thrown open and Lottie comes in. “Jack?” She shouts excitedly. She lets out a squeal and launches herself in my direction. I barely had time to stand to greet her before she was throwing her arms around me.

Giving her a big cuddle, I pulled back to look at her. “Hey, kid.” She frowns and pulls away from me, hitting me in the chest. “I'm not a kid anymore Jack!” She retorted narrowing her eyes at me. “Ouch” I joke, rubbing the spot she hit. Ella stands up and walks toward what I assume is her bedroom. “I’m just going to get dressed.” She shouts back over her shoulder. All I want to do is follow her. Slide her robe off her shoulders and watch it pool at her feet, leaving her naked and vulnerable. I’d start by kissing her fiercely, making her lips swell from my roughness, let my hands glide down her back and cup her ass, pulling her against my hard cock. I would push her down onto her bed and then... “Jack… hello?” I blink and look down to find Lottie, who’s watching me, her eyebrow cocked, hands resting on her hips and a knowing look on her face.

“Sorry, what did you say?” Taking a seat in one of the arm chairs, I begin to drum my fingers on the arm rest impatiently. “I was asking you what you’ve been up to, but now I want to know what your intentions are regarding my sister.” She’s looking at me with a deadly serious expression. “You playing the role of protector? I think your sister can take care of herself.” I say jokingly. “Oh I know she can. I just don’t want her heart to be ripped out again. Are you staying in the UK permanently?” How could she see through me in just five minutes? If she knew I still had feelings for her, then surely Ella would see that as well. “Yes I’m back for good. Mum still lives across the pond, so I’ll obviously visit her, but England is and always will be my home.” She eyes me suspiciously. “Okay, but I’ll be watching you.” She points at her chest,

then her eyes and finally points at me, before heading off to her room. It makes me chuckle and I’m glad she’s as protective as she is. Maybe she’s managed to warn off idiots in the past. Ella returns and I gulp at the sight of her. She’s wearing the tightest pair of jeans I’ve ever seen and an off the shoulder top that although baggy doesn’t hide her figure. I can tell she’s not wearing a bra and I inwardly groan. I make my way to the kitchen where she’s making a pot of tea. “Want a cup?” She asks. “No thank you.” I sit down at the breakfast bar and watch as she moves about her kitchen. God, even watching her complete a simple chore is arousing. She sits down next to me and my eyes drift to her bare shoulder. Her skin’s tanned and I can imagine how smooth it would feel. I close my eyes and take a deep breath; I came here for a reason. “Listen, I'm sorry I didn’t stay in touch.” I stare at her for a

long moment, hoping she can see that I regret it every single day, but she quickly averts her eyes. “Look, Jack let’s not do this. The past is exactly that and we should just concentrate on the fact that we’re here now.” She looks up at me as she continues. “We should start over and be friends.” I’m a little taken back by her decision. I would rather talk it out, but if she doesn’t want to, I won’t force her. “Okay, as long as you're okay?” I ask giving her one more chance to be honest with me. “I'm fine. Honestly.” She tries to say it with conviction, but I can see right through her; always could, but now isn’t the time to pressure her. I will be the friend she needs me to be and maybe one day she’ll let me in on her real feelings. “Okay then. What’re you up to tonight? Want to grab a bite to eat?” I ask. Standing up and running my hand through my hair, I see her looking at me and grin. I watch

her for a few seconds, until she realises I’ve seen her ogling me. Caught you I think to myself. Seems I’m not the only one who’s feeling the heat between us. She looks away and takes her cup to the sink. “I'm sorry I have to work tonight.” She looks at her watch and I take the hint that she wants me to leave. I pause on the threshold and as she stands close to me I can’t help myself. My hand reaches out to touch her bare shoulder. Her skin is so smooth and her chest is rising and falling faster, like my touch has ignited something. Her nipples betray her, as they harden and I find myself licking my lips with the thought of sucking them into my mouth. “I’m here if you ever want to talk.” My hand slides up to the nape of her neck and I feel her shiver. Her breath catches, as I lean in to place a lingering kiss on her cheek. As I pull back she places a friendly smile on her face and I head down the stairs and silently wave before

disappearing.

Chapter 4 Ella I sigh loudly as I close the door; turning to find Lottie standing directly in front of me. My hand flies to my chest, “Christ, Lottie!” “Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.” I walk past her and head to my room. “So what’s going on with you two?” Her question is muffled as I close my door in her face. “Ella, talk to me.” She shouts. “I've not got time now Lottie. I have to get ready for work.” I sit at my dresser and stare at my reflection. “Okay but you’re not getting away that easily. Are you coming home tonight?” She asks. “Not sure. I will text you to let you know.” I hear her go back to her room and let out a sigh of relief. I can’t face my own thoughts about Jack at the moment, let alone someone

else asking me about it all. I’ve just slipped on my shoes when my phone alerts me to a text from Alex. Outside

I grab my coat and head down. He’s driving a different car tonight, a Mercedes SLK 500. I open the door and slide into the leather seat. It moulds to my form and is exquisite to touch. “Nice car.” “Only the best.” He replies cockily. We get to the club before I have chance to fully appreciate the vehicle and I leave Alex to socialise, while I head to my office to change. He will be fine on his own for a few hours and I needed a break to settle myself. Later on in the evening, I search him out. It didn’t take me long to find him watching a scene unfold between a Domme and a sub. Deciding to join him, I silently watch Amber tie her sub to a large cross; as she tightens the

restraints she whispers something in his ear and I see him mouth, “Yes Mistress.” She runs her hands slowly down the length of his body spanking his ass gently, before she heads to the toy chest and pulls out a flogger. She trails the handle of the flogger down his spine and talks to her sub. “Beg me.” She commands. “Please Mistress.” She raises her right arm and hits him; he groans throwing his head back. She continues to wield the instrument with the precision and confidence you’d expect from a master of her trade. I’m so fixated on the scene playing out in front of me that when a hand encircles my arm I jump a mile and shout, “Get off me!” Alex lets go immediately and holds his hands up in surrender. “Ella it's me.” I stare at him as my brain catches up and take a few deep breaths. I take a step back. “Alex?”

“Yes, it’s me. You okay?” Looking around everyone’s eyes are on us. I run to my office as fast as I can, swinging the door shut behind me, but it hits Alex's foot as he barges in after me. I pour myself a stiff drink and shoot it down. “Ella?” He approaches me as if I'm a caged lion about to attack. “What the hell happened back there?” “Nothing, I'm fine.” I reply coldly, but he doesn’t buy it. My chest is heaving and my hand shakes as I set the glass down. “What the hell? That was not nothing, you lost it when I grabbed you. Why?” I move to look out my office window, closing my eyes as memories take me back to seven years ago. I’m tied to a bed, our bed. The one I’d shared with the man I loved. The man who I thought loved me. Eric. The man who spent three days raping me. The memories are still so vivid and I can smell his cologne; feel the tight rope around my wrists.

“Ella?” Alex's voice breaks me from my thoughts. I slowly open my eyes and face him. He looks down and my eyes follow as they land on my hand rubbing my wrist. I drop my hands to my sides immediately and look away. “I... I had an abusive ex.” “How abusive?” His voice is strained from trying to remain calm. “Alex, don't.” “How abusive damn it?” He demands. I take a deep breath and look anywhere but at him. “He used to hit me toward the end.” I wrap my arms around myself. “When I threatened to leave, he tied me up and... raped me.” I watch as he paces the office before slamming his fist into the door, making me jump. He walks back toward me, “Sorry. I didn't mean to scare you.”

I reach for him and hold his hand. “It's okay. I'm fine, it’s just sometimes things trigger certain memories and I panic.” “Is this why you're a Mistress?” “Yes. When I met Izzy I was struggling. I’d had no one in my life for three years and was pretty much a hermit. She took me under her wing and showed me a way to take back control.” “Where’s your ex now?” “He’s in jail.” I reply. He lets out an angry growl. “I'm so sorry Ella.” “It’s okay. I really am fine. Therapy got me through the worst of it and when the memories do take over, my friends and family are there for me.” He looks in my eyes and can see I’m telling the truth. “Look, let’s get back out there and soak up the atmosphere.” I try to walk past him, but he doesn’t let go of my hand.

“Ella I’m here if you ever need to talk okay?” He sounds serious, but I chuckle at his comment. “What’s so amusing?” He asks sounding hurt. “It’s just your brother said the same thing to me earlier.” He let’s go of my hand and I look into eyes that remind me so much of Jack. “I know you’re here for me and I appreciate it, but I’m okay. Please don’t say anything to Jack though okay? Promise me?” He shakes his head and I think he’s not going to agree. “Okay, but only because I think it should come from you.” I nod, but I don’t have any plans to tell him if I can help it. I don’t ever want Jack to know how broken I am. I don’t want to see pity in his eyes. I head out to the scenes taking place on the first floor, to make sure everything is going smoothly. As I wander through the club monitoring play and talking with patrons, I feel my panic attack subside. It’s been a long time since I’ve had one and I hope I don’t have another one

anytime soon. By the time I get home its 4:30am. Opening my door, I notice something flutter to the ground. Curious I bend down and retrieve a note from the floor. Ella I hope work was okay and not too stressful. I would like to take you out to dinner one night. Just as friends of course. Please say yes? God I feel like I'm 17 again. I promise it will be better than McDonalds this time. Here’s my number so you can text me Jack x

His note makes me smile like I’m a teenager again. Leaving it on the counter, I stifle a yawn and head to bed.

Jack I feel a pillow hit my head, “Rise and shine sleepy head.” Alex says. I stretch out under my duvet, wanting the world to go away for a few more minutes. “Come on, up. We’ve got to get to the studio.” I open my eyes and look at my phone, 7am on a Sunday; he’s got to be kidding. I throw on my sweats and find him sitting out on the roof terrace, a fresh cup of coffee waiting for me. I sit down and put my shades on, tugging my baseball cap down as far as I can to help block out the early morning sunshine. “You got a hangover?” I look over at him. “I went out with my old buddy Nate last night and we may’ve had a few. What’d you do last night?” I wonder if he’ll be honest with me. “I went to Velvet. I’m sure you don’t want to know the details.” He winks, but I don’t find it amusing. I saw him pick

Ella up from her apartment last night, but I can’t understand why he’d lie about it. I stand up from the table, “I’ll grab a shower and then I’ll be ready.” We work at the studio till well into the afternoon, barely speaking to each other. It angers me that he doesn’t notice that I’m giving him the silent treatment. What was going on with him and Ella? Why would she lie and say she had to leave for work, basically kicking me out? And what the fuck was wrong with Alex, that he was keeping it all from me? Frustrated, I blew out a breath. “I’ve had enough.” Alex looks up at me and pushes his glasses up onto his head. He looks around at the progress we’ve made. “Okay. I’m going to stay for a bit longer; just want to get this last box unpacked.” I nod and leave, heading to the coffee shop for a well-earned break. Walking past the window I noticed a familiar face. “Déjà vu,” She slowly lifts her gaze to meet mine and

smiles at me. ”May I join you?” She gestures for me to sit, putting a book she’d been reading away. As I order a drink, I feel Ella’s eyes on me and I turn to face her, bumping her knee with mine. We’re so close I could slide my hand up her skirt and along her inner thigh. Press my fingertips against her panties. My hands are itching to know if I can still make her wet with a simple touch. “So what’ve you been up to today?” I ask, adjusting myself under the table. If she catches me, she doesn’t mention it. I should be asking her about last night and being as pissed at her as I am Alex, but my traitorous cock wants what it wants and right now it wants to sink balls deep inside her. She leans back in her chair creating a little distance from me, but it pushes her leg closer, so that it’s between mine. “Not much, you?” “I’ve been at the studio; Alex is a slave driver. We’ve got the opening planned for next Friday and there’s a lot to get

done.” I brush my leg against hers a couple of times and as I continue to talk she gets this heated look in her eyes, as her focus drifts to my lips and down my chest to my hands. She bites on her bottom lip and it’s all I can do to not reach out and free it with my thumb. “Ella?” I look at her expectantly. Her cheeks flush and she looks away, “I'm sorry what did you say?” “I asked if you wanted to come to the opening on Friday.” She fidgets in her seat a little and I’m certain if I checked now her panties would bear the mark of her arousal. “Yeah, sure, that’d be nice. Can I bring Lottie?” “The more the merrier.” I glance down at her lips and smirk. “What?” “You’ve got hot chocolate on the corner of your mouth.” I reach up to wipe it away with the pad of my thumb and suck

it into my mouth. My eyes meet hers and she’s looking at me like she’s about to combust. “Well I can’t sit around here all day.” She stands to leave. I follow suit and help her with her coat. “Let me walk you home?” “Yeah, okay. What about your drink though?” Nice try, I think to myself. I head to the counter and smile at the pretty blonde barista. “Can I get this to go please?” I wink at her and within seconds I’m ready to go. Halfway to her apartment the heavens open, drenching us! We rush into the foyer of her building looking like drowned rats. “Bloody rain.” She curses shaking out her wet hair. She looks at the puddle I’ve started to make. “Come upstairs. I can dry your clothes while you wait out the storm.” I look outside. “It doesn’t look like it’s going to end

anytime soon.” I mutter. She looks a little confused by my distance, but doesn’t say anything. She just turns and walks upstairs, leaving me to follow. As we enter her apartment, it’s quiet. A clear indicator that Lottie isn’t in. “The main bathroom’s just down the hall, second door on the left. There are towels on the shelf and a robe on the back of the door you can use.” Without a word I head down the hall. Once inside, I lock the door and lean against it with a sigh. I hear another door close and I assume she’s also having a shower, which makes my dick hard just thinking about her being so close and completely naked. I reach for the shower and put it on cold. “Jesus Christ.” I mutter, as the freezing cold water hits my body, deflating my swollen member. I throw on the robe and find her standing near the stereo with her back to me and I sneak up behind her. She turns and bumps straight into me. “Jack! Christ, you

scared me.” I chuckle, “I did always like making you jump.” Suddenly she realises her hands are on my chest and drops them to her sides. “Adele?” “Yes. I love listening to her live performances.” I reach to push a lock of her hair behind her ear, but she moves away to the kitchen. “Do you want a cup of tea?” She asks, bending over to place my clothes in the dryer. I have a perfect view of her ass and have to sit down on the couch to hide my arousal. Not an easy thing to do in a robe when you’re only wearing boxers. “Got anything stronger?” “Brandy or whiskey?” “Whiskey please.” She pours us each a drink and sits down next to me. “Mm that’s good. When did you get so good at picking spirits?” I watch as she tilts her head back

and takes a sip. “And drinking them?” Resting my arm along the back of the sofa, I stretch out toward her. Damn if I were a little closer I could caress her shoulder. “Oh I see, because I'm a woman I should be drinking what? White wine? Fruity mixers?” “No I just... That’s not it… I...” I stutter. “You’re twisting my words.” “Come on then. What is it?” She asks her face blank. “It’s just a new side to you I didn’t know about. It intrigues me. I want to get to know you better Ella. Discover what I’ve missed out on all these years; find out what makes you tick.” The corner of her mouth lifts and soon she’s laughing at me. “You little sod.” I throw a cushion at her. “I'm sorry, I couldn’t help myself. You’re just so easy to wind up.” She’s still laughing and I can’t help it. I place our drinks on the table and start to tickle her. “Jack, no.” She shouts, “Stop it, please.” I release my grip on her ribs and

she wipes her hair out of her eyes. I could lean forward and kiss her so easily. Clearing my throat, I move away from her, collecting my drink and devouring the rest of it. “Izzy’s the one who got me into brandy. I just tried other drinks, finding my way through a mine field of good ones and some god awful ones.” I look back at her as she finishes her drink and then hugs her knees to her chest. I reach out and grab her feet, placing them in my lap. “What’re you doing?” I start to rub her feet, but she tries to pull them away. “Jack you don't...” Holding her foot tightly, I run my thumb roughly up her instep halting any further protests. She closes her eyes and leans back against the arm rest. When I swap to the other foot and rub it hard, a groan escapes her lips. My cock jumps to attention and I know she must be able to feel it with her foot still resting in my lap. I fidget awkwardly, but all that does is rub her foot

against my growing erection. I see that she has her eyes closed and must be politely ignoring the fact that her foot is causing all sorts of mischief. “You know it’s rude to fall asleep when you have guests over right?” She opens one eye, now that I’ve stopped and sits upright tucking her feet under her. We’re sitting even closer now and she glances at my lips. God she’s killing me with the intensity in her eyes, but I look away pretending to peruse the apartment. “You have a nice place.” She’s silent and I look back at her, swallowing hard as she reaches out to place her hand on my chest. My heart races as her hand rises to my cheek and traces the scar above my eye. I close my eyes briefly and whisper her name, “Ella.” A phone ringing breaks the spell, as she immediately jerks her hand away. Muttering under her breath, she snatches it up to answer. “Hello? Lottie? What's the matter? Where are you? Okay, sit tight I'm on my way.” She hangs up and quickly fills

me in. “Lottie’s broken down and I need to go rescue her. You can stay here while I'm gone. I shouldn't be long.” “Well it would be a bit difficult to come with you in this robe.” I gesture to the blue fluffy gown I’m wearing and she laughs. The sound is like music to my ears, it’s filled with such joy. “Yeah I guess so. Think Lottie would sure have something to say about it as well.” She goes to get dressed, coming out a few minutes later. “I'll see you in a bit okay? Your clothes shouldn't be too much longer.” We stare at each other awkwardly. “Be careful.” I say, as she closes the door. I’m not thrilled that she’s gone on her own, but left with no choice, I have to let her. Shortly after she leaves I hear the ping of the tumble dryer, signalling that my clothes are done. As I get dressed I see a pad and pen on the kitchen side and jot down a message.

Chapter 5 Ella When I reach Lottie, I’m surprised that she’s not alone. Alex's car is parked behind her Mini and I find him with his head under the hood. “Hey.” He looks up and bangs his head. I smother a laugh with my hand, but it doesn’t work. “God damn it that's the second time I've done that. You need a grown up car Lottie.” He says gruffly. “Never.” She replies rebelliously and he growls at her. “I’ve had her since I passed my test and no amount of persuasion has ever made me part with it, so don’t even bother trying.” He carries on poking and prodding it, but finally gives up slamming the hood down. “I give up!” He shouts angrily. Giggling I intervene. “It’s okay, I brought my tow rope. I can drag it back home where she can get it fixed.” Alex follows us back to the

apartment and parks in a visitor’s space. “Want to come up for a drink?” I ask. “Yeah why not?” All’s quiet when we enter the apartment and Jack’s nowhere to be seen. I see a note on the table. Thanks for the dry clothes. Anytime you need a foot rub let me know. See you on Friday Jack x'

I feel Alex behind me, “Jack was here?” I screw the note up and throw it in the bin. “Was, being the operative word.” Lottie’s making a drink, but I’m suddenly feeling physically and emotionally tired. “Listen I'm going to hit the sack. I've had enough for one day.” “Thanks for rescuing me sis.” She hugs me tightly. When she pulls back, I look at her sternly and whisper. “Behave.” “Yes miss.” She childishly salutes me and I shake my head at her.

I wave at Alex who has a concerned look on his face and head to my room. Opening my bedroom door I find another note he must’ve slipped under my door. Ella - sorry for leaving without saying good bye, I thought it best. I want to be the friend you want me to be. I hope you still come on Friday x'

I sit down on my bed and tears start to fall. I'm not sure why I'm crying. I miss Jack, but I hardly know him now. Maybe I miss the person I used to be before he left; the person I was before Eric. I’ve always felt broken, damaged and unwanted since I was raped. Eric stole something from me during those three days, something I’d worked hard to get back. In doing so, I’d changed. I know I have more control over my life now and the men I’ve been with clearly want me, but they don't really know me. No one really knows me, except Jack. But even he only knows the old me. I want him to know the new me, but I'm scared. I take a deep

breath and wipe the tears away.

“Make love to me.” Jack pulled back to look at me, eyes wide in shock. “What?” “Make love to me. Please.” We were lying on his bed in his parent’s house and tomorrow the boy I loved would be ripped from my life. I was still a virgin, but I was ready. “Ella I think...” I place my finger over his lips. “Don’t think.” I raise my mouth slowly to meet his and encourage him by biting his bottom lip. He moans and kisses me, while his hand roams up the side of my body to my breast and squeezes. Moving down my body, he pulls off my trousers to find I’m not wearing any panties. He pushes my legs apart and kisses his way up the inside of my thigh, before spreading me open with his fingers. Sucking my clit into his mouth, he licks me all over, making me fist the sheets in my hands. As he thrusts his

tongue inside me, I grab a hold of his hair and pull him to me hard, as I come. He sits up and removes the rest of our clothes before grabbing a condom from his bed side drawer. After putting it on, he leans over and kisses me until I’m breathless. “Are you sure Ella?” I answer him by wrapping my hand around his cock and placing it at my entrance. He slowly enters me and I wince as he breaks my hymen. He stops, but I pull him in deeper and groan in pleasure at the feeling of him filling me up. “Ella.” He places his forehead against mine, as he thrusts in and out. “Fuck, you feel amazing.” It doesn’t take me long to start to feel the build-up of my second orgasm. This one felt completely different though; like I could feel it throughout my entire body. “Jack, I’m close.” I anchor myself to him and he starts to move deeper and harder. “Oh fuck.” I start to come, my walls

tightening around him. “That’s it, let go baby.” I moan loudly and am grateful that his parents are out visiting relatives. Jack pumps into me a few more times and comes, groaning and growling in my ear. He pulls out of me and disposes of the condom, then climbs back into bed spooning me while I drift in and out of sleep. “I love you Ella.” is the last thing I hear before falling into a deep slumber. I crawl into bed wishing Jack could be here spooning me now, but I need to focus. My life was fine before he came back and I needed to concentrate on that. On Monday morning I make my way to the club ahead of my shift to relax. A woman’s being flogged in a corner of the bar and I can't look away. How long’s it been since I have participated in a scene with someone? I go to my office and change into my thigh high boots, a thong and a

deep purple corset; letting my hair down adding some lip gloss, I’m satisfied with my look. When I get back down to the bar, heads turn in my direction and it makes me feel powerful. A sub I know named Mark approaches me, bowing his head. “Good evening Mistress Blake. May I offer you a drink?” I look him over. Mark’s gorgeous. It’s obvious he works out a lot; his body is lean and muscular. He and I would be compatible, but I’m in the mood for something a little different tonight. I put my hand under his chin lifting his face to mine. “Thank you for your kind offer, but my taste is very singular tonight and you’re not what I’m after.” I notice out of the corner of my eye that Tatiana is intrigued by the situation. “Please ask Tatiana to come to me.” I register understanding in his eyes and he goes to talk to her. Tatiana approaches me with her head down and her hands

coupled behind her back. “Mistress, you wanted to see me?” Her voice is almost a whisper. “Yes. I would like to have a drink with you. If you’re interested please get me a brandy and something for yourself.” A few minutes later she returns with our drinks and she kneels on the pillow I’ve placed by me feet. “Thank you.” I run my fingers through her silky pony tail and let them trail down her arm, eliciting a shiver from her. We finish our drinks in silence, while we watch a sub strip naked on the small stage. As she continues to give her Master a lap dance, I start to feel aroused and lean down to whisper in Tatiana’s ear. “Meet me in zone four, but let your hair down and remove your leggings first.” I command. “Yes Mistress.” I make my way to the zone that has a bed in the centre of the area and a chest full of toys. As I place some things on the side I hear someone approach me. I

turn to find Tatiana standing before me, her jet black hair hanging loose down her back; her double D breasts straining against the tight vest she’s wearing and her shaved pussy on full display. Shit she didn’t wear any underwear. My arousal kicks into gear, as my gaze finally lands on the knee high boots she has on. “Come here.” I order. She approaches me with her head down and stands before me. “Look at me.” I murmur. She raises her eyes to meet mine and I am lost in a sea of green. “Do you want me?” I ask, trailing my finger lightly over the swell of her breasts. “Yes, Mistress.” Her chest rises and falls with her heavy breathing. I step closer, our bodies now touching each other. “Are you wet?” I ask, my eyes never leaving hers. “Yes, Mistress.” “Show me.” She takes a step back and moves her hand

to her stomach, gliding it down to her bare mound. I watch as she dips a finger into her pussy and presents it to me. Parting my lips, so she can push it into my mouth, I lick and suck her juices off. I moan as I suck hard and watch her pupils dilate. With a popping sound I release her finger. “You are wet and so sweet.” I feel my own arousal soaking my underwear, as I place my hands at the hem of her top and slide her vest off. Throwing it to the floor I bend my head down and take her left nipple into my mouth, sucking it gently, before nipping it lightly. I kiss up her chest, to her neck and then whisper into her ear. “Lie down, face up.” She crawls up the bed slowly, enticing me with her bare ass and lies down. I pick up the riding crop I retrieved from the chest before she arrived. “Hold on to the head board and don’t let go.” I warn her. “Yes, Mistress.” She grips the bars as instructed and I take a moment to enjoy the sight. This gorgeous creature

laid before me, completely submitting to me. The trust she is empowering me with is overwhelming. “From this point forward, I want you to nod yes or no to my questions and we will use the house safe words to keep control of the scene. What are they?” I know she’ll know them, but it will help her focus. “Green for okay, Amber for approaching limit and red will stop play.” She answers correctly and I lean down to kiss her roughly, sticking my tongue deep in her mouth. “Good girl.” I never have sex during a public scene, but get off from making my subs come. I love the power and control I gain from the situation. The fact that another person trusts me fully is immensely pleasurable. I know from our online system what Tatiana likes and what her limits are. I trail the crop down the centre of her body and gently rein light licks against her skin, making her gasp. I centre my attention on her breasts for a little while and when

I hit her left nipple, she moans loudly. “You like that?” She nods fervently and I hit her right one making her moan again. I lean down and suck her nipples into my mouth to ease the sting. “Colour?” I ask. “Green, Mistress.” Her voice sounds hoarse and it turns me on even more. “Good. Open your legs.” She opens them wide and I trail the crop through the folds of her pussy. “Tut tut. You've made my crop dirty. Lick it clean.” I stick the end in her mouth and she licks her juices off eagerly; I love how her tongue swirls around the tip and I can imagine how that would feel if it were my clit. Returning to her pussy, I use clamps to spear her lips open, leaving her exposed and vulnerable to me. Striking her clit with the crop, she screams out; her body writing from my ministrations; her back arching off the bed. “Keep still!” I command forcefully. She stills but can't help from moaning as I continue. “Do not

come.” After multiple hits I lean down and lap at her pussy. “Colour?” I ask again. “Green, Mistress.” She pulls on the bars as if fighting to restrain herself, but she doesn’t let go. I love to physically tie people up to restrain them, but when you use nothing but their will, it means more. I remove the clamps from her pussy and push my fingers in deep. Thrusting fast briefly, I slow down before repeating the process. She whimpers as I pull my fingers out. “Turn over and get up on your knees, keeping a hold of the head board.” She immediately flips over and I give her plump ass cheeks a few flicks of the crop. I push my fingers into her and she’s soaking wet. Spreading her juices up to her puckered nub, I slip a finger inside and she shudders at the intrusion. “Good girl. You like my finger being here?” I push it in deep and she groans, nodding her head. Picking up the butt plug I had placed on the end of the bed, I slowly

push it into her. She lets out a low growl as the metal plug slips deeply inside. “Well done.” I reward her good behaviour by rubbing her clit softly. She rotates her rear looking for something more to take her over the edge. “What do you want pet? My fingers?” She nods excitedly and I push one finger into her pussy. “More?” She nods again, so I add two more fingers and she moans loudly. “Take one hand off the headboard and rub your clit.” I use my free hand to pull the butt plug out a little, and then push it back in. “Do not come. If you come, I will take you down to the dungeon and punish you.” I push her limits a little more, by slipping a dildo into her pussy. She’s now completely full and I know she won’t last much longer. I push the dildo in as far as it will go and minutely release and apply pressure to it. “Tatiana, I’m going to count down from three to one. When I reach one, you can come. Three.................. Two................................. One.” She explodes and contracts,

screaming loudly. I pull out the plug making her orgasm continue and I gently thrust the dildo into her until she slowly comes down. When I feel her contractions subside, I gently remove the toy and place it on the bed. She’s breathing heavily, forcing air into her lungs and her legs are a little shaky. “Lie down.” She lies flat on the bed and I take my time massaging her thighs and arms. Her skin feels soft and supple. I’m not a lesbian by any means, but I completely understand the attraction of the female species. I kiss her on her shoulder and tell her she is released and can get dressed. “Thank you, Mistress.” “You’re welcome. If you would like to talk after please come and find me.” She nods and I kiss her on the cheek. The aftercare of any sub I scene with is my main priority and I always make sure they know that. I leave the zone in the hands of our experienced cleaners and go straight to

my office. As I close my door, I sag against it for a moment breathing in precious air before walking to my en suite to wash my hands. I hear a knock at the door. “Come in.” I shout. “Ella?” It’s Alex. What now? I've had it up to here with the Cole brothers. I step out from my en-suite and see him sitting on my sofa looking at me. “Nice scene.” “You saw?” I ask, flushing slightly, knowing what he just saw me do. “I think everyone in the club was watching.” I don't know what to say to him and avoid eye contact with him. I’m struggling to marry up my two lives, where Alex is the brother of my ex and the one where I’m a Mistress and he’s a Dom. “Don't be embarrassed. It was hot! If you ever...” “Don't finish that sentence!” I look at him wide-eyed and he chuckles.

“Just saying that I don't mind sharing.” He winks and I shake my head. “We’re not having this conversation.” I mutter. “Fine let’s talk about something else. What’s going on between you and Jack?” “Nothing, we're just friends.” He raises his eyebrow at me “Just friends, huh? So, what would have happened if Lottie hadn't broken down? Would it have gone further?” I turn away from him. “Well?” He says impatiently. I’m fuming as I face him “What are you his bodyguard? I think Jack can take care of himself!” I snap. Alex stands and closes the distance between us. “Want to know what I think? I think you’re still in love with him, but you’re too scared and that show out there was you trying to convince yourself you’re not!” I lash out at him in frustration at the situation.

“How dare you!” I roar at him. “How dare I?” He looks like he wants to say more, but just spits out, “Don’t mess with him!” “You know nothing about me Alexander. This is my club and my office and I deserve respect. Get out!” He looks shocked at my outburst and leaves slamming the door behind him. I stand in the middle of my office, staring at the door; my chest heaving as I breathe heavily and my body shaking slightly as the adrenaline subsides. I slump down into my office chair, before my legs give out. All of a sudden the dam bursts and I cry harder than I have in years. My office door swings open and Izzy comes in. “Hey, I was...” She sees the state I’m in and quickly locks the door behind her. “Ella? What the hell?” She pulls me over to the sofa, holding my hand while I sob uncontrollably. “What happened?” I pull my hand free to wipe my eyes and tell her all about Jack and how since his return I realise I’m still in

love with him, but that I'm too scared of his reaction to me being a Domme. “It’s understandable, but honey if you don't take a risk and tell him, how will you know?” I nod, but I'm just not ready yet. I'm not sure I ever will be. “What was with you and Tatiana?” She asks. I sigh. “I guess I was just fed up with men and fancied a change.” I shrug. “Feel better for it?” She asks raising her eyebrow at me. “Not really. Now I’m just sexually frustrated and in need of a release!” I chuckle. “Want me to send up a sub to sort you out?” She says, half joking, half serious. “No thanks. I just need some time and space I guess.” I can’t even think about being intimate with anyone right now. She gives me a big hug and stands to leave. “Okay, well if you need me, you know where I’ll be.” She walks to the door and before she opens it she faces me. “Talk to him

Ella. If he’s the one you want, don't be afraid to tell him the truth. He may just surprise you.” “Thanks. What would I do without you?” “You'll never have to find out!” She winks and leaves, closing the door softly behind her. I stay sitting on the sofa exhausted and stare up at the ceiling. Closing my eyes I drift off to sleep. “Ella? Ella?” I wake to a familiar voice. “Jack?” I open my eyes to see him sitting next to me. “What are you doing here?” What the hell’s he doing in my office? I’m still dressed in my thong and corset, but now have a blanket over me. “Alex told me everything.” I try to gauge his mood, but the tone of his voice is flat and distant. I stand up and grab some clothes to put on. “He had no right to tell you.” I say angrily. “Well it didn’t look like you were going to tell me. I knew

you were hiding something, but I didn’t think it would be this.” He sounds disgusted and I stop to face him. “Why are you talking like that?” My voice shakes. “Ella there’s something wrong with you. Can’t you see how wrong all of this is? Clearly you’re sick and need help.” “What?” My voice is barely a whisper and tears are streaming down my face. “Jack no, you don’t understand…” “I understand completely. You’re sick, but I’m going to help you.” Two men who look like nurses enter my office and grab hold of each of my arms. “Jack no! What’s going on?” I thrash out and try to escape. “Calm down Ella. They’re taking you somewhere that’ll help make you better.” “No Jack… No I’m not sick. Please!” “Ella, wake up!” “No Jack, please!”

“Ella it’s me Tony.” I bolt upright to see Tony kneeling beside the sofa. “Tony?” “Yes it’s me. Are you okay?” I rub my eyes. Thank God it was just a dream! “I’m okay Tony. What time is it?” “It’s 4am. The club’s closed and I was just checking the floor to make sure everyone was out. Izzy told me you hadn’t left yet and I know you sometimes sleep here. I just wanted to check in with you. I knocked, but you didn’t hear me. I heard you shouting and was worried, so I came in and found you thrashing in your sleep.” I looked down to see a blanket covering me. “Thank you Tony. I appreciate it.” “You’re more than welcome. Are you staying or do you need me to arrange for a taxi?” “I would really appreciate you booking me a taxi please.

I’ll get dressed.” Tony leaves and I take a big breath. I can’t ever let Jack know about me.

Chapter 6 Ella On Wednesday I’m sitting at the conference table in Velvet, awaiting Izzy and some other staff members for our weekly meeting. They’re never late, but before I begin to wonder where they are, Alex walks in. He sits in the chair next to me and we stare at each other awkwardly until he breaks the silence. “I'm sorry, Ella. I had no right to question you about Jack. It’s none of my business and I'm sorry if I disrespected you or upset you in anyway.” The look of regret in his eyes makes my heart ache. I reach for his hand and cover it with mine giving it a gentle squeeze. “Alex, I'm sorry as well. I know you’re only looking out for Jack and there was some truth to the things you said. I am in love with him, but at the moment I can’t get

involved. I do want to be friends with him though and I hope you can trust that I will not hurt him.” He looks a little shocked by my apology. “Ella, there’s no need to apologise. You were right. Jack can take care of himself. It's just I care about you like a little sister and it's you I don’t want to see get hurt. That scene I witnessed between you and that sub just didn’t sit right with me, but you're right. I don’t know you as the person you are now and I had no right to force my opinions on you.” “Thanks Alex, I appreciate your concern. Let’s start a fresh shall we?” He nods and visibly relaxes. “So, where’s Izzy?” He asks. I check my watch and frown. She’s normally here by now. Pulling out my phone I see I’ve missed a text from her. I can’t make the meeting. Have to meet a private client. I’ve already discussed new shifts with the bar staff so it's just you and Alex. Be

nice! Iz x

Damn it, when’d she send this? Ten minutes ago. Sneaky bitch. “What is it?” “It's just us today; Izzy in her infinite wisdom has already taken care of all other business and is apparently off meeting a new client.” He shakes his head. “She set you up didn’t she?” “Yup, she knew I’d cancel the meeting.” “I knew I liked her for a reason.” He leans back in his chair. “So let’s get down to business shall we?” I nod. “I’d like to discuss the possibility of Dominants putting themselves up for auction.” My eyes widen. “Really?” “Yes. It's something we do in the New York club, which has proved very popular and lucrative. Most Dominants auction off a session as usual with them in charge, but

some of them switch things up and opt to be a submissive.” “Wow that sounds like a damn good idea. We'll have to put out a vote to the club to see if they want it, but I can’t see why not.” “Fantastic. Do you think there’s time to get it set up for the next auction?” “Maybe, it's only three weeks away now though. If I talk to Izzy straight away we should be able to get a vote concluded by next week.” He smiles triumphantly and we continue to discuss a few of his other ideas. He suggests installing cameras in some of the public zones to assist with training and also providing subs and Dom's to help with some one-on-one training, which should help potentials learn faster. The meeting was more of a success than I thought it would be. It pleased me that we were able to push aside personal feelings and tend to the business at hand. It's finally Friday and I've not heard from Jack. I haven’t

contacted him either though and am in two minds about whether to attend the opening. “So are we going out tonight?” Looking up from the paper I’m reading, I find Lottie standing in front of me arms crossed. “I don't know.” I reply with a perplexed look on my face. “Why not? It's pretty simple isn't it?” She asks. “Is it?” “Yes. Is Jack your friend?” “Well of course he is.” I reply sarcastically. “Well don't friends support each other on occasions like this?” I hate it when she’s right. Sometimes Lottie’s too smart for her own good. I narrow my eyes at her and she smiles back at me. “Come on. We'll get dressed up and go out for a few drinks. When was the last time we went out together? You're always working these days.” I guess it has been a while. The club takes up a lot of my time, but Izzy was covering everything tonight and I knew

that Alex had invited quite a few people from the community. “Okay, let's go. We can even grab a bite to eat beforehand if you want?” She stands up with a triumphant look in her face. “Sounds good to me. I'll be ready by six and we can head down to Frankie's.” “Sure.” She’s right. Friends support each other and if I want to be his friend I need to start acting like one. I decide to send him a quick text. Hey Jack. I look forward to tonight. See you there about 8 o’clock. Ex

A reply comes in immediately. Looking forward to seeing you both. J x

We leave the apartment promptly at six and head down to Frankie's for some food. He greets us like family and gives us the best table in the house. Falling into an easy conversation about work and life, time flies and soon it’s

seven-thirty and we need to grab a taxi. When we pull up outside the studio a man opens our door and then holds the door open to the studio. A waitress offers us a glass of champagne and we both take one. “Wow they went all out for this opening.” I say to Lottie as I hear a deep voice come up behind me. “Well we do like to impress.” Alex is dressed in a dark grey suit and has a cocky smile on his face. “Ladies.” He greets us by kissing us both on our cheeks. “Come on through, there’s lots to see and Jack’s around here somewhere.” I start to feel excitement bubbling through me, like I’m a school girl again. After not seeing Jack since the weekend, I felt like I couldn’t go a minute longer. “This is amazing.” Lottie’s talking to Alex and as I watch her, I see her cheeks flush. She has a crush real bad, but I know Alex won’t do anything about it. “Thanks.” He replies a little coldly.

“Ella I’m going to go have a look around.” She squeezes my hand and walks off into the crowd. “Quite a turn out.” I move closer to him and lean to talk in his ear, so others can’t hear me. “I see quite a few people from the community here.” He leans in close also, resting his hand on my shoulder. “Yeah, who knew they could dress so conservatively.” I giggle at his joke. “If you'll excuse me I have more people to meet.” He trails his hand down my arm and squeezes my hand, before heading over to greet someone. I start to have a look around when I’m almost hypnotized by a black and white photo of the New York skyline. I don’t know how long I’ve stood there when a hand slips around my waist. I jump, but quickly cover my panic with a laugh when I realise it’s Jack. “Jack you little...” “Sorry I couldn’t resist. I’ve been watching you and you’ve

been rooted to this spot for over five minutes now.” I look back to the photo noticing he still hasn't removed his hand from my waist. His touch is electric and I try to compose my thoughts and slow my racing heartbeat. “It's this picture. It's stunning. I've seen quite a few shots of the skyline but this one has totally drawn me in.” He looks pleased at my compliment. “I'm glad you like it.” “It looks like more than just a black and white photo, if that makes sense?” “It does and you're the first one to notice. I shot it and then digitally enhanced it so that the dark areas of the photo dominate the picture. It draws your eye to different areas other than just the buildings.” I’m staring at him now and his hand squeezes my waist breaking me from my thoughts. “What are you thinking in that pretty little head of yours?” He asks.

I look down, cursing the fact that he still seems to be able to make me blush. What would he think if I told him I wanted him to get down on his knees and beg to pleasure me? Would he do it? Would he listen to my commands? I want to tell him to get on his knees, slide my dress up off my hips and press his nose against my soaked panties. My eyes meet his and he’s still staring at me amused, awaiting my response. I clear my throat. “I’m thinking that I’d like to purchase this picture.” I focus on the picture once more and feel his grip on my waist relax. I can sense his disappointment in my response and I try to pretend I don’t feel the magnetic draw we have to one another. “Well I better stick a sold label on it then, before someone else tries to take it.” I feel like there’s a hidden meaning behind his words, but I can’t grasp them. He steps away from me and scribbles on a sticky note before placing

it beneath the picture. “If you’ll excuse me I need to do the rounds.” He places a perfunctory kiss on my cheek and wonders off into the crowd. I feel a loss as he leaves me, like I don’t know what to do without him. For the next hour I only see Jack from a distance, as I peruse the art work and chat with various people I recognise. Every now and then I catch Jack looking at me, but no sooner than I notice, he averts his eyes. I decide to take a break and head up to the mezzanine. Finding a sofa to relax on I close my eyes for a moment and try to block out the noise of the party. “You okay?” I don’t need to open my eyes to know who that voice belongs to. Alex’s tone is very different to Jack’s and as I look up at him I see he’s holding out a champagne flute to me. “I’m fine.” I smile and stand, taking the glass and following him over to the balcony. “Good night?” I ask.

“Yeah it's been very successful. We’ve both gained some commissions from this event.” “That's amazing. Congratulations.” I hug him like the big brother he's always been. When I pull back he keeps his arm around my waist. Alex always treated me like part of the family and it seemed so natural. We continue chatting, when I hear a deep baritone voice that can only belong to Jack behind me. “Is everything okay?” I break away from Alex to look at Jack, who seems to be seething with anger and directing it toward his brother. “Everything's fine. We were just discussing the success of tonight and the commissions you’ve both procured.” He looks between us both as if seeing something that’s clearly not there. “Jack? Are you okay?” I ask walking toward him. He stops staring at Alex to turn to me briefly. “Well at

least I now know why you just want to be friends.” I stare open-mouthed at him and my hand involuntarily slaps him across the face. I walk off without a word and find Lottie talking to some of the guests. “We're going!” She follows me out and I'm so angry I walk in a random direction. “Ella!” I hear Jack shout my name but I keep walking. Suddenly a strong hand grabs me and I swing round ready to slap him again, but he quickly blocks me. “What the hell’s going on?” Lottie shouts. “Jack here thinks I’m fucking his brother!” He winces at my outburst. “Is that not what you think?” I ask him coldly. He lets me go and sags against a shop wall. “Ella I...” “You’re such an idiot” Lottie steps up to him; her index finger pushed into his chest, “Ella would never do anything like that. You don't even know what she’s been through and you barely even bothered to keep in touch with her, even

after you took her virginity!” “Lottie, that's enough.” I say sternly. Alex arrives on the scene with a bloody lip. “Everyone still alive?” He says trying to make light of the situation. I glare at him and hail a passing taxi. Jack’s still silent as he leans against the wall with a look of regret on his face. We slip into the taxi and head home leaving them on the side of the street.

Chapter 7 Ella I stretch all my limbs and yawn, as my body pries me from my slumber. Rolling over, I look at my phone to find it’s only seven in the morning. I also find five missed calls, two voice mails and three text messages. I’m guessing they’re all from Jack, but I put my phone back down without looking at them. Rising from my bed I pull a robe on and make my way to the kitchen for a cup of tea. I’m surprised to find Lottie already sitting at the breakfast bar with a pot of tea in front of her. “Morning.” I sit on a stool next to her and pour myself a cuppa. Lottie swivels her stool to face me. “How’re you feeling?” “Still pissed; I can’t believe Jack would think I’m having an affair with Alex.”

“You really slapped him?” She asks looking impressed. “I did but it’s nothing to be proud of. I can’t believe I did it.” “Well if you ask me he deserved it!” I roll my eyes at her and am about to say something when there is a light knock at the door. Lottie places her hand on my arm. “Don't worry, if it’s him you’re not here.” “It’s seven-fifteen, where else would I be?” She puts the chain on the door, so it can only open a few inches. “Let me in Lottie.” Jack’s voice sounds from the other side of the door. “Go away Jack, she isn’t here.” “Where is she?” “I’m not telling you.” “Let me in then, so I can check.” “You’re not coming in, now go away.” She tries to close

the door, but Jack stops it with his foot. “Move your foot before I move it for you.” She says through gritted teeth. I’ve hardly ever seen my sister angry and I’m glad she’s in my corner. “It’s okay Lottie.” She looks at me and then releases the chain, opening the door wide. “Fine.” She walks toward her room. “Shout if you want me to throw him out.” The thought of Lottie trying to remove Jack from my apartment makes me smirk. She’s at least a foot shorter than him and three stone lighter. I turn my attention to Jack who’s still wearing his clothes from last night. “May I come in?” He asks “Door’s open.” I mutter. “I will take what I can get.” He walks over to me, but stops short. He looks like he’s had no sleep and his eyes are blood shot. “I’m so sorry.” He whispers.

His eyes look like they’re full of so much regret and I ache to reach out and touch him. “Why Jack?” He hangs his head. “I saw you cuddling and I know you’ve been seeing each other. I just jumped to the first conclusion albeit the stupidest one.” I start to panic; the only times I’ve seen Alex has been at Velvet. “Alex told me about your job as an event planner. About how he bumped into you at a party you hosted, but I saw him pick you up at your apartment last Saturday and I flipped. I convinced myself it was innocent, but I saw you two interacting last night and then the cuddle upstairs.” Phew. “Jack, I was hugging him to congratulate him on the success of the opening. Alex was, and will always be, the big brother I never had.” He nods and looks down at the floor. Stepping closer to him, I reach up and tentatively touch the cheek I slapped and as the back of my fingers touch

him he closes his eyes; leaning into my touch. “I'm sorry.” He opens his eyes to see a tear slide down my cheek. “I never should’ve hit you.” Reaching his hand up to wipe away my tear with his thumb, I lean against him placing my head on his chest. He wraps his arms around me cocooning me and I feel safe. “Why are you crying?” I shake my head against his chest. “Ella? What did Lottie mean last night, when she said I didn’t know what you’d been through?” I pull away from him, shaking my head, but his arms tighten around me. “Ella, please talk to me. It’s killing me that you’re hiding things from me.” He cups my face in his hands and looks me in the eye. “Please. Was it me? What happened between us after I left? I regret it every day and if I could change it I would.” His eyes search mine, pleading with me to talk. I can’t let him think it’s because of him. I sigh. “We need to talk.” He nods and follows me to the

sofa. Sitting next to me, he places his hand on my knee, waiting for me to start. I can’t look him in the eye, so I fixate on his hand - using it as an anchor to focus on. I take a deep breath, “Jack when I was twenty I started dating a man named Eric.” His hand tenses on my knee. “We dated for six months and a part of me was in love with him. We were like any normal couple in the early stages of a relationship and couldn't keep our hands off each other.” “Ella...” His voice sounds strained. “Please let me finish, and then it will all become clear.” I sneak a glance at him and he nods. “Eric wanted to be more adventurous, shall we say, in the bedroom and we experimented.” I feel his whole body tense now, but I have to keep going. “One day he went a little too far and was way too rough, so I told him. We went back to normal sex after that, but over the next few weeks he slowly started to verbally abuse me. He’d always brush off his comments

though and so would I, figuring he’d just had a bad day at work or something. I guess I never wanted to believe that he would intentionally hurt me.” Taking another deep breath, I continued. “I started to ignore the comments he made toward me and tried not to let it show that he was upsetting me, but that only made him take things a step further. He started to push me around. He never outright hit me, but would make sure I got knocked into things, like the corner of the dresser, or the coffee table. He would make a joke of it and call me clumsy, but I knew better. One day I came home from work and he kicked off big time, shouting at me and shoving me about. He struck me across the face and I told him I was leaving him.” Jack stood up and started to pace back and forth. I had lost his hand that was anchoring me and I focused on my own hands in my lap. “I went to our room to pack the few things I had there and he grabbed me from behind.” The memory of that moment floods me and I

stop for a moment to control my emotions. Jack’s standing looking out over the park opposite my apartment, with his fists clenched at his sides. “Eric forced me down on the bed, tied me up and gagged my mouth. Then left me alone for hours not returning until the evening, where he simply got in bed and went to sleep as if I weren’t even there. In the morning he untied me from the bed, my hands and feet still tied together and helped me to the bathroom. I decided not to struggle in case he lashed out and once back in our room he left me again for a few more hours. When he came back, he... he raped me. It happened twice on the first day and three times on the second day, but on the third day, he wasn’t alone.” Jack whirled round to look me in the face. I hadn't realised that I’d starting sobbing and the next thing I knew he pulled me across his lap into an embrace. “Shh Ella, I'm here. No one can hurt you.” He cooed to me and rocked me until I calmed down, holding me; making

me feel safe. “I need to finish Jack.” He stays silent, holding me tightly in his arms. “Eric had brought one of his friends with him and he let him... he let him rape me.” “Fuck!” I look up at Jack whose eyes are full of rage. “Is there anymore?” I nod and he closes his eyes, as he strokes my hair gently and continues to rock me. “On the last day Eric went out for a while, but his friend came back for more. He had a knife Jack.” I kept my eyes open, not wanting to close them for fear of seeing my memories. Jacks hand is now stroking up and down my spine and I focus on it. “Guess he either forgot to take it, or wanted me to remain scared, as he left it on the pillow next to my face. I managed to reach it and set myself free, making my way to the nearest police station.” “That fucker. If I ever see him I’m gonna kill him!” Sitting upright on his lap, I reach out and cup his face.

“He isn’t worth it. He’s going to spend the rest of his days rotting in prison and I hope he drops the soap... a lot.” Jack shakes his head at me. Guess he’s not ready to make jokes about it all yet. He looks up at the ceiling and sighs, his grip on me loosening. I try to shift off his lap but he stops me, “Where’re you going?” I shrug my shoulders and look down. “Is this why you cried when you touched my face?” I nod unable to talk. I know first-hand what it’s like to be hit and I’d inflicted that on him. I was disgusted with myself and turned away from him. He gently pulled my face back to him. “Don't ever hide who you are from me. I know the real you and I know you'd never hurt a fly.” I smile weakly at him and he brushes his thumb across my bottom lip making me gasp. “I'm sorry again for last night. I shouldn't have jumped to that ridiculous conclusion. You weren’t the only one to lash out. I punched Alex!” He shakes his head.

“I saw his bloody lip when he caught up to us.” “Guess I have some more apologising to do.” I try again to move off his lap and as I’m part way up he pulls me to him. I land on his lap with my legs either side of his thighs and he crushes me to his chest. “Please don't get up.” We hug again for a few minutes and I pull back to look at him. ”I can’t bear the thought of what you went through. I’m so sorry I wasn't here to protect you, but if you'll let me I'd like to be here for you, however you'll let me be.” I look into his eyes and can see he means it. He'd be there for me as a friend or more if I let him. I know the balls in my court, but I’m still a Domme and I can't shake the thought that he’s better off with someone else even if it kills me to think it. “Jack, I will always love you, but right now I need you as a friend.” “If that’s what you need, then that’s what I’ll be.” He lets me go and I stand up. “Right... I have another person to

apologise to for being a dick.” I walk him to the door and he pulls me to him again. “I mean it. I’m here for you.” “I know. I really appreciate it.” I lean up to kiss him softly on the cheek I abused.

Jack As I make my way home I’m furious. I can’t believe what Ella told me and she’s been through. I enter the apartment slamming the front door behind me and head straight for the balcony; gripping the wrought iron railing so hard I don’t know how to let go. “Jack?” I hear Alex shout my name, but can’t respond. I feel his presence behind me. “Are you okay?” It takes me a moment to respond. “I’ve just been to see Ella.” “How’d it go?” He asks cautiously. I finally let go of the railing and stand to face him, rubbing my hand across my face. “It went fine and we’re okay, but…” “But what?” I can’t tell Alex about it. She confided in me and it’s up to her if she wants others to know.

“Nothing” I mutter. I look at Alex who has a bruised lip and jaw. He has his eyebrow cocked at me, but doesn’t push me for information. “Look I’m sorry I hit you. It was a stupid thing to do.” “No, the stupid thing was you thinking anything was going on between me and Ella. You punching me, well that I can understand. You just wanted to protect your girl.” I stalk into the kitchen. “She’s not my girl.” I say grumpily. “Well whatever she is, I get it.” He replies. I pace the room, still angry. I need to do something. “Fancy a few rounds at the gym?” I ask hoping he’ll be up for some sparring. He shrugs his shoulders. “Yeah sure. Maybe I can pay you back for last night!” “In your dreams old man.” I joke. When we get to the gym I go to warm up with some skipping, while Alex heads to the treadmill. I’m facing the

mirror and can see other women checking me out, but all I can think about is Ella. As I stop and stretch, a woman approaches me. She has her blonde hair made up perfectly, her face is caked with make-up and her outfit barely covers her body. She couldn’t look more false if she tried. “Hi, I’m Beth.” She offers her hand out and I hesitantly shake it. “Jack.” She twirls her hair between her fingers and leans closer. “So, Jack, do you think you could help me learn to skip?” She asks demurely. “What? You don’t know how to skip?” I don’t know why it tickles me, but I start to laugh and can’t stop, laughing so hard I have to lean against the wall for support. She storms off looking less than pleased with my outburst. “I see you haven’t lost your way with women.” Alex jokes

as he claps me on the shoulder. “Sorry, but that was the most ridiculous line I've ever heard.” We head over to one of the boxing rings and put our gear on. We used to come to this gym when we were teenagers, but we were into lifting weights then and showing off to the girls how strong we were. The old owner still runs it and he decides to come watch us spar. “Hey, Max.” I shake his hand before he helps me put on my gloves. “Boys. How’ve you been? New York treated you well I take it?” He asks. “Hey, Max. Yeah, New York was good, but there’s nothing like coming home.” Alex says before slipping in his mouth piece. I slip into the ring and we circle each other. “Come on then boys. Let’s start with five 3 minute rounds. Keep your moves tight and no pussy footing around. Show me what

you learned in fancy New York.” Max shouts. I’d forgotten Max had been a boxing coach. The first round’s good and Alex manages to land a few punches. During the second round though, he gets a little cocky and I catch him with an uppercut. “Time!” Max shouts. We each sit in our corners for a drink and a breather. “Okay, let’s go. Third round, come on Alex get your head in the game. Are you going to let your little brother get away with a move like that?” Max asks. Alex mumbles something, but I can’t understand him with his mouth guard in. The third and fourth rounds are a draw, as we each land a few good hits. It’s during the 5th and final round that the image of Ella sitting on my lap flashes in my mind, my arms around her waist and her scent intoxicating my every thought. I drop my hands and Alex hits me with a left hook. I drop like a sack of spuds and the last thing I hear is Max shouting “Timber!” “Jack? Jack?” Alex is shaking me as I slowly open my

eyes. “Are you okay?” I sit up and touch my hand to my head. “Yeah, I’m okay. What the hell happened?” I ask taking a glass of water from Max who’s kneeling by my side./ “You dropped your guard and I caught you. It’s lucky we had head gear on or that could’ve been worse. Why the fuck did you drop your guard?” He asks angrily. “Sorry. My mind wandered and I just forgot where I was temporarily.” “Come on, up you get.” Max orders. “You’ll be fine.” “Cheers Max. Sorry about that.” I say embarrassed for getting knocked out. “Looks like you got me back for last night.” I joke to Alex. He just shakes his head and goes to the changing room. “What happened last night?” Max asks. “I punched him in the face.” “What the hell for?”

“I thought he was after my girl.” Yeah that still sounds stupid a day later. “Your girl? What girl?” Max sounds intrigued. “Whatever happened to that cute little thing that used to watch you work out?” “Same girl or woman I should say now.” I reply, wiping the sweat from my neck with a towel. “I’m guessing that nothing was going on between them?” He says matter of factly. “No. I don’t know why she won’t give us another chance though. I know she’s been through some stuff since I was gone, but we clearly still have feelings for each other.” “If I remember correctly she was head over heels for you. You could see it a mile away that she was totally and utterly in love with you. Give her time.” “Thanks Max. I will. I just hope she doesn’t take too long. It’s killing me.” I half joke, but am half serious. I haven’t been

with anyone for over six months now and I know I don’t want anyone other than Ella. I know she loves me. I just need her to see it. To believe that I won’t hurt her again.

Chapter 8 Ella Things are quiet for the next few weeks. Life seems to have settled back into its usual routine. Work at the club has picked up and we’ve an auction coming up. The community voted in favour of Dom's putting themselves up for auction and I’ve been busy preparing. We’ve spent a lot of time talking with the members and making sure everything’s in place. We want to make sure that it all goes to plan and that everyone knows what to expect. Outside of work, I’ve been in contact with Jack quite a lot. I feel more comfortable now that he knows about Eric and he’s respecting my decision to just be friends. Saturday night arrives and with it the night for the club auction. I arrive at work early to make sure everything’s ready and to deal with a few last minute issues. I could

barely contain my excitement about the Dominants being included. Alex’s idea was brilliant. I’m in my office getting ready when Izzy enters. “Hey. We ready for tonight?” She asks. “We’re all good to go.” I reply, looking in the mirror at my outfit. I always wear all black on these occasions and tonight’s no exception. I’ve chosen a little black dress, which forms to my body and is off the shoulder, and paired it with hold-ups and stilettos. Izzy walks up behind me and looks over my shoulder at my reflection in the mirror. “I see you did not add yourself to the list of Dominants up for auction tonight. Have you spoken to Jack yet?” She asks concern in her voice. “No, I don’t want to be a part of it this time. I want to manage it and make sure everything goes well.” It’s a lame excuse and she knows it. “What about Jack. Have you told him yet?” She walks

over to my office window, looking out over the first floor. She’s like a pit-bull, won’t let go until she gets what she wants. “No. I can’t. He won’t understand. He knows about Eric, but he deserves an ordinary life Izzy, with a normal girlfriend.” I sigh. It will kill me to see him look at another woman the way he looks at me. “You are normal Ella.” Her voice is laced with anger. She walks over to me and faces me back to the mirror. “Do you not see the stunning woman before you? Do you not see the woman who had the strength to change her life? Most women would’ve continued to hide, but you, you made the hard decision to get on with your life and fight back. Jack would be lucky to be with you and if you’re lucky, you may just find ‘your’ happy ever after. Not all of us are that lucky.” I see sadness in her eyes and I turn to face her. “Izzy, what’s the matter?” She shakes her head, her

mask back in place. “I’m fine. I just want you to be happy. Since Jack’s come back, you’ve changed and you need to recognize that. I helped you once, a long time ago and I’m trying to help you again.” She shrugs her shoulders and moves away from me. “Okay, but you know I’m here for you right?” “I know.” She pauses for a moment before placing her hands on her hips. “Right… Let’s get this auction started shall we?” “I’ll be down in five minutes. I’ve just got to finish my make-up.” The door closes behind her and I return to the mirror to finish getting ready. While putting on my mascara I think about what Izzy said and how she’s just trying to help. It reminds me of the day I met her:

“Can I help you?” A woman’s voice sounded from behind me and I felt my face flush with embarrassment.

Well I was in the toy section of Anne Summers! “I… umm...” I hesitantly turned to the voice that had spoken to me and found myself face to face with a gorgeous woman. I guessed her to be not much older than me. She was tall and slim with long lean legs. Her long blond hair tied back tightly in a ponytail. She was staring at me expectantly and I managed to stutter a response. “Do… do you work here?” “Heavens, no!” She exclaimed and looked a little offended by my question. “Then why-” She cuts me off. “I know a lost soul when I see one and can help if you really want me to.” I had no idea why I’d wandered into Anne Summers that day. Well that’s not true. It’d been seven months since I’d last had an orgasm and three years since I’d last had sex and non-consensual sex at that. I was looking for

something and found myself in this shop. “How?” I ask tentatively. “Come with me” Suddenly she turned on her heel and marched out of the shop. I don’t know why I followed, but I did. We walked a short distance to a local bar where the staff seemed to know her and we sat down in one of the many leather couches near an open fire. I looked around the bar and it was fairly quiet, with what I could assume were some regulars propped up at the bar. A waiter came over and I noticed how he stared at her. She was wearing a tight top that accentuated her cleavage and the poor lad was almost drooling. “Two Hennessy’s” She said in a clipped tone not even bothering to look at him. He scooted off almost tripping over himself in a hurry to get us our drinks. The woman turned to me then, “I guess I should introduce myself. My name is Mistress Isobel, but you can call me Izzy.” I became aware that I was staring

blankly at her. It was as if my brain had stopped working and I had no idea what to say. Thankfully the waiter chose this moment to return with our drinks. After he placed them on coasters in front of us she brushed him off without even a thank you. I looked at the amber liquid in my glass and I glanced at Izzy. “It’s brandy.” I’d never had it before and I picked up my glass and peered into it, letting the aroma fill my nostrils. “Cheers.” She held her glass up and I took part in a time-honoured tradition. “Cheers.” I replied. Still shocked by her admission, I put the tumbler to my lips and took a sip. The rich liquid slid down my throat and gave me a warm relaxed feeling. The taste was an explosion of flavours on my tongue, but I could pick out honey and mild spices. I looked back to Izzy. She was obviously waiting for me to make a comment. “You’re a Mistress?” I whispered the word looking round the bar in a suspicious manner.

She rolled her eyes at me. “I didn’t take you for a prude. Surely you’ve read about BDSM?” “Well yes, but I never thought...” “Thought what?” Izzy’s eyebrow rose and she smirked at me. “I just never thought I’d be face to face with a Mistress.” I whispered the word again and took a sip of my drink. I drank too much in my haste and started to cough. She patted my back. “Shit you’re only supposed to sip it.” She rubbed my back until the coughing started to subside. I looked up at her as she continued to rub my back. “Oh, don’t look at me like that. I’m not into women. Well most of the time anyway.” Izzy removed her hand and leaned back casually against the sofa. “What’s your name?” “Ella... Ella Blake.” My voice sounded a little hoarse from all the coughing.

“Well Ella Blake, just so you know I don’t pick up random women all the time. Why were you in Anne Summers?” My face flushed again. I looked anywhere but at Izzy “I... well I haven’t been with anybody in three years and I haven’t...” “Come?” She blurted out, I’m sure my eyes nearly popped out of their sockets and she laughed. “Yes. I haven’t…” I can’t say it. “Well what you said, in seven months.” “Why the hell not?” She sounded angry on my behalf. I shrugged my shoulders, but she narrowed her eyes at me and I got the feeling she knew I was hiding something. “And the reason you don’t have a man fulfilling those needs for you is because?” How could I explain? Only my sister knew that I’d been raped and abused by my ex. Although I had only just met

Izzy I felt the urge to tell her. She instantly made me feel like I could trust her. It’s just bringing up those memories took me back to when it happened. I shrank back into my seat and stared down at my hands fiddling in my lap. “I... My last time was non-consensual.” All’s quiet for a moment and when I looked up into Izzy’s eyes I saw concern and sympathy. For a moment she’d lost the hard edge I had seen so far and I think that’s the moment I knew we would be friends for life. “I know just how to help you.” She said with a wicked gleam in her eyes. I watched her sceptically. “You should become a mistress.” She said it so matter of fact and looked as though she’d just solved world peace. “Excuse me?” I blurted out. I looked at her is disbelief. “Trust me Ella.” She said calmly. We continued the night drinking far too many brandies and getting to know one another.

A knock at my door shakes me from my thoughts. “Yes?” I shout. Alex walks in. “Hey.” I turn to him, ready to tell him that everything is in place for tonight, but my words get stuck when I catch sight of him. “Wow!” I blurt out. Alex is dressed in a sharp black suit, with a white shirt and his dark hair is just the right amount of smart and ruffled. His blue eyes, so much like Jack’s seem to be jumping out tonight. Especially with the ice blue tie he’s wearing. “You look…” I can’t seem to form a sentence. I have only ever thought of Alex as a brother, but as a woman I’d have to be blind not to recognise the Adonis standing before me. /“Why thank you.” He replies bowing at me like a gentleman. “Give over Alex. You’re no gentleman.” I joke He feigns being upset. “You wound me fair maiden.”

I chuckle and walk over to him to straighten his tie. “Are you ready for tonight?” “It’s not my first time.” He smiles down at me and holds out his arm for me to take. “Shall we?” “We shall.” I put my arm in his and he escorts me to the top floor where the auction is being held. Both Alex and I oversee the event and it goes very well. Twelve subs went under the hammer, along with nine Dominants. As the event draws to a close I feel a sense of pride for my club. The people who come here are from all walks of life. Doctors, teachers and even regular housewives, but they all have complete respect for one another. “Want to go grab a drink or are you still needed?” Alex asks. “I’m good to go.” We head down to the main bar. “What's your poison?” He asks sitting down at one of the

barstools. “I will just have a coke thanks. I'm on the clock and will be here late tonight. So how do you think the auction went?” “It couldn’t have gone smoother. You worked tirelessly to make it a success and I’m astounded. I think everyone got what they wanted out of it and now you have a good income to better the club.” I smile at his compliments. “I’d also like to donate some of it to the local charity we support.” “That sounds like a perfect idea. Which charity?” “There’s a local safe house for both men and women who’ve suffered abuse in their relationships. It’s close to my heart obviously and I try and help them out when I can.” “You’re amazing, you know that?” I smile and squeeze his hand. “Ella I need to ask you something?” He looks at me worriedly and I can’t help wondering what’s bothering him.

“Of course, anything.” I reassure him. “Did you tell Jack about Eric?” Ah, so that’s it. He didn’t want to bring up Eric and risk upsetting me. “Yes. He came to see me the day after the opening and it just seemed like the right time to tell him. Why, did he say something?” “Yes and no. He came home from yours in a foul mood and said everything had gone okay, but...” “But what?” “He wouldn’t say and I decided not to interrogate him. I know Jack and any secrets you tell him he’ll take to the grave. I just knew from the mood he was in that you’d told him, as it’s the same mood I was in after you told me. That feeling that you want to punch someone’s lights out. Thing is, I ended up punching his lights out.” “Oh no Alex, you didn’t have another fight did you?” Bloody men, why do they feel the only way to solve

something are with their fists. “No, no, no. We went to the gym to spar and he dropped his guard. I swung and knocked him out. Thankfully we had all our gear on; otherwise I could’ve given him a sweet black eye.” Alex looks proud of himself. If he were a cockerel, he’d be strutting around right now. The thought makes me chuckle. “Ah, okay that makes more sense. I thought maybe you’d had another fight.” “Nah we don’t usually fight. Guess I had to get him back for that thick lip he gave me though.” We finish our drinks and a sub approaches him. He excuses himself and although part of me is curious to see Alex in action, I’m not sure I’m ready for that. I take a walk around the club to check on things; make sure everyone is behaving. When I make my way to the dungeon I can see quite a few people interested in one of

the zones. As I move closer I see a sub intricately tied up in a swing and a man slamming into her. Holy shit its Alex. I know I should leave, but I can’t take my eyes off the look on the sub’s face. She seems to have entered sub space and looks like she’s experiencing pure unadulterated pleasure. My eyes drift to Alex who is thrusting into her with precise control. His muscles flex as he moves and I take a moment to appreciate the male form in all its glory. He seems to be talking to her, but I’m too far away to hear what he’s saying. Slowly he pulls on some ropes to change her position. She’s now almost upright and he wraps his hand around her throat, as he continues to enter her. He whispers something in her ear and she lets out a long loud moan as her orgasm throbs through her body. Alex pumps into her a few more times, then stills. The crowd starts to move away and I go back upstairs. Okay that wasn’t as weird as I thought it would be. I know he’s like a brother to me and

seeing him have sex should be strange, but that’s the thing about BDSM. It’s almost an art form to me and I take pleasure in watching other people enjoy it.

Chapter 9 Ella I wake up Saturday morning feeling restless, so I decide to head out for a run around the green. Stepping outside, I feel the warmth of the sun hit me and I close my eyes and breathe in the fresh air. As I slowly stretch I see a familiar figure heading toward me. “Hey, Ella.” “Alex. How’re you?” “Feeling good thanks. Looks like we both needed to get out this morning then.” It’s more of a statement than a question. I crouch down to tighten my shoe laces. “Yeah I need to work off some energy and thought a run would be a good idea.” Alex crouches down in front of me, “Well how about I give

you another option?” “And what would that be?” I say eyeing him suspiciously. We both stand, “I’m off to the gym for a bit of sparring with Jack. Why don’t you come?” I place my hands on my hips, “Boxing?” I put my hands on my hips and cock my head as I consider him. Shrugging, I decide it’s not a bad idea to join them. “I guess I could give it a go. How long have you and Jack been boxing?” “We both started it after being in New York for a little while. It was a good way to get rid of our frustrations shall we say.” “Okay, I’m in let’s go.” Alex and Jack have no idea I know how to box, or do self-defence. He’ll have a rude awakening if he thinks he can take me down easily. When we get to the gym, it’s fairly busy. It’s completely filled with men as well. Oh no wait I see a woman. At least I think it’s a woman. She’s bench pressing a huge weight

and her muscles rival some of the men here. We find Jack skipping rope, “Hey, look who I ran into.” Alex exclaims, walking past Jack to kit up for the ring. His eyes almost bug out as they see me. “Hey, Ella, what’re you doing here?” His eyes drift up and down my body, taking in my tight shorts and top. “Alex said he was coming to spar with you and I thought that sounded like fun.” He returns his focus to my face, “Well how about you watch me and Alex for a bit and then you can jump in the ring with me if you want. I can show you a few things.” “Sounds good to me.” I stand in a corner and watch Alex and Jack go a few rounds. Jesus is it hot in here. They’re both wearing only shorts and are covered in sweat. I spy various tattoos, on each of them, but I’m intrigued by the one I keep glimpsing under Jack’s arm. After five rounds they finally stop and Jack motions for

me to get a head guard and some gloves. I let Alex help me and pretend to struggle getting into the ring. Jack talks to me as if I’m just a typical woman, showing me how to hold my hands up and perform some basic punches. Alex is in the ring helping out as well, and if I could, I’d knock them both out. After about ten minutes, I’m warmed up and I nod to Jack, indicating that I’m ready to start a little sparring with him. I see Alex standing outside the ring talking to an old man. I immediately recognise him as Max the man who taught me how to box. I hope he doesn’t give me away, but as I look over at him he winks and I know my secret is safe. “You remember Max don’t you Ella?” Alex shouts. “Yeah, sure.” I wave and smile at him and he returns the gesture. I stumble around the ring like a bull in a china shop and every time Jack comes for me I hold my hands up like a girl. I’m waiting for the perfect moment and it comes a few

minutes later when Jack drops his guard. I give him a right hook and he stumbles. He shakes it off and looks at me in shock. I’m in a typical fighting stance with my hands up and my chin down. I cock my eyebrow at him and he narrows his eyes at me. Alex hoists himself up and leans on the ropes. “I do believe someone has been hiding something from us dear brother.” I dance around the ring like a pro. “I believe you’re right.” Jack says. “Never underestimate a woman.” I direct it at them both and then head back into my corner where Max meets me and hands me some water. “Sweet punch Ella, just like I taught you.” He looks over at the boys with a big grin. “What the hell, Max?” Alex shouts to him. “Sorry boys. Ella here’s with me and I had to let her teach you a lesson for talking to her like she was a child.”

“Okay, Jack. Go get her.” Alex pats Jack’s back. “What? I’m not going to fight her.” I walk up and get in his face. “Afraid you’ll get knocked out by a girl?”

Jack I watch Ella prance around the ring, goading me to fight her. “I can’t fight her Alex.” “Come on Jack. Show her whose boss. It won’t be proper fighting anyway. Neither of you have your mouth guards.” Max steps into the centre of the ring and I approach him along with Ella. “Okay, three rounds of tag. No full on punches. I wouldn’t want Jack boy here to end up hurt.” “Nice, Max.” I mutter. “I will be judging alongside Alex to keep it fair. Deal?” Ella nods. “Deal.” “Deal.” I nod and return to my corner. Max blows the whistle and Ella comes out fighting. She’s damn quick and manages to tag me on my left ribs, but ducks out the way when I retaliate and I end up chasing her

around the ring for the rest of the round. When Max blows the whistle, we retreat to our respective corners. “Man she’s good.” Alex mutters in my ear. “You didn’t even get chance to tag her.” In the next round I decide to let her chase me for a bit. She manages to tag me again, but I catch her twice, so we’re now even. At the next break I’m struggling to catch my breath. I’d already done five rounds with Alex and Ella is certainly making me work for it. Last round sees us both tag each other one more time, but in the final few seconds she catches me and also trips me up. She falls down on top of me and we’re both panting heavily. “I think you’ll find that’s a foul.” I say as her sweet aroma fills my nose. “Get up pussy.” She winks at me and stands, stretching her hand out to help me. I brush it away. “Hell no, I can stand up by myself.” I laugh. Max comes back into the ring and holds mine and Ella’s

arms like they do at the end of a real fight. “I announce that the winner is...” Alex does a little drum roll on the floor. “Ella.” “What the hell, that was a foul. That should’ve been a draw.” “She tagged you fair and square before the whistle went I’m afraid.” Alex shouts from the ring side. I take off my glove and throw it at him. “Whose side are you on anyway?” I jest. “I’d like to see you come up here and fight her.” “Boys... there’s enough of me to go around. It’s your turn next time Alex.” “Anytime Blake.” He winks at her. We leave the ring and head outside. Alex deciding to head back home, while I walk Ella back to her apartment. “So where’d you learn to box?” She asks. We’re walking side by side and I want to hold her hand. Feel her palm in

mine and her pulse against my skin. “My coach at school knew someone and introduced me to him. I tried it out and was good at it, so Alex and I used to go every week.” “Alex said you used to do it to help out with your frustrations. What did he mean?” We’ve stopped by a bench on the green opposite her apartment and she reaches up to touch the scar above my eye. Her touch is gentle, but I feel it all throughout my body. I gesture for us to sit before she has the chance to notice my cock hardening at her touch. “When we got to New York, it was crazy. I thought London was fast paced, but New York is something else. We were ushered straight into College life and away from home for the first time. I meant to contact you more, but there was so much to do.” I take a deep breath and look out over the green to see family’s enjoying the sunshine. “I went

home one weekend to find my dad in the arms of another woman.” Ella put her hand on mine. “Turns out the move was more about Dad being able to spend time with his mistress than because of work. I went completely off the rails and had it out with him, but Mum came home in the middle of the fight and overheard.” I close my eyes remembering her standing in the doorway, shock and hurt etched on her face. “That’s how she found out that he’d been cheating on her. My Dad left to be with his mistress, so it was just me, Mum and Alex. It was too late to come back home; we were already enrolled at College and she’d found a nice job that she liked, so we stayed. I got into lots of trouble though and fights at College - almost got me kicked off campus that’s how I got this scar.” I say pointing to the one above my eye. “I was at a party one night, chatting to some girl, when her jock boyfriend who thought he was the bee’s knees decided to pick a fight. We had it

out and he caught me, but I won. That’s when my coach spotted my talent and decided to channel it correctly. I took up boxing and it really helped me. I missed you like crazy, but I knew there was nothing I could do about it. The more time passed, the more I thought you’d be better off without me.” I looked over at her and was shocked to see her tears. “Why are you crying?” I wipe the tears from her face. “Because I wish I could’ve been there for you.” “Just like I wish I could’ve been there for you.” I reply. I let my hands glide from her face down to her neck and pulling her to my chest. “Please don’t. I don’t like it when you cry.” She hugs me tightly and I tilt her face up to me, our faces close; I’m desperate to kiss her. Her arms wrap round me tightly and I run my hands up and down her spine. She looks at my lips and as she does she catches her bottom lip between her teeth. I inaudibly groan and use my thumb to gently pull her lip free. I lean in to kiss her when I hear a dog

barking and Ella let’s go of me. The spell broken, we sit side by side in silence. I need to lighten the mood. “So, Miss Million Dollar Baby.” She looks up at me and laughs. “The look on your face was priceless. I wish I’d had a camera with me.” “When did you start boxing?” “I took up a self-defence class at the gym a few months after it all went down with Eric. I got chatting to Max and he decided to take me on with boxing as well. Turns out I have quite a talent for it.” She smiles proudly. I love how strong, proud and confident this new Ella is. I mean she’d always been feisty when we were younger, but there’s something more I can’t put my finger on. “You were amazing. You whooped my butt. I will be happy to spar with you any day.” “I’m kind of looking forward to taking on Alex.” She

admits. “Yeah I’d also love to see that. He’s pretty quick, but I reckon you can teach him a thing or two.” Ella stands to leave and I follow suit. She looks concerned as she sees Lottie leaving and jumping in a taxi. “What’s the matter?” I ask. Ella watches the taxi drive off before answering. “It’s nothing. She just seems to be going out a lot more and I’ve no idea where she’s going. She’s a big girl though and can take care of herself; I’m just being over protective.” She doesn’t look convinced and I reach out to place my hand on her shoulder. “I’m sure she’s fine.” She smiles at me, but I know she’s still worried. “Right, well I’m going to head in and get a shower. It’s hard work kicking your butt.” She jokes. “I’ll be ready for you next time Blake.” I watch as she

disappears into her building before turning to make my way home. Ella As I head up to my apartment I think about Lottie. Where’s she going all the time? I see a note she’s left me on the kitchen side. Hey Ella, Gone out with the girls for a Birthday party I won’t be late Love you Lottie

“Well at least she left me a note this time.” I mutter to myself. I go and take a hot shower and think about my day. It was so much fun sparring with Jack. I know he probably went easy on me, but I certainly didn’t go easy on him. Maybe next time he’ll be more prepared. The rest of the weekend is pretty non eventful, spent

working and relaxing. On Sunday I’m sat out on my balcony enjoying the sunshine when Jack messages me. Alex has increased his training. Think he’s worried about taking on Right Hook Blake. J x

I love my new found banter with Jack and reply. So he should. Guess he doesn’t want to get caught out by a woman like someone I know. E x

I can imagine Jack’s reaction to my text and I wait impatiently for his response. Just you wait. I will have you pinned beneath me before you know what hit you. J x

There’s no way to ignore the sexual implications of his message. There you go underestimating me again. Think it will surprise you who’ll end up on top. E x

I wonder what he’s thinking, when my phone dings with another message.

Bring it on baby. J x

I itch to carry on the flirty messages, but leave it be for now. He’s set a challenge, which I rarely back down from and I have to get back in the ring with him. I’d much prefer to fight it out privately though and show him who’s truly in charge. The week passes by quickly and before I know it, it’s Friday night. As I head into the club I spot Alex sitting at the bar and I take up a seat next to him. “Hey Alex.” “Ella. Can I buy you a drink?” “I wish, but we have a bachelor party coming, in 30 minutes. I better remain sober.” I roll my eyes and ask Dan for a coke. “You don't sound excited about it. Is this something the club usually does?” He asks. “No not at all, but it’s for one of the members. He’s bringing a few friends with him and has arranged with some

other Doms to put on a show, with subs that thrive on public display. They’re going to be restricted to this floor only.” “Ah I see. Guessing you have to babysit them though?” “Yup.” I say taking a sip of my drink. “I suppose I better go and get changed before the stag and his guests arrive.” He nods and I make my way to my office. I decide to go with something a little different tonight and wear red stilettos, hold ups, a red thong and a white shirt with the buttons undone so my red push up bra is on show. Tying my hair up in a tight ponytail, I put on some extra make up and head downstairs. I pass Alex on his way up with a submissive and he winks. When I reach the bar Master Owen is standing with a few people and I approach him. “Master Owen.” I reach my hand out and he brings it to his lips, placing a kiss on my knuckles. “Mistress Eleanor. I can’t thank you enough for allowing this tonight. Especially as some of my guests are not

members.” I look at the gentlemen standing with him, who all look distinguished in their suits. Looks can be deceiving though. “It’s not a problem. Have you discussed the rules with them?” “Yes and they will behave, I promise.” “Is everybody here?” “I’m waiting for one more, but I’ve left his name with Tony. I'm sure he’ll be here soon.” “Okay, then let me lead you to your table and I will send over a waitress to take your drink order.” He nods and I lead them to a roped off area near the small stage. I make my way back to the bar and wave over Mel, one of the waitresses. “Your party has arrived apart from one. Please watch their alcohol intake and let me know if any of them cause you any grief.” “Yes, Mistress.” I’m standing at the bar waiting for the

last guest to arrive when Izzy approaches me. “Has Master Owens party all arrived?” “Not yet. We’re awaiting one more.” Suddenly her eyes widen and she looks in complete shock. “I believe your straggler has arrived.” Puzzled, I turn round to see what has her riled up and come face to face with Jack.

Chapter 10 Jack I’d been out all morning taking photos and was heading to the studio to download them, when I see a familiar face across the street. “Marcus.” I shout. He looks up at me and hesitantly waves. I jog over to him and he stares blankly at me. “Marcus it’s me, Jack.” “Jack Cole. Well shit, how long’s it been?” He shakes my hand and looks me over. “You look good man. The last time I saw you, you and my brother were still running around in Spiderman pyjamas.” He jokes. “Yeah it’s been a long time. How’s Pete?” I ask. I’d grown up with Peter and was always hanging out at his house. His older brother Marcus had been someone I’d looked up to.

“Yeah he’s real good. We’re partners in our own chain of fitness clubs. So are you back for good now?” He asks. “Yep, and we’ve just opened up a studio across the street. I’m a photographer and Alex an artist.” “That’s great; I love art and will have to come take a look some time. What are your plans for tonight? It’s my bachelor party; if you’re free you should come. Pete would love to see you.” I hesitate. I really wanted to see Ella tonight. “Look, here’s my card. Give me a call or text me later if you want to join us and I will send you the details.” He passes me a card and I slide it into my pocket. “Okay sounds good.” He slaps me on the back and I head back across the street to the studio. I let myself in to find the place empty. Thank god. I could really do with some peace and quiet to get these photos done. Sitting down at my computer I pull out my phone and text Ella.

Hey. Fancy hanging out tonight? Maybe go see a movie? J x

I get on with downloading my photos, when my phone beeps. Hey, Jack. Sorry I have to work tonight. How about lunch tomorrow though? E x

Well I guess I can go to that bachelor party now. I message Ella back. Lunch sounds good. See you tomorrow around 12. J x

I message Marcus to say I’m free and he sends me a time and location. I shove my phone in my pocket and get on with work. Before I know it, it’s gotten dark outside. “Shit I’m going to be late.” I pack up and head home to get ready. I barely make it in time to the address and I’m totally confused. The address must be wrong. I’m standing in front of a Victorian property that looks more like someone’s house than a club. The only give away that it may not be a residence, is the big

hulk of a man standing guard outside. “Excuse me. I’ve been given this address, but it must be wrong. I’m looking for a club.” The huge doorman looks me up and down suspiciously. “Name?” He bellows at me. “Jack Cole.” “Mr. Cole. Welcome. Your party has already arrived and is waiting for you inside.” I walk through ornate wooden doors into what looks like a bar. It’s like a tardis in here. The club must occupy at least two of the Victorian frontages that I could see from the outside. The door slams behind me and as I look toward the end of the bar I see a familiar face. Izzy looks shocked at my presence and I soon realise why.

The woman

next to Izzy turns to face me. “Ella?” I look her up and down, unable to process what I see before me.

“What’re you doing here?” She asks before I see recognition dawn in her eyes. “I'm here for a friend’s party.” We stand and stare at each other. Neither of us moving or speaking. Izzy steps forward. “Do you want me to take you over to your friends, or would you two like to talk?” I raise my eyebrows at Ella, “I think we need to talk don't you?” She stares at me before hesitantly responding, “Um, yes I think we do.” “You can use my office.” Izzy suggests. She breaks the stare and looks at Izzy. “Thanks” She starts to lead the way, when she stops abruptly. “Wait here a minute Jack.” I stand awkwardly in the middle of the room, as I watch her approach Izzy. She whispers something to her and then returns to lead me to an office. I enter and walk to the desk, leaning against it; I watch

her close the door and turn to face me, a wary look in her eyes. “Jack… I don't know where to start.” I cross my arms over my chest. I don’t mean to act closed off. “How about you tell me why you’re here?” I decide to start with something simple. “I work here.” She answers. “Okay. What do you do?” “I’m co-owner of the club with Izzy, so I do all sorts of things.” I start to pace, thinking things through. Alex told me he’d seen Ella at a party, but that she was just the planner. That fucker knew about her working here. “I’m going to rip his head off.” “Please don’t blame him. He only agreed to the secret, as he knew it was my place to tell you and not his.”

“I will deal with Alex.” I mutter, as I lean against the desk once more. I look her up and down, taking in her clothes. “Is that a uniform or what you chose to wear?” “I chose to wear this tonight. Sometimes I’m more conservative and sometimes less so.” I close my eyes and rub my hand across my forehead. “I don't understand. Why are you involved with this scene?” She walks up to me slowly and stands within my grasp. She’s too close; her perfume assaulting my senses. I straighten up, but can’t go anywhere because of the desk. “Jack. I... I'm a Domme. I’m involved with this scene, because I’m a part of it.” Okay, that’s not what I was expecting. I walk away from her and stand on the other side of the desk, using it as a barrier between us. I frequently look over to her, wanting to say something, but thinking better of it each time. “Why?” She gets a defiant look in her eye as she’s about to

respond. “Jack I was raped. I was abused and raped by not one but two men! I was afraid to go out for the first six months and even then I didn’t trust anyone. For three years I hid and lived a lonely life. Then I met Izzy. She introduced me to her world and it helped me take back control. I trained for a year and also took self-defence classes. Once I became a Mistress it all made sense to me. I no longer had to be afraid and I could be the one in control.” I’m trying to absorb it all. I can see her getting upset and I automatically want to comfort her, but I hold myself back. “Why didn't you tell me? Is this why you just want to be friends?” “I didn’t know how to tell you. As for just being friends then obviously it’s a yes. You’re not exactly submissive.” “What the fuck is that supposed to mean?” I hate that my temper is starting to get the better of me. “Calm down Jack.”

“No I won’t calm down. You and Alex have been lying to me. I’ve given you numerous chances to tell me what’s been going on, but you just don’t trust me. I knew when you ran out on me at the coffee shop that there was something more to it. After you confided in me about Eric, I thought that must’ve been it, but now it all makes sense.” My voice has risen with my anger and there’s a knock at the door. Alex walks in and stands beside Ella. “Everyone okay in here?” “What the fuck are you doing here?” I spit out. I stalk up to him and stand toe to toe. “Why didn’t you tell me?” He doesn’t budge and we are locked in a stalemate. “Back up, Jack.” Alex’s voice is low and calm, but I don’t move. “Jack?” Ella places her hand on my bicep and I flinch at her touch. I can see the hurt in her eyes at my reaction, but I can’t deal with it. My emotions are struggling to deal with it

all, the betrayal I feel is deep. Alex walking in has only fuelled my fire. “I didn’t tell you Jack, as it was not my place to do so.” I know he’s right, but I don’t want to hear it right now. “Jack?” Ella approaches me like I’m a wild animal. “Please. I never meant to hurt you.” “You should’ve just trusted me Ella.” I think that’s what hurts the most; the fact that she didn’t trust me enough to tell me. “I need some air.” I leave the club and start walking toward home.

Ella I stand frozen in place. Jack has left and I feel like I’m stuck in a nightmare. “Ella?” I look up to see Alex looking at me worriedly. “Sit down, you look like you’re about to faint.” He helps me over to the sofa and Izzy hands me a glass of water. Where’d she come from? “Ella, are you okay?” Izzy asks, while she holds my hand. I feel numb and have no idea what to do next. “What happened?” “He flipped out. He was really pissed that I didn’t tell him. I told him my reasons for keeping it a secret, but he said he knew something wasn’t right. He said he’s been waiting for me to confide in him and that it’s obvious I don’t trust him.” Alex rests his hand on my shoulder, “Ella, give him time. He’ll come round.”

“I need to go home. Can you cope without me?” “Of course I can. Let me get Tony to grab you a taxi and I’ll walk you out.” “I can take you home Ella.” Alex offers. I change into jeans and a t-shirt and thirty minutes later we’re in front of my building. “Thanks Alex.” I open the car door and he places his hand on my forearm. “Give him time Ella. I’m going to go look for him now and when I find him I’ll text you okay?” I nod and get out. As I ascend the stairs to my apartment I can’t help worrying about where Jack is right now. I know he must be angry and hurting and it’s my fault. I should’ve told him. I lock the door behind me, turn on a little lamp and pour myself a shot of brandy. I know I should go to bed, as I’m exhausted, but I don’t think I will be getting much sleep tonight. I lie in bed and stare at the ceiling. I keep checking

my phone, but no news from Alex. I wake in the morning to find myself still dressed and on top of the covers. I reach over to my phone to see its 9 o’clock. I also see a text from Alex. No sign of Jack at the apartment, club, or studio. He’ll turn up when he’s ready. A x

I make my way to the kitchen in desperate need of a brew and am filling the kettle when Lottie saunters in still in her PJ’s, which consist of pink hot pants and a vest. “Hey, you look like crap. What’s the matter?” “Thanks for that. I know I can count on you to tell it like it is.” She smiles and nudges my shoulder. “What are sisters for?” I shake my head and sit down on a stool. “Ella, what is it”? “Jack came by the club last night.” Her eyes widen and she sits down next to me. “Oh shit!”

“Oh shit, indeed. So now he knows I’m a Mistress and he’s pretty pissed I didn’t tell him. He thinks I don’t trust him, but that’s not why I kept it a secret.” I put my face in my hands as fresh tears spring from my eyes. Lottie puts her arm around my shoulder to comfort me, when there’s a knock at the door. I get up to answer it and find Alex looking like he hasn’t slept either. “Hey, any sign of him?” “No, not yet; I’m guessing he stayed at a friend’s or something.” He looks over to the kitchen where Lottie’s standing in her little pink pyjamas. I see him gulp as he drinks in the sight of her. “I’m just going to go get dressed.” She slinks off to her room and I pour Alex a cup of tea. “So, no word from Jack then?” He asks. “No, nothing. Tell me this is all going to be okay. I can’t lose him again.” Alex rounds the breakfast bar and pulls me

into a hug. “It’s going to be fine Ella, and if he can’t accept who you are, it’s his loss. Let’s just give him some time to cool off.” Alex calms me down and I know he’s right. I’ll give him some time and then try to explain.

Chapter 11 Jack It’s been a week since I found out about Ella. In that time, she’s tried to get in contact with me, but I’ve ignored her. It started off with her coming to the apartment a few days after. I wasn’t there, but she slipped a note under my door. Jack, I’m sorry. You know where I am if you want to talk. Ella x

Then she came by the studio a couple of days after that, or so Alex informed me. I haven’t seen him this week either, but he called me and left a voice mail. I was starting to miss her, her laugh, her smile, that damn perfume which drives me to distraction. On Friday she sent me a text. Jack. Please talk to me. I will be at the club tomorrow night, I hope you stop by. E x

It’s Saturday morning and I crashed at Pete’s last night. I wake up with a half empty bottle of bourbon in my hand. Thank god I only drank half; otherwise I might feel even worse than I already do. Sitting up, it feels like my head is pounding. Finally I realise it’s someone at the door. I stagger to it, wondering where Pete is and open it to find Izzy in front of me. “Izzy? What do you want? Wait, how’d you even know I was here?” I ask. Izzy barges past me and makes her way to what I assume is the kitchen. “Do come in.” I say sarcastically. I find her sitting at the dining table. “Sit down.” “I don’t take commands.” I cross my arms across my chest in defiance and lean against the door frame. “Please? I just want to talk to you. Ella has no idea I’m here.” I can see in her eyes that she’s concerned, so I relent and sit down.

“What do you want to say?” “Jack, I’m sorry you found out about Ella the way you did, but I want you to understand the why before you write her off.” “I’m listening.” I would never write Ella off, but Izzy doesn’t need to know that. “What you have to understand about Ella, is that she cares about everyone else more than herself. She puts everyone else’s needs above her own. When I first met her, she was quiet, shy, and had no confidence in herself and no faith in humanity.” “That doesn’t sound like Ella.” “Exactly; being raped and abused nearly destroyed her. If it weren’t for Lottie I’m not sure Ella would be around.” My eyes widen at this and I gulp. This can’t be true. “When I met Lottie for the first time I could see the real Ella. She came out of herself in the company of her sister and I knew

that my initial instincts about her becoming a Mistress were spot on. It took a fair bit of persuasion, but once she started at the club she ended up coming to me and asking to be trained. She saw the respect, trust and loyalty that can come from the type of relationship you can have with a sub and she craved it.” “I can understand that, but why didn’t she tell me?” “It goes back to putting others first. She’s in love with you. Like crazy in love with you, but Ella being Ella, she thinks you deserve someone normal. She thinks that she isn’t normal and to be honest it pisses me off. People have the misconception about BDSM and it is for freaks, but it’s not. When you see and feel the kind of connection that can only come from trusting someone that much, well to be honest it takes your breath away.” I throw my hands up in the air. “I have no problem with Ella being a Domme. I’m just hurt about her not trusting me.

I told her I’d be there for her however she needed me and it still wasn’t enough.” Izzy stands and walks to the kitchen door to leave. She turns back and looks at me seriously. “Jack, Ella’s one in a million. If you love her, then forgive her. If you want to be with her, then show her. She’ll be at the club tonight and if you want I can help you. Think about it and let me know. But if you think for one second that you are going to make her feel guilty about her life choices, you’re going to have me to deal with.” She levels me with a look and then walks out and leaves me in silence.

Ella It’s been a long week of worrying, but being at the club has helped distract me. We’ve another auction coming up and I’ve been working hard to prepare for it. Alex is even going to auction himself off this time and I wonder who will bid on him. I haven’t heard from Jack all week despite my attempts to contact him and Alex tells me he’s kept out of his way and left him to it. It all sounds so childish, but Alex says Jack just needs time and space. I know it doesn’t help that I showed up at the studio, or that I’ve text him to meet me tonight, but I can’t not try. I need him to know that I care. “You know a watched kettle never boils right?” Izzy sits next to me at the bar. “What? Kettle? What’re you talking about?” I tear my eyes away from the club entrance to look at her. “You haven’t taken your eyes of that damn door since

you arrived.” I look away guiltily. I know I should be working, but I want to be here in case he shows. “I’m sorry. Do you need me to make some rounds?” I go to move from the stool, but she puts her hand out to stop me. “No, its fine, I’m just worried about you. He still hasn’t contacted you huh?” “Nope, I’ve not even seen him at the gym. I was doing some bag work with Max, when I swear I felt his presence, but when I looked around I couldn’t see him. What would you do in my position?” I ask her. “I’d hunt him down, drag him back to my place, tie him up and ride him so hard he forgets his own name.” I smile and start to laugh. Feels like my first proper laugh all week. “I can always count on you to cheer me up.” “Seriously though, if he doesn’t turn up tonight I will help you kidnap him. It’ll take two of us to bring him down with

those muscles.” She winks and calls the bar tender over. “Dan, get us a couple of tequila shots please.” “What’re you doing?” Dan places two shots, a bowl of lemon slices and the salt in front of us. “We’re going to have some fun.” I look back at the door, as it opens and a Dom walks through. Fuck it. “Let’s do it.” I say. Izzy stands up from her stool and leans into lick my shoulder, then sprinkles a little salt on the area. “Body shots?” “Why not? You can either take a shot off me, or a sub of your choice.” She smiles wickedly and I narrow my eyes at her. “Okay, do it before I change my mind.” She slowly places a lemon wedge in my mouth, then leans into me and sucks the salt from my skin, leaving little tingles behind. She downs her shot and then using her teeth, takes the wedge from me. “My turn.” I say grabbing her left arm. I pull her arm

out straight and swirl my tongue around the crook of her elbow. I shake some salt on to it, and then place a wedge in her mouth. Flattening my tongue out, I lick the salt off her arm, turn to down the shot and then suck the lemon wedge while it remains in her mouth. When I pull away we both chuckle. “Feeling better?” She asks. “Think it’ll take more than one shot, but you’ve definitely improved my mood.” “Good.” I look at my watch to see it’s nearly midnight. “I’m going to go do some rounds on the first floor and then head home if that’s okay?” “Yeah sure, go ahead. Fancy meeting up tomorrow for a coffee?” “Definitely, text me.” Leaving Izzy, I make my way upstairs to monitor play.

Finishing up on the first floor, I head to my office, when I feel I’m being watched. Glancing around, I gasp when my eyes land on Jack standing outside my office. He’s leaning against the wall wearing jeans and a navy blue shirt with the sleeves rolled up. The sight of him makes my stomach flutter and my pulse race. It’s only been a week since I last saw him and although he’s only been back in my life for a short time, I’ve missed him terribly. So much for guarding my heart against him. I approach him slowly unsure of his mood. “Hey.” I say tentatively. “Hey. Izzy told me you’d be up here.” He shuffles his feet nervously. “Do you want to come in?” He nods silently and I open the door letting him enter first, and locking it behind me. I’d dressed quite conservatively tonight in a corset and skirt, so didn’t feel the need to change. “Want to sit?” I ask,

gesturing to the sofa, but he turns to face me, his eyes boring into mine. “Ella, I told you I’d be there for you. However you needed me.” I guess we’re standing for this conversation then. “I know and I’m sorry I didn’t tell you.” He walks closer to me, closing the distance between us to just a foot. “Then what is it? Why did you feel you couldn’t tell me Ella?” He looks deep into my eyes and I’m momentarily distracted. I’m lost and I worry my bottom lip between my teeth. Finally breaking the stare I move around him and walk to my desk, placing my hands on the cool surface. “I don’t know Jack.” “You’re lying. Why couldn’t you tell me?” I close my eyes, fighting back tears of frustration. “You deserve someone normal Jack.” “You are normal. Why. Couldn’t. You. Tell. Me?” He asks, slowly pronouncing each word.

He’s pushing me and I dig my nails into the wooden surface of my desk. “Jack, you’re not submissive.” “That’s bollocks. If I wanted to submit to you I would, without thinking twice about it.” His voice has risen. “Why didn’t you tell me Ella? What’s the real reason damn it?” I throw my hands up in the air in frustration and turn to him. “You hurt me Jack. I gave you my virginity and you just disappeared. Do you have any idea what that was like? I was sixteen years old and you just vanished.” I turn away from him and cover my face with my hands, as tears slide down my cheeks. I hear him approach me and feel the heat of his body behind me. “Now we’re getting somewhere.” I feel Jacks arms gently rest on my shoulders. “How long have you held that in?” He asks softly. “Oh I don’t know... twelve years give or take.” I take a deep breath and turn to face him.

“I get why you didn’t tell me.” “You do?” I can’t hide the shock in my voice. “Yes. I’m so sorry.” He hangs his head and reaches his hand out to take mine. “I should have kept in contact. No matter how busy I thought I was, or if I thought you were better off without me. Guess I was just a stupid kid.” I move away from him and sit down on the sofa. He follows and sits next to me. “So... you’re a Mistress huh.” “Yeah, I am.” I respond seriously, looking him in the eye. “You know, when I thought about what you might’ve been hiding from me, Mistress was nowhere on that list.” He shakes his head and looks at the floor, his elbows resting on his knees. I turn my whole body toward him and take his hands in mine as I start to explain. “Being a Mistress is something that I need Jack. It’s a part of me now and not something I can let go of. Since what happened to me with Eric, I’ve been unable to trust

anyone. My circle of friends extends to Lottie, Izzy and a handful of Dominants here at the club, along with you and Alex. Being a Mistress gave me the chance to take back control of my life. I’m not afraid anymore. Everyone here at the club abides by the rules, with respect being number one.” “Sounds like you have life all figured out.” He say’s pulling his hands from mine and standing. “I wouldn’t say that. I don’t have us figured out Jack.” He is standing by my desk and turns to face me. “What do you have to figure out?” He asks leaning against my desk. I stand and walk to him leaving a small gap between us. “I love you Jack, I never stopped loving you and I will probably love you for the rest of my days. What I need to know is if you still love me and if we can make this work. If all you want is to be friends, then I will accept that. I love you

enough to let you go.” “Maybe I don’t want to be let go.”

Chapter 12 Ella I stare at him, a little stunned by his confession. “What does that mean?” “I don’t know.” He moves away from me and stands looking out over the 1st floor. “I don’t know how to be a part of this lifestyle Ella.” “How about you think of it as being a part of me?” He looks over to me and slowly approaches. “Do you know what I thought about the first time I saw you in the coffee shop?” I shake my head. “All I wanted to do was spread you out on the coffee shop floor and make you come.” He tucks a loose strand of hair behind my ear and I close my eyes, his touch pulsing through me. “You know... if you’re a good boy you could do that, but maybe not in the coffee shop.”

“A good boy huh... What would that involve?” I look at him trying to figure out just how serious he is and when his gaze remains unwavering I feel those butterflies return. Time to play. I straighten my posture and take a step toward him. “We need to talk first. You have no idea what’s involved in being a sub.” “Ella, I’m in love with you too. Always have been and always will be. You’re it for me. I want you in my life and I will do whatever it takes. I’m not going to lose you again. I’m willing to trust you and give this a try.” He lowers himself to his knees, but keeps his eyes locked with mine. I can’t believe he wants to do this. I need to tread carefully, even though my hormones are telling me to jump him. I have a responsibility as a Domme and take it very seriously. “Jack” His name comes out as barely a whisper. I turn

away from him, unable to bare the sight of him giving himself to me. “Ella, look at me… please?” I face this beautiful man before me. This man I’ve loved for so long. I can see how strong he is, even though he’s on his knees. His strength radiates from within. “Stand up.” I command. He rises to his feet and looks down at me. “What do you want Jack? Do you want me to touch you?” He is silent and I reach out to run my hand down his chest feeling his muscles twitch underneath his shirt. I can feel his heartbeat start to pick up. “You want me to kiss you?” I slide my hand up to his neck and kiss him gently, teasingly. His eyes are alight with arousal. “Do you want me? Do you want me to make you beg for mercy?” I push on his chest and force him up against my office door. “Is that what you want Jack?” I’m panting with arousal, my chest heaving.

“Yes.” He says hoarsely. I walk away from him and return to the centre of the room. “If we do this you have to follow my rules.” I watch his face for any signs that it’s not what he wants, but he nods his understanding. “I need you to voice your agreement.” “I will follow your rules.” He walks to me and reaches out to touch me, but I step away from him. “No touching without permission Jack.” He frowns and his hand drops to his side. “There are lots of rules and limits, but we’ll start with the basics. Rule number one - you do not speak unless spoken to. Number two - you do not touch me without permission.” His mouth opens to say something, but I put my finger to his lips to stop him. “Don't make me punish you!” His eyes widen slightly and he shuts his mouth. “Three - you must tell me the truth at all times and not tell me what you think I want to hear. Honesty and truth is a must if this is to work. Four - you must do as I say, or I will

punish you. The severity of your punishment will be determined by the crime as such.” I can see the cogs turning in his mind, as the rules sink in. “Finally, I need you to think up your own safety words. These are words you will need to use if you’re reaching your limit, or you want me to stop. They need to be something you won't forget. I only require your complete submission when we have sex and you will call me Mistress during these times. Do you have any questions?” He is silent for a moment. I can’t believe I’ve just run through my basic rules with him. He pauses a moment before answering. “No.” I give him a wicked smile as I walk behind him. He’s already failed by not calling me Mistress and I yank his hair, forcing his head back. “No what?” I ask. His hair feels soft under my fingers. “No, Mistress.” The sound of him calling me Mistress sends heat flooding to my core.

I let go of his hair and move to stand in front of him. Looking down, I see he has a raging hard on. “Is this for me?”I reach down to stroke his cock through his jeans. He swallows hard and clenches his fists. “Yes, Mistress.” All I want to do is ride him hard, but I need to take this slowly. I want to savour and enjoy this moment. I notice he’s looking me up and down. “You like what you see?” “Oh yes, Mistress.” He answers on a groan, as I continue to palm his engorged shaft. I turn my back to him and place my hands on my hips. “Undo my corset.” He scoops my hair from around my neck and places it to fall over my right shoulder. As he unclips the fasteners, I feel his knuckles graze my skin and I can’t wait to feel his rough hands on me. When he gets to the last one, my corset falls to the floor and I slide my skirt down my legs, revealing some lacy underwear. I swivel to

face him and run my hands over my breasts; pinching my nipples and creating a delicious pain. His hands flex, then clench again and I know he’s itching to touch me. I move closer and raise my breast to my mouth, letting my tongue dart out to lick my nipple. My eyes are focused on him and I watch his tongue snake out to lick his lips. “Kneel, Jack.” He slowly lowers himself, his hands by his side. I grab his hair and lift my leg, placing my thigh on his shoulder. “What are your safe words Jack?” I ask, knowing this is distracting him somewhat. He can smell my arousal and tries to look down, but I yank his head back. “Huh...” He takes a moment to collect himself and look me in the eyes. “I’d like to use green, amber and red, if that's okay with you Mistress?” I’m surprised he knows the house colours and I wonder who he’s been talking to. “That's fine with me. It’s important that they’re easy to

remember. We’ll start out slow, but eventually I’ll test your limits of pain and pleasure and you may need to use them.” I circle him and run my hand over the back of his shoulders; he’s tense. “Relax” Walking over to the sofa, I sit down and slip my hand underneath the front of my panties, to find my clit hard and soaked with my arousal. “Oh, my god.” He says under his breath. I pretend not to hear him, but arch my brow at him. “Strip… Slowly.” I command. He reaches for the top button of his shirt and starts undoing them slowly. My teeth dig into my bottom lip, as I see his chest revealed. His body has changed a lot since I last saw it; he’s so toned and tight, that I want to lick and bite him all over. Unsnapping his jeans he pushes them along with his boxers to the floor; slipping out of his shoes and kicking them off, he stands before me naked. His cock juts out and is unbelievably hard and I lick my lips in anticipation. “Come here.” He walks

toward me and stops before reaching me. I stop rubbing my clit and put my finger to my mouth to lick the juices off. I see fire in his eyes and I know he wants to taste me. “All in good time.” He looks amazed that I read his mind, but I will soon know more about what he’s thinking, what he wants and what he likes than he does as I learn his body. Turning my gaze to his cock, I gesture him forward until he’s within licking distance. “Do you know how much I want to suck your cock? I've had dreams about this cock, this perfect hard cock.” I lick the tip once and he groans. Along with the changes in his body, his penis also looks bigger. It’s a good 8 inches and is not too wide. I love a good size dick that I can take down the back of my throat. “Please, Mistress.” He begs. I slap his ass and he jumps. “I did not ask you to beg, nor did I tell you, you could talk.” He looks down as I take his cock in my hands and rub it

back and forth. “This cock is mine Jack. All mine and I will do what I want with it. What you need to understand is that your orgasms belong to me. They are my gift to you and I will give or withhold them for my pleasure.” His breathing becomes ragged as I continue to stroke it back and forth. It feels so good and I’m dying to taste it, but this is not about me. I need to let him acclimatize to being a submissive. It won't be easy for him and I need to go slow. “Jack...” His eyes are shut tight and he opens them to look at me. “Yes, Mistress.” He says gruffly. “On your knees.” I command. “You have permission to talk, but only to ask questions.” He gets down in front of me and I reach out to touch his arm. “Lift your arm.” He lifts it, so I can see his tattoo. It’s in a gorgeous script style and reads EFB . My eyes widen, as they meet his. I can’t believe he got my initials tattooed on his body. I trace my fingers over it, and then lean into kiss it. Pulling back, I look

at him. “Kiss me.” He swallows hard. “May I touch you Mistress?” I consider his request. I’d normally say no, but he must be going out of his mind with wanting. “Yes.” I whisper. He reaches his hand to my cheek and slowly runs his hand around the back of my neck. His touch sears my skin and he presses his lips against mine gently. My heart rate is pounding and my lips tingle from his kiss, as he pulls back and looks in my eyes. That look alone could cause global warming. He presses his mouth more roughly against mine and I part my lips to accept his tongue, which he thrusts inside. He caresses my tongue in a slow dance that sends shivers down my spine. His grip on my neck tightens and his other hand moves to my lower back to pull me in close. I reach up and do what I've wanted to do since I ran into him in the coffee house. Pulling his hair tightly, he growls at me. Devouring me. Breaking away,

I put my hands on his upper arms feeling his muscles flex beneath me. “Let me go.” I command. He reluctantly drops his arms down to his sides and I take a few deep breaths to calm myself down. I can’t remember the last time I let go of myself like that. I lounge back against the sofa. “Take my panties off.” Jack peels them down my legs and grazes me with his nails. I inhale sharply and then tut at him. “I think you deserve some punishment for that little move Jack, don’t you?” He bows his head. “As you wish, Mistress.” He replies. I spread my legs wide and run my fingers up the inside of my thighs. My touch is driving me crazy, let alone what Jacks touch could do to me. “You want to taste me don’t you Jack?” “Yes, Mistress.” He looks up at me longingly, hopeful. “You can kiss and lick from here to here,” I say, pointing

from my knees to just before my pussy, “But no further. Understand me?” “Yes, Mistress.” Jack leans down and looks me in the eye as he presses his lips to my inner left thigh. I stifle a moan. Fuck his mouth should be illegal. He proceeds to kiss and lick me voraciously and as he reaches my core, I’m not sure if this is my punishment or his. Getting closer to my wet pussy, he moves to my right thigh. As he does so, I feel his breath on my wet clit and I arch my back off the seat. He makes his way along my right thigh and I push my hand into his hair. When he reaches my knee I pull his hair hard, dragging him up to my mouth where I kiss him fiercely. I can feel his cock against my centre and my hips undulate of their own accord, sliding his cock up and down my clit. He pants roughly and his grip on the sofa is so hard, his knuckles are turning white. I break the kiss and push against his chest, making him

sit back on his knees. I so want this moment to last, but I don’t think either of us can be blamed for losing control. “Stand up.” I ask. He stands up shakily and I grab his ass, pulling him toward me. Holding his incredibly hard cock in my hand, I kiss the tip, licking the bead of pre come off. I gently take his cock into my mouth for the first time. I’d never had the confidence to do this for him when we were younger. It’s like steel encased in silk and tastes delicious. I move my hand in time with my mouth and Jack is moaning loudly. I can see his hands fisted at his thighs. “El-Mistress, you are going to make me come.” He strains to say the words and I feel his cock get impossibly bigger and as he is about to explode, I deep throat him. “OH. MY. GOD!” He exclaims, as he pumps his semen down my throat. I growl my pleasure, knowing that he will feel the vibration. His cock fits my mouth perfectly and I love the feel of his come sliding down my throat. My arms are

wrapped around his upper thighs and as he comes down from his orgasm they start to shake a little. Pulling back, I look up his body to see a sheen of sweat adorning his chest. “Sit down.” He stumbles onto the sofa and his head is rested on the back of it looking up at the ceiling. I straddle him and kiss and lick his throat. “How was that?” I ask in between kisses. He looks up at me. “Amazing Mistress…” It sounded like he wanted to say something else, but he stopped. “What is it?” “It’s nothing, I just... I’ve never experienced deep throat and I wanted to touch you badly.” I feel thrilled that I was the first person to deep throat him and can’t help the smile that spreads across my face. “If you want to touch me, all you have to do is ask.” I feel his cock stirring beneath me and I grind against it. “Mind

you I can’t guarantee I will approve your request and I may just have to punish you if you don’t have permission to talk.” “Permission to touch you, Mistress?” He asks, his hands hovering by my sides. “Yes.” I groan, as his hands glide up my back, but when he drags his nails back down, I throw my head back. “Jesus Christ.” He leans forward and places kisses across my clavicle and I rest my hands on his shoulders. I’m still grinding my pussy against his cock and every so often it almost enters me. “Jack… I need… I’m clear of all diseases. I was tested three months ago and haven’t had sex with anyone in a year.” I pull his face to meet mine. “I want there to be nothing between us.” “I’m clear. I was tested before I came back and I haven’t been with anyone in six months.” I let go of his face and grab hold of the back of the sofa. He places his hands on my breasts and rubs his thumbs over my nipples.

“Harder.” I demand. He pinches one of my nipples between his finger and thumb and I hiss. He quickly laves it with his tongue and I smile down at him. “Like that Mistress?” He asks sweetly. “Yes. Bite them as well.” He raises an eyebrow in surprise. I’m sure biting isn’t a first for him, but seeing as how the one time we had sex, it was soft and gentle, this will be completely unknown to him. My hands move up and into his hair, as he moves over to my other nipple. Licking it softly, before biting it hard, he sucks it into his mouth taking away the sting of the bite. I grab his hair roughly and reach my hand down to his waiting cock, placing it at my entrance. “Keep your eyes open.” I command. He looks me in the eye, as I slowly lower myself onto his cock. Oh my god he’s big. We both barely manage not to close our eyes. Once he’s fully sheathed I stay still to acclimatize to his size.

“You’re so tight.” He says, quickly adding “Mistress,” and gripping my hips hard. I begin to lift my ass up and down, sliding his cock in and out of me. Feeling skin against skin is incredible. “Jack I’ve never…” He silences me with a kiss. I’ve never gone bare with anyone consensually and I’m glad that my first time is with Jack. “Jack I need you to place your hands on the back of the sofa.” I see confusion register on his face, but he does as I ask. I can’t explain it, but I’ve never been able to come through penetrative sex, with someone touching me since I was raped. Raking my nails down his chest, he hisses and as I start to pick up speed, I can tell he’s getting closer. Cupping his face roughly in my hands, I kiss him hard and slam my pussy down on his cock, feeling my orgasm build. As I continue, he starts to buck up in to me and this throws me over the edge. I scream out as the orgasm hits me full

force and I bite down on his shoulder. As my pussy tightens around his cock I feel his come bathe my inner walls and he grunts as his cock pulses inside me. “Fuck” He says, as he breathes out harshly. I slow down and grind against him, riding out both our orgasms; kissing him softly, I run my fingers down his cheek. My legs are a little shaky as I stand up, but I try to hide it and slip into the bathroom to clean up. When I return a few minutes later in a robe, Jack is dressed and has poured us both a drink. We sit in silence for a while, but it’s not awkward. I feel completely comfortable and as Jack finishes his drink, he looks over at me. He still hasn’t said anything and I realise it may be because I haven’t ended the scene. “Jack, the scene is over. You’re free to speak.” He sighs and reaches out to tuck a strand of hair behind my ear. “I wasn’t sure.” He says smirking at me. “This is all

so new to me, Ella.” “I know. Part of my responsibility to you as a Domme is to make sure you’re okay. Aftercare is very important, so we should talk about what just happened.” It seems so weird to talk like this. I’ve never talked like this with any of my boyfriend’s let alone Jack. It’s one of the things I love about a Dom/sub relationship and it helps make me feel safe to know that the person I’m with is bound to being honest with me. “Okay. Well that was... HOT.” He says smiling at me. I smile back at him and am doing cartwheels inside. “Who’d have thought having a woman be in control would be so damned sexy.” He confesses. “I’m glad you enjoyed it. You don’t know how many times in the last few weeks that I’ve dreamt of doing something like this with you. Was there anything you didn’t like though, or that you have any questions about? I wanted to start out

slowly and need to know for the future, if there’s anything you’re concerned about.” He shakes his head at me and then opens his mouth to say something. “Why couldn’t I touch you when you had your orgasm?” I hate bringing this up now, as I know the mood will change. “I haven’t been able to orgasm through penetrative sex with someone touching me, since I was raped.” I look over to Jack and he looks furious, but he controls his temper. “Maybe I can change that.” He states, as he stands and grabs his jacket. “I wouldn’t count on it.” I mutter. I look at my phone to see its well after three in the morning. “We better get going.” We leave my office and the club is still in full swing. It’s weird going from the peace and tranquillity of my office to a bustling bar. I say good night to Tony as we head out the

door and grab a taxi back to my apartment. Jack takes my hand in his and I smile at him. It’s been a long time since I’ve held someone’s hand. Well as long as you discount me holding them down to restrain them. We reach my place and enter the foyer. Standing on the first step I’m eye level with Jack and he reaches his hands around my waist and tugs me close to him. “I had an amazing night Ella.” He leans in and places a kiss on my jaw line. I can feel myself wanting more, but I shut it down. I almost moan, as his teeth graze my neck. “Look, why don’t we take this slow?” He nods and places his forehead against mine. “Okay. Now if you could just communicate that to my nether regions, then that’d be great.” I chuckle, as I feel his cock hardening between us. “How about I pick you up tomorrow around eleven-thirty and we can take a drive somewhere nice?” He asks stepping back and leaving me

wanting. Hang on; aren’t I supposed to be the one in control? “Okay.” I try to sound unaffected by the loss of him. I head up the stairs, looking back down at him watching me. “Night, Jack.” “Night, Mistress.” He says as he opens the door and leaves. I stare at the door as it closes behind him. God damn its hot when he calls me that.

Chapter 13 Jack The sound of my alarm going off pulls me out of my slumber and I hit the snooze button. Its 9 o’clock and I want to get out for a run this morning, before I pick up Ella. Thinking of her brings a smile to my face and I think back to last night. “Harder” I can almost hear her voice commanding me to pinch her nipples. I can’t believe she’s a Mistress. I never thought of myself being submissive in any way and I still don’t to a degree. Izzy told me something last night, when she was explaining a few things to me.

“You’re the one in control Jack.” “What do you mean? Surely being the submissive means I don’t have control?” I look at her confused. I’d gone to the club that afternoon to talk to her about Ella. “Ella may have control over the way things happen and

what goes on between you, but you have control. You need to figure out your limits. The safe words are there for a reason Jack. This way you’re the one in control. If you don’t want something to happen, then it won’t.” I don’t quite understand everything yet, but what I do know is that Ella taking control was the sexiest thing I’d ever seen. I swing my legs out of bed and feel a few familiar aches. I grin like a Cheshire cat. Maybe she fucked me that hard, so I’d feel it today. Make me remember her and only her. God at this rate, I’m going to need a cold shower before I go for a run. When I pick Ella up, she’s waiting outside for me looking very summery in a yellow skirt. The weather’s supposed to be good today and the temperature’s already rising. I pull up next to her, and as she slides into the car, I feel ridiculously excited to see her. She leans over and plants a feather soft kiss on my lips.

“Good morning.” She has a huge smile on her face, which is infectious. “Good morning. Where would you like to go today?” I ask. “How about we head down to the New Forest? It’s only an hour and a half away. We could be there by one o’clock.” She suggests. “Do you need to work tonight?” “No. Why?” “How about we don’t come home tonight?” Suddenly she looks a little lost “It’s okay, we don’t have to stay the night. It was just an idea.” I place my hand on her knee and she smiles half-heartedly at me. “Better get a move on then, otherwise we’ll never get there.” She jests. I start the car and head for the motorway, which will take us the majority of the way. After a few minutes she starts digging around in her

purse. “What’re you looking for?” I ask amused at the things she’s pulling out. Hairbrush, make-up, tissues, wallet... Why do women carry so much stuff around? “You’re going to love this.” Suddenly she pulls out a tape. “I didn’t know if you’d have a tape player in here, but I’m glad you do.” She laughs and pushes the tape in. Suddenly with a little hiss, a song starts to play. I look at her in shock. “This is the mix-tape I made you.” ‘Girlfriend’ by N-Sync is playing. “Oh, my god. I can’t believe you still have this.” I laugh, shaking my head. She sings to the song a little and I love how care free she’s being. “I love this tape. Why would I get rid of it? There are some classic songs on here.” Just then ‘Gotta Get Thru This’ by Daniel Bedingfield starts to play and I can’t help but sing along as well. God this takes me back to the year we dated. An hour and a half later and all sung out, we finally arrive

in Lyndhurst, in the New Forest. The heat’s really picked up and I leave my jacket in the car as we walk to a local pub for lunch. As we sit down in the pub garden, having placed our order, I decide to just take the bull by the horns and talk about what Ella expects from me being a submissive. Doing a Wikipedia search last night had brought up so much information, it had left me feeling overwhelmed. “Ella, we need to talk about me being a submissive.”

Ella I’m a little shocked by Jack’s bluntness. I did ask him to be honest and truthful with me though and if he has questions, I’m glad he’s not afraid to ask. I take a sip of my drink. “What would you like to know?” “Well I did a search last night to be honest.” “It freaked you out?” “I wouldn’t say freaked me out. I guess I just want to know what you expect of me and what limits we’re going to set.” I can see he looks concerned. God knows what he found last night, but I’m sure some of the more, shall we say hard core things blew his mind a little, if not a lot. “It’s not a science Jack. There’s give and take like in any normal relationship. We have to find what works for us and compromise. I’ve never had to go through this with anyone before.”

“Why not?” “We all have online profiles at the club and you search for someone like-minded. Obviously there’s some form of communication between you both and aftercare is very important, but for the majority, both parties are on the same page.” “I get that I don’t know the ins and outs of the lifestyle, but I want to know what basic things you expect of me.” I’m trying to gauge his emotions. Is he trying to back out of what we have going without even giving it a chance. “I’m not running away from this Ella.” Shit did I just voice that out loud, or did he just read my mind? He takes my hand and I take a deep breath. “Okay... basically, I want you available to me whenever I want you.” His eyes widen in shock at my bluntness, but a small smile plays at the corner of his mouth. I decide to lay it out straight for him. “If I want to fuck you in the toilets now,

then that’s what we’ll do. If I want to suck your cock into my mouth on the drive home today, then that’s what we’ll do.” His jaw drops open a little, but I continue. “We can discuss limits as we go along. To just talk about them like this, I’m worried that it’ll put you off. You need to experience them and not be afraid to try new things. If you don’t like what I’m doing to you, then you just have to say so.” “Okay.” He blinks a few times. “What about the pain side of it?” Just then the waiter brings out our food. As soon as he leaves I decide to try something. The garden’s fairly quiet due to it being way past lunch time and I slip my foot out of my shoe and slide it up the inside of his leg. He jumps at the contact and looks down to see my foot vanish inside his shorts. “Ella?” My toes find their goal and I gently caress his cock, which has immediately started to grow. “No underwear. Good boy. Want to play?” I ask, challengingly.

“Yes, Mistress.” He whispers. “Eat.” I order, as my foot continues to stroke him. He complies, but when I move to play with his balls, a small groan escapes his mouth. I continue to eat my food as normal and halfway through, he stares at me, his eyes silently imploring. I slowly retract my foot and he adjusts his self. It must be slightly uncomfortable for him. “Meet me in the gent’s toilets in 5 minutes.” I make my way inside without another word. Thankfully the gent’s toilets are located at the back of the restaurant and no one sees me slip in. I enter a cubicle and wait. Within minutes someone enters the room and gently knocks on the cubicle door. I unlock it and Jack steps in. With my flat sandals on, he towers above me, but being shorter than my sub has never stopped me before. “Hands behind your back.” I command. He obeys immediately and I run my hands up under the front of his t-

shirt. I let them wonder over his chest and abs. His skin is hot to the touch and I decide I can’t wait any longer. Forcing his t-shirt up over his head, officially blinding him, but leaving his mouth available to me, I take a moment to stare at his magnificent torso. “You want to know about pain, Jack?” “Yes, Mistress.” He whispers, sounding unsure. He stiffens and I gently lay my palm over his heart. “What are the safe words Jack?” I leave my hand on his chest, while my other one rubs him through his shorts. “Green, amber and red, Mistress.” “Good.” My face is at the perfect height and is level with his chest. I lean forward and place a kiss in the centre of his sternum, then kiss my way over to his left nipple, licking it before biting it with my teeth. Jack hisses and I lave his nipple with my tongue, as his chest rises and falls rapidly. “Colour?” I ask, kissing my way across to his other nipple.

“Green, Mistress.” My tongue finds his right nipple, but this time I suck on it hard first before biting it. This time instead of a hiss, he growls in the back of his throat. “You like that Jack? You like me biting your nipples and sucking on them?” “Yes, Mistress.” I continue to bite, lick and kiss his chest, working my way down his stomach until I’m face to face with his crotch. Slowly pulling down his shorts, I moan at the sight of his manhood, as it springs free. “God I love your cock, Jack.” I take him into my mouth and he groans. I immediately remove it, letting it make a popping sound as it does. “I don’t want to hear a noise out of you. If you alert someone to us being in here and we get caught, you will be punished. Nod if you understand.” He nods fervently and I slide him in deep. Hollowing out my cheeks, I suck him so hard; I almost manage to pull him off

balance with my ministrations. I can hear his ragged breathing and I unsheathe my teeth and drag them along his cock. At first he jumps and tries to escape, but I grab his ass tightly, not letting him move. As my teeth graze up and down his thick length he adjusts to the feeling. Just when I feel he can’t take much more, I slow and lick my tongue all over his cock and balls, like I’m licking a lollipop. He’s panting hard and I know he’s close to coming. “You’re not allowed to come Jack.” His mouth drops open, as I pull his shorts back up, making sure he’s as comfortable as one can be with a raging hard on desperate to explode. “On your knees.” I sit on the lid of the toilet and lift my skirt. I didn’t wear any panties today either and I guide his face closer, so he can smell me. “You wanted to taste me last night, but I had to punish you for a silly mistake. If you can make me come by using just your tongue then I will reward you.” I reach down and caress his balls. “I know they must

be aching. I may even let you decide where to unload if you do a really good job. Understand?” He nods again. “Use your hands to support my legs, opening me up nice and wide for you.” He shifts forward slightly to gain his balance and I help him place his hands on my inner thighs. Being blinded, with only his nose and mouth in view is perfect for him to learn some of his other senses. He grips my thighs hard and forces my legs wide. I inadvertently groan at his show of force and a small smile plays on his lips, as he leans forward to press his nose to my mound. Breathing in deeply, he gently presses his nose against my clit, circling it slowly. Who knew that could feel so amazing? He rubs his nose up the sides of my lips and blows softly. I know what he’s doing and its bloody working. He’s withholding his tongue, which must be killing him as much as it’s killing me. He nips my clit with his teeth making me brace my arms against the sides of the toilet. Holy shit! Finally he takes a

little lick of my clit and his whole body shudders, pushing out a warm breath that coats my wet pussy. He’s holding onto his control by a thread and I’m desperate to order him to stick his tongue in my pussy, but I love how he’s demonstrating his control. He moves down me, gently blowing as he goes. When he reaches my ass, he sticks his whole tongue out and roughly licks my nub. I let out a little whimper and he continues to lick me, moving up over my perineum. He again stops himself from sticking his tongue inside me and gently flicks my clit. I’m seconds away from grabbing his head and riding his face when he finally gives me what I want. Fuck! “Yes.” I breathe out, as his tongue probes me. He alternates between licking my clit and tongue fucking me. I can feel my impending orgasm approaching, and fast, and I can’t hide it as my body starts to shudder and I come hard. He laps at my cunt, licking up every ounce, before kissing my clit, which is so sensitive I

shake uncontrollably. He sits upright and I can see my juices all over his face. I surprise him by kissing and licking him clean. “Fuck, I taste amazing on you.” I kiss him passionately and am breathless when I pull away. “Now you get to decide how you want to come. What will it be Jack? In my mouth, while I deep throat you? Or deep inside my walls, as my pussy milks you dry?” I continue to kiss down his throat and bite his shoulder hard. “I would like to bend you over and fuck your pussy. Please, Mistress.” The way he talks is intoxicating and he doesn’t have to ask me twice. I rip off his t-shirt and he blinks a few times adjusting to the light. I kiss him hard and stand up dragging him with me, but he forcefully turns me away from him, hiking up my skirt and placing my leg on the toilet seat. He yanks down his shorts and positions his cock at my entrance, teasing me briefly before thrusting into me.

In one move he is balls deep and his fingers dig roughly into my hips. He fucks me hard and fast, like his control has been blown to smithereens. I reach down to fondle his balls, as he drives impossibly deeper. His hands move up to my shoulders, pulling back on them hard, forcing me against him. Suddenly someone enters the toilets whistling and Jack slows... “Keep going.” I whisper. I can tell he’s close and if his cock rubs my g-spot one more time I’m going to explode. He pulls me up against his chest, wraps one arm tightly around my hips and one just below my neck, my back arched against him. His mouth is right by my ear and as he pushes deeper, he grunts. “Permission to come Mistress?” “Yes!” I reach my hand to thread through his hair and hold it tightly. My fingers find my clit and circle it. “Come Jack... now!” He leans down and bites down on my shoulder to stifle his moans, but let’s go of me, bracing his

arms on both sides of the stall. As I feel his cock throb and pulse inside of me, this triggers my own orgasm and my walls clench his cock, milking him dry. As we come down from our orgasms, we hear the man leave the toilets. Turning to face him we smile at each other. “That was close.” “That was incredible.” He says, reaching out and running his knuckles down my cheek. “I think we better get dressed don’t you?” He pulls up his shorts and I smooth my skirt down after cleaning myself up; Jack heads out first and then signals for me to leave. We spend the afternoon walking around the shops and enjoying the weather. He holds my hand and I love the feel of it; he makes me feel so free and happy. It’s dark by the time we arrive back at my place and I’m unsure about inviting him up. We sit in the car for a few minutes before Jack speaks first. “I had a lovely day Ella.”

“Me too.” I lean over and kiss him softly at first, but then let it deepen. As I pull away he narrows his eyes at me. “That’s mean.” He says jokingly. “Sweet dreams.” I say as I step out of the car and go inside. Walking up to my apartment, I hear my phone beep. Goodnight, Mistress x

I smile as I read the text from Jack. Every time he calls me that, it makes me horny. Goodnight Jack x

Entering my apartment, all is quiet. Lottie seems to be out a lot more these days and I wonder what she’s up to. I hope she’s kept her promise to curb her drinking. Just then my phone beeps quite a few times. I look to see a couple of messages and a voice mail from Izzy. I call her back immediately, wondering what could be wrong. “Ella. Where the hell have you been all day?” She answers on the first ring.

“Hey, you okay? I was out with Jack and had no signal. What’s the matter?” “I just wanted to check on you and see how things are with Jack?” “I see. Things seem to be going okay and I believe I have you to thank for that?” “What did he say?” “He hasn’t tattled on you, if that’s what you’re worried about. I can only assume you’re the one that talked to him though.” All is silent on the other end. “Thank you Izzy. Jack and I are good. He’s agreed to be my submissive.” “WOW. That’s great news hun.” She sounds shocked. “It is. I fucked him last night in my office and today I fucked him in the men’s toilets at a pub.” “God damn, you don’t waste any time.” She says laughing. “Well as long as you’re happy. If he hurts you at all though, you can tell him I will personally drag him down to

the dungeon and torture him.” I laugh at her protectiveness. “I will. Maybe not right away though. I doubt he even knows we have a dungeon. So how’s work tonight?” I ask. “Oh, I’m not working tonight. Well not at the club anyway. Tina is running things. It’s quiet, so this will be a good test for her, to see if she can handle it.” “So, what’re you up to?” “Oh, I’ve taken on some one-on-one, training for a new client that’s joined. I’m just running through what I can here at home in my personal play room, before she comes to any sessions at the club.” “Oh, okay. That’s quite unusual. Is she too shy to come and be with all the other students?” I’m curious now about who this person is and why Izzy’s giving her preferential treatment. “Yeah, something like that. She’s also paying me well, so

it can only benefit the club.” “Okay, well I’ll leave you to it.” “Okay. Night, Ella.” “Night, Izzy. Love you.” “Love you too.”

Chapter 14 Ella I look around my empty apartment wishing Jack were here. I wish I could’ve stayed with him at a little cosy B&B in the New Forest, but I haven’t slept with anyone since Eric. As I’m mentally kicking myself, there’s a knock at the door. I open it and Jack sweeps me into his arms kissing me hard. As I wrap my arms around his neck he walks us backwards into my apartment slamming the door behind him. “I love you, Ella.” He says against my lips. “I love you too.” I press my forehead against his, gasping for breath. “I would really like to wake up with you beside me in the morning. If you need for it to be a scene, so you feel in control then just say the word. I would never hurt you Ella.” “I know that Jack. I just.... I haven’t slept beside someone

since that night.” He caresses my face in his palms and kisses me gently. I melt into him. “Why don’t we take this one step at a time? How about you show me your room and we just chill out together? It’s still fairly early and if you want me to leave I will at any time.” I take a deep breath and take his hand in mine, walking him toward my room. I’m thrilled, here I was wishing for him, and suddenly he’s here. I open the door to reveal my private space and he smiles. My room’s decorated in calming colours of green and beige. There’s a queen size bed in the centre and the solid oak furniture makes it feel warm and inviting. It’s a place I come to for relaxing. I even have a comfortable sofa in one corner. Jack looks around and then his gaze falls back on me fidgeting in the doorway. I’ve never had a man in my room and I’m unsure of what to do next.

Jack It didn’t feel right when I dropped Ella off at her place and within minutes of being home, I was running out the door again. Now I’m in her bedroom and she looks so nervous. I notice an en-suite and I go to investigate. She has a huge bath that could fit two and I decide that’s what she needs, to relax; spying some candles and a lighter, a plan forms. I walk back to see her unmoved from her previous position. “I’ll just be a minute, okay? Would you mind getting us a couple of drinks?” She nods as I shut the bathroom door and go about running her a hot bubble bath. I’m nearly finished when I hear a gentle knock. “Uh, Jack? Are you okay in there?” “Yeah, just give me five more minutes okay?” “Okay. Jack?” “Yeah?”

“The air freshener is under the sink.” “Uh thanks.” Five minutes later I open the door to find her reading a magazine on her sofa. “Was it something you ate?” She asks. “Ugh, Ella, stop being gross. Come with me.” “I’m not going in there yet!” I pull her up from the sofa and drag her to the bathroom. Her eyes widen, as she sees the steaming bubble bath and the scented candles, which fill the room with an aroma of jasmine. “Wow, Jack this is amazing.” “I thought you could do with a soak to relax you. I will leave you to it and chill out in the front room.” I make to leave, but she grabs my arm. “Don’t go. Please.” “Okay, let me grab a chair, so I can sit with you.” “That’s not what I meant Jack. Join me... in the bath.” She looks me in the eye and I know this is not a sexual

request. She needs me with her to relax and I’m more than happy to take this bath for a spin. “You don’t have to ask me twice.” We strip down and climb in, sitting at each end. “Oh, my God, this is incredible.” “When I redecorated I always knew I wanted a big bath. It even has whirlpool jets like a hot tub.” “I noticed them, but with us both in here now I think the water will go over the edge.” She reaches for the button anyway and turns it on. I feel the bubbles surround my body and it’s unbelievably soothing. “This is a wet room, so even though the water may go over, it will just drain away.” “Why don’t you sit between my legs and I can rub your shoulders?” I ask. I don’t want anything to happen tonight, but I need to touch her. She shifts, so that she’s sat with her back to me and I gently knead her shoulders. She groans

when I hit a particular spot, so I keep up my efforts. When we start to prune we reluctantly climb out and head for her bed. It’s huge and warm and I snuggle down under the duvet. Ella disappears, but returns a few minutes later with some hot chocolate. “First the bath and now hot chocolate. You spoil me.” I joke. “No, Jack. You spoil me. Thank you for today and tonight.” “Stop thanking me.” We sit up in the bed and chat for a couple of hours about what else we’ve been up to in the last ten years. I look at the time, to see its gone midnight. “Do you mind if I stay tonight? I’ll go home if you want me to, but...” I trail off, hoping she decides to let me stay. “No, it’s fine. You can stay. I feel safe when I’m with you.” She reaches out and holds my hand. Thank god I don’t have to get up. Not only am I cosy under this duvet, I’m also

naked from our bath and hard as a rock. Ella’s looking at me with mischief in her eye, but I want her to know that nothing needs to happen tonight. “Goodnight, Ella.” I lean over and kiss her on her cheek. Lying back down I look up at the ceiling and close my eyes. I know that if she commands it of me I would be more than happy to oblige, but I’m hoping she’ll go to sleep. “Goodnight, Jack. Sweet dreams.” She turns the light out and the room’s pitch black. It doesn’t take long for me to drop off and I don’t feel like I’ve been asleep that long, when I’m woken up by screaming. I turn on the lamp by the side of the bed to see Ella thrashing about and screaming out. “Ella? Ella?” I grab hold of her arm and she lashes out at me. I manage to block her and she bolts up right. She’s soaked through with sweat and runs for the bathroom. I follow after her and hold her hair back, while she throws up. When she’s finished she collapses on the floor and I get her

a glass of water, crouching down beside her. “Hey... How you feeling? Are you okay?” She looks up at me and shakes her head. I grab her robe from the back of the door as she’s shaking and wrap it around her. “Where are your clean sheets?” She explains and I go about changing the bed. She’s still on the floor when I return and pick her up in my arms to take her back to bed. “What was your dream about?” I ask, concerned that I have triggered something by pushing her too far too fast. “Eric.” She whispers. I stiffen. It’s me. I gently pull away from her, but she holds on tight. “Please don’t go. It’s not your fault; I have dreams about it every so often.” “Let me go sleep in the living room, or on the sofa in the corner. It must’ve been my presence that brought it on.” She rolls to face me and touches her palm to my cheek. “Jack, listen to me. It wasn’t you okay. I don’t want you to go.”

I sigh and relax with her in my arms. “Want me to turn the light out?” She shakes her head and I stroke her shoulder until she drifts off to sleep. In the morning I wake up to find us still in the same position. I shift slightly and she wakes up, her hazel eyes sparkle and I’m lost in them. “Good morning.” “Good morning.” She replies. “How’re you feeling? Do you want to talk about it?” “Ugh, I’m so embarrassed.” She raises her hands to her face to hide and I pull them away. “Don’t be. It’s not the first time I’ve seen you barf.” She pokes me in the ribs. “Hey.” I protest. “Come on, I’m being serious. What happened in your dream?” She pulls away from me to get up and get dressed. “It was about Eric. I have dreams about that night and nightmares about him coming back for me.” Walking over to her I take both her hands in mine. “He’d

have to get through me first.” She smiles and wraps her arms around my waist. “He’s not going to get you. He’s going to be in jail for a very long time.” “I know.” She looks up at me and kisses me softly. “Thank you.” “What for?” “Being here for me. If you hadn’t come back and stayed the night, I would’ve had to cope with it on my own.” “If I hadn’t been here, I don’t think you would’ve had the nightmare.” I frown at her and she playfully smacks me. “Stop it. You can’t control your dreams or nightmares. Even, if you eat cheese before bed.”

Ella Making our way out to the kitchen Jack playfully smacks me on the bum. “Hey, what was that for?” He just winks and carries on, sitting down on one of the stools. I flick the kettle on and place a couple of cups on the side when Lottie joins us. “Morning.” She’s rubbing her eyes and automatically goes to the fridge for milk, when she sees Jack and almost drops the carton. “Jack!” “Morning kid.” She gives him her evil look and he laughs. She passes the milk to me and takes a seat next to him. “So... how’re you two?” She asks, looking between us both. “We’re good.” I reply, wrapping my arms around Jack’s neck and kissing him. “Oh, my god if you’re going to be all sappy, you can go

back to your room.” “Sorry. We’ll stop.” I tell her. “So, you two are okay?” She repeats. I look over at Jack who just winks and smiles at me. “Yes, we’re fine.” Just then there’s a knock at the door. I get up to open the door. “Alex.” “Hey Ella, I was wondering if you’d seen Jack?” I step back opening the door, so he can see Jack in the kitchen. “That’s a yes then.” He lingers on the threshold and I look between the two brothers, who seem to be having a staring competition. “Ella can you help me with something in my room please?” Lottie comes up behind me and grabs my arm, pulling me with her; she closes the door behind us. “What the hell Lottie. I need to be out there with them.” I try to get past her, but she pushes me back. “Just let them have a minute, and then you can go back

out. In the meantime shut your trap and let’s listen.” She stands by her door quietly and I join her, but I can’t hear much. At least they’re not shouting at each other. I pace up and down Lottie’s room for what feels like ages, when I hear the front door open and close. Opening her door I look out and find the place empty. “Jack?” I don’t hear anything, so I go to my bedroom where he’s lying on my bed staring at the ceiling. “Jack? Are you okay?” I ask tentatively. I know his talk with Alex could end up with us having another argument, so I tread carefully. “I’m okay.” He says. “Do you want to talk about it?” I ask, as I slowly approach the bed and sit next to him. He looks over to me and I see hurt in his eyes. “I’m okay honestly. I’ve come to terms with why you didn’t tell me and I totally understand that Alex was only doing as you asked,

but we’ve never kept secrets from each other.” “I’m sorry Jack. I never meant to cause problems between you.” I flop back on the bed and he turns on his side, proppoing his head up with his arm. “Don’t be silly. We’re big boys now and we’ll be fine.” He pulls me onto my side closer to him and slides his hand over my ass. It feels so right to let him take charge and I can’t help wonder why I’m not freaking out right now. I nestle into him and can feel his hard cock against my thigh. His hand slowly trails up my side to my breast, where he squeezes a nipple through my vest. A small moan escapes my lips. “Mistress?” “No Jack.” His hand drops from my breast. “I didn’t mean for you to stop. I meant no to the Mistress.” His eyes widen and he slowly raises his hand to my breast again. “What do you want?” He asks, as he leans in and licks

my neck. I shudder at his touch, “I want you Jack.” I grab his hair and pull him to me, kissing him hard enough to bruise my lips. We’re still lying side by side and he tentatively raises his body up over mine. Putting his jean clad thigh between my legs, I shamefully rub my pussy against him, moaning as I do. “Fuck. Do you know how much you turn me on Ella?” His arms are on either side of my head supporting his weight, as I continue to grind my core against him. “That’s it baby.” He whispers in my left ear. Moving to my right ear he bites my ear lobe and whispers to me again. “Rub it hard. Make yourself come Ella.” Oh my God the way he’s talking to me is making me go crazy! I know he must really want to touch me, but won’t for fear of triggering something. The only part of his body that is connected to mine is his leg. I grip the sheets and dig my heels in, as I grind against him. It’s not enough though and I wrap my arms around his shoulders to

ground me. I feel his muscles tense underneath my grip and slide my hands under his t-shirt. “That’s it Ella. Come on baby. Mark me.” I drag my nails roughly down his back and he growls as I do so. My hands land on his ass and I grab tightly, as I feel my orgasm building inside. “Yes, Jack. Oh, fuck. Mark me as well.” I cry out as I start to come and he buries his face in my neck biting down hard. “Holy, shit.” My clit is throbbing and I feel my pussy tighten and release as the orgasm hits me hard. I slow my movements, as I come down from one almighty orgasm and my hands drop to the bed. He licks my neck where he bit me, before climbing off and lying next to me. “That was amazing.” I say, as I catch my breath. Rolling over to face him I realise we’re both still dressed and I giggle. “Hmmm, giggling isn’t the response I was aiming for.” “Sorry, it’s just that were both still dressed.” He chuckles

as well. “I think I can remedy that.” I get up from the bed and he props himself up on his elbows to watch me, as I slowly slide my pyjamas off and stand naked before him. I lean down over him and rub his cock through his jeans, his head falls back and I start to undo them and pull them off. He lifts his ass off the bed enough, so I can slide them off easily and once his bottom half is naked, I straddle him and start to slide his t-shirt up. When it’s covering his face I stop. “Take just your arms out.” I tell him. He does as I ask and I roll the t-shirt up to act as a blind fold. “Ella?” He places his hands on my thighs. “What are you up to?” He asks, with a smile on his face. “Shhh just feel.” I kiss him softly on the lips and then make my way down his throat. I push his arms out wide onto the bed and kiss, lick and bite my way along his left arm. As I reach his inner elbow I lick it softly. “Christ why does that feel so good?” I smile against his

skin. “You have no idea what I can do to you Jack.” I continue down his arm and lick his inner wrist, which is another sensitive spot. Making my way back to his chest, I spend some time playing with his nipples, now that I know he enjoys it. His cock jumps against my pussy when I bite his left nipple and he groans with pleasure. Kissing my way down his stomach, I drag my nails over his chest, leaving red marks as I go. I kiss around the base of his cock, but carry on down his legs. He whimpers. “Tease.” I love the noises I invoke from him and I continue on my quest. There’s no part of his body that I want to miss and as I make my way down his legs I make sure to leave no area untouched. “Roll over Jack.” He does so immediately and I slowly make my way back up. Another sensitive spot is the backs of the knees and I spend extra time in this area. When I

reach his ass I part his cheeks and lick him. I feel him tense and curse into the pillow. “Do you like that?” I ask, already knowing the answer. “Yes.” He says hoarsely. I spread his cheeks wide and lick him from the top all the way to his balls. When he starts to wriggle, I stop and slap his ass. “Shit.” Making my way up his back, I see the scratches I had inflicted and I kiss each one of them until I’m back where I started biting his neck. “Ella? Let me take this blind fold off.” I pull it off and he blinks in the light. I rise up, so he can roll onto his back beneath me. Cupping my face in his hands, he pulls me to him, kissing me fiercely. His cock’s at my entrance and I plunge him into me deeply. “Fuck!” He throws his head back, as I grind him hard and fast. “Ella you’re going to make me come.” I double my efforts, but he suddenly moves, throwing me beneath him. He makes sure to not make me feel trapped and he slides his cock in to the hilt,

circling his hips and hitting every hot spot inside me. I moan his name as he thrusts deeply. “Jack.” He starts to pick up the pace slamming into me, as his lips find my nipple. He sucks it into his mouth and bites it and I grab my head board, holding on for dear life. Another orgasm is building, but I’m starting to panic and tense up automatically. “Ella, look at me.” I open my eyes and look at Jack. “Focus on me baby. I won’t hurt you.” He’s slowed down, but I want him to fuck me hard. “Fuck me Jack. Fuck me hard. Please.” I remain focused on him, as he starts to pick up the pace again. He moves his hand down to my clit, but keeps eye contact with me, as my orgasm starts to build again. “I can feel it. I can feel your pussy sucking me in deeper. You’re going to come all over my cock. Take what’s yours.” With my eyes locked onto Jack’s I give over to the pleasure

and cry out his name as my release takes over my body. I come so hard that I feel like I’m going to rip the head board off my bed. As I clench around Jack’s cock I see and feel the moment he starts to release. He begins to slow down, but continues to thrust deeply inside me. Resting his forehead on my shoulder, he’s panting hard.

Jack That was unbelievable. I’m still lying on top of Ella, trying to catch my breath, after the most intense orgasm we’ve shared. She wriggles underneath me and I pull back to look at her. “Hey.” She smiles at me. “Hey, yourself.” I reply back. I climb off her and pull the duvet up over us. “That was intense.” “I know. It’s never been like that before.” “Never?” I ask. “No. I’ve not let anyone have that much control for a long time.” I look at her and see that she’s telling the truth. “How do you feel about that?” She seems lost in thought for a moment at my question and then smiles at me. “I feel good. You make me feel safe Jack. I trust you and I love you. I know you would never hurt me. This doesn’t

mean I’m not a Domme. I will always have that in me, but now I have you and we will figure it out.” She leans in and kisses me. “Want to play?” “Yes, Mistress.”

Epilogue Ella Jack and I arrive at the club for the monthly auction. In the last six weeks our relationship has strengthened. He’s still my sub, but now he’s my boyfriend too. Boyfriend, it sounds weird saying that. It’s been eight years since I’ve had one and I love the sound of it on my lips. What I find even sexier, is when Jack calls me his girlfriend. “Hey, Izzy.” I give my friend a hug. “We all set for tonight?” I ask. “Hey, guys. Yeah we’re all ready to go.” She hugs Jack and picks up her drink from the bar. “I can’t believe Alex is up for auction tonight.” Jack says sitting down on one of the bar stools. “He will fetch a pretty price. I made sure we did plenty of marketing and I can guarantee he’ll be popular. I hope

whoever wants him has enough money.” I notice Izzy acting unusually quiet. “You okay Izzy?” “What? Yeah I’m fine.” She says tapping the bar for another drink. “Okay, I’m going to go on up and check everything out.” I leave her at the bar with Jack and make my way to the top floor. We have extra staff on for these events and they all are experienced enough to know what needs to be done. All the chairs are out, the computers are manned for any online bids, the lights are set up and most of the Dom’s and subs, being bid on tonight, are relaxing in a corner of the room where a make shift bar has been set up. I turn to go change and bump into Alex. “Alex. Jesus you scared me.” I’m still easily rattled, but Jack’s helping me overcome those feelings more and more. We train a lot together now and do plenty of sparring since he found out I could box. I have yet to have my bout

with Alex though. “Sorry Ella, I didn’t mean to make you jump. Jack and Izzy said you were up here, so I thought I’d check in and see if there’s anything I can do to help.” Alex became joint partner in the club a couple of weeks ago. A fact that pleased me, as he brings new ideas and money to make those ideas a reality. It’s also made it easier for Izzy and me to take some much needed time off. “Nope, we’re all set. I’m curious about who’s going to bid on you tonight. I think you will be rather popular Master Cole.” “As long as it brings in some money for the club, then that’s all that matters.” “Oh right and the sub that just happens to win you tonight is what... just a bonus?” He winks at me and walks over to the other Doms. The auction goes very well and we’re nearly finished.

Alex is the last individual and he makes his way to the stage. “Let’s start the bidding at five hundred pounds.” I shout. Bidding increases quickly, but twenty minutes later, we’re down to three people battling it out. There are two women in the room and one online bidder in a fight to win Alex. The bidding finally stops at two thousand, seven hundred and the individual online is the winner. I wrap things up. “I would just like to take a moment to thank you all for a successful evening. If you have any queries about tonight, please see a member of staff.” I leave the stage and go to join Izzy, who’s talking with Alex and Jack. “I knew you’d sell for a lot of money, but I had no idea it would reach nearly three thousand pounds.” “Well when you want something bad enough, you have to pay for it.” Izzy jokes. “Do you know who the winner is?” Alex asks. She acts a

little sheepish but confirms that the bidder is the new client she signed. “I will give you the details later, as the sub would like to remain anonymous.” She tells him. “That’s a little unusual isn't it?” I ask her. “Not really. She’s jumped through all our hoops and is legit, but it’s her decision.” She shrugs her shoulders. “You ready to leave?” Jack asks me. I shake my head in answer, as I approach him. Jack doesn’t know I’ve booked us one of the private dungeon rooms. I lean in, to whisper in his ear. “Want to play?” “Yes, Mistress.”

The End

Acknowledgements The first person I have to thank knows who she is. Without her I think I would be lost and I am unbelievably grateful for her friendship. She has been with me from the start as a beta reader, but has become much more than that now. Her support and belief in me has been unwavering and I will be forever grateful that I met her. Annelle Willard, you rock! You are and will always be my PIC (Partner in crime) and I hope to one day meet you face to face rather than just chat to you on Skype and messenger. You lift my spirits everyday with your craziness and I adore you for it. Here’s to many more years of friendship xx

To Louise Bay, Patti Fiala, Cassia Brightmore and Mitzi Pummer Carroll; you ladies have supported me throughout

this crazy process in various ways and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Louise - you have been incredibly supportive; giving me advice on the author world and being a good friend. You say it as it is and for that I am grateful. I am thankful to have you as a friend. Patti - Your support has meant a lot to me. Your amazing beta work on this story has helped me immensely and I now pedal the advice you gave me. ‘Read your story out loud’. You’ve done much more than that for me though and I am forever thankful. I wish you luck and happiness for the future. Cassia - You’re my girl. Your support, friendship and beta work on this book has been priceless. Mitzi - Big thanks to you for all that you have done for me. Your support as a beta and a pimp has been amazing and for that I am thankful. For all my other beta readers who have helped me at various stages, this is for you - THANK YOU Thank you to the amazing blog community. You guys work

tirelessly to support indie authors and without you we would be lost. Deliciously Wicked Books, Sweet n Sassy Book A Holics, Something Wickedly Delicious, Steamy Book Momma, M&D’s Have You Read Book Blog, Book Sluts, Sexyways of Reading, Spreading the Word, Little Shop of Readers, Cecily’s Book Review, Two Unruly Girls with a Romance Book Buzz and Sizzling Pages Romance Reviews, to name but a few - You rock! Thank you to Carrie at Cheeky Covers for my lush book cover and the time and dedication you gave it. Thank you to Jennifer Winderman for editing for me. It was much appreciated. Thank you to Emma Mack for proof reading for me and being incredibly supportive and thorough. Thank you to all my friends that have pimped this book for me. You know who you are and you’re amazing! Last, but by no means least I want to thank all the readers

who buy this book. Without you supporting us, we would not exist. I love it when I hear how my book made someone feel; that my characters, which only exist in my head, have touched someone. Thank you for reading and being there for us. I’m looking forward to reading every review. Even the bad ones, as through them I will strive to improve.

Keep in touch If you enjoyed Lost and Found, please leave a review on Amazon or Goodreads, or better yet both. Reviews really help indie authors. Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22826152-lostand-found Friend me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php? id=100008256842346 Like me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/MeganFields/1507161569500752 Follow me on Twitter https://twitter.com/Meganfieldsuk (@meganfieldsuk) Follow me on Instagram http://instagram.com/meganfieldsauthor

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What’s next? At the moment I am working on book 2 in the Discovery Series, which is based upon Alex and Lottie. Just thinking about it gets me all hot and bothered, as I do love a good Alpha male. Plus my beta readers love him and they are starting to get to kick my ass to get it finished. After that I plan to book on Izzy’s story. She is a lot feistier than Ella and I’m thinking her book is going to be incredibly sexy and wanton. If I stop there, then I have a few more ideas up my sleeve. I will be sticking to the erotica genre though, as that’s my favourite and I hope you join me for the ride.

Sneak peak from Unexpected Chances by A.M. Willard

Chapter One: Tabitha This morning’s been crap ever since I rolled out of bed. With less than 45 minutes to dress and arrive at office, boot up the laptop, and make myself presentable. The teleconference with Georgia’s Incorporated is scheduled at 8:30 a.m. I pull on a pair of jeans; locate my blue and black silk sleeveless top and slide on my black heels. My red hair is in every direction that you could imagine, doing my best to tame it as I pull it up into a French twist. With a snatch of my jewellery up from the top of my dresser, I head out and shove it into my purse. I’ll just put everything on as I make my way to the office. Arriving with ten minutes to spare, just enough time for me to plop into my chair and plaster a huge smile across my face. I’m in desperate need of a huge cup of coffee to fake this smile. I decided to stay out late last night with my older brother Seth and forgot to set my alarm. I’ll have to wait until after the conference for my caffeine drip.

Normally I’m an upbeat sassy kind a gal, but lately I’m depressed and stuck in a rut. I just turned 33, I’m single and my best friend is always gone these days. To entertain myself and try to stay out of trouble; I date. I party. I work hard. I shop. That’s how my life goes. I’m the executive assistant for my best gal friend, Angela Stephens and I adore her. Her husband on the other hand is a serious douche. I can’t stand him, never have and never will. I’ve watched her marriage over the years and this has caused me to swear off love. Not to mention the douche I was in love with in college that shattered my heart. Pretty sure that God hasn’t made a man that can handle me. Family and friends say that I’m a one of a kind lady; I’d have to second that one. The last few months have been a world wind here at work; we’ve gained five top scale clients within the hotel industry. Most days I sit behind this computer, smiling, taking notes as I try to figure out what services they are looking for. After each meeting I write up a semi proposal

for, Angela and email it. She reviews the documents and decides if we want to pursue the company. If she decides to move forward, I set up a final meeting via teleconference, and fly her out to research and close the contracts. Today’s meeting is with Carter Northwood, CEO of Georgia’s Incorporated. From what I’ve researched he owns a few hotels and condos in the Seattle, Washington vicinity. The email Angela sent stated that they’re curious about other ways to expand to a more family orientated environment. Something was said that his condos resembled a senior citizens home, oh wait that was me. That was how I described them to Angela yesterday on the phone. In dire need for a coffee the size of Texas, I’m not looking forward to this teleconference. Most of the owners are old and drive me nuts while they explain every single last detail of the project. What I need from them is; ‘hey look we want to broaden our horizons, we need to be seen as hip’. That I can handle. I don’t need to know how the carpet is old or the fact that the crowds you attract aren’t paying the bills any longer. This is the reason that I have empty cups on my desk, a

few energy drinks, and every last piece of paper I’ve scribbled on. Just one of my nervous traits, it drives the boss nuts. If it’s an important document, Angela slips it into a folder. Folders mean they are off limits for scribbles. Angela once bought me this cute Hello Kitty notebook back with her from somewhere, “Here, this is for you. Only draw on it or in it.” Yeah, that didn’t work. I ran out of pages after a week. I might have a touch of ADHD and OCD, even though my mad mess is nuts; I know where everything is. Laptop is up, and I gather the files for today’s meeting. Then search to find my pink pen with feathers sticking out of the tip. Once I have everything lined up in front of me I check to see that I have a few minutes before I need to act bubbly. I lean back into my super soft purple leather chair in order to find my Zen. The black screen is up and it’ll ding when another party joins in. No reason to smile until it signals me. I close my eyes for a moment, and take a few breaths; searching for that inner peace. Yes, I’ve been on a hunt now for a year with a few Yoga, Tai-Chi and meditation classes. Don’t judge, some hot guys attend right along with me. Angela says that’s the only reason I attend; I disagree with her since I’ve not had road rage in over three weeks.

It feels like only a moment when something startles me out of my meditation. I fling my eyes open; “Shit!” I scream out as I jump in my seat, and my hand flies up to my chest as if my heart might jump out. I take another glance at the screen, thinking someone has hacked into my computer and is watching me. He’s laughing, but I don’t hear him through the speakers. As I look at the icon, I notice it’s on mute. A quick glance at the time, it’s been 15 minutes since the meeting was scheduled to begin. Shit, how long was I out? Who is this creeper? Was he stalking me the whole time, lord that’s nuts. I think to myself as I try to pull it together real quick. “Hello.” “You must be, Tabitha Michaelson.” He states and the inside of my thighs squeeze together. I’m taken back with his voice, it’s pure man; deep, raspy and sexy. I tilt my head at him. He’s as beautiful as his voice sounds. Blonde shaggy curls with short sides. Scruff; oh dear leprechaun I’m a sucker for scruff on a man. It’s when our eyes meet, that I feel as if I’m looking into the ocean. The bluest of blues are staring back at me. “Oh… Yes that’s me.” I stutter out sounding like a stupid

bimbo. “Well, Ms. Michaelson, I hope you’re ready for the meeting now, after that nap of yours.” “Yes, I’m ready and you are?” I ask with confusion, thinking they sent in someone else to do the grunt work for, Mr. Northwood. “Carter Northwood, you set this meeting up, but, appear to not be ready. Do we need to reschedule?” “No I’m so sorry, Mr. Northwood, I was meditating. I didn’t hear the chime on my computer. My sincere apologies.” I whip out, thinking to myself that Angela is going to kill me if I screw this up.

**** Carter The board of directors has brought it to my attention that we’re not growing as projected. A friend of a friend heard of this company that does an overhaul on your business. They come in undercover; “somewhat undercover” take notes and then suggest where you need to revamp. The board feels as if we’ve changed our direction. No

longer attracting the younger, hip crowd in which we house in Seattle? I’ve agreed to have a teleconference with Mrs. Stephens’s assistant Tabitha Michaelson, since she’s unavailable. Running late due to the traffic and drizzling rain, I’d like nothing else than to push this meeting out. I’m not convinced my company needs to go this route. The board has complied that if I go into this with an open mind, I’ll not be disappointed. If by a chance I am, I have the right to overrule the members. My assistant, Kelly hands me my black coffee as I pass her desk. Entering my office, I glance to the clock and take note on the time. The day’s packed with back to back meetings. After this I have to meet with the new developer on some condo’s we’re building. I boot up, and set out the questions that I wrote down last night. Making sure I have my calendar open. I’ve been informed that this is the first step of the process. Next; you meet with the owner. After she arrives, you’ll get a full report within a week. They will make several passes through as you’re contracted for at least a year with

them. I’ve got at least another five minutes before I need to be online, but choose to log in ahead of time. I can move about with emails and such as I wait for the beep. Who ever invented these programs for teleconferences were brilliant, they save companies’ time and money. I can meet with the board and other partners from anywhere. That comes in handy, for when I’m beckoned to my wife’s side. I lean over in search of a folder from my briefcase. As I come back up I notice the screen’s no longer black. Shocked at what I’m seeing. I double check the login and password, as I’m sure it’s a mistake. Nope not a mistake, I’m on the correct server. Blinking a few times to adjust my eyes. This beautiful creature is leaned back into a purple chair asleep. What professional has a purple chair and sleeps before a conference, I think to myself. It’s not the chair that’s throwing me off or the fact that she’s sleeping, it’s her face. A face of a porcelain doll with red hair. Her hairs pulled up, showcasing her cheek bones and neck. Her neck is long, but not too long; just right. It makes

me want to lick every inch of it; this thought has me readjusting my slacks. Her lips are coated with what looks to be a pale pink gloss; full; and kissable. I lean back and watch as her lips move from side to side, as if she’s tasting them. Her head bobbles while she shifts in her seat. She’s caused me to laugh, Lord it’s been forever since a woman has made me laugh. My chest is moving up and down from the laughter. I know once she wakes, she’ll be embarrassed by her actions. Just as I think this, her eyes pop open. When her eyes pop open, I cock my head to the side. They’re as green as an emerald. That’s what I see on this side of the computer screen. I can only imagine how mesmerizing they are in person. She’s startled, off her game now as she realizes I’ve been watching. You can see the fire in her eyes as she stumbles around for an explanation. It’s time to up the game and play with this Tabby cat.