Eden's Pleasure

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 10: EDEN’S PLEASURE by

Christy Poff

WHISKEY CREEK PRESS www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Published by WHISKEY CREEK PRESS Whiskey Creek Press PO Box 51052 Casper, WY 82605-1052 www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Copyright  2011 by Christy Poff Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 (five) years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000.

Names, characters and incidents depicted in this book are products of the author‟s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental and beyond the intent of the author or the publisher. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. ISBN 978-1-61160-108-4

Credits Cover Artist: Kendra Egert Editor: Chere Gruver Printed in the United States of America

Other Books by Author Available at Whiskey Creek Press: www.whiskeycreekpress.com INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 1: THE REBIRTH OF RACHEL Whiskey Creek Press Torrid April 2005 Rachel is looking for a man who‟ll love her for her though she wants more than the usual relationship. Rafe searches for a woman he can love in his unique way. Can his dominance compel the rebirth of Rachel?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 2: BLACK HEART Whiskey Creek Press Torrid June 2005 Raven is cautious about who she‟s with. Kyle is looking for dominance. Will he find love in her black heart and give Raven her life back?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 3: CHARLOTTE MASTERED Whiskey Creek Press Torrid August 2005 Charlotte looks for the right man to control her. Simon seeks the prefect woman to share his life with. When Charlotte‟s mastered, what‟s next?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 1: DANTE’S FLAME Whiskey Creek Press October 2005 A centuries‟ old vampire is looking for love. A woman of today is looking for a love life. Together, can they ignite Dante‟s flame eternally?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 2: SPARK OF A WOLF Whiskey Creek Press Torrid November 2005

Sean deals with life-altering changes while chasing a killer. Rhiannon can help him but he pushes her away. Together, can they light the spark of the wolf?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 3: LOVE HURTS Whiskey Creek Press Torrid December 2005 Madison Allcott loses love only to find it again in a dark gentleman. Galen Beaumont has hunted for five centuries for a woman to love. Will they find out love hurts or will it be the beginning of their eternal lives?

ENTRANCED BY JASMYNE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid February 2006 The Ardalan sheik needs American help to stop the takeover of his country. Her assignment is to get the information to help him but she becomes personally involved. When he becomes entranced by Jasmyne, can they save his realm or will they die trying?

THE HASTINGS SAGA BOOK 1: CHASE FOR AN ANGEL Whiskey Creek Press March 2006 A union officer faces the Civil War on many fronts. A Southern gem awaits his return but fights her own battle. Will his chase for an angel bring them loving happiness?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 4: MEMPHIS BELLE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid April 2006 Belle lost her man to another‟s jealousy, remaining faithful to him until she meets perfection. Jaspar has everything a billionaire could want except the right woman to share it with.

Will her past hurt their future or will he safeguard his Memphis Belle?

HELLFIRE Whiskey Creek Press May 2006 Shania made captain on her own. Mac found perfection in a feisty firefighter. Will the Purists stop them or will they ignite hellfire?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 5: DOCTOR HEAL THYSELF Whiskey Creek Press Torrid June 2006 What happens when a world-renowned sex therapist needs help in her own life? Sheridan Greenlaw must delve into another side of her personality in order to answer her questions. Will Ross Beckham help the doctor „heal thyself‟?

THE SHADOW OF HER SMILE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid August 2006 Laurell is desperate to save her birthright—Ravencroft. Cole, an international gambler, tries to help her while exacting his own revenge. Will the shadow of her smile be enough to keep them safe?

BLUE VELVET Whiskey Creek Press Torrid September 2006 Ethan gave up on life until finding elegant beauty with a wild touch. Roni‟s secret wild side intrigues him. Will the past haunt their blue velvet love?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 4: RED FIRE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid October 2006 Valeria learns there is more to life than she originally thought. Gabriel wants to live a quiet life out of the limelight.

When their paths cross, will they be strong enough to survive a red fire?

WAR IN DARKNESS: ADDICTED TO CYN Whiskey Creek Press Torrid December 2006 (w/Scarlet Love in Torrid Teaser #17) An angel of mercy tries to heal wounded soldiers. A devil‟s disciple must save her life. Will his addiction to Cyn be enough for both of them?

SCARLET LOVE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid December 2006 (W/Addicted to Cyn in Torrid Teaser #17) She‟s fleeing Yankee soldiers. He comes to her rescue in more ways than she could imagine. How much will their scarlet love heat up?

AT CROSS ENDS Whiskey Creek Press Torrid January 2007 Mark Kincaid owes Graham Cross for two years of his life. Riley Devane winds up in the middle. How long will they be at cross ends?

BLOW OUT Whiskey Creek Press February 2007 Craig fights fires on a huge scale while trying to help save a colleague‟s company. Jennifer lives a sheltered life until she meets a man who ignites flames in her. Will the blow out from the past burn them or fuel their love?

THE BEST OF CHRISTY POFF Whiskey Creek Press Torrid (print) April 2007 Rachel needs to redefine her life, finding Rafe the perfect man to help her.

Melanie needs to redefine her love life though Dante has different long-lasting plans. Jasmyne finds life in a different world, Yasir at her side. Love in different worlds is still one thing—love.

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 6: THIS JUST IN… Whiskey Creek Press Torrid June 2007 When a television reporter does an expose on the BSDM scene, he angers many. He looks for answers to learn the truth but will he hold onto the one woman whose lifestyle makes him whole or will their enemies silence them before their life together gets started? This just in…

DARK ILLUSIONS Whiskey Creek Press Torrid August 2007 A beautiful heiress with a wild side wants to enjoy life. Sephora meets the man of her dreams when Nigel Shelton walks into it from the shadows. Will their dark illusions give them what they need or will they be torn apart by greed?

BIRD IN A GILDED CAGE: THE MYTH OF MIRABELLA Whiskey Creek Press Torrid September 2007 Mira lives on the edge of the fashion world in more ways than one. Max seeks a killer who paints his victims in 24K gold. Will Mira be his bird in a gilded cage before Max solves the case?

THE JOYS OF LOVE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid November 2007 Ryan and Kendall must fight a looming threat in order to find happiness. Cody and Savannah go up against the morals of 1927 Tennessee.

Can they find the joys of love or will it be lost to them forever?

LOST LOVE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid November 2007

THE JOYS OF LOVE (TT #41) A Philadelphia cop on the biggest case of his career. His wife fears the future. Can a lost love be revived or will it be lost once more?

LABOR OF LOVE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid November 2007 in The Joys of Love Savannah has lived alone for years, afraid of getting close to anyone. Cody comes to work for her but learns more than he intended. Will their labor of love prove she can find love?

YULE LOVES: NOELLE’S ELF/HIS CHRISTMAS CAROLE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid December 2007

NOELLE’S ELF Noelle wishes on a star for the perfect gift—a man. Dan tries his best to fulfill this for her. Will Noelle‟s elf make her dreams come true?

HIS CHRISTMAS CAROLE Kris faced an unhappy holiday thanks to his ex-wife. Carole experienced the romance of Hawaii by herself for the same reason. Will he enjoy his Christmas Carole or will his past get in their way?

DESIRES: DESIRES UNDER THE FALLS/DESIRE IN THE SNOW Whiskey Creek Press Torrid January 2008

DESIRE UNDER THE FALLS

Having too many curves could destroy a career as Penelope learned. Having too many curves drove Thorne crazy. Could they find Desire under the Falls?

DESIRE IN THE SNOW Layla leaves Los Angeles for a short vacation heading for the mountains. Mac shares his life with Cash but is looking for a good woman to spend it with. Will undue forces create Desire in the Snow for this hot couple?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 7: BLACK LACE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid March 2008 Chelsea Strawbridge falls hard for a firefighter but she lives in a world that doesn‟t accept her desires. Reed Carrington fights fires and finds he ignites one in a society spitfire. Will another snuff that fire before black lace becomes his—totally?

MASKED DESIRES a part of A TORRID CELEBRATION (WCP‟s anniversary anthology) Whiskey Creek Press Torrid March 2008 Ava‟s invitation to the company‟s annual costume ball sends her reeling. Matthew wants to make her the one of his dreams. Will Mardi Gras‟ masked desires bring these two together or hide the truth?

A MATTER OF DECEPTION Whiskey Creek Press Torrid April 2008 Seneca believed he had everything—a good life, wealth and Adrienne, the love of his life. Adrienne couldn‟t wait to become his wife but what happened on the eve of their wedding changed them both forever. Will another man‟s evil and a matter of deception make her forget Seneca or will they find their way back to each other before it‟s too late?

MIDNIGHT ECSTASIES Whiskey Creek Press Torrid June 2008 Carl and Cassie Sandeford have a huge interest in Midnight Ecstasies. A serial killer has an even bigger interest in them. Who will survive?

DARK & DEVIOUS Whiskey Creek Press Torrid July 2008 Jeremy Payne escapes to the quiet of the Pacific Northwest— his past haunting him. Sapphire Knight is running from hers. Can love and honesty overcome the dark & devious sides of their lives?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 5: WHITE ICE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid December 2008 Damon wants to get away and relax—his life in turmoil. Sascha has secrets only he can help her with. Will white ice melt a dark heart?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 8: AFTER GLOW Whiskey Creek Press Torrid March 2009 Brock Sanders has always been a strong man no matter what he did but… Dominique Ashcroft has an extremely dominating personality. Will they bask in the after glow of heated romance or will their pasts darken it?

THE HASTINGS SAGA BOOK 2: DEATH OF AN ANGEL—JESSIE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid June 2009 Andrew thought the Civil War had left him alone until it came screaming back into his life, his angel—Jessie—suffering the revenge of one man‟s evil. Can their love survive or will he mourn the death of an angel—Jessie?

SUNDAY MONEY Whiskey Creek Press Torrid August 2009 Derek Manville races open-wheeled cars or anything with a motor as a hobby. Shelby Holland is desperately trying to hold onto her race team and her financial legacy. Together, can they win Sunday Money while keeping their unique bond from crashing?

THE HASTINGS SAGA BOOK 3: WINDS OF LIFE— ALEXA Whiskey Creek Press Torrid September 2009 Andrew believed love came to a man once in a lifetime until Alexa comes out of his past to prove him wrong. She asks for his help to settle a deadly range war unaware of his grief for his first wife. Will the evil be deadly or will the winds of like—Alexa— save them both?

DARKNESS INTO LIGHT Whiskey Creek Press Torrid October 2009 A night of passion brings Emily together with the man of her dreams only she loses him seconds later. A night of passion shows Seth he can have a life with someone only she disappears as quickly as she appeared. One night—will it survive and bring them both from darkness into light?

DESIRE 2—HART’S DESIRE & YULE DESIRES November 2009

Hart’s Desire Addington Hart knew in high school what he desired in a woman. Cory Phelps knew as well, both enjoying their senior year. When he made the decision to split up before college, he found out that his Hart‟s Desire meant more to him than doing the right thing.

Yule Desires

Mara wanted one thing for Christmas—Jared. Jared had to get his life straightened out before he could give himself to her. Will St. Nicholas give them the gifts they want?

EYES OF DARKNESS MEGABOOK Whiskey Creek Press Torrid December 2009 Sean deals with a new life while chasing a killer—can Rhiannon help him? Madison finds love with a dark gentleman—will love hurt? Valeria discovers a new facet to her life but can Gabriel handle her?

NO DEAL Whiskey Creek Press Torrid February 2010 Alicia Billings is a trophy wife whose husband thinks he can „sell‟ anytime he wants. Blake Atherton wants to put a stop to this to give her a life. Will this be a win/win ending or will it wind up being no deal?

EYES OF DARKNESS #6: NIGHT WISH Whiskey Creek Press Torrid April 2010 Hayden Beaumont heads home to Paris to escape the society season in California. Chandra Richards is an amazing artist who catches his eye and so much more. Will someone from his father‟s past come between them or will Chandra‟s night wish come true?

CHRISTY POFF’S RECOMMENDED READS Whiskey Creek Press Torrid June 2010 Mark Kincaid owes Graham Cross for two years of his life but Riley Devane winds up in the middle. How long will they be at cross ends?

Laurell is desperate to save her birthright and Cole, an international gambler, tries to help her while exacting his own revenge. Will the shadow of her smile be enough to keep them safe? Seneca believed he had everything—a good life, wealth and Adrienne, the love of his life while she couldn‟t wait to become his wife but what happened on the eve of their wedding changed them both forever. Will another man‟s evil and a matter of deception make her forget Seneca or will they find their way back to each other before it‟s too late?

DESIRE 3:DESIRE IN FLAMES & DESIRE IN GREEN Whiskey Creek Press Torrid July 2010

DESIRE IN FLAMES Mike Ritchie always knew what she wanted until Wes Barrett walked onto the fireground and ignited flaming desire in her. Wes had all but given up on finding the one he could spend his life with in every way. Will passion come from desire in flames?

DESIRE IN GREEN Liam St. Patrick has desired one woman in every way but she works as his father‟s personal assistant—interoffice relationships are out of the question until a romantic leprechaun gets involved. Natasha Lindsey has the same feelings but figures Liam is out of her league. Will desire in green bring them together despite office policy?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 9: TERMS OF SURRENDER Whiskey Creek Press Torrid August 2010 Noah Sheffield has been searching for the perfect woman to share his life with though his past keeps haunting him. Fallon Mitchell learns a great deal spending one night with her myterious lover. Will she agree to his terms of surrender before a madman‟s revenge tears them apart?

WAR IN DARKNESS BOOK 2: MOONSTRUCK Whiskey Creek Press Torrid September 2010 Calvin Wright runs blockades and CSA missions but only at night, his secret carefully guarded. Lady Harley Windsor wants him to sail her to the islands so she can escape a Union colonel after her for spying. Will their dark secrets be revealed or will they forever be moonstruck?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 7: KING’S RANSOM Whiskey Creek Press Torrid October 2010 Ardalyn Hunter becomes trapped between good and evil. Ryman King goes after a rogue trying to free a gorgeous woman. Is he prepared to give up a king‟s ransom to be with her?

DESIRE 4: DESIRE ON ICE & DESIRE ATDAWN Whiskey Creek Press Torrid February 2011

DESIRE ON ICE Scouting out a possible trade prospect leads Beca to the beautiful wilds of Vancouver—a long way from her Florida home. Nik intended to retire from his beloved hockey team but wound up being signed by another in the opposite conference. Will they find desire on ice or will things turn frigid between them?

DESIRE AT DAWN Chuck Lang left the Midwest once he discovered the beauty of dawn on Cadillac Mountain in Maine. Glenn Banks finds a love for the same view plus a cowboy who steals her heart. Will they find their desire at dawn?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 8: WINTER FIRE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid March 2011 Martin Wolfe had always been a solitary soul—a lone wolf— though he tended goal for a local hockey team. Malin Scout is a methodical investigator—one of the best at her job—until a blue-eyed devil steals her heart.

Their way of life is threatened by a man wanting power at any cost. Will they survive a winter fire—any any cost?

DEN OF SEDUCTION Whiskey Creek Press Torrid May 2011 Life on the Jensen ranch isn‟t everything Mallory would like it to be since her husband treats her like a child he‟s afraid of. An early morning ride opens her eyes to the world when she finds the near-dead body of a man lying in one of the lower fields. Her personal mission—nurse him back to health but will he become trapped in her den of seduction or her surrounding world‟s den of deceit?

Dedication To pleasure—however we find it…

Prologue After parking her black Audi in the alley next to the building she owned, Eden Conrad locked it then headed inside. The stiletto heels of her thigh-high boots clicked on the asphalt as she walked, the sound echoing lightly in the enclosed driveway. Going in, the man she‟d hired to be the host at her club met her. “Mistress Eden, how are you?” “Fine, Carson, and you?” “Just waiting to find out if I passed my last final,” he answered. When Carson had applied for the job, she‟d hesitated because of his being in college but once he explained that he‟d already earned his Bachelors in his major and had been currently working for his Masters, she gave in and hired him—one of the best decisions she‟d ever made. With him extremely conscientious about his job, she knew she could trust him not to say anything about what went on behind the walls of Dark Illusions as well as unofficially becoming her personal assistant. Not only could it hurt her, but the fact he worked at a club catering to sex could bar him from getting any credible job once he graduated. “When should you get an answer?” “A few days,” he replied. “Are you worried?” “A little but then again, I always do,” he said then snickered as he took her coat. “Wow, you look absolutely amazing.” 1

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Thank you, Carson,” she said as she took the reservations book from him. Going down the list of expected parties, she grinned. Tonight would be a good one. As they walked through the lounge to the bar, they discussed the list. Eden wanted to make sure they had what they needed, Carson assuring her that they did. “Will there be anything else tonight?” “I believe you know me too well—yes, you may choose someone. Send them upstairs before closing.” “Yes, Mistress,” he said. “Anyone special?” “Not tonight.” Carson nodded and left her alone at the bar. She sat on a stool taking the glass of champagne Phil had placed in front of her and sighed. Each night or every other night—depending on her mood— Eden would request one of the evening‟s staff to join her in her private apartment on the top floor of the club. When they arrived and knocked on her door, she‟d be waiting for them. Her one stipulation—she‟d be blindfolded or they would wear a mask. Not knowing who would come to her left the entire experience on an impersonal level though the entire staff had been sworn to secrecy about anything that occurred. When she hired anyone, she made them sign a confidentiality agreement for her protection as well as theirs. This way, if anything leaked out, she could act accordingly as to whether she reprimanded or fired them. What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas… Good motto only she took it one step further. Nothing leaves the club under any circumstances. So far, she‟d had no problems. Just off the famous Vegas Strip, Eden made sure her business remained aboveboard and, as a result of her efforts, the club had become exclusive to an elite clientele who held memberships. While she charged no fees, they accepted the silent rule that they‟d 2

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure leave a good amount of money after each visit, whether it be in the restaurant or for the private rooms on the second and third floors. If she got wind that Vice might be visiting, she made sure only the restaurant and bar remained open which made it appear to be an upscale club. Her clients grateful for this, they knew she‟d protect them and their privacy while she covered her own ass at the same time—a win-win situation if everyone kept up their end of the bargain. “Can I get you anything else?” Phil asked as she slid her empty flute over the polished bar to him. “Send the usual upstairs in a little while.” “Yes, ma‟am,” he said. Eden smiled and slid off the stool. Pulling the hem of her little black leather dress down, she walked to the stairs and went up to the third floor. Once there, she took a key from her handbag and unlocked the door to her private world—one only those invited behind the closed door ever saw though every once in a while, she asked herself if she‟d been playing it smart by having her little rendezvous here. Looking at the clock, she saw she had several hours before her evening‟s dessert knocked on her door. What do I want tonight? **** Gavin Hunt had gotten a job at Dark Illusions as a waiter while he worked his way through the Police Academy. Having started the Academy after he‟d been hired, he chose to keep that part of his life to himself which made things simple. Because his employer ran a tight operation and looked out for everyone in her employ, he had no doubt his secret would remain that. At six foot two, he blended in with all the other studs though he would have been happier not wearing the tight leather pants every night as they tended to get hot but it got to the point it no longer bothered him which made his life easier. Besides, he‟d have to learn to wear his uniform or anything the department might 3

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure expect him to wear in the line of duty so why not get in practice now? “Gavin, can you remain after hours?” Carson asked when he came in for his shift. “Sure,” he answered, knowing what would happen. Remaining after hours became the club‟s code for spending the evening in the company of Mistress Eden. Carson tried to offer it to everyone so no one would miss out unless they desired not to stay but no one refused—the money for the time good. He‟d stayed several times and enjoyed every moment with her. Never had he experienced a lover like her and he doubted he ever would. This had been the overtime he looked forward to. “She‟s requested you go to her around midnight.” “Not a problem,” Gavin said. Gavin walked through the restaurant, checked his assigned area and waited for his first customers to be seated. It would be an interesting evening. **** When Gavin walked into the room after knocking on the door, his breath caught. Sitting on the bed wearing nothing but a tight black corset, a tiny thong and the highest boots he‟d ever seen sat Mistress Eden—Eden Conrad—the owner and Dominatrix of the club. Gazing at her for what seemed an elongated minute, he couldn‟t help but notice her erotic beauty. He‟d seen her walk through the restaurant and the bar on numerous occasions and noticed the amazing bright blue eyes the satin blindfold now hid. Her extremely fair skin highlighted by her long jet-black hair could only be described as deathly pale yet on her, it seemed perfect. His eyes dropped to her chest, the corset tight enough to push her breasts up to where they appeared to be near the point where the slightest move would have them spilling over the firm edge of the garment. How the hell did I get so damned lucky? 4

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Licking his lips, he could not wait to trace the outline of her gorgeous body but he knew he had to wait. Tonight, as always, Mistress Eden expected her commands to be obeyed and he, as her submissive, would do so. “Mistress, how shall I serve you?” **** While her dessert waited tables, Eden decided that she wanted something a little over the top. While she loved bondage of any type, things had happened that made her want more tonight. This evening, she wanted punishment. Getting out several floggers of various designs, she placed them on a small table near where she‟d have her partner restrain her. She then placed several types of gags next to them along with some other toys. Everything in place and ready, she walked to the monitors she used to watch what happened below her. The restaurant filled, she smiled. Exactly how I like things… Near midnight, she tied the black satin blindfold in place then sat on the edge of the bed and waited for whoever Carson sent to her. A light knock on the door made her breath catch, the unknown beginning to arouse her. “Come in…” She heard the door open then close followed by the latch engaging when her guest for the night locked it. “Mistress Eden, good evening…” “Strip out of your clothes then come to me,” she commanded. He did so and she appreciated that he took her hand to let her know where he stood. “Mistress, your next desire?” “I want you to remove my clothes leaving me in my boots only. Once you‟ve done that, you will cuff me to the columns and make sure my feet are apart.” “Yes, Mistress…” 5

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure He guided her to the columns on the opposite side of the room then carefully removed her corset and her thong. Cuffing her hands over her head after he kissed each one, he made sure of her comfort before he knelt in front of her to tend to her feet. “Mistress?” “On the table are several different types of gags. Choose one and use it then I want you to flog me.” “Mistress Eden?” “I want to begin with punishment,” she stated. “I also do not care where on my body you choose.” “Yes, Mistress, forgive me,” he said as he selected a leather gag with a small bit that fit inside her mouth. Securing it while again making sure of her comfort, he then looked at the floggers she‟d laid out for him choosing a suede-tipped one and a thin leather paddle. “Are you ready, Mistress?” he asked the gorgeous, naked woman in front of him. Eden nodded. “Mistress, shall I…” Eden tried to tell him to do whatever came to mind and thought he understood what she tried to say, the gag doing its job. Instead, he tried something different. Slipping his hands to her sides, he gently lifted her breasts so he could touch the softness of her amazing body. The feel of their firmness sent a new sensation through her body, Eden overcome by it. “Does Mistress mind if I punish her amazing body with other things?” Eden shook her head wondering what he had in mind. Tonight would be very interesting indeed but could she wait until he did it? I’ll have to… Because she‟d been doing this kind of rendezvous for a while, she could tell he‟d chosen the paddle, the sound of it slapping 6

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure against her ass echoing in the room followed by her reaction. Massaging the area, he did the same to the other side. One thing she‟d made sure all of her partners knew when she trained them— always do things evenly so that no part of your lover’s body is slighted. He‟d learned well. Repeating this several more times—each time harsher than the previous one—he then moved to stand in front of her. Taking a deep breath as he switched floggers, he used the suede-tipped one on her breasts. Eden jumped a little but didn‟t cry. In her world, punishment like this brought divine pleasure. The feel of the flogger on her breasts caused her body to soar to a new level and she wanted more. With the second round, he used more force, Eden languishing in the stinging sensations coursing through her. When he did it the fourth time with even more force, she cried out despite the gag as she asked herself if he could do anything more to surprise her. Her answer came moments later, the sensation hitting her like a runaway train as he tugged on her nipple piercings then held her breasts up just enough to send her rocketing to an entirely new level. While she soared, he used the suede on her again, the orgasm following overpowering her. What he did next undid her completely. Her slave chose to lave her nipples while she trembled, the heat of his breath on her skin adding more heat to her body. A tug, a smack then his lips repeated several times caused her to do something she had not done for a long time. From behind the gag, she begged him for permission to come. The sound of his groan gave her a hint of his desire though she waited for his answer. “Yes, Mistress, you may come for me but I will tell you when.” 7

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden groaned. No sub had ever been able to do this to her yet he had. From his voice to his obedience to what he‟d done to her and would do, Eden felt that—for the moment—she had everything she‟d ever wanted. She sensed him kneeling in front of her and while his hands continued to torture her breasts, his tongue lapped at her pussy until she almost misbehaved. She jolted when his tongue entered her, licking her with deliberate strokes while he drank from her. “Come for me, Mistress,” he said as he pinched her nipples. Eden cried out as she came, his pace furious as he took her. Her body shaking, she enjoyed the ripples of sheer pleasure coursing through her. With one of his fingers replacing his tongue, he continued keeping her on edge as he stood and walked around her. “Would you like me to remove the gag, Mistress?” Eden nodded and tried to catch her breath when he gently removed it. “Your next desire?” “I want more punishment as you find a way to take me again. I want you to make me come for you as many times as you wish while you obey my orders.” “Yes, Mistress, as you wish.” Standing in front of her, Gavin began again only when he slapped her ass, he slipped two fingers into her pussy. Eden jolted, the feel of his fingers inside her sending more heat racing through her. The touch of his tongue on her nipple after he‟d slapped it sent her reeling, her body shaking as a climax threatened to overwhelm her. Flogging, nipple torture and finger fucking, Eden thought she‟d died and gone to heaven—this man doing things to her no other had ever done. For the next hour, Gavin obeyed her as he took her numerous times. She cried out each time before the final one when exhaustion took over. 8

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Mistress?” “Release me and take me over to the bed.” Gavin did so and helped her across the room. Once she sat down, he helped her remove her boots then waited. “Stand up,” she said. “You know what I plan to do.” “Yes, Mistress,” he said as he stepped between her legs and rested his swollen and hungry cock on her lips. Eden loved the feel of his shaft on her lower lip. Slowly, she drew him in and teased him. Though sanity told her she‟d had him several times before, whoever had been with her had been the best lover yet but she refused to become attached even though something inside her told her to be greedy. As she went down on him, she felt his hand on the back of her head seconds before he pumped his cock into her mouth. Taking his entire length, she wanted more of him as her hands gripped his ass to bring him impossibly closer. “Mistress, may I…” Eden nodded, unable to say anything. Moments later, the heat of his essence exploded into her as she took him. Massaging his balls, she wanted everything down to the last drop. Then she surprised him by taking his length once more—this time deeper into her throat. As she did, she felt the same heat she had earlier as he touched a spot on the back of her throat that made her want to climax. Languishing in this, she felt him bend over her a little so his hands could slide over her breasts and hold onto them while he teased her nipples again. “Tell me what to do next,” he whispered as the latest orgasm washed over her, Eden‟s body no longer hers to control. Pulling back, she gasped for air as her lips sought his. As they kissed, her hand found his cock and guided it to her pussy. Without a word said, he took her command and thrust his cock into her. Moments later, she screamed but no one heard as he took her 9

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure reaction into him while his cock filled her gorgeous body with his seed. “Mistress, forgive me…” “There is nothing to forgive—you are perfection.”

10

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 1 A few days after her mysterious lover had almost ruined her for anyone else, Eden could no longer take not knowing his identity. She‟d casually walked through the dining room listening to her waiters‟ voices but she didn‟t hear the one that set her soul on fire. Realizing it had been very possible that he‟d not been in to work since that night, she went to Carson and asked, Carson fidgeting. “What‟s wrong?” she asked. “You informed me when I started handling this that I‟m not to tell you who I send to your room so nothing becomes permanent.” “I realize that but the other night—it‟s indescribable how he makes me feel. I need to know who this wonderful man is.” “May I suggest this?” Carson asked. “What?” “Give me your e-mail address and I will have him contact you if he wants to continue on. This way, if he says no, he remains a mystery.” “Good idea,” she said, liking his suggestion though the delay did not please her yet she understood his wanting to protect everyone concerned. Writing down her email address, she handed him the piece of paper then walked away. “Phil, I need a strong drink.” “Yes, ma‟am, coming right up.” 11

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Sitting at the bar, Eden went over her life—something she did on a daily basis. Not only did this keep her grounded but she made sure she remained alert to things that could hurt her. Several years before and in the early days of Dark Illusions, she‟d had a scare thanks to someone close to her—or so she thought. The property she‟d invested in sat in the center of the main nightlife of Las Vegas—something she‟d done on purpose. She‟d wanted the better clientele as patrons and anything too far off the beaten path would not get her that. Instead, she‟d get tourists, maybe some businessmen but not the high rollers who had money to spend. After her parents‟ divorce, she‟d fled California and her mother‟s overbearing social-climbing personality. A California socialite by birth and the daughter of a successful Nevada businessman, she couldn‟t live the Hollywood life—the reason her father divorced her mother after he found her in bed with a male prostitute. Going back to her father‟s home had not been easy. Despite the sensibilities that had molded her, she could not live within his lifestyle either—her new life the complete opposite to theirs. One day, Amy Gordon lost herself—never to be found again—and resurfaced as Mistress Eden. An investigator from New Mexico confronted her one day, Eden begging him not to tell her family. “You do realize they‟re paying me five million bucks to find you?” “I don‟t care. I can‟t go back to life with either of them. They refuse to deal with the unconventional. I don‟t want their money, their lives or contact with them. What‟s funny—several of my father‟s clients enjoy what I can give them—no one any wiser.” “And if I keep your secret, what do I get in return?” “I can teach you about yourself.” 12

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Tell me what I need to learn.” “You, my shadowy friend, are a natural Dominant. I can tell from how your body speaks to mine. Right now, I want to be your submissive.” “I don‟t understand. How can you possibly know something like that?” “I am a natural submissive. I‟m attracted to alpha males who are extremely sure of themselves and you are that kind of man.” “And how do you intend to teach me this?” “Come, Master, allow your slave to pleasure you.” He followed her, unable to fight the hold she apparently had on him. She led him to a dungeon-like room where he looked at the various things he‟d always been aroused by. “What would you like me to do, Master?” “Right now, I‟m not sure—surprise me.” “Yes, Master,” she said. “This way.” Moments later, he stood naked while Eden went down on his cock as his body obviously languished in the sensations. He looked down at her feverishly taking him and, as he told her later, he found the real Nigel begging to get out. Grabbing her hair, he pressed her closer while he pounded his cock deep into her throat. His essence exploding into her, he filled her while she moaned. When she pulled back, she licked his slit and gazed at him. “Master, please may I come?” Her plea had startled him but she pleasured him while she held her own climax back. He‟d told her a tiny part of him regretted it but the rest of him enjoyed his newfound power. “Master, please may I come?” she asked though she could tell through the euphoria overtaking him that he had not heard her but when he realized what she‟d said, he took charge. “Not yet,” he said. “I want you naked.” “Yes, Master,” she purred. 13

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure After removing her clothes, she knelt before him, her hands behind her back with her knees apart giving him full view of her hungry pussy. He watched her wordlessly obey him, her body begging for his next word. He pulled her into a kiss then pushed her onto a table where he buried his tongue deep into her pussy. Drinking from her, she knew he hadn‟t yet taken what she offered him, her body pleading for relief. “Come, Eden.” “Yes, Master,” she cried out as she drenched him. Two tiny words had forever changed both their lives. Before he left Las Vegas, he‟d found out more about himself than he ever expected. Taking her secret with him, he became a silent partner in Dark Illusions. The ironic thing—he‟d given her the five million to use for either the club or an escape plan. They‟d discussed opening one or two others but so far, Las Vegas remained the only one. Nigel Shelton and his wife, Sephora had been good friends and when they came to Las Vegas, they took full advantage of the club—Eden grateful to him. Several months after he left, Eden met a man at The Mirage when she‟d gone in to play some poker. Immediately, she sensed his dominance and found herself obeying his every command. He took her to one of the local sex clubs off the Strip where they spent an interesting evening. No sooner had they entered their room than he had her naked and on her knees. As natural subs never asked questions and they‟d yet to establish a safe word, she went with Rudd Weathers and his wishes. Her hands behind her, she automatically presented herself to him but he didn‟t like her position, preferring another one which made her feel ashamed of her tendencies—the complete opposite of Shelton. Binding her hands to a ring hanging from the ceiling, he shoved a ball gag into her mouth and kicked her legs apart. By the 14

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure way he did it, she prayed she hadn‟t found one of the rougher vice cops who got their action for free—the victim‟s payment being a so-called promise that nothing would be said. Closing her eyes, she said several prayers. As she found out soon after, he‟d been laying the groundwork for their relationship. “I wanted to see how far I could push you before you‟d run.” “I couldn‟t do that,” she said. “You never allowed me a safe word.” “You performed admirably,” he said as he gave her aching body a rubdown. “Thank you, Master,” she said. “I‟d like to explore this with you more in depth. You have what I believe will accept and handle my kind of dominance.” “Please, explain.” “This tonight has been a test you have passed without question. I figured if you could handle me at my worst, then we might have a chance because you‟ve seen my harsh side.” “And if I say no?” “I doubt you will. Your body craves what I can give it.” Eden agreed to be his sub and for the first several months, everything had been sheer perfection when he and she got together. Then it all took a turn for the worst. She returned to the house they shared on the outskirts of the city. He explained that he‟d bought it in that location for one reason—no one would hear anything that went on there and they‟d have the privacy their relationship required. When she walked in, she froze in total shock at the sight in front of her. Weathers had invited several Masters to the house and they, in turn, bought their subs with them. One had his on a leash at his feet—something Eden would never consider doing or accepting. Another had his sub sucking his cock though she couldn‟t seem to satisfy him so he punished her and told her to do it right. Then she 15

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure saw the sight that really threw her—Weathers being serviced by a buxom, Penthouse playmate type and when she‟d taken him orally, she started over again after she straddled his hips. “Ah, my beautiful slave, it‟s about time you came home. My guests have been waiting for you.” “For?” “Twice a year, we get together and share our slaves.” “You never mentioned it, Master.” “I didn‟t have to,” he declared. “Now go over to Master Gregory and…” “No, I won‟t. I never agreed to this and you know it.” “If you don‟t, you‟ll be punished.” “I‟m leaving,” she said with a new inner strength she didn‟t realize she had. “Don‟t you dare leave,” he said. “If you do, you won‟t be able to come back for any reason.” “Good,” she said before she turned and left. “I swear I will hunt you down and repay you for what you‟ve done to me and the longer it takes, the harsher the punishment!” he yelled—the last words she heard from him. Relieved to be away from him, Eden sped back into the city and immediately called her lawyer. By the close of the next business day, she had an open-ended restraining order against Rudd Weathers. She also had papers delivered to him stating that her lawyer would retrieve her possessions and her business interests would no longer be any concern of his. If he took an interest in her or anything pertaining to her, she‟d see him in court with no regard to the risk she took by such an action. Eden Conrad wanted him out of her life—for good. Since then, she‟d been wary of taking on any relationship yet every night since her last rendezvous, she‟d dreamt of the man who‟d rocked her world and left her begging for more. I need him… 16

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure **** Over the last several days, Gavin Hunt had gone through the same cravings. He knew in his heart that he‟d found the woman he wanted to spend the rest of his life with only he had no clue how to approach her. Even though they‟d enjoyed each other several times before, nothing compared to the other night when he walked into her room to find a gorgeous woman in a tight black corset, thighhigh boots and blindfolded waiting for him. Never had a woman made him feel as Eden had that night and he didn‟t want to risk losing any more chances with her. He knew she had strict rules— the reason why the club had been successful. Because of something in her past, she protected herself as well as those she employed and he appreciated that but he wanted more. I want Eden… When he arrived for his shift, Carson pulled him aside and slipped him a piece of paper. “From your Mistress,” he said. “Be very careful in what you say and do.” “Thanks,” Gavin said. “I think…” Finding somewhere where he could be alone, he unfolded the paper and looked at it. Shock overtook him when he saw an email address—Eden‟s. Hearing someone coming up behind him, he quickly pocketed what he considered more valuable than gold and regained himself. “Hunt, what‟s shakin‟?” one of the other waiters asked. “Not much,” he answered. “You?” “Same old, same old.” Waiting for him to leave the room, Gavin found another piece of paper and ripped it from the pad. One of the things he‟d learned at the Academy had been to take the first several sheets of paper off the tablet in order to keep anything written on it a secret. More perps had been arrested because the lab boys raised the lettering on the sheets of paper beneath the one written on. 17

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure When he found a spot in the kitchen, he put the paper down on the stainless steel shelf and wrote his email address on it. Folding it in half, he sought out Carson. “Would you give this to my Mistress?” he asked. “Sure,” Carson said. “Remember what I told you. I‟d hate to see either one of you hurt.” “Thanks,” Hunt said. “I respect that it comes from you. Anyone else and I‟d wonder.” “She‟s been hurt though I don‟t know the circumstances.” “I‟d figured as much. She kinda fits the profile of…” “What do you mean?” “Between you and me, I‟ve been going to the Police Academy. We‟ve had classes on domestic violence and she fits the profile of someone who‟s been deeply hurt because of that kind of situation.” “I hope you don‟t plan to use the badge against her…” “If anything, I‟ll use it to protect her—and everyone else here. This is a good set-up and there‟s no reason why anything should happen that might close it or worse. I‟ve seen several of the city‟s bigwigs in here and you know, they‟ll be the last ones to want it touched.” “Just like they will be the last ones to go to court for her.” “Very true but if you and I work together, then she‟s got two on the inside on her side.” “You have a deal, Hunt,” Carson said. “Good.” Hunt returned to his section of the restaurant and did his usual pre-shift check. Once done, he stood off to the side and waited for the first table to be seated. While he did, he thought of the woman he wanted to be with and groaned when his cock felt trapped thanks to the leather pants. Taking a few deep breaths he‟d hoped would calm him, he tried to think of the day‟s classes but his thoughts kept returning to Eden. Can I wait… 18

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure **** “Mistress, I‟ve been asked to give this to you.” “And this is…” she asked, holding the piece of paper up. “I believe the answer to your message.” “I see,” she said. “Thank you.” Carson nodded then left her alone to return to the front desk. Eden waited until he‟d gone then opened the folded paper. My email address is: ghunt2212. If you’d like, I can create another one just for you. Eden smiled as she pulled out her Blackberry and sent him an email. Since the club had yet to open, she felt safe doing this though her emotions had overpowered her. Darkeden: A special email will be much appreciated. A few moments later, her answer came back. Ghunt2212: Your wish is my command. Tonight? Darkeden: Why not? Ghunt2212: If Mistress would not mind, I’d like to see you in black lace while you choose the evening’s theme. Darkeden: Interesting idea. Figuring her mystery lover had been Gavin Hunt, one of her waiters in the main restaurant, she appreciated Carson‟s choice the other evening even more. I will have to give him a raise… Leaving the club in his capable hands, she went upstairs and went through her closet to pick out something in black lace. While she did, her body trembled in anticipation of an evening with her tall, dark and handsome lover—one with amazing blue eyes. From the day she‟d hired Hunt, she‟d always loved the deep tone of his voice. I should have recognized him the other evening but then again, it had been solely about sex because I didn’t want to know… Deciding between two outfits brought out the devilish side of her. Taking a chance, she emailed him again. Darkeden: Sheer or not? Ghunt2212: Not yet body-hugging. 19

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Darkeden: As you wish. Ghunt2212: Who shall be blindfolded? Darkeden: Neither. Ghunt2212: As you wish. Checking the monitors, she spied Gavin Hunt on the floor serving an intimate dinner at a table set for two. From what she could tell, he had good rapport with the customers which she appreciated. Waiters like him always enjoyed repeat business. As he walked away from the table, he glanced up at one of the cameras and flashed her a grin—one that sent heat rushing through her. Can I wait that long? **** Hunt felt like he‟d spent the evening floating on air. The fact that she‟d emailed him while he waited tables showed her devilish side. He only hoped he could satisfy her tonight as he had several nights before. Near eleven, Carson caught his attention and he went to the front desk hoping she had not changed her mind. “Your Mistress would like you to come up as soon as you can. I‟ve made sure that no new customers have been seated in your area so you can finish up early.” “Thank you,” he said. Returning to his area, he served the last two desserts and once he‟d made sure the bills had been taken care of and he collected his tips, he went to Carson with his totals then headed upstairs. Knocking on the door as he had each time before, he found it open. After entering Eden‟s private world, he closed the door and locked it. When he turned, he saw her standing in the doorway to her bedroom wearing a little black lace dress that hugged every beautiful curve her body had. “Mistress Eden, I am Gavin Hunt and I can‟t tell you how much I‟ve looked forward to this.” “I can‟t tell you either,” she said. 20

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “What can I do to please you?” She walked toward him, Hunt noticing the thin stiletto heels she wore—ones very few women could walk on without swaying. As she approached, he held his breath. Her dress low-cut, her breasts filled the top of it perfectly while the rest of it hugged her hips. Extremely short, it served to accentuate the beautiful length of her legs. “Do you like what you see?” “Yes, Mistress,” he said almost gasping. “Good. Now, I want you to remove your clothes and place them on the sofa. Once you‟ve done that, you will seduce me while you remove the lace from my body.” “Yes, Mistress, as you wish.” Hunt obeyed each command, his only dread being that he might displease her in some way. As soon as he went to her, his cock throbbed begging for her attention. Seeing the smile on her face made him feel better as he easily brushed her hair behind her back. Framing her face with his hands, he brushed his lips over her face before he did the same to her neck. Her gasp told him she liked it as he continued to her shoulders. “May I ask a question?” “Yes.” “Does this gorgeous dress stretch? I‟d hate to rip it in the process of removing it.” “It does and I appreciate your concern.” Nodding, he eased the thick shoulder straps off her and as they sat at her elbows effectively holding her arms in place, he held her breasts so they wouldn‟t drop haphazardly. He wanted to make sure she never felt any discomfort when he touched her. “Your wish?” “Don‟t stop, Gavin…” “Yes, Mistress,” he said as he gazed reverently at her. 21

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Hunt brushed his thumbs over her firm nipples, Eden again gasping. From her body language, he knew she had begun to teeter on the edge of a climax, one place he intended to keep her as long as possible. “If I asked you to continue brushing your nipples with your thumbs while I finish stripping you out of this gorgeous dress, would you do it for me?” “Yes,” she replied breathlessly, her hands moving toward her breasts. Moving the dress straps out of her way, she did as he asked. The sight of her playing with her tits made him harder but he had to restrain himself from hurrying things. She wanted seduction and would get it. Shoving the dress down the length of her long legs, he supported her while she stepped out of it then, after he placed the dress with his clothes, he parted her legs and teased her pussy. “Please, Mistress, tell me what you‟d like next.” “I believe I want to restrain you this evening. Follow me,” she said though she didn‟t stop what he‟d asked her to do. Following her into a room off to the side, he found that she had her own playroom, one much more elaborate than the ones on the floors below. She stood in front of a leather-covered table and nodded to it since she refused to stop playing with her extremely firm nipples. Hunt gazed at it, a little embarrassed because his cock remained impatient. “You should never be embarrassed in front of me,” she said. “You have an impressive cock and I enjoy seeing it hard and wanting.” “Yes, Mistress, thank you.” “It makes me want to place it between my breasts so I can make it come with them while you continue playing with my nipples.” 22

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Anything, Mistress,” he croaked, his reaction to her words and the sight of her in front of him driving him insane. “In fact, I believe I will,” she said “Pick me up and put me on the table.” Hunt did and groaned as he watched her lay back. Taking his cue, he straddled her body laying his cock between her breasts. Eden took his hands and placed them on her nipples as she took her breasts and began pumping his cock. As much as he wanted to place his hands on hers, he obeyed her command though he had to admit it took a great deal of willpower. Able to feel when he neared the edge, he put all his concentration on waiting until she gave the word—the one word that would take over his life. “Come, my handsome slave,” she said. Moments later, he did and she arched her back to push closer to his body. Holding his reaction, Hunt tried counting backwards—anything to get his mind off the scream that threatened to overpower the room. “Go ahead, Gavin,” she said. “I want to hear your pleasure.” Unable to wait, he cried out as the full extent of his release overwhelmed him. His mind spinning, he fought to remain upright while he continued to minister to her extremely hard buds. “May I say that Mistress has perfect tits?” “Yes, and I thank you for the compliment.” “You do…” “Gavin, are you all right?” “Light-headed…” “Come down to me,” she said, concern in her voice. Slowly, he lowered his body to hers pulling his hands from her breasts to the leather table to support himself. “Forgive me, Mistress,” he gasped. “I do,” she said as her lips met his. “You are an amazing man, Gavin Hunt.” 23

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Her lips covered his as she kissed him. Sliding toward the end of the table, she pushed up a little to take him in her arms. “I don‟t know what came over me.” “It‟s all right,” she said. “I‟m not mad.” “I have been afraid of disappointing you.” “Let‟s put it this way—if you accept my offer, you won‟t have anything to worry about.” “What do you mean?” “I want to train you as my submissive. In doing so, you‟ll increase your stamina though you already have an amazing one. I want you as mine, Gavin,” she said. “I haven‟t wanted a man for a serious relationship for years and I‟m taking a huge risk even broaching the subject.” “I need to tell you something first,” he said. “What?” Hunt slipped off the table and dropped to his knees in front of her, his eyes finding a point on the floor to stare at. He knew if he looked at her as she lay on her side, he‟d never say what he had to. “When I applied for the job, I had my application in at the police department. A month after I started here, I started training at the Academy and have been doing both ever since.” “Look at me,” she commanded. “Why did you keep this a secret?” “Because of your business and the one time I had the good fortune to pleasure you the second week of my employment, I didn‟t want to ruin anything. The last thing you needed would have been the department coming in here full-steam and hell-bent. I also didn‟t want to risk being with you. It‟s like being a hockey fan and going to an event where the greatest hockey player ever is appearing. You‟ll do anything to share the same air with him because of who he is.” “Oh?” 24

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I guess what I‟m saying is that I‟ve been in love with you since the day of my interview and I would never intentionally do anything to hurt you. If being with you means quitting the Academy, I will.” “I would never expect you to do that.” “It could be considered a conflict of interest. There are cops out there determined to close places like this down.” “I know but, as you know, I‟ve been very careful.” “And I refuse to jeopardize this for you. The last thing I want to see is you in prison.” “I don‟t look good in orange.” “Mistress, I‟m serious. If I got the detail that gets the orders to arrest you or anyone here, I can‟t do it. Everyone here trusts me and I cannot betray that.” “And what about your future plans?” “I can go back to school and get my degree. I have my Associates degree in Liberal Arts—I just never decided on a major.” “I won‟t ask you to do that.” “Mistress Eden, I intentionally will do anything in my power to protect you—no matter what. I‟ve discovered so much about myself since the other night and I know what I want from life. I want you.” Sitting up on the table, she gazed at him. The heat of her gaze sent a myriad of sensations through him as he waited for her to tell him to leave. I won’t like it but I’ll understand… Hell no—I won’t… “Gavin Hunt, you will continue on with your life as normal. We will figure this out but in the meantime, I want to train you. Increasing your stamina will also help with your physical training— something I understand is important for a police officer. I will give you time to think about your decision as I do not want you make a rash one.” 25

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I want to be your submissive,” he said without hesitation. “I need you in my life.” “Then the first thing I will instruct you in is this—you will carry me into the shower and bathe my body and yours. After that, who knows?” “Yes, Mistress,” he said. “Thank you.” “No, my love, thank you. I can‟t very well send away the only man to make me feel like a complete woman. You are a special find, my love, and I refuse to risk losing you.” **** When they had finished bathing which included another heated session, she led him back to the leather table. “Stretch out and allow me to do the rest.” “Yes, Mistress.” She could feel his gaze on her as she moved about the room getting what she intended to use on him. When she returned, she bent over him, their lips meeting. Shackling his hands over his head after she kissed his palms, she moved to the other end of the table and did the same with his ankles. “I see your cock is still impatient…” “Yes, Mistress, it is.” “Good,” she said as she hung a bejeweled chain from her finger for him to look at. “Do you know what this is?” “A cock ring, Mistress.” “Exactly and you are aware what it is used for?” “Yes, I am.” “Do you have a problem with this?” “No, I don‟t.” Eden nodded then teased his cock to make sure she had him at his utmost size. After she waited for him to relax a little, she slid the ring along the length of his shaft then bound his balls. His cock 26

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure immediately swelled again from the sensation as well as her touch, his body stiff as he fought his reaction. “This is my claim to you, slave. You will wear this at all times unless you are put in a position that will cause embarrassment from the normal world. In which case, you will replace it as soon as possible thereafter. Do you accept my claim?” “Yes, Mistress Eden, yes!” he cried out as his body continued its fight against itself. Eden bent down, taking his length into her throat. Going down on her slave, she inwardly smiled when he began trying to thrust in and out of her. Taking his release despite his intention to hold back, she languished in what this man did for her. Am I risking too much by enslaving a cop—even a baby cop? Hunt cried out, his sheer pleasure reverberating through the apartment. “Gavin Hunt…” “Punish me, Mistress, for my disobedience.” “I will not this time because I deliberately pushed you to the point you would. You behaved admirably and I look forward to our future together. I do however have some ground rules.” “Anything!” he screamed as she continued torturing his body. “I will not share you with anyone. I‟ve had experience with that and it‟s not pretty. As my slave, it is my responsibility to make sure you are not hurt in any way—to protect you from the evil in our world. You‟ve crossed over into a new life where we have our own set of rules and laws. I will teach you what you need to know as well as giving you pleasure beyond your wildest dreams. Your life outside this world will not change because I‟ve told you to do it. You must make that decision on your own but I will support whatever choice you make. Do you still accept my claim on you?” “Yes, Mistress, I will do anything for you.” Eden bent to kiss him, her nipples brushing his chest. Again his body‟s reaction pleased her and she rewarded him. Climbing on 27

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure top of him, she lowered her pussy to his lips while she took his cock deep into her throat once more. Teasing his slit, she jolted when she felt his tongue laving her clit. “As your reward, slave, you may come when ready.” “Thank you, Mistress,” he said after drawing back a little. After both began slowly wanting to draw out the experience, their pace became furious as both met the other‟s—by this time, extremely and brutally passionate. The moment she felt his release imminent, she tightened the small ties around his balls. His body jolted seconds before his explosive release filled her mouth. She felt her own body‟s release as she drenched him, their bodies enjoying the climaxes overtaking them. The more she shook, the more fiercely she wanted to go down on him again. Gavin Hunt had an overpowering effect on her and it drove her to do her damnedest to satisfy him. Unable to take the sensation anymore, she threw her head back and screamed his name. My God, he’s become my Master!

28

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 2 Gavin Hunt juggled his job with the police department and the Academy while enjoying his time with Mistress Eden. He‟d taken to making sure he got to the showers or locker room last in order to wear the cock ring without garnering comments from the other cadets. He‟d also kept his apartment though he spent a great deal more time at Eden‟s and yes, he‟d kept his job waiting tables. If anyone asked, the tips had been good enough to pay his rent and keep him solvent while in training—not far off from the truth. Each night together they tried different sexual activities, as some would call them, and Gavin found he enjoyed everything they did—as long as Eden did it. He also realized he‟d never go back to having vanilla sex ever again. He needed the type of pleasure he gained from being with Eden and being at her mercy. Then again, he needed Eden. One night as they lay together, Eden asked him something that the mere thought of took his breath away. One of many things… “What do you know about latex?” “I‟ve heard it can be dangerous if not done right.” “True but if it is, it can be very stimulating.” “And?” “I‟d like to try it with you.” “Of course, Mistress, I trust my well-being to you. In fact, you didn‟t have to say anything.” 29

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I realize that but we are more than Mistress and slave—we are partners, in many ways and in some, we‟re on an equal level. I respect you as a man and I value your opinion.” “Isn‟t that the opposite of our kind of relationship?” “Yes and no,” she answered. “I believe we have a deep abiding love for each other meaning we have a unique bond, one that requires openness and honesty.” “But I am your slave…” “True but you are my lover and I hope more than that.” “What are you saying?” “If you had not decided to finish out the Police Academy then I would expect you to be living here with me full-time. Because you need to keep up certain appearances, I haven‟t asked.” “Are you saying what I think you are?” “At the first possible moment, I want you to move in with me,” she said without hesitation. Hunt pulled her closer. “On one condition,” he said. “What?” “I graduate soon and I want you at the ceremony.” “What about your family?” “They are back East and wrote me off when I moved out here because I refused to get involved in the family law firm. That suit and tie stuff every day isn‟t me.” “But if I asked you to do that?” “That would be different because I love you. The law position came with my birthright and when I balked at law school by not keeping up my grades, my father disowned me. If he ever found out about my latest chosen profession or if they both learned about you, that would be it. I‟d not only be disowned but out of his will to boot.” “How much are they worth?” “Millions.” 30

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “And our relationship?” “Priceless,” he replied. “You‟ve found the real me and have been the only one to truly understand me. I want you there, Eden.” “And what about your fellow policemen?” “You and I are none of their business.” “Good and yes, I‟ll be there.” Hunt pulled her closer as his lips found hers. Wrapping his body around hers, he held onto her refusing to allow her any movement. “Gavin, what‟s wrong?” “Please, Eden, don‟t ever leave me or doubt me. You‟re all I have.” Eden Conrad held Gavin Hunt while he cried. He couldn‟t remember the last time he‟d shed a tear over anything and didn‟t care—with Eden holding him, it felt right. “I swear, my love, I will always be here for you.” **** The day came for Hunt‟s graduation from the Police Academy. Because he had to be at the Academy early, they went in separate cars. Eden took advantage of the time to speak with Carson about an idea she‟d had. “I believe it would be a wonderful thing to do. While you are at the ceremony, I can get things together here and surprise Gavin when you return. The schedule is extremely light and I believe I can reschedule the reservations so we can have a private party for him.” “I appreciate this, Carson. I found out that Gavin is alone out here—his family back East disowned him—so we are his family.” “He is a good man, Mistress, and I‟m glad you two are together.” “Thanks to you…” “I just juggle schedules,” he said, “but you‟re welcome.” 31

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden left and drove to the Academy where the graduation ceremonies would be held. She‟d chosen to wear a black pinstripe pantsuit, a vest taking the place of the blouse. Once she arrived, she found a seat toward the back and near a doorway in case she felt the need to make a hasty exit. No way would she allow her slave to suffer any type of shame or embarrassment on this special day in his life. An hour later after at least half a dozen speeches, the police chief introduced the latest class of cadets to finish the Academy as well as giving them their new assignments. Inwardly, she gasped when she heard his name and watched him walk to shake the chief‟s hand and receive his certificate. “Ladies and gentlemen, Gavin Hunt stands before you as the officer who scored the highest grades on his tests as well as excelling at everything thrown at him.” Those in attendance stood as they applauded, Eden among them only she cried behind her sunglasses. Her happiness for him knew no bounds and she could not wait to get him back to the club and put him under her idea of house arrest. Then it hit her that he‟d yet to see her house out in the desert. “Hmmm…” **** Once the hoopla had died down surrounding the celebration for Gavin Hunt‟s graduation, Eden led him to her private table. Sitting in a spot where she could see what went on in the room while being in the shadows, if she chose to have a guest with her, their presence went unnoticed. Nigel Shelton had given her this idea and she liked it. Late reservations had been taken and the restaurant began to fill up, Eden hoping her man would not have a problem with what she intended to do. “Please have Phil send over a bottle of the Dom Pérignon,” she said to their server. 32

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Yes, Mistress,” she said. “Congratulations again, Gavin.” “Thanks, Ash,” he said. “Are you all right?” “Yes and no. Between graduation and now the celebration plus we‟re actually sitting in the main dining room in public…” “I believe it‟s time we went a little public. It‟s not often I show up at the Police Academy for anything, much less a graduation ceremony. Nerves had me sitting near the door in case I needed to leave quickly.” “Mistress, why didn‟t you tell me?” “Because I knew that my being there meant a great deal to you and I‟m very glad I went.” Eden pulled his hand over to her lap where she held it while she pulled aside her jacket and unbuttoned the low-cut vest that had obviously been driving him mad. “Mistress…” “I chose this as my private corner. We are in the shadows and no one is paying any attention to us. You of all people should know this about Dark Illusions. The actions fit the name, so to speak.” “But I worry about…” Phil brought over a champagne bucket with a bottle chilling and two flutes, setting them near Hunt. Popping the cork, he poured the sparkling wine then nodded before he left them alone. “Our dinner will be served in a little while. In the meantime, I want you to relax and behave.” “Yes, Mistress,” he said as she pulled him into a kiss. Eden turned just enough for it to appear as if they had been caught up in the throes of a deeply passionate kiss while she eased his hand to her naked breast, the action deftly hidden by her jacket. She could feel his tension ease the moment he touched her though heat coursed through her. Without a word, his other hand slipped inside her clothes and in moments, he held her breasts and brushed over her nipples with the pads of his thumbs. 33

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Very good,” she whispered as she drew back a little. “I love silent commands.” “So do I, Mistress,” he said before his lips covered hers again. Her faint moan pushed him to squeeze her, Eden‟s body jolting a little. “How about if we have dinner sent upstairs?” “Anything, Mistress,” he gasped. Fixing her clothes, she signaled to their waitress that she wanted the meal sent up to her apartment, grabbed the champagne then led him to the back stairs of the building, a stairway rarely used by anyone but her. Once the stair tower door closed, she pulled Hunt into another kiss and by the time she drew back, she stood in front of him topless. “Once you‟ve carried me upstairs, I want to be shackled and unable to move a muscle. After you‟ve done that, I expect my new cop to pour the rest of this magnum over me so I‟m bathed in champagne and fuck me senseless—my gift to you.” Hunt groaned, picked her up and hurried up the steps to the third floor. Obeying her commands after he locked the door, he took her to their playroom and shackled her to the X-frame in the back corner. By the time he finished, Eden could not move—just as she wanted. Next he poured the remainder of the Dom Pérignon over her body, the chill of it causing her to jolt a little before her nipples firmed. Bending over a little, his tongue darted out to lick the expensive wine off her skin. Standing up, he removed his uniform. “Mistress?” “Excellent,” she said. Grinning, he pulled out a piece of satin she usually used for a blindfold and faced her. “I want to see everything…” 34

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Yes, Mistress, but I don‟t want everyone hearing your pleasure. Remember dinner is on its way up.” Eden nodded and waited for his next move. Hunt brushed his lips over hers and when she opened her mouth to kiss him, he placed the satin there and tied the fabric around her head. After making sure of her comfort, he went to a drawer in her dresser and pulled out several lengths of gold chain, the first of which he attached to her nipple rings before he tugged them. He took the second longer length of chain and attached one end of it to the first one then the other to his cock cage. “I want us to be inseparable right now.” Her nod told him she agreed as she waited for his next surprise. The pull of the chains on her nipples while he thrust his fingers into her pussy sent Eden over the edge. He‟d been right to gag her considering she screamed despite it. Her hands clenched as the combined climaxes washed over them both at the same time. Mistress Eden could not have asked for a better slave if she had to—she had the best. While the last ripples washed over her, she watched him reach for his uniform then remove his badge from the shirt. He turned back to her, his cock at attention, then hung the shiny hardware in the center of the chain between her nipples. The slight weight of it created a constant tension which sent shockwaves through her. His tongue tracing the line of her neck while his hot breath blew over her damp skin only added to the sensations, Eden unsure how much longer she could survive this divine siege on her body. Her answer came a few moments later when Hunt thrust his gorgeous erection into her and obeyed her commands—Eden passed out. **** Eden woke a few hours later finding herself in bed wrapped in Hunt‟s arms. A slight pulsation on her stomach told her he‟d sandwiched his cock between them making sure they remained 35

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure connected. She knew the chains had not been removed though the badge had been. Somewhere along the way to lust-filled bliss, they‟d fallen into a loving yet unique bond—the kind every Dominant wanted. She‟d been told that the highest form of praise as well as loyalty came when the slave made sure of their Dom‟s comfort above their own. It seemed Gavin Hunt had done this and now he wrapped his amazing body protectively around hers, the sensation giving her a sense of the old-fashioned warm and fuzzies. My God, I believe I have it all… “Good morning, Mistress,” he whispered as he pulled her closer. The mere touch of his breath on her skin sent heat through her but even though she wanted to look up at him, he wouldn‟t allow her to move. “I sense something‟s bothering you,” she said. “I believe I‟ve failed you. When you passed out…” “You did exactly what I expected you to do. I wanted you to do it and I wanted you to take control. When you chained us together, I fell over the edge into an abyss I never want to climb out of as long as I‟m with you.” “Are you sure? I mean…” “Gavin Hunt, I will do anything to keep you in my life. I want you with me as much as I can have you when you‟re not on duty. You are the only man I want to spend my life with because you‟ve given me back something I honestly believed I‟d lost forever. “ “Are you saying you want to make this a permanent type of arrangement?” “Yes, I am,” she said, dreading what he might say next. I can’t take rejection… “Mistress Eden, will you do me the honor of marrying your slave? I love you more than life and you are the only one I would ever consider giving up the department for. If things get to be too 36

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure much and it comes between us, I will walk away and not regret it as long as I have you in my life and hopefully supporting me in what I do.” “My gorgeous blue slave, I will gladly marry you and I will do my best to support whatever you do as long as I believe you won‟t be hurt by it. As your Domme, I have already vowed to protect you and I will not back away from that promise or any other I‟ve made.” Gavin Hunt pulled her closer as he buried his face in her hair, his nose brushing the side of her neck and her earlobe while his cock throbbed impatiently between them. His leg folded over hers tightly trapping her body with his. She sensed something still bothered him but until he felt ready to tell her, she would not push him for answers. After all, I have my own secrets. “What are you doing the next several days?” “I don‟t start until next week and I‟m scheduled downstairs tomorrow night and…” “I‟ll tell Carson to get a replacement for you. I want to show you something and I doubt we‟ll be back in time for you to cover your shift.” “What do you have…” “You‟ll see. You‟ll need a pair of jeans and a shirt—the basics.” “For how many days?” “A couple,” she said. “And what should I pack for you?” “Nothing, I‟ll be fine.” Hunt went to get his things together but the moment he moved to get out of bed, she pulled him back. The tugging of the chains on her nipples as well as the fact they remained chained together sent new sensations racing through her body and caused her to go out of control. “Mistress?” 37

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I want a good morning fuck,” she said as her body trembled. “I love it when you get to the point and talk dirty.” “Being chained to each other brings it out in me.” “Ah, my Mistress—I‟ll have to do it more.” “I‟ll remember that—now, are you not misbehaving?” “Yes, and I can‟t wait for your punishment,” he said as he nuzzled her neck again. Moments later, Eden cried out his name. No man would ever compare to the hunk she‟d agreed to marry and dominate for the rest of her life. “I love you, Gavin,” she said as her lips brushed his chest. “I love you, too,” he said as he fingered one of her nipple rings. “Last night, when I had to be careful of the chain in order to carry you in here, I felt a little sick to my stomach because I dreaded I might have to remove it and lose contact with you.” “Then let me suggest this—we‟ll get yours pierced too and then we can really chain our bodies together.” Her suggestion obviously had been well accepted as his cock swelled within her again. “I love the idea,” he said. “When do you want to do it?” “What do you mean?” “I want to be shackled like I had you last night and I want you to do the piercings. I don‟t trust anyone else.” “Tell me something…” “What?” “Who hurt you?” “What do you mean?” “I can tell you‟ve been hurt and hurt deeply. I‟ve been there and I can tell the signs.” “It‟s in the past and I don‟t talk about it…” “Even if I command you to?” “I‟m not sure if I can. I‟ve worked hard to put it behind me and…” 38

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “It‟s coming out,” she said. “Your desire to have only me pierce you speaks volumes. My God, we live on the Vegas Strip and are a mere stone‟s throw away from numerous tattoo parlors and body shops which pierce many times a day and you don‟t want to go there. That tells me something.” “I grew up in New York and if you seemed out of sync with the neighborhood, they tried to get you in sync. I didn‟t run with the gangs but had to go through their turf to and from my house so one day, they took me in hand and showed me the supposed error of my ways. When I woke a few days later in the hospital, they told me I had a broken arm and leg and had been a hair away from a punctured lung. I damned near died that day in front of a public gathering of the neighborhood and I swore that no matter what, I would keep my privacy. I trust you to do it—not some public parlor where someone could see me and use it against me. The cock ring has been…” “Then I will replace it with a chain around your neck instead—or a bracelet…” “No, Eden, I want it more than anything like I want you. I‟ve gotten good at secreting the cock ring so it won‟t be too much more of an effort to do the same with the piercings. It would mean a hell of a lot to me for you to pierce my body. Who knows? Maybe I‟ll have your gorgeous body impaled on my cock while you do it and we‟ll both be on an emotional high.” “I will do it but if you change your mind…” “I won‟t…” **** While Hunt got his things together, Eden called Carson and asked him to get someone in to cover for Hunt for the next few days. “I believe he deserves it after all the hard work he‟s put in the last few months.” 39

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I agree,” he said. “I assume you‟re taking him out to the house?” “Yes,” she said. “As far as I know, you went to one of the main hotels…” “Good,” she said before laughing. I really need to give him a raise… Hunt joined her and she smiled as she slid from the bed. After she showered, she slipped into a black jersey dress. While it had a mock turtleneck collar, long sleeves and a long skirt flaring out from her hips, it hugged her body and as she saw in her slave‟s eyes, he liked the way she looked. Of course wearing nothing underneath it helped considering she could easily figure out exactly what he had been thinking. “Does my slave like what he sees?” “You look great in anything but when soft material hugs every minute curve of your amazing body, I love it even more.” “Good,” she said as they left the third-floor apartment and headed down the back stairs to the door leading to the alley. When she locked the door after setting the alarm, she threw her keys to Hunt and told him to drive her Audi. Once he‟d made sure she‟d settled into the passenger seat, he slipped behind the wheel and started the car. “Where to?” he asked as he eased onto the Strip. “Go out of the city and pick up Durango Drive.” It impressed her how at ease he felt behind the wheel of the expensive car. She remembered being leery of it when she first bought it since she dreaded putting the first scratch on it. She‟d had it several years and so far, so good. Within half an hour, they arrived at her house in a gated development surrounding one of the numerous country clubs. When she looked at the property, she chose the one house that virtually sat off by itself—one affording her an amazing amount of 40

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure privacy and an awesome view of the desert. Now she‟d see just how private the place would prove to be. Glancing at Hunt, she smiled when she saw the look of utter shock on his face. “Gavin?” “I‟ve heard about these places but…” “Get used to it, slave,” she said. “This is where I come to get away from Las Vegas.” “Who owns this?” “I do,” she said. Turning into the driveway, he negotiated the curve while she pressed a button opening one of the garage doors. Hunt pulled the car inside then put it in park before turning it off and handing her the keys. “Keep them,” she said. “I have the other set.” “Eden, seriously, this is…” “I want you to have a set of keys to my car, my homes, everything I own because as far as I‟m concerned—what‟s mine is yours.” “It‟s one thing when it comes to small things but multimillion dollar properties…” “It‟s all material and not worth a damn if it can‟t be enjoyed with someone.” “I can‟t even compare anything I own to this,” he said. “I‟m really overwhelmed by it all.” “I want to pamper you and I‟ve waited a long time to share this with someone. Please, accept it in the spirit it is given.” “If this is what you really want then I will,” he said. “Just give me a bit to get used to the idea…” “Deal,” she said. “Now let me show you around.” ****

41

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure While Gavin Hunt came to grips with the direction his life had taken, Rudd Weathers spent his time trying to figure out how to get slave Eden out of his. One thing he‟d sworn the day she walked out on his party and his service had been to show her the error of her ways. No slave had ever embarrassed him and gotten away with it—it didn‟t matter how long it took for him to seek revenge, he‟d do it. Living in the same city with her as a constant reminder had been sheer hell since his fellow Doms refused to allow him to forget her insolence. One way or another, he had to punish her. Now that the perfect time had presented itself, he set to making plans. Several weeks before, he‟d entered into a business deal with Roy Gordon. The first several meetings had been over lunch or dinner at one of the hotels or in Weathers‟ office. Then he met the man at his office and found out some interesting information. As most men did, Gordon had framed photos of his family— one of him and his current wife, several of his wife—or maybe wives—and one of his daughter. “Who is this beauty?” he asked. “My daughter, Amy,” Gordon replied. “We‟ve been estranged for years though.” “I‟m sorry to hear that,” Weathers lied. “I‟d hoped to meet her.” “She didn‟t like living under my roof or her mother‟s and ran. We haven‟t seen her in ages.” “Have you searched for her?” “Off and on but business has been taking up my time.” “Would you like me to see what I can do?” “It‟s up to you,” he said. “Why would you do it though? You don‟t even know her.” “Consider it an act of good faith,” Weathers said. “I believe it might help our deal…” 42

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Whatever,” Gordon said. “I‟ve heard things about her and I‟m not sure if I want her back now. At least with the picture, I have my memories.” “What kind of things?” “Things a father does not talk about.” “I see,” Weathers said while knowing exactly what her father knew. He considers her an embarrassment which could work in my favor. They concluded their meeting on a high note and Weathers left without mentioning Gordon‟s errant daughter or his disloyal slave. This will let me kill two birds with one stone…

43

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 3 Eden watched Gavin walk around the house taking it all in, his mouth open in shock. From the pool which overlooked the desert to the sauna and the expansive rooms plus the open layout of the house to the look on his face when he saw the huge bedroom, he slowly tried to accept it all. “Gavin, are you all right?” “Just a little shell-shocked. Are there any other surprises?” “Just one,” she said with devilment. “Hit me with it now so I can get past this and enjoy you,” he said. “First, since we are virtually out in the middle of nowhere, I want you naked. Once you‟ve obeyed that command, you will slowly and seductively remove my dress.” “Yes, ma‟am,” he said as he stripped for her. Going over to her, he lightly brushed his hands over the soft fabric covering her body. When he reached her breasts, he stopped and lovingly caressed them while the pads of his thumbs played over her extremely firm buds. Her breath caught, her body crying out for his though she would hold her reaction until they could enjoy it all at the same time. Slowly, he pulled the skirt of the dress up then over her hips where he rested his hands as he pulled her against him and kissed her. Lifting the dress a little higher, he sandwiched his cock 44

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure between them and as one hand held her tight against him, the other worked clumsily to remove the dress. “I will press my body against yours while you finish removing my dress.” “Thank you, Mistress,” he said. With her body pressed tight against him, his hands lifted the dress higher before resting on her naked breasts. Teasing her nipples once more, her body felt the sensations of an oncoming orgasm yet she still refused to allow it to overtake her—not until he had finished obeying her. Finally, he removed the dress, her body still tight against him and extremely aroused between his seduction, his body against hers and the breeze blowing through the house. His lips covered hers as their tongues danced erotically. His hands dropped to her ass and pulled her even closer against him as his cock rhythmically throbbed between them. “Tell me what to do. I beg you…” “Follow me, slave…” “Anything, Mistress,” he gasped. “Please, hurry—I feel lost without you touching me…” Eden took his hands and placed them on her hips then led him through the den to a door near the fireplace. Once they went through it and down several steps, they found themselves in an elaborate dungeon. “You still want me to pierce you?” she asked. “Yes,” he said without hesitation. “Then I will do as you wish.” Eden led him over to a table and told him to stretch out on it. Making sure he couldn‟t move, she extended the ends to accommodate his tall frame. Lovingly, she shackled him to the table—first his hands then his ankles. To add to his confinement, she strapped leather across his stomach. “Can you move?” 45

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “No, Mistress, thank you,” he said. “Do you want a gag?” “If it pleases you…” Eden chose a leather gag with a bit he could bite down on if he needed to and set it in place. “You requested that I ride you then pierce you while you are at the height of arousal,” she said. “Is this what you still want?” Hunt nodded. Eden got what she needed from a cabinet to the side plus a jeweler‟s box from a nearby drawer. Setting everything on a table next to Hunt, she straddled his thighs and proceeded to fulfill his wishes. Taking his shaft deep into her throat, she began going down on him until he reached the edge she wanted him to teeter on. As soon as he did, she slid her body down his shaft impaling her body on his. Riding him for a few moments, she gazed at him while she teased his nipple. “Is this what you want?” “Yes,” he tried to say as his fists clenched. Reaching over for the ring and a piercing rod that she removed from a sterile package, she rested it against his skin. “Come for me,” she said as he literally went over the edge. As soon as he exploded inside her, she pierced him with the thin rod and slipped the ring through the hole. Hunt cried out from the pain/pleasure of his release and the piercing sting of the rod. Pressing an antiseptic cloth against it, she held it on the new wound while she took his release. As soon as he filled her, his body relaxed though she watched the last remnants of the climax as they left his body. “Very good, slave,” she complimented. “Are you ready for the second one?” He nodded and despite the restraints and her body on his, he did his damnedest to thrust his cock inside her. 46

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden repeated what she‟d done and Hunt had matching rings in his nipples as well as the look of a truly sated man on his face. “Shall I remove the gag?” He nodded. “My God, Mistress, the rush…” “You took them well.” “I want to do your navel—if you ever want it. I want to see your face as you saw mine.” “Rest a little and then you may have your wish.” She leaned over to release him but he stopped her. “No, I want to remain like this. Punish me for overstepping but please, fuck me again. I want to know you are mine even though I‟m not allowed to touch you.” “As you wish, slave,” she said as she slowly moved up and down on his cock. As it swelled inside her, she gasped because he managed to touch a spot new to her—one that sent her soaring. “Mistress?” “You are amazing, Gavin,” she said. “Is there anything you‟d like me to do?” “Play with yourself, please. I want this for you.” Eden could not believe what he‟d said. A Dominant searched for a slave who would put their Master‟s wishes before theirs—one of the hardest things to teach a slave—but Hunt had a natural instinct when it came to their relationship and she languished in the fact she‟d found perfection. While she did as he wanted, she could see the rippling movements of his imminent release as they traveled through his tight stomach—his body hard from all the conditioning and physical training he‟d gone through in the Academy. As he neared the edge, she bent down and teased his lips with her tongue while her nipples brushed over his sensitive skin. “Come for me,” she said. 47

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Moments later, their combined screams echoed in the room as he filled her with his heated release. “Please, Master, may I come?” she begged. “Yes, yes, my God, you don‟t need my permission.” “I do when I‟m acting on your wishes.” “Come, Eden, and drown me…” he cried out. Eden‟s orgasm crashed over her, the force of it causing her to fall against his body and his new piercings. She heard his gasp and tried to move but he stopped her. “Please, Mistress, I can‟t bear to lose contact with you—not now,” he stated. “As you wish,” she said. “As you wish.” **** Hours later they woke only Hunt had been awake watching Eden sleeping on his body. She stirred, raising her head enough to look at him and smile. “Hey,” she said. “Hi,” he said back. “How do you feel?” “Wonderful. You are an amazing surgeon.” “I don‟t believe most surgeons offer this kind of bedside manner.” “Then I‟m a very lucky patient and I refuse to share you with anyone else.” “Good,” she said as she began to move. The fact that his breath caught stopped her. “Gavin?” “I don‟t understand why I‟m scared of being separated from you. Whatever the reason, all I want to do is touch you.” “We have a super unique relationship—one where being separated will do this. You feel sick when we‟re apart and I experience the same feelings but we have to figure out what to do because you have a job waiting for you and I can‟t walk your beat with you.” 48

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure She went to move again and his breath caught a second time. “Gavin, I need to release you from the table before my slave no longer has any circulation.” Hunt nodded, looking away from her. She gently pulled him back to face her. “Never be ashamed of your feelings. You don‟t know what kind of sensations race through me when your breath catches or you think you‟re hiding your emotions from me. I will never make you feel embarrassed, I swear.” Eden released him from the table then helped him off. As she figured, he felt stiff and numb. Supporting him, they waited until he felt better before she tried to lead him to the bed in the corner. “No, I want you to experience what you did to me. It‟s amazing…” “On one condition,” she said. “What?” “You must do it the exact same way as I did yours—the height of arousal or nothing.” He nodded and together they chose the rod and a belly ring she‟d bought months before in case she decided to get it done at one of the body shops near Dark Illusions. Now she had to admit that she agreed with him about it being a private matter. Hunt picked her up and carried her back to the table where he did to her what she had to him only he didn‟t place the strap across her stomach. Before he shackled her ankles, he slipped a pillow under her hips lifting her up a bit. Standing between her legs, he leaned over her and placed a gag over her mouth giving her the same option of having something to bite down on if the pain became too great. “Are you ready, Mistress?” he asked. She nodded, her body already beginning to crest the tide of arousal. 49

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Slipping two fingers into her pussy, he finger fucked her until she almost came then rammed his cock into her. As she could with him, he could tell when she neared the edge and once she did, he held her there—one thing he‟d become very good at doing. Her body fighting itself for release, she concentrated on waiting for his permission though she found it difficult. As she had done for him, he pressed the tip of the rod to her skin. The moment he waited for came and he thrust his cock deep into her body finding the new spot she‟d told him about. As ripples coursed through her body, his gaze locked with hers. “Come, Mistress.” She cried out despite the gag and as her body pushed off the table—her back arched effectively taking him deeper. Piercing her naval and adding the ring, Hunt pressed the antiseptic cloth to it while holding his hand across her stomach as she writhed from the orgasm overtaking her. “Mistress, may I…” His question had the same effect on her as her permission for him to fill her, her body totally out of control as she came for him again. His cock exploded within her as he fucked her once more then fell to her, his body lying on top of hers. “I love you, Eden, and I want to spend the rest of my life pleasing you and pleasuring you. Please, promise you will never turn me away.” “I…” He looked at her to see her nodding. “Thank you,” he said, pushing himself up as he reached for her nipples and teased them seconds before he tugged on her nipple rings. Eden fought the restraints needing to touch him but the feel of his body as he laid on hers again kept her aroused, the adrenaline rushing through her giving her a new strength though the shackles and her slave held her firmly in place. 50

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I am going to release you but before I do, I intend to be very bad and I will accept whatever punishment you choose to dole out.” He felt her watching him as he went to a jewel case on the cabinet and pulled out several chains. He next found a suedetipped flogger and an anal plug. Returning to her, he laid the chains on her stomach then went to the end of the table. Warming the anal plug in his hand, he waited a few seconds before he eased it into her anus. Seeing she had no problem with this, he switched it on, her body jolting from the sensations of it pulsing inside her. Picking up one of the chains, he attached it to her nipple rings before tugging it a little. Next, he took two chains and joined them together before he slid the new length underneath her back. Bringing both ends together, he attached them to his cock cage and looked at her. “I want us chained together—do you mind?” Fiercely shaking her head, her back arched more as she tried to tell him she wanted their bodies to touch but he gently pushed her down. Standing between her legs while the anal plug pulsed away, he thrust his cock into her pussy and took her again. As he did, he reached for the chain and pulled it, Eden following it as much as she could. As his pace increased, he went to rhythmically tugging on them until she cried out. When she did, he filled her with his heated essence. “Forgive me, Mistress, but if I‟ve left you pregnant then so be it. Do what you will,” he said as he bent over her and took one of her nipples between his teeth while his fingers squeezed the other. Her body writhing underneath his drove him to ram his swollen shaft into her deeper than he‟d ever done before. Eden again cried out only this time, he could see her nails drawing blood from her palms as her body went rigid from the climax overwhelming her. Moments later, she passed out as she had back at Dark Illusions. Forgive me, Mistress… 51

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure **** Rudd Weathers had his private investigator do an in-depth investigation on Eden Conrad a.k.a. Amy Gordon. He found out about the divorce her father had alluded to and that before she left California, she‟d inherited a multimillion dollar trust fund from her grandfather—something she never mentioned when she lived with him. Her mother had evidently tried fighting the will because she felt her daughter too unstable to handle that much money but the judge ruled in her daughter‟s favor. Disappearing with the trust fund, she turned up at her father‟s in Las Vegas. Instead of going to her father‟s first though, she went to a bank and deposited the trust fund into a money-making account. When she showed up at Gordon‟s door, he took her in but tried to get her to live life as he saw fit. Her mother had advised him about the trust fund and he did his level best to get her to turn it over to him. “I‟ve met with an accountant and it‟s being handled.” Roy Gordon did not like that answer at all since he‟d had plans for the money. One evening, she came home and he called her into his study where he literally read her the riot act. He didn‟t like the clothes she wore—black being too depressing a color—and he insisted she learn the ropes of the company. “Once you see the worth of it, I expect you to invest in it.” “No, you don‟t understand—the money is mine and I will not give it to either one of you. My grandfather did not trust his daughter or you and made me swear neither one of you would ever get your hands on it.” “Then get out.” “I get it—you only care about me for the money. The hell with me—your daughter.” “That‟s right,” he said. “In fact, I‟m not even sure you are my daughter. The way your mother‟s played around over the years…” 52

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “That‟s fine by me,” she stated. “I never believed you to be my father anyway. We definitely don‟t share the same genes.” Amy Gordon had known for a while that Roy might not be her biological father. When she stumbled on to the fact about her parentage, it startled her more than it bothered her. In fact, she felt relieved because once she hit her teens, he became unreasonable. When she came to Las Vegas worth millions, he ignored her though he wanted her to give him the trust fund. “If you walk out that door, don‟t bother coming back.” “Don‟t worry, I won‟t,” she said and she left, never looking back. That night, Amy Gordon died in order to be reborn as Eden Conrad and she never regretted her decision. It never ceased to amaze Weathers how the servants chattered on when given the right incentive. While the woman who‟d told him about this conversation had not worked for Gordon for several years, she still harbored a grudge against the man for the way he treated his poor daughter, as she called Amy. He‟d sent the investigator to California to find out who Eden‟s real father might be and told the man to get the information any way he saw fit as long as the method could not be traced back to him. The man returned with a copy of the birth certificate listing Roy Gordon as father yet no one agreed with it. Staff working for the Gordons at the time remembered Gordon being out of town—in Las Vegas, in fact—about the time his wife had conceived their daughter. Because a happy family made for good corporate images—for some stupid reason—he ignored the fact he hadn‟t been a part of her conception and accepted Amy as his daughter though he told his wife not to expect anything out of a divorce settlement. “If you expect your dirty little secret kept, you won‟t ask me for anything more than I intend to give you. Argue with me and you lose money.” 53

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure His ex-wife kept her mouth shut for obvious reasons and as long as she stayed in California, everything would be fine. She did and Roy Gordon enjoyed his life free of her—until his daughter showed up. Weathers still wanted to know the name of Eden‟s actual father but with what he had already, that might become a moot point. From what he could tell, the natural father had no clue about his family and if he did, he‟d been wise not to care. Taking out a legal pad, he sketched out an outline for taking care of his disobedient slave while using her to seal the business deal with Gordon. His ultimate plan—once he took care of the daughter, he‟d steal the company out from under her father and destroy the man. I just love big business—show me the money… **** After spending their first day post-piercings resting so their bodies could become accustomed to the latest invasions, Eden proposed something different for their evening together. “Remember I asked about latex?” “Yes.” “I think we should see if we enjoy it or not.” “Like I told you, I‟ve read it can be dangerous.” “As is anything done outside of vanilla sex. I‟ve done it before and it can be very enjoyable as long as it‟s done right. I don‟t intend to cover your entire body—at least, not yet,” she said then snickered. “Lead on,” he said as she took his hand and led him back to the dungeon. She positioned him in such a way as to get the maximum coverage by the stretchy material. Since they‟d come home, neither had worn clothes and he‟d been instantly ready for her the moment she touched him in one way or another. Putting the material over his body, she followed it by using a hair dryer in 54

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure order to get it to shrink wrap around him. When she‟d finished, she‟d covered everything but his nipples, his cock and balls. “How does it feel?” “Like a second skin only tighter.” “Would you like to try applying it to me?” “Sure,” he said. She could pick up on his apprehension. By the time he finished, she wore a tight latex dress that hugged her body. He‟d left certain areas uncovered and stood back to look at his artwork. To anyone looking at her from a distance, it appeared she wore a tight off-the-shoulder minidress while up close, he could see everything. “You look amazing,” he said. “It feels exactly like you said,” she commented. “You‟ve done a perfect job of applying it.” “I have to,” he said. “I worry about hurting you.” “Never,” she said. Placing his hands on her breasts, she nodded. Her silent command told him everything he needed to know as he began massaging them before teasing her nipples. While he ministered to them, she grabbed his shaft and began pumping it. Somehow, she backed him over to the table and he sat on it. As she bent to take his shaft, he cupped her breasts and continued torturing her sensitive buds. Eden went down on him, his cock instantly responding. Fiercely she took him until he neared the edge. Before she could say anything, she felt his hand tangling in her hair pressing her closer. “Please, Mistress, play with your tits while I hold you in place and rub your back.” She nodded and obeyed his request. The moment he filled her with his release, his hand went down her spine as he leaned over her. His finger went between her 55

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure legs and flicked over her clit. Eden jolted but since he held her in place, she couldn‟t move. Sitting up, he pulled Eden away from his cock so he could kiss her. His free hand remained between her legs as he played with her. While they kissed, he slipped his fingers inside her and found her. Her body brushing along his, her moans drove him—the slave becoming her Master. “Come for me, Eden,” he whispered. **** Gavin Hunt enjoyed being with Eden and knew whatever she suggested would be not only erotically stimulating but amazing. When she asked about doing latex a second time, he readily agreed. Well aware of the possible dangers if anything went wrong, he knew she‟d protect him from any misuse. She did not let him down. Once she applied it to his body, she showed him what she‟d done in a full-length mirror and he grinned. From his neck down to his thighs, she covered him in red and after she applied heat to it, the material wrapped around his body gently squeezing him in several places that sent new sensations coursing through him. Because of the new piercings, she‟d left them as well as his cock free of it though the immediate areas around them had been covered and heated. She instructed him on how to apply the thin film then he watched as she literally appeared to be wearing a lavender dress— one that hugged her tightly. The more he saw the outline of every single beautiful curve, the harder he became. “Slave, how do you feel?” “Strange but I like it.” “Can you move?” “Yes.” 56

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Good,” she said before she led him to a spot underneath a spotlight. “The heat will slowly tighten the latex to our bodies. As soon as you feel any discomfort, I want to know.” “Yes, Mistress,” he said. She placed his hands on her breasts and told him what she wanted him to do. First massaging then teasing her nipples, he obeyed her commands. Handing him her favorite flogger, she took a position with her hands on her head and her feet apart. “Flog me, slave.” Taking it from her, he started out with light slaps and worked his way up to the hasher ones—the kind that made his Mistress want to come and when she did, he could only describe her reaction as violently erotic. When the sensation overtook her, she let her body go with it—one of his favorite things to watch. Besides the overhead heat from the spotlight, his own body heat helped to shrink the latex more. As the area around his balls felt the latex squeeze, he swelled more which then caused the ring to become tighter. Pent-up desires begged to be released but not until she gave the word and since he‟d been doing his damnedest to increase his stamina for her, he refused to beg for permission. “Spank me, slave,” she begged. Without a word, he spanked her ass then massaged it. After repeating it several times, he stood in front of her and used the flogger on her breasts making sure at least one of the suede tips touched her firm nipple each time. Eden had trained him in the uses of a flogger—both as a punishment and a stimulant. The moment he began the second round, her body greedily begged for more. Eden fell to her knees in front of him with her hands still on her head as if he‟d placed her under arrest. Finding his cock, she went down on it as only she knew how. As she did, he continued to flick the suede over her back—an act that caused her to take him fiercely. 57

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Unable to stand it anymore, he put his hands over hers then pressed her closer to him until her beautiful lips brushed his balls. She took him to the edge and as he loved to do to her, she held him on the brink of release. He fought his natural urges and waited until she gave him some signal but she continued taking him until he could no longer stand it and began pumping his cock into her mouth, each time feeling as if he went deeper and deeper. A slight nod—one he almost missed—gave him her silent command. As if floodgates at the great Hoover Dam opened, he exploded his essence into her mouth then down her throat. Holding her in place to prevent her from moving, he flexed his hips to make sure she took every single drop he had to give her. “Mistress Eden, I place you under arrest. You have the right to come for me…” The quiet power in his words filled the room as her body shook out of control from the orgasm she‟d staved off for a while. While she did, she went down on him again. Feeling helpless under her control, he soared again only this time, he felt the squeeze of the latex as it tightened around his overheated body. “Mistress, please…” Again she nodded only this time, he felt different. Somehow, he freed his cock from its divine prison and dropped to his knees. Eye to eye, they gazed at each other before he pressed her face to his and kissed her. As he released her hands, they wrapped in each other‟s arms and held each other while the final ripples coursed through them. “Now for the final sensation,” she whispered. “What?” “Removing the latex,” she said. “Your body is in for a surprise.” **** 58

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure When Eden woke later, she found Hunt had gotten up a short time before and showered. Now he stood leaning against the doorjamb looking out at the desert. Pushing herself up on her elbow, she took in every perfect aspect of him. I am so damned lucky… Getting out of bed, she walked up behind him and slipped her arms around him. His hands automatically went to hers holding them. “How do you feel?” “I‟ve never been so relaxed,” he said. “The latex had an odd effect on me. From being literally wrapped so tight I could hear my heart beating in my ears while feeling everything that went on inside me to the utter arousal when you peeled it off me—it‟s unexplainable.” “I think you‟ve done a good job of it.” “Did you feel the same way?” “Yes, and in some ways even more than you. If you want to do it again, I‟ll be glad to.” “I‟d like that,” he said. “There‟s something else, isn‟t there?” “You know me so well, Mistress.” “Talk to me, Gavin.” “I want to get married now. I can‟t give you a ring yet but I want this more than I ever imagined. The last few days have been sheer bliss and I don‟t want to lose that. Besides, if anything happens to me in the line of duty, I want to know you‟ll be taken care of.” “Gavin, you don‟t need to worry,” she tried to assure him. He turned to face her, the look in his eyes concerning her. “Just how much are you worth, Mistress?” “About twenty-five million,” she answered as she felt him sway. “My grandfather left me a sizable trust fund that has been invested and it‟s grown even with the economy as it stands. I can 59

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure say I‟ve been fortunate. The club is solvent and paid for and I have money set aside in case Dark Illusions needs it for any reason. I‟ll be all right, Gavin—honest.” “How the hell did I wind up with an heiress? That only happens in the movies.” “No, Gavin, it happens in real life. I wanted you to want me for myself before I told you about it. Now that you know, does it change anything?” “No, I still want to marry you and I hope to God I made you pregnant.” “Why?” “Because I love you so damned much I feel like I‟m ready to burst. I‟ve never felt like this before and I‟m terrified of losing you and it—the euphoria is amazing.” “And my possibly being pregnant?” “I love you, Eden, and I want to have a family with you. I also need to know that…” She put her fingertips on his lips. “Yes, Gavin, I will marry you as soon as you want. I‟ll call a friend…” “The judge who comes in every now and then?” “Judge May? Yes—why?” “He‟s a good tipper,” he said straight-faced. Their laughter filled the room easing the tension. “Is he all right or should I call someone else?” “He‟s fine,” he said. “I‟d like to invite someone.” “Who?” “My brother, Ronan. He‟s down in Tahoe and…” “Of course,” she said. “I look forward to meeting him.” Hunt pulled her close and held her. “Thank you for being my Mistress,” he said. “Thank you for making me feel whole.” 60

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure They watched the coming sunset for a few minutes before they went inside and started making arrangements. Within the hour, Judge May had agreed to marry them, Carson would give the bride away and Ronan Hunt would stand for his brother. The ceremony would take place in May‟s chambers and be a simple civil marriage—both Eden and Gavin happy about that. When they sat back and relaxed, Eden decided to do something she‟d enjoyed while in high school even though her mother had not approved at all. Skinny-dipping is not acceptable in our social circle… To this day, she‟d wondered about our social circle as she‟d never been accepted by her mother‟s friends. Leading him outside, she dove into the pool then invited him in. She watched him dive in, the sight of his muscular body sending heat through her. When he broke the surface, he found her at the side waiting for him and smiling. “What?” he asked. “You, my dear slave, have the most amazing body I‟ve ever seen.” “You, my dear Mistress, have a magnificent curvaceous one I love and can‟t wait to be next to for the rest of my life.” “Come here, slave, and show me.” “Yes, Mistress.” **** Hunt‟s cell phone rang. “Hunt.” “You‟d better be decent,” a voice said. “I‟m driving down your street as we speak.” “Thanks for the warning,” Hunt said before he ended the call. “What?” Eden asked. “Please get dressed,” he whispered. “My brother is on his way up the driveway and I‟m not in the mood to share with him.” “There are trunks and a robe in the dressing room.” 61

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “And who else have you had here?” “No one,” she said. “On those days you had training, I had to do something to occupy my time so I spent money on you. You have an entire wardrobe waiting for you.” “Eden, no…” “Gavin, yes and no argument. I enjoyed shopping for you. How do you think I got the rings for your gorgeous body piercings?” They dressed and went out into the living room of the sprawling house. “Does your brother know about you?” “No,” he said. “Considering I‟ve just found out, I don‟t think I‟m ready to tell him something like that yet.” “As you wish,” she said. Hunt pulled her into a kiss, pressing their bodies close together. The feel of hers against him made him want to take her right there and then but with Ronan almost on their doorstep, he held back. “I love you, Mistress,” Hunt said. “I love you, Master,” she said. “Never will I ever master you.” “You already have. My being wants to submit to you so fucking much, it‟s…” The doorbell chimed, Hunt taking a deep breath. He watched her go to the door, her black cover-up teasing him as she walked away. Wearing a black bikini under black lace drove him crazy but, as with anything in their lives, he‟d wait—a wait that would be well worth it. Opening the door, he heard his brother‟s voice and relaxed. From the tone of it, he knew Ronan would have no problem accepting what he planned to do. “I‟m Ronan, Gavin‟s brother and you must be Eden…” “I am,” she said as she grinned. 62

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “What?” Ronan asked. “Do all the men in your family have such bright blue and gorgeous eyes?” Gavin Hunt felt a tinge of jealousy go through his body hearing this—the same question every girl he‟d ever gone out with always asked when they met his brother. Half of them had gone with his brother leaving him. Now he dreaded the same thing happening. Stop being so damned insecure… “Gavin, she‟s a beauty,” Ronan said as they shook hands then hugged. “How long has it been since I stole the last one?” “Long enough,” Gavin said. “It‟s time we stopped the kid stuff. After all, we‟re it.” “True but you‟ve never had a gorgeous lady like this one.” “Bro…” Eden walked over to Gavin and slipped her arm around him, Gavin immediately calming. “I don‟t believe I want to give up what I‟ve found and I surely do not want to be the cause of the two of you fighting,” Eden said. “Believe it or not, I‟ve got a woman who actually puts up with me and my flirtatious ways. She puts me in my place and doles out punishment when she has to so…” “What are you talking about?” Gavin asked. “It may surprise you to learn this but I‟ve found I prefer submission. Lily is a beautiful woman with a firm hand and I will do anything she tells me to do. I never thought I‟d ever enjoy a relationship like this but it‟s what I‟ve needed.” Gavin Hunt started laughing. Ronan looked at him like he‟d gone stark raving mad which only added to his brother‟s delight. “What the hell is his problem?” “Your brother is my slave and I am his Mistress. We‟ve been together long enough to know what we want and that our relationship is a lifelong commitment. He worried about you finding out but it seems you both share something in common.” 63

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Is she on the up-and-up?” Ronan asked his brother. “You‟d better believe it,” Gavin said as he pulled her closer. They sat out by the pool and caught up on the last year or so of their lives. When Eden left them alone for a few moments, they compared their likes and dislikes and found they had indeed only each other and their Mistresses. “Can you picture the old man‟s face?” “Yeah and it wouldn‟t be a pretty sight.” “So then you don‟t have any problems being my best man?” “Hell no. In fact, I think our ladies should meet. Maybe we could make it a foursome…” “Eden doesn‟t share. She had a bad experience several years back that she won‟t elaborate on but I believe she got the worst end of the deal from a very harsh and unforgiving Master.” “As long as he doesn‟t intrude on your relationship…” “What do you mean?” “I‟ve heard that some Masters never forgive insolence of any type in their slaves and will hunt them down to exact punishment—no matter how long it takes. If that‟s the case, watch your ass, bro.” “I plan to. We have way too much riding on this.” “She‟s amazing and I‟m happy for you. You deserve to finally be happy.” “We both do. By the way, bring Lily to the ceremony. It‟ll only be the six of us.” “Let me know where and when and I‟m there.” “Good.” Eden returned and they talked more before Ronan Hunt left. “Are you all right?” Eden asked. “Now I am,” he said. “My mind‟s at ease.” But what about her past?

64

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 4 In the days before their autumn wedding, Eden Conrad made a call to Nigel Shelton. She wanted him and his wife to share in their happiness considering his status as an extremely silent partner in Dark Illusions and some other very personal reasons. Had it not been for his friendship then his wife‟s, Eden couldn‟t be sure if she would‟ve made it in Sin City or not. “Shelton,” his sexy voice answered when she called. “Nigel, how are you?” “Eden, we‟re good,” he said. “You?” “Wonderful, which is the reason why I‟m calling.” “What‟s going on?” “I‟m getting married and I‟d like you and Sephora to join us. You‟ve been a huge part of my life and I‟d hate to leave you out.” “Tell me when and where and we‟ll be there.” “We have to finalize plans but it‟ll more than likely be in Judge May‟s chambers.” “He‟s aware of…” “One of my best customers.” “Good for you,” Nigel said. “Now tell me about Mister Right.” Eden told him about Gavin Hunt and even included the fact about his brother being in the same lifestyle. “Nigel, he‟s amazing.” 65

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Sounds like it,” he agreed. “I‟m really happy for you. I have one question though…” “If you‟re going to ask about Weathers, I haven‟t seen or heard from him in over a year.” “I‟m glad and I really hate spoiling your mood but somebody had to ask.” “I‟m glad you did and trust me, I‟m terrified of him coming back into my life—now even more so. Whatever feelings he has for me will be taken out on Gavin in ways I don‟t want to even think about if Rudd decides to be a real prick.” “Keep me up on what‟s going on. Santa Fe is not that far from you and we can be up there in a heartbeat if needed.” “I need to ask you a favor and it‟s huge.” “What?” “If anything happens to me, I know what it will do to Gavin. Please take charge and do what‟s necessary.” “Has anything in your power of attorney changed of late?” “No, and Carson has instructions to call you immediately. Gavin has no clue and for now, I want it kept that way.” “And what about him? Any plans you set in motion will…” “I‟m going to try to talk to his brother…” “What‟s his name?” “Ronan Hunt,” she said. “He‟s based in Tahoe.” “I‟ll talk to him. If he‟s in the lifestyle as you believe, then he‟ll understand plus I think it would be good for Gavin to have someone he knows taking care of him. His brother is the perfect candidate from what you‟ve told me.” “Thanks, Nigel, I really appreciate this.” “Anytime,” he said. “Besides, what are silent partners for?” “Amen,” she said. “I‟ll call you with a date and location.” “Waiting with bated breath…” Eden ended the call breathing a huge sigh of relief. “Are you all right?” Hunt asked as he joined her. 66

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Never better,” she said. “I just called a friend of mine I want you to meet. He and his wife will be at the wedding.” “I thought it would be…” “Calm down, Gavin,” she said. “Had it not been for Nigel Shelton, Dark Illusions would not be open and successful.” “Your silent partner?” “Yes, why?” she asked, curious about his answer. “It‟s always been speculated about you having one so I figured…” “Who has been speculating about this?” “One of the waiters who quit here shortly after I came on. You remember—he got in trouble when he became too flirty with a businessman‟s wife and you let him go.” “Does he strike you as the type to use that kind of information to either get ahead or seek to avenge his firing?” “I‟m not sure if he‟d be that hardcore but it is always a possibility. Why do you ask?” “Gavin, as you know, I have a past and every day, I worry about it coming back into my present.” Hunt sat down beside her on the couch and took her hand. “I know you don‟t want to talk about it but if there is any hint of a threat to you or us, I want to know. Yes, you are my Mistress and we live by your rules but on the street, it‟s a different story. If he can hurt you in any way out there, I need to know so I can do my job or make sure the ones who can do it are told.” Eden took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “I‟ve been afraid to say anything to anyone about this. What I‟m going to tell you can be dangerous knowledge for you to have. With you not knowing, I might be able to protect you better but…” “No secrets, Mistress,” he said. “You got me to tell you everything about mine now it‟s your turn. I‟m a big boy and can handle it.” 67

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden gazed into his amazing blue eyes and inside she melted. “Gavin Hunt, I love you more than my life. Always know that and trust in it because what I‟m about to tell you could change everything.” **** Gavin Hunt listened to Eden tell him about her past. It hit him that he and his brother had not been the only ones who had parent problems combined with society circles and their dictates. God, I hate status… When she finished, she looked at him waiting for him to react to what she‟d told him. “Your father and mother only cared about the money?” “Yes,” she answered. “And no, I don‟t know who my real father is and, at this point, it doesn‟t matter.” “Tell me more about Weathers,” he said, the cop in him taking over. “He‟s a very attractive man who has the kind of smile that steals your heart in a moment. Once he pulls you in and gives you the impression that you are the only one who matters to him, he springs the sharing issue. He told me he didn‟t believe in that but there they sat in our living room and Rudd expected me to just go along with the game plan.” “Ronan warned me to be careful when it came to a past Master. I knew something had happened but I never realized what. To totally fuck with someone‟s emotions like that is cruel.” “I felt so degraded,” she said, choking back tears. “The idea of…” Hunt immediately pulled her to him and held her, her head under his jaw as if he feared she would run away. “I admire that you had the strength to leave and I swear you‟re stronger. You are an amazing Mistress and I understand why you are the way you are with me and I‟m very grateful.” “You aren‟t upset…” 68

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “It bothers me that there are men out there who think so little of women, they treat them like dogs or worse. That is unacceptable to me but the fact I know someone tried to force you into that kind of behavior is disgusting. I want to find this guy and kill him for what he did to you.” “Gavin, he‟s not worth going to jail for. If you ever did something like that, I‟m not sure if I could survive it much less handle conjugal visits. They monitor those rooms and I don‟t like audiences when I use my slave.” “I‟m here,” he said quietly. Eden moved the sides of his robe out of the way wanting to lick her lips at the sight of his throbbing cock begging for her attention. As she went to take him in her mouth, he stopped her. “Please, Mistress, allow me to be of service as well.” Eden stood letting her robe drop to the floor, the sight of satin trailing along her body making Hunt harder. She waited for him to adjust his position on the couch then, as he wanted, she eased her nether lips to his waiting mouth. The moment his tongue laved her clit, she virtually swallowed his length, his shock at the quick movement pleasing her. The feel of his arm going over the small of her back before bearing down on her so she couldn‟t move sent heat rushing through her. Closing her eyes, she took him with feverish intensity. While she did, she played with his balls and every so often, she‟d tighten the cock cage to drive him crazy. His tongue entered her and lapped at her as Hunt matched her pace and took her to the edge. With the slight ability to move she had, she moved up and down on his tongue as she took his cock. Hunt tried to pump his cock into her mouth but couldn‟t because of his position however that didn‟t matter. “Please, Mistress…” “On the count of three…” 69

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “How will you do it if I am filling your mouth with my cock?” Her hand left his balls long enough to show him and then he saw one, then two then three fingers in silent command. Together they came as their bodies unleashed pent-up desire. He pulled her closer while she held his balls and squeezed them. His body‟s jolt when she did this pushed her to take him again, Hunt agreeing as he orally fucked her once more. Spent from numerous orgasms overwhelming them both, they lay in the famous six/nine position trying to regain their strength. Eden did first and lifted her body off his only to face him and impale herself on his. Riding him, she could tell by the look in his eyes how he felt and let out the breath she had not realized she‟d been holding. “Do you know what I love to do?” he asked. “What, besides pleasing your Mistress?” “You have amazing tits and watching them when you ride my cock makes me want to please you more. My cock swells and all I want to do is fuck you.” “God, I love when you‟re blunt.” “Makes things easier,” he said. “Now please, Mistress, ride my body so I can watch your tits bounce freely knowing I‟m the reason.” “Then I want you sitting on the floor, your back against the couch. While you watch them, I want you to play with them, too.” “I like the way you think…” “Good, because my claim on you swears that I always will know best when we are…” Suddenly, he slipped his hand behind her neck and pulled her into a kiss. His tongue danced with hers, the kiss brutally passionate and needy. Letting her pull back just a hair, he looked at her. “I love you, Mistress Eden, and I look forward to being your husband as well as your slave. While you protect us here in our 70

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure world, I will do so in the outside world. Now your slave wants you to ride him until he can no longer take it and lets nature command him.” Kissing her again while refusing to release his hold on her neck, he felt as she took him. When he let her move, he grinned as he watched her take him as if she had been belly dancing. Her movements caused his cock to swell and instinctively, he placed his hands on her hips and began thrusting in and out of her. Unable to behave, he eased them onto the carpet, loomed over her as he lifted her hips and took her—nature having taken over. “Go for it, Gavin,” she cried. “I want you as hard as you can take me, please.” Rapt in fucking his mistress, he barely heard her command. Instinct drove him to be fiercely brutal as he pumped his cock inside her like a finely tuned engine‟s piston. Seeing her body as her breasts bounced caused his cock to swell to the point he felt he would burst something. Her satisfied look told him what he needed to know and he groaned as his cock exploded inside her filling her with his essence. Eden reached for him and tugged his nipple rings, Hunt jolting a little. “Gavin, take me to bed and chain our bodies together.” “Anything,” he said. “Just one thing…” “What?” “I want to fuck you again here and now.” “I give you my permission to do so and make me scream at the same time you do.” “Thank you.” He groaned as something deep within him pushed him to take her once more. They both knew that as long as his cock impaled her body, they‟d have the contact they craved. They both knew nothing would ever separate them—at least not of their doing. 71

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure They both knew they loved each other and that love had more strength and connection than most normal couples. They both knew… **** At the same time they opened up to each other and strengthened their relationship, Rudd Weathers made sure he got closer to Roy Gordon hoping to not only finalize the deal they‟d been negotiating but to learn more about the man‟s wayward daughter. The initial plan had been to use Amy, as Gordon knew her, to force him to sign the deal which would eventually see Gordon‟s assets being turned over to Weathers. A corporate raider most businessmen hated, he ingratiated himself into their lives then took it all away. If he found one tiny thing to make a difference he did and didn‟t care what happened after he got the desired result. He ran his personal life the same way. One person had walked away and now he had come one step closer to getting even with her. Plus, he‟d walk away with everything she had including her trust fund and the assets of her club. What interested him had been the start-up money for it— where the hell did she get it? Once he had her, he‟d find out. Someone with money fronted her and he wanted an in with that person. “Gordon, it‟s Weathers, I need to ask you something,” he said once he had Gordon on the phone. “I‟ll stop by the office in an hour.” Ending the call before Gordon had the chance to protest, Weathers snickered. Damn, I love business… An hour later, he walked into Gordon‟s office and asked one or two questions concerning their upcoming deal. “You told me your daughter is holding onto some money you want?” he asked, changing the subject. 72

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “At one time I did but the money‟s a non-issue. She won‟t give it up. Hell, it‟s more than likely gone by now.” “But if it‟s not, what if I can convince her to do so?” “I seriously doubt it. She‟s a stubborn bitch who doesn‟t believe in family.” “Hypothetically, if I could, what would you do?” “We‟d definitely be in business…” “Good, give me a little time and you‟ll have the money.” “Thanks but I‟ll believe that when I see it.” “Ye of little faith,” Weathers muttered under his breath. “Did you say something?” Gordon asked. “No,” Weathers said while mentally making notes about what he wanted to do. Then he left, went back to his office and called one of his informants. The man had worked at a club on the strip and it just happened to be Dark Illusions. Finding him on a list of disgruntled former employees, he carefully made contact with him and found the man to be a wealth of information. “Tell me about the boy toy.” “What boy toy? She refused to get involved with any of us. We‟d be asked if we wanted to spend the night with her and if we did, then it led to hot sex and a nice bonus.” “What kind of sex?” “Depended—with me, she didn‟t ask a great deal.” “And others?” “No one ever talked but I‟d heard she delved into bondage and shit like that. It‟s not my thing so I wouldn‟t know.” “Are you still in contact with anyone from the club?” “Not really,” the man answered. “I had no interest in making friends, if you know what I mean…” “I do,” Weathers answered. “So you have no idea who she might…” “No, sir.” 73

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure After he ended the call, he had his secretary contact one of the men he used for special assignments. When they finally spoke a few minutes later, Weathers told him exactly what he wanted done to his informant. No longer of any use, the man had become a loose end he needed to tie up. “Sir, this file just came for you,” his secretary said as she handed it to him. “Thank you,” he said before giving her the remainder of the afternoon off. Once she‟d left, he looked at the file and sat down wanting to read it carefully. So she’s found love with a cop… Interesting… As he read Gavin Hunt‟s dossier, he added the rookie officer to his list of things to take care of. No witnesses and no one who‟d have the resources to come after him once he took care of his errant slave. Making some notes, Weathers grinned as he decided he should give the cop some lessons in how to be a good slave. After all, he knew an errant slave would not be a hard Dominant— something a Master, or in her case a Mistress, needed to be. No, his training has yet to begin and I’ll be the perfect person to give him what he needs. Locking Hunt‟s file in his briefcase, Weathers left the office to head home to make some more plans. He wanted to make sure nothing went wrong considering all the angles he had to deal with. Once he arrived home, he took everything out to the table by the pool and reread the Hunt file. This may be easier than I thought…

74

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 5 With everyone gathered in Judge Clifford May‟s chambers, Gavin Hunt married Eden Conrad in a simple yet elegant ceremony. While the groom wore his dress uniform, the bride wore a white pinstripe suit—this one of the only times she ever entertained the idea of wearing anything but black though the cami hiding underneath her jacket proved to be her favorite color. Some habits never die… Nigel and Sephora Collins stood off to the side while Ronan Hunt stood for his brother, Ronan‟s partner Lily stood for Eden and Carson played father of the bride. “With the powers conferred on me by the State of Nevada, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss your bride.” Gavin Hunt pulled Eden into his arms and kissed her, both of them momentarily oblivious of the others in the room. “Uh, excuse me, folks,” his brother started, “but maybe the happy couple should get a room.” Everyone broke out laughing as Hunt drew back gazing into Eden‟s eyes then congratulated them. “Gavin, this is Nigel and his wife, Sephora,” Eden said when she introduced them. “Eden‟s told me about you and it‟s a pleasure to meet you both.” 75

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “She‟s a special lady and we‟ve been hoping she‟d find someone to settle down with. Our wishes for the best of luck to you both,” Collins said. “Thanks, Nigel, it means a lot.” Hunt turned and introduced the Collinses to his brother and Lily. While the Hunts signed some final papers, the others chatted before the wedding party left May‟s chambers heading for the club. As soon as they walked in, the staff surprised them with an intimate wedding reception since Carson had taken the liberty of closing the club for the evening. “Seeing as Gavin goes on night shift tomorrow, I want to get him home, if you don‟t mind,” she said. By this time, the judge had left as had most of the staff, leaving them with Ronan, Lily and Carson. “Before you leave, I need to speak with you,” Carson said. “About?” “It‟s time to start planning the annual masked gala,” he reminded her. “Damn, I‟d forgotten about it. What‟s pending immediately?” “Date, guest list, theme—if you want one…” “Get what we need to discuss together and show me tomorrow night when I come in. We‟ve waited this long—twentyfour hours more won‟t make a difference.” Carson nodded, turned and went to get started on making preliminary arrangements. “What‟s up?” Hunt asked his new wife. “With planning a wedding and wrapping myself up in my handsome slave, I forgot about the annual masked gala we always host around Halloween. Carson reminded me and while you are on duty tomorrow night, we‟ll start getting it planned.” “If you need help…” “I need you,” she said as he pulled her closer. “If you don‟t mind, we are out of here.” 76

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure After saying their good-byes, the newlyweds left the club heading to the house in the desert and their future together. **** “Mister Hunt, could I speak to you for a few moments?” Nigel Shelton asked Ronan Hunt. “Sure, what‟s up?” “Putting all the bullshit aside to make things easier—does your brother have any idea you‟re working for the Justice Department?” “How the hell…” “I don‟t pull a cool million or more for a job unless I know what I‟m getting into. Eden and I have been friends for years and she is very special to me so, of course, I did a background check on your brother which led me to you and your chosen profession.” “There is no fucking way you could find out about me. My status is…” “I know that and I have no intention of blowing it. The reason I wanted to talk to you is that the man you‟ve been looking at from Tahoe is the same one who has a restraining order on him from your new sister-in-law.” “Talk to me.” Nigel told Ronan what he knew about Rudd Weathers though he emphasized his interest stemmed from purely personal reasons and he had no intention of standing in the way of a Federal operation. “I want Eden to come out of this unscathed as I‟m sure you want the same for your brother. If we work together, we might be able to not only protect them but get the goods on your man and a possible conviction that might stick.” “What do you propose?” “As long as he stays away from the happy couple, I have no reason to intervene. If he comes after Eden, which he‟s threatened to do on several occasions, then I‟ll step in. If he does go through 77

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure with his threats, I guarantee he will use your brother in one way or another to satisfy his sick sense of power. He has more than likely already put Gavin on his hit list.” “So by the time we get done, we might be able to get him on racketeering charges and possibly murder?” “About that…” “And the aftermath?” “I have my instructions from Eden, as you know. Tahoe is much closer to Las Vegas than Santa Fe is meaning you will probably be more on top of what happens here than I will. If anything happens in the near future, I will follow her directions to the letter while I hope you take care of Gavin. He will need you and you understand the bond between them.” “Does he know anything at all?” “He knows about Weathers and the threat he poses but he has no clue about her plans because she believes that not only is it too soon for him to be familiar with the particulars but that emotionally, he will be shot to hell and unable to deal with what might happen. If I am required to step in and do my part, I swear I will be in constant contact with you and we will work together in their best interests.” Ronan looked at the man in front of him and found something he usually never found when meeting someone for the first time, his reaction written all over his face. “I‟m not sure why but I trust you which is not normal for me to do. We‟ll do things your way but if my brother‟s life is at stake…” “Then you will do what you have to in order to protect him and save his life.” The two men shook hands, an old-fashioned gentlemen‟s agreement between them. Nigel and his wife left to return to Santa Fe while Ronan pulled Lily tight against him and held her. 78

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Ro?” “I believe the shit will hit the fan soon, I just don‟t know when.” **** When they returned to the house, Gavin Hunt refused to allow his new wife to break with tradition. Lifting her up and kissing her, he carried her across the threshold of the home they‟d been sharing for weeks. “You can put me down now,” she said as he stood in the entryway looking at her. “I don‟t want to,” he said. “I honestly never believed I could be this happy and this grounded.” “I agree,” she said as she teased his neck with her tongue. “Are you happy?” “Extremely,” she said. “I couldn‟t have asked for anything more.” “As soon as I can, I‟ll get you the proper ring to go with the band.” “I have you—that‟s all that matters. I love jewelry but it‟s material and in essence, immaterial in our relationship. You wear my symbol of possession and I…” “Then I want to give you something to show my…” “In time,” she said. “You‟ve given me more than I could ever ask for. Right now, I want to concentrate on us.” Gavin Hunt buried his face in her hair as she held him close. There had been an undercurrent in their relationship considering how much he made as a rookie patrolman compared to how much Eden had told him she figured she might be worth. “It‟s only a number,” she‟d told him. “What is more important is how we feel about each other. Money means nothing if you are lonely and miserable. Since you came to me that night, my life has been full and I love being in love.” 79

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Slowly, he‟d accepted what she‟d said but they both knew it still bothered him. Finally, she suggested something he could accept—each paycheck would be deposited into a savings account less whatever amount he wanted to keep out. “I have a better idea—why don‟t I bank the city salary and spend my tips?” “You still want to work for me?” “Let‟s put it this way—I‟m holding on to the apartment so the department doesn‟t start asking questions about you, me and the club. How would it look if all of a sudden, I up and quit here when I‟m just starting out on duty?” “In other words, business as usual?” “Something like that.” “For how long?” “Until the club owner decides to either promote me or fire me.” “Hmmm,” she said. “Interesting idea.” “Trust me, I love being a kept man but it‟s our life and our private secret and I want to keep it that way for as long as possible.” “Then let‟s enjoy our private life. Tonight, my husband is the Master and his wife will do his bidding.” “Then I plan to strip you and bind you so you scream for mercy.” “Sounds wonderful,” she stated. “Eden‟s pleasures tonight.” “I love the way that sounds.” “Good.” **** True to his word, Hunt carried Eden to where he would do what he wanted to his wife. Placing her in the center of the room, he removed their clothes then told her not to move. As she 80

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure watched him, he went over to one of the cabinets and pulled out several lengths of ribbon plus other things he knew she‟d love. Pulling her arms behind her, he placed her hands in a wrist binder then parted her feet. Taking the ribbon, he wrapped one length around her breast then repeated the same with the other. Using the remaining lengths, he pulled them up and over her shoulders placing tension on her while the ribbon supported her. Pushing her hands up to where the ribbon hung, he tied them all together. “Are you all right?” he asked. “Yes,” she said almost gasping. He took one of their chains and threaded it through her nipple rings before attaching it to her belly ring. Able to tell what this did to her as the scent of her arousal filtered to his nose, Hunt inhaled deeply. “Scarf or ball gag?” “Your choice,” she answered. Nodding, he chose the ball gag and kissed her before gently securing it in place. Stepping back, he loved what he saw, her arousal even more evident. In the short time they‟d been practicing the art of Shibari, Gavin Hunt had become adept at expertly binding her for the utmost pleasure—this time, no exception. Taking her favorite flogger—the suede-tipped one—he lightly brushed the ends of it over her extremely sensitive buds, her body jolting. Lightly, he flogged her, Eden obviously wanting more as she tried to hold her reactions. Walking behind her, he flogged her ass, each time massaging her afterward. “Your beautiful ass is a lovely shade of pink,” he said. “Should I make it a little darker?” Eden nodded, unable to tell him how she really felt. Hunt slipped his hand around her neck, gently holding her just under her chin. Several more stinging slaps and her skin had a rosy tint to it. 81

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Kissing her neck where he had held her, he lowered his hand to her breasts and began teasing her nipples. Her body stiffened as adrenaline raced through her and beads of perspiration formed on her forehead. Standing in front of her now, he tugged the chain and led her to the couch. Sitting down on it, he gazed at his gorgeously bound captive. “Straddle me and ride me,” he commanded. Eden obeyed him, her body sliding down the length of his swollen cock. “My God, you‟re so damned hot and ready, aren‟t you?” Eden nodded furiously. His hands on her hips, he helped her take him and shortly before he neared the edge, he held her in place. Seeing the haze crossing her eyes, he knew he had her exactly where he wanted her. “Hold your position,” he said, Eden again nodding. As she bore down on him in order to take him inside her as far as she could, he tugged on the chains. Flicking his fingers over both nipples simultaneously, she again jolted and, as pure gut reaction took over, she moved on him. As they both crested the waves of sheer ecstasy, he gazed at her. “Come for me, wife,” he said. The moment she heard the command, her body soared out of control as she drowned him in her essence. At the same moment, he exploded into her filling her with his soul. “I love you, Eden Hunt—my wife, lover and Mistress. I swear to you to be the best husband, lover and slave I can be.” Her cries behind the gag sent heat racing through him as the last rushes coursed through her. As she began to fall to him, he caught her and removed the gag. When she opened her mouth to take in a breath, his tongue entered it as he kissed her. “Master, take me and do what you will. I will obey your commands and gladly suffer whatever punishment you choose to 82

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure dole out if I should misbehave. I swore I‟d never vow this again but you, Gavin, are my life and without you in it, I am nothing.” “I love you, Eden, and if that‟s what you want, I will do my best to be a good Master to you.” He kissed her again, taking her breasts and squeezing them. Again, he felt her reaction especially when her pussy clamped onto his cock. “Master, please…” “Yes, Eden, you may come—now and always.” Eden Hunt‟s ecstatic screams echoed in the room as she cried out. Hunt kissed her then slowly released her from the bindings. As soon as she could, she framed his face with her hands and kissed him as she rode him more. “What you did when you had your hand on my neck… Amazing…” “What do you mean?” “You did a light form of autoerotic asphyxiation. When you applied that tiny amount of pressure to my throat, I wanted to climb out of my skin. I‟ve read about what it can cause if it‟s done right but I‟ve never experienced it.” “I didn‟t realize…” “Please, if you want to, I‟d like to try it again. The sensation—fucking amazing…” “Just like you,” he said as he tugged the chains. Eden kissed him again as she took him. “Come, Eden…”

83

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 6 The Hunts stopped by the club before he reported to the station for his first evening of night shift after their marriage. Carson whistled as Hunt walked by. “Ya gotta love a man in uniform…” Hunt laughed as Eden rolled her eyes. “Back off, love…” she admonished devilishly. “He‟s taken.” “I know but I can dream, can‟t I?” “As long as it‟s only dreaming,” she said. “When you get the chance, we need to talk about the gala.” “What gala?” Hunt asked. “Every year, there‟s a masked ball held at one of the hotels and Eden is on the planning committee. They need ideas…” “I‟ll meet with you once Gavin leaves,” Eden assured her host, Carson nodding. Once she checked the evening‟s reservations, she and Hunt went upstairs to spend some time together before he left for his shift. “Okay, Mistress, tell me more about this gala affair,” he said as he pulled her into his arms. “I know you mentioned it last night but” “Each year, we hold a masked ball around the end of October or early November. Everyone who attends is asked for a donation with the proceeds going to charity. There might be a silent auction, a high roller poker game or something like that to raise extra funds 84

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure and then it‟s distributed to one or two charities in the city. We try to change the theme every year to add something different.” “Last year‟s…” he started to ask. “Outer space.” “And you went as…” “An alien in green spandex. I couldn‟t wait to get out of that costume. By the end of the evening, I think I lost a few pounds just from sweating. I‟ve never worn anything as hot as that.” “You must have looked amazing,” he said. “I‟m sorry I missed it.” “Then when you have a few days off, I‟ll let you put my entire body in latex…” “Mistress, don‟t tempt me. I‟m not sure I‟ll be able to stand the anticipation.” “I‟ll help you…” “Good,” he said before kissing her. The clock chimed three, Gavin Hunt groaning. “I‟ve got to get going so I won‟t be late.” “Be careful,” she said, “and that‟s an order.” “I will do my utmost to obey.” Eden pulled him into a deeply passionate kiss. “I need you to come home in one piece.” “I need to as well,” he said. Eden Hunt walked her husband downstairs and watched him leave the club. Turning back, she met Carson. “What‟s wrong?” he asked. “I‟m not sure I can be a cop‟s wife,” she admitted. “I mean not knowing if he‟ll come home at the end of his shift… I‟ve read about cop killers who are sitting on death row while the officers they shot are in a cemetery and not with their families. I‟m scared of…” “Eden, Gavin is very good at what he does or he wouldn‟t have graduated at the top of his class from the Academy. Give him 85

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure support and love and I guarantee he‟ll make it back to you. If you start pressuring him about the job, it‟ll lead where you don‟t want it to and I‟d hate to see that happen.” Eden smiled at him and gave him a hug. “Thanks, I needed that.” “Anytime,” he said. “Now, can we get the gala discussed and out of the way? Dark Illusions is a good club but it won‟t run itself.” Eden nodded and they went to the bar where they kicked around some ideas and made notes. When they finished, she had two pages of notes and two points she hoped her partners would go for. During the course of their conversation, they‟d come up with Elizabethan or Medieval as a theme and she hoped it would be accepted favorably. Gavin had also suggested inviting some celebrities who might be more than happy to part with some of their money depending on the theme and event of the evening. She made a few phone calls and went to sit at the bar, her nightly ritual. Her cell phone ringing startled her and when she looked at it, she noticed a text from her husband waiting. Ghunt2212: I miss you already… Darkeden: I feel the same. Ghunt2212: Are you all right? I know how you feel about the job. Darkeden: I’m fine but how do you know? Ghunt2212: Gut instinct. Most wives can’t handle the job—even strong women like you. Darkeden: Are you upset? Ghunt2212: Never, I understand and it means a lot to me that you are worried. Darkeden: I’m trying with a new experience… Ghunt2212: I know. I’m still jealous of Carson and some others you’re close to. Darkeden: Touché. Ghunt2212: I will be home as soon as I can. 86

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Darkeden: I’ll be waiting. I’m leaving the club early so I can be there. I don’t want to miss any time… Ghunt2212: Gotta go—partner here. Love you… Darkeden: Love you, too. Eden smiled as she saved the conversation. Taking the glass of champagne she‟d been served, she sipped it and headed upstairs. It will be a long evening. **** Officer Gavin Hunt had been assigned day shift while he became oriented to how the department worked and what they expected of him. His partner, Joe Cannon, had been on the force for ten years and so far, they‟d gotten along well. “If you‟ve got a Facebook page on that thing, I‟ll…” “No way,” Hunt said. “I think they‟re stupid. Too many people put extremely too much personal information on the Internet and wonder why they get in trouble. I‟ve read about burglaries set up using social networking. I don‟t want people knowing about my personal life like that.” “I hear ya,” Cannon said. “Takes all the enjoyment out of good stimulating conversation.” Hunt grinned, liking his partner‟s sense of humor and the fact he‟d been upfront with him on several occasions—a trait he always looked for in those he dealt with. Eden had been once she relaxed with him but in her case, he‟d fallen in love with her and knew she‟d never do anything to hurt him. Finding out about her past, he understood why she‟d hidden it from him until she felt the time right to open up. He‟d been the same way about his past, as well. He expected it from everyone else, though. The first few hours of the shift had been quiet by Las Vegas standards. Near eleven, they received a call on a robbery in the lobby of one of the casinos. On arrival, they found hotel security had the perp in cuffs waiting to turn him over to the arriving officers. After replacing the handcuffs, the transfer went without 87

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure problem until the man decided to make a break for it and took off into the street, hands still tie wrapped behind him. Hunt chased after him, tackling him to the ground. The man fought him, his knee making contact with Hunt. Instead of putting Hunt down as intended, it caused him to throw the perp to the ground again, holding him in place with a knee to the guy‟s back. “Twenty-two twelve to thirteen seventy-nine.” “Go ahead.” “I‟ve got him two hotels down. I need backup.” “On the way.” When Cannon arrived, he shook his head seeing how Hunt had chosen to restrain his prisoner. “Wow, remind me not to get on your wrong side.” “You have no worries—just don‟t try kicking me in the balls.” “Deal,” Cannon said as he took the man‟s elbow after Hunt yanked him to his feet. They spent the rest of the shift working the case—taking statements, charging the suspect then writing reports. When he finally walked into the locker room, Cannon looked at him and grinned. “It‟s a good first night shift,” he said. “Good work.” “Thanks,” Hunt said. “See you this afternoon.” “Yup,” Hunt said as he waved. Having the locker room to himself, he finally felt the pain from the suspect‟s attack and rued what Eden would say— especially after their conversation earlier in the day. First night and I’ve already got battle scars. Shit! **** When Gavin Hunt walked into the house, Eden met him with a cup of coffee. “Are you all right?” she asked, her concern evident. 88

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Got my first arrest,” he said. “Had to chase the guy past two of the hotels before I could tackle him.” “What aren‟t you telling me?” “He put his knee in the wrong place and I‟m just feeling it now thanks to the adrenaline rush.” “Let me take a look plus a hot shower might help.” “With you?” “Of course.” “Good,” he said as they went into their room. Hunt stripped out of his uniform and stretched out on the bed so Eden could see how badly hurt he might be. Noticing the look on her face, he knew it had to be worse than he originally thought. “Eden, what‟s wrong?” “You are a bit swollen and I believe the cock ring is not helping matters since it restricts you more than intended.” “And?” “I think we should take it off until you heal.” “Then do what you have to,” he said. “It‟s material—as you said before about the engagement ring. I know and you know what we are to each other—that‟s the important thing.” “Then calm down. You know how you react to my touch and it‟s not helping at all.” “I can‟t help myself,” he said. “I love you.” “I love you, too,” she said. Hunt held his breath and tried to think of something else while her gentle hands removed her first gift to him—her symbol of possession. Once she did, she massaged his cock and balls as her body moved up the length of his. Their lips met in a deeply passionate kiss. “Forgive me, Mistress,” he whispered. “For?” “Getting hurt so early on the job. The guy took me by surprise when he caught me.” 89

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “There is nothing to forgive—just don‟t let it happen again.” Gavin Hunt took his wife in his arms and held her. The feel of her body molding to his drove him crazy with need for the only woman in his life to ever have the effect on him that she did. I can’t lose her… “Come, I promised you a hot shower.” Eden led him to the bathroom, started running the water then pulled him into the stall with her. With the heat of the water running over them, the steam rose. Her hand slipped to his cock and held him as he leaned against the wall, his hands flat on the tile for support. Sliding down to her knees, she took his shaft into her mouth then drew back. “If this hurts in any way, I want to know immediately.” “Yes, Mistress,” he said as his body ceded control to her completely. Eden went down on her husband‟s cock as he fought to hold his reaction until she gave him permission. When she did, he exploded into her mouth, his wife taking the force of it as she swallowed his heated essence. “Mistress…” he yelled, the sound of his voice overpowered by the running water. The feel of Eden‟s hands on his ass pushed him to set his feet into a firm position moments before he began pumping his cock into her mouth again. “Eden, my God, you‟re amazing!” he screamed when he filled her again. “Only you can do this to me.” “Good,” she said as she laved his cock clean. “And it better stay that way.” “It will,” he gasped. “I swear it will.” When he finally slipped into bed, she set the alarm then slid in next to him. Without a word, he wrapped his arm around her and quickly fell asleep. I’m exactly where I want to be… 90

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure **** When Hunt woke hours later after a sound sleep, he found Eden gone from his side and tried to look for her. He could hear her voice and figured she had to be on the phone. Checking his watch, he knew why—last-minute details before the evening‟s opening of the club. Slipping out of bed and stretching, he walked to the door then went in search of his wife. When he finally found her, she sat at the counter in the kitchen with a cup of coffee and several pads of paper as well as her day planner. “That‟s good,” she said. “I‟m glad it‟s working out so nicely.” Hunt looked at her and figured she‟d been discussing the upcoming gala. Pouring a cup of coffee then refilling hers, he kissed her on the top of her head then sat on the stool next to her waiting for her to end the call. When she did, she grinned. “Good news, I suspect?” “Very good news and some of it is thanks to you.” “Me—how?” “I gave them your suggestion for inviting celebrities and they‟re running with it. They also liked the theme of medieval and renaissance and, as of this moment, plans are pretty well final.” “I‟m impressed,” he said. “How did you sleep?” “Extremely sound. The only thing bad is that I woke up without you by my side.” “Forgive me but I didn‟t want to bother you while the phone kept ringing. It‟s been busy…” Hunt took her coffee mug and set it on the counter next to his then lifted her chin so she would face him. He leaned over to her seconds before his lips covered hers. Moments later, he wrapped his arms around her holding her tight against him. “How much time do we have?” 91

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Not much,” he answered. “The lieutenant wants to see me before shift.” “Nothing serious, I hope,” she said, concern in her voice. “More than likely he wants to walk through last night with me because of it being my first arrest.” “Oh,” she said, hugging him tighter. They returned to their room where they dressed before leaving to head into the city. When he went to leave the club for the station, she pulled him into a hungry yet passionate kiss. “I‟ll be back here to pick you up once I‟m off,” he assured her. “I want you home in one piece,” she commanded. “Yes, Mistress,” he said. “I‟ll do the best I can.” “It‟s all I can ask.”

92

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 7 Over the next three weeks, Eden busied herself with the plans for the masquerade gala. She‟d chosen their costumes though she knew the possibility existed he would be called in to work. With several huge events taking place in the city, the officers had been told to expect extra shifts and she knew he would be expected to go in being a rookie officer. When the time came, he found out he would be going in for a swing shift which would cover the normal changeover times between afternoon and midnight shifts. “I‟ll be able to go for the first hour or two but…” “I understand,” she said. “We‟ll take your uniform and you can change before you leave.” “Or I can change at the station. Either way, I‟ll handle it.” “You have an amazing resolve when you want to. You‟re so calm about this while I‟m worried about you…” “Eden, you are my calming influence. Stuff like this used to bother me until I began to take the time to evaluate it and figure out a simple course of action. The training at the Academy helped, too.” “Well,” she said as she ran her finger along the length of his neck, “what is your plan for right now?” “I would make sure of the time before taking you upstairs and doing whatever my Mistress orders me to do.” “Then arrest me,” she said. 93

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Somehow, Hunt could tell Eden remembered back to his days in training when he would practice the proper way to apprehend a felon. Most of the time, their sessions ended up in the playroom using all the arrest tactics that ended up being illegal and cause for a suspect to get off. Heat coursed through her just thinking about it. “That might require my leaving you under house arrest until I get off shift.” “Interesting,” she said. “Do what you will.” Hunt groaned, this time he had with her before he went on duty what he needed in his life. Before he‟d met her, he‟d had an idea of what he wanted out of life but being with her gave him a focus he never had before. She‟d taught him that his feelings could not be considered wrong since a person‟s personal life had no labels and should be no one else‟s business. What they had between them molded them and he refused to lose any part of it to someone else‟s prudish moralistic pressuring. He‟d heard some of the cops talking about their opinions on sex and how it should be done. When one officer didn‟t share their opinions, they threatened him. “God will punish you for your shameful ways!” one bellowed, his words echoing through the locker room. “We live in Sin City— a name perfect for the kind of people who live here or pass through. We must remain strong and pure of their enticements.” Those words of condemnation burned into his soul because no man had any right to tell another what to do or how to do it. Because of them, Hunt made sure to either arrive and leave work in uniform or get in first then leave last so nothing could be said if the cock ring had been discovered. While he hated not wearing it, it‟d become easier at work—something Eden understood and remedied. Several days after a perp attacked his manhood, Eden presented him with a beautiful gold chain. A charm depicting his 94

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure badge hung from it with a small inscription on the back—to G love E. “Now let them say something about this.” Hunt had taken her in his arms and buried his face in her hair. Breathing deeply, he took in her scent before saying anything. “Thank you, Mistress,” he whispered. “I know how hard this must have been for you.” “Like the cock ring, it‟s material. My love for you is deep and unconditional.” Hunt smiled as he watched his wife drop the robe she‟d been wearing. Naked, she turned to him, her wrists held out to him. “Arrest me, Officer Hunt,” she said. “With pleasure,” he said, grinning. “Shall I search you for weapons?” “Body search—interesting,” she answered. “Do it.” **** The afternoon of the gala charity event, the Hunts went into the city and checked into the room she‟d reserved at the Palms. “I thought it would be easier for you to change before work plus I can be with you while you do.” “And your guests?” “They‟ll survive,” she said matter-of-factly. “There are others running this thing along with me so if I disappear for an hour, they should be able to handle things.” Hunt hung his uniform in the closet then walked over to the window to look at the view of the city he‟d sworn to protect and serve. During the day, it appeared to be like any other city but when night fell, it came alive with lights and fountains and shows—all designed to attract tourists and customers to part with their hard-earned money one way or another. “It‟s amazing,” he commented. “What is?” 95

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “The Las Vegas I‟m looking at now is nowhere near the one I‟ll be working tonight.” “That‟s one thing I love about it.” Eden stood behind him resting her chin on his shoulder, grateful for her stilettos which evened their heights. His hands went to hers, pulling them to his waist and holding them in place. “This is my idea of perfection,” he said. “No matter where you and I are, it will always be perfect as long as we‟re together.” “What are you trying to tell me?” “Have you ever thought about leaving here?” “I‟ve had the chance though something‟s always held me here.” “What do you mean?” “Nigel has always wanted me to open up another club. Dark Illusions has been so damned successful, he wanted to enjoy that success somewhere else as well as here.” “Where?” “Idaho, Santa Fe and he had some other suggestions.” “And you stayed here?” “I‟m glad I did. Had I left, we might never have gotten together.” “True,” he agreed. “Where‟s this leading?” “Actually, it‟s idle curiosity.” “Well then, keep it idle as we are wasting time talking when you could be…” Hunt grinned then led her to the bathroom where he turned the water on then pulled her into a kiss. Moments later—the water temperature just as they liked—he pressed her against the tile wall and thrust into her. Whether it had been the heat between them or that of the water—maybe both—something drove him to take her as hard and fully as he could. Gavin Hunt had no clue what pushed him but 96

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure deep inside him something told him to take her as if he‟d never do it again. “Gavin, what‟s wrong?” “Nothing,” he lied. “Why?” “I don‟t know what‟s driving you but that‟s the best shower we‟ve ever taken.” “I love you, Eden—more than anything in the world. If I ever lose you…” Eden put her finger to his lips stopping him. “I love you, too, and I have no plans on ever losing you or what we have together.” “Swear it.” “What?” “Swear it, Eden,” he stated emphatically. “Promise me we‟ll always be together.” “I promise, Gavin. I swear on everything you and I believe in and have between us. We will always be together.” **** As they finished dressing for the gala, Eden watched her husband and thought back to how he‟d acted in the shower. Nothing out of the ordinary save his intensity and if that ended up being the only thing wrong with him, then she wanted more. The only thing that bothered her had been his emotional plea to her. Where the hell did it come from? What’s bothering him? “A quarter for your thoughts,” he said, bringing her back to the present. “I‟ve heard of inflation but…” He flashed his dazzling smile as his gorgeous blue eyes twinkled with devilment. “What can I say?” “I‟m thinking I‟ve got to be going with the most handsome priest—aside from the one Daniel Craig played in Elizabeth—to ever walk the planet.” 97

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I saw that movie…” “The scene where he walks down the long corridor with his robes flowing in the breezes…” “Now I get it.” “Where do you think I came up with the idea from?” “Wonderful,” he said. “Trying to make me jealous?” “Never, slave,” she said. “I have exactly what I want.” “Good.” Eden stood and walked over to the bed where her gowns and robe had been spread out. Picking up the off-white gowns— actually two considering how thin each layer turned out to be—she let them slip over her nudity knowing how much her husband enjoyed watching. “I‟m glad I‟m the only one who has any idea what you‟re covering up with this outfit.” “And it‟ll stay that way,” she assured him as he helped her step into a lacy thong which he seductively pulled up her legs. “Only one man has the intimate knowledge of my body that you do and no other ever will.” “Even your exes?” “Even them.” As she pulled on the midnight-blue velvet outer robe, his hands cupped her breasts and squeezed them. “You're so damned soft,” he said as he bent to kiss her. “I‟m glad you like,” she said as heat coursed through her just from his hands massaging her through both layers of thin fabric. “I really wish I could describe what the hell you do to me.” “If it‟s anything like what you do to me, I‟ve got a good idea.” Kissing her carefully so he wouldn‟t smudge her make-up, he drew back gazing at her. “Gavin?” “I have got to be the luckiest guy in the world.” “We‟re both lucky.” 98

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Brushing his thumbs over her firm nipples, she held her gasp wanting him to take control. Gently pushing her to her knees, he spread his feet to have a better base then gazed at her. “I realize what I want will screw the make-up but I‟ve always wondered what went on back then. From what I‟ve seen, most men of the cloth seemed to be horny bastards who had just as much sex if not more than those they preached to.” “Tell me what to do,” she said. “I believe you know, my beautiful wench.” Heat shot through her the moment he called her that and she nodded as her hands went to the lower hem of his robe. Slowly, she lifted it, the hem resting on her arms as her hands glided up the length of his legs. “If you‟d be so kind?” Hunt held the robe up which gave his hands something to do while she took his swollen shaft deep in her throat and went down on him. Before long, one hand pressed her closer to him as he neared the point of no return. “Mistress, please…” he begged. Unable to speak, Eden did her best to nod her permission to his plea. Moments later, his essence exploded into her throat as his body shook from the force of his release. Eden‟s hands held onto the robe as she pulled him closer. Suddenly, she drew back gasping. “Eden?” he asked as he dropped to his knees. “My God, no man has ever come like that for me.” Hunt traced her lips with his tongue before kissing her. “After the party, I want to run something by you.” Eden nodded having a strange feeling she knew what he wanted to say to her. Whatever he wants to do, I will support him… Once Eden fixed her make-up, they left the room to go downstairs to the ballroom. For the next several hours, they remained inseparable until he had to leave to change into his 99

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure uniform. Leaving the ballroom, they headed back to their room where she watched him return to the Las Vegas cop she loved. “As soon as my shift is over, I‟ll be back so we can take advantage of this amazing room with the gorgeous view. If I get back early enough, I‟ll change back to the good father and join you downstairs.” “Another reason I made the reservation,” she said. “I hope you can be there at the end with me—it‟s usually fun.” “I love you, Eden,” he said as he pulled her close. “I love you, too, Gavin,” she said. “You and only you— believe that.” “I do but after witnessing the looks you‟ve gotten tonight, I gotta say it‟s hard. You‟re a gorgeous woman, Eden, and I saw several who wanted to spirit you away and…” “And they would have been disappointed. I came with one man and if you didn‟t have to leave for work, I‟d be leaving the party with the same man. I will come up here afterwards and wait for you to come back to me.” “I‟ll text you through the evening.” “As long as it‟s safe. I don‟t want you getting hurt because of texting.” “Yes, ma‟am,” he said. They left the room and took the elevator to the lobby. After he kissed her good-bye, she watched him leave the hotel and get into their car once the valet bought it around to the entrance. He waved then drove away, Eden hating the separation already. If he wants to quit the force… **** Eden Conrad Hunt walked into the ballroom and gazed over the gala she‟d had a huge hand in putting together. Thanks to her husband‟s suggestions, the celebrities attending had pushed the total amount donated to almost double what they‟d taken in years past. While most of the big names had already left, some had 100

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure remained with several of the men heading to the high stakes poker game in a private room on another floor. A cash game, each player bought in for a certain amount then whatever they won would be donated to charity. With two of the bigger names in poker playing, the tables drew some big money and if things went the right way, they‟d be playing for a long time. “Eden, I thought you‟d be interested in the final auction figures—this year‟s are off the wall and it‟s all because of you.” “I doubt that,” she said as Del Crawford handed her a piece of paper with a number on it, her eyes widening with happy shock. “You said what…” “My God, this is great,” she enthused. “And we still have a bit to go plus the poker game.” “Good news,” she agreed as they headed to the bar. “I believe champagne is the drink of choice.” “You‟re on,” Crawford said as they took their flutes from the bartender and raised them in a toast. One of the waiters came up to them needing to ask Crawford something and he excused himself. As Eden looked around, she caught sight of someone dressed like her husband had been. Taking out her cell phone, she texted him. Darkeden: Are you back here? Ghunt2212: No, still on duty. Why? Darkeden: There is someone here in a costume like yours. I’d hoped you had gotten off early. Ghunt2212: Unfortunately not. I may be tied up for a bit. The rodeo’s just ending. Darkeden: Then I’ll see you when I see you. Ghunt2212: You got it, Mistress. Love you. Darkeden: Love you, too. Knowing her husband would be tied up for a while, she turned her attention to the gala and making sure it ended on a high note. As she walked around and mingled, she kept seeing the 101

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure mysterious priest, her curiosity piqued yet not enough to chase after him to find out who it might be. Instead she went to the bar and ordered another glass of champagne. “Thank you,” she said to the bartender. As she sipped it, someone came up to the bar standing behind her. Within seconds, she gasped as she almost choked on the champagne. “It‟s time you learned to behave, Eden. Now, be a good little slave and come with me.” “Go to hell, Rudd. That part of my life is over.” “That may be but if you want the baby cop to survive tonight, you‟ll do as I tell you. Now we are going to walk out of here and you will act as if I‟m your boy toy.” “You can‟t honestly believe you‟ll get away with this…” “I do and I will. We have unfinished business plus I have someone who is holding back on signing off on a deal until I can produce you.” “Who?” “Your father, Eden—or should I call you Amy?” “I sincerely doubt I‟m a deal breaker. He‟s not even my real father.” “That may be true but you will come with me or I will make a phone call and baby cop will become another statistic.” Eden froze knowing that Rudd Weathers could easily do what he‟d threatened. After setting the flute on the bar, she went with him. While acting as he commanded, she wracked her brain trying to figure out how to get word to Hunt only Weathers had other ideas. As soon as they went out a door opening into the alley, he ordered her to place her cell phone under the tire of the waiting limo. “Why?” she asked, trying to stall. 102

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Don‟t be stupid, slave. If you honestly think I‟m going to allow you to be able to contact him or anyone else, you‟re even more naïve than I originally thought. Do it.” Eden did as he wanted and placed her cell phone on the ground where the limo would immediately run over and crush it. As she went to stand up, she felt a sting before her body began failing her. “I won‟t say I‟m sorry because I‟m not. When you wake up, we‟ll finish what we started and remember, slave, you hold someone else‟s life in your hands.” Eden‟s mind raced as she fought whatever he‟d injected into her but she couldn‟t. The last thing she remembered had been Weathers shoving her onto the floor of the limo. Unsure if her mind had played games with her, she lapsed off with two thoughts. My God, he’s using me as a footstool… Gavin… **** When Gavin returned to the hotel, Crawford met up with him and told him the gala had been over for hours. “Wait a minute—where‟s Eden?” “What do you mean?” “Didn‟t I see you two leaving the room? I figured you went somewhere to be alone…” “I‟ve been on duty all night,” Hunt said. “I tried texting her but she didn‟t respond.” “I could swear I saw her leaving with a priest—isn‟t that what you came as?” “I did but I didn‟t get back until a few moments ago though she said she saw someone dressed in a costume like mine. When did you…” “Several hours ago though it‟s not like her to leave the parties we host without telling me.” “Are you sure she went upstairs?” “Not really…” 103

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Hunt thanked him then left the room, his stomach beginning to knot up. Finding several of the waiters hired for the night, he stopped them and asked if they‟d seen her. One swore he saw her and a priest leaving out the side door. Gavin ran in that direction and found the door to the alley. With no cars parked there, he pulled out his flashlight and checked around. He groaned when he discovered the remains of Eden‟s cell phone. One thought came to mind. Taking a deep breath, he called dispatch and reported a possible kidnapping. After stating he would remain on location to wait for responding officers, he ended the call pocketing his phone and leaned against the wall of the hotel. “I swear to God, I will kill you if you harm her,” he swore, knowing Rudd Weathers had to be involved in her disappearance. While waiting for his fellow officers, he placed another call. “Gavin what‟s up?” his brother‟s voice asked. “Ronan, she‟s gone,” Hunt said almost whispering. “I think she‟s been kidnapped by her ex-Master.” “I‟m on my way and, Gavin?” “What?” “Be careful and trust no one. Anything you do can adversely affect your wife‟s safety.” “Just get here as fast as you can. I‟m at the Palms.” The sounds of sirens racing to his location didn‟t ease his mind. Ronan had been right—everything Gavin Hunt did or said could and would affect the outcome and whether or not he‟d get his wife back in one piece. When the first officers arrived, they swarmed the alley, Hunt doing his best to protect the area around where he found her crushed cell phone. He answered their questions as best as he could while being very careful what he told them. His lieutenant entered the alley and joined him. After waiting for the area to clear of officers after their initial investigations, he turned to Hunt and looked at him. 104

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Explain to me what the hell you‟re doing here.” “I came back here after my shift to meet someone. One of the waiters told me he‟d seen her coming out here but she never returned. When I came outside, I took a quick look over the immediate area and found her phone…” “Are you sure it‟s her phone?” “Yes.” “How sure?” “I‟m positive, Lieutenant,” Hunt averred. “I don‟t understand why I‟m getting cross-examined like a bad witness.” “Son, I‟ve been in this business longer than you and I know when someone‟s covering something up or for someone else. Now I believe the woman we‟re talking about is one of the city‟s elite hookers…” “She‟s not a hooker!” Hunt snapped. “Why are you getting so damned upset? You act as if this is very personal…” “It is, sir.” “Oh? Why?” “Because Eden Conrad is my wife and I believe I know who grabbed her.” “Who and why?” “The who is Rudd Weathers and the why I‟m not at liberty to discuss.” “If she‟s your wife, I need to know everything.” “And if you believe she‟s a hooker, then I know this case will not be given top level attention. I know the way most of the guys feel about what goes on in this city and their biases could get her killed. You think she‟s a common whore but she spent this evening hosting one of the city‟s biggest fundraisers—the fund for fallen police officers being among the charities benefitting—because of me. She‟s the owner of a very exclusive club with very upscale and 105

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure influential patrons yet you stand here and think of her as common street trash. You ask about it being personal—hell, yes, it is!” “Officer Hunt, you are on a desk until this case is solved.” “Why? I can do my job.” “Does the department know you‟re married?” “No, because we worried about something like this happening.” “Because you neglected to advise us, I‟m putting you on administrative discipline. You will have no contact with this case other than to answer questions. If I hear you‟ve been sticking your nose into it, I will place you on suspension with the intent to fire. Because of the conflict of interest, I can‟t have you screwing the case up if it ever makes it to court which, in this case, I doubt it will.” “Why?” “Do you know who Rudd Weathers is?” “She‟s told me about him.” “He‟s a business giant in this city. To accuse him of kidnapping is ridiculous, at best. He is worth millions and I doubt he‟s into getting his money through ransom or any other illegal methods.” “He‟s a corporate raider who makes sure the ones he deals with are those who take the fall when there is any hint of illegalities after one of his takeovers. I‟ve been told he ruined several businessmen in order to get what he wanted.” “I‟d keep that to yourself, son. We can‟t afford a libel case…” “Stop calling me son,” Hunt said. “My wife could be dying while you‟re lecturing me. She is a citizen of this city and as such, she deserves better than this.” “Officer Hunt, go home. I will see you in my office on Monday morning. I‟d take the time off and use it wisely.” “What‟s that supposed to mean?” “Don‟t do anything foolish and reconsider your personal life.” 106

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Go to hell, Lieutenant. The department cannot dictate who I associate with or marry. You‟ve just stepped over the line, I believe.” “I will consider your insubordinate conduct as being associated with what‟s happened here.” The lieutenant walked away leaving Gavin Hunt seething. Once the man had disappeared from sight, he went back into the hotel and up to the room he shared with Eden. Walking inside after unlocking the door, he found the room had evidently been searched and his priestly robe missing. Well, I know why she mistook him for me… Changing out of his uniform into a pair of shorts, he looked out the window and began what seemed to be a long wait to hear from Weathers and his brother‟s arrival. How the hell did I know something bad would happen? **** Within the hour, he heard a knock on his door. Grabbing his weapon, he held it to his side as he checked the peephole to the hallway. Seeing his brother immediately relaxed him though not enough to ease back on his grip. Opening the door, he waited for Ronan to come in then locked it immediately. “God, I‟m glad you‟re here.” “Tell me what‟s up.” Hunt went into detail about what he‟d learned once he returned from his shift, what had happened in the alley and the discussion with his superior officer. “Ro, the case is going to get tossed aside because they consider her to be another hooker. I guarantee the talk is that another whore got what she deserved.” “Trust me, we‟ll get to the bottom of all this and then I‟m going after the LVPD—no way should you have been treated that way or should the case be ignored.” 107

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I won‟t be able to do much to help—I‟m on some sort of administrative suspension and I‟ve been banned from even being near the case unless I‟m a witness answering questions.” “Bastards!” Ronan cursed. “That son of a bitch got to them.” “What do you mean?” “Gavin, it‟s time you knew something about your brother.” “What…” “I work for the Justice Department and we‟ve been investigating Weathers for the past two years. We‟ve been after him for RICO as well as several other things.” “Then you know that Eden…” “Yes, we did but her file‟s been cleared because there has never been any evidence of her involvement with his businesses. She ended up in something that, had she stayed with him, she‟d be up to her ears in and he‟d use her as a pawn to take the fall for him if need be.” “Why the fuck didn‟t you tell me, Ro?” “I couldn‟t,” Ronan answered. “This guy‟s got his hooks into a hell of a lot of people who are keeping him out of jail for one reason or another. Had you known about it, it could have jeopardized not only your life but hers, as well.” “Why do I feel like I‟ve been sucker punched?” “Because in a way, you have been. I didn‟t like keeping it from you especially with you marrying her. I wanted you to be safe— both of you—but…” “Obviously, that didn‟t work—did it?” “No, and for that I‟m deeply sorry but now is not the time for us to argue. We can do that after we bring your wife home.” “What‟s the plan?” “Let me make one phone call then we‟ll start figuring out what to do.”

108

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Gavin Hunt nodded then left the room to grab a shirt. He figured his brother wanted some privacy and he needed to splash some cold water on his face. He‟d felt chilly but now, he felt as if he‟d never be warm again. Everywhere he looked, he saw her and when he reached out to her, she vanished. With Eden‟s disappearance, he felt alone in a cold neon jungle with no one aside from his brother to help him get warm again. His trust in the department had vanished and he knew he‟d made the right decision. His plan to resign from the force could not have come at a better time and after the last hour or two, he looked forward to going back to waiting tables at Dark Illusions—the one place where he could be honest about his life and his wife. Gavin Hunt screamed, the emotional hurt echoing throughout the suite. Dropping to his knees, he wept as he prayed for her safe return. “Mistress!” **** “Shelton.” “It‟s Hunt,” Ronan said. “You‟d better get up to Vegas and quick.” “Why, what‟s happened?” Ronan quickly explained then waited for Nigel Shelton‟s reaction. “I‟m on my way.” “Good, call me when you get in and I‟ll tell you where we are.” “You got it.” Ronan Hunt ended the call then cringed when he heard his brother‟s agony. And it will only get worse…

109

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 8 Across Las Vegas on the opposite side of the city from where Eden owned her home, Rudd Weathers poured himself a glass of champagne and toasted his success. The ease with which he‟d taken his prey amazed him since he expected her cop to be glued to her. Since the abduction, he‟d kept his errant slave heavily sedated and under control. Two hours after her arrival, he tattooed his brand on her where it would be very obvious that she belonged to him. An R centered in a W would be a constant reminder to not only her but the boy toy as to who had the power. Once he saw it, Weathers felt quite sure Hunt would leave her—another degrading humiliation. Once he broke her down, he‟d force her to sign over ownership of Dark Illusions as well as her other assets which would leave her penniless and ripe to take the fall for him. In the process, he‟d reintroduce Eden Conrad to her father—a man who believed that rebellious Amy had amounted to absolutely nothing. If only he knew… One of his slaves—he‟d acquired a sizeable harem over the years—knelt at his feet. “Yes?” “She‟s just been given the next dose and she won‟t stop bleeding.” “Do what you have to,” he commanded. “May I please leave?” 110

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Go,” he ordered as he inwardly laughed. Amy could have been his best had she not been a damned bitch but that had happened in the past and now he planned to rectify her mistakes. When I finish with you, you’ll beg to come back. Weathers called two of his men, the ones he employed to guard his slaves. He gave them their instructions and they left as quietly as they‟d entered the room. “Mister Weathers, I thought you‟d want to see this,” another one of his men said. “Why?” “Because I just found out that the baby cop, as you call him, is married to your…” “She married a cop?” Weathers raged. “What the hell…” “Your next move?” “Get the bastard here any way you can and I want him in uniform.” “Yes, sir,” Lieutenant Christopher Garrison said before turning to leave. Once he‟d left the room, Weathers took the glass he‟d been drinking from and threw it against the wall. “Damn you!” he screamed. “Damn you both to hell!” **** When Gavin Hunt woke the next morning, he had a banging headache thanks to his brother getting him drunk so he‟d get some rest. “Don‟t ever do that to me again,” Hunt said. “You needed rest and I figured it would do the trick which it obviously did.” “Stop yelling.” “I‟m not,” Ronan said. “Here, drink this.” Ronan handed his brother a mug of strong coffee—black with no sugar or cream. He watched his brother drink it and refilled the mug before handing Gavin some aspirin. 111

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Has there been any news?” “No, and it bothers me that he hasn‟t contacted you.” “More than likely, he doesn‟t know about our marriage. I‟m sure if he did, he would have acted by now.” “Good point,” Ronan agreed. “We need to get you somewhere safe until you go to work on Monday.” “I don‟t want to hide. I have an idea where he‟s taken her and I believe if we go now, we‟ll have the element of surprise.” “Not in your condition. Besides, I‟ve got some inquiries out and need to wait for answers so we‟re better prepared.” “Exactly what the fuck are we dealing with?” “A madman, plain and simple. He gets off on hurting people—emotionally, physically and financially.” “Shit!” “What?” “Eden has a very lucrative trust fund that she invested when she came to Vegas. From what she told me, she hasn‟t touched it so it‟s been sitting and flourishing thanks to good investments. If this guy goes for the jugular, he‟d want the club and her assets.” “Can you get to the accounts?” “No, I didn‟t want access. In fact, she had me bank my city pay while I waited tables and collected tips—all part of the illusion that we felt necessary to create and present.” “What do you mean?” “How would it look to the brass to have a rookie officer who marries money yet still works as a police officer when there are people out there who need jobs? I kept the apartment, too.” “Interesting,” Ronan said. “And nobody caught on?” “Nope,” Gavin said. “Garrison had no idea.” Ronan‟s cell phone vibrated. Taking the call, he sat back in the chair and didn‟t say much. When he ended the call, he sat deep in thought. “What?” Gavin asked. “Ro, talk to me.” 112

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I had one of my associates look into those you immediately work with. Everyone checked out but one.” “Who?” “Garrison,” Ronan said. “He‟s evidently been on the take for years. His benefactor is…” “Don‟t tell me—Rudd Weathers,” Gavin said. “No wonder he avidly defended the guy. Why didn‟t I pick up on it?” “Apparently no one has. My guy found it in his bank accounts and traced the paper trail. He‟s not very smart when it comes to covering his ass.” “My God, how far does this go?” “Good question. Tell me, have you heard of any cases going south for any reason at all?” “One‟s been a huge topic of conversation from the Academy on. Seems they had a perp dead to rights in a scam and when they closed in, they found the guy after he committed suicide with a note of confession in his hand. It‟s evidently burned some of the older officers because the wounds remain open when the subject comes up—almost as much as they do when the subject of protection in the city comes up. These guys get really violent about it and it bothers me.” “What do you intend to do?” “I had planned to run this by Eden after we left the party and came up here but I have seriously considered turning in my badge. After talking with Garrison a few hours ago and the venom coming out of his mouth about my wife, I know I can‟t stay any longer than I have to. I will stay on the force long enough to see this to the end and make sure the case doesn‟t go cold before it‟s even investigated and once it‟s closed, I‟m done. They can have the badge and the gun and I‟ll have no regrets.” “I know it will be hard but whatever the department tells you to do, do it. It will look better for you in the long run—especially when I go after them.” 113

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Ronan…” “We have to follow up on the corruption angle. If Weathers has been paying off Garrison, how many others are there?” “Good question,” Gavin said, shaking his head. “How‟s the headache?” “Better—the family remedy works every time.” The brothers laughed together, one of the few times they‟d be able to in the coming days. Gavin Hunt‟s cell phone rang and when he looked at the caller ID, he groaned. “What?” “Speak of the devil…” “Take it. He‟ll expect you to be on the phone immediately.” Hunt nodded grateful for his brother‟s insight. “Hunt.” “Gavin, it‟s Lieutenant Garrison. My captain believes I may have been too harsh and hasty in my assessment of your fitness for duty. I see you‟re due in for a shift this afternoon…” “I hadn‟t even thought about it. I‟ve been more concerned about my wife.” “I understand but I expect you in my office this afternoon before you sign on. We need to talk and I might be able to give you some information about what may have happened last night.” “May have happened? My wife‟s been kidnapped and you‟re saying it may have happened?” Ronan tried to get Gavin to calm down with no success. From the way Gavin‟s side of the conversation went, Garrison had been pushing the right buttons. “In my office at three.” The call ended, Gavin dropping his phone on the couch next to him. “The guy‟s got balls and absolutely no compassion.” “Where‟s his office?” 114

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “He has two—one at the station I‟m at and the other at the main headquarters.” “Which would have the fewest people roaming around on a Sunday afternoon?” “The station since no one goes upstairs on the weekends.” “It‟s a good possibility it‟s a set-up. More than likely he‟s already informed Weathers of your marriage and he‟s stepping up his plans.” “If I don‟t go in, he‟ll suspect something and if I do, I‟m a trapped rat.” “Basically,” Ronan agreed. “Classic Catch-22.” “What the hell do I do?” “We‟ve got a couple hours and I‟ve got help on the way.” “Who?” “Nigel Shelton—I called him when you went into the bathroom.” “He must hate me. I swore to protect her…” “He‟s angrier at Weathers and knows you‟ve become a pawn in this malicious game of chess. I‟ve checked him out and he‟s a good man.” “What aren‟t you telling me?” “He has contacts in higher places than I do. He‟d ferretted out my real profession and confronted me with it.” “Leaving me the last one to know?” “Yes and no, but I‟m glad it‟s out. I‟ve always hated keeping it from you.” “We really need to catch up.” “Once we get this taken care of…” Ronan‟s cell phone rang. He took the call then hung up. “What?” “Shelton‟s on his way over.” “How…” “GPS—I told you, he‟s more covert than I am.” 115

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “You‟re kidding.” “His fee is a cool million. Someone gave him five to find your wife which he invested in the club after she convinced him it would not be in her best interest if he completed his job. He called the party involved and got the fee when he lied about not finding her.” “Who had that kind of money?” “Her father.” “No wonder they‟re close.” “You noticed?” “Yeah, but it didn‟t bother me.” “Good because he is no threat. He‟s so in love with his wife that…” “They‟re inseparable—I noticed that, too. Ain‟t love grand?” “Under the right circumstances.” “Amen.” And I’ve got perfection… **** Eden stirred, her head hurting from the amount of sedation Weathers had given her over the course of her captivity. She vaguely remembered each injection because she‟d never been good with needles but something else hurt more. Unfortunately, she didn‟t feel up to seeing why she felt like her chest had been set on fire or why she felt weak as if she‟d been suffering severe blood loss. A distant memory of that kind of pain came back to her when she recalled one night when Weathers beat her for something then apologized for doing it. As she lay on the floor begging for help, he took his time giving her something to press against her side to stop the bleeding. Unaware when it happened, she soon learned that he‟d knifed her just to see what would happen. Some things never change… Trying to move her hand, she discovered she‟d been chained to the floor. No wonder I feel stiff—he’s taken me to his infamous basement… 116

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Though foggy, she wracked her brain in order to remember what went on in the basement. She knew she lay face down on hardwood flooring with her arms out to her sides, her feet together. He‟d once told her that he‟d modeled it after a religious ceremony in the Catholic Church where the ones being elevated in rank had to lay prostrate in order to take a sacrament of some kind—that part of the ceremony long forgotten once he added his twisted additions. Weathers had altered the idea to his needs and used this room as his torture chamber for those who disobeyed him. While he‟d never done anything like that to her during their brief time together, he‟d been very eager to show her the room and tell her its history. Now I’m being added to that history… Feeling a little stronger, she lifted her head and looked straight ahead. Weathers‟ vanity required him to have mirrored walls and ceilings so he could watch himself at all times. She compared him to one of the roles Tom Cruise played though at the moment, she could care less which one. Do I even have the right actor? Looking at her reflection, she sobbed seeing what he‟d already done to her. How the hell do I face Gavin? In the center of her chest in a place she would not be able to hide unless she wore high collars all the time sat his brand—his initials in blood. She knew some masters had to mark their slaves but usually did it in a hidden spot in order to protect the relationship. This had been done to spite and humiliate her for the rest of her life and he would expect Gavin to be disgusted by it and with her. My God, he’s sick… Putting her head back on the cool wood, she prayed Weathers would keep this between them and not involve Gavin. No matter what Weathers wanted, she‟d have to do it in order to keep her husband alive—even if it meant never seeing the man she loved more than life ever again because that is what Weathers expected. If I ever get the chance to… “She‟s in here, Roy…” 117

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden cringed at the sound of Weathers‟ voice but bringing someone into this room while she lay vulnerable made her sicker. Then she heard the other man‟s voice and wanted to heave. “You‟re sure it‟s her?” “Very,” Weathers said. “You should have told me sooner and I would have reunited the both of you before now.” “As long as I get that damned trust fund…” What a fucking bastard! “Eden Conrad, meet your father,” Weathers said. “Oh, I‟m sorry, Amy…” “What the hell is this? This isn‟t my daughter…” “I never was,” Eden said. The next thing she felt jolted her sedated body into alert mode though she couldn‟t do anything. Weathers had seen fit to kick her in the side. Tasting blood, she did her damnedest not to give either one of them the satisfaction of reacting. “Watch your mouth or there‟ll be more like that.” “Go ahead. You‟ve taken my life away but neither one of you will get my money.” “What did you do with it, you little tramp?” “If it‟s any of your business, I gave it to an investor who lost it when the market crashed. It‟s all gone.” “You stupid little…” “That‟s funny when you‟re in business with a ruthless corporate raider. How much is he taking from you?” “Shut up, Eden,” Weathers growled. “What is she talking about?” Gordon demanded to know. “The hell I will. You two are meant for each other. When he gets what he wants, he‟ll do something illegal in order to get the law involved then leave you to conveniently take the fall. I‟m happy for you, Roy.” “Is that true?” 118

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “She‟s saying anything to break this deal,” Weathers said. “I‟ve kept up my end of the bargain, now I expect you to keep up yours.” “This is not my daughter,” Roy Gordon stated. “I don‟t have a daughter because Amy is dead to me. The deal‟s off.” She could feel Gordon‟s uneven footsteps as he crossed the hardwood floor toward the door. Moments later, she heard a gunshot then felt his body when it dropped to the floor. “If you want me to save your worthless life, Roy, sign the deal now and I‟ll get an ambulance here to get you to the hospital.” In excruciating pain from a non-life-threatening bullet wound, Roy Gordon agreed to Weathers‟ demand and signed the deal turning over his businesses to his daughter‟s ex-Master. Eden slowly turned her head to see two of Weathers‟ men drag Gordon from the room. She knew he‟d never see a hospital and that Weathers would keep the man alive long enough for the deal to close and become legal then his body would turn up in the desert somewhere with a note confessing to some crime he‟d supposedly committed and couldn‟t live with himself over. She‟d seen the same scenario played out once before, something Weathers had no idea about. A lot of good it does me now… Weathers came back and stood in front of her. “Kiss my shoe,” he commanded. “Go to hell.” “You‟re lucky I need your face in one piece because so help me…” “Suit yourself but you will not get my cooperation for anything and I refuse to obey your commands.” Weathers stormed from the room, Eden winning round one of their long match. Closing her eyes, she tried to rest, her body needing strength to face him in round two. It will only get worse… **** 119

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Get these papers to the judge and make sure he signs off on them—now!” “Yes, sir,” one of Rudd Weathers‟ many assistants said as he took the large folder of contracts. Though Sunday afternoon, Weathers had no qualms with getting one of his lackeys to do his immediate corporate bidding when judges usually took their weekends and forgot work. Weathers had discovered one in need of his peculiar type of help one night in a bar on the Strip. Knee-deep in gambling debts and digging himself an even deeper hole, the judge sat on the bench at the state level. “How much do you owe?” he‟d asked in casual conversation over drinks. “About a hundred grand.” “I‟ll make you a deal—I‟ll pay off the debt then you‟ll owe me. I guarantee my interest rate will be a lot lower.” “You‟ve got a deal,” Judge Allen said without thinking. Weathers remembered grinning, the other man too drunk to realize what he‟d agreed to. The debt paid, Allen came to Weathers one day with the balance of the loan he intended to pay off. “I don‟t believe you understand. I own you. Sure I paid off the loan sharks but you‟re into them again and I will take care of it as I did before…” “What do you want from me then? I‟ve paid on the loan and here‟s the balance—done deal.” “No, my friend. You still have a long way to go. In order to stay alive when it comes to your addiction, you now work for me meaning that anytime I need judicial work done—day or night, any day of the week—you will do what I need and without argument. If I call you on a Saturday night when you‟re enjoying a party, you will put my needs first. Do you understand?” “Bastard—I should have known…” 120

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Yes, you should have,” Weathers said, those words the beginning of their illicit relationship. Now, he sent the papers closing the deal with Roy Gordon to Allen to be signed off on in time for filing in the morning. As soon as that occurred, Roy Gordon would disappear—for good. Glancing at the clock, he waited for word from one of his other investments—Lieutenant Christopher Garrison. His story similar, Garrison also had a problem with gambling only his had him owing the mob for bets placed on the horses. With the threat of death and exposure of his off-duty lifestyle hanging over him, Garrison had immediately agreed to Weathers‟ terms—ones that made sure Garrison stayed alive with his badge intact, so to speak. Thanks to their association, Weathers had a quiet yet dangerous foothold in the police department—one that gave him warning of impending investigations or progress on current cases as well as warnings if any outside legal organizations had business in Vegas. With the time at hand for Garrison to bring his next target to him, Weathers poured himself a double shot of Bourbon, raised his glass and toasted himself. I love my life… **** In the time between Garrison‟s phone call and when he had to report to the station, Gavin Hunt worked closely with his brother and Nigel Shelton on a plan to see what, if anything, he could learn from his shift on duty. “I doubt he‟ll put me out on the street,” Hunt said. “Or he might do it and put you out in the open.” “This cannot be happening,” Hunt said. “I want you wired…” “How? We can only wear specific hardware on our uniforms.” “That‟s where Nigel comes in.” “I brought some state-of-the-art monitoring equipment with me. All I have to do is replace the shank to your badge and no one will ever know. It‟s virtually undetectable if you‟re searched.” 121

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “This so damned surreal,” Hunt said. “I feel like I‟m in an episode of Mission: Impossible.” “In a way, you are. You‟re walking into unchartered waters, so to speak.” “What do you mean?” “Every time we‟ve tried to investigate him with local assistance, he‟s gotten the better of us. We know he owns a judge and Garrison but we figure his reach extends further which is why I based out of Tahoe. My business brings me to Las Vegas regularly so I‟m not on his scope. I make sure to keep to myself while I check out new leads or anything else pertaining to the Weathers case. The fact that you literally married into it is advantageous though right now, getting your wife back alive takes precedence over the damned case.” Gavin Hunt shook his head. “What?” “All this time and you kept this from me. You watched me go through the Academy and you never said a damned word…” “And I hated doing it. We‟ve always been open with each other but this case has such huge implications that I couldn‟t afford to have you involved. Weathers would think nothing of using you to stop the investigation. I had to protect my family at any cost.” “What the hell do you have on him?” “All of it is circumstantial but when added together, it is compelling enough for an indictment but we want solid evidence so he won‟t walk.” “And you‟re positive Eden‟s out of it?” “Totally—we dropped her from our radar when she walked on him. With what Nigel‟s told me, she had absolutely no clue what he did when he went to work.” “At the time,” Nigel began, “he didn‟t talk about what he did when he left the house and she didn‟t ask. As a sub, she basically had no reason to ask while knowing it would more than likely piss 122

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure him off if she pried. He bragged about a punishment room he has in the basement of his house and some of the stories she told me turned my stomach. When she called and told me she‟d left him, I flew up here and took her back to Santa Fe for a few months until things calmed down and she could get some legal maneuverings in place to protect herself from him. Things stayed quiet until now.” “So why now?” “It‟s possible he found out about Eden having a relationship and wanted to bollix things between you up. Trust me, after all these years, his rage factor must be high and revenge is all he wants. I want you to prepare yourself for what you might find when you see her next. He will not be merciful when he punishes her and I guarantee he will do just that.” “And I‟m supposed to go in to work as if something may have happened and not be worried about my wife…” “No, you will go into work knowing that being on shift is not what you will be doing,” Ronan stated. “Garrison stressed uniform meaning he wants to have some sort of symbolism attached to his plans. We agree that you will more than likely be sent to Weathers‟ house on some strange assignment—whether it‟s a check the well-being call or something else—or you‟ll just be taken. Either way, with you wired, we will be able to track you.” “This fucking sucks.” “At least, you will be prepared which is more than Eden had been. You‟ll have backup though Weathers will believe you don‟t—point, our favor.” “I hope you‟re right,” Gavin said. “Trust me, so do I,” Ronan said. “Weathers is slyer than any fox. He will be full of surprises and we need to have as much advantage as we can get if we expect this to have a happy ending.” “It better,” Gavin Hunted stated. “Either way, my decision‟s been made for me.” “What decision?” 123

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I planned to tell Eden that I intended to walk away from the force. I can‟t take the opinionated officers who threaten those who disagree with them. This is one reason why we never told anyone about our marriage. I needed to be able to protect it and her. Learning about Garrison being dirty turns my stomach because it makes me wonder how many others are. I‟d rather wait tables at the club than deal with them.” “I won‟t tell you about rash decisions,” Ronan stated. “Trust me, it‟s not. Eden‟s the most important thing in my life. I can‟t afford to lose her because right now, it terrifies me that I will.” “If we have anything to do with it, you won‟t,” Shelton stated. Gavin Hunt stood up, shook both men‟s hands and excused himself. Going into the bathroom, he took a hot shower before he put on his uniform for what he figured would be the last time. I’m definitely through with the department… **** Lieutenant Christopher Garrison sat in his office at the station where Gavin Hunt had been assigned. While he waited for their meeting to begin, he went over his life and realized how much selfhatred he had for himself. I used to be a good cop… When Garrison had been approached by a stranger coming to his rescue, he should have realized then and there that the overly generous proposition would turn into a huge albatross around his neck. Since that evening at the bar when Rudd Weathers walked into his life, Garrison had no life and regretted being too eager for a quick fix to his problems. In the course of their so-called relationship, he‟d seen several cops either go missing or turn up dead under mysterious circumstances and rued that he‟d had a hand in this. Now, he‟d wound up dead center in what would amount to a double homicide involving a police officer—the one murder charge having Federal implications. I’m fucked and Weathers knows it… 124

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure The sound of footsteps on the highly polished floor leading to his office told him Weathers‟ next victim would be joining him momentarily. Taking a deep breath, he waited. “Ah, Hunt, right on time,” he said, greeting the rookie cop. “Good move.”

125

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 9 Las Vegas rookie patrolman Gavin Hunt went up to the third floor of the station building he worked out of and headed down the hallway to his lieutenant‟s office. The sound of his uniform shoes as he walked echoed in the silence of the floor, the eeriness bothering him. “I don‟t like this,” he mumbled, hoping his brother would be able to pick him up on the wire. Though the sci-fi aspect of the wire he wore worried him because of its cinematically special effects, he had to admit he felt better knowing his brother and Shelton could track him. This one thought would help get him through what lay ahead of him. When he reached the lieutenant‟s office, he took a deep breath before knocking on the door which sat slightly ajar. “Ah, Hunt, right on time,” Garrison said, greeting the rookie cop. “Good move.” Hunt entered the office and stood in front of the desk hating the man sitting in front of him. “Sir?” “The captain reamed me a new one because I suspended you. He doesn‟t believe it will look too good to have the highestranking graduate from the Academy deskbound. Because I am not one to back down on what I say but needing to assuage my superior officer, I called you in so you could work your shift. As Cannon is 126

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure off today, I want you to handle a simple call at the home of one of our more prominent citizens.” “Yes, sir,” Hunt said, his stomach tight as he realized the scenario for his meeting with Rudd Weathers. Dead man walking… “She‟s an older woman who is prone to hearing things when her son is on the road. You will respond to the house, check it out to ease her mind then report back to me.” “Yes, sir.” “Look, son, I know you are upset about what apparently happened last night but women like your wife go off on their own with other men because it‟s in their nature to please. She‟ll come home on her…” “If not for the fact that I respect your rank, I‟d wring your neck right now. My wife is honorable and has no need to please any other man. She‟s a good woman and I swear, once I get her home, I will be back to settle this issue with you as I cannot allow you to insult her the way you have.” “Be careful, son, you just threatened your commanding officer.” “No, I didn‟t,” Hunt said. “I am defending my wife‟s honor.” “Son, when will you learn she has no honor?” “One, stop calling me son and two, she‟s got more honor and loyalty to those she cares about in her little finger than you do in your entire body.” “What‟s that supposed to mean?” “I believe you know exactly what I mean. I don‟t have to tell you because you have to live with yourself. Just how well do you sleep at night?” “Very well,” Garrison said. Hunt figured he‟d lied again. “Is there anything else, sir?”

127

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “No, dismissed,” Garrison said, sliding Hunt‟s orders across the desk to him. “I‟ll be waiting for you to finish your assignment and meet me back here.” “I‟m sure you will be,” Hunt mumbled as he turned and left the office. God, how I hate you… **** As Gavin Hunt left the office, he looked at the address on the orders he‟d been given. Located on the opposite end of the city from where they lived, he figured it had to be Weathers‟ home. Reading the address out loud as if he talked to himself, he hoped Ronan and Nigel would hear him because the fact remained that if they didn‟t, he‟d be walking into a situation with no backup—one he more than likely wouldn‟t survive. Downstairs at the watch commander‟s desk, he waited to find out which car he‟d be assigned. He couldn‟t imagine being given a marked car—that would be too obvious. While he did, he glanced around wondering how many of the officers on duty had the same benefits Garrison did or the exact opposite—all good cops trying to enforce the law and go home every night to their families. He also noticed several of them looking at him with strange looks on their faces ranging from sympathy to resentment. I don’t stand a chance… “Hunt, the lieutenant called down and told me to give you a marked unit. Here are the keys to it,” the desk sergeant said as he handed Hunt the keys to one of the department SUVs. This made Hunt question the assignment. Maybe it is legit. He wouldn’t give me one of the newer units if he knew I wouldn’t make it back—or would he? What the hell is going on? In the lot, he found the SUV and checked it out before getting inside it. Once he did, he started it then let it run a few moments in order to get the interior cooled down. While he waited, he called Ronan. “Ro, did you get the invitation?” 128

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Yes, and we‟re waiting to see what the next step is.” “I‟ve got a department SUV so I‟m not sure when I‟ll make it.” “We‟ve got some friends coming to add to the party. Either way, everything should be all right.” “I hope so,” Hunt replied. “I‟m about ready to lose my lunch.” “Calm down and take some deep breaths. I know meeting the family for the first time is hard but you can‟t be nervous. It makes for a bad first impression.” “Right now, I‟m not sure if I care.” “On the off chance this is a legit call, you have to,” Ronan advised. “Believe me, I understand where you‟re coming from but unfortunately, the act has to play out. We‟re monitoring you and will be there when we‟re needed.” “I hope so,” Gavin Hunt said again. “Oh, don‟t be surprised if I lose the cell phone. He‟ll more than likely make me destroy it like he did hers.” “As long as we‟re monitoring the wire, you‟ll be fine. Now take a few deep breaths and go on as if you have no clue what‟s happening. The more you look like you‟re in for the long haul, the safer you‟ll be.” “How so?” “You just might find out who you can trust and who you can‟t.” “I‟ve already tried that and I‟ve come up with nil. They all look like they‟re on the take.” “Maybe some are and we‟ll ferret them out when we take the bastard down but right now, your main worry is yourself and finding Eden.” “That‟s about the only thing keeping me sane.” “Whatever works.” “I guess I‟ll see you when I see you.” 129

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Oh, you will, brother. I‟m not losing the only family I‟ve got.” “You might not have any choice in that,” Hunt responded. “Gavin, I swear, if anything happens to you or her, I will not rest until the party responsible is dead.” “That means a lot, Ro,” Hunt said. “Hey, I‟d better get going.” “Be careful, Gav—I mean it.” Hunt ended the call then did one more check before he closed the door and drove to Weathers‟ house. As he drove, he looked at the city and found it no longer held anything for him. Without Eden, his life had no purpose and he no longer cared about anything. If Eden didn‟t come back to him, then he would have no choice but to ease his pain—permanently. **** “You‟d better have good news,” Weathers barked into the phone when Garrison called him. “Baby cop is on his way to meet one of the city‟s oldest residents. Because her son is out of town, she‟s called the department with various concerns. Officer Hunt has been sent on a one-man assignment to check out the house and reassure her there is nothing wrong.” “Perfect,” Weathers said. “The timing could not be better.” When the call ended, Weathers sat back and went over the last few hours he‟d spent with Eden Conrad, now Hunt. When he reentered the room where he held her, she still lay where he‟d left her. Of course, chains and sedatives helped immensely. Nodding to the two men assigned to guard her, they automatically went to her then pulled her to the back wall of the room where they shackled her to it. Facing her away from him, Weathers grinned. “Slave, I know you can hear me and understand what I‟m saying to you. As you are aware, I have branded you as my possession and anyone who sees you will know you‟ve been an 130

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure errant slave—a scarlet woman, so to speak. While you may think this is the end of it, you‟re wrong because you see, you must be punished. You will be a harsh example to my harem of what happens when disobedience comes into play.” “You are a sick man,” Eden said slowly. “But I am not the one in your position, am I?” The door opened and several naked women filed into the room then presented themselves to their Master. Turning to them, he looked at them sternly. “I‟ve brought you here to see what will happen if you choose to be disobedient as Slave Eden here. She refused to behave in front of several other Masters—my friends—and left me. After filing legal action against me, she opened her exclusive little club and flaunted her freedom until she took on her own slave. Now that I have her back here, I will punish her as I should have done years ago and she will be an example to those who have thoughts of being bad.” Weathers pulled out a pocket knife as he walked over to where he held Eden. Taking the knife, he slit the back of the robe and her gowns to expose her back. Next, he went to a closet and chose a very lethal-looking whip. Snapping it, he saw everyone in the room with the exception of the guards jump—including Eden. Within moments, Eden‟s back resembled a bloody canvas but that didn‟t stop him. The one thing he expected out of Eden Conrad had been screaming but she never uttered a sound. The harder the hit, the more she remained silent. “I want to hear you beg, Eden!” he commanded. “Never,” she gasped. “Never.” **** Eden heard Weathers‟ footsteps as he entered the room. It had been a few hours since his last visit and she could only hazard a guess as to his next move. What he planned made her sick. 131

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure The moment he ordered the guards to move her to another position, she had the sick feeling she would be whipped. She‟d heard stories of a Master who did this—his strikes continuing until his victim screamed. Eden made the decision to refuse him satisfaction. After all, if he whipped her to death, she would never have to worry about the stigma of being Weathers‟ slave. The feel of her clothes being ripped apart came with mixed blessings. The cool breeze over her skin comforted her and eased the fever she had from the tattoo which she guessed had become infected. Leave it to Weathers to not use sterile equipment… When she heard the first crack, she immediately searched her mind for any memory of Gavin. She knew if she could concentrate on him, she‟d be able to get through what Weathers planned to do to her. For the first several strikes, it worked but as she became weaker and lost more blood, the process of busying her mind became harder and harder until she weakened to the point where she hung in the shackles, no longer able to stand on her own. “Take the bitch down and move her into the other room.” Eden barely heard his words but what did it matter? Gavin Hunt had no clue where she‟d been taken and even if he did, Eden did not want him facing off with Weathers. Thank God I left instructions with Nigel. One of the guards caught her as the other released her from the shackles. He carried her into the other room and stretched her out on a hard surface. If she remembered right, it had to be the damned altar he‟d had built shortly before she‟d moved in. He‟d told her it had come with the house but she knew differently from overhearing a phone call between Weathers and the contractor when he evidently tried to get out of paying the bill. The cold cement chilled her back though it stung where the open wounds touched the firm surface. She tried to look around her seeing the guards lighting candles at both ends of it. When she looked up, she noticed the mirrored ceiling which gave her a clear 132

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure view of what went on around her. Her image made her sick thanks to the bloody brand. Closing her eyes, she cried only she refused to allow any tears to be evident. I will not give him the satisfaction… One of the slaves stepped up to stand next to her and proceeded to straighten her clothes and her hair. “Why?” “Because he wants this,” the girl whispered. “Run…” “We can‟t—you of all people should know that. This is all your fault.” “Is that what he told you?” “Master doesn‟t lie…” “Master has you brainwashed,” Eden said slowly. Just as suddenly as she‟d appeared, the woman disappeared only to be replaced by Rudd Weathers. Looking at him and his self-satisfying face only served to prove to her that her decision to leave him had been right. Now, she wanted him to leave her alone but she knew that would be impossible. No, he has other plans. “Eden, you are the one I pattern all my slaves after. You had perfection and class and always made me look good when we went out. When you embarrassed me in front of my friends, I could not allow you to get away with it and now, I feel we are close to evening the score.” “Close to… Are you serious?” “Your boy toy is on his way here and he has orders to check out the entire house. When he comes in here, he will find his wife and see her for what she really is.” “He has nothing to do with any of this. This war is between you and me.” “Consider him collateral damage. I cannot allow him to live because of you.” “I swear if I get the chance, I will kill you,” she slowly threatened. 133

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden‟s fortitude despite what he‟d already put her through angered him. “You‟ve always been strong and that‟s admirable but this time it will do you no good.” “It doesn‟t matter, Rudd. You will never have me again. You destroyed that when you tried to humiliate me. I would never make a sub do what you expected or what your buddies did. You made me sick then and you still do now.” Rudd Weathers lost his composure, his hands going around her neck. Putting pressure on her, he tried to strangle her but she refused to fight. “Why aren‟t you trying to save your worthless life?” “Because I don‟t care…” she gasped. “You‟re a short, angry, despicable man. I wanted you out of my life and that hasn‟t changed.” Weathers increased the force of his grip. “No slave talks to me that way. I am your Master.” “I haven‟t been that for a long time. The courts became your Master when they issued the restraining order.” “Like that and your boyfriend stops me—not in this lifetime.” “This has always been between you and me.” “But you brought him into this.” “As always, you can‟t be fair.” “You…” Eden closed her eyes and allowed her body to totally relax. She wanted to die and if his anger led to that, then so be it. She thought of the last time someone had wrapped their hands around her neck and inwardly smiled. Only Gavin could nearly strangle her enough for her body to enjoy it and become more aroused. She imagined Gavin bending over her as her mind drifted away. “Gavin…”

134

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure For anyone looking at her, Eden Hunt had died by Rudd Weathers‟ hands. Eden felt at peace though she rued having not seen her husband again. Good-bye, Gavin, we had a hell of a ride… **** Weathers released his grip on Eden‟s neck when one of his slaves announced the approach of a Las Vegas Police Department vehicle. “Make sure she is perfect then leave the room. I want you and the others in the poolhouse and stay away from the windows. You must not be seen by the police officer. Do you understand?” “Yes, Master,” the one said. Weathers nodded at her, this one his longest sub to date, as he watched her leave the room. He, in turn, went into another room to watch what would happen when Hunt did as Garrison had told him to do. “Is the note ready?” he asked one of the men who‟d remained with him. “Yes, sir, it‟s on the door as you wanted.” “Good,” Weathers said. “Now, let the fun begin.” Weathers watched the entire house on several monitors thanks to extremely well-placed hidden cameras. While he watched the rest of the house on them, he‟d be able to see firsthand what went on in the room on the other side of the mirrored wall. He‟d always found it interesting to watch his slaves indulge when they thought he‟d left the house and now, he‟d watch the final moments of Eden‟s boy toy as he discovered his dead wife‟s body. “Lightscamera…action…”

135

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 10 Gavin Hunt found a note waiting for him on the front door of the palatial residence he‟d been sent to check out. Officer, I do not feel comfortable in the house alone. If you will check it out—and please don’t forget the basement—then come down to the poolhouse where I will meet you for your report. Thank you, RW He read it out loud and looked around the entry. “I don‟t like this one bit…” Grateful he‟d worn his leather driving gloves, he slowly pushed the door open and entered the house. Everything he did went against not only his better judgment but his training. I should have backup… “Hello? Las Vegas Police Department—is anyone here?” Seeing nothing wrong on the first and second floors of the house, he headed to the basement door. Pulling his gun wanting some protection, he cautiously went down the staircase to the lowest level of the house. He first checked what he found to be a room used for heavy duty kink as evidenced by the shackles on the floor and the ones hanging from the ceiling and attached to the wall. When he trained his flashlight on the first set, he saw traces of a small blood pool. Feeling lightheaded, he turned away from it and looked in another direction while taking some deep cleansing 136

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure breaths. As he continued his search, the beam caught more dark spots on the floor, Hunt cringing. Walking toward the wall where one set of shackles hung, he discovered more blood on the floor and some splatter on the nearby mirrored wall. I swear to God I will kill him… With the knowledge his wife had been tortured in this room, he pushed himself to check further. Leaving the room, he crossed a small hall to another door. When he opened it, he gasped. Looking over to an altar bathed in candlelight, he saw Eden lying on it. Cautiously crossing the room in case Weathers had left a surprise or two for him, he went to her side. “My God, Eden, what the hell has he done to you?” Seeing the ugly tattoo, his anger intensified. Slowly and gently placing his fingertips on her neck, he checked for a pulse but could not find one. Fearing the worst, he slid his arm under her neck and lifted her head up as he tried to hold her. “No, you swore to me that you wouldn‟t leave me,” he said as he tried once more to find a pulse or some sign of life—even a faint one. “Damn it, you promised!” **** From where he sat, Rudd Weathers enjoyed what happened in front of him. To hear the rookie officer yelling at her pleased him. I’m not the only one she’s disappointed. Leaving the safety of the control room, he entered the one next door to join the fallen couple. “Most women never keep their promises—especially her.” “You seem to have that effect on people,” Hunt said. “Careful, baby cop,” Weathers warned. “Why should I?” “I am a more senior Master and hers. That means you are sworn to obey my wishes despite anything she might have told you.” 137

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “The hell I will,” Gavin Hunt averred as he slowly laid Eden back on the altar before standing to face the man who‟d orchestrated their so-called reunion. “You should have minded your own business.” “Eden is my business. She told me all about you and what you think is fun.” “Subs do as they are told or didn‟t she tell you that you don‟t overstep your bounds?” “She taught me about cruel Masters.” “I suppose she‟s never punished you.” “That‟s not for me to say.” “Perfect slave—protect the bitch at all costs—even if it means your life.” Weathers nodded and two huge men joined them, one taking Hunt‟s service piece. “Take the officer out into the dessert and make sure he doesn‟t make it back.” “Why you…” Hunt began as he made a move toward Weathers. One of the guards grabbed his Taser and used it on him, the jolt rippling through Hunt‟s body before dropping him to the floor. “You know what to do,” Weathers said as they nodded. Picking up Hunt‟s unconscious body, they dragged him from the room. “One down, one to go,” he said as he gazed at Eden Conrad. His first slave rejoined him and set to her task of straightening Eden‟s clothes and her hair. “I hope you and the others now understand what will happen if I find you‟ve been disobedient.” “Yes, we do,” she said. “Two of the newer ones are scared and one wants to run.” “When you‟ve finished here, bring them to me.” “Yes, sir.” 138

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure The woman left, Weathers pleased with her undying loyalty. Over the years since Eden‟s departure, Alice had been perfection. Never had she denied any of his wishes and his friends enjoyed her attention when she gave it to them. Alice truly understood her place in his life and languished in it. At least I’ve found one… His cell phone vibrated, Weathers reading one message—cop taken care of, visitors at the gate. Suddenly, each door to the room burst open followed by heavily armed men. “Freeze, Weathers, you‟re under arrest!” **** Listening to what went on inside the house his brother checked out, Ronan and Nigel shook their heads. If what Gavin said proved true, this place had long been a house of pain and not just for Weathers‟ harem, as he called it. Hearing his brother‟s agony once he found Eden hurt Ronan to his core, his vow of revenge foremost in his mind. The idea that Weathers had ordered his men to take his brother into the desert angered him more but he also knew they had a job to do. At the front of the house, they split into two teams. While Team Bravo followed the trail to find his brother, Team Alpha— which included Nigel Shelton—would go after Weathers and find Eden. Since Nigel knew Eden‟s wishes, he‟d become the perfect person to take care of her while Ronan dealt with Weathers. Bursting into the room, they found Weathers hovering over Eden as if he mourned the death of a close relative. “Freeze, Weathers, you‟re under arrest!” Ronan ordered. “By whose authority?” “The United States Government.” “How can that be? You have no operations in this area so therefore, no investigation.” “That is where your information is wrong,” Ronan Hunt said. “Now, move away from the lady and don‟t try anything stupid.” 139

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “What are the charges?” Weathers asked as he slowly moved away from the altar. “Besides RICO, try attempted murder of a police officer, murder one for the lady, kidnapping, assault—I‟m just beginning.” “My lawyers will have me out of this one in no time.” “Not this time,” Ronan said. “Trust me…” While they talked, one of Hunt‟s team members placed Weathers in cuffs then stepped back. “Where did you have Officer Hunt taken?” “The intruder? He‟s been dealt with though I‟m quite sure you have a team scouring the desert looking for him. Funny, I wished I‟d found him first.” Ronan nodded and the team left the room to assist in the search for his brother while Nigel went to Eden‟s side and quickly assessed her injuries. “What the fuck did you do to her?” Shelton demanded to know. “If it‟s any of your business, I punished her as any errant slave in the history of mankind has been punished. I lashed her until she begged forgiveness.” “You damned near killed her.” “She never begged.” “Get her out of here,” Ronan said. “Your helo just landed.” Nigel nodded and cautiously slipped his arms underneath Eden‟s body. Knowing she‟d survived this relieved him but the healing process would take a long while. “Why do you care about a dead woman?” “Because she‟s getting the last laugh, you bastard. It‟s faint, but she‟s still got a pulse.” Weathers went to move, Ronan stopping him. “Now I know you‟ve got the place booby trapped. How much longer before we all die?” 140

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Go to hell,” Weathers cursed. “By the way, who the fuck are you?” Ronan stood toe-to-toe with his enemy after nodding to the last remaining agent that he could leave. “That cop you‟ve sentenced to the desert is my brother. The two of us do not take kindly to folks who fuck with us or our ladies.” “But the law says you have to take me in. I have witnesses who‟ll state that…” “At this moment, my men are taking every one of your loyal followers into custody. Several of them are already telling my men what they want to know and they haven‟t asked any questions yet. As I said, I know this place is rigged meaning I can leave you here and you‟ll be a victim of your own plans. I can spin a story as well as you can.” “You‟ll never get away with it.” “Try me.” Ronan led Weathers to the other room and shackled him to the wall. Finding the whip he‟d used on Eden, Ronan began lashing Rudd Weathers. “You can‟t be serious!” Weathers screamed. “I am,” Hunt said. “When it‟s all said and done, the story will go that you had one of your slaves obeying your every command but, being inexperienced with a whip, they accidently killed you. The papers will have a field day with this and…” While he told Weathers this, Ronan Hunt systematically lashed the man‟s back, Weathers refusing to give in. “How the hell do you know about this?” Weathers croaked after one lash. “I am a natural sub. Your reputation in our world precedes you. Not all your friends keep their mouths shut and the stories have circulated about what‟s been done for your so-called pleasure. 141

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Now I have one more question before the final strike. How and where is this place rigged?” “Fuck off,” Weathers managed to say seconds before Ronan‟s strike went around his neck. “Like I said—inexperience…” “Bastard…” “Where? You‟ve stalled long enough.” “The moment he lifted her weight off the altar…the place is set to go in five minutes…” Ronan immediately issued orders to any of his men remaining in the house to evacuate without stopping for any reason. Ronan pulled his weapon and shot at a mirrored wall to his right. Glass plummeted to the floor revealing an exit to the terrace. As he turned to run, he heard Weathers beg. “You can‟t leave me here…” “Why not? There will be a lot of people relieved that you‟re gone.” “You‟ll go to jail…” “You keep believing that,” Hunt said as he escaped the room and ran from the house. Relieved that Nigel‟s helicopter had already flown, he made sure none of his men remained in the danger zone. When he‟d accounted for everyone including Weathers‟ people, he grabbed a dirt bike and joined the search for his brother. As he rode away, the house blew up, the force of the explosion shaking the surrounding area. Ronan Hunt kept going without looking back, the search for his brother his primary concern. Several hundred feet away from the main house, he came upon a group of his agents with two men. “Well?” “They refuse to tell us anything because Weathers will kill them if they do.” 142

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Weathers is all but dead. The biggest fear they have right now is of me as I will kill them if they continue to refuse to answer.” As if on cue, the remaining part of the main house on Rudd Weathers‟ expansive desert property blew up due to a secondary explosion—the insurance blast. As debris rained down on them, Ronan glared at the men. “Where is he?” “Out there—staked to a cactus,” one blurted out. “Get them out of my sight!” Ronan ordered. “Fletcher, you and Eames take these two back and process them for attempted murder of a police officer to begin with. I‟ll add additional charges once I‟ve found my brother.” “Yes, sir,” they said before moving off. “The rest of you fan out. Gavin Hunt has been tased once already. I also want a chopper in the air and cross reference the GPS on his cell phone. Maybe we can find him that way.” **** Gavin Hunt had heard what it felt like to be tased but this became the first time he‟d experienced the sensations up close and personal. He felt the charge course through him as his muscles reacted to the abnormal stimulus. Unable to move on his own while the current overran him, he lay on the floor shivering. Weathers ordered the two men to take care of him. As they dragged him from the room, he tried to catch one last look at Eden but even that became another impossibility in his life. My God, I’ve failed you… Unable to fight for his own life, Hunt urged his body to relax—a good idea considering they didn‟t care what he hit as they took him away from the house and into the desert. The setting sun bright, the orange glow bathing the area hurt his eyes. Closing them, he saw nothing but images of what Eden had gone through. I’m so damned sorry… 143

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Knowing his brother and the others had more than likely lost contact with him at some point, Gavin accepted his fate. “How much farther?” “The usual area,” the other answered. “The boss wants him to suffer a slow death.” “What‟s the plan?” “He told me to have some fun with him before we stake him to a cactus and leave him. The cold night air will surely finish him off then the hungry predators. It‟ll be a while before anyone finds him.” Hunt felt sick knowing what Weathers had planned for him. Unless someone had lived in the area for years, very few people outside of the desert understood how low the temperatures dropped at night. With his body already weak from the tasing, he had no hope to survive especially if he had to endure anything more. Before he realized it, they‟d dropped him onto the ground in an area where various species of cacti grew—a good hiding place. “Boss said to have some fun with you, Five-O.” Inwardly, Hunt groaned. How much more am I expected to take? “Check his pockets.” The other man went through his pockets pulling out his cell phone and a few bills. Hunt had left his wallet in the SUV for some reason—something he normally never did. “Not much for a guy living with Eden Conrad. Doesn‟t she give her boy toys an allowance, Five-O?” Hunt ignored them hoping they would just drop his phone somewhere. Hearing it hit the ground a few feet away, he knew that Ronan would at least be able to coordinate the GPS signal and maybe find him before a hungry vulture did. Still unable to move, he tried to send all his strength to listening to what the men might be doing. He soon found out. 144

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure A stronger surge of current raced through his body as they played with the Taser. He could feel his muscles contracting as his body convulsed, the electrical shock rapidly traveling through him. When his body began to settle, the Taser hit him again. Hunt realized this would go on until the charge ran out and made peace with himself. I had a good life… I love you, Eden—please forgive me… As soon as the last charge left the Taser, the man using it threw it aside and the men cuffed their captive to the base of a nearby cactus in order to make sure he couldn‟t escape his fate. As they did, the ground shook. “What the hell…” “The house—it blew up,” the other said. Channeling his remaining strength to his eyes, Gavin Hunt slowly opened them and saw the heavy black smoke rising over where Weather‟s house had once stood. Closing his eyes again, he mourned his wife‟s death and prayed for his. I will find you…

145

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 11 “Air Rescue One to ground command,” the helicopter pilot called. “Go ahead,” Ronan Hunt answered. “Approximately three hundred feet to the right of your position, I‟m picking up a heat source though it‟s fading.” “We‟re on our way. Can you find some place close to land?” “Affirmative,” the pilot answered. “Condition?” “More than likely serious to critical. Your patient has been tased—one time that we are positive about.” “Affirmative.” While he spoke to the pilot, Ronan and his teams made their way in the direction he‟d been given. Moments later, he found his brother hidden in a large grouping of cactus. No wonder Weathers has gotten away with murder all this time… “Gavin?” he said as he reached him. “Gavin?” His brother looked at him with a look of fear in his eyes while one of the team members unlocked the cuffs freeing his hands. “No, no more…” “Gavin, it‟s over,” Ronan reassured him. “I‟m getting you out of here to a hospital.” “Hospital?” “Gav, you‟ve been tased numerous times from the looks of your wrists. We‟ve got to get you treatment before you get sicker.” 146

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “No, you‟re lying to me,” Hunt said as he tried to shy away from those trying to help him. “I know what you want to do to me…” “Gavin, listen to me,” Ronan patiently began. “I‟m not lying to you. Weathers is dead and his guards are being arrested as we speak. I‟m going to take you away from here.” “Ro?” “Yes?” “He killed Eden… The house went up in flames…” “I‟m sorry, Gav… Weathers had the place rigged to blow if anyone dared to go after him.” Gavin looked away, a tear making its way along his cheek as he shivered. Ronan took his jacket off and laid it over his brother to keep him warm. A few moments later, the medical team from Air Rescue One joined them and began to prepare Hunt for transport to Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center. As soon as they moved the stretcher toward the aircraft, Gavin cried out. “Ronan?” “I‟m right here, Gav,” he assured him. “Don‟t let them get me again…” Gavin Hunt begged. “Trust me, I won‟t.” **** Gavin shivered as the evening temperature dropped considerably once the sun disappeared. He had tried several times to free himself from the trunk of the cactus without success. Between the weakness from the constant tasing and the night chill, he‟d lost what strength remained. Silence had been his companion since the ground beneath him rumbled from what the two guys working for Weathers said had been an explosion at the main house. A glimpse of black smoke billowing into the air along with additional tremors told him that 147

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden had to have been caught in it and more than likely had not survived. Recalling the ugly brand on her beautiful skin coupled with his bloody hand when he pulled it out from under her back, he could only imagine what had been done to her. I will kill the monster if I get the chance… Hearing the familiar sound of helicopter rotors as the craft hovered above him, he wanted to sink into the landscape. No way could he take any more of Weathers‟ men‟s abuse. Hiding his face, he did his best to guard against the dust stirred up from the hovering aircraft. Between that and the cold air movement caused by the rotors, Gavin Hunt inwardly prayed to be left alone. Several sets of footsteps approached him, Gavin shying away from them. “Gavin?” a voice said as someone reached him. “Gavin?” His brother looked at him while one of the men with him unlocked the cuffs freeing his hands. “No, no more…” “Gavin, it‟s over,” Ronan reassured him. “I‟m getting you out of here to a hospital.” “Hospital?” “Gav, you‟ve been tased numerous times from the looks of your wrists. We‟ve got to get you treatment before you get sicker.” “No, you‟re lying to me,” Hunt said as he tried to shy away from those trying to help him. “I know what you want to do to me…” “Gavin, listen to me,” Ronan began slowly. “I‟m not lying to you. Weathers is dead and his guards are being arrested as we speak. I‟m going to take you away from here.” “Ro?” While the man trying to comfort him looked like his brother, Hunt couldn‟t be sure. He didn‟t trust anyone, especially after 148

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure earlier in the evening when he‟d met with Weathers. The man’s fucking crazy… “Yes,” the man said. Hearing the helicopter landing nearby, he pulled his hands close to him once they‟d been freed. Looking at the man with him, he feared trusting his mind. What if… When more people approached him, he tried to back away only he felt the very real sting of one of the prickly thorns of the cactus stabbing his neck. Frustration and the definite possibility his mind played tricks on him overtook him as he began to argue again only the man he‟d talked to removed his jacket and laid it over his shivering body to warm him. A sane part of his mind told him that the people surrounding him would help him and not torture him more. Cautiously, they prepared him to be transported to a hospital but when the team moved the stretcher, he couldn‟t see Ronan—Gavin more afraid of his brother not being with him—yet he could hear him. Unsure what went on between those around him, he knew one thing before he closed his eyes—Ronan’s here. The fact Eden had not been there when everyone located him confirmed her death in his mind. As far as things stood with him, those involved in her murder would pay. If, as Ronan had said, Weathers had died, then he would go after Garrison and anyone else having a hand in it. As soon as he‟d taken care of them, he‟d resign from the force and try to decide what to do with his life— one without the only person he needed more than life. **** Eden Hunt lapsed off waiting for Rudd Weathers to finish squeezing the life out of her. Totally relaxed, she refused to give him any satisfaction by fighting him. The end had come and she accepted her fate. If her death kept Gavin alive, that‟d be all she‟d ever ask for. 149

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Sensing that her tormentor had finally left her in peace, she concentrated on Gavin Hunt. With her last tiny bit of strength, she felt her body crave his. I’m so sorry you got caught up in this… The sound of footsteps approaching the altar startled her until she heard Gavin‟s voice then felt him sliding his arm under her neck to lift her up. As hard as she tried, she could no longer will herself to do anything but listen to his anguished cries and inwardly cry with him. “You swore you‟d never leave me,” he cried. “You promised…” I’m sorry but Weathers wielded too much power over me. He knew my weak spots. Then came the confrontation between the man she‟d once loved and the man she‟d married and sworn her life to. Heated, she heard something in Gavin‟s voice realizing she‟d never encountered his anger. Now she listened to him defend her before Weathers ordered his men to take him out into the desert. She heard something that puzzled her until she realized that one of his departmentally issued weapons had been used against him. She‟d never heard the sound of an electric charge fly through the air and prayed he‟d been able to avoid its bite only she knew that hadn‟t been so once she heard him fall to the floor and fight the aftereffects of the attack. Inwardly, she wept. My God, why… After hearing the two huge guards dragging her husband from the room, she sensed someone‟s presence looming over her. Her skin literally crawled when Weathers touched her hand. Please, leave me alone… It’s over… Another person approached the altar though she barely heard the footsteps. When she heard the voice, she knew it had to be Alice, his top slave. More than likely naked, Eden felt relief wash over her when she realized that all his slaves wore nothing meaning 150

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure he‟d taken their clothes and refused to allow them to wear anything so they couldn‟t run. Thank God, I left when I did… It’s because of you… It’s all your fault… Listening to their conversation while Alice straightened her hair and clothes bore out her conclusions, Eden certain that he had his own little cult with him as the total Master. It explained why Roy Gordon‟s body and more than likely