Ink Master Frances Stockton Phalen, a former Army Ranger turned PI and tattoo-shop owner, is a Master waiting for someone to challenge him. Submissive-in-denial Cassie is the perfect partner in lust. Having been out of town for a case, Phalen returned determined to claim his woman and discovers she’s more open to BDSM than he’d hoped. He couldn’t be more turned-on. Then Cassie nervously reveals her submissive twin sister may have been killed by an abusive Dom, who died shortly after. Despite the fact that her family and the cops believe their deaths were murder-suicide, Cassie hires Phalen to find the truth. While he investigates a cold case, their relationship scorches the bedroom and his dungeon. But when his investigation points toward someone close to Cassie, she’s caught in a psychopath’s web of lies. It’ll take all Phalen’s skills to unravel the clues— and save Cassie’s life.
Ellora’s Cave Publishing
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Ink Master ISBN 9781419937071 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Ink Master Copyright © 2011 Frances Stockton Edited by Briana St. James Cover design by Syneca Photography: Stryjek and Arman Zhenikeyer/Shutterstock.com Electronic book publication October 2011 The terms Romantica® and Quickies® are registered trademarks of Ellora’s Cave Publishing. With the exception of quotes used in reviews, this book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.® 1056 Home Avenue, Akron OH 44310-3502. Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. No part of this book may be scanned, uploaded or distributed via the Internet or any other means, electronic or print, without the publisher’s permission. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. (http://www.fbi.gov/ipr/). Please purchase only authorized electronic or print editions and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted material. Your support of the author’s rights is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the author’s imagination and used fictitiously. The publisher and author(s) acknowledge the trademark status and trademark ownership of all trademarks, service marks and word marks mentioned in this book. The publisher does not have any control over, and does not assume any responsibility for, author or third-party Web sites or their content.
INK MASTER Frances Stockton
Dedication To the Orth and Cole families, who’ve been supportive from the moment they read my first story and continue to be my greatest fans, thank you!
Acknowledgements I’d also like send a sincere thank-you to the members of the New England Chapter of RWA for their support and encouragement. Without my chapter, I’d have been lost at sea a long time ago. I cannot forget to send my gratitude and appreciation to tattooist extraordinaire, Katey Davis. She let me interview her for hours and I gained insight into the world of body art I’d not known before. Any errors regarding ink work or body piercings are strictly my own. The safe house for victims of domestic violence and the fundraiser in this book are fictional, but abuse is very real and can happen to women and men equally. There are also many real activists and shelters available. Do not be afraid to get help. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE or National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE. For International support: 0844-8044-999. To the countless advocates for victims of domestic violence, thank you for being their champions. It is because of you that they have a voice and a safe place to call home.
Author Note It’s important to note that while Cassie and Phalen’s story is erotic and romantic fantasy, their decision to engage in BDSM is one they do not make without thorough research, understanding and discussion. I highly recommend the same for anyone who wishes to participate in the lifestyle. There are books, internet sites and support groups throughout the United States and around the globe.
Frances Stockton
Chapter One 5:00 a.m. Book Haven Diner, Salem, MA The first step on my path to submission was acceptance. I’m a professional woman and have responsibilities I’ve worked hard to achieve. There was no way in hell I would willingly submit to a man, much less let him bind me to his will and lead me on a sensual journey few can understand. But that was before I met Master and my body knew before my heart that he was destined to make me fly. Under his domination, I became a powerful woman. Under his control, I flew. And when I accepted his collar, I did so with the power of love… Cassie Williams pushed her glasses back into place on her nose and tucked her sister’s journal into the pocket of her apron. Fiddling with the coffee machine, she poured fresh Columbian beans into the grinder while trying to reason out how a financial adviser on her way to being the CFO for a big-shot corporation could be something totally different in private. Allie had been a submissive in a D/s relationship, something her family kept secret. Even as Cassie filled the water basin, she recognized something in herself. She and Allie may not have been identical twins, but her sister’s prophetic words made her wonder if she’d ever know what it was like to fly beneath the skill of a Dom’s hand. “Morning, sweetheart, saw your car parked out back and thought I’d check in.” Phalen’s Boston accent turned the r in car into an h. Cassie loved his voice. It never failed to make her weak in the knees. Waiting for the coffee to begin brewing, she answered, “Hey, Phalen, been awhile since you walked through my door.” “I’m sorry I was gone so long. Had my brothers keeping an eye on things around here,” he said. “Any chance I can get a mocha latte before the breakfast crew gets in?” In an instant, Cassie’s panties were damp. The smell of Irish Spring tickled her nose. Phalen Maddox was her darkest fantasy come to life. But damn it, her fantasies scared her sometimes. “Sure, it’ll just take me a sec.” Turning around, she found Phalen sitting in his seat at the counter. As always, her heart skipped a beat. Her clit pulsed in recognition of a sexy primal male who could do amazing things with his hands and tongue if they ever got horizontal. Refusing to let him know how much she wanted him, she shoved the glasses up her nose as a show of indifference. Phalen didn’t just sit at the counter. He commanded center stage, even though all he did was offer his gigantic coffee mug and a charming devil-may-care smile.
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Pulling herself together, she went to grab the mug. He caught her wrist first, holding her absolutely still. “What’s going on, babe? You were a million miles away when I walked in. The door wasn’t locked. Not a good idea when you’re here by yourself.” Every nerve ending beneath her skin fired in delight at the way Phalen’s hand wrapped around her wrist. His grip was strong. His fingers were calloused from years of martial arts training in jujitsu, kung fu and judo. Recently, he’d joined the tae kwon do dojo on their block and was mastering that too. There was no force. But to pull back right then wasn’t an option. “Wow, two nicknames in less than a minute,” she said, slowly lifting her eyes from his long fingers to his face. “At least you stopped calling me darlin’.” He called every woman that. Now women who came into the diner frequently asked for the hot blond guy with the scrumptious body and wicked charm. Granted, he was ripped. If there was an ounce of fat on him, she’d eat his Sox cap. “Answer the question,” he insisted. Normally, she’d have thought eyes the color of melted pewter would be cold. No. His gaze made her hot from head to toe. “Nothing’s going on.” “Uh-huh, then you weren’t daydreaming about Donatelli?” Changing his hold on her wrist, Phalen kept his eyes on her. “Ethan told me he saw you getting cozy with him on TV last Sunday.” “This little show of dominance is about Michael? Need I remind you that you and I have never been on a date? Or did you suddenly appoint yourself my Master while you were gallivanting around Fairfax with another woman for more than a month?” “I’m not interested in any woman but you. When you’re ready, I’ll be your Master, Cassandra Williams,” Phalen declared. Already turned-on, she creamed her panties. “You need to stop going out with him. Or I’ll take issue with it.” “What will you do? Tie me up like a pretzel and flog me into orgasm? I don’t think so,” she scoffed, refusing to let him know there was a very real part of her that wanted him to tie her up like a pretzel. “No pretzel twists. No flogger to redden that fine ass of yours, much as you’d like it. I’ll put a chastity belt on you and keep you from coming at all.” “You wouldn’t dare. That’s barbaric.” Phalen squeezed enough to keep her attention, his gray eyes boring into hers, one brow raised. She knew if she simply backed up, he’d release her. Choosing to stay was far more thrilling. “Test me on it, Cassie. See how long I’ll forbid you to fuck if you date him again.” “For your information, I haven’t had sex in so long I’ve forgotten what it feels like. There’s no reason to worry about who I’m dating or not.” “That’s good. I don’t share. When I fuck you, you’ll never go back to your vanilla boyfriends.”
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Did he have to be so damn gorgeous when he said he was going to fuck her? It was difficult enough dealing with a man as confident as he was. Phalen had chiseled movie star looks, extreme height at six foot six, incredible long blond hair which he kept tied in a ponytail, gorgeous eyes a woman could melt into, a strong chin and muscles that screamed former Army Airborne Ranger. She loved when he wore his faded Boston Red Sox cap, it was such a part of him she couldn’t remember the last time she’d seen him without it. That had been more than six months ago, when they’d opened their businesses within the same week. They’d flirted and danced around each other since. Yet they’d never gone on a date or kissed. Phalen had learned how her sister died and backed off so far he’d almost dropped off the planet. “Phalen, if you let go, I can make your latte,” Cassie suggested, letting him decide when to release her. “Promise you won’t see him anymore.” He loosened his fingers, using the edge of his blunt fingernail to smooth the pulse in her wrist. She shook her head. “I can’t promise not to see him. Having a state senator as part of my father’s congregation is a huge deal. My parents and his have known each other forever. Sometimes we cross paths when I go to church. But I’m not dating Michael Donatelli. He’s been dating someone for a couple years anyway. What’s the problem?” Phalen smiled, sending her heartbeat into overdrive when he flashed his pearly whites. It wasn’t that his teeth were perfectly straight that got her. In fact, his canines reminded her of a wolf’s and one incisor was crooked. It didn’t matter. He was sexy as hell. “Thank God I don’t have to pulverize the slimy bastard.” “You believe me?” “Of course,” he answered, releasing her wrist. “I don’t like the guy. His TV commercials drove me bat-shit crazy last November. You know that.” “You think he’s a conservative bore,” Cassie said, reluctantly stepping back. Now that he’d let go, she missed the strength of his hand restraining her. “Donatelli is an asshole. Never said he was a bore. That’s on you.” Phalen was right. Michael was boring. And so damn uptight at times that she’d wanted to ruffle his feathers by telling him who she’d voted for. She didn’t though. Her father would have a cow if she openly admitted she was a Democrat to the right-wing politician. She was twenty-nine, for goodness’ sake. She shouldn’t have to hide what she was from anyone. “Can I get that latte now?” “Sure. My breakfast crew should be coming in soon if you want something to eat.” “I ate already, thank you. Any chance you’d like to come over and pick a tat over lunch?” he asked when she turned away to play barista.
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“I don’t think I’m ready for a tattoo.” She’d been contemplating getting one for months. The pain involved kept her at bay. “Maybe I’ll get one for my birthday in April.” “How about I design something for you?” “That’d be nice.” Cassie loved coffee and books. Miraculously, she’d found this old diner up for sale nine months ago. She’d been saving her money while working at a coffee shop since she was in high school, had sound investments, was gifted with a nice inheritance from her grandparents’ estate and a small-business loan from her parents, which she was still paying off. Her cooks and wait-staff served diner-style dishes while customers read or worked on their computers. There were eight vintage booths, ten tables and a counter that could seat eight in the front. The tables and booths had small music boxes, each connected with a digital jukebox to the right of the counter near the restrooms. Customers had to walk through an archway to get to the store, where she offered magazines, newspapers and gifts such as coffee mugs designed by local artists and jewelry. Since it was in Salem and a few blocks down from historical landmarks around town, it was an attractive destination for breakfast and lunch-crowd tourists. She didn’t serve dinner, deciding when she opened to switch to goodies like soft pretzels and scones until closing time. Coffee, lattes and hot teas were available all day. “Cassie?” Phalen called out again, putting more push to his voice. Loving the way he sounded right then, she looked back. He was still in his seat. His eyes were trained on her hair. “Yes?” “You said maybe about getting ink,” he pointed out. “Not long ago, you said ‘no way in hell’. What’s changed?” “The idea that getting a tattoo from you doesn’t seem so painful anymore.” “The degree of pain changes, depending on where you want the work done. Endorphins kick in to help your body deal with the discomfort, sweetheart. For some, it’s very addictive.” “My answer stays the same. I’m not ready yet.” “For the tat or me?” How was she supposed to answer that? She’d been denying any attraction existed between them at all. When he’d gone to Virginia for more than a month, it felt like he’d taken her heart with him. His brother hadn’t helped by mentioning he’d gone to help a friend he’d gone out with a few months back. Cassie never knew the sharp pain of jealousy until she heard Grace Daniels’ name. “Cassie?” Phalen pushed again, the infliction in his voice undeniable. “For the tattoo,” she answered. Phalen leaned forward. “Where does that leave us, do you think?” 9
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“I don’t know.” “Sure about that? It sure seems like something’s been going on. And I’m damn tired of playing nice.” Standing up, he took off his hat, left it on the seat and walked right around the counter as if he owned it. “Customers are not allowed behind the counter,” she reminded, waving him back to his side of the room. “I’m more than a customer,” he said, coming toward her with the air of a predator. “I can’t make your coffee if you stalk me like that.” Backing up fast, Cassie ended up right against the wall. In two steps he would be on her. She was stunned when he stopped two steps away. “Unbraid your hair,” he told her, his eyes on her face. She felt her mouth gape open. “What?” “Not going to repeat it.” One blond brow rose, the look in his eyes warning her not to defy him. Though he hadn’t crossed into her personal space, Cassie trembled. Not in fear. No. She wasn’t afraid of him. He made no other demands or threats. If she obeyed, what would he do? Easing away from the wall, she whipped the end of her single French braid over her left shoulder. Unsure if she should look away, she lifted one hand to work the little band off the end. He hadn’t told her not to look at him, so she kept her gaze on his face. His eyes grew warmer, a hint of a smile her reward for obeying. Seeing that smile made her a little dizzy and her pussy was dripping wet. Now that she had Phalen’s attention, she worked her fingers through her long, wavy strawberry-blonde tresses that fell to the slope of her back. His smile broadened, flashing his wolfish bite and enhancing his irresistible charm. For the first time, she noticed a paper-thin scar on his strong chin. She hadn’t noticed before because he usually stayed a counter away. “I’ve no idea why I did this,” she admitted, dropping her hands to her sides. “I know why,” Phalen said. “Right now you’re trembling in your shoes, anticipating what I want you to do next.” “That’s crazy. Although it would have been nice to hear more from you than text or phone messages while you’re playing Maddox PI for your girlfriends.” “Missed me that much?” “Yeah, right, like I’d miss your gorgeous ass.” “You like my gorgeous ass, Cassie. Admit it,” he insisted, this time reaching out to take a lock of hair and twist it around his middle and index fingers. “I missed you a little.” Pinching her fingers together to emphasize the little, she let herself look down to admire his attributes and got a bull’s-eye view of his impressive
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erection. Button-fly jeans did nothing to hide the fact that this man was hung like a horse. “You do have some nice assets, Maddox PI.” “In that case, I’ll tell you over dinner why I stayed away so long. Believe me, sweetheart, I wanted to come home to you.” Touched by his admission, she fell a little harder and deeper. Being near Phalen was exciting. She hoped it would always be that way. “Do you mean dinner…tonight?” “Yes. Come here, Cassie,” he urged, luring her in by tugging on her hair just enough to tell her he meant business. “I need to go to work. But I need something from you first.” “My consent to a dinner date?” “I’ll call you later and we’ll set up a time. I’ve got five tats scheduled this morning.” “Don’t I have the right to say yes or no to this date? I have to close tonight. The idea of going out with you while smelling like burnt coffee beans doesn’t appeal to me. How about we go to a movie this weekend?” “We’ll go out this weekend too. If you want to go out tonight, kiss me.” Cassie blinked. She couldn’t have heard him right. “If I agree to kiss you, there’s to be no ropes, chains or pain.” “Deal,” he agreed, waiting. Feeling like she was wading in quicksand, she leaned forward, putting her hands on Phalen’s broad shoulders to find steady ground. He didn’t move an inch, leaving it up to her to make the next move. Cassie understood a date with him would lead to a whole lot more. But she wasn’t worried. Here was a man who took so much onto his shoulders and he could be hers if she only took a leap of faith and kissed him. Sidling a little closer, she swallowed hard as feminine warmth flooded her silk panties. Her clit pulsed, her pussy clutching in need of his cock. “I don’t suppose we can keep things vanilla?” “No. Vanilla doesn’t turn you on.” “How do you know that?” “I know you, Cassie. I know what you want and what you read when you think I’m not looking. I know you’re so wet right now, you’re glad you’re wearing that god-awful apron to hide that you’ve soaked your khakis.” Oh, hell, he was right. Whatever they were doing right now was barely a hint of the relationship she was only beginning to want with him. At last his arms came around her, his warm steel-hard muscles surrounding her in a protective cushion. Inhaling his scent, she rose the few inches she needed to reach his mouth. She was five-ten. She liked being taller than average, but he made her feel soft and feminine and petite.
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Phalen’s head dipped forward, his grip unyielding, but not threatening. His mouth seemed so masculine and kissable to her right then. It was all Cassie could do not to jump his bones. Instead, she savored, wanting to anticipate the moment their lips first touched. Then she was there, her mouth pressed to his. Phalen grinned against her lips and moved his right arm upward to grasp her nape. Using enough force to hold her very still, he mastered her mouth as if he was born to kiss her. Maybe he was. Cassie wasn’t sure. All she knew was the firmness of his hand at her nape, the thrust of his tongue between her teeth and the power she felt welling up deep inside her. Closing her eyes, she couldn’t imagine being anywhere else but right here with him. No man had ever made her tremble with need from a kiss alone. Phalen Maddox wasn’t an ordinary man. She was scared to death that he’d break her. But she’d take the pain just to have this moment for as long as humanly possible. French-kissing him was as natural as breathing. He tasted like cinnamon toothpaste, smelled like Irish Spring soap and basic shampoo. The cowbell clunking over the door brought her crashing back to earth. “Holy shit, you two finally decide to jump each other and I walk in. Sorry,” her daytime cook Bob Johnson grumbled. Expecting Phalen to step back, Cassie opened her eyes. Rather than shove backward, he smoothed his hand down the length of her hair, slowly withdrawing his tongue and brushing his lips back and forth over hers. “Good girl,” he whispered. His praise delighted her. Cassie grinned, her heart racing like she’d run from Salem to Danvers and back again twice. At last, Phalen went back to the other side to the counter. Cassie combed her fingers through her unbraided hair to make it more presentable. Before customers came in, she’d have to put it back into a ponytail. It wouldn’t be good for business if people got strawberry-blonde hair in their lattes. “We shouldn’t have given you a reason to apologize,” Cassie said to Bob. “We…uh…haven’t seen each other in a while.” “Glad you’re back, Maddox. She’s been moping around this place for the better part of a month,” Bob remarked. “I aim to change that,” Phalen replied to Bob, annoying the hell out of her. “Hey, gentlemen, I’m right here.” Cassie went back to her barista station. During the day, if she wasn’t in the back working the book section, she made specialty coffees. After lunch another barista came in to work while Cassie handled the business end of Book Haven Diner. She thought back to Allie’s journal in her effort to understand the relationship her sister had been in before she’d died. Maybe it was time to delve further and ask the big questions. If Allie loved Jeff enough to submit to him, what made him snap? How could he have turned from Dom to abuser if he loved her?
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If Phalen ever so much as lifted a hand to Cassie in anger, she’d kick him in the balls so hard he’d sing soprano for a month! “Cassie, what are you thinking about so much this morning?” Phalen said when Bob went back to the kitchen. Cassie really wanted to tell him. If she did, she’d betray family loyalty. Wouldn’t she? Then again, Phalen was a friend. He knew a hell of a lot more than she did about D/s relationships. She could use his advice. “Can we talk about it later?” she asked, inclining her head to the window where Bob would lay up the breakfast specials. “Whisper it. Tell me.” Cassie rinsed the big plastic mug in hot water and began making his mocha latte. “How often does abuse happen in BDSM?” Listening to the sounds of the machine to keep calm, she waited for Phalen to say something. “What the fuck, Cassie? Do you think I’m going to beat you?” Steaming the milk, she waited until it was frothy enough to pour into the mug, then made his latte the way he liked it, with a double shot of espresso. “Keep your voice down. No, that’s not why I’m asking.” “Forget the damn coffee. Explain.” She heard the squeak of a barstool over the whir of a mixer. Phalen was probably leaning forward with his elbows on the counter. He’d put on his PI hat. She was certain of it. “Well, you know how Alessandra died,” she whispered, finally turning around with his mug in hand. “Yes, at the hands of some twisted fuck. I’m not much of a churchgoer, but I’m damn glad your daddy preaches against domestic violence.” “The twisted fuck was a Dom who’d collared my sister,” she admitted, watching Phalen back up like she’d slapped him. “My father preaches against more than violence. He’s convinced BDSM is dangerous.” “In the wrong hands, it is. Why didn’t you tell me before now?” “The truth of how Allie died is a family secret. I’ve toed the line because it was my fault she died.” Slamming the mug to the counter in front of him, she watched coffee slosh over to stain a clean white paper placemat. “How the hell do you figure that?” “I told her to go with him,” Cassie murmured, lowering her eyes. She couldn’t look at Phalen’s gorgeous face and not want to cry. Guilt had plagued her for five years and she’d buried her desires behind a façade of vanilla boyfriends to appease her parents. “Am I going to have to vault this counter to get more out of you?” She heard him standing up and knew darn well he was about to take control of the situation if she didn’t answer. “Allie and I talked, a lot. Learning she was a sub was a bit of a shock. I was concerned, but intrigued. She had marks and my parents flipped. My brothers 13
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threatened to hunt Jeff down. I almost decked him. But she assured me that she was proud of her marks. He promised me he’d take care of her. I believed them,” she explained, shaking all over. “So I championed Jeff by urging Allie to follow her heart and not date Michael Donatelli,” she added. “He would have stifled her. Allie deserved happiness with the man she loved.” “You agree to see Donatelli at church to please your parents now,” he deduced. “Yes. There’s so much history between our families. Michael has been around Allie and me for as long as I can remember, but I can’t date him. It’d be like going out with my brother, major ick factor, you know?” “Yes, I know what you mean.” “Maybe if she’d left Jeff, she’d be alive today. Something must have gone wrong during a scene and he snapped. Investigators said ropes were tied to the bed and evidence that she’d recently had unprotected sex. DNA matched Jeff’s. There were no ligature marks to show she fought the restraint or had been tied at all. The ME concluded her death was a result of being choked during a sexual act.” “Damn, I wish I’d known before now,” Phalen said, looking horrified and as sad as Cassie had been since Allie was found. “Fuck, no wonder you’re afraid of me.” Cassie shook her head. “I’m not afraid of you, Phalen Maddox. Not by a long shot.” “Then you know what I want from you?” Hearing the Dom in his voice, Cassie trembled, inclining her head further as her mind swirled with possibilities of what lay ahead of them. “Submission,” she answered, so softly she wasn’t certain words actually came out. She heard the staccato of combat boots coming toward her. Thinking it best to wait for him to make the next move, she was rewarded by the touch of his finger beneath her chin. Gently he lifted her face. His pewter gaze was warm with affection as he removed her glasses and set them aside. Astigmatism made everything a little blurry. Yet she didn’t need to see perfectly to recognize compassion. “It wasn’t your fault, Cassie. It was Alessandra’s choice to go with him. You need to know right now there are a lot of practices in D/s I’d never subject you to, choking topping the list. A Dom who abuses the trust of a sub or doesn’t know what the fuck they’re doing pisses me off. Now tell me what prison this fucker is in so I can kick his sorry ass.” “There’s no prison,” she answered. “He’s out there somewhere? Hell, get me any police records from the case. I’ll find the bastard myself.” “No need to play Maddox PI. He disappeared the night Allie died and was found dead six weeks later, apparent suicide. He was buried in a small cemetery in Vermont.” For reasons she didn’t understand, Cassie gave in to tears.
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She hadn’t cried for months now. She thought she’d finally gotten over Allie’s and Jeff’s deaths. Obviously she hadn’t, but having Phalen take her into his arms and let her cry on his shoulders was the answer to her prayers. Phalen wanted to hit something. The nearest wall would do. Rather than give in to his temper, he cuddled with Cassie. He’d never been the cuddly type. That didn’t matter. What mattered was his woman was hurting. Worse, she’d been hurting for five years and no one had tried to ease her pain. Gathering her close regardless of the cook nearby, he nuzzled his nose into her long silky hair to breathe her in. She smelled like early-morning sunshine in spring. Fuck, since when did he think like a poet? Not that he’d let her go anytime soon. When she was ready, he would. Until then, he’d hold her for as long as she needed and tell the breakfast crew due in to fuck off if they interrupted. “Phalen, I need to get to work,” she murmured into his shoulder. Smelling the salt of her tears, he tightened his arms a fraction more. “Work can wait, sweetheart.” It killed him when a woman cried. Every damn time, it felt like a sucker punch to his balls. But Cassie’s tears were as painful as the grenade that nearly cost him his life. “I’m okay, really,” she insisted. “I’m not okay,” he admitted into her ear. “You should have told me a long time ago.” “Maybe so. It wasn’t until you were gone that I started to look into what happened to Allie and Jeff.” “Sorry I wasn’t here to help.” He apologized to no one, usually. “What about your friend in Virginia, is she okay now?” Damn, he’d have to explain Grace sooner or later. “Grace is a PI. She’s not my girlfriend. I didn’t stay for her. I’ll explain later, okay?” Cassie leaned back, tossing her head a little to flick some strands of hair from her damp cheek. “Grace is special to you.” “Yes, she is. You’re going to like her.” “Ethan told me you went out with her,” she remarked, her lips tightening to hide her jealousy. “Once, nothing came of it. Don’t be jealous, okay?” “I’m not jealous,” she denied, shaking her head. Phalen grinned. He’d caught her. His little preacher’s daughter was lying to save her pretty ass from the spanking he’d give her if she kept it up. “Don’t lie.”
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Cassie’s big hazel eyes widened. Her reddish-blonde hair framed her pretty wholesome face. He loved her hair. He’d imagined having it wrapped around his dick and swishing over his balls so many times when he jacked off, he’d lost count. Her high cheekbones were streaked hot pink. Tiny freckles dotted her cheeks and nose. There weren’t many, but they were cute as hell. She was girl next door pretty, with a fresh wholesomeness about her that called to his need to dominate and protect her. Before meeting Cassie, he’d favored bombshell blondes who wore clothing that showed off their assets. Cassie usually wore khakis or jeans. He’d yet to see her in a dress, but imagined seeing her in leather or nothing at all. She was a preacher’s kid. Not just any preacher either. Her daddy was a nondenominational televangelist, originally from Maine. By all accounts, he should keep away from Cassandra Williams. He wouldn’t, though. Phalen was going to train her and claim her as his own. “I’m sorry. I’m not sure if I can be what you want yet,” she admitted. “You’re everything I want.” Her lids lowered. Her flush increased. Still holding her close, he shifted to open his aviator jacket and pulled her right in. Her heartbeat was tripping madly against his chest. Guessing she was a C-cup, he liked the press of her round breasts against him. Her slightly curvy hips and fantastic ass were perfect for him to hold when he fucked her. “I date nice guys,” she said against his throat, maybe to test him. From the kitchen he could hear Bob banging pots. “I’m a nice guy. Hell, I’m Army trained. I clean up real nice when I’ve a mind to.” “I bet you looked hot in a uniform.” Her admission surprised him. This morning she complimented him. He’d let her off the hook for the look she’d given him when she’d checked out his cock without permission. She likely didn’t know she’d licked her lips. She’d been that hungry for it. Good thing he planned to give it to her soon. He was hungry too. “I like to make love, you know?” “I’ll make love to you plenty. Don’t worry so much. We’ll do this dance as slow as you need, babe,” he promised, warning himself to be patient. “Thanks,” she said, smiling softly. Her mouth curved temptingly, accenting the fullness of her lower lip. Damn, he wanted to fuck that mouth as much as he wanted to strap her into a swing and fuck her while she could do nothing but submit. “Work, remember? We both have schedules to keep.” “Yep, much as I’d rather stay here,” he said, reluctantly dropping his arms. “I’ve got some prep work to do before my first customer comes in.” “Are either of your brothers coming by today?” Cassie asked.
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“Taran’s studying for the bar exam. I doubt I’ll see him for a couple days. Ethan might this afternoon, why?” “Tell Ethan I said to mind his own business when it comes to who I sit with in church.” “Not going to happen, Cassie. I asked Ethan to keep an eye on you while I was gone. He’s a cop. I trust him with what’s mine.” Cassie backed up about a foot. “I’m not yours yet.” Reaching out to grab her wrist before she ran into the coffee machine, he brought her hand to his mouth. Kissing the back of her knuckles, he locked eyes with her. “Yes. You. Are.” “Go to work, Phalen. Or so help me, I’ll tie you up and redden your scrumptious ass.” “Unless you’re negotiating a scene, never challenge your Master.” “Yes Sir,” she said with a little salute. “Master,” he corrected. “Remember that.” “I’d think an ex-Army Ranger would prefer Sir.” Phalen shook his head, gesturing to the 101st Airborne Division eagle insignia on his shoulder and the patch on his back. “I was air assault. There will always be a Special Ops soldier in me, no matter the amount of metal I have in my skeleton that keeps me out of the line of duty. But in the bedroom, that’s the last thing I’ll be thinking about when we’re fucking.” Cassie’s face lit up like a kid who’d heard an ice-cream truck coming. “What about your dungeon?” she whispered with a spaced-out look in her eyes. Right then, her mind was racing with possibilities of what he’d do when he took her to his dungeon. “When I take you down there, you’ll soon be flying so high you won’t be worrying about anything.” The cowbell clanked at the front door. Two waitresses walked in, rushing to the back. Taking his cue to exit, he dropped Cassie’s hand, grabbed her glasses and placed them on her nose. Going to get his mug and his Sox cap, he stopped. “I’ll call later. I want to hear more about Allie, okay? Trust me and tell me everything.” Cassie nodded. He felt her eyes on his back as he headed out the door.
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Chapter Two As in any relationship, communication is the key. If Master did not admit his desires, how could I submit to them? Master frequently makes me repeat my safe word before we begin. He checks his harnesses and tools, shows me how they work, what they will do. He does this to make sure I feel safe. Then we lay out the ground rules. Never stray from the rules. If I hesitate at something, he knows to be patient. There’s never a demand, though discipline is possible if I test him. And there’s frequently a test. Sometimes I want to be disciplined. When I feel the first sting of his lash or hear the click of metal cuffs, I know he will launch me to the heavens. Don’t ask me to describe flying. It’s as impossible as counting the stars in our galaxy. After the flight, Master is always there, carrying me safely back to earth, taking care of me and loving me. It was after one of these flights that I decided to buy every romance book I could find. Once my keeper shelf was full, I realized something was missing. Mine. My books were missing. In his wisdom, Master bought me a new laptop, purposefully keeping the software simple and free of corporate hell. He told me to put my heart onto the page. I followed his wish and began to write… “Oh god, Allie, you should have been a writer,” Cassie said, choking back her tears. “Who am I kidding? You were a writer.” Putting the journal aside, she rummaged through the big computer paper box Officer Adams in Vermont sent her two weeks ago. The box was filled with completed manuscripts and a legal document turning the contents over to Cassie if something ever happened to Allie. Cassie wasn’t sure why Allie thought something might happen to her. But it had been a surprising gift to read her sister’s books. And Cassie wasn’t even close to finishing them all. Then she’d found the journal, which opened her eyes to so much more than romance novels. The phone at her desk rang. She set aside the journal and grabbed it, expecting Phalen. “Hey, Phalen, is it lunchtime already?” “Pardon?” a man asked. “Have I reached Book Haven Diner?” “Yes, yes,” Cassie assured. “Sorry, I was expecting a friend to call. Who may I ask is calling?” “Officer Adams. I’m trying to reach Cassandra Williams.” “Speaking,” she answered quickly, sitting up in case she’d been slouching. “Thank you so much for sending Alessandra’s box.”
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“That’s sort of why I’m calling, Ms. Williams. I’ve come across a trunk of Jeff Swanson’s belongings. I don’t know what else to do with it other than to either trash it or send it to you.” “What about his mother?” Cassie suggested. “It’s my understanding she’s in an assisted-living facility in New Hampshire.” Jeff’s father had developed signs of Alzheimer’s before his son was found in Vermont. His wife had taken care of him until she had to bury him too. “My partner contacted Mrs. Swanson first. Unfortunately, she passed away a year ago.” “That’s so sad,” she murmured, truly sorry for the Swanson family. “Please, Officer Adams, you can send the trunk to the address I gave you for Alessandra’s things.” “I’ll have it shipped right away.” “I can pay for the shipping.” “That won’t be necessary. The trunk’s been in storage and our precinct has been cleaning out things we don’t need.” “Well, I appreciate your willingness to contact me. Thank you for not destroying it.” “You’re welcome. Would you let me know when it arrives?” “Yes, I will.” Cassie listened to his pleasant goodbye, said the same and hung up. Staring at the phone, she wondered if she was opening a can of worms by accepting something that belonged to the man responsible for Alessandra’s death. Her parents wouldn’t be happy. Her two brothers would flip. Markus was currently in charge of a teaching facility in Nairobi for a Christian missionary organization and Stephan was probably following some breaking news to report. But this wasn’t about them anymore. It was about two people Cassie believed loved each other. The only person she knew who could help her find the answers was Phalen Maddox. He was a PI. He had resources and his brother was a cop. Just thinking about Phalen made her heart race like she’d run the Boston Marathon. Maybe she’d surprise him by taking lunch over to him. She looked out at the bookstore. A few patrons milled about, average for the time of day. Sylvia, the cashier, was swiping someone’s credit card. Breakfast was long over and the diner was running smoothly. No one would miss her for a little bit. Heading to the ladies’ room, Cassie went in to wash her hands and check her makeup. She didn’t wear a lot of it. Her complexion was fair and she liked to cover her freckles with a light dusting of compact powder and blush. She used a combination of brown- and green-toned eye shadow to accentuate the color of her eyes, mascara and a light-pink lip all-day tint for her lips. Unlike Allie, Cassie didn’t have the greatest sense of fashion style, having a preference for jeans. She did wear dresses at church or when she went out to some 19
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social gathering with her family. Maybe she’d go shopping and change her hairstyle or buy some cocktail dresses or something a little sexier. Shopping hadn’t always been something she liked. Setting up her business took an extraordinary amount of time. Six months into it, she thought it was high time she pampered herself for a change. She’d call a salon tomorrow. Today, she was going to visit Phalen. He’d said they’d go out later. That was hours away. “Sylvia, I’m running next door,” Cassie called out when she left the bathroom. “No problem, Cassie,” Sylvia said. “Say hi to your man for me.” “He’s not mine,” she objected. “That’s not what Bob told us,” Sylvia teased, chuckling. Turning back before reaching the front door, she marched back to the kitchen, grabbed up a take-out container, loaded it with hot steak fries and dribbled brown gravy over the top. Phalen’s favorite. She was on her way out when she realized she still wore her blue barista apron over her white blouse. Juggling the container, she whipped off the apron and tossed it on a coat rack near the door. Outside, early spring was in the air. The sun was high. Birds were chirping. The hum of activity could be heard down the lane of the small square of four businesses centralized by a parking lot for easy access from Salem Commons and the popular witch attractions and museums. The lot was filled with cars. There were spaces in the back of each building. Book Haven Diner looked like a vintage establishment with its aluminum siding. Next door, psychic Morgan Everhart’s shop had once been a quaint antique store. Cassie had laughed when her friend foretold Phalen’s importance to her life. But darned if Morgan hadn’t been right, which was more than a little scary. The largest building, painted dark brown and made to look like a house dating back to the historical witch hysteria era in Salem, was actually a fitness center and dojo. Phalen worked out there a lot. But that wasn’t where Cassie was going. She was heading for the tattoo salon called Ink Master. With its brownstone exterior, the salon looked approachable and inviting. There were dozens of tattoo shops in the area. This one was different. It had masculinity, character and charisma. Ink Master was carved into a wooden sign above the door. The Celtic lettering was painted green. A large Audi A6 sedan was parked in front. Phalen’s big Lincoln Navigator was probably parked in the back. Cassie walked by a bicycle secured to a bike stand. She guessed it belonged to the counter boy Phalen hired to handle potential clients and appointments. Stepping inside, she quickly discovered the counter at the front of the salon was empty. The oak counter had once been a bar in a Boston pub that had been torn down in the name of progress. “Hello, Brandon?” she called out for the college kid.
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Alternative rock was piped through a state-of-the-art sound system, vibrating through the spotless cherrywood floor, shaking the posters of musicians and tattoo designs. There were three authentic autographed guitars hanging on the wall. A beat-up drum set was up on a dais near the picture window at the front of the shop. The scratches and marks on the bass drum and cymbals were a testament to years of use. She’d learned that the Maddox boys had once formed a rock band in high school, with Phalen playing the drums. Rumor had it that they still liked to jam in the basement of their Boston brownstone. Cassie loved knowing she had something in common with Phalen. She played bass for a college band. The band was long defunct, but her taste in music was similar to his. It had been weeks since she ventured into Phalen’s territory. But the scent of ink and metallic smell of a recently used tattoo machine drew her right in. There were three red leather tattoo chairs situated about the room, with dividers, instruments and mirrors that reminded her of a beauty salon with a hard-rock motif. In the central part of the main floor, Phalen’s station was the largest with a barber chair and some other weird contraptions she wasn’t sure could be called chairs. The display of tattoos hanging on corkboards had been drawn by his hand. His brothers helped him out when he played PI. Their work stations were on either side of the room. Farther back, there was a gigantic table and supplies for body piercing. Cassie wondered what it would be like to have something other than her earlobes pieced. She remembered when she was thirteen and had gone with Allie to get them done. The sharp bite of the needle piercing her lobe had hurt like hell. But the rush of heat that followed healed the sting. She wondered whether she’d try getting her bellybutton pierced. Getting her nipples pierced was out of the question. Phalen didn’t do piercings. A woman named Sharon Nichols came in twice a week and did the work. “Yeah, Kate, I hear you about class. I can’t wait for spring break. Vegas instead of Florida? I’m so there,” she heard from back in Phalen’s office area. The office doubled as the autoclave room and storage. It was also where Phalen put on his PI hat whenever necessary. It sounded like the counter boy was talking to his girlfriend while monitoring the autoclaves. Not wanting to interrupt, Cassie saw the basement door was cracked open. Phalen’s baritone came from below. Did she dare go there? More than supplies resided down there. Phalen didn’t name his shop Ink Master simply because he was skilled at body art. Venturing downstairs was a dangerous step. If she took it, she doubted she’d ever go back to her safe vanilla dates. She wasn’t sure she was even allowed down there yet. But punishment was a risk she was willing to take if it meant she could catch a glimpse of Phalen’s world. Creeping to the door, she listened for Brandon, heard he was getting hot and heavy with his girl and made her choice.
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A black metal staircase spun down into eerie amber light. Cassie walked through the archway, closing the door behind her. Low-level lighting helped her eyes adjust quickly. Clutching the fries closer, she took the plunge, finding herself standing on an aged cobblestone floor. The stones were crooked, keeping her off balance as she walked the hallway. Four doors lined the hall, two on each side. A fifth, the scariest, was all the way down at the end. The amber glow came from old gaslights converted to modern electricity. Drawn forward on legs that suddenly turned to jelly, she couldn’t look away from the fifth door. It was made of solid dark wood and belonged in some medieval castle. Phalen’s dungeon was behind that door. She sensed it as surely as she knew her own name. Excited despite the fact that she should be scared to death, she came up short before reaching out for the heavy metal knocker. She was about to announce herself when something sharp cracked the sound barrier, echoing through the basement. It happened again, this time faster. Whack, snap, pop, it sounded like a whip striking a balloon. Phalen spoke. His sexy Bostonian baritone drew her toward it. Forgetting the dungeon, she switched direction. The whip fractured another balloon. It’d come from the door to her right. What she heard as she slowly edged closer were two men! “Show me again.” The other man’s voice was equally male and nearly as sexy, with a uniqueness of his own. They seemed oblivious to Cassie being near and she wedged open the door a fraction. Ohmigod, there he was. Phalen, wearing a long-sleeved hooded black coat, stood in the center of the room wielding a bullwhip! She couldn’t see the other guy from where she stood. Phalen turned, his coat parting to reveal he’d strapped on black leather chaps over his button-fly jeans and wore combat boots. His generous bulge was emphasized in blue and framed by leather. He stalled for a second, turning his head slightly to the left, then sent the lash flying. In a flash and snap, the tail popped another balloon on the wall. “Remember, Alex, if you give whips to him, make sure he practices on something other than you. Balloons, blowup dolls, pillows, anything other than your flesh. You hear me?” Alex Grant. His friend from college who handled the careers of superstar athletes was learning about whips? “No worries,” Alex purred smoothly. That was what was unique about his voice. He purred when he spoke. It was so subtle and cultured it was almost magical. Women would love it. But if she’d heard correctly, he was gay. 22
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“I’m serious, bro,” Phalen warned. “I don’t give a damn if you’re willing to be his bottom. If he leaves even one scar, I will hunt the surgeon down and tan his ass until he can’t sit for a month.” “I plan on topping him too.” Alex’s tone dipped lower, the purr almost overcome by what could be a Southern accent. “Doc knows what he’s doing. No need to get all macho on my behalf.” “He’d better.” “Would you look at that? This protectiveness of yours is making me hard. It’s a damn shame we never gave in to each other in college. There was a time when I loved you.” “Yeah, I know. As much as I’d been tempted to go bi for you back then, I couldn’t. Plus, if I touched you now, Cassie would be hurt.” Holy cow! Thoughts ping-ponged through her mind so fast she felt dizzy. “Fortunately for you, I don’t fuck around on my man.” “And I won’t fuck around on my woman,” Phalen said. Cassie closed her eyes, suddenly, inexplicably turned-on. Whether it was two men playing with whips or Phalen wearing Dom gear, she didn’t know. But there was no denying she’d soaked her khakis again! Visions of the men in college, their hormones raging and testing their sexual preferences, swirled in her mind’s eye. She didn’t know what Alex Grant looked like. Curiosity got the better of her. She eased the door open a little farther. Phalen’s strike hid the squeaky hinge. The darn thing needed oil. Then she saw Alex Grant standing beside a weight bench a good bit away from the biting end of that whip. Incredibly good-looking with short blond hair, he could be a model if he wanted. She almost cried for the women who’d never get a chance to appreciate the significant erection tenting his expensive charcoal trousers. Everything about him screamed power, money and influence, even his pale-gray shirt, tie and shoes looked expensive. Phalen snapped the bullwhip again, bringing her attention off Alex’s fly. Another balloon popped. Cassie came on the spot. “Come here, Alex.” Phalen beckoned his friend with one finger. His voice went deeper, like he’d sounded when he told her to unbraid her hair. “Take a balloon and hold it out. Stand right there.” He gestured for Alex to stand near the wall. He smacked the handle of the bullwhip into his left palm. Alex jumped. Judging from the way his erection got significantly larger, he liked it. Cassie liked it too. Phalen let the tail fly toward the red balloon. Crazily, the biting end of the whip encircled the balloon, but it didn’t pop. “When he gets good, Doc can capture your wrist or waist with it,” Phalen was saying. “Just don’t let him use it too close to your jewels. And don’t laugh when he 23
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whips himself with the damn thing. He will, even if he’s wearing leathers. Trust me. Eventually they’ll become badges of honor.” “Doc Hathaway wielding a whip to my ass is far more appealing than laughing at him. Although I think I’ll have him start with the floggers.” “Experience. That’s what counts. Work your way up to the bullwhip. Promise me, okay?” “Need I remind you that you’re not the only Dom in the world?” “No. This Dom is one of your best friends,” Phalen reminded, lowering his hand. “Send him to me for training if you need to. It’s what I do to keep Dominants from acting like tools or damaging their subs.” Huh, that was a surprise. She’d thought submissives had to be trained. Alex lifted his eyes and met Cassie’s gaze head-on. Drawing back, she collided with the door. “Someone’s been spying on us, Phalen.” Uh-oh, she was in serious trouble. She tried to backpedal out of harm’s way. She made it halfway down the hall. “Cassandra!” Phalen’s command to stay wasn’t spoken. She stilled in her tracks, waiting for his command. Alex and Phalen came out of the room. Unsure what she was supposed to do, she stood there. Phalen stayed at the door. His hooded coat made him look enormous. He shifted, crossing his arms. Cassie lowered her gaze to the floor. She heard him whisper to Alex. Alex walked up to her. “You must be Cassie from next door. It’s nice to finally meet you. Don’t be scared. No Dom handles a sub better than he does.” “Um, I hope so,” she answered, totally unable to look at him. “One thing,” he warned. “If you hurt him, you’ll answer to me.” “I’d never hurt him.” “Alex,” Phalen barked. “No one comes down here.” “No problem,” Alex agreed. “Take the fries with you. Don’t let Brandon eat them. I’m hungry.” Cassie let Alex confiscate the take-out box from her shaking hands. He moved on, the sound of his feet climbing twisted metal stairs making her tremble. The door above slammed shut, locking her in the basement with a seriously pissed-off Dom. “I…I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to interrupt your scene,” she whispered. “I’ll go back to work now.” He inclined his head to the door. “Get in here.” Three simple words were all she needed to break free of the trance she’d been in. Bravely, she walked toward him, knowing the closer she got, the farther she was from her safety zone. She had to walk past him to cross into the room. Very aware of every breath in her chest and every heartbeat, she waited. The door closed behind her with a secure click. 24
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Cassie saw the weight bench. Beside it were dumbbells, lifting bars and stacks of weights of various sizes. No fancy machines for Phalen Maddox. He was pure solid muscle as a result of those weights. She bet he could drop and give her fifty pushups with ease. There were a few balloons taped to the wall. Fragments of red latex littered the cobblestone floor. Exercise mats were piled in one corner of the big room. It was a room fitting for a basement. There were no spanking benches, crosses, chains or anything threatening other than the array of whips hanging from a wall. Cassie snapped to attention when Phalen came up behind her and plucked the pencil from the knot of hair at her nape. A cascade of reddish-gold fell in front of her eyes. Now she was really in trouble. He hadn’t told her she could fix her hair after he’d left earlier. “Did you try to go into my dungeon, Cassie?” “Almost. I didn’t because I heard you,” she admitted, wanting to shake her hair out of her face. “Good girl. It’s locked to you. You’re not to go in there without my permission.” “I won’t.” She smoothed her hair back with her hand. “Can I ask you something?” “Yes.” “Did I hear you right? You train Doms?” “And Dominas, yes. Not going to lie to you, Cassie. There are dangerous bondage and BDSM practices they need to learn how to do safely. And I’m not going to stop because we’re about to be lovers,” he went on, sending her off balance. “I understand,” she said, not sure she liked the idea that he might turn the lessons sexual. “Do you? You’re wound up tighter than a bowstring right now.” He grumbled something beneath his breath. “These lessons sound very intriguing, but I wonder how easy it would be to get carried away with a client,” she said, hoping she didn’t offend him. “If I understood more or what’s expected of me, perhaps I wouldn’t be so wound up.” “My clients bring their subs with them during their training. I do not have sex with submissives, nor will I share you with other Doms. There’s a shitload of trust and power exchanging between them and there’s no way in hell a sub’s going to get hurt on my watch. When I’ve trained you, I will take you into my dungeon and you’ll submit to me. Yes?” She recognized that he’d given her a choice. “Yes. I’m sorry I intruded. I said that…I know. I wanted to bring you lunch.” “That was nice of you.” “You should eat your fries before they get cold. You might need the microwave as it is. Can I go now?”
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“No.” For a minute he was silent. Music was playing overhead. She was far more in tune with Phalen’s breathing. Wickedly turned-on, she could barely guess what he was thinking or doing. There was a shuffle and two heavy thumps behind her. Combat boots hit the stones. A swish of leather followed. A shadow went by. In front of her, she saw his coat fall to the floor in a pool of black. Chaps joined the cloak. There was more rustling…oh boy. “I hate those clothes on you,” Phalen said. “They’re necessary for work.” “You’re too pretty to hide in khakis and simple blouses all the time. You have incredible legs and a damn fine ass. If I buy corsets, leather, PVC and lingerie for you, will you wear them?” Surprised, she nodded. “For you, yes. Not at work or around my parents, though.” “What about contacts?” he asked, another shuffle following. “I’ve astigmatism. I’ve tried them and wasn’t comfortable.” “Fair enough.” How weird, how very weird they’d negotiated about contacts and clothing. Yet he could have been spouting love poems for all the tiny little flip-flops her tummy was doing. She jumped when his fingers speared into her hair. He spun her around, keeping her far enough away that she could see what she’d been longing for since she walked down the steps. No, longer. More like six months. Where’d his shirt go? For that matter, where’d his jeans go? He was naked, gorgeous, devastatingly male and all hers. “Oh god…” she sighed, wanting to plaster herself against his splendid torso. Tears welled in her eyes when she saw the ragged scar zigzagging along his left shoulder joint. Another went up his forearm. It was hidden well by the Celtic scrollwork surrounding it. Twin burns scarred his rock-hard abs. They didn’t change the fact that he was positively ripped! The definition of his muscle was a testimony of the daily workouts he put himself through. An Airborne tattoo was on his hairless chest near his heart. Green Celtic bands circled his sculpted biceps. He wasn’t big like a bodybuilder or bulky. He reminded her of an action movie hero who’d been trained to kill with his bare hands. His eight-pack was a kiss magnet. Even his bellybutton was sexy. Cassie wanted to nibble at it before running her tongue down the blond hair that arrowed down to his groin. Not ready to look directly at his substantial erection, even though she was extremely aware of it, she switched her gaze back to his face. Gone from him now was the Red Sox cap he loved so much. He’d left his hair hanging loose.
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No man had the right to have hair that beautiful! Women spent hundreds of dollars on chemicals and extensions to achieve the honey-blond color. His shoulders rivaled Gibraltar for size and strength. Silence ended with his quiet spoken, “You want my cock, Cassie?” Cassie lowered her eyes. Hoping his legs were as incredible as his upper body, she felt her mouth drop open. Oh lord help her. Phalen’s legs were as thick as tree trunks and strong, regardless of the series of scars on his left leg. Like his arms, twin Celtic bands twisted around his thighs. More burns were etched along the inside of his right thigh. Suddenly very angry, she wanted to find the bastard who threw a grenade at him and punch him in the balls! “Cassandra, answer me!” The sexy push in his tone zinged straight to her pussy while he controlled her with his hand in her hair. He could have made it painful if he’d wanted. Trusting that he wasn’t going to hurt her, she breathed in and out. “Ye…yes.” Jutting out at her from a nest of short blond hair covering his balls, his penis was thick, long and huge. At least ten inches, had to be. There wasn’t a man she could compare him to. She’d only had sex with four guys in her life. They’d been average or less than average in size. “Prove it,” he told her. “What?” “Strip first.” He let go of her hair. “Am I in trouble?” she asked, needing to be sure. He nodded. “You’ve been a very bad girl for peeping uninvited.” “I said I was sorry,” she insisted. “I am. I won’t do it again, Phalen. I promise.” “I believe you. Leave nothing on but your glasses.” Desire unlike anything she’d known before flowed through her veins like lava. “Are you going to hurt me?” “Not at all, sweetheart.” “But you want to, right?” “Only in a damn good way. You’ve got a lot to learn first. Do what I told you.” She should run while she still could. Phalen’s erection beckoned like a lighthouse in a storm. If she left, she’d disappoint him. Absently aware that he’d let her go and she’d already begun to unbutton her boring white blouse, she hoped he approved of the simple bra she wore underneath. Average C-cup in size, she’d always had firm breasts. Her nipples poked against the lace cups. Rather than worry about her bra, she fiddled with her buttons until her shirt fell open and cotton slipped down her shoulders. Thinking it was best to look at the floor, she tossed the shirt and went for her khakis. They were soon gone too. Toeing off her shoes and socks, she stood up straight, clad only in panties and bra.
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“May I look at you, Phalen?” “You may if you tell me who I am to you.” “My Master.” “That’s my girl.” His praise meant the world to her. Cassie lifted her chin, running her eyes over him until she reached his face. She kept watching him while removing her panties. “You are a beautiful man.” “You are stalling.” He flicked his hand out. Cassie quickly unfastened her front-clasp bra and parted the scraps of lace to let it drop by her panties. She almost covered her bush with her palm. Was he disappointed her pussy wasn’t nude? If he was, he didn’t show it. At least she’d shaved her legs and underarms last night. A muscle twitched in his jaw. His gaze was on her breasts. Holding out his left hand, he crooked his index finger. Obeying, she moved forward and stopped a couple inches away. It seemed like a mile. “Don’t hurt me, please,” she murmured. “We covered that.” He smiled softly. She noticed his wolfish teeth. He was going to bite her. She’d wear his mark proudly. “It’s my heart I’m worried about.” “Didn’t you hear me talking to Alex?” “Everything. I heard everything. I think.” “You heard what I wanted you to hear.” “I don’t understand.” “Who did I say I wouldn’t fuck around on?” “Your woman.” Phalen touched his hand to her chin, tilting her head back a fraction. “Who is that?” “Me?” Very nervous now, she swallowed hard. Strong fingers caressed her jaw. His blunt nails and hard calluses scratched her skin. “That’s right. Do you have any idea how long it’s been since I’ve fucked?” “When you were in Virginia?” “Dammit, Cassie, get over that. Six months.” Stunned, she let him continue touching her. “Really?” He was so uncommonly gentle. The scrape of his nails sent delicate frissons of awareness over her flesh. Using his other hand, he ran his fingers through her hair. “Six months of doing nothing but flirt with you has made me one very horny sonofabitch, babe.” “I haven’t had sex in six years. I’ve forgotten how.” “It’s like riding a bike. You never forget.” “I’m not a prude or anything. I mean, I’ve dated. I chose not to sleep with them.”
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“The men you were seeing didn’t turn you on,” he deduced. “You need to feel something in your heart and your mind before you have sex.” “That’s true.” He kept caressing her hair, cleverly combing without catching a snarl. “You’re turned-on now.” “You already know how much.” He hummed. “You got off listening to me and Alex.” “How can you possibly know that?” “I could smell cum over fries and gravy. You were dripping already at the crack of the whip.” “The whole time you knew I was there. I want to be mad at you.” “You want me more. Admit it.” All she did was nod. “Condoms are in the pocket of my jeans. Get one.” Cassie did as she was told. It didn’t take long to kneel by his clothes. Hard cobblestone bit into her kneecaps. It shocked her to know she liked the roughness. Phalen’s jeans were with the chaps. She rummaged in the fattest pocket for his wallet and found a strip of condoms inside. “Stay as you are.” Phalen came up, putting his hand at her nape. “There is something so fucking sexy about you naked with just those glasses on your nose.” “Thank you,” she said, pleased. “Touch me.” In command, he used the slightest pressure to bring her forward. Holding a condom with her right hand, she had to lean back a little. “Be very careful,” he said when she lifted her left hand to circle his magnificent erection. Fighting back the drool, she let herself play. “I want you so damned bad. I don’t know how long it’ll be before I come. You’re to make sure I don’t until my cock is in your pussy. That condom must be on.” Phalen’s plum-shaped cock head looked scrumptious. Veins rippled along his thick rod. Her hand wasn’t big enough to circle him. “I want to worship your cock with kisses.” “Then do it.” Inhaling the scent of pre-cum and leather, she drew him toward her with her hand and lifted him to her mouth. She kissed him right on the tip, stabbing her tongue into the tiny hole. Phalen trembled. He liked that. She did it again, sipping and licking. Cassie savored the salty taste of his essence while pumping his cock with her fist. Gripping the root of his rod, she stretched her pinky to scrape his scrotal sac. His balls felt soft and vulnerable. His penis was as heavy and hard as a brick.
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Laving at his helmet, she curled her tongue along the underside. Phalen grasped her hair. “Open up. Suck me.” Cassie wasn’t sure she was the best at blowjobs. She intended to please him though. Thinking of all the ways she wanted to take him, she relaxed her jaw. His phallus fit between her lips, edging her teeth and surging into the wetness of her mouth. He took control of her as he thrust in and out. The taste of his velvety-smooth head and about three inches of cock surging in her mouth thrilled her. There were no worries, no bills to pay or books to acquire. She lapped the head, tasting and sucking. Drawing off him, she leaned in close and gently kissed his balls. “Fuck, Cassie. My dick, suck my dick.” He may want head, but he liked ball-play, so she didn’t stop. He had to grasp the base of his cock, and squeezed tightly. That had to hurt. Granting mercy, she homed in on his cock head, suckling strongly at the tip. She was pushing Phalen to the edge. It was the most powerful feeling in the world to kneel before him and suck him. He pushed in so deep she feared she’d choke. “More, babe.” Swallowing, she arched her head back to look up at him and accepted him to the back of her throat. His eyes were hooded with only a glimpse of pewter visible. A little muscle twitched in his jaw. “Close,” he warned her. Cassie wanted to push him over. Swallowing his cum was definitely on her to do list. Rather than try something she’d never done for any man, she drew off ever so slowly. She tried to open the foil packet with her teeth, but fumbled so much that Phalen grabbed the jumbo-sized condom and rolled it on himself. “Climb on up here.” Strong fingers caught her wrist. In the blink of an eye, she was flying through the air. Somehow he’d lifted her up and secured her legs around his waist. “Oh, jeez, you’re built.” Phalen laughed. “I’m built to fuck you,” he amended, kissing her quick. His erection slid perfectly between her thighs, pushing tight against her needy pussy. Leaning down to kiss her again, his tongue entered her mouth. He tasted hot and male. They were moving. He’d walked her right up against the wall between two red balloons. Using the bricks to support her back, he gripped her ass and kissed her roughly. She welcomed the roughness. It seemed like he wanted to devour her. His mouth was much harder than hers. She was sure he made her lips swollen with the force, yet he was not cruel. He bit. He chewed. He licked. Cassie grabbed his hair as the means to anchor herself. Matching him tongue to tongue and bite to bite, she gave as he took. “I need you, please,” she almost screamed when he let her breathe. “Easy. Here I come,” he promised, shifting his stance to enter her. 30
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The silken glide of cock-muscle and whisper-thin latex parted her soft inner walls, penetrating slowly and irrevocably deep. He was so big he knocked her cervix. Cassie loved it! He stretched her and made her complete. It felt so good it almost hurt. Cassie ignited, coming before he’d thrust twice. Her pussy clutched at his cock. Phalen grunted, thrusting hard and fast and true and showing no signs of stopping. “You’re amazing.” She loved having him surge in and out, loved feeling the depth of his taking and thickness of his shaft. It was almost too much to bear. Yet she’d gladly bear it a million times and still not get enough of Phalen Maddox. “Gets better, sweetheart.” “I might die if it gets better. I hope it does. Don’t let me go celibate again, please.” “Cassie?” “Uh-huh?” “Fuck me back,” he commanded, slamming into her. She arched her hips back at him, throwing herself into it as best she could considering that there was a brick wall at her back and a mountain of muscle cushioning her breasts. Tension built deep in her pussy, his rod sliding along her engorged pulsing clit in just the right way. Spiraling higher, she came apart, rocketing right into the stratosphere. She cried out in ecstasy as the tension broke in wave after wave of indescribable release. Or was that his growl that sent her right back to heaven? Either way, she went hoarse with joy as his cock swelled impossibly bigger and pulsed within her walls, telling her he’d come right along with her.
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Chapter Three Phalen held on to Cassie like she was his lifeline. His heart beat a mile a minute. His lungs were burning as if he’d dropped and given his drill sergeant fifty after running twenty miles. He’d hold her here for a bit and take a breather. Cassie’s heart raced in time with his. She lowered her head to his shoulder, whispering sweet kisses on the surgical scar. “Ohmigod,” she muttered. “Fuck, that was fast, babe,” he heard himself say. “Next time we’ll go slower.” “That was amazing. No complaints here.” His satisfied cock slipped out of her snug pussy and he reluctantly set her back on her feet. His condom was sopping wet with cum. He took it off and cast it aside to be disposed of later. She looked so pretty using the wall for support. Hell, he wanted to chain her there and kneel before her in worship. He wouldn’t stop until she screamed herself hoarse. Going to his knees, he decided to appreciate what he had now. She’d stayed against the wall. But she had that spacey look she got when her mind was racing with all the little possibilities of what he’d do to her next. When he got her to fly, she’d ride that rocket for a long time. In the wrong hands, a flying submissive was at their most vulnerable. Good thing he planned to take care of her from now on. It was his honor and duty to see to her pleasure. Bondage might be his primary kink, but the time would come when Cassie would test his mettle and demand discipline. First things first, he was going to work out her pretty slit until he could fuck her again. “Spread your legs wide. That’s it. Good. Yours is the prettiest pussy I’ve ever known.” Praising her for her obedience, he studied her flushed face. She was all pink and hot and cute as fuck. The black frames on her face were adorable. It’d been an incredible turn-on to watch her suck him wearing those glasses. “Shouldn’t we go back to work?” she asked. She was obsessed with working. “No.” “We’re done.” “Does it look like I’m done?” Her eyes dropped to his semi-hard cock. Cassie’s pupils were dilated so wide that the brown outer ring of her irises dominated the green. “You can’t possibly get hard that fast,” she said, likely unaware she’d tossed out a challenge he couldn’t ignore. “Apparently, I can with you.” Blood engorged his cock in a hurry.
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Not quite ready to fuck, Phalen lowered his eyes. A soft spray of strawberry-blonde curls covered her mound. Hot-pink vaginal lips were full and open with drops of feminine honey sliding from her core. Her clit peeked out from its protective hood. “Pretty,” he murmured. “No cotton panties will cover this. I want access to you anytime and anywhere I choose.” “I can’t afford the frilly stuff.” “You won’t have to. I’m taking ownership of what you wear for me.” Phalen looked forward to dressing her. “Put your hands flat to the bricks.” She slapped her palms to the wall so fast he’d have to check them later. Looking to make sure he hadn’t left any bruises from their first fuck, he spotted scrapes on her knees. “Damn floor,” he crooned in apology, kissing both kneecaps. “Next time you kneel on something soft.” “I’m fine.” “It is my right to take care of you. Now hold still.” Staying on his knees, he ignored the pain in his injured leg. He had more metal and screws in his skeleton than a cyborg. But he welcomed the discomfort. Pain meant he was alive. It was an easy price to pay for her pleasure. He aimed to please her plenty. “Phalen, if you’re going to do something, do it. Please. I’m aching here.” “I know.” He wanted her aching. He wanted her to think about nothing but him. Scenting her arousal, he grabbed her hips to bring her forward. She kept her hands to the wall like he’d told her. He’d worry about her pubic hair another time. Cassie would love being bare when they fucked. Staring up at her, he admired breasts made to fit in the palms of his hands. Palepink quarter-sized areolas framed rosy nipples meant to be sucked. He’d spend hours simply to see if he could get her off with nipple play. He’d use clamps and nipple rings. She’d need adjustable ones he could manipulate for her. “Phalen, your back,” she said in awe. “That’s the most incredible tattoo I’ve ever seen.” He was damn glad she liked it. The ink stretched from shoulder to shoulder, representing the Screaming Eagles division of the Army Airborne Rangers. Beneath the letters and eagle were the initials of each man in his unit. The carving reminded him of who he was and where he’d been and who had been lost in Afghanistan. “Thanks,” he said. “Will you tell me what happened to you?” “In time.” During sex was the worst time to talk about the consequences of war. Phalen couldn’t wait anymore. He lifted enough to catch her clitoris with his tongue. He worked her sensitive nub gently at first. Some women went numb if a guy went at her too hard and fast. Cassie liked more purposeful manipulation and he
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zeroed in on her clit like he was starving. She sighed and shook, clutching at the brick wall. Smiling, he went back to it, giving as much attention as she needed. Seeming unaware that she’d already gyrated, she crooned softly, working herself out on his tongue. He drew back before she closed in on orgasm. Her whole body vibrated with the need to come. “Stay still, darlin’. I’ll stop if you don’t.” She growled viciously. “Don’t call me darlin’.” Best not do that or risk a jerkoff in the shower when she cut him off. “Easy now,” he coaxed. Swishing his tongue along her slit to her clit, he drew her into his mouth and sucked. Phalen gave no mercy on the tender pulsing morsel. Cassie came unglued, moaning and growling and fighting her need to fuck his face. Growling right back, he claimed her clit as his. No other man was going to tongue it. No other guy was going to fuck her. He put his thumb and index finger to work and jerked her clitoris like it was a tiny penis. Doing so let him move to nibble her pussy lips. Hot cum dribbled onto his taste buds. Ambrosia for gods couldn’t taste this addictive. Reaching up above his head with his free hand, he cupped one breast. Cassie arched into his palm. He pinched her nipples in turn. She gasped. He wasn’t gentle. He pulled and twisted hard enough to keep her suspended on the right balance of pleasure-pain that she needed. “Oh god, yes! I need to come so bad.” Phalen withdrew. “Not until I say you can.” “Then I’m going back to work.” “You’re not going anywhere.” He stood up, caught her around the waist and hoisted her into his arms. She was taller than average at about five-ten. Her legs were incredible. Her ass a lush temptation made to grab, spank and fuck. He couldn’t wait to put his marks on Cassie’s fair skin. She’d be a nice rosy pink for days. He promised himself there’d be no scars or deep bruising. It was one thing he’d never do to her. Whirls and handprints that disappeared, that’d be sexy as fuck. Permanently damaging her was not an option. She was too damn precious. The trust she’d placed in him was too important to ruin if he harmed her. Ink. He’d give her some ink when she was ready. Thinking of where he’d put her first tat, he carried her to the exercise mats. They were piled five high. Plenty of cushion for what he intended. “Stay where I put you,” he told her, lowering her to the mats. She lay back, her knees bent and thighs parted.
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Moving faster than his leg wanted, he refused to give in to the limp that sometimes plagued him. He went to his jeans and grabbed up another condom and sheathed himself. He turned and saw that she’d obeyed. Phalen wasted no time in returning and dropping down on top of her, being certain he kept his heavier weight from crushing her. “Hey, would you look what I’ve got here.” “What?” “You.” He leaned down on his elbows to kiss her. Soft lips parted for his. He took what she’d offered for a good long while. “I should warn you. I could easily fall in love with you,” she admitted. “If that scares you, back off before it’s too late.” “Backing off is not an option, Cassie. This is just the beginning for us.” Most guys would balk at the idea of commitment this soon. He wasn’t most men. He’d already fallen for her. Tears slipped down her cheeks and she smiled sweetly. He didn’t expect that. Sucker punched, but unable to hold back, he guided his cock to her slit. The vaginal walls of her core drew him in, cushioning him in heat and silken softness. Seeming involuntary, she clenched her pelvic muscles to hold him in. “Can I touch you?” she inquired. “Anytime you want. Shush now, I’m busy.” “Make it good,” she dared. It was already good. He’d make it fantastic. “Up.” He pulled out of her. Cassie glared at him for stopping. “Hey!” “Don’t look at me like that. You demanded good, sweetheart. I’m about to fuck you until you scream. On your knees. Now.” She let him flip her over and bring her up on all fours. The moment he had her positioned, he knelt behind her and moved in nice and close. His cock breached her small opening. He thrust. She propelled herself right back at him until his balls slapped her muff. Grabbing her by the hips, he rode her hard, pummeling her relentlessly. She bucked like a damn bronco. “Motherfuckinghell,” he cursed at how good his preacher’s daughter was at fucking. She’d been wasting her sexuality on denial for years. No more! No longer was she going to hide in the diner, pretending she wasn’t a firecracker in bed. “Ohmigod, Phalen. Yes! Yes!” Cassie whimpered and keened like a practiced porn star. Only her pleasure couldn’t be faked. Her pussy clutched at his dick. The force of his thrusts had to be tough on her six-year-celibate cunt. It didn’t stop her. She took it hard and he gave it right back. “Slow down, Cassie. Easy. Take it slow. Nice and slow,” he urged, or else it’d be over too soon. He caught her hair with one hand and reined her in through the barest
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pain he could apply and not hurt her. She obeyed. He rewarded her by leaning down to kiss the top of her head. She sighed softly. Easing his grip, he combed his fingers through her hair. It was beautiful and silky soft, with enough waves to keep it from being flat or ordinary. The color was extraordinary. “I’ve never had a man like you. You feel so huge it almost hurts to take you. And I want it that way.” “Damn straight.” He brought her up off her forearms and rocked back onto his bent knees for her to straddle his thighs. Now he could reach around and play with her responsive nipples. She moaned softly. Phalen pinched. She lifted herself. He tugged. She plunged. Molten pussy juices slicked the ultrathin condom. He could feel her walls squeezing and clenching. It felt fantastic. Soon he’d fuck her bare. No latex barriers should come between him and Cassie’s pussy. Phalen vowed that they’d get to the point where protection wasn’t necessary unless it was used for a sex toy. “Fuck me harder,” she demanded. Saucy little thing thought she could push him. She had to be taught a lesson when he could think straight. Lowering his head to her shoulder, he nibbled and sucked down hard. Her skin tasted as good as her pussy. Sucking strongly, he made sure to leave his imprint on her skin by adding some teeth. “Yes!” She went so crazy from the bite, he had to hold on for dear life. She fit his dick like a glove. Her breasts were perfect for him. Twisting her nipples harder than she might have experienced before, he was rewarded with a tantalizing roll of her hips. Phalen pushed her back to her forearms, rose up behind her and slammed back into her. Cassie’s ass was a little pink from grinding into him. Hot damn! Her eagerness told him she’d never really tested her naughty streak. And he was real glad she chose him to get down and dirty with. Surging back at him, she demanded a good hard fuck without using words. He gave her what she wanted by pounding his hips against her ass like a piston. Mercilessly, her pussy walls squeezed his cock, drawing cum from his testicles. “Gonna come, sweetheart. Come with me.” “Thank you, Master!” she shouted, her pleasure-filled screams filling the room as her orgasm pushed him over the edge. “Cassie!” He went off like a geyser and kept spurting until he couldn’t move. She’d just wrung him dry. Flattening her to the mat, he made her lie still. He was incapable of moving anyway. Phalen’s stomach growled loud enough to wake the dead. “You need to eat your lunch,” Cassie whispered. “Much rather eat you out again.”
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“You’re the best I’ve ever known. Thank God you want to do that again,” she said, giggling. “No. Thank your Master.” “Sorry, Master. Did I do okay? I mean the blowjob. Were you pleased?” “You did great, Cassie.” He’d had plenty of blowjobs in his life. Some women excelled at it, especially submissives eager to please their Dom. Cassie was different. She’d learned pretty fast that it’d been her decision to suck his dick after he sent her to her knees. In gifting him with the best oral in his life so far, she’d taken control of his pleasure and excelled at it. “I have to admit that I’m starving too, Phalen. I really need to go back to my place.” “Sure I can’t convince you to join me in the shower first?” “What shower?” “There are two,” he answered. “This place was renovated from a Colonial home that was almost demolished. Top floor has a large studio apartment. Has a huge shower too. There’s a smaller one here in the basement.” “Ah, I see. After your lessons, everyone can clean up.” “Yeah, things can get…messy.” He’d explain more another time. “And I’d rather not give someone a tat while smelling like a wet bloodhound after my workouts.” “Yuck. That is not an image I need. But whatever you put yourself through in those workout sessions works. You are ripped. Fortunately the women who come into my place can eat their hearts out wondering exactly how big you are all over.” “Was that your way of complimenting my cock?” “Yes,” she said. “You already know you’re bigger than most porn stars.” “Cassandra Williams, you naughty little thing, you watch porn?” “Not until I lost my virginity. I waited until college and went wild for an RA. I find erotic novels much more thrilling than porn.” He didn’t think he wanted to know how wild. Judging from what he knew of her thus far, he’d guess she hadn’t slept with many men after the RA. The idea of acting out a scene while she read to him had appeal. He finally pushed up on his elbows and let her scoot out from under him. Rolling to his side, he enjoyed watching the sway of her ass as she walked. She did have some mighty fine legs. “You’re really going to put those pants back on.” “It wouldn’t be wise for me to work naked. I’d burn something important.” “There is that. All right, wear the damn khakis. Give me your underwear.” “No.” He sat up straight. “That wasn’t an option. Bra too.” “Really?”
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He held his hand out. Cassie snagged the cotton and lace scraps off the floor and brought them over. “Good. Come down here a sec.” She knelt. Her lips were swollen from his mouth. Her skin flushed pink from arousal and great sex. A suck mark was already visible on her shoulder. “Is something wrong?” she asked. “I just wanted to say thank you for coming over here.” Snagging her by the nape, he pulled her in for a gentle kiss. She lit up brighter than a Christmas tree. “I’ll swing by in a little bit and we’ll talk about where we’re going later.” “We’re still going on a date?” “You think differently after this?” “Some guys get what they want and never call again when something better comes along.” “Whoever did that to you should be ball-gagged and strapped in a guillotine.” She started to smile until he mentioned the guillotine. “Seeing that RA gagged does make a picture. But a guillotine? You have one of those? Don’t answer.” “Too late. And don’t try to say you don’t really want to know. Everything you might have read about is in my dungeon.” “Oh god…” she murmured with that wild look in her eyes. “Cassie, I’m not going to put you into any situation too dangerous or too scary for you to handle.” “If I balk at something?” “The power to stop a scene is always in your control. Say your safe word. Scene stops. I’ll make love to you for the next twenty-four hours to make up for scaring you.” Looking relieved, she switched her eyes to the whips Alex had purchased. “I can’t stop thinking of you and Alexander Grant playing with whips.” “You liked that, huh?” “The way you handled that bullwhip was riveting.” “That’s not what I meant. You liked listening to the two of us.” Cassie might be scared of the whips. But he’d smelled her with the first crack. That’s how he’d known she was there. “I kept wondering if the two of you actually did anything in college.” “That’s something we’ll talk about another time.” His friendship with Alex was difficult to explain after fucking Cassie. “Just so you know, Phalen. You can trust me with anything.” “Yeah, same goes, babe.” He watched her walk back to her clothes. “Hey, why’d you come over here anyway?” “To bring you fries.” “Something else brought you.”
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“I don’t know. I missed you and wanted to be with you.” “Nice. Anything more you need to tell me?” They hadn’t finished talking about Alessandra. That was a serious mind-fuck right there and he needed to keep a clear head. “A police officer from Vermont called. A few weeks ago he’d sent a box of books Allie had written. It was a wonderful gift. None of us knew she wanted to be a writer, Phalen.” “Would you share her writing with me when you’re ready?” “Sure.” She was dressed and using a pencil to fasten her hair in some weird configuration women tended to do with ease. “Officer Adams told me that he had a trunk of Jeff Swanson’s belongings that’d been confiscated from his cabin in Vermont during the investigation into his death and it was no longer needed because the case was solved years ago. He’s sending it to me.” “Who?” Standing so fast his head spun, it took him a second to regain equilibrium. “Jeff Swanson. Allie’s boyfriend.” “Fucking hell, I knew him.” “Huh?” “He went to high school with Ethan. Tall guy, long black hair, had blue eyes and kicked ass on guitar.” “Wow. Sounds like him.” “I saw him at fetish clubs when I came home on breaks or leave. Cassie, he was a straight-up guy. I can’t imagine he’d abuse a woman, much less engage in choking fetishes.” “I’m starting to believe there wasn’t abuse. I think they were playing a very dangerous fantasy. When it went wrong, he couldn’t save her and panicked. Otherwise, why would he run away and commit suicide?” Phalen tried to think. The Jeff Swanson he remembered wasn’t the panic type. Going over to his clothes, he grabbed up his jeans and pulled them on. “Phalen? What is it?” He didn’t want to scare Cassie more with this. “Is there any chance that there was a third?” “A third?” She blinked rapidly in confusion. “A third person in their relationship who might have covered up what really happened?” He went to stand by his woman. Blood drained from Cassie’s face. “I have no idea.” She slapped her hand to her mouth as if she might get sick. “Wouldn’t there be evidence of someone else in the room? Hair samples, DNA, anything that wasn’t Jeff’s?” He offered his hand to Cassie. She took it and squeezed.
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“Easy now, I’m speculating here. I can’t think of any reason for any man worth his mettle to leave the woman he loves when she’s hurt because he’s freaked out. He should have done everything in his power to save her. CPR, dial 911, anything but run.” “He did call 911. He was gone when help arrived.” “I admit Ethan knew him better than I did. Shit. I didn’t know he’d died. Not sure Ethan did either. Last time I saw Jeff was at a club when I was on leave from Afghanistan. That must have been right before he met Allie. This is seriously fucked up. His parents must be devastated.” “They’re both gone now. That’s why Officer Adams is sending the trunk. He had no other family. I’m not even sure why he went to Vermont. I mean, he was a Bostonian through and through.” “Can you get me the autopsy records or police reports? I want to look into this for you.” “Not the actual records,” she answered. “I do have the names of the officers who investigated their deaths. And the ME’s for my sister. By the way, I believe you about Jeff. This is all so very sad. My family buried it for so long that none of us tried to understand his side. We were all angry.” Cassie squeezed his hand so hard it hurt. She looked so sad. He took her into his arms and hugged her. “Hey, I didn’t mean to upset you.” “You didn’t,” she insisted. “I think I’d like to take you up on your offer and hire Maddox PI after all.” He dropped a kiss to the top of her head and held her tighter. “Done. If it’s okay with you, I’d like to see what Ethan can find out for us about Jeff.” “I trust your judgment. How much does it cost for your services, anyway?” she asked. “I might have to pay installments or something.” “No charge. Suggest payment again, I’ll spank your pretty ass.” “Okay,” she murmured into his shoulder, letting him hold her for a little while longer. He had a bad feeling in his gut. It was the same he’d had when his unit had been dropped too close to insurgents using a school as their base of operations. Only four men survived. None of them would ever be the same. Cassie had decided to stop hiding behind guilt for something that wasn’t her fault. She deserved closure. He’d do whatever she needed to find answers and make sure she didn’t get caught up in a cluster-fuck of trouble.
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Chapter Four Cassie returned to work feeling more alive than she’d ever felt in her life. She’d never been so wonderfully sore either. Phalen Maddox’s cock was so blessedly big, it almost hurt to move after two rounds of sex. Holy smokes! Feeling a little like the cat that ate the canary, she kept wondering where they’d go tonight on their first date. Bob and the other daytime cook had closed the kitchen except for panini and deli sandwiches and soup. The day’s special was New England clam chowder. A bakery in the area sent over doughnuts, chocolate cake, scones, cannoli, cookies and brownies. Most of the customers were sitting at tables with their laptops and tablet computers, surfing the internet or texting. A guy in the far corner booth was reading a hardcover from the bookstore. For the moment Cassie was happy to make fresh coffee. She switched from Columbian to decaf and regular French roast. The barista machine had been busy that morning and she made sure soy, two percent and skim milk were in the little fridge underneath. Whipped cream, flavorings, caramel, espresso beans and chocolate sauce were refilled. Crazy as it was, she’d only been gone for an hour and a half. Her employees hadn’t even missed her. Life in her place went on and she wondered if it was okay to start taking a day off here and there. “Hey, Cassie, could I ask you for a favor?” Phil, one of her regular afternoon patrons, called out from his booth. “Of course,” she answered, grabbing a pot of fresh coffee to take over to him. He liked his coffee with natural sugar, so she made sure there were enough packets on the table. “What can I do for you?” “Can I leave this flyer on your bulletin board in the back?” Phil showed her a printout of an adorable litter of kittens. “Aw, they’re so cute. Is this a new litter at the shelter?” “There’s always a litter of kittens at Barry’s shelter,” Phil said of his longtime partner and soon-to-be husband. Phil was a local veterinarian who donated his services to Barry’s animal rescue shelter. “This one was found in a trash Dumpster behind a shopping plaza. They’ve all gotten their first set of shots and I’m willing to make sure they’re spayed or neutered once adopted, along with the rest of their vaccinations.” “I hope they find the best homes. Poor little things deserve it,” she commented. “Any chance you’d like to have one? They’re all very sweet.”
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The cowbell at the door jangled. “I’d love to have a kitten,” she answered and smiled. She loved that cowbell. Quiet loafers came up behind her. It wasn’t Phalen. “Hello, Cassandra,” Michael Donatelli greeted before she could emphasize to Phil that she’d have to check with her landlord to see if she could have a pet. She turned around. “Michael. This is a pleasant surprise. Excuse me, Phil,” she said to her friend, leading Michael to the counter. “Would you like some coffee?” “That’d be great. Thank you,” he agreed, offering his vote-getting smile. Michael sat down in Phalen’s seat. Well, it wasn’t Phalen’s specifically. But seeing another man in it set her teeth on edge. He topped six-three, wore a classic navy suit with a red tie and had a certain look about him that screamed handsome politician. His short dark-brown hair had recently been peppered gray. Cassie knew he’d gone to a salon to achieve that look. She’d last seen him two weeks ago. His hair had been normal dark brown. Taking a big coffee mug instead of a paper one, she filled it to the brim and placed it on the counter. “Cream or sugar?” “Black is fine. I came to ask if you’d like to join me for a night at the theater? Karen had to cancel and I have an extra ticket tonight. I thought maybe you could use a break from here.” “Tonight?” She almost dropped the coffeepot. “I can’t. I am so sorry.” “Aw, won’t you think about it before saying no?” he insisted, again flashing that megawatt smile. To even consider a date with another man when her heart belonged to the Ink Master was out of the question. “I really can’t.” “You haven’t gone anywhere but here and home for months. You’re so wrapped up in this place, the family doesn’t see you anymore. We miss you.” “I went to lunch with my mother last Saturday,” Cassie stated. “We talked about the benefit we’re working on together.” “It’s one date,” he went on. “Your parents would get a kick out of seeing us together.” “Yes, I’m sure they would.” The cowbell clunked. She smelled Irish Spring soap over coffee. She knew who walked in the door without having to take her eyes off Michael. “I can’t accept because I have a date tonight.” “A real date?” She nodded. “With someone I care about a great deal.” “Who’s the lucky man? This is the first I’ve heard about someone significant in your life.” “That’d be me,” Phalen answered on Cassie’s behalf.
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So glad to see him that she almost jumped over the countertop, she looked him in the eye and he winked. Oh boy! That wink sent her tummy in a tailspin of desire and it’d only been half an hour since she left his place. He’d showered. His hat was back on. His hair was in a ponytail. He wore a short-sleeved black tee shirt with his jeans. Beside him was none other than Alexander Grant. The agent’s Italian designer suit and shoes outshined Michael’s conservative attire by a mile. Wow. They were positively the most gorgeous men she’d ever seen in her entire life. Michael stood up and offered his hand out to Phalen. “State Senator Michael Donatelli. I’m a very good friend of the Williams family. Cassandra and I go back years. I don’t believe we’ve met.” Phalen didn’t hesitate to shake the hand offered. “Phalen Maddox. I own the shop next door.” In his other hand was an Apple iPad 2. He placed it on the counter next to where Alex Grant claimed a seat, seeming to intentionally flex his biceps when he moved in a little closer to Michael. “I pray it’s not the New Age shop on this block?” Michael inquired. “Don’t be so uptight, Michael. Morgan’s place caters to the local lore of Salem. She’s my best friend. I’d appreciate if you wouldn’t knock her down,” Cassie interrupted. “Phalen owns the tattoo studio.” Michael got more territorial. “Does your father know about this, Cassandra?” He dropped Phalen’s hand and glanced at Alex. Alex rolled his eyes. “I believe she’s old enough to go on a date without getting permission from anyone.” “Don’t worry so much,” Cassie told Michael. “Phalen’s Army trained. He cleans up real nice.” She glanced up at Phalen. He winked again. “That I do, Cassie,” Phalen promised. “Alex and I came by for some lattes and scones.” Michael reclaimed his spot at the counter. “Care to say why you’ve come to visit my girl?” Phalen strode around the counter to cross right into Cassie’s domain. She didn’t mind one bit. “Your girl?” Michael repeated. “I thought it was a date.” “The first of many,” Phalen amended. “Unfortunately, I’ve been away for a while and plan to make up for lost time.” “What kept you away?” Michael took small sips of his coffee. Cassie went to the barista machine. “Friends needed some help and I’d had to go to South Dakota, Minnesota and Virginia,” Phalen answered. “I’d have been home weeks ago. But my friend Kyran Black’s wife had some complications. I stayed to help them out.” “Didn’t he used to be quarterback for the Alexandria Griffins?” Michael questioned. “Complications, oh no,” Cassie broke in before Phalen confirmed it. Kyran’s wife was pregnant. “I’m sorry.” 43
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Phalen put himself to work as a barista and started making lattes. “It’s okay, sweetheart. Anna and the babies are fine. We’ll talk about it later.” Phalen talked with his back to the counter. He kept watching her and grinned. “Anyway, Donatelli, you never said why you came to Salem?” “I offered Cassandra a ticket to the theater this evening.” Michael’s coffee was half drained. Cassie refilled it and placed the coffeepot back on its warming tray. She hadn’t noticed she’d still held it until then. “You should have called first,” Alex said. “It would have saved you a trip.” “That’s not the only reason I’m here,” Michael insisted. Cassie frowned. “Is something wrong?” “I wanted to talk to you about the benefit. I’ve been working to get the permits needed for the project. You’d mentioned meeting with your mother. How did it go?” “It went very well. We designed flyers announcing the show. I had a print shop run off two hundred copies and plan to distribute them to customers,” Cassie answered. “So far we have a locally famous band and a dance company committed. We’ll need more to be successful. My mom is going to contact an architect and obtain quotes from builders while I work on getting the performers.” “What kind of show, Cassie?” Phalen asked while steaming milk. “It’s a talent show to benefit victims of domestic violence. It’ll be televised and produced by the news station my brother works for. There’s an abandoned apartment complex in Wareham we’d like to renovate into affordable housing for those who need it. My mother suggested we add counselors to the facility and security. We’re trying to get local bands, dance companies and local celebrities to speak out against domestic violence.” Phalen handed the latte to Alex. “Damn, sweetheart. That’s a fantastic idea. I’m glad to offer the Maddox Brothers to the lineup.” “Language, Mr. Maddox,” Michael corrected. Phalen ignored the correction. “Offer stands, Cassie. We can play and I can help set up the security for the facility.” She smiled so wide her jaw hurt. “That’s wonderful. I would have told you tonight.” “I’m sure you would have.” Instantly tempted to thank him with a kiss, she leaned toward Phalen. “Could I have some more coffee?” Michael pushed his mug toward her. Cassie drew back to grab the pot and filled his mug. “The only problem with my band is that we lack a bassist,” Phalen commented. “I recall you played bass in a band.”
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“Yes, back in college. My sister and I were in it together. After we graduated, she ended up going on for her MBA. I stayed with the band for a year or so longer. We all went our own way eventually.” “Alessandra is why the Williamses are planning this benefit,” Michael supplied. “Cassie told me about her sister,” Phalen said. “It’s a shame. It’s been difficult for her to deal with.” “Difficult for all of us,” Michael added. “May I ask what happened?” Alex asked Cassie directly. “If it’s too painful, you needn’t explain a thing.” “It’s kind of you to ask.” Cassie really liked Alexander Grant. On the surface he looked like a smooth operator and had a lion-sized personality. But there was much more to him than appearances told. “My sister was killed five years ago.” “Dear god,” Alex growled. “Considering the fundraiser you’re doing, you needn’t explain how. Like my friend here, you have my sympathies and support.” “I appreciate that,” Cassie said. “If you want to play bass for us, sweetheart, the job’s yours,” Phalen promised Cassie. “We’ll practice. It’ll come back to you. It’s like riding a bike.” A mad rush of heat flooded her cheekbones. “You never forget how,” she whispered. Alex leaned in a little. His mannerisms at the counter reminded her of royalty holding court. “When is this benefit to take place?” “April,” Cassie answered. “On our birthday…Allie and I were twins.” “This safe haven you mentioned,” Alex said. “Is it only for women?” Cassie shook her head. “My mother and I thought anyone needing to feel safe should be included. Statistics show men are as vulnerable to abuse as women.” “Then I’m in,” Alex stated. “In?” She didn’t understand. “I’d like to help.” He looked over at Phalen. “Do you think your brothers will mind if I stay at the house in Boston?” “Nah,” Phalen answered. “I’m planning to spend most of my time at my apartment here in Salem from now on. You can use the master bedroom. If Taran or Ethan object, kick their sorry asses.” “Pardon,” Michael remarked to Alex. “We haven’t been introduced.” “Alexander Grant,” Alex said without letting go of his latte. “Your name sounds familiar.” “It should,” Phalen stated, smirking as he turned to make another latte. “He handles multimillion-dollar deals for athletes,” Cassie said. “His name is frequently in the news.”
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“You’re a sports agent?” Michael remarked casually. She was certain he was impressed. “I’m not familiar with athletes enough to know who represents them.” “You recognized Kyran Black,” Alex said. “Ah, I see. He was in the news a few months ago after being attacked by a fan.” Michael’s cup was empty. Cassie offered more coffee. He declined. “I’m not sure how an agent can help out with a local telethon.” “Athletes have talents beyond sports,” Alex said. “All I need to do is make a few calls. I can get Dallas McKay, Kyran Black, Ricky Weathers and several baseball and basketball players right here in Boston to appear on the show. Their names alone will draw more than local coverage. I’d also be willing to help organize the event if Cassie needs assistance.” When he’d gone away, Phalen had told Cassie the name of the client he was going to assist in Virginia. He couldn’t give the reason and she hadn’t asked. It wasn’t a surprise to hear Dallas McKay’s name in the list of athletes Alex Grant represented. But, wow, it never occurred to her to invite more than New England celebs to perform. “You have no idea how much it would mean to my mom and I if you stay, Mr. Grant. I’ve never attempted something like this. It was an idea we had at breakfast a few months ago. We ran with it.” Alex pushed back some to catch her eye. Her ability to look away was diminished when the agent offered a smile meant exclusively for her. “We know each other well enough for you to call me Alex. Don’t you think?” “Yes.” Drawn into Alex Grant’s blue eyes despite knowing he was gay, she propped herself up on the counter with her elbows. He was incredibly charismatic when he smiled. Phalen came up to drop his arm around her shoulders. “Are you flirting with my woman?” “Don’t worry, my friend. Pretty as she is, she’s not my type. She’s yours,” Alex answered, covering the slightest flush in his cheeks by drinking. Huh? That’s interesting. He hadn’t just looked down her shirt, no way. “Good thing,” Phalen said, nudging Cassie to get her to stand up straight. “I’d hate to have to hunt you down next.” “You hunt down people often, Mr. Maddox?” Michael asked. “When necessary. I became a PI after returning from Afghanistan. Figured I might as well put to use some of the skills I learned in combat.” “I thought you owned the tattoo shop.” Cassie spoke up. “He does. He’s multitalented.” “Why did you leave the Army?” Michael asked. “That’s none of your goddamned business,” Phalen stated.
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Michael turned his attention back on Cassie. “Your father’s going to flip when he learns you’re dating a man with tattoos. Are you sure you want to get tangled up with him? How well do you know him anyway?” Oh, yeah, she definitely wanted to get tangled up with Phalen Maddox. “Yes, I do. Don’t go big brother on me either, Michael. Anyone who puts his life on the line for his country is a hero in my book. That’s all I need to know.” He looked at Phalen. “Listen to me, Mr. Maddox. If you hurt one hair on Cassandra’s head, I will see to it that your license to operate a tattoo gun in the state of Massachusetts is permanently revoked. You can consider your PI license defunct too.” Cassie cringed. Phalen tightened his arm and dropped a kiss on her head. “Tattoo machine. Not a gun,” he said. “I don’t understand.” “Not going to explain it. You wouldn’t understand anyway. For the record, you can’t touch me. Try and you’ll discover the friends I have in places higher than the State House.” “Nor would you want to face mine,” Alexander Grant promised so calmly he might as well be talking about the weather. “You’re questioning the valor of a man who would walk through fire to save a friend.” “That doesn’t reassure me that Cassandra is safe with you, Maddox,” Michael pursued. “Considering what happened to Alessandra, it would devastate the Williamses if she was hurt.” “Let’s put it this way,” Phalen said. “Anyone who threatens or harms my family might as well view me as their Grim Reaper. Cassie is family, understand?” Michael’s cellphone jangled a patriotic melody. Seriously, the man needed to lighten up. Cassie bit back a laugh when he grabbed the phone. “I’m needed elsewhere,” Michael said. “I’m satisfied with your willingness to take care of her, Maddox. If you step out of line, we’ll see which of us holds power in Massachusetts.” “Good luck with that,” Phalen remarked. “Watch out for the cowbell on your way out.” Michael tucked his cellphone away and headed to the door. “I’ll be in touch, Cassandra. You’ll be in church Sunday?” It was Wednesday. Plenty of time between now and Sunday, but she couldn’t be sure she’d go. “I may be busy. We’ll see.” He turned back to look at her. “With the benefit and this place, it’s little wonder as to why you need a date. Have fun tonight.” “I will. Thank you,” Cassie assured. “I’ll let you know what plans are made regarding the show.” Michael bowed his head and left. Cassie waited until he was gone to look at Phalen. “I am so sorry he was such a prick to you,” she apologized. 47
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“No worries,” Phalen said. “It’s not your fault he’s an asshole. He was born that way.” “I think he hasn’t gotten laid in so long his palms are raw,” Alex commented and took a sip of his latte. “Ugh, please, do not go there, Alex Grant. Cut him some slack. His mom’s been battling a terrible illness since we were kids. And he’s overcome an injury when he was in college that laid him up for like a year.” Cassie did not want to think about Michael jacking off. “I’ve got some work to do in the back. The two of you can make yourselves at home.” “No work for you,” Phalen objected. “Say that again?” Arching her brow the way he’d do, she shook his arm off her shoulder. “We’re going out, remember?” “Tonight,” she said. “Now.” “Did it occur to you to ask? I have responsibilities here this afternoon, running the register in the bookstore among them.” “Alex will watch the store.” Alex Grant smirked. “I will?” “You will. I’m taking Cassie shopping.” Recalling their negotiation about clothes, she wondered exactly where he planned to buy them. He couldn’t possibly intend to buy all that at once. “I can’t just leave like that.” Phalen leaned in. “This place operates like a well-oiled machine. If you tell him what he needs to know, Alex can watch over things until closing. Isn’t that right, Alex?” “Sure.” Alex shrugged. “I like it here. Clever setup, you’ve got Wi-Fi and I can work from your office when it’s not busy. Don’t worry. Go.” “All right,” Cassie decided. “Come on back. I’ll show you the register.” Phalen stepped out of her way and Alex followed, leaving his mug on the counter. It didn’t take her long to show him what he’d need to handle sales until closing. She handed over her set of keys for him to lock everything up and took her small purse out of her wall safe. Alex promised everything would be fine and he’d leave the keys in Phalen’s studio apartment above the tat shop. She flung the thin strap of the handbag over her shoulder, liking it because it was light and held only what she needed, a thin aluminum wallet and a tube of lip gloss. All set to go, she returned to the front to find Phalen pecking away at his iPad. “What are you doing?” The coffee mugs were all cleaned up and drying on a tray by the tiny sink near the fridge.
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“Making reservations for dinner at eight,” he answered. “The rest of the afternoon is ours.” “Where are we going shopping?” “Peabody and Danvers. One thing before we go.” “What’s that?” “Let your hair down.” Oh no, she’d forgotten about that. Quickly, she reached up and removed the pencil. She had to shake her head until her tresses fell to their rightful place. “Do I look okay? Maybe I should go shower first or check my makeup.” “You look great.” Phalen walked up to place his hand beneath her chin. “From here on out, your hair is to be down unless you’re working. Agreed?” “If it pleases you.” The grin he gave her told her it’d been the right answer. “Good girl.” He kissed her quick and guided her outside. Phalen tucked his hand at the small of her back and led her across the lot to his shop. They went around the building to the parking spots. His Navigator was parked behind his shop. “Who’s handling the tattoos? I didn’t see Brandon’s bike out front.” “No one,” he said. “I closed the shop for the afternoon.” “I hope I didn’t keep you from any important clients.” “Not at all, sweetheart. Alex was the only appointment scheduled. You know how that turned out.” “I owe you an apology, Phalen.” “For what?” They stopped beside the big gray SUV. “Several times I hinted that you’d had something going on with Grace Daniels while you were gone. I shouldn’t have. You could have told me about Kyran and Anna. I’d have understood.” “I couldn’t. Not until they knew the twins were safe. Anna had some bleeding and was hospitalized until the docs got everything stabilized. Kyran went out of his mind with worry. He didn’t want the media to drag his family through the mud. He’s a gossip-rag magnet. I made sure no one knew a goddamned thing was wrong.” “So they’re really okay now?” she asked, still very concerned. “Babies are healthy and kicking her like crazy. She’s home now on bed rest until her due date. Kyran’s taking care of his family and making a lot of chili,” he reassured. “I can’t wait for you to meet the best woman for a guy I consider my brother.” “I’m sorry I doubted you.” Lowering her eyes, she waited for him to accept or reject her apology. His big hand touched her chin. With the slightest pressure, he tilted her head back.
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“Jealousy can bite anyone’s ass, Cassie. I sure as hell wanted to shove a cattle prod up Donatelli’s for asking you out. You need to believe that I would never do anything to violate the trust you’ve placed in my hands today.” “Because we had sex?” “Because you’re mine and you know where we are heading. I’m not going to dance around the issue anymore. There are things I want to do to you that will scare you and thrill you. If you’re afraid of anything specifically, you need to tell me.” “I don’t want to bleed,” she said. “I mean it. No bloodletting, cutting or anything that involves knives or sharp instruments.” “Do you object to ink? The truth, Cassie.” “I’m still a little leery of your tattoo machine,” she said, remembering he didn’t like the tool to be referred to as a gun. “That doesn’t mean I will object to getting ink.” “Tats require the use of needles. I will show you everything first.” “I understand. I read a book once that involved electric shock. That’s a great big no.” “Wouldn’t do that anyway. You’ll have to read to me from these novels you like so much, especially the ones that reveal what you do want.” “Okay. I won’t pretend to be furniture.” “I want you to be an active participant in the lifestyle with me. Turning you into a coffee table is not a turn-on.” “Thank goodness,” she breathed out. “Always keep in mind negotiation doesn’t stop here. You can choose scenes and change your mind as to what you will or won’t do. If something we do together doesn’t get your rocks off, don’t be a macho sub.” “Macho sub?” “It means you take discipline that’s unbearable and refuse to say your safe word because you think it’ll displease me. Like playing a martyr,” he explained. “Your dungeon intrigues me. I creamed my khakis wondering what awaits me.” Phalen lifted her chin a little more, using his hand to keep her positioned as he wanted. “Bondage and discipline await you there and in bed. Remember I will never put you in danger.” A little nervous, but longing to find out what sort of contraptions he might strap her into, she made a choice she would not change. “Part of me thinks I should run for cover while I still can. But I can’t. I want you too much. That’s worth everything. I can take anything to be with you, Phalen Maddox.” “We’ll take this journey together. The magic of it alone will make a whole new dimension for our relationship.” “Then what are we waiting for?”
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“Nothing other than I’m going to kiss you,” he said, leaning down to claim her mouth. He kissed her slow and sweet, reverently devouring her lips. Phalen’s fingers shifted from her chin to her jaw. He added his other hand, cupping her face. She felt precious and loved and safe. She giggled a little at the way his tongue danced with hers. It felt that nice. A minute or so later he lifted his head and smiled. Cassie fell in love right then and there. They’d been skirting their attraction for months. Why deny what her heart had known already? Sweetly, he rested his forehead against hers. He’d never had his latte. She smelled fresh toothpaste. “Don’t be afraid, Cassie. Your path to submission began when you kissed me this morning. I’m claiming ownership of your training and pleasure. Do you understand?” “I think so.” “In return, it’ll be my honor to protect and defend you. It’ll be mine to see to your every need and comfort. It’ll be mine to make sure no harm comes to you when you taunt me for discipline.” “I will want to be disciplined?” “Hell, yeah, you will. Soon you will learn that the eroticism of bondage and discipline can be extremely pleasurable or painful. The balance between the two is where you will soar. Are you ready to continue with your lessons?” “Yes.” He dropped his hand to her ass and gave her two precise spanks. It didn’t really hurt. It made a rush of juices flow from her pussy to soak her pants. Again! “Hey!” she objected. “That was for flashing your gorgeous breasts at Alex. No one, not even a guy I’d trust with my life, sees your body unless I want them to.” “You took my bra! I didn’t intend to flash him.” “Then be conscious of that next time. Discipline for this offense is absolutely no underwear at work.” “Nothing?” “Zip,” he said with a little pop. “Pants, shirt and whatever you need for your feet are all you’ll be permitted to wear unless I grant otherwise. If we find a dress or something suitable for work, would you agree to wear it instead of pants all the time?” “I like jeans and khakis. They’re comfortable. But I could be persuaded to wear dresses for you.” Phalen dropped another spank to her ass and a kiss to her lips. This time his smack was followed with a deliberate squeeze of her butt cheek as he dominated her mouth. He lifted his head and used his big muscled frame to back her up against the SUV. Her handbag clunked against the side. “I want to fuck you right now.”
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“We can’t. It’s still light out. You never know who could see us.” “I don’t give a damn.” “Phalen!” She shook her head in denial. Her pussy was on fire with need. She was so turned-on by the thought of having sex in broad daylight, she suddenly needed to be fucked. “Safe word, Cassie. Pick one fast,” Phalen said. “Needs to be something you wouldn’t normally think about when we’re fucking.” “Um, bookkeeping,” she uttered. “Then say it if you want me to stop.” She shook her head again. “If someone sees us, I’m holding you responsible.” “Fair enough. Pants to your knees.” With her thoughts swirling and her heart racing, Cassie obeyed as quickly as she could. It wasn’t easy with his chest plastering her to the side of the SUV. It was as hard as the wall he’d fucked her against already. The man had a thing for fucking while standing up. Not that she’d complain. Oh no. She’d already wedged her hands between them and unzipped her pants. In seconds, she had them around her knees. Phalen stepped back for all of a second and spun her about until she faced the SUV. “Cassandra Williams! Just what do you think you’re doing peeking into my vehicle?” “I’m not trying to do anything of the kind.” Had he checked the back lot for witnesses? She didn’t know nor did she dare ask. The thought that someone might see them added a dimension of excitement she’d never anticipated. “That is the weakest defense. Step up on the running board.” With his help, Cassie climbed up as directed. Her handbag slipped and she awkwardly shifted to keep it on her shoulder. One of his hands braced her hip. “Place your hands on the window. Don’t worry about the purse.” She put her hands as told, splaying her fingers wide. “I’m sorry, Master. I should not have misbehaved.” “What were you hoping to see?” Phalen kept her steady as he worked behind her back. Hearing the rustle of foil, she guessed he was getting a condom. “You,” she admitted. “I wanted to see you again.” “You’ve seen me before.” “I have in my wildest fantasies. Today they became real.” “And what am I doing in these fantasies of yours?” “Fucking me.” “Good girl,” he praised, using his other hand to caress her back. The thrill of contact soothed her. “Do you think you deserve discipline for peeping yet again?” “I haven’t seen anything, Master. I swear,” she denied vehemently.
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“Not the answer I’m waiting for. You crept into my basement and spied on a lesson.” “I apologized for that.” “Apology was accepted by me. It’s not good enough to satisfy my client’s wish for you to be disciplined for spying on him. Seeing him with a boner turned you on. Don’t deny it.” “Yes! Coupled with you, I haven’t stopped thinking about it.” Phalen sniffed near her ear. “I smell the salt of your cum, Cassandra. It’s mine, you see? Coming for another man is forbidden.” “I’d never think beyond the fantasy with him or any man.” “Prove it. Present your ass to me right now,” he growled, nibbling at her earlobe. “NO! No fucking like that.” Surely Phalen didn’t want to take her anally. “I’ve never!” “Your virgin ass will be mine…eventually. All I want from you now are your ass cheeks.” “More spanking?” She breathed harshly. “Afraid? Say the word. We’ll fuck and get the hell out of here.” “No.” “Present yourself.” Without warning, Cassie’s vagina convulsed in orgasm until droplets of cream ran down her thighs. The hand at her hip caressed to her ass. She adjusted her position to offer her butt for a serious spanking. “Ten. Count it out,” he commanded. Before she blinked, he spanked her right cheek with the flat of his hand. “Phalen!” He spanked her again, harder. “Hey!” “Start over.” Damn it, she hadn’t counted. Remembering to keep her hands in check, she anticipated the next spank. Phalen ran his fingertips over the rounded curve of each butt cheek. He swatted her left hard enough to sting. “One!” Phalen caressed. His hand lifted and fell, feeling scorching hot against her stinging skin. “Two!” Oh god, incandescent heat shimmered in awareness under her skin, tickling right to the heart of her pussy. The next smack reverberated so loudly, Cassie was sure neighboring businesses heard the sound over her shouting, “Three!” “Whose ass is this?” Phalen demanded after the fourth spank and count. Juices continued to sluice out of her, warming her up for a good hard fuck. She wanted Phalen so badly she had to claw at the window to keep from demanding it. “Yours, Master,” she answered and received another smack to the hottest part of her ass. “Five!” Blunt nails dragged along her flesh. The warmth of his handprints on her skin revealed that whether he’d spanked, caressed or scratched, he didn’t stop touching her. 53
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Even though her mind was buzzing like she’d had too much wine, his connection to her kept her from fearing the rise and fall of his palm. Through the haze, she counted. Or she thought she’d counted. She might have lost track. Mercifully, Phalen’s hand fell a tenth time, lingering there. “Beautiful, Cassie,” he murmured into her ear. “Your sweet ass is pink enough to reflect my claim on it. For doing such a good job for me, I’m going to reward you.” “Oh. I hope so. Thank you.” Elated, she offered her ass for anything else he wanted. Phalen adjusted her stance and moved in from behind. “Keep your hands on the car.” “I’m trying. I’m afraid I’ll fall.” “Won’t let you.” His cock met her entrance, slowly pushing forward to claim her pussy as its slave. She felt the brush of jeans and cool buttons against her hot ass. He’d only unbuttoned his fly. It was so sexy and naughty she wanted to shout to the rooftops. “Ohmigod,” she sighed. “Hot and tight, perfect.” Letting him pull back and drive back in with the determined purpose to make her feel every inch, she welcomed the edgy erotic satisfaction of knowing she was being taken by her Master. He muttered and grunted with each thrust and withdrawal. Trying to keep him in her, she clenched her thighs when she thought he’d pull out. “Don’t leave me,” she whimpered. “Never.” In a flash, he rocked into her, using the drive of his powerful hips to keep her in place. One time she tried to push back at him. “Stay still, babe. Let me fuck you.” She braced herself. If she moved, it was because of his thrusts. But she needed…more. Her clit was screaming for attention. “May I touch myself? I need to come. Please.” “No.” He readjusted his stance to slip one hand around her hip to her front. “I’ll make you come.” Phalen made good on his promise. She was pinned in place by his cock and one hand on her rump. He squeezed her disciplined ass, sending a new rush of heat to her pussy. His left hand found her clit, tapping once, twice, three times and wham! Orgasm struck with the force of an electric current. Tension eased a moment before she peaked again due to his frantic manipulation of her clitoris. He wasn’t easy. He demanded her clitoris to obey him. “Come again, Cassie, do it for me. Give me your cum!” A rush of feminine cream met his suddenly erratic thrusts. He growled, shaking a little. His cock swelled impossibly bigger, pulsing in unison with the climax that swept through her in sweet satisfying ecstasy. He didn’t ease his grip on her hip until her spasms eased. 54
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Resting her head against the window, she breathed slowly. “My pussy has never been so happy.” Phalen wrapped his arms around her to lift her off the running board. Holding her so her back rested against his big chest, he kissed her temple. “My cock’s pretty happy too.” “You do realize if we keep this up, our date’s going to end up a celibate one?” She had to warn him. Sore was one thing. Out-and-out pain when they had sex was something she didn’t want. “Okay. I won’t touch you until after dinner,” he insisted and withdrew from her. He fumbled a second or two. When he was ready, he turned her around to help her with her khakis. “Damn things.” “At least I know how to cock-block you when I’ve a mind to.” She glanced around and spotted a small trash can outside the back door of his shop. “All I have to do is wear pants.” “All I have to do is tear them off.” Phalen walked to the can and tossed in the rubber. “At least I know how hot your pussy becomes after a spanking. That’s what you’ll get after a cock-block tantrum.” “I’m not prone to tantrums. In fact, I’m rather easygoing.” “You’re amazing, Cassie Williams,” he amended and came back to take her into his embrace. He smelled so good, like Phalen and sex and faintly of sweat. Later she’d need a shower or else she’d smell worse than a wet bloodhound. That’d be a pussy-block if she kept thinking about it. “Hey, Maddox PI, after shopping, can I shower and change before we go to dinner?” she asked after they climbed into the Navigator. “Sure, babe. We’ll come back to my apartment to get ready.” “Thank you.” Relieved, she buckled her seat belt. Phalen grinned like he’d won a prize. His gray eyes locked on her face. “Is my hair messed up?” “You’re beautiful.” She didn’t ask if that meant her hair was mussed in a good way or seriously tangled. With her heart slamming and her tummy flipping because they were going on a real date, she smiled back. They were on their way to who-knew-where. She was pretty sure he wasn’t going to take her to Target. Sex with Cassie was an adventure. She was eager to please, but she wasn’t a pushover. Already, Phalen suspected she was beginning to see the power transferring from Dominant to submissive. For anyone willing to permit their sexual satisfaction to be controlled by another took a hell of a lot of guts.
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Giving up control was never easy for him. Hell, he hadn’t switched since Miranda in college. He ended up with a scar on his chin. Good thing he’d worn his Sox hat. The brim saved his eyes. That’d been the end of Miranda and the start of his only man-crush on Alex Grant. A story in itself he’d have to tell Cassie when the time seemed right. “What are you thinking about?” Cassie asked. He used a traffic stop to look over at her. She was incredibly pretty with her hair all wild around her face, shoulders and back. “You, sweetheart.” “Uh-huh,” she murmured. “Something’s going on. Am I going to have to unbuckle this belt and come over there?” “Safety first, Cassie, okay? The seat belt stays on when we’re driving.” “You’re right.” He felt her study him. Gently, she reached over and touched his hand where he’d kept it on the stick shift. “Tell me, please. I need to know why you’re further from me than ever.” “I’m with you,” he reassured, turning his hand into her grasp. It was nice to hold hands. He didn’t think he’d really done that with anyone. “I took a trip down memory lane. That’s all.” “Phalen! Don’t do that. You dragged several confessions out of me today. Is it Alex? If he’s more important to you than a friend, I’ll chalk today up as a lovely moment in time.” “I’m not gay. Fucking you three times in three hours should tell you that.” “And you’re damn good at it. Trust me this time. Please?” After what she’d done with him today so far, she deserved his trust. “During my junior year in college, my parents were killed in a car accident. Drunk driver ran them off an overpass and fled the scene.” “Oh! Oh, no, no, Phalen, I’m so sorry for pushing.” Cassie grasped his fingers tighter. “I’ve been burdening you with my worries about Allie and all this time you’ve lost two people in your life.” “I want to help you. Losing my parents is something I haven’t quite gotten over. But I moved on and live life with honor. But sometimes it’s been lonely playing hero without a heroine to match me. Hell, I had this darkness inside of me that scared the fuck out of me. Then I met this cute little strawberry blonde who opened a diner with a bookstore attached and I knew happiness again.” “I make you happy?” “Yeah,” he said. “Flirting with you these last six months has been fun.” “Now I understand why you’re so protective of those you care about. You’d really do what you said to Michael.” “Turn into the Grim Reaper? Hell, yes. You’re family to me now.”
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Cassie pulled on his hand and pressed her mouth to his knuckles. They were battlescarred from martial arts training accidents, fights and war. “I love you, Phalen Maddox. I am so sorry about your mom and dad. If I could bring them back to you, I would.” “Love you too, Cassie Williams.” This was the point he should slow down. He wasn’t. Cassie was too important. He loved her. Denying how he felt wasn’t an option. “I hope to God authorities caught the cowardly bastard who took your parents from you and your brothers. If not, I’m the one who’ll go Grim Reaper on the sonofabitch.” He smiled. He had no doubt Cassie could kick ass. She’d visited the martial arts training center to take self-defense classes. “Cops caught him. The man’s serving time for two counts of vehicular manslaughter, leaving the scene and multiple DUIs. If the fucker gets out, you can bet me, Taran and Ethan will have something to say to him.” “Good! You joined the Army to bring cowards like that to justice.” “Actually, my father, Declan Maddox, was a Ranger who’d served three tours of duty in Vietnam. Because of him, I’d joined the Army Reserves right out of high school and then joined ROTC in college.” “So you followed in your father’s footsteps,” Cassie said. “Yes. I finished college and went to Airborne School. Taran later went to law school and Ethan got his bachelor’s in criminal justice and joined the police academy. I’m proud of them. Just don’t let them know. They’ll hold it over my head for a century.” “Gotcha,” she said. “You never mention the missions you went on. I won’t ask though. That stuff’s confidential. I respect that.” “Some things are best left unsaid. The darkness involved in black ops missions was scarier than anything you’ll face in my dungeon. But I served this country with pride. I’d do it again. Because my skeleton’s pieced together with metal and bolts, I can’t.” “Wow,” she whispered and kissed his knuckles sweetly. “You’re a fine man, Phalen.” “Thanks. I try to be.” “You are. Test me on it. I’ll tie you up tonight and have my way with your wicked big cock.” “Treat it with care, babe. I plan to fuck you for the next forty years.” Cassie lowered his hand to her lap. He liked that almost as much as holding her hand. “It won’t be easy for you, will it?” “What do you mean?” “Switching,” she answered. “I want that, you know? Not yet. But I want to play the Dom once in a while.” “Dominating is easy for me. Submitting isn’t. I dated one in college.” “A what?”
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“A switch. Turned out she’d been cheating on me with a sub she’d met at a club. What I taught her, she used on him.” “That can’t have turned out well,” Cassie observed. “It left me with a scarred chin when she tried using one of my whip tricks and failed.” “Jeez! That’s where you got the scar. I’d wondered.” “Scars and ink are badges of honor to me.” He let go of her hand to smooth his thumb over the scar on his chin. “This is the only one that pisses me off.” “Even Phalen Maddox can misjudge someone. Lord knows I made some doozies in college.” “The RA, you mean?” “Slimy rat,” she growled. “My first serious boyfriend took my virginity and heart with promises of love and fidelity. Do you know what he did?” “Sounds like the dick broke your heart.” “That and…he recorded us together. On video!” Phalen bit his lip to keep from telling her she’d yelled. “We played professor and student. I dressed like a schoolgirl. And…well, he spanked me with a ruler.” “Damn.” Oh shit! He wanted to see Cassie in a cute little schoolgirl outfit. “He showed the tape to his buddies. I’d never been so humiliated.” “Aw, sweetheart, he was an idiot.” “I was humiliated because I’d liked the spanking so much I climaxed. The guys that saw it shoved rulers under my door for two months.” “Where’s the RA now?” “Think he’s out in Western Mass. He dropped me like a hot potato about the same time the rulers started showing up. I had my revenge, though.” “What did you do?” “Allie and I flew his blowup doll out of his dorm room window like a flag.” “Nice! Wish I’d known your sister, Cassie. I think we’d have been good friends.” She squeezed his hand. “I think so too.” Phalen drove to Danvers. Tourists were always surprised to learn that many of the witches accused in Salem were from Salem Village, which was now Danvers. It wasn’t a long drive. But with traffic and parking, it took a little patience to find a space near Leather Haven, the first stop on Cassie’s wardrobe makeover. It wasn’t that he minded jeans or khakis that much. He simply wanted her to feel sexy and free. “First stop,” he announced. “Uh-oh,” she muttered. “Whatever we get here, I don’t think I can wear it to Sunday dinner.” “Understandable. The corsets this guy makes will look amazing on you. Trust me.”
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“I do, Phalen. I do.” “Stay there. I’ll come around to get you.” Jumping out of the Navigator, he headed around to the passenger side. She had a saucy satisfied look on her face when she hopped down with his guidance.
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Chapter Five Shopping with Phalen Maddox turned out to be more fun than Cassie dared imagine. The man had taste, charm and an eye for fashion. After five minutes in the leather shop that turned out to be a favorite haunt for those in the lifestyle, she discovered sexy did not necessarily mean skimpy. There were definitely outfits he’d chosen from the racks that weren’t meant for church. But she’d found some cute knee-length leather skirts and dresses that hugged her trim figure in just the right way and could be worn anywhere. He’d also bought Cassie four sets of boots for everyday wear. The boots he’d chosen were trendy knee-high, ankle and mid-calf styles. The fourth pair were handmade thigh-high black boots with wicked heels. They had to be ordered and would take two weeks to arrive. He’d had an attendant measure her for a formfitting corset and a long black coat that reminded her of what a pirate would wear. If she paired the coat with a white frilly shirt, the corset and thigh-high boots, she’d be smoking hot. The smell of the leather shop alone was enough to get her juices warm. Phalen’s devotion through the fittings and parade of clothes kept her from feeling lost in a sea of leather and PVC. Once he was satisfied with the leather purchases, he drove them to an exclusive lingerie shop. There she was poked, prodded, measured and fitted for teddies, garter belts, stockings, bras, thongs and G-string panties. She tried to object to measuring because she wasn’t wearing underwear at all. He didn’t listen. He took the measuring tape and did it himself. By the time they left, she had a whole new wardrobe meant to be worn under the sexy clothes she was getting. He also added lace and satin nighties and bustiers to wear in bed. He admitted to preferring her to be naked, but getting her that way was something he’d look forward to. For their last stop, he took her to a dress shop. The ladies welcomed him with hugs and thanked him for setting up their security system and playing Maddox PI when they needed it. She ended up buying several pretty mini-dresses, pantsuits and outfits that were perfectly acceptable anywhere. At last they were in his apartment. Boxes were strewn about the studio that was actually much bigger than she’d expected. Her feet were a bit tired, but she’d go through it again to have Phalen’s undivided attention. Not once had he been inattentive, bored or showed signs of distress over the use of his credit card.
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“Remind me to wear running shoes the next time we go shopping,” Cassie murmured and slumped down on a butter-soft black leather sectional L-shaped sofa that could easily handle six people. There was an enormous lounge chair fit for a king in the living area and multicolored plush rugs were spread about on the polished wood floor. The heavy mahogany coffee table in front of the sofa was laden with shopping bags. Set up against a brownstone wall was a sixty-inch flat-screen television, DVR, stereo, three different gaming systems and satellite radio. The apartment was definitely a mancave. Everything screamed Phalen Maddox. When they’d walked into the studio, she’d noticed the galley kitchen was perfect for one cook or for two now that she might be staying there often. On the right side of the room was an enormous king-sized bed set up on a dais. More mahogany furniture complemented the big four-poster bed. It looked like it’d taken a lot of heavy-duty work to get the thing in place or to even budge. All-black covers adorned the mattress and a charcoal-gray throw was folded at the foot of the bed. Centered on the floor in front of the footboard was his Army trunk. “Too much for you, babe?” he asked in concern, taking a seat beside her. “No. It was fun. But maybe we can wait until all the packages are delivered and we find out what we forgot before shopping again? I admit I don’t treat myself to shopping trips much.” “Good idea.” Phalen rested his arm behind her head and brought her to rest against his big shoulder. “You should treat yourself more often. I’d like to set you up for a spa treatment.” It was so nice sitting with him. Cassie closed her eyes to breathe him in. “You smell like the leather shop. I’ll think about the spa.” “That your way of saying I should shower again?” “No. I love the scent of leather. Nothing beats it, except Irish Spring soap.” She drew him in one more time. “However, I do need a shower or I’m canceling our dinner date.” “Tell you what. How about you jump in the shower while I go check on Alex?” “That’d be great. Thank you.” It would also give her time to pick something to wear tonight. Already deciding which bags to dig through first, she pushed herself to her feet. Phalen stood up next to her, his arms settling around her waist to draw her up against him. “You’re not upset by all the clothes, Cassie?” “I’m grateful. Everything is lovely.” “I don’t usually object to pants,” he said. “Seeing you trying on dresses and leather, well, yeah, that was a turn-on for me.” “Looking my best for you will hardly be a chore.”
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Phalen smoothed his hand through her hair to have her tilt her head back. “You always look pretty. Why do you think I’ve been chasing you for six months?” “Because you were horny.” He shook his head. “Being horny is easy to remedy. A jackoff in the shower or a trip to a club would have done the trick. Going out didn’t appeal to me if you weren’t there.” Cassie thought on that for a bit. “If we ever have a public scene, I don’t want to be shared,” she stated adamantly, leaning forward so she could look at him. He’d said she had a right to object to something or negotiate scenes. “That’s good. I don’t share. Putting you on public display and letting anyone watching us know that you will never be theirs is definitely on my list of kinks to try.” “I’m sensing an amendment to that.” “I don’t go to popular BDSM clubs anymore. The only time I witness a public scene is at exclusive parties thrown by hosts or hostesses I know and trust. In those situations, what happens at the party stays at the party.” “I’m glad we’re on the same page.” She paused, thinking how best to ask her next question. “Phalen?” “Hmm?” Slowly, he ran his hands up and down her spine. She didn’t need a masseuse. She simply needed Phalen’s strong fingers. “What happens between us stays with us, right?” He looked her square in the eyes. “Always. If I take you to a party, we’ll both be masked so well our identities would be kept anonymous except to the hosts. You’d be amazed how many people you see on the street or in the public eye are in the lifestyle.” “I don’t want my parents to worry, you know?” “I understand.” He stopped caressing her back to cup her face in his big hands. She loved that they were roughened from the hard work he put himself through. “Your parents love you. They will always love and miss your sister. I wouldn’t dare ask you to worry them about our relationship.” Pleased, she kissed him softly. “You’re not such a scary Dom anymore, Phalen Maddox.” “Guess I’m not doing my job well enough. Wait until tonight. We’ll see how scary I can be.” She grinned and kissed him. While he let her, she took control of their kiss and lingered. “Cassie,” he groaned against her lips. “Uh-huh?” “Go shower or I’m coming in there with you,” he warned, dropping his hands from her face and giving her a gentle push toward the bathroom.
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“I’d invite you in,” she said, slowly unbuttoning her blouse to give him a tantalizing glimpse of what he couldn’t have right then. “But you have to check on Alex.” “Alex can wait.” Phalen stood, striding toward her. “Stay right there,” she warned, putting her hand up to stop him. “You promised no sex until after dinner. If you come in the shower, we’ll fuck again. I need to take some time to look nice for our date. Just a few minutes of girl-time, that’s all I ask.” He folded his arms across his chest, giving his best glare that had her shaking in need. It’d be so easy to change her mind about showering alone. “All right, do whatever you need to get ready.” He lowered his arms and headed for the door. “By the way, there’s a price to pay for teasing me.” Cassie’s ass was still a little pink from his discipline. The buzz she’d felt from that scene in the parking lot still lingered fresh in her mind and stung a bit when she sat a certain way. “No spanking if you want sex tonight.” “Tomorrow afternoon we’re going to an aesthetician.” “Why?” “Beauty treatments, massage, mani-pedi, the works,” he said. “Didn’t we talk about the spa already?” “And waxing,” he added. A facial and massage were promising. But waxing? “No, no, no,” she objected, shaking her head. That would hurt! “Then I’ll shave you. I’d rather not have you dealing with razor bumps or cuts.” “You’re serious! Waxing…down there?” “Hell, yeah, your pussy will look even hotter than it is now.” “It’ll be painful.” At the door, he turned to look at her. “I’ll hold your hand, Cassie. But I want your muff gone.” He didn’t say it wouldn’t be painful, which meant it was going to hurt like hell. “If I object?” “You know what to do to stop it.” Phalen left before she could say anything else. She was half tempted to use her safe word tomorrow. But then she’d already dipped her toes into the water. She wanted to immerse herself in her newfound relationship with him. She’d go bare tomorrow. If it hurt, she’d scream herself hoarse and put Phalen to work at the diner until she felt better. Quickly, she grabbed up what she needed and the drugstore bag with some new makeup, hairbrush, a toothbrush, shampoo and conditioner. Since she’d washed her hair that morning, she wouldn’t have to wash it again. She’d place it in the shower for tomorrow. 63
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Phalen’s bathroom was as big as the rest of the studio. She figured that when he’d had the building changed over from an old house, he’d gutted the top floor to make it one huge open apartment. It was clever and made a large space feel warm and inviting. The bathroom had a big sink, cabinets and a closet for storage. Black bathmats, curtains, towels and washcloths complemented the white marbled countertops and white vinyl flooring. There was a surprisingly large bathtub with miniature jets for a whirlpool. The shower stall beside the tub was big enough for two Phalen Maddoxes. It had a six-inch rounded showerhead fixed to the marble wall and a smaller handheld showerhead with a massager. Man stuff was stored neatly in the cabinet below the sink and in the medicine cabinet designed with a shaving mirror. It shouldn’t have surprised her that Phalen was a bit of a neat freak. She had a tendency for sloppiness at home. Maybe his neat gene would rub off on her. She’d try to keep things more organized around her apartment. Taking a forest-green dress out of the bag, she shook it and the material fell loose. There were a few wrinkles. If she hung it up while she took a hot shower, the steam should help. She found a hook on the back of the bathroom door and hung the dress from it. Then she placed her glasses, black bikini panties, a matching lace bra, a garter belt and stockings on the countertop. As soon as she undressed, she gratefully kicked aside her pants and shirt. “Phalen Maddox, if you break my heart after all this, I might never recover,” she said to the mirror. The image was slightly blurred until she leaned in. “But you’ll be worth it.” She grabbed up her hair to tie it with a hair band from the drugstore bag and went to turn on the shower. A bar of soap was sitting in a tray. Breathing him in because she missed him already, Cassie took the soap and washed all over. She’d forgotten a washcloth. Rather than risk getting water all over the place, she lathered her palms until bubbles cascaded down her arms and she washed between her thighs. The handheld showerhead was a marvelous invention, especially when used to rinse her pussy clean. With help from the warm water, the tension in her eased, soothing any lingering soreness. Fresh from her shower a half-hour later, Cassie applied new makeup, using colors to complement her eyes. She’d always thought hazel eyes were kind of ordinary. Now she saw the variations of green and golden brown. A more daring color of lipstick made her lips look soft and plump. Rosy blush enhanced her cheekbones and a brush of mineral powder finished her more dramatic evening look. Phalen was right to want her hair down. With her makeup done, she concentrated on brushing it until it was soft and shining. The steam from the shower caused her hair
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to look wavier. She liked that, especially the way the sides curled about her face and shoulders. Next she worked on getting dressed. She’d never worn a garter belt or stockings like this, but quickly figured them out. “Wow! Wow!” she exclaimed when she looked at the big mirror over the sink. She couldn’t believe it was her. She had to put on her glasses to make sure. It was her! The black bra, garters and miniscule panties were gorgeous on her, making her long legs look even longer. Her breasts didn’t need to be pushed up or enhanced with padding, but the strapless lacy confection hugging her skin was beautiful. Already her nipples poked into the cups as she imagined having Phalen’s mouth on her. Aroused to the point of madness, Cassie fought it. No way was she going to cave into a quick climax. It might feel damn good while it happened. But she doubted Phalen would be pleased if he knew. He had a predator’s instincts. He’d smell it. With that in mind, she ignored her body’s demands and grabbed her dress. The halter-style knee-length dress with its daring neckline was lovely. The color complemented her fair skin and light smattering of freckles exactly as she’d hoped. Greens were always a good choice for her, especially for her eyes. Her stockings were a sheer suntan to keep her legs from looking too pale. Not wanting to delay much longer, she brushed her teeth, flossed, rinsed with mouthwash and headed out of the bathroom. She made it about two feet. “Whoa,” she murmured, getting her first look at Phalen dressed for a date. He was too handsome for words in his day clothes. Wearing brown trousers and a black shirt, his hair unbound and casual loafers on his big feet, he looked…edible. Phalen pushed away from where he’d rocked back against the big sofa. Everything about him was huge, even his furniture. She stood her ground as he closed in on her. “Don’t move, Cassandra Williams,” he warned, stopping shy of running her over and gathering her up against him. “You are beautiful.” “I need my shoes.” Good lord, the man was a demi-god. No, a sex god on a stick and he was hers. “You need to kiss me.” Catching a fistful of her hair, he brought her closer and silenced any resistance. Not that she would. No way. Phalen took his time, mastering this kiss as thoroughly as he had the others. Phalen couldn’t get enough of Cassie’s mouth. She tasted amazing. She looked so fucking sexy he’d gotten rock hard in an instant. Walking had been hell. He’d walk through it again for this moment. Cassie was positively breathtaking in a dress. He knew she would be. He’d seen her try on some clothes, but it hadn’t prepared him for the full effect.
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Drawing back, he smoothed his hands through her pretty hair. “Hi there,” he whispered, peppering kisses on her chin and nose. “Hi, um, do you think you can let go so I can find my shoes?” “In a sec. Sure you still want to go out?” “If we don’t, we’ll end up in that big bed over there. You are amazing at fucking and I’ve never been so satisfied. But you’re much bigger than any man I’ve been with. I need more recovery time. If I rest, I can truly appreciate your great big cock later.” “Oh yeah?” “Yes,” she confirmed. “Damn straight.” What guy wouldn’t be proud to know his dick satisfied his woman? “Alex said to tell you everything’s fine next door and to have fun. He’d like to sit down with you tomorrow after breakfast and discuss ways of making it more successful.” “Alex Grant wants to help me?” “He’s going to be here until after the benefit, remember? He’s considering moving to the area permanently.” “I’d like to hear his suggestions.” “Okay. How about we move out or we’ll miss our reservation? I changed it for half an hour later.” She nodded and stepped away to rustle through bags they hadn’t had time to unpack. While she wasn’t looking, he wiped his mouth with his fingers, coming away with a trace of her lipstick. He went to the galley and grabbed a napkin to remove the rest of the makeup. “How’d you find the time to change so quickly?” she asked after she’d found what she needed. “It didn’t take long to check on Alex. I ran downstairs to wash up and brush my teeth.” He tossed the napkin in the trash and waited. That stopped Cassie in her tracks. “You washed up for me? You’d already showered.” “Yeah, but we fucked. Seemed only fair to get clean for tonight.” He had plans for her sexy mouth. He didn’t want condom lube or sweat to get in the way. “That’s very sweet of you.” Getting himself clean for a blowjob was sweet? Damn, he’d buy stock in soap if that got him oral sex every night. Cassie sat down on the lounge chair to put on a pair of light-brown shoes. The slender straps of the three-inch heels circled her ankles, accenting her incredible legs. “I might get a necklace for this dress,” she commented, standing tall. Sonofabitch, he really wanted to fuck her right now. Legs that went all the way to heaven like hers were meant to be wrapped around his back or ass or thighs, whatever, as long as she hung on tight for a long hard ride.
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“You don’t need it tonight. You look great. Let’s go.” “Should I take my purse? I don’t have a jacket here, but could run next door to the diner.” “No need to take a purse. You can wear my coat if you need it.” “Thanks,” she said with a nod. Phalen went to his closet, pulled out his aviator jacket, carried it back and placed it over her shoulders. She settled next to him as naturally as if she were born to be there. Leading her outside, he walked her to the passenger side of his SUV. She was tall enough to climb in without help. He assisted anyway. As soon as she was buckled in, he went around and got into the driver’s side. “So where are we off to?” she asked. “There’s a nice place outside of Danvers a friend of mine owns. It’s called Catherine’s Castle.” “I’ve seen it from the road. I remember when it was being built, especially since it looked like an authentic Irish castle.” “Catherine O’Brien had the stones shipped from Ireland. Originally they were part of her grandfather’s inn near Dublin.” “Wonderful. How do you know her? Or is that something that’s none of my business?” Phalen started the SUV and headed out. “Cassie, you can ask anything you want, anytime. I met her at a club a long time ago. We are friends. That’s all.” “A regular club or a fetish club?” “Fetish.” “Ah, I see. Is she one of your clients?” “She was.” Great, they were about to get into an argument if he didn’t explain this right. “Catherine’s a Dominatrix. What she uses with her subs, she learned from me. Before you ask, no, I didn’t have sex with her. In fact, she doesn’t have sex with her clients either.” Cassie stayed silent. He let her take a moment to think. “I believe you. Phalen, what exactly do you teach to Dominants? You explained it earlier in your basement. I just need to understand a bit more of what goes on in those sessions.” “Primarily bondage, because I excel at it.” Bondage was his favorite kink. “Putting someone into a situation where they have no control of movement can be frightening and dangerous if not done correctly. I’ve also taught Doms how to use whips, canes, floggers, paddles and spanking to pleasure their submissives.” “I got it. Thank you.” “What’s on your mind then?” She was in deep thought. He could almost hear the wheels turning in her sweet little head. “Let me be part of your instructions.”
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“Say that again.” “I want to help. I mean…I want to be part of your teaching sessions.” “When I put you on a Catherine wheel or cross, it’ll be because we’re in a scene,” he told her. “Using you as a teaching aid isn’t what I had in mind.” “Would it please you if I did?” “It would. There are things some Doms want to do with their subs that are on your no-go list. I would never violate your choice in that, Cassie, but our interactions with each other during a lesson will be very real and very sexy. Understand?” “Yes, I believe so.” “I’ll think about it.” Sessions could get pretty damn serious when it came to corporal punishment. Nine times out of ten, Doms new to the lifestyle needed to learn the basics of anatomy and where to spank or safely whip someone without damaging kidneys or causing deep-tissue damage. “I trust you, Phalen, you know what I mean?” At a red light, he was able to look over at her. Damn, she was one fine woman. Yesterday he’d returned to Salem determined to ask her out. Today she was his. He’d call that a success. Except he needed to tell her about the phone call he’d gotten from Ethan regarding Jeff Swanson. He didn’t want to keep anything from her or scare her. “Thanks, Cassie. I’m glad you trust me. There’s something I need to tell you about. We can wait until after dinner if you’d like.” “If it’s about my case, go ahead.” “I called Ethan after we talked this afternoon. He said Jeff Swanson stopped frequenting their members-only club because he’d fallen in love. A month or so after, Jeff bought a place in Vermont for himself and his fiancée. Ethan thought they’d moved north. He’d not known Jeff died.” “Oh my god, they were engaged?” “According to Ethan, they were.” “I see.” “There’s more,” he warned, driving on when the light turned green. “My brother requested all the case files on Jeff Swanson from the police in Vermont. The cops up there are going through proper channels to open up a case that’s long been solved in their minds. But they’ve agreed to send what they have.” “Did you give him Officer Adams’ name?” “I did. He’s the one that agreed to release the information to Ethan. Adams works the cold case division and he’s in the process of cleaning out solved cases. Fortunately, today’s technology allowed him to scan and email the reports on hand, primarily the ME’s findings.” “We were told he’d hung himself.” “Initial reports by the ME at the time are consistent with that.”
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“There was more?” “Afraid so,” he admitted, breathing hard. “Autopsy showed Jeff was so malnourished and dehydrated, his organ functions were shutting down. Maybe he’d decided on anorexia as a means to kill himself because of how Alessandra died. An adult male Jeff’s size would take thirty or forty days to shut down from the lack of food. Without water is a different story. I don’t know. But it’s mighty suspicious to me.” Cassie breathed harshly. “You…you still think someone else was involved?” “Afraid so.” “Poor Jeff,” Cassie whispered. “How could I have done nothing for so long? I liked him a lot. I should have stood up for him or helped his parents find answers. They died thinking their son caused Allie’s death.” “It sounds to me like maybe you had a bit of a crush on Jeff at some point. You stood up for him at first. Then Allie died and you thought he’d become the monster your parents portrayed him to be. Don’t beat yourself up for being human, okay?” “You’re right. I had a huge crush on him when I first met him. When he started dating Allie, I got over it. I’m calling the ME who examined my sister first thing tomorrow. I want those reports. I want Ethan to find everything he can on Jeff Swanson.” “Let Ethan do his thing. I’ll do mine. You’ll go to work and take care of your customers.” “Don’t Maddox PI me. This is my sister’s and her fiancé’s deaths we’re talking about. I am not going to sit on my hands and do nothing.” “I’ll keep you up to date on everything. I’m worried about this, babe. We could be opening a great big can of whoop-ass here. I’m not about to let you get caught up in something dangerous.” “I want to help. Please, let me do something.” “Tell you what. How about you keep reading your sister’s books? Sometimes clues manifest themselves in things we least expect.” “There’s a journal,” she revealed. “A journal?” “Among the manuscripts she’d written was a personal journal. It was the journal that made me see she really loved Jeff.” “Read it cover to cover. Tell me anything you think might be relevant to my case.” “Our case. I’ll be good like you asked. Promise, Phalen, all I ask is that you include me.” “Promise.” A few minutes later, they arrived at Catherine’s Castle. In addition to being a fivestar restaurant, the castle doubled as a member-only BDSM club that was opened on dates corresponding to Druid festivals or to celebrate a club member’s birthday or
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special occasions such as a collaring. To the mass public, the castle was nothing more than a beautiful place to dine. Inside, he led Cassie to the hostess table, spying Catherine right away. Her husband was the chef and would be secluded in the kitchen. “Is that her?” Cassie asked quietly. “Catherine? Yes,” he answered. “She’s totally not what I expected,” she admitted. Few would realize what Catherine engaged in outside the restaurant. She wore a modest black dress, pearls and the huge rock of a wedding ring her hubby put on her finger a couple of years ago. Her straight black hair fell all the way to her waist. She was a beautiful woman. But Phalen couldn’t see past Cassie’s strawberry-blonde hair, hazel eyes and long legs to appreciate the Dominatrix. No one compared to his woman. “Phalen Maddox!” Catherine called out, sauntering up to them with the sensual grace she’d mastered. “It’s been ages since Donny and I have seen you.” “Been out of town, Catherine,” he explained. “This is Cassandra Williams. She prefers Cassie.” Catherine looked Cassie over, sending off Dominant vibes all over the place. Tucking Cassie closer to reassure her, he was glad when she waited for Catherine to offer her hand in greeting. “Hello to you, Cassie,” Catherine welcomed. “We are pleased to have a friend of Phalen’s here.” “Thank you,” Cassie said. “When I learned Phalen and I were coming here, I was very excited. This castle is truly lovely. He told me the stone came from Ireland.” Catherine’s grin widened. “That’s true. You must let me take you on a tour sometime.” “I would like that very much if the opportunity presents itself,” Cassie insisted. Catherine looked back and forth at them before returning to hold Cassie’s gaze. Her submissive nature caught up with her, compelling her to lower her eyes from a direct challenge. “Phalen, this one’s more than a date to you. She’s special.” “Cassie is the one, understand?” “Absolutely,” Catherine stated. “Come on, I’ll show you two to your table.” She selected two dinner menus and a wine list from her hostess table and signaled they should follow her. Phalen placed his hand at Cassie’s back to guide her through the labyrinth of tables. Catherine led them to a private dining room with a sliding door. Phalen removed the coat from Cassie’s shoulders, hung it on a coatrack and then assisted her into a seat at the table set for two. “This should serve you both nicely,” Catherine pronounced. “Can I have the bartender open a bottle of wine or get either of you a drink?”
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Phalen did not drink and drive. “No alcohol for me, thank you. Cassie?” “I’m fine with ice water.” “Very well, the waiter will be with you shortly.” He waited for the hostess to close the doors and reached across the table. “What’s the matter, Cassie?” “I’ve never met a Dominatrix before,” she whispered. Phalen smiled. They were in a private room and Cassie was still conscious of remaining discreet. “What were you expecting?” “Kickass boots, a lot of leather, maybe PVC or something?” “She wears that when necessary. Tonight, she’s the hostess of her restaurant. Her husband is the chef. In addition to Irish dishes, he excels in French, English and American cuisine.” “He permits her to…you know?” “Yes. Sometimes he participates. Their relationship is between them. I’m not going to judge if they wish to help others act out fantasies that aren’t vanilla.” “Wow. Do they share?” “If they do, they keep that away from her clients. My guess would be no. They’re very much in love.” “But isn’t the fantasy of BDSM sexual?” “For some, yes. Sometimes a submissive needs discipline that his or her lover can’t or won’t provide. Flying is incredibly addictive. The afterglow of the endorphin rush can linger for days. Someone like Catherine can give a sub the rush without endangering them. Like I said, it’s not necessarily a sexual release they want.” “It’s the flying,” Cassie summed up. “Exactly.” “I want to do that with you,” she insisted. Phalen squeezed her hand. “I will make that happen for you.” “Earlier you said that you could fly too.” “That was a reference to top-space. When I corrected you this afternoon, I’d sensed you were ready for something a little risky. You responded with such sweet submission, I damn near went up in flames with you.” “You were aware we were alone, right?” she said. “I’m always aware of what’s around us. If I’d thought for a second we might have been spotted, I’d have gotten you inside or waited to try that another time.” “Thank you.” “Do you have any idea how sexy you are to me, Cassie?” “I’m beginning to see it.” She grinned a little. Her glasses were cute, but he wanted to fuck her without them on.
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“Good.” He released her hand as a waiter came to fill their water goblets with chilled sparkling water and ask if they wanted appetizers. Cassie declined. “Can we have a second to look at the menu?” she asked the waiter. “Yes, of course, ma’am.” The waiter set the bottle of water in a silver bucket and disappeared. Cassie picked up the menu. “What do you recommend?” “The lamb is excellent,” Phalen answered. “That sounds scrumptious,” she decided, putting the menu back down without thinking. The waiter came back less than a minute later. Phalen gave him their order and the guy was off to the kitchen. “I’m curious about something,” she said when they were alone. “What’s that?” “Actually, someone, not something,” she amended. “Dallas McKay.” Frowning at the mention of another man, Phalen bit back his temper. “Why are you curious?” “Well, he is Dallas McKay. He’s a football legend already and he’s still playing.” “Are you itching for another spanking, Cassandra?” “No.” She shook her head swiftly. “I’m not trying to make you jealous. It’s not every day the guy I’m seeing can claim to be friends with someone like him.” “In that case, he’s very down to earth for a guy whose endorsements alone make him a multimillionaire,” Phalen answered. “Not entirely sure he liked me at first. I am glad he’s a friend now.” “Why wouldn’t he like you?” “Same reason you were suspicious of Grace, his fiancée. He knew I’d gone on one date with her as a favor to Kyran and Anna. He made it damn clear she was his from the start.” Cassie’s mouth dropped open. “Grace and Dallas are getting married, seriously?” “Yes. Took a little convincing for her to believe Dallas would want her. Once she did, that was all they needed to start planning their wedding.” “I don’t understand. Why wouldn’t she believe him?” “She had some trouble with self-esteem and his ex-girlfriend turned out to be the same girl who’d bullied Grace in high school. His ex is a manipulative bitch who tried to mess things up for them. I swooped in and kept them from acting like a couple of idiots.” “You played matchmaker.” “Guess that’s how to look at it,” he said, shrugging. “My job going down there wasn’t to get them together. That’s just how it turned out.” “Can you tell me anything about why you went to Virginia in the first place?” 72
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Phalen figured the truth had already come out in Alexandria. There was no reason Cassie shouldn’t know. “Dallas is adopted.” “That’s right. I read that in an article once. Oh, I see. You helped him find his birth parents.” “Grace and I did. It’s complicated. Suffice it to say, I flew to South Dakota and Minnesota to trace a man who turned out to be Dallas’ grandfather. The reasons for the adoption are too complicated to go over now.” “Wow, South Dakota. That’s cool.” “His maternal grandfather lives right outside of Deadwood. It’s a great place for a vacation. Maybe I’ll take you over the summer.” “I’d love to go. Who wouldn’t want to walk the streets where Wild Bill Hickok walked?” “How about the wedding?” “Grace and Dallas’ wedding?” “That’s the only one I know of at the moment. It was going to be in April until Anna was put on bedrest. Grace wants her in the bridal party, so they’re waiting for the twins to be born.” Cassie took a sip of water. “I’d like to go. What if we’re not together then?” “Why wouldn’t we be?” “I might mess up,” she said, looking so worried he almost vaulted over the table to take her into his arms. “I may have read about BDSM, even fantasized about it. Actually living it out…what if I can’t really do it? You’ll be disappointed.” “There’s no rush here, Cassie. We take one step at a time. Like any relationship, communication is essential. If you’re afraid of something or really don’t want a scene, all you need to do is say so.” “I thought I needed a safe word.” “Yes, you do. But there will be times when you say no and mean no. It’s my job to recognize the difference. If I fail, I lose you. That is scary as all fuck.” Her eyes went so big he could see the flecks in her eyes. “I scare you?” “Sometimes. I’ve never been in love like this. I don’t want to do anything that pushes you further than you’re ready for. That’s why I’m hesitant to let you into my teaching sessions.” Her hand shook and she let go of her glass. “Oh my, you mean it. You really love me.” “Of course I do.” He reached over and took her hand. Her skin was incredibly soft compared to his battle-worn hide. “What do you say? Will you go to D and Grace’s wedding with me?” “Yes, I’d love to.”
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It was a long way off since Anna wasn’t due for another three months. “There’s something else I want to ask you about,” he said. “I’m listening.” She wrapped her fingers around his, subtly smoothing her thumb along his. “I was blood tested before my first tour in Afghanistan. I’m clean.” “So am I. Are we talking unprotected sex here, Phalen?” “That’s where we’re heading, babe. I’ve not had unprotected sex since I went to Jump School. But I want to be absolutely sure I don’t bring something into our relationship because of the mistakes I made in the past. And sex isn’t the only way to get HIV or hepatitis. The best way to make sure we’re both safe is to be tested together.” Cassie’s eyes went impossibly bigger. She was so cute. He nearly grabbed her up to nibble on her throat for a good long time. The neckline of her dress was superb on her. “That’s the nicest gift a man’s ever given to me,” she finally said. “Yes, let’s do that.” Damn, if he’d known she’d be that happy about blood tests, he’d have offered months ago. “There’s only the matter of birth control to consider then, Cassie.” “I’m on the Pill. Nothing’s foolproof though. Not even condoms. If something happens, will that be a deal breaker for us?” “Do you really think the man who’d kill for you would walk away from his kid?” If she had a baby, he’d be a father. He liked that thought, scary as it was to think he might fuck it up. The fact that his brothers were Dominants because he was didn’t escape him. “No,” she answered after a second. “I think you’d make a wonderful father. I’d be honored to have a family with you. Within reason, you understand.” “Reason?” “Yes. I’d like to spend time with you before thinking about babies. And being married first would be best. My parents are very conservative. I need to respect that.” “I need to do that too. I’d like to get to know them. Why don’t we go to church Sunday and take your parents to lunch afterward?” “You’d do that?” “Do I need to repeat myself?” he questioned, adding the push to his voice that made her involuntarily lean forward. She squirmed as the scent of her arousal gave him an instant hard-on. “I know better than that. One thing,” she said. “We should let them know about Allie and Jeff. But I’d like to make sure we have something concrete first.” “Okay.” “Phalen, why did you back off before you went to Virginia? I didn’t want you to.” “Ah, Cassie, I didn’t want to scare you. I wasn’t sure you were ready for me before then. That changed when I tested you this morning.” “One day. That’s all it took?” 74
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“More like six months in the making. I fell on day one.” “Me too.” She flushed sweetly, her face lighting up. “Too bad the music’s so subtle overhead. Otherwise, I’d ask you to dance with me.” “Dancing is out.” He sucked at dancing. Slow dancing, okay, he could do that. Wasn’t much to it other than swaying, but he wasn’t about to make a fool of himself tonight. “Haven’t we been dancing around each other for months now?” “Not the same thing,” he said. “Seriously, Cassie, I’m not the dancing type.” “You can move, Maddox PI. I’ve seen those crazy kicks and punches you use when you’re working out. Besides, you have to learn.” “I do?” “We’re going to Dallas and Grace’s wedding. I want to dance with my man.” Was she getting pushy with him? Her smartass needed some attention if she thought she could get away with it. “Okay, teach me to dance.” “What’s it going to cost me?” She was starting to learn the art of playful negotiation. “I’ll give you a henna tattoo and you give some serious thought to getting one done for real.” She was nervous about the ink. He got that. But the idea of putting his mark on her had taken root and wouldn’t let go. “Deal,” she agreed. He knew she agreed because he’d given her an out with the henna. Regardless, her eyes were getting that far-off glaze that told him she was seriously thinking about turning the paint into a tat. When she got the ink done, he’d make sure it was the sexiest moment of her life.
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Chapter Six Dinner was done and Phalen couldn’t remember a date he’d enjoyed more. Cassie listened while he told her what happened to him in Afghanistan, but didn’t push when he kept most of the horror to a minimum. She then changed the subject and talked about the benefit she was planning with her mom. It became obvious she had a good relationship with her mother. He was fairly certain that wasn’t the case with her father. “The lamb was good?” he asked. She grinned. “Delicious. You enjoyed it too?” He nodded. “Cassie, tell me about your father.” “What do you mean? Most people in Massachusetts know who my father is.” “Sure, I know Stephan Williams is a televangelist from Maine. I know he’s a husband and father of four who’s had to bury one of his children. What I don’t know is why your relationship with him is strained.” The smile she’d had through the meal disappeared. Phalen wanted to kick his own ass for doing that. “It’s complicated,” she admitted and took a sip of ice water. Phalen refilled her glass for her. “I excel at complicated puzzles. Try me.” “He blames me for Allie’s death,” she said in a rush, grabbing up the water again. Okay, that pissed him off. “Why the hell would he blame you?” “For the same reason I blamed myself for so long. I sided with Jeff over the rest of the family when it looked like he was abusing Allie. They were all so hurt and disappointed in me. But my father was the only one who confronted me about it.” “He actually did that?” “He told me I should repent for helping Jeff Swanson lead Alessandra astray. After Allie was found, the shouting and anger that followed was horrible. I moved to Danvers right after the funeral. To this day, I still feel like he can’t stand to look at me.” Standing up, Phalen walked over to Cassie. “Come here, babe,” he invited, taking her by the hand long enough to get her out of her seat and sit back down with her in his lap. “I’m sorry this is difficult for you. When people lose a loved one, they do and say fucked-up things.” “I know that, logically. Do you know my father’s never been to the diner? My parents did help with a loan to get me started. Which was nice of them and I’ve already paid most of it back. At family dinners he never asks about my place other than what bestsellers are on sale. 76
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“Then he’ll hint Alessandra’s financial or business genius would have helped make my place into something that rivaled the big bookstores. Or he’ll ask one of my brothers what they’re doing. He was so proud when Markus decided to go to Nairobi and helped with a generous donation for travel expenses. Not a loan, a donation. Sometimes I think he’d be happier if I’d been the one strangled to death.” Grabbing Cassie by the chin to bring her around to face him, Phalen resisted turning her over his knee for a spanking far more severe than she’d felt thus far. “Don’t say that again! Maybe your father feels so ashamed of the things he said to you that he can’t look at you.” “When you say it like that, it makes sense. It doesn’t stop it from hurting when he looks away.” Then he was going to fix it. “I’m sure it hurts like hell.” Softening his hold on her, he cupped her face gently. “Have you told him how you feel?” “No,” she answered. “If he rejects me again, it would devastate me.” “He’s not going to reject you. You’re his daughter. He loves you.” Kissing her forehead, he nuzzled a path to her earlobe. “Why don’t you invite your parents to the diner for coffee? You could then bring him in on what you’re doing for the benefit. He owes you an apology, that’s for sure. But he needs to know you won’t reject him when he gives it.” “I love him. Of course I wouldn’t reject him.” “I know that. You know that. Does he?” “I don’t know. But you’re right. I’ll invite my parents for coffee. Will you be with me when I talk to them?” “Every step of the way,” he promised. “Thank you, Phalen. I’m going to need you.” Hugging her tight, he enjoyed the way her nice ass felt against his hardening cock. If they stayed this way much longer, he was going to say hell with the sliding glass door and fuck her. Not that Catherine would care. But her customers would sure get an eyeful. The waiter came in to see if they wanted dessert. He didn’t bat an eye at finding Cassie on Phalen’s lap. “Let’s skip dessert and head home,” he suggested in her ear, nipping the lobe and gesturing to the waiter for the bill. “Sounds good,” she murmured, relaxing into him as he sucked the tender skin just below her earlobe. She didn’t seem to notice that the waiter set the black folder containing the dinner check on the table and left. “There’s something you must do for me before we go,” he said, emphasizing the subtle command with a quick sharp bite of the tendon along her neck. “Phalen,” she choked out, tossing her head back to offer better access. Perfect. “Listen.” 77
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“I am,” she insisted. “Give me your glasses.” “Seriously? Everything will be all fuzzy.” “You won’t be worrying about the fuzzy for long.” She gave in and handed over her glasses. Phalen took them from her and placed them on the table. He had to release her for a second in order to reach into his pocket where he’d hidden a black silk blindfold. “Close your eyes now,” he told her. “I’ve something for you.” “No sex until we’re home,” she insisted. “That’s right.” “Okay.” She sat up straight in his lap, closing her eyes in total trust. Holy fuck, she was one hot little submissive. He took the blindfold from his pocket and smoothed the silk along her chin. “Can you tell what this is?” “It’s soft like a tie.” “Close. It’s all black.” “A blindfold?” she guessed when he caressed her forehead and temple with the padded silk that would cover and protect her eyes. “Very good.” “You can’t expect me to wear that now,” she objected mildly, shaking her head. “You can and will do this for me. For the rest of the night, you’re to rely on me for everything.” “Everything as in everything a girl needs to do before bed?” “Everything from getting you home to getting you in bed and the fucking that follows. I might not to take it off until morning.” “There are things…you know, that you can’t help with.” “Trust me to know what you need. Don’t resist now.” Running the silk over her face one more time, he waited for her to call a halt. When she didn’t, he secured it around her eyes. “Aren’t Catherine’s customers going to object if you parade me out the door like this?” “No one will notice.” Guiding her to her feet, he stood up beside her. He got his wallet from his pocket, took out what he’d need to pay the bill, dumped it on the table and picked up her glasses. Carefully, he kept the glasses in one hand and assisted her with his other. Before guiding her out, he took his jacket from the coatrack and draped it over her shoulders.
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Opening the door, he was immediately aware of where Catherine was in the main dining room. Catching her eye, he signaled for which way would take them out of public view. Catherine pointed right. “I feel ridiculous,” she murmured, though she’d made no attempt to remove the blindfold. He only had one hand on her elbow. She was free to take it off if she wanted to. Knowing she willingly gave him the lead stroked his ego. “No one can see you, Cassie. Catherine pointed me down a back hall. We’ll be outside soon.” “You know, for this I might make you dance for your talent at the benefit,” she commented. “If I talk to Alex Grant, maybe he can bring in your buddies from the Griffins and it can be an all-male dance revue. Although no stripping, since my parents would not appreciate the humor.” “Talk of anything but what’s going on between us is forbidden until tomorrow.” She inclined her head and they walked on. Outside, it was chillier than when they’d arrived. He put his arm around her to warm her until he opened the passenger door and helped her into the seat. It took a couple of seconds to buckle the seat belt. As soon as she was secured, he closed her door and made his way around to the driver’s side. Damn, she was obsessed with getting him to dance. And what the fuck did she mean by getting other men to dance? No way. No fucking way. Refusing to think about it, he started the Navigator and they were off. “You okay over there, Cassie?” “Uh-huh, strange as it is to not see anything.” “I’ll get you home safely,” he promised, keeping his eyes on the road. Getting through Danvers didn’t take long and they crossed into Salem. A crescent moon gave the night sky around it a silvery halo. Traffic was a bitch at first. Although many of the local museums were closed at this hour, visitors were driving around in search of parking spots. Pedestrians strolled about or waited at crosswalks. He turned left a few streets down from the Hawthorn Hotel, heading for their block of businesses. “Can you tell where we are?” he asked. “I think we’re in Salem,” she said. “Very good,” he praised and pulled into his parking space in the back. He climbed out of the SUV, went around to Cassie’s side and assisted her down. Mindful to take it slow, he led her through the back door and up the staircase that would take them all the way to his studio apartment. He was glad he’d chosen to add the apartment to the tattoo shop. Since meeting Cassie, he frequently stayed here and it far exceeded the possibility of being overheard by one of his brothers. “Home sweet home,” he said, opening the door to the apartment. “Thank you for taking me out. It was nice not to have to eat alone for a change.”
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“You’re not going to have to do that unless I travel or something,” he said. “But I’m thinking I’ll stay here in Salem from now on. I’d like for you to stay here too, babe. Getting to work in the morning will be easy for both of us.” “True. Does that mean you’re planning on giving up the Maddox PI adventures?” “No. PI work helps with expenses. I simply plan to do more of it in Massachusetts. When I have to travel, come along with me.” “Okay. But I’d need to have someone cover the business end of Book Haven Diner for that to happen.” Cassie stood in the middle of the apartment, right where he’d guided her. He stood close, giving her a moment to orient herself to where she was. “Did Alex bring my keys back?” He spotted them on the butcher-block table he used for a dinette. “Yes, they’re here. Alex is probably already in Boston with my brothers.” “When are you going to tell me about him?” Cassie asked, naturally moving around to face where he stood. “When I’m ready.” “Won’t you give me a hint?” “Cassie, stay focused.” He’d forgotten his jacket in the car and her glasses. He’d get both later. “What’s going on? If you need something, ask.” “Um, I have to, you know, use the bathroom,” she admitted with the prettiest flush marking her cheeks. “All right,” he said. “Alone,” she added. “I’ll guide you to the bathroom. You may go in and do whatever you need. You’re to call for me when you’re done. I’ll help you undress you for bed.” “I have to do all this blindfolded?” “Did I say you could remove it?” “No, Master.” Nice answer. Taking her by the elbow, he walked her to the bathroom. He’d left a table lamp lit for when they came in, but went ahead and turned on more lights in the bathroom. Even though she couldn’t see the light, her other senses should tune in to the warmth the light provided. He guided Cassie to the commode. “The toilet is in front of you. The sink is behind you. The shower and tub to your left. Don’t take the blindfold off, Cassie. Call me if you need help.” She nodded and he left, closing the door with a click. He figured it would take a few minutes for her to do her girl thing while he gathered what he’d need for bed. He lit some candles for scent and light to see her properly, placing them safely about the apartment. From his Army trunk, he pulled out the only thing he’d restrict her movements with, his hat.
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Although he had every intention of binding her to the mattress with ropes and the pair of handcuffs in the trunk definitely had its uses, much of his use of bondage would be mental over physical tonight. From the bathroom, he heard her grumble as she fumbled around. Based on what she was saying, she’d not taken the blindfold off even though she’d been tempted to. He’d reward her for her obedience. It had to be difficult to follow his order when all she had to do was remove the blindfold if she really wanted to. Other than her mumbling, he’d not known for certain she followed directions. He’d discipline her if she took it off. But then, she’d like what he did if she disobeyed. “Phalen?” Not wasting a second, he went to the bathroom and opened the door. “Yeah, babe, I’m right here.” She’d made her way to the sink, her arms outstretched in search of something. “I can’t find my toothbrush. I didn’t want to use the wrong one.” He went over and found the pink one she’d bought that day. He gave it to her with some toothpaste and used the opportunity to brush his teeth while she brushed hers. “Thank you,” she said after he took the toothbrush and rinsed it for her. He stuck it in the holder next to his. It felt like someone kicked the air right out of his lungs when he saw their toothbrushes together. Hell, he was becoming a pansy to notice how right they looked. He’d get her a toothbrush with skulls on it if necessary to avoid worrying about it. Stepping up close to her, he ran his hand through her hair. “You ready for bed then?” “Yes,” she said. “Kiss me and I’ll take you to bed.” “I can’t see you.” “Feel me instead,” he suggested, grabbing her left hand and bringing it to the center of his chest. “Kiss me.” Cassie ran her hand from his chest to his throat and chin. There, she located his mouth. Gentle fingers probed his lips, slipping between them a moment before she went up on her toes and touched her mouth precisely on his. Kissing a woman had always been a means to fucking. Not with Cassie. With her it meant a hell of a lot more. There was such sweet generosity and submission in the way her lips molded to his and clung. She loved kissing and it translated into her whole body and the way she tried to move in closer. He lingered, letting the kiss work her up. It made him hard as a fucking rock when she swirled her tongue around his. Then she went and sucked his bottom lip and he was done playing. Grabbing her up close, he plundered the vulnerable softness of the sweetest mouth he’d ever have the fortune of kissing and fucking. He sure as hell planned on seeing his 81
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cock disappear into the soft haven of her mouth often. But the next stage in her initiation into submission required patience. Easing up, he put his hands on her shoulders and set her back a couple of inches. “Let’s get you comfortable,” he said. “I’d appreciate that. Thank you.” She inclined her head, waiting for him to take her to bed. Phalen put his arm around her back and led her into the main room. She stalled the moment they left the bathroom. She adjusted her stance, her nostrils flaring in response to the scented candles. “Something smells wonderful,” she observed. “Like cinnamon and baked apples.” “I bought candles last fall. I thought they might smell nice tonight.” The candles smelled like the apple pies his mom used to make when he and his brothers were young. “They certainly do.” Phalen nudged her forward. She was more cautious as they approached a bedside table with candles. “I won’t let you crash into anything.” He was extremely aware of her and where everything else was in the room. “There’s a dais here somewhere,” she commented. “Yes. Step up with your right foot.” Adjusting his hold around her waist, he waited for her to lift her right foot and set it on the dais. Since the apartment was one big room, Phalen had built the platform to separate the bed from the rest of the living area. “The dais is three feet wider than the bed all the way around. Don’t try to get off the bed if you’re blindfolded, okay?” “I won’t. How long are we going to play this way?” Phalen stood right beside Cassie now. “As long as I choose. Let’s get this dress off.” “I want to touch you.” “Once your clothes are gone, you’re to remove mine. Touch as much as you like.” “Like this? Don’t answer that. I’ll try.” “You will do it for me because I want you to.” He leaned in and kissed her temple. She automatically pushed herself toward him, offering her cheek for more kisses. He’d get to that in a bit. “Stay still for me.” Cassie stood up straight. Making sure she was safe where she stood, he walked around her, being certain she was aware of him at her back. “Hey, babe, come here often?” he asked, hugging her around the waist to draw her back against his chest. “I live in Danvers, but have never stayed the night in Salem,” she answered on cue. “Oh, yeah? Guess you need a tour guide.” “Will you show me the witch and ghost tours?” “Maybe tomorrow.” 82
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“What do you have in mind tonight?” “Fucking,” he answered honestly. She trembled in his arms, unknowingly pushing her ass back at his cock. Hard enough to pound nails, he ignored his dick in favor of running his hands from her waist to her breasts. He didn’t linger there. He backed up to untie the halter strap from around her neck. He peeled it down, forcing himself to slow the fuck down. Slow was good. Cassie needed slow after the hardcore fucking they’d already done today. She smelled like a goddess and a bit like him. She’d used his soap when she showered. He liked that. Her hair smelled like flowers. He had no clue what flowers, just that it was real damn nice on her. Finally, he managed to get the dress off and tossed it to the Army trunk. He wanted a front view now that he had the chance and shifted around to sit on the bed before her. “Holy fuck, you’re beautiful,” he said. Wearing garters, stockings, a black bra and skimpy black panties that hid nothing, she stood before him like a sex goddess ready to be seriously fucked. She still wore those strappy shoes. “Kick off the heels,” he told her. Cassie reached out for him, using his shoulder as a prop. Glad she felt comfortable doing that without asking, he helped steady her with a hand to her hip. “That’s good, Cassie. You’re doing great.” “Strange as it seems, I’m very aware of where you are at all times,” she admitted as she toed off one shoe, then the other. “Not strange.” “Are you aware I am extremely turned-on right now?” Hell, yeah, he could smell her arousal over cinnamon-apple-scented candles. “You’re as turned-on as I am. Why don’t you climb on up into bed with me?” he invited. “Because you’re not naked.” She had a point. “And I’m not naked yet.” “Climb into bed, I’ll get you naked. Then you can do your thing with my clothes.” “Yes, Master.” She grinned, the blindfold emphasizing her eagerness to please. “I gotcha,” he promised, taking her hand to help her find her way up onto the bed. “Kneel for me, babe.” She rocked back on her knees, presenting herself exactly as he’d have put her. “Perfect. When you want something from me, you’re to present yourself like this.” “Including the blindfold?” “Not necessarily, that’ll be your choice. Kneeling will be fine. Cast your eyes downward until I touch you or tell you to look, okay?” “Yes.” Even blindfolded, she lowered her chin in obedience. He didn’t think she was aware she flushed all over.
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Wanting her to feel a little off center, he ran his fingers to the back clasp of her bra and flicked it open. It was a matter of a few seconds to remove the scrap of lace. Then he worked on her garters and stockings. He told her how and when to move, she did so with relish, giggling at herself when one stocking got caught. He left the panties on. He’d get them off after he was naked. “Help me now, Cassie.” “If it means I can touch you, you bet.” She reached out and accidentally whacked his chin with the back of her knuckles. “Oh god, I’m sorry.” “It’s okay. I’m fine.” It hadn’t hurt at all. But she was so cute in her apology he damn near made it an issue. “Take your time. There’s no rush.” Cassie tried to help him undress, but she fumbled enough that he helped. As soon as his shirt was gone, she found her confidence. Without any assistance, she smoothed her hands all over his chest and shoulders. Her touch was hotter than dynamite to his eager cock still tucked in his trousers. She didn’t even have to touch his erection to have an impact. She curled her fingers some, intentionally scraping her nails up and down his arms and along his pectorals to his abs. She played and explored. Miraculously, she’d found the lines of his tattoos, running her fingers over them in detail. She had an incredible memory. She came to the scar on his shoulder and curled her lip. “I want to pulverize the fucker who hurt you, Phalen Maddox.” “Cassandra! Where’d you learn to talk like that?” “From you,” she answered. “Well, damn. I guess if I say it, you can.” Her touch gentled as she probed the edges of the surgical scar. Thanks to Doc Hathaway, he could honestly say he was grateful to feel her as deeply as he did. The Army surgeons had done an admirable job. But it had been Alex who’d paved the way for Hathaway to be flown in and make it so he could rebuild his leg and shoulder. “Will it hurt if I kiss the scar?” “Not at all.” With his permission, she scooted a little closer and kissed his shoulder. As thoroughly as she’d touched his tats on his upper body and shoulders, she kissed the long-healed injury. “Ah, fuck,” he groaned at the touch of her mouth. She nibbled and licked, kissing his damaged skin until he felt whole again. Before he realized her intent, she propelled him back to the mattress. “Cassie, I didn’t say you could get bossy.” “Let me kiss you all over, please,” she begged after returning to her kneeling position. Tucking his arms behind his head, he granted her wish. “All right. Remove my pants with your mouth.” 84
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“My what?” “You know what I said. I’m commando. You won’t have trouble with underwear.” “Do you ever wear underwear?” “When I go to church.” “Which isn’t often,” she commented. “Somehow I think I’ll be going with you often enough,” he remarked. “Get busy, babe.” Not exactly sure which of them had control at the moment, Phalen reestablished himself as the leader. He remained reclined on the bed. The pillows behind his head helped keep his hands from wandering. As sexy as she was kneeling like that, it wouldn’t take much to push him over. Cassie used her hands once. Rather than correct her, he realized she was feeling her way around the bed to find the easiest way to follow his command. Once she connected with him by touching the center of his chest, she leaned down and kissed him. The feel of her beautiful bare breasts crushing his chest was as necessary to him as air was to breathe. And he wasn’t doing that very well at the moment. Fuck, she slid sensuously along his body. Her engorged nipples stroked his flat areolas. Her lips were soft as velvet. Her tongue weaved a sorceress’ spell over his senses as she explored the inner recesses of his mouth. “Cassie,” he warned when she stopped French-kissing him and trailed her clever little mouth down his throat and bit. “Fuck me.” “Trying,” she grumbled, nipping harder. With his right hand, he swatted her ass to make it sting. “Who’s the Master here?” “You.” She’d arched into the spanking, unconsciously seeking more discipline. Squeezing her butt cheek, he growled, “Pants. Off.” “Yes,” she whispered, apologizing sweetly with a very gentle kiss to his lips. Making sure her blindfold was still in place, he watched her work her way down his torso to the fly of his pants. She wanted to use her hands. Twice, he watched her flex her fingers. She didn’t. “That’s my girl. You can do this, sweetheart.” Knowing praise meant the world to her, he smoothed his hand over her perfect ass. He couldn’t wait to fuck her there. She’d take everything he had. She’d need a lot of preparation and lube, but they’d get there real damn soon. Cassie wiggled her way down a bit further, nuzzling her nose along his fly. The warmth of her breath moistened the fabric of his pants. Closing his eyes to enjoy the feel of her mouth so close, yet seeming so fucking far away it might as well be Siberia to his eager cock, he waited for her to work the zipper down.
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She did it with determination and a bit of testing, finally managing to slide the metal down with her teeth. But there was a button. Incredibly, she worked the button with her tongue until it slipped from its hole. “Damn,” he murmured in awe. Clever thing did it without breaking a sweat. “You might be my Master, Phalen Maddox. But I want to master your cock,” she said, nudging the fly apart with her chin. She rubbed his heavy erection with her chin and face, totally undaunted by the vulnerable picture she made. Blindfolded, she was a goddess. On her knees, she was one hundred percent woman. “My cock’s yours, Cassie. Haven’t you realized that yet? It’s the only one you’re going to get from now on, unless I decide to use a dildo on you. Fucking you with two dicks is on my list.” “As you desire, Master,” she promised, shifting to no longer nuzzle, but to kiss. She kissed him all over, cock to balls and back to his cock. Some women ignored testicles. Not Cassie. She licked and kissed, even nibbled without causing any pain. Oh fuck no, she drew one of his balls into the warm cavern of her mouth, suckling to the point he damn near shot his load all over the fucking place. Dragging his hand off her ass, he grasped her by the nape. “Suck my dick, babe.” She shook her head no. “You like this,” she insisted after releasing his sac to root around for his other testicle. Holding her head in place, he let her nuzzle and play for as long as he could stand. She was right, little minx. He loved ball-play almost as much as a good blowjob. But he wanted her mouth on his dick, now. “Cassie, damn it, suck me right to your goddamn throat. Or there will be no coming for you until morning.” She was driving him insane, although she released his balls. “You never let me have any fun,” she grumbled, licking her way up and down his shaft. At last, she mouthed the head of his cock, taking him in a little bit and licking his cock head like an ice-cream cone. “Ah, yeah!” He liked that. Loved it even, especially the way she worked his slit and licked away pre-cum. Undeterred by the taste, she fit her lips to his dick and took his flesh into her mouth. She scraped him a little with her teeth and he touched his hand to her head in reassurance. “That’s it. Take more.” Arching his hips, he slid farther into her mouth, proud to watch his considerable length disappear. “Breathe. Ease your jaw a bit. Good.” Helping as much as he could, he stopped her from taking too much too fast. Cassie breathed out, the warmth of her breath flowing all over. Bobbing like a goddamn blowjob goddess, she went at him with gusto, finesse and a genuine desire to pleasure him. With a swallow, she took him all the way to her throat. All he knew then was the warm, wet suction of her mouth and the clever way she had of taking him without gagging.
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Sonofabitch, she was wicked good. “You ever put your mouth on some other guy’s dick after this, I’m going to be royally pissed.” He dropped his hand from her head. She worked his cock like she couldn’t get enough, sucking so damn hard he felt it in his testicles. She drew off him to talk. “I will never do this with another man. Never thought I was much good at it until I tasted you today. You’re the only one who will taste like Maddox PI and a leather whip. I can’t get enough of it.” “You want me to whip you, Cassie?” he asked, already aware that she did. She hadn’t spent fifteen minutes studying the way he wielded a bullwhip to a bunch of balloons simply to listen to the pops. “Not with the bullwhip,” she answered after thinking a moment. “We’ll use that another way. We’ll start with something less threatening and work our way to the big leagues.” “Whatever you say,” she agreed, bowing her head in agreement before returning to lavish his cock with attention. As much as he enjoyed the blowjob, he had to stop. If he didn’t, their night would be real damn short. “Draw off,” he said, even though she had viselike suction on his cock right then. “Off, Cassie.” Wrenching her away from his dick, regardless of its wish to stay snug in her tight mouth, he grinned at the little pop she’d produced from the suction. “Let me finish you off,” she begged. “Trust me. When you stave things off for as long as possible, coming is far more intense when it happens.” As much as he’d like to believe he was a superhero, he was a thirty-two-year-old man who’d already ejaculated three times that day. He might have two more rounds in him tonight if he paced things right and he intended to fuck her first thing in the morning. “Let’s just slow it down, okay?” he said, loving the way she pouted when he dodged her questing mouth. Shucking his pants the rest of the way off without Cassie’s help, he shifted the pillows in order to recline back against the headboard. Guiding her to sit between his outstretched legs, he enjoyed the way her back pressed against his chest. She still wore the panties. “Keep your legs stretched out in front of you,” he instructed, assisting her to relax. “I’m going to give you something. You’re to hold it. Don’t let go.” “What is it?” “You’ll see.” Shifting enough to grab the hat from the bedside table, he put it in her hands. She chuckled. “It’s your hat.” “That’s right. You know what it means to me. Do as I said.” “Okay.” At first, she held the hat carefully in one hand. 87
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“Not like that. Use both hands.” “I don’t want to crush it.” “You won’t.” Cassie held the cap by the worn brim and the back. “That’s good. Now all you need to do is stay still while I make love to you for a while.” “Stay still?” “Yes. You’re not to do anything but hold that hat. If you move, it will be because I moved you. Understand?” “Think so,” she murmured doubtfully. Waiting until Cassie settled with the hat in her hands, he dipped his head to kiss her left shoulder, then her right. Her hair snagged and he grasped a handful to let it hang over her right shoulder, giving him access to her left shoulder and side of her neck. Already, she wanted to move. He stopped. “No. Stay still or we go to sleep.” “That’s cruel.” “Am I being cruel?” He didn’t think so. In fact, Cassie stilled and he was able to reward her. Since he wasn’t a giraffe, he couldn’t kiss more than the side of her neck, earlobe and shoulder. But damn, his submissive reacted as he’d hoped. She tried to stay still. He saw that she did, but her hips lifted and fell no matter what she tried. Adding his hands into the lovemaking, he scraped his nails up and down her arms. Cassie liked the scratching. She breathed harshly, holding in a sigh until he trailed his nails over her rib cage to her gorgeous breasts. Her breasts were tipped with nipples made for his mouth to suck. His mouth watered as he imagined tasting them and scratched her taut flesh with his nails. Cassie bucked. “Easy. Stay still.” Coaxing her into staying put, he waited until she settled before turning the scratches into plucks. “Phalen, please let me move,” she begged even as her back arched without her being aware of it. He stopped pinching. “Damn you!” “Do what I say, little sub. Learn to take the pleasure. Don’t chase it.” As soon as she relaxed, he tweaked her nipples harder, rewarding her with the harshness she craved. Incredibly, his instructions took root. She let him draw her closer and closer to the elusive white-hot tension that would ramp up further if she denied it for as long as possible. Imagining clamps or suction cups on her, he thought of all the ways to stimulate her extremely responsive nipples. He pinched and pulled, caressed and soothed, rewarding her with gentle kisses and bites along her neck. Cassie sighed and moaned, her skin dancing a little under his touches. She smelled like a goddess to him. Her arousal overcame everything else. The hat stayed in her hands, the danger of being crushed gone because she was learning to accept his rough lovemaking. Gentleness wasn’t what she wanted.
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That was good. He wasn’t a gentle guy. He liked hardcore fucking that left bite marks and scratches by the time they were done. She did too. She’d left some marks on him from earlier that day. “You want to fuck, Cassie?” “Yes! Please.” Damn, that begging drove into his gut. “In a minute.” He kept stroking her breasts, kneading them roughly. “Spread your legs real damn wide. I want complete access to your pussy.” Cassie complied with the same eagerness she gave to everything. She didn’t release the Sox cap. She didn’t manhandle it either. She spread her legs, draping them on either side of his knees. “Sweetness,” he muttered, loving the feel of her silky long legs on his. She matched him so damn well. With her thighs wide open, he smoothed his hands down her front, playing with her abdominal muscles a second before he found the treasure of her pussy. She still wore the panties and he jerked his hand, tearing the lace away. Tomorrow he’d get the short curls removed from her mound. Tonight, he trailed his fingers through her pubic hair until he located her slit. “Your clit is perfect,” he praised, tapping it lightly. “Responsive and juicy, I can’t wait to suck it.” “Oh, yes,” she breathed out, ramming her hips up at him. “No, still, stay still.” “Grr! Phalen, if you don’t do something, I’m going to leave.” “I’m doing it.” He reassured her that he was there, but he sure as fuck wasn’t going to let her leave. “You may move with me, Cassie. Don’t come until I tell you to.” She growled a curse. The curse became a mumbled “Ohmigod,” when he fingered her luscious slit and tweaked her clitoris with his thumb. Feminine juices coated his hand, making him nice and wet. With her moisture, he was able to probe her entrance with first one finger, then another. He pushed and probed, finger-fucking her without mercy. “Phalen, yes!” she cried out, rocking her hips with every thrust. Feeling her inner sheath tremble with the need to come, he withdrew his fingers and moved out from behind her. “Don’t stop,” she begged. “Not stopping. Lay back.” Moving her arms so they rested above her head on the pillow with his hat still in her hands, he maneuvered himself on top of her. He kissed her, biting at her mouth and chin to leave a hot-pink trail from her chin to her throat. A pulse pounded furiously in her neck. He homed in on it, lapping it with his tongue until her skin was damp. As soon as she was wet enough, he drew on her flesh hard enough to put his stamp on her.
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“Let me touch you.” Her voice was so deep it resonated over his skin, leaving goose bumps. “Not yet.” If she touched him, he’d lose it. “It’d be easier if you tied my hands,” she admitted. “I’ll use rope another night. My hat’s acting as restraints.” He hadn’t promised easy either. Instead of talking, he showed her he meant business by kissing his way to her breasts. He feasted for a good long while, enjoying the taste of her soft skin and plumpness of her nipples. Cassie tossed her head, trying her best to shove herself into his mouth. He accepted her offering by drawing her left nipple between his teeth and tugging hard enough to pull her off the bed. “Jeez! Please, yes, harder,” she demanded while he nibbled and played. “Suck me.” Rather than sucking, he licked slowly. He was in command here. The moment she settled back to the mattress, he sucked most of her breast into his mouth and drew so strongly it made his jaw hurt. Using his weight to keep her pinned where he wanted, he kept her guessing whether he’d suck or lick. “I need you,” Cassie whimpered, her body trembling from head to toe. “I’m here, Cassie.” Kissing farther down and across her rib cage, he found his way to her mound. “Open up for me.” Pushing up on his elbows, he waited for her to part her legs wider. He bent her legs up so that her feet were flat to the mattress and shoved a pillow under her ass to lift her pussy up for a good long tongue fuck. “Gorgeous,” he murmured in honor of the prettiest pussy on the planet, dropping his head to devour her clitoris. Adding his hand to the mix, he fingered her sheath while tonguing her clit and labia. “Need. To. Come. Please, Phalen.” Cassie’s hips moved and rolled with his licks and finger strokes. Her clit pulsed. Recognizing that she was close to orgasm, he thrust two fingers into her pussy and sucked on her clit so harshly, she threw herself up at his face, dislodging herself. “Come,” he granted, knowing she was going to and giving the push she needed by sucking her. She went off like a rocket, her cries loud enough to reach the rooftop. Feminine cum flooded his face, his hand and the sheets. Grinning in victory, he gentled his tongue strokes to slowly bring her back to earth. Running his finger along her folds, he pushed up on one elbow to trace her mouth with her juices. Cassie’s tongue slipped out to taste her cum on his fingertip. “That’s me,” she said. “Mhm, ambrosia,” he replied, taking his hand back so he could sit up and kiss her softly. “Phalen?” “Yeah?” “May I sit up?” 90
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Easing back, he helped her sit up. She didn’t stay that way for long. She ended up kneeling as he’d taught her. His hat rested on her lap, safe in her hands. “Can I make love to you, Master?” Candlelight flickered across her pretty face. She looked beautiful in her obedient position. If she’d asked for his right arm, he’d have given it to her. There in lay the power of a submissive over a Dominant. All she ever had to do was ask and it became his command. Not giving her an answer just yet, he sat up long enough to fish a condom out of the bedside drawer, tore open the packet and rolled the latex on. Cassie remained where she’d been, waiting patiently. “Yes, Cassandra, you may.” Lying back, he took her by the hand and guided her to climb right up on top of him. “You’re so damn beautiful. Do you know that?” “With you I feel that way.” She leaned down, placing sweet little kisses all over his face. She still couldn’t see. But she’d learned she didn’t need to see him to know where he was. Letting her have the lead now, he grabbed his hat. “Let go.” Reaching behind her head, he untied the blindfold, letting it slip away. Slowly, she opened her eyes, blinking at first. As soon as her eyes adjusted, she grinned and kissed him in earnest. Phalen wrapped his arms around his woman, hanging on to her as she held him. Sitting back a little, she managed to adjust her hips so that his cock speared her pussy and slid down until he disappeared inside. She was snug and tight as a vise grip and soft as warm velvet. As she’d promised, she made love to him with sweet abandon. Nothing had ever felt more profound or powerful than the moment she let go and rode him right to an explosive climax that would have filled her tight pussy if the condom hadn’t blocked it. Wanting his semen to drip from her sometime real soon, Phalen held her through her second orgasm, the grip of her sheath so intense it brought tears to his eyes. Refusing to let her know, he kissed her until she collapsed in his arms. Cassie couldn’t move. Phalen totally took her breath away with his use of a blindfold and a baseball hat. Not being able to see him had been eye opening. Her senses of taste and smell had quadrupled, helping her experience sex on a deeper level than she expected. If she wasn’t already head over heels in love with him, she’d have fallen the moment he put the blindfold on and led her out of Catherine’s Castle. At first, she’d been certain she’d kick something. She hadn’t. He kept her safe. “I love you,” she murmured against his broad chest. He was a little sweaty. She didn’t care. So was she. “Love you too, sweetheart,” Phalen returned in a tone so hoarse it sounded like he’d swallowed whiskey.
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All around them, short candle jars were lit. The bathroom light and a lamp over by the sofa were on. The scent of apples and cinnamon lingered all around the studio. Phalen smelled like sex and soap and leather. “You think sex is always going to be this good for us?” she wondered. “I mean, after a few years.” “Sex this good can only get better,” he answered, shifting her to lie beside him. He curled up on his side, using his arm to prop himself up some. “This is just the start of what’s to come.” “More bondage, I hope,” she said, wondering how he’d bind her tomorrow night. “Hell, yeah,” he promised, smiling. “Clamps and suction cups. That’ll be what I’m ordering for your new toys. Maybe a sybian that you can ride while I do something wicked to the rest of you.” “Suction cups and a sybian?” A curious ache tugged deep in her tummy, despite the orgasms she’d had less than a minute ago. “You have incredibly responsive nipples,” he told her. “Using alligator clamps on you, hot damn, sweetheart, you’ll light up like fireworks on the Fourth of July. Add suction to your clit while you bounce on a vibrating cock, you might ride that bad boy right up to the moon.” “Won’t that hurt my nipples?” Imagining clamps with teeth that would bite her tender flesh, she closed her eyes. Phalen’s hand came to her left breast, where he gently teased her nipple to an aching peak. “A little,” he admitted, pinching her between his thumb and forefinger. “You like the bite. It’s what gets you rocking, babe.” As if his words became law, her skin prickled with pleasure-bumps as he tweaked her nipple without mercy. He deliberately kept her on the verge of discomfort without causing unbearable pain. She didn’t fear the pressure he applied or the twisting that fed the fuel of need deep in her pussy. “The best part of clamping your nipples,” he continued, pulling her flesh taut until Cassie’s breath caught in her throat. Surely he’d let go. He didn’t. “Is releasing them.” He opened his fingers and carnal pleasure shot through her from breasts to pussy in a blaze of heat so intense she came. “Ohmigod,” she breathed out harshly as her vaginal muscles clamped against the emptiness of being neglected. “I came.” “Thought you would. I might pierce your nipples for you,” he suggested. “Oh, no,” she refused, shaking her head. “No.” “You sure?” “I don’t know. It sounds as painful as getting a tattoo.” “Okay, we’ll wait on the piercing.” Except now the idea of getting her nipples pierced was in her mind. She didn’t really want to have someone jab a needle through
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her skin, though. If he were to clamp them or use nipple rings, that would be something she’d permit. “What about nipple rings? Can’t you adjust how they fit?” She thought nipple rings would look pretty. She liked looking pretty for him. Phalen grinned so wide, he looked like an ornery devil. “Sure. We can do that. Once I put rings on your nipples, they stay in place unless I remove them.” “Understood,” she agreed. “What do you have scheduled for tomorrow?” He shrugged a little. “I have to finish a sleeve for a client at ten. After that, I think I have two more tats in the morning. I also need to follow up with Ethan about Jeff Swanson. I’ll come over with you to open your diner and get my daily latte first.” That made her happy. “You really like my coffee that much?” “Best barista in New England,” he answered. “Plus, I do like your cook’s food. A hearty breakfast is definitely going to be needed.” “Why’s that?” Phalen pushed into her, sending her backward on the bed. “Because I’m not done fucking you tonight.” “But you just came,” she objected. “Cassie, we don’t have to rush to get to the next orgasm.” Kissing her, he silenced any questions she might have had. Loving the taste of his kiss and the feel of being in his arms again, Cassie encircled his back and held him close. Closing her eyes, she gave up trying to think for the rest of the night. With Phalen Maddox as her lover, she didn’t need to. He guided her once again to the erotic edge of pleasure and back again, not once driving her too hard or too fast, but exactly how she needed.
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Chapter Seven When I decided to undertake Master’s suggestion to write, I didn’t think I’d do it at first. All my life, I wanted to write. Mom and Dad thought writing wouldn’t pay the bills, so I concentrated on what would. I was wrong to think financial matters would ease the desire to create two people, sometimes three, and have them fall in love. In novels, I can write anything, create any world I want. Master is proud to read them with me or act out a given chapter. But a real threesome for us isn’t meant to be. I admit, I have thought about it. I’m usually game for adventure. Then Master gave me a ring along with my beautiful collar and I knew I couldn’t bring a third person into the picture, regardless of temptation. We are one now, not simply lovers. Unfortunately, someone’s taken an interest in our relationship. Master thinks it must be the mysterious Domina in black who appeared at his club the last night we engaged in public sex. We’d known going in it’d be our last at that establishment and we wanted everyone to see and share in our joy. A masked Domina stepped up to us. I don’t remember much of her because I was riding the rush of Master’s discipline. I’m told she wore a long black dress, elaborate black mask and straight black hair. Master said the woman had such command of the room, no one moved, not even the serfs guarding the doors. She came up and asked Master if she could discipline me. Her voice was masculine, belying her feminine appearance. Master refused. She left shortly after, her departure as mysterious as her arrival. The following day, gifts arrived from our secret admirer. They’d been interesting, a lovely bouquet of blood-red roses for me and a teddy bear dressed in chain mail for Master. We tried to send them back, but they were returned three days later. More gifts arrived soon after and Master believes someone is trying to tear us apart. He’s gone to the police to no avail. I’ve talked to Dad. He thinks the stranger was created by Master to completely alienate me from the family. He says that’s how abusers work. There’s no abuse, so that’s hogwash. At this point, we may need to move if the police continue to deny assistance. There’s a lovely cabin in Vermont that belongs to Master’s parents. They never use it anymore and he’d like us to go there. If any more gifts arrive, we’ll be out of here. Now Cassie knew the answer to Phalen’s question of a third person involved in Allie and Jeff’s relationship. If she understood right, a stalker had been threatening them and now they were both gone. Putting the journal away, Cassie pushed back in her desk chair. It was almost lunchtime. The diner was in full swing and running like clockwork. It was great to hear
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the hustle and bustle of activity. It meant that she’d have the money to pay her staff and various bills. A knock sounded behind her. Turning about in the chair, she discovered Ethan Maddox standing in the doorway. “Well, well, Ethan Maddox, you devil. I should kick your butt for tattling on me.” “Don’t be mad at me, Cassie,” he defended himself, holding his hands up in a gesture of peace. “If I hadn’t said something to my big brother, he’d have waited longer to ask you out,” Ethan said. “And you’d have been really sad.” “Ah, I get it, you’re a Maddox. You boys don’t like when women get upset.” She pushed out from behind the desk and stood. Ethan Maddox was six foot five of trim, sculpted muscle. He reminded her of a swimmer with his long limbs and subtle strength. Like his older brother, he had blond hair. Unlike his brother, he kept it short because he’d recently made detective at thirty years old. He wore casual black slacks and a gray button-down shirt. His eyes were devastatingly gray and his jaw was hard as steel. Also like his brother, he was into martial arts. Everything about him screamed Alpha cop with a capital D for Dom mixed in. He’d known exactly the trouble he’d stirred up by telling Phalen she’d been sitting with Michael at church. “That’s right. I don’t regret it for a second. I do wish you’d have told me about Jeff Swanson before. Damn, I knew the guy, but not that he’d died or that your sister was his fiancée.” Edging his way through the door, he filled the space much the same way as Phalen did. Yeah, he was gorgeous. Not exactly as gorgeous as Phalen though. She bet her friend Morgan thought differently. For some reason, Morgan couldn’t read Ethan. Most of the time, her friend’s intuition about people was right on the money. Then again, she was the first to admit her gift of psychometry wasn’t scientific or absolutely accurate. She had the ability to touch something and know its history. Ghost hunters around the area liked to consult with her, as she could give them information about an object found in a supposed haunted house. Ethan didn’t believe in psychics. Yet he checked into Morgan’s shop whenever he came by Cassie’s place for coffee or something to eat. She hoped he’d open his mind to what must be difficult to understand for a guy who dealt in facts and evidence every day. Once he did, she suspected it wouldn’t be long before he got off his duff and kept Morgan Everhart for himself. Realizing she’d stalled in giving a response, she smiled. “I’m sorry, Ethan. I didn’t realize you’d known him. I’d only told Phalen what really happened to Alessandra yesterday.” “I understand. The Jeff I remember would never have hurt the woman he loved. If we find out he didn’t cause her death, I hope you’re not going to stop defending those in abusive situations,” Ethan said. 95
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“Never,” she stated. “Didn’t Alex Grant tell you about the benefit?” “He did. He’s over at Phalen’s studio. He asked me to tell you he wants to talk to you.” “That’s what Phalen said. So are you here to get lunch or visit with your brother?” “Both,” he answered. “In that case, how about joining me for lunch first? I’m starving.” “Sounds good. What’s the special?” “Yankee pot roast or chicken pot pie.” Meeting Ethan at the door, she checked the back of the bookstore for Sylvia. The cashier was busy with two customers. A couple was scanning the mystery genre section. All was good in the bookstore. “Strange what a small world it really is,” she commented. “I mean, you knew my sister’s boyfriend. Yet I didn’t meet you or your brothers until six months ago.” “Sadly, I lost touch with Jeff awhile back. Sometimes friends go in different directions. In this case, I thought he’d moved and didn’t think to check on him.” “I was wondering if you could check Boston PD’s records for my sister or Jeff’s complaints of a weird secret admirer.” Ethan stopped in his tracks. “Sure, I can track down the information if it’s there.” “Thank you.” They moved on and made their way into the diner. “I’ll be right back with lunch. Which did you want, the roast or pot pie?” “Pot pie,” he answered and took a seat, knowing exactly where not to sit. Phalen’s seat remained empty. He’d looked yummy sitting there first thing that morning. In the kitchen, she dished out two pot pies and carried them to the counter. She wore a pretty calico-print dress with a hem that flowed around her knees. Following Phalen’s wishes, she didn’t wear underwear. He granted her permission to wear a bra because the dress required one. She wore surprisingly comfortable fashionable flats and tucked her hair into a bouncy ponytail. After work, she’d remove the tie and let her hair hang loose. She returned to Ethan and placed their lunches on the counter. He dug in with gusto. “How’s Taran doing with his studying?” “He’ll ace the bar in July,” Ethan said with confidence. “Phalen and I are real proud of him. He’s the brains of the three of us.” “I think you’re all intelligent, although you’re also very stubborn,” she stated. The cowbell clunked at the door. Cassie glanced up to see Phalen and Alex walk in. Even though she’d last seen Phalen at breakfast, it might as well have been a century. Her heart slammed in her chest as fiercely now as it had when he kissed her the first time. “Hey, little brother,” Phalen greeted.
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“Don’t little brother me, old man,” Ethan warned. “I can kick your ass. We both know it.” “Now that’s a showdown I’d like to see,” Cassie admitted. Her money was on Phalen. He had at least twenty pounds of muscle on Ethan and two more years of experience. “Did Ethan give you my message, Cassie?” Alex asked. “He sure did. We can talk after lunch.” “That’ll do,” he agreed. Phalen claimed his seat and snagged a spoon. “Pot pie, huh?” He scooped up some of his brother’s pie and tasted it. “Get your own.” Ethan slapped Phalen’s hand before he could take more. “You can have half of mine,” Cassie offered. She wasn’t that hungry anyway. Bob had made them a huge breakfast when he’d opened the kitchen earlier. She was still recovering from Belgium waffles topped with berries and whipped cream. Enid, one of the waitresses, came over to take Alex’s order. He asked for a burger and fries and she headed off to place the order. Cassie grabbed four bottled waters from a fridge below the counter and handed the men a drink, keeping the fourth. She was about to take a bite of pot pie when her door opened. A guy walked in, looking vaguely familiar. “You’re Cassandra Williams, yes?” he asked her when he came to the counter. “I’m Cassie. You’re Carl, from the animal shelter, right?” “Wow, you remembered.” “Nice to see you again, Carl,” she said. “You know his name?” Ethan remarked. “Of course,” she said. “I’ve visited the shelter a few times now.” “Cassie’s excellent with names,” Phalen said. “Maybe you can remind Morgan of mine the next time you see her,” Ethan suggested. “She knows your name, Ethan Maddox.” Cassie walked up to Carl. “So what can I help you with today?” “I…uh…have something for you. I’m not sure I can bring them inside a restaurant,” Carl answered. “And I don’t want them to wait in the van too long. Maybe it’ll be best if you come outside.” “Okay.” She followed him. Phalen and Ethan flanked either side of her. Alex Grant was fast on their heels. “Shouldn’t y’all go eat lunch?” “I’m curious,” Phalen stated, his hand falling naturally in place at the small of her back. “Me too,” Ethan added.
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“Anything that can’t wait in a van has to be interesting,” Alex commented. Outside, it was another bright, but chilly spring day in March. Carl walked to his van and opened the back. Cassie would have looked in if Phalen hadn’t scooted her toward Ethan first. “For goodness’ sake, let me see,” Cassie insisted despite the forbidding stance Phalen had taken. Carl lifted an animal carrier out of the van and lowered it to the ground. Immediately, a chorus of mews came from the box. Phalen knelt down. “I’ll be damned,” he said and grinned. “Kittens,” Ethan pronounced. “Yep,” Phalen stated. “Phil, what have you done?” Cassie questioned, recalling her conversation with the vet. “Who the fuck’s Phil?” Phalen demanded, giving Cassie such a look she couldn’t move for a good second or two. “He’s the vet who comes in all the time,” she answered when Phalen reached into the box. “He asked if I’d like to have a kitten.” Moving away from Ethan, she looked into the crate. “Aren’t they cute,” she murmured, in awe of the two kittens mewling for attention. One was a white-andorange tabby. The other was a gray tabby. Both were adorable. “I just wish he’d have waited for me to ask permission from my landlord,” she admitted, reaching in for the orange-and-white one. It licked her finger. Phalen picked up the gray tabby and scratched its chin. “Looks like we have a little family,” he said, grinning wider when the kitten purred loud enough for everyone to hear it. “We?” Cassie remarked. “Phil sent them to me.” “Yes. And you’re mine. That makes the kittens mine too,” Phalen reminded. “I still have to ask my landlord.” “They can stay in the studio apartment.” Phalen kept looking at the kitten in his hand. The little guy wasn’t intimidated by the giant man holding him, not even when Phalen checked its sex. “This one’s a boy. If you want the kittens, Cassie, say so and they stay with us.” “So,” she answered, grinning at the way the tabby reached for his daddy. Checking the orange-and-white kitty, she discovered it was a girl. “That one is Samson. This one’s Delilah.” “I don’t suppose it matters to the two of you that things didn’t end well for Samson after Delilah had his hair cut off,” Ethan supplied. “Be careful, Sammy, you might end up without your gonads.”
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“Nothing’s going to happen to our babies. But they will be fixed,” Cassie stated, snuggling with her kitten. “Phil’s promised to spay and neuter them when it’s time. He’ll include shots too.” “When did you talk to him about this?” Phalen asked. “Yesterday afternoon.” She’d already fallen in love with the little critters. There was no way she’d give them back. She’d always thought orange tabby females were a rarity and she loved that Delilah was so soft and sweet. “Should I be jealous?” “I doubt Barry would appreciate if you broke Phil’s nose before their wedding.” “All right then,” Phalen decided. “Samson and Delilah, if either of you rip up the leather sofa, we’ll have words.” He stuck Samson on his shoulder and the kitten wound his way under his jacket to curl around his neck. “Give me Delilah and I’ll take them next door.” Cassie snuggled with Delilah a moment longer and handed her over to Phalen. He placed the kitten next to her brother. The two looked incredibly sweet and perfectly safe peeking out from his hair. “Looks like the vet included a couple of litter boxes and some food,” Alex Grant said. “How many kittens were in the litter, Cassie?” “The flyer had five. Thank god Phil only sent two. Why, did you want one?” “We’ll see.” Alex reached for the litter boxes and food. “I’ll carry these over to your place, Phalen.” “Thanks, bro. Be right back for lunch.” He moved closer, kissed Cassie on the cheek and drew back. “Eat up. You have an appointment in two hours.” “For what?” she asked, then remembered. “Oh, no, I was hoping you’d forget.” “Oh, yes,” he stated and walked away. Alex followed him, carrying the kitten supplies. “What’s wrong, Cassie? If my big brother is up to something, I’ll kick his ass the next time we spar,” Ethan said. “Do you two ever not want to kick each other’s ass?” she inquired. “Sure we do. Christmas and holidays come to mind. There’s always Taran for the occasional diversion.” “Leave him be, Ethan. I can only imagine Christmas morning in your house,” she said. “Thank you for bringing the kittens, Carl. Did Phil leave a note or anything?” “I’m just the messenger,” Carl answered nervously. “That’s okay. I’m sure I’ll hear from him soon.” Cassie led Ethan back inside, smiling even more when Ethan stared over at Morgan’s place as she opened the door. “Would you like me to invite Morgan?” “Nah, that’s okay. I’ll stop in on my way out,” he answered, trailing after Cassie. “I don’t think she likes me much.”
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“You scare her.” “Me? I’m the nicest guy on the planet.” “Uh-huh, plus, you refuse to accept what she is and it must hurt. Think about talking to her more, ask her about her gift and don’t scoff at her.” “I’ll think about it,” he said. “About nine months ago, my department had a case where a psychic was brought in to help locate a missing college girl. Sam and I were against it, but the victim’s family wanted her on the case. She led us in the wrong direction. The victim we were searching for was found with ten young women the perp had kidnapped in order to sell them at auction. They’d all been slaughtered.” “That’s terrible. Did you and your partner catch the guy?” Cassie asked, heartbroken for Ethan. “Eventually,” Ethan said. “Homicide was brought in and they traced the fucker to a college near Boston. Sam decided to investigate the psychic advisor and found out she was wanted in three different states for fraud.” “Obviously the psychic was a fake. Morgan’s not like that. If you ask her, she’d probably tell you she’d rather not be what she is.” Ethan and his partner, Samantha Riley, specialized in locating missing persons. “You should tell Morgan about that case, Ethan.” “Taran would agree with you,” Ethan remarked. “He thinks I’m being an idiot. But then, I think he’s a fool for not noticing my partner gets all girly when he stops by the precinct or she has dinner with us. And let me tell you, Sam Riley would deck any officer who dared suggest she isn’t one of the guys.” “You’re not an idiot and neither is Taran. I’d like to meet Sam,” Cassie said, very curious now that Ethan connected his partner with Taran. She didn’t know Taran as well as she did Phalen and Ethan, but she was pretty sure the youngest Maddox brother followed in his siblings’ Dominant footsteps. She had no doubt the future lawyer could take on his big brothers and win when he wanted to. He also had the same dark, passionate nature Phalen wore like armor. Back inside Book Haven Diner, Cassie returned to the counter. Alex returned before Phalen and Enid brought over his burger and fries. Cassie asked the waitress for two new pot pies. By the time Phalen came back, lunch was served. Cassie and Phalen shared an enormous helping of pot pie. The chicken and gravy was delicious. She especially liked the flaky crust. “Phalen said you might play bass in our band,” Ethan said to Cassie after taking an enormous bite. “I need to practice,” she cautioned. “I’d like to try though.” “Bring Cassie to Boston on Saturday night, Phalen. We can jam for a few hours and pick a set for the show.” “Sounds good,” Phalen agreed. 100
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“I’d like to see the house you all grew up in,” she admitted. “I’m really sorry about your parents, Ethan. I wish I’d known sooner.” “Thanks,” Ethan said. “It’s never easy thinking about it. I’m surprised you didn’t tell her before, Phalen.” “Like you said, it’s not easy to think about,” Phalen remarked. “Plus, I was flirting. That’s not a flirtatious conversation.” “Is that what you’ve been doing for six months? I thought you were being a pansy.” Phalen scrubbed his brother’s head as if Ethan was a kid. “Careful, might need to drag your sorry ass next door to get you to talk to the lovely Morgan without blushing.” Ethan shook his head. “I don’t blush, big brother.” “Really?” Phalen tested. “No.” “Then go get your tarot cards read today and ask her out afterward.” “We’ll see,” Ethan replied. Hmm, that was interesting. Instead of denying he believed in tarot readings as he’d done previously, he was giving it some thought. That was a step in the right direction. “How psychic are we talking here?” Alex questioned curiously. “Morgan’s intuitive and she can touch an object and get impressions of its history. She calls it psychometry. She also works with local ghost hunters,” Cassie answered. “It must be disconcerting to touch something and feel where it’s been or what happened to the person who owned it.” An idea formed even as she said it. After lunch, Phalen had to return to his studio for two appointments. At Ink Master’s and the tattoo studio that the Maddox brothers ran in Boston, their patrons tended to be police officers, firemen and local athletes. His brother went with him to help out because the clients were cops. Cassie figured it’d be a good time to run next door to Morgan’s. Alex Grant stayed behind to work. She’d talk to him when she came back. Retrieving her sister’s journal from her office, she headed out the side door that handled primarily bookstore customers. Morgan’s shop consisted of various psychic paraphernalia, witchcraft and Wiccan supplies, Salem tee shirts and tourist items that pertained to the history of witches and the prevalence of pirates in the area that frequently got ignored compared to tourist fascination with the witch trials. The smell of sandalwood incense drew Cassie farther into the store. It smelled wonderful. “Morgan?” she called out. “Cassie?” Morgan came out from the back storage area. “About time you came over here to tell me about your date with Phalen.” “I figured you knew already,” Cassie said.
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Morgan’s long straight auburn hair was down to her hips. She was the same height as Cassie, but a bit thinner. Today, she wore a lot of brown—brown boots, brown suede skirt and short-sleeved sweater. The color suited her chocolate-brown eyes. “I knew the two of you would get together as soon as he returned from Virginia,” Morgan said. “How was the date?” Cassie felt herself grin. “Better than I dared dream.” “I thought I heard Ethan Maddox outside earlier.” “He’s over at Phalen’s tattoo shop helping with some customers. I’m sure he’ll stop in.” Morgan nodded, hiding a distinct blush with the fall of her hair. “That man makes me nervous.” “I felt the same way about Phalen. Give Ethan a chance. I think you’ll find out he’s one of the good guys.” “I’m sure he’s great. But I know what he really thinks of my gift.” “Maybe you should show him it’s real,” Cassie suggested. “The few times I let men see it, they gave me the ‘it’s not you, babe, it’s me’ speech. I scare them away. I know that.” “Could you read those men, Morgan?” “Like an open book.” “You can’t read Ethan. Isn’t it possible that there’s a reason?” “He doubts me.” “On the contrary, I think he would believe if you let him into your world. I mean, I was intimidated at first. It’s not every day when a friend walks into your life and declares my soul mate moved into the shop next door. And, oh, by the way, he’s a Dom and he’s going to collar you with a tattoo on your thigh.” And right there was the reason she’d resisted getting a tat until recently. Once he collared her, she would never be able to go back to vanilla boyfriends if Phalen broke things off. “I sensed your submissiveness would match his dominance,” Morgan said. “I can only guess that Ethan is like his older brother.” “I think that’s a safe bet,” Cassie remarked. “Listen, I was wondering if I could get your help with something.” “Of course,” Morgan agreed. Quickly, Cassie explained why she’d hired Phalen to look into Alessandra’s and Jeff Swanson’s deaths. Morgan nodded as if she’d always known that Jeff was not responsible for Allie’s death. Cassie handed over the journal. “Can you pick up anything from this?”
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Morgan didn’t open the handwritten multicolored journal. She held it between her palms, closing her eyes. She remained silent and motionless for about five minutes. When she opened her eyes, she looked a little flushed and breathless. “I’m not sure how this will help, Cassie. She wrote in here to express her frustration in dealing with your family, but it became something more by the end. Alessandra loved the man she married. Aside from your parents and brothers, she didn’t know how to tell you about eloping without hurting your feelings.” Cassie frowned. “They weren’t married. They were engaged.” “That’s not the impression I’m receiving. The waters are muddied because I’m also picking up the presence of the people who’ve handled this book before she bought it and those who had it since, including you now that you’re reading it.” “Allie mentions a woman in black in one of the later entries,” Cassie said. “This woman might have been a stalker or something.” Morgan touched the journal again. She shook her head. “Nothing other than confusion, I’m sorry. I suspect she didn’t know this woman’s identity, therefore I can’t tell. Like I said, too many people have handled the journal and their stories are as prominent to me as your sister’s. One thing I can tell you, your sister was not at all afraid of her Master. She loved and trusted him.” “That’s good to know. Thank you.” Cassie took the journal back. “This journal has been handled by the police and didn’t come to me until a few weeks ago.” “Trust what Alessandra was trying to tell you,” Morgan suggested. “The answers are in the words she’d written. She wasn’t sure about your parents and knew that they were giving you a hard time for defending her relationship with the man she loved.” “She wrote for herself.” “Did she?” Cassie wasn’t sure anymore. “Thanks, Morgan. I’ll talk to Phalen and see what he thinks about this strange woman. If there’s anyone who might recognize her, he would.” “You’re a lucky woman,” Morgan declared. “Phalen Maddox is a very sexy man.” “Oh, I know,” she agreed with a grin. “He definitely knows what he’s doing in bed.” “We’ll have to do a girls’ night out to talk about it.” “That’d be great. I’ve got to get back to work. I have a meeting with Alex Grant and an appointment with Phalen later.” “Finally going to give in and get that tattoo?” “Soon, yes.” “I’d gather you’ll be in good hands with the Ink Master.” Cassie believed that too. “Yes, I wouldn’t get one from anyone else. Today he’s taking me to a spa.”
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The door opened to the shop. Ethan waltzed in like he owned the place. His sharp gray eyes located Morgan and locked on, refusing to let her look away. “I’ll be going now,” Cassie said. “You don’t have to rush off on my account,” Ethan assured. “Sure I do.” Walking past him, she glanced back. “Be good to her when you finally ask her out.” “I’m not planning to hurt her. We’ll talk another time, sis.” “Sis?” Cassie repeated in surprise. “You’re Phalen’s woman now,” he declared. “I might as well start thinking of you as my sister-in-law. That’s on the horizon. I don’t need a psychic to tell me he loves you.” “Fair enough, bro.” Cassie left then, giving a look back to see Morgan ducking behind the curtain of her hair again. Morgan was rather shy around people, men especially. Not everyone accepted or believed in her abilities. She’d told Cassie once that she’d been harassed in high school for being different. Some had worried she’d pull some whacked-out stunt. No matter how much she tried to explain her gifts, they broke off their friendships out of fear and misunderstanding. Cassie trusted that in time, Ethan was going to see the truth without prejudice. He was a cop and thought like a cop. It would take a little time for him to open his mind about Morgan’s abilities. Back at Book Haven Diner, Cassie put her sister’s journal in the desk drawer. She found Alex in the diner typing away at his laptop. A half-eaten slice of cherry pie was nearby and he had a cup of regular black coffee by his right hand. As it was well after lunch, the crowd had gone down to customers enjoying coffee while they read or worked. “What did you want to talk about, Alex?” she asked, taking a seat opposite of him in the booth. He finished a keystroke and looked up. “From what I can tell, you’ve got a sound business going here. Have you thought about inviting local authors to have book signings or anything?” “I would love to do that,” Cassie answered. “I’ve also arranged for poetry readings and have a group of writers who meet in here twice a month. If I can, I’d like to invite local musicians to play here on Friday and Saturday nights. It would make the diner a great place for a date. I could expand my hours to eleven o’clock or later on weekends.” “Sounds like a good idea,” Alex said. “Would you mind telling me why you turned a diner into a bookstore?” “Before I answer, can you tell me why you’re so interested in my place?” “I’m planning to move to Massachusetts if things in my personal life work out,” he said. “I represent ten athletes and there’s no reason I have to represent my them while 104
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living in D.C. and I’m tired of the politics going there. Getting established here is something I’d like to do and investing in a small business is the first step.” “Sounds interesting,” Cassie said. “Eventually, I’d like to purchase real estate or look for property that I can convert into a bed-and-breakfast or inn. That’s something I’d like to do if the personal situation I mentioned comes together.” Pleasantly surprised, Cassie explained how she’d gained enough money to open her business. For a while they talked strategy and future investments. Within an hour, he advised her on future business decisions and suggested how to repay her remaining amount owed to her parents by taking him on as an investor. She was shocked that he cared that much. But she realized that there were many layers to Alexander Grant. If he counted you as one of his friends, he would bend over backward to assure that you succeeded. He’d also promised to stick around in the evenings and run the store and coffee shop while she took time off to be with Phalen. He was already scheduled to stay until the end of April anyway and would spend some time searching for a house or condo in the Boston metro area. A permanent move would take some time, as he’d need to transfer all his business dealings to the commonwealth. It made sense that he’d want to be part of his investment. He’d also assist in planning the benefit, something he was extraordinarily good at since he could bring in real talent. She had the feeling there was a deeper reason for his wanting to help with the telethon. But she wasn’t going to pry. She was still very curious about his relationship with Phalen, though. She doubted she’d ever forget seeing Alexander Grant with an erection while another man struck balloons with a bullwhip. Actually, she could relate to being attracted to the man with that bullwhip. As if thinking about whips and Phalen in the same sentence caused him to materialize, the diner door opened up and in walked the man of her dreams. He wore his ball cap, navy polo shirt, button-fly jeans and combat boots. Tempted to wolf-whistle at the sight of Phalen striding across the room with lethal confidence in each step, she sighed dreamily. “Whew, that man makes me want to put my lips together and blow,” Cassie whispered. Alex laughed. “Jesus, Cassie, I can picture you doing that to him. It’s an image that could get me horsewhipped in the future.” “Or bullwhipped,” she remarked. Alex laughed harder. “I suspect the whipping wouldn’t come from him.” “It wouldn’t be Phalen,” Alex admitted, flushing so hotly she saw a little of herself in the submissive reaction to thinking about the person he wanted. “Alex, are you flirting with my woman again?” Phalen asked, walking up to them.
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“If I chose to, I’d take her from you,” Alex stated. “Fortunately, we both know where my heart is.” “Which is why I’ll leave it to Doc to correct you when he comes to his senses about you,” Phalen said. “He better or I’m going to have a major problem dealing with him in the future.” “Hey, be nice to my new business partner,” Cassie insisted. “Whatever’s going on with him and his doctor, they’ll work it out without being strong-armed.” “Alex and Doc both need a kick in the ass. As to the partner thing, that’s not a bad idea,” Phalen replied, taking a seat beside Cassie. “With Alex’s Midas touch on just about any business venture, you’re guaranteed to have a sound business structure and finances.” “Yes, I know. I only wish I’d met him months ago. Maybe with his help, I’ll be able to offer diner food all day. Although I do admit I have customers who come in specifically for bakery items and coffee in the afternoon.” “You can still offer those things,” Alex supplied. “I’d have to hire a few more cooks to handle the workload,” she said. “And I’d need a few more waitresses to work in the evenings and another barista.” “Well, you do have a new business partner who can enable you to achieve that goal,” Alex reminded. “Yes, I do.” She offered her hand out to her new partner and he took it. “We’ll talk about this some more tomorrow. Phalen obviously wants to take you somewhere. I’ll watch things here. Go on.” “All right. I need to go to my apartment while we’re out and make a bank deposit,” she said to Phalen. “I’m hoping Officer Adams sent that trunk by now.” “Sounds good,” Phalen agreed. Cassie took her set of keys from her wrist and handed them to Alex. “I have an extra set of keys at my apartment, Alex. These are yours now. I should be back before closing unless we’re going to dinner somewhere, Phalen?” “I thought we’d come back here and make something to eat in the apartment. We should stock the fridge and pick up some toys for the kittens.” “That’d be nice. Alex, why don’t you have dinner with us tonight? You can play uncle.” “As long as Mr. Territorial doesn’t keep getting his panties in a wad, I’d love to,” Alex accepted. “Ha, careful, I doubt he’s wearing underwear. Panties are out of the question on a ass like his,” Cassie teased, getting another blush out of the agent. “On that note, go get your deposit so we can get out of here,” Phalen declared, warning Alex with a glare to back off when it looked like his friend was going to make a joke. “You will not make fun of my ass or your next lesson is going to be very painful.” 106
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“Only if you let Cassie watch us again,” Alex dared, possessing the confidence of a Dom. The submissive in Cassie reacted instantly, trembling in anticipation of what the agent would say and do next. “You knew I was there the whole time too?” she demanded, feeling so embarrassed she wanted to hide under the table. “You weren’t very subtle. We heard you coming down the stairs. I didn’t mind. You’re a beautifully submissive woman who was admiring a Dom as hot as Phalen. I know the impact he can have on a sub, Cassie. Tempted as I was by watching the two of you together, I was hoping he’d take over. He did. By the time I left, you knew he’d never consider cheating on you.” Once again she saw the Dominant in Alex that was so obvious to her in Phalen. She very nearly turned her eyes away to await his command. “I have the feeling you wouldn’t cheat on your doctor either, Alex.” “If he’ll have me, I won’t cheat on Doc,” Alex agreed and flushed submissively. “Why aren’t you with him now?” She probably shouldn’t have pushed. “He wanted things I didn’t think I could give him until recently,” Alex admitted and looked away. “Now he’s gone and I’ve no one to blame for his decision to leave but myself.” “Gone?” Cassie repeated, wanting to reach out and hug Alex when she heard the pain in his voice. “He’s in Haiti right now, helping those who can’t afford decent medical care,” Alex admitted. “Until he returns, I’m stuck waiting and worrying. Being here with you all gives me something to think about other than recalling what an asshole I was to him.” “Oh Alex, I’m sure he’ll come back to you,” Cassie murmured. “If he doesn’t, give me his phone number. I’ll set his sorry ass straight.” “You’re corrupting Cassie with your language skills, Phalen,” Alex said to deflect the subject away from him. “You know where I stand. Both of you behaved like a couple of idiots the last few months,” Phalen stated. “If you’re willing to switch for him, he damn well better treat you right when he stops hiding behind his stethoscope. Kyran’s standing by to beat the fuck out of him as it is now.” Switch! That was why Alex Grant could be both submissive and Dominant. She also realized that just as Phalen would turn into the Grim Reaper for her, so he would do for Alex and Kyran Black. “Kyran thinks Doc hung the goddamned moon. So do you,” Alex grumbled. “Not when it comes to protecting you,” Phalen stated. “You say the word and I’ll go to Haiti and drag him home. You didn’t mean to hurt him. You needed time to come to terms with how you felt. If you tell him the truth, the two of you will make it.” Alex looked like he wanted nothing more. Ultimately, he shook his head. “He’ll come home on his own. He’s right in wanting to help those in need. When he comes 107
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back, we’ll see if I get my happily ever after like you’ve found with Cassie and Kyran with Anna.” “You will get yours,” Phalen insisted. The two men stared at each other. Alex came to terms with Phalen’s promise and nodded his head. “I love when you go all Maddox PI protective,” Cassie whispered, incredibly attracted to him right then. “Let’s get moving or we’ll be late for your appointment,” Phalen declared. “Where are you taking her?” Alex asked. “An afternoon of pampering at a spa,” Phalen answered. “Thank you for looking after things here. And for confiding in me,” Cassie said to Alex. “You didn’t have to answer my questions.” “We’re friends now, yes?” Alex offered his hand out to her. “Definitely,” she answered and shook his hand. “And partners.” “Go before I ask you to make me some coffee, partner,” Alex urged, dropping her hand. “Don’t worry about the hot wax treatment. It’ll only burn for a little while. You’ll be good as new in a few hours, especially if you use aloe or hydrocortisone afterward. There’s also a cream they can apply that will dull the pain some.” How did he know what she was going to have done? Maybe he was guessing. That had to be it. “Have you ever…” She deliberately let her question trail off. “No way,” Alex stated. “My women have always had to go bare. There’s nothing like the feeling of a hairless…never mind, too much info.” “But Doc’s a man,” she said. “And a stud at that,” Alex remarked with the same devilish grin she’d seen on Phalen a few times. “I’ll explain it to her,” Phalen decided, cutting their conversation short and steering her to her office. She grabbed the deposit from her safe and they left. Outside, Phalen tucked his arm around her waist and walked her to his SUV. Instead of going around the back of his shop, he’d parked the big Lincoln in one of the spots meant for diner patrons. “Is Alex Grant a switch?” Cassie asked once she was in the SUV and Phalen had climbed into the driver’s side. “Yes,” Phalen answered. “And gay, right?” “Yes, he is. It’s complicated. Until recently he dated women openly and men in secret. He’s one of the best friends Kyran and I could have, yet he couldn’t simply come out of the closet.” “Why?”
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“Because his father is United States Senator Charles Grant and comes from a Kentucky family which dates back before it was entered into the Union. The Grants also have a Thoroughbred horse farm that is constantly in the news with contenders for the Triple Crown and his uncle is a federal judge. There was no way Senator Grant would have wanted anyone to know his son was gay.” “Poor Alex, no wonder it took him so long to accept that he loved a man.” “He still admires beautiful submissive women, but he knows now that he dated them as a shield,” Phalen added. “During college, Kyran was the heartbreaker. He dated a hell of a lot more women than either of us. But Alex was the wild one of our trio. After college, he decided to go to Europe and figure out how to come out to his old man.” “Europe must have been fascinating for him,” she said. “I’m sure it had been at first. Something or someone there changed him. He won’t talk about that time, no matter how often Kyran and I ask. But when he came home, he started dating women again.” “That’s terrible,” Cassie said. “I mean, that he felt it necessary to deny his sexual preferences.” “It sucks. I agree. It took Doc Hathaway leaving the States for him to stop denying his feelings. Between the two of us, Cassie, I think he’s scared shitless of being heartbroken if Doc does come back and things go south.” “The doctor doesn’t know how he feels?” “He knows. He’s just more stubborn than Alex,” Phalen said. “Apparently Alex knew Ryan Hathaway from childhood. I don’t know the whole story other than Ryan left Kentucky for college in California. Their friendship has been strained since.” “Do you think they dated when they were younger?” “Not sure. In high school, Alex was maintaining he was straight. My guess is there’s a history of long-denied sexual chemistry between them. You can feel it when the two are in the same room. Fuck, I’m not gay and it turns me on when they look at each other.” “What happened to the two of you in college?” “It’s difficult to explain. Alex and I shared the same girlfriend. It was after Miranda and I was still reeling from my first broken heart. And I’ve never been in a relationship like that since. Alex became like a god to me. He was older, seemed stronger, could switch from sub to Dom and make a sub shake in her boots. So, yeah, I had a man-crush on one of my best friends.” “Wow. That’s quite an admission.” “There’s more. Corinne was out one night and the two of us were alone,” Phalen continued. “We’d been drinking a lot. One thing led to another. Not once when we were with Corinne had we really touched each other. But on this night, without her, things went way beyond what I expected.”
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“Oh god,” Cassie murmured, her mind going right to the past. “We kissed. Fuck, it was so unexpectedly hot it damn near knocked me on my ass. Not once before or after had I touched a guy, much less shoved my tongue down his throat or allowed his hand to stroke my dick while I worked him out with mine,” Phalen told her, shocking her, yet exciting her to imagine that night so long ago. “As hot as that grope-fest had been, I couldn’t pretend to be gay for one drunken night of mindless fucking. That’s all it would have been for me, sweetheart. I couldn’t do that to him. That’s when he admitted he’d only dated Corinne because he wanted to be with me.” Phalen paused. Cassie stayed quiet to give him the chance to think. “That same night, I got the phone call about my parents and cried on Alex’s shoulder. Even after I’d almost fucked him over, he was there for me. When I was caught by a grenade in Afghanistan, Alex arranged for me to have the best Army docs and orthopedic surgeon in the country operate on me so that I could actually walk again.” “Wow, you didn’t have to tell me that.” “Yes, I did. You need to know Alex is and will always be one of my best friends. Just as Kyran, Grace and Dallas are to me now. But nothing I’ve ever done with them is more important than establishing my relationship with you.” Phalen pushed back from the steering wheel, looking right at Cassie. She felt the impact of his love as surely as if he reached out and touched her. “I love you, Phalen. You know that, right? It takes a hell of a lot of guts to admit where you’d been wrong back then and where you’d been right.” “You’re not upset by it?” “No. If you’d told me the two of you fucked, it wouldn’t change how I feel about you. I’m glad your friendship with Alex was saved because you recognized you couldn’t cross a line that can never be mended once broken.” Phalen reached over, offering his hand. Cassie took it and brought his knuckles to her mouth, kissing him softly. “Love you, Cassandra Williams,” he admitted and she cherished it as much now as she did the first time he said those words. “But we have a problem.” “We do?” His eyes shifted from her face to her hair. She knew. “Oh no,” she grumbled, having forgotten about her hair. “Take it down. This is the last time I’ll remind you.” Cassie didn’t hesitate to obey. She found the rubber band and removed it, letting her hair fall loose and soft around her face and shoulders. “I’m sorry. I don’t know why I forget.” “Likely because a part of you wants the discipline that will follow when you forget,” he stated. 110
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She did. He was right. “I think hot wax will be discipline enough.” “For now,” he said. “That and you owe me your bra.” “Seriously?” He wanted her to remove the bra now? “Come on, I need a bra with this dress. You said I could wear one today.” “I told you that you could wear the bra until your shift was done today. Take it off and give it to me.” Not wanting to get in trouble, she glanced around the parking lot. Seeing no one was around, she shifted about, half removing her dress until she wiggled her way out of the bra without exposing herself. “How did you do that?” Phalen asked, sounding like he’d had some whiskey. “Do what?” “Remove your bra so easily.” “It’s a trick Allie and I learned in high school. We could do this while driving.” “Preacher’s kids causing trouble, I bet,” Phalen remarked, smiling when she handed the satin bra to him. “Is this going to hurt a lot?” she asked. “I’d imagine so,” he answered. “Don’t worry, babe. You’re going to love the massage, manicure and pedicure I’ve arranged for you. I’ll be there for the waxing, okay?” “And you’ll hold my hand?” “Whatever you need. I’ll reward you later, promise.” He drew back then and turned on the SUV. They were off and heading out of Salem by the time Cassie found a decent radio station that played alternative rock. She and Phalen shared the same taste in music because he’d preset his satellite radio to the same station she preferred in her Toyota Prius.
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Chapter Eight Phalen drove Cassie to the bank before taking her to the beauty salon. While she was locked away in a private room, he worked on her case. On the drive to Peabody, she’d told him about her sister’s journal. He agreed with her about Alessandra and Jeff not taking a third person into their relationship. But he believed a third person was involved in their deaths. Cassie mentioned Catherine O’Brien fit the mysterious admirer’s description. But Lady Catherine hadn’t moved into the area until three years ago. He texted with Ethan and was now waiting for his brother to look into Jeff and Allie’s complaints to the police about the woman plaguing them. The case was five years old now. It might be difficult to find much. Phalen would like to think it was a lead. “Mr. Maddox?” A woman came out of the room Cassie was in. She wore green surgical scrubs. “I’m Brenda, the aesthetician for Cassandra Williams. She asked if I’d come get you.” “Sure thing,” Phalen said, shutting off his cellphone and putting it in his pocket. “How’d the massage go?” “The whole room smells like jasmine. I’m told you chose the scent and it was perfect for her. She’s very relaxed. But she tells me she’s never had waxing done.” “True enough,” he said. “Be gentle as possible, okay? This woman means a hell of a lot to me.” “I will, sir,” the aesthetician replied and led Phalen inside. “Here he is, Ms. Williams.” Cassie was spread out on a big massage table. She was covered to her shoulders with a soft white blanket and the whole room smelled like jasmine body oil. He’d requested jasmine for her aromatherapy massage because it was spicy and relaxing and romantic all rolled into one. To one side of the room was a chair with a foot basin attached and a table set up with manicure supplies. “Hey, babe, you enjoy your massage?” he asked, standing beside her. “Um-hmm,” she murmured, her eyes partially closed. Her glasses were gone. “They did my nails too. French manicure for my fingers and pale pink for my toes. My feet are so soft now.” She flung her hand out, showing him her pretty nails. “I asked for nail tips. Which means I have to come back every few weeks to have them filled and repainted, if that’s okay?”
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“Looks real nice. We’ll make an appointment for you on a regular basis,” he said and kissed her hand. She was still buzzing from the warmth of the massage. He was half tempted to tell Brenda to take a break for about ten or fifteen minutes. But then that’d only delay the inevitable. “Ms. Williams, have you decided on the French waxing treatment or the Brazilian? French will leave a triangular patch. Brazilian removes all but a tiny strip. There’s Hollywood, but that’s completely bare.” “Hollywood,” Phalen answered. “It’s her choice, sir.” “I’m fine with what he wants,” Cassie answered, although she trembled a little. Promising himself to reward her for her obedience when they were home, he smiled. “You heard my woman, Brenda.” “So I did,” Brenda agreed. She sat down in a stool beside the table. “I’m going to trim you first. You should follow up with me in three weeks. Unfortunately, I’ll have to check to make sure another treatment can be done. If not, you’ll be given another appointment for a later date. The more often you have it done, the less painful it will become.” “Okay,” Cassie said, sounding a bit sedated and very sexy. “If you’d like, we can use a topical anesthetic on your skin. It needs to be applied a little less than an hour before the procedure. We can delay that long today if you need it,” Brenda offered. “Let’s just do it and get it over with.” Cassie shook her head, reaching for Phalen. He took her hand and leaned close, being careful not to get in Brenda’s way. “I might change my mind about the anesthetic next time.” “You can do this,” he assured into Cassie’s ear. “Feel free to curse like a sailor if you need to. I got you.” “You better, Maddox, or I’ll train Delilah to run up your pants leg and scratch your testicles.” Cringing at the thought, he refused to let Cassie see him flinch. With her glasses gone, she likely couldn’t tell anyway. “Don’t corrupt our babies yet,” Phalen whispered. Brenda went to work. He stayed close to Cassie the whole time. Brenda was compassionate, steady and all business. She flipped up the soft blanket and exposed Cassie’s mound to gently trim the baby-fine hairs of her muff. Jesus! Cassie hummed softly, admitting it tickled when the aesthetician sprinkled talcum powder on her and used a narrow strip of tape to close her labia. Phalen felt like a voyeur stretching to watch Brenda’s handiwork. She was good at this. With Cassie all prepped and taped, Brenda took some kind of stick, swirled it in a pot of hot wax and covered Cassie’s pubic mound. She shook a little, unknowingly shifting her hips in response to the hot wax. Oh fuck, that was so damn hot Phalen had to shift to avoid having Brenda see his afternoon wood. 113
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Next, Brenda applied a cloth strip to the wax until it cooled. She soothed Cassie quietly. “Hold still now,” the woman said, steadying Cassie with one hand close to her mound, then using her other hand to rip in the opposite direction of her hairline. “Ow!” Cassie screamed and clutched at Phalen’s hand with such force, she damn near broke his bones. Tears slipped down her face. He wanted to kick himself for making her do this. “Squeeze me, Cassie. Let me have your pain,” he invited, allowing her to do any damage she wanted. Brenda applied a little more wax to a lower area, another strip and another quick pull soon after. Through it all Cassie accepted the treatment with cute little pants, screaming only that first time and settling down to let Brenda spread her legs and treat the small hairs that almost every person had near their buttocks. Brenda ended the treatment by removing any hairs she missed with tweezers. At the end, Cassie was incredibly calm considering what she’d been through. If he didn’t know better, he’d think she was on the verge of flying. She wasn’t quite there, but between the sensuality of a jasmine-scented massage and hot wax, her skin had taken on a rosy glow and her eyes were glazed like she’d had champagne. “Babe, you look amazing,” he praised after getting a long look at the result. Her pussy was hot pink like she’d been sunburned. It was all he could do not to come right then. “You better like it,” she mumbled. “You may be cut off if you don’t.” “Brenda, turn your head a second,” Phalen asked the other woman. Brenda grinned. “I’ll just get some aloe to help soothe the burn. I’ll give you a tube of cream. If you have any bumps or continued redness, you may apply hydrocortisone.” “I’ll make sure she gets treated,” he promised. “Ha, I’m thinking the couch is where you’ll be sleeping tonight,” Cassie warned. That was the second time she’d threatened to make him go celibate. That was not happening unless she had her period. Even then, he was not going to sleep on the sofa. “Cassie?” he murmured, leaning real close so she’d see him better. “I love you. Thank you.” He kissed her softly before she could retreat. Within seconds, she relaxed, lifting her arms to wrap around his neck and hold on tight. The whole time he kissed her, he heard Brenda working aloe onto Cassie’s tender pussy and between her ass cheeks. By the time he stood tall, Brenda had removed the tape from Cassie’s labia and covered her with the blanket. “You did great,” Brenda told Cassie. “Make sure you make your next appointment with me.” “Do I have to do this again, Phalen?” The way she looked now? Hell, yeah. She’d need to do it as often as directed by the aesthetician. “Yes.” “You really want to sleep in the doghouse that often?” 114
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“I’m not sleeping anywhere but beside you from now on. How’s that for an answer?” “I’d say that’s pretty nice,” she said with the prettiest blush on her face. Fuck it, he wanted to kiss her all over and see palm prints on her ass to match the color of her quim. “Would you care for your brows done too?” Brenda offered. “Might as well,” Cassie agreed. She grabbed Phalen’s hand again. He didn’t mind. Brenda got a new stick and a different pot of wax. She swiped it over Cassie’s brow, being careful not to get the wax in her eyes. She used strips of white cloth and removed them with the same quick jerk she’d used on Cassie’s pubic hair. The result defined her brows more and made her even prettier. He was the luckiest bastard in the world to have this woman as his. What he’d done to deserve her, he didn’t know. But he was damn sure going to keep her. A few minutes later, Brenda finished applying some cream to Cassie’s eyebrows to soothe the mild redness and told her she could get dressed. The aesthetician left after handing him a tube of aloe. Phalen helped Cassie with her glasses, dress and shoes. “I have a surprise for you, Cassie,” he said. “Another one?” “This one involves my doctor’s office next door,” Phalen explained. “Are you sick?” “We talked about blood tests, remember?” “I’m not likely to forget. That was the sweetest thing you could offer.” Yeah, he was a peach to make her go through a full Hollywood-style waxing whenever it was necessary to keep her pussy looking so soft and pretty. “We can get the tests now. I’ve already talked to my doc.” “Yes.” She moved up close and kissed his cheek. “That makes up for the hot wax.” She drew back to waltz to the door. Phalen didn’t hide the smile that followed as he watched her step falter. She was still smarting and trying to be brave. He loved her courage. Taking charge of her, he tucked his hand around her waist and led her to the front to make manicure appointments with the nail technician who’d worked on her earlier and waxing with Brenda. While he handed over his credit card to the receptionist, he looked around the waiting area at the various spa offerings available to clients. He made a mental note to arrange for Cassie to have a facial next time. They left the spa and headed a few businesses down to his doctor’s office. It didn’t take long with the blood tests. The doctor would call as soon as the results came in. Because it wasn’t an emergency, the tests wouldn’t be rushed.
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That was fine with Phalen. He was confident neither of them would have anything to worry about. It would assure that they were clean and able to have a committed sexual relationship without having to use condoms unless they wanted to. An idea formed in his mind as they left the doctor’s office. There was another way he could reward her for braving out the waxing. Thankfully, he’d taken the time to read the poster at the spa on vajazzling. He’d figure out how to vajazzle her hot pussy with some decorations of his making without having to apply crystals to her skin. He was better with ink designs anyway. Not that he’d ever use a tattoo machine on her pussy, but a temporary one? Yeah, he could do that. Her mound was not where he had in mind for the permanent ink he was designing for her. When he was done drawing it, he hoped she saw the meaning behind it and would accept his collar when he offered it. In the Lincoln, he buckled her in and they drove to her apartment in Danvers. It took about fifteen minutes to wind through the traffic between the towns. Cassie gave directions to her place, but he already knew where she lived. “Thank you for the spa treatment,” Cassie said when they pulled up to her apartment building. Her unit was one of six in a small complex. “It was really nice to be pampered.” Phalen looked around the parking lot. There were only a few cars in the lot during the day. “You’re welcome, Cassie. You really look great.” “You mean my pussy does,” she corrected. Phalen shook his head. “No. You are head-to-toe gorgeous. You’ve been glowing since we left.” “I think they call that being love-struck. You’re glowing too,” she said, giggling. “It’s sweat.” Fuck, he hoped he wasn’t glowing now. Sweating was fine. “Let’s go before I give you reason to sweat, Cassandra.” “Promises, promises,” she teased, sticking her pink tongue out at him and moving to climb out of the SUV. “Hey, get back here for that,” he commanded, unbuckling fast and grabbing her elbow before she made it to the door. Yanking her as gently and efficiently as he could without causing her any bruises, he snuggled her into his lap. “Since you’re probably still stinging, apologize with a kiss. Make it hot and indecent as a quick fuck.” “At your service, Master,” Cassie offered, crawling farther up his body until she could kiss him as deeply and fiercely as he’d demanded. Cassie’s tongue wrapped around his, drawing his tongue out and sucking on him the same way she gave a blowjob. She knocked his hat off with her efforts. She bobbed her head, sucked, licked and nibbled. Putting strength into it, she kept him from being able to move. Raw and gritty, it was the sexiest damn kiss she’d ever given him.
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“I’m so hard right now my dick’s about to pop a few buttons,” he growled when she retreated to take a breath. “Harsh as the waxing was, Maddox, it made me horny,” she confessed, trailing her tongue up and down his throat. “I want to fuck.” She bit him. Hard. Holy fuck, he needed to be in her as soon as possible. “In the apartment. Now!” He managed to untangle himself from her limbs and fumbled with the door. Between the driver’s side door and Cassie’s death grip around his neck, he was able to drag her out of the Navigator. Outside the SUV, she vaulted into his arms, wrapping her legs about his waist. “Which apartment?” “Second floor, first apartment on the left,” she answered. He took off for the apartment building entrance, getting her inside, up a staircase and turned left. He paused for a moment upon realizing the entrance to the building didn’t require a key to open. He wasn’t pleased by that. But it was an older complex. He continued up the stairs and would have entered her apartment if he hadn’t tripped over a damn delivery box. “Shit, sorry, Cassie,” he apologized, righting both of them before they actually hit the floor. “I’m fine. The box can wait.” She lowered her legs and knelt to the floor. She retrieved a key from under a floor mat and stood up. “What the fuck, woman?” Taking the key from her, he turned the lock and opened the door. He didn’t speak to her until they were safely inside and the door was locked. “You do not ever leave a key outside your door like that. You hear me?” “Easy, Phalen,” Cassie replied. “My set of keys are with Alex, remember? This one’s set aside for emergencies. Normally my neighbor keeps it. I called her from the spa when I was getting my pedicure and asked her to leave the key for me. She’s right across the hall. Do you want to speak to her?” “No. I want you to promise not to do that again,” Phalen ordered. “I’m glad you have a neighbor you trust. I’m sure she’s a great lady. But you can never be too careful.” “I’m sorry,” she said, bowing her head slightly. “You’re right.” Relieved, Phalen tossed the key to the nearest side table and stepped up to her. Putting his hand under her chin, he lifted her face to remove her glasses and gently set them on the table. “I’m the one who should apologize for freaking out. I’m real protective of you, Cassie Williams. I can’t help it.” “I know and I love you for it,” she said, grinning. Kissing her, he said he was sorry with his mouth instead of words. Aggressively biting at her lower lip, he drew on her plump flesh. Cassie went up on her toes, encircling his neck with one hand. Her other hand went around his back. Forgiven, he hoisted her back up into his arms. “Where’s your bedroom?” “Two doors down the hallway. The first is the bathroom.”
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Phalen carried her to the hall. He didn’t spare a look for the rest of her apartment. He didn’t expect her to live here much longer unless she was willing to share the space. There’d be plenty of time to check out the digs. Aware that they were moving faster than the speed of light, he didn’t give a flying fuck. All he wanted was Cassie in bed with his dick buried in her hot pussy. Thank fuck the door was open. He barely remembered walking to the bed. As gently as possible, he lowered her long enough to remove her dress before toppling her to the mattress. “Too many clothes,” she murmured. “You’re wearing too many. Get naked.” Stretching her out beneath him, he locked his hands at her wrists, effectively keeping her still. “Someone’s getting bossy again. That demands restitution.” “What are you going to do?” she questioned, quivering in excitement beneath him. Her fair skin was on fire. Her face flushed so hot, she might as well have spent the day in sun. “Whatever I please,” he answered, lowering himself to trap her legs between his. She scrambled some, enticingly arching her hips into his groin. She flinched when her pussy ground too hard against him. Carefully, he leaned down, kissed her quick and pulled back. As fast as possible, he took off his coat, shirt, shoes and pants. It took some doing to kick off his socks. Cassie remained as he’d put her, her hazel eyes locked on to his rock-hard dick. “You have the most beautiful cock I’ve ever seen,” she bestowed, licking her lips. Despite the fact that her glasses were gone and she was probably seeing things a little fuzzy, he was honored by the compliment. Knowing her pussy was still smarting, he’d give her some time to recover. Her mouth was working just fine. “Then work me out, Cassie. You’re to blow me until I come down your throat.” “Oh god, yes,” she agreed greedily, lovingly pushing herself up onto her elbows in eagerness. “I didn’t say you could sit up.” Pointing for her to lie back as directed, he was pleased when she obeyed and offered pillows to prop her head up for comfort. “May I use my hands this time? Please, Master?” He wanted her mouth any way he could get it. “Yes. Balls, cock, everything gets your attention.” “If it’s your wish, Master.” She looked so beautiful to him right then, he shook with his effort to stay in control. He crawled up the bed, ignoring the floral covers and smell of fragrant candles on the bedside table. The whole room smelled like Cassie because of those candles. The scent of her juices was enticing and spicy. When her quim wasn’t stinging anymore, he’d lap up her cum like a man starving for sustenance.
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For now, he knelt over her chest, moving himself close enough for his dick to knock against her lips. “Open for me.” Her mouth popped open in a cute little circle, her tongue flicking out to receive him. Gentling his approach, he recognized the vulnerable position he’d placed her in. He grabbed onto the headboard to steady himself, slowly pushing his cock head between her silky-soft lips. “Hmm,” she hummed, licking him all around the helmet. “Fuck,” he growled, feeling his eyes roll back. “Nothing’s as good as your mouth, sweetheart.” Cassie drew off him. “I love your nicknames for me,” she said before circling her tongue over the most sensitive underside. “Glad you like them.” He wasn’t about to stop, especially if she liked it. Most of the time, he wasn’t aware of it. If it got her to suck him off like this every day, he’d be calling her his wife real soon. A little taken aback by that, he gave himself over to his woman’s talented mouth. Cassie didn’t waste time. She sucked him to her throat, adding her hand into the mix. She stroked and sucked, strumming her nails along his balls. The tips on her nails were sharper than usual. He fucking loved the sensation. “Hell, yeah, scratch,” he permitted. Cleverly, she scratched without causing damage to his gonads. She worked his dick as lovingly as always, the heat and wetness of her mouth practically dragging semen up his shaft. “Going to come soon.” He’d been turned-on since Brenda swiped hot wax on Cassie’s pussy. It wasn’t going to be long now. She ramped up her efforts, stroking with her left hand, sucking him to her throat and scratching his balls with her right hand. Phalen exploded with the force of an RPG, shooting cum right down her throat in hot spurts. Cassie swallowed, not sparing a drop. “Easy, babe,” he growled, though it felt incredible to have her warm lips sucking until he was drained. “So good,” she murmured when he pulled out of her mouth. “Yes, you are,” he praised, dropping to his elbows to kiss her and share the salty taste of his cum. If Cassie could willingly swallow without complaint, he could take some too. “I meant you taste good,” she said. “Come here.” Falling to the bed beside her, he rolled her to her side, facing him. “You’re so pretty, know that?” “Yes,” she answered. “Especially your bare pussy,” he praised. “It’s hot pink and soft as satin, I bet. Can I touch it?” “If you don’t, I’ll be sad.” “My woman should never be sad.” Gently as possible, he scooted his hand across the short distance of the bed, laying his fingers on her quim. She was hot to the touch. 119
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“You want some aloe?” “If it’s no trouble.” “None at all. I’ll be right back.” She frowned. “Don’t leave.” “Have to. The aloe’s in the SUV.” “I’ve got some in my medicine cabinet.” “Ah, excellent.” Taking her cue, he got off the bed, found the bathroom and quickly grabbed the aloe from the cabinet. He returned to find Cassie curled on her side, using her elbow for a prop. “How did I get so lucky to get Phalen Maddox in my bed?” “Love got me here, Cassie. Not luck,” he answered. “I’m not leaving anytime soon, you hear?” “Oh, I do, Master,” she said, giving him a wickedly sensual grin. “I need you.” Boldly, she lifted one leg, bending it at the knee to expose her nude pussy. “Look at you preening like a peacock.” Just like that, his satisfied cock started hardening. It wouldn’t be long before he was hard enough to fuck her. “Fortunately, you’re not pea-sized,” she teased. “I’m big enough to satisfy you.” “Yes, you most certainly are.” She spread her knee wider, swiping her hand over her breast, down her sternum and right to her mound. “I’m wet because I sucked your cock. It gets me hotter than the wax Brenda used on my cunt. I’m so hot for you, I’m dripping.” Her naughty words had him hard as a battering ram. Trudging over to his pants, he got his wallet and pulled out a condom. He rolled it on while watching her tease her exposed clit. “Who said you could touch yourself?” “Sorry, Master. May I?” She wasn’t going to stop regardless of his direction. He might punish her for that later. At the moment, he didn’t give a fuck. Watching her finger her slit was driving him insane. “Put two fingers in your pussy.” Cassie kept her eyes on his face as she complied by slowly pushing two fingers into her opening. “Ohmigod,” she whispered in awe of how good it must have felt. Her eyes were half closed, her fingers working her quim the way she wanted. “Need more.” Jerking his cock with his hand, he strode up to the bed. “You have any lube?” “Just the aloe,” she said. He couldn’t use that the way he wanted. He’d have to wait until she recovered completely anyway. Anal required patience and a lot of lube to keep from hurting a woman, but Cassie could take it. She was amazingly open to anything he wanted to do
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with her. She might balk a little when the time came. But he needed to start preparing her. “Let me take care of that burn.” He knelt on the bed, opening the travel-sized tube of aloe and squirting some on his hand. Very carefully, he applied the green gel to her pink mound, slowly working it into her skin. Cassie hadn’t stopped masturbating. She fucked herself real slow, following the rhythm of his palm massaging her pubic mound. “Better now?” “Yeah, I’m good, Phalen.” “Stop finger-fucking. Look at me.” She lifted her eyes, keeping them steady on his face and withdrawing her hand from her slit. “When you’re this close, I can see you perfectly. You’re beautiful,” she said. He didn’t think a man with more scars than Frankenstein’s monster was beautiful. Some of the ink work he’d had done had been to decorate the scars he’d sustained in war. To him they were badges of honor. As long as Cassie liked what she saw, he was good with that. “I’m going to take you now,” he told her. “I want you to watch my cock sink into your pussy.” Cassie obediently shifted her gaze to his erection. Her reaction sent more blood to his cock. Facing her, he rested down along the mattress and yanked her arm to pull her down with him. Sidling in closer, he loved the feel of his penis sliding between her pussy lips. Although he secretly longed for the test results to come in so he could shuck the latex and feel her for real, he could feel her heat through the thin barrier and watched the slickness of her juices coat his shaft. Smoothing his hand down her thigh, he guided her leg up and over his. Slowly, he thrust forward, unerringly finding her sheath and sliding in slow. Smiling in satisfaction, he thrust until she took as much of him as she could. As told, she kept her eyes on their sexes, watching as he claimed her. Caught up in the beauty of taking her with such consummate slowness, he was almost overwhelmed by the sweetness of her love. It wasn’t just fucking or sex for them now. They made love. As much as he wanted to strap her onto a spanking bench or take a flogger to her perfect ass until it was well and truly marked by his domination, he wanted to love her like this for hours. “Fuck me harder. I can take it,” Cassie insisted. “I know you can. Right now, let’s go slow. We need this.” “Yes.” She rocked her hips, slowly grinding back at him. Phalen had no idea how long they made love side by side. He didn’t care. At some point, he turned them so he could take her missionary style and watch her face while he thrust. “Don’t move, Cassie. Let me do you right.” 121
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“You always do.” Cassie stared into his eyes, staying still as he’d told her. Gradually, she needed deeper penetration to come and he ground into her the way she needed. Her inner pussy muscles gripped him, massaging his cock head and shaft until they came together. “Love you so much,” she said drowsily. “Me too,” he said. They stayed joined until his cock softened and he gradually pulled out. Cassie whimpered softly at the loss. Phalen kissed her lips and gathered her into his arms, holding her for a while. There was more to do that day. He knew that. Right then he couldn’t think of anything more than taking a nap with his woman. “I’m going to close my eyes for a bit,” she said, sounding as sleepy as he did. “Okay.” His eyes were already closed. “Not moving anyway.” They slept. For how long, Phalen wasn’t sure. A ringing phone woke him up. It was annoying as fuck. “Is that a landline phone? Where’s your cell?” he grumbled. “I lost mine,” she admitted. “Last time I went to church, I think I left it somewhere.” Wide awake now, Phalen sat up. “Why didn’t you tell me?” “Not sure,” she shrugged, sitting up beside him. “I used the spa’s phone when I called my neighbor.” The sick feeling in his gut that’d plagued him since he took Cassie’s case kicked into high gear. “You should have reported the phone.” “I called my cell service carrier and arranged to have any calls to that number forwarded to my work phone until I get a replacement or find it. I’m not much into texting except the ones I got from you while you were away. I much preferred your phone calls. The last time I heard from you was the Sunday I lost the phone.” “Cassie, I texted or called you every night and left a message on your cellphone’s voice mail when you didn’t answer. I thought you didn’t hit me back because you were mad,” Phalen admitted, still not feeling well. “If you’d forwarded the calls, you should have heard from me.” “I didn’t get them,” she said. “The phone service must have made a mistake. I was sure you were busy with Grace Daniels. So, yes, I was mad at the time. I’d still have called you back if I’d gotten a message.” “Are we going to fight about that again?” “No. I’m over it. Just not sure what the big deal is.” “You’re dating a guy who takes personal security seriously.” “Yes, I am. We’ll get one this weekend.” “Today. We have to get the kittens toys. Might as well stop and get you a decent phone and a new number.” “Can it be one of the fancy ones that have the power of a laptop?” 122
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“Sure.” Phalen shifted to the edge of the bed, placing his feet on the floor. Cassie shifted up behind him, wrapping her hands around his rib cage. “Thank you for the wonderful lovemaking,” she said, kissing the side of his neck. “You’re the best.” “So are you. Time to get dressed. We need to talk before we go shopping.” “More shopping. Lucky me.” Cassie kissed him again and he clutched her arms around his middle. He didn’t want to let go. Eventually he did and she climbed off the bed. The PI in him was taking over. Phalen removed his wrinkled condom and tossed it in a bedside trash can. He paced over to his jeans and put them on while Cassie fixed her hair and put on her tricolored dress. The phone rang again. Cassie frowned and went to answer. Phalen followed. She’d grabbed her glasses as she went to the kitchen and checked her caller ID. “Huh, weird,” she whispered. “What is?” Phalen asked. “Caller ID shows it’s the Massachusetts State House. Must be Michael,” she said, grabbing the handheld to check her voice mail. “He wants to meet for lunch Sunday afternoon to talk about the telethon.” “What’s his interest in your family? I know his family has been involved in Boston politics for a long time.” “Michael’s father went to school with my dad. My family has known his since before I was born. After my dad completed seminary, Michael’s father brought us down here from Maine. Michael is now helping my mother and I to get the permits needed for the housing project. We didn’t know where to start.” “Call and tell him we’ll both meet him,” Phalen suggested, not wanting to sound like a total prick because some other guy was encroaching on his territory. Cassie hit the last-call return. “Hi, Michael, glad I caught you. You’re where? Meeting with Mom and Dad, ah, I see. No. I don’t need to speak with them now. Tell them Phalen and I will be at church on Sunday. We can talk about the fundraiser afterward. Sure, we can all have lunch.” Phalen cringed at the idea of spending the day with a guy who’d known Cassie longer than he did. If she wanted to be friends with the asshole, he had to deal with it and be civil. He could do civil as well as any other guy. Cassie hung up the phone. “Guess you can tell what he wanted.” “He wants you,” Phalen stated. “He knows exactly how to play the parent card to his advantage.” “I told you that he’s dating ADA Karen Pierson. My father was disappointed when he brought her to dinner the first time. She comes from a very powerful Boston family who’s been in Massachusetts politics for years.” “Donatelli asked you out yesterday,” he reminded her.
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“Because Karen was busy,” she said. “Stop being all big and bad, Phalen. We’re just having lunch with family. You suggested it.” Phalen scowled. “He’s family now?” Thoughts of civility were definitely threatened. “You’re being difficult.” Cassie replaced the phone in its cradle. “Let’s enjoy the rest of the day.” “Not before we talk. Forget Donatelli. We’ll talk to him Sunday about the telethon. If he can help with the permits or licenses, that’s fine with me.” It was actually good of the guy to donate his time and services to the project. “Can I get the box outside first?” Cassie asked. “I’ll get it for you.” She beamed and he felt better. He was being cranky because he’d far rather be back in Cassie’s bed than argue over another man in her life. Wearing only his jeans, he left the kitchen to retrieve the box. It was large enough to hold a trunk. Return address on the cardboard container had Officer Adams’ name on it. Phalen carried the box inside the apartment, placing it in front of the sofa. “Do you mind if we look together?” “Of course not,” Cassie permitted. He tore off the packing tape and opened the lid. Inside was a trunk similar to his Army-issued one, only it was black and had band stickers plastered all over it. This definitely belonged to Jeff Swanson. The name of his former band was emblazoned on one side. Clicking the locking mechanism, it flipped up without needing to use a key. Cassie put her hand on one handle and he took the other. They opened it together. “Interesting,” Cassie said, looking into Jeff’s trunk. It was filled with what looked like a collection of guitar picks, scarves that he liked to hang from his microphone when performing and CDs of favorite bands. Digging in further, she grabbed an eight-by-ten envelope and pulled out the contents. “What is it?” Phalen asked. “Sheet music, most of it looks to be the songs his band covered, but there are a few with handwritten notes. He was writing his own songs.” She handed it to Phalen. He thumbed through the sheets. “Looks like really good stuff. Taran’s the guitarist in our family, but I recognize the notes. The lyrics are original.” “Wow, it’s cool to think both Jeff and Allie were writers,” Cassie commented, a little nostalgic now. “They deserved each other. Not the accusations my family hurled at them—uh, him.”
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“Cassie, you said Allie had bruises. To your parents’ way of thinking, how else could they have gotten there if he hadn’t struck her with something?” “There’d never been any before that I’m aware of. It was that one time and she’d gone swimming. I’ve had worse bruises from slamming into a corner wall. But she didn’t deny they were from Jeff when asked. She was proud of them.” “Many submissives welcome the marks their Doms give them. Allie might have been going through a macho phase or been wrapped up in the newness of her relationship with Jeff. It happens with virgins to the lifestyle,” Phalen explained. “I suspect that Jeff and Allie were going to open up about their relationship regardless of how it all came about. She could have easily avoided the pool or worn a cover-up to avoid suspicion.” Cassie knew that all too well. Even though Phalen had yet to leave marks that remained for more than a few minutes, her nude pussy was still a little warm and pink. Once Brenda started, the initial pain of the wax treatment morphed into something unexpectedly erotic. Sure, she knew a spa treatment wasn’t the same as a BDSM scene. But there’d been a lot of sexual chemistry flowing between her and Phalen during the session with the aesthetician. Her skin had felt alive. Her senses had tuned in to him and the way he held her hand through the worst of the discomfort. She’d smelled Irish Spring and a hint of tattoo ink, even though she’d been massaged head to toe in jasmine body oil. “Hey, Cassie, where’d you go?” Phalen asked, waving a hand before her face. “Sorry, daydreaming about sex with you.” “Well, damn, let’s ditch this trunk for a few minutes and go back to bed.” He was already standing and about to retreat to her bedroom. Cassie would have agreed if her eyes hadn’t fallen to another envelope. “Hold on,” she said, reaching to get it when she saw the address label. “This is from the county clerk’s office in Vermont where Jeff Swanson’s cabin was.” She opened the envelope without tearing anything and withdrew a marriage license. It had been signed and authenticated by a justice of the peace. “Phalen, they got married in Vermont a month after my parents accused him of abuse.” “Shit,” Phalen cursed and reached for the document. Fingers trembling, she let him take the certificate and read it. “She was right,” Cassie murmured. “Who was?” “Morgan Everhart. I took Allie’s journal over and let her touch it. You know, just to see if she could pick up anything.” She went on to tell Phalen what Morgan had said after touching it. “Let’s see what else is in here,” he suggested. Nodding, she knelt before the trunk and searched deeper. She came to a button on the trunk’s bottom and pressed, discovering another compartment. In this one, there 125
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were two changes of clothes, male and female, some shoes and a small plastic bag with a key. There was a rectangular safe next to the key that was about the size of a safe deposit box. “This gets weirder and weirder,” she said, withdrawing the key and the safe. Phalen opened it. Inside was a deed to the cabin that had been signed over to Jeff Swanson. There was also a sleeve of printed photos with the negatives. “Who takes film photos these days?” Cassie asked. “Hang on a second. Let me call Ethan. I seem to remember Jeff being into photography when he was a teenager.” “Go ahead,” she said and dug into the photos. She didn’t understand at first. The photos were of objects, not scenery as she’d expected. Then she saw a picture of a teddy bear dressed in chain mail. “Oh my, I know what these are!” Phalen was busy talking to Ethan on his cellphone. He paused in conversation and looked over at Cassie. “What’d you find?” “Photos of the things that woman in black sent them,” she answered, sorting through the array of photographs. “They were documenting them. Look, here’s the teddy bear, roses, a DVD and several shots of fetish gear, mouth gags, whips, enema supplies…uh, that’s gross.” “Not necessarily to them,” Phalen amended, turning his attention to his cellphone. “Ethan, yeah, bro, I’ll hit you back in a few.” He put the phone down and came over to look at the photos Cassie had laid out on her coffee table. “Anything about Jeff being a photographer?” “I was right. Jeff favored film cameras to digital,” Phalen answered. “Have to admit it was clever of him to document the gifts this way. Ethan’s still trying to find out if Jeff or Allie lodged complaints about these gifts. It can take some time due to the fact that both your sister’s and Jeff’s cases were considered closed five years ago.” “Cops summed it all up as murder and eventual suicide,” Cassie said. “Sadly, but if there’s a record of the complaints, there’s a trail to follow.” “Whoever sent these to them was aware they were into BDSM.” Phalen continued thumbing through the photographs. “And the gifts get more threatening. Look,” he said, showing a picture of an auburn-haired doll scarred and marked with red paint over her face and naked body. A small dog collar was around the doll’s throat with spikes turned inward. Along with the doll, there was a barbed cat’o-nine-tails. “Jeez, this woman was a menace,” Cassie stated. “What kind of person sends something like that?” “Someone who’s sick. Cassie, honey, when did your parents find out about Jeff and Allie?” He flipped over the photo and looked at the back, repeating the same thing with the rest of the photos. 126
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“Um, on the Fourth of July,” she recalled. “My parents have a huge pool party every year. The whole family was there, members of Dad’s congregation, associates of Stephan’s and his girlfriend from the TV station he works for. Markus’ friends and the Donatelli family came by earlier that day. It was kind of unusual to have Aunt Marie there with us, so it was a special day. They didn’t stay long because they were going to the fireworks in Boston. Allie brought Jeff.” “Was it the first time they’d met him?” “No. Actually, Jeff had come to our birthday party in April and he’d been to Sunday dinner several times. But my father had always hoped Allie and Michael would get together. In high school she had a bit of a crush on him while he was recovering from an injury and because he was at our house all the time. He even took her to the prom, but Allie never went out with him again.” “What happened when your parents saw the marks?” “There was a huge fight. I had to keep my brothers from attacking Jeff. Dad accused Jeff of being abusive and called the cops. That’s when Allie revealed her collar in the hopes of sending the police away.” “My guess is the plan backfired.” “My father demanded Allie leave Jeff in police custody. She obviously didn’t. I went down to the station with her to bail him out. That’s when she confessed all about her life with Jeff.” “It must have been a shock to them,” Phalen said. “What did you do?” “My parents had him arrested despite her protests and they wouldn’t put up any bail money. Jeff’s father had frequent health problems and had absolutely no money beyond what they needed to pay bills. I had to help them. Allie stopped coming to the house after my parents got a restraining order against Jeff to keep him away from the family.” Cassie paused to look at the marriage certificate. “She eventually stopped going to church. I only found out today from the journal that she’d gone to my dad about their weirdo admirer. You’ve seen how fired up his sermons can get. He put the blame on Jeff and wasn’t going to be swayed otherwise, saying Jeff was trying to alienate Allie from the family completely by making up a supposed stalker.” “If Jeff showed this doll to the cops they’d have taken Allie’s and Jeff’s concerns a lot more seriously,” Phalen insisted. “No cop worth his salt would ignore the threat implied.” “If?” Cassie repeated. “It’s possible that they never had the chance to report the doll,” he said. “We don’t know because we don’t have anything from the police yet. As soon as Ethan finds something he’ll let us know. I’m going to snap some cellphone pictures of these and send them to him. You okay with that?”
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“Yes.” Feeling a bit helpless and nauseous, she wished she was still in bed with Phalen. At least there she felt safe. Phalen worked his magic with the photos, sending them to Ethan in the matter of a minute. He set aside his cellphone after that and patted the sofa. “Sit with me for a bit, Cassie.” Needing to be close to him, she got off the floor and took a seat on the couch. “You doing okay?” he asked. “Not really.” “Thought as much,” he mumbled, putting his arm around her shoulders to bring her to rest against his chest. “I’m going to tell you why these photos are important, Cassie.” “I figured you had something to tell me,” she said. “Well, it’s really simple. The photos all have dates on the back. The ones of the bear and roses are dated after the wedding date noted on their marriage license,” Phalen said. “In the journal, Allie said the roses and bear came the day after their last public scene. They tried sending them back, but they were returned. I’d like to read it again, but I think they went public that night as celebration of their marriage. Why come all the way to Boston when the certificate shows they were married in Vermont?” Cassie questioned, recalling what Allie had written in the journal. “It’s possible the cabin was a getaway place for them. It might be where Jeff had his dungeon. We don’t know,” Phalen said. “Your sister wasn’t ready to tell your family about their marriage, so they kept it a secret for a while. Is it possible she told your father?” “He’d have gone ballistic if she had. If I’d known they got married, I would have supported them.” “I know you would have, sweetheart.” He hugged her closer. “Do you think their secret admirer knew they were married?” “Yes, I do. It’s possible their admirer had been following them for a while,” he answered honestly. “It sounds to me like Allie decided to write her journal with the intention of eventually sending it to you. She wanted you to know the truth.” “I’ll have to keep reading it and see what else I can discover. Morgan seems to think that the answers we’re looking for are in the journal.” “I agree.” “You know what might be nice?” “What’s that?” “What if we performed Jeff’s song at the benefit? We could do a couple of songs for a set if the Maddox Brothers band wants. Adding Jeff’s song might be a way to send a message to them in heaven.”
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“That’s a great idea. How about we gather this stuff up and take it back to the studio apartment? We need to get your cellphone, cat toys and check in with Alex.” “Sounds good. You know I don’t have to sleep at your place all the time. You’re welcome to stay here whenever you want.” “How long until your lease is up?” “Two months. Why?” “We have the kittens to think about. They’re fine in the studio, but they’re little. They shouldn’t be left alone for too long.” “I’ll need to see if I can bring them here when we stay overnight.” “We can alternate staying here on the weekends and the studio during the week until your lease on this place is up. I’ve given up my room in the Boston brownstone to Alex until he finds something better. I’m hoping now that you’ve partnered with him, you’ll be able to hire additional weekend help and take time off for yourself. Eventually we can look for a bigger place we can call ours.” “I’d love to do that.” It was an excellent suggestion. “Are you sure you won’t get tired of me, Maddox?” Phalen sat up, facing her. “Not going to happen in this lifetime.” Everything was still so new between them. Yet she believed him and wanted to see how far they could go. If all went well, perhaps she’d have a ring on her finger by the time they traveled to Fairfax for Grace and Dallas’ wedding.
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Chapter Nine Back in Salem, Phalen dropped Cassie off at the door to Book Haven Diner. She went inside while he parked his SUV. He’d unpack the groceries they’d bought and check on the kittens. She looked forward to playing with them when she got off work. But she had to relieve Alex. She’d been gone for hours. It didn’t take long to find him. He’d gone from a booth in the diner to her office. His laptop was open and he was on his cellphone talking to someone. Cassie walked in, taking a moment to check out her new phone. It was as Phalen promised, fancy with all the bells and whistles of today’s technology. Alex turned around in the chair, smiling at her. The man’s smile was killer to a woman’s equilibrium. She wondered what Doc Hathaway looked like and hoped the man got as weak-kneed as she was at times. “I’ll call you back later, Kyran. Don’t worry about the book deal. We got what you wanted for the advance. Give Anna a kiss for me. And the twins…you know what I meant.” Alex ended his call after another round of conversation with Kyran and hung up. “Kyran wrote a book?” Cassie asked curiously. Alex nodded. “It’s about how he overcame his knee injury when he was with the Malibu Sharks and became a better man and athlete as a result. Instead of using steroids, he rehabbed to the point that when he came back, he had insight into how cutthroat professional sports can be and advised a backup plan. His backup plan was coaching.” “I hope to meet him soon,” she said. “I know that you, Kyran and Phalen were tight in college.” Alex flushed a little. “You could say that. I was their dorm’s RA. I’d decided to stay in Louisiana to get my master’s.” “When’s the book come out?” “Release date is for next fall, corresponding with football season. I’d like for him to come up here and have a signing at here.” “That’d be awesome. The lines would be around the building. Does he like coaching?” “He loves it. He’s also opened a mixed martial arts dojo after earning a third-degree black belt. All three of us have experience in the martial arts. He’s planning to visit colleges and high schools and talk to the players. It would promote the book and give teenagers something to think about.”
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“Good for him.” Cassie liked that idea a lot. “Is Kyran the reason you became a sports agent?” “He’s one of the reasons. I wasn’t a bad athlete myself. I played lacrosse and baseball in high school and college and developed an uncanny ability to recognize athletic talent. After witnessing a couple of promising college stars get sidelined with injuries, I wanted athletes to not only succeed, but to make sure they have a life beyond sports.” “I’m sure the players you represent appreciate the work you do for them. Phalen and I were talking while we were out. He thinks I should hire a weekend crew and take time off on Saturdays and Sundays.” “You should. I’ll help you with that.” Alex sat forward. “I hope this is okay to ask. Did you negotiate Kyran’s book deal?” “I contacted a literary agent. Between the two of us, we secured the deal.” “Hmm, I wonder if I could get your opinion on something. Do you know the legalities of negotiating a book deal for someone who’s deceased?” “I’d have to check with my friend first. If the books were bequeathed by the author, it’d be easier. Why?” Cassie went over to her file cabinet where she’d stored a few of Allie’s manuscripts. She pulled the first one out and handed it to Alex Grant. “My sister was a writer who never had the chance to see her work published. Miraculously, she thought to bequeath what she’d been writing to me.” Alex placed the four-hundred-page manuscript in front of him. When he read the title, his left brow rose. “Interesting. Your sister wrote erotic romance?” “Yes. If you could read through some of her work, maybe you can tell if it’s publishable. If so, I’d like to see if any money made from the books can be donated to the safe haven.” “You certain you want me to read them?” “Very. I was going to start contacting agents when I had time.” “All right, I’ll check them out. How many do you have here at the office?” “Three. I have more at home. You’ll see on the title page Allie had a pen name. If this works out, I’d like to keep the pseudonym to avoid complications for my dad. He’s a minister. He’ll be proud of her for writing what she loved, just not the subject matter.” “Phalen told me about your father. I’d like to meet your parents.” “Come to Sunday dinner,” Cassie invited. “My mom’s going to love you. If you’re not careful, she’ll start matchmaking.” “Since our hearts belong to someone already, she’ll be unsuccessful.” Cassie watched Alex’s expression drift somewhere far away. His flush grew deeper and his mouth parted ever so slightly, like he was thinking of sharing a kiss with the
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man he loved. Whew, she needed a glass of ice water to cool down just from watching him think of his man. “I really hope your doctor comes home soon, Alex.” “Me too,” he confessed, sighing a little. It was so odd to see him drop his professional façade that she wanted to make him feel better. “I miss him like crazy.” “Tell him,” she suggested. “Phalen bought me a new phone today. Call him on it if you want. It’s a global phone. Don’t text him, though. Your voice is amazingly sexy. He’ll appreciate it far more than a clipped sentence.” He laughed. “I have Ryan’s number on speed dial. Thank you for the props on my voice. Phalen used to say women tripped over themselves when I spoke. To be honest, I thought the same about his at one time. He was a god to me back then.” “Phalen thought of you as a god too.” “I know.” He was surprisingly open with her. She appreciated that. She didn’t know if he was always this way with people and counted herself lucky to have him as a friend so soon after meeting him. “When you and Phalen left earlier, did he tell you about us?” “You knew he would,” she said, nodding. “He’s not one to lie. I was sure I’d ruined our friendship by coming on to him.” “I got the feeling the whole thing was fueled by a lot of drinking.” Alex stood up, remaining still instead of pacing. “We had a case and a half of beer between the two of us that night. I guess it was mutual idiocy.” “Don’t call it that. Your friendship is better for it,” Cassie said. “I like you a lot, Alex Grant. I’m really glad you helped Phalen through the pain of losing his parents. He told me you’d arranged for Dr. Hathaway to operate on him.” “I’d arranged Army docs too. But if I hadn’t sent Doc, Phalen might have lost use of his arm and leg. When his parents died, there was no way I’d let him handle something like that alone. Kyran’s the same way. Both of us traveled to Boston to help him with funeral arrangements.” “It’s wonderful to know you two were there for him.” “Phalen had been named executor of his parents’ estate and given ownership of a tattoo shop in Boston. He didn’t have a clue how to deal with it all. His whole focus in college had been ROTC and becoming a Special Ops soldier like his dad. You have no idea how many times he’d chant, ‘I want to be an Airborne Ranger. I want to live a life of danger,’ when we were out running.” “I can picture you all chanting that. Phalen dedicates himself to something and doesn’t let go,” she said. “So do you. Even though I haven’t met him officially, I am sure Kyran’s as incredible as you and Phalen.” “He’s planning to come up here for the benefit. Don’t tell Phalen yet. If it doesn’t work out, Kyran doesn’t want to disappoint him.” “Wow. Isn’t Anna on bed rest?”
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“She is. She’s doing fine and is allowed out of bed for short periods of time. According to Anna, if Kyran doesn’t come, she’s cutting him off until the twins are a year old. There’s no way on God’s green earth Kyran will disappoint his wife or risk celibacy that long. They’re trying to arrange for her friend Tracey to stay with her if Kyran comes up here. Dallas and Grace have already committed to the benefit.” Cassie was glad. “Excellent. It’ll be an event few will forget.” The smell of Irish Spring warned her of Phalen’s approach before he walked into the small office. Between him and Alex, the space couldn’t handle more testosterone. “Cassie, I heard back from Ethan,” Phalen said. “Oh no,” she murmured. “The two of you should talk,” Alex suggested. “I’ll go get some coffee.” “You can stay,” she granted. “What did he find out?” “There’s no record of complaints from Jeff or Allie,” Phalen told her. “I was hoping there was something. The only documents registered are an arrest warrant and a restraining order issued by a local judge against Jeff and the investigation into your sister’s death. Cops never suspected anyone else because they put their resources into trying to locate him.” “Allie’s journal suggests differently about reporting their admirer.” Cassie got it from her desk, having to go around Alex to retrieve it. She leafed through to the entry she’d read before lunch. “Yes. Right here, look.” She gave the journal to Phalen. “We’ll look through the trunk again,” Phalen suggested. “Maybe there’s something in it that includes case numbers.” “I’m going to run to the apartment right now.” Cassie couldn’t stand this anymore. “I’ll come with you,” Phalen stated. “Alex, will you watch the store?” “You know it, bro.” Cassie followed Phalen out of the diner and over to the studio. Upstairs, he opened the door for her. Eager meows greeted her as two fuzz-balls came charging toward them. Picking up Samson because he was about to run up her leg, she cuddled with him. He smelled like his sister. “Hi, handsome boy,” she murmured. “Did they do any damage while we were out?” “Not that I noticed. Their food dishes were half empty and they used their litter boxes.” Phalen scooped up Delilah and set her on his shoulder, letting her snuggle into his neck and hide in his hair. Cassie’s tummy flip-flopped at the sight of the kitten staring out at her. Kissing Samson’s forehead, she cuddled with him a minute longer, then let him run. Delilah saw her brother scampering about and instantly wanted down. Phalen set her gently on the floor. The two decided to play soccer with a Ping-Pong ball.
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“They’re so cute,” she said. “Um-hmm, let’s look through the trunk again.” Phalen had placed Jeff’s trunk in the living room area. Cassie went over and took a seat on the big sofa. Phalen joined her after tossing a catnip mouse toward the kittens. Again they took out the photos. Cassie didn’t think there’d be anything more. “Wait a second,” Phalen said. He picked up the envelope the marriage license was in. The package was about an inch thick. She’d been so shocked by the license she didn’t think to look for more evidence. Phalen withdrew a set of documents. He went through them slowly. “There are papers terminating the lease of your sister’s apartment and rental slips for a storage unit and a moving van company. According to the date, they were set to move the day after Allie died. The moving van was one of those rent-and-drive-yourself-type deals. Swanson picked it up the afternoon before the move.” “I don’t understand.” “Wouldn’t they have had moving boxes? What happened to the van?” “Oh god, yes,” Cassie said. “Are you suggesting their stalker cleaned up?” “That’s what I’m thinking. I’m going to call the moving van company and see if they have records of the rental dating back five years ago.” Phalen kept reading through the documents. “Ah ha, copies of three complaints with case numbers attached, filed with the Cambridge police. Now I have something more concrete to go on.” “That makes sense. I wish I’d thought of that before. Allie’s apartment was in Cambridge,” Cassie said. “There are only three complaints? There are way more than three pictures.” “Jeff could have been frustrated. The officer who took the reports felt there was no threat intended and recommended they document any further contact, including changing their phone numbers. If some physical threat occurred, the cop would have been more helpful.” “Jeff should have told Ethan. He was a police officer.” “Yes. But he’d been arrested, remember? I think Jeff stopped trusting law enforcement, despite his friendship with my brother.” “I don’t blame him for feeling that way. If you’re right and this third person got to them the night before they moved, how’d she get into the apartment?” “We don’t necessarily know that the admirer is a woman.” “What do you mean?” “You showed me the entry about the person in black. He or she wore a mask. The black hair could have been a wig.”
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“I guess it’s possible the stranger is a cross-dresser or a master of disguise. My question stands. Why would they drop their guard the last night? You’d think they’d lock their doors and windows before engaging in an intense scene. They know there’s a problem.” “Probably because someone they knew knocked on the door.” “That’s awful. Jeff’s suicide?” “Is looking like murder to me. I’ll know more once I get my hands on Jeff’s autopsy report. I don’t want to think this way, Cassie. It scares the fuck out of me.” “Scares me too,” she admitted, aware she was shaking all over. Phalen’s arms came around her. “Can you do something for me, sweetheart?” “Whatever you need.” “What I need is about forty-eight hours of fucking. Since Alex is coming over later and I have a job to do, I’d like you to write down the names of every person who attended your parents’ Fourth of July party. Include a list of Allie’s friends, boyfriends from her past, those that you were close to and your brothers’ friends too.” “I can do that,” she stated. “Thank you.” He kissed the top of her head and held her close. “You still have that bad feeling, don’t you?” “Yeah. We’ll update your folks on the case as soon as we have more information, but no one outside of Ethan, Sam, Alex and the two of us are to know I’m investigating this whole thing. Understand?” “You trust your brother’s partner that much?” “Sam’s been a detective longer than Ethan,” Phalen said. “If Ethan trusts her, I trust her.” “Ethan says she has a crush on Taran.” “It’s possible. Let’s stay focused here. Sam will treat this case as supersensitive. Don’t worry.” “I won’t. Can you hold me for a little while, Phalen? I’m not feeling well.” Phalen picked her up from where she sat and placed her in his lap. “I love you. Trust me and we’ll get through this together.” “I trust you with my life, Phalen Maddox.” “Good to know,” he whispered, kissing her temple and letting her cuddle. Samson and Delilah came up, mewling for attention. Phalen picked them up one by one and let them curl into Cassie’s lap. Between his strong arms and the kitties purring, she was able to relax and let everything else drift away. It was getting dark outside by the time Cassie stood. “I’m going to run next door and start on that list,” she said. “Sounds good. I’ll head to my office and see if I can trace these incident reports Jeff kept and the rental van,” Phalen replied. 135
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The kittens were placed on a bed Phalen picked out for them and he made sure there were a few toys to keep them company. He escorted Cassie out of the studio apartment and over to the diner, then left her with Alex. Making herself a cup of coffee, she went to her office and wrote out the list Phalen had requested. It made sense to look into someone Allie or Jeff knew. It would be so much easier to think the stalker in black was an anonymous stranger. Thinking the stalker could be someone Cassie knew made her ill. “Hey, partner, you interested in letting me cook dinner tonight?” Alex offered, standing in the doorway. Cassie smiled at the picture that formed in her mind. Alex Grant with an apron was not a bad image to have. “That’d be great. I didn’t know you could cook on top of handling superstar athletes and business ventures.” “I studied with a chef in France after getting my master’s,” he said, cluing Cassie into his trip to Europe that stumped his best friends. “Seriously?” “Seriously,” he repeated. “I was quite taken with Amelie at the time.” “Did you, uh, date her, by chance?” Alex’s eyes shuttered closed for about a minute. “You could say that we were involved in an unconventional relationship.” “I see. If you want to talk about her, feel free. Whatever you say will be kept in strict confidence.” “It’s nice of you to offer. I’ve chalked my experience in Europe as one of the most foolish things I’ve ever done.” She wished he’d confide in her. More so, she hoped he’d confide in Phalen or Kyran. “I still had feelings for Phalen, Cassie. I traveled to get over him. Do you have any diet restrictions?” Wow, she didn’t expect that much of an admission or switch in conversation. “I don’t think Phalen knows why you went to Europe.” “He knows why,” Alex stated. “Then you should also tell him what really happened with Amelie,” Cassie suggested. “You know good and well Phalen would do anything he could to help you.” “His friendship is enough. Don’t worry about it. I’ve put Europe in the past. So should everyone else.” Alex shifted and looked about to retreat. He didn’t. “If Doc comes back, I’ll talk to him about it.” If it was that personal, then he should share it with the person he loved. “Phalen said you’ve actually known your doctor since childhood.” “We grew up together. He moved away to attend med school in California. That was about as far from Kentucky and me as he could get. To this day, I don’t know why he chose a school so far away.”
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Cassie suspected Doc Hathaway had broken Alex Grant’s heart. Putting her notepad aside, she stood and walked up to him. He backed up a little, seeming to brace himself for what she’d do next. She hugged him. Within seconds, Alex’s arms encircled her with the affection of a dear friend. “Damn it, Cassie, you’re making me feel like a wimp here,” he cursed, but didn’t move. “You’re not a wimp in my book. Hell, if it weren’t for the fact that I love Phalen, I’d give your doctor some competition.” “Careful, there are times I’m still tempted by threesomes like I’d had in college,” Alex admitted, stepping back. “And the two of you together is the right combination. I can’t interfere with that or it’ll ruin what I could have with Ryan.” “Being tempted doesn’t mean you’ll cheat on him. You’re a strong man, Alex Grant. You won’t risk hurting Ryan any more than I would hurt Phalen. When Ryan comes back, he’s going to be one very lucky man.” “Let’s hope so.” “Have you told him about the benefit?” “I will. He’ll appreciate my efforts.” “Great.” “I’m looking forward to meeting your mom and discussing the telethon.” “We’ll appreciate your help. Now I need to get back to work. Go cook. I’ll be over soon. Phalen’s working on my case.” “The schedule you keep on your desk shows Enid and Lily close tonight.” “That’s right. I should be done here in about half an hour. I need to do some inventory first thing tomorrow morning. It’ll be nice to spend the rest of the evening with my two favorite men.” Alex flushed. He covered it by giving her playful tap on the chin with his knuckles before he left. Once she settled behind her desk, she finished the list of names Phalen wanted. She left room on the list in case she remembered anyone else. Then she read Allie’s journal again. Much to my surprise, a friend has stepped up to help us deal with our secret admirer. When Master went to the police, he was given the runaround. He was then threatened with jail time if he violated a restraining order forbidding him from approaching a member of my family. My own family! The reality of their disbelief has forced our hands. Master and I have decided to make a life together somewhere that’s safe and beyond accusations. I’m both sad and relieved as I write this. I’m sad because it’s not Cassandra helping us as it should be. If Master can’t go near her, I won’t defy the order either. I’m relieved because I turned to the one person who would listen and the gifts have stopped! Master is still concerned they might start again.
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We’ve been advised to trust no one and pursue a life away from the Massachusetts and we have finalized our plans to move in two weeks. Cassie reread the entry, trying to understand the change between the previous one. Who was the person they trusted? Two people were dead because of this ally’s inability to protect them. Or could it have been someone intentionally out to trick them? Why couldn’t Allie have made things easier by giving a name? Closing the journal, Cassie had enough for now. She needed to get next door to be with the man who made her feel safe. She took her handbag from the wall safe and locked it. Grabbing her journal and the name list, she left the office. Before going to the studio, she checked in with Enid and Lily. All was well. They had their back-door keys, would set the alarm on their way out and knew the routine for preparing the store for opening in the morning. It was eight by the time she walked next door. She went to the back stairway and climbed to the top. Two male voices reached her as she opened the door. The sight that greeted her made her laugh so hard tears filled her eyes. Alex was backed up against the counter with Delilah attached to his fly. His hands were up and he had a giant wooden spoon in one hand and a spatula in the other. Phalen was busy trying to keep Samson from running up Alex’s leg to join his sister. “Damn it, her claws are digging into my dick. Help me or I’m in danger of major shrinkage here.” “I’m not helping you out with that,” Phalen stated. “Put the kitchen stuff down and remove the kitten yourself, big guy.” “I can’t move.” “I can help,” Cassie offered, rushing across the room. “Hurry,” Alex urged. Cassie set her purse, the diary and notebook on the counter and grabbed Delilah’s scruff. “Jeez, she’s got a death grip,” she said when she pulled to no avail. The kitten had locked her claws into Alex’s pants. The poor man hissed. Paper-thin kitten claws had to be inflicting some damage. Alex looked at her like she’d grown two heads. “Yes, I know that.” “No need to get testy. I’m trying to be gentle.” Cassie doubled her efforts and successfully removed one paw. “It’s okay, sweetie. I know you’re scared and didn’t mean to hurt Uncle Alex.” “Cassie!” Alex growled. She freed another foot, then the remaining two. At once, Delilah meowed at the loss of Alex’s body heat. “I think she likes you,” she said. “If she does that again, there will be no Christmas gifts this year,” Alex threatened, glaring at the kitten. Delilah defended herself by purring loudly and extending her paw to him. Alex set aside his utensils and reached out to scratch Delilah’s ears.
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“Delilah, you’ll have plenty of catnip in your stocking, courtesy of your uncle,” Phalen said, coming up with Samson on his shoulder. “And they’re both getting their nails trimmed tomorrow.” “Amen to that,” Alex declared. Cassie took Samson and Delilah over to their bed to get them toys. Within seconds, they were occupied with their Ping-Pong ball. She checked their food bowls and saw that they were empty. They had plenty of clean water. “Where’s the kitten food?” she asked Phalen. “In the pantry,” he answered, pointing to a very narrow closet in the kitchen. It didn’t take long for her to get their kibble and refill the bowls. “I made a name list, Phalen. It’s on the counter with Allie’s journal. I’ve found out someone helped Allie and Jeff plan the move to Vermont.” Phalen looked away from whatever Alex was stirring. It did smell good. “Don’t suppose she gave a name, huh?” “Except for me, she never refers to anyone by name, not even Jeff. He’s always Master. After Allie wrote about their friend, her entries simply drop off with absolutely no reference to me or our family. You know what I think?” “Whoever helped them move was their stalker?” Phalen answered. “Yes. But there’s more.” Cassie went to the kitchen to lean against a butcher-block table. “Maybe the friend was in the lifestyle.” “Very well could be,” Alex supplied. “Definitely seems possible,” Phalen agreed. “Thanks for the name list. That’s going to help a lot. I got nowhere on the moving van. The company went bankrupt three years ago. Along with starting on the background checks tomorrow, I’m going to pay a visit to the storage unit they’d rented. It’s still open.” “Did you hear anything more from your brother and Sam?” “Sam contacted Officer Adams again. He knows the officer who was in charge of the case and is going to put him in contact with her. Ethan received permission to get the complete autopsy report on Jeff and should have it by morning. What we’d had before were the ME’s preliminary findings. He’ll email it to me once he has it.” “I think I’m starting to get hooked on modern technology,” Cassie said. “Speaking of technology, where’s your cell?” Phalen asked. Well, shoot! She’d forgotten the darn thing again. She had a terrible habit of misplacing it. Once she had to call the number to find it at home. It’d been in a clothes basket under a mound of fresh laundry. “Oops. I’m terrible with cellphones. I’ll go get it right now.” “You stay with Alex and the kittens. I’ll get it for you. Tomorrow I’m getting a clip for it and strapping it to your hip.” “You can’t keep buying me things, Phalen.”
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“Watch me.” Phalen stomped off, obviously irritated as he walked out of the apartment. “Is he always this moody?” she asked Alex. “He is when someone he loves is threatened,” Alex answered. Cassie paused, taking that in. “Allie and Jeff’s stalker has no reason to turn on me. Whoever it is doesn’t even know I’ve hired Phalen to look into their deaths.” Alex turned to look at her. “That may be so, Cassie. But you’re uneasy and tense. Even I can see it and I’m not as observant in these matters as Phalen. After what happened to Kyran a few months ago, I’ve learned stalkers can be closer than anyone suspects.” “Kyran had a stalker?” “Yes. His ex-girlfriend, Seville Davis.” “Wasn’t she an underwear model?” He nodded. “She’d been following him before they even dated. She’d gone so far as to hire seedy paparazzi or PIs to take photos of Kyran with women, intimate photos.” “Yikes.” “She’d arranged for her reporter cousin to write a gossip piece about Anna and Kyran, spurring Anna’s ex-boyfriend to get territorial. Between the two exes, they conspired to attack Kyran.” “What was Phalen’s role in this?” “He helped Anna expose Seville,” Alex told her. “Griffins management wanted to keep the press from milking the story for every dime they could make and possibly hindering the investigation into what Seville had been doing to Kyran for years. They asked all of us to keep it confidential.” “I respect the confidentiality of his cases and understand sometimes he can’t tell me everything.” “Kyran’s ex is currently serving time in a minimum-security facility in Los Angeles. Her sentence is compounded because Anna had evidence of the photos Seville had arranged and the women in them pressed charges. The last woman’s case is over now. That’s why I am confident in telling you about it. I’d only told Phalen yesterday it’s all over.” “I hope she never gets out,” Cassie stated. “I swear, I won’t tell anyone about Seville.” “Phalen’s worried your sister could have been targeted by someone you both knew. In that case, he won’t rest easy until he catches the perp and kicks their ass right into a prison cell.” “I’m really glad he’s on my side.” “So am I. Why don’t you come over and help me cook?” “Okay.” She joined him at the stove.
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Alex had made some kind of Oriental sauce intended for the combination of chopped vegetables and sliced chicken breasts. A rice cooker was doing its thing with white rice. The stove had only three burners. The sauce pan was on the smallest burner. A wok sat on the left burner and a cast-iron skillet on the other. “Do you like fried rice?” Alex asked. “I love it,” she said. “Excellent. I’ll teach you how to make it. Phalen loves Chinese and Thai food.” Cassie followed Alex’s instructions. Between the two of them, they had a huge mound of fried rice that could feed an army. While she worked on the rice, he stir-fried the chicken and vegetables in the sauce he’d made. Later, they all sat at the table enjoying wine. Dinner was superb. Phalen and Alexander Grant’s company for the evening was even better. Phalen told tales of their college days. Alex talked about playing first base through high school and into college. He stopped after his senior year to concentrate on his master’s. The funniest discussion involved the tricks they’d played on each other and Kyran Black. Because Kyran was the lover boy with a continuous stream of girls parading in and out of his room and the youngest of the three, he’d been the recipient of most of the pranks. But when he got them back, he got them good. “Kyran, that asshole, stuck my hand in warm water while I was sleeping off too much beer one night,” Alex admitted. “I woke to a soaked mattress.” “Uh-oh,” Cassie muttered. “I got up in a hurry and stepped in the bucket of warm water. Water went everywhere and soaked through to the room below us.” She cringed, but had to fight back a grin. “Then I realized nothing smelled like urine. Kyran only made it look like I’d wet the bed.” “Thank God,” she said. “By that time, the guys below us had already come upstairs to see why water was dripping on their desks.” Phalen leaned forward. “I was out for an early-morning class and couldn’t rescue Alex. He was on his own.” “What’d you do?” she asked Alex. “I told them I’d been cleaning cum stains off the carpet after Kyran’s last girl had left,” he answered. “And the bucket spilled.” “Oh, no, you didn’t. Kyran should have been wearing a condom. Cum stains would be minimal.” “Oh, yes, I did, Cassie. He always wore condoms. He was horny. Not stupid. The looks on those guys’ faces was priceless. They didn’t question it. Kyran came in and they’d high-fived him for adding to their fuck count.”
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“Fuck count?” she repeated. “The guys in the dorm would place bets on how many girls Kyran would score within a semester. Whoever came closest to the predicted count without going over won a ton of money,” Phalen answered. “Weren’t you wet from the water too?” Cassie asked Alex. “I was soaked. The guys didn’t notice. All they cared about was winning their bet.” “But they got an unfair score.” “Believe me, Cassie, Kyran more than made up for it.” “Maybe so, but it sounds like Kyran’s very devoted to Anna. He obviously grew up.” “There’s no doubt in our minds Anna’s the right woman for him,” Phalen supplied. “Alex had his reservations at first. She won him over.” “Why did you doubt her, Alex?” Alex reached for his glass of wine and took a sip. They’d already polished off two bottles and Cassie was feeling a little buzzed from the delicious chardonnay. “I’d mistakenly thought Anna set up the story that came out about her and Kyran. A paparazzo caught them kissing in the locker room and caused a firestorm of trouble. Anna almost lost her job as a teacher and the mascot over it.” “For kissing Kyran?” Cassie asked. “For kissing a man ten years her junior, I guess,” Alex said. “Griffins management wanted to keep Anna’s identity as the mascot quiet and the photo revealed her wearing the costume. She was a physical education teacher and a football coach. The school board was afraid her association with Kyran Black would affect the students, namely the boys on the JV team.” “Of course they’d have been curious,” she remarked. “They’re teenaged boys. They’re going to wonder if their hot coach is getting laid by a football star. What happened?” “Her wacky ex was on the school board. He’s the reason she almost lost the job. Kyran fixed the mascot situation and I offered legal support. Once I interacted with Anna, I knew she’d honestly cared for him. She threw up when she found out who’d broken his kneecap.” “Poor thing. I can’t imagine what Kyran had done in response to that.” “He proposed,” Alex revealed. “Whoa.” Phalen nodded. “It took some work on his part to convince her he’d meant it. God only knows how, but it worked.” “He must really love her.” “No doubt,” Phalen stated.
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“Time to dance, Phalen Maddox,” she declared, standing up. Kyran and Anna’s story seemed so romantic it’d felt right to ask Phalen to dance. “I don’t think so,” he denied, warning her back with a fierce glare when she grabbed his hand. “Come on,” she urged, pulling to no avail. If he didn’t want to move, she didn’t have a snowball’s chance in hell of making it happen. “Go on, Phalen, dance with your lady,” Alex insisted. “You know how I feel about dancing. If you feel inclined to do so, go ahead.” “I’ll dance with Cassie.” Alex stood without qualm. “Let’s show this geezer how to move, beautiful.” “Let’s,” Cassie said, freeing Phalen’s hand. “Don’t forget, Phalen. You said I could teach you how to dance for Grace and Dallas’ wedding.” “That’s not until summer,” he pointed out. “There’s plenty of time to learn.” “I think he’s chicken.” Alex drew her away from the table and walked her across the room. The stereo had played quietly in the background while they’d eaten. Alex turned it up. Something romantically jazzy with a lot of saxophone was playing. It was nice. Alex leaned close to whisper in her ear. “This will get him up. Dance as close to me as you’d do with him.” “Is this going to get me in trouble?” “Yes.” Alex didn’t hide the truth of what would happen if she flirted with him. “But he won’t hurt you.” “I know.” She eased in close to Alex Grant’s body, letting him pull her in. He wasn’t as tall as Phalen. But at six-three, he had some size to him and his muscles were trim and defined. He definitely worked out regularly. He smelled good too. His cologne was a combination of sandalwood, citrus and hints of ginger and something she couldn’t quite identify. “What cologne do you wear?” she asked curiously. “Chrome, by Azzaro.” She inhaled. She liked it. “It smells very good. Wear it for Doc.” “I don’t intend to wear much else,” he admitted, laughing softly while they slow danced. “What about the whips?” she asked. Their conversation did the trick. From the direction of the table, she heard a chair shift. “I bought them as a peace offering. Doc’s a Dominant. I’m a switch. I’m not sure he thought I could take being his bottom all the time.” Cassie wondered if he could. “Can you?”
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“It’s my hope he’ll be willing to switch too. Doms need to feel wanted. Too often subs treat them like tools. I’d never do that to Ryan.” Phalen came up behind them, tapping Alex on the shoulder. “That’s enough. Any closer and you two might as well be making out.” “Don’t get territorial, bro. She’s all yours.” Alex stepped back and placed her hand in Phalen’s. “Remember that,” Phalen said to his friend, taking over where Alex had been. He felt so much nicer than Alex Grant. Even though he claimed he couldn’t dance, he moved with innate grace. He was in complete control of their slow dance and that’s exactly what she desired. “Were you intentionally trying to stir up trouble, Cassie?” He spoke into her ear. His warm breath tickled deliciously as it cascaded down the side of her neck. “Yes,” she admitted softly, loving the way he’d returned to using her original nickname. Aware Alex had withdrawn to the kitchen, she hugged Phalen closer. He was so strong and capable of carrying so much on his shoulders. He was truly her knight in tattooed armor. “When this song is over, you’re to go take a bath.” “What about Alex?” “No questions or Alex will witness what I intend to do to you tonight,” he warned, the Dom in him coming to the fore so strongly her pussy was immediately drenched. As much as she liked Alex Grant, she was not willing to test her Master in front of him. Or have someone else witness her path to submission until Phalen declared she was ready to go public. The only public display she wanted was to help her man teach Dominants how to restrain and pleasure their submissives without harming them. The song ended and another started. Cassie wasn’t sure what was playing. Phalen stepped back. “We’ll work on the dancing one step at a time. Be patient with me, okay?” “Okay.” “Good, bath time.” Phalen made his way over to help Alex with the dishes. Cassie didn’t hesitate to close herself off in the bathroom. The big tub with jets looked promising and she’d welcome it. Her hairless pussy didn’t sting anymore. But the warm churning water would be relaxing. She rustled around under the bathroom sink and found some bath wash. It wasn’t exactly bubble bath. But it would provide enough suds once she started the whirlpool jets. Fiddling with the faucets to turn on the water, she waited until the temperature was suitably warm and dumped a huge dollop of liquid soap into the cascade of swirling water. The one thing she had to admit to was the fact that removing a dress was easier than pants and a shirt. She was naked within two seconds. Then she stepped into the
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tub that was only a quarter of the way filled and stopped worrying. The only problem was she’d forgotten to take off her glasses. She took off the glasses and set them on the edge of the tub. There was a bath pillow to rest on. She took advantage of the pillow and reclined. The tub was deep and the water turned off when she heard the door open. “Everything okay in the kitchen?” she asked Phalen after the door was closed. “Alex is staying the night,” he answered. “That’s best, considering we’ve all had wine.” “He got a call from Doc.” “That’s good.” “He’s trying to talk him into coming to Massachusetts. It sounded private.” “You did the right thing giving him privacy and a place to bunk for the night. We’ll get some sleep tonight at least.” Surely he didn’t expect them to have sex when Alex was sleeping nearby. Then again, this was Phalen. If he wanted to fuck, he was going to do it no matter who was in the room. Cassie wouldn’t say no to her man. “No sleep for either of us for a while,” Phalen stated. Cassie looked over, watching him place a tray on the counter. He was a little blurry. Even a blurred version of him was splendid. He stripped, went over to the small bathroom closet, pulled some things out and placed them on the tray. Even though the objects on the tray were fuzzy, she knew what he’d brought with him as soon as he came up to the tub. “Is that what I think it is?” It was a five-inch butt plug that tapered from a half-inch thick at the tip to a much wider base. Alongside the plug he’d placed a tube of lubricant. “You know, Cassie.” “You said Alex is staying tonight.” “That doesn’t change what I’m going to do to you.” Phalen walked up to the tub. His cock was fully extended already. There was nothing more beautiful to her than this man’s impressive penis. “I’m not sure I’m ready for that,” she said, inclining her head toward the tray. He set the tray on a tub rack. The plug looked enormous. Of course, it might not look so threatening if she wore her glasses. She grabbed for them just as Phalen placed them on the tray out of reach. “This is meant to prepare you for when I fuck your ass. And I am going to do that to you.” “Tonight?” she squeaked. “Not tonight. Before I can take you without causing terrible pain, it’s necessary to train you first. I’ll increase the size of the plugs or use dildos until you can take every inch of me.”
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The idea of taking Phalen’s huge cock anally was so wickedly sexy she creamed herself right in the bathtub. Thankfully the bubbles cleaned her. But she needed to come again soon. A mini-orgasm wasn’t enough. Phalen stepped into the bathtub, looming above her. He was so big and strong and confident. Everything in her that was female responded to his masculinity. “You’re so amazing to me,” she said. “Thanks, scoot forward.” She did as he asked. This close to him, she could see him very well. His cock was less than an inch from her face. She’d like nothing more than to suck him off. He’d not told her to touch him, so she waited for instruction. He didn’t ask her to. He shuffled around until he was behind her, lowering himself into the water. The tub was large enough for them, but Phalen had to bend his knees. Once settled, he grasped her waist and brought her to lie back against his chest. “Umm, this is really nice,” she admitted. He hummed in agreement. Cassie loved the way he wrapped his arms around her middle and held her tight. “You smell amazing.” She still smelled like the jasmine-scented oil the masseuse had used at the spa. Regardless of the bath wash, the spicy scent wasn’t easily washed away. The oils of the massage made her feel luxuriously soft. Her pussy felt splendidly nude and clean, especially since Phalen hit the jets and water swirled around them, creating a decadent cyclone of suds. He hugged her tighter. “Lift up a little. Straddle my cock.” “We need a condom.” “No. I won’t fuck you until we’re downstairs.” “Downstairs?” Did he mean his dungeon? “I can’t fuck you properly with Alex sleeping on the pullout sofa. When he’s asleep later, I sure as hell plan on making love to you.” “Staying quiet isn’t going to be easy.” “You can do anything you put your mind to, Cassie.” “You really think so?” “Sure do. You’re really getting friendly with Alex. I’m glad.” “That’s all we are.” “I’m not threatened by your friendship with him. Eventually, Alex is going to purchase an inn or B&B here in New England. Once he convinces Doc to come live with him, he won’t take up your office space as much. But there’s no one you can trust more than Alex Grant as a financial partner.” “I know. But wasn’t it you who busted up our dance?” “Seeing you in anyone else’s arms isn’t easy for me. I don’t share well. Never have.” “I have no intention of sharing you either.” Cassie moved to straddle his cock until it was snug against her pussy and his legs were stretched alongside of hers. The change 146
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in position gave him more room. It felt amazing. Being completely bare, her pussy was more sensitive. His cock head poked out from between the vee of her thighs. Suds clung to the helmet-shaped tip. He continued to hold her and let the swirling sudsy water clean them both. Once they were a little pruned, he cut off the jets. They stayed in the water until the suds melted away. Not for a moment did she forget the butt plug sitting harmless on the tray. The tube of lubricant looked brand new and unopened. “Relax, sweetheart. Remember, there’s no rush.” “You’ve the patience of a saint,” she remarked, feeling distinctly impatient. “If you knew what I was thinking, you’d know why I’d never reach sainthood.” She didn’t want a saint anyway. “So do you think Alex convinced his doctor to come home?” “If they don’t soon, I’m taking a trip to bring Doc home.” “Did you know Alex was involved with a woman when he went to Europe?” “Amelie,” Phalen said. “I know of her, sure. They might have had a relationship, but I’m pretty sure it wasn’t conventional and has everything to do with why he won’t open up to anyone about his time there. He traveled to get over his feelings for me. If that caused him to get into something he regrets, I’ll never forgive myself for hurting him.” “I truly think he’s been over you for a long time. I got the feeling he wants to come clean to Doc first.” “It’s possible. I respect that.” “He’s lucky to have friends like you and Kyran.” “Tell you what? Let’s table discussing them until tomorrow. There’s too much to do tonight.” “Such as?” “Filling your ass and fucking your tight little pussy,” he stated, withdrawing his arms from around her. Missing his warmth instantly, she would have objected if he hadn’t tapped her hip. “Stand up, Cassie.” Obeying, she stood with his assistance. The suds were gone, but the bottom of the tub was a little slippery. Phalen made sure she was steady before he took his hand off her hip. The chill of the air brought out little bumps on her skin. In tune with her, he knelt behind her. Water sloshed around in the tub. “Lean forward and hold on to the edge of the tub,” he told her. Cassie leaned over, knowing very well she was presenting her ass and quim to his view. Putting her hands on the tub, she braced herself.
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Phalen didn’t touch the butt plug. He moved in behind her, homing in on her slit with his clever tongue. “Oh god,” she murmured, loving the feel of his tongue working her sensitive flesh. Oral sex was always good with him. Tonight every sensation was magnified tenfold. He knew exactly how to tease her labia and opening with questing forays inside her pussy and long, slow licks along her slit. He shifted, running his tongue to her clitoris until he drew her nubbin into his mouth and suckled. “Such sweet honey,” he praised between sucks. “I could eat you out all day.” He centered his attention on her clitoris, his tongue shifting and switching and swooshing all over. “Jeez! What are you doing, spelling your name?” “Yes. Every letter,” he answered, then resumed spelling. Every lick and twist left her panting and bucking. The swirl of water around her calves made it feel like she was walking on water. Oh god, Phalen homed in on her clit, using one hand to spank her lightly on the ass. Cassie almost came right then and there. “Don’t come,” he warned, slapping hard enough for the sound to ricochet around the room. “Phalen!” she screamed, wondering if Alex heard it. The possibility turned her on even more. Phalen drew back, continuing the light spanking until her ass felt delightfully hot and pretty. “Alex will know.” “He’s too wrapped up in Ryan right now,” Phalen assured, alternately squeezing her pink butt cheeks. “Nice and hot, the way I like. When I finish spelling my name this time, you may come.” He returned his attention to her pussy, respelling his name. When he reached the X of Maddox, he sucked her clitoris so hard orgasm struck with the force of lightning. Cassie bucked and clutched at the tub, the slick surface causing her to slide some. “Sorry,” she murmured after he caught her. “I’ve got you, Cassie.” He went back at her clit with gusto, pushing her right to the hot edge of orgasm before easing off to push his tongue into the well of her pussy. He licked deep, giving her as much of his tongue as he could without causing damage to himself. Then he homed in on her asshole. “No, Phalen. Don’t.” “Easy, babe,” he said patiently. “Nothing we do together is wrong. Trust me.” “I do.” “Then relax.” He blew hot air on her asshole. It felt so strangely foreign, yet sweet. She moaned in invitation. “There’s no part of you that won’t go unloved from now on. Understand?” “Uh-huh,” she whispered, bracing herself again. Phalen’s hands came to her hips, holding her in place as he tongued the rim of her ass. The slickness of his saliva coated
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her as he delicately pushed inside. “Oh my…” He didn’t push deep. He only licked the ultra-sensitive muscle. Drawing back slightly, he let go of her left hip to reach for the tray. “You okay?” he asked. “Yes.” “Good girl. I’m using lube. You’ll need a lot of it to take anything anally.” He was so good to her. He didn’t have to explain anything. He did it for her peace of mind. Trusting him to do what was right, she closed her eyes when she heard him squirt lubricant on his hand. “Easy now,” he coaxed, touching his finger to her back entrance. She expected the gel to be cold. It wasn’t. It was pleasantly warm. “I’ve warmed the lube in the water.” Phalen worked the lubricant into her puckered hole, pushing inside so slowly and gently that she wiggled to take more of his finger. Lubricant coated her inside walls, helping to ease his big finger farther inside. Foreign though it was, it wasn’t unpleasant at all. “Hmm,” she hummed in welcome. “Ready for more?” “Yes.” Phalen murmured something she couldn’t quite hear. She thought he was trying to reassure her. For some reason, she kept her eyes closed. She felt more when she couldn’t see. She’d learned that when he blindfolded her. He continued to finger her ass while she heard him fiddle with the tube of lubricant with his other hand. She heard another generous squirt. Phalen cursed. “What’s the matter?” “I squeezed out half the lubricant in the water,” he answered, laughing softly at himself. “We can stop,” she said. They’d come this far. She hoped he didn’t. “Not necessary. I’ve got enough to work this into your tight ass.” With that he slowly withdrew his finger. Naturally, her body bore down in an attempt to trap him. As if he wanted to appease her, he gave her butt cheek a playful kiss and bit hard enough to leave a mark. Cassie went right up on her toes, somehow managing to stay bent over and presented to her Master. “Phalen, that tickles.” He kept nibbling, keeping her waiting and wondering when he’d use the plug. Breathing out, she compelled her body to accept whatever he wanted to do next. As if waiting for that silent signal of submission, Phalen touched the plug to her asshole, the lubed end pushing inexorably inside her body. The plug was no wider than his finger at the tip. She took it easily at first. Then it widened and the harsh bite of pain damn near made her bolt right out of the tub.
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Phalen soothed her by singing with the rough, sexy voice of a rock star. “Take more,” he coaxed once she relaxed, pushing with his hand. “Breathe out, relax.” She obeyed and the plug was pushed farther inside. The bite of discomfort transformed to indescribable heat that made her want to beg for more. There was an edge to the pleasure that warned anal play could hurt or it could trigger orgasm. Phalen magically propelled her body toward pleasure, protecting her from the pain by using patience and a lot of lubricant. It felt so strange to take the plug. She felt beautifully, wonderfully stretched and so very full. She wondered what it’d be like to be fucked by Phalen while the plug was inside her ass. “That’s it, Cassie. You have it all. Open your eyes.” She obeyed. “Oh god, that feels strangely good.” “It should. Let’s get you out of this tub before we’re permanently pruned.” “I can’t move.” “Sure you can. I’m here to help.” He kissed her ass cheek one more time and finally stood up behind her. With his assistance, they climbed out of the tub. Cassie was sure she’d never walk normally. As Phalen promised, she did it with his help. “Stay still,” he said and grabbed a towel to dry her off before drying his own body and letting the water out of the tub. They both took a moment to brush their teeth and rinse their mouths. He surprised her when he picked up her dress and slid it over her head. Phalen helped her with the sleeves and soon the dress fell to her knees. As soon as she was dressed, he grabbed his jeans from the floor, pulled them on and came back to take her hand. “Ready to go downstairs?” “More than ready to see your dungeon,” she answered, excited by the prospect. “Patience, Cassie. You’ll get there.” “We’re not going tonight?” Hiding her disappointment, she lowered her chin. “I’ve something else in mind. You won’t be disappointed.” “I’m sure I won’t.” Part of her wanted to push him toward taking her to his dungeon. But she wasn’t ready to do that yet. There was still so much for her to learn from him. He stepped forward. “Kiss me,” he said. Without hesitation, she lifted her chin and looked at his face. He was as handsome to her then as he’d been the first time she saw him. He leaned down some, letting her stay flat-footed as she set her mouth to his. At once, he swept her up against him until she felt every line and definition of his spectacular body. Cherishing Phalen’s kiss, she parted her lips and let his tongue push deep inside. His kiss was all about sex and it rocked her world. He swept his hands up and down
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her back and thighs, working his left hand under her skirt to her backside where he intentionally wiggled the plug. “Phalen,” she gasped, shocked at how good it felt. “Downstairs, now.” He drew back with one last playful push. Taking her hand, he led her out of the bathroom. Cassie didn’t look for Alex. But she heard him talking. Phalen urged her across the room and out of the studio. They went down the back stairs, turned a corner and then were inside the tattoo shop. It wasn’t until he walked her across the shop to his tattoo station that she halted in midstride. “I’m getting a tattoo tonight?” “Not a real one. I’m still designing the real deal, babe.” “So what are we doing tonight? No piercings.” “You’ll see,” he said, having her sit back in a barber chair. Sometimes he used a massage table and there was another chair that could let someone sit forward in comfort if Phalen was doing ink work on their back. He had her recline, facing the ceiling. The plug felt uniquely right and sexy, especially while her ass was still smarting from the spanking he’d given her. She’d rather feel fuller with help from Phalen’s cock. “Close your eyes for me,” he told her. She did without question. “Is this what you want?” “I want to fuck you. I will as soon as this dries.” He worked beside her. She wasn’t sure what he was doing. “I left my glasses in the bathroom.” “I’ll get them for you when we go to bed.” She heard him mixing something. A few minutes later, he worked her dress up to her hips, exposing her bare pussy to his view. Seconds later, she felt a thin dry paintbrush sweeping along her nude mons. It felt so subtle and sexy that she shifted to follow the brush. Even though he only stroked the brush along her mound, her skin was supersensitive from the massage, waxing and their bath and the simple stroke felt incredibly erotic. Her nipples were extended, needy. “Let’s get this dress out of the way,” he said, shocking her by tearing it right in half. “I could have pulled it off.” “You like when I’m rough,” he remarked. Unable to deny it, she grinned. “True.” Scraps of her dress fell to her sides. Cool air touched her flesh. Her tummy flipflopped in anticipation. Her clit vibrated with need. The press of his body leaning close warmed her. He kissed her softly, giving her only the tip of his tongue before drawing back to pepper her chin and jaw with biting kisses. Arching her head back to give him access to any part of her he could reach, she welcomed his seduction.
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His bites stung. Her heart soared with love. Hot breath and the sweep of his tongue worked down her throat, homing in on her pulse. He sucked her strongly before making his way to her nipples. There, he licked and nibbled her erect nipples, giving them the rough loving she craved. Her hips surged upward, seeking his cock. But he was too far away. “I need you,” she gasped even as his tongue wrapped around her left nipple in what seemed an endless circle. “Henna tattoo first,” he countered, nipping her. “Unless you’re allergic to it.” “Ah! I’m not aware of any allergies.” Wanting to come, she slammed her fists into the arms of the chair. “Be patient.” “I’m trying.” “Do you need me to tie you to the chair to stay still?” “No.” “Grip the arms of the chair,” he said. “Start learning to restrain yourself.” Doing as he suggested, she held on to the arms of the chair. Settled now, she was proud to realize she hadn’t opened her eyes. She wouldn’t until he granted her permission. Phalen drew back, the absence of his warmth causing her to shiver. She heard some sloshing noise beside the chair. She felt the first touch of a henna-coated brush on her hand. He stopped with only that small dab and swirl. It felt like he made a smiley face. “I’m testing to make certain you don’t react,” he explained. Once he was sure she wasn’t allergic to henna, he touched a thin wet paintbrush to the tender curve of her inner thigh. Slowly, he drew the brush in a pattern of swirls from her thigh to her bellybutton. Miraculously, the cool paint lit a fire under her skin, making her fully aware of the wetness and the intricacy of his handiwork. Staying very still, she let him decorate her the way he wanted. There was absolutely no pain, yet she could imagine the white-hot sharpness of tattoo needles and ink leaving Phalen’s mark on her skin forever. She knew getting a tattoo would hurt. But it didn’t scare her anymore. Phalen would make it sexy as hell and overcome the pain until all she felt was pleasure beyond description. Drifting off in a world of sensuality, she became more aware of Phalen. She heard his deep, relaxing breaths and smelled him over henna. The brush became an extension of his hand. The sweep of paint became hot whenever he leaned over and blew on her skin to dry it, especially when he blew directly on her mound. “How long have you done henna designs?” “I learned when I was a teenager. My dad wouldn’t let me touch anyone with a tattoo machine until I perfected my lining and shading techniques,” he said, continuing his pattern. He hesitated.
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Seconds later he started again with what felt like a slightly thicker brush. “I frequently use black henna on those who are considering getting a tattoo and want to know what it would look like. If done right, black henna lasts longer than colored henna or airbrushed tats and the recipient can decide whether they want one permanently.” “How long until it fades?” “My guess for your skin type would be no more than three weeks. I’d like to do your tattoo soon after this fades, Cassie.” “I’m good with that.” He stopped stroking her mons with the brush. “This isn’t the design I’m making for your ink. It’ll do for now as a way of staking my claim. You can look.” Cassie opened her eyes. Her tummy flip-flopped as she looked down at herself. Celtic lettering had been painted onto her skin from her right inner thigh to her bellybutton and over to her left inner thigh. She blinked. “That’s your name.” “Uh-hmm,” he said. “Do you like it?” “It’s lovely.” Slightly blurred though her vision was, she saw he’d added beautiful Celtic scrollwork very similar to the bands around his biceps. Right on her mound he’d painted a wolf’s head. “Is your real design going to be this big?” “No, babe, nor will I tat your pussy. I included the wolf because that’s what my name means in Celtic. I was named after my grandfather, Phelan. My mom intentionally flipped the vowels in my name to make it different than his. Her name was Abigael. I hope you look at the henna design and see how much I love you.” “I’ve no doubt that you love me, Phalen.” “I’ve felt that way since we met.” “Me too.” She absolutely loved the henna. “Where’d you get this idea from?” “I saw something at the spa about vajazzling and thought you might like my version better.” “I love it,” she said. “When it fades, I’ll accept your ink, Maddox PI.” “I’d like to teach you how to do ink too.” “Me? A tattoo artist?” “You don’t have to do them for anyone but me. I want you to put your name on me. Anywhere you want.” “Don’t dangle that temptation before me,” she warned. “There’s no chance in hell I’d let anyone use needles on my dick.” “I was thinking of your ass. You’ve the best ass in the world. I want to own it.” “You already do, Cassie.” “You’d switch for me long enough to get a tattoo from me?” “Yes.” He hadn’t switched for anyone since he was in college. It’d left a scar on his chin and broke his heart. If she restrained him for a tat, lord, that would be an amazing 153
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night. They were a long way from doing that. She needed Phalen to teach her how to use bondage and discipline without causing harm to his fabulous body. “I love you,” she said. “Love you too,” he returned, unbuttoning his jeans. He took a condom out of the pocket. In seconds, he was naked, sheathed and straddling her on the chair. The henna had dried, but he was careful to keep from crushing the design. “Time to fuck?” she asked. “Hell, yeah,” he said. “Let’s get you on top first.” They maneuvered around until Phalen sat back in the big chair and Cassie was on top, straddling him with her knees on either side of his thighs. She loved how he tucked his hands at her sides to guide her up and over him and slowly lowered her over his cock. His hard length pierced her soft center, pushing inside. He steadied her descent to make certain she felt him penetrating deep. Soon they’d have the test results back that would allow them to fuck without protection. She couldn’t wait. Still, the feel of his penis filling her took her breath away. Nothing was like this. Nothing was better than having Phalen fucking her. Being on top, she could control her movements. Cassie gave that control to him. He guided her up and down and all around, moving her as if she weighed as much as a feather. Every time he lowered her, he thrust up at her drenched pussy. Becoming more and more familiar with how to get him off, she squeezed her inner thighs, trapping him deep inside her body. Gloriously filled by his cock and the plug snug in her ass, she felt truly taken. Though anal sex scared her some, the plug was helping to prepare her for his big, thick cock. When the time came, she wouldn’t say no. She would welcome him because he’d make it good. Phalen’s hand gripped her warm ass, his fingers long enough to touch the plug. He continued to guide her up and down his cock while intentionally vibrating the plug with finger taps. She drove herself down harder, grinding her hips. Climax hovered close, tightening deep and strong. Heart slamming, she cried out when he began moving the plug in earnest. Dual pleasures skyrocketed right to the heart of her pussy. Her body tensed. He lifted his head to kiss her. “Come for me,” he granted against her lips. Sweet rapture engulfed her, keeping her from moving at all as he drove into her with one last thrust of his hips. “Fucking epic!” he shouted, shaking all over. “I can’t wait for those test results to come back, babe. I want to feel the grip of your climaxes without latex in the way.” “We can be patient for a little while longer,” she said, slumping down on top of him.
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Hoping her henna didn’t get smeared, she sighed when Phalen held her. Except for her slick orgasm-drenched pussy and a little body sweat on her skin, the temporary tattoo didn’t feel damp. They rested for a few minutes, neither one eager to move. Before they dozed, he helped her out of the chair, discarded his condom and tried to fix her dress. “I owe you another dress.” “You bought me so much already. There’s more to be delivered. I don’t need another one.” “Did I tell you that you looked really pretty today?” “I’m glad you think that. How are we going to go upstairs without Alex seeing me?” “Wear this,” Phalen suggested, walking over to grab his aviator jacket and helping her into it. He was so big and tall the jacket covered her all the way to mid-thigh. They went upstairs and opened the door. Most of the lights were off. Alex was in the lounge chair watching a movie. Samson and Delilah were sound asleep in his lap. Phalen leaned inside. “Stay with me.” He led her into the room, quietly closed the door and walked her to the bathroom. Alex never said a word. Cassie glanced back. Alex was asleep. “He needs the pullout bed.” “I’ll get you something to wear and help him. Be right back. Cassie, don’t remove the plug yourself.” “Okay,” she said, closing herself off in the bathroom. A few minutes later, Phalen came in with one of his tee shirts. The jacket and Cassie’s torn dress were removed and he slid the warm tee shirt over her head. Soon after, he gently removed the plug without causing any discomfort. The gentleman in him had him using a warm washcloth on her puckered hole to clean the lubricant away. He washed the plug in hot soapy water and put it away. “Let’s get some sleep,” he said. “I’ll be right there.” She needed to pee before bed. Phalen nodded, walked over and made use of the toilet. Incredibly, he remembered to put the seat down. He washed his hands and left the bathroom. Wow. They’d definitely jumped into a committed relationship if he could pee in front of her. Happy beyond words, Cassie took a few minutes to use the toilet, cleaned up and went to join him in the main room. Alex was awake when she stepped out. The men were making up his bed. “You sure you’re okay if I stay the night, Cassie?” Alex asked. “If you tried to leave, I’d have Phalen tie you to one of his contraptions in the dungeon,” she warned. “I guess I’m staying.” “That’s right,” Phalen said. “Where are the sheets for that bed, Phalen?” she asked.
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“I’ve got them already. Go to bed. I’ll be there in a sec,” he said. “Night, Alex,” she bid. “Night, Cassie.” She went to the big bed and crawled under the sheets. Extremely tired, she closed her eyes. She was half asleep when Phalen joined her. It was so nice to have him spoon up against her back, she snuggled into him and gratefully fell asleep. Sometime later, she came awake to Phalen’s hand toying with her nipple. Not sure how he did it, she realized within seconds that the tee shirt he’d loaned her was gone. Knowing exactly how much she liked nipple play, he tugged, pinched and twisted until her pussy was drenched and her body was humming in sweet need. “We can’t,” she murmured to him. “Alex will hear us.” “We have to. I’m so damn hard and ready for you, it’s killing me.” He snuggled closer, burying his nose into her hair. He nuzzled her hair aside, nibbling the back of her neck. “Just be real quiet. Let me in.” “Ohmigod. Yes.” He’d found one of her erogenous zones and refused any mercy. He licked and nipped, leaving her skin stinging with sensual heat. Phalen shifted, aligning his cock with her pussy lips. In an instant she felt the slickness of the thin protection that veiled his length. He wasn’t kidding when he said he was hard and ready. Phalen drew back, purposefully sliding his cock along her slit, then surged, finding her entrance unerringly and sliding inside, completing her. “Slow and easy,” he whispered. “Uh-huh,” she agreed, loving the gentle way he took her. He’d locked his arm around her waist, trapping her so she could do nothing but lie on her side while he surged in and out in a slow rhythm. He surprised her by staying inside her when he flipped them so that he was stretched out on his back with Cassie on top, facing the ceiling. His cock was big enough that he could be under her. The change allowed his hands to grip both her breasts at once. He fondled her, manipulating her nipples exactly the way she needed and keeping her on a knife’s edge of pleasure-pain that never became too much to take. Needing a little more stimulation to her clit, she let her hand drift down her front to her pussy. Taken aback by the soft silky feel of her mons, she stroked herself. She stopped seconds later. She hadn’t asked if she could play this way. “That’s it, sweet thing. Stroke your clit for me,” he granted permission. “Thank you.” Glad she didn’t have to stop, she played with her knot of pleasurerich nerves, sending delightful shivers through her whole body. Their loving was gentle and sweet, quiet yet exciting and different. Because he was beneath her, he became her restraints. She couldn’t move fast or much at all. Extremely aware of the naughtiness of making love with another man in the room, she couldn’t deny it was thrilling.
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She rubbed herself harder in response to her body’s need to climax. Her clit pulsed. Her pussy was wickedly drenched and made complete by Phalen’s big cock. Her ass was a little bit sore, though it was soothing to have his hips curve against her butt whenever he thrust deep into her. Because he rarely rushed when they made love, he took her with such tenderness that the first wave of climax washed over her in warm, wonderful waves. Floating right up to heaven on a magic carpet made of Phalen’s body, she felt his cock swell within her pussy and knew the contractions from her climax made him come. “I’m going to fill up your pussy with cum, Cassie. Real soon,” he vowed. “Yes.” Agreeing to whatever he wanted, she sighed in satisfaction. It was lovely to have him stay inside her while they settled back to the mattress. “Do you think Alex heard us?” she asked after he spooned up against her back. “I don’t give a fuck,” Phalen answered in her ear, kissing her gently. “Get some rest. Tomorrow’s another long day.” Trembling from the reminder, she forced herself not to worry. Tomorrow was a long way off. Phalen was in control of her case. Soon they’d have their answers and her family could have the closure they needed.
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Chapter Ten Over the next two weeks, Phalen and Cassie grew closer than she ever dared thought a man and woman could be. If she didn’t know better, she’d think they’d met in another life. They rarely argued. She’d made a conscious effort to keep her apartment neat whenever he stayed there. She knew how to cook, but Alex taught her how to make dishes Phalen particularly liked. Along with Oriental and Tex-Mex dishes, Phalen was a meat-and-potatoes kind of guy. Except for when she’d gotten her period and he’d only held her while they slept, he’d taught her so much about bondage that she’d learned each technique had a failsafe. He never wanted her to feel like she couldn’t escape something that scared her, especially if she froze. As often as Phalen had her repeat her safe word, he’d also kept communication open. But Cassie was getting impatient. As much as he’d taught her, he’d yet to take her into his dungeon. While Phalen worked on her case, Cassie and Alexander Grant made their business relationship official. Although Alex would be a silent partner, his financial backing allowed her to pay off the remainder of her small-business loan and place help-wanted ads for cooks and waitresses. She’d also begun inquiring about building permits to expand the diner. She didn’t want the place to be too large to handle, but it was already a popular place for tourists and Salem residents to visit on a daily basis. She’d also like to take on Sylvia as the daytime bookstore manager and advance Enid from waitress to supervisor. Cassie liked Alex Grant a lot. He hadn’t convinced Dr. Ryan Hathaway to come to Massachusetts and she felt bad for him because she knew he was trying to be patient. The good news on that front was that Doc kept calling or contacting him. She’d gotten Phalen to track the doctor’s satellite phone in Haiti and left a message telling him about the benefit. She’d also been practicing with the Maddox Brothers several times over the last two weeks. They’d chosen a five-song playlist for the telethon, including Jeff Swanson’s song. Twice, she’d coaxed Phalen into taking a dance lesson. The lessons never lasted long because he turned everything into an opportunity to fuck. He was such an incredible lover that she’d never complain. She took Phalen and Alex to church to meet her parents. Her mother loved Alex instantly. Fortunately, as soon as she told them that Phalen was her boyfriend, they accepted him, though her father was more reserved. Michael attended church that day with Karen, surprising them all. 158
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Usually Karen attended Mass. They’d all gone to lunch and talked about the telethon and Michael revealed the most surprising news of all. He’d proposed to Karen. Her sparkling engagement ring had to cost a fortune for a near-flawless two-carat pink diamond in a platinum setting. Cassie was happy for them, except somehow she’d gotten roped into being part of Karen’s bridal party and talk of wedding plans kept her from talking to her parents privately. She invited them to the diner and they were supposed to come soon. Her father had a convention to attend and had to go out of town for two weeks. Cassie had been disappointed when he turned her down. She had to remember to be patient. She was afraid that when her father heard she’d hired Phalen to investigate how Allie and Jeff died, she’d damage what remained of their father-daughter bond. Regardless, she wasn’t going to pull back on finding out what really happened to them. If she and Phalen were wrong, she’d accept it. But at least she’d know for certain what really happened to them. As it was currently midmorning, Cassie was working the barista station in the diner. Customers had been coming and going all morning. Some purchased delicious pastries or doughnuts with their favorite java on their way to work. Some stayed and had breakfast. All the booths were occupied. All but Phalen’s stool at the counter was taken. It gave customers a place to wait in line for their coffee orders. Along with the fresh aroma of ground coffee beans and steamed milk, the smell of pancakes, waffles and fried eggs clung to the air. While Cassie made a cappuccino for a new customer, her cellphone played Phalen’s ringtone. She unhooked the cell from the clip and put the phone to her ear. “Hey, Phalen.” “Hi, babe, miss me?” “Always, but all I need to do is walk next door to see you.” “Wish you could come over. I’m in my SUV heading to Boston.” “You’re using the hands-free option for that cell, right?” “You bet.” “Why are you going to Boston?” “I need some supplies stored at the shop near Fenway. Once I’m there, Taran needs my help with some clients he has scheduled. I won’t be able to come home until after lunch, maybe not until dinner, depending on what these guys want done. Brandon’s fielding calls for me and Sharon’s on duty. She’s got clients scheduled for piercings most of the day. I thought I’d give her space.” “I’ll make sure to save you some fries and gravy. And I’ll send some lunch over to your staff next door.” “That’d be great. You okay or need anything while I’m out?” Yeah, she needed to be chained to one of his tables or locked in a pillory and spanked until she came. But she couldn’t say that in front of customers. 159
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“Nothing that I can think of. Maybe later we can play dress-up.” The outfits he’d purchased during their shopping spree had shown up daily. The studio’s closet was big. But if Phalen kept buying her stuff, they were going to need more storage space. “Sounds like a plan. What’s Alex up to?” “He’s on a conference call. The diner is full and I’ve got a customer waiting for his cappuccino.” “Hit me back with a text after the crowd dies down. Make sure you’re alone when you contact me.” “Whatever do you have in mind, Maddox?” “What’s always on my mind when I’m around you?” Sex was always on his mind. And she was becoming addicted to Phalen Maddox’s tender bondage. “You know I can’t answer that now.” “That’s true. Okay. Text anyway. We can try phone sex when I call back.” “Oh no,” she denied too quickly. She was already wet thinking about it. Thank goodness the brown suede skirt, tan short-sleeved sweater and knee-high brown boots she wore hid the evidence of her desire. She still wasn’t permitted to wear panties at work. Bras were negotiable, depending upon the blouse. Today was one of the days she needed one because the sweater had a daring vee. “Text me, Cassandra. If you don’t, you can expect to answer for it.” “Okay. I have to go. Love you.” She waited to hear him say the same and ended the call. Cassie grinned and turned to hand the take-out cup of cappuccino to the man at the coffee counter. “Here you go, sir. I apologize for the delay. My boyfriend called. I can make another one if that’s cold.” He tasted it. “It’s as warm as the welcome to Salem you offered when I first came in.” He had an odd accent that she couldn’t quite place. His glasses were dark and his nose slightly bulbous. His dark-brown hair looked to be recently dyed. “I’ve heard great things about this place. Perhaps you can offer a tour sometime soon,” he added. “The history of Salem is sure to be interesting. That’s one of the reasons a friend pointed me to this place. He claimed your knowledge of the area is extensive.” “I appreciate the business. Word of mouth is important. To be honest, you’re far better off joining one of the public tours. If you want to tour on foot, try the Heritage Trail. Who’d you say recommended Book Haven Diner to you?” “A colleague of mine from Bailey and Stratham Investments told me about it. I used to work with your sister, Alessandra. After she got married and left the company, I lost touch with her.” That was news to Cassie. She should have realized it before now that Allie resigned from the financial investment company she’d been working for since she’d earned her MBA. 160
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“I see,” she said, puzzled. “Alessandra was brilliant. I feel terrible that I had to move to Hartford and was unaware she’d died. Please accept my belated condolences to you and your family. I’m flustered here, you see? My friend failed to mention you are as lovely as your sister was, Ms. Cassandra Williams.” Was he flirting with her? A tingle of unease slithered under her skin. She covered it by cleaning the countertop with a wet cloth. Something about this guy wasn’t right. “Thank you,” Cassie said. “How long were you in Connecticut?” “Five years,” he answered. “Why did you return to Massachusetts?” “I’m recently divorced. I needed to get away from my ex-wife’s family. I’m now a free man with a new job and a new lot in life.” “Congratulations on the job, sir.” Cassie jumped when Enid spoke. She’d come in early to pull a double shift because she needed the extra hours. Enid poured a cup of coffee and set it on a tray with a huge stack of blueberry pancakes and sausage. “Thank you,” he said to Enid before looking back at Cassie with ruddy cheeks. “I should go. I’m apartment hunting today.” “Why not look in Boston?” she suggested. “Boston’s a little out of my price range at this juncture. Do you have Wi-Fi here?” “I certainly do.” She looked around the diner. “A booth’s just opened. Let Enid clear the table and you can have it.” He carried a tablet computer with him and had laid it on the counter when he grabbed his coffee cup. “That’s fantastic. Thank you again.” He picked up the tablet and turned away. “What’s your name, sir?” she asked. “Martin Jones,” he answered and continued on. Another customer stepped up to the counter, ordering a caramel latte. Cassie went back to work, but she couldn’t shake her odd encounter with Martin Jones. When spring arrived in Salem, tourists came with it. Except for Halloween, which caused a nightmare of traffic, parking problems and costumed characters roaming the streets, spring was an excellent time to check out the sights without the summer heat. But with spring came showers, as was the case today. Due to the heavier volume of foot traffic in the diner with patrons coming in to dry off and warm up with coffee and books, Cassie stayed busy well into lunchtime. Alex came out of the office long enough to make her take ten minutes to eat something. They shared a BLT on sourdough bread, chased it with iced tea and went back to work. Cassie returned to the barista station, remembering at the last minute to send lunch over to Phalen’s shop for his staff.
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It wasn’t until three thirty that she was able to hide in her office for a little bit. She needed to text Phalen. Grabbing for her cellphone, she came up…empty. Well, damn, that wasn’t good. Looking around her office to no avail, she remembered that she’d used it last when she was making coffee for Martin Jones. Rushing out of the office for the diner, she plowed right into Alex. “Whoa, Cassie, slow down,” he warned, managing to keep both of them from knocking over a bookshelf. “I’m in so much trouble.” “What’d you do?” “Lost my new phone,” she said and took off with Alex right on her heals. She looked around the barista station. Nothing! Nada! Zilch! “Shoot, why do I do that?” “Were you distracted?” “Yes. Phalen called and then a new customer came in and he knew Allie and I totally forgot about the phone,” she said in a rush. “I don’t remember what I did with it after he said my sister’s full name. Very few called her Alessandra. But then he claimed to have worked with her. At work she was professional. She wouldn’t have gone by Allie.” “You’re talking so fast I can’t follow you,” he said. “Phalen bought that phone for me because I lost the last one. He’s going to be so disappointed. What’s he going to do to me?” “He’s not going to hurt you for misplacing your phone. If that’s what you’re afraid of, stop it right now.” “What if that guy took it? He was odd, you know? He flirted with me seconds after mentioning Allie’s death. And he blushed when Enid spoke to him briefly.” “Did you get his name?” “Martin Jones,” she answered. “He went to a booth. He could have picked up my phone by mistake.” She walked to the booth. Alex followed. There were four laminated menus, a napkin holder, salt and pepper, sugar packets, ketchup, paper placemats with the diner logo and local ads and silverware rolled in napkins. No phone. Cassie couldn’t say when Martin had left or how many customers sat in the booth since lunchtime. Alex’s cellphone played Phalen’s ringtone. “Hey, Phalen,” Alex answered quickly. His big blue eyes zeroed in on Cassie’s face with the intensity of a laser. “She’s fine. She’s right here.” He handed his cell to Cassie and she took a breath. “Hi. I was about to text you.” “Cassie, hush for a sec,” Phalen replied. “I texted you ten minutes ago to see why you hadn’t hit me back like I’d told you.”
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“I lost my damn phone! I’m sorry. I had it all morning. I swear. But I told you, I misplace phones. I don’t know why.” “Calm down. I’m not mad at you, sweetheart.” “Why do I feel like something’s wrong, then?” “I got several texts from your phone a minute ago,” he answered. “I knew they weren’t from you because your texts are mini-emails. I tried to call and my calls went straight to voice mail. You know better than to ignore my ringtone.” “That’s weird! It’s my fault if someone got our personal information or numbers stored on the device. Alex helped me look for it. There was a new customer here when I talked to you earlier this morning. I hadn’t seen him before,” she said, going on to tell him about her conversation with Martin Jones. “I’m on my way home right now,” Phalen assured. “Stay with Alex. Do not go anywhere without him. Do you hear me?” Suddenly very scared that Martin Jones was the one who’d plagued Allie and Jeff, Cassie shook all over. She’d talked to the man. He’d been odd. Yet she didn’t get the feeling that he was a killer or that he could pose as the woman in black Allie talked about in her journal. Would Cassie even recognize someone who had to be a psychopath to have the cold and calculated ability to kill two people and get away with it for five years? Weren’t they the serial killer types who could fool those closest to them into thinking they were heroes instead of villains? “I’ll be okay. It’s just a phone, right? I’ll get a new one.” “I’m stopping at the phone store on my way. You’ll have a new one and a new number. We both will.” “It’ll be expensive.” “I don’t give a fuck how much it costs.” “Okay. Don’t drive too fast, Phalen. If you get hurt, I will be very angry at you,” she said. “Just do what I ask. Don’t try to call the phone to find it. If someone took it, I don’t want them to know we’re onto them and freak out. Okay? I won’t do anything crazy. Promise. Let me talk to Alex for a sec.” Cassie returned the phone to Alex with nerveless fingers. Her whole body had gone numb. She vaguely heard Alex speaking and was calmed by the knowledge that he would follow Phalen’s orders to the letter. Before she could blink twice, Alex transformed from her Beta business partner to one hundred percent Alpha male protecting a female. Not quite sure what she should do, she opted to work. Work kept her busy. Making fancy coffee would keep her from worrying about Phalen. She really hoped he took her advice and drove carefully. If something happened to him, she’d lose the best thing she’d ever had in her life. 163
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***** Phalen slammed his phone to the seat next to him. Some fucker was messing with Cassie’s private life. This was the second time she’d lost her phone. By habit, he was very careful when he called anyone, especially Cassie. He kept his texts basic. His voice mails were done in a code known only to the two of them. But she had the habit of saving every text or voice mail he’d sent to her since she got the new phone. He usually had her clean them out and couldn’t remember whether she’d done so yesterday. Taking the cellphone in hand, he called Ethan. “Hey, bro, I need a favor. It can’t wait until I get home. Trace the name Martin Jones. According to Cassie, he went into her diner today and may have stolen her cellphone during the breakfast rush. I don’t think he’s the thief, but the fucker claimed to have worked with her sister at Bailey and Stratham.” “I got it,” Ethan said. “I have Cassie’s phone number. If the cellphone’s on, I’ll see if Sam can track it. She’s more tech savvy than you. Is Cassie okay?” “She’s scared,” Phalen said. “Alex is taking care of what’s mine until I get there. Listen, bro, there’s more you need to know. I got texts from Cassie’s phone that weren’t from her. Someone took it. I just don’t know who or why.” “Don’t go off half-cocked. Cassie could have set it down somewhere and a customer picked it up and was messing with it. I found her phone three times when she came over for band practice Monday night. I’ll find out who Martin Jones is and get back to you soon. I’ll head your way when I’m done.” That did it. If a clip didn’t help Cassie keep track of her phone, he’d have to come up with a creative way to make her remember. She wasn’t usually absent-minded about much. The phone was her Achilles’ heel. “Thanks.” Phalen finished the call, frowning as he thumbed through the fake messages he’d received from Cassie’s phone. Again, he saw what made him pause when he first read them. The sender had a sub’s reactions down pat, but had wrongly disguised it with jargon Cassie would never use. But the fucker got more than Cassie’s texting style wrong. The text referenced her as a true slave ready for a true Dom’s punishment. In Phalen’s world, a person was either a Dominant, submissive or a switch. Adding the word true was a mark of someone caught in delusions of grandeur or a virgin to the lifestyle who didn’t know any better. And he’d never teach Cassie to refer to erotic discipline as punishment. To his way of thinking, punishment had cruel implications and could easily lead to abuse. Nothing pissed him off more than someone who used the power given to them by a submissive to intentionally inflict pain that had nothing to do with eroticism. A little calmer, he was able to put the phone away and drive. The sooner he got home to Cassie, the better.
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***** It was close to five o’clock and Cassie was ready to retreat to her office. Alex hovered nearby constantly. He even followed her into the ladies’ room and waited for her to come out of the stall. If she didn’t regard him as one of her best friends, she’d have been mortified. Business had slowed way down and the full-time employees had left for the evening. She hadn’t had the chance to talk to Sylvia about becoming the daytime manager and decided to take a quick look for her in the back. “Alex, I need to go see Sylvia. You can come with me or watch things here.” “If I don’t follow, it’s my ass Phalen’s going to whip.” Yeah, now that was an image she didn’t need right then. Phalen commanded a whip better than Indiana Jones! “We shouldn’t get too upset over a phone,” she remarked, even though it scared her far more than she wanted Alex to know. “I could have laid it somewhere and anyone could have picked it up.” “Let this be a lesson to you, Cassie. Keep track of the damned thing.” “I will do my best, partner. After this, I doubt Phalen will distract me by suggesting phone sex again.” Realizing she’d given way too much information to Alex, she blushed and headed toward the bookstore section. Sylvia was counting the money drawer. Cassie offered her the opportunity to become the bookstore manager and Sylvia gratefully accepted the full-time arrangement. Afterward, she and Cassie counted out the day’s deposit from the store. Sylvia left, limping a little, probably from a blister. Cassie couldn’t blame her. It’d been one of those days. “I’m going to take this to the safe,” Alex told her. Cassie followed him to the office, opened the safe and let him stow the money bag. They went to the kitchen to dig through the fridge for some cold fried chicken. The three to nine staff was in place and Lily was due to close tonight. Enid was the barista for the evening shift. She’d gone out for a half-hour break at four thirty and was back at her station, prompt as usual. “Cassie, I’m going in the back to get some milk and whipped cream,” Enid said after checking the small fridge. “Okay,” Cassie answered, watching Enid limp too. Damn, it had been a grueling day. She and Alex took seats at the counter. Cassie claimed Phalen’s spot. Where the heck was he anyway? She looked out the big picture window, hoping to see his SUV in the lot. Ten minutes later, nothing surprised her more than when Morgan walked in from the bookstore looking like she’d seen a ghost. Her friend carried something with her. “Cassie…I found this by your car,” she said absently, coming up to reveal Cassie’s touch-screen cellphone with its protective purple case. 165
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“You found it where?” Cassie asked, blinking in surprise. “By your car,” Morgan repeated, shaking her head and rubbing her eyes with her left hand. “I came to get a latte and saw it on the ground by the driver’s side door.” “That’s weird,” Alex said. “Are you okay, Morgan?” “Headache,” Morgan answered absently, still rubbing her eyes, then her right temple. Regardless of the headache, she didn’t look away from the phone. “I’ll get your latte. Enid’s in the back,” Cassie said, reaching out. “Here, give me the phone and sit. You’re freaking me out.” Before she could touch the phone, Morgan suddenly backed up and shook like she’d been zapped with electricity. “No! It’s covered in blood! Don’t you see it? Phalen needs to run tests on it or something. Call the CSI, maybe?” Her eyes rolled back in a weird trance and she kept mumbling under her breath. “What did you say?” Cassie asked. Morgan lifted her eyes, staring right back at her. The darkness within Morgan’s normally pretty brown eyes was so terrifying, Cassie shivered. “Death threatens the one who stole this phone,” her friend said in a haunting voice that sent goose bumps up and down Cassie’s arms. “You have to find her or it’ll be too late.” “I don’t understand what you’re saying, Morgan,” she said cautiously. “You’re scaring me here. Who are you talking about?” Morgan’s eyes widened. Her mouth opened in a macabre, silent scream as color leached from her face. Cassie leaped off the stool to catch Morgan as she passed out cold. But she moved too late. Morgan hit the floor hard. “Morgan!” “Sonofabitch,” Ethan Maddox cursed, somehow managing to swoop in unannounced and drop to his knee beside Morgan. He touched his hand to her brow. The look on his face was a mirror image to the one Phalen got when he was royally pissed off. “What the fuck’s going on, Cassie?” he demanded. “I don’t know,” Cassie fired back, kneeling beside her friend. “She fainted.” “I can see that. Why?” “She found my cellphone. She said something about blood and death threatening the person who took it. That’s all I could hear clearly. Alex, get some ice for her head.” “I’m on it.” Alex rushed behind the counter to grab some ice from a small freezer. He came back, handed the ice pack to Ethan and tucked away his phone. “I called 911.” “Weird as it sounds, Ethan, I think she’s locked into whatever world she was in when she started talking about the phone.” Cassie tried to check Morgan for injury. Ethan beat her to it by a mile. “Open your eyes, Morgan,” he urged softly while combing his fingers through auburn tresses with
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one hand and keeping the ice beneath her head with his right. “Open them, please. You can’t leave me hanging before I get to know you.” “What are you doing here, Ethan? Where’s Phalen?” The cowbell jangled loudly at the door. Heavy combat boots stormed into the diner. Strong arms came around Cassie’s waist and hoisted her right off the floor. “I’m right here, sweetheart,” Phalen assured, hugging her close. “I made a couple of stops on the way home and asked Ethan to meet me here. What happened?” Cassie told him while they stood there watching and waiting for EMTs to arrive. Morgan remained unconscious. Not even the ice pack brought her around. Phalen, Alex and Cassie tried to offer first aid, but Ethan wouldn’t let any of them near his woman. It wasn’t until Ethan leaned down and said, “I command you to wake up, honey,” in Morgan’s ear, kissing her softly on the lips that she stirred. She opened her eyes, looking right up at him and briefly kissed him back. “Ethan?” He lifted his head, attempting to grin. “Who’d you think would kiss you awake?” he murmured, still stroking his hand through her hair. “Thank god,” Cassie breathed out as the EMTs came through the door. Feeling a little weak herself, she’d have fallen over if Phalen wasn’t there holding her up. Even with a paramedic attending Morgan, Ethan didn’t leave her side. Cassie had never seen him so shaken. “Ms. Everhart, we need to get you to the hospital,” the medic instructed gently. “You’ve a nasty bump on the back of your head and suffered a bit of a shock. There’s no blood, thankfully. But we want to make sure you don’t have a concussion.” “No, I can’t,” Morgan refused. “My headache will fade soon. I’m very tired, sir. If I can go home and rest, that’s all I need to be good as new.” “You’re going to be treated by doctors, Morgan,” Ethan stated. She turned her head side to side very slowly. “I don’t need it. The headache will fade, as will the bump.” “We don’t know that,” Ethan said. “I’m not fucking around with a head injury. You need to be checked out completely. I’ll go with you.” Morgan looked to the medic. “Please, tell him I don’t need to go. I hate hospitals, especially ERs. There are so many objects, images and emotions running rampant there, it fucks with my mind.” “Who knew my woman had such language?” Ethan asked, looking shocked to hear Morgan say the word fuck. “I’m sorry, ma’am,” the medic said. “From the 911 dispatch, we were told you were unconscious for several minutes. You should have some tests and medical care which I can’t provide.” “Cassie, you stopped her, didn’t you?” Morgan asked, turning her eyes to Cassie and completely breaking her heart. She looked like she’d been to hell and back.
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“Who did you mean? I didn’t understand. Your voice wasn’t…yours.” “Enid. She was sent here to watch you,” Morgan claimed, glaring at the innocuous object lying on the floor several feet away. “She didn’t want to do it. She took the phone to turn Phalen’s attention toward the guy who talked to you today, Cassie. Enid recognized him as her lord’s favorite serf. In her panic, she called her lord on the stolen phone. That’s why I saw her blood all over it. He’s ordered her to be put down like an abused pet. Poor Enid, we need to help her.” “Enid’s lord?” Phalen repeated. “What the fuck kind of man calls himself a lord?” “A man with his head so far up his own ass, he can’t see past his own selfimportance,” Morgan answered. “Don’t you see? To her, calling him lord is the same as calling him Sir or Master.” “You got all that from touching a phone?” Phalen asked. Morgan nodded. “Anyone know where Enid is now?” “She went to get milk in the back fridge,” Cassie answered. Phalen rushed to the kitchen. He came back alone. The only thing he had was a plastic Baggie, which he handed to Ethan. Ethan bagged the cellphone. “She’s gone. The loading dock door was open. She must have fled during the commotion.” “Her apartment’s close enough to here that she walks or bikes to work,” Cassie said. “I’ll call some units in,” Ethan decided, taking out his cellphone. “Find her, Ethan. You have to,” Morgan demanded, shaking from head to toe. “Ma’am, you need to settle down,” the paramedic instructed gently. “Let’s get you on a stretcher.” “No! Not until he promises to find Enid.” Morgan wouldn’t be budged. She turned her eyes to Ethan. “Believe me, please, Ethan. I know you don’t buy into my ability, but I’ve never had a premonition like this. He’s angry enough at her to kill tonight.” “I’m doing what I can, honey. Finding a person is what I excel at,” Ethan assured, gently taking her hand to calm her down. “Cassie, get me Enid’s full name and address.” Cassie didn’t need to be asked twice. She ran to her office as fast as her feet could take her. Phalen reached the door first. “You did a background search on Enid, right?” she asked as she went to her file cabinet. “Of course I did. If there’s no record or someone gives a fake name and falsified information, I can only dig so deep. Your employees don’t work around children and there was no cause to check AFIS for fingerprints on file.” Cassie pulled out the employee file on Enid Harper. Enid had worked for her almost from the start. It scared her to think someone she hired wasn’t at all what she’d seemed. But it made her ill to think Enid might be in danger.
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“Here’s what I have, plus the background info you gave me when she applied,” she said, handing it to Phalen. “Will it help Ethan?” “I’m sure it will. Keep in mind Ethan won’t declare her a missing person because she ran voluntarily. We don’t know if there’s any real danger to her. We’re going on a psychic’s prediction.” “Morgan’s got me convinced and Ethan’s not backing away from the situation. It’s a damn good thing. Otherwise, I’d kick his ass for hurting her.” Phalen took the file and they returned to the diner. Morgan was lying on a stretcher. Her eyes were closed. Ethan hovered nearby. “Here, bro,” Phalen said to Ethan and gave him the file. Ethan studied it quickly and made a call. “Sam? Put an alert out in Salem, Danvers and Peabody for Enid Harper. She’s an employee at Book Haven Diner. She fled approximately fifteen or twenty minutes ago. There’s a chance she may be in danger. Drives a white Ford Focus, plate number, physical description, social security number, driver’s license to be sent to you now. She also rides a bicycle.” He snapped pictures of everything and sent them quickly. “Stay and help, Ethan,” Morgan told him when he finished taking photos of the personnel file. “You’re needed here.” “You’re scared out of your mind. There’s no way in hell I’m going to let you sit in an ER alone.” “I won’t be alone,” she assured. “I’ll go with Morgan,” Cassie insisted. “Ethan, I’d feel more comfortable if you searched for Enid. I won’t sleep tonight until I hear you’ve found her.” “Sitting in an ER is not what I’d planned for us tonight, sweetheart,” Phalen whispered in her ear, his arms banded about her waist protectively. “But I’m not leaving my woman or my brother’s woman in a jam.” “I am not Ethan’s woman,” Morgan asserted sharply. “Like hell,” Ethan objected. “Who kissed you five minutes ago?” Morgan flushed and backed down. Cassie recognized the submissive gesture as something she’d have done when she denied her attraction to Phalen. “Phalen?” Morgan called out, opening her eyes only to wince and close them again. “Yeah, darlin’?” he answered quietly, gently separating from Cassie to go stand by Morgan. He took her hand with the affection of an older brother. She clutched at his hand. It sure sounded like Ethan growled at Phalen for the simple gesture. “You have to look for the man who visited Cassie today. He’s dangerous and Enid knew what he was capable of,” Morgan urged. “She didn’t want him to hurt Cassie.” “Do you mean Martin Jones?” Phalen clarified.
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“I think that’s his name. I’m sorry. I’m fairly certain he’s not the one who’s been spying on Cassie. Yet there’s a chance he’ll lead you to whoever killed her sister and Jeff.” Chills licked down Cassie’s spine at the eeriness of Morgan’s words. Wanting to do something to stop it, she half turned to Phalen. “Stay and help your brother, Phalen. Between the two of you, you’ll find them.” “I’m not leaving you two alone,” he refused. “We’re not going to be alone. We’ll be surrounded by doctors, techs and nurses.” “Phalen and I are going to watch over the two of you. End of discussion,” Ethan stated, crossing his arms over his chest. If he had long hair like his older brother, he’d be a mirror image. He leaned over and whispered something to Phalen. Whatever he said caused Phalen to cross his arms too. “This standoff is easily solved,” Alex suggested. “You have mobile Wi-Fi, laptops, an iPad and cellphones that hold more power than a laptop. Work together at the hospital and help the Salem-area police look for Enid.” “Good idea,” Cassie answered, going over to hug him. “This is silly,” Morgan objected, now unable to look at Ethan, who didn’t venture far from her stretcher. “It’s a done deal, darlin’,” Phalen stated. “Lily, you’ll take care of things here with Alex?” Cassie asked. “You got it, boss,” Lily promised. “Don’t worry. Take care of Morgan. I’m scared too.” A few minutes later, Cassie and Phalen were following close behind the ambulance. Phalen had gone to his tattoo shop to grab his iPad and whatever gadgets he’d need at the ER. Ethan had jumped inside the ambulance and didn’t back down from the medic who tried to dissuade him. “I’m sorry,” Cassie said. “For what, sweetheart?” Phalen asked softly. “For freaking out over a cellphone when all along an employee of mine was in trouble. How could I not know?” “Enid did nothing to cause suspicion,” he answered. “I know that. You didn’t see Morgan’s face before she blacked out. She scared the hell out of me.” “You care. That’s a good thing, Cassie. Relax so I can concentrate on driving. Morgan’s going to be fine. Ethan’s already got cops looking for Enid.” “I hope it’s not too late.” “Me too,” Phalen agreed. “Here’s your new phone. I changed all our personal numbers and contact info. Attach it to your clip.” 170
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Cassie took the phone that was identical to the one she’d had before, only he’d bought her a scarlet cover. “I’ll never lose it again. I’m sorry about the other one.” “Don’t apologize. The cost isn’t the issue here. It’s your safety. I won’t let anything happen to you.” “Phalen?” “Hmm?” “If Morgan’s right, Enid was sent to spy on me months ago. Who’d send her and why?” “When your other phone went missing, was Enid in church that day?” “Oh, yes, she was!” She’d never even suspected that Enid could have taken it. “We went to the ladies’ room at the same time. It was the first time I remembered seeing her in church. But that phone went missing before I asked you to look into Allie and Jeff’s case. No one would have known I was even thinking about it, right?” “I doubt you’ve had a spy on your tail because of the case, Cassie. I think we need to reexamine the list you gave me and look for who might have held a grudge against you and Allie. Based on what I gathered from Enid’s fake texts, she is a submissive. Whoever was controlling her is in the lifestyle. Anyone you can think of?” “A Dom with a grudge, that’s what you think he is? Could it be a woman?” “Doubtful, Morgan indicated we should be looking for two men. A submissive servant-type whom I’d guess is paying off a debt by being an enforcer or punisher for the Dom.” Cassie thought about it. Two names came to mind and she’d included them in the name list she’d given Phalen already. “Remember the RA I told you about, Matt Henderson? He definitely liked spanking and filming it. There were rumors that I wasn’t the only one he got on cam that way.” “The guy with the blowup doll fetish, yeah, I remember him. I also cleared him. Nothing in his background search showed he visited fetish clubs or actively engaged in the lifestyle. Whatever he was in in college, he’s out of it now. He’s living in Worchester with his wife and kids.” “I’m bringing his name up again because he was royally pissed off about that doll. He vowed vengeance. But based on what you uncovered, it sounds like he grew up bigtime.” “I’ll run another check on him. Anyone else who might be angry at the two of you, perhaps Allie more than you? Or someone who wanted to date both of you? There are plenty of men out there with fantasies about fucking twins.” “Ricky Johnson, the rhythm guitarist and singer for Jeff’s band. He had a thing for Allie. There was one night when Ricky and I challenged each other with way too many tequila shots and games of pool. He told me he was jealous of Jeff and Allie and knew I was hurting too. I’d recently found out about them and was a little sore about it, you know? We connected that one time. That’s it.”
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“On tequila night, did anything else happen between the two of you?” Cassie felt her face grow hot. “We made out. I found out quickly Ricky was an arrogant prick. He wanted to screw any pretty woman who moved, whether it was Allie or me, didn’t matter. After that night, he kept his distance.” “Okay, I’ll reexamine the list of names you gave me.” “You should also contact Bailey and Stratham and see who Martin Jones is. He told me he worked with her.” “Ethan already found out that Martin Jones worked with your sister. He didn’t take it well when she started dating Jeff. According to Bartholomew Stratham, Jones later moved to Connecticut, where he went to prison for physical assault and stalking his exwife. Rumor has it at Bailey and Stratham that Jones was paroled recently. But he’s supposed to stay out of Massachusetts or he goes back to jail.” “Wow, Ethan works fast,” Cassie said. “That must explain why Martin Jones dyed his hair. But it’s stupid of him to give his name.” “Guys like Jones feel like they can get away with anything. I suspect his so-called Master is protecting him, which bothers the fuck out of me,” Phalen admitted. “I suppose you know I’m really scared right now.” Phalen reached over and took her hand, squeezing tight to offer reassurance. “I know, babe. I’m right here. Later tonight, I’ll remind you exactly how much I love you and that you’re safe.” “Good. I’m going to need a good long fuck after this.” “I have something more in mind,” he said. “Maybe this will make you feel better. Our tests came back. We’re clean.” That did make her feel better. Knowing they could make love without using condoms was exactly what she needed from now on.
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Chapter Eleven After two hours of pacing and investigating at the hospital, Phalen parked in the small lot behind his shop. Relieved to be home, he looked over at his woman. To her credit, Cassie had been brave as hell at the ER when Morgan panicked about the doctor’s suggestion of an MRI to rule out any serious head injury. Ethan had reacted like he wanted to pummel the doc for unintentionally scaring Morgan. It was Cassie who’d promised to take care of her while Phalen and Ethan searched for Enid. The good news was that Morgan was able to go home. Except for a goose egg on her head, she wasn’t diagnosed with a concussion. The ER doc thought a migraine had caused Morgan to pass out. Still, it was best for someone to watch her, especially since Morgan was considerably weakened by whatever she’d seen in her mind’s eye. His brother stepped up to the plate. Phalen and Cassie had dropped them off at Morgan’s apartment in Salem. Ethan promised he’d keep in touch about the search for Enid. But since Ethan didn’t have jurisdiction in Salem, he could only offer help, not lead the hunt. The same went for Samantha Riley, who was doing what she could from their precinct. Sam called in a favor and crime scene techs arrived at the hospital to collect Cassie’s cellphone. The techs traced the GPS trail, discovering the phone had never left Book Haven Diner’s property. They’d also run a fingerprint analysis on all who’d touched it. Unfortunately, the phone had also been handled by him, Cassie, his brothers, Alex, Enid and Morgan. That meant any prints left behind would be complicated. Once the lab ruled out all but Enid’s prints, they might find her real name in the AFIS database. Salem cops checked Enid’s apartment. They’d come up empty and couldn’t hunt for someone based on Morgan’s psychic prediction. The cops were only searching for Enid based on a minor theft. Enid had run away voluntarily. There was no proof that the Martin Jones character was dangerous or after Enid or a threat to Cassie. “You holding up okay, sweetheart?” Phalen asked Cassie after a minute of watching her. She was quiet and introspective. “I’m relieved Morgan’s going to be fine and Ethan’s taking care of her. I tell you, Phalen, if your brother balks about her gift anymore after this, I may box his ears,” she answered. “And I’m scared for Enid. Is it okay to admit I don’t care about the spying or that she took my phone and lied in her application? I’ve never felt threatened by her. I think she did what she did to protect me. Phones can be replaced. People can’t.” “It’s okay. What can I do to make you feel better?” Cassie looked over at him. The lights from the dash reflected off her glasses, making it appear as if her hazel eyes glowed. Through the glare, he saw her sadness, fear and
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relief that her best friend was going to be fine. “I know what I want, Phalen. But I’m not sure you want it anymore with me.” “What are you talking about?” “You’ve been training me since we got together. But it feels like you’re never going to take things higher.” “Stay there a sec,” he told her. Unbuckling his seat belt and Cassie’s, he maneuvered over the console and onto the passenger seat. “Sit on my lap,” he invited, helping her to shift around until she faced him with her knees on either side of his hips. “I’ll ask again. What can I do to make you feel better?” “Find Enid. It would help if you found Martin Jones too.” “Ethan, Sam and I are trying to do that for you. What else do you need?” He knew exactly what Cassie needed. She needed to fuck, hardcore, in his dungeon. He needed it too. He’d intentionally made Cassie wait for the dungeon so she’d need to visit it rather than want it. Before now, she’d been submissively curious about what lay ahead of them once he took her fully into his world. Curiosity wasn’t enough. Once she admitted she was ready, there’d be no turning back for either of them. “I need you to make me feel so fucking good that I can’t think again until morning, Maddox PI. Is that wrong right now?” Cassie snuggled close by placing her head on his chest. She was shaking all over. Already, he could smell her arousal. “No.” Phalen hugged her and kissed her temple before grasping her long hair and giving a sharp, insistent tug to drag her head up. “You’re holding back on me. Don’t. Tell me what’s on your mind.” “Strange as it seems, I’ve been wondering whether you’ve agreed to let me help you train Doms how to handle subs. It’s been at least two weeks since we talked about it. Do you think I can’t handle it?” “You can handle anything.” “Is your hesitation about commitment issues? I mean, I’m not going to get hot for another Dom. You’re the only man I love.” “There’s no hesitation on my part. I love you and have faith you will be amazing when we’re training others.” “So does that mean you’ll take me with you the next time you give a lesson?” “Yes, but I don’t have a couple scheduled anytime soon,” he told her, tugging on her hair a bit more. She liked when he pulled just shy of pain. “Fair warning, no matter what the Doms and subs want during a session, I am the only one who will ever touch, spank, whip, flog or fuck you. That’s my job and my right, always.” “If it’s your job, why are you so afraid to take me into your dungeon in the first place?” And there it was. Cassie was testing his mettle. He knew it was easily overcome, but she was still new to the lifestyle. There’d be more tests to come. “I’m not afraid. I 174
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wanted our tests to come back before I took you in there. Our first time together in the dungeon should be without a condom getting in the way, don’t you think?” “Yes,” she muttered. “Take me there, Phalen Maddox.” “Not enough. Say it.” “Say what? Fuck me senseless in your dungeon?” “Is that what you need?” She nodded. “Prove you’re ready to completely submit to me.” Cassie managed to sit up on his lap and hold her hands on her thighs, palm up, correctly lowering her eyes as he’d trained her. She couldn’t quite kneel like he’d shown her previously, but it was enough of a gesture that he was certain she was ready. “Master, take me to your playroom, please. I am yours to do with as you wish.” “Our playroom, Cassandra, understand?” he answered. She nodded. “Look at me.” She obeyed. “What would you have of me?” Pleased, he stopped smiling. “You’re to go inside our apartment and take a shower. Before going down to the shop this morning, I put something in there for you to use tonight.” “A shower?” she asked, looking disappointed when he didn’t rush her to the basement. Tugging her by the nape of her neck, he curled his lip and brought her nose to nose with him. “Are you questioning a command?” “No, Master,” she bid, shaking her head submissively. “Good. Go. If you’re not showering within the next three minutes, you’ll answer for it.” Helping her up and off his lap, he opened the passenger’s side door and eased her down to the ground. She started to run. “Cassandra?” She turned back, waiting in anxious silence. Her time was ticking down. “Stay in the shower until I come get you,” he told her. Cassie took off. She reached the stairs before he shut off the Navigator’s engine and followed. Two minutes later, he found Cassie’s day clothes all over the floor and the bathroom door was closed. The kittens were having a field day playing with her shoes while the blast of a shower echoed through the studio. Phalen gave her some privacy. When she realized why he’d had her take a shower, she’d need to overcome her embarrassment and hesitation and she’d be more comfortable without him hovering nearby. While she showered, he laid out what she’d wear for him. He went to their closet and selected a black front-zippered bustier. The quarter-cup style would showcase and push up Cassie’s fabulous breasts. The bustier would be sexy as fuck on her, making her look trimmer than she already was.
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He pulled out a matching leather garter belt, barely there thong with a front opening, black stockings and ankle boots with stiletto heels. Hard simply from choosing Cassie’s clothes, he couldn’t wait to put her through her paces. She was going to blast off like dynamite and all they’d been through today would be the furthest thing from her mind. Given what he planned to do to her tonight, there’d be plenty of orgasms for both of them. Stripping before getting his leather pants and vest, he laid the clothes next to Cassie’s. Very aware of the gift of submission she was about to give to him, he ignored his rampant erection and headed to the bathroom. “Don’t mess with the bed, you two,” he told the kittens. Opening the door, he smiled wider. Cassie stood beneath a cascade of water from the giant showerhead above her and a massaging handheld showerhead aimed at her bare pussy. Hot fucking damn! He’d caught his little submissive masturbating when he’d not given permission. She was so lost in the powerful spray working her clit that she hadn’t known he’d stepped into the room. “Cassandra!” he barked out. She jumped. Water splashed. Thank fuck she didn’t slip and fall. “Phalen, you scared me. Don’t do that.” Her brave words were mocked by how fast she’d drawn back into the furthest corner of the big shower stall. Good thing the shower was big enough for two. Checking the rack for the supplies he’d added earlier that day, he saw the disposable enema bottle was empty. The rack had several waterproof toys for her enjoyment when they fucked first thing in the morning and he’d bought her a new anal plug. It didn’t look like she’d touched the vibes and he’d warned her about using the plugs without him. Her ass was precious to him. Yeah, he intended to fuck her there. But he did not want her to injure herself or do anything that might tear the tender tissues of her anus. “What were you doing to yourself, Cassandra?” “Nn…nothing,” she stammered. “Washing my pussy, that’s all. I…um, shaved there. I know you didn’t give permission. I wanted to be smooth for you.” Walking right up to the shower, he opened the door and stepped in with her. Purposefully moving into her personal space, he stared her down. He studied her nude pussy. The henna he’d painted onto her skin had faded considerably, but he could still make out his name on her skin. He gave her another week before it was entirely gone. Soon after, he’d put his ink on her permanently. “The only thing you gained by shaving was a couple of weeks before your next wax job. I like the waxing. It’ll have to continue. Tell me, did it feel good while you were running a razor over that sweet mound?” “Yes, Master.”
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“Good enough to come without me?” He waited. She lowered her eyes to the drain. Water pounded from above. She’d purposefully set the water temperature on high. Her skin was hot pink and lovely. “Yes. I needed to come. I’m sorry.” “From here on out, you do not masturbate without me doing it for you. You don’t come without me. Nothing goes into your pussy or on your clit unless I put it there.” Cassie trembled prettily. The hot water produced steam all around them. She was sexy as all fuck. Her hair was soaked. The shower smelled like her shampoo and his soap. “I understand,” she said softly. “But I only wanted to please you tonight.” “That’s real sweet of you. But what if you’d cut yourself? Don’t try that again unless I grant permission. Reach for the bar, babe.” She backed up the remaining half inch to the wall and grabbed the bar as told. He’d installed a heavy-duty bar in the shower for her to hold on to if she needed it. And she was going to need it right now. “Spread your legs for me.” Water beat down on them, some of it stinging his eyes. He didn’t give a damn. Cassie obediently spread her legs as wide as she dared. Spreading her legs gave him an enticing view of her pussy. It wasn’t enough. He wanted her spread wider. “More.” “Not sure I can.” “Use the bar and hold on tight.” He grabbed her beneath the knees to lift her legs and part them around his hips. Bravely, she held on while his hips kept her pussy open and ready. “Phalen, I need you.” Repositioning her legs some, he adjusted himself and his cock slid deep inside her sheath. “Feels amazing, babe.” Jesus, her snug pussy fit him like a glove. Without a condom, he felt everything, her silken walls, her juicy cum and her delicate convulsions that told him she’d climaxed right when he entered her. “Ohmigod,” she breathed out, watching the way his cock filled her pussy. “No condom.” “Um-hmm.” She felt fucking incredible. Bending his legs a little to surge into her nice and slow, he reached for one of the mini-vibes on the rack. This one was as wide as his middle finger and rotated as it vibrated. “How many times have you come tonight?” he asked, watching the way her face lit up like a Christmas tree as he lowered the vibe between them and set it against her mound, lodging the tip right against her erect clitoris. “Once,” she answered, not looking at him when she did and flushing hotly. She’d lied. The little minx was really testing him now.
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“Try again,” he warned. “Twice,” she admitted. Rewarding her, he tapped the on button with his thumb. The walls of her pussy convulsed and clenched around his dick, hugging him so tight, he damn near came without having to move much. “Ah!” she damn near screamed. Unable to deny herself the vibrating pleasure, she arched into the vibe and his cock. Using the bar, she lifted herself and lowered, lifted and lowered. Phalen grasped her around the waist with his free arm, letting her fuck him. Speeding up the rotation on the toy, he set it to maximum and maneuvered it all around her pretty clit, watching the way she came apart. Hot juices squirted from her vulva, coating his cock. “Holy fuck,” he cursed. “You’re scorching me.” “Let me come again, please,” she asked, losing some strength. “I intend to all night.” Leaning his head toward her, he caught her eye. “I’m going to make you come so many times, you’re not going to walk right tomorrow.” “Not too much. I’ll go numb,” she warned. “All night,” he stated, working her clit with the vibe while he surged in and out of her tight pussy. Propping her back against the smooth marble wall, he lowered his hand from the small of her back to her ass, cupping her cheeks. “You have the finest ass, babe. I want to own it. After tonight, I will.” “Thank you, Master. It’s yours already.” “Hold on, there’s more to come.” Thrusting into her deep and steady, he felt his eyes roll back at how tight her cunt was, how sweet and hot her juices were. Spreading her ass cheeks with his fingers, he used water and her pussy juices as lubricant to work his thumb into her asshole. At first she stiffened up, but all he needed to do to settle her was wiggle his thumb and change the setting of the vibrator to rotate in another direction. She came again as his thumb filled her ass to the second knuckle. “God, yes, yes!” She went crazy, pumping herself on his cock and thumb. It took less than three cock-thrusts and her powerful inner contractions for him to explode deep inside her pussy. Feeling his cum mix with her sweet honey, he felt like he’d conquered every bad guy in the fucking universe on her behalf. He’d fucked more women than he’d cared to admit to at the moment. But Cassie was the only one he loved enough to give his cum. Reluctantly withdrawing his thumb and his cock, he carefully lowered her legs. “Let go, Cassie,” he instructed, reaching up to massage her shoulders once she let go of the bar. “You okay?” “Hell, yes,” she answered, her eyes still glazed from the aftermath.
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“Good. We’re not done here,” he warned. “Not possible,” she refused. “Want to bet? Spread yourself wide again. Hold still.” As she’d done before, she opened herself up. This time she used her hands to spread her pussy lips. Setting the vibe against her engorged clit, he purposefully set it to rotate slowly to avoid getting her off too quickly. “Oh, oh, oh,” she muttered almost incoherently. Judging from her expression and the way she thrust herself against the toy, she was close to orgasm again. Damn, she was a hot little thing. Wanting to tap her inner vixen to the point that she was screaming when he permitted her next orgasm, he waited until she was about to cream and shut the toy off. “Hey!” she groused, realizing too late that he’d backed up and was washing the vibrator with soap and water. “What about the all-night orgasms?” “We’re a long way off until morning. Right now, you’re to wash me. Head to toe.” “I’m not your slave, Maddox,” she grumbled, though she’d already reached for a bottle of shampoo. “Don’t be a smartass, Cassandra Williams,” he replied, aware she was pissed because he’d cut her off from climaxing that last time. “Fine, I’ll wash you. Head to toe,” she vowed, getting dramatically braver for a submissive. Shoving him a little so he stood under the blast of the shower facing the wall, she waited until his hair was totally drenched before going up on tiptoe to dump a huge glop of shampoo on his head. Because he was tall and didn’t want her to slip, he stooped enough for her to reach flat-footed. Showing no sign of patience or even a thank-you for his gesture, she scrubbed his hair roughly. In fact, she pulled at times and he loved it. It wasn’t long before she rinsed his hair, added conditioner that he usually didn’t bother with because it smelled girly and combed the gel into his hair with her clever fingers. Once the conditioner was rinsed, she grabbed a bar of Irish Spring and lathered her palms. Setting the soap on the shelf, she turned him about as brazenly as she’d washed his hair. “You do know you’re asking for trouble, Cassie?” “What are you going to do, spank me? Been there, done that,” she remarked, although her hands were soft and steady when she rested them against his chest and began massaging soap into his muscle. “What I have in mind for you goes way beyond spanking.” She paused in her scrubbing. “You’re not going to tell me what’ll happen?” “No. Curiosity is a wicked aphrodisiac, isn’t it?”
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She looked so pretty all wet and clean and recently fucked. He wondered if his cum was dripping out of her now. Moving in close, he let her wash under his arms, his chest, abs and finally his cock. Already he was getting hard for her. Her matter-of-fact method of washing him was such a turn-on for his dark side. She pumped hard and fast, working the head with her thumb and nails. He knew she’d done it because there were times when he craved roughness more than sweetness when they fucked. She knew him well. Within seconds, Cassie’s brazen fingers scrubbed his balls. She knew exactly how to stroke his sac, cleaning without causing discomfort. Hardening even more, he widened his stance and let her work his cock and testicles. Clever minx grinned when he shuddered. “Head to toe,” he reminded. She lost her grin and lowered to the shower floor. Once there, she reached up. “Need more soap, please?” she requested. Phalen handed Cassie the soap and she ran it up and down his legs with the same efficiency she’d used on his upper half. Purposefully, her forehead and nose nudged his cock, causing it to throb. As her hands worked around to his hips and ass, she kissed his balls, the tip of her tongue swiping his sac as her soaped fingers massaged the crack of his ass. “Don’t play too much or we’ll fuck again before I get you to the dungeon.” “Spoilsport,” she said when she released his sensitive flesh, then nuzzled his cock head before drawing back. “Feet, please.” Grabbing the overhead bar, he held strong and offered his right foot. Cassie looked up from where she knelt. The light in her eyes was bright. The power exchange was already working with her mind. She was very aware that it was her choice of whether to simply wash his feet or let him do it alone. Amazingly, she submitted to the challenge and gently cleansed his feet until all the soap was rinsed. She didn’t stop at his feet. She worked back up and around his calves and thighs, slowly standing until she washed his ass again. “I believe you are clean, Master,” she declared, handing over the soap and using the handheld showerhead to rinse the remaining suds down the drain. “So are you,” he said, glancing over at the empty enema bottle. She followed his gaze, her cheeks becoming flame red. “I’m proud of you.” Aware she needed to hear praise, he watched as her embarrassment became a warm glow of satisfaction. “You are?” she whispered submissively. “I’m always proud of you.” Setting the soap on the shelf, he offered his hand. “You’re too damn far away.” She accepted his hand and he tugged her up against him. “I’m glad I pleased you.” Cassie stayed very still, letting him wrap his arms around her waist. 180
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“Love you,” he murmured, lowering his head to kiss her deeply. She’d been a little tense when their lips first touched. It only took a couple of seconds before she relaxed and let him make love to her mouth as a thank-you for the fuck and the shower. With both of them thoroughly washed and pruned, Phalen withdrew, turned off the water and helped Cassie out of the stall.
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Chapter Twelve Cassie’s legs felt like they’d turned into marshmallow as she walked across the bathroom with Phalen. Glad he had his arm around her waist, she let him help her get a toothbrush. Side by side, they brushed their teeth, rinsed and combed their hair. “Phalen? Would you mind calling your brother to see if there’s any news while I dry my hair?” Hoping he wouldn’t object, she realized she couldn’t go forward with the night if she didn’t have some idea of what was going on with Enid and Morgan. “Sure, whatever you need,” Phalen said, scrubbing a towel through his hair. His skin was still a little damp. His tats were works of art. His muscles were sculpted perfection. His cock was long, thick and beautiful. His balls were healthy and full, proving his incredible body was born of weight training and hard martial arts workouts, not steroids. “Thank you,” she said, stepping up to kiss him softly. Phalen turned the kiss from sweet to hot in seconds, letting her feel his erection sliding between her thighs when he drew back. “Don’t take too long. I’ve a hard-on with your name on it.” Her Dom returned in the blink of an eye. And she loved him for it. “Five minutes, tops. If I have to come get you, expect payback.” “Yes, Master,” she replied, getting all gooey inside as she wondered exactly how she’d have to pay the piper if she lingered longer than his allotted time. Playfully, Phalen tagged her on the ass with the flat of his palm as he waltzed by. He slowed, getting a handful of butt cheek in his hand to squeeze with more purpose. “Mine,” he reminded, leaving a mark on her butt on his way out. “Tease,” she fired back as the door shut behind him. Hearing him laugh, she smiled. The sound of Phalen’s amusement was balm for her soul. Unable to delay, Cassie blow-dried her hair some and checked the mirror. She had on absolutely no makeup, yet she looked beautiful. Her face was flushed from great sex, a hot shower and multiple orgasms. Even though her glasses were in the other room somewhere, she was confident Phalen would like the way she looked tonight. Joining him in the studio, she saw Samson and Delilah were content with one of her shoes. Phalen stole her breath as he waited for her on the dais beside the bed. Oh god, he was so freakin’ hot wearing a pair of black leather pants, buckled combat boots and a black vest. “You are one sexy man,” she muttered, taking a sharp breath to steady her nerves. He’d put his hair back in a ponytail, revealing the chiseled definition of his jaw and face. “Let me get you ready, babe.” Phalen extended his hand and beckoned her forward. 182
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“I can get dressed myself,” she replied, her heart pounding so fast she almost couldn’t move. He was everything she’d ever wanted in a man. But the delay would cost her. “Move that sweet ass of yours, Cassandra. I want it here next to me. Now.” Shaking with the sudden need to come, Cassie barely remembered walking across the room. All she knew was that her Master gave her a command. Suddenly aware it was her right to simply stop this scene if he pushed her too fast or too far, she quickly came to understand power had subtly shifted from him to her. If she declared all she wanted was a night of lovemaking in their bed, Phalen wouldn’t shout. He wouldn’t beat her. He would make love to her. In this, as with everything they did together, it was her choice to submit. She’d do so with all her heart. Standing next to Phalen, she didn’t quite know what to do other than to wait. “Good,” he praised, lifting his hand to touch her chin. “You were one minute over, sweetheart.” “I was daydreaming,” she admitted. “You’re forgiven. This time,” he decided. “I only got off the phone with Ethan a minute ago.” Putting sex aside for a second, Cassie stared up at him. “Is there any news?” “Lab techs got a partial print off the cellphone that belong to a woman from Ithaca, New York, named Erin Jackson. Her rap sheet is extensive. Physical description and age matches Enid exactly, although she’s changed her hair color from black and purple to brunette. Erin Jackson jumped bail a half a year ago after being indicted for three counts of solicitation, fraud and failing to appear in court for trial. After that, Erin Jackson ceased to exist when she changed her name to Enid Harper. Ethan’s using his connections with bounty hunters to see if they can bring her in. Because she jumped bail before trial, her sentence if she’s caught is going to be severe. Someone must have helped her avoid the bounty hunters. My guess would be she had to pay her so-called lord back by spying on you.” “Fraud?” Cassie repeated, not wanting to think of spying now. “God, Enid must have been desperate and scared. I don’t want her to go to jail, Phalen. Now that they know who Enid is, has it helped anyone find her?” Phalen shook his head, looking sad that he couldn’t give her the answer she wanted. “Ethan’s a step closer than we were an hour ago. He’s not going to rest tonight until she’s found.” “Is Morgan doing okay?” “She’s fine. The goose egg is getting better and she’s resting. But she’s extremely tired.” “Morgan told me once that when she gets lost in a psychic trance, she becomes weak afterward for about a day. Ethan needs to take care of her.”
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“He is,” Phalen reassured. “How about we go back to what we were doing in the shower?” Oh, yes, she needed the distraction more than ever. He came closer, touching one hand to either side of her face. Tilting her head back a fraction, he gazed down at her. She was getting lost in his steel-gray eyes, her tummy summersaulted as he lowered his head to kiss her softly on the lips. Just that, a kiss, sweet and simple, and yet, it carried so much love and desire. Not wanting to rush this, Cassie let him lead, offering up her mouth to whatever he wanted. Phalen’s tongue slipped between her lips, edging her teeth before thrusting so very deep. Phalen’s hands skimmed down her rib cage to her ass and cupped her cheeks. His index fingers worked to spread her apart. He didn’t breach her asshole or even touch it. Instead, he ran his hands up her back to her front, where he toyed with her breasts and nipples. Lost in sweet seduction, Cassie squeaked when he pinched her nipples hard enough to make her see stars. “Yes,” she uttered, loving how he pinched and twisted. It hurt so good, she creamed herself all over again. He leaned back then, seeming to know exactly the effect he had on her. “I love you, Cassie. Remember that, okay?” “I will,” she promised. “I love you. I’m ready.” He nodded. “Trust me?” “You know I do.” He smiled, briefly. The moment he turned serious, he caught her about the hips and bent her back over his arm to begin kissing her from mouth to chin to jaw to throat. Sizzling hot now, she wondered if she could spontaneously combust simply from Phalen’s nips and kisses. His biting trail continued to her breasts, playing homage to her nipples in turn. “Oh merciful god,” she whispered, arching into him when he dragged her left nipple deep into the wetness of his mouth and sucked so hard she almost fell over. Phalen would never let her fall. He sucked and sucked, drawing her closer and closer to orgasm from nipple play. Oh god, yes, the sharpness of his teeth drove her crazy. He straightened her up in order to reach into the bedside table and withdrew a small jewelry box. “A gift for your first time in the dungeon,” he presented, opening the velvet box. “Thank you so much, Master!” Cassie beamed happily as she mistakenly reached for the twin nipple rings. Phalen swiftly slapped her hand away. “No. I put them on. I take them off.” “Yes,” she agreed. “Stay still for me.” She stood as still as a soldier waiting for his next command.
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Bending down to lick her right nipple until it was as swollen and wet as her left, he made sure she was ready before setting the small box on the table and taking one ring from the cushion. With the efficiency and confidence of a man who knew exactly what he was doing, he pulled her wet nipple taut and slipped the ring into place. Tightening it until Cassie gasped in pleasure from the sharp pinch that felt much like the bite of his teeth, he eased back. “Good?” he asked, checking in with her. “Hmm,” she answered, nodding. The gray of his eyes transformed to molten mercury. The edgy darkness in him awakened Cassie’s submissive needs. Incredibly pleased with the first nipple ring, she waited for the second. As he’d done with the first, he slipped the ring onto her flesh, tightening it exactly as she needed. “If the rings are too tight, tell me. You look incredible.” She was expected to talk? “They feel great.” He remained serious. “One more gift.” “Another?” He was so good to her. “I’d give you the moon if I could.” He took another box out of the drawer. This one was long and slender. Phalen opened it, revealing what looked like a Gstring with an extremely small gold ring that hugged her mound instead of a scrap of fabric. The gold piece had an onyx stone carved to resemble a very small penis. “It’s beautiful. But I don’t understand,” Cassie admitted. “Clit jewelry,” Phalen explained. “Oh.” Wow, wow, she was going to wear that on her clit! “Lay back on the bed for me.” Helping her up on the bed, she went back against the soft covers. She turned her head, spying the black bustier and stockings and all the trimmings Phalen selected for the night. “Oh lord,” she said to him. “We’re really going to do this.” “Yes, we are.” Phalen knelt on the bed, between her thighs. With gentle urging, he had her lift her legs and set them on his shoulders. “This ring will fit around your clitoris. The string will hold it in place and the accent piece will keep you aroused whenever you walk or move.” “Holy cow, that looks like a miniature cock.” “I thought you might like how it feels to have a little dick massaging your clit all the time.” Cassie gasped in amazement. “All the time?” “When you need a break from the stimulation, I’ll remove it for you.” “Seriously?” “Not going to answer that one.” 185
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With that, Phalen hoisted her hips right off the mattress, bending over her until his mouth was poised above her vulva. Giving her little time to adjust to the swiftness of her positioning, he lapped and ravaged her tender nub. “Oh god, oh god, yes!” Coming unglued by his merciless tonguing, Cassie gushed as orgasm struck hard and fast, leaving her wanting more. Still lost in pleasure, she was almost unaware Phalen had drawn back on his haunches to attach the ring and mini-cock to her clitoris. The ring fit so snugly it forced her clit out of its protective hood and felt amazing. The smooth onyx stone was cool at first, calming her as it warmed with her natural body temperature. A minute or so later, Phalen eased her legs back to the bed. “Come for me.” He playfully tapped the clit jewelry and that was all it took for her to come again. “Ah!” she screamed, curling toward his hand. “I’m never going to walk right after this. No way can I work with the jewelry on.” “You can. You will.” “Says who?” “Me.” Phalen sat up. As soon as Cassie caught her breath, he assisted her off the bed to dress her in a bustier. The bra stopped a quarter of the way up the underside of her breasts, cupping them in softened black leather and satin and leaving her ringed nipples exposed to his view. The bustier mimicked the slenderizing effect of a corset, stopping at her hips. Next, he slipped front-zippered G-string panties over the thin string of her clitoris jewelry, finishing the ensemble with a leather garter belt and black stockings. Phalen went down on his knees to put ankle boots on her feet. Anytime she moved, the clit hugger stimulated her. The non-piercing nipple rings kept her taut and hungry for rougher play. “Walk to the center of the room,” Phalen instructed. Given the fact that the boots had three-inch spiked heels, walking wasn’t going to be easy. But she was grateful he assisted her off the dais. Wanting to please her Master, she steadied her nerves and paraded with the authority of a runway model, somehow doing so without busting an ankle. Pure determination kept her steady as she faced her man and arched her head back to present herself for inspection. “Will I do?” she asked him, needing to hear his proclamation. “You do me proud, Cassandra Williams,” he declared in a voice so deep, she knew he was pleased. “You are stunning.” Phalen strode up to her, his confidence as bold and fierce as the gleam in his eye and the erection tenting his leathers. “One more thing before we go.” He took a cast-iron skeleton-shaped key out of his back pocket and draped it about his neck from a simple leather cord. “This is the key to my world. Whenever you want
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to go into the dungeon, all you need to do is present it to me. You must never go in there alone.” “I won’t,” she vowed, understanding that as erotic as their encounters were going to be in the dungeon, there were devices inside that were extremely dangerous. “That’s my girl,” he praised, lightly tapping her on the chin with his knuckles. Phalen leaned down, kissed her to give her a brief taste of her cum and then tucked his hand at the small of her back. Leading her out of the studio apartment, he quietly closed the door while Samson and Delilah continued their ongoing battle with Cassie’s shoe. It took only a minute to climb down the stairs to the tattoo shop. It felt like a lifetime for them to navigate the narrow passage into the basement. Phalen tapped the wall to turn on pale lighting for their safety. Extremely aware of Phalen and the leap they were undertaking, Cassie had never wanted anything more than to submit to his wicked side. She was scared of what was in store once he opened the door. Yet she welcomed the darkness of the unknown like she did when reading a romantic thriller. By the book’s conclusion, the hero and heroine would be safe and sound and making plans for their happily ever after. “Safe word, Cassie, what is it?” he asked as soon as they reached the door. “Bookkeeping.” “Use it if you need to, okay? Don’t submit to anything that isn’t going to get you off. Your pleasure is the goal when we’re in here.” “What about yours?” “We’re both going to come so often tonight, we’ll be drained and sore and I’ll have blue balls by morning. It’ll be the sweetest kind of soreness we’ll ever know.” “I’m already a little tender. Yet you’re right. It’s a good kind of tender. I want so much more.” Phalen took his hand from her back and slipped the key from around his neck. “Yours for the night,” he granted, presenting it to her. “If it is your will,” she replied, accepting responsibility of the key by holding it between her palms. The key was heavy and cool. Yet it warmed her skin. Desire flowed hot as lava along her nerve endings, spreading through her limbs to her heart and quim. Phalen stepped behind Cassie, one arm falling snug about her waist. His free hand slid from her elbow to her wrist. “Together, sweetheart,” he whispered into her ear, holding her hand steady as they slid the key home. A turn of their wrists unbolted the lock and the heavy wood door opened with a spine-tingling creak. Cassie froze. “Oh god…” “I’m here. Easy now, go on in,” he encouraged, hugging her with one arm while he pushed the door open completely, letting in the light. 187
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The moment they were inside and the door was closed, Phalen hit a switch near the doorway and bathed the room in amber light. “See that mat?” he asked, pointing to a four-by-four-foot black mat on the floor in the center of the room. “Yes.” “That’s where you will wait for me whenever I’m getting things ready in here,” he told her. “You’re to kneel as I’d taught you.” “All right,” she agreed, draping the key around her neck so that it fell between her breasts. Going over as directed and falling to her knees, she placed her hands on her thighs, palms up and lowered her eyes to the floor. The hardest part of sitting there was not being able to watch what he was doing. She heard the thud of Phalen’s combat boots as he strode about the stone floor. Several times she heard the strike of a match and smelled sandalwood. Judging from the depth of his steps and the amount of time it took for him to light candles, the dungeon occupied more than half the basement. What surprised her most was when alternative rock suddenly started playing from hidden speakers. The surround sound was welcome, succeeding in calming her enough to be patient. The amber lights went out. But the artificial lighting had been exchanged with the seductive glow of candlelight. Thoroughly romanced by the sounds of his breathing, footsteps and her favorite music, she felt a heady sense of euphoria that melded with the delicious scent warding off the dampness of brick and mortar. Suddenly he was behind her with his hands on her shoulders. “Look who I found waiting for me like a good little sub,” he said, his voice extremely deep. The man touching her now was not just her lover. Phalen was one hundred percent Master of his domain. “Why don’t you stand up with me, relax. Just relax.” Squeezing his hands on her shoulders, he assisted her to stand. Until he said otherwise, she kept her eyes down. “May I look around, Master?” “You may,” he granted, tucking one hand beneath her chin to bring her head back. The change brought her back into alignment with his leather-vested chest. His heavy erection poked her butt. She swore she felt his penis swell as he notched himself between her ass cheeks. Her bare shoulders connected with butter-soft leather and male skin. He smelled like sex, leather and candles. “I’ll give you a tour, yes?” he offered. “Oh, yes, please.” Quickly discovering the mat served as a place for Cassie to center herself in the room, she let Phalen control where she looked. While the floor was made of flat multishaped tan, orange, brown, red and charcoal-gray paver stones, the walls were comprised of earth-toned bricks.
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Shelves of various heights and lengths were scattered about, each with cuffs, equipment, tools and candles. Way up on the ceiling there were two spinning fans which caused the flames to flicker back and forth. In the furthest corner of the room there was a shower made with marbled black walls and a see-through door. From where she stood, she saw that he’d stocked the shower with shampoo, conditioner, soap and sex toys galore. That made her smile. “You do like toys, Maddox,” she commented. “Focus, babe,” he schooled, lowering his head to the side of her throat and nuzzling her hair out of his way to take a bite of her. His teeth sunk in just shy of discomfort. As soon as he had her pinned, he maneuvered her without freeing the side of her neck. The sting of his bite spread down and over her skin in delicious tingles of awareness, making it difficult to focus after all. Then her gaze slid to a gigantic bondage table topped with studded black leather, chains, cuffs and a hole toward what Cassie guessed was the head of the table. The table legs were made of sturdy natural oak. Nearby the table, a black swing with multiple straps and stirrups hung from heavy metal chains from the ceiling. She imagined all sorts of decadent sex positions while in that swing with her Master. Cassie shook her head, dislodging his mouth from her neck. Knowing she was going to have a humongous mark as a result, she smiled in victory. Let the world see Phalen Maddox marked her! “Stay with me,” he urged. So far the devices she’d seen weren’t too scary, until Phalen directed her attention to the St. Andrew’s Cross bolted onto the wall. There was also a Catherine wheel and a guillotine. On a table by the guillotine were various instruments meant for testicle, cock and breast torture. Gigantic cages were suspended from the ceiling. They were in a variety of sizes and height. Along with the cages were spanking benches, a pillory and spiked bondage chairs. “Is that a dog cage?” she asked Phalen. Apologizing for the hickey he’d left, he swiped his hot tongue over her skin. “It is.” “Dear god, what do you use that for?” she wondered, staring at the cage that was large enough for maybe a Rottweiler. “For fucking pussy or ass, doggie style,” he answered honestly. “It’d be up to you to decide which way you’d take my cock. It’s damn hot if the mood’s right.” “Oh no, I already said I don’t want to be treated like an animal,” she declared, shaking her head. But then, why the hell was she wet thinking of Phalen penetrating her from behind when she could do absolutely nothing but take it. “In the tackle box by the cages, there are pony bridles, dog collars, riding crops, halters. You name it. I have dressers filled with materials that can turn a sub into whatever their Dominant wants them to be, including tables and chairs.” 189
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“I love you, Maddox. I’m not going to bark for you. And we discussed the no-go on turning me into furniture.” “Wouldn’t ask you to,” he assured. “Some Doms train their subs to take the humiliation. Some subs welcome it with relish. It’s entirely possible you’ll witness those scenes during a lesson. There’s a whole lot of power being exchanged during any scene, be it involving humiliation, bondage or discipline. Our job during the training is to make sure no one is hurt or abused in the process.” Phalen redirected her attention back to the two of them by running one hand down to her leather G-string, the other to her cleavage. Showing no mercy on her ringed nipples, he began tugging each in turn, giving her the pressure and harsh loving she desired. Slowly, he used his other hand to drag the zipper down on the front of the G-string, sliding his index and middle finger through the opening and blatantly manipulating the clitoris jewelry keeping her aroused. Just as she was about to be hurdled into the stratosphere, he deliberately softened his technique to keep her dangling from that orgasmic cliff. While Phalen seduced her, he completed her tour, revealing the many traps, stocks, a doctor’s exam table complete with stirrups and medical instruments, numerous spanking benches and a queen-sized four-poster bed draped in black sheets and fitted with rope restraints. He drew her to a standstill, forcing her to gaze upon what looked rather simple from the slight distance. It was a metal cross. Unlike the St. Andrew’s Cross on the wall, the metal bondage cross was more or less seven feet tall with leather restraints and spreader bars at the base and another at the top to make it look like a capital I. The base was bolted into the basement floor, leaving room for a Dom to maneuver around it and reach the sub from almost all angles. “Your first stop of the night,” Phalen pronounced, keeping her attention on the cross. “I designed that cross.” “Really?” “Really, my brothers and I made all of our dungeon gear. We’re talking about creating an online market. Taran’s the craftsman of the three of us, especially with leather and suede. He’s learned to make whips, paddles and canes too. So far we only make this stuff for close friends.” “Maybe it’s not a good idea to think about Taran and Ethan using sex swings or paddles with their women. I love them, but that’s an ick factor for me. Sorry.” “No worries, babe. Rather play with your sweet pussy and tits. Your nipples were fine without the rings. With them, you’re smoking hot.” Rubbing her clit in earnest, he pushed her over the edge until she was freefalling into a spectacular orgasm that burst hot and deep inside her core.
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“Can’t stand anymore,” she confessed as her legs gave out. Phalen scooped her up and waited until she stopped trembling before carrying her to the cross. Once there, he lowered her feet to the floor and arranged her so that her back was against the four-inch-thick bar at the center of the cross. Behind her head was a cushy pillow to protect her from thwacking her head against metal. With her legs so rubbery, it was a relief to have the bar’s support. Automatically, she leaned back against it. “Grab the tee bar for me.” Obediently, she reached up. The second she held on to the bar, Phalen secured her wrists to the bar, leaving her arms spread wide. While her wrists were bound, he’d left enough give in the bindings that she wouldn’t hurt herself if she jerked her arms too much or damage circulation. Next, he included a felt-lined belt that went around her waist and strapped it to the vertical support bar, leaving enough give for her hips to thrust if she needed to. The bustier dipped low in the back. Cassie felt the cold steel between her shoulder blades and upper spine. He moved around to her front and knelt at her feet. “Spread wide,” he commanded, touching her boots to get her to spread her legs as wide as he wanted. “What are you going to do to me?” “Whatever the fuck I want,” he answered, quickly fastening the cuffs around the boots and securing her legs into place. Curiously, he stayed on his knees long enough to reach up and slide the teeth of her G-string zipper apart completely. A tug broke the string in the back. “Phalen, you tore my panties!” “Easily replaced,” he said, tossing it. “Why bother putting one on then?” she grumbled, tugging at her restraints to no avail. “So I could tear it off.” “Oh my…” “You good like this?” “Can’t move much. That’s the purpose, right?” “You’re getting it.” Phalen stood. “And you’re about to get it in many ways.” Confused, she frowned. He’d ducked behind her. Since her head wasn’t immobilized, she made the mistake of trying to look behind her, getting caught. He was in her peripheral vision to her left, his arms crossed. “Did I tell you to watch me?” Cassie redirected her gaze straight ahead. “I couldn’t tell what you were doing.” “Look at the wall across the room,” he told her, pointing to where she was to focus. “Take your pick.” “My pick?” She gulped when she realized the wall was outfitted with hooks. 191
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Hanging from each hook were chains, paddles, canes, switches, a coiled blacksnake whip, floggers, some with knots, studs and thick beads on the ends, slappers and a particularly nasty-looking bullwhip. Holy crap, one of the floggers was made out of chains, with twelve frightening-looking tails a quarter-inch thick! “Pick what I will discipline you with, Cassandra. It must be two things.” Oh, lord, he wasn’t kidding. “A flogger and a whip, please.” “Be specific,” he insisted. If she could gesture, she’d point out the flogger that looked the most innocuous. “The flogger closest to the blacksnake.” That one had only two long leather tails. She could handle that. “That’s a quirt. You sure?” “Will it hurt?” Phalen’s hand rested on the curve of her bare shoulder, offering reassurance. He spoke right into her ear, his breath tickling some. “It’ll cause some nasty welts that won’t disappear in a day or two. There are thick metal grommets hidden in the ends. If I may recommend the suede twenty-four-tailed one for your first flogging? We’ll ease you into the nastier ones if you really want that. Subjecting you to pain is not my desire when we’re together like this.” “Yes, thank you, Master,” she agreed, thankful he’d saved her from outright torture. Who knew that quirt had hidden danger? Fortunately, Phalen did. “The whip. Which one would you like?” The blacksnake would likely bite with venom. There was a shorter, less threatening looking whip near the snake that looked rather soft and made of hair? “Is that a horsehair whip?” she asked. “Yes. Is that your choice?” She heard him confirm what type of whip it was. But her eyes had homed in on the bullwhip. Wanting to show him that she trusted him not to maim her, she boldly made her choice. “The bullwhip.” “Very good,” he praised, stroking her shoulder gently. “Have I misbehaved so much that I must be disciplined?” He leaned in and nipped sharply at her earlobe, trapping it. She gasped. “Ow! Lean in closer. Let me bite you for a change.” “You knew better than to get off without me. But do you know your primary infraction?” “You had to buy another expensive phone? Maybe you should have picked a payas-you-go phone or something much simpler.” “You failed to tell me how often you’ve lost it. At band practice you lost it several times. I’d thought apps would entice you to play with it instead of setting it down.” “Who told on me, Ethan or Taran?”
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“Ethan.” “Oh no,” she grumbled. “Taran found it too?” She lowered her chin, looking at the floor in a gesture of repentance. “In the freezer. I was reading a text from you when I went to get some iced tea. I’d missed it earlier in the day and I was…fantasizing. I swore him to secrecy. I’m sorry, Master.” “After tonight, it is my hope that you’ll tell me if or when you lose the phone. Okay?” “I will remember it from now on. It would help if you weren’t so fucking hot when you call or leave a message. The apps aren’t a distraction. You are.” “Well, for that, I’ll go easy on you.” “Can’t we just fuck and have fun?” “We will,” he granted, reaching out to stroke her face as he stepped in front of her, blocking out all but him. “Here I have the sexiest sub on the planet all tied up and already dripping. There’s so much I’m going to do to you now.” “Now?” “Yes.” With that, he wedged himself so very close that she could not escape the trap of his body or the hard cross against her back. His hands cupped her face, holding her very still. “May I kiss you?” Surprised to be asked, she completely lost her voice, so she nodded as much as he permitted. His lips touched hers, treating her to the sexy seduction of his kiss. Burning up inside from the kiss alone, Cassie tugged at her bindings in hopes of holding on to her man. But she couldn’t. When he eased back, she confessed, “I wish I could hold on to you, Master.” He shook his head, keeping his mouth a breath away from her lips. “When we’re in here, I hold you.” He wrapped his arms around her as best as he could and held her, using the cross as support for both of them. Sexual tension drew taut in her belly, warning something unexpected was about to happen. Phalen shifted his hands from her face and a warm dark cloth was slipped over her head and down over her face to her collarbones. The hood darkened the world around her to the point that she wasn’t even sure if she’d kept her eyes open or had them closed. “Phalen, wait,” she muttered when he stepped away, leaving her alone in the dark. “I’m here, babe. Feel me,” he said sexily, blowing hot air between her breasts. He was in front of her. “If you get too scared, you know what to do to stop this.” Cassie shook her head. God help her, she wasn’t going to use her safe word. The power to remain on the cross was entirely in her court. “I am yours to do with as you will,” she declared.
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“You’ve given me a gift I will always protect,” he answered, kissing her forehead through the soft hood. “Now let your senses take over. Don’t think. Feel. Smell. Know.” Growing used to the darkness, she was grateful Phalen had blindfolded her many times. Being unable to see would heighten everything that was to come. Gently, he set his hand at the side of her face and caressed from her jaw to her shoulder, then drew back a few steps. “Breathe with me, Cassandra. In and out, let go of your troubles, your fears.” Phalen took a deep hypnotic breath. Over the music and the whir of ceiling fans, she concentrated on the sound of his steady breathing. Mirroring the pace he’d established, she obeyed his quiet spoken words by taking deep steady breaths. Combat boots struck the floor as he walked away. Not letting herself panic because he was far enough away that she didn’t know where he was, she remembered to breathe. He returned less than a minute later. The squeak of a wheel told her that he’d brought something back. She started when he touched her hip, caressing to the string that held the clit jewelry in place and removing it. “Aw. I like it.” “I’ll wash it and put it back on later, promise.” She nodded. It was enough for him to continue doing…whatever it was he was doing. More squeaks followed, more footsteps. “I’m going to loosen you up. Get you real, real wet, okay?” “I’m already wet. How can you possibly make it better?” She got her answer when he set what felt like a thick vibrator with a ball-shaped head against her exposed hairless pussy and turned it on at the lowest setting. “Oh dear god, yes!” Needing the stimulation, Cassie thrust against it as much as the bindings allowed. But all she could really do was enjoy the subtle twirl of the toy as it played her clit exactly how she needed it. Feminine juices sluiced down her inner thighs, scorching her skin and preparing her core for Phalen’s huge cock. “Fuck me, please.” He grabbed her hair beneath the hood, tugging harder than she expected. “It’s for me to decide when I fuck you. I will, babe, in my time, in my way. I will fuck you.” He let go of her head. She heard an electronic switch and the slick vibe spun faster. “SonofafuckingDom,” she sputtered as the vibe forced her to come so hard she squirted all over herself. The Earth could have stopped spinning right then and she wouldn’t have cared. He moved around to her right, somehow still touching her when he drew something up behind her. He slipped his hand behind the crossbar and stroked her ass, pinching, squeezing, caressing and alternating the pattern to keep her guessing which he’d do next. Long calloused fingers rested at the crack of her ass, spreading her cheeks for the forbidden stroke of what felt like his middle finger right against her rosette. 194
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“Gonna fuck your ass tonight,” he vowed, massaging and caressing. Hearing the squirt of something that sounded like lubricant, she steadied herself as he caressed her asshole again. This time, he used the lube to work his finger through the tight ring of muscle. “Unh,” she uttered, breathing deep in order to take the steady thrust of his finger in her ass. Heat licked upward from sensitive tissues to her spine, quickly turning into exquisite pleasure with every push and pull of his wet finger. Another finger joined the first. Cassie welcomed his intimate, but gentle finger fuck. Loosened up for a possible third finger, she growled at him because he drew off. “No, don’t stop. Need to come.” “Not stopping,” he promised, squirting lubricant directly onto her crack before pressing something cock-sized to her anus. “Take the dildo, sweetheart. Breathe out, relax.” The head pushed into her, but the bite was far sharper than anything she’d experienced so far. Phalen eased off, added more lubricant to her backside and slid the toy back into place. “Breathe. Imagine my cock filling you. You’re going to feel so good and tight. I’ll make it feel right for you.” Cassie drew in the scent of her man. Leather and male arousal calmed her. The lubricant made it easier to take. Soon enough, Phalen thrust the dildo in and out. The forbidden carnality of taking the toy in her ass turned her on like nothing she’d expected. “Feeling good now, hmm?” Phalen asked while thrusting the dildo in so deep, Cassie felt the soft balls of the toy against her butt. Dripping wet and needy, she wanted to be filled with Phalen’s cock. “Want…your…cock. Fuck me!” she screamed the second he hit another goddamn switch, causing the dildo to vibrate in unison with the toy pushed against her quim. “Jeez, going to come. Need to come. Please.” “There’s no limit to how many times you can come tonight. Let go.” Unable to move at all now, Cassie’s senses exploded. Coming and gushing again, she was relieved to be able to orgasm at will. She needed it. She took it, greedily. After shouting to the heavens, she was vaguely aware that Phalen had withdrawn. “Phalen, don’t leave me,” she implored, shaking. “I’m never going to leave you,” he vowed, following it up with a sudden sharp crack of a bullwhip. If she could have jumped, Cassie would have gone right up to the ceiling. Instead, she braced herself, expecting the bite of a bullwhip to strike at any moment. The tail sailed past her foot, then her other foot. On the third strike, the bullwhip slapped the top of her boot. Thank god for boots!
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Over and over the crack of a whip ricocheted around her. Focusing completely on the strikes, she lost count of how many times Phalen slapped it so close to her that she felt the air move. Twice, she swore it bit her. But then there was no discomfort. Orgasm drew taut deep in her pussy, keeping her suspended on the precipice of pleasure and expectant pain. Through euphoric haze, she heard Phalen praise her, his deep Bostonian voice keeping her centered on him. With one last crack of the bullwhip, she was stunned when the tail wrapped itself around her waist, hugging her tight to the cross while waves of rapture gripped her core in the deepest, sexiest climax she’d ever known. “Hell, yes! Come for me, love,” Phalen commanded and she came again. Extremely aware of the continual clit and ass stimulation of Phalen’s toys, she welcomed the feel of the bullwhip around her. The thickness of the leather tightened, shifted. Phalen returned. His hands cupped her head, his lips pressed to her clothcovered forehead. “Such a good submissive you are, Cassandra.” His praise meant the world to her, making her heart soar with love and affection. “The whip had your pussy creaming. Your juices are all over the place. I fucking came watching you get off.” The smell of his cum hit her like an aphrodisiac, striking the flame of arousal higher than it’d been thus far and centered low in her tummy. Her heart thudded fast and furious. Her muscles burned so hot, she was certain running the Boston Marathon would have been easier. “I love you, Master,” she murmured, repeating it over and over while mini-orgasms rocked her. Not ready to quit now that they started, she wanted to push him. “Give me more. I can take it.” “As my sub desires,” he answered, shifting some to do something with the bullwhip. The whip’s tail and body were not moving, nor was Cassie. He’d tucked the handle between her legs, with the bulbous end poised at the opening of her quim. The smoothness of what she assumed to be a lubricated latex condom kept rough leather from scratching her raw. Finally, he lifted the hood just enough to expose her mouth. “Beautiful, sweet Cassandra,” he praised and kissed her. “Love you more than words can say.” His words were whispered against her lips, tickling some.
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Chapter Thirteen Needing the gentleness of Cassie’s kiss, Phalen put his heart into pleasing her and calming her. The cross kept her secure where he wanted her to be, but she trembled with aftershocks. Enjoying the taste of her lips, he offered reassurance through touch. As rough as his hands were, he knew Cassie welcomed the scrapes of his calluses. He was an imperfect man and she loved him for his scars and the darkness that haunted him. Withdrawing the moment she stopped shaking, he checked her bindings to make sure they weren’t too tight and massaged her shoulders. “You feeling up for more?” he asked, working out some kinks in her muscles. “Oh yes, please don’t stop, Master.” The Dominant male in him loved when she called him Master. She was the only woman he’d ever had call him that. Most often he’d told subs to call him Sir. However, Cassie was the one he loved. He wanted to master her and love her equally. “I’ll take the hood off this time,” he decided, removing it. “Open your eyes slowly. Get used to the candlelight.” Faded though the lighting in the dungeon was, candlelight would feel bright to her after spending so long under the blackout hood. “Why the mercy, Master?” she asked, taking her first peek. “Because you did so damn well with the bullwhip.” “You’re going to forgo the flogger then?” He shook his head no. “After I’m done with you tonight, I don’t think you’ll forget the phone again. How about every time I call or text and you hit me back, you get a reward such as a massage or a long, hot bubble bath?” “Orgasms,” she stated. Well, well, his sub had learned to negotiate and get her way. Proud of her, he smiled. “Deal, but you can’t come alone. I’ll give the reward.” “Amen,” she said, grinning back. Phalen kissed her to turn her attention away from anything beyond the room and drew back. He wanted her to watch him get the flogger. He took it from the hook, turning toward Cassie. Her hazel eyes locked on to the twenty-four tails as he swatted his own hand. “I miss you, Master,” Cassie proclaimed while she watched him wield the flogger. “Haven’t gone anywhere,” he assured, smacking his hand again. Her eyes widened. Her face grew bright red. Her mouth parted enough for her tongue to sneak out and swipe her lips hungrily.
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The sex toy machine he’d designed was working her clit and ass real good. She was so wet he could see the glistening drops rolling down her inner thighs. The condom he’d put on the handle of the bullwhip would protect her pussy lips where he’d notched it, but he didn’t give a fuck if the leather was ruined after she came all over it, nor would he ever use the handle to breach her sweet pussy any further than where it was. The tease of the handle was enough to get her off. “Won’t you free me so we can fuck?” she invited, a seductive glow taking over her gaze when she looked at him directly. “Or do you hesitate because you think I’m scared? Perhaps you’re the one who needs to be flogged for making me come without the benefit of your big, gorgeous cock. Then again, this bullwhip is just an extension of your manhood, right?” “Don’t be bratty, little sub,” he warned, pushing off his heels to stride up to her. A safe distance from her, he flicked his wrist and the flogger’s tails sailed upward to land across his left shoulder. “You’ll get cock soon enough.” Her eyes settled on the fanned-out tails. Her mouth gaped adorably before her cute tongue slipped out to wipe away drool. She was incredibly responsive. “Don’t want a toy cock,” she insisted, shaking her head. “Yours.” “Damn straight. Get through this part and I’ll take you flying.” “Please, yes.” Abandoning her bravado for her submissive needs, she turned her eyes to the ground. Sweet thing! She was amazing. Bending at the waist to grab up the tube of lubricant he’d left on the tray mounted to the sex toy machine, he wiggled his lubed hand behind her ass to stroke her rosette and the dildo, prepping her for later. Plenty of lube was still easing the dildo’s gentle thrusting. It was still best to make sure she wasn’t getting sore. Cassie didn’t balk or call out to stop him. He straightened and moved to her side. “Look at me. I’m so proud of you, Cassandra.” She beamed with the biggest smile that melted his dark heart. Intentionally turning the magic wand against her clitoris on low to keep her from being too numbed out, he set the dildo to simply pulse. “Still creaming nicely,” he praised, running his hands over her smooth bare ass. “Do something,” she grumbled in frustration. Granting her wish, he took the flogger off his shoulder. Keeping one hand at her hip to remain in contact with her, he set his feet in the most effective Dom-stance he could take. “If you need to catch your breath, clench your hands into fists. Use your safe word if it’s too much,” he instructed. “Ten. Count them out.” Giving her no longer than a deep breath before striking her ass softly, he soothed her with his touch when she jumped. “Is that your worst, Master?” she dared seconds later.
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“Count went to twenty. Do it.” Drawing back his whipping arm, he waited for her to settle before letting the tails smack her hard enough to sting and leave pink marks. “One…two…three…” She counted bravely with each swat to her ass. Apologizing for the increased sting that made her jolt and hiss, he soothed her with gentle strokes of his palm. The metal pole at her back protected her spine from the heaviest impact of the flogger. By the time she’d gotten to ten, she cried out in orgasm, her body trembling in the aftermath. With her ass sweetly marked, she closed her eyes, murmuring almost incoherently about feathers, whips, lightning, fucking and God only knew what else. She was getting off on the endorphin rush, which kept her from feeling the harshness of the flogging. Her face glowed. She was so lost in the euphoric magic, Phalen was mesmerized. “Thank me, little sub, for getting you off,” he commanded, moving around to make the flogger safely thump her upper back with the same pressure as a deep-tissue massage without damaging her shoulder blades or coming close to her kidneys. “Thank you, Master,” she whispered obediently. “Who do you belong to? Answer and keep counting, next is twelve.” “You.” He’d swatted her ass lower this time, intentionally causing the tails to slide along the soft underside of her sweet round cheeks, where sensitive tissue would be stimulated further by the lick of suede. “Twelve!” “Who’s the only man who will flog you?” He swiped the same place on the other side. “You. Thirteen, whoa.” “Do you want this to continue?” “Please, yes, please.” Continuing to ask questions to keep from losing her to sub-space too soon, he made sure that no matter what he did with the flogger, he touched and stroked her with his free hand. Cassie purred sweetly. She tried unsuccessfully to buck and writhe, but the restraints forced her to accept the hedonistic pleasure she craved. With one last strike to her ass, he drew back and dropped his hand. Any more of that and he really would lose her. “Stay with me, babe,” he coaxed, moving in close to hold her against the cross and kiss her back into the here and now. It wasn’t that he didn’t want her to get off on the discipline. He wanted to join her in that journey. It took her a few minutes to settle. Her shaking stopped. Her mouth parted, accepting his tongue deep inside for the French kiss she justly deserved. “You can fly with me real soon, promise. Stay with me now,” he told her. Reaching up to unfasten the cuffs on her wrists, he brought her arms down. “Hurts,” she confessed and she slumped forward. Blood had rushed back to her muscles. That was harsh. But her endorphins would kick even higher. “I know. I’m sorry. I’ve got you now.” He unbound the whip and waist belt, removing the end of the whip handle carefully. Chalking up her fascination with whips 199
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and floggers as something he’d continue to expand on as they spent more and more time in their dungeon, he kept whispering soothing words to her. Keeping one hand flat on her belly to brace her against the cross, he knelt and freed the cuffs around her ankle boots. The bindings hadn’t been tight at the ankles. If she’d wanted, she could have slipped her feet out of the boots at any time. So damn proud of Cassie for what she’d submitted to, he shut off the orgasminducing machine and withdrew the dildo. “Use the pole to brace yourself up, Cassie. I’ll be right back,” he instructed, not wanting to leave her until he was certain she was steady. Quickly, he rushed over to the small bathroom, washed and dried his hands and returned to sweep her into his arms. Because he’d promised to make her fly, he carried her to the sex swing. Working as efficiently as he could considering the lust that gripped his testicles to the point that it hurt and he’d be blue soon, he set her into the leather swing, face up. Some swings looked like they belonged in a schoolyard. This one was made of butter-soft leather that supported a person’s upper body rather comfortably. Stirrups and grips were fastened to the chains and bungee cord would make the thing bounce, rock and swing. “I was hoping you’d pick the swing,” she said. “Never doubt me when I promise to send you flying,” he replied, watching in amazement as Cassie offered her foot. Laughing outright, he grabbed her boot and slipped it off, then brought her leg up to be fastened to one stirrup, then secured her other foot to the right stirrup. “My arms too?” she offered, stretching out her left hand. “Your shoulders have to be on fire. Just hold on to me, sweetheart.” “Can I hold your heart too?” “You already do.” Loving her beyond reason, Phalen appreciated the sight of Cassie spread open and waiting to be fucked. Undressing in a hurry, he was vaguely aware of stroking his rock-hard cock when he approached her. His hand felt good. Her snug channel was going to be ten times better. Her legs were bound and spread wide for him. Her pussy was hot pink and glistening with female cum. Now that was a beautiful sight! Joining her at the swing, he pulled her forward until her ass was right on the edge and climbed on top of her. He could have taken her while standing. But he wanted to take her face-to-face and watch her come apart beneath him as she was unable to do anything but enjoy the swaying of the swing and feel of his hard dick deep in her pussy. Fucking would get the swing moving well enough. But before he could do that, he cuddled up on top of his woman and kissed her sweetly. Cassie loved kissing as much as she loved sex. “I love you so much, Phalen,” she admitted between kisses. “You’re so good to me.” 200
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“As you are to me,” he replied, adjusting his hips to fit his cock between her inner thighs. Notching his shaft between her labia, he welcomed the soaking-wet glide of bare pussy to bare cock. No condoms meant he could never fuck another woman. Only Cassie had that right, and dammit, he was going to honor his commitment to her by marrying her. “Fuck me,” Cassie invited, wrapping her arms about his waist. Her eyes were filled with need. Holding on to her, he adjusted his hips and his cock head dipped into the well of her pussy. No sooner than he’d begun to thrust into her, Cassie arched to take him as best as she could since her legs were bound to chains. Hell, yeah, her scorching-hot core hugged his dick in a vise grip of silken wet muscle. The euphoria he’d recognized in her eyes from the flogging spiked higher and he was totally lost in her awed expression. Between sex, discipline and multiple screaming orgasms, her senses were magnified. At that moment, he was extremely aware of the snugness of her pussy, the sway of the swing, the smell of leather, the wanton scrape of her nails down his back, the flowery fragrance of her shampoo and the taste of her passionate kisses. All of it combined with her sweetly addictive submission, rendering him powerless to do anything but jettison into her while her orgasm milked him for every last drop of cum. Completely spent, he collapsed on top of her and rode out the cataclysm he’d just experienced with her while the swing swayed. Not once in his lifetime had he been so proud to know he’d made his sub fly and she’d greedily taken him for the best fuck of his life. How long they swung there, Phalen wasn’t really sure. From experience, he didn’t disturb Cassie while she was still in orbit. He checked her face and eyes. Yeah, she was so far gone that her eyes were closed and she was muttering about butterflies flying over double rainbows. But the fall afterward could be scary for first-timers or it could be magical. Wanting her to feel nothing but magic, he sat up, freed her legs from the stirrups to bring her right up against him and held her through her maiden voyage. At some point, they must have fallen asleep. When he opened his eyes, candlelight still glowed, but the nearest candle was burned almost to the base. Lifting himself up, he blew out that candle, then checked them all. Four candles remained tall enough to remain lit. “Ohmigod, I think died and flew to heaven,” Cassie whispered hoarsely, her eyes still closed. “Now I know why the French referred to orgasm as the little death.” “You’re back, sweetheart,” he said, watching as she slowly opened her eyes. She was still buzzing but she’d returned with nothing but love in her expression. “Enjoy your first flight?” “Uh-huh,” she answered dreamily. “Amazing, magical, better than anything I could have dreamed of…yet indescribable.” 201
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sex.
“Want to go again?” Miraculously, his cock thickened at the mere thought of more
“Mm-hmm. You promised something forbidden tonight. Are you going to back out now?” “No fucking way, babe. Let’s get you comfortable first. Would you like to go to the bed?” “I’d prefer it.” Wanting her to walk out the kinks in her muscles, he kept his arm around her back and took her across the dungeon to the bed. Beside it, she moved in close and kissed him. It wasn’t long before Phalen took her down to the mattress and made love to her with the reverence and devotion she deserved. Hard as a rock by the time he’d tongued her to orgasm and fingered her quim and ass to be sure she was ready, he levered himself up long enough to grab a bottle of lubricant and drizzled it onto his cock and her asshole. Kissing her to say thank you for her final act of submission for the night, he put the bottle of lube close by on the bed and nudged her to lie on her stomach. Propping her head with a soft pillow and another under her hips, he caged her in with an arm on either side of her shoulders and lowered himself on top of her. “Um, you feel good,” she whispered in appreciation for the glide and caress of skin against skin. Phalen worked her up slowly, grinding his cock against her soft gorgeous ass. The marks left behind from the flogging were still hot and evident on her lower thighs and butt. Her back was pink and warm. She looked beautiful. He kissed the back of her shoulders, her neck and wherever else he could reach first without contorting himself into a pretzel. She liked being bitten and he gave her teeth, gently reddening her skin along the side of her neck until Cassie began grinding herself into the pillow. Pushing his hand between her hips and the pillow, he fingered her clit. The sweet juicy morsel was pulsing with the need to come. Pressure from his fingers set her off. She was moaning and groaning in orgasm when he adjusted his cock to her tight ass. “Here we go, sweet thing. Breathe with me,” he encouraged, pushing inexorably into the hottest, tightest, well-lubed and prepared ass he’d ever fucking known. “Sonofabitch, woman, nothing’s ever been this tight.” Incredibly, she took him completely into her body after only the briefest hesitation. “Oh god…oh god, you feel huge! So full now, amazing…yes, yes!” she cried out. Cassie felt so incredible, Phalen drew back only to thrust back into her until his balls pressed against her. Grabbing her hair to keep her where he needed, he brought her up off the pillows so he could take her doggie style.
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She took him like the sexy little submissive she was, crying out and making demands of her own as she surged back at his cock with such abandonment, he damn near lost consciousness. Wanting to reward her, he wedged two fingers into her pussy so deeply he could feel his cock surging in and out of her ass. The snugness of her inner muscles contracting from climax felt so damn good, he came without any chance of staving off the inevitable. Taking Cassie down to the bed with the weight of his body, he wrapped his arms around her and turned her to lie on her side. Spooned up tight to her back with his slightly softened cock still wedged inside her, he kissed her nape as the last of her orgasmic contractions faded. “Wow, how can something so naughty feel so damn good?” she murmured hoarsely. She began to snore before he could answer. It was the cutest damn thing Phalen had ever heard. He’d worn out his woman. And hell yeah, he was proud to be the man to make that happen. Enjoying the sound of her quiet snores, he closed his eyes and listened. After resting beside her for few minutes, he got out of bed long enough to blow out the candles and turn the overhead lights on low enough to see properly, but not disturb Cassie. He didn’t want to leave her even for a minute, but he’d brought his cellphone with him and went to get it from his leather pants. Checking the messages, he was dumfounded when he read a text from Alex. He’d found Enid Harper in the storage basement beneath the diner and taken her to the Salem police station. Alex would phone in the morning to fill them in on what happened. Relieved to know Enid was safe, Phalen decided to wake Cassie long enough to tell her the news and get her cleaned up before neither of them could move. At the moment, his rebuilt thirty-two-year-old body felt more like fifty-two. Going over to the shower, he turned on the water and made sure it was warm before he went back to undress Cassie. She barely moved while he worked. “Need sleep, Phalen,” she grumbled. “I know, babe. Gonna clean you up real quick and give you some ibuprofen, okay?” “Why? We already showered.” “For one, we smell funky,” he admitted. “Second, I worked you hard tonight. You need soothing and pain meds and sleep. Let me take care of you now.” “Okay,” she agreed. “But if you touch my pussy or ass, I might scratch your eyes out.” “That sore, hmm?” “Yeah. I don’t think I can come again for at least a week.” He couldn’t stomach the idea of abstinence for seven days. Swinging her up into his arms as carefully as possible, he carried her over to the shower, stepped inside and 203
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closed the glass door. Using the gentle spray of a handheld showerhead, he doused her and grabbed a bar of soap and a cloth to wash sweat, lube and cum down the drain. “I’ve news,” he said while rinsing her. “How can you get news in here?” “I brought my phone with me. Alex found Enid.” That woke her up enough to open her eyes and look right at him. “It’s over? Really?” “Yes. He’s convinced her to go to the police. He went with her.” “He’s a good man, isn’t he?” “One of the best.” “When are we going to the police station?” “Let’s worry about that when we wake up. We need sleep.” Washing himself quickly, he rinsed, turned off the water and helped her out of the shower. There was a small cabinet with towels and washcloths. He grabbed a towel, wrapping it around her to dry her off before drying himself. Together they walked back to bed and snuggled under the sheets. He’d been so damn anxious to take her ass that he’d forgotten to turn down the covers. Juggling her a little, he slid her beneath the covers. As soon as she was comfortable, he returned to the curtained bathroom. In a medicine cabinet, he filled a paper cup with water from a small sink he’d gotten from an RV supply company, took the pain reliever and refilled the cup to enable Cassie to take the medicine as well. Returning to the bed, he roused Cassie from sleep. “A second longer, babe. Then you can sleep until noon if you want.” “I never do that.” “You do after a night in our dungeon,” he stated emphatically. “Sit up and take this. It’s ibuprofen.” She obeyed and settled back down. Before joining her, he went over and turned off the remaining lights. Sliding under the covers a few seconds later, he spooned up next to her. The sound of her quiet breathing lulled him to sleep.
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Chapter Fourteen For the tenth time in as many minutes, Cassie set down her sister’s journal. Much like her sister, she now knew what it meant to fly because of her Master’s dominance that never became abusive. He didn’t suppress her, beat her or get angry when she simply wanted to make love instead of visiting the dungeon. But she was becoming addicted to his kink for bondage in the bedroom. Phalen added flexible straps into their love-play, which introduced her to positions she’d never have tried otherwise, wrist and ankle cuffs, rope bondage and silken ties that bound her right to the bed to keep her still for his incredible lovemaking. Today she was concentrating on Alessandra. It’d been two weeks since Enid Harper exposed a vicious Doms’ club in downtown Boston that was hidden with the ruse of a medieval reenactment dinner theater called Fiefdom. The owner of the club was still unknown. He’d gone into hiding and the board of the public dinner theater consisted of several high-profile Bostonians who were currently under ethics investigations for ignoring the illegal practices going on after hours! Enid provided Ethan with as much of a description of the owner as she could. But she’d never seen his face because he liked to parade around in full-blown armor, including a helm and face mask. When Ethan and Samantha Riley sent in the vice squad, they found a significant number of so-called serfs, including Martin Jones. Frighteningly, he’d been stretched and beaten to death on an authentic torture rack right out of the Middle Ages. Morgan had healed from her ordeal. But she kicked Ethan out of her life after he’d impatiently questioned why her psychic gift failed to reveal that Enid had been hiding in the basement of the diner. By acting more like a cop than a potential boyfriend, he’d lost the ground he’d made the night before. In the meantime, Cassie and the Maddox Brothers were practicing for their set in the telethon. With thanks to Alex Grant, they had many great talents lined up for the event. Considering Enid revealed a history of being physically and sexually abused by men since she was a teenager, they wanted a safe place for Enid to go. The apartment in Salem she’d lived in was only hers as long as she sexually submitted to her self-proclaimed lord. It was no longer safe for her to go there. Cassie forgave her for the phone issue and put her on probation at work instead of firing her. Taran Maddox was using his experience as a law clerk and ties with decent defense attorneys to assist Enid with her legal troubles. “Cassie, got a minute?” Alex asked from the doorway.
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She looked up. “Sure. I still haven’t found anything that would tell us who this friend of Allie and Jeff’s is.” “I wish I could help with that,” Alex said, coming in to sit down across from her. “Maybe I can help cheer you up.” “I could use it today.” PMS was never her friend and she was feeling particularly emotional after reading the journal again. Cramps were tightening the muscles of her lower back, making her desperately want Midol, caffeine and some snuggle time with Phalen. “I heard from Gill St. Marks about your sister’s books.” “Oh my…is this ‘the call’ I’ve heard about?” “We have several offers on the table.” “Wonderful. So what do we do now?” “We discuss it with Gill tomorrow at noon by conference call,” Alex told her. “He’s sending the information so you can think about the offers and recommends jotting down any questions you might have for the publishers.” “The publishers know Allie’s deceased and the money made from them will go into a fund for abuse victims? I mean, fortunately Allie bequeathed the manuscripts to me in a legal letter left in the box on the chance something happened to her. She must have been really scared to take that step with her books.” “I can’t imagine what she must have been going through. But she was wise to protect her work the way she did. Gill said it’s important for you to decide whether you want most of the money upfront or to come later with royalties once the books earn out the advance.” “As happy as I am, I wish Allie could hear this news and decide how she’d want this to go.” “She knows,” Alex insisted, a faint Southern accent overriding the purr of his cultured voice. “Don’t doubt that for a minute, you hear me?” “Let’s hope Phalen solves what happened to Allie and Jeff soon. The benefit is in five days. I’d love to have it done with so we can tell my parents.” Due to a crazy schedule for both of them, she and Phalen had been unable to find the right time to explain the investigation. While her mom came to help plan the telethon, her father had put them off until after the benefit. Apparently, he had a number of marriage counseling appointments from now until Saturday. “Cassie, Phil’s here to see you,” Lily announced. She hadn’t seen Phil since she’d talked to him about the kittens. “Be right back, Alex.” She stood up to leave the office. Alex followed. He’d taken on the role of protector whenever Phalen wasn’t around. He’d gone into Boston to work at the tattoo shop with Taran for the day. He’d been unsure as to the number of tats Taran scheduled for him.
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Oddly enough, he’d gone to Boston several times in the last couple of weeks to meet up with his brothers and Alex had come to Salem late on those days. She guessed the tat business was booming in Beantown and Alex was doing sports agent stuff. In the diner, Phil was in his usual spot having a cup of coffee. “Hey, Phil,” she greeted with a smile. “It’s been awhile. Thank you so much for the kittens! Phalen and I adore them. They’re getting so big. You’ve got to see them.” Phil frowned. “What kittens?” “The kittens you sent here with Carl, one of the shelter volunteers?” “Don’t even mention his name to me, Cassie. Haven’t you heard?” Phil asked, looking genuinely puzzled. “Barry and I…split up.” Immediately sorry for the couple, Cassie took a seat across from him and signaled Alex to stay at a distance. “I’m sorry. What happened?” “The last time we spoke, I went home because I was missing my man something awful. I ended up catching him in bed with Carl! Apparently, whenever Phil was away or in surgery, Barry had a habit of picking up college boys and inviting them to work at the shelter. What does that make me, ancient? I’m forty, not dead.” Phil was actually very attractive with nice brown hair, brown eyes and a really great body. “You’re not ancient. You’re a great guy.” Phil’s eyes lifted at that moment, catching Alex hovering not far away after all. “Who is that?” he asked, zeroing in on Alex’s impeccable charcoal pants, designer shoes, pale-gray long-sleeved shirt and matching tie. “Alex Grant, my new business partner.” Very aware that Alex’s heart belonged to someone else, she had to nip this in the bud. “Phil, I’m confused. Why did you arrange for Carl to bring the kittens to me?” “I didn’t. I went to Provincetown for a couple of weeks and hooked up with some friends of mine. Barry and I had picked out wedding invitations and were about to apply for our marriage license. I felt lost and didn’t think about much else but self-pity. I still love the guy despite everything.” “Of course you do, you can’t turn off your feelings that quickly. Maybe Barry sent Samson and Delilah because he thought I’d found out and feared I’d have sent Phalen to defend your honor. I can tell you now, my friend, if I see your ex anytime soon, I might kick him where the sun doesn’t shine.” “Barry might be a cheating bastard, but he’d never have kittens or any animal dropped off to someone. Applicants for adoption must appear in person at the shelter. If you need me to, I’m more than glad to take the kittens back.” “Oh, wow, no, we’d never give our babies back,” Cassie muttered, really surprised. Shaking her head to clear it, she glanced over at Alex. “Alex, could you have Lily bring Phil a menu? He needs a good meal.”
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“You bet,” Alex answered, moving off to do as she’d asked. Lily brought a menu for Phil and helped distract the veterinarian from his depression with her sweet and easygoing smile. “Do you have somewhere to stay? I know that you and Barry had a place in Danvers.” “I’m registered at the Hawthorne Hotel for the time being. I’m hoping to find an apartment and look for work. Everything I had went into that animal shelter. I don’t want to abandon the animals there, but I can’t go back there or home for a while.” “You are welcome to hang out here until you get back on your feet and meals are on the house if you’d be so kind as to neuter and spay the kitties when the time’s right. If you want some part-time work, I could use some help around here.” “I’ll take you up on the hangout spot and food. Wi-Fi is free and I’ll need to send out résumés. Hold off on the job offer for now. I’ll care for the kittens, no problem.” “Okay. Offer stands.” Cassie reached over and grabbed Phil’s hand, squeezing gently when she saw him sneak glances toward Alex. “You will find someone else. Give your heart time to heal and don’t try to rush things. Know what I mean?” “You’re warning me away from your business partner. Why? He’s gay, right?” “There’s someone else for him,” Cassie answered. “But you won’t find a better friend to watch your back than Alexander Grant.” “Friendship’s about all I can offer anyone right now anyway,” Phil remarked. Cassie clenched his hand one more time. “Good call. If you want me to send Phalen over to the shelter or your old apartment to pick up your things or vet supplies, let me know.” “Thanks. That’s nice of you.” He smiled and Lily returned for his order. He’d asked for a hearty meal of a double cheeseburger with fries and a large iced tea instead of more coffee. She stood up and went to give Alex a quick recount of what Phil told her. “You know, Phalen and I have been so wrapped up in the investigation and the downfall of that fetish club, we never thought to question who sent Samson and Delilah as a gift.” “Call Phalen. I don’t like this at all. Something’s not right here.” “Good idea,” she agreed, reaching for her phone. “Ha! It’s been two weeks and I’ve not lost my cellphone!” “What exactly did Phalen do to break you of that habit?” Cassie grinned, recalling the orgasms he’d given as reward for keeping the phone attached to her hip. “Don’t answer that. Could you get him to work some of his sexual magic on Doc? If he doesn’t get his ass to Massachusetts soon, I may go back to D.C. after all.” “Since when does Alex Grant give up?” Cassie asked. “Last time you spoke to him, he said he’d think about another chance. I’m not sure why he’s being so stubborn anyway.” 208
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“Because even Doms can have their hearts broken and I crushed his the last time I saw him. It’s going to be awhile before I can undo the damage.” “Wasn’t it Doc who left you when you were kids? How much did that hurt you?” “Made it so I denied being gay by fucking almost as many women as Kyran did. My fuck count was far closer to his than Phalen’s, although he was no slacker. The only difference to my count was the fact that I didn’t include the college boys I’d been with. My crush on Phalen actually pulled me out of that kind of behavior.” “Actually, I think it was the friendship you share with Phalen and Kyran Black that helped. But you shouldn’t tell me Phalen had a fuck count when I’m PMSing.” Knowing that was a bit too much to reveal to a male friend, she slapped her hand to her mouth. Alex flushed flame red. “Sorry, partner. Don’t get mad at him. We were all in college and made stupid-ass mistakes.” “But the three of you grew up to become fine men. You’ll convince Ryan he’s the man you want. Have faith.” Cassie reached up to touch a strand of wavy hair that had fallen across his forehead. It was the most vulnerable she’d ever seen him. She decided then and there she was going to find a way to bring his doctor back. “Could you go over and talk to Phil? He could use a friend.” “Sure. I don’t like that look in your eyes right now. You’re up to something.” “I think you’re the one up to something. You think I don’t know Phalen asked you to watch over me today? I can take care of myself when he’s in Boston, no matter the reason he’s going or how long a bunch of tats take in a given day.” “Should be an interesting conversation,” Alex said as a crash echoed from the kitchen. “What was that?” “Sounded like someone dropped a tray,” Cassie answered, familiar enough with the sound by now to put it out of her mind. “I didn’t hear glass breaking, so I don’t think it’s serious. What did you mean about conversation?” Alex redirected his gaze to her, looking strangely sheepish. “Nothing, wrong word choice, sorry.” “Phalen told me he’s working with Taran today. Is that not the truth?” Cassie looked right back at Alex. Alex arched a brow a fraction, warning her that she was overstepping something she shouldn’t. “He’s with Taran, Cassie. Sometimes a man needs to take care of things without his woman questioning it. Excuse me.” With that, Alex waltzed away like he owned the world. Strange as Alex’s comment was, Cassie gave up worrying about it and went to her office. She located the number for Dr. Ryan Hathaway and sent him another invitation, imploring him to believe Alex wanted him in Massachusetts. Then she reread her sister’s journal.
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Focusing on the entry Allie had written about the club Jeff had taken her to when they’d met the Domina in black, nothing stood out as unusual or different. Except one sentence that hadn’t clicked before… Master said she had such command of the room, no one moved, not even the serfs guarding the doors. Since when did serfs guard doors? Not since the fall of feudalism. Then she remembered the BDSM club masked by a dinner theater, Fiefdom! Could the owner of Fiefdom be the friend Alessandra and Jeff had turned to for help? Hadn’t the teddy bear been dressed in chain mail? Texting her thoughts to Phalen using the code he’d taught her, she waited anxiously for him to reply. Strangely, nothing happened. Well, if he was doing a tattoo, he wouldn’t be able to text until he was done. In the meantime, she discovered she’d missed a text from Michael Donatelli. The message indicated a problem with a permit for the property they were acquiring for the safe haven and she called him right away. “State Senator Donatelli’s office,” his receptionist answered. “Hello, Mrs. Marsh, this is Cassandra Williams. Is it possible to speak with Senator Donatelli?” “Of course, dear,” Mrs. Marsh agreed. Cassie murmured a thank-you and waited for her call to be transferred. “Cassandra, this is a pleasant surprise to get a call back from you so quickly. I’ve just come back from a meeting with your father.” “May I ask why?” A little saddened that her father took time out of his schedule for Michael, but not be able to come to the diner until Saturday, she swallowed hard. She should buck up and suggest she and Phalen go to church tomorrow. “Marriage counseling,” he said, sounding very much the polished politician. “Listen, the permit for the electrical work wouldn’t go through. Do you think we could meet for a late lunch to discuss it? I expected you’d come to town today anyway.” “Why would you think that?” “I saw Phalen knocking on the door of the parsonage as I was leaving. Your father answered and the two were locked in what looked to me like an intense discussion. Phalen didn’t notice I was near. I figured you’d arrive any moment and left them to it.” “Wow,” Cassie murmured, a little heartsick. “You know, Michael, maybe I will take you up on lunch. We should talk about the wedding too. Call Karen, invite her since she is the bride-to-be and she can offer legal advice if we need it for the permit.” “Come to the State House. I’ll meet you in the lobby. We’ll go from there.” “Great. I could use some time away from work.” She didn’t tell Michael that she was upset with Phalen. Why was he with Dad and not doing tattoos like he’d told her? Ending the call, Cassie gathered up her purse, her phone and car keys. Going off to find Alex, she saw he was deep in conversation with Phil.
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Deciding not to bother him and unaware that she was mumbling aloud, she turned to Lily. “Lily. I’m going to the State House to meet up with Michael Donatelli for lunch to deal with a problem with the safe haven. Then I might pay a visit to church to see what my man’s up to today. I should be back in a few hours.” “Sure thing, boss,” she said. “Have a nice lunch.” Cassie texted Phalen, letting him know she was on her way to Boston and asked why he was meeting with her father. Purposefully waiting for him to text back, she frowned. He didn’t text back at all. She decided to phone Taran to see what was going on. “Hi, Taran, it’s Cassie. Is everything okay at the shop?” “Yeah, going fine, why?” he asked distractedly. “I was wondering why Phalen left early? I thought he had a lot of clients scheduled today.” “He finished them first thing and we ran some errands together, brother stuff,” he answered evasively. “Left an hour ago, I guess. Is there a problem? If you need Phalen, call him.” “No problem. I wanted him to know I’m going out to lunch with a friend. He hasn’t bothered to answer his phone, so I’m calling you instead.” “That’s weird. He never turns that thing off on the chance you need him. Are you going to lunch with Morgan? If so, call Ethan. He might like to know, though he’s wrapped up in a case right now.” “It’s not Morgan. No need to call him.” “Not liking the sound of your voice. You better not be going to lunch with a guy. Big brother finds out, you’re not going to sit right for a week.” “At the moment, Taran Maddox, Phalen deserves a bare-assed spanking. You can tell him that when you call him after I hang up on you. If he hits you back before trying to make up for lying to me, I’m locking his balls in a humbler until he begs for mercy.” “Whoa! As much as I relish watching him jump through hoops whenever you bat those pretty hazel eyes, Phalen doesn’t deserve having his jewels threatened. Feel what I’m saying? Where are you?” “In my car getting ready to head to Boston for a meeting concerning permits for the safe haven,” she answered. “It’s not a date. Don’t get your panties in a twist.” “Don’t get bratty with me, baby sister,” he warned, sounding so much like Phalen right then she was riveted to the car seat. “Get out of the car and go back to work. Now. You do not want to face a pissed-off Phalen if he finds out you’re seeing another guy.” “I need a few hours to cool off. I swear I’m not going to do anything that would hurt my relationship with Phalen. I love him, Taran. Mad as I am, nothing will change that.”
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She ended the call and waited a minute to see if Phalen texted back. Nothing, not one word, but she bet little brother Maddox had phoned Phalen to tip him off. Yep, she was going to pay for her rebellion. She could handle it though. Not once had Phalen become abusive and she believed that wouldn’t change, no matter what. She still intended to find out what the fuck he’d been up to in Boston recently. Looking around to make sure it was safe, Cassie pulled out of her parking spot and headed to Boston. Lunch sounded really good right then, maybe by the time she ate a meal that wasn’t prepared at the diner, she’d feel better.
***** Back inside the diner, Alex was doing his best to console Phil Garrison. He sensed the veterinarian was attracted to him and couldn’t deny Phil was an attractive man in his prime. He had longish brown hair that fell in silky waves to his collar and was physically fit. He wore nice khakis and a pale-blue shirt that accented the sharp intelligence behind his brown eyes. Alex suspected the vet had a preference for being the bottom in a relationship. He could do two things here. Man up and help the guy by being a friend. Or he could let Phil help him get over the knowledge that Ryan wasn’t coming back anytime soon. And what kind of man would he be if he topped the vet for one night? He’d be a cheating scum-sucking bastard. “Where’d you go, Alex?” Phil asked, bringing him back to the present. “Haiti. It’s a long story.” “I’ve got the time. And it doesn’t come with strings,” the vet promised. “Cassie told me you’ve got someone in your life. I like how open-minded she is. She was one of the first to send congrats to me and Barry when we got rings.” “Cassie’s great. As soon as I met her, I knew she was the right woman for Phalen. She’s like a sister to me now. I fell in love with this diner too. Kyran Black is real anxious to meet her when he gets here Friday. Keep that to yourself, okay?” “The former QB for the Alexandria Griffins is coming here?” “Yes.” “Cool. You know? I’m worried about who sent the kittens to Cassie,” Phil said. “It’s not something Barry would arrange, even if he’s getting his rocks off with his twink of the month.” “The other guy’s in college, I take it?” “And he’s a hot blond too,” Phil remarked. “It could be the new state senator who arranged for Carl to deliver them.”
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“What makes you think that?” “The day I spoke to Cassie about the kittens, he met up with me in the parking lot to get a flyer. Told me he wanted to give his fiancée a kitten as an engagement gift.” “That sly dog,” Alex said. “That holier-than-thou senator has a permanent boner for Cassie. Phalen sure thinks it. Shit, he’s going to be pissed as fuck. Phil, I need to talk to her about this.” “You two need anything?” Lily asked. “Yes, Cassie,” Alex said. “She left.” Alex glared at the waitress. “In the middle of lunch hour?” “She went to Boston. She was in a hurry to get out of here. Can’t say I blame her. She looked really upset,” Lily said. “She said she had to go to the State House to handle permits with State Senator Donatelli before going to church.” “Lily, watch things here,” Alex decided. “Phil, feel like taking a trip to Boston with me? I’m still getting used to the roads in these parts and could use a real navigator who knows the city better than I do. I need to see if I can intercept Cassie before she decides to go to her father’s church. If she does, she could spoil Phalen’s plan for Friday night’s telethon.” Phil’s brown eyes widened. “I’m in.” “Let’s go then.” Alex stood, grabbing his phone to text Phalen as they walked to the front door. A call came in from Taran soon after he finished his message. “Alexander Grant,” he answered. “Why is Cassie going on a date with another man?” “There’s no date.” “Sounded like it to me,” Taran disagreed. “She’s upset with Phalen. What’d he do?” “Spent the morning with you, jackass. Where’d he go after the two of you finished up?” “Hey! Who owns the house you’re bunking down in lately?” “Phalen,” Alex said. “Answer the question.” “The deed to the brownstone was legally turned over to Ethan and me this morning,” Taran reported. “It’s a done deal and he has the funds for the down payment on a new home. So why is Cassie pissed? She threatened Phalen’s nuts, man.” “Good question. She’s meeting up with Phalen’s least favorite person on the planet. Those cute kittens Cassie was given? Donatelli may have been the one to give them to her. That’s not sitting right with me. Trouble’s brewing, Taran, I can feel it.” “Dude, do you know your voice gets wicked Kentucky-fried sexy when you’re mad or worried?”
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“Don’t get cocky with me, boy! I will kick your scrawny ass back into last week. This is serious.” “Still sexy, bud,” Taran warned. “Sorry, couldn’t help myself. You’re right. I’m feeling that gut-punch thing Phalen used to get when he faced a shitload of bad mojo in Afghanistan. Cassie’s heading for trouble and my big brother’s going to knock our heads together if we don’t stop her.” “Do me a favor, keep calling Phalen. I’m not sure he’s getting my calls. I’m on my way to Boston as we speak. When you’re done, get your ass to the State House to see if you can convince her to either go home or to the brownstone. We can’t let her go to the church or Phalen’s gig is up.” “I got it. I need to apologize to her anyway.” Taran ended the call. Outside, Alex walked to his Audi A6. Phil went around to the passenger seat. “What can I do to help?” he asked after he was buckled in. “Take my phone, try calling Cassie. She’s mad and hormonal or something. Who knows with women? Advise her to go home.” “You got it,” Phil replied, taking Alex’s phone to make the call.
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Chapter Fifteen “Can I get you another slice of pie, Phalen?” Elisabeth Williams asked, reminding Phalen of the way his mom took care of guests whenever they’d visited. Wishing like hell his parents were still alive, he swallowed the lump in his throat. Elisabeth’s facial features were similar to Cassie’s. Her dark-auburn hair and big green eyes had been passed down to Alessandra. “No ma’am, thank you. It was delicious,” he assured with a gentle smile. Jesus, when was the last time he’d been nervous? “On the phone you mentioned you needed to talk to us regarding a private matter,” Stephan Williams said, setting down his empty plate. “Something we should know about you and Cassandra? She’s not ill or anything.” “No, she’s fine, sir.” Stephan Williams had the same-colored hair as Cassie, with a splattering of gray. As television preacher, he’d yet to lose his robust build, strong chin and sharp cheekbones. His eyes were exactly the same color as Cassie’s. “Have a fight?” Stephan questioned. “If it’s counseling you need, I should recuse myself. I am particularly protective of Cassandra.” “There’s no fight.” “Then why come to us in the middle of the day? You’re clearly nervous. Not sure I’ve ever seen a former soldier squirm so much.” “Dear goodness, Stephan, stop interrogating him,” Elisabeth interrupted, slapping her hand to her mouth to stop giggling. “Can’t you see Phalen loves Cassandra? Why do you think he’d come to us? Go ahead, dear.” “Thank you…may I call you Elisabeth?” Hell, if proposing was this damn difficult to arrange, how the fuck was he going to pull it off when he actually asked Cassie to be his wife? “Please do. I’m hoping you’ll call me Mom soon, regardless of my bullheaded husband.” The lump in Phalen’s throat turned hard as stone. “I haven’t been able to call someone Mom since my parents died. I’m sorry for getting choked up.” “Oh my, I’m terribly sorry to hear that, Phalen,” Elisabeth Williams proclaimed, tears in her eyes. “What happened? If it is too difficult to talk about, I understand.” “It’s all right. They were killed by a drunk driver when I was in college. Everything I’ve done in my life since has been to take care of my brothers and see that they became good men. It’s occasions like this when I miss my parents the most.”
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A heavy, but gentle hand touched his repaired shoulder, giving an assuring squeeze without hurting in the least. A father’s touch was something he hadn’t experienced in a long time. “That’s a difficult burden to carry, son. You could have told us before.” “Thank you, I appreciate that. But I’m not here to discuss what happened then. I’m here about my future with your daughter.” “What’s he talking about, Elisabeth?” Stephan looked over at his wife in confusion until she made some kind of gesture with her left hand. “Are you asking for her hand in marriage?” “With all due respect, the only one I’m going to ask is Cassandra. Seems to me when a man loves a woman the way I love your daughter, the most honorable thing he can do is make her his wife. That’s my intention, sir.” Stephan pushed back from the table to stand. “You’ve not dated that long.” “Feels like I’ve known her forever. I’ve loved her since we met all those months ago.” “You can take care of her and intend to honor her for the rest of your life? Make no mistake, I will put aside my vow to serve God to protect Cassandra from the heartbreak you would cause if you have an affair or cause her undue physical harm.” “With thanks to my work as a PI, inheritance, investments and businesses, I am capable of taking care of her and our children for the rest of my life. If she agrees to marry me, I’ll work with her to join our businesses together. Will I stray or hurt her? I am a man of honor. I will not let harm come to Cassandra or break my vow of fidelity to her.” “Then you have our blessing,” Stephan stated. “My warning stands. Elisabeth and I lost one daughter to an abuser. If I learn you mistreat Cassandra, I will have you jailed for the rest of your miserable life.” Phalen stood up, facing off with Stephan. “What happened to Alessandra and Jeff Swanson was tragic. It’s not something I’m here to discuss today. I would like to suggest you stop putting Cassie off about visiting the diner.” “What do you mean?” “How many times has she invited you to the diner and you haven’t shown?” “I’ve been busy. Spring is an active time for weddings and I attended a seminar on marriage counseling to prepare for the couples.” “Yes, I know and understand. But she feels like she’s second fiddle to your sermons and seminars because you’re still angry at her for something that was never her fault.” Stephan shuddered and sat down at the dining room table. “I’ve never blamed her. I blamed myself and have been too ashamed to admit it. I realize I’d said things in anger and was afraid she’d reject me.” “She loves you and wants your approval,” Phalen said, recognizing when to back off. “The two of us need to talk to you about Allie and Jeff. Come to Salem with me 216
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right now and let’s get this matter cleared up. Surprise her by seeing for yourself that the diner is a thriving business.” “That’s never been an issue,” Stephan stated. “I’m very proud of her. Her whole family is proud.” “She needs to hear those words from you, not me or anyone else.” “Elisabeth, can you have my secretary cancel any remaining appointments for the day?” “I’ll do it now.” Elisabeth stood and left the table, her warm laughter trailing off in the distance. “Uncomfortable, was it?” Stephan asked. “I remember asking Elisabeth’s father if I could marry his daughter. I was petrified.” “It was a little unnerving. Whether you gave your blessing or not, I’d still marry Cassandra.” “I’ve no doubt you would.” Stephan got up and walked across the dining room to a beautiful fireplace that was the focal point in a room of mahogany furniture and matching wood flooring. Everything smelled like warm apple pie and the fresh bouquet of flowers in the center of the dining room table. Along the top of the mantle were candid photos of the Williams family from outdated baby pictures to college graduation. “I wish Alessandra was here to witness her twin’s happiness,” Stephan said. “Cassie would feel the same way. She was very close to Allie.” “They were inseparable as kids. Inevitably one became a tomboy and the other garnered all the boys. Boys were the cause of some normal sibling rivalry, of course. Elisabeth and I worried about Alessandra’s preferences. She tended to date rebels just to make people forget she was a preacher’s kid with an extremely high IQ.” “How did Cassie handle boys?” “Cassandra was cautious when it came to dating because she tended to get crushes on her sister’s boyfriends and judged herself as less attractive than her sister because they weren’t interested. Yet they could finish each other’s sentences, no matter the silly arguments that came up. It’s a twin thing, I guess.” “That’s natural,” Phalen said. Going up to the mantle, Phalen looked at the photos. He was especially fond of Cassie and Allie’s high school graduation photos. Though they were fraternal twins, the sisterly resemblance and girl-next-door prettiness were the same. There were several of Stephan Jr. and Markus playing sports. The redheaded gene was strong in Markus. Stephan had dark-auburn hair and the handsome features required to be on camera as a TV newscaster. There was another picture of one of the brothers in full-blown metal armor straight out of a history book. “Is this one of your sons, sir?” He picked up the photo.
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“Call me Dad, if you’re comfortable with that. You’re looking at Michael Donatelli. He’s been like a son to me all his life. His father and I went to college and our children grew up together.” “He’s an only child?” “Yes, but not always. His mother, Marie, delivered a baby girl prematurely. Sophie’s little body couldn’t sustain life.” “I can’t imagine how difficult that must have been.” “It was particularly hard on Michael,” Stephan admitted. “He lost his sister and his mother, in a way.” “What do you mean?” “She suffers from severe manic depression. Doctors call it bipolar disorder now. She tried very hard to be a good mother to him, but the disease kept her in bed most of the time or she’d swing so far into the mania, she’d become unpredictable. The loss of Sophie drove her to attempt suicide. Michael saved her life. He was only twelve.” “Thank God he did. What happened to Marie?” “She was placed in a mental health facility in West Palm Beach and is now thriving under outpatient therapy care. She’s happier in Florida than Boston and takes the medication she needs. Her depression is worsened whenever she comes back to New England, so it doesn’t happen often.” “Were your children aware of the troubles in the Donatelli household?” “Not at the time. Michael Sr. went to great lengths to protect his wife. Back then, mental illness had a terrible stigma and they were proud Bostonian socialites. When they went to Florida for Marie’s treatment, we sat our children down and explained why Michael would be staying with us frequently. The girls were only eight, so we limited how much they needed to know.” “Might I ask why Michael is wearing armor in this photo?” “It’s from one of those jousting reenactment festivals.” “Like a Renaissance faire?” “Similar, yes. This was taken in Maryland. His father sent him to summer camps that specialized in helping introverted kids fit in with others in his school. Right after his senior year of high school, he took a liking to medieval history when he witnessed a jousting tournament. He decided to attend the University of Maryland and learned how to joust.” “Jousting must be difficult to learn unless a rider is experienced,” Phalen commented. “Michael’s parents owned a horse farm down in Norwell and he’d taken riding lessons growing up. Learning to joust came naturally to him. He was winning tourneys until he took a terrible blow to the head during a fall.” “Cassie mentioned once that he’d had an accident,” Phalen admitted. “And overcame quite a lot to be where he is today.” 218
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“It took more than a year for him to recover from the severe migraine headaches and memory loss. To this day, he can’t recall the accident.” “The side effects of a head injury can linger for years.” “Yes, that’s true. His personality changed. He went from majoring in computer science to political science for his bachelor’s degree. He’d always fancied Alessandra, so Michael’s father thought she could cure him of his melancholy. She did and he went to graduate school at U-Mass, graduating top of his class. My wife and I hoped Cassandra might take a shine to him. That wasn’t meant to be.” “She’s meant to be my wife. When Michael was going through this transformation from IT guy to politician, did he remain active in jousting tournaments?” “After he recovered, yes,” Stephan answered. “In that photo there, he’s posing for his last jousting tournament in Maryland.” “He’s still into medieval history then?” “Yes. Why all the questions? If you’re concerned about his friendship with Cassandra, there’s no need. The two of them never got along the way he and Alessandra did.” “Why is that, do you think?” “Not sure really,” Stephan admitted. “Cassandra was more into reading, sports and theater arts. Her softball team won regionals while Alessandra was assisting him with his speech. Alessandra also enjoyed working with computers. Cassandra couldn’t care less about them.” “True,” Phalen agreed. “He was here not long before you arrived today.” “Michael was? Why?” “Counseling. I can’t divulge the reason. But marriage to Karen will be the best thing for him.” The doorbell to the church parsonage echoed about the dining room like a pipe organ. Phalen put down the photo of Michael in a knight’s costume and turned toward the foyer when he heard his brother’s and Alex’s voices at the door. “Phalen,” Elisabeth said, bringing the men into the room. A third man followed close behind Alex and Taran. Phalen didn’t know him as well as Cassie did, but he recognized him from the diner. He guessed it was Phil, the vet guy. “You have visitors who need to speak with you.” “What’s going on?” he asked suspiciously. “Stephan, come help me get some pie for these boys,” Elisabeth told her husband. “No need to dote on us, ma’am,” Taran assured, turning on his little brother charm for Mrs. Williams’ benefit. “Cassie is as gracious a host and just as pretty as you are, Mrs. Williams. I’m Taran Maddox, by the way.”
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Unlike Phalen and Ethan’s blond hair, Taran had wavy dark-brown hair and big blue eyes like their mother and their father’s height and build. “My goodness, you are as handsome as your brother. And so tall! It must be good Celt genes. Stephan?” With a snap of her fingers, the Williamses left without another word. “Has Cassie been here?” Taran asked. His brother suddenly looked guilty of something. He wasn’t meeting Phalen’s eyes. “No. Is there reason she would?” “If you answered your phone, you’d know why we’re a little…um…worried.” “Phone’s in my pocket. Hasn’t made a peep,” Phalen said. “You’re hiding something, little brother.” “We can’t find her,” Alex chimed in, stepping up. “She’s allowed to go out and do things without a bunch of jackasses traipsing after her. Did one of you piss her off?” “You did,” Taran stated. “She found out you weren’t in Boston just to help at the tat shop.” “And she got real suspicious when I evaded her questions,” Alex admitted. “We didn’t tell her what you were doing, Phalen.” Taran shuffled back and forth. “She told me you’d lied to her about where you were going today. Her feelings were hurt.” “I’ll make up for that. I was a little evasive this past week and Cassie’s real sensitive where her father’s concerned. Any of you think to sit her down and give her some coffee or a good book?” “She left before I could stop her,” Alex answered. “According to her, she tried contacting you. When you didn’t call or text back, she took it into her head to go off to lunch with Michael Donatelli,” Taran revealed. “They’re family friends, Taran. I have to accept that, much as I’d like to keep hating the prick.” Deciding he needed to nip this situation in the bud ASAP, he took out his phone to call Cassie. “She’s your woman,” Taran argued. “While I love charming the ladies, I don’t have anyone to call my own yet. When I do, if she ever goes off with another man, I’m cracking the asshole’s skull. Feel what I’m saying?” “I feel it. When you get your head out of your ass and notice the one who wants you, then you’ll realize no matter how much you love her, you don’t own her. Cassie has the right to be upset at me and blow off steam or have lunch with a friend. I trust her, little brother.” On a hunch, Phalen turned to Alex. “Call me.”
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“Okay,” Alex said, looking at him like he’d grown two heads as he punched the touch screen on his phone. Then his eyes went wide. “Sonofabitch, your phone’s been deactivated.” “Sounds to me as if someone’s fucking with your and Cassie’s phones,” Taran remarked. “For a third time,” Phalen grumbled, getting seriously pissed off. “That takes some serious hacking skills to mess with cellphones.” “You know how to do things like that, bro.” “Doesn’t mean I would. But who’d…oh fuck! Donatelli used to be an IT nerd.” “No freakin’ way he’d do something like that. He sent you kittens. Two kittens, one for each. Why?” Taran was turning a little green. Phalen was seeing red. “Samson and Delilah came from him?” Phalen swung around to stare down the vet. Phil backed up into Alex, who calmed him with a hand on his shoulder. “You know this how, vet? Don’t answer. I’m getting some crazy-ass vibes here.” A landline phone rang about the same time Taran’s phone went off. “It’s Cassie,” his brother said. Phalen stuck out his hand. Taran turned over the phone. “Cassie, sweetheart, I’m here,” he told her in a rush. “Phalen! Hi. I’m sorry,” she rattled on in such a rush he barely heard her. “There’s nothing to be sorry for. What’s going on, love?” “Your brother’s with you. I’m assuming Alex is too?” “They’re here with Phil.” “Hold on. I’m going to park.” There was a rumble of tires on the road, then silence. “There, this is much better.” “Talk to me, Cassie. Why are you upset?” “I was pissed at everyone earlier because I thought they were keeping something from me and I was sad for Phil. His partner cheated on him. Michael called and told me about a permit for the safe haven and I went to take care of it. And…right now it feels like a jackhammer is pummeling my ovaries.” “So you drove to Boston,” Phalen said letting her vent because it was what she needed. He hadn’t missed the sound of her sniffling. She’d been crying. “That’s okay. I’m not mad at you for that.” “I came to see Michael. I knew in my heart you wouldn’t like it.” “Hate it,” he admitted. “But I love you.” “I know. While I was driving around, I thought about the dungeon and realized what an idiot I was for wrongly thinking the man who takes care of me there would betray me to my parents or anyone else. We didn’t even have a fight and I was pissed at you for nothing.”
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“PMS does crazy things. I get it,” he said, hearing Taran coughing strangely behind him. “Did you see Donatelli, babe?” “I called and told him I’d take care of the permit another day and that I needed to see you. You’re the most important thing. If you’re not mad, why didn’t you return my calls or text back?” “Your phone’s been tampered with. Both of ours have.” “Oh! Well, damn, why the phones again? Wait a sec. A car’s pulling up behind me. I think I took their parking spot. There’s not many around me.” “Excuse me, Phalen. Your brother, Ethan, is on the phone. He says it is urgent.” Stephan Williams walked into the dining room, offering the phone. “Cassie, stay where you are. I’ll come to you. We’ll go for a walk on and feed the swans, anything you want. Don’t worry about the parking spot.” With his attention on Cassie, he waved for Taran to handle Ethan’s call. “Tell me exactly where you are.” “I’m across the street from the 54th Regiment of Massachusetts monument.” The monument honored the first black regiment to fight for the North in the Civil War. “I’ll be there in a few minutes.” “I’ll wait for you. I love you, Maddox PI.” “Love you too,” he said. There was a pause and Phalen heard what sounded like rap on the window. “Oh, it’s only Michael. See you soon…” The call ended and Phalen took his keys from his pocket. He made it two steps before Taran and Alex stepped in front of him. “I’m off to pick up Cassie.” Taran stood his ground. “I’m going with you as soon as you talk to Ethan.” Phalen growled at his brother. “Can’t you handle it?” “It can’t wait.” Taran handed him the phone. “‘Sup, bro?” Phalen asked. “Got some information you need to know about. Federal Judge Bryant Pierson reported his daughter, Karen Pierson, missing forty-eight hours ago because she didn’t come home from a legal conference in San Francisco. Sam and I got a lead and found her in her Back Bay condo. It’s bad, really bad. The ME estimates she’s been dead for two weeks. Autopsy should confirm it.” “Karen Pierson was Michael Donatelli’s fiancée,” Phalen said. “Yep, that’s our understanding. Evidence at the scene indicates it was a domestic dispute. She was strangled to death, along with a kitten about the same age as yours and Cassie’s. We sent units over to the State House to bring in Donatelli for questioning. He’s not there.”
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“The fucker was knocking on the window of Cassie’s car. The 54th Regiment monument, bro. Get there.” Dropping the phone and not caring where it fell, he bolted for the door. “Phalen, what is going on?” Stephan Williams demanded before he could open it. “I’m sorry, sir. There’s a problem. I need to get to Cassandra and I don’t have time to explain.” “Phil and I will stay here. I’ll handle telling the Williamses,” Alex reassured, waving him on. Taran followed on his heels. Phalen didn’t look back. He was in his Navigator, his brother was buckled in and they took off. “Phalen, if he lays one finger on Cassie, I’m going to kill him.” “Nope, this one’s all mine,” Phalen said, very much afraid that it wasn’t the first time Donatelli had murdered. As he wove in and out of busy downtown Boston traffic, he focused on the Screamin’ Eagles motto “Rendezvous with Destiny”, and the training that made him good enough to be Airborne.
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Chapter Sixteen Phalen and Taran reached the monument to find an unmarked police car parked behind Cassie’s Prius. It took only a second to realize Cassie wasn’t there. Ethan and Sam Riley were combing the area. Phalen thought he was going to puke. Gut-deep fear had taken hold of him and it was kicking his sorry ass. “Easy, big bro,” Taran warned. “Ethan and his partner are here. Stay cool.” “I’m ice,” Phalen remarked, jumping out of the SUV and rushing toward Ethan. “Where is she?” “We’re working on that,” Ethan answered, putting up his hand. “All we know is that she wasn’t here when we arrived. There’s no evidence of violence or any cause to panic. Due to their history as friends, is there a chance she’d go with him of her own accord? I have to ask.” “Not possible. She was waiting here for me. She wouldn’t leave unless he made her.” Phalen spied a jogger hanging around watching and took a chance the guy knew something. “Hey, buddy, can I talk to you?” “Sure,” the jogger said. Sweat rolled down his forehead and he’d been sipping from a water bottle. “How long have you been in this area?” “About half an hour or so.” “Did you by chance see a real pretty strawberry blonde in that car?” Phalen asked, pointing to the Prius. “Sure did. She was hot,” the guy said. “Kept jogging by to see if she’d notice, but she was on her phone.” “Anyone approach the car while you were jogging by?” The jogger frowned, glancing back and forth at him and Ethan. His eyes went up and back to where Samantha Riley was standing. “The chick’s boyfriend showed up, State Senator Donatelli. I backed way off.” Phalen grabbed up the sweat-soaked jogger by his scrawny chest hair and sleeveless nylon shirt. “She’s mine, asshole.” “Hands off,” jogger-guy grumbled. “I didn’t do anything wrong. If she was yours, why’d she get all chummy with him?” Phalen was about to kill himself a jogger. “What the fuck does that mean?”
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“They were leaning back against that Honda, talking all friendly like. She’d been sniffling. He told her not to cry and wiped her nose with a handkerchief like she was ten. Couple seconds later, she passed out.” “Passed out from a handkerchief? And you didn’t help or think it strange?” “He swept her up and put her in his car. Told me he was taking her to her gynecologist and split. She pregnant or something?” “Stupid fuck!” Feeling his temper boil over to berserker rage, he grabbed up a little more nylon and some flesh until the man dangled a couple of inches from the ground. “Phalen Maddox! Put that man down or I will cuff you and take you into custody,” Samantha Riley told him, striding right up to wrestle with his hands until he set the idiot on his feet. “Do you know who you’re messing with, baby doll?” Taran warned. Sam Riley was a six-foot-tall leggy blonde with a trim athletic body and a badass attitude to go along with her badge. It took all of her strength to push Phalen back on his heels. Jogger-boy snickered and Phalen went to grab him to shake some sense into his thick skull. Sam wasn’t having it. She kicked out and wrapped her foot around his ankle, using his momentum and size to send him right to the sidewalk, flat on his back. “Well, I’ll be damned,” Phalen cursed. That was some impressive shit. Ethan leaned over, huffing a little. “You just took down my big brother. Remind me never to piss you off, partner.” “Shut up, Ethan,” she ordered. “The three of you are going to sit your asses down on that curb. One of you moves, I’m kicking butt and taking names later.” Taran was the first to sit. His mouth had dropped open. Phalen shifted around and parked his now-sore ass on the curb. Ethan slumped down beside them. Sam guided the jogger away and talked to him quietly. Taran kept staring like he’d never seen a woman before, much less one who’d frequently eaten dinner at the brownstone when she and Ethan were working late on a case. “Okay, boys, Nathan Smith over there isn’t going to press charges against Phalen. Units have already been sent to check out Donatelli’s apartment. Ethan and I have a crew at his State House office and the Feds have confiscated his computers there and at home. Let’s go bring Cassie home.” She took a breath, looking at Phalen. “Ethan and I are going to be in charge of finding her. If she’s not in Boston metro, I’m going to have to bring in some deputy sheriffs and troopers to catch this motherfucker. Interfere, I’m sending you to Salem or a jail cell, Phalen. You understand?” “Nothing’s going to stop me from taking Donatelli down, darlin’,” Phalen told her point-blank. “You can’t do that if we don’t do this by the book,” Sam said. “Cassie is going to need you a hell of a lot more than you need to kill Donatelli.” 225
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“Fair enough,” Phalen agreed. “You can have the senator. I’ll take care of Cassie.” “You’ve spent more time with him than any of us, Phalen. Where would he go or take her?” Ethan asked. “First place that comes to mind is Fiefdom. He’s bat-shit crazy about medieval stuff,” Phalen answered. “Spent time talking to Cassie’s dad today. I’d say Michael Donatelli’s a prime candidate for psychopath of the year. He’s simply been damn good at hiding it. He must have had a stressor that set off a psychotic break.” “Fiefdom’s boarded up,” Ethan supplied after Phalen finished. “Vice and forensic teams are still going through the red tape of a crime scene.” Ethan’s cellphone played some jazzy tune. “What the fuck! Now she wants to talk?” He grabbed up the phone and answered. “Morgan, I’m sorry, honey, I can’t talk now. Slow down. Hush, don’t cry. I can’t understand you,” he said, standing up regardless of Sam standing over him trying to keep him seated. “Cassie’s where? Castle dungeon with horses above…doesn’t make sense…I’m not doubting you. Don’t hang up. Morgan!” Pacing back and forth, Ethan looked like he might get ill as he thought of something and made a call. “Dispatch, I need an ambulance sent to Morgan Everhart’s shop in Salem. She may be in distress or have a blinding headache. Please get someone there ASAP. Address is…” After finishing his call, Ethan sent the phone sailing across the street and right in front of the monument. The phone shattered. He crashed back to the curb and pulled his short hair until it stood up in spikes. “Fucking hell, I hate this psychic shit! It makes her sick.” “Don’t panic on me, partner.” Sam dropped down to her knees at his feet. “You don’t hate it. You want her and are scared for her. What did she say? It had to be important for you to lose your temper.” “She said Cassie is in a castle dungeon with horses. The only castle with a dungeon that I know of is Lady Catherine’s place over in Danvers. How the hell does Morgan know this, when we’re sitting here like a bunch of pansies and she’s in Salem?” “She may be right, Ethan. I think I know where Cassie is,” Phalen said, standing. Ethan stood up. “Where we headed?” “Norwell, Massachusetts,” Phalen said. “Donatelli’s folks had a horse farm down there. I’m thinking the place looks like a castle. And I’m betting dollars to doughnuts that when you and Sam finish digging up the dirt on our new state senator, you’ll find the owner of Fiefdom.” “Norwell’s a good hour’s drive from here,” Sam said. “Our car is wicked fast, Phalen. You want to use it or are we sticking with the Navigator?” “Engine in your car will haul ass faster than the Lincoln. But who said you’re going? You might want to stand down for this, darlin’,” Phalen answered.
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“Think I’m going to let that piece of shit get away with what he did to his fiancée?” Sam returned, standing toe to toe with him. “You didn’t see her. Ethan and I did. There’s no fucking way I’ll let him hurt Cassie.” She tapped her holstered police-issued .40 caliber Smith and Wesson attached to her hip. “You’ve got a smartass mouth to go with that fine ass of yours, baby doll,” Taran remarked, coming over to move into her personal space and take command of her attention. “It’s a total turn-on. But you’re staying here until we bring Cassie home. Once she’s safe, you can have at Donatelli.” “Wrong, little boy, stay quiet and out of my way or stay here. Your choice.” Samantha flattened her palm against Taran’s chest and pushed him back a good six inches. “Let’s get moving. I’ve got my computer in the car. Ethan will drive while Phalen and I use our tech skills to nail Donatelli’s balls to a cross.” “Works for me,” Phalen agreed. It took less than a minute to climb into the back of the car. None of them cared that the Navigator and the Honda remained parked on the hill. “It’ll be all right, Phalen,” Sam said in his ear as she plugged away on the sweetest laptop he’d seen in a while. “We’ll save her. Believe that.” “Thanks, darlin’,” he whispered back. “I appreciate that you saved me back there. But the next time you pull out your judo skills, you’ll be eating crow.” “That wasn’t even my best, Maddox.” She smiled and Phalen thought to send a couple of prayers Morgan’s way while Ethan drove the cruiser.
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Chapter Seventeen “Phalen,” Cassie murmured, half asleep and her throat aching. “Phalen…wait for him…monument.” Slowly opening her eyes, she looked about, expecting to be in her car. Everything was a dark, frightening blur. Her head throbbed. Had she fallen asleep behind the wheel and dreamed about talking to him? No, that’d been real. Michael tapped on the car window. She’d tucked away her phone and faced him before rolling down the window. “Greetings, my pet, did you miss me, perchance? I’m sorry I had to take care of matters the way I did.” “Michael?” Focusing a bit more, Cassie wasn’t sure why things remained fuzzy. Maybe she’d gotten a fever. “I’m here,” Michael answered, his blurred image coming forward. “Are you wearing armor? Where are my glasses? Water. Need water.” “Do not stress yourself. I’ll assist you.” Michael clunked forward. Cassie tried to move. She couldn’t. “What the hell?” She tugged again, fruitlessly trying to fight the ropes keeping her arms and legs bound to a hard, narrow cot. She wasn’t wearing the clothes she’d been wearing all day. She wore some kind of muslin nightgown. It itched something awful and smelled like mothballs. Not a stitch of clothing was underneath the gown. The body jewelry Phalen had given her was gone. “Michael! What is going on?” “Relax now, Cassandra,” he coaxed, coming closer. A madman in plate armor, decked out with all the trimmings and wearing a helm with a plume of feathers on top, carried a tray in his hands. “You’ve been a very naughty little girl, haven’t you?” “I’m not a girl anymore. Where’s Phalen?” “Let’s not bring him into what’s between us,” he warned, making a freaky clucking sound with his tongue. “I went to drastic measures to finally have you as my own. Can you not give me the decency of your attention for more than fifteen minutes?” “My throat feels like I’ve swallowed sand,” she complained. “My head’s pounding. Did you make me sick?” She remembered the handkerchief he’d used to wipe her nose. It’d smelled sickeningly sweet and she’d tried to reject it. “The side effects of chloroform will pass. I had to make sure you were calm during the drive. Here. Have some water,” he offered, putting his tray on a small table and holding a pitcher above her head to dribble water on her forehead. “Hey! Stop it, Michael,” she warned, shaking her head back and forth as he kept the water dripping.
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Water soaked her face. “My name is no longer Michael to you. Before we are done today, you will know me as your true lord and Master. Now relax, I am cleansing you for our ritual.” “Phalen will tear you a new asshole when he finds us,” she warned. The pitcher crashed to the floor beside her and he struck her face hard enough to make her see stars. Then his leather-and-metal-gauntleted hand gripped her chin. “Don’t say his name again, bitch! I’ve waited my whole goddamn life to get your attention.” Blood slid down her cheek, the pain of his strike still hurting. Scared beyond anything she’d ever known, Cassie was forced to stare up at a face she’d known all her life. “All you ever did was pant after Alessandra’s boyfriends. And what happens five years after she’s gone? You find a man exactly like that pig of a husband of hers.” “I love Phalen. He will come for me.” Michael laughed and pushed himself back, using her face as a springboard. It was a miracle he didn’t crush bones. “Your lover doesn’t have a clue where you are. When I’m done, you won’t remember his name.” He knelt beside the wooden cot then stood to lean over her. “Here, drink your water. There’s plenty left after your cleansing. You will need your strength about you.” Cassie shook her head, biting down on her lip to prevent him from touching the pitcher to her lips. A trickle slipped inside and it tasted terribly salty. He backed off when she gagged. “Gonna be sick, Michael. Please, let me up!” “I shall grant you mercy this once,” he said, putting the pitcher aside. “But it will cost you. Rather than enjoying the next few hours, you must endure the pain.” “Endure?” Too numb with fear to comprehend where she was, she tried to look around. All she could see were burning torches poking out from mud and clay walls and terrifying blurred torture devices that belonged in a museum. She suddenly was grateful she’d lost her glasses. “What about my father, Michael? He’s going to be so disappointed in you for this.” “He loves me like a son. He loves me more than you! You disappoint him every day. He used to ask me why you weren’t like your sister.” Cassie stayed silent. The hurt of Michael’s words was more difficult to bear than the pain of being hit. “He doesn’t know you are very much like Alessandra with your whorish ways. You submit like a godforsaken cow, don’t you? You let Phalen whip you and flog you and fuck you. Right? Answer me! Spill your guts.” She refused. Michael stepped back. “No answer is answer enough. I usually allow my serfs to take their turns with my pets, but not with you. Of course, because of you and your weirdo psychic friend, I no longer have serfs.” “Not my fault,” she said. 229
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“Everything is your fault. No matter. When your father learns we are to wed, he will be most pleased. We can announce our betrothal at the benefit in Alessandra’s honor.” “He’ll kill you himself if you get away with this.” “He’s a man of God. He’ll turn the cheek and forgive me. Wait and see.” “My parents love me. I know what Dad would do for me.” They didn’t always see eye to eye, but that didn’t change her father’s love for her or hers for him. “This is pointless. Let’s see if we can stretch you into submission,” Michael decided. “A few turns of the handles and you’ll be begging me to fuck you to stop the pain.” “That knock to your noggin really messed you up. You need help. It’s okay to ask for help. Get help, I beg you. You’re a state senator, you have responsibilities. Be a man and get help.” “I’m going to man up all the way to the governor’s office. After that, we’ll look into the presidency. Together, we’ll make quite the D.C. power couple.” “If you kill me, Michael, all I’ll be is dead.” He chuckled. “You don’t get it. Ha, imagine. You were supposedly the sensible one of the twins. Obviously, I’m not going to kill you. I’m going to own you.” “Isn’t Karen going to object?” “Karen can’t object to anything.” Michael waved his gloved hand in the air. “All for the better, I think. She complained about the pills too much.” “What pills?” “It was the only way I could fuck her, Cassandra. I had to take them. She was connected to the top of Boston politics. Don’t be jealous.” She was so not jealous. She was terrified and sick. “Did…did you kill her?” “Didn’t I say so?” He moved around to where she couldn’t see him. Something clicked. The ropes pulled. Michael cranked. The chains pulled harder, stretching the cot and her arms with it. “Michael! I’m scared! Stop, please.” “I won’t crank the handle too much…yet. It’s only to keep you begging.” “For what?” “My love,” he answered, shifting backward to remove his helm. He set the helm on the ground and removed his elaborate plate armor. Seconds later, he stood before her wearing chain mail, a tunic and tights that did nothing to hide his arousal. “Oh, please, please, don’t do this. Think of our friendship, of the times you, me and Allie watched movies together. I remember how sad and worried you were for your mom. We were too. If you do this, you will hurt her far more than anyone else. She doesn’t deserve it. Do the right thing, for your mother and Allie.” “I loved Alessandra. She was my only friend. She was the only one who talked to me about my mom.” 230
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“I cared, Michael,” Cassie said. “I love your mom too. She’s a wonderful woman. All I knew back then was that she was sad. I didn’t know how to deal with it. I was a kid.” “Liar,” he accused. “You didn’t give her a moment’s thought. Alessandra did.” “I’m sorry if you thought I didn’t care. If you trusted Allie’s feelings, why did you kill her?” “I never went there to hurt her. I’d meant to save her.” “And Jeff? What did you do to him?” “Drugged him,” he said chillingly. “Put GHB in both their drinks and they were unaware of anything but being silent and compliant. Alessandra looked so lovely when she slept. I thought to steal a kiss. She woke up and I had to do something to keep her from calling for help. Then she lay there, silent and lovely.” “Jeff died six weeks later.” “Yes. I know. I was there. He didn’t remember what happened to his wife. I made certain he thought he’d killed her. Guilt killed him in the end. It was simply a matter of lack of food and supplying the rope.” Michael shrugged Jeff off as inconsequential. “Enough, Cassandra, are you prepared to submit to me?” “You’re going to have to kill me before I submit to you,” she said, refusing to look away or back down. “Brave words for such a naughty girl,” he replied. “I saw what he forced you to wear. You’ll never have to wear such trash upon your body again.” He came forward. The light of a torch turned his face an eerie evil red. The tights he’d been wearing were wedged down around his hips. His eyes glowed insanely as he used one hand to work his cock. Something crashed overhead, sending dust splattering down from the ceiling and into her eyes. Cassie screamed as best she could, “Help!” “Don’t fight now, my pet. It will be over soon,” he said. In the distance a horse neighed. Another stomped. They must be in a stable. “Michael, something’s wrong with your horses. Go help them.” He wedged himself forward to reach above her arms. “You are not cooperating. This could have been so easy for you. Instead, your screams will get me hard again.” Whatever he’d done above her arms caused the ropes to pull her arms and legs painfully taut. “NO! Stop! Phalen, help me!” she called out as more dust and debris fell around them. That wasn’t horses stomping. That was people, an army of them. And somehow she was certain she’d heard Phalen’s heavy combat boots pounding the wooden floor above her. “Bitch,” her captor hissed. Thankfully, the distraction stopped Michael from doing his worst. “Do not speak his name again or you will know exactly how painful the rack can be.” 231
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“Phalen is here to save me.” Cassie closed her eyes when Michael drew back to continue cranking just as wood shattered somewhere beyond them. “Get away from her, Donatelli,” Phalen commanded. The familiar crack of a bullwhip echoed across the room. Then Michael was gone and there was a terrible thud of a body hitting a wall. “Come at me with a lance, fucker. See what happens.” Cassie kept her eyes closed, listening in fear for Phalen as a fight ensued. Michael grunted and groaned like he was getting the stuffing beaten out of him. “Stay down unless you want the sharp end of that lance up your ass,” Phalen warned victoriously. Cassie opened her eyes to make sure she wasn’t dreaming. There he was, wearing blue jeans, combat boots and Sox cap. A brown whip was coiled up at his feet. One of his knuckles bled. He was seriously pissed off and magnificent. Michael was hunched in a bloodied heap at his feet, keeping one hand on his nearly nonexistent privates. A jousting lance sat harmlessly out of reach. “Get off my property, Maddox!” Michael grumbled through fat lips. “I’ll have you arrested for trespassing and assault.” “Don’t think so,” Phalen said. “I’ve got some folks behind me who need to talk to you. Sam, Ethan, cuff this piece of shit before I kick his nose into the back of his skull.” Cassie almost forgot to breathe. “Phalen! Oh, thank God, thank God!” Kicking the whip aside, he stepped over Michael and reached her in two big strides. He stooped down to reach something below her line of sight. A second later, he was slicing a sharp knife through the ropes to free her as a thunder of footsteps came into the room. He put the knife away and touched his hand to her face, testing the cut and bruises that had already formed. “Cassandra Williams, do you have any idea how much I love you?” “If it’s as much as I love you, it must be a helluva lot,” she answered roughly. Her throat still burned and she ached all over, yet she’d never welcomed anything more than Phalen lifting her off the table and into his arms. “So much that getting to you was more important than killing Donatelli. Now I’m gonna keep holding on to you or I’m going Grim Reaper him straight to hell.” “Thank you,” she whispered against his mouth, tears welling up as he gathered her close against his chest. “Nothing to thank me for,” Phalen said. “Samantha and the Feds found what’s needed to put him away. He’ll never hurt you or anyone in your family ever again.” Behind them, Detective Samantha Riley spoke. “Michael Donatelli, you are wanted for questioning in connection to the murder of Karen Pierson and under arrest for the kidnapping and assault of Cassandra Williams.”
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“Don’t be a fool, cop,” Michael stated. “Do you know who I am? I can eat you and your miniscule detective squad for breakfast and shit you all out the next day.” Cassie wedged herself around a bit painfully. Sam trained a handgun at Michael’s chest. “You didn’t let me finish. We’ve got a warrant for your arrest in connection to the illegal operation of a club called Fiefdom and a host of pornography and cybercrimes that we’ll be discussing at length when we get you back to Boston. Feds have an equally long list of charges. Get up!” Ethan Maddox backed up his partner, his gun aimed at Michael’s head. One by one, a bunch of uniformed officers came in. “You can’t possibly get a warrant that quickly,” Michael objected. “I want my lawyer. That PI came in first. I defended myself with a lance. See if I don’t get that warrant revoked faster than you can blink.” “You’ll get a lawyer. No worries. We’ve got the power of the DA, the state’s attorney general and the sheriff of this county who deputized Phalen to help make the arrest all nice and legal, Donatelli,” Ethan assured. “Get up like my partner said. You don’t want to push your luck with me. My brother let you off easy.” “That a threat?” Michael returned, standing now. “Are you wearing tights?” Sam asked, snickering some. “Hose, moron,” was Michael’s correction. “Don’t be calling my partner a moron,” Ethan warned. “Sam, can I do the honors or do you want this collar?” “He’s all yours. If I touch him, I’ll puke.” Ethan read Michael his Miranda rights and slapped some plastic restraints around his wrists to seal the deal. “Everything all right now?” Taran Maddox asked after Michael was taken away. “We’re good,” Ethan said. “Gravy,” Sam stated, moving toward the door like she owned the world. “How the hell did I miss that sexy sway around the house, Ethan? Must have been too much studying,” Taran remarked, trailing behind Sam. “Keep this one as your partner. She’s feisty. Taming her is going to be wicked fun.” Sam turned back, looked him dead in the eye and said, “You touch my sway, pretty boy, I’ll face plant you into the dirt faster than I took out Phalen.” “What’s that?” Cassie asked, turning her attention back to the man who refused to set her down. “I’ll tell you later. Right now, you’re getting checked out.” He started off after his brothers and Sam. “I just want to see my parents and go home,” Cassie insisted. “I know, sweetheart. I’ll get you to them. Let me take care of you now, okay?”
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“Okay.” Everything hurt and her face felt like she’d been nailed by a tire iron. “Where’d you get a whip? It’s not like you can hide that thing in your boot like you do your knife.” “Tack room upstairs.” Cassie tried to smile, but it hurt. “He took my jewelry, Phalen. My glasses and phone too. I’m sorry.” Phalen paused, looking down at her. “Don’t do that, Cassie. If anyone should apologize, it’s me for not getting to you fast enough and for not asking the right questions about Donatelli sooner or finding anything more on him other than two parking tickets in the last five years.” “You saved me. You’ll always be my hero.” Feeling a little vulnerable due to the bruises, scratchy gown and absence of his jewelry, she glanced away. “I must look awful.” “You are beautiful.” He maneuvered her around and brought her up for another kiss, this time without witnesses to see the way his tongue slipped deep, deep into her mouth to remind her that his love would never let her down. Phalen carried her out of Michael’s hellhole and into the welcome sight of twilight. Cassie quickly realized they were at the Donatellis’ horse farm. In the distance was a Tudor-style mansion that some claimed reminded them of a castle. The house and grounds were surrounded by more squad cars and crime scene analyst units than she’d expected. She didn’t know where Michael was and didn’t care to look. Phalen took her over to an ambulance and sat down in the doorway, keeping her on his lap. Feeling safe and secure in Phalen’s arms, Cassie closed her eyes while the medic applied a butterfly bandage to the cut on her face until they could get to an ER for stitches and then bandaged her wrists and ankles with soft gauze. At some point, they moved into the ambulance. The vehicle was moving. Her man stayed right at her side, holding her hand as she rested on a stretcher with a warm blanket draped over her.
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Chapter Eighteen He’s very aware of who he is, my Master. It is because of him that I live, write and love. I began writing this journal for Cassandra. It became my ode to him. This is my last entry so that I may move on to the life Master and I have planned. I pray my family will understand. I pray they will accept him once and for all. If not now, perhaps in another time and place they will come to know I am in the hands of the man who loves me. “She’s at peace now, isn’t she?” Cassie asked Morgan as she tucked her sister’s journal away in a pocket hidden inside her long leather coat that would make pirates envious. Wearing kickass thigh-high black boots, a white shirt and corset, black leggings and a colorful scarf woven through the strands of her strawberry-blonde hair to tie it back, she felt strong enough to take on Blackbeard himself. “I’m sensitive to spirits, Cassie. I believe it was your sister who told me where Michael took you. She’d been happy in the afterlife until you were threatened,” Morgan answered. “Regardless of the tragedy of their deaths, Allie and Jeff found each other again. In heaven, they are free.” “Amen,” Cassie whispered, glancing up to the catwalks above the stage. “I can’t imagine where Phalen and Alex went off to. I mean, now of all times? Mom’s already called the fifteen-minute warning before the curtain goes up. My brother Stephan is pacing and primping for the cameras.” Cassie forced herself to keep from scratching the thin bandage covering her stitches. She was supposed to get them out in a couple days. Her bruises weren’t too bad, although the skin under her right eye was a terrible purplish yellow and there were a couple of fingerprint marks on her jaw. “Don’t worry. I’m sure Phalen will be back before things start. I admire you. You could have put this off a couple of weeks.” “Today’s mine and Allie’s birthday. There’s nothing more healing to me than doing what is right in her honor. Besides, in theater the show must go on. If it was delayed, Michael would win.” “You’re incredibly forgiving. I’m not sure I am.” Morgan looked around. Cassie guessed her friend was waiting for Ethan to arrive. A door to the backstage area of the theater Alex Grant had procured for the telethon swung open. In walked Ethan Maddox with a half-dozen mountain-sized men and an extremely tall and curvy gorgeous blonde. She held the hand of none other than Dallas McKay!
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“Morgan, do you know who that is?” She’d known he was supposed to come to the telethon. She wasn’t sure what his talent was going to be. Alex had mentioned Dallas’ uncle, a full-blooded Sioux, was coming to be part of it. “Kyran Black,” Morgan answered, referring to the tall, dark and absolutely gorgeous man standing to the blonde’s right. “Kyran?” Cassie repeated, blinking. “I heard my name.” Kyran turned his head at the sound of Cassie’s voice. He looked at her and smiled. Whoa! Kyran had a killowatt grin. “Hello, sugar. You must be my best friend’s girl. He was right on the money when he said you were a knockout.” Cassie flushed all the way to her toes. “Careful, Coach,” Dallas McKay warned in a voice as gruff and sexy as a movie star cowboy. He wore a black cowboy hat and a smile as charming as Kyran’s. “Phalen will put you in a body cast if you get frisky with his lady.” He removed his hat and came over. He was a god among wide receivers and Cassie’s favorite football player. Long black hair fell way past his shoulders, rivaling Phalen’s for length. With the hat off, his Sioux heritage was more evident. Beside him, Grace Daniels laughed and tugged on his shoulder. “Don’t be teasing, Dallas.” “Who’s putting who in a body cast?” Phalen interrupted, coming out of nowhere and into the gathering of Alexandria Griffins football players. Cassie didn’t know all their names. She recognized the starting quarterback, Ricky Weathers, the team’s center and a behemoth-looking, broad-shouldered man as tall as Kyran with about twenty or thirty pounds of heavier muscle. Phalen took Kyran into a bear hug, forcing the former quarterback to scramble for footing. “Easy, Phalen, you’re crushing something Anna needs.” “Wasn’t sure you’d get here, man. How’s Anna?” Phalen asked, dropping his friend. “She’s great.” The smile he’d been giving off changed from megawatt charm to devastatingly sincere. “She wanted to be here for you and Cassie. Her doc doesn’t want her to travel.” “Understandable,” Phalen said. “She doesn’t need you there now? If you need to bail, do so without a word.” “If I do that, she’ll kick me to the guestroom. You have no idea how awesome it is to hold Anna at night and feel our babies kick. They’re all strong and healthy. The bed rest is a precaution now. Her friend Tracey’s helping her this weekend. They’ll both be watching the telethon and calling up Griffins wives and families to donate.” Kyran turned his gaze to Cassie. She backed up a little. He’d gone from lovesick hubby and father-to-be to Alpha territorial. “Hi,” she thought to say, putting out her hand. “I’m Cassie.”
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“Why the fuck didn’t you kill him, Phalen?” Kyran demanded when he took a good look at the left side of her face. “I would have.” “No, you wouldn’t,” Phalen interjected, moving to Cassie’s side to tuck his hand at her back. “Getting Cassie to safety was what I needed to do. If I’d given in to my hatred, I’d have lost her. If Anna called and said come home, wouldn’t you go?” “In a heartbeat,” Kyran stated, his Louisiana accent coming out strong. “Cassie, if you need anything, you give me a holler. I won’t hesitate to get here and offer anything you or your family needs to nail the bastard.” “Thank you. Samantha Riley, Ethan Maddox and the FBI are making sure Donatelli pays for what he’s done.” Waving off Michael in favor of the good that was to come of this night, she changed the subject. “It is great to finally meet Phalen’s best friend.” “What’s that make me, chopped liver?” Alex demanded, tapping Kyran’s shoulder. The two did a manly shoulder-to-shoulder slam that sent Kyran back an inch. “Never,” Cassie said. “You’re filet mignon wrapped in bacon.” “I’d add prime rib on the side,” Grace Daniels agreed, offering her hand. “I’m Grace. Let me tell you, Cassie Williams, you are one very lucky lady to have Phalen Maddox at your side.” “Yes, I am,” Cassie stated, smiling. Grace was very sweet and taller than Ricky Weathers by an inch. “This big ole brute behind me is Dallas McKay.” “Yeah, he’s hard to miss.” Cassie was a bit tongue tied when Grace brought Dallas forward. It wasn’t that Dallas was shy by any means. She figured he didn’t want to overstep the college buddies’ reunion. Phalen shook hands with Dallas. “Nice to see you again, D.” “Back at you, Phalen. Nice to meet you, Cassie.” Dallas’ cowboy accent made her want to giggle. “Same to you,” she replied. “Don’t mind my lack of clever speech. You’re my favorite football player.” “Thanks. You’ll have to come to a game next season.” Dallas looked back at the Native American man standing with the football players. Judging from the gray in his raven-black hair, Cassie would say the other man was his uncle. “Let me introduce my Uncle Kangee. We’re going to perform a Lakota Sioux ghost dance.” “Welcome, Kangee. Wow, now we’ve got more to ogle,” Cassie concluded a little too loudly. The slightly older man was every bit as handsome as his nephew. “No ogling allowed unless it’s me you’re ogling,” Phalen playfully warned, leaning in to nip her right earlobe. “Our men don’t realize that even though we love them, it doesn’t make us blind,” Grace confided in Cassie. “Come on, Cassie. I want to check out your outfit in the ladies’ dressing room. You’re Morgan, right?” she asked Cassie’s best friend, who hadn’t strayed far, though she’d withdrawn behind the curtain of her auburn hair. 237
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“Yes.” Morgan tossed back her hair. A chorus of male whistles followed. “Looks to me like y’all here in New England have been hoarding the smokin’-hot babes,” Ricky Weathers demanded, echoing the sentiments of the other football players. “Back off, Weathers, she’s my smokin’-hot babe,” Ethan warned from a slight distance. “Damn my luck.” Ricky backed off as told. But he’d made Morgan blush. “He doesn’t own me, Mr. Weathers,” Morgan said. “Maybe I’ll visit Virginia sometime soon. I’ve been itching to travel and test out new waters.” “Name’s Ricky,” he replied. “Keep flirting and see how much trouble you’ll be in, Morgan,” Ethan promised, moving up to stare her down. “You’re gonna have to catch me before you can try,” she returned, shoving past him to join forces with Cassie and Grace. “Time to get to the dressing room before these guys rumble.” Grace took over, herding the women farther backstage and well away from the men. She looked around backstage, homing in on Taran Maddox tuning up his guitar. “Whoa. Who’s that?” “Taran. Phalen’s youngest brother,” Cassie answered. “How’d the ladies get so fortunate to have three Maddox brothers in one state?” “My mom says it’s good Celt genes.” Cassie couldn’t help smiling. Samantha Riley, wearing her customary jeans, tee shirt and boots came strolling up to them. Her shoulder-length straight honey-blonde hair was pulled into a simple ponytail. Cassie watched Taran pause in mid-strum as Sam went on by without giving him any notice at all. “Samantha, meet Grace Daniels. She’s engaged to Dallas McKay,” Cassie invited, pulling Sam into the conversation. “Ladies, you’re looking at the woman who felled Phalen when he stepped over the line. She booked Donatelli too.” “I helped with that. Thank you very much, Cassie,” Ethan called out. “You did what?” Grace grinned so wide, she became utterly stunning. “Now that’s a story I have got to hear at the after-party. Let’s get Cassie ready for the show.” “Don’t I look okay?” Cassie wondered, suddenly worried that she’d missed a spot with the makeup. She hadn’t been able to wipe out all the marks, but she no longer looked worked over by a gauntlet. “You’re lovely,” Grace reassured. “Those boots are killer. I’ve got to kick Dallas’ ass while wearing boots like those sometime.” “Okay, now I’m all for some ass-kicking. And kudos for snaring McKay.” Sam checked her hip. Her gun was strapped in place as she’d been hired to help out the Maddox brothers with security. “He’s the hottest guy on the planet.” “I think Kyran Black’s hotter,” Morgan said. “So is the big guy with the fabulous mane of caramel-brown hair. He looks strong enough to tackle a mountain.”
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“Hazard,” Grace supplied. “Real name’s Trevor Hazard Osbourne. His teammates call him by his middle name because of the way he plays linebacker. Wait until you hear him sing. He will melt your hearts.” The second they were all alone in the dressing room, Grace hugged Cassie. “Just want you to know, Dallas and I are with Kyran in backing you up. I’m a PI. If you or Phalen need my skills, they’re yours.” “Thanks. I owe you an apology for thinking you and Phalen were dating when he came down your way for visits.” “Don’t be worrying about that. Phalen loves you and Dallas won my heart the second he landed in my lap. We’ll talk later. I hear the emcee calling things to order out front.” Stephan’s voice echoed throughout the whole theater. Cassie’s mom, calling cues from backstage, ordered five minutes to the first act, a locally famous illusionist. The chaos behind the scenes settled quietly. A knock came at the dressing room door. “Pardon, may I come in?” “Uncle Michael! It’s so good to see you,” Cassie greeted, turning to see her father’s closest friend in the doorway. She rushed to him, intending to give him a hug. He held her off. “I had to come and apologize for my son,” Uncle Michael said. “Please know Marie and I want to offer any support you need going forward.” “Michael’s going to need you two as well.” “How could we not know? The things he’s done are reprehensible.” “No one knew. Obviously he needs serious help. He’ll get it. That’s the important thing.” “We’re going to sell the farm. We only kept it for Michael. The money made from it will be donated to the safe haven in Alessandra’s name.” Cassie shook her head. “You should give it to the hospital helping Aunt Marie and others like her. There are so many who can’t afford the medications and health insurance bills. We’ve got a lot of donations already. In a minute, I’m going to man the telephones with Dad and Markus.” “If that’s what you want,” Uncle Michael agreed. “Thank you, Cassandra.” “You’re welcome. I’ll see you later at the after-party.” Cassie smiled and he left. “Have to say it, Cassie. That took some guts,” Grace commented. “Phalen told me you’ve agreed to come to my wedding. What do you say the three of you be my bridesmaids with Anna and my sister? When you find out how many Griffins players are standing up for Dallas, you’d know why I ask. We’ll make sure to invite the Maddox brothers too.” “We don’t know each other well yet,” Cassie said. “No worries. Friendship takes an instant, right?”
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“Happened with Alex Grant that way, yes, I’d love to be part of your wedding.” Sam and Morgan nodded in agreement too. “Anna and I bent over backward to get Alex to relax enough around us to wear jeans at a Dallas McKay barbeque. And he’s your business partner? What gives?” “If you sit him down one on one, Alex opens up. He’s a good man and easy to talk to.” “Yes, he is,” she agreed. “He helped me,” Morgan supplied. “When Michael took Cassie, I was overcome with a vision. But my gift comes with a price. I get terrible migraines afterward. Alex came to sit by my side in the hospital while the doctors checked me out.” “How sweet,” Grace said. “Don’t forget Ethan sent the ambulance in the first place,” Cassie reminded her friend. Morgan’s dark-brown eyes narrowed. “Ethan can kiss my ass.” “Careful what you wish for,” Cassie warned. “Fortunately for the women who love them, Phalen taught his brothers to treat women with respect. Ethan would bite off his own arm before he intentionally hurt you. Give him a chance.” “I’ll think about it,” Morgan said, not looking like she wanted to slap him anymore. “I can’t ask for a better partner than Ethan,” Sam said. “Taran’s supposedly the smart one. But he’s really the dumbass.” “Careful,” Cassie said. “Phalen claims Taran excels at working with leather, including whips and floggers.” “Taran tries to use one on me, he’ll be sorry,” Sam dared with a mischievous gleam in her eyes. “He lost his chance when he called me baby doll. Can you imagine? I can kick most men’s asses.” She looked down at her attire and clearly thought she wasn’t feminine enough. The magician was called to the stage. Cassie turned on her heel. “I’m off to the phone tables. Get ready for a great show.” “When does the Maddox Brothers band play?” Sam asked. “Last act, two hours from now,” Cassie answered. She walked off. Even though she’d joined the women in the dressing room, they’d never gotten around to fixing her makeup. Cassie took a seat beside her father. “Everything all right?” he asked. “Everything’s great. All the acts Alex arranged are here and waiting for their cues. Mom’s got the backstage under control.” “I’d meant when you spoke to Michael’s father.” “Uncle Michael is wonderful. I’m fine, Dad, really. The only person who needs to pay for what he’s done to our family is Michael Jr. He didn’t hurt just me. He hurt all of us, especially Allie and Jeff and his parents.” 240
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“Phalen has a lot to do with your outlook on the situation,” her father said. “He’s been a rock. Without him, I wouldn’t have the strength to sit here answering phones.” “You’d be strong enough,” he corrected. “You’re an intelligent, open-minded woman. Your mother and I are proud of the woman you are, Cassandra. I wish I’d been as open-minded about Alessandra and Jeff. For that, I will pray for their forgiveness every day until I see them again.” “They’re happy, Dad. I believe that with all my heart.” Markus, home from one of his latest missions, sat behind her and playfully tagged Cassie’s shoulder with a wad of paper. “Cassie, honey, can we make room for one more volunteer?” her mom requested, coming from backstage with a gentleman in her wake. “I’ve got to get back. You should see what the techies unloaded for the football players.” Cassie watched her mother walk away and looked closer at the man she’d brought over. He was ungodly handsome with shaggy dark-brown hair and a masculine five o’clock shadow and carried himself with pure confidence. “Dr. Hathaway?” Cassie said, stunned. “Yes,” he greeted, smiling subtly. “Dr. Ryan Hathaway. I got your messages and knew I couldn’t miss this chance to make things right.” Cassie nodded. “You will. Have a seat.” She invited him over to take the remaining vacant chair she’d been holding on the chance he would come. Her dad moved over, allowing Ryan to find his place. “What do I do?” “Calls come in, answer, take down the information. There’s an index card at each phone station with what you need to say. You’ll be fine.” “Thank you. I don’t know how long I’ll be welcome to stay after the telethon. If I’ve blown it already, tell me now.” “You’re here. You’ll stay.” Cassie patted his hand, offering a squeeze. “Can I ask what happened to the side of your face?” He looked at her like a doctor looked at a patient. “Someone hit me,” she told him. “It’s a really long story. I’ll tell you at the afterparty.” “Wouldn’t miss it,” he said. “I may need a place to stay while I’m here. Do you have any recommendations?” “You bet, Doc Hathaway. Phalen and I will get you set up and taken care of,” Cassie said, winking at him. “Thanks, by the way, for patching up my man.” “He’s not the one who hit you, I hope?” “Oh no.” “Very good. It would go against my Hippocratic oath if I had to hurt him.” With that, Doc turned his attention to a ringing phone and Cassie answered hers. 241
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The magician was awesome. He was a Boston favorite and the packed theater was having a blast. One by one, acts went on stage, performed their magic, each giving voice to ending the silence on domestic abuse. Cassie’s favorite act went to Dallas and his uncle. The two men came onto the stage dressed in full Sioux regalia. Donations came pouring in when the men danced. A local Irish step dancing group performed, creating more calls. A couple of professional athletes who played for Boston-area sports teams stepped onto the stage, along with the Griffins’ center and QB. They spoke about stopping domestic abuse. When Trevor Osbourne went on stage, he took nothing but an acoustic guitar. He sang in a deep baritone that was old-school country cool. The linebacker finished his song to a standing ovation, bowed and looked over at Stephan. “I believe I’ll turn things over to the big man there. Just be sure y’all take care of those who might be too scared to admit they need a safe place to call home,” Trevor said and waltzed off, a curtain falling. Silence ensued. The theater went dark. Stephan spoke briefly. “Cassandra, this act is for you. Happy birthday.” He disappeared into the darkness offstage. Heavy grinding took place up in the catwalks. Stagehands fired up spotlights, aiming toward the rafters. Slowly, four men rappelled from above. The cable and harness system allowed them to control their descent and they stopped a good ten feet in the air! It was something straight out of an action flick. The first to reach the floor was Kyran Black. His shoulder-length dark-auburn hair was left long and he’d removed his shirt and wore only black martial arts gi pants and a third-degree black belt. He unhooked from his safety equipment, bowed to Cassie, then to the audience and drew up tall to make a karate stance and hold in place. The second man to touch down was Ethan in a white tae kwon do gi. His belt was knotted about his waist. Taran joined him. He’d donned the same type of gi and second-degree black belt as his older brother. Side by side, they bowed the same way Kyran had and dropped back a couple of feet, seeming to defer to Kyran’s higher rank. Alex Grant descended with the grace of a puma. His light touchdown barely made a sound. His eight-pack abs rippled with the slightest of movements. He wasn’t broadshouldered or bulky like some of the football players he represented. No. He was as toned and sculpted as any kung fu action movie hero. Chinese symbols were tattooed on his biceps. Cassie had to fan Doc with her index card. “I’m a stubborn ass,” Doc whispered into her ear. “How’d I stay away from him?” “I don’t know, my friend. Just don’t hurt him or I’ll have something to say about it.” Cassie looked back at Alex. Like Kyran, he wore only pants. “He’s not wearing a belt.” “Alex has studied traditional kung fu since he was twelve. His instructors didn’t bother with belts. But he’s comparative in rank to Kyran and Phalen.”
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The catwalks shook and Phalen dropped so fast that Cassie shielded her eyes. The cheers and whistles from the ladies in the audience that welcomed the original quartet became a roar of excitement, assuring her Phalen set down safely. Cassie opened her eyes as the other men fanned out slightly behind him. Phalen wore all black. His long hair was back in a ponytail, his sleeves were cut away to reveal the exact definition of his honed muscle and the long vee of the uniform shirt framed a necklace of some sort. From the side, Cassie couldn’t exactly see what the necklace was. As soon as he unharnessed the cable and a techie reeled it upward, he bowed like the others. It might have been a trick of the lighting, but she thought he winked at her before taking his stance and the real action began with Carl Douglas’ Kung Fu Fighting cranking through the theater. In perfect choreography, the men gave credence to the strikes, kicks and aerials of tae kwon do, the holds and takedowns of judo, the lethal prowess of jujitsu and Alex’s beloved kung fu. The phones went wild. All of a sudden the routine changed. The men turned in unison, facing Cassie. With Phalen at the front, they worked their way toward her as if their routine had become a mixed martial arts version of a flash mob! And then they were standing in front of her. Phalen extended his hand. “Cassandra Williams, may I have a birthday dance?” Ryan Hathaway pushed her up out of her chair. Next thing she knew, Phalen was grabbing her up and carrying her to center stage. The other men dropped back into their respective stances. Kung Fu Fighting changed to something deeply romantic. Phalen set her on her feet and they danced as if they were a couple waltzing around a ballroom. He could dance! Really, truly dance and his moves were so incredibly sexy that she had an orgasm when he slid his groin provocatively against hers. He was hard and throbbing. Fortunately, no one would know. His pants were loose and he’d shifted her enough to hide it. Her hero smiled and dipped her back over his arm. “Was learning to dance what you were doing in Boston?” “This and asking your parents for their blessing,” he answered, grinning like a devil as he brought her back up. Phalen drew her close, kissed her and fell to one knee. He took the necklace from around his neck, presenting it to her. “Will you marry me, Cassandra?” Her heart raced so fast, it felt as if she’d been doing all those aerial kicks. He opened his palm, revealing a silver engagement ring with a very simple round-cut diamond and the skeleton key to the dungeon. “Yes, Phalen Maddox, yes!” The audience cheered. Phones rang. Phalen removed the ring from a string that attached it to the leather necklace and slid it into place on her left ring finger. “It was
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my mom’s ring, sweetheart. I’d like to wear my dad’s wedding band if that’s all right with my wife?” “It’s exactly right.” The ring fit her finger. The small diamond sparkled with intense fire. The silver band shined under the spotlight narrowed in on her hand. “Thank you for this. It means more than I can say. I love you.” “Love you too,” he declared loudly. Leaning inward, he whispered in her ear. “Will you wear my key and tattoo as your collar?” Keeping her voice low, she made a vow. “I accept, Master.” She took the key with love and slipped it over her head until it fell between her breasts. “Now how about you come a little bit closer and kiss me?” Laughing, he swooped in and captured her mouth in a kiss that drove her crazy with love. All around them, cheers went up to the rafters. Dallas, Grace, Morgan and Sam came out on stage. Ethan and Taran came up and tagged their older brother on the shoulder. Along with Alex and Kyran, they all gathered Cassie and Phalen into the biggest group hug she’d ever known. Considering Phalen didn’t stop kissing her, she couldn’t imagine a better way to celebrate a proposal. “How about you two break it up for the last set?” Taran teased. “We’ve got a party to get to at the brownstone.” Everyone stepped back. Phalen set Cassie down as gently as possible. “Let’s do this, babe.” He kept her hand in his and led her to a stage that’d miraculously been transformed by black-clothed techies while he’d been on his knees. Taking up her position as the bassist, Cassie waited until Phalen was seated behind his trap set, Taran picked up his kickass Fender and Ethan went to his keyboard. Phalen slapped his drumsticks together to count off the first song. Cassie followed rhythm, setting the tone for the remainder of the night.
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Chapter Nineteen Phalen stood in the doorway of the bathroom, watching Cassie play with Samson and Delilah. She looked happy and pretty in her cutoff shorts and simple pink tee shirt. The problem was she’d taken it into her head to put her hair in a French braid. She knew it drove him crazy. What drove him crazier was the fact that he hadn’t made love to his woman in a week and a half because she’d gotten her period the day after he’d brought her home from Donatellis’ farm. All he could do for her while she healed was kiss and hold her. He’d thank God for the rest of his life that he’d been able to reach her in time. She’d been remarkably courageous since. But he knew Cassie’s time of the month was over. She’d paid a visit to the spa and she’d asked Alex to watch the diner for the day. The tears she’d shed late at night had ended. There’d be times when they’d still come. Phalen believed she was ready to move on. She was giving off all kinds of fuck-me vibes. And damn, they needed it something bad. “They’ve grown since the benefit.” He pushed off the doorjamb with his elbow and went to stand next to where she sat on the floor. Just out of the shower and wearing old cutoffs, he smelled like her favorite soap. When a man’s about to collar his fiancée, he should smell good. “Phil says they’re very healthy,” Cassie said. “Do you think Phil will be okay? His ex has become a p-i-t-a.” “Repeat that without the spelling.” “Pain in the ass. Cheating idiot should be neutered.” “Whoa, babe, don’t threaten a guy’s manhood. A little ass-kicking will do the trick.” “I guess Taran didn’t tell you about the threat I’d made.” “You mean crushing my nuts in a humbler?” Cassie pushed up to her knees. “That’s not quite what I said. How much trouble am I in?” “Serious enough that you need to take off the key you’ve been wearing and put it to use.” “I was, you know, premenstrual. And we couldn’t mess around during.” “That’s not an issue now.” “You were being secretive that day.” “For good reason,” he pointed out. “Couldn’t propose without a plan, babe.”
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“Along with what was raised during the telethon, the advance and royalties from my sister’s books and the annual benefit in her honor, we’ll fund the safe haven for a long time to come and hire a top-notch security crew and counselors. Your proposal, that was the best of the night, though.” “Glad you liked it,” Phalen said. “We’ve got a problem. You broke a rule. Your hair is braided.” Cassie looked up at him, wide-eyed and innocent. The little grin she offered was all carnal intent. “I need to be corrected. Won’t you take me flying, Master?” Staying on her knees, she offered up the skeleton key, submissively bowing her head to wait for him to take it. Humbled, Phalen touched his hand to her chin and brought her to stand. “It’s not going to be too much for you? If you need time before I take you to the dungeon again, say so. We’ll stay right here and make love. Afterward, I’m taking you on a date.” “Wonderful. Tonight, I hope you’ll fuck me until I scream myself hoarse and we’re too sore to move until morning. Right now, I’d like you to take me back to that magical land where only you and I exist. Erase him from my mind and prove that you are my hero.” “I’ll be your hero for the rest of your life.” Cupping her face with one hand, he worked the braid apart with the other. “Sure you’re up for a date today?” “You bet. Where are we going?” “It’s a secret for now. You’ll love it. Trust me.” “Okay.” Cassie tiptoed up and kissed him square on the mouth. Turning the kiss from sweet and gentle to hot and heavy, Phalen waited until they were moaning and dry-humping each other, then withdrew to pick her up and carry her out of the studio. “Do you think Ryan Hathaway convinced Alex that he’s here to stay?” Cassie asked halfway down the stairs to the basement. “They have a lot to work through. With a little time and patience, they’ll get things right.” “I hope so. At least Doc’s not hiding anymore. He’s interviewing at local hospitals and orthopedic practices and Alex is still on the hunt for a B&B. In the meantime, he’ll share an apartment with Phil Garrison. I bet that causes Ryan to get territorial soon enough.” “Alex and the vet are only friends. There’s no need for Hathaway to get jealous. But how about we keep the matchmaking outside the dungeon?” He had to jostle Cassie to get the key into the lock. He carried her through the doorway and kicked the monstrosity closed. The hinges creaked. Cassie gasped. Within seconds, he smelled her arousal. Creaking hinges and cracking whips were instant turn-ons for her. She grinned softly as he set her down.
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Without being told, she walked to the mat in the center of the room, dropped to her knees, placed her hands palm up on her thighs and lowered her eyes to await his instructions. He went over to the table to make certain he hadn’t forgotten to autoclave anything. Ink, needles and tubes and his tattoo machine were set to go. Looking over at her perched on the mat, he was struck by how wonderfully submissive she was. She wasn’t a pushover and she wasn’t his slave. She was his. “You realize what’s going to happen in our dungeon today, Cassie?” “You’re collaring me with a tattoo. The key I wear is an outward symbol of the collar you’re about to give me.” “Giving you ink is my vow to you. Even though our wedding isn’t until October, today you’ll become my wife. I’ll never abuse you, cheat on you or treat you as anything less than an equal. Everything we promised each other these last few months remains, fidelity, the lessons, your submission and I’ll switch when you need it.” “I understand and accept you as my husband and Master.” “If you want to wear something more than the dungeon key around your neck, I will take you to a store I know of in Boston that sells excellent ones.” “I want the tattoo as much as I love wearing your mother’s ring, Phalen. Getting a tat from the Ink Master himself is an honor I will cherish for the rest of my life.” Loving her beyond reason, he grinned and lit candles. As soon as the flames were burning bright and he had a lamp nearby to give him the right lighting to do the ink work, he went over and killed the overhead lights. Phalen walked up behind Cassie, knelt and gathered her up into his arms. “Don’t be scared. I plan to make this good for you.” “I’m not afraid.” Cassie hugged her arms around him as he carefully lowered her onto the table. “I’m not going to bind you in any way, sweetheart. If it gets tough, signal me and we’ll see what we can do to deflect the pain. Before we get to the ink, I want to make love to you.” “Please,” she agreed, patting the table. “Hop on up here. There’s room.” Phalen shed his shorts. Climbing up onto the table beside her, he took off her glasses and set them on the table nearby, then curled toward her to undress her. Whistling at the sight of her nude quim and gorgeous breasts, he leaned in and took his time lapping and sucking on her nipples the way she liked. Teeth, tongue, strong suction and a whole lot of necessary roughness set her off like a firecracker. Maneuvering her around to play with her luscious ass, he grunted hungrily as she turned the tide and gripped his ass hard enough to dig her manicured nails into his flesh. The bite of her nails made him hard as a rock. He did like rough sex.
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Frances Stockton
There’d been plenty of times since they got together when he’d woken up with palm prints, bites and scratches on various parts of his body. He welcomed the marks as much as she favored hers. “You’ve the best ass this side of the Mason–Dixon line,” she praised, staring up at his face while she caressed the redness she’d caused. “Whose ass do you think wins south of it?” “Dallas McKay. He lives in Virginia, right? Did you watch the dance he did with his uncle?” “Don’t be noticing D’s ass. You are asking for a flogging after the tat heals.” “Promise?” “Hell, yeah, I aim to make you pay with the sex machine and the brand-new nipple clamps I ordered last night.” Kissing her again, he brought her up and over his hips, letting her slide down the length of his rampant cock. Her tight pussy surrounded his length with hot silken muscle. With a swivel of her sweet hips, she took him for a down-and-dirty fuck until he was shouting to the damn rooftop. Her vise-tight orgasmic contractions milked him as they came in unison. “Nothing’s better than your pussy squeezing my cock, babe.” “Nothing fits me better than your cock. I can’t wait to strap you into the sex swing and take a whip to your ass. You’ll teach me what I need to know so I won’t ever harm you, yes?” Sitting up, Phalen flipped over to reveal the new tattoo on his left ass cheek. Taran had carved out Cassie’s name in black ink on an open book, in the center a coffee cup. “I’m yours. This proves it. You’re the only one I’ll ever switch for, Cassie Williams. In a couple months, that name’s officially changing to Maddox.” “I’ll be glad to have it. No wonder you’ve been wearing boxers all the time when we’re alone. When did you get this?” “If I wanted to keep my dick in check until we could fuck, I had to wear them. Got the tat the day I told your parents I wanted to marry you. Taran did the work. I wanted your name, babe. When the time’s right, I will teach you how to do ink.” “Okay. I’m not mad. I’m honored to know you endured your brother’s harassment for my sake. Bet he was merciless.” “Brutal. I kicked his ass afterward. He’s a pansy.” “I’m not so sure he thinks so. What’s the deal with him and Sam?” “Matchmaking stays out of here.” “Right.” She slowly rose up on her knees and Phalen shifted off the table. He pulled on his shorts before showing her the stencil. “That’s perfect.” “Lay down flat on your stomach,” he told her. She settled down on the table with the trust that continued to humble him.
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Getting ink hurt. Some liked the pain. Some passed the hell out. Others didn’t bat an eye. To relax Cassie, he picked up jasmine massage oil and worked it into her back, ass and silky-soft thighs. She hummed softly into the pillow he’d provided. When she was all soft and compliant, he took a quick trip to the sink to wash his hands and returned wearing latex gloves as a protective measure. He never carved a tat without them. Preparing the soft flesh of her sweet ass with some antiseptic wipes, he asked, “You okay, sweetheart?” “I’m good, Phalen. Do it.” Kissing the back of her head, he straightened and set to work. Cassie hissed and bit the pillow at the start. But he talked her through the worst it by asking about wedding plans. Sooner than he expected, she was murmuring about bridal colors and double rainbows and almost rolling her hips to follow the lining and shading patterns of the machine and ink. He settled her with a touch of his hand and she hummed into the pillow as she’d done with the massage. Holy shit, she was flying! So proud of her for taking the pain and turning it into the sweetest pleasure he could give her, he wanted to join her on that rush. Instead, he finished and he rested alongside of her until she returned from subspace. She opened her eyes after more than an hour, smiled like an angel and kissed him greedily. Assured she was fine, he helped her off the table, put her glasses on her nose and led her over to a full-length mirror. “Good?” Turning her into his arms, he helped her look back over her shoulder to see what he’d done in the mirror. The redness would fade in a couple hours. The black bullwhip coiled around his name in Celtic-green lettering would last a lifetime. “It’s tight. I think that’s slang for an awesome tattoo.” “Close enough.” “Morgan was right about the collar you’d give me. But she thought you’d put it on the inside of my thigh.” “She wasn’t wrong. That’s the next place you’ll get a tat. I intend to put a wolf on the inside of your thigh so it’s looking up at your sweet little pussy. But that’ll be a good deal more difficult than getting one on your ass. We’ll have to keep your clit and nipples occupied with suction cups and a vibrator to get you through it. I aim to buy you some new rings and clit jewelry too.” “Oh god…yes,” she agreed, shifting around to place her arms around his neck. “I love you, Phalen. And I love my collar. Thank you.” “Love you right back, little sub. You did great with your first ink. I’m proud of you.” She smiled and kissed him in appreciation. “Let’s clean this up and get out of here.” “Okay. Where are we going?”
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“There’s a house three streets over from Front Street I’d like to show you. It’s a red brick Federal-style home of a former Salem ship captain with six huge bedrooms, four bathrooms, an attic and a club basement three times the size of this one. It needs some fixing up. But it’s nothing we can’t handle. We can walk there from here.” “Basement? Will we move the dungeon there?” “No. We’ll always have this one and keep the studio as it is. Our businesses are on this block. But I want to make a home with you and our children, Cassie.” “That sounds as nice as grabbing a cup of coffee later. Alex will want to check out my tat.” “If Alex suggests looking at your ass, he’s not going to sit on his for a while.” Cassie laughed, kissed him and whispered in her seductively submissive way that she’d welcome seeing Alex Grant get a spanking. Phalen dressed Cassie’s tat with antibiotic cream and a bandage and helped her put her clothes back on. He refused to braid her hair. Together they blew out the candles and Phalen gave Cassie the key to the dungeon. She pulled it in place around her neck where it belonged. Hand in hand, they left, making a run upstairs for his shirt and shoes for both of them. Outside it was midday. Salem was bustling. They walked down Front Street talking about wedding stuff and tattoos. He turned her down a narrow lane and judging from the way Cassie squealed in joy, he knew she saw the house at the end of a street lined with dogwood trees, cars, quaint condos, Victorians and Colonials. “Phalen, can that be our house, please?” “It already is.” Removing the set of house keys he’d hidden in his shorts pocket when they’d gone to the studio, he handed her the key. She hopped up and down like a kid in a candy store. “You’ve been a busy man, Maddox PI. I love you for it. Thank you! It’ll be a wonderful home.” Hugging him tight, she kissed him until his head spun. Laughing, she drew back and took off down the street, daring him to give chase. Happier than he’d ever been, he caught up with Cassie, swept her up in his arms and carried her inside. Life couldn’t get any sweeter than this. With a houseful of kids, in-laws and friends, it’d be hectic. But there’d be a whole lot of Maddox love inside these walls. Sending a prayer heavenward, Phalen was certain his parents, Alessandra and Jeff Swanson would be laughing right along with them, in this life…and the next.
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About the Author My love for storytelling began when I created my first fictional characters in kindergarten, convincing my family and friends that Red Henry and Green Henry were identical twin brothers in my school. They were mischievous, rarely did their homework, and even had girlfriends! Years later, I started to write, completing my first manuscript in middle school. I confess the heroine was a cross between a contemporary Laura Ingalls Wilder and Nancy Drew, who’d been dating one of the Hardy Boys, but when I wrote “the end” I’d known I had more stories to tell. Of course, life intervened, but whether I was in high school, working as a Veterinary Technician, earning a degree in history and secondary education, or teaching, I was always writing and reading romances. Finally, I met and married my hero and moved to New England. Shortly after, I joined RWA and the New England Chapter and have been writing faithfully ever since. Now I am proud to be an author with Ellora’s Cave Publishing. Frances welcomes comments from readers. You can find her website and email address on her author bio page at www.ellorascave.com.
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Also by Frances Stockton Field of Play Panthera 1: Seductive Persuasion Panthera 2: Rhiannon’s Pride Panthera 3: Sea Captain’s Ghost Panthera 4: Arrington’s Claim Quarterback Blitz
Print books by Frances Stockton Quarterback Blitz Panthera 1: Seductive Persuasion Panthera 2: Rhiannon’s Pride
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