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To Seduce & Satisfy by Abby Gordon

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either t he product of the authors imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblan ce to actual persons living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales , is entirely coincidental. To Seduce & Satisfy COPYRIGHT 2011 by Abby Gordon Al l rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission of the author or The Wild Rose Press excep t in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles or reviews. Cont act Information: info@thewildrosepress.com Cover Art by Angela Anderson The Wild Rose Press PO Box 708 Adams Basin, NY 14410-0708 Visit us at www.thewilderroses .com Publishing History First Scarlet Rose Edition, October 2011 Published in th e United States of America

Published in the United States of America

Dedication To those who believe in love at first sight and make it last.

PRAISE FOR AUTHOR Abby Gordon AND HER BOOKS Model Fantasy is full of sizzling erotic exploits steeped in growing love and dev otion, ... delivers another racy BDSM themed story-line that scorches the pages and presents the reader with an amazing tale of one woman s journey to sexual fu lfillment and a man s realization of what his heart desires. ~Vicci, Night Owl Re views, 5 of 5 stars Impossible to put down, Model Fantasy seductively pulls you i n from the first few pages. I thought Francine was a genuinely lovable character whose curiosity beams through the pages and Grant, as the dom trying to teach h er, was written perfectly. Five Stars for Model Fantasy. ~Emily, Sensual Reads, 5 stars What a fantastic ride from page 1 until the very end. Sassy sex, a hot bos s, BDSM, bad guys, friends, a mystery man YEAH BABY! Ms. Gordon has penned a stor y worthy of awards! I was so pulled in that the real world just melted away and the story was my ONLY focus for the duration. And did you see that cover? WOW! S imple, sexy, elegant. ~Seriously Reviewed, 19.5 out of 20 Named Beck and Call one of their top ten for 2010. As a new author, Abby Gordon has managed to create so mething that readers will not only enjoy, but will remember her

something that readers will not only enjoy, but will remember her by. The charac ters are wonderfully developed, the story is intriguing, and the sex positively sizzles. A definite must for the TBR list, especially for fans of the BDSM genre . ~Fern, Whipped Cream Reviews, 4.5 cherries out of 5.

Chapter One Quincy paid the cab driver and nodded at the doorman. The agents of Hancock Securities were known to the employees of The Franklin Hotel. The desk c lerk had his room key ready. He declined the offer of lunch from room service an d headed up to the four-bedroom suite. Riding the elevator, he focused on trying to relax. He was in the States now. He didnt have to look at everyone as if they were gunning for him. He took a deep breath and exhaled, concentrating on easin g the tension in his muscles. He scowled at the panel of buttons. He was in a da mn hotel. Hed been living in one hotel or another somewhere around the world or i n a fucking tent, if hed been lucky, for over a decade. He was tired of hotels an d tents. His fellow agents were like brothers, but, dear Spirit, he was so damn tired of living in a hotel and being alone. Submissives at the Club were satisfy ing sexually, and hed been content with that. Lately, though, hed wondered if ther e was more. He kept telling himself he was crazy to even think like that, but he couldnt help it. An image from three months earlier kept reappearing in his mind , taunting him with what hed sworn hed never want. The elevator doors opened and h e headed down the hall.

The elevator doors opened and he headed down the hall. Swiping the card, he went in and saw the arrangement of small statues on the coffee table. Watson and Jac kson were in town. Pulling a similar statue out of a bag, he set it next to thei rs. Dropping his two duffle bags at the foot of the bed, he peeled off his boots , socks, pants, sweater, and tee. He pulled the knife from his boot and tossed i t toward the pillows. Leaving the clothes in a black heap, he collapsed onto the bed and closed his eyes, one hand on the hilt of his blade. Pounding on the doo r woke him and he jerked awake. He was rolling to the foot of the bed, knife in his hands without thinking. Before he could open a duffle for a gun, the door op ened and two men appeared. Recognizing Jackson and Watson, he relaxed and sat ba ck on his heels. Exhaling loudly, his smooth, muscled chest rose and fell. Asshol es, he muttered, sheathing the knife. I just got in. You cant let me sleep more tha n he glanced at his watch. Not quite five oclock. Six hours? His two fellow agents le aned against opposite sides of the doorframe. With their broad shoulders, they e ffectively blocked out any light from the suites living room. No amount of beauty sleep could help your ugly mug, Watson grinned. Come on, Jackson said, tossing him a protein bar. Quincy ripped the end off and took a large bite. Time for an ass-k icking in the gym. You wish, Quincy replied, digging through the other duffle for h is shorts and tee. Anything new happening in the city?

for his shorts and tee. Anything new happening in the city? Theres some major shit g oing down at Keith MacLaurens company. He runs a software company, Watson. Quincy fr owned, pulling on the shorts. Shoving his arms through the sleeves, he tugged th e tee over his head. What shit could happen there? A binary code error? Computer ge eks, snorted Watson. Youre all the same. Quincy pulled out socks and sneakers, mutte ring, And assholes never change. Sexual harassment and intellectual theft is all wev e heard so far, Jackson filled him in. Tying his right shoe, Quincy put the left on and considered that. MacLauren doesnt strike me as a man who would put up with that. Word on the street has it that hes fired half his programming division. In othe r words, if I ever get tired of putting up with your shit, Jackson, I could prob ably get a cushy desk job? Quincy smirked. Standing, he gestured the two out the door. Let the ass-whoopings begin. Whos my first victim? **** Hearing the ringtone reserved for incoming calls from his boss, Quincy was out of the shower and reac hing for the cell phone on the bathroom counter. On either side of the phone sat his knife and watch. His left hand drifted over to the thick-handled blade next to the towel. Survival instincts died hard.

Yeah, boss? he greeted his employer. He glanced at the watch that did so many thin gs he often forgot its original function. The utility knife covered what the wat ch missed. Eight-thirty. Hed been in his room twenty minutes after a grueling thr ee-hour workout with Watson and Jackson. Whats doing? Meet me in the emergency room of St. Vincents, came the clipped Bostonian accent of Ben Hancock. Bring all your g ear. It might be a while before you check back in. En route, Quincy acknowledged. I n ten minutes, everything he owned was packed into the duffle bags and he was st riding into the lobby of the hotel. Pausing at the front desk, he handed the key card to the clerk. Watson and Jackson appeared with their gear as well. Immedia tely Quincy felt his shit went down radar hit full alert. From the way the other t wo set their shoulders, he knew theyd done the same. Checking out, he told the woma n on the other side of the counter. The other two agents put their cards next to his. Bills go to Hancock Security. Yes, sir, she nodded. Come again to the Franklin, gentlemen. Barely nodding in response, he headed to the underground garage and t ossed the bags into the back seat of his extended cab truck. Punching the hospit al into his GPS, he made a right as he reached the garage exit. The identical tr ucks driven by Watson and Jackson were behind him. What could have happened for his boss to call him back to

duty within twenty-four hours of completing an assignment? Hancock liked to give his men at least a week between domestic assignments and even more from interna tional work. Quincy had just returned from a ten-week assignment in Egypt. Must be something serious to deprive him of what should have been two to three weeks off. Shit, Quincy whispered. One of those bastards must have gone after MacLauren Tha t would explain why Hancock was calling him back. If one of his best friends had been attacked, Hancock would assign his best to protect him. Pulling into the h ospital parking lot, he backed his truck into a spot. Watson and Jackson pulled in on either side of him. In silence, the three men strode under the emergency e ntrance canopy. Ben Hancock, Matt Adams, and Will Cooper were waiting for them. H eres the situation Hancock spoke quietly. I received a call from Keith MacLauren. Hi s assistant was attacked in her apartment about an hour ago by one assailant tha t was seen by two of her friends, both of whom work for MacLauren. They heard he r screams and came to her rescue. They were both injured. Well be providing round -the-clock security for the assistant and the two friends. He glanced at Adams an d rattled off an address. Thats where the women live. All three on the third floor . See what the layout is like and if there are any unoccupied units on that floo r. If not, youll be bunking with them.

them. Adams pulled out his small hand-held and began tapping. He smiled. Boss, loo ks like the one next to the assistant is empty. Ill call and secure it. Theres a p arking garage half a block west. Good. Make the arrangements, nodded Hancock. Adams hit dial and turned slightly away to talk. Quincy, youre on the other two. MacLau rens company went through some internal crap today. I have no idea if this attack is connected, but this puts these women in the middle of some sort of shit. Lets not have any more collateral damage. Start thinking about how to work your cove r, if ones possible. Quincy nodded as Hancocks phone beeped. Ben read the text mess age. Theyve moved the women to the eighth floor. Lets go, gentlemen. They followed h im, staying quiet and alert. Quincy didnt see anything out of the ordinary. Once on the eighth floor, they saw the knot of people clustered outside a room. Looks like police and medics, boss, Will murmured. Ill ID myself, Ben said quietly. The res t of you stay quiet. On a plastic chair beyond the door, a young woman with short dark hair sat with a medic on one side and two officers on the other. yes, I know Mr. MacLauren is here, she was saying to the medic. But Im not leaving Serena and Claire until I know that theyll be safe. Her gaze went to the six men striding dow n the hall. Hancock, she sighed, relaxing slightly. Keith said

the hall. Hancock, she sighed, relaxing slightly. Keith said hed called you. Without a word, the five men separated while their boss stopped and faced the door. Quin cy went to stand behind her. Hancock addressed the uniform near the door, showin g his ID. Ben Hancock. These are my men. Wheres MacLauren? He just went in with Miss Gardner. Miss Traydon screamed during the exam, the officer grimaced in dismay. W ho could blame her, shuddered the seated woman. She was holding an ice pack to he r face. That man attacks her for a second time Allegedly attacked, Miss Sheldon, the detective corrected. He hasnt been Allegedly, she rolled her eyes. Quincy liked that s he didnt back down. Whatever. Hes on tape for the first one, and Claire and I caugh t him this time. I dont know how anyone can say alleged. She closed her eyes and t urned her head. Pain and horror rippled across her face. She took a deep breath and regained control of herself. He ripped her clothes off and was on top of her. He was strangling her and And banged her head against the floor, a second woman cam e from the hospital room and added. She walked over and sat next to Debbie. When Debbie went after him, he threw her against the wall. Claire was smarter, Debbie sm iled, then winced and adjusted the icepack. From his position behind her, Quincy could see the swelling and coloring on her temple. A man had

done this to her, and she wasnt cowering. She was pissed about what had happened and wanted justice. He liked the strength in her and respected that. She jumped o n his back. Youre the one who told me to grab his mask. You pulled it off? asked one d etective, glancing up from her notes. I saw his face, whispered Debbie. Does he kno w you saw him? He was looking right at me. Yeah, she nodded. Id say he knows I saw hi m. Quincy, Hancock said quietly. Raising his gaze from the woman, he nodded at his boss, not needing to be told that she was his number one priority. His total foc us, until Hancock said otherwise, was Debbie Sheldon. Claire sighed. I just recog nized his voice. Keith MacLauren emerged from the room and Quincy listened as men were assigned to guard Serena Traydon. Watson and Jackson, on the next shift, h eaded to the elevator. Youre sure? the woman detective pressed. Ive worked for him fo r three months. Believe me, I know his voice, she nodded. How could you? As the shr iek echoed down the hallway, Quincy put a hand on Debbies shoulder and stepped sl ightly in front of her. Watson and Jackson had just passed the obviously upset w oman in the corridor and raced back toward them. Debbie tapped the back of his h and and he glanced down at her. Thats Keiths cousin, she whispered. Penny Davidson.

Thats Keiths cousin, she whispered. Penny Davidson. He nodded as the petite blonde thr ew herself at MacLauren and pummeled his chest. How could you do this to me? she d emanded, struggling to get away. Youre pathetic! Youre jealous of Mark so you bribe d Serena to lie. Just like all those other women lied about Duncan and the other men, she cried, flinging her hands at Debbie and Claire. So desperate for attenti on that We did not! Debbie yelled, rising to her feet. We did not lie! Quincy tensed, ready to step in front of his charge. He put his hand back on Debbies shoulder to be able to pull her behind him. And you Penny turned on Claire. You just want him f or yourself so you What? Claire protested. Ive had a boyfriend for months. I wouldnt d te Mark for a million dollars. Look at us, Debbie demanded. Do we look like we had a good time with your fianc? He attacked Serena more than a year ago and nearly ra ped her tonight, ripping off her clothes before we could get to her. Penny didnt m ove, shaking her head at Debbies words. Thats impossible. Daddy and Uncle Ken said he was a good man, she whispered. He was the only one theyd approve of. Then your dad dy likes a rapist, Debbie told her, lowering the ice pack shed been holding to her cheek. Does this look made up? Penny stared at the two indignant, bruised women f or a long

Penny stared at the two indignant, bruised women for a long moment then turned t o Keith. Debbie sighed and shook her head. That family makes mine look normal. Whic h family? Quincy asked. The MacLaurens, Claire answered, studying Debbies bruise. It doesnt look like youll have a black eye. I hit the wall with the side of my head, no t the front, Debbie replied, shifting the icepack. She sat back down and put her hand on her ribs. My right side is a bit sore. I think Ill pass on kickboxing clas ses for a while. Good, then we can go to yoga, Claire smiled. I am not a pretzel, Deb bie rolled her eyes. Quincy listened to the women, wondering at their conversati on. They were talking about being thrown against walls and bruises as if this we re an ordinary day. As she was his priority, he studied Debbie and saw the effor t to stay calm in her expression. She was so close to breaking, but she focused on staying composed and telling the police what had happened. The women linked h ands. Quincy sensed a strong friendship between them, a loyalty and caring hed ne ver seen between women. Well, yeah, he reminded himself, because the only women you know are submissives at the Club or are part of Hancocks family. Kind of toug h to judge based on that experience. you have anyone who can keep an eye on her? I f she sides with me, she could be in danger. Only myself. Hancock sighed.

Quincy whipped his head around. What the fuck? The boss was going to protect som eone? He saw Hancocks hard expression and glanced at Adams who stood outside Tray dons door. Adams was as surprised as he wasthe boss ran things, he didnt guard. Som ething was definitely going on. When two more men arrived, Hancock gave his agen ts the signal that they could maintain their positions. Claire rose and hurried to one of the men. His charge shifted in her seat, muttering under her breath. Q uincy caught, theyll hurt her again, before she tried to stand up. The medic caught her arm. I want you to take it easy, he frowned. Id feel better if you stayed overn ight. Out of the question, she said firmly, eyes on Claire in the embrace of one of the men. I cant leave Claire alone. Quincy will take you home, Ben told Debbie, then looked at Keith. You need to get home as well. Youve been a busy boy today. And tom orrow looks like it will be just as much fun, he sighed. I hate Mondays. I really do. He looked at Adams. If she wakes up, call me. You got it, Adams replied with a no d. Quincy watched Debbie as the group headed down the hall. When she started off after them, he caught her arm. Shell be all right. You dont know anything about this , she hissed. Let me go! Not happening. He shook his head. Im responsible for

Not happening. He shook his head. Im responsible for your safety. Fine, then lets go s I can stop Claire from making a huge mistake. I dont know what the problem is, but where she goes is her decision, he said quietly. Let me go! She stomped on his foo t. He didnt feel it through the steel toe of his boot and smiled as she winced. S neakers couldnt compete with combat boots in most situations. He liked her feisti ness and wondered if her fire would be as hot in bed, preferably bound and waiti ng for him. He shook his head. Where the hell had that come from? She was his ch arge, not a submissive at the Club. Why dont we head to your place and Claire and I a re roommates. If youll stop being a pain in the ass, then I can stop Quincy groaned . Oh, for Petes sake! He looked at Adams. Want to trade? Nice try, Adams shook his hea . Have fun. Thanks, he muttered. He studied her mutinous face. His palm twitched wit h the need to spank her. To combat that urge, he pressed it against his thigh. W hat was his problem? All right, lets go. Im Debbie. Debbie Sheldon, she said pointedly . And your name? Quincy. Is that your first or last name?

Is that your first or last name? Quincy, he replied, starting down the hall. As he h adnt released her bicep, she trotted alongside him. How many bedrooms in your plac e? Two, she answered, eyes narrowed. Mine and Claires. Well, since shell be elsewhere hen Ill take hers. He raised his voice. Hold the elevator. Ben Hancock stretched his arm out as the doors started to shut. Quincy pulled Debbie in and held her firm ly at his side. He nodded at his boss, aware of how Penny Davidson alternately g lared at Hancock or studied Debbie. Silence reigned in the car until it came to a stop on the ground floor. The group split up. As soon as they headed to his tr uck, Debbie started up again. When she tried to pull away, his fingers gripped t ighter and drew her closer. I dont need a bodyguard or You dont seem to understand the situation. So let me explain things simply. He paused, looking around the parkin g lot. He didnt see anything out of the ordinary. Youre the only one who saw Hammon ds face tonight. That makes you his next target. If he makes bail. What? She frowned , looking up at him. Why He saw comprehension appear in her eyes. No, she shook her h ead. Hes in enough shit as it is, she whispered. He wouldnt want to add to it by comi ng after me. I mean, I could understand Duncan or one of the others coming after me, but not Hammond.

Quincy recognized the names, but didnt understand what she meant. Why would one of the men MacLauren fired today come after you? Because Im the one who told Keith wh at was going on in Programmingthe sexual harassment, the intellectual theft. Im th e reason they got fired. They might not know, but theyre not idiots. Theyll figure it out. I mean, I wasnt harassed the way some of the other women were, but they stole my ideas and took credit for my work Quincy listened to her ramble and reali zed there was a helluva lot more going on with her than hed thought. She had not only stirred up the hornets nest at MC but she was also the only one who could pi n the attack on Hammond. Which meant a lot of pissed-off men could be gunning fo r her. From what he gathered from the conversation between MacLauren and his cou sin, Hammond had the support of many in the MacLauren family. That meant theyd pr obably be bailing him out and publicly supporting him. Look, we might need to lea ve the city, he murmured, increasing his pace. He nodded as Hancock drove past hi m. Im not going anywhere, she stated firmly. Keith put me in charge of a project tha ts due in six weeks. He promised that MC would meet and fulfill all our contracts . This one is the biggest weve got due. Im not letting him down. This whole thing is my fault as it is. How do you figure that?

Werent you paying attention? He fired those men and He raised the remote and unlocke d the truck. Putting her in the front seat, he closed the door and hurried aroun d to the drivers side. Climbing in, he started the engine. That doesnt make any of this your fault. Hes the CEO. The responsibility is his. He punched the address in to the GPS before giving her a solemn look. From his reaction, he looks like hes a ccepting it. Hes doing what he needs to do. You worry about what you need to do. An d number one is making sure Claire doesnt go off with those two perverts, she mutt ered. Quincy clamped his jaw shut. Hed recognized the two men as members of an ex clusive sex club where hed gone undercover three years earlier. It had been the p erfect assignment for him. He was a sexual dominant, although some of the scenes hed been involved in were more extreme than hed ever done or would do again. The owner had been sufficiently grateful for his discretion and recognized his natur al dominant tendencies and had sponsored him as a member. Already, he wondered w hat it would be like for Debbie to surrender. He could just imagine her on her k nees, wrists bound at the small of her back, her mouth open to receive his cock. He took a deep breath. He was to protect her, not seduce her and make her his s ubmissive. She was feisty, stubborn, and loyal, protective, and intelligent. And what the hell was he thinking? He was a loner. Lone wolf. A single hawk in the s ky. There was no way in hell he was getting involved with a woman

There was no way in hell he was getting involved with a woman in any way, shape, or form. He glanced over at her and saw her shivering despite her thick parka. Well, yeah, idiot, he told himself. Underneath she had on light track pants and a T-shirt. He reached up and turned on the heat. Thank you, she whispered, stretch ing her hands out. You always dress like that? We had just come back from kickboxin g class. We were about to knock on Serenas door and see if she wanted to order Ch inese with us when she sighed as her voice drifted off. Please? Can we hurry so I c an stop Claire from going off with those Perverts? he murmured, calling on all his c ontrol. He hated it when people criticized what they didnt understand. Figures th at a woman he was itching to dominate seemed disgusted by one part of the scene. Only one claimed to be her boyfriend. That asshole Paul seduced her so she would b e with him and David. They planned this all along. And you have a problem with tha t? He tricked her What? What do you mean, do I have a problem with that? she demande d. How could I not have a problem with that? Two men Some women like being with two men, he replied. Some men like being with two women. At a red light, he glanced ove r and caught her shocked expression. But also noted the way her tongue darted ou t between two rosy lips. Well, now, that was interesting. Lets see

between two rosy lips. Well, now, that was interesting. Lets see just how much of her reaction was outrage and how much was her own submerged need, he decided. H ed discovered that many people were just scratching the surface of their sexual n eeds. His conscience pushed down the brief thought that he was taking advantage of the situation. But, damn! Instinct told him that Debbie had little experience with sex and was ripe for the picking. Just how fast could he move on her thoug h? Reel her in soft and easy, he thought, choosing his next words carefully, as if reflecting to himself. Some people like giving up all control to someone they trust. Or being spanked or tied to the bed or someone using toys on them. He paus ed. Sometimes all of that. At once. She shifted on the seat and exhaled shakily. H er tongue wet her bottom lip before she caught it with her upper teeth. Bingo! H e dropped his gaze and saw her thighs rub against each other. Debbie was turned on despite her disgust for Claires situation. He reviewed what hed seen of the law yers at the Club. Not everything added up, but he remembered enough to know that Paul had similar tastes. Oh, this was so damn perfect he could hardly believe i t. Now, Im assuming you dont have a boyfriend since you didnt mention one when Clair e did? That should force her off balance a bit. No, I dont, she frowned. What does th at have to do with anything?

Youve got one now. He tapped the brakes as an idiot decided to jaywalk. Asshole, he m uttered. Ill be a freelance computer security specialist and, when you called me a bout tonight, I decided that I wasnt risking you being attacked and You went all cav eman on me and insisted on moving in? she said sarcastically. Thats perfect, he grin ned, nodding and glancing at her. It gives us something in common besides a wicke d sense of humor. Now, how would we have met? He stopped at the next red light. Wh ere do you usually hang out when not at work? Clubs or the gym, so that wont work b ecause its a regular crowd, she frowned. And theyll ask why they havent seen you arou nd. I mean, even asshole Paul went to the clubs with us a couple times. Her mouth made a moue. He even got us into one of the more exclusive ones and insisted tha t we go there even if he wasnt with us. He said he knew their security and wed be safe there. Quincy frowned. How many exclusive clubs could Paul have taken them t o? One in particular came to mind. He smiled slightly. Shed already been exposed to the scene and didnt even realize it. That meant she probably hadnt been there a fter a certain time, which was probably Pauls influence. Well say Ive been out of to wn the past couple months doing fieldwork, which is the truth. In a manner of spe aking, he thought. We talked and emailed a lot and, when Ive been able to be in to wn, we didnt go out. He smiled.

to be in town, we didnt go out. He smiled. That might work. She nodded slowly, frown ing in thought. Ill have to tell you when I wasnt out so we can coordinate that. Bu t we still have the problem of when we met. Have you been anywhere else the past f ew months that would be plausible? he frowned. Shit, this might be harder than he thought. Maybe just with Claire or the victim tonight? Serena, she told him, voice quiet. Her names Serena. All right, he nodded. Serena and Claire. Or your hometown? Ma ybe I could be an old boyfriend from No! She shook her head, surprising him with her volume. Okay, whats in your hometown that you dont want anything to do with? She sl umped in the corner. Everything. This is getting complicated, he muttered. For a cou ple blocks, there was silence. She sat upright and turned toward him. Quincy nea rly drove off the street when he felt her hand on his arm. Madison Square Garden. F or what? he frowned. Im not into basketball and the seasons barely started. You are no w into mixed martial arts, she grinned. The fights were Three months ago, he grinned b ack at her. Would you believe I was there? Youre shitting me? she stared. Where were y our seats? No, dont tell me, she held her hand up. Front row, where you could actua lly see what the hell was going on.

could actually see what the hell was going on. Pretty much, he nodded. I am so jealo us, she sighed. I practically spent a paycheck and barely got on the floor. But it was so worth it. She sighed again as if in rapture. What about the people you wer e with? Wont they They were the guys you just met, he assured her. All I have to do is text them a few deets about what you were wearing and theyll invent an entire co nversation if asked. Cool, she sighed, settling back down. She gave him a sly look. You might not be so bad after all. He grunted. Thanks. You take kickboxing classes . You might not be so bad either. He gave her the sly look right back. I cant handl e whimpy, whiney women. She grinned back. Now, tell me why we need to do this char ade again. So far, your name hasnt shown up in connection with any of the charges d irectly related to the shit that went down at MC today. If the men fired dont con nect you with anything, then they wont come after you. If you suddenly have a bod yguard, then someone might start putting pieces together. We cover that angle wi th a boyfriend who uses this as an excuse to move in with you. Let me guess, she dr awled as he turned into the parking garage. Youre suddenly over-protective and thi nk that Im the perfect woman. That sounds good, he nodded. Ignoring the stunned

expression on her face, he rolled his window down. Leaning toward the booth, he spoke to the attendant. Names Quincy. Three month pass was called in about half an hour ago. Next to him, he heard Debbie choking and glanced over his shoulder. Sh e had her hand over her mouth, her eyes bugging out of her head. Here you go, sir . Payment just came through a minute ago, the older man nodded, extending an enve lope. Quincy turned back around and took the envelope. Security card works for bo th the entrance over there, the mans hand gestured to the right. As well as raising the arm. Your slot is three-fourteen. Great. Have a good night. You, too, sir. As th ey pulled forward, Debbie burst into the laughter she had suppressed. Im going to regret this, but what is so funny? Me being the perfect woman for anyone. Trust men o one who knows me is going to buy that. My answer to that, if anyone is stupid en ough to bring it up, is that they obviously dont know you the way I do. I dont think you understand. I dont even buy it. Why? That seemed to stump her. Finding the slot , Quincy backed in and shut everything off. Turning to her, he found her knees d rawn up with her heels resting on the edge of the seat. Her arms were wrapped ar ound her shins and her cheek rested on her knee. He released her seatbelt and tu rned her toward him. In the

knee. He released her seatbelt and turned her toward him. In the florescent ligh t of the garage, the bruising seemed garish on her delicate features. Why do you find it hard to believe that a man might see you as the perfect woman for him? Bec ause Im not perfect, she whispered. Ive screwed up everyones life that Ive ever been i nvolved with. Theres no way anyone, any man, would think I wouldnt do the same to his. No ones perfect, he said slowly, having no idea where this was coming from. And I find it difficult to believe that youre that bad. Two examplesSerena was attacked and Claire is about to go live with Correctionyou saved Serena and Claire is a grown woman responsible for her own life, he admonished. You dont understand now, but yo u will. Trust me, you will, she assured him, opening her door and sliding out. God dammit! he swore, bolting out and around the truck. He caught her arm and gripped her tightly. You do not go anywhere without me, he ground out, staring down into her brown eyes. Is that clear? You are under my protection and I take that very s eriously. Where you go, I am there. Closer than your shadow. Now, stay here whil e I get my gear. Stay. Here. Understand? Yeah, yeah, she grunted. She scowled as he backed up, taking her with him. Grabbing his duffle bags, he hoisted one over h is shoulder, secured the truck and hefted the other. He then took her upper arm.

truck and hefted the other. He then took her upper arm. Deciding discretion was the better part of valor, not that he had much of that, he ignored the obscenity she muttered under her breath. Do I get to pee and poop without a chaperone? Depen ds on where we are. You are insane. No, he shook his head. As much as possible, were k eping to your regular routine and That doesnt include a caveman for a boyfriend. Enoug h, he told her, shaking her arm slightly. My boss told me to protect you, so thats what Im going to do. You dont like it, then talk to your boss. I just might do that. W ell, until tomorrow, youre stuck with me. As they marched toward the brownstone, Q uincy could hear her grinding her teeth. He gave himself even oddsspanking her be fore he fucked her. And he wanted to crawl inside those slippery pants as fast a s he could.

Chapter Two Finally at her apartment, Debbie got into a hissing argument with he r roommate. As they debated in Claires room, Quincy checked out the security of t he apartment. On the third floor, he shouldnt have had too much to worry about, e xcept that Serena had lived down the hall. That made him wonder about overall bu ilding security. He hadnt seen any cameras and the simple combination for the pri mary entrance would be easy for someone to bypass. Debbies bedroom windows were l ocked, so he retrieved his sidearm from his duffle bags. Im going to assume you ha ve a permit for that, Paul murmured from his seat in the open living room. Ts cross ed and Is dotted, he nodded, checking the ammo and sights. How well can you protect Claire? Black belt in jujitsu, he replied, shrugging. Once inside my building, she wont need to leave. Allens got the place more secure than Fort Knox. You live in Mac Laurens building? Quincy questioned, glancing over his shoulder. At Pauls nod, he g runted and shrugged into the shoulder harness. The security in this place is for shit. Hammond got in way too easily. You going to keep Debbie here? David frowned, pacing in

You going to keep Debbie here? David frowned, pacing in front of the fireplace. Or use her? You mean am I going to use her as bait to get Hammond? Quincy asked, stand ing and tucking his 9 mil into the holster. He noted that, despite Debbies obviou s aversion to them, both men were concerned about her. That told him quite a bit about them that he liked. No. If I think things are compromised here, Ill move he r. The two men exchanged glances. So, you two plan on sharing Claire? Whats it to you ? David wanted to know. Not a damned thing unless it gets Debbie so riled up that it makes her difficult. A charge who is upset is more apt to do something stupid . He leveled a stern eye at the pair. I have serious problems with stupid. I can und erstand that, Paul nodded slowly. Lets just say theres more to our situation than Ill get into now. How the hell did either of them even know? David muttered. Did you sa y something to Claire? he glanced at Paul, who shook his head. Of course not. Pauls eyes went to the open bedroom door. Tonights not the time to get into that. Shes de aling with enough, what with everything at work and now Serena being attacked. T his might change things. He grunted and looked at Quincy. And you? None of my busine ss except how it affects my job, Quincy shook his head. One of you going to take c harge of this situation or shall I? He smiled slightly. Im assuming at least

situation or shall I? He smiled slightly. Im assuming at least one of you takes cha rge of things. Both men glared at him. Back off, warned Paul. Quincy laughed, altho ugh there was little humor in the sound. Dont get your pants in a twist, he told hi m. There are all sorts of rumors about the two of you at the Club, he lowered his voice and smiled at their startled expressions. A few years ago I did a job thereg ot Madison expelled. They nodded. The Board asked me to join. Ive seen both of you with various women. He glanced at David. Werent you with a redhead most of last yea r? David stiffened, his jaw clenching. Ill wait outside. Quincy raised a brow as Dav id closed the door behind him. Gee, something I said? Christ, muttered Paul, standin g. Shit, what a night, he sighed, running a hand through his hair. Striding across the small living room, he stopped at the open doorway. Claire, are you coming wi th me or staying here? Coming, came a firm, low voice. Claire! Debbie protested. Shut up, Debbie, snapped Claire. Paul bent slightly to pick up the two suitcases and s tepped back. Claire left the bedroom and he followed her to the door. Quincy loo ked over and saw the pale, stricken expression of his charge. Shit. His night wa s going to get worse before it got better.

Claire, please, whispered Debbie, holding her sneakers in her hands. Without a wor d, Claire left the apartment. Paul paused in front of Quincy. Dont say anything to her, he said under his breath. And have a nuclear explosion on my hands? Not a ch ance. He secured the door and turned to see his charge staring through him.

Chapter Three Debbie stared at the door as it closed behind Claire and Paul. She had to stop Claire from leaving. She had to get to Claire. Quincy bolted and ch ained the door before turning around. What the hell are you doing? she shrieked. Pr otecting you, he replied calmly. Its my job. Just in case you forgot. Im not the one w ho needs protecting, she argued. Claire just walked out of here With someone MacLaure n feels is capable of protecting her, he cut her off. With deliberate steps, he c ame to stand in front of her. And she wont be the one someone comes after anyway. You are. Youre the one who saw Hammonds face. I dont care about that, she snarled, fee ling a sudden need to push him, to get some emotion. A rousing, knock-down, drag -out argument would help relieve some of the tension that had been building up i n her. Its none of your business anyway. Youre just a hired gun and Are you always thi s much of a brat? What? she blinked as his hands gripped her shoulders. I said, he sm iled, bringing his face inches from hers. Are you always this much of a brat?

you always this much of a brat? And if I am? She couldnt resist taunting him. There was just something about him that told her he was as tightly coiled inside as sh e was. What are you going to do about it? His hands stroked up and down her arms a nd she could see fire in his eyes. She wasnt one for casual sex, but this man was something shed never experienced before. Quincy was infinitely more mature and c onfident than the men she met at the clubs. He didnt seem to worry about what oth er people thought. And shed never felt this way around a man. An instant sexual a ttraction so potent that her nipples got hard when he looked at her and her puss y clenched when he spoke. Now, instinct told her that he most definitely would t ake control of sex and it would be incredible. Didnt a woman deserve a hot fling of wild, debauched sex while she was young? Besides, he was supposed to be her b oyfriend. It was okay. Yeah, if she repeated that to herself a few thousand time s I know just how to deal with little girls like you. I spank them, he whispered, h is hands pulling her closer. And I think you are in definite need of a good spank ing. No, she shook her head, unable to believe what shed just heard. I dont like being hit. Big difference between hitting and spanking, he told her, hands sliding down her back to hold her hips against him. She could feel his erection through his j eans. Oh, God, he was ready to go for it. Her pussy tightened just at the though t of that length in her. Its amazing foreplay if done properly, his lips brushed he r

Its amazing foreplay if done properly, his lips brushed her ear. A woman can orgasm from it. I dont believe you. Heat flared in his eyes. The flush of her desire filled her face and tugged her womb. Bad girl, he breathed. One of his hands left her hi p and came down on her right ass cheek. She gasped. Rule number oneIm in charge. You mean I just do whatever you say. I dont get to ask questions or Right now, you are t o be quiet and accept your punishment. Her jaw fell open. Before she could speak, he picked her up, tossed her over his shoulder, and strode into her bedroom. Si tting on the edge of the bed, he set her on her feet. Dizzy from the rapid movem ents, she couldnt protest as he easily stripped off her track pants, cotton panti es, sports bra, and tee. Very nice, he murmured, dark eyes roaming her lean body. His strong fingers reached out and pinched her nipples. No, she breathed. No? he ech oed softly, one hand covering her pussy. His fingers combed through the damp cur ls. A knowing smile curved his lips. You sure? No, she sighed as a finger circled he r entrance. Please. I intend to, he told her. In another sudden move, he pulled her closer and facedown across his lap. One hand spread across her upper back betwee n her shoulder blades. The other stroked her buttocks and the

backs of her thighs. Why? she whispered. Because its what you need. What you want. I d ont want to be spanked or His hand smacked her ass and, as she gasped and twisted t o get off his lap, he continued to spank her. Really? he probed. You want someone t o take control of you, but also take care of you. Thats why youre so upset about C laire. She has what you want. Her whole body froze. Was she jealous of Claire aft er her friend had hinted about how Paul liked sex? Even of Serena and her new lo ver? Was that why shed acted so ungrateful during their shopping trip that mornin g? While her mind tried to wrap around that thought, her body reacted to Quincys punishment. The spanking was warming up her ass. The heat and her vulnerable pos ition added to the fire in her belly. His hand came down again and her thighs pa rted slightly. Much better, he said approvingly. His hand struck lower, just above her pussy. A moan escaped her lips. She thought she heard a growl before he beg an caressing what hed been spanking a moment earlier. Slowly he stroked her folds and teased her clit. Her breathing became shallow and her body trembled in need . How is this possible? she whispered. He turned her over and smiled. As his right hand continued its sexual torture of her pussy, his left arm raised her upper b ody. His head lowered and his teeth nipped her ear lobe. She

whimpered as his mouth continued down her throat. By the time his lips closed ar ound a taut rosy nipple, she was on the edge. Her body was damp from its own hea t. Please, she begged, covering his hand at her pussy. Please, Quincy. What do you wa nt, little girl? I need His thumb brushed over her clit and she cried out in despera tion. Tell me what you want. I Again, his thumb teased the hard nub and the words cau ght in her throat with a sob. He chuckled. Tell me what you need. Her hands tangle d in his dark hair and tugged at his head until she could see his expression. Ple ase. Please. He was silent, waiting. Her mind struggled to find the words. Please, take control of me. Please, take care of me. Slowly he nodded. Good girl. The hard length of his erection added more heat to her throbbing ass. She groaned at the thought of his large cock driving into her pussy the way his fingers were. The heel of his hand rubbed her clit. His mouth ravished her breasts. As if he was a s desperate as she was, his fingers stroked in and out of herhard, deep, and fast . Gasping for breath, she held onto him as her head fell back. God! No one had e ver touched her like

as her head fell back. God! No one had ever touched her like this. He knew how t o get a reaction from her, to seduce her and bend her to his will. And, as she f elt her body race up the mountain to the peak, he knew how to satisfy her. Come f or me, Debbie, he whispered, mouth hovering over hers. Come, baby. His tongue swept into her mouth, possessing and claiming. His fingers filled her and suddenly al l she saw was a brilliant light as her body jerked in his arms. It wasnt enough f or him though. Mouth to her ear, he kept his fingers in her and kept up the fric tion on her clit. One more time. Theres still too much tension in you. One more On c ommand, her pussy tightened, electricity raced through her and she relaxed with a sigh as a second climax rolled over her softly. Snuggling into his arms, she c losed her eyes and fell asleep.

Chapter Four Debbie reached over and whacked the snooze button. Snuggling back u nder the covers, she squeezed her eyes shut. What a nightmare. Burying her head in the pillows, she felt the cotton against her face and winced. Shit! It hadnt b een a nightmare after all. Shifting her head so nothing pressed against her thro bbing temple, she tried to convince herself that, despite her bodys aches, it rea lly all had been just a horrible dream. The alarm went off again and she heard s omeone moving in the other bedroom before moving toward the kitchen. With a groa n, she turned the clock off and swung her legs off the bed. Coffee, coffee, coff ee, she thought with each step. Shed be able to function once she had her coffee and talked with Claire. Nearly to the bedroom door, she froze as more reality sl ammed into her. Claire wasnt here. It wasQuincy. Reaching out blindly, Debbie caug ht at the doorknob to keep herself upright. That had to have been a dream. Had t o be. No way would she have acted that way in real life. Resting her forehead ag ainst the door, she closed her eyes. She hadnt been attracted to the brooding mus cular man the moment shed seen him. She hadnt been secretly thrilled when Ben Hanc ock had

assigned him as her bodyguard. She hadnt acted like a bitch when theyd reached the apartment and shed found Claire packing her suitcases to move in with Paul. And she most certainly hadnt taken her frustration out on Quincy. She frowned, realiz ing she had on her favorite nightshirt. He really had stripped her and With a low moan, she ran her hand under her over-sized tee and covered her own breast. It might have been her imagination, but she could still feel it throbbing. Holding her breath, Debbie slid her other hand over her pussy and slipped a finger along the dark curls. Pressing her lips together, she moaned. She was wet. Wet from j ust thinking about what hed done. How the hell was she supposed to face a man shed let spank her within an hour of meeting him? How was she supposed to act after letting him fingerfuck her to two shattering orgasms? Oh, God, what the hell were you thinking? she muttered. Well, thats a rhetorical question. You werent thinking. You saw a good-looking man and practically jumped his bones the minute you were alone with him. She smiled and snorted. And now youre talking to yourself like Ser ena does. Serena. The image of her friends half-nude body under the burly man floo ded her. Hammond banging her head against the floor before standing to confront her and Claire. How easily hed tossed her aside. And Clairedont-hurt-a-fly-Clairehad jumped on his back, screaming like a banshee. Debbie smiled. Okay, if Claire ha d done that, she could certainly face the man in her kitchen.

in her kitchen. With that determination, she opened her door and strode down the hall. At the kitchen archway, she froze at the sight of him standing at the cou nter with his back to her. How the hell had she forgotten how big he was? Nearly a foot taller than her own five-four, he was probably double her weight and all rippling muscle as he poured his coffee. The ridge of his spine led between the flexing heavy mass of his back to black briefs that clung to a tight ass and th ighs as thick as tree trunks. You keep staring at me like that and youll make me b lush, his deep voice teased her. As she stared at the strip of black cotton that was all he wore, he turned around and her gaze landed on something just as impre ssive as his back. The purplish head of his cock poked up from the waistband. Ig noring her weeping pussy, she raised her eyes to his face. Tanned skin stretched over a high forehead, narrow nose, and prominent cheekbones. His eyes were near ly as black as his shoulder-length hair. Swallowing his coffee, he smiled at her . Morning, little girl, he greeted her in a husky tone. Her eyes dropped to his br oad chest, and the crease of his six-pack took her right back to his thickening erection. Gasping, she whirled around. She heard the thump of his mug on the cou nter. Knowing that he was going to come after her, her mind ordered her body to move, to run back to her room. Her body ignored that direction. Her toes twitche d, but that was all the movement she managed before his hands caught her shoulde rs. ****

**** Quincy wasnt putting up with any games. From the moment hed seen her talking to the detectives, hed been drawn to the woman struggling to hide her vulnerabili ty with a cloak of toughness. Hed developed an instinct for good submissives male or female. More than a few men had been insulted when he suggested they switch f rom top to bottom or bottom to top. But those who had listened to him had been g rateful, as had the women. Her response last night had been more than hed expecte d, but he hadnt hesitated to take advantage of the situation. Her feistiness had demanded his strength. She wasnt a woman to respond to weakness. Her honesty had been refreshing. Most people would have denied his comment about her jealousy of Claire. Her stillness had told him that she was processing his comment, conside ring how close to the truth it might be. Her surrender had been incredible. Hed c ome close to staying in bed with her, holding her close and taking her during th e night. It had been hard as hell, literally, considering his demanding dick, to tuck her under the covers and leave her there alone. Hed thought about masturbat ing, but he wanted to be in her pussy. He had checked her bathroom and found the birth control pills. Fortunately, he had just bought a box of condoms with plan s to go to the Club that weekend. Now, with her slender shoulders beneath his ha nds, he wasnt waiting any longer. Turning her around, he tangled a hand at the

back of her head. The soft black strands were like silk. Her eyelids fluttered d own and her lips parted slightly. He smiled. Could she be any more perfect in he r submission? Beneath the worn cotton of her over-sized tee that trumpeted the m ixed martial arts championship at Madison Square Garden, he could see the hard p oints of her nipples. Debbie, look at me. Slowly she opened her eyes. Take your shi rt off. Now. Crossing her arms, she caught the hem of her tee and pulled it over her head. Releasing her as she did, Quincy shoved his briefs down and kicked the m off. His erection bobbed in eagerness, pointing the way. Reaching back he pluc ked one of the foil packets off the counter. Ripping it open, he rolled the cond om on. His hands went under her arms and lifted her. Her legs wrapped around his waist as his mouth found hers. Her hands clutched at his shoulders as he devour ed her. She wasnt passive either. Her hands roamed his body. He didnt mind that, b ut he was in no mood to play. Not waiting, he growled. Huh-uh, she agreed, mouth nuz zling against his neck. Backing up into the kitchen, he rested her hips on the c ounter. She guided him to her and the heat of her around just the head of his di ck pushed him past the point of no return. Driving into her, he lifted her off t he counter. Side-stepping to the left he turned and pinned her against the fridg e. With her trapped, he unleashed the hunger that had kept him awake most of the night. Pounding into her, he felt the heat, the dampness, and the friction of h er

into her, he felt the heat, the dampness, and the friction of her tight walls. H is mouth plundered hers, demanding complete surrender. In the back of his mind, he was aware of her clinging to him, arms and legs wrapping around him, letting him do whatever the hell he wanted. He could hear her pants, her moans, and the sweet pleas for more. Near the edge of control, he reached down and teased her c lit. Her cries increased in pitch and her nails raked his back before digging in to his shoulders. Her hips jerked forward and her pussy walls clamped tight arou nd his cock. Her entire body tightened as a low, deep moan vibrated in her throa t. Oh, God, Quincy, she gasped, shuddering as she clung to him. With an animalisti c snarl, he released into her, driving her back with such force that the fridge rocked against the wall. Panting, damp with sweat, he held her as he rested his chin on the top of her head. You okay? he finally spoke. Morning to you, too, she wh ispered. She pressed a kiss on his chest and he smiled. I usually dont mix sex and coffee, but if this is what its like, I think Ill do it more often. Im good with tha t. As long as a certain little girl doesnt misbehave, he added, wondering what her r eaction would be. Mmm. She lifted her head. About that You going to tell me you didnt eserve a spanking? he frowned.

frowned. I was wondering what did and didnt deserve one. For a long moment, Quincy just stared at her. There was the barest hint of a gleam in her eye. She wanted to know so she could get spanked again. She liked being good, but the idea of hi m punishing her appealed to her just as much. She was more submissive than hed th ought. God, this would be fucking perfect. Literally. In a heartbeat, he changed his plans. Forget taking things slow, semi-playful. She was his and he was goin g to make sure she understood that. Hed start her with the basics for now and exp and on them throughout the week. And by Friday, his eyes narrowed, yes, by Frida y, she might be ready for a fully equipped playroom at the Club. His cock twitch ed just at the thought of having her in a secluded, soundproof room. From now on, you dont touch yourself sexually. You dont orgasm without permission. You do what I tell you when I tell you and how I tell you. Oh, and if that mouth of yours g ets out of line like it did last night, Ill gag you before I spank you. The shock in her eyes made him wonder if hed gone too far. And if Im good? Oh, lord. He mental ly rubbed his hands together. She was his hook, line, and sinker. If youre good, I have special toys for you. Toys that tease you all day or night. If youre very go od, Ill take you out and tease you with them in public. A thought occurred to him and he put his mouth next to her ear. If you really please me, Ill make

you come in public. Wed get in trouble, she whispered, eyes wide at the thought. I wo uldnt let that happen, he promised. I wont let anything happen to you, little one. Im here to protect you, remember? A short laugh came from her. You protect every wom an like this? Nope, he shook his head. Youre the first woman Ive protected. Debbie stu ied him and Quincy wondered what was going through her mind. Most of her emotion s showed in her expression, but he sensed there was much more to her. So, what do we do today? He smiled. How do you take your coffee? She blinked and smiled, turni ng her head to see the mug hed used. It was the only one not covered in flowers h ed been able to find. And it had been all the way in the back of the cupboard. As it had the Harvard seal on it, he figured it belonged to Claires boyfriend. You d idnt want anything girly? she guessed. Not hardly, he snorted. Reluctantly, he pulle d out of her and set her feet on the floor. He carefully took the full condom of f and put it in the trash can. So what do you do at MC? I was just promoted to seni or manager, she replied, frowning slightly as she took a mug from the hooks under the

cabinet. Im not saying this to get in trouble, but He watched her pause as if trying to figure out how to say what she wanted. I mean, I am glad you used a condom, b ut Im clean, he answered, picking up his mug and drinking. So am I, she nodded, then t lted her head. You always have condoms with you when you get your morning coffee? I couldnt wait to fuck you this morning, he stepped up behind her. His semi-erect p enis nestled happily in her ass crack. So I brought them in here with me. Okay, she managed, dumping sugar into her mug. His hands covered her breasts and kneaded. She moaned low in her throat. The spoon clattered to the counter as he pressed h er upper body down. Like a soldier springing to attention, his cock saluted and wanted back in the action. Ready for more? Would it matter if I said no? A wide thig h nudged her legs apart and rubbed against her pussy. He smiled against her nape . Lying to me is bad and gets you a spanking, he warned, reaching for the second c ondom. And you dont get an orgasm after. Then I wont say no, she managed, her head mov ing as she tracked his motions. Good girl. He dropped the empty packet on the coun ter where she could see it and heard her breath catch as she realized that he wa s about to fuck her again. He covered his cock and smiled at the

about to fuck her again. He covered his cock and smiled at the trim backside bef ore him. Hands on her hips, he lifted her lower body slightly and plunged back i nto her pussy. Even though it had only been minutes since his last release, his need was just as great. The edge was still sharp, even more so as he knew how ho t and eager she was. Quincy, please, whispered Debbie. Sheathing his cock in one s troke, he held still, savoring the moment. His hands continued to play and pinch her nipples. Debbie wriggled, trying to get him to move. Removing his hand from her breast, he smacked one thigh. Stay still, he ordered, gripping her hips. Im goi ng to fuck you hard. Remember, dont come unless I give you permission. With a groa n, she nodded. Ill be good. Leaning over her, pressing her flat against the counter , he pressed his nose against her hair. The faint smell of flowers made him clos e his eyes. No perfumes, no fragrant lotions or heavily scented shampoos for her . Just simple, straight-forward Debbie. Well see how long you last, little girl. ** ** Debbie moaned at the husky voice in her ear. It was both a threat and a promi se, and she knew he would keep both. Rationale flew south for the winter as she turned her body over to a man she barely knew. She had no idea how old he was, w here he was from, if he was married, divorced, or a committed bachelor. Nothing, nada, zipthat described what she knew of the man fucking her. Except that Keith trusted him to make sure

the man fucking her. Except that Keith trusted him to make sure she was protecte d. But even before that, shed seen those nearly black eyes on her, seen the way h e watched her and felt a tingling in her body she hadnt felt before. When she hea rd his voice, her body reacted. She might not have understood, but her body had known. And so had he. He nearly pulled out of her and slammed back into her. God , how deep could a man drive into a woman? Quincy was doing it. He was filling h er, stretching her, and heating her up faster and more thoroughly than any man h ad ever done. And her entire body was revved up and wanting everything he could do to her. Her hands splayed on the counter to hold her upper body still. Her lo wer back arched, opening more to his driving cock. Deeper he went into her and h er womb contracted, trying to hold him in. He pulled back out and she whimpered in need at the emptiness. The wild pounding continued and she could hear his hea vy breathing in her ear. Despite being pressed against the cold counter, her bod y was hot and she could feel his chest slick as it moved over her back. His righ t hand tangled in her hair and lifted her slightly off the counter. His mouth me t hers and she sighed as he plundered her. His left hand went to her clit. At hi s touch, the heat in her pussy gathered, ready to explode. It was as if hed found a switch for her body and could release an orgasm anytime he wanted. Andhe pushe d her clit and released the dam. Oh, yeah, she thought, as fire consumed her. Sh e could definitely handle this with coffee. As she floated, Quincy drove into he r, shuddered

and was still, pinning her hips against the cabinets. His mouth left hers and sh e collapsed back onto the counter, then winced as it collided with her temple. Ow , she moaned. He immediately turned her around and studied her face. Holding her chin, he gently traced the bruising from her temple to jaw. I get the sonuvabitch alone for a minute and they wont need to worry about a trial, he muttered. I dont u nderstand, she frowned. You spanked me. Whats the difference? Very different situatio ns, he shook his head, reaching behind him for her tee. Carefully, he pulled it o ver her head and helped her sort out the sleeves. He took the condom off and str etched to put it in the garbage. What I did was for sexual stimulation. What he d id was because you caught him trying to rape and murder another woman. His eyes n arrowed in anger. I might be into some kinky shit, but Ive never forced a woman an d I sure as hell have never hurt one like he did. Or those other assholes you wo rked with. Debbie smiled a little. The man was such a puzzle. Theres more to your k inkiness? she murmured, lightly tracing her fingers over the scars on his chest. B esides spanking, demanding absolute obedience, oh, and threatening to gag me if I argued with you, of course. You forgot about the toys, he replied, seemingly fasc inated by the caresses. I love to play with toys.

by the caresses. I love to play with toys. Now, see, there you lost me. Sarah at wo rk gave me a dildo for Valentines Day, but she had to explain how to use it and You have a dildo? He smiled and stepped back. Get your coffee. Ill try to keep my hands off you. Im not complaining, she reminded him dryly. She poured her coffee and rais ed the mug to her lips. Toys? she prompted. My toys are probably smaller than your dildo. His dark eyes slowly went up and down her body. Her breath caught in her t hroat. I could put some on you today. You always carry sex toys with you? she frowne d. Everything I own is in those two duffle bags, he told her. A man needs to be pre pared. Guns, ammo, condoms, and sex toys. He gave her cocky grin. Takes care of a lot of situations. Now, I have a few that I think you would like. Like what? A minivibrator that nestles right up against that sensitive clit of yours. A devilish g lint was in his eyes. Id have the remote and could turn it on and off at will. Oh, sh e whispered, feeling heat start up again in her pussy. If he kept this up, shed b e a blithering idiot at work. Or nipple stimulators. They do the same thing. All th e things a girl needs, she managed, feeling her legs tremble. She downed a large gulp. But Ill be surrounded by other programmers or maybe even meeting with Keith. That might not be a good idea. You dont think you could control your reaction? he s miled. I dont think so, she told him, shaking her head. Given the

I dont think so, she told him, shaking her head. Given the pressure everyones under r ight now, I need to focus on our projects. Keith put me in charge of the three w ith the earliest deadlines. She bit her bottom lip and drank more coffee. I dont kn ow if thats good or bad. Why would it be bad? Because he could really be mad at me be cause of yesterday and want me to fail so he can fire me. You lost me, Quincy shook his head. Im the one who told him what was going on in Programming. Yesterday mor ning, Serena insisted and dragged me into his office, but Im still the one who to ld him. Im the one who May have saved his company from several sexual harassment sui ts. Sounds like putting you in charge of the projects is a thank you. Why would he be mad at you? The men are suing for wrongful termination, she countered, shaking her head. After Keiths press conference at two, they had their own and their lawye rs were already there. Hammond was VP for PR and when he got wind of what was go ing on, he got into an argument with Keith and spilled the beans on what had hap pened between him and Serena a year and a half ago. She saw the question in his e yes over his mug. He attacked her in his office after hours. She filed a report, but the police think Hammond and Keiths brother paid the police chief to bury the paperwork. None of that is your fault, he told her firmly. You didnt ask

those men to sexually harass you and the other women. Or to steal your ideas and pass them off as theirs. Nor did you have anything to do with Hammonds attacks o n Serena. Debbie listened but couldnt accept his words. Deep down she knew he was right, but then she closed her eyes and saw Serenas body under Hammond, saw the b ruising and swelling, and felt bile rise up in her throat. Lurching toward the s ink, she heaved. As there was nothing in her stomach, nothing came up besides th e coffee. Quincy came up behind her and carefully held her. Trembling, she leane d against him. Strength seemed to flow into her and she sighed. Sorry, she whisper ed. All I could see was Serena lying there with him on top of her and I can understa nd flashbacks, he murmured. You have flashbacks? She lifted her head. About what? She could see his jaw tense and a mix of anger and pain flooded his eyes. A calm ma sk dropped over his face and he shook his head. Lets not go there, he suggested. Not considering the way the day started. Nodding, she relaxed against him. His cock twitched at her closeness and he snorted softly. I think we better take separate showers. Or well never leave the apartment. And I have to get those projects done f or Keith, she sighed. Reaching out, he picked up her mug and handed it to her.

Reaching out, he picked up her mug and handed it to her. Get going, he told her. Wel l figure out what food is on the breakfast menu once were both dressed. What beside s food would He chuckled and tapped a finger against her lips. How much sexual expe rience do you have, Debbie? Not much, she admitted. Prom date right before high scho ol graduation and maybe spring break when I was a senior in college. Maybe? The hea t of a blush swept up her cheeks. Ive never been very good with alcohol. Im pretty sure something happened, but Im not sure what. Mmm, he murmured. A novice. Is that goo or bad? she wanted to know. She saw the speculative light in his eyes and felt a delicious thrill ofwell, she wasnt sure what it was, but she would bet her new ra ise that whatever he was thinking involved his rules and toys. For us? Very, very good, he smiled. As long as you trust that I will never do anything to hurt you i n any way. She saw the serious certainty in his eyes. I wont, Debbie, I promise. I be lieve you, she whispered. Beyond him being her bodyguard, she knew that during se x, he wouldnt hurt her. If something hurts, Ill tell you. He nodded. Well come up with special words for later. He turned her toward the archway. Now, unless you want m e to start your education, get going.

education, get going. And if I dont move, she smiled, taking one step, but stopping and looking over her shoulder. Does that make me a brat or a bad girl? A smart-ass, he retorted. Laughing, she stuck her tongue out at him before practically skippi ng out of the kitchen. Reaching her bedroom, she smiled. He was laughing as well .

Chapter Five As the hot water sluiced over her body, Debbie tilted her head back into the flow. Running her hands through her hair, she began shampooing. None o f what was happening made a damn bit of sense. After all her arguments with Clai re about jumping into bed with Paul, here she was having sex with her bodyguard the morning after meeting him. No, back up a bit, Debbie, she told herself, rins ing the suds out. Working the conditioner in, she put the night before first in the timeline. She didnt think shed be able to convince anyone that she hadnt lost h er mind. Shed let a stranger toss her over his shoulder, strip her, touch her, an d then spank her. Pouring her body wash onto the loofah, she rubbed her body bri skly. Washing her face, she stepped back to rinse off. Maybe she did have a conc ussion. Or some other mental condition from being thrown against the wall. Turni ng the water off, she opened the door and took her towel off the hook. She wrapp ed her hair up and began rubbing the cocoa butter on her legs. One thing she kne w for sureshe couldnt wait for her next lesson. **** Quincy was amazed that he had managed to shave without

Quincy was amazed that he had managed to shave without nicking his face. He didnt think hed showered that fast since basic training. Ideas had been percolating in his deviant brain and he wanted to try one in particular out. Dressing in black slacks and black turtleneck, he pulled on socks and boots just as the water fro m her shower stopped. Going to his duffle bag, he dug around and found what he w anted. Tossing the small, cloth bag in his palm, he smiled. He could just imagin e Debbies reaction to these. Grinning, he left his room and knocked on her door. J ust a moment she replied as he walked in. Her gasp and scramble made him laugh. Let me get a robe on, she squealed, scrambling about and partially closing the bathr oom door. Ive seen you naked and given you a few orgasms, but you want to put a ro be on? Im not used to this, she mumbled on the other side of the bathroom door. Cros sing the room, he pushed the door slightly. One brown eye peered out at him. I wa nt to see your body, he told her. From now on, if its just the two of us in the apa rtment, I want you naked. What? She stared in amazement. He entered the bathroom an d put the bag on the counter. Easily, he pulled her robe open and whistled softl y at her damp body. This will work out just fine, he murmured. What will work out j ust fine? she echoed.

What will work out just fine? she echoed. Your toys. He pulled the vibrating nipple rings out. Debbie was shaking her head. I thought we agreed that Ill only do them whe n were alone, he smiled. But the two of us will know that these are on you. Hands on her nipples, he began plucking them until she moaned as they stiffened into har d peaks. God, I am going to be hard all day, he muttered, picking up one ring. He secured them both and stepped back. Gorgeous. He held up the remote. This is what t heyll feel like. He hit low and smiled when her eyes widened. Quincy, Im not sure th is is a good And then theres the clit and pussy vibrator, he spoke as if she hadnt sai d a word. The what? she breathed, staring at the items in his hand. His other hand pulled out a harness. What are you going to do with that? He knelt in front of he r and placed the harness around her waist so the straps dangled properly. Slidin g the devices through the ends, he inserted the small dildo into her pussy and t he cup over her clit. Turning her, he brought the straps between her thighs and adjusted until satisfied. What happens when you turn them on? she asked softly, al most breathless. Standing, he pushed the button. She gasped and caught the edge of the vanity. Smiling, he increased the power and watched her in the mirror. Sh e was so sensual, so willing to trust him. He

would not violate that trust, even as he brought her further into his world. She would be his submissive in every way. When she was close to orgasm, he turned i t off. She caught her breath and gave him a dirty look. He laughed and smacked h er bare ass. Thats going to earn you at least one punishment tonight, he warned her . At least ten minutes of you begging for an orgasm before I let you come. How? she whispered, as if she wasnt sure she wanted the answer. Ive other toys, he told her, enjoying the way her eyes widened. Toys that can keep you just on the brink of or gasm for as long as I want. He stepped up behind her and pulled her ass against h is cock. So that when you finally come, you think youve died. The French call it t he little death. Youve done that to me already, she told him, resting her head on hi s shoulder and meeting his gaze in the reflection. More than once. Not like this, he promised. Unable to resist, he pressed his lips to the bruise at her temple, ki ssing his way down her neck to her shoulder. What about you? What about me? he frown ed. What do I get to do to you to make you feel that way? Wear the toys, he replied. Knowing that they are where I want my mouth to be or where I want my cock is goi ng to keep me hard and on edge all day. His fingers brushed over the

aching nipples. Be warnedif my temper starts to fray, then you better consider end ing whatever youre working on so we can get back here. As it is, I might try out the back end of my truck. His hand spread across her toned stomach. Ever fuck in a truck before? No, she whispered, trying breathe normally. The trick is to not sway the truck so much that people know what youre doing. His free hand moved over her hip and squeezed an ass cheek. In a day or two, hed put a butt plug in her to get her ready for him there. He could just see her expressionwariness, a little fear , and growing anticipation. Or I might move the seat back and have you kneel betw een my legs to suck my cock. She nibbled on her lower lip. Ever given a blow job? S he shook her head. Teaching you is going to be incredible. You sure? came her worrie d question. I thought most men wanted experienced women. Women who know what theyr e doing and Dont worry about other men, he told her, teasing her ear with his tongue. Id rather teach you exactly what I want. Just focus on what I tell you. Okay. Any oth er questions? What if I have to pee? she frowned. What do I do with the toys? You put them right back where they are, he told her. Ill check if I can. The blush came back and he smiled. And if

check if I can. The blush came back and he smiled. And if youve been a very good gi rl, Ill take you just to the point of coming. Youre teasing me, she whispered, duckin g her head. Yeah, he nodded, nibbling her ear. Because youre adorable when you blush . Youd think Id be over that by now, came her complaint. Chuckling, he shook his head . Stepping back he swatted her butt and left the bathroom. Lets get a move on. I hea r and obey, she tossed back. Thats what I like to hear. Dont hold your breath to hear it again! she hollered, closing the bathroom door. **** Quincy checked the hall a nd nodded. Debbie stepped out of the apartment and watched him put a paper clip near the bottom of the door as he closed it. In the movies, they always go near t he top, she commented. He smiled and took her arm as they went down the stairs. An d if someone jiggles the door, then they see the paper clip when it falls and pu t it back. If the paper clip is lower, then odds are they wont see it. If its on t he floor when we get back, Ill know someone at least tried to get in. And if that h appens? I get you the hell out of here and alert Hancock. Why not the police first? Be cause you come first. Your safety is my priority, period,

Because you come first. Your safety is my priority, period, he told her. Ill let him deal with that. He pulled her behind him as they reached the ground floor. Satis fied, he opened the door and gestured for her to follow him. He repeated the man euver at the outside door. Once down the steps, he took her arm and set a brisk pace. Debbie trotted along beside him. Anything else I need to know? she wondered. Quincys eyes never rested, constantly moving to take in their surroundings. When I tell you to do something, do it. Dont question or complain. If I say run, run a s fast as you can no matter what happens. If I say get down, dont get up until I tell you. Youre scaring me more than Hammond did last night, she whispered, shiverin g. Good, he nodded as they reached the garage. He swiped the card and they went in side. Ive no idea if theyll try to intimidate you in any way. You think they will? He raised the remote and unlocked the truck. Once she was in, he checked the exteri or and climbed in. Do you think Hammond would try to intimidate me in any way? she repeated as he started the engine. Hancock and MacLauren seem to think its a poss ibility, he replied. Quincy, she whispered. He looked at her and saw the fear in he r wide brown eyes.

Reaching over, he held her jaw in his hands. Anyone getting to you is going throu gh me, he promised. Got that? Got it, she smiled slightly, nodding. He brushed a kiss on her lips. Again, he wondered at how fast shed gotten to him and worried that hed majorly screwed up by, well, screwing her. Hed broken the number one ruleno emo tional involvement with a client/charge. Driving out of the garage, he tried to convince himself that it was just sex. He was still trying to settle that intern al argument when he pulled into the underground garage at the MacLauren Building . A fellow Hancock agent was in the booth with the normal guard and the bar was raised for them to enter without a problem. Ive never been in the basement before, Debbie commented, as he backed into the spot. Really? She shrugged. I dont have a ca r. Im not even sure where the elevator is. To the right, one hundred twenty feet, he told her, shutting the engine down. He turned to her. Couple more things. If you see Hammond or anyone youve seen with him, tell me. Same thing for the others fi red yesterday. Debbie nodded. When were in the elevator and someone else is there, stay behind me. Put one hand on my lower back so I always know exactly where you are. She nodded again. What are the rules? Do exactly what you say without hesitati ng or questioning. Run without stopping, stay down without getting up until you

Run without stopping, stay down without getting up until you say, she said. In the elevator, stay behind you, one hand on your back. Good, he nodded. Odds are nothing will happen while were in this building. And once were on the floors for MC, then thatll go down even more But you want me to be ready for anything that could happen . Exactly, he smiled slightly. Hed scared her enough. Time for her to think of somet hing else. Oh, and one more thing. He pulled the remote out of his pocket. Just to remind you of something. He pushed the button for the first level and she gasped, closing her eyes and shuddering. Quincy, she moaned. Chuckling, he got out and he lped her out. Im leaving them on until we get to your floor. But thats number twentynine! Really? He ignored her mutters as they walked to the elevator. Despite the re lative safety of the building, he stayed alert as a few more cars came down the entry ramp. Going inside the elevator to a corner, Debbie leaned against the bac k wall and let him push the correct floor. Turning, he smiled. She was biting he r lip, eyes closed as she tried to control her bodys responses to the sensual sti mulation. As the car started up, he braced his arms on either side of her head. She opened her eyes and their gazes locked. Seeing the need on her face, knowing her body was

locked. Seeing the need on her face, knowing her body was being primed, Quincy f elt his cock stiffen. Quincy, Debbie whimpered. Please. I cant Shh, he murmured, brus g his lips over the bruise. What was going on with him? He had risked being fire d several times over, but Debbie was pulling things from him hed never felt. I wont while were around others. He took her hand and put it over his erection. Youre very tempting, Debbie. Is that good or bad? she wondered, her fingers curling over him. Im still trying to figure that out, he admitted as the car came to a stop. That was fast. He raised the remote and turned off the toys. Its early so there were no oth er stops, she said as the doors slid open. MacLauren was pacing in the hall. Morni ng, Keith. MacLauren turned toward them. They said you were pulling in downstairs, he said. Im glad you came early. Can you meet me in my office to go over your proj ects? Sure, she nodded. I just need to get my notes. She hurried through the door acr oss from the elevator. Quincy glanced at Keith. You get any sleep at all last nig ht? About an hour or so, the CEO shrugged. See you upstairs. He went to the stairwell as Quincy followed Debbie into a

large room of cubicles. At the far end was an open area with free-standing white boards and a conference table. Big room, he commented, weaving around to a row nea r the windows where the noise of her opening filing cabinets came from. Her head appeared over the divider. Duncan changed it when he took over, she replied. He pu t in the dividers and separated people. Quincy frowned. It didnt sound bad in itse lf, but not considering what had happened the day before. Separated how? Debbie gr imaced. He isolated the women. Surrounded us by men. And we were far enough apart that we couldnt hear what was being said. Or possibly done? She nodded, holding two notebooks. Do you want to put your coat here? she gestured to the hook where hers already hung. Coat removed, they headed back out to the hall. As Keith had, she headed for the stairwell. On the upper floor, there were a few more people and office doors were already open. Keiths at the far end, she told him. PR is there, she pointed to an open door just ahead of them. Finance up there and Legal beyond th em. HR is on the floor below Programming. They were halfway to the CEO offices wh en elevator doors opened behind them.

opened behind them. ridiculous! came Penny Davidsons voice. She came striding out, f ollowed by a clearly pissed-off Ben Hancock. Theres nothing wrong with this dress. And since when did you become my fashion stylist? I like it, Debbie offered as the pair approached them. No matter what her problems with Penny were, she figured the other woman needed some female support. Ben was glaring daggers at her. I wis h I could wear that color blue. Thank you, beamed Penny, linking arms with her. The y continued down the hall. I owe you a huge apology for the way I acted last nigh t. Given the way that everything came out yesterday, I should have known better. Im sorry. Forgiven, Debbie smiled. How long have you been in? Penny asked, seeing the notebooks. Just a few minutes. Keith was waiting outside Programming and wanted me to go over the projects due next month. Penny nodded. I wonder what hell have me doing. How about using your social contacts or If any of them will talk to me. Once word gets out that Ive sided with Keith, I might be an outcast. Does that bother yo u? A little, Penny sighed, then shrugged. At least I dont have my father, uncle, and cousin telling me what to do. Ive still got him, though. She jerked her head to in dicate Ben as the men walked behind them. Debbie shook her head. After what happe ned to Serena, Im

Debbie shook her head. After what happened to Serena, Im doing everything Quincy t ells me to do, she replied, smiling over her shoulder. Keith appeared in the door way. Perfect. I get both of you ladies. Gentlemen, you can wait in Serenas office or Ill go check in with my main office downstairs and with the rest of my men, Ben sa id. Assuming Penny promises to not wander off. Penny rolled her eyes and followed her cousin into his office. Debbie looked at Quincy. I promise too, she grinned. Ill talk to you later. Quincy smiled as she entered the office. Hancock grunted.

Chapter Six Dammit, Quincy, what the hell are you thinking? Hancock sputtered in a nger. Sitting at Serena Traydons desk, Quincy looked up as his boss returned to t he office. MC has some pretty sophisticated protections for their systems, he repl ied, glancing at his laptop. It took me thirty minutes to get through the first f irewall and nearly that for the second. Thats not what I meant and you fucking know it. Rule number onekeep your distance. The way she was looking at you, Id say youv e crossed the line. Quincy gazed at the monitor for a moment, reining in his temp er. This man had been his commanding officer in Afghanistan and had saved his li fe several times. When the group had been ambushed and the Taliban captured Hanc ock, the men had gone against orders and tracked them down. Quincy had no regret s about that. Hancock was one of the best men he had ever met. Quincy owed him, but he didnt like being pushed about Debbie. I know, he nodded. But Im not asking que stions about you and Penny either. He could hear Ben grinding his molars and allo wed himself a

He could hear Ben grinding his molars and allowed himself a small smile of satis faction. Dammit, Quince, he muttered, planting his fists on the desk and leaning f orward. You just met the woman last night. How the hell can you think about it, m uch less have already acted on it? Quincy considered that. Yeah, okay, that was a good point. Things had gone so fast, it took his breath away. Instinct. Hancock n odded. Quincy leaned back in the chair. Im not saying I understand it, but Im going with it. Shit, Quincy, Ben whispered. Im surprised you havent spanked the candidate f or spoiled brat of the year, yet, Quincy retorted. After the way she acted last ni ght and what Ive seen today? He gave his boss an amused look. I didnt think you had that much patience. I usually dont, Ben ground out, glancing at the CEOs closed door. God help her when she pushes me too far. From past experience, Id have said shes don e that already. What the hell are you going to do with her when you say enough? Ben just raised a brow. Ive a few ideas, he replied. Its only Tuesday, Ben. Shes going to rack up quite a few punishments without even realizing it. She knows exactly what shes doing, Ben assured him. Watch her face next time she pushes my buttons. That little witch is trying to get me to lose my temper so she can complain to Keith. D oesnt that put you in a sticky situation, Quincy murmured.

Doesnt that put you in a sticky situation, Quincy murmured. Yes and no, Ben replied w ith a smile, then gave him a hard look. But so does yours, and stop trying to dis tract me. Im going to assign someone Ben pulled his cell phone out. Fuck that! hissed Quincy, standing up and smacking the desk with his palm. Im not leaving her, so d ont even fucking try to assign someone else. Ben frowned and studied him as Quincy sat back down. Quincy opened, then shut his mouth, stunned at his own reaction. Im lost here. You just did a one-eighty on what youve always said your life would be. Lone wolf and all that. Clue me in here, man. Quincy stared at the monitor wi thout seeing the code that flashed across it. He wasnt sure he understood it, so how the hell could he get Ben to? Youve got your family, women falling all over th emselves to get to you, friends youve known all your life, he started quietly. Ive g ot none of that. It was never important to me. At least, I acted like none of it was. But it is. Yeah, it is. Okay, I buy that, Ben nodded slowly. But what brought t on? Been feeling like something was missing, like I wanted more, but I didnt know what it was. He smiled slightly. I saw Grant Franklin and his new wife at the mixe d martial arts championship three months ago.

Yeah, the hermit of New York City falling head over heels in love with a supermod el, Ben grinned. So, what, you want to settle down, get married, and have a family of your own? Youve always said you werent into that. I hadnt thought that far about the marriage or family part, Quincy frowned. Fate was strange, Quincy realized. D ebbie had come into his life just as he had been feeling that something was miss ing. Had he seen her at the Mixed Martial Arts Championships and not even realiz ed it? I think thats something to discuss with the woman involved. But? Ben prompted. Quincy leaned forward and rested his forearms on the desk. Ive never seen women st ick together or take care of each other. Like what we did in the field. Hancock g runted with a nod. Thats what happened last night. Those two women didnt hesitate t o go after Hammond to save their friend. Theres strength in her, Ben. She wants t o take care of those around her, even though shes scared of letting anyone get cl ose to her. Hancock considered that a moment before sighing and shaking his head. Be careful. This could boomerang on you. If she gets skittish and backs off, the n a helluva lot of people could have their lives exposed. A corner of Quincys mout h twitched. I dont think shell say anything. I put toys on her before we left this morning. You did what? Bens eyes bugged out a bit.

Shes a bit nervous about them. I need a drink. A double Scotch might work, Ben mutter ed, shaking his head. I dont fucking believe this. And Brian says I have balls for brains. Try it with Penny, Quincy suggested. Shes got enough problems with her famil y. She doesnt need more to deal with right now. Quincy nodded. The MacLaurens were probably the dictionarys definition of a dysfunctional family. That made him rea lize that he knew nothing about Debbies family besides the tidbit shed dropped abo ut her hometown. He made a mental note to bring that up fairly soon. Backtrack t hat thought. Families were not something he wanted to discuss. The big man in the re doesnt need any more either. From what I heard, he paused to let Ben realize th e door had been closed. Pennys father called. Keith MacLauren can put together an excellent string of obscenities. Her father is an unmitigated asshole, growled Ben. Plus theres the whole fianc issue. Ex-fianc, corrected Ben. Quincy blinked at the fie ce blaze in his bosss gaze. Hammond was using her. Her father, uncle, and cousin K evin want to use her. Why? Damned if I know. Does she? No. She doesnt understand wha ng on and, until thats straightened out, Im not going to explain anything to her. Shes

straightened out, Im not going to explain anything to her. Shes got enough to deal with. Quincy nodded, keeping his thoughts to himself. From what hed seen of the w ay Penny Davidson looked at his boss, she wanted him to explain a few things to her. Bens explanation probably wouldnt be what she was expecting or hoping for, in itially, but Quincy could see the two of them together as master and submissive. Hed never seen Ben so worried about anyone in or out of uniform besides one of h is men. Nor had Ben ever been so restrained when it came to a woman he wanted. I f Penny did something exceptionally stupid, Quincy could see Ben locking her in his playroom for weeks. Hey, Ben, Allen ODougall stood in the doorway. Chief of the buildings security, Allen was a legend in all things in the field. It was like t he old commercialwhen Allen talked, everyone listened. Everything quiet from your end? So far, Ben nodded, going to shake his hand. Ive got five men in the lobby watch ing all the doors at all times. Plus three more in cars in the garage. Four-hour shifts. I appreciate it, Allen replied. I just got a call from the PDs senior detect ive. Hammonds been denied bail, but the MacLauren family are appealing to the nex t level. Theres something going on there, muttered Quincy. I agree, the older man nodd ed. He smiled at the seated man. You ever get tired of working for this asshole, h e jerked a thumb at Ben. Give me a call. Hey, hey! Ben protested with a smile. Stop s tealing my men.

men. Allen winked at Quincy who grinned back. Ill let you know if I hear anything e lse. **** Following her through the maze of cubicles, Quincy picked up the whispe rs she didnt. She sat gingerly in her chair and he bit back a smile. The clit cli p and vibrator didnt let her just flop into a seat and get comfortable. He went t o the conference table and pulled a chair back to her cubicle. Sitting behind he r, he tapped her shoulder. She swiveled around. Everything okay? she wondered. I kn ow youre probably bored, but Everythings fine, he assured her. I was just wondering wh people were commenting on what youre wearing. Oh. That. She twisted her hands on he r lap. Fascinated, he watched her face turn bright red. Quincy had a feeling thi s would be a doozy. I guess what Id been wearing to work was, um, well, Serena cal led them better suited for working a street corner. What? His gaze went over her em erald turtleneck tucked into brown striped pants that matched the jacket she had draped over her chair. Why? I guess I subconsciously thought I could distract thos e assholes from messing with the others if my clothes held their attention, she w hispered, tears filling her eyes. Shh, he murmured, putting a hand over hers. When did you get these?

Keith thought it would be a good idea if Serena and I werent around yesterday. She exhaled and smiled slightly. Before I knew what was happening, Serena had dragged me into the store she goes to. Her chin dipped then came back up. I was horrible to her yesterday. Shes been like a big sister to me and so patient. She wouldnt le t me pay for any of it. Or for lunch. She swallowed. Her hands turned and held on to his. I spent yesterday afternoon bagging up all those trashy clothes. While Ke ith, Serena, and Claire were here dealing with Shh, he whispered again. Well figure ou t a way to pay her back if thats what you want, and you can talk to her today. She looked up with such a hopeful expression he felt his heart tighten. You didnt bag everything, did you? A nervous giggle escaped her lips. I kept some of my favorit es. Good, he nodded. Youll have to put them on for me. Debbie, Ive got a problem with ction four, came a shout. Go, he urged. He followed her, amazed at how she answered questions from several different sections for each of her projects in rapid suc cession. Feisty, sexy, smart. And she was his. **** Debbie bent double in the st all, trying to get the damn clit cup back on. It was nearly eight and Quincys tem per was, as hed warned her that morning, frayed. That was putting it nicely. At

warned her that morning, frayed. That was putting it nicely. At six oclock, hed sn arled at two of her co-workers who promptly shut down their computer stations an d left. She knew that as soon as she got back to her cubicle, he was going to sa y it was time to leave. She also knew that he was going to check and make sure t he damn toys were in place. Nervous anticipation made her fingers tremble and th e damn cup wasnt staying put. Sitting carefully on the toilet set, she took a dee p breath and tried to remember what shed done the first three times. Okay, get it nearly there, tighten the straps and then tweak it into place. It took her a fe w more minutes but finally she was satisfied. Pulling up her slacks, she zipped and buttoned then left the stall. And froze. Quincy was resting his butt against the vanity just across from the stall. He gave her a feral smile and held up th e remote. Whatwhat if someone comes in? she whispered, feeling her pussy flood at t he thought of what he would do with that small black device. Everyone else left a s soon as you came in here. He bounced the remote in his palm a few times. Come he re, little girl. At the huskiness of his command, she felt her knees turn to jell y. She stiffened her legs and managed to make it to the spot he pointed to at hi s left. At his gesture, she faced the mirror that was ten feet long and went to the ceiling. He stood behind her and put the remote on the counter. His hands we nt to her hips and held her still as he shifted forward. Feeling his erection ag ainst the small of her back, she wriggled her ass and leaned against him.

against him. Quincy, she whispered. Lets see how quiet you can be, he suggested, pick ing up the controller. Be a good girl, sweetheart. She opened her mouth as he push ed a button. The nipple rings stirred to life and she bit back the first whimper . Another button was touched and the clit cup vibrated. A third and the thumbsiz ed dildo moved inside her. After a moment, he touched them again and the movemen ts increased. She trembled as her most sensitive nerves were stimulated. Perspir ation appeared on her upper lip from both her arousal and her effort to stay sil ent. Her hands fluttered and gripped the forearm at her waist that held her to h im. Another level and she let her head fall forward. The heat was building. She could feel her panties grow damp from need. Out of the corner of her eye, she sa w his thumb move again. A shudder swept through and her body convulsed. Please! sh e gasped. He spun her around. She caught a glimpse of rich satisfaction and deep hunger in his dark eyes before his mouth landed on hers. One handshe thought it had to be the one holding the remotewent to the small of her back, pinning her to him. The other caught the back of her head and held her still. He ravaged her m outh as the toys increased their tempo again. Unable to hold back, she moaned in to his mouth. Burning up, she felt her pussy clench tight and sighed blissfully, thinking he would shut the toys off. He didnt. He held her to him, ground his

cock against her pelvis and upped the power again. Trapped, helpless to his sexu al power, she felt her mind check out and her bodys needs took over. She writhed as sexual desire gripped her. Her body tightened, like a spring just waiting to be released. Moaning into his mouth, she trembled, feeling her nipples ache as h er pussy clenched, wanting his cock. Come for me, Debbie, he whispered, his lips b arely leaving hers. As he smothered her with another kiss, the orgasm kicked thr ough her tense body, making her spasm for several heartbeats. Finally she collap sed in his arms. Slowly, the vibrating was decreased. She could still feel them, but her body was nearly numb. Through an erotic haze, she felt him cradle her. She thought she felt his lips on her forehead. So fucking hot, he whispered. So dam n submissive I can barely stand it. Not, she protested. Which? Both. What did I say a t arguing with me? Not arguing, she sighed, wishing she hadnt said anything. Just fac ts. His hands framed her face, being careful of her bruises. There was such certa inty in his expression, suchshe wasnt sure what it was, but she had always wondere d what it would be like to have a man look at her like that. Like she was the on ly thing that

have a man look at her like that. Like she was the only thing that mattered to h im. Likeshe belonged to him. Oh, no. She didnt belong to anyone and You are hot, he t old her, catching her bottom lip with his teeth and gently nipping her. And you a re incredibly submissive. You let me take control and trust me not to let anythi ng happen to you. He planted a soft kiss on her forehead. Youre mine, Debbie. You c an argue it all you want, but all youll get is punishment for it. And Id much rath er reward you for being such a good girl today. Torn, she looked at him. Damn the man! Hed said that on purpose. Yes, she liked being spanked, but she definitely preferred his rewards to being teased without being allowed to orgasm. If Im submi ssive, what does that make you? A slow sensual smile curved his lips. Ill explain w hen we get home. Home, she repeated softly. Ive never thought of it as home. Claire d oes, but Why dont you? Uncomfortable at the question, she shook her head. Thats anothe discussion not for the office. Or for the ladies room, he nodded. He tucked the rem ote in his front pocket. Lets get going then. Debbie was tucked under his arm as th ey left the bathroom and returned to the now dimly lit Programming division. As she shut down her computer, the phone rang. Its MacLauren, she said, seeing the cal ler id. He nodded

Its MacLauren, she said, seeing the caller id. He nodded and she picked it up. Sheld on. Debbie, its Keith. You folks need to head home. Everyone else has left. We made s ome good progress. I think we might even finish the Georgia contract a week earl y. I needed to hear some good news, he sighed. Were you able to see Serena? Claire and I took a late lunch to see her, Debbie nodded as Quincy picked up her coat. He h eld it for her and she slid one arm into a sleeve. She seemed tired and a bit dis tracted, but that could be from her concussion and everything thats happened. Under standable. Did you tell her not to come in until Monday or whenever she was read y? Claire did. She heard, but Im not sure she was really paying attention to anythi ng the two of us said. She frowned. It really wasnt like her at all. I didnt know wh at to say or do. Im not sure either, he muttered. This whole thing is such a fucking mess. Sorry about that. Its okay, she whispered. Keith, Im sorry. About what? All o ll of this is my fault. Bullshit! he exploded. This time he didnt apologize for swea ring. Debbie, you did exactly what you should have. Youve nothing to be sorry abou t. Im the one whos sorry. I should have known what was going on in my own company. There was a heavy sigh. Im sorry for so many things. He was

quiet and Debbie glanced at Quincy, uncertain of what to say. You head on home no w, Debbie, Keith finally said, back in control of himself. Ill see you tomorrow. Good night, she said softly. Hes taking the blame? Quincy guessed, helping her with the other sleeve. Completely, she nodded, then snuggled up against him. His arms went around her and she relaxed. For the first time in her life, she felt safe and pr otected. Quincy really wasnt going to let anyone hurt her. He wouldnt hurt her. Lets go, she murmured. I need to learn how to give you a blow job. She stepped away, bu t he caught her hand and pressed it to his zipper. She felt him hard and hot und er her palm and looked up. Wow, she breathed. Yeah, he nodded. Wow. He bent slightly a nd rested his forehead against hers. Im really tempted to bend you over that desk and fuck you right here. Really? She felt her heartbeat pick up. Yeah, really. Excep t Id rather not give Allen and his security team a show like that. Debbie nodded. Previously, surveillance cameras had only been in the halls. Saying he preferred to err on the side of caution, Keith had asked Allen to install cameras in ever y MC office except the bathrooms. Hed sent out an email giving his tenants the sa me option. But you said you might make me come in public, she

frowned. Thats a different plan, he smiled, tucking her back under his arm. Lets go, little girl. Why do you keep calling me that? she asked as they paused at the door. She turned the lights off, closed the door, and set the security code. Quincy? He was focused on the hall and she was quiet until they were in the elevator. Quinc y, why do you keep calling me that? Im twenty-three and Thats one of those things to discuss somewhere else, he replied. I need to make a list, she muttered. That got a chuckle from him as the car slowed. They were only halfway to the basement gara ge. Debbie remembered what to do from Quincys instructions that morning. She move d back into a rear corner and put one hand at the small of his back, just above his belt. She could feel the handle of a gun in its holster. His broad shoulders cut off her sight of who was joining them. Its Quincy, right? a mans voice question ed. One of Ben Hancocks men. Yes. We met a couple years ago. Im Brody Custis. I reme Quincy nodded. Debbie felt him relax slightly as she tugged on his coat. Who are you hiding back there? the deep voice rumbled. Debbie Sheldon. Senior program mana ger for MacLauren Computing, she answered as she waved past his shoulder blindly.

blindly. Quincy moved slightly and she peered around him. The tall blonde man re minded her of a Viking. Hello, she smiled. Sorry about the cloak and dagger. Sharp, blue eyes went from her face to Quincys, then came back to her. Shes involved in ye sterdays activities. Yes, Quincy nodded. I dont remember hearing your name mentioned i n any of the complaints, he murmured, eyes narrowing. But I did hear about two wom en saving Keiths assistant. Given that bruise, Id say you were one of them. Good f or you. Sorry you got hurt though. Hammond should have his balls cut off. Not enou gh pain involved, Quincy grunted. Brody nodded again, his gaze taking in the two of them. He smiled slightly as they reached the basement. The doors slid open. Im sure Ill see more of you. Have a good evening, he wished them, exiting and turning right. Debbie stayed silent as Quincy guided her to the left and put her in the truck. She felt sure that the two of them knew each other, beyond Quincy workin g for one of Brodys friends. Custis reaction to Hammond attacking Serena and hurti ng Debbie and Claire was similar to Quincys, Bens and Keiths. The light bulb went o n and she nearly smacked her forehead. It had all been there right in front of h er. The alpha male attitude, his self-control, the spanking, his knowing how to touch her, the toys, the rules, his comment about her being submissive. He climb ed in and closed his door. As the locks clicked, he

He climbed in and closed his door. As the locks clicked, he started to put the k ey in the ignition. She reached out and covered his hand. You want me to be your sex slave. For a long moment, he didnt move, before he slowly turned his head and looked at her. Debbie held his gaze, not willing to back down. She didnt know wha t the hell to think. And couldnt believe she wasnt running screaming from the truc k. Thats what this is all about, isnt it? You got assigned to protect me and decide d to spend that time making me your sex slave.

Chapter Seven Quincy considered how to answer her. She was extraordinarily close to the truth. He had known she was perceptive and brilliant, but hadnt planned o n her figuring things out this soon. It had to have been the encounter with Cust is that had kicked her brain into gear. Yes and no, he finally answered. That didnt come close to satisfying her. Thats not an answer, she said flatly. Anger and righ teous fury radiated from every line of her slender body. Ill have you know right n ow that I am not about to be any mans sex slave. Its the twenty-first century, in case you havent looked at a calendar recently. Quincy turned, caught her shoulders , and kissed her. Only when they were both breathless did he raise his head. I do nt want you as a sex slave, he rasped. I want you as my submissive. Oh, and of course , that makes all the difference. She glared, even as her chest heaved in a breath . Like I have a clue as to what youre talking about! A slave has no rights, he said b luntly. A slave knowingly enters a contract with his or her master and gives abso lute

enters a contract with his or her master and gives absolute authority over him o r her. The slaves duties can be strictly sexual, but usually include running the household and other responsibilities. Masters of slaves are considerably stricte r than a master of a submissive. What? How? she whispered, clearly stunned at his w ords. Whats the difference? Slave and master is usually a total lifestyle. Some mast ers will tie up a slave, put toys in him or her, and leave them like that for ho urs. Supervised, of course, he added at her gasp. The slave turns over everything to the master. And a slaves master might limit how much they go out in public. If at all. He saw her eyes widen and heard her swallow. A dominant and submissive ca n be very different. Some may seem like a perfectly normal couple. Behind closed doors, the relationships vary. Some keep it strictly to the bedroom. Others let it spill over. There are clues and hints if you know what to look for. He smiled . Ill bet you know relationships like that and dont even realize it. I dont think so, he shook her head. Its possible, he shrugged. What do you want from me? she demanded, shaking over her shock. I mean, you started in on me as soon as the door closed on Claire last night and He smiled slightly and brushed his thumb over her lips to silence her. How about I promise to explain when we get home? he reached past her and pulled her seatbelt into place. Why do you keep calling it that?

Why do you keep calling it that? He turned the key and fastened his own seatbelt. Im not sure, he said quietly. Its the first time Ive used the word like that. She stare d at him until they pulled out of the garage. He wasnt sure what to make of her s ilence. He knew it wouldnt last though. He smiled slightly. Her quick mind, combi ned with an inability to keep quiet, would provide all sorts of opportunity to d iscipline her. And reward her. Her figuring things out could be played to his ad vantage. **** Debbie thought fast and furiously. This was way more than anything shed ever been involved in. Quincy was deeper and, what had been his word earlie r, kinkier than anything else she knew about regarding sex. And Brody Custis! He was a close friend of Ben Hancock and Keith MacLauren. She closed her eyes. She didnt want to go down that road. Except that left her trying to figure out what to do with Quincy. She had to admit that, considering her life, there was someth ing appealing about turning everything over to someone else and not having to wo rry about anything. To focus on one person and what that persons needs were, know ing that person would take care of her. She would be safe, protected, desired, a nd taken care of in every way. But something inside her rebelled at the idea of being so totally under the control of a man. Shed struggled too damn hard to let a man dictate her life now. She was woman, hear her roar. As

her self-righteous feminist streak built up steam, she replayed his words. Submi ssive, hed said, was different than a slave. And he wanted her as a submissive. O kay, that required a completely different train of thought. And, she chewed on h er bottom lip, she didnt know enough to make a decision. Except that she could no t give up her life and have what hed described as a slaves life. But to be Quincys submissive? She considered what had happened so far. And realized she was thinki ng about giving up control, at least about sex, to a man shed known less than twe nty-four hours. I dont believe this, she whispered, shaking her head. What? He spared her a quick glance, but the stop-and-go traffic didnt let him do much more. How d id you get to me so fast? I dont understand any of this, but Im actually listening to you talk about She looked at his profile. Im listening to a man Ive known less th an a day, whom I know nothing about or even if Quincy is your first or last name . She exhaled in a loud whoosh and tossed her hands up in a helpless gesture befo re making fists on her thighs. Im actually discussing this with you. I want to kno w more before I decide and that scares the hell out of me. I mean, I know I cant do the slave thing you were talking about. She shook her head. Ill tell you right n ow that wont happen. Ive worked too damn hard my entire life to stand on my own tw o feet and not depend on anyone. But She paused, trying to find the right words. Im feeling so much right now and I cant figure any of it out and

Giving up trying to express herself, she rested her head back and closed her eye s. Hey, he said quietly, putting his right hand on her fist. Its all right to be con fused. Well start talking tonight and keep talking. Really? she turned her head slig htly. Absolutely, he nodded. Have you ever done anything like this? She wondered at the jealousy that stabbed at her when he hesitated. Nothing like what Im consideri ng with you, he answered slowly. I dont follow you. I wanted to wait to discuss this when I wasnt driving, he reminded her. Well, say what you can now and well wait if w e need to. Im a sexual dominant, he spoke slowly, as if he was choosing his words ca refully. Im a member of a club, a sex club. Dominants and submissives go there. So me live there fulltime. The live-in submissives are trained to surrender to a do minant for his or her sexual pleasure. Sometimes a dominant may prefer to focus solely on a submissives pleasure. The way you did last night? Or in the ladies room before we left? she whispered. And yet, this morning, you said you werent going to wait any longer. I damn near didnt leave you last night, he sent her a wry smile. Your e extraordinarily responsive and submissive. I really wanted to climb into bed w ith you and

wanted to climb into bed with you and She watched him snap his jaw shut and firm h is mouth as he stared out the windshield. The idea of waking up with him next to her, on her or in her tugged at her pussy as much as her heart. And she didnt th ink they would only be sleeping in the bed. What exactly are you considering with me? she asked, going back to the topic. A dominant-submissive relationship, he sai d, hitting the blinker to make the right turn into the nearest parking building to the brownstone just a few buildings away. He rolled the window down and inser ted the card into the slot to raise the gate. Moving forward, he returned the ca rd to the emergency brake well and rolled the window back up. A permanent relatio nship. Her jaw dropped. Of all the things he might have said, that hadnt even ente red her thought process. A permanent relationship? Did that include marriage? Or children? They knew nothing about each other and he was talking like this? What was more amazingthat hed mentioned it as if he was serious or that she hadnt laugh ed at him? Quincy backed into his spot, shut the engine off, and pocketed the ke ys. Releasing his seatbelt, he turned on the seat. She hit her belts release butt on and turned to face him. Do you mean all that? Yes, Im serious. I know its a helluv a lot for you to deal with on top of yesterday and all your responsibilities at work. He held up a hand as she opened her mouth. I want you to keep working. If th ats what you want to do. If you ever decide you want to do something else, stay h ome or go trekking through the

want to do something else, stay home or go trekking through the mountains, then well talk about it then. His hand cupped her jaw. Im not the easiest man to be aroun d. Ive been alone my entire life. The men in my military unit were the closest Ive had to family. The women Ive been around have been at extremes. Mostly either me mbers of Bens family or submissives at the Club. His thumb rubbed her cheek bone. I know its crazy as hell, and impossible to explain rationally, but when I saw you in the hospital last night, I wanted you. Yeah, he nodded, at first it was a pure ly sexual reaction. Heat rose in his eyes. I didnt know if I wanted you on your kne es sucking my cock or spread out on a bed waiting for me to fuck you until we we re both exhausted. As her lips parted slightly, his thumb slipped inside. Then it became more. Youre strong, inside and out. Youre intelligent, caring, fiercely loy al to your friends and your sense of humor is damned near as warped as mine. If yo ure referring to the stress ball tossing, that was to relieve tension, she replied , feeling her pulse race both at his tender touch and his words. A smile twitche d at her lips. We all needed it. Youve got a wicked pitching arm, he smiled. I want al l of that, Debbie. The public and the private you. He grew serious. I dont know how I feel about marriage. Ive never considered it before. Then again, he exhaled. Ive never considered a permanent relationship before. He pulled her head nearer. Youre not the only one with new and confused emotions,

sweetheart. Im surprised my heads not spinning off my shoulders. That helps a little , she smiled. Knowing that youre trying to figure all this out as well. Lets get home and continue this conversation, he suggested. Before I joined you in the ladies roo m, I called Tinos and asked them to have dinner ready for pick-up. Before she coul d respond, he slipped out of the cab. When he opened her door, she just stared a t him. How did you know about Tinos? What did you order? It was the top menu in the drawer by the phone. I told him I was your boyfriend and needed his help so I di dnt screw up a romantic evening, he smiled. His hands caught her by the waist and set her on her feet. He told me your favorite things and helped me select the win e and Debbie threw her arms around his neck and kissed him. With a groan, he press ed her against the trucks cab and ground his cock against her. The toys began to vibrate. Oh, God, she moaned. Quincy, not here. Yes, here, he nodded, nibbling her nec k. Were in the shadows and the doors still open. He lifted his head. I could fuck you here and no one would see. She inhaled sharply and he chuckled. I can see Im going to have to wait on that one. But in the meantime Oh, she whimpered as he increased the speed of the vibrations. Stay quiet, he warned. Were still in public, sweetheart .

Stay quiet, he warned. Were still in public, sweetheart. You get too loud and Ill hav e to shut them down. Im not going to be able to walk, gasped Debbie. I want you, Quin cy. I want you inside me. I know, babe, he smiled as the toys hummed faster. And I w ill be soon. But, his mouth hovered over hers. I do love making you come. Just like that, the vibrations increased to maximum. Her breasts swelled so that the nipp le rings were outlined against her turtleneck. Her clit throbbed and her pussy f looded with moisture until she felt it dripping. She understood what flashfires felt like because one swept through her body before she even realized what was h appening. As she arched against his cock, his mouth smothered her shout of relea se. For what seemed like ages, she clung to him as her entire body pulsed with e cstasy. And just like that, everything went still. The garage was quiet except f or her panting. Quincy cradled her against the heat of his hard body, lips brush ing over her forehead. How can I react like this? I didnt think it was possible to have so many orgasms. Your body has been on edge all day from the toys, he smiled, wrapped an arm around her waist and closed the door. Wait until we get home. Thi nk you can walk? Your sense of humor is definitely more warped than mine, she manag ed. Setting the trucks alarm, he guided her out of the garage. **** Inside her ap artment, he swiftly secured the door as Debbie

Inside her apartment, he swiftly secured the door as Debbie turned on the neares t lamp. Holding the two bags of food and wine, she didnt move from the door as he checked the apartment. Harsh reality collided with the sexual haze shed been und er. A little over twenty-four hours ago, Serena had been attacked. Quincy had en tered her life. To protect her. Hammond had attacked Serena, but Debbie had seen his face. Hammond might come after her to keep her from being able to testify. Samuels and the other men fired might come after her for revenge. Quincy paced f rom Claires room to hers. This was real. As real as the way hed been seducing her. Did she want to be his submissive? She couldnt believe she was seriously conside ring it. The image of Quincy that morning came to her. All broad, deep, rippling muscles and a cock that had been ready to explore the deepest part of her. He w anted her sexually, yes, but was there more? The gleam of humor in his eyes when shed chucked a stress ball at Pamela in the next cubicle and started an all-out stress ball battle with the staff. Most of all, she saw the want in his eyes whe n shed emerged from the bathroom stall, whispering in her ear as she held onto hi m in the garage after her orgasms. Shed never wanted a relationship with a man. S hed been hurt too many times. But Quincy was different. She wanted to be with him . She wanted to be his. She wanted something more.

Its clear, he stated, leaving her room. You okay? Debbie nodded as he took the bags f rom her hands and carried them into the kitchen. She hung up her coat. Turning, she saw the expression on his face. He wanted her now. Talk, she decided, as he came toward her, was going to wait. Now that were alone, she started in a soft voic e. What should I call you? That stopped him in his tracks. What would a submissive at the club call you? Master or sir, he replied, sounding as if the words were hard to get out. If they were in a relationship out of the club, what would a submiss ive do once she and her master came home? When he just stared at her, she swallow ed. Quincy, I know we still need to talk, but I think were past a lot of it. Im rea lly trying here, but I need a little help from you. A little guidance on Go take al l your clothes off and wash your face. Pull the covers to the foot of the bed. L ie down and wait for me. Do not take your toys off. Once Im there, dont move unles s I tell you to. Yes, sir, she smiled, starting past him. He caught her upper arm a nd gazed down at her for a long moment. Be sure, Debbie. If you go in that room a nd follow my orders, theres no turning back. Once I take you like this, with you fully aware of what I want, I wont let you go. You understand this?

understand this? Debbie felt as if things in her life had prepared her for this. For him. To be strong with him. Something in her centered and it all fell into p lace. She didnt know about love. But she knew she wanted him. She didnt know him, but she knew trusted him completely. I understand, she nodded. You might want to pu t the wine in the fridge. She saw amused understanding in his eyes before he rele ased her arm. In her room, she hurried to remove her clothes, hang them up, get done in the bathroom, and get on the bed before he came in. Shed barely placed he r head on the pillow when the door opened. Her eyes widened. Quincy was nude, al ready erect with a condom on, and carrying a small black bag. Silently he opened the bag and pulled out two leather strips and secured her ankles to the footboa rd so her legs were spread wide. He pulled out two more, with a third dangling f rom the connecting chain. Sitting on the edge of the bed, he wrapped two around her wrists and fastened the third to the bedrails so the cuffs were over her hea d. Almost reverently, he removed the nipple rings. She gasped as blood flowed fr eely to her engorged flesh. His dark head bent and his tongue laved each sensiti zed tip. She moaned and trembled. He raised his head and for a long moment they stared at each other. Still holding her gaze, he unhooked the harness and pulled it away from her body. He set it aside. Always maintaining eye contact, he mane uvered over her until he was kneeling between

contact, he maneuvered over her until he was kneeling between her thighs. Feelin g his erection brush her hip, she lifted her pelvis, wanting more. He froze and she squeezed her eyes shut. Shit. Hed said not to move unless he told her to. Why did you disobey me? Im sorry, she whispered. Please, she murmured. Please tell me I di nt just screw up so badly that you dont want me. She searched his expressionless fa ce. I want you inside me. I need She struggled to find the words. I need you. In me. On me. I dont know how to explain it, but I need this so badly. He blinked but th at was the only movement she could see. Please, she whispered. Its as if everything Ive ever wanted or needed, or not even known I wanted and needed, is right in fro nt of me. And Im terrified that itll be taken away before I realize what it is. Qui ncy closed his eyes at the sound of her panic. Her words described their emotion s, their situation, everything perfectly. It was how hed felt when hed first seen Debbie in the hospital holding an icepack to her face and trying to simultaneousl y answer police questions, get examined by the doctor, and keep an eye on Claire and everyone around them. Shed drawn him to her with a heady combination of stre ngth and vulnerability. He would take her, hold onto her, protect her, and take care of her. No one else but her. His eyes popped open at the soft sound. She wa s crying. Quincy felt his heart seize at the sight of tears slipping from the co rners of her tightly shut eyes

Debbie, look at me. She moaned and turned her head on the pillow. Now. He could feel her body shaking under his and forced himself to stay still. Look at me, babe. Fi nally, she turned her head and opened her eyes slowly. Youre mine now, sweetheart, he told her, raising his hips slightly. Slowly, he moved his body over hers, bra cing himself so the only connection was the tip of his penis just above her mons . You still want me? she asked, disbelief in her voice. Try getting rid of me, he to ld her. Well worry about your confidence problems later. I dont have confidence probl ems, was her quick retort. Uh-huh, sure, he nodded. You also just earned a spanking for arguing with me. He smiled. Thats at least three or four for the day. She opened her mouth, then snapped it shut. You do learn quickly, he smiled in approval. I th ink thats enough talk for a while, he murmured. Right now, I have a dick that wants to get thoroughly reacquainted with your heat. About time, she smiled. He gave her a look that communicated after all that, you mouth off? Oops, she whispered, trying to look sorry and failing miserably. Pushing off her, he released her wrist cuf fs and sat at the edge of the bed. Come here, he said, not looking around at her, but patting the mattress next to him.

Slowly, Debbie released her ankles and crawled around the bed and knelt next to him on the mattress. He patted his lap. Stretch out like I had you last night. Her eyes opened wide and she swallowed. Nibbling her bottom lip, she obeyed, spread ing her body across his thighs. His cock liked that and bobbed against her sleek abs. His hands caressed her back, ass, and thighs. Perhaps I should make this a nightly routine, he commented, putting his right hand between her shoulder blades . His left hand rested on her ass. You do seem to enjoy a good spanking before be dtime. No she started. His hand rose and fell and her body jumped slightly. Dont argue with me, Debbie. He spanked her three more times in quick succession. With each slap, her thighs parted. After your reaction last night? Youve been needing a man to take control of you. Two more swats and her left leg slid off his thigh and da ngled. And I am more than willing and able to do that. His hand trailed along her right thigh to her pussy. Mmm, are you wet, Debbie? Is your pussy ready for me to fuck? Yes, she nodded, trembling as he brushed feather-light strokes along her ass crack. Please, master. Fuck me. With a groan, he slid his hand over her folds, pa rted them and plunged two fingers into her pussy. Debbies hips tucked under and h er inner walls clamped down on his fingers as if they were his cock.

his cock. So eager, he murmured, stroking his fingers in and out. Please. Please. P lease, she chanted each time his fingers filled her. Wanting more, he pulled his hand away. He heard her whimper, but was too focused on one thinggetting his dick into her pussy. He tossed her onto the bed and secured her ankles again. As he knelt between her spread thighs, she put her hands over her head. Bracing himsel f over her with one arm, he secured her wrists. Master, please, fuck me, she was w hispering over and over. Please, fuck me. Hands on either side of her head, Quincy drove his cock into her pussy. Her breath caught as their pelvic bones ground t ogether. He felt her body shudder at the invasion, then relax. Except for the ho t, sweet walls that tightened around him. He flexed his hips and began an age-ol d rhythm. Up and down, in and just nearly out. Thrust in deep, until her moans b ecame breathless pleas for more. Balancing with one arm, Quincy reached down wit h the other and teased her clit and felt her muscles clamp down hard around his cock. The expression on her face showed how lost she was in her need and he felt the dampness of her body as the heat in her rose. All the while knowing that sh e was his. All of her. From the slim, black brows over her lively brown eyes, do wn the slender nose to the full lips. From the hollow of her collarbone to the s light swell of her breasts, along the trim waist to the flare of her hips and le an muscles of her legs. All of her.

muscles of her legs. All of her. Please, panted Debbie. Im close. I need Come with me, e grunted, nearing his release. His body was a bow being pulled back as far as i t could go. The arrow was his cock in her pussy releasing. His breathing increas ed and deepened as if he was about to make a long underwater swim. He wanted to hold out as long as possible. She was so hot. So tight. And nothing had ever bee n more perfect than being inside her. Ohhhh, godddd! he groaned. With a loud moan, Debbies pussy gripped him in her. Quincy felt his eyes roll back in his head as his brain focused on one thingrelease inside Debbie. One of her spasms tripped hi s internal wire. Hands near her shoulders, he froze his upper body. His cock sur ged and pulsed. He stared at the wall over the headboard, concentrating on getti ng the very last drop into her. Finally, he felt his heartbeat slow down and his breathing return to normal. Sated, he gazed down at her orgasm-softened express ion. Smiling, he reached out and freed her wrists. Nestling his hips against her , he kissed the sweat-dampened shoulder. That might hold me long enough to feed y ou so you have energy for tonight. One brown eye opened. What happens tonight? He s miled. Your training begins in earnest. Training for what? she frowned, opening the other eye. For being my submissive, he reminded her. Granted, youve got the general idea, but there are a few things we need

to work out and clarify. She gave him a long, studying look. Is this your idea of pillow talk? If it is, you need to work on it. Duly noted, he smiled. Reluctantly, he pulled out of her silken core, knelt between her thighs again, and released h er ankles. Ready for dinner? Definitely, she smiled, sitting up and wrapping her arm s around his waist when he would have moved. She felt his torso stiffen slightly and dropped her arms. Sorry, she whispered. Hey, he murmured, catching her arm when she turned away. Were both making adjustments here. She gave him a wary, skeptical look. I know Im not the easiest man to be around, much less live with. And Ive nev er lived with a woman. Im not used to being touched. Thats okay, she shrugged, pullin g her legs under one hip. Im not used to it either. Or to touching a man. Ill proba bly do something wrong again and get you so pissed at me that She stopped, her bre ath catching as ancient memories rushed up and took over. Trembling, she curled around her legs, hiding her face against her knees. Debbie? His fingers brushed ag ainst her hair. She squeezed her eyes shut. No! She wasnt going to let the past g et to her. She was stronger than that. She took a deep, shuddering breath and ex haled noisily. Im okay, she whispered, slowly raising her head. Just Lying to me, he ok his head and sat back on the

Lying to me, he shook his head and sat back on the mattress. None of this will work if you dont trust me. How am I going to know when something is hurting you? Or p leasuring you, if you try to deceive me with your body and your voice? Im sorry. She swallowed then shook her head. I just dont want to talk about it right now. Youre go ing to have to, he told her quietly. Your body language is saying what your mouth wont. Im guessing its something in your past that is big. So big its determining eve rything in your life right now. Its why you reacted the way you did last night wi th Serena. And Claire. Why you didnt go to MacLauren on your own. And why you see m to think that you screw up everyones lives. He leaned forward and put two finger s under her chin. Serena certainly didnt seem upset this afternoon. Disoriented, he nodded. But certainly grateful. Claire might be irritated with your over-protect iveness, but she understands your concern for her. MacLauren has faith in you, o therwise he wouldnt have made you responsible for his companys next three deadline s. Debbie opened her mouth to argue and his thumb pressed against her lips. Shut i t, he said sternly. He is a businessman. He is not going to set you up for failure because then it makes him look worse. Keith put you in charge of those projects because hes confident in what you can do. Because he knows youve got something to prove to yourself, him, and the assholes he fired yesterday. Debbie stared at hi m. She definitely wasnt used to anyone talking to her like this. Claire hadnt sinc e their first night sharing

talking to her like this. Claire hadnt since their first night sharing an apartme nt together. Serena had tried yesterday but backed down when Debbie had resisted . Quincy didnt know the meaning of back down. He just ripped the bandage off and left her exposed. I She slumped on the bed and nodded. Youre right. At least about Se rena, Claire, and Keith, but you dont know the rest. And youre right. I just cant t alk about it right now. Not cant, he corrected. Wont. And that means you dont trust it doesnt, she protested, temper flaring. She met his gaze. It means I dont want to deal with it right now when Ive got all this other shit in my life to deal with. A nd Im part of the shit, he observed. No, dammit! Dont twist my words like that. Furio us at how things had gotten so out of hand, she rolled off the bed and stalked t o the bathroom. At the doorway, she turned and glared at him. And you dont have a leg to stand on when it comes to trust. I still dont know if Quincy is your first or last name or anything about you. Ive trusted you a helluva lot more than you have trusted me! She closed and locked the bathroom door, then collapsed on the t oilet lid. Hands shaking, she rested her elbows on her thighs and put her head i n her palms. What the hell had just happened?

Chapter Eight Staring at the locked bathroom door, Quincy wondered what the hell had just happened. One minute they were talking, then she over-reacted at him p ulling back from her hug and thenhe had over-reacted. Or under-reacted. Shit. He scowled. And she was right. Hed demanded she trust him more on faith than he shou ld have. He didnt want to deal with the questions she had a right to ask. He wasnt used to having to talk about himself. He was definitely too used to the quiet w ays of the club submissives. Not that hed trade Debbie for any of them, he smiled . Quincy wanted her with all her fire, smiles, and quirks. Which meant, he ran a hand through his hair, he was going to have to straighten things out. Moving qu ietly to the door, he laid his palm flat against it. He couldnt hear a sound on t he other side. Good luck figuring out what the silence meant. Debbie? Ill start he ating up the food. Come out when youre ready. Well both feel better once weve eaten . He listened intently. Still nothing. We dont have to talk about everything tonigh t. At some point soon, yes, but not tonight. Silence. What do you say to just eati ng dinner and getting a decent nights sleep? I can try to just hold you, but no p romises.

nights sleep? I can try to just hold you, but no promises. He took a couple slow b reaths before he heard movement. All right. Dinner and sleep. All right. Does that me an I cant touch you? she questioned hesitantly. He heard the click of the lock and quickly turned the knob before she could change her mind. Against her pale face , the bruise from the night before seemed even more violent. All he wanted was t o protect her. He pulled her to him. If you really cant help yourself, you can, he smiled, burying his face against her neck. But Im not responsible if you seduce me . As if I know how, she shook her head. God give me strength when you try then, he re plied, kissing her swiftly. Come out when youre ready. She nodded and he stepped ba ck. The vulnerability combined with strength in her expression nearly had him ha uling her back into his arms. Hed been through several kinds of hell. He could se e in Debbies eyes that shed been through another kind, one that had lasted for yea rs. Leaving the bathroom, Quincy went to the other bedroom and pulled on a pair of black sweatpants. In the kitchen, he piled everything but salad onto two plat es and put them on the doubletiered rack in the microwave. Punching buttons, he started that and took out the wine. Rummaging through the drawers for a corkscre w, he considered the situation. He wanted to protect her as much as he wanted to fuck her. He didnt know what to

her as much as he wanted to fuck her. He didnt know what to do with these emotion s hed never felt before. He just knew that he didnt want any other woman. He didnt want any other man to touch her. He would beat any man to a pulp if they hurt he r, and not just because it was his job. Pulling the corkscrew out, he screwed it into the bottle and scowled. His job. Once Ben considered Debbie safe, he would be reassigned. Out of the city, or the state, or the country. Away from Debbie. Twisting the cork, he grit his teeth. Hed heard a few elders in his family talk about how a man could become as territorial and possessive of a woman as any oth er male animal. Of how wolves mated for life. How a man who had found his true m ate did what he had to in order to stay with her. Which meant, he realized as he poured the wine, he would need another job. Computers were the most likely area . He might not have an actual degree, but hed more than held his own in the discu ssions today. Hed seen the respect and delight in Debbies eyes when she talked to herself and hed thrown out an idea. She hadnt hesitated to bounce ideas off him. H e had a feeling if he hadnt pulled her out of the office, she would have stayed u ntil she collapsed. Something smells delicious, her voice came from behind him. Tal king about me? he grinned, turning around. His jaw dropped. Hed seen her either na ked, in loose work-out clothes, and a fairly fitted, professional suit with a tu rtleneck. Things that covered up, drowned, and hid her slender, strong body. He

never would have imagined her wearing what she was now. Turn around, he told her, not surprised at how hoarse his voice sounded. It was hard to sound normal when you couldnt breathe because of the vision in front of you. Slowly. Let me see you. Swallowing, she obeyed. The short gown was a soft, silky navy material that clun g to every curve and dip of her body. The spaghetti strings lead to a bodice cut low over her small firm breasts and the hem flared to tease him with a glimpse of her pussy and then her ass. His silence must have made her nervous because he r palms smoothed down the front. The bodice strained over her nipples and he hel d his breath, willing the rosy tips free. Do you like it? I know you said you wan ted me naked when it was just the two of us, but Ive never worn it and wanted to for you. She caught her lower lip as she looked at him. Serena gave it to me for m y birthday. Not trusting his legs, he extended a hand and crooked a finger at her . Come here. Let me show you how I like it. Relief appeared on her face as she qui ckly came to him. He took her face in his hands and kissed her. Quincy meant to just kiss her, then give her a glass of wine. Her tongue tangled with his and ve ntured into his mouth. With a groan, he knew that dinner would have to wait. Aga in. He didnt care if he was worse than a dog around a bitch in heat. He wanted in side her. And like shed said earlier, she wasnt complaining.

Her hands went to the waistband of his sweats and pushed them over his hips. Bef ore he could lift her, she went down, resting her knees on the sweatpants. Im not sure what to do, she whispered. I mean, Ive read about it in a couple books I borro wed from Serena and seen movies, but Ive never Just stroke me with your hands, he tol d her. Put your sweet lips on my cock. Slowly take me in your mouth. Just he couldnt believe how hard it was to breathe or talk. Just touch me. He could see the worry in her eyes and smiled as she tentatively wrapped her fingers around his erecti on. Thats it, baby. Your turn to get me off. Her turn, Debbie repeated to herself. Her turn to make him come. As shed debated wearing the chemise, shed thought of th ose erotic stories. The men had been putty in the womens hands when the women pai d attention to that part of their bodies. Now she put all that into reality. Fas cinated by the jutting length, she explored it with her fingers. Beneath the vel vet skin, his cock was rigid. She traced the pulsing vein along the side and und er. Gently, she stroked him, amazed as it darkened and hardened beneath her fing ers. With a groan, he leaned back against the counter. Harder, he whispered, his v oice hoarse and deeper. I dont want to do anything that would hurt you, she told hi m, looking up. Both his hands combed through her hair as he smiled. Sweetheart, y our pussy is tight and when you come, your walls

Sweetheart, your pussy is tight and when you come, your walls squeeze me tight. Sh e felt her pussy clench at his words. One of his hands wrapped hers around his c ock at the root and moved it up and down. Just like that, only tighter. All right, s he nodded. She stroked him like that, gradually tightening her fingers around hi m, loving the way his cock bobbed. Something from one of the stories came to min d and she decided to try it. She brushed her fingers along the heavy sacks below and along his inner thighs. When he inhaled sharply, she glanced up. His eyes w ere closed and his hands gripped the edge of the counter so tightly his knuckles were white. Dont stop. God, dont stop now. More confident now, she began stroking i n earnest. Fast and slow, tightly and brushing lightly. At the edge of her visio n, she could see his abs rippling and slowly becoming covered in perspiration. S he rubbed her thumb through the liquid seeping out of the narrow slit of his coc k and he moaned. She smiled. He wasnt even in her mouth yet. Taking a deep breath , she kissed along his great length, focusing on how he felt and the heavy musk scent that was all Quincy. She rested her hands on his thighs and sucked the hea d into her mouth. Her tongue explored the ridge and licked at the tip. Above her , Quincy hissed. Looking up, she watched his chest heave and felt his thighs tre mble. Gradually she pulled his cock deeper into her mouth.

tremble. Gradually she pulled his cock deeper into her mouth. Her cheeks sucked in and she felt his pre-cum slide down her throat. More, she wanted more of him. Leaning forward, she took him as deep as she could. One hand went to the base a nd wrapped around, squeezing in time with her sucking. The length of dick throbb ed and pulsed. She wriggled her hips as hunger for that length in her own body i ncreased, burning deep in her womb. Quincy groaned and she felt his hands on her head. His fingers threaded through her hair. Touch yourself, he whispered, voice husky. Are you dripping? She slid a hand through her nether lips and fingered her pussy. She managed a nod, even as she drew hard on him. His eyes rolled back and his entire body shuddered. More, he panted. More. Reveling in the power she now had , Debbie moved her hands to his tight ass. Holding him still as much as he was h olding her to him, she sucked in, took a breath and sucked in again. When she in haled, her tongue was flicking at the slit. The more she felt flow out of the op ening, the more she wanted all of him. Close, Quincy grunted. So close. She dug her fingers into his ass, pulled him in deep, and sucked hard. In response, the grip on her head tightened. Tears came to her eyes at the pain, even as she felt her pussy clench. Come on, baby, he encouraged. Almost therealmost Aaahhh! The moan was d rawn out. Oh, yes!

His hands held her still as his hips jerked forward so his cock was fully in her throat. She choked but swallowed everything as it poured down. Unable to move, she felt the tension in his thighs and ass. It was as if every part of his body was involved in his orgasm. Spent, he used the hold on her head to draw her to h er feet and into his embrace. That was incredible, whispered Quincy, lips against her hair. Damn, youre good, woman! Smiling in satisfaction, Debbie wrapped her arms around his waist. Not bad for my first one? she wondered. I might not make it to F riday, he sighed, burying his head against her neck. Their stomachs growled and h e chuckled. Lets eat so we have a chance of making it through the week. Otherwise, his teeth nibbled on her shoulder. I might have to eat up a certain tempting mors el. Excellent idea, she smiled, giving her hips a little wiggle against his. With a groan, he smacked her bottom. Come on, she cajoled, taking out the flatware. You k now that sandwich you grabbed from the employee dining room on the way to the ho spital wasnt enough. If Id had a better idea of what your days were like, I wouldve g rabbed two, he agreed, turning and getting the plates out of the microwave. Im defi nitely having two bowls of cereal tomorrow. Were going to need to go grocery shoppi ng at this rate, she commented, pausing as she arranged the placemats and napkins

commented, pausing as she arranged the placemats and napkins on the breakfast co unter. They sounded like a couple on some TV show, married and talking about nor mal family stuff. At least what she thought passed for couple-talk. She didnt hav e much experience either personally or in watching others. She bit her bottom li p. So what had she done? Tried to keep Claire from being with the man she wanted and who had wanted her for two years. Some friend she was. You want some music o r anything? He nodded, putting the plates down. Candles? She frowned, eyes going ar ound the kitchen. I think Claire has some somewhere, she murmured, going to the li ving room. Ill look in here. Turning on the stereo, she put in one of Claires jazz C Ds. Putting the case back, she smiled and picked up two votives and one pillar c andle. Triumphantly she put them next to the placemats. Not those long ones, she s hrugged. But it will work, he nodded, striking the match on the box hed found in th e menu drawer. Once the candles were lit, he scooped her up and set her on a sto ol. Stay here, he told her. Turning off all the lights but the one in her bedroom, he came back to find her waiting patiently. Retrieving the wine glasses, he sat next to her. To us. May I let you get more than four bites in your mouth before I decide to take you again. Laughing, she clinked her glass against his. Lets talk, she suggested. Talk, he repeated, twirling spaghetti on his fork. Didnt we

Talk, he repeated, twirling spaghetti on his fork. Didnt we try that already? Yeah, bu t I meant talk about us in more general terms, not um, she stammered at the look i n his eyes. Us, in particular terms. One dark brow went up. Thats one way of putting it, he muttered. Okay, how did you end up working for MacLauren? Do I get to ask yo u any questions? wondered Debbie. You seem to know a lot more about me than I know about you. Like what? he asked, warily. She chewed a bite of meatball and kept her gaze on his long fingers as they ripped the small loaf of bread. He tore it int o bitesize pieces, dipped it in the sauce and pressed it to her lips. She sucked on his fingers. At his swift inhale, she smiled. Your name? she prompted. Is Quinc y your first or last name? Middle. Thats a lot of help, she sighed. He put a large bit e in his mouth. From the way his eyes narrowed, she had a feeling that he was go ing to go all Master on her. Huh-uh. That was so not happening. Dammit. Whats your full name? He gave her a stern look. For the record, that tone of voice Will be use d if you withhold information that is basic and necessary, she finished, shaking her head. He would dominate her in the bedroom, but she had the right to know st uff about this

man. Stuff like youll be asking me. Your name, where youre from, what you did befor e we met. He downed the contents of his wineglass and poured himself some more. D ebbie was puzzled. Shed never been around anyone who got like this over something so simple. My full name is John Quincy Stormcloud, he said quietly. My mother was from Atlanta and my father was Sioux. They met in Vegas. My mother was a showgir l. My father worked in construction. There was an accident when I was eight and he was severely injured. He became addicted to pain medication to the point that it no longer worked. He wasnt rational most days. And at night Quincy paused and t ook a large drink of wine. Debbie could tell that the memories were not pleasant , maybe even painful. At night he drank, so he wasnt really rational then either. He took his rage out on us. I kept trying to get my mother to leave him, but she wouldnt. Every few months, my grandfather or one of the other tribal elders woul d visit and try to convince my parents to move to the reservation. They wouldnt. When I was twelve, I came home from school and they were dead. The neighborhood had been changing and the gangs taking control didnt like Sioux or any other Nati ve American in the area. They killed twenty people in a one-day purge. Silently, Debbie put her hand on his where it rested on the counter. He nodded at her gest ure. My paternal grandfather came for their bodies and took me back to the reserv ation. He took a deep breath and shook his head. I thought wed been

took a deep breath and shook his head. I thought wed been poor in Vegas. We lived like millionaires compared to the reservation. The school was all right but the best times were when my grandfather and uncles took me out. I learned a lot abou t hunting, tracking, and survival from them. The day after high school graduatio n, I left for basic training. Debbies gaze went to their hands. His were so large and strong compared to hers, darkly tanned to her pale skin. We both come from po or backgrounds, she whispered. My familys from a coal mining town in West Virginia. She shook her head. Im not sure it qualifies for the title of town though. There are maybe eight hundred people there, living in rickety shacks that look like theyll fall over in high winds. My grandmother was pregnant with my mother at seventee n. She barely graduated high school, so she was very strict with my mother. Her m outh twisted. Rules and my mother didnt get along very well. I was born four month s after my mother graduated from high school. She worked as a clerk at the gener al store and if she wanted more money she went to the bar to pick someone up. On e night, the man came to my room after she passed out. I kicked him in the balls and got out the bedroom window. I lived with my grandmother after that. She swal lowed and shook her head when he opened his mouth. I didnt think there was anythin g else in life until my cousin got into West Point. He came back for a week two years later and he was a different person. I had so many questions and Rich answ ered as many as he could. He even helped me plan so I

answered as many as he could. He even helped me plan so I could get out of that town and go to college. I took as many math and computer classes as I could and saved all my money so I could study for the SATs and advanced placement classes. I got into West Virginia University on a scholarship and majored in computer sc ience. I stayed during summers and worked in the labs. I read every journal I co uld get my hands on. Thats how I first learned about MacLauren Computing. I talke d to a professor about it and he said it was one of the best in the world. I did nt think I had a chance of even getting an interview, but I sent my resume out an yway. She chuckled. An hour later, I ran back to the mail room to get the envelope back, but the mail had already been picked up. I couldnt believe what Id done and told myself that theyd never call. They did, though. They did, she nodded, spearing a nother meatball. There was a different VP then. Jay was great. She grimaced. His wi fe was diagnosed with cancer three months after I started and he left to take ca re of her so the division hired Samuels. For a few moments, they were silent, ref lecting on what the other had said, eating. Debbie drank some wine and realized something. What did you do in the Army? How did you get so good at computers? He g runted and wiped his mouth. I passed the right tests in basic and joined Special Forces. For nearly two years, I was in

different types of schools. I joined Hancocks platoon in March of 2000. September 11th happened and we spent most of our time overseas. You were with Ben in the Ar my? And the others? He nodded. Theyre my brothers in every way. Every one of us has saved the others so many times, we stopped keeping track. Against the Taliban and Al Qaeda? she asked quietly, her gaze fierce. I killed my share. Not that it matt ers anymore, he shrugged. It does, Debbie told him. The ones you killed, that your u nit killed, they cant kill others or hurt people who just want to live in peace. Q uincy smiled slightly. Thanks, he said quietly. It means a lot to hear that. So why a rent you still in the Army? His expression shut down so fast she was stunned. For several seconds, he just stared at the plate. Without a word, he got up and bega n putting the food away. Quincy, she started, turning on the stool. Talk to me. She watched him a moment. I know you wouldnt have done anything that would have gotten you kicked out so I did, he said shortly. We all did. I dont believe you, she whisp He put the containers in the fridge and turned around. I dont, she insisted. There must have been some mistake if We were ambushed. Out of twenty of us, six were kill ed in

the first volley. During the second, they isolated four, killed three and took t he captain. Hancock, she whispered. Hancock, he confirmed. HQ told us to come back. We disregarded orders and went after them. Well, of course, nodded Debbie. You couldnt let them take him. A small, sad smile curved his lips slightly. We were told the s ituation would be taken under consideration and someone higher up would make a d ecision regarding a rescue attempt. We knew that the longer they had him, the fa rther they got with him, the less chance there was of getting him back alive. So y ou went after him, she nodded. We pretended to have radio trouble so we couldnt hea r the orders to turn back, he told her, resting a hip on his stool. Three days lat er, we caught up with them. They were about to behead him for their video. His b ody was so broken I dont know how he survived the trek back. He didnt want them to h ave that victory, she whispered. Yeah, he nodded. Anyway, we got back, all of us wou nded in some way. Debbie nodded, having seen some of the scars on his torso. We we re all shipped out and, while we were in various stages of healing, were given c ourt-martial papers. But you saved him! she protested, righteous fury in her eyes. H ow could they

How could they We disobeyed orders, he told her. Bens family got wind of what the Army was doing and protested to everyone they could get hold of. He grinned. And they k now a helluva lot of people who listened and took action. To keep things from be coming a PR mess, the Pentagon decided to discharge us. Hancock hired every sing le one of us for his company. And that, he gave her a smile, is how I learned so m uch about computers. I couldnt do much for three months while we were waiting for the powers-that-be to make up their minds. I found a manual someone had left an d read it. By the time we were discharged, I was hacking into everything I could . He grinned. Inside a year, I was in a Pentagon conference room. Hancock loved it when the suits and generals had to listen to me tell them that their secure net works were about as tough to break through as tissue paper. Ill bet Keith would hir e you in a heartbeat, Debbie said. He needs people with your skills. I was planning on talking to him and Allen in the morning. And Allen? What? She stared at him, rea lizing what hed said. He had already thought about it? Why? Youre serious? Once youre safe, Ben will reassign me, he pointed out. The only reason I was in the city was because Id just returned from an overseas assignment. Usually Im not here more tha n a couple weeks at a time. I want more than two weeks with you every couple mon ths or so. Really? she whispered as he sat back down. You really want to be with me?

want to be with me? I am definitely going to have to work on your confidence, he sh ook his head, pulling her onto his lap. I see you very differently. How do you see me? Smart, sassy, and strong, he ticked off. His fingers smoothed over her ass chee ks and squeezed slightly. Sexy and submissive. Sounds like the perfect woman to m e. Youre just saying that to make me feel better, Debbie muttered. He had to be. But the words wriggled into her heart and the warmth spread. With his arms around h er like thick bands of steel, she rested her head on his chest. But, thank you. Onc e youve been around me more than twenty-four hours, youll see that I dont say thing s I dont mean, he told her. And I sure as hell dont say things to make people feel b etter. Yeah, I can see that about you, she nodded against his chest. Under her chee k, she could feel the steady rhythm of his heart. Has it really been less than tw enty-four hours? Yep. Ive set all sorts of records with you. Like what? She rested her chin on his chest to smile up at him. Spanking a woman within two hours? Or havi ng sex before you finished your coffee? Or putting sex toys on a woman ten hours after meeting her? Yes, yes, and yes, he smiled back at her. What made you decide t o spank me so soon? She cocked her head slightly. Or anything else youve done?

His eyes narrowed and she felt heat fill her body as her pussy clenched. Instinct , mostly, he murmured, turning her so she straddled his lap. He pulled her forwar d on his thighs so his cock nestled against her folds. You were acting like a chi ld who had lost her favorite toy, yet I saw the look in your eyes when Claire we nt to Paul in the hospital. Thats why you said I was jealous, she said softly. Yeah, h e nodded. You were such a confused woman that I thought you might just respond to a spanking the way I wanted. His hands slid under the silk and caressed her back . I could hardly believe it when I touched your pussy and you were wet. I couldnt leave you wanting, he shrugged with a smile. I woke up this morning thinking the w hole thing had been a dream, she admitted. But my body felt different. And not jus t from when Hammond threw me against the wall. Quincys fingers gently traced the b ruise. I couldnt believe Id let a complete stranger spank me and then she stopped, fr owning slightly. Fingerfuck you to two orgasms? he suggested. Yeah, she nodded. Of co urse, finding out how you take your coffee was a real eye-opener. Quincy chuckled and ran his fingers along the crack between her ass cheeks. Wait until you see w hat I like as a midnight snack, he told her, his voice deepening. Debbie wriggled on his lap, rubbing against his cock. Tell me, she whispered.

me, she whispered. He reached around her to move the candles then set her on the counter. How about I show you? he suggested, spreading her legs wide.

Chapter Nine Debbie felt the hard surface beneath her ass. It was still slightly warm from his plate. Her heart thudded as she realized what he was going to do. No one had ever done that to her. No one had ever done any of what Quincy had d one to her. She didnt understand their connection. She had never responded to any one the way she had to him from practically the minute shed seen him. Shed been tr ying to figure it out all day. As his fingers massaged her inner thighs, she did nt think shed be able to concentrate much in the near future. In a daze, she watch ed him kiss the inside of her right knee. His lips, tongue, and teeth did a craz y seductive combination of nuzzling, licking, and nibbling along her thigh. When he stopped just short of her pussy, she moaned and grabbed for his head. Oh, no, he told her, catching her wrists. I thought you might not be able to stay still. Or be quiet. He straightened and went to the far side of the fridge. What are thos e? she frowned. Cuffs and a gag. Her jaw fell open in shock and he slipped the soft ball between her lips. She shook her head, protests muffled, as he secured it b ehind her head. Her hands came up and he caught

secured it behind her head. Her hands came up and he caught them, wrapping the s oft leather around them before latching them behind her back. Glaring at him, sh e snapped her legs shut. Oh, stop, he shook his head. You wont be able to be quiet o r keep your hands still and you know it. Furious, she shook her head vehemently. W hats really got you upset? The fact that someone else is in charge? He leaned towa rd her, his hands planted on either side of her hips. The fact that it really aro uses you and all youve heard about bondage and submission is that only perverts d o it? And youre scared that liking everything Im doing to you makes you a pervert. Debbie inhaled swiftly and leaned back slightly to see his face. How did he know ? I know, he said quietly. Because thats what most people think. Unless theyre actual ly doing it. Some play at it to spice things up in their relationship. Others do it once for a thrill and thats all they want. His hands went to her shoulders. I d ont do it for spice or thrill. I do it because it feels right. She trembled as his hands circled her upper arms and stroked up and down. To have a submissive trust me completely. To know that Im fully responsible for her pleasure. His mouth bit slightly on her ear lobe and she moaned. Or her pain. Be honest with yourself, De bbie, and then you can be honest with me. You want this. Not for spice or thrill , but because it feels right. Because you trust me. You know that when I seduce you, Ill satisfy you. Her gaze sought his eyes and she found the truth in the dark

Her gaze sought his eyes and she found the truth in the dark depths. He was righ t. On all levels. Some part of her had understood that last night, even before h ed been assigned as her protector. Taking a deep breath, she exhaled slowly and f elt something settle inside her. She nodded. Good. Thats a step we skipped over ea rlier because of the conversation in the car. His lips firmed. I thought you under stood fully. You certainly acted like it. Do you now? She nodded again. Shall I go over the rules from this morning again? Debbie didnt move, eyes on his face. The rules. Shed hardly been paying attention because her body had been trying to unde rstand what hed done to her and put on her. What had he said? She remembered the parts about automatically obeying him in public and getting behind him in elevat ors as shed done earlier. What the hell else had he said? You dont argue with me. U nless youre sick or hurt, you dont deny me. You certainly dont cop an attitude with me. He paused and frowned. Debbie held her breath, fear that shed screwed up agai n racing through her. The hard look in Quincys eyes softened slightly. This has be en a lot thrown at you on top of everything else, hasnt it? The knot in her stomac h loosened slightly and she nodded. Slowly, he raised his hands and removed the gag. Ive probably done everything wrong with you that I could. No, she whispered. Shh, he murmured, his thumb brushing over her lips. Its

not your fault in any way. Its mine. I know better than this. Ive rushed you into things that I want this, she insisted, wishing he would release her hands as well so she could wrap her arms around him. Everything youve told me and shown me. Everyt hing youve done to me We need to slow things down, he said, as if she hadnt spoken. S ow things down? she echoed. Quincy, how the hell can you say that now? In twenty-f our hours, Ive connected with you in ways I didnt think possible. Ive learned thing s about myself that blow my mind. Exactly, he nodded. You were vulnerable after the attack on Serena and then Claire leaving with Paul. I took advantage in ways tha t I cant believe. I shouldnt have. Debbie didnt know what to think as he stepped awa y and leaned against the other counter. Now he was pulling away from her? After everything theyd done and talked about andnot to mention leaving her on the counte r with her hands behind her back. So what do you suggest? she whispered, unable to believe he was doing this. We back off. We act the way were supposed to. My job i s to protect you. Yours is to work for MacLauren. Youre serious, she breathed. After everything, you think we can just slam on the brakes and act as if nothing has h appened.

We have to, he stated. Bullshit, she shook her head. No shit. Debbie clenched her jaw, thoughts spinning through her head. She couldnt, wouldnt believe he was doing thi s. No way. From the look on his face, she would think he meant it. From the erec tion tenting his sweats, he was clearly of two minds about it. Fine. If thats the way he wanted it, she could play that game and make up the rules as she went as well. Fine, she replied steadily. Then uncuff me and get me off my own damn counte r. Now he was clenching his mouth shut as he stretched his arms around her and re leased the cuffs. As soon as she felt her feet hit the floor, she brought both h er hands up and shoved at his chest. She caught him off-guard and he stumbled ba ck a step. With emotion that had been bottled up for years, she charged him, hit ting him everywhere she could reach. When he grabbed her wrists, she twisted and kicked out with her legs. He held her at arms length so she couldnt reach him. Sto p this, he said firmly. Youre a tease! she yelled, as furious at how easily he held her as the tears streaming down her face. You took what you wanted and for all yo ur spouting about taking care of me, you dont give a shit. You just took somethin g beautiful and made it trash. Let go of me and dont ever come near. He jerked her toward him. One hand caught the back of her head while the other held her wrists at the small of her back.

head while the other held her wrists at the small of her back. I am thinking of y ou, he ground out. I want something that lasts, not a damn flash in the pan that f izzles out at the first sign of problems. I want us! I want something real and d eep, not just sex and physical hunger. Ive never had anything like this and I dont want to screw it up. The hand at her head left her, raking through his hair befo re resting on the counter behind him. Debbie, Im feeling things with you that I he g rimaced, Ive never felt before. Ive had subs before, but it never went beyond the s cene. Thats why I said we should back off and take it slow. I dont know what to do . For starters, you cant decide everything all on your own, she tossed back at him. The throbbing cock pressing against her stomach was a serious distraction but sh e managed to focus. Barely. If you want us, then you have to talk with me. Not at me like Im a child. The master stuff during sex is one thing, but for other stuf f we have to talk and decide together. Couples do that. She frowned, realizing ho w few couples she really knew. At least those Ive seen go beyond a few months do. They tell each other about how they grew up and what they like to do and Thats what you were doing, he whispered, groaning and rolling his eyes. God, could I fuck thi s up anymore? Lets not ask questions like that, she advised. Quincy, we want the same things. Talk to me, she urged. Talk with me. Dont just arbitrarily decide on how t hings will be. He opened his mouth and she shook her head. If theres danger, thats t otally different. I know that. He nodded and she pressed a

totally different. I know that. He nodded and she pressed a quick kiss to the bot tom of his throat. Maybe, she swallowed. Maybe you were right earlier. About dinner and getting a good nights sleep. I think weve both been put through the wringer. Just one thing. Anything, he nodded, voice low. Hold me tonight. Just hold you? he fro ned. Baby, Im not sure At least until midnight, she murmured. Then you can show me you idea of a midnight snack. Visible relief showed on his face and his arms wrapped around her. Is this how you felt when you closed the bathroom door? Like youd dam n near lost everything? Until you knocked on it, she nodded, pressing a kiss over h is heart. I was scared to death that you wouldnt want to be with me. That you were going to call Ben and have him assign someone else. I damn near killed Ben when h e suggested that today, Quincy told her, his mouth twisting slightly. Of course, h e was riding me about us anyway and I didnt appreciate him questioning me like th at. Debbie blinked as those words registered. You mean, Ben Hancock is a she snapped her mouth shut with an audible click. Yeah, hes a dominant also. And Brody Custis? s he whispered, not sure if she cared or

not when he nodded. Oh, my God, she closed her eyes. I dont believe this. Everything I thought I knew is being turned upside-down. People into this are not perverts, h e told her, hands gently stroking her back. Theyre just normal people who like som ething a little different when it comes to sex. Do I still fit in? she smiled. Ive ne ver thought of myself as normal. Youll fit in fine, he assured her. This is probably a stupid question, but I didnt hurt you when I hit you, did I? Nothing broken, he sm iled, moving his jaw around. Youve got a good right hook. I barely blocked it. If we dont kill each other by Friday, it will be a miracle, he sighed. Okay, you go on and get in bed. Ill double-check everything and be there in a few minutes. **** Q uincy didnt take more than five minutes to secure the apartment and take care of his own needs in the bathroom. When he walked into her bedroom though, he immedi ately saw that she was already asleep. Curled up on her side, facing the door, s he looked absolutely perfect to him. Carefully, he lifted the covers and slid in next to her. In the pale light from the bathroom night-light, he gazed down at her. Hed never had anyone like her in his life. She hadnt hesitated to say that he couldnt have done anything to deserve a court-martial. She hadnt had a problem wi th him being half-Sioux. Instead shed

hadnt had a problem with him being half-Sioux. Instead shed mentioned how theyd bot h come from poor backgrounds and pulled themselves out of it. Sliding an arm und er her head, he curled himself around her body and closed his eyes. Waking up la ter, Quincy knew two thingsit was nearly midnight and Debbie was curled up next t o him. It took two breaths to know that he had to have his snack. And he knew ju st how he wanted it. **** Debbie sighed. Someone was stroking her legs. Long, sl ow caresses along the inside of her thighs, right up to her pussy, but not quite touching it. And that same someone was leisurely kissing her breasts. Quincy? she murmured, not sure if she was dreaming or awake. At least, she tried to say his name. Thats when she realized that she was gagged and her hands were bound and s ecured over her head. She opened her eyes and realized she was blindfolded. Holy crap! Shh, babe, he whispered, shifting his body. I didnt think the neighbors would appreciate hearing you as you orgasmed. Swallowing around the ball gag, she nodd ed. Yeah, the neighbors might complain about that. She wasnt exactly going to win any awards for being quiet. Now, Im going to have my midnight snack. Oral sex, the thought flashed in her mind. He was going to Well, she had a vague idea of what he was going to do, but no personal experience and

personal experience and His mouth began kissing where his fingers had been stroki ng her earlier. His hands lifted and parted her thighs so they were nearly perpe ndicular from her hips. Debbie closed her eyes as she felt the heat form a tight spiral deep in her core. Quincys thumbs parted her folds and his tongue began la pping at her dripping pussy. She gasped, then moaned. His tongue pressed into he r before he sucked on her clit. She twisted slightly and his hands pushed her le gs until her knees were near her shoulders. Be a good girl and keep your legs the re, he murmured. Dont come until I give you permission. Completely exposed, totally vulnerable, Debbie held her breath wondering what he was going to do. His finger sshe had no idea how manyslid into her pussy, hooking up to press against her nerv es. His thumb flicked back and forth over her clit and fire built up inside her. The pressure inside her increased and her fingers clutched at the leather strap securing her. Desperate, she tried to hold on, to not give in to the rising urg ency to explode. He pulled his fingers out of her pussy and she sighed in relief , trying to breathe normally. And felt one finger, wet with her own juices, push against her anus. Whimpering, she shook her head, even if he couldnt see in the dark. The thought struck her. She had no idea if the lights were on or not. For all she knew, he had lights shining down right there so he could see her. Debbie trembled, not sure if she

was excited or bashful at the thought. As his finger slid completely into her as s, his palm went under her butt. His middle finger, she realized, feeling two on each cheek. The thought of that long thick finger inside her aroused her. On th eir own, her hips wriggled. His mouth clamped down on her clit and tugged. Benea th the gag, she shouted as sensations of need shot through her. She was on the e dge, determined to obey him and not orgasm until he gave permission. But it was growing harder with everything he did! His mouth moved and now he focused on her pussy. Lips, tongue and teeth, all combined to drive her crazy. The finger in h er ass twisted slightly and ratcheted the friction. She felt control slipping an d the orgasm build rapidly. She whimpered, frantic to hold back. Her thighs trem bled as she tried to hold them up as hed told her. Then he said the welcome words . Come for me, baby. Come for me hard. Released, she let her body soar. He was rel entless though, nibbling on her clit to give her a second orgasm fast on the hee ls of the first. She floated as the euphoria filled her. She felt his body shift , his hands on her hips to lift them, then his cock was pressing into her pussy. Panting, she accepted his lust. She could do nothing else and wanted to do noth ing else. She was his and wanted him to lose himself in her the way she just had . Her pussy tried to tighten around him as he thrust in and out. So damn wet, he m oaned. So fucking hot. His mouth nuzzled the side of her neck and worked its way t o

His mouth nuzzled the side of her neck and worked its way to suck on a breast. D ebbie moaned beneath the gag. Remembering what hed said about how tight her pussy was, she focused on that part of her body. Her walls clamped hard on his cock a s it drove into her. Oh, Great Spirit, he shuddered, mouth on the other nipple. He pulled out and held still, his cock barely inside her. Do that again. As tight a nd hard as you can. That feels so damn good! She nodded, delighted by his reactio n. He thrust back in and she squeezed her muscles with everything she could. She felt his forearms tremble along the sides of her head. The bed jolted and he st iffened with a long, drawn-out grunt as his seed rushed into her, hips flexing w ith each pulse of pleasure. Quincy collapsed on top of her. Her legs splayed on either side of him as he caught his breath. Pinned beneath him, Debbie reveled i n the feel of his heavy body, covered with sweat from his exertions. God, I love fucking you, he whispered, one hand finding the release to her gag. You are so dam n perfect for me. Another flick of his wrist and her hands were free. So submissiv e to what I want for sex and so smart outside the bedroom. Could a man ask for m ore? Could a woman ask for more? she wondered in reply. A hot man taking care of her in and out of the bedroom? She sighed and pressed a kiss against his sweaty shou lders. How did I get so lucky? He murmured something she didnt understand and nuzzl ed against her neck. He lifted off of her and she heard the switch of the lamp. Her blindfold came off and she saw his dark shadowy

the lamp. Her blindfold came off and she saw his dark shadowy profile. He had le ft the bathroom night light on. Im the lucky one, babe, he told her. I have you. She opened her mouth to argue, but his mouth covered hers and she forgot what she wa s going to say. Rolling to his side, he held her close, one hand caressing her b ack in long, slow strokes. Body sated, she closed her eyes and fell asleep.

Chapter Ten Quincy was grateful for the busyness of Wednesday. After the initial fall-out, rush, and push of Tuesday, things started settling down. And everyone at MC realized just what the effects were. Debbie was at her desk or in meeting s from the second she stepped into the building at eight in the morning until ni ne that night. Thoughts of dominating her in bed faded when she finally walked o ut of Keith MacLaurens office after a late meeting and practically collapsed in h is arms. Tired, babe? he murmured, not caring at the looks they were getting as ot her people filed past them Yeah, she sighed, closing her eyes. Ready to go home? Home ? Claires voice came from the doorway to the hall. You never call the apartment hom e. Quincy felt Debbies shoulders rise and fall in a shrug before she lifted her he ad. Im starting to understand why you did. Quincy was surprised by the wistful expr ession on the PR assistants face and sent a quick glance to Paul and David. In de ep conversation with Keith, neither saw. Yeah, well, thats good, was all Claire sai d. At least someone has a home, Pennys waspish voice came

At least someone has a home, Pennys waspish voice came from Keiths office door. What is that supposed to mean? demanded Ben from his position at Serenas desk. Why nothi ng at all, she smiled sweetly at him. I would hate to get you in a foul mood. At l east, Im assuming this is your good side. She looked at Quincy. Or is he always thi s incredibly charming and polite? I could get him in a really, really bad mood if youd like, Quincy told her. Its just youre in the line of fire, so to speak, and I do nt want you to have to deal with it if you didnt cause it. She rolled her eyes. Plea se. she shook her head. Im a big girl. I can take care of myself. She leaned against the credenza and waved her hand. Fire away. Uh-huh, Quincy nodded. Glancing at Debb ie, he saw it in her eyes before she nodded. He hadnt had a chance all day to ask Keith and these sure as hell werent the surroundings or the people he would have wanted, buthe shrugged. Keith? Yeah? The weary-looking CEO glanced up. Is there a pro blem? Just wondering if you could use another hand or two in Programming. Forget th e pin dropping. Quincy figured you could have heard an ant crawl across the carp et in the sudden quiet. Keith stared at him, glanced at Bens dumbfounded expressi on, then back. Now or when Now is good.

Now is good. God dammit, Quincy! Ben exploded. I should have reassigned someone else yesterday when. No, Debbie yelled. I dont want anyone protecting me but Quincy. Hes nvolved and that Means hes even more alert and aware of whats going on to make sure Im safe, she fired back, turning to face him. She stepped back against Quincy who p ut his hands on her shoulders. Even if its just Brody Custis in the elevator. Quinc y managed not to laugh at the expression on the faces of Ben, Keith, Paul and Da vid. Debbie couldnt have aimed better. All four were stunned at her tone of voice and the implications. Keith swallowed. So you dont mind if Quincy splits his time , so to speak? Ive been bouncing ideas off him already, she said. Keith, he saved at least fifty man-hours yesterday and the same today. You might as well put him on the payroll. She leaned forward slightly. Everyone on my team likes him. Make him a comanager with me No, Quincy shook his head, hands rubbing her upper arms. Those a re your projects, babe. You and Keith need to focus on those. But youre practically leading now and We can assign other projects in the new year, Keith nodded, coming toward them, hand extended. You sure youre ready for this craziness?

Its not the mountains of Afghanistan, Quincy smiled, right hand moving. His left ar m tightened around Debbies waist. I can handle it. Across the room, Ben muttered un der his breath. Penny had a gleam in her eye. Quincy saw the lawyers glance at C laire, who whirled around and out of sight. The thud of her footsteps faded down the hallway. Claire? Debbie whispered, her eyes hurling accusatory bolts at Paul and David. What are you two doing to her? Debbie, not here, Quincy whispered. Pennys interest was aroused immediately. The two of them she echoed. It didnt occur to you t hat she might be worried about Serena coming home tonight to the apartment she w as attacked in? Paul tossed back. And being alone? Oh, God, Debbie groaned, closing h er eyes and sagging back against Quincy. Serena. Ive got to call her. Pulling her c ell phone out, she moved to the doorway Claire had been in. Quincy saw what he t hought was pain and heartache in Keiths expression before the CEO recovered himse lf. Get her home, he said quietly. Make sure shes getting enough rest. Pot meet kettle , Quincy replied. Kettle being ready to fall over on his feet, Penny chimed in from behind them. Keith, will you please leave the office with the rest of us tonight ?

Ill leave eventually, Keith shook his head. Quincy? Ill take care of her, he promised od, Keith murmured. She would want that. Quincy frowned as the CEO turned around an d reentered his office. Penny turned to follow him. Not going to give me two week s notice? Ben snipped. If I tried, youd refuse and fire me, Quincy replied. Damn strai ght, he glared. Youve known her forty-eight hours, Quince. And Id like to spend more t an that with her every couple months. His former commanding officer stared at him . Youre fucking serious, he frowned, as if trying to understand it. In two days Ben, ont go there, warned Quincy. Im not going to try to explain it to you or anyone else . Hancock glanced into MacLaurens office then back at him. How serious is this? he a sked in a low voice. I mean, if you just want to play for a couple months and the n Im taking her to the Club on Friday, Quincy told him. Silence filled the room as Be n, Paul and Davidall three dominantsabsorbed that statement. Yeah, its pretty damn s erious. Everyone always said youd either be the first or the last to fall, Ben mutte red, shaking his head. That depends on how you look at it, he replied with a shrug as Debbie came back in. Serena all right?

as Debbie came back in. Serena all right? Shes drained and Claire got in the elevato r, Debbie replied, going to Keiths door. Which one? Resident or business? Paul frown ed. I couldnt tell, Debbie glared at them. Why are you doing this to her? Paul and Da vid swore and took off. Well, thats something at least, Debbie shook her head and w ent to Keiths door. Excuse me, Keith, but Serena said she could be in tomorrow if you wanted her to be. All you have to do is call. Quincy couldnt hear Keiths reply, but Debbie nodded. All right. Ill go make sure Quincy eats food before he starts gnawing on the furniture. Good night. There was a short bark of laughter from Kei th before he replied with a good night. Quincy gave her a droll look as he wrapp ed her coat around her shoulders. Putting his arm around her to tuck her against his side, he started for the door. Actually, babe, I was thinking about a small snack, he murmured as they left the outer office. Quincy, she squealed as he nibble d on her ear. Gnawing on the furniture? he murmured as he pushed the elevator butt on. You know damn well I wouldnt do that. I was trying to get a smile from Keith, she explained, burrowing under his coat. You should have seen his face when I said a ll he had to do was call Serena and shed be in. Shaking her head, she looked up at him. Ive never seen anyone look as if it was the one thing they wanted more than anything else in the world, and the one thing they couldnt have.

world, and the one thing they couldnt have. Quincy felt the shaft tremble as the e levator approached their floor and gave her a quick, deep kiss. All right, babe, h e smiled. Ill let this one go. The doors slid open and she stumbled forward. Sorry, s he muttered as he caught her. Guess Im more tired than I thought. Dont apologize to t he man whos responsible for not letting you sleep through the night, he told her, pushing the button for the garage. Leaning against the wall, he pulled her to hi m. Leftovers? Think we have enough from last night? she wondered. Yeah, he nodded. You going to be all right for Friday? **** Debbie closed her eyes. Friday. The night he was going to take her to his sex club. Thursday was her night for clubbing. O bviously he was more concerned about his. It made sense she was pretty sure there were a lot more things to worry about. Beyond the fact that he was going to fuc k her ass. Reflexively, her cheek muscles tightened around the plug hed put in he r that morning. The harness from Tuesday had been placed around her waist, and, as shed spread her legs wide and rested her upper body on the bed, hed placed a we ll-lubed one-inch long and half-inch thick butt plug into her. Naturally, her sp hincter muscle had refused to relax. So, being the clever man that he was, he ha d teased her clit and pussy until she had gasped. And the plug had

slid right in. One strap had gone from the back, looped through the circle at th e end of the plug and then split to be secured in the front. But that wasnt enoug h for her sexual master. Oh, no! Hed decided that she should have Tuesdays dildo i n as well as the clit cup. As shed found out on the way in, all three vibrated wi th a click of the remote he kept in his pocket. Im not sure how I survived today, s he sighed. Ive been on edge in more ways than one. Well, his deep voice rumbled in he r ear as his hands stroked her back under her coat. Ill have to take care of that to make sure you get a very good nights sleep. And still have a snack? she wondered, flushing at the memory of his last snack. Well see, babe, he replied. I dont want you sore for Friday. Sore? I It can happen, he told her. I think tonight Ill start teachi you to be ready for then. To make sure I dont mess up? It will keep you safe, he nodde d. Ill be safe, she smiled as the elevator doors opened and he pulled her out into the garage. Ill be with you. There are certain rules that a submissive is to follow , he nodded. What about dominants? she wondered. What about them? he asked, raising t he remote to unlock the doors. He lifted her in and went around.

the doors. He lifted her in and went around. Arent there rules for them as well? Yes , but Im talking about No one would be able to touch me besides you, right? she press ed, turning on the seat. Or join us just because they wanted to? Or spank me or No, no one would be allowed to touch you or join us without my permission. That floor ed her. Was he thinking about letting someone touch her? Or fuck her? Or punish her? She stared at him, feeling doubt creep in for the first time. And would she sw allowed, pulling back against the door. What if he answered in a way she couldnt handle? What the hell was she going to do then? She had to ask. Would you give pe rmission? Inserting the key in the ignition, Quincy froze and turned his head to look at her. I ought to spank you until you cant sit down for asking that question , he growled. I damn near took the head off of a man I would die for when he sugge sted someone else protect you. Why the hell would I let someone else fuck you? Im s orry, she gasped, stunned at his explosion. Youve never said anything. You defended Paul and David for sharing Claire and She had had no idea hed had the gag in his p ocket, but he pulled it out now. Reaching out with his right hand, he pulled her closer. The left hand pushed the ball past her lips and quickly secured it arou nd her head. Then came the cuffs to secure her

secured it around her head. Then came the cuffs to secure her hands behind her b ack. He set her firmly in her seat, slid it as far back as he could and reclined the back. Pulling the belt tightly over her waist, he leaned over her, right ha nd cupping her jaw. Youre mine, Debbie. No one will ever have my permission to tou ch you, fuck you, or punish you in anyway. He held the remote in front of her eye s. Im going to keep these going on you all the way home. You are not to come, do y ou understand me? Gulping, she nodded. And when we get home, I will release your h ands long enough for you to take off every piece of clothing before I spank you. His thumb stroked over the ball in her mouth. And then, Im going to fuck you until you cant help but orgasm. She shook her head. Oh, yes, little one. The longer you hold it back, like last night, the more pleased I will be. Understand? Swallowing again, she nodded. Good. Your punishment starts now. Her eyes widened as she watc hed his thumb move on the remote. Immediately, the vibrations began. She closed her eyes and moaned. Her body was hyper-sensitive to the slightest touch and alr eady the orgasm was building. His chuckle was low and promised wicked things. Sh e looked up and saw the gleam in his eyes. Oh, he wouldnt. I want to see how long you can hold out now. Her gaze flew to the hand holding the remote and watched in shock as he pushed it relentlessly to the max. Almost immediately, her body jol ted off the seat. Helpless, she writhed as the toys had their way with her most sensitive nerves. She

started counting, hoping that would work, but she had hit only five when the fir st crest overwhelmed her. Her cry was only slightly muffled as her entire body s pasmed. Moaning, she panted as the next one swept her, quickly followed by the t hird. Mercifully, he decreased the vibrations to half-strength. Mmm, he murmured, bending over her. I could watch you come all day. You do try so hard to obey my o rders, Debbie. What am I going to do about that mouth of yours, though? It keeps getting you into trouble. Struggling for breath, she just looked up at him. He s miled gently and kissed her forehead. Its all right, babe. Weve got the rest of our lives for me to train you. Debbie closed her eyes as he straightened and started the engine. The rest of our lives. He really wanted her. As the toys continued their teasing, she focused on those five words. He wasnt going to let anyone else touch her in any way. He wanted her for the rest of their lives. With a sigh, s he relaxed her body. **** Quincy tapped the steering wheel, even as he kept his eyes moving. How the hell was she able to flip his switches like that? He knew h e shouldnt have reacted, but her thinking that because he hadnt condemned Paul and David meant that he would share her had stung. Fury had roared through him and only experience had kept him from yanking her over his lap and spanking her righ t there in the parking lot. The toys were a better punishment. For both of them. She was kept at a fever-pitch and

punishment. For both of them. She was kept at a fever-pitch and he was tormented with knowing how hot and ready she was. When they got home, he was going to spa nk her, hard, and then make sure she fully understood a few absolutes in their r elationship. After parking the truck, he removed the gag, raised her seat, and r eleased her hands. Youve been good so far and Im not as angry as I was, but he held u p a finger in front of her face. I am still going to spank you when we get home. I will then explain a few things. Understand? Yes, master, she whispered. Im sorry. I dont know if I could trust another man or woman to do to me what you do. I underst and that, he nodded. Your trust in me is what makes this relationship work. If som eone else does touch you, it will not be with my permission. We clear on that? Yes , master, she nodded, smiling slightly. We seem to go two steps forward, one step back, dont we? He nodded, holding her to him. But we at least keep going forward. He pressed a kiss to the top of her head. Ready to walk home? She swallowed. Sure. He chuckled. Youll be fine. Easy for you to say, she muttered as he opened his door. Your not the one with toys vibrating. He ignored her comment and went around to her d oor. Debbie curled her body into his and took it one step at a time. The stairs of the brownstone were hard because of the way the

The stairs of the brownstone were hard because of the way the toys pressed into her as she mounted the steps. Next time she was going to live on the ground floo r. Quincy put the key in and glanced down at her. You remember what to do as soon as you get inside? She nodded. Strip off everything but the harness so he could spank her. He pushed the door open and she waited in the hall for him to check t he apartment. Silently, he came back to her. Pulling her in, he put her just ins ide the door as he bolted it. Without hesitating or moving further into the apar tment, she took her coat off and put it on the hook, before taking off her lowqu arter boots. Not moving from where he had put her, she removed her clothes and p iled them on the boots. After securing the door, Quincy removed his coat and pul led off his boots and watched her strip. Naked, she looked at him, not sure wher e he wanted her. The intense expression on his face had electricity zipping thro ugh her body. First he put the cuffs on her, securing her hands behind her back. He gagged her next, carefully checking to make sure her hair wasnt caught in the strap. Then, as she stood by the door, he went to the stereo, changed a CD and turned it on. It was a New Age band with an erotic theme to their music. The vol ume wasnt obnoxiously loud, but it would mask most sounds they made. That thought had her trembling. He turned the lever for the gas fireplace and stood. Turning to look at her, he pulled his sweater over his head and tossed it toward her pi le of clothes. As her gaze went over the

muscles rippling with each movement, he unbuckled his belt, unzipped and unbutto ned and, in one action, shoved his pants and boxers down his legs. His cock jutt ed out, hard and ready to go wherever he wanted it. With deliberate steps, he ca me to her, towering over her. Still without a word, he took the blindfold from t he side table and rendered her completely helpless. He stepped away and she shiv ered at the loss of his body heat. She heard him moving about the apartment but couldnt tell if he stayed in the living room or went in a bedroom. Foil ripped an d anticipation flashed through her knowing that he was putting a condom on. His long fingers gripped her upper arm as he took her into the living room. She stum bled slightly, then found her hips pressed against something. She thought it was the chair near the fireplace as she felt the heat on the left side of her face. Her upper body was pressed forward and down until her head rested on what she w as sure were the throw pillows from the sofa. Her legs were adjusted until they were as far apart as possible. Remember, little one, he whispered, one hand stroki ng her back. Do not come unless I give you permission. She nodded and his hand gri pped hers in a reassuring squeeze. I want you to be fully aware of why Im spanking you. Im spanking you for doubting me. Im spanking you to remind you that I am you r master. No one else will ever do this. Any more than anyone else will ever fuc k you as I will when Im finished spanking you. Understand? She nodded again. The to ys will stay on. She

whimpered. Oh, no, little one. Part of this is to see how long you can control yo urself. One hand lifted her bound wrists, forcing her up onto her toes and her he ad further against the pillows. The other hand came down on the slight curve of her left ass cheek. Then her right. Back and forth until she was sure her ass wa s hotter than the fire in the hearth. But not hotter than the tight coil in her belly. A spanking as foreplay would have seemed outrageous Monday afternoon. Now , after just two days with Quincy, she almost welcomed it. He was making sure sh e understood that she was his. His to protect. His to seduce. His to satisfy. Hi s to dominate in any way he wanted. Because she trusted him. Her legs buckled sl ightly and she writhed against the chair she was bent over. Letting her hands fa ll to her back, his fingers worked on the harness. She felt the toys shut off ju st before they were pulled from her. From the soft thump near her head, she real ized hed dropped them there. His hands gripped her hips, lifted her feet off the floor and held her in the air for a moment. Hold still, she told herself. Hold s till, dont wriggle. It was so hard! She knew that his cock was near and she wante d that cock inside her! She gasped behind the gag as she felt the tip of him jus t outside her anus. Trust him, she thought. He wont until youre ready. Taking a de ep breath, she forced her muscles to relax. Then felt him move lower, to her pus sy. The next instant, he was balls deep inside her. His heavy upper body partial ly rested on hers. She could feel his breath in her ear.

hers. She could feel his breath in her ear. Such a good girl in taking your punis hment, he whispered. Such a good girl. My good girl. Pleasure at his approval fille d her. Now, Im going to fuck my good girl. I want my good girl to wait until Ive th rust ten times. Then you can come. Understand? She nodded eagerly, rubbing her ch eek against his. He gently bit her ear. Good girl. Shed had no idea how hard waitin g ten times would be. By the second, she was ready to arch back, screaming in sa tisfaction. By five, she was writhing against the pillows, eyes squeezed tight b ehind the blindfold. By eight, her teeth were clamping around the ball gag. Each thrust was hard and deep, filling her, making her want more. Ten! She let go of her control but clamped her walls around his cock at the next thrust. The frict ion as he moved into her sent her flying. Her torso arced up off the pillows and even the gag couldnt silence her cry. Christ! he ground out. As his release pumped into her, she sighed, collapsing against the pillows. He cradled her, their bod ies bent double. I couldnt have described the perfect submissive for me until you, he murmured, gradually removing the gag, blindfold and cuffs. Yes, you might driv e me crazy at times, just as Ill do the same for you But its still perfect, she murmur ed. Absolutely, he nodded, pulling out of her. Panting, she stayed where she was a s he removed the

Panting, she stayed where she was as he removed the condom and threw it in the t rash. Helping her straighten, he picked her up and carried her into the bathroom . With a warm washcloth, he tenderly cleaned her and soothed her still smarting ass. Carrying her to the bed, he tucked her in. Stay here, he whispered, smoothing back the tendrils that clung to her sweaty face. Ill get us something to eat. I sho uld she shook her head. Shh, he whispered. Taking care of his submissive is something this master will do, understand? Relaxing, she smiled, but held his hand to her cheek. Try to stay awake until I get back, he smiled. Can I go to the bathroom? The corner of his mouth crooked up. Yeah, thats okay. Alone in her room, she hugged the pillow to her chest. Two days ago, she had been reeling from the swiftness of t he terminations at work, followed by the attack on Serena. She had pent-up frust rations from having to deal with everything, including trying to understand her own feelings toward sex. And now, in forty-eight hours, she had the support and protection of a man whose sole focus was her. She had found incredible sexual sa tisfaction by letting Quincy do what he wanted. She trusted him completely. She smiled, slipping out of bed and grabbing onto the foot railing. Taking a deep br eath, she tried to get control of her trembling limbs and moved forward. Obvious ly she had wanted him from first sight,

otherwise she wouldnt have let him spank her. She frowned as she sat on the toile t. Hed been so right about her being jealous about Claire with Paul and Serenas my stery lover. She just hadnt wanted to admit it. Shed wanted someone to satisfy her that way. Shed known that Paul called all the shots, but hadnt thought it might b e like what Quincy was doing with her. Did that mean Claire was spanked? Or Sere na? Given what she was learning No, she wasnt going there. Flushing the toilet, sh e washed her hands and face before gazing at her reflection. The difference was amazing. Monday morning she had been frustrated and scared. Now? She looked aliv e with sparkling eyes, kiss-swollen lips, and flushed skin. Now, life was fantas tic. She couldnt wait to see what the next forty-eight hours brought.

Chapter Eleven Quincy put the two plates on the tray, the two wineglasses on the ir sides and tucked the napkins and flatware in the side pocket. After loosening the cork, he put the wine bottle under his arm, picked up the tray and headed t o the bedroom. At the door he smiled. Debbie had piled up the pillows for them t o sit back against, then fallen asleep. Still hungry? he asked, moving to the bed. Her eyes flickered open and she gave him a sleepy smile. I know youre tired, babe , but you still need to eat. Nodding, she pushed herself upright and looked at hi m. What do I do when we go to your club? Two main thingskeep your eyes down and stay where I tell you. If I leave your side, I will make sure youre in a safe place o r with someone I trust not to touch you and keep others from touching you. She no dded as he put the tray over her thighs. Her hands straightened the wineglasses and he poured. And the dominants? Obviously they have more freedom, he smiled, sitti ng on the bed while letting his left foot rest on the floor. As I told you, there are some permanent dominants and about two dozen

there are some permanent dominants and about two dozen submissives or slaves in the club. It wont be too hard to pick them out. The Doms are in black, brown, or navy. The subs are in light gray or blue and wear silver collars. The slaves are naked with black leather collars. Naked? she whispered, eyes rounding. What she swall owed. What do they do at the club? Doms take care of any member who wants a submiss ive experience. They also train other Doms, subs, and slaves. The subs are avail able to any member who wants a dominant experience if they agree. What do you mean ? The Club submissives can refuse a dominant if they want. The dominant may want a scene that they dont so the submissive can refuse. He could practically hear the wheels of her mind spinning. She ate two bites. And the slaves? They cant refuse a nything, can they? No, they cant, he nodded. Dominants are forbidden from doing any p ermanent damage to a slave that isnt theirs. He saw the color drain from her face. They are also not to touch a submissive that isnt theirs. She nodded and he could tell she was slightly reassured. Briefly, he wondered if she was ready for the p ublic areas of the Club. She might feel better if he explained that. The pub area of the Club is like an English tavern. Paneled walls and such. The founder was English, he smiled. There are booths and tables like any bar. The main exception w ould

booths and tables like any bar. The main exception would probably be that subs a re in various stages of dress or bondage and the slaves are pretty much naked. T he dominants or masters are usually in leather or loose silk pants. He raised his wineglass and gave her a knowing look. Pants that are easy to drop so we can fuc k our subs or slaves whenever we want. In the pub? she breathed. That doesnt usually happen there, he admitted. Or in the dining room. Most masters use those two rooms to show off their subs or slaves. There are rooms where a master can publicly d iscipline or fuck a sub or slave. He took a large bite and swallowed. Debbie was slowly eating. Those double as teaching rooms as well. Thats the first two or thre e floors. There are several floors with private suites. They contain bedrooms, f ully equipped playrooms, and bathrooms. Completely private and sound insulated. H e waggled his brows at her. Ive booked one for Friday night. When she turned beet r ed, he laughed. Reaching out he cupped her jaw. Just think of it, babe. I can tak e you to the bar, show you off, then take you to our own room. He put the winegla sses on the nightstand before putting the tray on the floor. Getting back on the bed, he pulled her legs straight and straddled her thighs. She pressed back aga inst the pillows. He could see her eyes dilating and hear her breath come fast a nd shallow. Ive asked for a special spanking bench. I can secure you, put a dildo in that hot pussy of yours, spank youbecause we both know youll do something to de serve a spankingthen he put his hands on either side of

her hips and nibbled on her neck. He lifted his head when she whimpered. Then, wh en youre begging me, I can fuck that tight little ass of yours. Her eyelids flutte red closed and she moaned. Please, master, she whispered. What do you want, babe? For you to do what you want to me, she sighed. Please. Not yet, babe, he smiled, sitting back on his heels. Her eyes flew open. I told you. I want you to take it easy fo r a couple of days. She was already shaking her head. Dont argue with me on this, D ebbie. I have a number of things planned for Friday and if youre sore from my fuc king now, then I cant do them then. The anticipation will be more than worth it. H e could see the arguments in her eyes. He could see the internal struggle before she finally sighed and nodded. What do you say? Yes, master, she murmured. Her hand came up and wrapped around his cock. Do I still get to touch you? Tease, he groaned , catching her wrist. Am I going to have to bind you while we sleep to get you to behave? I thought a submissive took care of her dominant, she said, the innocent a ct not fooling him for one second. To make sure his every need was met. Gritting h is teeth, he caught both her wrists and stretched them over her head. Youre really trying to earn that spanking on Friday, arent you?

Well, I know youll feel better if I deserve it. Quincy gave her a long, hard look. After a moment, she gave up and giggled. Smiling, he pulled her to him and close d his eyes. Woman, I think we deserve each other. Just think of the people we saved in the process, she quipped, snuggling against him. Kissing the top of her head, he tightened his grip on her. Did you get enough to eat? I did, she nodded. Let me g o put it away. You go to sleep. He heard her go to brush her teeth, but by the ti me he returned to the bedroom, she was curled on her side in the middle of the b ed, sound asleep. Smiling, he turned off all but the bathroom nightlight and cli mbed into bed. Pulling her into the curve of his body, he exhaled and was asleep almost immediately. **** Quincy opened his eyes to see Debbie standing at the s ide of the bed. In her hands was the tray with a large plate of scrambled eggs, sausage, English muffins, and two steaming mugs of coffee. Youre kidding me, he whi spered, sitting up. Its about the extent of my cooking skills, she smiled as he too k the tray from her. She climbed up and sat cross-legged before taking her mug. I wanted to take care of you. He paused, the mug at his mouth. When the hell had a nyone said that to him? That was the easiest questionnever. He

said that to him? That was the easiest questionnever. He looked at hersilky black hair falling softly about her shoulders, brown eyes shining with contentment on many levelsand knew he had what hed been so sure he didnt need or want. A woman in his life. A woman who wanted him as a lover, a friend, and a master. A woman wit h intelligence, warmth, wit, and loyalty. Quincy? Tell me about this club were going to today, he said, forcing himself to focus on the future. Even if he now worked for MacLauren, he was going to make sure she was safe. Whats the name? The Gray Sha dows, she said, picking up a fork and scooping up a large clump of eggs. He stare d at her as she ate it. She hadnt put those pieces of the puzzle together yet. The Gray Shadows? he echoed. Thats a rather exclusive club. How did you start going th ere? Her mouth twisted and her shoulders dropped slightly. That piqued his intere st. That usually meant she was about to admit something she was embarrassed abou t. Paul and David took Claire and me a few times for happy hour. They introduced us to the security people and the bartenders who promised to take care of us. Cl aire said Paul knew that I liked to go clubbing and that she worried about me. H e knew the owner and security chief at Gray Shadows and that wed be safe. He made her promise not to be there after nine if he wasnt with her. She scooped up more eggs and, fork halfway to her mouth, paused. Is the Gray Shadows

way to her mouth, paused. Is the Gray Shadows Part of the Club? he finished, swallowi ng the sausage patty whole. He nodded. The son of the Clubs owner came up with the idea. Members can access a back door in and out. Oh, my God, she breathed. That mea ns Paul and David are and Claire Debbie, dont go there, he told her, reaching out and taking a nipple between his thumb and forefinger. She gasped as he pinched her breast. Focus, Debbie. Focus on me now. Her brown eyes flew to his face and she di dnt move. Debbie, the reason Paul told Claire not to be there without him after ni ne is because many Club dominants go looking for people to seduce after that tim e. Theyre quite aggressive and they know exactly what theyre doing. No one would t ouch Claire because the security detail would know she belongs to Paul. But you, he squeezed her breast. You would be a ripe target for them. Paul, despite all th e anger youve shown him, was looking out for you. He was protecting you. She close d her eyes. After the way Ive acted toward him, she whispered. He could have let me go there in ignorance, but instead he protected me. He did, Quincy nodded. I need to apologize to him. Thank him, she murmured, shaking her head. And to Claire. She h ad to have known and it mustve killed her not to say anything to me. She groaned. G od, Ive been an idiot. All this time, I thought I was protecting her and she and the man I was ranting about were protecting

me. Do it quietly, he advised. To Paul. I think he might need the reassurance. She ga ve him a puzzled look. I think he and Claire have a few problems to work out. Becau se of David, she snorted, grimacing. Well, maybe I shouldnt Uh-huh, he shook his head, pinching her nipple. He still protected you. All right, she sighed, dropping her hea d in submission. Debbie. She raised her head. Were going to the Gray Shadows after n ine, he told her. And I am going to fuck you there. In a public place. Others prob ably wont be able to see us. They probably wont be able to hear us, but, he leaned forward over the tray, Theres always a chance they could. Her lips parted slightly and he smiled. There was a little exhibitionist in her after all. She would prob ably never want to be on full public viewing, but the risk of being seen was eno ugh to arouse her. So, when I pull you away from others, you will know that you h ave permission to come whenever you need to. Thank you, master, she whispered. Move the tray to the floor. Get back on the bed, kneel and put your hands together be hind you. Setting the tray near the nightstand, she clambered back up and knelt w here he pointed. Intertwine your fingers and stretch your hands behind you,

Intertwine your fingers and stretch your hands behind you, he instructed. Lower you r chin. Do not look up. This is how a submissive sits or kneels at the club. She obeyed and her pert breasts were thrust upward. Very good, he murmured, opening th e nightstand drawer. Pulling out the small pouch, he dumped the contents in the palm of his hand. Moving forward, he stood next to the bed. Im going to put someth ing else on your nipples. His free hand went between her shoulders blades as his mouth fastened on a breast. She gasped, struggling to stay in place. When he fel t the rosy flesh harden in his mouth, he released her, quickly putting the clamp on. He did it to the other and then smiled at the sight. She would be permanent ly aroused with those on. She knew it as well. He could see it in her eyes. She was his completely even if she didnt yet wear his collar. Master? Smiling, he climb ed onto the bed. Yes, he was her master, and he had a hard-on that could fell tr ees in a single blow. Catching the back of her neck, he guided her to his groin as he sat and straightened out his legs. Take care of me. As her eager mouth and h ands surrounded his cock, he leaned back against the pillows and closed his eyes . It wasnt about holding back now. If he tried that, she might feel she was doing something wrong and theyd made too much progress for him to risk that kind of se tback. Besides, he was too damn hot for her to even want to control himself. He gazed down at her dark head

to even want to control himself. He gazed down at her dark head and stroked her hair. She moved slightly and her dark eyes met his. Thats it, he assured her. Just l ike that. Her delight in pleasing him lit up her eyes before she went back to her task in hand. He inhaled sharply as she lifted her hips up to change her angle. And took his cock as deep down her throat as she could. The heat, the tightness , the sensation of her doing this for him. He pulled on a last strand of control even as the instinct to hold her in that position and release into her throat. He was pretty sure she wasnt ready for that. He groaned, his fingers tangling in the silky strands of her hair. Debbie, he ground his teeth together to control the need to shout. That feels so damn good! In response, she hummed around his cock a nd wriggled her hips. She couldnt keep him that deep for long, but the fact that shed tried as long as she had made him mentally run through every sexual reward h e could do for her. Her tongue licked the slit at the tip of his cock and Quincy felt the shudder throughout his body. His hands pulled her head so their eyes c ould meet. No more teasing, he told her. Use your hands and mouth on me. She smiled and nodded. Her mouth took the head of his cock while one hand wrapped around th e root and began to squeeze. With a groan, he closed his eyes as she took him to the edge. His hands fisted in the covers as he felt the familiar tightening

begin in his groin. Unnggh, he dragged out the sound as he exploded in her mouth. Debbie, willing submissive that she was, tried to swallow everything. He tangled a hand in her hair, lifted her head and let the rest of his ejaculation spew ac ross his abdomen. Oh, my good girl, he whispered, pulling her up and holding her t o his chest. Debbie sighed and relaxed. **** Feeling the bass of the music throu gh the walls, Quincy showed his ID to the bouncer at the door. The man twice his size tapped his name into his handheld device and blinked. Welcome to The Gray S hadows, sir. Miss, he said quietly, opening the door for them. Debbies small hand was in his as she waved the other at people she knew. Hey, Debbie. A man at the co rner of the bar shouted as they passed him. Looking hot, girl! Debbie was wearing a red see-through blouse with a nude camisole underneath, a matching mini-skirt and thigh-high boots. Quincy had thought it a miracle hed not tackled her to the living room floor and fucked her on the spot. Now, it would definitely take an a ct of God to keep him from beating to a bloody pulp every man who saw her. Quinc ys hand moved from the small of her back to her shoulder. Pulling her closer to h im, he gave the man a warning glare. The other man looked startled.

man a warning glare. The other man looked startled. Hi, Scott, she smiled. Thanks. Wh os he? Scott jerked a thumb at Quincy. Her boyfriend, he answered shortly. Quincy. Wow Really? Scotts gaze went to Debbie for confirmation. How long has this been going on? Since the MMAs at MSG, she replied, nestling against his side. I wasnt sure at fi rst, but Quincy can be very persuasive, she added, a hand running up and down the black tee hed worn. She saw Scotts puzzled look. He moved in after what happened t o Serena. Hey, I can understand that, Scott nodded. You want a beer, Quincy? Deb, yo ur usual? Sure, Quincy replied. Thanks, Debbie nodded. Whats your usual? Quincy murmu in her ear. Rum and Coke, she replied softly. Got it. So many things he realized he should have covered before they came. Taking the drinks from Scott, they follow ed him through the crowd. How many people are we going to be with? About a dozen or so at time, she told him. I want to dance with you, Quincy. They say you can tell h ow a woman is in bed by how she dances, he told her. How do you think Ill dance the n? she grinned. He chuckled, his hand cupping an ass cheek. Youll be lucky if I dont fuck you on the dance floor.

Youll be lucky if I dont fuck you on the dance floor. His other hand reached in his pocket and she bit her bottom lip. Before she had dressed, he had put the harnes s back on. Her pussy was empty, but her ass had a butt plug and her clit had a t iny clamp. Hed pinched her nipples erect and put rings on them. Now, he set the t oys to a low-level vibration. Just enough so she went closer to the edge. Before theyd left the apartment, hed pressed up against her, pinning her to the door. Hi s whispered words had her hot and ready to skip the clubFrom now on, Im not using a condom when I fuck your pussy. Quincy was relieved that there were only a coup le others at the table. He sat down and pulled Debbie onto his lap with her legs dangling between his thighs. For a couple songs, they sat and chatted as much a s possible given the proximity to the dance floor. Ready to up the heat, he move d his left hand from her thigh and put it in his pocket. He saw her eyes widen s lightly and felt her butt tighten as the vibrations increased. A song with an er otic beat and thumping bass came on and she looked at him. Dance with me? she whis pered. Smiling, he nodded and she stood. Guiding her to the middle of the floor, he smiled. Straddle my right leg and ride it. She stared up at him in shock. He s miled. Quincy, she breathed. That or I lift you and put my cock in your hot pussy. E yes closing, she trembled and moved her left leg to take his

thigh between hers. Was this happening to her? Yeah, she was wild compared to Cl aire and Serena, but nothing shed ever done compared to what passed for normal in the club. She was about to enter a brand new territory and Quincy was her guide and constant. Would he really fuck her in public? On the dance floor? Come on, b aby, his mouth was hot against her ear. Move like youre riding my cock. Her fingers clutched his tee as her hips rubbed against his thigh. She heard and felt his am usement as his chest shook under her hands. Thats not even close and you know it. Look around, Debbie. What Im asking is nothing compared to what is happening arou nd you. She took a deep breath for courage and raised her head. Not only were a c ouple women now on their knees, but one woman was between two men who clearly ha d their cocks in her pussy and ass. While at first stunned at the total lack of inhibition, the more she looked around, the more aroused she became. Dragging he r eyes from the sight of a woman braced against the wall as a man knelt in front of her, his head under her skirt, Debbie looked up at Quincy. He wouldnt fuck he r in public like that. She was certain. She was also very sure that once shed hum ped his thigh to his satisfaction, he was going to take her someplace so he coul d get his cock in her without others seeing them. She decided to give him someth ing to think about. All right, she nodded, rising on her toes and pressing her

body against his. But just so you know, Im thinking about your hard cock inside my pussy. His breath hissed and she smiled as she lowered herself on his thigh. Her toes touched the floor and she bent her knees slightly. Eyes half-closed, she l et everything take overthe erotic beat and words of the song, the man holding her , everything hed done to her and everything hed promised to do. Her body moved on its own, up and down, rubbing hard against his black denim-clad thigh. Pressing, desperate, she found herself trying to get the friction and pressure right so s he could orgasm. Looping her arms around his neck, she tangled her hands in his hair and pulled his head down. Hungrily, she kissed him, wanting him to know how hot and ready for him she was. Her tongue made one thorough exploration of his mouth. His groan vibrated through her body before his arms tightened in steel ba nds around her and his tongue plunged into her mouth. One of his hands slid unde r her butt and lifted her. Eagerly, she wrapped her legs around his waist. She f elt him move and buried her face against his shoulder. Feeling something hard ag ainst her back, she blinked as the volume hadnt changed. Peering over his shoulde r, she felt dizzy. Hed simply taken her to the side of the DJs booth. They were in a back corner, completely in the shadows, but anyone could come, probably with the same intent he had, and see them. Quincy? He held her up and slightly away fro m him with one hand while he tried to work his pants with the other. Not wanting to

while he tried to work his pants with the other. Not wanting to wait, she moved her hands from his shoulders to his waist. In seconds, the two of them had his d ick free. Her hands went to the hem of her skirt and pulled it out of the way. F or a heartbeat, their gazes held. Then he surged up and into her. Her head fell back against the wall as he filled her. Yes! she exulted. Come on, baby, he whispere d, stroking hard and deep into her. I want you to fall apart on me. He held the re mote and pushed the button. Debbie groaned as the toys went to what she knew was maximum. Hed never fucked her with the toys inside. She would indeed fall apart on him. The butt plug gave his cock something to rub against and the clit clip w as a trip-wire for her nerves. And she was lost before it really started. Wrappi ng her arms and legs around him, she just held on for dear life. The wall braced her back as he hammered her pussy. Quincy, Im going to come, she whispered. Come, b abe. Come for me. I cant keep quiet, she whimpered, pulling his tee into her mouth. I is mouth found hers and gratefully she accepted his possession. With that stress gone, she relaxed and her body clenched with her orgasm. He wasnt done. He was n ever done with her. The toys continued, keeping her at the height until he gave a final heave and his cock flooded her pussy. Panting, she clung to him.

Panting, she clung to him. You spoil me, she sighed, resting her head on his shoul der. Absolutely spoil me. Hows that? he wondered, breathing heavily as he rested his cheek on her head. By taking care of me the way you do. Protecting me. Seducing a nd satisfying me the way you do. Her fingers teased the ends of his hair where it curled near his right ear. I think I could get used to it. You think? She chuckled at the harsh tone in his voice. Mmm, definitely, she nodded. I tell you everything and your ego could become too big for me to deal with. Everything? Yeah, she said sof tly as he looked at her. She smiled. Quincy, until Monday night, the only orgasms Id ever had were from the dildo Sarah gave me. Really? he smiled. I like that. See? shook her head. I knew I shouldnt have told you. Its all good, babe, he assured her. man likes knowing things like that. It lets us know were taking care of our woma n. Definitely, she nodded. Quincy? Mmm? Can we go home? I think Ive had enough of cl g. Excellent idea, he nodded.

Chapter Twelve Friday morning, Debbie pulled on her seatbelt and fell asleep bef ore Quincy had turned the ignition. Dammit. What the hell is that asshole doing? J erked awake, Debbie looked around and froze. A delivery van was swerving in the road. As she stared in horror, he crossed into their lane, sped up, and came str aight for them. Quincys eyes darted around and he swore. Blasting the horn, he je rked the wheel toward the sidewalk. The pedestrians gawking at the van in appare nt disbelief now scrambled to get out of the way of the truck. Debbie felt his h and between her shoulder blades and let him pull her toward the middle of the ca b. As flat as she could, she stayed silent as the truck came to an abrupt halt. Over her head, Quincy was swearing. She put a hand on his thigh and caught her b reath at how tightly his fingers gripped hers. You all right? he asked. Yes, she whi spered, tilting her head up to see his fierce, angry expression. You? Fine. His hand s caught her shoulders and pulled her upright and then against him in a tight em brace. Jesus H. Christ, I cant

and then against him in a tight embrace. Jesus H. Christ, I cant believe that idio t. What happened? Where is he? She held onto his jacket. Was anyone else hurt? He took off, Quincy replied. Holding her with one arm, he carefully backed the truck bac k into the street. Stay here while I check on things. Nodding, she watched him cli mb out and click the alarm on. As traffic was starting to pick up, a mounted pol ice officer arrived as Quincy stepped out. She watched Quincy pull out his cell phone and wondered who hed be calling if the police were already there. A few min utes later, another black truck parked across the street. Debbie watched four me n get out and trot across the street. As they talked with Quincy, she froze. The y worked for Hancock Security. They thought this was an attempt on her. Tremblin g, she wrapped her arms around her and fought to stay calm. She could get throug h this, she told herself. She was not going to fall apart because some asshole w as trying to kill her. Focus, Debbie, focus, she whispered. There has to be another reason that four Schwarzenegger clones are standing on the street with Quincy. Its New York City, for Petes sake. The place is filled with crazy people who dont k now how to drive. Theyre just being hyper-cautious with security and One of the men glanced her direction, his mouth moved and Quincys head turned toward her. She c ould see a myriad of emotions on his face. As he and two of the men headed towar d the truck, she had a sinking feeling that something was very

the truck, she had a sinking feeling that something was very wrong. Quincy opene d the drivers door. Hammond, she stated quietly. Looks like it, he nodded, climbing i n. The men climbed into the back seat. Hancock and MacLauren are going to be all kinds of pissed. You would have known if you hadnt one man in the back started. Thats ucking bullshit and you know it, Ryan! Quincy snarled, shooting a hard look over his shoulder. If Hancock knew there would be an attempt on her and didnt tell me, then Ill have his fucking ass on a stick to roast over a bonfire. And Ill light it, D ebbie whispered. As all three men looked at her, she kept her gaze on Quincy. Ben wouldnt do that and you know it. This was either random or Hammond getting despe rate for some reason. She turned around and gave Ryan a look that shouldve dropped him like a stone. And you can shut your mouth around me. Dont say one bad thing a bout Quincy around me. The man stared at her incredulously, then looked at Quincy . Is she fucking serious? A long arm shot out and caught the mans jacket, jerking h im to the middle of the cab. I suggest you do what she said. Got it? Ryan nodded a nd the other man whistled, raising his hands to form a T. Okay, focus, fellas. Ba d guy just made an attempt on

someones life. Lets make sure he doesnt get another chance. Good point, Oscar, Quincy nodded. Gunning the engine, he headed down the street. Debbie stayed turned in t he seat, eyes on him. Weve got to report to Hancock and MacLauren. Allen will need to increase building security. Not Serena, Debbie whispered. Make sure that whoever is guarding Serena knows not to say anything around her. Shes dealing with enoug h. Her new boyfriend hasnt called since the attack and she thinks that its because Hammond nearly raped her. Thats what she said when you called her this morning? Qui ncy frowned, making the right turn into the buildings garage area. Yeah, she nodded , slumping against the back of the seat. She had one weekend of incredible bliss and he said hed be over Monday night, Hammond attacked and she hasnt heard from hi m since. She calls and leaves messages, but he never picks up and never calls. Ass hole, muttered the man behind Quincy. It wasnt her fault, whether or not Hammond di d rape her. You and Claire saved her and I like you, Debbie grinned. Thank you, he win ked. Ryans not really a bad guy, just a bit of a chauvinist. Not his fault. His fa ther was an asshole. Debbie glanced at Ryan, who was glaring daggers at Oscar. De ciding that everyone had enough to deal with it, she decided to let it pass.

It happens to the best of us, she nodded, looking at Ryan who gave her a wary look . Guess we both need more caffeine before were around people in the morning. Quincy backed into his spot and shut off the engine. In the way she was beginning to l ove, he caught the back of her head and looked at her. As long as he doesnt take h is coffee the way I do mine, he murmured before kissing her. Yeah, okay, find a ro om, you two, Ryan muttered. Chuckling, Quincy released her. Winking, she waited f or him to come around to her door. When the elevator doors opened, both MacLaure n and Hancock were waiting. Word had definitely gone ahead of them, she realized . Hammond made bail? Quincy asked as they headed down the hall toward Keiths office . Paul and David were already there, standing by the windows. Hes roaming the stre ets? Supported by my half-brothers and others in my family, muttered the CEO. Dammit , I dont understand how they can keep doing this. There has to be a reason. He pac ed about his office before sinking into his chair. We have to assume that, having failed at this, hell try an attack at Debbies apartment, Ben started. Its not safe f or them to go back there. What? Debbie whipped her head around. I live there and Youl ove in here, Keith interrupted. There are several smaller apartments above the off ice levels. Ive already called

smaller apartments above the office levels. Ive already called Kendra, the concie rge. Shell be here in a few minutes to take you around. You can have whichever on e you want. What about Serena? Debbie whispered. I dont want her to know about this. Shes dealing with enough, but is she going to be safe? Shes just down the hall an d Hammonds already gone after her once. She cant positively ID Hammond as her attack er this time, Paul said. Claire can only say that he sounded like her boss. That c an be argued against as Claire didnt like her boss, et cetera. You actually saw h im. You are the one a jury would have to weigh his alibi against. Serenas got three of my best men either with her or in the next apartment, Ben assured Debbie. She is never alone. Nodding, Debbie relaxed slightly, then trembled. Wrapping her arm s around her body, she glanced at Quincy. Adrenaline let-down, he murmured, steppi ng up and holding her. Keith? Debbie saw a curvy, fortyish woman in the doorway. D ark brown hair curled around a heart-shaped face with lively, pale blue eyes tha t were startling against the light, coffee-colored skin. Kendra, this is Debbie a nd Quincy. Please show them the apartments on the list I gave you and give them the keys to whichever they choose, Keith spoke. Quincy. Debbie saw an index card pa ssed and frowned. Her curiosity was piqued when Quincy blinked then smiled. Kend ra beamed. Wonderful, she enthused. Ive been hoping those would fill

Wonderful, she enthused. Ive been hoping those would fill up with some nice people. Now, you just come with me and Ill show you around. Some already have some furnit ure in them while others are completely empty. Realizing she wouldnt be going back to her apartment, Debbie froze. Her gaze went from Quincy to Keith and Ben. Her boss nodded in understanding. Ill send men over now. Theyll pack everything up and move it to whichever apartment you pick. I just need your key. Thank you, she nodd ed. She slid the apartment key off the ring and handed it to him. That reminded her of something else. Leaving Quincy, she went to Paul, who gave her a suspicio us look. When she crooked her finger, he lowered his head so she could whisper. Q uincy took me to Gray Shadows last night. Im sorry about the way Ive been. And tha nk you for looking out for me. His hazel eyes bore into hers for a long moment. Cl aire cares about you, he said simply. And I care about her, she replied. He nodded and she returned to Quincy. As they followed Kendra, she heard Keith ask, Is that something I want to know about? Debbie didnt mean to be indecisive. But with ever ything that had happened, she barely paid any attention to the first three apart ments Kendra showed them. Only as they stood at the door of the fourth and a lit tle boy ran out of one of the other two doors on the floor did Debbie blink and become aware of her

surroundings. He whooped and ran to them, touching the door and then running to the elevator. Alec Lexington, a woman shouted through the open door. Come back here . I win, he crowed, clapping his hands. I reached the box all by myself. A harried, s lightly overweight young woman appeared. Alec, what am I going to do with you? she gasped, shaking her head as she smiled at the boy dancing in the hall. Your mama and Aunt Rose are going to go crazy when they realize her voice trailed off as sh e saw the three at the other door. Good morning, she whispered. Hello, Kendra. Good m orning, Elle, Kendra smiled. Keith asked me to show Debbie and Quincy some of the empty apartments. Pale blue eyes lit up. Neighbors? That would be wonderful! Yeah, Al ec shouted. Neighbors. Elle scooped him up in her arms. Hes not always this loud, she said hurriedly, backing up into their apartment. Hes really a good boy. Really. Im s ure he is, Debbie smiled. It was nice to meet you. Elle turned bright red even as s he smiled back. A second later, the door closed over Alecs protests. Debbie looke d at Kendra. Who are they? Alec Lexington, son of Lily Lexington, and Elle CustisJe fferson, came the reply as she keyed in the access code. Ms. Lexington is

Lexington is I know her, Debbie nodded. Shes my financial advisor. I heard she had a s on, and that Rose Custis lived with her. Is Elle a relation? A cousin, Kendra nodde d, opening the door. I dont know the details. Debbie smiled. And even if you did, yo u wouldnt gossip about them, she murmured. I can imagine the tales you could tell. If I thought about it, Kendra replied smoothly. Debbie looked around the entryway. Shed heard all the rumors, practically from the moment shed started working for MC . Nearly five years ago, Brody and Rose Custis parents had been killed in a helic opter crash in the Rockies. Brody had done a complete personality change and bec ome a tyrant over his younger sister. As soon as shed turned eighteen, Rose had m oved in with Lily, one of her trustees. Lily had been pregnant, refusing to name the father. None of the three involved had ever commented on the rampant gossip that Brody was the father and refused to believe it and Rose had been reduced t o near poverty because she took Lilys side. Debbie couldnt remember a cousin named Elle but that certainly added a new twist to things. Twist. Debbie came to a fu ll-stop in the middle of the kitchen. Brody was a sexual dominant. If their name s had been linked, that meant Lily had been his submissive. They both lived in t he same building. Keith was friends with Brody, Ben, and suddenly Debbies head swa m as she remembered something each of the

Debbies head swam as she remembered something each of the apartments Kendra had s hown them had in commona room with a coded entrance. At first shed thought they we re panic rooms shed heard the famously wealthy had. Now, with her growing knowled ge of those around her, she wondered if they were something else. Problem, babe? Q uincy asked, coming in from the dining room. I like this one better than the othe rs. I like the fireplaces, he smiled. And the coded rooms? she whispered. He paused , looked at her and nodded slowly. This one, she stated. They were in it at the mo ment, and it felt right. And the other apartments had been on floors with no oth er occupants. Debbie was too used to some activity, to having neighbors nearby. And for some reason, something about the startled, pleased expression on Elles fa ce tugged at her. I want this one. I dont know how much it is, but Ill work it out wit h Keith, he smiled, kissing her swiftly. Go to the coded door while I talk to Kend ra. Nodding, she went down the hall while he returned to the dining room where Ke ndra waited. She saw the woman briefly as she passed through the hallway before Quincy came striding down toward her. He pulled out the index card. What is it? sh e whispered. A soundproof room, he replied, punching in first one code, then a sec ond. To enter this room, your birth month, then mine. She nodded as he slid the do or to the right. Nice.

Debbie stayed in the doorway and looked around. As it was in a corner, two walls were mostly windows, floor to ceiling, revealing stunning views of Battery Park and the rest of Manhattan. One wall was mirrored while the other, that had the door in it, had a large cabinet to the right that had several drawers and doors in it. Quincy paced the perimeter, muttering to himself, spreading his arms out as if measuring and mentally placing things. Quincy? Welcome to the playroom, he smi led, looking around. I can arrange for a number of interesting things in here. A spanking bench. A St. Andrews cross. He held out his hand and she joined him at th e window. All sorts of wonderful things we can try out at the Club and if we real ly like them, we can order our own and put them here. Debbie felt the heat coil i n her pussy as he pulled her against him. She could feel his hard cock pressing against her and wriggled, wondering if he would take her. Not yet, babe, he murmur ed, even as one hand slid down her back and gripped her ass. But, by the time we get back after work tonight, I can have some things in here. That way I can prop erly spank you when youre a bad girl. Me? She batted her lashes at him. When am I a b ad girl? Right now, he growled, his mouth trailing kisses down the side of her face . One hand pulled the silky cloth of her turtleneck down and his lips fastened o n her pulse. She cried out as his other hand kneaded her ass cheeks.

kneaded her ass cheeks. Please, she panted. Please, master. Fuck me now. His teeth s craped her skin as his hand left her ass before returning with a hard smack. Beha ve, he warned. Whimpering, she nodded, relaxing against him. Yes, master. Ill be go od. For now, he observed dryly. When he raised his head, she could see the heat in his eyes. It was mildly comforting to know that he was tempted to forget his pla ns and fuck her right there. He looked around and his mouth twisted in a smile. F irst thing Ill do is order a spanking bench and a few toys to use on you. Im sure youll continue to earn spankings on a daily basis. Well, when youre so good at givin g them, she replied saucily, wriggling her hips against his cock. How can I not be torn between wanting to be absolutely perfect or absolutely horrible? She twiste d and slipped away from his grasp. She got to the door before he replied. Debbie, were going to be alone all weekend. And have a room where no one can hear you. Bl indly, she reached out and caught the frame. All weekend. Alone. No one but Quin cy to hear her pleas for him to take her. To do what he wanted to her, but, to p lease, please fuck her. Her fingers tightened on the wood as she fought the urge to turn around and beg him to take her right then and there. The effort had her trembling and she leaned against the wall, head bowed and her eyes closed. How the hell had her life changed so much

and her eyes closed. How the hell had her life changed so much in five days? One week ago she would never have believed anyone if theyd told her in seven days sh e would do anything for one man. And not just because of the sex. They were perf ect for each other in so many ways. Debbie? She hadnt heard him cross the room. He stood next to her and she looked up at him. Do we still have to go to the Club? sh e whispered. Cant we just come up here when we leave the office and She saw the reli ef in his eyes and realized he had been afraid she was going to call off everyth ing. As if! Oh, no, babe, he smiled, turning her and bringing her back against his front. His palms covered her breasts and she was very aware of the nipple rings . Im showing you off and claiming you as my submissive publicly. His lips brushed h er ear. I cant tell you how much I want to do that. Ive something special planned. Wh at? Youll see. Debbie pressed her lips together in frustration, fighting the urge to ask more questions. She already knew it wouldnt do any good. Except get her more spankings. And she had a feeling shed get enough of those without adding to them . By four oclock, she was convinced shed done more in eight hours than shed ever do ne in her life. Shed gone back and forth between meetings, leading her groups on the projects, and up to

the apartment at three to tell the men where to put things. That meant getting h old of Claire because everything had been packed up, not just her things. I dont c are what they do with my things, Claire told her over the phone. Throw them out, d onate them, whatever. I dont care. Claire, honey, talk to me, Debbie whispered, curl ed up on the chair by the living room fireplace. Is it Paul and David? Whats happe ned? Itsits complicated. Yeah, I knew that already, Debbie drawled. Claire, I know Gray Shadows. I know about the Club. Talk to me. Claire gasped, then gave a litt le moan. Quincys like them? Oh, Debbie, Im sorry. II cant talk about it. The line went silent. When Debbie called both the office and Claires cell phone number, she we nt to voice mail. Dammit, she muttered. Miss Sheldon? one man asked. What should we d o with those boxes? Well put them in the far bedroom down the hall, Debbie decided. As the men began carrying the boxes, Debbie called another number. Paul Jensen. You hurt her. No. Paul, I just talked to her. I told her I knew about Gray Shadows, she said she was sorry and then hung up on me. Paul,

she wailed. Claires my friend. My best friend. I swear, if you and David have hurt her Debbie, I swear to you that we havent. Things are complicated. Complicated like t he man she thought loved seducing her only to be in a threesome with his best fr iend? Debbie lashed out as Quincy appeared in the entryway. Like the two of you ju st wanting her as a sex slave or something? You dont know anything about it, Pauls to ne was cold and forbidding. And we certainly are not treating Claire like a sex s lave. I have to go. The line went dead again. Debbie let her cell phone fall to t he floor as she curled up and cried. What the hell are you doing? They brought Clai res things as well, she sobbed. I was trying to find out what she wanted done with them. She Quincy came to her, kneeling next to the chair and holding her. Debbie b uried her face against his shoulder. How can I be so happy while my only two frie nds are so miserable? Theyve always been there for me and I cant do anything for t hem. Shh, babe, he murmured. Itll work out somehow. Maybe not the way you want, but t he way it has to. She protested slightly even as she nestled against him. Now, you have one more meeting to get through before we get the weekend to ourselves. She nodded and raised her head. Oscar and Ryan were in the entryway with a large bo x. Ryan carried a small leather bag.

entryway with a large box. Ryan carried a small leather bag. Yo, Quince, Oscar cal led. You wanna tell us where to put this? Its a bit on the heavy side. Yeah, Quincy r eplied with a nod, standing. He helped Debbie to her feet and whispered in her e ar. Your spanking bench and some extra toys. Plus what youll wear to the Club. Her jaw dropped. He winked at her before leading the two men down the hall. Everythin gs set, Miss Sheldon, the original moving men came back to the living room. You nee d anything else? No, she shook her head. No, thank you so much. They left and she pau sed to gather herself. She wasnt just some poor girl from the coal-mining hills o f West Virginia. She was Debbie Sheldon, senior project manager for MacLauren Co mputing. A woman who was strong and intelligent, and submissive to a man who was even now preparing a room so he could spank her whenever she deserved it. She s miled broadly, before giggling to herself. Who wouldve thunk it? Grabbing her pur se, she whisked out the door and took the stairs to the Programming Division fiv e floors below. Where the hell is she? Quincy frowned as he paused at the living r oom archway. Did you tell her to wait for you? Oscar wondered. No, and she probably headed down for the meeting, he muttered, pulling out his cell phone. About to p ush the button, he shook his head and put it away. She turns it off for meetings. Y ou seem to have picked up on a lot of things about her, Ryan observed as they lef t the apartment. Quincy pushed the

Ryan observed as they left the apartment. Quincy pushed the button for the resid ent elevator. Not to mention changed your plans completely in one week. Youre sure about all this? Ive only been absolutely certain about a few things in my life. Jo ining the Army, going after the Captain, and making Debbie mine in every way pos sible. The elevator door slid open and Quincy saw the woman and boy from that mor ning. Oh, she gasped, eyes widening at the sight of the three men. Her hand tighte ned its grasp on Alec as she pulled him closer. Hello. Hello, Quincy said quietly. El le, isnt it? We met this morning. Yes, she nodded, eyes darting from one man to the other. You were with Kendra. Weve pretty much moved in, he told her, stepping back so she could exit the car. I think seeing you helped Debbie make up her mind. Thank you. Really? Elle seemed astonished at the idea. I helped? I think so, he nodded, win ing at Alec who grinned back at him. Coming back from the park? Yes, Alec beamed, bo uncing on his toes. A storm is coming in tomorrow and Elle wanted me to get lots of fresh air. Sounds like an excellent idea, except you still seem full of energy, Quincy commented. Im like a bouncy ball, he giggled. I bounce and bounce and bounce!

And I get worn out, Elle shook her head as Alec pulled her to their door. I tried, s he smiled. It was nice seeing you again. Quincy stepped in with Oscar right behind him. Ryans head was turned to watch the pair. Ryan? You coming or going to stand here and enjoy the view? Startled, Elles head whipped around. Ryan winked at her b efore joining the two men. Oscar shook his head as the door slid closed. Must be something about this building, he muttered. What was that? Quincy frowned. What the hell is it about this building? Every man in it looks at a woman and wants to fu ck her. Maybe because we know how and can get it better than you, Ryan retorted. Qu incy tuned out their verbal sparring, focusing on how soon he could get to his w oman and fuck her.

Chapter Thirteen Sitting on the mammoth bed in their bedroom, Debbie had thought shed finished with the I cant believe Im actually doing this list. Quincy proved her wrong. Again. She was dressed in a white satin slip-dress similar to the navy s lip shed worn for him. Had that really only been Tuesday? Covering her from shoul ders to feet was a black cashmere cape. On her feet were white ballet flats. She wore nothing else. No harness, no toys, no jewelry of any type. Quincy came fro m his large closet and she stared. The night before shed thought hed looked incred ible in his dark jeans, black tee, and black leather jacket. Now, though, he loo ked like the bad boy in every girls darkest dreamsblack leather pants, boots, blac k silk shirt, and a long black trench. His dark hair hung loose and she swallowe d down the delicious thrill that zipped up and down her spine. He came toward he r without a word. Pulling the hood over her head, he gently grasped her shoulder s and stood her up. Any questions? No, master, she whispered. All right, he nodded. Re ember, no talking, keep your eyes down, and stay where I put you.

eyes down, and stay where I put you. Yes, master, she nodded. His fingers traced he r jaw. The cars waiting. Lets go. Keeping her eyes down, Debbie simply went where he guided her. Into the elevator, out a few steps in the garage, and ducking down to enter a car. He was silent the entire drive. When the car stopped, he exited and reached a hand in to help her out. They entered another elevator and he punc hed in a code. When the doors opened, Debbie saw polished dark floors. Quincys ha nd on her shoulder pressed her forward. Good evening, Master Quincy, a mans voice g reeted him. Hello, Steve. Is the Board ready? Another fifteen minutes. They suggest ed you wait in the Pub. Of course, Quincy replied. Thank you. Debbie counted forty st eps before a right turn. The sound of low jazz music grew and she lifted her eye s slightly to get a feel for how large the room was. From a quick glimpse, she g ot the impression of something the size of the MC employees dining room. The Club was that big. Everywhere was the murmur of multiple conversations. Master Quincy , another man greeted them. The Board asked that a booth be reserved for you while you waited. Thank you. When they paused again, Quincy gently pressured her to sit down. Gratefully, she sank onto the soft leather seat. Her hood was lifted off h er and his face came into her line of sight. Theres someone I need to talk with. S tay here. Youre in a safe booth. That means no one is to approach you in any way.

safe booth. That means no one is to approach you in any way. She nodded, wishing he wouldnt leave her alone. Seeing that in her eyes, he smiled slightly. Youll be a ll right, babe. Eyes down and sit still. Nodding again, she kept her eyes on the table. She felt him leave her and began counting to stay calm. She reached forty when she saw someone stop in her peripheral vision. Was he back so soon? Had it been a test? She felt fear race through her. The thick fingers reaching toward her were not Quincys. He left you unguarded, a man growled. Hes a fool. Debbie shrank back against the leather, raising her gaze to see a leering expression. This is a safe booth, she whispered. Leave me alone. I dont think so, he shook his head. Im a ter and you are going to be mine. Now. He grabbed her arm and dragged her from th e booth. Leave me alone, she shouted. Quincy! Monroe, rang Quincys voice from across t e room. The man just laughed and yanked the cape from her shoulders. Such a sweet morsel, he sneered, groping her breast over the satin. Leave me alone, you sonuva bitch, she yelled. Pulling her hand back, she curled her fingers as her arm swung around. Her fist caught him at the temple as her knee collided with his balls. G od damn, bitch, he howled, doubling over.

His grip on her arm loosened and she jerked away from him. He kicked out at her and she tripped, sprawling on the floor. Scrambling, tears blurring her vision, she searched the moving shadows for Quincy. Ive got you, babe, he whispered, sudden ly there. Pulling her to her feet, he put her behind him. Ryan, Oscar, and a cou ple other men she recognized from Hancock Security surrounded her. Stay here. You t old me that already, she muttered. Oscars hand gripped her shoulder. Hes about to ki ll a man, he said in her ear. You might want to hold off on the bitchy comments. De bbie gasped as she saw a flash of silver in Quincys hand. In shock, she watched h im grasp the front of Monroes dark shirt and yank him to his feet. What the hell w ere you doing with my submissive? he snarled, giving the shorter man a shake. Shes not wearing a collar. You saw her come in with me, Quincy shook his head. You saw me place her in a safe booth. You went after her because you knew she was mine. I wa nt her punished, Monroe screamed. She attacked a master. She Quincy shoved him away and Monroe crashed into a table. He fell to the floor only to look up and see Qu incy standing over him. The length of the blade seemed even more dangerous as he knelt next to the other Dom. Debbie glanced around as she

considered the very real possibility that Quincy would kill this man. No one els e was moving or seemed surprised. Did you really think a submissive of mine would let anyone but me touch her? Be unable to defend herself? You should be punishe d for touching a sub who was clearly not meant for or interested in you. Agreed, ru mbled a deep voice to the right. Debbie looked up and saw five men in dark gray leather. She ran through the colors Quincy had told her about. Thered been nothin g about dark gray. The Board, she realized. Quincy stepped back from Monroe, pic ked up her cape, and joined her. Debbie felt the warmth of the cashmere surround her as he wrapped it around her shoulders before holding her to his side. Grate ful and relieved, she leaned against him. Quincy, there are more than enough witn esses here, the man in the center of the five men spoke again. Claim your submissi ve if shell have you. Debbie saw the corner of Quincys mouth twitch. Okay, she thou ght. That last was obviously part of some ritual as it was obvious she wanted hi m. Kneel, he said quietly, taking the cape from her again. He passed the cape to O scar. Facing me. Feeling exposed in the white satin, she knelt before him. I am Joh n Quincy Stormcloud, he said in a strong, sure voice. I am a master and I lay perm anent claim to Deborah Alicia Sheldon as my submissive. The man in gray joined th em.

The man in gray joined them. Miss Sheldon, I am Master Grady, leader of the membe rship board. You may look at me. Debbie tilted her head back and recognized him f rom somewhere. Maybe hed been in The Gray Shadows and shed seen him. Do you accept the responsibilities, duties, and rights of a submissive? Yes, Master Grady, she wh ispered, nodding. Do you accept the permanent claim of John Quincy Stormcloud as your master? Yes, Master Grady. With a slight smile, Master Grady stepped back. Coll ar your submissive, he said to Quincy. Dipping his right hand into his pocket, Qu incy pulled out a thick silver chain. Debbie saw blue and black stones alternati ng in the linksturquoise for his Sioux heritage and opal for her coal-mining back ground. Sweeping her hair over her shoulder, Quincy fastened the collar around h er throat. For one long moment, their gazes held. She felt his hand slide around her neck and smiled as his fingers tangled in her hair. Mine, he stated firmly, p ulling her up and toward him. The kiss was one of pure possession, claiming her before everyone watching. His tongue swept into her mouth, tangling and tugging on hers. Her eyes drifted close and she whimpered in her need as the fire began burning in her. You need something, babe? he murmured, lifting his head slightly. J ust you, Master, she sighed. Ive got that covered, he smiled, scooping her up in his

Ive got that covered, he smiled, scooping her up in his arms. Master Gradys brown ey es sparkled with humor as Oscar draped her cape over her so she was again covere d from head to toe. Well deal with Monroe, Grady told Quincy in a low tone. You enjo y your night. Thank you, Quincy replied. Curling into his chest, Debbie closed her eyes. She felt the long strides moving them across the room and back into the ha ll. The elevator was waiting for them. He entered and turned toward the control panel. Push eight, he told her. Her hand snaked out, jabbed at the button, and dis appeared back under the cape. Youre not angry with me? she whispered. God, no. He sho ok his head. Im pissed at myself, at others who did nothing to protect you, and th e damned Board itself for not being ready when we arrived. He brushed a kiss agai nst her forehead. But I am not pissed at you, babe. He smiled. I couldnt be more pro ud of you. The elevator doors opened and he strode out, going to their left. Lets s ee how long you manage to hold out when we get to the room. Hold out against what? she wondered. He paused at the door. Inside my right coat pocket is a key card fo r the door, he told her.

She retrieved and inserted the card into the key mechanism. The light blinked gr een and she turned the handle. He stepped inside and used his back to close the door behind them. He set her on her feet, tossing the cape onto a nearby chair. She kept her eyes on him as he removed his trench coat and added it to the chairs burdens. How long you hold out against that, he smiled, turning her around. She g asped, pressing back against him. The room was empty except for a dresser and a chair to the right of the door. And the object in the middle of the room. What Its a spanking bench, he whispered in her ear. I strap you in so youre completely helples s. Im going to set the machine with a dildo so it fucks your hot little pussy whi le I spank that sweet ass of yours until its bright red. Then, he caught the hem o f her slip and pulled it off her. When youre hoarse from begging me to take you, Im going to fuck your ass. Debbie closed her eyes, feeling her legs go weak. He pic ked her up and carried her to the contraption in the middle of the room. In a ma tter of moments, she was on all fours, her torso supported by a leather-covered pad. Leather straps went over her ankles, just below her knees, wrists and near her elbows. Then he strapped her waist down. Her head hung down, her black hair like a veil on either side of her face. Very nice, he murmured, teasing her clit. M aster, she whispered, turning her head to look at him.

Master, she whispered, turning her head to look at him. Its a little early for you t o be begging, babe, he smiled, standing. He removed his clothing, piling his thin gs on top of their outer garments. Going to the nearby dresser, he pulled out a paddle. Now, one of the things weve never discussed is a safe word. If you need to stop something, whether something is too painful or you realize you really cant handle what were doing, say gigabyte. And if youre okay with whats happening, say moni tor. Repeat those. Gigabyte means stop. Monitor means okay, she repeated. Very good, h e nodded, walking around her. She felt his hand stroke along her back. Now, what do you think youve done today to deserve a spanking? She let her head hang down. I kept teasing you at work, she said quietly. And in the apartment I tried to go int o the playroom when you told me not to. Very good, he said with approval. Discretion , babe. We have to use discretion, especially about the dominant-submissive side of our relationship. People would have trouble accepting the fact that I spank you as part of fucking you. Ill be careful, Master, she promised. I know, babe. And w hen I buy new toys, you will wait until I decide to give them to you. Or use the m on you, he replied. Lets see what you think of the dildo fucking your pussy. Quinc y squatted and adjusted the dildo, carefully putting it just inside her. A soft whirring noise and it began sliding further into her. Debbies breath caught in he r throat and she wasnt sure she would be able to exhale again. She was really bei ng fucked by

would be able to exhale again. She was really being fucked by the machine. It wo uld slide in and hold still for a heartbeat before pulling nearly all the way ou t and pushing back into her. Oh, God! she groaned. You like it, he chuckled, tapping her ass with the paddle. Lets see if you can hold out for ten. Yes, master, she mana ged to gasp as the dildo began moving faster. He chuckled again. Whap. She cried out, her head going back. Count, Debbie. One. Whap. Two. By five, she felt as if shed fallen into an orgy. Her pussy was weeping in its need to orgasm and she knew sh e wouldnt make it to ten. Whap. SSix. Master. Please. Fuck me, master. Please, fuck me. Four more. I cant, she sobbed, tugging at the straps. Please, master. Whap. Sev lease, I need you to fuck me. Please, I Whap. The dildo was ravishing her pussy an d she screamed. Eight. Master, please. I love you. Please, fuck me. The room went suddenly still, except for her sobbing and his harsh breathing. Debbie closed he r eyes. Oh, shit! Had she really said that? Hed never intimated anything about em otions. It had always been the physical and mental connections with him. Her ass cheeks throbbed from the eight smacks shed already

received and she braced herself for the last two. Instead, she heard the paddle clatter to the floor. She heard something that sounded like a rubber band snappi ng and then something else hit the floor. His hands grasped her hips and the nex t she felt was his finger pushing into her anus. He pulled it out and a second l ater, she felt his cock at her tight hole. Covered with a condom and lube, his e rection demanded entrance. The dildo continued to fuck her pussy. His heavy tors o rested on hers as she waited, tense with nerves. This is the closest youll ever come to having two cocks in you, he whispered, Youre mine, Debbie. A hand in her hai r turned her head toward his. I love you, he told her. I love you. Quincy reached un der her, found her clit and teased it. Come for me, sweetheart, he commanded. Now. R elief swept through her at his words. He loved her. As her muscles relaxed, the orgasm uncoiled and rushed through her. It was like stepping on a live wire as h er body jolted. She moaned and gasped for breath. Another orgasm swept over her as he kissed her. Electricity was still zipping through her as he sheathed his c ock fully in her ass. She panted as he waited a moment for her to adjust. Ohhhhh, she moaned. She was full, stretched, and so turned on she thought shed explode in the need to have everything he would give her. Master. She twisted her head so sh e could see him. He adjusted the machine and met her gaze. His hands gripped the bars of the bench and he pulled nearly out of her.

bench and he pulled nearly out of her. Are you all right? he asked, concern in his voice. Whats your word? Monitor, she smiled softly, letting her head drop down again . His hands held her hips as he slowly pressed back into her ass. Her body began a constant trembling at the feeling of him filling her. His hands stroked her b ack as the dildos pace increased. The coarse hair of his groin teased her folds a nd she realized his cock was fully inside her ass. She felt the hard length insi de her and wanted more than the easy, slight strokes he was making. She needed t o feel him drive into her, to know that hed taken her in the last place he could. She needed to know she was totally, completely his. His hands brushed the sides of her breasts and then as he swept them down her sides, one teased her clit. D riven nearly crazy with the building heat, she wiggled her hips. Master, please, s he whispered. Please, fuck me. His hands smoothed over her from shoulder to thigh before gripping her waist. I think youre used to me now, he murmured, He alternated his strokes with the dildo. She closed her eyes and surrendered to the fucking. Her master had collared her. The man she loved had said he loved her. No one el se would ever touch her like this. Come for me, Debbie. Come for me. The heat buil t up in her again and she lost track of the waves

The heat built up in her again and she lost track of the waves that rolled over her. Quincys shout as he released in her pushed her over one last time and she pa ssed out. His sweet, incredible submissive, Quincy thought, pulling out of her. After carefully cleaning her, he dressed, then unstrapped her, and wrapped her u p in the cape, the white silk tucked in one of his coat pockets. The car was wai ting to take them back to the security of the MacLauren Building. He had all wee kend to seduce and satisfy her.

About the Author Abby Gordon believes in love at sight, pursuing dreams until th ey come true, and that having flowers nearby makes waking up easier. Visit Abby at http://abbysgardennook.blogspot.com http://www.facebook.com/mobileprotection# !/profile.php? id=100001050773624 To chat with Abby Gordon and other Wild Rose P ress authors of erotic romance, join us at www.groups.yahoo.com/group/thewilderr oses.

Also Available Model Fantasy by Abby Gordon Supermodel Francine is the sexiest woman alive, and she just found her fianc chea ting on her. A tipsy conversation about her erotic fantasies brings about the se xual encounter of her dreams. Having withdrawn from society life, Grant seizes t he chance to dominate the woman hes lusted after for years. But afterward, Grant must again deal with the spotlight when Francines ex strikes back at her publicly . Can they overcome lifes obstacles to make fantasy reality?

Chapter One Raising his glass, Grant Franklin sipped his water and nodded to a b usiness associate at a nearby table. Everywhere he looked at the high-end, damnnear-impossible-to-get-a-table restaurant were people who came to see and be see n. Elegant furniture, classical music, polished silver, linens pressed to perfec tion, and fresh flowers on every table. It was the perfect setting for those who wanted their business and social peers to consider them just like everyone else . People like those at his table. Damned near drove off the road into the mailbox , Ben Hancock was saying. Thank God I was going slow. The bump as we hit the curb gave me enough time to straighten out. You mean, Grants cousin Bronson laughed. Thank God there was no one on the sidewalk at two in the morning. You didnt tell him whe re he was headed? Bens older cousin Brian frowned. I didnt have a clue where we were going. I was too damn busy looking at the damn billboard! The men all laughed. An d she wasnt a brunette? Bron, Im impressed. Grant grinned, leaning back in his chai r.

grinned, leaning back in his chair. God, what a woman. Ben shook his head, picking up his glass. With impassive faces, two waiters smoothly cleared their soup bow ls and set their entrees before them. Keith MacLauren nodded. I heard that its alr eady in the top ten downloads of all time, he offered his expert opinion, having an international innovative software company. It nearly crashed the servers in Ja pan. No womans that beautiful. Grant finally shook his head. You have to be exaggerat ing. Actually, Brian spoke up in his heavy Boston Brahmin accent. Theyre not too far off the mark. He reached down and lifted the old-fashioned leather briefcase he u sed. Flipping it open, he pulled out a heavy business journal and handed it to G rant. Open and drool at your own risk. Giving the younger man a sardonic, yeah-rig ht look, Grant lifted the front cover, blinked and promptly turned the magazine to get the full effect. Slender, blonde, and a come-get-me-if-youthink-youre-manenough expression on the most perfect face hed ever seen, with roses strategicall y placed on her breasts and the juncture of her thighs. And God created woman, he breathed. Ill take one, please. I saw her first, Ben objected with a laugh. Whats her ame? Grant wondered. Francine, Keith told him. Lincoln, but I think shell only need t o use her first name from now on. The Journals the only

need to use her first name from now on. The Journals the only magazine with a two -page spread of the advertisement and Ad? Who gives a fuck what shes selling? Bron gr inned. This is how to get a hard-on, murmured Grant as he felt the beginnings of o ne stir in his slacks. Can you imagine having her in your bed? Youd never leave. N ever get any work done. Just your bed? Boone queried in his low rasping voice. Good point. Grant nodded with a slight smile. Having her in your bed might be an aftert hought. Those at the table chuckled. They were all members of an exclusive, secre tive club that had been founded over fifty years earlier for those with certain sexual tendencies. While the Club catered to a variety of tastes from the mild t o the extreme, the men gathered leaned toward sexual domination. Grant had been sponsored by a maternal uncle and, in turn, had sponsored the others dining with him. All highly successful in their professional lives, they helped each other maintain the faade of normalcy with public appearances, including their weekly lu nches. As the conversation swirled about him, Grant sipped his water and studied the model. He could just imagine her in his penthouse playroom. That slender bo dy draped over a spanking bench as she waited for whatever discipline hed decided on. Or secured to the St. Andrews cross, with the cascade of gold hair framing h er face as he teased her with a soft leather crop. Or slung in his newest additi ona swing that left her pussy, ass, and mouth available, depending on how he want ed to fuck her. Back to earth, Grant, Bronson murmured. Having her

would garner a helluva lot more attention than you like. Grants body stiffened at his cousins words and he gave him a hard look with blue eyes that had been compar ed to the Titanics iceberg. His cousin knew better than to refer to the hell Gran t had been through five years earlier. A former girlfriend had created a scandal by claiming she was pregnant with Grants child. The paparazzi had surrounded the entire Franklin family like piranha for weeks. Their younger cousin Heather was just now emerging from the shell shed retreated into. Bronson had turned the eve nt into a reason to make stalkers and paparazzi cases his priority and Grant had withdrawn from society completely. These lunches were practically the only time he went anywhere besides the Club. Yeah, it would. He slowly nodded. He closed th e magazine. She probably wouldnt be much anyway. Hey, Brody finally decided to show up. Ben smiled, seeing the last of their group weaving his way through the tables . Collapsing into his chair between Grant and Brian, Brody reached for the drink theyd had waiting for him. Mondays should be outlawed, he growled. Let me show you something to cheer you up, Grant suggested, starting to open the magazine. Seen it , not interested. Brody shook his head. Whats your problem? Brian wondered. Rose move d out. So? Shes eighteen now. Bronson frowned. Its only natural that your sister would want to move out on her own.

She moved in with Lily, elaborated Brody, finishing the drink and raising the glas s to signal for another. One of her trustees and a secondary guardian. Bronson nod ded. The lawyer of the group, he shrugged. At least you know shell be well supervi sed. Not hardly, snarled Brody. Lilys pregnant and says its mine. None of the men move . Grants eyes skimmed over the stunned expressions at the table. Pulling from his memory, Grant tried to recall Lilys face and could only picture her with her arm s around Rose at the funerals for Brodys parents. I dont even remember seeing you w ith her in public, Grant said slowly. Thats who youve been with at the Club, Ben whis pered, dark eyes widening in shock. Your fathers financial protge? Shit, Brody! Its no mine, stated Brody firmly. Ive been told by someone I trust implicitly that she ho oked up with someone in Tahoe when she went there Grant held up a hand and Brody f ell silent. He took a deep breath and chose his words carefully. God knew hed bee n innocent against Sheilas accusations, but if Brody had actually taken Lily to t he Club and been seen with her by Ben and probably others, then there was a chan ce she was telling the truth. Grant knew better than to automatically paint her in the same light as Sheila. Brody, let me get this straight. She went to Tahoe t o take

Brody, let me get this straight. She went to Tahoe to take care of your sister af ter your parents were killed in a helicopter crash, and youre saying she fucked s omeone and is trying to pass the baby off as yours. I get that right? In a nutshel l, yeah. Brody nodded. Have you lost your fucking mind? Brian asked him, his shock as obvious as everyone elses. How can you be so damned sure its not yours? I just kno w, all right? insisted the man as a second drink was placed before him. Better bri ng another now, he told the waiter. Of course, sir, came the quiet murmur. I know Im not the father, Brody whispered. Grant could see the anguish in his eyes. Yeah, Be n, I took her to the Club. We knew we had to keep it quiet, but He downed the drin k. I sure as hell never expected her to do this. And for Rose to take her side. He shuddered, but Grant couldnt be sure if it was from the drink hitting his stomac h or the emotional pain. Im not sure which hurts more. My sister, for crying out l oud! Shh, Grant warned him, glancing around as a few heads turned. I havent heard abo ut any of this, so Im assuming Lilys keeping it quiet. For now, Brody replied, mouth twisting. Until she realizes that having Rose will cost both of them. What do you m ean? I just talked to the other trustees. Were reducing Roses allowance by half. I sur e hope your source is right, observed Bronson.

I sure hope your source is right, observed Bronson. Because if Lily sues for a pate rnity test and its proven that you are the father, then both Rose and Lily will h ave your ass. Its not mine, Brody said quietly. Grant could hear the pain and convic tion in his voice. All right. Grant shook his head at Brian who had opened his mou th. Ben looked like he was also in shock. The Hancocks were a tight family who p ut each other first, and he could see how upset the three were with the situatio n. Brian and Ben seemed pissed on Brodys behalf, but Grant was surprised to see B oone glaring at Brody. We get that, Bro. What next? Next? What are you going to do no w? Get drunk, Brody replied with a sigh, apparently already feeling the alcohol. Sou nds like a good idea. Ben nodded. There are times in life when getting stinking dr unk is the only logical action. I think this might be one for Brody. His gaze swe pt the table. I dont have anything planned so Ill stick with him. The other men nodd ed. Lunch continued, a bit more solemn as everyone kept an eye on Brody. Leaving the restaurant, Grant, Keith and Brian walked the four blocks to the building K eith had inherited from a maternal great-aunt. MacLauren Computing occupied thre e floors from the thirtieth down, while Grants executive headquarters for Frankli n Enterprises had the two below. Below were other offices, including Bronsons leg al suite. Above the business section were elaborate apartments and

penthouses. The New York contingent of their lunch party lived there. Brian live d in Boston, while Boone preferred his cabin in the Connecticut woods. Good after noon, sirs, the doorman greeted them, stepping aside as he opened the door. Hello, David, Keith returned. Anything new happening? Mr. Henderson just arrived with Mr. Ashby and Miss Traydon. Excellent, nodded Keith as they entered the building. Hender sons been in California for a month. Expanding again? Grant wondered. Lots of opportu nities out there, the younger man told him. Im surprised youre not out there already . Dont give him any ideas, Brian warned him. Im not sure how he keeps track of everyth ing as it is. Delegation, my dear boys, Grant replied with exaggerated pomposity, p lacing his hand on his chest. Delegation, a firm priority list, and regular visit s to the Club to relieve stress. Im not at the point where Im so big that I need to delegate, Keith smiled. Serena, hold the elevator! he called to a slender blonde ah ead of them. Her head swiveled and Grant saw the startled recognition in her eye s. Speaking of stress relief, Brian murmured as the woman stepped in and reached o ut to hold the doors open. Who is she? Serena Traydon, Keith replied as they joined her. Two

Serena Traydon, Keith replied as they joined her. Two other men were already insid e. Serena, Grant Franklin and Brian Hancock. Tom Ashby and Jake Henderson. There w ere greetings all around and the conversation turned to business. Grant glanced at the young woman who had retreated to a back corner. She looked to be in her m idtwenties, wearing a pale green shirt-dress that skimmed her curves. Quietly, s he tracked the discussion, eyes moving from one man to the other. Those sea-gree n eyes though lingered on Keith. Grant smothered a smile. If she had any idea wh at Keith preferred sexually, shed be screaming to get out of the elevator. That t hought reminded him of the model. Would a woman who posed like that be intereste d in sexual submission? He doubted it. That would really make her too perfect. To purchase Model Fantasy and other erotic titles, visit www.thewilderroses.com.

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