Chapter One
REMINGTON STEELE KICKED BACK ON THE leather chaise lounge, crossed his arms in front of his chest, and stared at his brothers. Hard. Something big was brewing and he didn't like it. As the youngest in the crew, he had to be stronger, faster, and smarter than them in order to survive. And this little get-together stunk of a good old fashioned Steele Brother intervention.
"Real nice of you to welcome me to Vegas with a party," he said. "So, where are your better halves?"
They relaxed in a private VIP room at The Bank, a top-rated club housed in the Bellagio hotel. Remington loved the sleek black, gold, and mirrored elegance of the decor. The mix of jungle and hip-hop music vibrated from the speakers, and the glass encased dance floor packed with writhing bodies floated in the air, serving as the focal point. His oldest brother, Rick, lifted his beer and took a long sip. "Doing girly stuff. Like we're doing manly stuff. Just because we're hooked up doesn't mean we don't know how to party on our own."
Rem held back a laugh, especially when his other two brothers, Rome and Rafe, nodded in agreement. Oh, yeah, they were done. Blissed out from love, sex, and all that cotton candy stuff that filled a man's brain and connected straight to his dick.
The pain rippled through him, but thankfully it didn't cut right to his heart like it had a few years ago. He'd experienced love once. He'd hoped to experience it again, but Rem wasn't that lucky. Five years of looking and instead, he only found a pale imitation of his first love over and over, until he'd become so frustrated he turned into a bit of a hermit. The call from his brothers had been his lucky Ace, especially on the heels of yet another broken relationship. Vegas was a fresh start, with endless possibilities. Though he doubted he'd find what his brothers had, maybe he could at least soothe the emptiness for a while. Hot women, flashing lights, and buckets of money was a nice distraction.
"If this is a party, why do I feel like I'm being set up for something?" Rem asked, studying his siblings. Rick, who looked a bit like Thor without the cool hammer, kept his gaze averted. Rome, who was like a George Clooney look-a-like, sporting pre-mature grey hair and steely eyes that kept his lover Sloane in check, cleared his throat. Rem wished to God he'd been able to claim Thor or Clooney as his birthright instead of the ridiculous 1980's show, Remington Steele, which had launched Pierce Brosnan's career. His mother had been a fervent viewer and named her fourth son in honor of the smooth, charming agent. Even worse, when Rem popped out with blue eyes and black hair, his mother declared it fate. Rem had taken a terrible ribbing from both his brothers and friends' parents who had also watched the show on television.
His other brother, Rafe, took a shot of Jack Daniels and leaned forward, his palms on his knees. His buzz cut had grown in and he now sported brown curls that matched the brown of his eyes. Former military, and a newly admitted male sub to his lady love, Summer, he spoke calm and steady, like Rem was about to jump out the window.
"We're worried about you, Rem."
He arched a brow. "Funny, a few months ago these two called me because they were worried about you. Now I'm the one in emotional trouble? Trust me, dude, I haven't gone through anything close to you. I'm fine."
Rafe returned from his overseas assignment with a medal for bravery, a bit broken, and a lot lost. But since he moved to Vegas and met Summer, a new peace emanated from his frame, along with a happiness Rem had never seen before. Got him all choked up. And he adored Summer, with her sunny smile and sweet disposition. He still couldn't believe she put on a cat suit and dominated his brother at night, but damned if Rem wasn't proud of Rafe for being true to himself and finding love.
"We think you think you're fine," Rome cut in. "But we don't. You practically radiate anger and frustration. And we all know those emotions don't go well with being a Dom."
Temper flicked from his narrowed gaze. "You questioning my ability to be safe with my submissives?" he asked.
Rick groaned. "No, dude, we all know you'd never hurt anyone or lose control. That's half the problem. You're so wound up that nothing seems to satisfy you. Or more to the point: no one. I talked to Dan at Chains and he said you're having trouble finding women to play with."
Fuck. He didn't need Rick's friend tattling on him. Chains was a superior BDSM club he'd joined once he got to Vegas. He enjoyed the atmosphere and openness of public scening, but hadn't been able to connect with anyone on a deeper level. Rem didn't mind. He enjoyed teaching the newer doms and demonstrating technique, but kept himself removed from going into a full-fledged scene.
Frustration simmered. His brothers were right. Eventually, he needed to engage in a scene and wring out the anxiety and scar tissue building. "I'm still settling in," he said. The excuse sounded weak to his own ears. "I'll be fine."
"Well, we got you a present," Rome said. "And if you don't use it you'll hurt our feelings."
"Ah, shit, I don't want a stripper tonight, guys."
Rafe laughed, then handed him a card. It was black and gold with the name FANTA-C scrolled in embossed lettering. Rem flicked the card over and found a phone number. "What's this?"
His brothers shared a meaningful look that, as the baby, had always annoyed the crap out of him. "That's the exclusive matchmaking agency we all used. Call the number and tell them I referred you," Rafe said.
Rem spurted out a laugh and reached for his own beer. It was official. His brothers were certifiable. "I do not need help finding a woman," he stated. "I'm insulted you think I need an escort service."
Rome elbowed Rick. "See? They need to change the name of the place, it does sound like we're getting him a hooker."
"Listen, it's not an escort agency, I swear," Rafe said. "You call the number and fill out confidential forms that details your perfect night with your perfect woman. Anything goes. If they find a match, they call. If you don't hear from them, it's because they don't have a woman who's your perfect mate."
Rem stared. "You are crazy. Do you actually think you met your women because of the juju of an agency called FANTA-C?"
"Yes," they all said in unison.
Holy crap, they really did believe it. He stared at the card and waited. No shock. No tingle. Nothing. It was just an ordinary card with an ordinary service that had fooled his brothers. Weird. His brothers were dealers and bred to spot bullshit or a bad play a light year away. They weren't the type to believe in magic and love and white picket fences.
Were they?
Remington wondered if he was missing something. A piece of a complex puzzle revolving around this mysterious FANTA-C. Maybe he needed to try it out himself. Prove to his brothers nothing special happened and it was just pure luck that led them to their mates.
"Okay. I'll call tomorrow."
Rafe grinned. Rick and Rome looked relieved. "Oh, after you call, burn the card," Rafe said.
"WTF? Now you're scaring me."
Rick shook his head. "Seriously. It's the rules."
"Am I joining a cult? How'd you get this card if you have to burn them?"
"After your match is complete and successful, FANTA-C gives you one card for a referral. You're mine, dude. Don't blow it," Rafe said.
He let out a shout of laughter. "Fine. I'll make the call. I'm too intrigued at this point to back out."
His brothers lifted their glasses in a mock salute. "To the night of your life."
Rem clinked his shot glass to theirs and drained it in one swallow. Maybe it's exactly what he needed. He felt so damn... lost. He had everything a man could want on the surface, yet his gut burned for more.
Rem smothered the messy feelings and concentrated on his party.
Chapter Two
CARA WINTERS TOOK A DEEP BREATH to calm her rapidly beating heart. Excitement and nerves swirled together in an elegant cocktail she craved to drink in one gulp. It was always like this before a meeting with a Dom. But tonight was so very different than others. Tonight, she'd experience her deepest, darkest fantasies.
Her hands shook slightly as she ran them down her barely there skirt. This dom had been precise about his expectations and requirements for the evening. A bottle of champagne was on ice -- "Ace of Spades" Brut Gold to be exact, and two crystal flutes flanked the bucket. The suite was opulent and lush, set off the main strip of Vegas at a hotel that FANTA-C owned. The agency confirmed it was used often for many of their clients, completely safe, and discreet. Decorated in rich burgundy and silver, gilded mirrors, plush carpeting, and a master bed and bath in gold and Italian tile made Cara feel sinfully spoiled. She hoped to use the spa tub and steam shower.
Thank goodness the dom didn't order her to greet him in standard sub position -- on her knees, naked, with legs spread. Though her friend said FANTA-C was a trusted agency, she wanted to be able to talk to the dom that she was trusting her wildest fantasy to, even though she'd sent her list of do's and don'ts to him already. If the connection wasn't there, or if she got a weird feeling in her gut, Cara was walking out the door. She'd already phoned her girlfriend with the exact location and room number. Melanie was on stand-by to rescue her if needed.
A soft knock on the door interrupted her nervous thoughts.
Cara hesitated only a moment. Then opened it.
Oh... My... God!
Remington Steele.
Her first love. Her first lover. Her first heartbreak.
The shock jolted through her like an electrical current. Her body froze, but her gaze hungrily slid over him, noting the delectable changes over the years. He was leaner. Harder. Sooty black hair spilled messily over his forehead, framing aqua blue eyes. Once, those eyes were filled with burning heat. Now, they reminded her of a chilly winter morning, flecked with shards of ice.
His features were still hard and carved from stone, from his sharp Roman nose, square jaw, and slashed cheekbones. His upper lip was thin, setting off the plump lower one that had a habit of kicking up in a half smile. He'd always dressed simply, in dark wash jeans, t-shirt, and loafers, as if he could care less what he threw on his body.
Oh, God, his body. Cara had never forgotten that body.
Whiplash strong. Lean muscles. Eight pack abs from his love of the gym. Corded arms and powerful thighs. Skin a warm, toasty brown. Cara still remembered the patterns of dark hair on his massive chest, and her fingers curled with the need to reach out and touch him.
Of course, she didn't. As her previous Dom years ago, he'd never allowed her to touch without permission. As the man she'd abandoned without explanation, Cara knew her touch was not welcome anymore.
Waves of tightly wound energy snapped around him. Underneath, Cara caught the sexual chemistry between them flare to life and crackle like a live wire. It was still there. Even after years apart, the moment they came near each other, the connection took over, drawing them together like magnets doomed to never separate.
Cara shivered. "I don't understand," she managed. Her voice came out husky. "What are you doing here?"
His gaze flicked over her. Cara knew well how Rem hid his emotions like a master, not giving anything away until he was ready. It used to cause nervousness and stress. Now, she only felt acceptance. And excitement.
"This is the room FANTA-C booked for me. I sent my specifications to them about what I wanted and they sent them to my date," he said.
"I'm your date."
Silence fell. His face tightened, and those arctic eyes grew even colder. "Did you know about this?"
Cara shook her head. Wrapped her hands around her chest, trying to hide behind the skimpy corset she wore. Disapproval radiated from his figure. He'd always hated when she tried to block her body from his view. Some things never changed. "No. I wouldn't have done that to either of us."
Misery choked her throat. How had this happened? Once, this man had held her in his arms and promised to marry her one day. Now, he was a distant stranger, looking at her with disdain and regret. Not that she blamed him. She'd run like a coward, refusing to talk to him, and shattering his heart. Cara deserved his disapproval.
She straightened to full height, which was almost six foot in her four-inch heels. She held his gaze, refusing to flinch from the emptiness she found there. "I'm sorry this happened. I... I had no idea you were in Vegas or were a client of the agency. This was a mistake. I'll call them and explain so maybe they can send you someone else."
She turned on her heel to walk away.
"Cara."
She jerked at the sound of her name from his lips. His voice deepened to the familiar dark, commanding strains of a true Dom. Her body responded instantly, her nipples growing hard and her muscles already relaxing in surrender. She fought off her response with sheer determination. "Yes?"
"There won't be any need for the call."
A frown creased her brow. "I don't understand."
"You're my match for tonight. Out of all the women, in all the damn world, they picked you. For my fantasy." Spellbound, Cara watched as he picked up a black duffel bag from the floor, shut the door behind him, and stepped into the room. Testosterone blasted her in all its delicious glory, allowing her to slip into that beautiful place of abandon, to give over to a man ready to care for her, push her, control her. How had his eyes turned from cold to pure blistering heat? Rem stopped inches away. His gaze narrowed as he slowly reached out to grasp her chin, forcing her head back. "You ran away from me once. I won't allow that again. You need a man to command you tonight. A man to take everything you have to give and push you for more, until you break, until there's nothing left you haven't surrendered. I'm the man that's going to do that, Cara. You owe me, that. Do you understand?"
She shook, helpless against his gaze, his voice, and his electrifying touch. Karma cycled around and kept her in its merciless grip. It was as if all the running and avoiding she'd done over the years came down to this moment. There was nowhere left to go. Only this man she'd once loved and left; the one man she'd never been able to forget. The one man who could make all her fantasies come true.
Cara barely managed a whisper. "Yes."
"Then let's begin."
-Em's EORD-
Chapter Three
REMINGTON KNEW THE EXACT MOMENT she decided to stay. The glint of acceptance in her meadow green eyes made him want to roar in satisfaction and beat his chest like an ape. Instead, he kept his control, wrapping it around him tight, and dropped his hand from her chin.
Inside, he shook like a willow tree caught in a hurricane.
She was here.
Cara Winters.
God, how had she grown more beautiful? As a young woman, she'd radiated a fresh-faced sweetness that grabbed his heart from first look. Those riotous red curls had been tamed and now curved straight and sleek against her cheeks. Her skin was still a pale, pure cream he longed to taste, with a generous portion of freckles over the bridge of her pert nose. Her Irish green eyes still stunned an onlooker, with the swirl of gold around the iris, pulling a man in and spinning him in a web of fogginess. Rem always loved the generous portions of her body, her wide hips, lush breasts, and plump lips. When she was younger, she'd always tried to hide, telling him too many times she was fat. It took time, but by doling out strict punishments for each infraction, eventually she'd stopped insulting herself, and him, by putting down her body. His hand tingled at the memory of spanking her gorgeous ass, his favorite part of her anatomy. The way she'd wiggle and scream, trying desperately to pull away though she'd grown so wet and hot he ended up fucking her before the punishment was even done.
Crap. His dick grew hard, pulsing against his jeans like he was a kid again. He'd fallen for her in his freshman year at college when they were only nineteen years old. English 101. They'd been tortured with poetry, and the instructor forced them to recite a poem aloud to the group. He never forgot the bright flame of her hair hiding her face as she ducked her head to read. The slow, seductive baritone of her voice, the trembling of her fingers as she clutched the book was a moment in time that was forever etched in his mind. He'd fallen hard right then and there. Asked her out. And fell in love with her over the next few months.
The memories crashed in his head. College sweethearts. The odds had been against them, but Remington knew she was the one he wanted. He'd already known his tendencies for dominance in the bedroom, and she was a pure hearted submissive, full of sweetness and the need to surrender to him. Cara hadn't wanted to admit she was submissive though, not liking the term or assumptions. He tried showing her all the pleasures of letting him take charge in the bedroom, and her body lit up under his instruction. Still, Rem figured they'd take it slow and explore different levels as she became more comfortable. They graduated, and he decided to go to dealer school in Atlantic City. They moved in together while she studied history and worked on her master's degree, planning to teach at the college level. Everything had been perfect. Planned out. They'd been happy. Their future bright with endless possibilities.