Cole followed them silently.
“Unless you’re not feeling well enough?” Julian turned, looking down at her in concern.
“No, I feel much better.” And that was the truth. She glanced over to see how Cole was doing.
Julian cupped her chin in his hand. “Don’t worry about Cole. This is about you. And I want your word that if you start to feel unwell you’ll say your safeword, understand?”
“Yes, I understand.”
Julian turned to look at Cole. “Sure you’re in?”
Cole nodded. “I want to see what it is about this you both enjoy.”
“She may not enjoy parts of this,” Julian warned. “It’s punishment.”
Cole’s jaw tightened. Then he turned his gaze to her. “Keira? You’re certain about this?”
“Yes. I earned it. It will help me.”
Cole frowned. “Help you?”
“I’ve got this icky feeling in my tummy, because I know I’ve upset Julian. Putting myself down, risking my health, those are things I know are unacceptable and I hate letting people down. A punishment gets rid of the feelings of guilt that might otherwise stay with me for weeks.”
Cole nodded slowly. “All right. I think I get that.”
“Would you help Keira lie over the back of the sofa?” Julian asked him.
Cole startled slightly but then he stepped forward. Keira smiled at him.
He placed his hand on the small of her back as he led her over to the sofa. “You look awfully happy for someone who’s about to have their butt roasted.”
She shrugged. “I know I’ll feel better afterwards. I know it sounds weird, but it feels right to us.”
Cole helped her into position, her hands resting on the cushions then stepped back and away. She turned her head to see him standing several feet away. But at least he was pulling off his tie and untucking his shirt rather than running for the hills.
Julian came over and crouched by her head. “You okay, kitten?”
“I’m fine. I promise. Do you think he’s going to be okay with this?”
Julian grimaced. “I don’t know. I don’t know whether letting him stay is the best idea. But I guess I’d always be left with what ifs if we didn’t give this a go. But, whatever happens, know I love you. I am here for you. For
ever.”
She nodded. “Forever.”
Julian stood. “Can you hand me your tie please?”
Cole stepped forward and handed the dark blue tie over. Julian used it to bind her wrists together. He checked to make certain it wasn’t too tight.
Cole didn’t say anything, just watched her with hot eyes.
“Don’t you think that’s a pretty sight?” Julian asked.
Cole startled then raised his gaze to the other man. “It is.”
Keira wriggled in happiness.
“Stay still, kitten,” Julian growled at her. “I need to go and get something, will you watch her for me?”