She hadn’t responded. It wasn’t a foreign concept. Most Doms loved the idea of their sub being naked in some form in public— to please them or to test a sub’s obedience. It gave that added spice to the moment to be touched intimately in the midst of a packed restaurant, which usually happened every time.
Her makeup finished, she brushed her hair until it shone and fell to her shoulders in a silky curtain. Her eyes moved with critical censure over the reflection in the mirror.
Paxton had opted to wear a deep green maxi dress that was light, airy and perfect for the hot weather. She slipped on silver sandals to complete the look.
“Well, let’s see what Commander Bates has up his sleeve tonight.”
At the very least, she hoped his order indicated that he was going to take their relationship in the direction he’d been hinting at for the past week. She was ripe for sex. If he didn’t make a move tonight, she’d have to find a willing partner to take care of her needs.
“A woman can only bethatpatient,” she mumbled as she descended the stairs to join Jared waiting for her in the living room. His eyes roamed over her as she walked in.
With black jeans and white shirt, he looked like a model from a magazine. The dark glimmer in his eyes was one of male appreciation.
“You look beautiful, Paxton. Come here.”
With those two words the atmosphere became charged with anticipation. He oozed of domination that invited her to give in to him. She didn’t hesitate and walked towards him. The sensual effect of touch thrilled through her as he took her hand. She stared at him, reveling in the heat in his fingers tracing her chin.
“Our journey begins tonight, little one.” His voice combed over her. The warmth of his breath teased her lips. “If you’re not ready, tell me now.”
“I’m ready.”
“Are you?” He drew back and studied her intently. “Ready enough to sign a Dom/sub agreement with me?”
Paxton stiffened. “If that’s all you want, then the answer is no. I told you what I’m after, Jared.”
“Make no mistake, Paxton, I am after the full package but insofar as the Dom/sub side of such a relationship is concerned, we will do it by the book. I don’t want any expectations shattered for either of us. You need to know exactly what I want from you. I have certain rules, which aren't negotiable.”
“Very well, I understand. I’ll sign an agreement then.”
“You’ve been in the lifestyle for years. Don’t ever compare me to previous Doms and least of all, your husband. We will build our own future and—”
“I’m going to stop you right there.” She placed her fingers against his lips. “Rex has been dead for many years, Jared. I moved on but you must know that he was the only man I ever loved. He will always have a special place in my heart. I’m not looking to reenact the life I had with him. I want a new life, new challenges— a Dom who can take care of my needs and make me fly.” She hesitated briefly. “Mostly, I want to fall in love again. I don’t want to grow old alone.” Her eyes didn’t waver. “Areyouready for all that... Sir?”
The word had never had such an impact on him, especially since he’d not instructed her on how to address him during scenes.
“You please me, my pet.”
The mellifluous tone of his voice resonated deep inside her, wrapping around that part of her that had been yearning to be desired and loved.
“Yes, Paxton, I’m ready and looking forward to a journey of discovery with you.”
His hands trailed over her back to knead her buttocks.
“What is this?” His fingers found the lacy edge of her thong disappearing between her cheeks.
“Shit,” she mumbled. She’d forgotten his instruction when she got dressed. “Force of habit, I’m afraid.”
“Hmm.” His fingers tightened as he squeezed until her breath hissed painfully from her lips. “A habit that’s unfortunate... for you, at least.”
“I apologize, Sir. I’ll remove them now.” She watched him warily.
“Please do.” He released her to sit on the sofa. His eyes glimmered as she hesitated. “Well? We don’t have all night and I don’t want to be late for dinner, sub. I have other activities planned for tonight.” One eyebrow crawled higher, adding to the devilish glint in his gaze.
Paxton knew Doms well enough not to provoke the devil in them by delaying further. She quickly reached under her dress to wriggle out of the lime green lace thong. She threw it at him as he held out his hand.
“Beautiful color. I might give them back upon our return to appreciate the full effect of what I assume is a matching bra underneath?”
“Of course.” It was her second weakness after stilettos— sensual, feminine lingerie.