Holly’s cheeks were flushed, and Evston imagined they matched her backside.
“It appears this prospective pet was in need of some comfort,” Altis said. The man was of average height, but very muscular. His features weren’t especially pleasing, but he was strong and deeply dominant. It made him an excellent choice for the assessment center since plenty of prospective pet owners were not much to look upon. If a girl fell under his sway, it was not for his looks. It was strictly because they were submissive by nature and recognized his authority over them.
“She was in need of comfort,” Evston said, sitting up. He flicked the linens back.
Holly sucked in a shocked breath. “Oh, my. That was a very—significant—first punishment. I’d like to put some ointment on her. Soon.”
“Yes, take her.”
Alt reached down and took Brande’s hand, tugging her up to her feet. “Off you go.”
“Will I see you later?” Brandese asked Evston.
Evston nodded.
She turned and was led by her leash, though not on hands and knees this time.
When the women were gone, Evston stood.
“Lord Calex,” Alt said. “We appreciate your patronage and protection of the center.”
Evston nodded, running a hand through his mussed hair. “Which I provide out of self-interest as much any anything else.”
“That being said, we have concerns. I understand that the girl is not who she claimed to be. If she’s a person of rank as Holly suspects, would it not be better for her and for everyone if you took her somewhere private to give her a taste of submission?”
“Certainly it would.”
“Good.”
“But that’s not possible.”
“No?”
Evston shook his head.
“Then perhaps while she’s in the center, she should undergo the usual assessment by the trained staff.”
Evston smirked. “I know more about actually keeping pets than anyone in this center. I had the care of my first at eighteen.”
“I bet you didn’t whip her ass like that for loosening the clamps on a pair of virgin nips.”
Evston rolled his eyes. “Did she shoot off the cushion and hide behind you? Did she beg you to protect her from me?”
“No, my lord.”
“While she is here, she will be considered my property and my responsibility. In exchange, I will protect the center from any and all repercussions of her stay. You have my word on that. Are we agreed?”
Altis nodded reluctantly.
* * *
“Ihope you learnedthat you must never taunt him during a punishment,” Holly said.
“Be careful!” Brande hissed as Holly massaged a stinging gel over Brande’s buttocks.
“Please answer my question.”
“You didn’t ask one,” the princess said.
