“Not bad. Very sorry for the interruption. I realize you’re both dealing with a lot. However, I just wanted to stop by and personally thank you for helping bring down Luis Delgado and James Worthington. The trickle-down effect has been… overwhelming.”
“I had little to do with Delgado. But you’re welcome.”
“Uh-huh,” Dan teased, giving Hudson a curious look. “You know, I found it interesting that whoever managed to track down the mole had an innate knowledge of the law. In addition, it was fascinating to see what was written on Steven Sloan’s house. Justice served. It seems a little odd for a criminal to do that. More like something someone involved with the law would do. Maybe someone who’s been frustrated with the recent outcome of various cases.”
“I don’t know. Just a concerned citizen. But you have to admit, the phrase is catchy.” Hudson had a ‘butter wouldn’t melt in your mouth’ smile that I knew far too well. He was a terrible liar, which would help in the future. I kept my mouth shut, trying my best not to laugh.
Dan shook his head. “I don’t think I need to tell you that vigilantes aren’t looked upon fondly. At least by most people.”
“What about you, Dan? What do you think?”
I could barely contain my laughter since Hudson was doing a good job of keeping a straight face.
“You know what, buddy? I think some vigilantes are great. But don’t tell anyone I said that.”
Now Hudson laughed. “Your secret is safe with me. Thanks for stopping by.”
“We should get together. I think your courtroom will be a busy place in the upcoming weeks.”
Hudson shook his head. “Not until I spend some quality time with someone special.”
Dan glanced at me, lifting an eyebrow. “I can’t blame you one bit, buddy. I’ll leave you two alone.” He started to walk from the room then stopped. “Incidentally, thank you for finding evidence on the murder of Camille Morgan’s sister and niece. Mr. Abbott was brought in for questioning and from what I’ve been able to ascertain, he will be charged with taking a bribe, tampering with evidence, and a list of other charges that should stick. I know she felt a sense of relief. And I’m sure you do as well.”
“I can’t lie and tell you otherwise. I’m just glad it all worked out.”
“Yeah, I am too. You’re a good man, Hudson. You reminded me what I was supposed to be doing with my job and I appreciate that. You’re a damn great judge. And perhaps an even better vigilante. But whatever the case, I’m glad to have you on my side.”
I moved closer as Dan left us alone, slipping my arm around his waist. “A vigilante. How dark and deliciously dangerous.”
“You like dangerous men, huh?”
“Oh, I do. Very much.”
“What about dominating men? Do you like them too?”
“Uh-huh,” I purred as he swept me into his arms.
“You do know dominating men are always in control.”
I tilted my head, nodding slowly. “I can’t say I mind.”
“Including doling out punishments when necessary.”
“Yep.” I popped the p just to tease him.
“Well, I’m glad to hear you say that.” He lowered his head and I thought for certain he would kiss me. But oh, no. Instead, he sat down on the arm of the couch and dragged me over his lap.
“What are you doing?” I fought him, kicking out.
“How many times do I need to tell you, anything I want?”
As he brought his hand down several times, moving from side to side, I gritted my teeth. Even calling him a bastard for spanking me.
Yet the warmth spreading through my body was incredible, the core heat building intense. And my pussy was already throbbing from just being close to him.
He wasn’t kidding, yanking up my dress and exposing my thong and naked bottom. He also wasn’t lenient, crashing his palm down as if I’d been a very bad girl. I wiggled and moaned, but his hold was too strong. Pain coursed through me, taking my breath away. I was almost instantly lightheaded, yet it had nothing to do with the pain.
And everything to do with the raging desire.
