A visible shudder runs through her. “I can live with that, Sir.” I take her hand in mine and lead her out before locking up. When I met Aspen, I underestimated her at every turn except in the kitchen. She has surpassed all my hopes, and I adored seeing her thrive in the new restaurant tonight. It was a privilege to be her sous chef. My girl has risen like the phoenix from the ashes of Dulip.
When we enter the bar, Eli is deep in conversation with Nadia’s friend, Jenna, who I understand is as curious as Eli when it comes to Venom. She’s a beautiful woman, and by the way Eli’s looking at her, he would agree.
“Go to our room and get ready for me, baby girl. I’ll be in shortly.”
“Yes, Sir.” She pushes up onto her tiptoes, capturing my lips with hers.
I watch as she sashays through the bar, and I marvel at her resilience. She has come so far since we met. She’s always beenself-conscious about her curves, but they are sinfully delicious. After the fire, I thought I might lose her to the negativity pressing in on her at every turn.
“Hey, Eli. Jenna.”
“Hey,” they say in unison.
“Can I get a Scotch neat and a glass of chardonnay for Aspen?”
“Do you want them brought to your room?”
“No. Aspen can wait a few minutes. Builds anticipation.”
Jenna bites on her bottom lip, her eyes looking anywhere but at me, telling me everything I need to know.
“Ask the question, Jenna.” She startles as I call her out, and I’m not wrong.
“How long does it take to become a submissive?”
“Technically, the moment you sign the contract to start training, you’re a submissive.”
“Yours wasn’t in the lifestyle when you met her, was she?”
“No. I wouldn’t normally recommend it, but when ‘the one’ shows up, it can’t be ignored.”
“So, if I were to go to the training suite and ask to be trained, they would be okay with that?”
“I understand you asked Flex to train you.”
“Of course, he can’t help bragging about turning me down.” Her tone is light, so I suppose she’s not that bothered.
“You and Flex?” Eli interjects. There’s a hint of jealousy in his voice, but he’s quick to mask it with a smile and an attempt at nonchalance. I wonder if Jenna realizes Eli sees her that way.
“There was no me and Flex. I’m just curious, and he was a shameless flirt before Helena.”
“To answer your question, yes. You can go up there and talk with the new Master, Theo Randall. He might consider training you, or he’ll put you in touch with some Doms who train subs. Either way, you can explore. Both of you could.” I leave it outthere, but Eli busies himself behind the bar, taking his sweet time over my drinks.
“Thanks, Ryder.” Jenna has submissive written all over her. A brat for sure.
“No problem.” I lift our drinks. “Now, I have a very naked, beautiful woman waiting to be shackled to my wall. Have a good night, guys.” They both flush at my admission.
“Enjoy.” Jenna’s gaze finds mine, and I recognize the inquisitive sub in her. I’m sure she’ll be a handful for Theo, but I have my own submissive to tend to.
When I reach my room, I stop and take a breath.
Aspen is naked in the position beside the bed. She’s fucking gorgeous.
“On your feet. I want you against the cross, arms and legs wide.” I set our drinks down on the chest of drawers. She’s such a good little sub. By the time I set my keys down, she’s spread-eagled, waiting for the shackles to be fastened.
“You look stunning tonight.” I buckle her wrists first, letting her enjoy the anticipation of being completely at my mercy.
“Thank you, Sir. I’d rather you were naked too.” My little minx.
