Page 57 of Axe Marks the Spot

I feel drawn to Lindsey, and I crave her now, more than I crave a good run or the taste of rich cognac. Cognac the color of her eyes, which always suck me in.

My phone buzzes in my pocket, and as if she sensed I was thinking about her, there’s a message from her waiting for me. I tap it open, going against the itch inside my gut that tells me to deny myself, to put some distance between us.

Lindsey

Good morning, Sir. I hope you slept well. I woke up this morning and did not hit snooze on my alarm. I did my stretching and journaling on the questions you sent me. I’ll email them to you in a minute.

Me

I’m happy to hear that. How do you feel?

Lindsey

Still a little tired but good. I needed to sleep.

Me

You work very hard, and your body deserves rest. Do you need time for a nap later today?

Lindsey

Are you enforcing a nap time, Sir?

I chuckle to myself because I know she said that with no less than a little sass.

Me

I wasn’t, but now I am.

Lindsey

Are you serious?

Me

I don’t say things I don’t mean.

Lindsey

I can try to fit one in.

Me

You will if I say you will.

I expect a sassy answer again or for her to say something along the lines of “I’m not a child” even if she is acting like one. But that’s not what I get.

Lindsey

Okay, if you are asking me to, I will.

Pleasure from her submission washes through my body, and I ease back in my chair.

Me

Find a time in your plans today to sleep, Lindsey. Your body, your mind, your health; they’re as important as those you take care of if not more.

Lindsey