by Piper Stone
“Don’t worry. I can find a way home all by myself. I’m a big girl too,” Angie commented.
Rex cocked his head, a single eyebrow lifting.
While Cooper should feel some level of embarrassment, she didn’t. In fact, she felt euphoric, so alive that she could care less what anyone else thought. “Thanks.” Thanks? That’s all she could think of? Her mind was completely off the chain, unable to think clearly.
“We’ll just be going. Have fun and don’t do anything I wouldn’t do. And don’t forget that we are having lunch tomorrow, sweetie. If you don’t show up, I’m gonna hire some hot man to hunt you down.” Angie’s sing-song voice filtered around them as she gripped the cowboy’s hand, walking into the shadows.
“Come with me. I won’t take no for an answer.” Holding out his hand, Rex gripped Cooper’s fingers, pulling her behind him.
As they walked toward the parking lot, a single dark cloud washed over her, creating a sickening feeling in the pit of her stomach. He could never know. Ever. For if he found out just how bratty she truly was, there was no way he could be with her.
Chapter Three
Rex said almost nothing as he drove, weaving through the darkened streets in his truck, one hand on her thigh, the other on the steering wheel.
Cooper was content, her head resting on his arm, her hand remaining on his rippled chest even as she squeezed her thighs together to keep her desire from wafting in the dense space. She was happy, excited, and very wet, but in truth apprehensive. The control was amazing, but how much could she give him? How much of herself would she allow him to see? Only time would tell.
As he pulled down a long driveway, past a series of columns, she remembered his father had owned an expansive ranch. Horses. Cattle. From what she recollected, the place had been a working ranch, employing several people. But even in the darkness, everything had a sad appearance, as if the entire estate was a ghost land. “How’s your dad?”
The question made him tense and he pulled his hand away, gripping the steering wheel. “Not very well. I’m taking care of him.”
“Oh. I’m so sorry.”
“Don’t be. He lived a good life. Hard, but he enjoyed it, at least from what I know.”
The words seemed off, jaded in some manner, but she didn’t want to break the mood. There were two lights on at the entrance and she leaned forward, studying the house. “I remember how beautiful everything was.”
“When my mother was alive. Now? Not as much as it once was. Dad let everything go down. I never knew how sick he was. Had to let most of the help go so there was no one to pick up the slack. Sold off the cattle and the majority of horses.”
“What’s wrong with him, I mean if you don’t mind me asking?”
He exhaled before answering. “Cancer. They think they caught it in time, but you never know.”
A quiet settled in.
“You dad is a fighter, just like you and you know what? The place could be special again. You have so much land. Would you make it a working ranch if you had the chance?” No wonder the man was so pensive.
Rex shook his head. “Those days are likely long gone. Takes the kind of money that my father doesn’t have.”
“There are other methods of making money,” she said, her tone encouraging. As if she’d ever be an expert in the art of business.
“I’m thinking about selling the place.”
“Oh, Rex, that’s so sad.” The way he issued the words was stilted, even practiced.
“I know, but I don’t see any other choice at this point. Too much overhead. Too many bills. I’m a terrible son. That much I figured out in less than a day of being home.” He eased the gear into park, pulling her against him and kissing the top of her head. “None of that tonight. My father is with a nurse, so I have the night off.”
“I’m glad. I mean...” Cooper laughed nervously. Prickles remained hovering on her skin, perspiration between her legs, her panties almost soaked from her wicked thoughts alone.
“Besides,” he said then grinned as he yanked the keys from the ignition, unfastening the seatbelt. “You deserve another spanking.”
“For what?” She blinked several times, trying to figure out for the second time in one night if he was serious. Dear God, he was. Her mouth was dry from anticipation. No, she couldn’t do this. “I’m...” The words were stuck in her mouth.
“For bad driving. For almost killing a man. For your mouth. Remember what I said at the bar?”
“I was a perfect girl at the party.” No spanking. No way. This just wasn’t her.
“Not to me,” he said in a chiding manner. “And several other people heard your little tantrum. We can’t have that.”
“But I...” What was she supposed to do, apologize?
Rex gave her a mischievous grin. “Do you remember before that night in high school that I threatened to spank you in front of your cheerleading friends?”
Narrowing her eyes, she thought about his question, a rush of memories flooding the back of her mind. She’d forgotten all about that. “I double dared you.”
“Yup and if it hadn’t been for your coach, I would have too. Right there. Panties down, skirt up, and I would have made certain the punishment lasted for a solid fifteen minutes.”
Cooper found herself wiggling in her seat, fighting a moan. “I believe you.”
As he climbed out of the truck, she fiddled, one hand twirling in her hair, the other in her lap. The belt. He’d actually mentioned using the belt on her. This was unexpected. This was crazy. She couldn’t give up control to him.
Or could she?
No. No! She clenched her fists, controlling her breathing. Trust. Could she trust him? Her instinct told her the truth. There was no doubt. Time seemed to have melted away, as if they were being offered a second chance.
Rex opened her door, leaning against the frame, a sly grin on his face. “Just so you know, that’s the kind of man I am too.”
“What kind of man?”
“The kind who enjoys being the head of household.” Reaching over, he clicked her seatbelt, hovering over her. His manly scent filled her nostrils, his hot breath skipping along the base of her neck. “The kind who will give out discipline as often as necessary.” He offered his arm, pulling her out of the truck.
The thought was both scintillating as well as terrifying, leaving her mouth parched, her nipples aching. Could she live that kind of lifestyle—honor and obey? She wasn’t certain of the answer and it scared her, creating raging emotions. Her mouth would get her into trouble all the time.
“I can tell you’re thinking about your ridiculous actions. Reflection is the beginning of your road to becoming a better girl.” A grin popped on his face. “I’m only partially teasing.”
Cooper held her breath, her natural instinct to retort pulling at the surface. Why did this man get under her skin?
“All right, little lady, let’s get to that spanking. After we take care of business, I think I can rustle up a nice bottle of wine.”
“Rex, I don’t need one. I’ll be very good. I promise.” She was actually whining, pleading with him.
“I know you will, especially after I dole out sound punishment.”
He’d said the words so matter-of-factly, as if she’d been anticipating receiving a spanking all day long, reflecting on all her bad deeds. Yet, she didn’t push back, had no desire to leave. When he walked past the main house, heading for what she remembered to be one of the employees’ quarters, she was surprised. “You’re not staying with your father?”
“I prefer some space. Quiet time. You know.”
The moonlight reflected his pensive face and the grip around her fingers was tight, as if he never wanted to let her go. The rustic appearance of the cabin was exactly how she’d thought it would be, befitting of a rugged, military man. The single light he’d left on highlighted furniture that had seen better days, the frayed rug in front of the stone fireplace faded in color. But to her, everything wa
s beautiful, the perfect atmosphere for rekindling a romance.
He gave her a half-hearted smile. “Haven’t had any time to fix up the place. Not sure how long I’m going to be here.”
“Your father is that bad?”
“Honestly, I don’t really know. Chemo was rough on him. He has good days and bad, but there are too many memories here.”
She folded her arms, inching closer. “So, you really are going to sell. What about your father?”
“Haven’t figured that out either.” He remained tense.
“You’re so different than before, less excitement regarding life I guess.”
“The war changes a man. Things I’ve seen, shit I had to do will never leave me.”
“I can’t imagine what you went through. If you ever want to talk about it, your experience I mean, I’m here.”
He kept his eyes locked onto hers. “I appreciate that.” His boots thudded against the wooden floor as he walked toward her, his hand brushing her hair from her shoulders. “Nice try, little brat. That won’t keep you from getting that spanking I mentioned.” He lowered his head, whispering into her ear, “And I am the man to give it to you. I meant what I said before.”
His husky tone and his understanding was a wondrous aphrodisiac. She shouldn’t feel this close to a man, not this soon, but their connection was powerful. “I’m not always so bitchy.”
“Hmmm... I remember your mouth. You got yourself into all kinds of trouble. Even your daddy couldn’t keep you in line. A few lessons might keep you on track. How about you take that dress off?”
Blinking several times, a quick chill skittered down her spine.
How about you take that dress off?
The words were the same, only the meaning entirely different. The split second memory almost derailed spending time with Rex. “See, there’s this thing about my past. I, um...”
“Oh, come on now, little lady,” Rex said, using a heavy Texas twang. “You know I only spank bare-assed.”
Nope. She wasn’t going to tell him a thing tonight. Able to push away the memory, she stood still, her eyes locked onto his. “I promise to be good. Please don’t spank me.”
“Oh, you bet your sweet ass you’re going to be good. Come on.” He held both sides of her face, pressing a series of kisses across her mouth. “My special girl. You have no idea how many times I thought about giving you a solid spanking. I wonder what would have happened that sultry April night if I’d had the chance.”
“I don’t know.” The kisses were sweet, protective, warming every inch of her body. She took a step back, easing the dress over her shoulders, her hands shaking. She was surprised how nervous she was, trying not to think about the hard whipping, as if the act would absolve her of all her horrible sins. The way his eyes swept down the length of her body was breathtaking, giving her a jolt of confidence. A heated blush crept up from her neck, cresting along her cheeks.
His expression was stern, his brow furrowing. “Well, consider this a do-over.”
She could do this, obey him. Oh, God, she was quivering at the thought.
Obedience.
Punishment.
Spankings.
The words made her bite her lower lip, her stomach lurching. Clenching her fists, she felt more naked than she had in her life.
“Just gorgeous, beautiful brat. Panties off too,” he instructed as he fingered his belt, unbuckling, every move deliberate.
Fingering her thong, she shimmied the material down her hips, kicking off her shoes before methodically easing the panties into her hand. The same look was there, filtered with a heightened level of lust. Placing everything in a neat pile, she resisted covering her breasts. She swallowed then took purposeful steps closer. “May I?”
Rex released his hold, allowing her to slide the thick leather from his belt loops, taking her time. His breath sounds were ragged, closer to panting as he held out his arms.
Cooper folded the strap, sliding the belt under her nose, letting her drink in the rich aroma. The smell of leather always created tingles and tonight was no exception. The feeling was so strange. He was going to use the implement on her naked ass and she actually liked the scent.
After taking the strap from her hand, he nodded toward the couch. “Kneel on the pillows and lean over.”
She did as she was told, folding her body over the back, the burlap material rubbing against her sensitive nipples. Biting back a whimper, she shifted back and forth, relishing the way the scratchy material felt against her skin.
He positioned her legs, opening them what seemed like twelve inches. “Keep your position. Do you understand me?”
“Yes, sir.” Saying the words didn’t surprise her, even though this could only be for one night, one amazing, passionate night. There were no pretenses, no way of knowing if this would last. But for tonight? She’d give him everything. The weight on the couch shifted as he crouched on top, running his fingers down her spine and tapping her buttocks.
“Twenty tonight, unless you talk back.” His words were strangled.
“Yes, sir.” She dropped her head, clenching her fists around the material, holding her breath. Her daddy had spanked her, using his belt. He’d believed in the old methods of discipline instead of removing privileges. She’d never understood why, calling her father a monster, but she never intentionally disobeyed him. That had been a lifetime ago. Being spanked as an adult? This was crazy.
The thought remained in the back of her mind as the first whooshing sound turned into extreme pain, the strike hitting her directly on her sit spot.
“Shit!” she whimpered, biting back tears.
“No cussing or we are going to wash that mouth out with soap.”
The second smack was just as hard, the slapping sound almost echoing in the dense space. The force pushed her forward and she was shaking, doing her best not to throw back her hand. Her leg kicked out involuntarily and she took a deep breath. “I’m sorry!”
“You can’t treat others badly. You have to learn manners. You can’t just go off half-cocked,” Rex schooled, taking his time to enunciate the words. “And you need to learn how to drive. And I mean safely. Without killing anyone.”
“Yes, sir.” Her teeth were gritted, the words almost inaudible, her ass on fire. You need this. You deserve this. Her inner voice was at it again, trying to convince her spankings would help. She held her breath, longing to rub her heated bottom. She could only imagine the color, bright crimson. Ugh!
Rex rubbed her bottom, caressing before striking her a third then fourth time, stopping only briefly when she kicked up her leg. “Easy, little lady. You’re doing well.”
Well? Let him get his ass whipped by a thick leather belt. A moment of utter defiance kicked in and she sat down, panting, burying her face into the back of the couch.
“Come on, now. You can do better than this.” His grip tender, he eased her back into position.
“Yes, sir.” This time, everything seemed muffled, but she resumed the required stance, taking several deep breaths. The next four came in quick succession, one solid smack after another. “Oh!” The moan floated up toward the ceiling. No wonder the man wasn’t bunking with his father.
“Did you ever receive a spanking before?” Rex asked, caressing first one ass cheek then the other.
“Yes. Sir.” Cooper took the opportunity to suck in her breath, preparing for the next volley.
“Hmmm... Then you know what you’re about to face, now and in the future.”
The comment made her twist her head, trying to find his face. Was he serious? Knowing Rex, he was. Shit. Shit. Shit. When he resumed the spanking, the strikes controlled but harder than before, she kept her head down, a few tears falling from her eyes. In those few seconds, she fell into a quiet state, a moment of peace and even understanding about herself.
Rex meant more to her than she wanted to admit.
“Two more then we’re finished. I’m very proud of you.” Rex’s voice boomed, bu
t the inflection was different, almost guarded.
She didn’t have to brace herself this time, she accepted her punishment. When the session was over, she was surprised that she choked out tears, sobbing. The pain was significant, but certainly not enough to bawl her eyes out.
Rex gathered her into his arms, holding the back of her head as she cried, rubbing her waist with his other hand. “You deserved a spanking, but I wasn’t trying to hurt you. Are you all right, my little brat?”
When she didn’t answer right away, he leaned back, hunkering down so his face was at her level, brushing the hair from her cheeks. She could see so many emotions riding his face, as if he was torn from dealing with so many difficult situations. He was very different than she remembered. “Rex.”
A guttural sound rose from his throat and he crushed her mouth, pulling her shaking body against his. The kiss became a fervent roar, possessive as he explored her mouth with his tongue.
There were no lights, no sound as the intimacy continued, the tips of his fingers brushing up and down her spine.
She flung her arms around his neck, opening her mouth wide, the French kiss manic. Wild. Heat bloomed from deep within, making her pussy clench. She wrapped her leg around his, jutting her hips forward and rubbing her crotch against his groin. His cock was throbbing, pushing hard against the tight confines of his jeans.
Placing his hands under her buttocks, he picked her up, lifting her high yet the kiss continued, becoming obsessive, so dominating. Taking long strides, he walked out of the living room, down a darkened hallway, and into another room. He didn’t bother turning on a light. The glow from the moon spread a wave of illumination across the entire space, twinkling in its effervescence.
Her heart raced as he twirled her around in a full circle, fisting her hair and tugging back her head, and she allowed a series of whimpers to cascade from her mouth. Her legs were linked, her hands gripping his shoulders and as he growled before nipping her lower lip, she sensed she was floating. Obedience. The word slipped in and out of her mind.