“You’re kidding?” she exclaimed staring at him.
“You mean about spanking you? Nope. Every Monday I’m going to give you a goal for the week. Every Saturday I’m going to come over here and spank you. If you haven’t reached your goal, and you can’t give me a justifiable reason, I’ll be applying a black leather paddle to your bottom.”
“But, why both?” she mewed. “Why spank me and paddle me as well?”
“The weekly spanking is to keep you calm and centered, and you know you need that,” he frowned, “right?”
“Yes,” she sighed, “you’re right.”
“The paddle will be discipline.”
“Oh, I see,” she mumbled.
“Now I think it’s time you changed for dinner,” he smiled unsnapping her wrist cuffs.
“So...?”
“So, what?” he asked.
“Um, nothing, nothing that can’t wait,” she replied, reaching down to untie the sash around her ankles.
I thought this was personal, that you were doing this because you wanted me. Why did you spank me if you’re not totally into me?
Because you asked him to, remember?
I did, I know. I thought he was different. I thought it would mean something more. I thought he would kiss me and...
Give it a chance.
Right, give it a chance.
As Brad watched her stand up and pad across the room, disappearing down the hallway to her bedroom, he dropped his head in his hands.
Isobel, I must have you. When we get back after dinner I’m going to tell you exactly how I feel. I wish I’d been able to see Brader this afternoon. Maybe I’ll have a chance to talk to him tonight, but if I can’t I don’t care. I’m crazy about you and it’s time you knew it.
CHAPTER SIXTEEN
Staring at her reflection in the mirror Isobel was happy with what she saw, and picking up her evening bag she headed back into her living room.
Brad was standing at the window, and hearing her approach he turned around; as he cast his eyes on the young woman walking towards him he broke into a broad smile.
The lilac and green dress draping softly over her body highlighted her deep green eyes and pale complexion, her hair, usually pulled back in a pony tail, was falling in silky waves around her neck, and she’d applied a tad more makeup than she usually wore; the overall effect was stunning.
“Don’t you look a treat?” he smiled.
“Thank you, Mr. Saunders,” she grinned.
“Do you need a coat?”
“No, I’ll survive. Coats can be a nuisance.”
“Are you sure? I think it’s going to be chilly later,” he remarked.
“Really? I hadn’t heard that, maybe you’re right. I’ll grab it, but don’t let me leave it behind. I’m always forgetting my jackets and coats.”
He chuckled and shook his head as she opened her hall closet.
You are just so adorable. Maybe I should tell you now. No, I need to talk to Ralph first.
Following her out the door they made their way to his car, and on the drive to the restaurant, though she chatted excitedly about the book and how she saw it developing, he noticed she was shifting uncomfortably on her seat.
Entering the restaurant they found Ralph Brader and Gail Bolen already at the table, and as Brad pulled out the chair for her, he noticed Isobel winced slightly as she sat down; it brought a smile to his lips, and a stir to his cock.
The dinner proceeded with Ralph Brader spending most of the evening focusing on his bright new novelist, explaining in detail what she could expect in the months ahead. Though Gail and Brad were involved in their own conversation, Brad noticed Isobel was sipping the celebratory champagne unhesitatingly, but she appeared to be in control and hadn’t started giggling uncontrollably or doing anything else that could be considered inappropriate, so he left it alone.
Dessert was ordered, and Gail and Isobel rose from the table to head to the bathroom, finally allowing Brad to have his much needed quiet word with the chief.
“Ralph, there’s something a bit delicate I need to discuss with you,” he began quietly.
“About Isobel I assume, I’m not surprised,” the older man smiled, a twinkle in his eye.
“I’m sorry?” Brad frowned.
“Saw it the minute you two arrived. Recent development I assume?”
“Nothing has happened yet,” Brad replied sheepishly, “not really. I wanted to talk to you first.”
“If she was working for you I’d be concerned,” Ralph remarked, “but as an author she’s independent. You didn’t show me her writing because of anything untoward, not that it would matter because I would have wanted her on the roster regardless. Just make sure you keep things balanced. You don’t want to lose the first writer you’ve contracted for your division, or the girl you care about.”
“Thank you, Ralph,” Brad said sincerely, “I’ll make sure to keep things on an even keel.”
“One thing I’ve learned,” Ralph said soberly, “if two people want to be with each other, I mean really want to be with each other, there’s not much that can keep them apart, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy.”
“I think you’re probably right about that,” Brad smiled.
Sitting back Brad picked up his champagne and took a drink, silently toasting his boss’s blessing. As he raised the glass to his lips he noticed Isobel and Gail returning from the powder room, Isobel looking a little unsteady on her feet.
Dessert and coffee were served, and when the happy group moved outside to wait for their cars the cool night air wrapped around them, and Isobel took a long deep breath.
“Big night for you, Isobel,” Ralph remarked.
“Big day and big night,” she smiled, so much has happened, including my sore butt.
The cars arrived, they said their goodbyes, and Isobel climbed into Brad’s car as the valet held open the door.
“Wow,” she yawned, “that was amazing. Everything was amazing, the food, the champagne, it was all so amazing.”
“How are feeling?” he asked casting a quick eye in her direction as he settled behind the steering wheel.
“Great, tired, a bit woozy to be honest,” she replied yawning again.
“You drank quite a bit,” he remarked.
“I guess I did,” she frowned, and laying her head back she closed her eyes.
Brad knew exactly what was happening; it had been a huge day, followed by an exciting night, and the girl was about to pass out.
I guess I’ll be having that conversation with you tomorrow. You deserve to let off steam and be honored. This is a special time for you. Your first book! That’s a big deal.
As he drove through the city he saw her doze off, and figured she’d need help getting to her apartment, but when he pulled up outside her building he discovered there was nowhere to park. Gently shaking her shoulder he jostled her awake.
“Huh? Are we home?” she muttered opening her eyes.
“We are,” he said gently, “do you have the garage card? There’s nowhere to park out here.”
“Oh, shoot, no it’s in my car,” she groaned. “It’s okay, I’ll just go on up. You don’t have to walk me.”
“I don’t like that idea,” he remarked. “I’m an old-fashioned gentleman and you’re tired and you’ve had a bit to drink.”
“I’ll be fine,” she said sleepily. “Honest. Thank you, Brad, for so much.”
“My pleasure, and don’t worry about being on time in the morning. Sleep in. Come in when you’re ready.”
“That sounds good,” she smiled, but as she opened the car door she paused.
“What is it?” he asked.
“My coat, gosh darn it, I left it at the restaurant. I knew I’d do that,” she exclaimed.
“You go in, I’ll run back and get it and bring it up to you.”
“But parking?” she groaned.
“I’ll just put my flasher’s on,” he assured her. “Go on, I’ll
be right back.”
“Sorry,” she mumbled, then turned and headed into the building.
Shaking his head Brad swung into a U-turn and headed to the restaurant. It wasn’t far; he’d be back in no time.
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Stepping from the elevator Isobel fished in her bag for her keys. She was elated, but she was also exhausted, and with her head down and her focus on her search she didn’t see the handsome devil named Patrick Doyle leaning against her door.
“Lose something?” he asked.
Isobel stopped short, startled, then frowned at him.
“Jeez, Patrick, you scared me. What are you doing here?”
“So, you did have to go to dinner, but was it really work?” he grinned.
“Of course I had to go to dinner, I told you that, and yes it was,” she replied tersely walking towards him.
“Easy girl, don’t get your knickers in a twist. I thought you were playing with me.”
“Playing with you?” she said impatiently. “Patrick, it’s late, I’m buzzed and I don’t feel very well, and I honestly have no idea what you’re talking about.”
Dropping her eyes back to her purse she found her key and slid it in the lock.
“I’ve been here for a while, do you mind if I use your bathroom before I leave?” he asked.
“Sure, fine,” she sighed opening the door, “but then you have to go, I’m totally wiped.”
Swaggering in behind her Patrick admired her backside as the soft fabric of the dress whispered across her curves, and as she ushered him past her she pointed down the passageway.
“I only have one bathroom and it’s off my bedroom down the hall,” she yawned.
“You look great by the way,” he winked. “Thanks, I’ll be right back.”
She watched him amble down the hallway, then making sure the door was slightly ajar to make it clear she expected him to leave, she wandered into the kitchen.
Trying to clear her head she decided some milk and an aspirin would be a good idea. Retrieving a glass from the cabinet she placed it on the counter, and had just opened the refrigerator when he reappeared.
“I still don’t know why you came here,” she pressed, “and how did you get my address?”
“I honestly thought you wanted me to pursue you,” he said innocently, “and your address is in my file of course.”
“Oh, right, well no, I didn’t. Sorry if I gave that impression,” she sighed, then looking up she caught the sexy sparkle of his compelling blue eyes.
God, you are gorgeous. That chin, and your eyes, and those shoulders. It’s no wonder I let myself get carried away. You are so damn good looking.
“What’s the exciting news you said you had to tell me in person?” he asked moving towards her. I know that look, you’re right back where you were, aren’t you Isobel? You want me, and here I am, at your service.
“Oh, well I guess I may as well tell you,” she smiled, watching him as he drew closer. “That short story has landed me a book deal.”
“What did you say?” he frowned.
“Brader, Brader and Coombs, you know, Brader Publishing, they’ve contracted me for a novel, and Gail Bolen is now my agent. I’m going to be writing full time, isn’t that amazing?”
The warm, engaging, smiling eyes suddenly turned cold, narrowing as they glinted down at her.
“I don’t understand,” he growled. “How could you possibly have a book deal with a noted publisher? I’ve been writing for years and years and I still don’t have a decent publisher. You’re just a novice, a beginner, this is absolutely impossible.”
“I, uh, they read it and liked it,” she stammered. “Patrick, what’s wrong with you?”
“First you lead me on, then you send me some stupid email that’s totally written to tease me and get me to come over here, then you say you don’t want me, and now you tell me some bullshit about getting a publishing deal?”
Pulling up outside the building Brad was lucky enough to find a parking space. Grabbing Isobel’s coat he was heading up the steps to the front doors when drops of rain began spilling around him. Breaking into a run he dashed inside, barely missing the cloudburst, and panting heavily he jumped into the elevators. When the doors opened he stepped into the corridor, but as he neared Isobel’s apartment he thought he heard loud voices in a heated argument.
Doesn’t sound good, he thought.
As he neared he was alarmed to see her door was ajar, and the yelling was coming from inside her unit. Hurrying forward he burst through the open door to find a tall, good-looking man standing in the middle of the room looking completely aghast, holding his hand over a bloody nose, and Isobel a few feet away with her hands on her hips, fury in her face.
“Wh-what the h-hell h-have you done you st-tupid b-bitch?” the man stammered, glowering at her. “F-fuck, you broke my f-fuckin’ nose.”
“What did you expect,” she blazed. “You think you can manhandle me? Now get out of here before I kick you in the nuts just for fun!”
“I’m gonna kill you, you crazy cow!” Patrick snarled, lunging towards her.
Driven by an adrenalin rush he’d never experienced Brad charged forward, throwing his arm around Patrick’s neck catching him completely off-guard, and literally dragging him backwards into the hallway he shoved him to the ground.
“Don’t you dare come back here. You do and I’ll call the police and get a fucking restraining order against you,” he threatened. “I don’t know who are and I don’t give a shit, but believe me when I tell you I’ve got powerful friends, and you don’t want them coming after you. Are we clear?”
“F-fine,” Patrick stammered. “She’s fuckin’ crazy anyway.”
Darting back inside Brad slammed the door shut, made sure it was locked, then ran across to Isobel still standing in the middle of the room.
“Are you okay?” he asked urgently. “What the hell happened.”
“Brad! Where did you learn to do that? You were amazing,” she declared throwing her arms around him.
“I could ask you the same thing,” he said trying to catch his breath as he held her tightly.
“Three brothers on a farm? You’re kidding?” she joked, feeling much shakier than she was pretending to be, “but you, the way you charged in like that and threw him out.”
“But you’re okay?” he repeated, “you’re sure?”
“Uh-huh, just feel kind of trembly,” she admitted, “and strangely sober.”
“Come on, let’s sit down,” he suggested leading her to the couch.
Curling up in his lap, grateful he was there, she leaned into his body.
“You’re shaking,” he said softly.
“I’m fine,” she sighed, ‘kind of, but your heart is racing.”
“Honestly, I’ve never done anything like that before,” he confessed. “I felt possessed.”
“My hero,” she whispered.
. “Can you tell me what happened?”
“That was Patrick, my teacher, in case you hadn’t guessed,” she began, her voice quivering in spite of her best efforts to keep it even. “He was here when I came off the elevator. When I told him about the book he went crazy, grabbed me, tried to push me on to the ground so I punched him.”
“You are the most amazing girl,” he crooned.
“Not really. My brothers used to shove me around all the time. I learned how to defend myself, that’s all,” she said modestly.
“I repeat, you’re the most amazing girl,” he sighed.
“Brad,” she murmured, “do you think you could stay here tonight? I’m fine, and I doubt he’ll come back, but-”
“Of course,” he assured her. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. This couch seems comfortable enough.”
“No,” she breathed sitting up and staring at him, “I mean, with me.”
He heard the veiled invitation, saw the love twinkling in her eyes, and took a deep breath.
“There’s something I ne
ed to tell you,” he said softly.
“Tell me?”
“I’ve been captivated by you since the day you walked into my office,” he confessed, his heart racing as he spoke the words.
“You have?” she managed, her green eyes wide.
“I have,” he nodded, “but it was impossible. I was your boss, I couldn’t act on my feelings, it would have been totally wrong.”
“Brad-”
“And that chapter I gave you to read,” he interrupted, “the truth is, Isobel, I wrote it.”
“You did?” she squeaked.
“I did,” he sighed, pulling her back against him. “I was at a loss. I didn’t know how to reach out to you.”
“I wish my first spanking had been by you,” she lamented. “I was so stupid.”
“Hey, none of that,” he said firmly. “Believe me, I understand how the craving can take hold, but I suspect now you’ve learned that spanking can be, should be, at least as far as I’m concerned, a deeply intimate experience.”
“So intimate,” she breathed. “I feel so close to you. I didn’t feel that way with him, not at all, not even for a second.”
“No more about that,” he said sternly, “and you’ve had enough for one day...more than enough. I’ll stay with you, but you’re going to go straight to sleep, no funny business.”
A few minutes later, curled up between the sheets, her body soft and warm against him, the rain splashing against the window, Brad closed his eyes, sinking into the moment.
“I want to court you,” he whispered.
“You do?” she smiled sleepily.
“Yes, I do. I told you, I’m an old-fashioned guy and it’s how I like to do things. I want to take you out, buy you dinner, see a movie, and get to know you, the real you, not the office you.”
“I would love that, I want to know you too,” she breathed snuggling closer.
“Next week we’ll go out,” he decreed tenderly, and let nature take its course, and yes I’m aching to make love to you right this minute, but I’m going to do this right.
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