by J. A. Kerr
***
Benedict
Benedict stood, a mixture of emotions flowing through him; the heady scent of Caligo reminding him of Siena in every way. She had bottled the essence of the Braille Club, its mystery, its sensuality, its decadence. Everywhere he walked he was reminded of the woman he loved—his future wife. His eyes flicked to the curtains, still uncomfortable, acutely aware that Guy and Ford were on either side of him. Well, they should be, but someone was late. The bell had not rung, although Benedict’s watch told him the allotted time had elapsed. All he could do was wait, and he hated to be kept waiting. He would ensure in the future if the key wasn’t used within the time allowed, then access would be denied. He smiled, feeling more in control; it was his club after all and therefore his rules. Even though it was Ford and Guy, he didn’t make exceptions.
While he waited he examined the Lapel sensory device Esme had designed. Ford had told him what it did and how to operate it. He slipped it over Siena’s shoulders, feeling her tense as he did so. Next he picked up the belt, surprised by its weighted centre, and gently placed it around her waist. This would definitely be interesting, although old fashioned. He wasn’t averse to modern technology and the benefits it could bring. He figured with the help of the sensory suit and devices, in addition to the chair, they would be out of the zone in record time. There were more surprises in store for Siena tonight. At last the bell rang, and he moved into position. His fingers touched Siena’s shoulder, indicating start of play. He asked for his remote to come with a cord so he could hang it from his neck; he needed his hands free. He thought about how far they’d come. How they’d made their dreams a reality as he pressed the chair on, watching it recline to the perfect angle before placing his lips onto the cool skin beneath.
Chapter 43
The Braille Club, London, One Year On: The membership vetting process and confidentially agreements were handled in-house. The background checks were extensive and collaborated, when necessary, with the top brass. Their contracts were prepared by some of the top legal minds in the country. As members, it was within their interests to ensure it stayed that way.
London 2014
Guy
Guy froze; Anna was dressed in a fluffy dressing gown, her hair still damp from the shower. The yellow and black bruising around her eyes was severe against her pale skin.
“Not what you were expecting?” She laughed grimly.
“You have never looked more beautiful,” he replied, and pulled her into his arms. Holding her, his lips softly kissed her neck. She didn’t push him away. His hand slipped inside her robe as he kissed her and their passion flared. Anna broke free and looked at him with apprehension in her eyes.
“A girl needs to know how to get a man’s attention.” She smiled weakly.
Guy smiled. He wondered at her uncertainty, she wanted him but looked afraid. He didn’t want to rush things, but he did want her nevertheless.
“Oh you got my attention, all right,” he scolded. “I was actually in a very important meeting.”
“Aaah, that’s what I suspected. I wanted to use something eye catching…” Her smile was more confident now.
He moved a little closer. “Were you all dressed up with nowhere to go?” he enquired.
“Just the opposite, I was all undressed…” she answered.
Guy swallowed and reached out for her hand, she didn’t flinch when he held it. Slowly he brought her fingers to his mouth and kissed them.
“I’ve missed you, Anna,” he whispered, pulling her close, his mouth in her hair breathing in its fresh scent.
***
Anna
She savoured the heat and closeness of his body. Lifting her head, her eyes filled with tears as she pressed her lips to his. The kiss was almost chaste at first until she reached for his hand and slipped it inside her robe. He found her breast and they both gasped. He led her upstairs to the bedroom, pulling at his clothes on the way.
“I will never fail you, Anna,” he whispered, his lips returning to her neck as his hands loosened her robe.
She thought it a strange choice of words as he gently laid her on the bed. His fingers caressed her skin. As he loomed over her, Anna stiffened. Images of Robert filled her mind, but it was the tenderness of his touch that relaxed her. The gentleness of his lips that stirred her emotions until she reached out to bring his face to hers. They kissed once more; it was soft, but intense with longing. He pushed her robe off her shoulders, his mouth on her skin, each caress slow and deliberate. Every time Anna tried to move, to change the tempo, his response was to stop and Anna didn’t want him to stop…ever. His mouth trailed down her neck and shoulders. It was slow to the point of agony and she was firmly in his grip. When his tongue licked between her breasts she begged for more. He ignored her demands, however, and his tongue travelled further down her body. His lips skimmed over her belly, his tongue hot and moist. When his fingers grazed her inner thighs, she spread her legs urgently, but Guy had other plans. He was driving her wild with his gentleness. When his mouth hovered tantalisingly over her hardened, taut nipple, she was awash with need and frustration. However, he continued to tease her flesh until as last she could stand no more.
She grabbed Guy and threw him down beside her on the bed.
“Guy, what the hell are you doing?” she panted furiously.
“What, you don’t like it?” He smirked. “Being gentle isn’t right for everyone, Anna,” he said quietly. “If you’re a freak, then I am too.”
She stared at him and slowly smiled.
“You got me here under false pretensions,” Guy said with a smile.
“Did you like my pictures?”
“Oh yes Anna…they made me come,” he replied wickedly.
Her hand snaked up and buried itself in his hair. With a hard tug she brought his mouth to hers and their kiss was savage as they both fought for dominance. In one move, Anna was astride him, slipping him deep inside her, and then it began.
She slammed down forcefully, taking his full shaft as she rode him hard. Her hands were in his hair, pulling as his fingers grasped her buttocks, dragging her closer. It was explosive. She pounded against him, relentless, pushing him to the point of pain as she brought him close, time and time again until he too could take no more. He thrust up and suddenly they were a frantic blur as he squeezed her breasts. Her nails bit into his flesh as their bodies abruptly arched, their mouths still joined as they both rode the wave of release together.
***
Guy
Guy fell back on the bed, panting but jubilant, Anna rested on his chest. He looked at her dark head, bowed as if in reverence, his mind a disharmony of emotions. He let the euphoria rush through his veins like a drug. Two long years of separation. He had missed it. Missed the buzz, missed everything about being with her because she was dynamite and dangerous. He didn’t want her any other way, he realised. His other encounters didn’t even register in comparison to Anna. She was all he needed, but he was different; harder, no longer gullible, no longer at her beck and call. They would be equals going forward. Was this their new beginning? What did he really want? The thought of Anna being free to be with him was strange; to be his what…girlfriend? He couldn’t imagine such a relationship and the thought disturbed him.
***
Anna
Anna, chest heaving, eyes closed, savoured the moment of her explosive climax; lost in sensation as she sat astride Guy, feeling her body shiver. After Robert’s physical and verbal attack she had been afraid, but that was gone now. She was ready for more, greedy for Guy and what they could achieve together. Her strength returned as her mind slowly cleared. There was nothing to match the ecstasy she was experiencing. It was the monsoon to her body’s drought, bringing her the only thing to quench her thirst.
***
Guy
Guy watched Anna raise herself and groaned at their sudden loss of connection. When he laid her down on the bed, her face had been filled with a vulnerabi
lity he’d never seen before.
Not anymore. She stood in front of him with that look in her eyes. His gaze travelled down her face to her beautiful body, hating the sight of the bruises he saw there, and then she turned around. He gasped as he saw his finger marks on her perfectly rounded creamy behind and felt his usual mix of arousal and revulsion. They were livid red, and stark against her skin. He longed to touch them, kiss them better…then Anna bent over. Mesmerised, he watched her.
“Lick me!” she commanded, suddenly thirsty again.
Everything tingled as her words penetrated his brain and he knew he was lost to her forever…
Chapter 44
The Braille Club, London, One Year On: Invitations to Harrison’s Masked Ball were being prepared. This event was open to all Harrison’s members. Their clientele was prestigious. It had been held previously in Caligo but this year the upper floors would be utilised. Invitation numbers had increased but not all members would receive one as names were picked at random until the quota was filled.
London 2014
Ford
Ford burst out of Harrison’s needing to put some distance between himself and Esme. As hard as that was to do, he didn’t want Esme’s reactions towards him to be merely the heat of the moment. Her words that night had floored him; she liked women…so what the fuck was happening between them now?
With no idea where he was going, the cool night air was soothing, and he soon found what he was looking for. The bar was busy as he slipped inside and he welcomed the anonymity it offered. The first sip of his beer was nectar and he drained it quickly while gesturing to the barman for another. He was on his third beer when he realised his phone was ringing. He fumbled for it inside his pocket but it stopped ringing.
“Excuse me,” the voice was behind him.
He turned to see a pretty girl anxiously trying to get the bar staff’s attention.
“Hellooooo,” he bellowed at the top of his voice, startling everyone around him. “This lady would like a drink.”
A barman approached and he graciously let her in front of him. She flashed him a grateful smile, but she wasn’t the only female watching him. His little trick caused quite a stir and several girls were looking his way. The old Ford would have taken advantage, met each girl’s gaze, and made his choice. He should have been in his comfort zone. However, lovesick Ford merely turned away, wanting to drink in peace. Images of Esme crowded his mind as he desperately tried to push them away. He ordered a Rangpur gin and tonic, he was getting into his swing now. Several rounds later, his phone rang again. Esme’s name flashed up on the screen.
“Hellooo,” he slurred.
“Where are you?” she demanded.
“No idea,” he replied.
“Give your phone to the nearest barman,” she ordered.
Ford did as instructed and the surprised girl took the phone. Five minutes later she passed it back to Ford.
“Stay where you are, I’m coming to get you,” Esme instructed, and the phone went dead.
Ford ordered another drink, a bit bemused by Esme’s bossy manner, but his pulse quickened. He could run, but he couldn’t hide forever. Draining his beer in record time, he ordered another for Dutch courage. He had a feeling he would need it.
Sensing her before he saw her, he turned. She stood there, arms crossed, face inscrutable.
“I’ve got a taxi waiting, finish your drink,” she said.
Ford’s emotions for this girl overwhelmed him. “The taxi can wait. Esme, I love you. I’ve loved you from the moment I saw you,” he slurred, his eyes bleary as he struggled to stand. “Spent all this time trying to forget you. Then…you tell me you’re gay, not exactly what a guy wants to hear.” Ford’s voice was loud in a sudden lull in the bar and people were looking at them with interest.
“Will you shut up and get in the taxi,” Esme roared, grabbing Ford’s arm and pushing him forcefully to the door. Her strength surprised him as he allowed himself to be propelled into the waiting taxi.
“Well, it’s true,” Ford huffed. “I thought you would tell me you were married or had ten kids or something, but gay? There’s no coming back from that now, is there,” he sulked.
Esme’s face was mutinous. “Why don’t you speak up? I’m sure there’s someone in the capital who hasn’t heard my dirty laundry.”
Ford closed his eyes. “Soz Es—” then promptly fell asleep.
***
Esme
Esme was fuming. How dare he embarrass her like that? Bloody men, it served him right, she would just leave him thinking whatever he wanted. If he had listened to her he would have heard her say she didn’t know what she wanted. However, being a typical chauvinist pig, he had labelled her, made everything her fault, and then like a cherry on top, passed out!
Not knowing where he lived, she had no choice but to take him back to her place. She looked at his handsome face. He had come a long way since his apprenticeship days, they both had. She had known he liked her but her life had been hell back then. Ford was looking for a woman to cook his meals and give him babies and that wasn’t her.
She didn’t regret leaving, it was her chance to get out and start a new life. Blaming her shit childhood, no father figure, and alcoholic mother for her inability to form relationships with men, she’d shut Ford out for all of those reasons and more. He was dangerous and…she liked him. With reluctance she’d spurned him because he was everything she hated. Wealthy, opinionated, and arrogant. He assumed he was better than her, better than everyone.
A horrible realisation crept over her. Had she been jealous? She shook her head. This wasn’t all her fault, she seethed. What was he playing at? Those games in the hotel room, their intimate session at Harrison’s…was it all a bit of fun to him? Had he set her up? His humiliating words at the bar came back to her. God, she wished she’d kept her big mouth shut and bitterly regretted confiding her deepest, darkest secret to Ford, of all people.
His loud snore and the taxi coming to a halt interrupted her musing. She shook his shoulder roughly.
“Ford. Ford, wake up! You need to give the driver your address so he can drop you off,” she shouted.
The taxi driver shook his head. “Sorry, love, but he’s too drunk,” he said, matter of fact.
Shit, thought Esme, what was she going to do? She bunged the driver an extra £30 and between them they pulled a staggering Ford out of the cab, Esme’s wiry frame almost bucking as they careened towards her apartment entrance. Ten sweaty minutes later, Ford was sprawled on her bed out cold, and the driver was beating a hasty retreat down to his cab. Esme was unsure if it was her damsel in distress face or her broad Glaswegian accent that convinced him.
She kicked off her shoes and poured herself a glass of white wine and took a large gulp. Bloody Ford! It was only 11:30 p.m., but she yawned, exhausted by the day’s events and her inner turmoil. She grumpily made her way to her spare room-cum-office, and made up the day bed she never used. Finally she slipped beneath the sheets and closed her eyes.
Chapter 45
The Braille Club, London, One Year On: The guest list for the Masked Ball was complete. Hard decisions and compromises had finally been reached. Recipients would receive them in due course and preparations for the event were now underway. The new theme would be announced shortly.
London 2014
Niven
Niven left Harrison’s. The sense of being watched resumed. She stopped and looked around, her feelings of elation fading as apprehension took over. She scanned the nearby pavements and cars but saw nothing out of the ordinary. She sighed in relief at the headlights of her approaching cab and then she saw it—a blur of movement, a glint of something in the dark.
“You all right, love?” said the cabbie.
Niven nearly screamed in fright.
“Sorry, love, I didn’t mean to startle you,” the cabbie apologised as Niven got into the taxi.
She looked outside, her eyes straining, mind racing as she tried t
o connect what had happened. She gave the cabbie her address, and he pulled out into traffic while she gazed out of the window.
“I think someone is following me,” she blurted.
“You’re as white as a sheet, love,” said the driver sympathetically. “I’ll keep an eye out, okay?” he said firmly.
Niven sat back, her whole body tense, her fingers clutching at her pendant. Distressed, she replayed events in her mind. She couldn’t put her finger on it. Why was she in a panic? What spooked her? Then her brain revealed the answer. The click, the glint of something in the gloom—a camera. All doubt gone, it confirmed she was being watched and now photographed.
***
Toby
While watching the place he saw a lot of comings and goings from the private carpark. When he saw a clear picture of Harrison with a woman in his car, he’d been excited. She must be Siena, not his type, but he could see she was beautiful. He understood why Nick wanted her back. The recorded images had been encrypted, ready for his pleasure. Nick was impatient and insistent, he wanted a visual badly and now he had it. Toby had delivered his first objective. He grinned, pleased with himself. As always his thoughts strayed to Niven. The image on his camera was well worth the risk of exposure. He stared at her picture, caressing her face with the tip of his knife before he put it down. Reluctantly, he pushed Niven from his mind to concentrate. He was enjoying himself, he realised. People entered and left Harrison’s main doors but Benedict Harrison always left via the carpark. He intended to follow him home tonight and complete his second objective.