Hyland's Consort

by Felicity Brandon

  The Ritz was every inch what I recalled. Enveloped with style and historic elegance, it had something to cater to every appetite, as long as you had the budget to afford it. Fortunately, thanks to Zander, money was no object. Glancing at Hilary, I realized I wanted to spend it on her. I might have gone to the trouble of ensuring my assets were protected if she ever tried to leave me, but that didn’t change my desire to spoil her and spend every day showing her what her submission would merit.

  “Mr. and Mrs. Hyland.” The man behind the desk flashed me a well-practiced smile. “Congratulations. We’ve been expecting you.”

  Of course, they had. My people had contacted them days ago to ensure the wedding breakfast met my requirements, and naturally, I’d secured The Prince of Wales suite for the next few days. If we were stuck in this dreary city, we might as well make the best of it.

  “Thank you.” I met his smile with one of my own, relishing the way my new wife not only held her tongue without the use of the gag, now safely tucked away in the pocket of the jacket swamping her flawless body, but how she leaned into me, apparently seeking the comfort of my body. That was encouraging. Perhaps there was hope for our union, after all? I’d known our sexual chemistry could set the hotel ablaze but hadn’t expected such tenderness. “I believe we have a suite waiting for us.”

  “Yes, sir.” Glancing down at his screen, he nodded. “William Kent House has been prepared for you and your guests. One of my colleagues can take you there, and I believe your luggage has already been sent to your personal suite?”

  “That’s right,” I concurred, my lips twitching at Hilary’s wide-eyed reaction. “My driver brought it over earlier this morning.”

  “Very good, sir.” The man’s eyes sparkled. “Everything is in place.”

  “Thank you.” Lowering my face to nuzzle her honeyed tresses, my gaze darted back to the face of the knowing receptionist. “We’ll go through now.”

  “Very good, sir.”

  I waited while he signaled to a colleague, excited about the day of indulgence that lay ahead. A younger guy wandered toward us, smiling.

  “Please, follow me, sir.”

  “Come on, darling.” I nudged Hilary, aware of the small smile on her lips. Her tears were finally dry, and if I wasn’t mistaken, she was actually enjoying herself, although how long that would last once she realized what I had in mind remained to be seen.

  It was a short walk to William Kent House, passing through the luxurious interior of the hotel into the equally breathtaking surroundings of our wedding reception.

  “Here we are.” The younger man beamed, pausing in The Great Hall. “The William Kent Room is prepared for your wedding breakfast, but please, feel free to make use of any of the rooms here, and don’t hesitate to let us know if you require anything further.”

  Thanking him, I dismissed the nearby staff members before I took her hand and led her through The Queen Elizabeth Room to the place prepared for us to eat.

  “Sean.” Awe resonated from her voice. “Sir, this is amazing!”

  Lifting my chin, I gazed around at the exquisite furnishings. Stylish architecture met the finest décor, just as it did everywhere at The Ritz.

  “I’m pleased you like it,” I murmured, squeezing her hand.

  “It must have cost the earth.” Shaking her head, she gazed to the high ceiling before her attention flitted back to me. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

  Resisting the urge to query why Morrison had never taken her here, I merely grinned and pulled her flush against me. My hands ran over her skirt, skimming beneath it to grab her delectable backside. Running my fingers between her cheeks, they grazed the butt plug still lodged deep inside her, and right on cue, my cock swelled. I would be there soon, along with every other place I wanted to explore.

  “Don’t worry about the money. We can afford it.”

  “I didn’t think you wanted me to spend your money.” She fluttered her lashes at me, gazing up into my eyes. “Wasn’t that what the trip to Mr. Crane’s office was about?”

  I was surprised she wanted to recollect much of that day, but running my tongue over my teeth, I was happy to dwell on all its wonderful depravity.

  “That was only about what happened in the event of our separation.” I breathed in the scent of her again. “Which is not going to happen.”

  “So, you don’t mind if I spend it?” Her brow rose as she lifted to her tiptoes and brushed her lips over my chin. “Sir?”

  “No,” I assured her. “It’s yours to spend, gorgeous, when I give you enough time to do so.”

  “Really?” She sucked her lower lip between her teeth. “Planning on keeping me busy, Sir?”

  I wasn’t sure who the temptress cavorting in my arms was, but I had to admit, I liked her.

  “Oh, yes,” I growled. “You’ll be tied up with your responsibilities most of the time.”

  “Responsibilities, Sir?”

  Fuck, she was so enticing, I could have eaten her up on the spot.

  “To my cock.” Arching a brow, I relished the deep rush of color that flooded her cheeks, along with her mischievous smile. “Don’t forget all the lessons I’ve taught you.”

  “How could I when you’re such a patient tutor?” Her voice was breathless.

  “I’ll be with you every step of the way, baby.” Fisting her hair, I drew her face to me. “And once I make you mine, our life together truly begins.”

  A cough in the doorway pulled my focus from Hilary to one of the staff.

  “My apologies, sir,” he started, shifting his weight.

  “What is it?” I snapped. Hadn’t I already told them we didn’t want to be disturbed?

  “Your guests have started to arrive, sir.” He blanched at my response. “They’re waiting in the Grand Hall.”

  “Ensure their glasses are filled.” I relaxed. “Mrs. Hyland and I are just going to explore The William Kent Room.”

  “Very good, sir.”

  “Come on.” I tugged her arm from around me and guided her into the next room. “I think you’ll like this one.”

  She came to an abrupt halt in the doorway, her jaw dropping at the crimson expanse of the room. As requested, the long table was dressed to perfection, with golden candelabra lighting the walls as well as the dining area.

  “Wow.” Taking a step forward, her gaze drank in the lavish surroundings. “Sean.” Turning, she spun to regard me. “This is insane. It’s too much.”

  “Not for you,” I assured her, closing the distance between us with an easy stride. “Not for us.”

  Closing her mouth, she gazed up at the chic furnishings, genuinely stunned into submission. That was a first.

  “You like?” I goaded playfully.

  “I more than like,” she answered, reaching for my chin with her tiny hand. “Thank you, Sir.”

  “You’re welcome,” I purred. “As I remember, I still owe you a first kiss.”

  Her gaze lowered coyly. “Yes, Sir, I believe you do.”

  Capturing her face in my hands, I swooped.

  Nothing I wanted would ever be denied me.

  Chapter Twenty-Two

  Hilary

  MY HEAD WAS SPINNING. One moment, Sean had been the usual arrogant arsehole, the man who’d leashed me and demanded I take our journey down the aisle as husband and wife on my hands and knees, but the next, he was quite different. This version of the man had offered me dignity with his jacket and seemed to delight in showing me the extraordinary setting his money had bought us. I had to admit, The Ritz was like nothing I’d known. It was a setting for dreams, an environment crafted for Kings and Ambassadors.

  Back in the Grand Hall, I blinked at the enormous spiral staircase, wondering what my life had become. Finally, on my feet again, I was permitted my second glass of champagne and an introduction to some of the unknown guests Sean had invited. If I dwelled on the recent experience at the church and the fact they had no doubt seen me, I could have drowned in my morti
fied embarrassment, but Sean had a way of guiding me through the maze of strangers, drawing me into conversation and keeping me close. Maybe it was the alcohol, but for the first time, I actually felt like his partner rather than just the assistant of his greatest rival—the woman he’d captured.

  Saul. My brow furrowed. Turning from the conversation with some businessman or another, Sean’s hand still snaking around my hips, I imagined Saul. How long had it been since I’d seen him, since we’d talked and fucked? Anxiety curled in my belly at the unsettling thought, but it subsided with another—where had Saul been all this time? Where was he when I’d needed him, when I’d been kidnapped for Sean’s amusement? After all the years I’d worked for him, I assumed he’d come for me, at least try to save me from this life, but now, it was too late. Sean had a ring on my finger. I lifted the digit in question, examining the band of metal he’d placed there.

  “Looks as if your new wife likes her wedding ring.”

  The gray-haired man we’d been talking to laughed at my vacant expression, and squeezing me closer, Sean joined him.

  “You can’t blame her,” he teased. “She’s never been married before, but then, neither have I.”

  “That’s true,” the stranger concluded. “And let me say, you make an exceptionally handsome couple. I’m sure you’ll enjoy a wonderful marriage, despite the unconventional beginnings.”

  I flushed at his astute analysis. Did everyone here know my story? That I’d been Sean’s captive? Lifting my flute to my lips, I supposed they did. It seemed I was to have no secrets in this new world.

  “Ladies and gentlemen!” The master of ceremonies called from the corner of Grand Hall, attracting the attention of everyone assembled. “We ask that you be seated in The William Kent Room.”

  I watched, smiling politely as the group of guests trailed out of the hall. The vast majority of them were men much older than Sean and me, but I noticed a few now had female partners in tow. I took a gulp of alcohol, glad they’d missed the shame of the service. Glancing down, I realized I was still draped in Sean’s jacket, the only thing preserving what little remained of my modesty.

  “Ready for your first meal as a married woman?”

  I turned at his query, acknowledging it had sparked a flurry of nerves. Suddenly, this was real. The farce that had been the church service was easy to recall as a lurid nightmare, but the opulence of The Ritz meant this aspect of the day would forever be scorched into my mind.

  “Yes, Sir.”

  Taking the arm he offered and still clutching my champagne flute, we walked the short distance to our wedding breakfast. A rapturous round of applause broke out as we entered the magnificent scarlet room, and for once, my blushes were welcome as I acknowledged the well wishes.

  Sean led me to one of the two vacant chairs, whispering for me to sit. I obeyed quickly, pleased to shift some of the focus from me for a change. Placing my glass on the beautifully dressed table, I waited for my new husband to join me.

  “I’d like to take this opportunity, on behalf of my beautiful bride and myself, to thank each and every one of you for joining us.” Raising his flute, he offered the toast, accepting the applause. “If you attended our church service, you’ll remember I forfeited the right to kiss my bride since her mouth was otherwise engaged.”

  A rumble of throaty laughter danced around the table. Lowering my gaze, I shifted awkwardly on my chair. Why was he bringing this up again?

  “Now, we’re all here reveling in the rich abundance of The Ritz,” Sean continued, his gaze traveling along the line of those seated. “I’d like to enjoy the substitute instead.”

  I straightened, something in his words stirring the apprehension his kindness had only just put to bed.

  “So, if you’d all raise your glasses, I’ll propose a toast to the bride!”

  “Sean,” I hissed, willing him to just be quiet and sit down. Hadn’t I been embarrassed enough today?

  “To the bride!” The words rang out from all sides of the room, and uneasily, I smiled at the dozens of eyes boring into me.

  “And now, my love.” Sean put down his glass, his attention turning to me. “Rather than a first kiss, I’m giving a first spanking.” Edging his seat back, he perched on the red velvet cushion, beckoning me with a finger.

  “What?” I whispered, though the room was so silent now, no doubt everyone heard me.

  “Our first spanking as a married couple.” His brow arched. “Don’t make me wait, baby.”

  “But...” My gaze darted around the table wildly. Surely, he couldn’t be serious, couldn’t expect to fling me over his lap here and now, in front of all our well-dressed guests and The Ritz staff? The knotting tension in my tummy and the brooding look in his eyes conveyed the truth—that was exactly what he expected.

  “Now.”

  His tone lowered to the octave that caused my heart to race, and flustering, I rose from my chair, shuffling toward him. A part of me still couldn’t fathom what was happening, couldn’t conceive the fact he wanted to humiliate me here—of all places—but I knew any complaint would only exacerbate my plight.

  “Leave my jacket on your chair.”

  My eyes widened as my gaze darted back to my seat. I wanted to insist I stay clothed, but I couldn’t bring myself to plead in front of these strangers—men and women who’d never met me before but would likely never forget Sean’s blushing bride. I fiddled with the buttons, my hands trembling as my pulse pounded, and as if someone had hit slow motion, I shrugged the warmth of his jacket from my skin, dropping it on the cushion behind me. From the other end of the table, a wolf whistle filled the air, followed by a fresh wave of laughter. Cringing, I moved toward him, almost grateful to be flung over his lap. It was absolutely dreadful to be exposed and shamed this way, but at least upturned, I couldn’t bear witness to the ecstatic expressions of those assembled.

  Sean wasted no time in warming me up, his palm hitching up my pathetically short skirt and crashing onto my bared bottom before I got my bearings. A wail of glee burst from the guests.

  “This is for you, my love!” Sean sounded delirious, desperately happy at my chastened and dishonored position. “A reminder of your place and what awaits you in our marriage.”

  “Here, here!” A male voice echoed from ahead somewhere. “I am all in favor of this kind of marriage.”

  Another roll of amusement crashed around me, but I couldn’t concentrate on that ignominy, Sean’s hand peppering my backside and taking my breath away. Each swat was hard, the short, insistent slaps catching the vulnerable underside of my cheeks, the hurt vibrating to the plug wedged between them, ensuring it was impossible to keep still.

  “Seems like she enjoys it!”

  I squeezed my eyes closed, my jaw tightening at the next round of smacks, though the nagging paranoia remained. Was the casual observer correct—beneath this show of pain and protest, was my pussy secretly yearning for more of the treatment?

  “You have no idea.” Sean chuckled as he rained down the strikes, his palm alternating cheeks in a depraved show of authority. “There’s no doubt I am one lucky son-of-a-bitch.”

  “I’ll drink to that!”

  Another voice echoed from the other side of the table, and gasping, I imagined them all peering over the fancy spread to witness my denigration. No doubt, some had risen from their seats and found new, better positions to view me. Maybe the staff had decided to relish the show, too.

  “Oh God.” The mewl slipped from me as my hands balled into fists. I didn’t know what I’d expected from the day, but it hadn’t been this! It hadn’t been one round of public disgrace after the next. I prayed for the onslaught to stop, for his palm to pause and let me catch my breath, but the reprieve never came. Sean spanked me, matching the glib comments of his guests as his hand humbled and humiliated. By the time amnesty was finally offered, the tears had formed again, my face probably as red as my backside.

  “There.” Resting the palm which had taken such
pleasure in my punishment, Sean patted my flesh in a cruelly tender way.

  The tiny act of compassion riled me. How dare he do this? How dare he do any of this? One moment, he used and abused me, and the next, he sought to show sympathy—the man was absurd.

  “That concludes the first spanking.”

  I panted as another low peal of laughter rumbled around the room.

  “Ladies and gentlemen, please enjoy your meal.”

  Chapter Twenty-Three

  Saul

  “YOU’RE SURE THIS CAN work?” Adrenaline raced through my body, excitement simmering for the first time in too long. “You’re serious about this?”

  “Deadly.” Connor’s lips curled. “Do I commit to things I’m not serious about?”

  He had a point. Whenever Connor made his mind up about something, anything, few powers on earth could hold him back, least of all me. The last significant decision he’d made had been to induct his lover, Molly, into our organization—an audacious plan in its own right, but all the more spectacular after having kidnapped her and enticed her back from the United States. He had a rare ability to understand the possible ramifications of his choices and still choose carnage, but he was also a winner. Connor could take a blow and go the distance. All those years of martial arts competitions I’d taken him to as a teen had proved that.

  “No.” I nodded in acknowledgment. “No, you don’t, but I just want to be sure how many men you have ready. We’ll need a few to tear into the church and seize her.”

  “The Ritz,” he corrected me calmly.

  “What?” Sitting up in my chair, I slammed my glass on my desk.

  “The. Ritz.” He enunciated as if I hadn’t heard him properly the first time, but I’d heard him just fine. The Ritz was one of the most prestigious hotels in the city. We couldn’t just wander in there and spray the place with bullets.

  “The service will be over by now.”

  A part of my heart crumpled, though deep down, I knew it to be true.

  “Better we hit them at the next known location.”

  “The reception?” My head was swimming, not only from the alcohol fogging it. I couldn’t envision the plan Connor suggested.