Devil's Dance

Devil’s Dance By Scarlett Sanderson

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales, is entirely coincidental. Devil’s Dance COPYRIGHT © 2008 by Scarlett Sanderson All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission of the author or The Wild Rose Press except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles or reviews. Contact Information: [email protected] Cover Art by Angela Anderson The Wild Rose Press PO Box 708 Adams Basin, NY 14410-0706 Visit us at www.thewilderroses.com Publishing History First Scarlet Rose Edition, 2008 Print ISBN 1-60154-225-9 Published in the United States of America

Dedication To all the ladies at the Dark Hunter Anonymous. For your support, encouragement and most of all, your love of a hunky, dominant male!

Chapter One “Do you need a master, little girl? I can be the one to own you.” Tessa turned, facing the man who spoke the words. Much older than she, he had graying hair, a pinched face and dull blue eyes. The leather pants he wore were laced up at the side, his gut hung over the waistband and a leather waistcoat covered his bare, saggy chest. Tessa shivered at his repulsive offer. “Thanks, but no thanks.” He grinned. “I can be your little boy if you prefer.” Glimpsing his yellow stained teeth, she grimaced. “No, thanks.” The man huffed out his chest. “Your loss.” He moved into the crowd, lost in the throng of people. Sending up a silent thank you to whatever gods listened, Tessa found a quiet corner booth and sat down. Her gaze surveyed the scene before her. Inferno was the latest in a series of BDSM clubs opening in the area, catering specifically to a high class clientele. Tessa vaguely wondered how Yellow Teeth got an admission. Not usually a place she’d visit, Tessa was curious. In all her sexual relationships, something had been missing. One of her female patients had described the thrill of being a submissive to a dominant master. The description sent a buzz zinging through her, a feeling rarely experienced. It had occurred to her that maybe she was a submissive. Maybe she needed that kind of 1

Devil’s Dance relationship. To her analytical mind it made sense. Every day she experienced control—she was always in control, always the dominant personality. Her darkest sexual desires involved relinquishing some of that tightly held control to someone else. To a master. She’d taken weeks to work up the courage, and now that she was here, Tessa hadn’t a clue what to do. Various people milled around in different types of BDSM outfits. Many were subtle in their choices. Some were bolder, wearing their fetish like a badge. The heavy beat of sensual music thudded, throbbing in time with the crowd on the dance floor. Scents of alcohol, cologne and the musk of people packed together in a small space filled the air. Wearing a pair of tailored black slacks, slightly heeled boots and a black cotton shirt, Tessa stuck out like a sore thumb. “You want a drink, honey?” She smiled at the blonde waitress, grateful for the chance of something to hold, something that would soothe her nerves. “Vodka, no ice.” When the waitress smiled back, the knot of tension in Tessa’s stomach eased just a little. “First time?” “Is it that obvious?” A blush rose in Tessa’s cheeks as the blonde laughed, and she tugged at the corner of her sleeve, rolling her eyes to hide embarrassment. “I think I’m a little overdressed.” “You look fine. Although a bit more leather would be perfect.” Winking, the waitress turned and headed back into the crowd, drinks tray raised over her head. She wound her body perfectly through the throng of people. With a slight turn of her hip, she avoided any wandering hands. At a guess, the girl was in her early twenties. Most likely a college student earning extra cash. 2

Scarlett Sanderson The outfit she wore was unsurprisingly leather—a revealing black bustier and obscenely short skirt. Her shoes, thigh high latex without a heel. Sexy yet practical. Did she indulge in the pleasures of the club? Smiling, Tessa turned her attention back to the crowd. What would it take to get up and mingle? About another ten shots of vodka. Maybe more. More of a voyeur than a participant, she drummed her fingernails on the table. So this was the kind of place she could explore her submissive fantasies? So far the night was not turning out as she’d expected. Then again, she hadn’t really known what to expect. Except for the leather. Leather was pretty much a given. “One vodka. No ice.” The blonde waitress set Tessa’s drink on a napkin and gave her a dazzling smile. “Enjoy. And relax. They don’t bite. Unless you ask nicely.” Tessa laughed. “Thanks, I’ll remember that.” Reaching into her purse, she pulled out enough money to cover the drink and leave a generous tip. After all, the girl had been the first friendly face in the club. Taking a sip of the cool alcohol, she let the vodka burn a pleasant path from her palate to her stomach and glanced up. She groaned as Yellow Teeth once again decided to try his luck. He eased himself beside her in the booth. Whiskey fumes bled from every pore, and she curled her lips in disdain. This guy was so tanked. Not to mention he thought he was God’s gift to the female species. He leered at her. “You sure look lonely, little girl.” She felt an overwhelming urge to get up and knee him in the balls. Her temper was one of the many reasons she questioned her submissive tendencies. If someone put a collar on her, instinct 3

Devil’s Dance demanded defiance. “Believe me, if I was lonely, you would be the last person I’d come to for company.” Yellow Teeth chuckled, and the fat around his stomach jiggled. “Little girl, I have no doubt you’d love to come for me.” Tessa almost threw up her vodka. She understood his innuendo, but the ‘little girl’ thing was really getting on her nerves. Grabbing her purse she stood, shuffling past him awkwardly. She almost made it out of the booth, but his hands snaked around her waist, holding her in place. She glared into his eager, hungry face, and annoyance bubbled over. “Look asshole, get your dirty hands off me. Now.” He licked his lips suggestively. “Why, what ya gonna do about it?” “This.” She threw the vodka in his face, shocking him enough so she could wriggle from his grasp. “Jerk.” “Bitch!” He grabbed her wrist. The more she tugged, the more he clung to her. His face twisted into mass of anger. He continued to snarl, spitting out a verbal tirade. “You fucking bitch. Leading me on, and then telling me ‘no’ like I’m some piece of shit on your shoe.” Tessa knew how to take care of herself, selfdefense classes were a must for any single woman living in the city, but he was giving her no room to maneuver. As she pulled back, he rose and backed her against a wall. Panic rising, she looked around for someone to help or some form of escape route. “Let me go, or I’ll scream for help.” Yeah, even in her mind, it sounded like a weak threat. No one would hear her with the music pounding. Her only other option was to try and get a good whack over his head with her purse. A wild glint lit his eyes. “I like it when they scream.” 4

Scarlett Sanderson Convinced the guy was a total whacko, maybe even psychologically unstable, she readied her purse. Pity she hadn’t put more things in it. She could really use her thick-as-a-brick data planner right now. “Sir, I really think you should let the lady go.” Standing on tiptoes, Tessa peered around Yellow Teeth and into the green eyes of a god. About six feet tall, he loomed over them, his face covered with a leather half-mask that revealed more than it concealed. The sensual shape of his lips, the mass of dark brown hair styled into a choppy, spiky cut, and those green eyes that blazed with blatant fury. Now this was the type of guy she’d fantasized about finding. Tall, dark, buff and oh so dominating. Her heart did a slight flutter, and things low in her body tightened. Though violence was imminent, she couldn’t take her eyes off her would be rescuer. “Screw you, pretty boy. She’s mine. Got a problem with that?” Tessa did a mental eye roll at the pissing contest Yellow Teeth started. She was no man’s property. Another problem when it came to being a submissive. “I’ve got a problem with that.” She spoke over Yellow Teeth’s shoulder, addressing the buff guy. “I’m not his.” The grip on her wrist tightened, and she gritted her teeth against the pain. Buff Guy’s nostrils flared. He laid a hand on Yellow Teeth’s forearm. “Let the lady go.” The commanding tone sent a zing of pleasure right through Tessa. She didn’t feel zings often, but she was sure feeling them now. Yellow Teeth released her and squared off with Buff Guy, who was both taller and broader. Much broader. His shoulders were like a linebacker’s. Thick, broad, buff and well…thick. 5

Devil’s Dance “Come on, asshole, you want a piece of this?” Yellow Teeth shoved Buff Guy’s shoulders but didn’t move him, not one inch. With shocking speed, her rescuer reached out and grabbed Yellow Teeth around the throat, squeezing his windpipe. “You ever set foot in this club again, and I will crush you. Are we clear?” To add some gentle persuasion, he tightened his grip. Yellow Teeth nodded, and Buff Guy threw him toward a detail of security men. “Get him out of here.” Buff Guy’s jaw set in a grimace, and his eyes burned with anger. She heard him mumble “pussy” under his breath and she gave a nervous laugh. Now the situation was over, Tessa felt both foolish and uncomfortable. She should have beat the guy over the head rather than play the frightened female. Yellow Teeth had just surprised her; she hadn’t thought him a threat. Boy, she’d been wrong. Buff Guy turned his full attention to her. His gaze pierced hers, and the zings she’d felt moments ago burst around her body like firecrackers. In all the right places. She got a good look at him. The rest of his body was toned like his shoulders. A lithe, graceful torso rippled into a tapered waist, ending with strong thighs and legs. Despite being in a BDSM club where leather dominated the attire, he wore ripped denim jeans and a tight white T-shirt, his half mask the only leather adornment. “You okay? I’m sorry about the asshole.” He moved forward and cupped her wrist, cradling it in his hand. Gently, he rubbed the pad of his thumb over the already forming bruise. Tessa bit down on her lower lip, not from pain but from sheer, blissful pleasure. His thumb worked over her skin, creating ribbons of heat. She 6

Scarlett Sanderson mentally fanned herself and prayed she didn’t melt into a pool of orgasmic harmony. His thumb moved around and around in a lazy circle. She became mesmerized, watching it dance a pattern on her skin. Those electrifying zings reached an all time high as her body readied itself for action. Her nipples peaked beneath the fabric of her shirt, and moisture pooled between her thighs. The physical action she craved would never happen. She didn’t do casual sex. Not with anyone from Inferno and especially not with the buff god standing less than a foot away. Raising her gaze to his, Tessa blushed. A predatory, confidence burned there, setting the green contours of his eyes alight with what she could only describe as sexual desire. When he grinned and touched his full, upper lip with the tip of his tongue, she mentally bit down on her knuckles and groaned. Her masked savior was sex on a stick. And she knew exactly where she wanted to lick first. “You seem a little dazed. Want me to repeat the question?” His voice, a rich timbre in her ears, held a slightly southern lilt that made her desire more painful. She’d always had a weakness for a Texas twang. Regaining some composure, Tessa withdrew her hand from his grasp. “I’m okay. A little shocked I didn’t see him as more of a threat.” She gave the guy a wry smile, feeling foolish for allowing herself to be so naïve. He raked a hand through his spiky hair. She followed the movement, fascinated by the length and slenderness of his fingers. “We pride ourselves on a safe and discreet environment here at Inferno. I’m sorry you had to experience that in your search for a dominant.” Tessa frowned. Lifting her chin, she stared straight into his arrogant, cocky eyes. “How do you 7

Devil’s Dance know I’m not here looking for a submissive?” Her words brought laughter. Not just any laugh, but a throw-back-your-head-and-roar type of laugh. Her cheeks burned with humiliation. Gritting her teeth, she asked, “What’s so funny?” The guy took a deep breath and looked down. His eyes danced with mischief, humor and a predatory glint, sending zings pinging through her body all over again. Her cheeks now burned with something other than embarrassment. “What’s funny is the thought of you coming here to find a submissive.” Leaning forward, he fingered her lapel intimately. His gazed burned into hers. “You don’t have a dominant bone in your body, lady.” Tessa didn’t know whether to grab his tight, white T-shirt and beg him to kiss her or to be offended by his comment. He spoke with such conviction, such absolute authority, she knew he had a dominant bone, and more than one. Still, it didn’t become a woman to let a man get the better of her. On second thought, that was exactly why she was here. To let a man get the better of her. The whole Dominant/submissive thing was really confusing. “And how do you know I don’t have a dominant bone in my body? You don’t even know me, Mister.” There, she’d told him. “In fact, I might be looking for a nice piece of ass just like yourself to take home. I’ll bend you over and spank those tight buns till you scream.” He raised an eyebrow and stopped rubbing her shirt. He just stared at her, as if looking straight into her soul. Then, wrapping his fingers around her arms, he gently pushed her against the nearest wall. Her back collided with the concrete Yellow Teeth had held her against, and she let out a squeak. Whether from shock or excitement, she 8

Scarlett Sanderson didn’t know. He had her trapped, so to speak, and Tessa loved every second of it. Her breath hitched, her body cried out kiss me, kiss me, take me! A body could be a treacherous thing. Her lips parted in anticipation. Her pussy throbbed with delight. The guy slapped one hand against the wall above her head. With the other he stroked her hipbone. The guy was really into stroking. “How about I just bend you over my knee right here and give you a spanking?” The tone of his voice was low, intimate, husky. The sounds of the club faded away. All she could hear was him, all she could smell was his spicy, woodsy scent. His breath tickled her ear as he leaned into her body and whispered, “You’d like that, me getting those tight ass cheeks all red. You begging me to stop. You begging me to fuck you.” Stunned, yet shamelessly excited by this rough talk, Tessa opened her mouth to speak, but his lips covered hers in a kiss that was anything but gentle. It was hard and brutal. Just how she needed it. Just how she’d fantasized millions of times in the past. His tongue forced its way into her mouth, dueling with hers like they were two warriors battling to the last. They continued to kiss, to explore each other. His kiss was warm and enticing, stoking a sweet fervor inside her. Not once did he let up on the dominating assault. She felt as if she would drown from the passion building in her body. Her nipples became turgid peaks begging to be touched, her heart slammed against her rib cage. Elation and excitement coursed through her, mingling with the tepid feeling of taboo. This illicit encounter with a stranger shouldn’t be making her quite so horny. Be quiet! He stroked his tongue against hers, licking the 9

Devil’s Dance roof of her mouth before drawing back. His labored breathing matched hers. She managed to open her eyes and glance up. His thick lashes framed eyes languid with the heat of their kiss. She swallowed, and his gaze followed the movement of her throat. He parted his lips and licked his lower lip again. His eyes flared with passion. She couldn’t read his emotions other than his lust. He was a stranger to her in every sense, yet she knew his scent, the taste of his lips, and she’d never been more certain that she wanted his tongue mating with hers again. Clutching his shirt, Tessa pulled the stranger toward her. Her lips clashed with his, biting, nipping, demanding. She let out a small moan as his hands tunneled under her shirt. His fingers stroked lazy patterns across her torso. The contact of his skin against hers was electrifying. Every nerve ending sparked to life. She wanted to wrap her legs around his waist, plaster her body against his and have him fuck her. The stranger placed fevered kisses on her cheek and across her eyelids. He nibbled at her chin before giving her throat one long, leisurely lick. Tessa sighed, wrapped one leg around his waist and draped her arms across his shoulders, clawing at his shirt. His teeth were doing wondrous things to her earlobe; his tongue rimmed the shell of her ear, making her shiver. She didn’t even know his name. The thought was like a bucket of ice water across her heated skin. What the hell am I doing? Managing to lift her hands, she placed them on his broad chest and pushed, wrenching her lips from his in the process. His chest heaved, his eyelids drooped lazily, his lips swollen. When they curled upward into a coy smile, Tessa thought this 10

Scarlett Sanderson stranger was the sexiest man alive. Panicking at the thought she might have found a dominant after all, a man who could make her lose control, lose her will to do anything but please him, she ducked underneath his arm and stepped away. She turned to face him, raising her hands. “I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” And she was. Sorry she couldn’t be the woman he wanted. Her night of unbridled pleasure had come crashing down around her ears. Tears prickled in the corners of her eyes. Why did finding sexual satisfaction have to be so hard? **** Luc stared as the woman ran through the crowd. Hands reached out to stroke her and she slapped them away. Other people turned to glare at the woman who disrupted their enjoyment. He watched her go, his cock raging. He was so hard, the pressure from his zipper bit into his swollen head. Not that Luc cared. An edge of pain added to the eroticism. He could still taste her on his tongue, feel her passion and will to submit. Sure, it was buried deep, but a guy like him could always sense a woman’s needs. He wasn’t a master, just a guy who liked some kink with his sex. Kink added variety and spice. Luc liked spice, and it made for an interesting addition. He was also a dominant. Not a master; he didn’t live the lifestyle twenty-four/seven, but he did like to be in control. Pressing the heel of his hand against his crotch, Luc shifted his weight. It had been months…no, a year…since he’d taken a woman. No one interested or fascinated him enough. Until now. Not until the woman with the practical, short dark hair and blazing blue eyes. Her buried needs called to his. She thought she was looking for a 11

Devil’s Dance master. From the defiance in her eyes, a master wasn’t really what she needed. What she needed was some kink, a man who could make her lose control. A dominant. A role he was very willing to perform. She would be an interesting experiment. A way to ease himself back into the game. A challenge. Now all he needed to do was find her.

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Scarlett Sanderson

Chapter Two “Big, juicy, hard, pert nipples. I cannot resist them. I’m a nipple addict. I just want to suck and lick. I even think about sliding my erection between their breasts and making love to them while those erect beauties poke up at me.” Dr. Tessa Connolly listened patiently to the man sitting on the opposite side of the desk. The monologue about his breast obsession, nipples in particular, rattled on and on. As a sex therapist, her job meant she had to listen and advise. Many patients, especially the males, tried to arouse her with descriptions. When they failed, they tried the shock approach. With ten years in the business, she had heard it all. There was little that could shock her. Legs crossed, she sat, taking notes on how best to approach this case. Neil worked with a female swim team, so help for his problem was essential. Hard nipples abound in the cool arena of a swimming pool. If Neil planned to avoid temptation—and a lawsuit—she needed to refocus his attention on other things. Easier said than done. Right now he stared at her well covered breasts. Even though he could only distinguish the silhouette, his eyes were firmly glued to her chest. His tongue snaked out to lick his bottom lip. She resisted the urge to snap her fingers in his face. Instead she coughed, clearing her throat. It diverted his attention from her womanly assets. “Well, Neil, I can see why this is classed as a problem.” 13

Devil’s Dance He nodded. Strands of dirty blonde hair fell across his forehead. “And you can see why this is urgent?” He leaned forward, tapping his fingertips on the desk. Tessa leaned back in her chair. “Yes, Neil, I can understand.” She had a knack for sensing difficult patients. Already Neil was heading for her “difficult clients” list. His sense of urgency, his agitation, made her wonder if she could ease his nipple craving. When the timer signaled the end of their session, Tessa let out a huge mental sigh. Saved by the bell, at least for this week. She closed her patient journal and stood, offering a professional hand to Neil. “Until next week. Please confirm your appointment with my secretary out front.” His sweaty palm slid against hers. He squeezed and pumped her hand with an annoying vigor. She wanted to rub the heel of her hand over her skirt, removing the excess fluid left behind. “Thank you, Doctor Connolly. I’ll definitely be back to see you next week.” Once again his gaze moved down to her breasts, his tongue licked his lower lip. Tessa saw a lot of clients. It was very rare one gave her the creeps. Neil sparked all her feminine defense receptors. She made a mental note never to be completely alone when he was booked for a session. She gave him a forced smile. “Good afternoon, Neil.” The door closed behind him, and Tessa sank into her chair. Removing her glasses, she leaned her head back, closed her eyes and pinched the bridge of her nose. The pressure relieved some of the tension headache jackhammering in her skull. She couldn’t get last night out of her mind. The look, taste, feel and scent of the stranger 14

Scarlett Sanderson haunted her dreams. The images made her body ache with a desire so strong, not even frantic masturbation sessions could quell it. Just thinking about him sent her body into orgasmic overdrive. Underneath the demure suit, her nipples plumped, beaded. Her pussy became slick as she fantasized about what could have happened. Ah, if only she’d had the courage to continue. She didn’t doubt she would be purring with satisfaction right now instead of sitting here, imagining what could have been. The buzz of her secretary’s intercom broke the erotic reverie. “Dr. Connolly, your next patient is waiting. Should I send him in?” Replacing her spectacles, she turned the journal to a fresh page and checked her date planner for a name. Luc Campbell was a new client. He’d called earlier for an urgent appointment, and as luck would have it, they had one free. He hadn’t elaborated on the word urgent, and it wasn’t her secretary’s place to discuss confidential matters outside a session. Writing his name on the top of a new page, Tessa answered the intercom call. “Yes, please send him in, Cally.” The door opened, and the gentleman closed it behind him. She could only see his back. Broad and muscular beneath what appeared to be an expensive black, Armani suit. Sophisticated. Money. Those were the two impressions she formed. Tessa stood and held out her hand to her latest client as he turned. Her breath hitched. Startling green eyes connected with hers. She’d seen those eyes not twenty-four hours ago at Inferno. The last time she had seen them, the man in question had pinned her to the wall and kissed her senseless. Her gaze moved to those erotic, sensual lips— 15

Devil’s Dance lips now curled into a smile. Oh yes, these same lips set a fire burning in her loins. He walked toward her. His strides were long, confident. He slipped a warm hand in hers. No sweaty palms for this guy. Instead, his grip was firm, soothing and arousing at the same time. The zings were back. Only this time they were like great big clanging cymbals. Mr. Luc Campbell played havoc with her libido. “Doctor Connolly. Thank you for seeing me at such short notice.” His voice still held a slight southern drawl. His voice gave him away. In the suit, he could be mistaken for a Wall Street trader, a banker, and a slick, sophisticated man who enjoyed fine wine and cheese boards. The packaging might scream money, but his voice and eyes held a rawness of character. Luc Campbell would always be a little rough around the edges. The observation only excited her more. Quelling erotic thoughts of ripping off his suit and taking a bite, she smiled. Releasing his hand, she gestured to a chair. “We had a free appointment. It’s not a problem. Please, sit.” If she didn’t sit, her knees would give way. What could the man from the BDSM club want? More importantly, how did he find her? Chance? Coincidence? Or something more sinister? She picked up a pen, her hand shaking. Tessa prayed she appeared professional. “Now, Mr. Campbell, what can I do for you?” “Please, call me Luc.” He settled back and folded his hands over the edge of the chair. His gaze twinkled with a confidence that mesmerized her. She raised an eyebrow and scowled. Whatever game he was playing, she refused to take the bait. “Luc it is. So, Luc, what can I do for you?” She waited. He tilted his head to the side and 16

Scarlett Sanderson steepled his fingers under his chin. Still, she waited. The silence lengthened. The only sound in the room a ticking clock. “I met a woman. She fascinates me.” A woman? Tessa’s heart skipped a beat. Did he mean her? She waited for him to continue. When he didn’t, she swallowed and moistened her dry throat. “How does this woman fascinate you?” Luc raked a hand through his hair, a gesture she’d found inherently sexy last night. She watched his hand move through the strands, the veins flexing across the skin, his fingers graceful. Oh yeah, the gesture was still sexy. “She’s beautiful and intelligent. Vulnerable yet passionate.” He turned his hands over and studied them a heartbeat before meeting her gaze. “I touched her, and she came alive in my hands. I could sense her need. Feel her desire. Taste her arousal. It was like the most expensive champagne bursting on my tongue. I wanted to swallow it, roll it around, devour it.” Tessa blinked. His passionate tirade made her body pulse with excitement. Who knew such simple words could sound so erotic? Licking her suddenly dry lips, Tessa managed to ask, “And who is this woman?” If he spoke another woman’s name, she would hunt the bitch down and scratch out her eyes. Sexual tension became palatable in the room as they stared at each other. “You.” Zings pinged, blood pounded and all manner of physical fireworks exploded in her body. Her nipples hardened to pebbled peaks. He neither spoke nor moved, just stared at her with those intense, green eyes. Lost for words and painfully aroused, she made a playful doodle on her notepad, stalling for time, trying to construct a sophisticated and 17

Devil’s Dance intelligent response. Even though her mind asked numerous silent questions, her body was intensely aware of his commanding, masculine presence. What was a gal to do? “Mr. Campbell…Luc…” She dropped her pen and clasped her hands. “What happened last night at Inferno…I don’t usually…it was…” None of the sophisticated responses or reasons for her behavior came out of her mouth. Instead, the words were a muddled, stuttering mess. Slick, Tessa, real slick. Luc Campbell probably thought her a blithering idiot rather than an intelligent professional. No matter how hard she tried, Tessa couldn’t find an excuse for kissing him. There was only one reason she’d molded herself against him like a limpet, and that reason was pure animal attraction. She’d been drawn to his dominance. He smiled an almost smug smile. “I know what it was, Tessa. I know why you went there.” Annoyed at his presumptions, Tessa raised an eyebrow. “Do, please, enlighten me to any revelations you may have.” “I can give you what you need.” He shifted in his seat and curled his hands over the edge of the arms. “You have a submissive tendency, and you’re in need of a dominant. I have a dominant streak, and I need a willing submissive. We both have what the other needs. I’m offering my services. Call it a contract if you want, a business arrangement.” She widened her eyes with a mixture of fascination and disbelief. “A business arrangement? And how would this arrangement work? Would you expect me to pay you?” Luc let out a rich laugh. “You think I’m some sort of gigolo?” Tessa shrugged. “The thought crossed my mind. Especially when you talk of ‘business arrangements.’” 18

Scarlett Sanderson Her comment only made him laugh louder and with more gusto. Cheeks burning, Tessa managed to put on her don’t-mess-with-me scowl. Something she reserved for over zealous clients and unwanted advances in BDSM clubs. “I’m so glad you find my comments amusing, Mr. Campbell. But, forgive me if I misunderstood, you came in here offering me…sex…and then you mentioned contracts. So in essence, you want payment for having sex with me?” She couldn’t keep the dripping sarcasm out of her tone. “I really don’t see the humor in that.” There. She’d said it. Got it all off her chest. “Money is the last thing on my mind right now, Dr. Connolly.” Tessa frowned at his casual amusement. “Then what exactly is on your mind, Mr. Campbell?” He removed a speck of lint from his pants. Tessa tapped her foot with impatience as she waited for him to say something. She had a full schedule the next few days, and if Luc was here just to play games, he’d picked the wrong female. “Sex is on my mind, Tessa. Specifically, sex with you. As I’ve already said, I’m a guy who likes to play dominant. I’m in need of a partner. You, to be precise.” He placed his palms on the desk and stood, leaning into her. She could smell his breath, minty fresh mixed with a hint of coffee and cigarettes. “I want sex with you.” Her jaw dropped at his outrageous words. He wanted sex? No man had ever been bold enough to give her such a command. By the look in his eyes, she knew he was a commanding Alpha male. One who always got what he wanted, no matter what. “And how are you going to get what you want?” Her heart pounded, banged against her ribcage. Surely he could hear it. His body, his scent and his presence played 19

Devil’s Dance havoc with her hormones. Her body, ripe for the taking, begged silently for him to take and take. The predatory grin returned, curling his lips upward into a coy smile. “I’m offering you a deal, Tessa. A deal of sexual mastery. Give me one month of your time to teach you, train you and show you exactly what a Dominant/submissive relationship involves. Give me one month, and I’ll show you just how good sexual submission can be.” Her mind reeled. He offered her everything she desired on a platter, gift wrapped in a pretty package. From his spiky dark hair to his toned legs, from his sexy southern accent to his commanding presence, she found everything about him appealing on a base level. Her body responded to his in a way it never responded to her previous lovers. Could she really sleep with a total stranger? Tessa frowned. “What would you get from this arrangement, apart from the obvious, of course?” He shrugged. “I get a willing submissive. A partner. Someone to share the experience with.” He grinned. “I’m all about the experience.” It was Tessa’s turn to laugh. “You must want something more than that.” He returned her smile. “I’m going to be getting great sex. What more could any guy want?” A blush darkened her cheeks. She’d been fighting the desire to experiment in this area for years, fighting the will to give into her needs. Wanting someone to dominate her hadn’t been high on her list of priorities until recently, until her last sexual partner failed time and time again to bring her to orgasm. He left claiming she was frigid. An ice queen. He failed to realize he couldn’t fulfill her needs. The will to be dominated was most definitely a need, a craving she repressed for the fear of losing control, of losing herself to the intense emotion she 20

Scarlett Sanderson knew submitting would bring. A little submission in the bedroom she could handle; being forced to submit out in the real world was a tough cookie to swallow. Her fear had always held her back. She’d spent enough time wondering what if? The time for self-doubt was over. Luc Campbell offered her the perfect deal. Sex with him would allow her to explore the what if and move on with her sex life. There would be no more wondering. Moistening her lips, she decided to go for broke. “So, if I decided to accept, there would have to be ground rules. I would expect you to be discreet.” He nodded. “Of course. Goes without saying. We both have a professional façade to maintain.” Tessa wondered what profession he meant. She filed that question away for a later date. “And if I accept, I want you to know that the Dominant/submissive thing goes only as far as the bedroom. I will not be your…bitch. I will not wear a collar or be led around on a leash and made to eat out of a bowl on the floor. Our relationship will not extend outside of the bedroom.” “Of course. Our relationship will be based purely on sex and sex alone.” The amused tone crept back in his voice. “This is not a joke, Mr. Campbell. I’m merely discussing the terms of our arrangement before embarking on anything.” “Very shrewd of you, Tessa.” He reached into his suit pocket, pulled out a pen and searched for a piece of paper on her desk. Finishing off, he signed the paper and handed it over. “The terms of our arrangement. A discrete, sexually experimental relationship that does not extend beyond the bedroom. Signed, sealed and delivered by yours truly. I can assure you it’s a legally binding contract, ma’am.” 21

Devil’s Dance Despite the embarrassment of the situation, his quirky sense of humor made her smile. He held out a hand. She stared at it intently. Decisions were a pain the ass. Should she make a deal with the green-eyed devil? Should she embark on this dance? Taking a deep breath, Tessa slipped her hand into his and shook, sealing the deal. What the hell if he turned out to be some kind of sick pervert. Well, she just might enjoy it. “You have yourself an arrangement, Mr. Campbell.” “First thing’s first, it’s Luc.” His gaze glittered mischievously. “Until we hit the sack.” He winked and smiled. Tessa gulped. The man was astoundingly sexy. “So, where do we start, Luc?” “We start with dinner, tomorrow night at eight.” He handed her a business card. “I’ll pick you up at seven thirty.” Printed on a dark gold background, she read the plain script. The only things printed on there were Inferno, Luc Campbell and a phone number. Dinner was the last thing she expected. Leather, whips and a seedy motel maybe, but not dinner. A little stunned, Tessa fingered the card and nodded. “Tomorrow it is then.”

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Chapter Three Driving through the lush neighborhood, Luc contemplated his surroundings. The streets were lined with picket fences and oak trees. The gardens neatly trimmed and tidy. It was a far cry from his humble beginnings in Texas. Shaking off thoughts of his past, he lost himself picturing Tessa. Tessa at the club—feisty, fighting off the dickhead who thought he could put his hands on her body. Tessa sitting behind the desk in her office— cool, calm, collected. Professional. The look on her face when she mistook him for a gigolo. Tessa pliant in his arms—the taste of her innocence, the reaction of her body to his touch. Already there were so many images of her in his mind. Luc grinned. He looked forward to beginning their lessons. She would make a poor student, constantly fighting him. He knew from the way she resisted him at the club. It was his duty to gain her trust, something he looked forward to achieving. He glanced at the lilies on the passenger seat. Usually, in a situation such as this, he would bring roses. A dozen red ones. But in Tessa’s office, he’d seen a number of lily paintings. The flower suited her. Elegant, regal, virginal—at least to the BDSM scene. The woman fascinated him on a number of levels. Beautiful, intelligent, yet she fought her base desires. He would enjoy the challenge her initiation provided. In one month, Tessa would be ready to live the sexual lifestyle of a submissive. If 23

Devil’s Dance she chose to. After their arrangement ended, she could choose any dom she wished. The thought of her with another man, another dominant, a master who commanded her body in every sense, set off stabs of jealousy. Why should he be jealous? She was just a way for him to get back into the scene. There would be no lasting relationship between them. They had a contract, nothing more. He didn’t want to get involved. Relationships were messy. He avoided mess. He liked his nice, comfortable life without entanglements. Yet Tessa had an innocence he wanted to exploit, a glimmer of submission he wanted to keep to himself. Not wanting to analyze such complex emotions, especially not tonight, he switched on the radio. Classical music blared out, the moody yet seductive tones fitting. Seeing Tessa’s house, he slowed down and pulled into the driveway. Luc knew she was surprised at the dinner invite. Tonight he would tantalize her senses. Gain her trust. Reaching for the flowers, he slipped a hand into his pocket and fingered the black, silk blindfold. Tonight was just the beginning. **** Toying with her hair, Tessa lifted up a stray bang and sprayed. She aimed for sultry, funky and sexy. What she got was bed hair, messy and very unsexy. Letting out a squeal of frustration, she started again. She hated this, the nerves of a first date. Glancing at the clock, she smoothed down the front of her black shift dress. He would be here shortly. If he made it on time. After Luc’s proposal, Tessa had changed her mind a dozen times. She couldn’t give herself sexually to a complete stranger. 24

Scarlett Sanderson Could she? The question plagued her dreams and every waking moment since making the deal. What the hell was she doing? She was a professional. A sex therapist at that. If a client came to her with this situation, she’d tell them to think deeply about the decision. As long as they were safe, Tessa usually encouraged clients to pursue whatever made them happy. She realized now how much that advice was a crock of shit. The doorbell rang, invading her thoughts. Too late to back out now—he was here. Taking a deep breath and one last look in the mirror, she walked downstairs and opened the door. Luc stood on her porch, leaning casually against the railings, one hand in his pocket, the other holding a bunch of white lilies. The grin lighting up his face melted her body into a pool of swooning female jelly. She almost let out a sigh. Almost. Silently chiding herself for acting like a lovesick teenager, she stepped out and joined him. “Hi. I guess those are for me?” “Actually they’re for the nice old lady next door, but since you got to me first, I guess you can have them.” He handed her the flowers. The mischief dancing in his eyes made them sparkle, and she laughed despite her nerves. Leading him through the house, she told him, “Mrs. Madison is more of a roses girl.” Filling a vase with water, she unwrapped the flowers and arranged them. It felt good to have something to do with her hands. He looked devastatingly handsome. The midnight blue suit and black button-down shirt suited him. She could just make out wisps of dark hair peeking from beneath his open collar. She imagined ripping open his shirt and licking her 25

Devil’s Dance way across his chest, a voyage of discovery to see if the lush dark hair really did go all the way down. “And you prefer lilies?” Turning, she gave him a weak smile. “I’ve always been a little unconventional.” He leaned in and toyed with a strand of her hair. She could smell his cologne. Something woodsy, spicy and oh-so-masculine. “Lucky for me.” He held out a hand. “You ready to go?” Was she? Hell no. That didn’t stop her from slipping her hand into his. His grip was firm and warm. Electrifying. One small touch sent electrical zings sounding off in her nerve endings. At that moment, they could have plugged her into the national grid and she would have lit up the entire U.S.A. Tessa gulped. If that was one mere touch, what would sex with Luc do to her system? Yikes! “Let me just grab my purse, and I’m all set.” He smiled an oh-so-knowing smile that said he was the wolf and she was poor little red riding hood, waiting to be eaten. Well…she was waiting to be eaten, but in an entirely different sense. A blush rode high on her cheekbones. She locked up, and Luc escorted her to his car. He held open the door like a true gentleman. Her thigh brushed against his as she slipped into the passenger seat and she heard him moan. The whole sexual attraction thing wasn’t a one-way street after all. Tonight was definitely going to be interesting. **** The restaurant was a small, chic place she’d read about in magazines. It had rave reviews. What struck her most was the intimacy. Small booths, big enough for two to four people, lined the walls. Most of them were full. 26

Scarlett Sanderson Once they were seated in a booth of their own, menus in hand, Tessa told Luc, “This is a nice place. I never had the chance to eat here.” He wasn’t looking at the menu. He stared at her instead, watching her every move as if fascinated. “I’ve been here a few times. It’s a good place. Great food. Nice atmosphere. Friendly. Discreet.” She nearly asked what he meant by discreet, but the waiter came to take their order. With the wine poured, they were once again alone. Tessa took a small sip of her wine. It wouldn’t do to gulp it down. She didn’t want Luc to think her a drunk. He already thought her the kind of gal who made sexual deals with strangers. “So, I guess we should talk about this arrangement.” Despite the smart suit, the fancy car and the expensive restaurant, Luc had ordered a bottled beer. He reached for it. Condensation ran down the frosted glass, and he trailed a finger up, catching the droplet of moisture. Tessa’s gaze followed his finger as he slipped it into his mouth, sucking suggestively. Everything about this guy screamed sex. Her pussy clenched and tightened. She squeezed her knees together, and a slither of moisture gathered in the crotch of her panties. An image of Luc between her legs, sucking her clit in the moist cavern of his mouth, flashed into her mind. His tongue coating her nether lips as he gave her pussy long, languid licks. “We’ll get to that.” Lifting the bottle, he took a sip. “How about we start with something simple. Something normal, like your work, life, friends, family. The usual stuff.” Fascinated by the way his lips fit around the top of the bottle, she took a while to answer. “Something normal…” She reached for something to tell him. “You already know I’m a sex therapist.” 27

Devil’s Dance She sipped at her wine between statements. “I have a mother and a father in Boston. No siblings. I have a few ‘best’ friends, a number of acquaintances.” Luc raised an eyebrow. “Lovers?” Choking on her wine, she spit some of it back into the glass. Not very classy, but hell, he’d just asked a very personal question. Something she did everyday to her clients. Now that the tables were turned, she mentally squirmed in her seat. “Lovers. Well…yes…I’ve had lovers.” Luc leaned back and toyed with the beer label. “How many lovers?” “Two, three maybe.” “How many, Tessa?” She shrugged, a nonchalant gesture, hoping to appear more casual than she actually felt. “Two. One in college. One more recently.” “And why did that end?” “Look.” Anger began to bubble. “I really don’t think that is any of your business.” Quick as lightening he reached out and grabbed her wrist. The gesture should have been menacing, but it wasn’t. Instead, it felt erotic. His fingertips caressed her pulse point. “It is my business. More than you think. As your dominant, I need to know everything that’s happened in your sexual past. I need to know how far to go. We need to have mutual trust.” She gave him a withering stare. “I know about submission and dominance, Luc. I’m a sex therapist, remember?” He grinned. “How could I forget? So, Doctor, tell me what you know about BDSM.” It was her turn to raise an eyebrow. “We’ll get to that later. First I want to know about Luc Campbell.” “Nothing much to tell.” She nodded at his beer. “You drink beer from a 28

Scarlett Sanderson bottle. Not expensive beer, but average guy beer. Yet you wear extremely expensive suits and drive a car costing more than my house. You frequent BDSM clubs, yet you feel no need to indulge yourself in the fashion of the scene. You, Luc, are an enigma.” Laughing at her analysis, Luc started to answer. The waiter interrupted, bringing their meal. The scent of hot, spicy food made her stomach growl. Luc looked at her, and she pressed a hand to her traitorous stomach, apologizing for the noise. “Please, never apologize for your body’s needs.” They ate in pleasurable silence. Occasionally the other would speak, making small talk about the exquisite taste of the food or the awful weather. Once the meal was over and dessert had been served, Luc continued their conversation. “I drink beer from a bottle because it was the way I was taught to drink beer back in my home town.” He raised a beer in mock salute. “We Texans know how to appreciate a fine brew.” She laughed as he mimicked a heavy Texas accent. “Sometimes I like to wear nice suits. I’m a guy, so obviously I like to drive nice cars. I used to frequent BDSM clubs, now I just stick the small parties run by friends and Inferno. I don’t feel the need to wear the ‘clothes of the scene,’ because when I’m working, I like to keep things semiprofessional.” He tipped his beer in her direction. “See, I ain’t an enigma. Just a normal guy from Texas, trying to make a living.” “Working? You work at Inferno?” She wondered what he did. Bartender? Manager? Stage show organizer? “Why, sugar, I don’t just work there. This Texas hick owns the joint.” 29

Devil’s Dance She tried, and failed miserably, to hide her surprise. “I’m sorry. It’s just…well…I never expected…” “You never expected a young, handsome guy like myself to also have a brain?” She grinned at his self-depreciating humor. “Something like that. So Inferno is yours?” He nodded. “Lock, stock and dungeons worth of goods.” “Impressive. I hear it’s doing well.” “I get by.” He drummed his fingertips on the table. Once. Twice. “Now, I answered your questions. Time for you to answer mine. What do you know of BDSM, Tessa?” She settled back into her seat. The booths were very plush. Anyone could feel at home here. Although other couples were in the room, Tessa felt like they were alone in their own private world. They really got the atmosphere right in this place. “Dominance and submission is all about trust. Mutual trust. It is about consent and pleasure, for both parties.” She smiled. “I could give you a whole text book analysis of the lifestyle, but I know it would bore you.” She pushed back a stray strand of hair. “Now tell me what you know on the subject.” She imagined from his experiences he knew a whole lot. An image of him as a kinky dungeon master, top to toe in leather, complete with mask and wooden paddle, flashed into her mind. If she were honest, it wasn’t a bad image. “A relationship of this kind is grounded in mutual respect, and as you said, trust. Ultimately, it is the submissive who holds the most power. Or that’s the way it should be. In a perfect relationship, the submissive should be proud to submit to her dominant, while the dom should be proud to receive the gift of submission. A good dominant should know his sub’s needs, anticipate 30

Scarlett Sanderson them. Trust and respect are the key issues.” Obviously, he knew a lot. Unprepared for the stabs of jealousy that coursed through her body, Tessa couldn’t stop herself from blurting, “How many women have submitted to you in the past, Luc?” If he said hundreds, she was out the door. His eyes spoke volumes, I know exactly what you are asking, Tessa. She looked for a chance to escape. Though the meal so far hadn’t included any talk of sex, she became increasingly aware of Luc’s presence. Every shift of his body caught her eye, from the way his fingers literally danced across his beer bottle to the graceful shrug of shoulders. Every time he smiled, her gaze gravitated to his lips. He just oozed sex and masculinity. At times she wanted to defy his effect on her. She wanted to walk out, cancel the arrangement and never look back. The rest of the time, the majority of the time, she wanted to drop to her knees, nip at his ankles and scream, “Take me now!” “I choose my partners carefully. There have only been a few over the years. All of those have been long term. I’m not in the habit of using kink as a cheap trick to get laid.” A dazzling grin made him look like the devil incarnate. “I can get laid all by myself.” Usually arrogance in a man made her roll her eyes and groan. It suited him, mainly because she knew he spoke the truth. Luc Campbell was the type of man women threw their panties at. “Hmph. I have no doubt.” Tessa frowned. She drummed her fingers on the table gently, gnawing at her lower lip. “So, why did you choose me? How did you find me for a start? I didn’t tell you my name at the club. In fact, I don’t recall talking about anything personal.” He titled his head to the side, pondering for 31

Devil’s Dance the length of several anxious heartbeats. “Why did I choose you? How could I not?” His gaze locked with hers, bored into her intently. The power of his gaze branded her soul, the conviction in his voice made her heart pound with nervous excitement. “You were so pliant in my hands. I could have done anything I wanted to you.” The grin spread across his face. “And you would have let me.” “I don’t think—” “I don’t mind you lying to me, but don’t lie to yourself, Tessa. You were like warm clay, ready to be molded.” He shrugged. “As for how I found you? Simple. Inferno takes camera shots of everyone who walks through the doors. I scanned in the image and did a net search. It’s amazing what you can find on there these days.” “But why? Why go to all that trouble.” Her voice sounded needy even to her. She should mentally kick herself, but deep down she really wanted to know. “I wanted you.” Who knew three little words could mean so much? Flushed with a strange sense of pride, and a whole lot of sexual attraction, she was lost for words. What did a woman say to that? Thank you very much, now get out of those pants so I can see if the bulge really is that big… The subconscious mind could be a traitorous thing. His voice shattered her erotic thoughts. “I think it’s time for your first lesson in the ways of submission.”

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Chapter Four Luc unfolded his body from the booth, and Tessa quickly swept her gaze around the restaurant. None of the patrons were taking any notice of them. Whatever lesson he had planned for her initial submission, they wouldn’t be disturbed. He slid into the seat next to hers. His warmth seeped into her. His breath on her neck made her body tingle with anticipation. An arm across her shoulders, he leaned in. “Trust is the most important element in our relationship. I’m asking you to trust me, Tessa. Right here. Right now. Put your trust in me.” Nuzzling the strands of her hair, he inhaled her scent, and gooseflesh rose all over her skin. Electric zings went into overdrive, setting her senses alight with barely contained desire. Her breathing hitched. Blood pulsed through her; her heart beat wildly in her chest. She missed this, this animal attraction. The base desire to fuck, to be taken, to give up control to someone else. She swallowed hard, trying to find her voice inside a barren mouth. “Right now? What did you have in mind?” “Trust me, Tessa.” Reaching into his pocket, Luc pulled out a piece of thin, black silk. Fascination coiled inside her as he fingered it gently, rubbing the silk between his thumb and forefinger. She imagined him rubbing those graceful fingers against her skin, rolling her nipples, pinching them into hard, puckered buds before taking them into his warm, expectant mouth. 33

Devil’s Dance Nodding her consent, she gave herself over to him. Luc. Her sexual dominant. After this lesson, her dominant is exactly what he would be. Could she handle it? Her heartbeat thundered around her body, beat loudly, throbbed against the flesh of her clit. Right now she’d die of sexual frustration if he didn’t do something. Anything. All the thoughts, doubts and emotions could wait. Right now she wanted his hands on her. Any way she could get them. She watched him raise the silk and gasped as the material covered her eyes. Although it was silk, the dark color blocked out her vision. No outline of Luc or the other restaurant patrons was visible. She was blind to the world. Instinct made her lift her hands. She wanted to touch the silk, reassure herself. “Do not touch the blindfold, Tessa.” His tone was different, more authoritarian. It sent shivers down her spine. “Concentrate on your other senses. Trust them. Smell. Hearing. Touch. People often rely on sight too much. Trust in me.” “It feels strange.” Her fingers itched to finger the silk, but she resisted. A large part of her wanted to touch just to see how he would react. Was Luc strict? Would he punish her? Was that something he was into? This voyage of discovery into the unknown was both thrilling and exciting. “The strangeness comes from giving up some measure of control to me.” He tied the blindfold securely behind her head. As he did so, her nose bumped against his chest. His solid, muscular chest. “You have no idea what I’m going to do. You’re at my mercy.” Tessa caught a hint of amusement in his last statement. She gave him a wry smile, rolling her eyes behind the blindfold. “Well, as long as you don’t start bearing my breasts to the world.” 34

Scarlett Sanderson “I think we’ll leave that till you get to know me a little better.” Of course she’d been joking. A niggling feeling in the back of her mind told her he wasn’t. “So what—” “Stop talking, Tessa.” Again the domineering voice was back. “Listen to the sounds around you. Inhale the scents. Concentrate on me. On us.” She did exactly as he asked, losing herself in the spicy scents wafting from the kitchen, the quiet chatter of the other patrons. She flinched from surprise when he ran a fingertip down her cheek. “Relax. Enjoy.” She resisted the urge to moan as his finger trailed down her cheek. Lower. Lower. Tracing her jaw line, lower still, running a soft path down the V in her shirt. It was a crowded restaurant; people would stare. Maybe they already were. His lips followed the same path as his fingertips, and her thought process went array. Soft and skilled they trailed across her skin, leaving a blaze behind. His touch seared her, ignited the flame of desire to epic proportions. Not even in her wildest fantasies—and there had been some pretty wild ones—had she imagined it would be like this. Her nerve endings tingled. When his lips reached the tender patch of skin between her neck and jawbone, Tessa whimpered. She felt him smile, and she murmured a curse. His teeth nipped, gently at first, then firmer. Hard enough to leave a mark? A brand? His brand? His tongue soothed the spot, and all thought stopped. Her body reacted on animal instinct. Her nipples beaded against the cups of her bra. Her clit throbbed, begging to be touched. Emotion took over. She gripped the table to keep from sliding to the floor. She’d become boneless, a mass of tingling nerves and throbbing desire. 35

Devil’s Dance She had to touch him, know if he was affected. Slipping a hand between their bodies, Tessa took her fingers on a voyage of discovery across uncharted territory. The material of his pants was rough against the palm of her hand. She squeezed, unable to resist, and felt the muscle as hard as steel. She wondered if the rest of him was as taut, as hard. Shivering at the thought, Tessa moved her hand up his thigh, slid it slowly across his groin. He groaned against her throat, and she felt it all the way to her toes. Finally, after an age, Tessa curled her fingers around the treasure she’d been seeking. His hard cock strained against the zipper of his pants. She cupped him and began sliding her palm up and down, up and down, adding more pressure with each stroke. Wetness on the thin material, a sure sign of his heightened state of arousal, dampened her fingers. The fact that Luc wasn’t wearing underwear made her smile. Beneath his prissy, conservative suit he was naked as a jay bird. She gave a throaty laugh. “Commando.” Gripping her wrist, Luc removed her hand and placed her palm on the table. “Commando, yes. But you must not touch me without permission. Is that understood?” His lips moved to her ear, his tongue rimmed the outer shell. “Tessa?” Moisture slithered between her thighs, and Tessa thanked God she wore pantyhose. Never had she been so wet, so turned on by kisses and a few heated words. By the touch, feel, scent of Luc. By her dominant. He turned away to murmur a request to the waiter, and she missed his heat. This guy was prepossessing, sex personified. What better way to awaken her sexuality than the sexually magnetic Luc Campbell? Still, the doubts crept in. Fear of losing herself, of losing control, were rife. What had Luc 36

Scarlett Sanderson said earlier, to submit was a gift? Could she give that gift to Luc? Could she ever be proud to submit? “You’ve been good so far.” Luc stroked her hair. “A very willing student.” A warm hand slipped under the hem of her skirt, caressed the inside of her knee and inched higher. “Are you ready for the next stage?” She was ready. More than ready. She was locked, loaded and ready to fire on all pistons. Despite her readiness, she gave a nervous laugh. “Unless it’s full on, down and dirty intercourse right here on the table, I think I’m ready.” “Open your mouth. Part your lips slightly.” She did as he commanded. The tone of his voice wasn’t a request. The taste of champagne and strawberries burst across her taste buds, tangy and sweet at the same time. The heady mixture tantalized her senses. The gesture was so simple, so erotic, it pushed her body into sensory overload. She nibbled on the forbidden fruit while he cooed at her, called her a good girl. She was dependent on him. She had to trust in him. Bizarrely, she trusted him implicitly. Swallowing the fruit, she grinned, waiting expectantly for his approval. See, she could be a good submissive. “Very good, Tessa. You learn quickly.” He nuzzled her neck again, kissed her collarbone, nipped at her earlobe. A flush of pride added to the flush of desire. His praise made her want to dance on the tables. She wondered if her clients felt this way when they finally submitted a part of themselves to their partners, be they full-fledged masters or kinky guys like Luc. He untied the blindfold. She blinked to 37

Devil’s Dance accustom her eyes to the light and blushed, focusing on his smiling face. He literally beamed. His eyes, however, remained predatory, glistening orbs in the dim light. “Kiss me.” The words came tripping off her tongue in desperation. She wanted him to kiss her. She wanted to feel his fiery heat, his velvet-soft lips against hers, his tongue in her mouth. Seeking, exploring, dominating. Titling his head to the side, Luc licked his lower lip. His gazed dropped to hers. As he stared, she couldn’t resist the urge to moisten them. Lifting his hand, he ran the pad of his thumb across the droplets of moisture, swiping them away. “Not yet, Tessa. That’s a pleasure for another time.” Instead, he kissed the tip of her nose and flashed a wicked grin. “Here endeth the first lesson.”

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Scarlett Sanderson

Chapter Five Tessa lay in bed contemplating the events of the last few days. Although she felt tired, sleep eluded her. The rain beat a steady rhythm against the windowpane. It was a damp, murky Saturday morning. Usually she would spend the morning luxuriating in not having to get up at the crack of dawn. It was the one day she allowed herself indulgence. Today her mind ticked over, replayed events and conjured up feelings she felt during dinner three nights ago. Luc hadn’t called. Maybe she’d done something wrong. No matter how much she replayed the evening, nothing she recalled could have turned him off. Maybe it was just her. Maybe she wasn’t attractive enough. Maybe she wasn’t submissive enough for his tastes. He hadn’t even kissed her. “Arrggghhh!” She plumped the pillow violently, pulling it over her head. The what ifs and buts were driving her insane. Dwelling on a guy was a new experience. In previous situations, Tessa didn’t care whether they called or not. She simply got on with her own life. She was an independent woman with a busy schedule. No man made her doubt herself. Until Luc. Throwing back the covers, she swung her legs over the side of the bed. No good wallowing in self pity all day. A ton of paperwork needed to be caught up on. The mindless drudge of work would do wonders for sexual frustration. 39

Devil’s Dance Yeah, right. Just as she headed for the shower the phone rang. Picking up the receiver, she cradled it between her ear and shoulder blade. “Hello?” “Morning, Tessa.” The deep, smooth voice sent tingles all the way to her toes. Damn, if his voice could do that, she was in serious trouble. Not about to let on she’d been thinking about him, Tessa asked, “And who might I be speaking to?” Pride could be a real bitch. His answer came as a rich, throaty laugh. “That’s good. I like that. A bit of fire in my women.” “Oh, Mr. Campbell, what a pleasure to hear from you again.” Her icy tone would have made the Snow Queen proud. “Believe me, darlin’, the pleasure is all mine.” His accent became pure Texan. It melted some of the ice from her tone. She really was a sucker for Texans. “What can I do for you?” A silent pause. “Come over to my place.” He gave her the address. “It’s time for your next lesson.” Lifting the receiver from her ear, she glared at it. No call for days and then suddenly he expected her to drop everything and rush over? What was she, some kind of booty call? “So, I’m just supposed to drop everything because you’re feeling horny and thought to yourself, ‘Hmmm, which tasty piece of ass haven’t I tried? Oh, I know, I’ll call Tessa’?” “A submissive should never question her dominant.” He spoke the words through gritted teeth. “Screw that, Mister Campbell. You treat me with some slither of respect or this whole deal is off.” Deep down, the sexually repressed part of her 40

Scarlett Sanderson soul cried out for the deal to continue. She wanted to see him, but Tessa Connolly was no man’s doormat. She heard Luc sigh. In frustration? Or because his booty call was over? “I’m sorry. I have no excuse for not calling. I wanted to give you some space.” Again he paused. “Please come over.” The ‘please’ undid her. She sighed into the receiver. “Okay. What do you want me to wear?” If this was her second lesson, she wanted to be prepared. Would he take her out? Would it be another restaurant for lunch? The club? “You have an overcoat?” She frowned. “Sure.” “Wear that, nothing else.” “What!” “I said wear nothing underneath. Come to me now, Tessa. Don’t keep me waiting. This is your second lesson. What we agreed. Don’t disobey me.” His tone became more forceful. Commanding. Yet he couldn’t disguise the laughter in it. Glancing at her closet, she located the overcoat. It was black and made of wool. Luckily the hem was long and reached the floor. Despite her reservations, the idea of being forced to wear nothing underneath secretly thrilled her. It had always been a forbidden fantasy. “I’ll be there.” Replacing the phone on the cradle, Tessa sighed again. He’d called. He’d apologized. He’d commanded. Steeling her spine, she padded over to the closet. Excitement and nerves coursed through her. She wondered what Luc Campbell had planned today. Pulling the coat off the hanger, she headed to the bathroom. Time to get primped and primed for her next lesson. A smile twitched at her lips, and she dashed into the shower like a schoolgirl on a 41

Devil’s Dance first date.

**** Luc put down the phone and grinned. She was coming. Finally. One minute she frustrated the hell out of him with her stubborn streak, the next his cock was so hard he could barely walk. Flopping into an oversized chair, Luc stretched his legs out onto the coffee table and picked up a glass of bourbon. Sipping, he winced as the liquid burned a path down to his stomach. The clock hadn’t struck midday but what the hell, he needed a stiff drink. Shifting in his seat, he winced. The drink wasn’t the only thing stiff. A voice on the radio sang about desire and a deep-seated lust. Luc could relate. Tessa Connolly was under his skin. At first she’d been a fascination, a challenge. After the dinner date, she’d become something more. Closing his eyes, he pressed the heel of his hand against his forehead, hoping to ease the ache. Maybe the alcohol didn’t help. Tessa. Tessa. Tessa. It wasn’t just her need to submit, it was everything. Her stubborn streak, the sexy way she toyed with strands of her hair, the small frown creasing her brow when she was angry. The woman plagued his every waking thought, not to mention his every erotic fantasy. None of his other partners affected him so quickly. He hadn’t wanted to possess them as much as he wanted to possess her. Snorting in disgust, Luc took another hit of bourbon. Life always knew how to throw a curve ball. Tessa was supposed to be a means to an end. A way to get back into the scene. He wasn’t supposed to feel for her. In essence, he had no clue what he felt for her, but there was something. Something intimate, something more than just a dominant giving lessons to a willing submissive. 42

Scarlett Sanderson Every time he thought of her with another master, he wanted to do major damage to the nearest wall. “You are so screwed.” Figuratively and hopefully...literally. What seemed liked hours later, the doorbell chimed, saving him from wallowing in his own thoughts any longer. A glance at the clock made him wonder what took her so long. Unfolding himself from the chair, Luc padded through the house to the front door. Unlatching it, he pulled it open a fraction and waited for his eyes to adjust to the change in lighting. Outside, the weather matched his mood— damp, wet, dark. The wait had been worth it. Tessa stood, framed against the light, shoulders slightly hunched as she brushed speckles of rain from her all black coat. His gaze trailed down the length of material. The coat was set in a Japanese Geisha style. Its high-necked collar made sure her body was covered from neck to foot. The only skin on show was the pale skin of her ankles. When he caught a glimpse of black high heeled stilettos, he laughed. The coat might be practical, but the shoes were real showy. It made him wonder what she wore beneath. He’d commanded her to stay naked. Had his stubborn Tessa followed his command? His laughter drew her gaze. Behind her eyes, he saw the spark of recognition, of desire mirroring his own. “Tessa. Come in.” He opened the door wide and allowed her to step in. She looked at his glass and raised an eyebrow. “Little early to be hitting the bottle, isn’t it?” He flashed her a wicked grin. “Never too early for a snifter of fine whiskey.” He whirled the glass under her nose. “Here, have a sip. It’ll warm your bones. Or so my momma used to tell me.” She eyed the glass warily. A few heartbeats 43

Devil’s Dance later she took it from him and swallowed the remaining alcohol. The grimace as the liquor went down made Luc chuckle. He loved a woman who didn’t shy away from anything. Tessa was one of those women. Does that mean you love her? He scowled and silenced the voice in his head. “Feeling warmer?” Tessa shivered and shook her head. “I think my brains just dropped out.” Blinking rapidly, she focused her gaze. “That’s some good malt.” Luc gave a mock tip of his imaginary cowboy hat. “Only the finest for us Texans, ma’am.” “Yeah, yeah. I’ve heard it all before, cowboy.” She patted her short black hair, smoothing wet strands from her forehead. The movement lifted her breasts, and Luc growled. Like a curtain falling, he didn’t feel playful anymore. Instead he felt wild, feral. He felt the need to take, command, dominate. Tessa just happened to be his prey. Moving toward her like a predator closing in for the kill, Luc fingered the buttons on her coat. He rolled them between his fingers and imagined rolling her nipples in the same way. A devilish grin curled the edges of his lips. “Ready for lesson two?” Biting her lower lip, Tessa nodded. “Good.” Slowly he moved his hand across her shoulder, caressing his way down her arm. Twining his fingers with hers, he led her through the house. It was time to up the ante in his game of seduction. Seduction? Where did that come from? Luc scowled, thankful that Tessa couldn’t see his expression. When had it moved from scratching a mutual itch to seduction? “You have a nice house, Luc.” Her words broke his thoughts. Once again 44

Scarlett Sanderson thankful for the distraction he turned his head, answering her with a smile. “Glad you think so.” Onward they moved, through rooms, hallways. Luc knew it was pure hedonism to have a house this large. Five bedrooms was more than enough to accommodate his lone ass. Most of the time he just rattled around in the place. Most of the rooms never got used. One room had seen more than its fair share of action, though not in a while. In a few minutes, Tessa would see the room for herself. He couldn’t wait for her reaction. Would she be shocked, or would she embrace it like everything else he had offered her? “I hope you like this room. It’s where your real submission will begin.” Stopping outside a plain, wooden door, he turned and cupped Tessa’s expectant face between his hands. Smoothing the pale skin of her cheekbones, he asked “You ready?” She answered with a hesitant ‘yes,’ and Luc opened the door. **** Tessa blinked. The rest of the house had been contemporary but minimalist. This room was beyond anything she could have imagined. The walls were a dark, dark red, covered with erotic fetish photographs. A large wooden bondage table stood in the center of the room. Complete with leather stirrups, its polished walnut frame gleamed. The black vinyl upholstery shone. She closed her mouth, realizing too late it gaped open. One second later and spittle would have flowed out. Sweeping her gaze from the table, she saw various other bondage equipment. Some she recognized, some she didn’t. Tilting her head to the side, she contemplated one strange contraption, wondering how the hell it could be used for pleasure. It looked like something from the Inquisition. She pointed at it and turned to 45

Devil’s Dance look at Luc. “My lesson doesn’t include that, does it?” From the chuckle he gave, Tessa knew her face held a look of pure horror. “No, my stubborn little slave. That is for someone…” he stopped, searching for the right word, “…more experienced in the ways of bondage and submission. As your master, I’m just trying to get you to submit.” Not so easy as it seems, huh, mister? She couldn’t help her defiance. Her nature was to be dominant. To take control. Who knew submitting would be so damn hard? She rolled her eyes and took a deep breath. “Okay. I promise to play nice today.” She opened her arms wide and walked into the room. “I’m all yours to do with what you will.” Turning, she flashed Luc a wicked smile before clasping her hands, lowering her eyes and bowing. “Master.” Stepping into the room behind her, he closed the door. The sound reverberated around, followed by utter silence. Soundproofing. She was reminded of an old movie quote—in space no one can hear you scream. Yeah, no one would hear her scream. Whether that was bad or good had yet to be determined. Although she trusted Luc, she still wasn’t one hundred percent certain about this BDSM thing. “Take off your coat.” He leaned against the door, arms crossed over his chest. Locking her gaze to his, Tessa slowly, seductively, undid the buttons one by one. Keeping the coat closed until she reached the last button, she bent one knee, sliding her foot up onto tiptoes. The material parted, and she flashed him a peek of bare flash. Luc might be a dominant, but she could enjoy making him squirm. “Take it off now, Tessa.” His tone was low, guttural. 46

Scarlett Sanderson Just when she’d been enjoying herself, he had to go and be all commanding on her. Typical man. But then, she was here to learn submission. “Is that a command, Master?” He nodded. Clasping the material at her breasts, she shrugged the heavy coat off her shoulders. As it dropped, she released her grip, letting the coat fall into a pool at her feet. He slowly raked his gaze over her body. His chest heaved. His nostrils flared. He liked what he saw. He pushed away from the door and stalked toward her with a predatory dark gleam in his eyes. The look sent fire through her body right down to her clit. It throbbed in time to her heartbeat. Moisture began to gather between her thighs. Her mouth went dry. Her nipples beaded. “I told you not to wear anything except the coat.” Defiant to the last, Tessa had picked out a red and black jacquard, strapless corset that accentuated her curves. Not even at his command would she go au natural. She wasn’t that bold. The matching scrap of material that covered her pussy was soaked through. The heady scent of musk filled her nostrils, and she was sure he could smell her desire, know she was turned on. He rubbed his thumb across her exposed collarbone. “I like this. But next time, when I tell you not to wear something, don’t wear it. Understood, slave?” Before she could answer, Luc dipped his head and sampled her skin with his lips. He sipped at her shoulder like it was a fine wine. His kisses were like whispers. Tessa lost all rational thought. Whatever he wanted, he could have. “Understood, Master.” Her body cried out for his. Her brain screamed at him to kiss her, touch her, taste her, fuck her. 47

Devil’s Dance She whimpered when he circled her and banded one arm around her waist, pulling her ass against his heavy erection. “Submit to me, Tessa. Please. Today. Now.” His other hand squeezed her breast, massaging the fleshy globe, rubbing the heel of his hand over her nipple. It distended even more. The arm around her waist moved lower, and his hand cupped her pussy. She felt the heat of his palm against her heat and moaned. Too much. It was all too much. She became one mass of aching nerve endings. “Yes. Yes, I submit. I give you my submission.” A hand moved between her thighs, putting delicious pressure on her pubic bone in the process. Tessa rocked her hips against him. “Dominate me. Please, Luc!” He was relentless in his ministrations. He strummed her pounding clit. She bit her lip, needing to come. He worried his thumb against the tiny bud, circling it, pressing it against her pubic bone. The delicious pressure became too much. The tingling in her clit burst through her body. All her nerves ending spiked. She closed her eyes, threw her head back against Luc’s shoulder and cried out. It had been so long since she’d had a man. The emotions Luc unleashed made her want to weep. She’d never been so turned on, so aroused by a man’s touch. He continued to rub her gently, the aftershocks sending tiny bursts of pleasure into her system. She felt thoroughly sated. “Now the fun part begins.” Fun? Hell, she’d thought that had been fun. What else did he have planned? Sweeping her up like she weighed nothing, Luc carried her to the bondage table. Laying her down face up, he fixed the stirrups in place, 48

Scarlett Sanderson binding her hands and feet. She lay spread-eagle. Open to him, vulnerable. The doubt and fear must have been evident in her eyes because he leaned forward and placed a tender kiss on her lips. “Trust me.” Moving away from her, he stood, looking down. Lifting a hand to his nose, he sniffed. “God, I love the scent of your pussy.” He licked his fingers and almost purred. “You taste as good as you look.” Tessa swallowed. His coarse words turned her on. The look in his eyes became serious. “Before we start there are a few technical things we need to get sorted.” He wanted to talk safety now? Tessa couldn’t believe he’d tied her up, primed her engine and then wanted to talk. She gritted her teeth and let out a growl of frustration. “Make it quick.” This drew a smile from Luc. “Patience, Tessa. I am the top, you the bottom. Do you understand those terms?” She rolled her eyes. “Yes, Luc. I understand the terminology. As a sex therapist, I have to. I know what they mean, I just haven’t experienced them.” He nodded. “Good. As a top you know it’s my right to dominate you, to bring you to the brink of pleasure and beyond.” When she nodded, he continued. “All dominants and submissives have a safe word. One the submissive can use in case they become uncomfortable at any time or experience any pain beyond what is pleasurable.” He frowned. “I do not want to hurt you, Tessa. Ever. This arrangement is purely for our mutual pleasure. So I want you to give me a safe word. Any word. But as soon as you use it, I’ll stop. Whatever it is we’re doing, wherever we are, you use it and I’ll stop. Okay? It’s my duty as a master to respect your wishes.” 49

Devil’s Dance “Pandora.” Tessa knew he might ask for a safe word, it was standard BDSM practice. “Pandora is my safe word.” Luc cocked an eyebrow. “As in Pandora’s box?” Tessa blushed. “Yeah. As in Pandora, who got curious and opened the box, hence unleashing sin into the world.” He reached for her calf and caressed the muscle. “I can promise you, the only sin we’ll be releasing is our own.” His comment made them both laugh. “Those are specially made restraints. One real hard tug and they will unbuckle.” He stared into her eyes intently. “You ready, Tessa?” She lowered her eyes like a good little submissive. “I’m ready. Master.” She loved adding the ‘Master’ to the end of sentences. It was obvious Luc liked it. It made her feel ready to submit to his will. “Then we’ll begin.” Fisting a handful of his sweater, Luc pulled the material up over his head. Tessa’s gazed dropped to his well sculpted chest. She drooled. It was impossible not to. The guy was buff, with a capital B. She’d known from the first moment she laid eyes on him in the club he was ripped, but this was something she’d been unprepared for. His torso was chiseled, dusted lightly with crisp, dark hair. Spreading halfway down his arm, across his left shoulder and onto his chest curled a dragon tattoo. The dragon looked vicious, with snarling teeth and breathing fire. The colors were amazing. It showcased his torso to perfection. She wanted to trace the contours of its lines with her tongue. Oh yeah, if she got the chance, she had plans for the tattoo. “Like what you see, slave?” He didn’t wait for an answer. “Good. A submissive should always find 50

Scarlett Sanderson her dominant sexually attractive.” That was the understatement of the year, but Tessa was mesmerized by him. He was hypnotic. He stalked toward her, holding her gaze. She shivered. His eyes promised untold amounts of pleasure. His hand gripped her ankle. She expected him to caress her calf like he’d done earlier. Instead, he ran his fingertips over one of her heels, fingering the lines of the instep, down to the pointed end of her toes, then back up, across and down the heel to very tip of the stiletto. “I should punish you for disobeying my command. You’d like me to punish you, wouldn’t you, Tessa?” He flicked off her heel and ran a fingertip quickly across the sole. Tessa groaned and curled her foot. Even one small flick of his fingers electrified her. “How do you want me to punish you, slave?” Luc wrapped his hand around her ankle, slowly, softly ran it up her calf, to her knee and beyond. Up to her thigh. This was as far as he’d gone in the restaurant, and she held her breath, waiting, praying for him to move his hand higher, to the ache in her pussy. Wicked mischief danced in his green eyes. Standing before her, he looked like the devil incarnate. “You think a good fuck is in order? Think you could handle that punishment?” His hand moved higher still, and he fingered the edge of her thong. “Yesssss.” Her body burned for his. He spoke of punishment, but his slow ministrations were pure torture to her overly aroused body. “No, I think we’ll leave that for another time.” He moved his hand higher, leaving the ache and moving higher, higher, toward her breasts. She watched him shift positions. He spread his legs 51

Devil’s Dance and leaned over her. Deftly, he started to unhook the eye clasps of her corset. She sucked in air as he bared her breasts to the cool air. Already aching and distended, the coolness beaded her nipples to the point of pain. His eyes glistened, his tongue snaked out to touch the tip to his upper lip. Swooping down like a vulture after a meal, he latched onto one of her breasts. Taking the tender flesh into his warm, waiting mouth, Luc suckled. She felt the suction right down to her toes. Curling her fingers into fists, she willed herself not to break the bonds. What she really wanted to do was fist her hands into his luscious dark hair and drag his mouth to hers. But this was a lesson in submission. She’d chosen to be here, in this position, at his mercy. It turned her on like crazy, knowing she was truly at his mercy. Her body was his to command. Tracing an intricate pattern, his tongue swirled around and around her areola. At the same time his hand roughly manipulated her other breast. When he pulled back, he clasped the tight bud between his teeth and tugged. The stab of pain was bittersweet. No one had dared be so rough, yet she enjoyed it. More than enjoyed it. Her pussy answered with a flow of cream. He let the flesh go with a popping sound, and it bounced back into place. “Oh my god!” Her nipple throbbed. It felt exquisite. He laved the same attention on her other breast, and Tessa gave herself over to sensation, as his warm, wet tongue rasped across her heated skin. Whatever he wished, she’d give. It was unlike anything she’d ever experienced, and she loved it. The loss of sexual control was pure bliss. Luc worked his way down her torso with his hands and mouth, manipulating erogenous points she never knew existed. Almost reverently, he ran 52

Scarlett Sanderson a hand over her slightly rounded stomach. His teeth nipped at her hipbones, gently at first, then with more force. Nips she knew would leave a mark. As he used more force, ribbons of pleasure cascaded through her body. She never understood how pain could be a pleasure, but the threshold between the two was a very thin line. Only a man like Luc could understand that. Reaching her panty line, he slipped his fingers beneath the material, making room for his tongue to follow the same path. She felt his wet, warm tongue caressing the top of her curls. “Please. Please.” Tessa never begged for anything. Right now it came naturally. She wanted him to move lower, to pull her panties aside and thrust his tongue into her demanding pussy. He laughed, and she felt the reverberations in her core. His gaze met hers. “Is my slave anxious for me to fuck her?” She had never seen anything so erotic as his gaze boring into her. His tongue snaked out and licked her clit. She watched every movement, every subtle move of his tongue, feeling it in her core. He brought her to the brink of orgasm with that look. When he sat up, ceasing all contact, she wanted to scream in frustration. He really was punishing her. His gaze dropped to her thong and darkened. He let out a low growl. His feral tone thrilled her. “This has got to go.” Fisting the scrap of material, he ripped. She heard the elastic snap. “Luc!” His eyes burned with an overwhelming intensity. Despite the need in his eyes, he remained outwardly calm. His commanding aura never faltered, yet her resistance to submission crumbled with every passing second. Being in someone else’s control was a heady aphrodisiac, 53

Devil’s Dance one she didn’t want to fight anymore. “Master. I’m your master.” He delved between her thighs, lapping at her pussy like she was the finest ambrosia. He flattened his tongue to make long, lascivious strokes. Tessa whimpered, squeezed her eyes closed and lifted her hips, hoping to release some of the wild tension. She concentrated all her thoughts on one place—her pussy. Nothing mattered except the feel of his tongue. He moaned against her, the vibrations playing against her clit like a well-strung violin. “More!” Parting her slick folds with forefinger and thumb, he touched the tip of his tongue to the hardened nub of nerve endings. He pushed one finger inside her sopping wet opening, adding the friction she needed. Luc found a devastating rhythm of fingers and tongue that shattered her every emotion. She gasped, trying to suck in enough air to keep her lungs rising and falling. Her heart beat so fast, she thought it would explode out of her chest. He stopped long enough to choke out, “Who am I, slave?” Slowly, inch by inch, he dragged one thick finger out of her pussy. The slurping sound it made told her just how wet she really was. Not that she needed to be told, she could feel her juices flowing, running down her thighs in musky scented rivulets. “Master.” Her throaty reply was rewarded by Luc plunging his finger back inside to the hilt of his knuckle. “Do you submit your body to me?” He repeated the process of dragging his finger back out, this time curling the tip so it scrapped against her cleft. He thought she was still being stubborn. The scared woman frightened of losing 54

Scarlett Sanderson control. Maybe she was, but right now she wanted to give them both a gift, a gift of submission. Locking her gaze to his she nodded, placing as much conviction in her voice as she could muster given the circumstances. “Yes, Master.” If she thought his ministrations had been full force before, she’d been wrong. He attacked her pussy like a hungry man seeking a fine meal. Her master knew exactly how to make her body hum with pleasure. She reached higher and higher, climbing toward the delicious peek of orgasm she desperately craved. When he sucked her clit between his teeth, tugged, repeating the motion he had treated her nipples to, Tessa shot over the edge. Her toes curled, her back bowed. She rose up against the restraints. Her world became a mass of color as wave after orgasmic wave shot through her. She was in sexual heaven. **** Luc’s eyes glazed over, watching Tessa in the throes of orgasm. She was beautiful. A perfect womanly specimen, and he just wanted to eat her up. Her chest heaved, rising and falling rapidly as she came down from the blissful peak. Her eyelashes swept open, her pupils dilated before she fixed her gaze to his. A slow, lazy smile appeared on her lips. He couldn’t resist leaning down and tasting them. His cock was hard as stone, straining for its own release. “Enjoy yourself, slave?” She nodded and he chuckled. Poor woman was unable to speak. The thought did wonders for his ego. Waiting for her to recover, he caressed her body, ran his fingertips reverently across her smooth and very slick skin. There was one more thing he had planned before completing the first stage of her submission. His cock jerked in 55

Devil’s Dance response. Suitably recovered, Luc flipped the clasps on the restraints. He checked to see if the leather abraded her skin. The horse had been made by one of the best in the business, it was unlikely to have marked her, but he needed to check, to be sure he hadn’t hurt her. He hadn’t. Gently, he rubbed her wrists and ankles, getting some circulation back into the joints. She would need to stand up and he wanted her body prepared. “That was…” She blushed, the color adding to her already pinkened cheeks. “Incredible.” Luc grinned. “All part of the service, ma’am.” She ruffled his hair playfully, and he found himself enjoying the leisurely, casual atmosphere. Most of his previous submissives wanted to be in the zone all the time. It wasn’t a problem, but with Tessa he wanted more than to command her. He enjoyed every second spent in her presence. She was a like a drug and he the addict. Lifting her off the table, he helped settle her balance. She stood in front of him like a wanton siren. His hands rested on her hips. The scent of sex and her subtle perfume clung to their skin. “Ready for round two?” She contemplated his words, and a frown creased her forehead. “I’m good to go, Master.” He loved hearing that word coming from her lips. “Fine.” Luc stepped back, raked his gaze hungrily over her naked body. Running his hand down his chest to his stomach, he toyed with the waistband of his pants, watching her reaction. Her gaze fixed on his hand. He moved his hand lower, across the tight material stretched across his groin. He palmed his cock, rubbing his hand across the entire length of it. It felt so good to finally be receiving 56

Scarlett Sanderson some attention. The damn thing had been hard for her since the club. Her lips formed a perfect O, and he almost came in his pants. He knew exactly what round two was, and he wanted it instigated now. “You like watching your master rub his cock?” He rubbed a few more times, punctuating every word with a firmer caress. Tessa swallowed. “Yes.” Luc frowned and titled his head to the side. “Yes, what?” “Master.” “Good girl.” Flicking the button on his pants, he gripped the zipper and slowly, oh so slowly, dragged it down. He watched the reactions flash over her face with fascination. Never had he seen a woman look so hungry for him. He wanted to beat his chest and scream like a Neanderthal. What the fuck was this woman doing to him? Lifting his cock out, he shrugged his pants down. He never wore underwear, especially when he knew he was entertaining a lady. Fisting himself, he ran his hand up and down, up and down, paying special attention to the head. He felt like it would pop off at any second. Jesus Christ. He hadn’t been this aroused since high school. Gritting his teeth, he gripped the root of his cock, held it firm and straight, pointing it at Tessa. “Come over here. Get down on your knees and suck your master’s cock.” Her eyes widened. For a brief second, he thought she was going to refuse. Not taking any chances he repeated, “Get down on your knees and suck your master’s cock, slave.” He kept his tone even yet commanding. Even now, this was a choice. A choice she had to make. If she complied, Tessa’s submissive streak would be satisfied. It she 57

Devil’s Dance refused, their arrangement was over. She padded over to him, staring into his eyes for a heartbeat before sliding sinuously to her knees. Luc moaned as she pursed her lips over the head of his cock and blew gently. His dick twitched in response. She slowly lowered her mouth. Her tongue snaked out to lick the pre-cum that had gathered at the head. He fisted his hands by his sides, determined not to touch her lest he break the spell. Wrapping her delicate fingers around him, she lowered her mouth. The first feel of her lips made his body jerk. Her mouth—warm, wet and so fucking inviting. She sucked him like a pro. Twirling her talented tongue around and around the head, using the devastating combination of hand and lips, twisting and turning, fondling his heavy sacs with the right amount of pressure. He felt his balls tighten and fought back the pressure by gripping a handful of her hair. He massaged her scalp, and her lips slid down his cock, eager to take more. “That’s it. That is so fucking good. My little submissive loves her master to fuck her face.” His crude words made her moan, and he felt it right through his body. Unable to stand it any longer, he gave one mighty groan and threw back his head. His body jerked and tightened as he spewed hot, jetting cum into her willing little mouth. She swallowed every drop. The suction of the movement made him shiver. Tessa released his cock. He heard the wet popping sound and looked down at her. She had a wicked gleam in her eyes. Locking her gaze to his, she swallowed. The action was deliberate and one of the hottest things he’d ever seen. He pulled her to her feet, dragged her body against his and kissed her. He couldn’t resist. She tasted salty, musky and oh so sweet. He dropped his forehead against hers and 58

Scarlett Sanderson smiled. “Like your submission lessons?” Tessa chuckled. “Oh yeah. They are the highlight of my day.” Her tone made Luc laugh. “So you want to keep this arrangement going for a little while?” “You betcha, cowboy.”

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Chapter Six “What do you mean, you can’t come until tomorrow? It’s leaking all over the kitchen floor!” Tessa squealed into the phone like a banshee. She raked her gaze around her kitchen. The place was a disaster area and had been for the past couple of hours since the faucet started leaking. It didn’t do any good, as the plumber still refused to get his lazy ass out on a Sunday and fix her leak. His advice, turn off the stop tap and wait until tomorrow. “Yeah, thanks a lot.” She slammed down the receiver before releasing a tirade of verbal abuse. It wasn’t often she cussed, but goddamn, when she did, the air turned blue. Snatching a cup of lukewarm coffee off the counter top, she bundled it into the microwave, setting the heat for a few seconds. While the cup moved around, she turned and looked at her kitchen. She’d already dealt with the stop tap. Did he think she was stupid? Numerous towels lay draped on the floor, soaking up any excess water. She could do without her kitchen for a whole day. It wasn’t a major thing. She could use the bathroom water works; they were still operational. It was the principle. She’d paid the guy good money for previous jobs, the least he could do was help her out of a jam. The microwave beeped, and she retrieved the coffee. Slamming the door shut, she padded into the sitting room and flopped down onto the couch. Taking a sip, she frowned as the hot liquid scalded her tongue. 60

Scarlett Sanderson Life had become interesting these days. First there was Luc. Her dominant, her master. Submitting to him was…thrilling, exciting, mind blowing. When they weren’t in a sexual situation, he treated her as an equal. She knew from her clients it was unusual. Many masters and slaves had loving, respectful relationships. Despite this, the submissive always gave up certain things, their job, their home. Even in vanilla situations such as going for a meal, the dominant took charge. Not so with Luc. He gave her exactly what she needed—submission in the bedroom, equality everywhere else. A strange contradiction, especially considering his background as a dom. It puzzled the crap out of her. Startled by the knock at the door, she hoped the plumber had changed his mind. Pulling open the door, she gave her guest a surprised look. “Luc. What are you doing here?” Her heart beat wildly. Just one look from him and she became a quivering mass of nerve endings. Amazing. Her body became liquid and pliant, as if screaming take me now! He shrugged, treating her to a devastating smile. “I was in the neighborhood, thought I’d drop by, see how you were.” Inviting him in, she offered him some coffee. “Would love some, thanks.” She poured him a cup from the coffee pot and became intensely aware of his presence. It was like a bulb lighting the way in the dark. She wanted him, wanted to feel his arms around her, his lips on hers, skin against skin. She craved. She needed. She wanted many more mornings like this with Luc Campbell. The thought slammed into her like a freight train. It wasn’t supposed to happen. She wasn’t supposed to form an attachment to him. When the 61

Devil’s Dance month was up, he would be gone, on to his next submissive. Caring for Luc was exactly what she’d been afraid of. “Is it laundry day or something?” Tessa gave him a puzzled look, then followed his gaze toward the wet towels. “Oh, no.” She laughed. “Problem with the plumbing. The asshole I usually pay reminded me it’s Sunday and not really an emergency.” She rolled her eyes. “Soooo, I’m stuck with a semi Titanic and no downstairs water.” Luc pushed away from the breakfast bar and walked to the sink. Squatting down, he opened the cupboards and began feeling around the piping. “You know, this wouldn’t take much to fix. I could do it for you.” He flashed her an impish smile. “And my fees wouldn’t be much.” Tessa composed herself and returned his smile. She’d been having wicked thoughts about how great his ass looked in those tight blue jeans. “I’m sure I could pay your fee. But one thing I need to know, are you a professional?” She sauntered toward him. Unable to stop herself, she ran her fingers through his hair, a gesture she loved performing. He loved it, too. “Well, I know my way around a woman’s pipes if that’s what you mean, ma’am.” Tessa threw back her head and laughed. “Let me get some tools from the garage, and you can take a look.” He clutched his heart. “Be still my beatin’ heart. A woman who has tools? Marry me!” Her heart lurched at his words. He was joking, but those words did something weird and wacky to her emotions. Her cheeks became heated and she slapped him gently up side the head. “Behave.” When she walked away, he swatted her ass. “Aww, but you like it when I’m bad.” Rolling her eyes, she waved a dismissive hand 62

Scarlett Sanderson in his direction. Rummaging in the garage, she thought how nice it was to share laughter and banter. She grabbed a few things he might need, and then changed her mind, deciding to take the whole toolbox. She wondered what had driven him to stop by. His neighborhood was a good distance away. Surely he didn’t have business in suburban Middle America? Dare she let herself hope he’d made a special journey to see her? Jesus, all these thoughts were driving her crazy. They led to one thing she’d dared not admit, not even to herself. She was falling for Luc—hook, line and leather bondage restraints. And she despised herself for it. Luc would never allow himself to get attached. Not to her, maybe not anyone. The thought cut through her giddy, schoolgirl notions of love and romance. She should know better. Her last lover had dashed her hopes of meaningful relationships. Although he hadn’t been able to satisfy her sexually, Tessa believed she loved him, that they could have had a life together. The rat bastard had an affair and blamed her for being frigid. You’re cold, Tessa. It’s like fucking the Snow Queen. Even after all this time, his words still haunted her. She knew she should pull away from Luc, put some distance between them. But she couldn’t, not yet. She was going to get hurt, but right now she didn’t care. She wanted Luc Campbell, and she was going to have him, any way she could. Even if it meant getting her heart broken. **** “Where did you learn how to be handy with a wrench?” Tessa stood behind him, arms folded over her chest, head tilted to one side. 63

Devil’s Dance He’d stripped out of his leather jacket, and she watched, fascinated, as his muscles bunched and moved while he worked his tools under the dark recesses of her sink unit. Beads of sweat glistened on his skin, and she wanted nothing more than to lick them, tasting the tangy scent of Luc Campbell on her tongue. “Growing up, we helped Momma where we could.” The image of a little boy with dark, spiky hair and piercing, green eyes holding a wrench too heavy for his tiny hands made her heart melt. “What about your daddy?” His gaze snapped to hers, the fury she saw startled her. “That son of a bitch left when I was a baby.” Unable to resist, she moved toward him, needing to touch him. “I’m sorry.” He patted her hand and returned his attention to the pipes. “Don’t be. It was a long time ago.” Therapist instinct kicking in, Tessa decided to leave the subject alone. After all, it wasn’t any of her business. Luc wasn’t her partner, just a business arrangement. “How did you come to own Inferno?” Luc snorted. “A lot of shrewd moves and a lot of dumb luck.” “I don’t believe that.” Turning, he batted those long, sensuous lashes. “I have a head for business. And a body for sin.” His tone mimicked that of Melanie Griffith’s, and she couldn’t help but laugh. “All done.” Rising, he wiped his hand on the towel she offered him. He tested the water, and Tessa smiled at the look of pure male pride of his face. “Still got the knack.” “Sure have, cowboy.” She glanced at the clock. “Urmm, can I make you some lunch?” She tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear and gnawed on 64

Scarlett Sanderson her lower lip. “Unless you have somewhere else you need to be?” His gaze locked with hers. “No, I don’t. Lunch would be great.” Tessa let out a breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding. “I’ll grill us some steaks.” He helped her cook the meal. The simple gestures and casual atmosphere pulled at Tessa’s heartstrings. How many Sundays had she spent like this with previous lovers? None that came to mind. They talked for hours, talked of nothing and everything. Of books they liked, movies they had seen, music they listened to. She found it funny he liked classical music while he gaped and scoffed when she confessed her love of hip-hop. The intimacy of their afternoon floored her. She hadn’t known it was possible to be so comfortable and yet so devastatingly attracted to a man. When the sunlight began to fade, Luc finally decided it was time to leave. “Sorry to have taken up so much of your time, Tessa.” She rose from the couch when he did. “No, no. Please, it was a pleasure to have some company.” Not wanting to sound desperate she added, “Plus I owed you for the plumbing.” He shrugged into his jacket and stared down at her. “No trouble at all.” She was unsure of her next move. Should she kiss him on the cheek? On the lips? Should she grab the lapels of his jacket and beg him to take her to bed? “Well, I guess I better get gone.” He made no move to kiss her, touch her. Instead, he walked to the door and Tessa resigned herself to another lonely night away from Luc. **** Luc’s mind screamed. All afternoon his hormones rampaged around his body, crying out 65

Devil’s Dance for him to make a move, to take Tessa upstairs and fuck her brains out. He needed to be inside her. Like a junkie craving a fix, he’d driven by earlier, not knowing what to say, not caring if she knew the real reason for his visit. He needed to be with her. Not just sexually but any way he could. He’d come up with a plan, to tell her…to confess…ask…if he meant more to her than a business arrangement. He cared for her deeply. He wouldn’t admit love. He’d never been in love, wouldn’t admit even to himself he was falling in love with her. You couldn’t fall in love that easily. His plan crumbled when she showed no signs of returning his feelings. Maybe he was becoming too attached. Maybe he had been out of the game too long. Now he was about to leave. He didn’t want to, instead he wanted to stay. Not because of another lesson. He wanted it to be just them, not some damn business deal. She touched him, placed a delicate hand on his arm. Turning toward her, his heart slammed into his chest. He stared intently at her. He wanted her to ask. He wanted her to beg him to stay. To submit. To give in. He wanted her to ask for what she wanted. To ask her master to fulfill her desire. Her eyes burned brightly with passion, hunger and lust. Lust for him. “Stay, please.” His control snapped. Every thought he’d had of leaving shattered. Gathering her to him, he kissed her. He drank from her lips, telling her with his mouth all he could not say with words. He knew how hard it had been for her to ask, but she had. His Tessa had asked for what she desired. And what she desired was him. His tongue tangled with hers. He stroked into her mouth, mimicked the spearing movements he’d perform with his cock inside her pussy. He was 66

Scarlett Sanderson going to fuck her hard and fast. He would take over her senses, make her forget everything but them. Him. When she moaned, he trailed his lips to her ear, sucking on the lobe before whispering, “No stopping, Tessa. I’m gonna take, and you’re gonna give. You understand?” She nodded, and he smiled, nudging her hair from her neck as he licked his way to her collarbone. He bit down sharply. The pain drew a gasp from her throat. Luc was on the attack. He wanted to make her body sing with pleasure. Her body hummed with every erotic caress, every stroke of his tongue against her heated skin. Gooseflesh rose, tickling his lips. She fisted her hands tightly in his hair. He smiled at her aggression and continued exploring her body. Her nipples beaded, her breasts swelled into his touch. Her pussy throbbed with heat, searing his hand as she waited expectantly to be filled by something hot and hard. Her body ached with want, ached for him. Her responses made him feel wild and feral. “No stopping.” Blood pulsed around Luc’s body. All he wanted was to be inside her, have her wet pussy sliding against his cock over and over. But he wanted this time to be about her, a reward for her submission in asking him to stay. She hitched her legs around his waist, and he palmed the backs of her thighs, supporting her weight. He dragged his tongue along her jawbone, nipping on her earlobe as her hands furiously pushed his jacket from his shoulders. He shrugged the material down to his elbows. When the jacket wouldn’t go any further, he groaned, moved his hands from her thighs and shrugged it to the floor. She hooked her legs around him again, her deft hands started on the buttons of his shirt. He stopped his assault on her body and watched. 67

Devil’s Dance She couldn’t undo the buttons quick enough. A frown creased her brow, and a low groan escaped from her throat. Luc smiled. Something flashed in her eyes, something dark and wild. His already hard cock throbbed with excitement at her primitive need. Seconds later, she fisted her hands in the material and ripped. The buttons scattered and dropped to the hardwood floor with tiny pings. They were immediately followed to the ground by the scraps of his shirt. She dropped her legs from his waist and ran her hands over his torso. The muscles rippled, contracted at her touch. Tessa stared at Luc through hooded eyes and gave him a coy smile. Leaning forward, she swirled her tongue around one nipple. When he moaned, she caught the nub between her teeth and pulled. His moan turned into a sharp intake of breath, and she soothed the turgid bud with her tongue. His fingers wrapped in her hair and pulled. “You’re gonna pay for that, Tessa.” Lifting her gaze, she smiled, sweeping her tongue over her lips. “Really?” Dragging her mouth up to meet his, he stroked his tongue against hers and pushed her back against the door. Luc’s body throbbed with lust. This was a completely different side to her personality. She’d never been so playful, so needy. He liked it. Mirroring her movements, he fisted his hands into the material of her shirt and pulled. Buttons broke. He helped her slide out of the shirt, adding it to the growing pile of clothing. Tugging down her bra, tearing the flimsy material, he cupped her breasts, lifting them to meet his lips. As he swirled his tongue around the rosy bud, he watched her eyelids droop, her mouth go slack. He felt the sensation of pressure as her fingers curled onto his shoulders. 68

Scarlett Sanderson Tessa tried to swallow and failed. Her mouth was parched. Her lips vibrated. They were raw and swollen from his kisses. Her whole body blazed with erotic heat, her skin sensitized to every small touch. Her skin burned with need. “Fuck.” She managed to choke out the word before her mind went blank. “Not yet.” His voice was heavy with lust. His tongue worked its way back to her breasts. “Now, Luc.” Growling back at him, her hands roamed to the waistband of his jeans and unbuckled the belt. She grasped the zipper, eased it down and reached inside. Jesus Christ, she needed him. The sensitive flesh between her thighs throbbed as wildly as her pulse. She had an ache that only Luc being inside her could cure. Just as needy, Luc’s hands worked on the zipper of her slacks. When they pooled around her ankles, he gripped her shoulders roughly and turned her to face the door. Lifting her arms above her head, he slapped her palms against the wood and placed his own hands over hers. “Not yet.” He licked her skin just beneath her earlobe. She shuddered. “I love how you taste.” He buried his nose in her hair and inhaled. “I love how you smell, like jasmine and vanilla.” Again, he nipped at her collarbone. “I need you, Tessa.” He fixed his lips onto the pulse beating in her neck and sucked. Tessa whimpered. Heat coursed through her, coiling in her pussy. One rational thought managed to slip through the haze. “No marks.” He smiled. The movement of his lips like feather light kisses on her skin. “Mine, Tessa. I want people to know you’re mine.” His fingers linked with hers on the door. “Tell me what you want.” She turned her head slightly and captured his 69

Devil’s Dance lips passionately as he leaned down to meet her halfway. Their tongues dueled in a feral mating dance. “I want you to fuck me.” Luc slammed into her from behind, his cock filling her to the hilt. For a moment, her world froze, the haze of desire lifted and everything swam sharply into focus. His breath tickling the nap of her neck, his strong calloused fingers entwined with hers, their bodies joined. “Move.” It was more of an order than a plea, and she was surprised at how steady her voice sounded. He pulled out of her slowly, slowly, until only the tip of his cock remained inside. The feather light stroke drove her crazy. It did nothing to ease the ache. Her pussy clenched, needing something more. Tessa clenched her teeth and growled. “Not like this.” He knew what she wanted. Tessa knew he needed the same thing, she could feel it in the fine sheen of sweat that covered his body, in the way his cock thrummed inside her. He was forcing her to ask. “How?” She licked her dry lips and turned away. She didn’t want him to see her blush. None of her other lovers had asked her to be so forthright with what she needed. Perhaps it was why sex hadn’t been enjoyable. Until now. “Rough. I want you to be rough.” His teeth bit down on the soft skin of her shoulder. He pushed back into her roughly, with enough force to slam her body against the door. They found a rhythm. Hard, fast, desperate. Each giving and taking. She matched his intensity, rocking her hips against his, riding his cock. Sweat dripped from his body onto hers. She didn’t care. All that mattered was the feel of his body. Luc drove inside her, stroking a delicate spot 70

Scarlett Sanderson with the head of his cock, and she moaned. Still, it wasn’t enough friction. She swallowed hard. “Almost. Almost.” Tessa guided his hand between her thighs. As his nimble fingers worried her clit, her body tightened. Her pussy throbbed; the friction from his cock and his fingers was too intense. Dropping her head to her chest, she choked out his name. Her orgasm washed over her, and Tessa’s world went blank. She shuddered around him, and Luc pumped into her a few more seconds, murmuring words of affection before he followed her over the edge. Hot jets of cum splashed against her womb. Her heart pounded. Her walls clamped around his cock, holding him inside. Her body refused to let him go. Tiny aftershocks of pleasure still zinged in her pussy, wrenching small mewling sounds from her throat. Luc slumped against her. Her pussy clenched and released, clenched and released. He managed to smile. Tessa was well and truly fucked. If he had the energy he might have teased her. But this wasn’t a time for teasing. His labored breathing matched hers, his heart beat wildly, pumping blood to his muscles. His body was alive in a way he’d never experienced before. He kissed her neck. “Maybe we should take this upstairs?”

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Chapter Seven me.”

“I want you to come to a special party with

Wrapped in Luc’s arms, Tessa nuzzled his bare chest. She lay cocooned in the afterglow of great sex. Her bed was warm and comfy, more so with Luc in it. Over the past week he’d shown her tons of sexually enticing delights. Just the thought of them made her body burn. “What kind of party?” She placed a tender kiss on his chest before propping up on one elbow to stare at his handsome face. It still floored her how devastating he looked when he smiled. Her heart never failed to miss a beat, and her nipples tightened to the point of pain. Tessa was falling in love. She didn’t want to think about what would happen in one week when their agreement ended. Although Luc hadn’t voiced his feelings, the ‘arrangement’ was affecting him, too. He spent every night in her bed, every morning at her breakfast table. She combed her fingers through the fine thatch of hair on his chest. She didn’t know. For once she was living the moment. Consequences be damned. “It’s a private party. Just a few people I know.” Luc ran his hand up and down her arm. “It’s a BDSM thing. Like I said, a private one, so it’s discreet.” He tilted her chin upward. “I want you to go as my slave.” If it was that simple, why did he look so serious? Being a slave had never appealed. It was one thing she’d tried to avoid; one reason she’d 72

Scarlett Sanderson stayed away from the BDSM clubs. Yet his request sent slithers of excitement through her. His slave had a nice ring to it. “Why do I feel like there is a huge catch?” “It’s not as simple as it sounds. First real public outing. There are gonna be certain expectations of me, of us. I just don’t want you to feel pressured into something you’re not ready for.” He captured her hand and placed a tender kiss on her palm. Her body reacted to his touch. Jolts of electricity surged from the nerve endings in her fingertips down to her toes. Her body heated. Her heart did a strange flip-flopping beat. She was falling for Luc Campbell big time. Sure, Dominants and submissives could have loving relationships, but this was…more. “It’s okay, Luc. I know I’m supposed to act like a good little submissive.” She rolled on top of him, straddling his waist. “And I promise I will.” She made a cross sign over her heart. “Scout’s honor.” A few weeks ago, Luc asking her to be his slave would have resulted in a huge argument, one involving broken dishes and raised voices. Now things had changed. She no longer experienced feelings of fear and insubordination. Tessa knew she was his equal in every way that mattered. She knew he valued her as an intelligent, independent woman. He taught her sexual submission was completely different from a twenty-four/seven relationship. If he wanted her to be his slave at a party, if he wanted to be with her in public, she could do nothing but agree. She found the whole idea exciting. He grabbed her hips, jerking her forward, and she yelped. She fell on top of him, and he flipped them over, changing their position so he was in the dominant spot. On top. “You were never a scout. Not even a girl 73

Devil’s Dance scout.” Tessa batted her eyelashes. “And how would you know?” “Because I know you, Doctor Connolly.” He captured her lips in a passionate kiss. “I know exactly what you need, when you need it.” Naked hips brushed against hers. She could feel his cock harden. Her pussy heated, and moisture slithered between her thighs. “I know when you want to be restrained. I know when you need to come. I know when you need for me to fuck your pretty, tight, wet pussy.” Luc punctuated each statement with an erotic slide of his hips. Skin still slick from previous mind-blowing sex sessions, they slid together easily. The head of his cock brushed against her clit, adding a delicious amount of friction. He pinned her wrists to the bed and thrust deep inside her throbbing sheath. His cock was hard and hot inside her pussy. He stretched her inner walls; the feeling of fullness was mouth-watering. Tessa groaned, raising her hips to meet his. He added just the right amount of pressure on her wrists. Teetering on the edge of the pleasure/pain threshold only excited her more. Luc was right; he knew her needs more thoroughly than she knew herself. Surprisingly, it worked both ways. She knew how to touch him, how to arouse him to the point of pain, but she also knew how to make him laugh, how to soothe him. Surely that constituted as something more than a business arrangement? He thrust into her with long, drawn out strokes. Her body burned. Her nipples were tight little pebbles. His chest rubbed against them, abrading the delicate skin, causing fissions of pain to course through her. She gasped. His leisurely pace shattered her concentration. It was amazing how he could do that. 74

Scarlett Sanderson She met him stroke for stroke, until they finally came together, his seed pumping hot streams into her womb. She clung onto his shoulders, dug her fingernails into his skin. The sensations of their combined orgasms made her want to scream with satisfaction. His body collapsed on top of hers, but she didn’t mind his weight. She enjoyed it. She ran her fingertips up and down his muscular back, tracing the contours. She reveled in her own power when he shivered. She really loved his body. He nuzzled her collarbone. “So you still want to go to that party?” His words were muffled, his face buried in the crook of her neck. Tessa laughed. “How can I say no after that?” **** “Well, it’s certainly…” Tessa raked her gaze over the flimsy material of the outfit Luc had purchased for her. “Interesting.” When he said he’d pick her clothes for the party, she’d expected leather. Never in her wildest dreams could she have conjured up this outfit. He called it a ‘submissive slave princess’ costume, specially tailored for parties like this one. The outfit was comprised of a bustier gown, with a brown skirt. The bustier was gold-toned with a halter neck, lace-up sides and underwire cups that pushed her breasts up to Everest proportions, leaving her nipples on display. The skirt had numerous slits, and the material was so opaque everyone would see her underwear. If he’d given her underwear. Luc held up the dress and swept a glance over her body before offering her the material. “We have an hour or so before we need to leave. Go put it on.” Tessa knew it wasn’t a request. It was another step on the ladder of submission. Insubordination would only result in punishment. She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of showing her defiance. She 75

Devil’s Dance lifted her chin. Slowly, she reached out and took the dress. He smiled, and she resisted the urge to bob her tongue in his direction. “Do I get to wear underwear with this, Master?” She couldn’t stop the biting tone from creeping into her voice. Luc raised an eyebrow. “Do you need punishing, slave? We have time for a spanking.” Her mouth watered at the image. She’d always had a wild fantasy of him dressed in leather, spanking a paddle across her soft ass cheeks. In fact, she had some sort of leather fetish, especially where Luc was concerned. She sighed. “Not right now. I have to work out how to get my breasts into those cups.” He gave her a self-satisfied grin. “I’m your dom, it’s my job to take care of all those li’l things for ya.” Tessa rolled her eyes. “Gee, thanks.” She headed for the stairs. “Oh, one more thing. What are you wearing?” He rummaged around in the various shopping bags scattered over the couch. Pulling out a pair of pants, he held them up for inspection. Tessa gripped the banister for support. Her mouth gaped, and she was sure drool dribbled from her open mouth. He held in his hands a black pair of leather pants, complete with lace-up sides and crotch. Yowser. “Does it meet with your approval?” It took a few minutes to get her mind out of the gutter and her mouth to function enough to speak. “You are soooo wearing those when we get home.” Turning on her heel, she ran up the stairs, Luc’s laughter following her every step. **** The party was set in an average upscale town 76

Scarlett Sanderson house. Whatever she’d expected, it wasn’t this. Luc was changing her expectations of the whole BDSM scene. In fact, Luc was changing her expectations on a lot of things. She’d started out willing to explore her submissive streak. What she found was a man she cared deeply about, and a situation she had no idea how to resolve. Should she tell Luc she cared for him? The indecision was eating her alive. “Ready?” Luc gave her arm a gentle squeeze. Tessa stared up at the town house, marveling at its ordinary façade. She shivered. He’d allowed her the small courtesy of wearing a slim, black thong. Underneath the thin shawl her nipples were bare, hard points. She didn’t want to think about the number of people in attendance. She only hoped she wasn’t the only ‘submissive’ on display. She nodded and managed to give Luc a small smile, swallowing the knot of apprehension lodged in her throat. As they entered the house, the husky tones of the rock singer Chris Cornell wafted through the air. People milled around, drinking, talking. It was like any normal party if you ignored the outfits and the people walking around attached to collars and leashes. “Remember, you’re a submissive tonight. You do what I tell you, when I tell you. No arguments.” He turned to her, his green eyes boring into hers. He looked lethal, dangerous, commanding and dominant. She was glad he’d allowed her to wear panties. Cream flowed from her pussy, and Tessa was left in no doubt about her sexual attraction to a dominant, Alpha male. He eased the shawl from her shoulders, baring her breasts to the cool air. She hissed as her nipples tightened. Luc ran his palm down her arm. “You are mine, Tessa. Don’t ever forget that.” 77

Devil’s Dance Stunned at the conviction and passion in his voice, she shook her head. “I won’t.” Taking her hand, he led her through the small crowds. Tessa stared. She couldn’t help it. There were a variety of people in an assortment of costumes. Just like Inferno, there was a lot of leather. One submissive female wore a halter bra and leather panties. Her puffy peach nipples were exposed to her master’s touch. Every few seconds he pinched them, and a look of pure rapture appeared on Halter Woman’s face. Her jaw slackened and her eyes closed. “Why, Luc, darling, what have you brought us this evening?” Luc stopped. His hand tightened around Tessa’s. “Lydia, you know I always bring y’all something tasty.” Luc blocked her view. He leaned down, and Tessa heard the smack of kisses on the woman’s cheeks. She resisted the urge to growl. She narrowed her eyes and tried to get a glimpse of the woman attached to the voice. Luc had reverted back to his heavy Texas twang, and Tessa wondered if it was part of the game play or if he did it to charm the ladies. The woman, Lydia, clucked her teeth, and Tessa wished Luc wasn’t so damn broad. “Let me introduce you.” He finally stepped out the way, and she got a good look at Lydia. The woman was a tall, knockout redhead. Legs up to her ass, perky round breasts encased in a sexy midnight blue corset, long curly auburn hair and dazzling green eyes. Tessa hated the woman on sight. Luc pulled her forward. “Lydia, I’d like you meet my new partner, Tessa.” Lydia eyed her up and down, lingering on her nipples. Tessa fought the urge to shift her feet, her 78

Scarlett Sanderson cheeks heating with embarrassment and fury. “Well, she is a tasty thing.” Lydia stroked Luc’s arm intimately. “But you haven’t had her long.” Luc raised an eyebrow. “What makes you say that?” “She still has that…defiant look in her eye.” He gave her a wicked grin. “Sugar, you know that’ll change.” Tessa wouldn’t have thought it possible, but Lydia blushed. Oh yeah, she really hated this woman. A scathing comment lingered on the edge of her tongue. She stopped herself from speaking it out loud. This was Luc’s night. She would be what he needed. And he needed her to be quiet. A blond man crawled up to Lydia. He nuzzled her ankles and offered up a metal chain attached to a satin collar tied around his neck. Her gaze never left Luc’s, but Lydia reached down, took the leash and patted the blond guy’s head. “This is my latest. Gorgeous, isn’t he?” Tessa shuddered. She could never be reduced to that level of submission. To her it was humiliation. Degradation didn’t appeal to her on any level, let alone sexually. “He’s certainly something.” Excusing themselves, Luc led them to a quiet corner. He sat in a plush, white leather chair and pulled her into his lap. “You doing okay?” She wanted to scream, shout and tell him no, she wasn’t okay. But she was. A little embarrassed and a little horny at walking behind him as he wore those delectable pants. The leather cupped his ass cheeks, making his rear look pert and biteable. Apart from that, she was fine. She’d come a long way in such a short time, partly due to Luc’s steadfast influence. Tessa’s heart swelled with pride at her own achievement. She fixed him with an intimate smile and 79

Devil’s Dance leaned down, whispering in his ear, “I know you’re supposed to be the master, and I’m the good little submissive, so I guess I can’t feel your cock through those pants?” Luc growled, his hands tightening on her body. “You, my girl, are in for a spanking when we get home.” She loved the thrill of anticipation, more so with Luc. He was exciting, enticing, sensual and seductive. In one week, their arrangement would come to an end. Tessa couldn’t imagine being without him. “Luc, great to see you again. And what do we have here? You found a little something to wet your appetite again?” Tessa looked up into the eyes of a dark haired man. His smile wasn’t sexy, it looked predatory. “Nick, good to see you again.” From the forced joviality of Luc’s tone, Tessa doubted this was true. “We were beginning to think you’d given up the scene for good. What’s it been, almost a year?” Luc nodded. “Sure has.” Nick’s gaze swung to Tessa’s breasts. His tongue snaked out to touch his upper lip, making her cringe. “Always the best for you. Although, would you be willing to share this one like the last? I remember how she squealed and begged for more when I fucked her.” Tessa’s heart sank. Luc had shared his last partner? Was this a regular occurrence? Her mind ran through his earlier comments. She was supposed to do everything he asked. He wouldn’t ask her to have sex with this man, would he? “Those were good times, Nick. One thing about good times, they are always in the past.” “Ah, but they could be the present. She looks like a fiery thing. What say we teach her what BDSM is really about?” He ran his hand across her shoulder, down her arm. 80

Scarlett Sanderson Tessa flinched. “What say you loan her out to me for the evening, like you used to? Huh, Luc? What do you say, do we have a deal?” His words floored her. Waves of nausea rolled through her. Deals. Arrangements. Had Luc been grooming her for this? For some double-time fuck with his friend? Hurt, humiliation and outrage overwhelmed Tessa as she waited for Luc’s reply. She looked at Luc. He refused to meet her gaze. He looked guilty. When Luc failed to tell Nick a flat out ‘no,’ Tessa had her answer. He’d planned this, planned exactly what she’d always feared. How could she have been so stupid? Tears prickled at the back of her eyes, but she refused to let them flow. She refused to let the bastard know she cared. She straightened her spine and spoke one solitary word. “Pandora.” Nick gave her a puzzled glance. Luc shifted in his seat. “Tessa?” She repeated her safe word. “Tessa, look at me.” She wouldn’t. Luc gripped her chin and forced her to look his way. “It’s over. I’ve used my safe word. I’m going home.” The wounded look in his eyes almost brought her to her knees, yet she knew it was an act. If he even thought for one second she would consider screwing his friend, he wasn’t the man she thought he was. “Tessa, it’s not what you think.” Gathering her resolve, she glared at him. Inside, her heart became a crumbling mess of betrayal. “Good-bye, Luc.” She rose as gracefully as her shattered emotions would allow. She wove through the room, not once looking back. He called her name, but she 81

Devil’s Dance ignored him. Lydia stepped in her path. “Your master calls your name, slave.” Tessa’s anger rose full force, aimed directly at the woman in front of her. All she wanted was to go home and lick her wounds. “Look, Lydia. Get out of my way before I bitch slap you.” Lydia raised her eyebrows. “A slave never talks to a master like that.” She was tempted, oh so tempted, to do exactly as she pleased, but half naked and tired, she didn’t have the energy. Instead, she sidestepped the woman. Lydia grabbed her, and Tessa yanked her arm back. “I’m no person’s slave.” In the hallway, she pulled on her shawl. She needed to get out the house, away from all the people, away from Luc. She was mad as hell, but it was Luc’s betrayal that pierced right through to her heart. Her head ached, her body was numb. She could barely stumble outside into the cold night air. Hailing a cab, she let her resolve crumble. The tears slipped down her cheeks in silent rivulets. How could she have been so stupid, so naïve to believe a man like Luc could ever want something more meaningful than sex? She cursed herself. And him.

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Chapter Eight Luc stood on the steps and watched Tessa’s cab drive away. He’d been surprised at her abrupt departure and the cancellation of their partnership. For a few moments, he’d been too stunned to react. Rousing himself into action, he’d pushed past the onlookers and rushed after her. But he’d been too late. She’d left him. He stared out into the night. There was a chill in the air but he didn’t feel it. The pain of losing Tessa made his body numb. It had been a mistake to bring her here, but he’d wanted to show her off. His woman. He wanted everyone to know she was his. Unfortunately, she hadn’t been ready. “Your new submissive appears to be a real bitch.” The pounding in Luc’s ears became a roar. Not longer able to contain his anger, he turned and pointed a finger at Nick. “Don’t ever, ever, talk about Tessa in that tone again, you hear me?” The urge to crush the conceited son of a bitch’s larynx was almost too much to resist. The bastard had forced Tessa to leave him. He’d driven away the one woman Luc cared about. Thinking he had enough time to confess his feelings in the future, Luc never approached the subject with Tessa. Now it was too late. She was gone, and Nick would pay for his indiscretion. The look of disgust and contempt Tessa had thrown at Luc was etched into his mind forever. Granted, she’d started out as a challenge. She’d fascinated him on a number of levels. Now…now 83

Devil’s Dance she was much more. “You son of a bitch.” Luc clenched his fist and took a step toward Nick. He wanted to cause pain. He wanted Nick to bleed. “Jesus Christ, Luc! What the hell has gotten into you?” Lydia’s high-pitched screech assaulted his eardrums as she stepped outside. Taking a deep breath, Luc stopped. He dragged huge gulps of air into his lungs. The force of his feelings for Tessa swam into startling focus. He loved her. He loved her fiercely. Completely. And he would do anything to get her back. “I’m sorry. He just…she left me.” All the adrenaline seeped from his body. Nick mumbled something unintelligible under his breath and beat a hasty retreat into the house. Deflated, Luc sank onto the top step, dropping his head into his hands. Finally, his past had caught up with him. He wasn’t ashamed. What happened in the past with his previous lovers had been purely consensual. He would never force a woman to do something she was uncomfortable with. But the way Nick made it sound, seedy, sordid, he knew Tessa had gotten the wrong idea. She couldn’t have been further from the truth. He’d never share her. The thought of another man touching her made him want to kill someone. He almost had. “I’ve told you taking inexperienced partners would get you into trouble. They don’t understand the game. And you...” Lydia slapped him across the head. “You obviously brought her here before she was ready. You haven’t talked about your previous lovers; you haven’t explained, have you?” Luc shook his head. He hadn’t wanted to sully what they had by describing his past in detail. It seemed tacky, tasteless. Especially when she was so fragile, so defiant about giving into her own needs. Usually he was a good dominant. He was 84

Scarlett Sanderson good at sex, at teaching women to embrace their needs. With Tessa, he’d done everything wrong, yet he didn’t regret a single moment until now. When he didn’t say anything, Lydia stroked his hair. “Oh, my god, you’ve fallen for her, haven’t you? I mean really fallen for her?” Luc nodded. “I think I love her, Lydia.” She frowned. “You think? Boy, me and you need to have a talk. Now.” A cough sounded from behind the partial open door, and Lydia’s slave stepped from the shadows. Luc glanced up a Lydia, noting the gentle smile playing on her lips. The blond pulled open the door and stepped out to join them; he walked on two feet not tied to a leash. Lydia placed a hand on his arm. “Ben, can you see to the guests? I’m sure the melodrama has caused a stir, but I need to talk to Luc.” Ben gave her a small smile. “Sure. Are you okay?” Lydia returned his smile and placed a tender kiss on his cheek. “I’m fine, baby.” Ben nodded and returned to placate the guests. Luc startled with surprise. Lydia had fallen in love. Something he never thought possible. She lived for the chase, for the thrill of breaking in a submissive and moving on to the next. If only Tessa had been here. He could have showed her what a truly loving experience dominance and submission could be. He didn’t want any other woman. With Ben gone, Lydia walked down a few steps and sat down. It felt strange to be here now. The silence of the night echoed in his ears. There was a big gaping hole in his heart, and he didn’t know how to fix it. “You think you love her?” He raised his gaze to Lydia’s. “I am not having 85

Devil’s Dance this conversation with you.” Lydia snorted. “Why? Because we’ve had sex a few times? Please, Luc. You know how this works.” She leaned over and patted his arm. “You love her. You wouldn’t have brought her here before she was ready if you didn’t.” Luc frowned, confused at the words. “How did you figure that one out?” “Female intuition.” Before he could make some snide remark, Lydia held up her hand. “Let me finish. You haven’t taken a woman in months. When you do, it’s obviously one who is into the game but not into the lifestyle. It’s obvious in the way you look at her, the way you touch her, she’s someone special.” She leaned back, resting her elbows against the top step and pushed her long legs out in front of her. “You’re scared of commitment.” Luc sneered. “Excuse me?” “You’re afraid of commitment. You’re afraid of hurting her like your father hurt you.” “My father left.” “Exactly my point. You have severe abandonment issues. Now this woman has taken your heart, you’re afraid of what could happen if you let yourself love her.” Luc rolled his eyes. “Thanks for the psycho analysis, Dr. Phil.” Lydia’s face became serious, almost grim. “You are not your father.” “If you added my name after that sentence you would have sounded like Obi-Wan-Kanobi.” Luc tried to jest, but deep down he knew she was right. He did fear commitment. He did fear that somewhere inside him, he was exactly like his father. A no good lowlife who would abandon his wife and kids. “Look. I know what you are going through. Ben and I…well…” It was first time in many years 86

Scarlett Sanderson Luc had seen a blush color Lydia’s cheekbones. “I love him. He loves me.” Luc gave her a whimsical smile. “I kinda guessed that.” Shaking her head, she continued. “I don’t think you understand. You know me, you know I need to be the dom. Ben allows me to be that person, but he also fills a hole in my heart. If you’d asked me six months ago, I’d have said you were crazy. Love and me don’t mix. Seems we do. We mesh. We just mesh so well.” “I’m happy for you, Lydia.” His heart felt like it was breaking, his chest tight, making it difficult to breathe, but he was happy for his friend. “Thanks. But, Luc, you have to go to her. You have to explain to Tessa a dominant and submissive can find an equal, fulfilling relationship in the real world, outside of the bedroom. You have to explain you’re not into the lifestyle. Yeah, you like a little Dom/sub sex play, but you don’t live the lifestyle twenty-four/seven. You have to give each other a chance.” He raked a hand through his hair, contemplating her words. “I don’t know what to say to her.” “The truth. You have to tell her the truth.” **** Tessa slammed the door with such force, they probably felt it down in Mexico. Anger, hurt and betrayal surged through her body. She wanted to scream, lash out and cut off Luc Campbell’s dick with a blunt knife. On the other hand, she wanted to lock herself away and sob uncontrollably for a month. Or two. Luc had done a real number on her emotions. Losing herself and her dignity was what she’d been afraid of. She hated him. More than that, she hated herself for thinking they could share something other than lust. Someone who loved her 87

Devil’s Dance would never share her with another man. Running up the stairs, she stripped off her shawl. The slave outfit repulsed her. Unhooking the skirt, she let it pool on the floor. Stepping out of the material, she tried to unhook the eyes of the corset, fumbled with the laces. She clawed at the fabric, not caring if she ripped the garment. Frustrated, she grabbed a pair of scissors from her dresser and cut. Small sobs escaped her throat as she worked. Finally out of the offending material, she balled it in her fists and threw it against the wall. Once she had bundled herself into an old pair of jeans and baggy sweater, Tessa sat on the bed. She hugged the pillow to her breast. Closing her eyes, she let emotions wash over her. Luc had wanted to share her, her body, with another man. She imagined them laughing about it, high-fiving each other. Tears spilled over, and she dashed them away. She would not cry for that bastard, not ever. Yet her heart ached for what could have been. She was a fool to think in terms of emotion, of love. To Luc, she’d been an amusement. Icy shards of pain stabbed into her heart. It was irrational to be in love. As a rational person, she knew it was impossible to consider herself in love, but there was no denying it. It hurt so much. She mumbled a string of swear words. Luc had never once given any reason to indicate he cared about her. Sure, there were times while they were having sex when he’d mumble words of affection. There were times when they shared a meal or a conversation, and she would catch him looking at her with something like rapture. It meant nothing. He’d never actually spoken of love, of his feelings. It was all in her poor, deluded mind. A thumping at her front door broke her 88

Scarlett Sanderson gloomy self-pity routine. She scowled, wondering what the hell could be so urgent. “Tessa! Open the goddamn door!” Her foot froze on the stairs. How dare he? She narrowed her eyes, imagined heading into the kitchen for a meat cleaver and burying it right between Luc Campbell’s thighs. “Tessa! I know you’re in there! Open the door, and let’s talk about this! I have some things I need to say.” Her fury boiled over. “Oh, you have some things you need to say, huh? Some things like, ‘Get your panties off, slave!’ Some things like, ‘Fuck my friend, slave!’ Yeah, those are things I really want to hear right now!” Luc stopped the thumping. “Please, Tessa. Just open the door. We need to talk. Nick was an ass. He was wrong. Please.” “Fuck off, Luc.” Yeah, the come back was real big of her, but she didn’t have anything else to say. Maybe if she ignored him, he’d go away. She could go back to her room, bury her head in the sand and eat ice cream. Maybe she’d cry a few tears… Who was she kidding? She’d need to do a major repair job on her heart. No way in hell would SHE ever let him know that. “I’m countin’ to ten. If you don’t open this fuckin’ door, I’m gonna break it down.” His Texas accent was heavy and thick. Her heart clenched as she remembered it was just another thing she loved about him. “Touch that door, and I will call 911.” An empty threat, just like his threat to kick down the door. No sane man would kick down the door for a conversation. As the wood splintered, she realized Luc Campbell was not quite sane. He battled his way through the flying wood 89

Devil’s Dance and chippings. Looking around, he searched the hallway and adjoining rooms. In a heartbeat, his gaze fixed on hers. His face set in a grimace, lips slashed thin, eyes blazing with fury. Tessa took a step back, up the stairs. She’d never been afraid of Luc, not once in all the time they’d spent together, but now, now was different. “Get out.” The tone she used was laced with venom. She might be afraid, but she would never show him. After sensing he wasn’t going to get anywhere playing the bully, he took a deep breath and stopped. He raised his hands slowly in surrender. “I just want to talk.” Moving forward, he sank onto the bottom step, back against the wall, and looked up at her. “Just hear me out.” Tessa stared down at him from the top of the staircase. The pinched features and the lines on his furrowed brow made him look years older. Her heart ached for him. Ached for what they could have had together. Mirroring his actions, she sank down, perched on the top step, and held onto the banister. She wanted a firm grip on something solid if she needed to bolt for the bathroom. It was the only door in the house that locked. He leaned his head against the wall and closed his eyes. Moments ticked by. “Nick was telling the truth. In the past, we have shared partners.” His eyes opened, and he fixed his intent gaze on her. “In the past. Years ago. Every one of my partners was willing. I would never make anyone do something they are uncomfortable with. Ever. Things change, Tessa. People change. I haven’t taken a woman in months. Everyone and everything in the lifestyle bored me. Women treated me like a plaything. Something to show off. A rich, successful dom as a play partner.” He ran his hand through his hair. “I wanted more. I 90

Scarlett Sanderson wanted a woman to be my equal outside of the bedroom.” Tessa sighed. Her head pounded. A heavy feeling of despair lodged in her stomach. Words were just words. Sure, he would say that now. Now he’d been caught out. “So you weren’t expecting me to have sex with him?” She shrugged. “You weren’t grooming me to share with your buddies like some sordid sex toy?” “No. I never want to share you with anyone.” The conviction and longing in his voice made her want to believe. “I don’t believe you.” He raked a hand through his hair. A gesture she’d come to associate closely with Luc when he was nervous or contemplative. She wondered which one he was now. “Tessa, you have to believe me…I…” “You what?” She spat out the words. “What were you going to say, Luc? Surely the big, bad playboy isn’t lost for words?” Before she had a chance to blink, he launched himself off the stair and scrambled toward her. He grabbed her arms, and they struggled for dominance. Tessa clawed her way out of his grasp and clamored up the last step, away from him. He tackled her, pinning her to the floor. His hands on her body were rough. Blood rushed to her head, pounded in her ears. Adrenaline surged. She had to get away from him. “Fuck, Tessa! Stay still! I was gonna tell you I love you!” She went pliant in his arms. Completely still. “You can’t love me. You don’t know me.” Luc turned her over, and she stared up at his face. His brow was furrowed, his eyes stormy-green orbs that danced with conviction. He placed his palms on the floor. “I know enough about you. You’re driving me insane. You’re under my damn skin.” 91

Devil’s Dance Her chest heaved up and down, and she felt like she’d been slapped. Her muscles ached, her cheeks burned. “That’s called lust.” He laughed. “You drive me fucking crazy, you know that?” He couldn’t possibly love her. She lifted her chin defiantly. “Screw you.” “Oh, no sugar. We already did that.” A huge shit-eating grin appeared on his face. Tessa scowled. “I don’t know when it happened, but I love you.” He caressed her cheek. “I love your fire and your intelligence. Your passion. I love you, and I have no fucking idea what to do about it.” The look of desperation, of confusion in his eyes made her reach up and touch his brow, smoothing away some of the lines etching the skin. All the fight seeped out of her. Relationships confused her. Sex she understood, basic human desires she understood. When it came to emotions, her own emotions, she had no clue. Luc dropped his forehead against hers. “What do you want to do about it?” Make love to me, sweep me off my feet, stay with me. She made a mental note to beat the crap out of her subconscious once the situation was over. He sighed. The sigh spoke volumes, like he held the weight of the world on his shoulders. “I want you to give us a chance at a real relationship.” Her heart skipped a beat. “And if I say no?” “Then you are gonna find a stalker on your ass from now till infinity.” She gave him a wry look. “Don’t jest about such things.” “I’m deadly serious.” Gulp. “You’re killing me here. Give me a chance. 92

Scarlett Sanderson Give us a chance. Let me make it up to you. Put the kink aside. Give me time, and I know you could grow to love me, too.” Was that vulnerability etched all over his face? Yep, it sure was. She was a sucker for vulnerability. The ironic part was she already loved him. Total, flat out, full blown beating heart, head over heels in love. Now he offered all her secret desires on a platter. Maybe it was time to fess up. “I don’t have to grow to love you,” she whispered. “I already do.” He titled his head and frowned as if he hadn’t heard her right. He studied her face. She smiled at him. A broad smile that curled her lips that made her jaw ache and crinkled the skin around her eyes. A slow smile replaced his frown. “Say what?” “I love you.” The smile turned into a grin. “Say that again.” She thumped him lightly on the chest. “See, I knew this would happen. Dance with the devil, and you end up stroking his oversized ego.” He rolled his hips against hers. “Not the only thing that’s oversized.” Tessa groaned at his bad pun. Flipping onto his side, he rolled Tessa with him so she lay pressed against his chest. “Does this mean we’re a couple?” She reveled in the feel of him against her. Warm, solid, sexy as hell. A wicked grin tugged at her lips. Luc had a lot more groveling to do before she could forgive him. A hell of a lot. It was a cliché, but maybe love did conquer all. Nah. “This means we are a couple.” Deciding it was time to turn the tables on Luc, she straddled his waist and flashed him a wicked smile. “For now.” 93