Eden's Pleasure

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 10: EDEN’S PLEASURE by

Christy Poff

WHISKEY CREEK PRESS www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Published by WHISKEY CREEK PRESS Whiskey Creek Press PO Box 51052 Casper, WY 82605-1052 www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Copyright  2011 by Christy Poff Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 (five) years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000.

Names, characters and incidents depicted in this book are products of the author‟s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental and beyond the intent of the author or the publisher. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. ISBN 978-1-61160-108-4

Credits Cover Artist: Kendra Egert Editor: Chere Gruver Printed in the United States of America

Other Books by Author Available at Whiskey Creek Press: www.whiskeycreekpress.com INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 1: THE REBIRTH OF RACHEL Whiskey Creek Press Torrid April 2005 Rachel is looking for a man who‟ll love her for her though she wants more than the usual relationship. Rafe searches for a woman he can love in his unique way. Can his dominance compel the rebirth of Rachel?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 2: BLACK HEART Whiskey Creek Press Torrid June 2005 Raven is cautious about who she‟s with. Kyle is looking for dominance. Will he find love in her black heart and give Raven her life back?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 3: CHARLOTTE MASTERED Whiskey Creek Press Torrid August 2005 Charlotte looks for the right man to control her. Simon seeks the prefect woman to share his life with. When Charlotte‟s mastered, what‟s next?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 1: DANTE’S FLAME Whiskey Creek Press October 2005 A centuries‟ old vampire is looking for love. A woman of today is looking for a love life. Together, can they ignite Dante‟s flame eternally?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 2: SPARK OF A WOLF Whiskey Creek Press Torrid November 2005

Sean deals with life-altering changes while chasing a killer. Rhiannon can help him but he pushes her away. Together, can they light the spark of the wolf?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 3: LOVE HURTS Whiskey Creek Press Torrid December 2005 Madison Allcott loses love only to find it again in a dark gentleman. Galen Beaumont has hunted for five centuries for a woman to love. Will they find out love hurts or will it be the beginning of their eternal lives?

ENTRANCED BY JASMYNE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid February 2006 The Ardalan sheik needs American help to stop the takeover of his country. Her assignment is to get the information to help him but she becomes personally involved. When he becomes entranced by Jasmyne, can they save his realm or will they die trying?

THE HASTINGS SAGA BOOK 1: CHASE FOR AN ANGEL Whiskey Creek Press March 2006 A union officer faces the Civil War on many fronts. A Southern gem awaits his return but fights her own battle. Will his chase for an angel bring them loving happiness?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 4: MEMPHIS BELLE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid April 2006 Belle lost her man to another‟s jealousy, remaining faithful to him until she meets perfection. Jaspar has everything a billionaire could want except the right woman to share it with.

Will her past hurt their future or will he safeguard his Memphis Belle?

HELLFIRE Whiskey Creek Press May 2006 Shania made captain on her own. Mac found perfection in a feisty firefighter. Will the Purists stop them or will they ignite hellfire?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 5: DOCTOR HEAL THYSELF Whiskey Creek Press Torrid June 2006 What happens when a world-renowned sex therapist needs help in her own life? Sheridan Greenlaw must delve into another side of her personality in order to answer her questions. Will Ross Beckham help the doctor „heal thyself‟?

THE SHADOW OF HER SMILE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid August 2006 Laurell is desperate to save her birthright—Ravencroft. Cole, an international gambler, tries to help her while exacting his own revenge. Will the shadow of her smile be enough to keep them safe?

BLUE VELVET Whiskey Creek Press Torrid September 2006 Ethan gave up on life until finding elegant beauty with a wild touch. Roni‟s secret wild side intrigues him. Will the past haunt their blue velvet love?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 4: RED FIRE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid October 2006 Valeria learns there is more to life than she originally thought. Gabriel wants to live a quiet life out of the limelight.

When their paths cross, will they be strong enough to survive a red fire?

WAR IN DARKNESS: ADDICTED TO CYN Whiskey Creek Press Torrid December 2006 (w/Scarlet Love in Torrid Teaser #17) An angel of mercy tries to heal wounded soldiers. A devil‟s disciple must save her life. Will his addiction to Cyn be enough for both of them?

SCARLET LOVE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid December 2006 (W/Addicted to Cyn in Torrid Teaser #17) She‟s fleeing Yankee soldiers. He comes to her rescue in more ways than she could imagine. How much will their scarlet love heat up?

AT CROSS ENDS Whiskey Creek Press Torrid January 2007 Mark Kincaid owes Graham Cross for two years of his life. Riley Devane winds up in the middle. How long will they be at cross ends?

BLOW OUT Whiskey Creek Press February 2007 Craig fights fires on a huge scale while trying to help save a colleague‟s company. Jennifer lives a sheltered life until she meets a man who ignites flames in her. Will the blow out from the past burn them or fuel their love?

THE BEST OF CHRISTY POFF Whiskey Creek Press Torrid (print) April 2007 Rachel needs to redefine her life, finding Rafe the perfect man to help her.

Melanie needs to redefine her love life though Dante has different long-lasting plans. Jasmyne finds life in a different world, Yasir at her side. Love in different worlds is still one thing—love.

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 6: THIS JUST IN… Whiskey Creek Press Torrid June 2007 When a television reporter does an expose on the BSDM scene, he angers many. He looks for answers to learn the truth but will he hold onto the one woman whose lifestyle makes him whole or will their enemies silence them before their life together gets started? This just in…

DARK ILLUSIONS Whiskey Creek Press Torrid August 2007 A beautiful heiress with a wild side wants to enjoy life. Sephora meets the man of her dreams when Nigel Shelton walks into it from the shadows. Will their dark illusions give them what they need or will they be torn apart by greed?

BIRD IN A GILDED CAGE: THE MYTH OF MIRABELLA Whiskey Creek Press Torrid September 2007 Mira lives on the edge of the fashion world in more ways than one. Max seeks a killer who paints his victims in 24K gold. Will Mira be his bird in a gilded cage before Max solves the case?

THE JOYS OF LOVE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid November 2007 Ryan and Kendall must fight a looming threat in order to find happiness. Cody and Savannah go up against the morals of 1927 Tennessee.

Can they find the joys of love or will it be lost to them forever?

LOST LOVE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid November 2007

THE JOYS OF LOVE (TT #41) A Philadelphia cop on the biggest case of his career. His wife fears the future. Can a lost love be revived or will it be lost once more?

LABOR OF LOVE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid November 2007 in The Joys of Love Savannah has lived alone for years, afraid of getting close to anyone. Cody comes to work for her but learns more than he intended. Will their labor of love prove she can find love?

YULE LOVES: NOELLE’S ELF/HIS CHRISTMAS CAROLE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid December 2007

NOELLE’S ELF Noelle wishes on a star for the perfect gift—a man. Dan tries his best to fulfill this for her. Will Noelle‟s elf make her dreams come true?

HIS CHRISTMAS CAROLE Kris faced an unhappy holiday thanks to his ex-wife. Carole experienced the romance of Hawaii by herself for the same reason. Will he enjoy his Christmas Carole or will his past get in their way?

DESIRES: DESIRES UNDER THE FALLS/DESIRE IN THE SNOW Whiskey Creek Press Torrid January 2008

DESIRE UNDER THE FALLS

Having too many curves could destroy a career as Penelope learned. Having too many curves drove Thorne crazy. Could they find Desire under the Falls?

DESIRE IN THE SNOW Layla leaves Los Angeles for a short vacation heading for the mountains. Mac shares his life with Cash but is looking for a good woman to spend it with. Will undue forces create Desire in the Snow for this hot couple?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 7: BLACK LACE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid March 2008 Chelsea Strawbridge falls hard for a firefighter but she lives in a world that doesn‟t accept her desires. Reed Carrington fights fires and finds he ignites one in a society spitfire. Will another snuff that fire before black lace becomes his—totally?

MASKED DESIRES a part of A TORRID CELEBRATION (WCP‟s anniversary anthology) Whiskey Creek Press Torrid March 2008 Ava‟s invitation to the company‟s annual costume ball sends her reeling. Matthew wants to make her the one of his dreams. Will Mardi Gras‟ masked desires bring these two together or hide the truth?

A MATTER OF DECEPTION Whiskey Creek Press Torrid April 2008 Seneca believed he had everything—a good life, wealth and Adrienne, the love of his life. Adrienne couldn‟t wait to become his wife but what happened on the eve of their wedding changed them both forever. Will another man‟s evil and a matter of deception make her forget Seneca or will they find their way back to each other before it‟s too late?

MIDNIGHT ECSTASIES Whiskey Creek Press Torrid June 2008 Carl and Cassie Sandeford have a huge interest in Midnight Ecstasies. A serial killer has an even bigger interest in them. Who will survive?

DARK & DEVIOUS Whiskey Creek Press Torrid July 2008 Jeremy Payne escapes to the quiet of the Pacific Northwest— his past haunting him. Sapphire Knight is running from hers. Can love and honesty overcome the dark & devious sides of their lives?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 5: WHITE ICE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid December 2008 Damon wants to get away and relax—his life in turmoil. Sascha has secrets only he can help her with. Will white ice melt a dark heart?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 8: AFTER GLOW Whiskey Creek Press Torrid March 2009 Brock Sanders has always been a strong man no matter what he did but… Dominique Ashcroft has an extremely dominating personality. Will they bask in the after glow of heated romance or will their pasts darken it?

THE HASTINGS SAGA BOOK 2: DEATH OF AN ANGEL—JESSIE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid June 2009 Andrew thought the Civil War had left him alone until it came screaming back into his life, his angel—Jessie—suffering the revenge of one man‟s evil. Can their love survive or will he mourn the death of an angel—Jessie?

SUNDAY MONEY Whiskey Creek Press Torrid August 2009 Derek Manville races open-wheeled cars or anything with a motor as a hobby. Shelby Holland is desperately trying to hold onto her race team and her financial legacy. Together, can they win Sunday Money while keeping their unique bond from crashing?

THE HASTINGS SAGA BOOK 3: WINDS OF LIFE— ALEXA Whiskey Creek Press Torrid September 2009 Andrew believed love came to a man once in a lifetime until Alexa comes out of his past to prove him wrong. She asks for his help to settle a deadly range war unaware of his grief for his first wife. Will the evil be deadly or will the winds of like—Alexa— save them both?

DARKNESS INTO LIGHT Whiskey Creek Press Torrid October 2009 A night of passion brings Emily together with the man of her dreams only she loses him seconds later. A night of passion shows Seth he can have a life with someone only she disappears as quickly as she appeared. One night—will it survive and bring them both from darkness into light?

DESIRE 2—HART’S DESIRE & YULE DESIRES November 2009

Hart’s Desire Addington Hart knew in high school what he desired in a woman. Cory Phelps knew as well, both enjoying their senior year. When he made the decision to split up before college, he found out that his Hart‟s Desire meant more to him than doing the right thing.

Yule Desires

Mara wanted one thing for Christmas—Jared. Jared had to get his life straightened out before he could give himself to her. Will St. Nicholas give them the gifts they want?

EYES OF DARKNESS MEGABOOK Whiskey Creek Press Torrid December 2009 Sean deals with a new life while chasing a killer—can Rhiannon help him? Madison finds love with a dark gentleman—will love hurt? Valeria discovers a new facet to her life but can Gabriel handle her?

NO DEAL Whiskey Creek Press Torrid February 2010 Alicia Billings is a trophy wife whose husband thinks he can „sell‟ anytime he wants. Blake Atherton wants to put a stop to this to give her a life. Will this be a win/win ending or will it wind up being no deal?

EYES OF DARKNESS #6: NIGHT WISH Whiskey Creek Press Torrid April 2010 Hayden Beaumont heads home to Paris to escape the society season in California. Chandra Richards is an amazing artist who catches his eye and so much more. Will someone from his father‟s past come between them or will Chandra‟s night wish come true?

CHRISTY POFF’S RECOMMENDED READS Whiskey Creek Press Torrid June 2010 Mark Kincaid owes Graham Cross for two years of his life but Riley Devane winds up in the middle. How long will they be at cross ends?

Laurell is desperate to save her birthright and Cole, an international gambler, tries to help her while exacting his own revenge. Will the shadow of her smile be enough to keep them safe? Seneca believed he had everything—a good life, wealth and Adrienne, the love of his life while she couldn‟t wait to become his wife but what happened on the eve of their wedding changed them both forever. Will another man‟s evil and a matter of deception make her forget Seneca or will they find their way back to each other before it‟s too late?

DESIRE 3:DESIRE IN FLAMES & DESIRE IN GREEN Whiskey Creek Press Torrid July 2010

DESIRE IN FLAMES Mike Ritchie always knew what she wanted until Wes Barrett walked onto the fireground and ignited flaming desire in her. Wes had all but given up on finding the one he could spend his life with in every way. Will passion come from desire in flames?

DESIRE IN GREEN Liam St. Patrick has desired one woman in every way but she works as his father‟s personal assistant—interoffice relationships are out of the question until a romantic leprechaun gets involved. Natasha Lindsey has the same feelings but figures Liam is out of her league. Will desire in green bring them together despite office policy?

INTERNET BONDS SERIES BOOK 9: TERMS OF SURRENDER Whiskey Creek Press Torrid August 2010 Noah Sheffield has been searching for the perfect woman to share his life with though his past keeps haunting him. Fallon Mitchell learns a great deal spending one night with her myterious lover. Will she agree to his terms of surrender before a madman‟s revenge tears them apart?

WAR IN DARKNESS BOOK 2: MOONSTRUCK Whiskey Creek Press Torrid September 2010 Calvin Wright runs blockades and CSA missions but only at night, his secret carefully guarded. Lady Harley Windsor wants him to sail her to the islands so she can escape a Union colonel after her for spying. Will their dark secrets be revealed or will they forever be moonstruck?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 7: KING’S RANSOM Whiskey Creek Press Torrid October 2010 Ardalyn Hunter becomes trapped between good and evil. Ryman King goes after a rogue trying to free a gorgeous woman. Is he prepared to give up a king‟s ransom to be with her?

DESIRE 4: DESIRE ON ICE & DESIRE ATDAWN Whiskey Creek Press Torrid February 2011

DESIRE ON ICE Scouting out a possible trade prospect leads Beca to the beautiful wilds of Vancouver—a long way from her Florida home. Nik intended to retire from his beloved hockey team but wound up being signed by another in the opposite conference. Will they find desire on ice or will things turn frigid between them?

DESIRE AT DAWN Chuck Lang left the Midwest once he discovered the beauty of dawn on Cadillac Mountain in Maine. Glenn Banks finds a love for the same view plus a cowboy who steals her heart. Will they find their desire at dawn?

EYES OF DARKNESS BOOK 8: WINTER FIRE Whiskey Creek Press Torrid March 2011 Martin Wolfe had always been a solitary soul—a lone wolf— though he tended goal for a local hockey team. Malin Scout is a methodical investigator—one of the best at her job—until a blue-eyed devil steals her heart.

Their way of life is threatened by a man wanting power at any cost. Will they survive a winter fire—any any cost?

DEN OF SEDUCTION Whiskey Creek Press Torrid May 2011 Life on the Jensen ranch isn‟t everything Mallory would like it to be since her husband treats her like a child he‟s afraid of. An early morning ride opens her eyes to the world when she finds the near-dead body of a man lying in one of the lower fields. Her personal mission—nurse him back to health but will he become trapped in her den of seduction or her surrounding world‟s den of deceit?

Dedication To pleasure—however we find it…

Prologue After parking her black Audi in the alley next to the building she owned, Eden Conrad locked it then headed inside. The stiletto heels of her thigh-high boots clicked on the asphalt as she walked, the sound echoing lightly in the enclosed driveway. Going in, the man she‟d hired to be the host at her club met her. “Mistress Eden, how are you?” “Fine, Carson, and you?” “Just waiting to find out if I passed my last final,” he answered. When Carson had applied for the job, she‟d hesitated because of his being in college but once he explained that he‟d already earned his Bachelors in his major and had been currently working for his Masters, she gave in and hired him—one of the best decisions she‟d ever made. With him extremely conscientious about his job, she knew she could trust him not to say anything about what went on behind the walls of Dark Illusions as well as unofficially becoming her personal assistant. Not only could it hurt her, but the fact he worked at a club catering to sex could bar him from getting any credible job once he graduated. “When should you get an answer?” “A few days,” he replied. “Are you worried?” “A little but then again, I always do,” he said then snickered as he took her coat. “Wow, you look absolutely amazing.” 1

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Thank you, Carson,” she said as she took the reservations book from him. Going down the list of expected parties, she grinned. Tonight would be a good one. As they walked through the lounge to the bar, they discussed the list. Eden wanted to make sure they had what they needed, Carson assuring her that they did. “Will there be anything else tonight?” “I believe you know me too well—yes, you may choose someone. Send them upstairs before closing.” “Yes, Mistress,” he said. “Anyone special?” “Not tonight.” Carson nodded and left her alone at the bar. She sat on a stool taking the glass of champagne Phil had placed in front of her and sighed. Each night or every other night—depending on her mood— Eden would request one of the evening‟s staff to join her in her private apartment on the top floor of the club. When they arrived and knocked on her door, she‟d be waiting for them. Her one stipulation—she‟d be blindfolded or they would wear a mask. Not knowing who would come to her left the entire experience on an impersonal level though the entire staff had been sworn to secrecy about anything that occurred. When she hired anyone, she made them sign a confidentiality agreement for her protection as well as theirs. This way, if anything leaked out, she could act accordingly as to whether she reprimanded or fired them. What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas… Good motto only she took it one step further. Nothing leaves the club under any circumstances. So far, she‟d had no problems. Just off the famous Vegas Strip, Eden made sure her business remained aboveboard and, as a result of her efforts, the club had become exclusive to an elite clientele who held memberships. While she charged no fees, they accepted the silent rule that they‟d 2

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure leave a good amount of money after each visit, whether it be in the restaurant or for the private rooms on the second and third floors. If she got wind that Vice might be visiting, she made sure only the restaurant and bar remained open which made it appear to be an upscale club. Her clients grateful for this, they knew she‟d protect them and their privacy while she covered her own ass at the same time—a win-win situation if everyone kept up their end of the bargain. “Can I get you anything else?” Phil asked as she slid her empty flute over the polished bar to him. “Send the usual upstairs in a little while.” “Yes, ma‟am,” he said. Eden smiled and slid off the stool. Pulling the hem of her little black leather dress down, she walked to the stairs and went up to the third floor. Once there, she took a key from her handbag and unlocked the door to her private world—one only those invited behind the closed door ever saw though every once in a while, she asked herself if she‟d been playing it smart by having her little rendezvous here. Looking at the clock, she saw she had several hours before her evening‟s dessert knocked on her door. What do I want tonight? **** Gavin Hunt had gotten a job at Dark Illusions as a waiter while he worked his way through the Police Academy. Having started the Academy after he‟d been hired, he chose to keep that part of his life to himself which made things simple. Because his employer ran a tight operation and looked out for everyone in her employ, he had no doubt his secret would remain that. At six foot two, he blended in with all the other studs though he would have been happier not wearing the tight leather pants every night as they tended to get hot but it got to the point it no longer bothered him which made his life easier. Besides, he‟d have to learn to wear his uniform or anything the department might 3

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure expect him to wear in the line of duty so why not get in practice now? “Gavin, can you remain after hours?” Carson asked when he came in for his shift. “Sure,” he answered, knowing what would happen. Remaining after hours became the club‟s code for spending the evening in the company of Mistress Eden. Carson tried to offer it to everyone so no one would miss out unless they desired not to stay but no one refused—the money for the time good. He‟d stayed several times and enjoyed every moment with her. Never had he experienced a lover like her and he doubted he ever would. This had been the overtime he looked forward to. “She‟s requested you go to her around midnight.” “Not a problem,” Gavin said. Gavin walked through the restaurant, checked his assigned area and waited for his first customers to be seated. It would be an interesting evening. **** When Gavin walked into the room after knocking on the door, his breath caught. Sitting on the bed wearing nothing but a tight black corset, a tiny thong and the highest boots he‟d ever seen sat Mistress Eden—Eden Conrad—the owner and Dominatrix of the club. Gazing at her for what seemed an elongated minute, he couldn‟t help but notice her erotic beauty. He‟d seen her walk through the restaurant and the bar on numerous occasions and noticed the amazing bright blue eyes the satin blindfold now hid. Her extremely fair skin highlighted by her long jet-black hair could only be described as deathly pale yet on her, it seemed perfect. His eyes dropped to her chest, the corset tight enough to push her breasts up to where they appeared to be near the point where the slightest move would have them spilling over the firm edge of the garment. How the hell did I get so damned lucky? 4

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Licking his lips, he could not wait to trace the outline of her gorgeous body but he knew he had to wait. Tonight, as always, Mistress Eden expected her commands to be obeyed and he, as her submissive, would do so. “Mistress, how shall I serve you?” **** While her dessert waited tables, Eden decided that she wanted something a little over the top. While she loved bondage of any type, things had happened that made her want more tonight. This evening, she wanted punishment. Getting out several floggers of various designs, she placed them on a small table near where she‟d have her partner restrain her. She then placed several types of gags next to them along with some other toys. Everything in place and ready, she walked to the monitors she used to watch what happened below her. The restaurant filled, she smiled. Exactly how I like things… Near midnight, she tied the black satin blindfold in place then sat on the edge of the bed and waited for whoever Carson sent to her. A light knock on the door made her breath catch, the unknown beginning to arouse her. “Come in…” She heard the door open then close followed by the latch engaging when her guest for the night locked it. “Mistress Eden, good evening…” “Strip out of your clothes then come to me,” she commanded. He did so and she appreciated that he took her hand to let her know where he stood. “Mistress, your next desire?” “I want you to remove my clothes leaving me in my boots only. Once you‟ve done that, you will cuff me to the columns and make sure my feet are apart.” “Yes, Mistress…” 5

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure He guided her to the columns on the opposite side of the room then carefully removed her corset and her thong. Cuffing her hands over her head after he kissed each one, he made sure of her comfort before he knelt in front of her to tend to her feet. “Mistress?” “On the table are several different types of gags. Choose one and use it then I want you to flog me.” “Mistress Eden?” “I want to begin with punishment,” she stated. “I also do not care where on my body you choose.” “Yes, Mistress, forgive me,” he said as he selected a leather gag with a small bit that fit inside her mouth. Securing it while again making sure of her comfort, he then looked at the floggers she‟d laid out for him choosing a suede-tipped one and a thin leather paddle. “Are you ready, Mistress?” he asked the gorgeous, naked woman in front of him. Eden nodded. “Mistress, shall I…” Eden tried to tell him to do whatever came to mind and thought he understood what she tried to say, the gag doing its job. Instead, he tried something different. Slipping his hands to her sides, he gently lifted her breasts so he could touch the softness of her amazing body. The feel of their firmness sent a new sensation through her body, Eden overcome by it. “Does Mistress mind if I punish her amazing body with other things?” Eden shook her head wondering what he had in mind. Tonight would be very interesting indeed but could she wait until he did it? I’ll have to… Because she‟d been doing this kind of rendezvous for a while, she could tell he‟d chosen the paddle, the sound of it slapping 6

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure against her ass echoing in the room followed by her reaction. Massaging the area, he did the same to the other side. One thing she‟d made sure all of her partners knew when she trained them— always do things evenly so that no part of your lover’s body is slighted. He‟d learned well. Repeating this several more times—each time harsher than the previous one—he then moved to stand in front of her. Taking a deep breath as he switched floggers, he used the suede-tipped one on her breasts. Eden jumped a little but didn‟t cry. In her world, punishment like this brought divine pleasure. The feel of the flogger on her breasts caused her body to soar to a new level and she wanted more. With the second round, he used more force, Eden languishing in the stinging sensations coursing through her. When he did it the fourth time with even more force, she cried out despite the gag as she asked herself if he could do anything more to surprise her. Her answer came moments later, the sensation hitting her like a runaway train as he tugged on her nipple piercings then held her breasts up just enough to send her rocketing to an entirely new level. While she soared, he used the suede on her again, the orgasm following overpowering her. What he did next undid her completely. Her slave chose to lave her nipples while she trembled, the heat of his breath on her skin adding more heat to her body. A tug, a smack then his lips repeated several times caused her to do something she had not done for a long time. From behind the gag, she begged him for permission to come. The sound of his groan gave her a hint of his desire though she waited for his answer. “Yes, Mistress, you may come for me but I will tell you when.” 7

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden groaned. No sub had ever been able to do this to her yet he had. From his voice to his obedience to what he‟d done to her and would do, Eden felt that—for the moment—she had everything she‟d ever wanted. She sensed him kneeling in front of her and while his hands continued to torture her breasts, his tongue lapped at her pussy until she almost misbehaved. She jolted when his tongue entered her, licking her with deliberate strokes while he drank from her. “Come for me, Mistress,” he said as he pinched her nipples. Eden cried out as she came, his pace furious as he took her. Her body shaking, she enjoyed the ripples of sheer pleasure coursing through her. With one of his fingers replacing his tongue, he continued keeping her on edge as he stood and walked around her. “Would you like me to remove the gag, Mistress?” Eden nodded and tried to catch her breath when he gently removed it. “Your next desire?” “I want more punishment as you find a way to take me again. I want you to make me come for you as many times as you wish while you obey my orders.” “Yes, Mistress, as you wish.” Standing in front of her, Gavin began again only when he slapped her ass, he slipped two fingers into her pussy. Eden jolted, the feel of his fingers inside her sending more heat racing through her. The touch of his tongue on her nipple after he‟d slapped it sent her reeling, her body shaking as a climax threatened to overwhelm her. Flogging, nipple torture and finger fucking, Eden thought she‟d died and gone to heaven—this man doing things to her no other had ever done. For the next hour, Gavin obeyed her as he took her numerous times. She cried out each time before the final one when exhaustion took over. 8

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Mistress?” “Release me and take me over to the bed.” Gavin did so and helped her across the room. Once she sat down, he helped her remove her boots then waited. “Stand up,” she said. “You know what I plan to do.” “Yes, Mistress,” he said as he stepped between her legs and rested his swollen and hungry cock on her lips. Eden loved the feel of his shaft on her lower lip. Slowly, she drew him in and teased him. Though sanity told her she‟d had him several times before, whoever had been with her had been the best lover yet but she refused to become attached even though something inside her told her to be greedy. As she went down on him, she felt his hand on the back of her head seconds before he pumped his cock into her mouth. Taking his entire length, she wanted more of him as her hands gripped his ass to bring him impossibly closer. “Mistress, may I…” Eden nodded, unable to say anything. Moments later, the heat of his essence exploded into her as she took him. Massaging his balls, she wanted everything down to the last drop. Then she surprised him by taking his length once more—this time deeper into her throat. As she did, she felt the same heat she had earlier as he touched a spot on the back of her throat that made her want to climax. Languishing in this, she felt him bend over her a little so his hands could slide over her breasts and hold onto them while he teased her nipples again. “Tell me what to do next,” he whispered as the latest orgasm washed over her, Eden‟s body no longer hers to control. Pulling back, she gasped for air as her lips sought his. As they kissed, her hand found his cock and guided it to her pussy. Without a word said, he took her command and thrust his cock into her. Moments later, she screamed but no one heard as he took her 9

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure reaction into him while his cock filled her gorgeous body with his seed. “Mistress, forgive me…” “There is nothing to forgive—you are perfection.”

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Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 1 A few days after her mysterious lover had almost ruined her for anyone else, Eden could no longer take not knowing his identity. She‟d casually walked through the dining room listening to her waiters‟ voices but she didn‟t hear the one that set her soul on fire. Realizing it had been very possible that he‟d not been in to work since that night, she went to Carson and asked, Carson fidgeting. “What‟s wrong?” she asked. “You informed me when I started handling this that I‟m not to tell you who I send to your room so nothing becomes permanent.” “I realize that but the other night—it‟s indescribable how he makes me feel. I need to know who this wonderful man is.” “May I suggest this?” Carson asked. “What?” “Give me your e-mail address and I will have him contact you if he wants to continue on. This way, if he says no, he remains a mystery.” “Good idea,” she said, liking his suggestion though the delay did not please her yet she understood his wanting to protect everyone concerned. Writing down her email address, she handed him the piece of paper then walked away. “Phil, I need a strong drink.” “Yes, ma‟am, coming right up.” 11

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Sitting at the bar, Eden went over her life—something she did on a daily basis. Not only did this keep her grounded but she made sure she remained alert to things that could hurt her. Several years before and in the early days of Dark Illusions, she‟d had a scare thanks to someone close to her—or so she thought. The property she‟d invested in sat in the center of the main nightlife of Las Vegas—something she‟d done on purpose. She‟d wanted the better clientele as patrons and anything too far off the beaten path would not get her that. Instead, she‟d get tourists, maybe some businessmen but not the high rollers who had money to spend. After her parents‟ divorce, she‟d fled California and her mother‟s overbearing social-climbing personality. A California socialite by birth and the daughter of a successful Nevada businessman, she couldn‟t live the Hollywood life—the reason her father divorced her mother after he found her in bed with a male prostitute. Going back to her father‟s home had not been easy. Despite the sensibilities that had molded her, she could not live within his lifestyle either—her new life the complete opposite to theirs. One day, Amy Gordon lost herself—never to be found again—and resurfaced as Mistress Eden. An investigator from New Mexico confronted her one day, Eden begging him not to tell her family. “You do realize they‟re paying me five million bucks to find you?” “I don‟t care. I can‟t go back to life with either of them. They refuse to deal with the unconventional. I don‟t want their money, their lives or contact with them. What‟s funny—several of my father‟s clients enjoy what I can give them—no one any wiser.” “And if I keep your secret, what do I get in return?” “I can teach you about yourself.” 12

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Tell me what I need to learn.” “You, my shadowy friend, are a natural Dominant. I can tell from how your body speaks to mine. Right now, I want to be your submissive.” “I don‟t understand. How can you possibly know something like that?” “I am a natural submissive. I‟m attracted to alpha males who are extremely sure of themselves and you are that kind of man.” “And how do you intend to teach me this?” “Come, Master, allow your slave to pleasure you.” He followed her, unable to fight the hold she apparently had on him. She led him to a dungeon-like room where he looked at the various things he‟d always been aroused by. “What would you like me to do, Master?” “Right now, I‟m not sure—surprise me.” “Yes, Master,” she said. “This way.” Moments later, he stood naked while Eden went down on his cock as his body obviously languished in the sensations. He looked down at her feverishly taking him and, as he told her later, he found the real Nigel begging to get out. Grabbing her hair, he pressed her closer while he pounded his cock deep into her throat. His essence exploding into her, he filled her while she moaned. When she pulled back, she licked his slit and gazed at him. “Master, please may I come?” Her plea had startled him but she pleasured him while she held her own climax back. He‟d told her a tiny part of him regretted it but the rest of him enjoyed his newfound power. “Master, please may I come?” she asked though she could tell through the euphoria overtaking him that he had not heard her but when he realized what she‟d said, he took charge. “Not yet,” he said. “I want you naked.” “Yes, Master,” she purred. 13

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure After removing her clothes, she knelt before him, her hands behind her back with her knees apart giving him full view of her hungry pussy. He watched her wordlessly obey him, her body begging for his next word. He pulled her into a kiss then pushed her onto a table where he buried his tongue deep into her pussy. Drinking from her, she knew he hadn‟t yet taken what she offered him, her body pleading for relief. “Come, Eden.” “Yes, Master,” she cried out as she drenched him. Two tiny words had forever changed both their lives. Before he left Las Vegas, he‟d found out more about himself than he ever expected. Taking her secret with him, he became a silent partner in Dark Illusions. The ironic thing—he‟d given her the five million to use for either the club or an escape plan. They‟d discussed opening one or two others but so far, Las Vegas remained the only one. Nigel Shelton and his wife, Sephora had been good friends and when they came to Las Vegas, they took full advantage of the club—Eden grateful to him. Several months after he left, Eden met a man at The Mirage when she‟d gone in to play some poker. Immediately, she sensed his dominance and found herself obeying his every command. He took her to one of the local sex clubs off the Strip where they spent an interesting evening. No sooner had they entered their room than he had her naked and on her knees. As natural subs never asked questions and they‟d yet to establish a safe word, she went with Rudd Weathers and his wishes. Her hands behind her, she automatically presented herself to him but he didn‟t like her position, preferring another one which made her feel ashamed of her tendencies—the complete opposite of Shelton. Binding her hands to a ring hanging from the ceiling, he shoved a ball gag into her mouth and kicked her legs apart. By the 14

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure way he did it, she prayed she hadn‟t found one of the rougher vice cops who got their action for free—the victim‟s payment being a so-called promise that nothing would be said. Closing her eyes, she said several prayers. As she found out soon after, he‟d been laying the groundwork for their relationship. “I wanted to see how far I could push you before you‟d run.” “I couldn‟t do that,” she said. “You never allowed me a safe word.” “You performed admirably,” he said as he gave her aching body a rubdown. “Thank you, Master,” she said. “I‟d like to explore this with you more in depth. You have what I believe will accept and handle my kind of dominance.” “Please, explain.” “This tonight has been a test you have passed without question. I figured if you could handle me at my worst, then we might have a chance because you‟ve seen my harsh side.” “And if I say no?” “I doubt you will. Your body craves what I can give it.” Eden agreed to be his sub and for the first several months, everything had been sheer perfection when he and she got together. Then it all took a turn for the worst. She returned to the house they shared on the outskirts of the city. He explained that he‟d bought it in that location for one reason—no one would hear anything that went on there and they‟d have the privacy their relationship required. When she walked in, she froze in total shock at the sight in front of her. Weathers had invited several Masters to the house and they, in turn, bought their subs with them. One had his on a leash at his feet—something Eden would never consider doing or accepting. Another had his sub sucking his cock though she couldn‟t seem to satisfy him so he punished her and told her to do it right. Then she 15

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure saw the sight that really threw her—Weathers being serviced by a buxom, Penthouse playmate type and when she‟d taken him orally, she started over again after she straddled his hips. “Ah, my beautiful slave, it‟s about time you came home. My guests have been waiting for you.” “For?” “Twice a year, we get together and share our slaves.” “You never mentioned it, Master.” “I didn‟t have to,” he declared. “Now go over to Master Gregory and…” “No, I won‟t. I never agreed to this and you know it.” “If you don‟t, you‟ll be punished.” “I‟m leaving,” she said with a new inner strength she didn‟t realize she had. “Don‟t you dare leave,” he said. “If you do, you won‟t be able to come back for any reason.” “Good,” she said before she turned and left. “I swear I will hunt you down and repay you for what you‟ve done to me and the longer it takes, the harsher the punishment!” he yelled—the last words she heard from him. Relieved to be away from him, Eden sped back into the city and immediately called her lawyer. By the close of the next business day, she had an open-ended restraining order against Rudd Weathers. She also had papers delivered to him stating that her lawyer would retrieve her possessions and her business interests would no longer be any concern of his. If he took an interest in her or anything pertaining to her, she‟d see him in court with no regard to the risk she took by such an action. Eden Conrad wanted him out of her life—for good. Since then, she‟d been wary of taking on any relationship yet every night since her last rendezvous, she‟d dreamt of the man who‟d rocked her world and left her begging for more. I need him… 16

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure **** Over the last several days, Gavin Hunt had gone through the same cravings. He knew in his heart that he‟d found the woman he wanted to spend the rest of his life with only he had no clue how to approach her. Even though they‟d enjoyed each other several times before, nothing compared to the other night when he walked into her room to find a gorgeous woman in a tight black corset, thighhigh boots and blindfolded waiting for him. Never had a woman made him feel as Eden had that night and he didn‟t want to risk losing any more chances with her. He knew she had strict rules— the reason why the club had been successful. Because of something in her past, she protected herself as well as those she employed and he appreciated that but he wanted more. I want Eden… When he arrived for his shift, Carson pulled him aside and slipped him a piece of paper. “From your Mistress,” he said. “Be very careful in what you say and do.” “Thanks,” Gavin said. “I think…” Finding somewhere where he could be alone, he unfolded the paper and looked at it. Shock overtook him when he saw an email address—Eden‟s. Hearing someone coming up behind him, he quickly pocketed what he considered more valuable than gold and regained himself. “Hunt, what‟s shakin‟?” one of the other waiters asked. “Not much,” he answered. “You?” “Same old, same old.” Waiting for him to leave the room, Gavin found another piece of paper and ripped it from the pad. One of the things he‟d learned at the Academy had been to take the first several sheets of paper off the tablet in order to keep anything written on it a secret. More perps had been arrested because the lab boys raised the lettering on the sheets of paper beneath the one written on. 17

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure When he found a spot in the kitchen, he put the paper down on the stainless steel shelf and wrote his email address on it. Folding it in half, he sought out Carson. “Would you give this to my Mistress?” he asked. “Sure,” Carson said. “Remember what I told you. I‟d hate to see either one of you hurt.” “Thanks,” Hunt said. “I respect that it comes from you. Anyone else and I‟d wonder.” “She‟s been hurt though I don‟t know the circumstances.” “I‟d figured as much. She kinda fits the profile of…” “What do you mean?” “Between you and me, I‟ve been going to the Police Academy. We‟ve had classes on domestic violence and she fits the profile of someone who‟s been deeply hurt because of that kind of situation.” “I hope you don‟t plan to use the badge against her…” “If anything, I‟ll use it to protect her—and everyone else here. This is a good set-up and there‟s no reason why anything should happen that might close it or worse. I‟ve seen several of the city‟s bigwigs in here and you know, they‟ll be the last ones to want it touched.” “Just like they will be the last ones to go to court for her.” “Very true but if you and I work together, then she‟s got two on the inside on her side.” “You have a deal, Hunt,” Carson said. “Good.” Hunt returned to his section of the restaurant and did his usual pre-shift check. Once done, he stood off to the side and waited for the first table to be seated. While he did, he thought of the woman he wanted to be with and groaned when his cock felt trapped thanks to the leather pants. Taking a few deep breaths he‟d hoped would calm him, he tried to think of the day‟s classes but his thoughts kept returning to Eden. Can I wait… 18

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure **** “Mistress, I‟ve been asked to give this to you.” “And this is…” she asked, holding the piece of paper up. “I believe the answer to your message.” “I see,” she said. “Thank you.” Carson nodded then left her alone to return to the front desk. Eden waited until he‟d gone then opened the folded paper. My email address is: ghunt2212. If you’d like, I can create another one just for you. Eden smiled as she pulled out her Blackberry and sent him an email. Since the club had yet to open, she felt safe doing this though her emotions had overpowered her. Darkeden: A special email will be much appreciated. A few moments later, her answer came back. Ghunt2212: Your wish is my command. Tonight? Darkeden: Why not? Ghunt2212: If Mistress would not mind, I’d like to see you in black lace while you choose the evening’s theme. Darkeden: Interesting idea. Figuring her mystery lover had been Gavin Hunt, one of her waiters in the main restaurant, she appreciated Carson‟s choice the other evening even more. I will have to give him a raise… Leaving the club in his capable hands, she went upstairs and went through her closet to pick out something in black lace. While she did, her body trembled in anticipation of an evening with her tall, dark and handsome lover—one with amazing blue eyes. From the day she‟d hired Hunt, she‟d always loved the deep tone of his voice. I should have recognized him the other evening but then again, it had been solely about sex because I didn’t want to know… Deciding between two outfits brought out the devilish side of her. Taking a chance, she emailed him again. Darkeden: Sheer or not? Ghunt2212: Not yet body-hugging. 19

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Darkeden: As you wish. Ghunt2212: Who shall be blindfolded? Darkeden: Neither. Ghunt2212: As you wish. Checking the monitors, she spied Gavin Hunt on the floor serving an intimate dinner at a table set for two. From what she could tell, he had good rapport with the customers which she appreciated. Waiters like him always enjoyed repeat business. As he walked away from the table, he glanced up at one of the cameras and flashed her a grin—one that sent heat rushing through her. Can I wait that long? **** Hunt felt like he‟d spent the evening floating on air. The fact that she‟d emailed him while he waited tables showed her devilish side. He only hoped he could satisfy her tonight as he had several nights before. Near eleven, Carson caught his attention and he went to the front desk hoping she had not changed her mind. “Your Mistress would like you to come up as soon as you can. I‟ve made sure that no new customers have been seated in your area so you can finish up early.” “Thank you,” he said. Returning to his area, he served the last two desserts and once he‟d made sure the bills had been taken care of and he collected his tips, he went to Carson with his totals then headed upstairs. Knocking on the door as he had each time before, he found it open. After entering Eden‟s private world, he closed the door and locked it. When he turned, he saw her standing in the doorway to her bedroom wearing a little black lace dress that hugged every beautiful curve her body had. “Mistress Eden, I am Gavin Hunt and I can‟t tell you how much I‟ve looked forward to this.” “I can‟t tell you either,” she said. 20

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “What can I do to please you?” She walked toward him, Hunt noticing the thin stiletto heels she wore—ones very few women could walk on without swaying. As she approached, he held his breath. Her dress low-cut, her breasts filled the top of it perfectly while the rest of it hugged her hips. Extremely short, it served to accentuate the beautiful length of her legs. “Do you like what you see?” “Yes, Mistress,” he said almost gasping. “Good. Now, I want you to remove your clothes and place them on the sofa. Once you‟ve done that, you will seduce me while you remove the lace from my body.” “Yes, Mistress, as you wish.” Hunt obeyed each command, his only dread being that he might displease her in some way. As soon as he went to her, his cock throbbed begging for her attention. Seeing the smile on her face made him feel better as he easily brushed her hair behind her back. Framing her face with his hands, he brushed his lips over her face before he did the same to her neck. Her gasp told him she liked it as he continued to her shoulders. “May I ask a question?” “Yes.” “Does this gorgeous dress stretch? I‟d hate to rip it in the process of removing it.” “It does and I appreciate your concern.” Nodding, he eased the thick shoulder straps off her and as they sat at her elbows effectively holding her arms in place, he held her breasts so they wouldn‟t drop haphazardly. He wanted to make sure she never felt any discomfort when he touched her. “Your wish?” “Don‟t stop, Gavin…” “Yes, Mistress,” he said as he gazed reverently at her. 21

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Hunt brushed his thumbs over her firm nipples, Eden again gasping. From her body language, he knew she had begun to teeter on the edge of a climax, one place he intended to keep her as long as possible. “If I asked you to continue brushing your nipples with your thumbs while I finish stripping you out of this gorgeous dress, would you do it for me?” “Yes,” she replied breathlessly, her hands moving toward her breasts. Moving the dress straps out of her way, she did as he asked. The sight of her playing with her tits made him harder but he had to restrain himself from hurrying things. She wanted seduction and would get it. Shoving the dress down the length of her long legs, he supported her while she stepped out of it then, after he placed the dress with his clothes, he parted her legs and teased her pussy. “Please, Mistress, tell me what you‟d like next.” “I believe I want to restrain you this evening. Follow me,” she said though she didn‟t stop what he‟d asked her to do. Following her into a room off to the side, he found that she had her own playroom, one much more elaborate than the ones on the floors below. She stood in front of a leather-covered table and nodded to it since she refused to stop playing with her extremely firm nipples. Hunt gazed at it, a little embarrassed because his cock remained impatient. “You should never be embarrassed in front of me,” she said. “You have an impressive cock and I enjoy seeing it hard and wanting.” “Yes, Mistress, thank you.” “It makes me want to place it between my breasts so I can make it come with them while you continue playing with my nipples.” 22

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Anything, Mistress,” he croaked, his reaction to her words and the sight of her in front of him driving him insane. “In fact, I believe I will,” she said “Pick me up and put me on the table.” Hunt did and groaned as he watched her lay back. Taking his cue, he straddled her body laying his cock between her breasts. Eden took his hands and placed them on her nipples as she took her breasts and began pumping his cock. As much as he wanted to place his hands on hers, he obeyed her command though he had to admit it took a great deal of willpower. Able to feel when he neared the edge, he put all his concentration on waiting until she gave the word—the one word that would take over his life. “Come, my handsome slave,” she said. Moments later, he did and she arched her back to push closer to his body. Holding his reaction, Hunt tried counting backwards—anything to get his mind off the scream that threatened to overpower the room. “Go ahead, Gavin,” she said. “I want to hear your pleasure.” Unable to wait, he cried out as the full extent of his release overwhelmed him. His mind spinning, he fought to remain upright while he continued to minister to her extremely hard buds. “May I say that Mistress has perfect tits?” “Yes, and I thank you for the compliment.” “You do…” “Gavin, are you all right?” “Light-headed…” “Come down to me,” she said, concern in her voice. Slowly, he lowered his body to hers pulling his hands from her breasts to the leather table to support himself. “Forgive me, Mistress,” he gasped. “I do,” she said as her lips met his. “You are an amazing man, Gavin Hunt.” 23

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Her lips covered his as she kissed him. Sliding toward the end of the table, she pushed up a little to take him in her arms. “I don‟t know what came over me.” “It‟s all right,” she said. “I‟m not mad.” “I have been afraid of disappointing you.” “Let‟s put it this way—if you accept my offer, you won‟t have anything to worry about.” “What do you mean?” “I want to train you as my submissive. In doing so, you‟ll increase your stamina though you already have an amazing one. I want you as mine, Gavin,” she said. “I haven‟t wanted a man for a serious relationship for years and I‟m taking a huge risk even broaching the subject.” “I need to tell you something first,” he said. “What?” Hunt slipped off the table and dropped to his knees in front of her, his eyes finding a point on the floor to stare at. He knew if he looked at her as she lay on her side, he‟d never say what he had to. “When I applied for the job, I had my application in at the police department. A month after I started here, I started training at the Academy and have been doing both ever since.” “Look at me,” she commanded. “Why did you keep this a secret?” “Because of your business and the one time I had the good fortune to pleasure you the second week of my employment, I didn‟t want to ruin anything. The last thing you needed would have been the department coming in here full-steam and hell-bent. I also didn‟t want to risk being with you. It‟s like being a hockey fan and going to an event where the greatest hockey player ever is appearing. You‟ll do anything to share the same air with him because of who he is.” “Oh?” 24

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I guess what I‟m saying is that I‟ve been in love with you since the day of my interview and I would never intentionally do anything to hurt you. If being with you means quitting the Academy, I will.” “I would never expect you to do that.” “It could be considered a conflict of interest. There are cops out there determined to close places like this down.” “I know but, as you know, I‟ve been very careful.” “And I refuse to jeopardize this for you. The last thing I want to see is you in prison.” “I don‟t look good in orange.” “Mistress, I‟m serious. If I got the detail that gets the orders to arrest you or anyone here, I can‟t do it. Everyone here trusts me and I cannot betray that.” “And what about your future plans?” “I can go back to school and get my degree. I have my Associates degree in Liberal Arts—I just never decided on a major.” “I won‟t ask you to do that.” “Mistress Eden, I intentionally will do anything in my power to protect you—no matter what. I‟ve discovered so much about myself since the other night and I know what I want from life. I want you.” Sitting up on the table, she gazed at him. The heat of her gaze sent a myriad of sensations through him as he waited for her to tell him to leave. I won’t like it but I’ll understand… Hell no—I won’t… “Gavin Hunt, you will continue on with your life as normal. We will figure this out but in the meantime, I want to train you. Increasing your stamina will also help with your physical training— something I understand is important for a police officer. I will give you time to think about your decision as I do not want you make a rash one.” 25

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I want to be your submissive,” he said without hesitation. “I need you in my life.” “Then the first thing I will instruct you in is this—you will carry me into the shower and bathe my body and yours. After that, who knows?” “Yes, Mistress,” he said. “Thank you.” “No, my love, thank you. I can‟t very well send away the only man to make me feel like a complete woman. You are a special find, my love, and I refuse to risk losing you.” **** When they had finished bathing which included another heated session, she led him back to the leather table. “Stretch out and allow me to do the rest.” “Yes, Mistress.” She could feel his gaze on her as she moved about the room getting what she intended to use on him. When she returned, she bent over him, their lips meeting. Shackling his hands over his head after she kissed his palms, she moved to the other end of the table and did the same with his ankles. “I see your cock is still impatient…” “Yes, Mistress, it is.” “Good,” she said as she hung a bejeweled chain from her finger for him to look at. “Do you know what this is?” “A cock ring, Mistress.” “Exactly and you are aware what it is used for?” “Yes, I am.” “Do you have a problem with this?” “No, I don‟t.” Eden nodded then teased his cock to make sure she had him at his utmost size. After she waited for him to relax a little, she slid the ring along the length of his shaft then bound his balls. His cock 26

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure immediately swelled again from the sensation as well as her touch, his body stiff as he fought his reaction. “This is my claim to you, slave. You will wear this at all times unless you are put in a position that will cause embarrassment from the normal world. In which case, you will replace it as soon as possible thereafter. Do you accept my claim?” “Yes, Mistress Eden, yes!” he cried out as his body continued its fight against itself. Eden bent down, taking his length into her throat. Going down on her slave, she inwardly smiled when he began trying to thrust in and out of her. Taking his release despite his intention to hold back, she languished in what this man did for her. Am I risking too much by enslaving a cop—even a baby cop? Hunt cried out, his sheer pleasure reverberating through the apartment. “Gavin Hunt…” “Punish me, Mistress, for my disobedience.” “I will not this time because I deliberately pushed you to the point you would. You behaved admirably and I look forward to our future together. I do however have some ground rules.” “Anything!” he screamed as she continued torturing his body. “I will not share you with anyone. I‟ve had experience with that and it‟s not pretty. As my slave, it is my responsibility to make sure you are not hurt in any way—to protect you from the evil in our world. You‟ve crossed over into a new life where we have our own set of rules and laws. I will teach you what you need to know as well as giving you pleasure beyond your wildest dreams. Your life outside this world will not change because I‟ve told you to do it. You must make that decision on your own but I will support whatever choice you make. Do you still accept my claim on you?” “Yes, Mistress, I will do anything for you.” Eden bent to kiss him, her nipples brushing his chest. Again his body‟s reaction pleased her and she rewarded him. Climbing on 27

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure top of him, she lowered her pussy to his lips while she took his cock deep into her throat once more. Teasing his slit, she jolted when she felt his tongue laving her clit. “As your reward, slave, you may come when ready.” “Thank you, Mistress,” he said after drawing back a little. After both began slowly wanting to draw out the experience, their pace became furious as both met the other‟s—by this time, extremely and brutally passionate. The moment she felt his release imminent, she tightened the small ties around his balls. His body jolted seconds before his explosive release filled her mouth. She felt her own body‟s release as she drenched him, their bodies enjoying the climaxes overtaking them. The more she shook, the more fiercely she wanted to go down on him again. Gavin Hunt had an overpowering effect on her and it drove her to do her damnedest to satisfy him. Unable to take the sensation anymore, she threw her head back and screamed his name. My God, he’s become my Master!

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Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 2 Gavin Hunt juggled his job with the police department and the Academy while enjoying his time with Mistress Eden. He‟d taken to making sure he got to the showers or locker room last in order to wear the cock ring without garnering comments from the other cadets. He‟d also kept his apartment though he spent a great deal more time at Eden‟s and yes, he‟d kept his job waiting tables. If anyone asked, the tips had been good enough to pay his rent and keep him solvent while in training—not far off from the truth. Each night together they tried different sexual activities, as some would call them, and Gavin found he enjoyed everything they did—as long as Eden did it. He also realized he‟d never go back to having vanilla sex ever again. He needed the type of pleasure he gained from being with Eden and being at her mercy. Then again, he needed Eden. One night as they lay together, Eden asked him something that the mere thought of took his breath away. One of many things… “What do you know about latex?” “I‟ve heard it can be dangerous if not done right.” “True but if it is, it can be very stimulating.” “And?” “I‟d like to try it with you.” “Of course, Mistress, I trust my well-being to you. In fact, you didn‟t have to say anything.” 29

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I realize that but we are more than Mistress and slave—we are partners, in many ways and in some, we‟re on an equal level. I respect you as a man and I value your opinion.” “Isn‟t that the opposite of our kind of relationship?” “Yes and no,” she answered. “I believe we have a deep abiding love for each other meaning we have a unique bond, one that requires openness and honesty.” “But I am your slave…” “True but you are my lover and I hope more than that.” “What are you saying?” “If you had not decided to finish out the Police Academy then I would expect you to be living here with me full-time. Because you need to keep up certain appearances, I haven‟t asked.” “Are you saying what I think you are?” “At the first possible moment, I want you to move in with me,” she said without hesitation. Hunt pulled her closer. “On one condition,” he said. “What?” “I graduate soon and I want you at the ceremony.” “What about your family?” “They are back East and wrote me off when I moved out here because I refused to get involved in the family law firm. That suit and tie stuff every day isn‟t me.” “But if I asked you to do that?” “That would be different because I love you. The law position came with my birthright and when I balked at law school by not keeping up my grades, my father disowned me. If he ever found out about my latest chosen profession or if they both learned about you, that would be it. I‟d not only be disowned but out of his will to boot.” “How much are they worth?” “Millions.” 30

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “And our relationship?” “Priceless,” he replied. “You‟ve found the real me and have been the only one to truly understand me. I want you there, Eden.” “And what about your fellow policemen?” “You and I are none of their business.” “Good and yes, I‟ll be there.” Hunt pulled her closer as his lips found hers. Wrapping his body around hers, he held onto her refusing to allow her any movement. “Gavin, what‟s wrong?” “Please, Eden, don‟t ever leave me or doubt me. You‟re all I have.” Eden Conrad held Gavin Hunt while he cried. He couldn‟t remember the last time he‟d shed a tear over anything and didn‟t care—with Eden holding him, it felt right. “I swear, my love, I will always be here for you.” **** The day came for Hunt‟s graduation from the Police Academy. Because he had to be at the Academy early, they went in separate cars. Eden took advantage of the time to speak with Carson about an idea she‟d had. “I believe it would be a wonderful thing to do. While you are at the ceremony, I can get things together here and surprise Gavin when you return. The schedule is extremely light and I believe I can reschedule the reservations so we can have a private party for him.” “I appreciate this, Carson. I found out that Gavin is alone out here—his family back East disowned him—so we are his family.” “He is a good man, Mistress, and I‟m glad you two are together.” “Thanks to you…” “I just juggle schedules,” he said, “but you‟re welcome.” 31

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden left and drove to the Academy where the graduation ceremonies would be held. She‟d chosen to wear a black pinstripe pantsuit, a vest taking the place of the blouse. Once she arrived, she found a seat toward the back and near a doorway in case she felt the need to make a hasty exit. No way would she allow her slave to suffer any type of shame or embarrassment on this special day in his life. An hour later after at least half a dozen speeches, the police chief introduced the latest class of cadets to finish the Academy as well as giving them their new assignments. Inwardly, she gasped when she heard his name and watched him walk to shake the chief‟s hand and receive his certificate. “Ladies and gentlemen, Gavin Hunt stands before you as the officer who scored the highest grades on his tests as well as excelling at everything thrown at him.” Those in attendance stood as they applauded, Eden among them only she cried behind her sunglasses. Her happiness for him knew no bounds and she could not wait to get him back to the club and put him under her idea of house arrest. Then it hit her that he‟d yet to see her house out in the desert. “Hmmm…” **** Once the hoopla had died down surrounding the celebration for Gavin Hunt‟s graduation, Eden led him to her private table. Sitting in a spot where she could see what went on in the room while being in the shadows, if she chose to have a guest with her, their presence went unnoticed. Nigel Shelton had given her this idea and she liked it. Late reservations had been taken and the restaurant began to fill up, Eden hoping her man would not have a problem with what she intended to do. “Please have Phil send over a bottle of the Dom Pérignon,” she said to their server. 32

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Yes, Mistress,” she said. “Congratulations again, Gavin.” “Thanks, Ash,” he said. “Are you all right?” “Yes and no. Between graduation and now the celebration plus we‟re actually sitting in the main dining room in public…” “I believe it‟s time we went a little public. It‟s not often I show up at the Police Academy for anything, much less a graduation ceremony. Nerves had me sitting near the door in case I needed to leave quickly.” “Mistress, why didn‟t you tell me?” “Because I knew that my being there meant a great deal to you and I‟m very glad I went.” Eden pulled his hand over to her lap where she held it while she pulled aside her jacket and unbuttoned the low-cut vest that had obviously been driving him mad. “Mistress…” “I chose this as my private corner. We are in the shadows and no one is paying any attention to us. You of all people should know this about Dark Illusions. The actions fit the name, so to speak.” “But I worry about…” Phil brought over a champagne bucket with a bottle chilling and two flutes, setting them near Hunt. Popping the cork, he poured the sparkling wine then nodded before he left them alone. “Our dinner will be served in a little while. In the meantime, I want you to relax and behave.” “Yes, Mistress,” he said as she pulled him into a kiss. Eden turned just enough for it to appear as if they had been caught up in the throes of a deeply passionate kiss while she eased his hand to her naked breast, the action deftly hidden by her jacket. She could feel his tension ease the moment he touched her though heat coursed through her. Without a word, his other hand slipped inside her clothes and in moments, he held her breasts and brushed over her nipples with the pads of his thumbs. 33

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Very good,” she whispered as she drew back a little. “I love silent commands.” “So do I, Mistress,” he said before his lips covered hers again. Her faint moan pushed him to squeeze her, Eden‟s body jolting a little. “How about if we have dinner sent upstairs?” “Anything, Mistress,” he gasped. Fixing her clothes, she signaled to their waitress that she wanted the meal sent up to her apartment, grabbed the champagne then led him to the back stairs of the building, a stairway rarely used by anyone but her. Once the stair tower door closed, she pulled Hunt into another kiss and by the time she drew back, she stood in front of him topless. “Once you‟ve carried me upstairs, I want to be shackled and unable to move a muscle. After you‟ve done that, I expect my new cop to pour the rest of this magnum over me so I‟m bathed in champagne and fuck me senseless—my gift to you.” Hunt groaned, picked her up and hurried up the steps to the third floor. Obeying her commands after he locked the door, he took her to their playroom and shackled her to the X-frame in the back corner. By the time he finished, Eden could not move—just as she wanted. Next he poured the remainder of the Dom Pérignon over her body, the chill of it causing her to jolt a little before her nipples firmed. Bending over a little, his tongue darted out to lick the expensive wine off her skin. Standing up, he removed his uniform. “Mistress?” “Excellent,” she said. Grinning, he pulled out a piece of satin she usually used for a blindfold and faced her. “I want to see everything…” 34

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Yes, Mistress, but I don‟t want everyone hearing your pleasure. Remember dinner is on its way up.” Eden nodded and waited for his next move. Hunt brushed his lips over hers and when she opened her mouth to kiss him, he placed the satin there and tied the fabric around her head. After making sure of her comfort, he went to a drawer in her dresser and pulled out several lengths of gold chain, the first of which he attached to her nipple rings before he tugged them. He took the second longer length of chain and attached one end of it to the first one then the other to his cock cage. “I want us to be inseparable right now.” Her nod told him she agreed as she waited for his next surprise. The pull of the chains on her nipples while he thrust his fingers into her pussy sent Eden over the edge. He‟d been right to gag her considering she screamed despite it. Her hands clenched as the combined climaxes washed over them both at the same time. Mistress Eden could not have asked for a better slave if she had to—she had the best. While the last ripples washed over her, she watched him reach for his uniform then remove his badge from the shirt. He turned back to her, his cock at attention, then hung the shiny hardware in the center of the chain between her nipples. The slight weight of it created a constant tension which sent shockwaves through her. His tongue tracing the line of her neck while his hot breath blew over her damp skin only added to the sensations, Eden unsure how much longer she could survive this divine siege on her body. Her answer came a few moments later when Hunt thrust his gorgeous erection into her and obeyed her commands—Eden passed out. **** Eden woke a few hours later finding herself in bed wrapped in Hunt‟s arms. A slight pulsation on her stomach told her he‟d sandwiched his cock between them making sure they remained 35

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure connected. She knew the chains had not been removed though the badge had been. Somewhere along the way to lust-filled bliss, they‟d fallen into a loving yet unique bond—the kind every Dominant wanted. She‟d been told that the highest form of praise as well as loyalty came when the slave made sure of their Dom‟s comfort above their own. It seemed Gavin Hunt had done this and now he wrapped his amazing body protectively around hers, the sensation giving her a sense of the old-fashioned warm and fuzzies. My God, I believe I have it all… “Good morning, Mistress,” he whispered as he pulled her closer. The mere touch of his breath on her skin sent heat through her but even though she wanted to look up at him, he wouldn‟t allow her to move. “I sense something‟s bothering you,” she said. “I believe I‟ve failed you. When you passed out…” “You did exactly what I expected you to do. I wanted you to do it and I wanted you to take control. When you chained us together, I fell over the edge into an abyss I never want to climb out of as long as I‟m with you.” “Are you sure? I mean…” “Gavin Hunt, I will do anything to keep you in my life. I want you with me as much as I can have you when you‟re not on duty. You are the only man I want to spend my life with because you‟ve given me back something I honestly believed I‟d lost forever. “ “Are you saying you want to make this a permanent type of arrangement?” “Yes, I am,” she said, dreading what he might say next. I can’t take rejection… “Mistress Eden, will you do me the honor of marrying your slave? I love you more than life and you are the only one I would ever consider giving up the department for. If things get to be too 36

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure much and it comes between us, I will walk away and not regret it as long as I have you in my life and hopefully supporting me in what I do.” “My gorgeous blue slave, I will gladly marry you and I will do my best to support whatever you do as long as I believe you won‟t be hurt by it. As your Domme, I have already vowed to protect you and I will not back away from that promise or any other I‟ve made.” Gavin Hunt pulled her closer as he buried his face in her hair, his nose brushing the side of her neck and her earlobe while his cock throbbed impatiently between them. His leg folded over hers tightly trapping her body with his. She sensed something still bothered him but until he felt ready to tell her, she would not push him for answers. After all, I have my own secrets. “What are you doing the next several days?” “I don‟t start until next week and I‟m scheduled downstairs tomorrow night and…” “I‟ll tell Carson to get a replacement for you. I want to show you something and I doubt we‟ll be back in time for you to cover your shift.” “What do you have…” “You‟ll see. You‟ll need a pair of jeans and a shirt—the basics.” “For how many days?” “A couple,” she said. “And what should I pack for you?” “Nothing, I‟ll be fine.” Hunt went to get his things together but the moment he moved to get out of bed, she pulled him back. The tugging of the chains on her nipples as well as the fact they remained chained together sent new sensations racing through her body and caused her to go out of control. “Mistress?” 37

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I want a good morning fuck,” she said as her body trembled. “I love it when you get to the point and talk dirty.” “Being chained to each other brings it out in me.” “Ah, my Mistress—I‟ll have to do it more.” “I‟ll remember that—now, are you not misbehaving?” “Yes, and I can‟t wait for your punishment,” he said as he nuzzled her neck again. Moments later, Eden cried out his name. No man would ever compare to the hunk she‟d agreed to marry and dominate for the rest of her life. “I love you, Gavin,” she said as her lips brushed his chest. “I love you, too,” he said as he fingered one of her nipple rings. “Last night, when I had to be careful of the chain in order to carry you in here, I felt a little sick to my stomach because I dreaded I might have to remove it and lose contact with you.” “Then let me suggest this—we‟ll get yours pierced too and then we can really chain our bodies together.” Her suggestion obviously had been well accepted as his cock swelled within her again. “I love the idea,” he said. “When do you want to do it?” “What do you mean?” “I want to be shackled like I had you last night and I want you to do the piercings. I don‟t trust anyone else.” “Tell me something…” “What?” “Who hurt you?” “What do you mean?” “I can tell you‟ve been hurt and hurt deeply. I‟ve been there and I can tell the signs.” “It‟s in the past and I don‟t talk about it…” “Even if I command you to?” “I‟m not sure if I can. I‟ve worked hard to put it behind me and…” 38

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “It‟s coming out,” she said. “Your desire to have only me pierce you speaks volumes. My God, we live on the Vegas Strip and are a mere stone‟s throw away from numerous tattoo parlors and body shops which pierce many times a day and you don‟t want to go there. That tells me something.” “I grew up in New York and if you seemed out of sync with the neighborhood, they tried to get you in sync. I didn‟t run with the gangs but had to go through their turf to and from my house so one day, they took me in hand and showed me the supposed error of my ways. When I woke a few days later in the hospital, they told me I had a broken arm and leg and had been a hair away from a punctured lung. I damned near died that day in front of a public gathering of the neighborhood and I swore that no matter what, I would keep my privacy. I trust you to do it—not some public parlor where someone could see me and use it against me. The cock ring has been…” “Then I will replace it with a chain around your neck instead—or a bracelet…” “No, Eden, I want it more than anything like I want you. I‟ve gotten good at secreting the cock ring so it won‟t be too much more of an effort to do the same with the piercings. It would mean a hell of a lot to me for you to pierce my body. Who knows? Maybe I‟ll have your gorgeous body impaled on my cock while you do it and we‟ll both be on an emotional high.” “I will do it but if you change your mind…” “I won‟t…” **** While Hunt got his things together, Eden called Carson and asked him to get someone in to cover for Hunt for the next few days. “I believe he deserves it after all the hard work he‟s put in the last few months.” 39

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I agree,” he said. “I assume you‟re taking him out to the house?” “Yes,” she said. “As far as I know, you went to one of the main hotels…” “Good,” she said before laughing. I really need to give him a raise… Hunt joined her and she smiled as she slid from the bed. After she showered, she slipped into a black jersey dress. While it had a mock turtleneck collar, long sleeves and a long skirt flaring out from her hips, it hugged her body and as she saw in her slave‟s eyes, he liked the way she looked. Of course wearing nothing underneath it helped considering she could easily figure out exactly what he had been thinking. “Does my slave like what he sees?” “You look great in anything but when soft material hugs every minute curve of your amazing body, I love it even more.” “Good,” she said as they left the third-floor apartment and headed down the back stairs to the door leading to the alley. When she locked the door after setting the alarm, she threw her keys to Hunt and told him to drive her Audi. Once he‟d made sure she‟d settled into the passenger seat, he slipped behind the wheel and started the car. “Where to?” he asked as he eased onto the Strip. “Go out of the city and pick up Durango Drive.” It impressed her how at ease he felt behind the wheel of the expensive car. She remembered being leery of it when she first bought it since she dreaded putting the first scratch on it. She‟d had it several years and so far, so good. Within half an hour, they arrived at her house in a gated development surrounding one of the numerous country clubs. When she looked at the property, she chose the one house that virtually sat off by itself—one affording her an amazing amount of 40

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure privacy and an awesome view of the desert. Now she‟d see just how private the place would prove to be. Glancing at Hunt, she smiled when she saw the look of utter shock on his face. “Gavin?” “I‟ve heard about these places but…” “Get used to it, slave,” she said. “This is where I come to get away from Las Vegas.” “Who owns this?” “I do,” she said. Turning into the driveway, he negotiated the curve while she pressed a button opening one of the garage doors. Hunt pulled the car inside then put it in park before turning it off and handing her the keys. “Keep them,” she said. “I have the other set.” “Eden, seriously, this is…” “I want you to have a set of keys to my car, my homes, everything I own because as far as I‟m concerned—what‟s mine is yours.” “It‟s one thing when it comes to small things but multimillion dollar properties…” “It‟s all material and not worth a damn if it can‟t be enjoyed with someone.” “I can‟t even compare anything I own to this,” he said. “I‟m really overwhelmed by it all.” “I want to pamper you and I‟ve waited a long time to share this with someone. Please, accept it in the spirit it is given.” “If this is what you really want then I will,” he said. “Just give me a bit to get used to the idea…” “Deal,” she said. “Now let me show you around.” ****

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Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure While Gavin Hunt came to grips with the direction his life had taken, Rudd Weathers spent his time trying to figure out how to get slave Eden out of his. One thing he‟d sworn the day she walked out on his party and his service had been to show her the error of her ways. No slave had ever embarrassed him and gotten away with it—it didn‟t matter how long it took for him to seek revenge, he‟d do it. Living in the same city with her as a constant reminder had been sheer hell since his fellow Doms refused to allow him to forget her insolence. One way or another, he had to punish her. Now that the perfect time had presented itself, he set to making plans. Several weeks before, he‟d entered into a business deal with Roy Gordon. The first several meetings had been over lunch or dinner at one of the hotels or in Weathers‟ office. Then he met the man at his office and found out some interesting information. As most men did, Gordon had framed photos of his family— one of him and his current wife, several of his wife—or maybe wives—and one of his daughter. “Who is this beauty?” he asked. “My daughter, Amy,” Gordon replied. “We‟ve been estranged for years though.” “I‟m sorry to hear that,” Weathers lied. “I‟d hoped to meet her.” “She didn‟t like living under my roof or her mother‟s and ran. We haven‟t seen her in ages.” “Have you searched for her?” “Off and on but business has been taking up my time.” “Would you like me to see what I can do?” “It‟s up to you,” he said. “Why would you do it though? You don‟t even know her.” “Consider it an act of good faith,” Weathers said. “I believe it might help our deal…” 42

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Whatever,” Gordon said. “I‟ve heard things about her and I‟m not sure if I want her back now. At least with the picture, I have my memories.” “What kind of things?” “Things a father does not talk about.” “I see,” Weathers said while knowing exactly what her father knew. He considers her an embarrassment which could work in my favor. They concluded their meeting on a high note and Weathers left without mentioning Gordon‟s errant daughter or his disloyal slave. This will let me kill two birds with one stone…

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Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure

Chapter 3 Eden watched Gavin walk around the house taking it all in, his mouth open in shock. From the pool which overlooked the desert to the sauna and the expansive rooms plus the open layout of the house to the look on his face when he saw the huge bedroom, he slowly tried to accept it all. “Gavin, are you all right?” “Just a little shell-shocked. Are there any other surprises?” “Just one,” she said with devilment. “Hit me with it now so I can get past this and enjoy you,” he said. “First, since we are virtually out in the middle of nowhere, I want you naked. Once you‟ve obeyed that command, you will slowly and seductively remove my dress.” “Yes, ma‟am,” he said as he stripped for her. Going over to her, he lightly brushed his hands over the soft fabric covering her body. When he reached her breasts, he stopped and lovingly caressed them while the pads of his thumbs played over her extremely firm buds. Her breath caught, her body crying out for his though she would hold her reaction until they could enjoy it all at the same time. Slowly, he pulled the skirt of the dress up then over her hips where he rested his hands as he pulled her against him and kissed her. Lifting the dress a little higher, he sandwiched his cock 44

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure between them and as one hand held her tight against him, the other worked clumsily to remove the dress. “I will press my body against yours while you finish removing my dress.” “Thank you, Mistress,” he said. With her body pressed tight against him, his hands lifted the dress higher before resting on her naked breasts. Teasing her nipples once more, her body felt the sensations of an oncoming orgasm yet she still refused to allow it to overtake her—not until he had finished obeying her. Finally, he removed the dress, her body still tight against him and extremely aroused between his seduction, his body against hers and the breeze blowing through the house. His lips covered hers as their tongues danced erotically. His hands dropped to her ass and pulled her even closer against him as his cock rhythmically throbbed between them. “Tell me what to do. I beg you…” “Follow me, slave…” “Anything, Mistress,” he gasped. “Please, hurry—I feel lost without you touching me…” Eden took his hands and placed them on her hips then led him through the den to a door near the fireplace. Once they went through it and down several steps, they found themselves in an elaborate dungeon. “You still want me to pierce you?” she asked. “Yes,” he said without hesitation. “Then I will do as you wish.” Eden led him over to a table and told him to stretch out on it. Making sure he couldn‟t move, she extended the ends to accommodate his tall frame. Lovingly, she shackled him to the table—first his hands then his ankles. To add to his confinement, she strapped leather across his stomach. “Can you move?” 45

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “No, Mistress, thank you,” he said. “Do you want a gag?” “If it pleases you…” Eden chose a leather gag with a bit he could bite down on if he needed to and set it in place. “You requested that I ride you then pierce you while you are at the height of arousal,” she said. “Is this what you still want?” Hunt nodded. Eden got what she needed from a cabinet to the side plus a jeweler‟s box from a nearby drawer. Setting everything on a table next to Hunt, she straddled his thighs and proceeded to fulfill his wishes. Taking his shaft deep into her throat, she began going down on him until he reached the edge she wanted him to teeter on. As soon as he did, she slid her body down his shaft impaling her body on his. Riding him for a few moments, she gazed at him while she teased his nipple. “Is this what you want?” “Yes,” he tried to say as his fists clenched. Reaching over for the ring and a piercing rod that she removed from a sterile package, she rested it against his skin. “Come for me,” she said as he literally went over the edge. As soon as he exploded inside her, she pierced him with the thin rod and slipped the ring through the hole. Hunt cried out from the pain/pleasure of his release and the piercing sting of the rod. Pressing an antiseptic cloth against it, she held it on the new wound while she took his release. As soon as he filled her, his body relaxed though she watched the last remnants of the climax as they left his body. “Very good, slave,” she complimented. “Are you ready for the second one?” He nodded and despite the restraints and her body on his, he did his damnedest to thrust his cock inside her. 46

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden repeated what she‟d done and Hunt had matching rings in his nipples as well as the look of a truly sated man on his face. “Shall I remove the gag?” He nodded. “My God, Mistress, the rush…” “You took them well.” “I want to do your navel—if you ever want it. I want to see your face as you saw mine.” “Rest a little and then you may have your wish.” She leaned over to release him but he stopped her. “No, I want to remain like this. Punish me for overstepping but please, fuck me again. I want to know you are mine even though I‟m not allowed to touch you.” “As you wish, slave,” she said as she slowly moved up and down on his cock. As it swelled inside her, she gasped because he managed to touch a spot new to her—one that sent her soaring. “Mistress?” “You are amazing, Gavin,” she said. “Is there anything you‟d like me to do?” “Play with yourself, please. I want this for you.” Eden could not believe what he‟d said. A Dominant searched for a slave who would put their Master‟s wishes before theirs—one of the hardest things to teach a slave—but Hunt had a natural instinct when it came to their relationship and she languished in the fact she‟d found perfection. While she did as he wanted, she could see the rippling movements of his imminent release as they traveled through his tight stomach—his body hard from all the conditioning and physical training he‟d gone through in the Academy. As he neared the edge, she bent down and teased his lips with her tongue while her nipples brushed over his sensitive skin. “Come for me,” she said. 47

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Moments later, their combined screams echoed in the room as he filled her with his heated release. “Please, Master, may I come?” she begged. “Yes, yes, my God, you don‟t need my permission.” “I do when I‟m acting on your wishes.” “Come, Eden, and drown me…” he cried out. Eden‟s orgasm crashed over her, the force of it causing her to fall against his body and his new piercings. She heard his gasp and tried to move but he stopped her. “Please, Mistress, I can‟t bear to lose contact with you—not now,” he stated. “As you wish,” she said. “As you wish.” **** Hours later they woke only Hunt had been awake watching Eden sleeping on his body. She stirred, raising her head enough to look at him and smile. “Hey,” she said. “Hi,” he said back. “How do you feel?” “Wonderful. You are an amazing surgeon.” “I don‟t believe most surgeons offer this kind of bedside manner.” “Then I‟m a very lucky patient and I refuse to share you with anyone else.” “Good,” she said as she began to move. The fact that his breath caught stopped her. “Gavin?” “I don‟t understand why I‟m scared of being separated from you. Whatever the reason, all I want to do is touch you.” “We have a super unique relationship—one where being separated will do this. You feel sick when we‟re apart and I experience the same feelings but we have to figure out what to do because you have a job waiting for you and I can‟t walk your beat with you.” 48

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure She went to move again and his breath caught a second time. “Gavin, I need to release you from the table before my slave no longer has any circulation.” Hunt nodded, looking away from her. She gently pulled him back to face her. “Never be ashamed of your feelings. You don‟t know what kind of sensations race through me when your breath catches or you think you‟re hiding your emotions from me. I will never make you feel embarrassed, I swear.” Eden released him from the table then helped him off. As she figured, he felt stiff and numb. Supporting him, they waited until he felt better before she tried to lead him to the bed in the corner. “No, I want you to experience what you did to me. It‟s amazing…” “On one condition,” she said. “What?” “You must do it the exact same way as I did yours—the height of arousal or nothing.” He nodded and together they chose the rod and a belly ring she‟d bought months before in case she decided to get it done at one of the body shops near Dark Illusions. Now she had to admit that she agreed with him about it being a private matter. Hunt picked her up and carried her back to the table where he did to her what she had to him only he didn‟t place the strap across her stomach. Before he shackled her ankles, he slipped a pillow under her hips lifting her up a bit. Standing between her legs, he leaned over her and placed a gag over her mouth giving her the same option of having something to bite down on if the pain became too great. “Are you ready, Mistress?” he asked. She nodded, her body already beginning to crest the tide of arousal. 49

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Slipping two fingers into her pussy, he finger fucked her until she almost came then rammed his cock into her. As she could with him, he could tell when she neared the edge and once she did, he held her there—one thing he‟d become very good at doing. Her body fighting itself for release, she concentrated on waiting for his permission though she found it difficult. As she had done for him, he pressed the tip of the rod to her skin. The moment he waited for came and he thrust his cock deep into her body finding the new spot she‟d told him about. As ripples coursed through her body, his gaze locked with hers. “Come, Mistress.” She cried out despite the gag and as her body pushed off the table—her back arched effectively taking him deeper. Piercing her naval and adding the ring, Hunt pressed the antiseptic cloth to it while holding his hand across her stomach as she writhed from the orgasm overtaking her. “Mistress, may I…” His question had the same effect on her as her permission for him to fill her, her body totally out of control as she came for him again. His cock exploded within her as he fucked her once more then fell to her, his body lying on top of hers. “I love you, Eden, and I want to spend the rest of my life pleasing you and pleasuring you. Please, promise you will never turn me away.” “I…” He looked at her to see her nodding. “Thank you,” he said, pushing himself up as he reached for her nipples and teased them seconds before he tugged on her nipple rings. Eden fought the restraints needing to touch him but the feel of his body as he laid on hers again kept her aroused, the adrenaline rushing through her giving her a new strength though the shackles and her slave held her firmly in place. 50

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I am going to release you but before I do, I intend to be very bad and I will accept whatever punishment you choose to dole out.” He felt her watching him as he went to a jewel case on the cabinet and pulled out several chains. He next found a suedetipped flogger and an anal plug. Returning to her, he laid the chains on her stomach then went to the end of the table. Warming the anal plug in his hand, he waited a few seconds before he eased it into her anus. Seeing she had no problem with this, he switched it on, her body jolting from the sensations of it pulsing inside her. Picking up one of the chains, he attached it to her nipple rings before tugging it a little. Next, he took two chains and joined them together before he slid the new length underneath her back. Bringing both ends together, he attached them to his cock cage and looked at her. “I want us chained together—do you mind?” Fiercely shaking her head, her back arched more as she tried to tell him she wanted their bodies to touch but he gently pushed her down. Standing between her legs while the anal plug pulsed away, he thrust his cock into her pussy and took her again. As he did, he reached for the chain and pulled it, Eden following it as much as she could. As his pace increased, he went to rhythmically tugging on them until she cried out. When she did, he filled her with his heated essence. “Forgive me, Mistress, but if I‟ve left you pregnant then so be it. Do what you will,” he said as he bent over her and took one of her nipples between his teeth while his fingers squeezed the other. Her body writhing underneath his drove him to ram his swollen shaft into her deeper than he‟d ever done before. Eden again cried out only this time, he could see her nails drawing blood from her palms as her body went rigid from the climax overwhelming her. Moments later, she passed out as she had back at Dark Illusions. Forgive me, Mistress… 51

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure **** Rudd Weathers had his private investigator do an in-depth investigation on Eden Conrad a.k.a. Amy Gordon. He found out about the divorce her father had alluded to and that before she left California, she‟d inherited a multimillion dollar trust fund from her grandfather—something she never mentioned when she lived with him. Her mother had evidently tried fighting the will because she felt her daughter too unstable to handle that much money but the judge ruled in her daughter‟s favor. Disappearing with the trust fund, she turned up at her father‟s in Las Vegas. Instead of going to her father‟s first though, she went to a bank and deposited the trust fund into a money-making account. When she showed up at Gordon‟s door, he took her in but tried to get her to live life as he saw fit. Her mother had advised him about the trust fund and he did his level best to get her to turn it over to him. “I‟ve met with an accountant and it‟s being handled.” Roy Gordon did not like that answer at all since he‟d had plans for the money. One evening, she came home and he called her into his study where he literally read her the riot act. He didn‟t like the clothes she wore—black being too depressing a color—and he insisted she learn the ropes of the company. “Once you see the worth of it, I expect you to invest in it.” “No, you don‟t understand—the money is mine and I will not give it to either one of you. My grandfather did not trust his daughter or you and made me swear neither one of you would ever get your hands on it.” “Then get out.” “I get it—you only care about me for the money. The hell with me—your daughter.” “That‟s right,” he said. “In fact, I‟m not even sure you are my daughter. The way your mother‟s played around over the years…” 52

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “That‟s fine by me,” she stated. “I never believed you to be my father anyway. We definitely don‟t share the same genes.” Amy Gordon had known for a while that Roy might not be her biological father. When she stumbled on to the fact about her parentage, it startled her more than it bothered her. In fact, she felt relieved because once she hit her teens, he became unreasonable. When she came to Las Vegas worth millions, he ignored her though he wanted her to give him the trust fund. “If you walk out that door, don‟t bother coming back.” “Don‟t worry, I won‟t,” she said and she left, never looking back. That night, Amy Gordon died in order to be reborn as Eden Conrad and she never regretted her decision. It never ceased to amaze Weathers how the servants chattered on when given the right incentive. While the woman who‟d told him about this conversation had not worked for Gordon for several years, she still harbored a grudge against the man for the way he treated his poor daughter, as she called Amy. He‟d sent the investigator to California to find out who Eden‟s real father might be and told the man to get the information any way he saw fit as long as the method could not be traced back to him. The man returned with a copy of the birth certificate listing Roy Gordon as father yet no one agreed with it. Staff working for the Gordons at the time remembered Gordon being out of town—in Las Vegas, in fact—about the time his wife had conceived their daughter. Because a happy family made for good corporate images—for some stupid reason—he ignored the fact he hadn‟t been a part of her conception and accepted Amy as his daughter though he told his wife not to expect anything out of a divorce settlement. “If you expect your dirty little secret kept, you won‟t ask me for anything more than I intend to give you. Argue with me and you lose money.” 53

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure His ex-wife kept her mouth shut for obvious reasons and as long as she stayed in California, everything would be fine. She did and Roy Gordon enjoyed his life free of her—until his daughter showed up. Weathers still wanted to know the name of Eden‟s actual father but with what he had already, that might become a moot point. From what he could tell, the natural father had no clue about his family and if he did, he‟d been wise not to care. Taking out a legal pad, he sketched out an outline for taking care of his disobedient slave while using her to seal the business deal with Gordon. His ultimate plan—once he took care of the daughter, he‟d steal the company out from under her father and destroy the man. I just love big business—show me the money… **** After spending their first day post-piercings resting so their bodies could become accustomed to the latest invasions, Eden proposed something different for their evening together. “Remember I asked about latex?” “Yes.” “I think we should see if we enjoy it or not.” “Like I told you, I‟ve read it can be dangerous.” “As is anything done outside of vanilla sex. I‟ve done it before and it can be very enjoyable as long as it‟s done right. I don‟t intend to cover your entire body—at least, not yet,” she said then snickered. “Lead on,” he said as she took his hand and led him back to the dungeon. She positioned him in such a way as to get the maximum coverage by the stretchy material. Since they‟d come home, neither had worn clothes and he‟d been instantly ready for her the moment she touched him in one way or another. Putting the material over his body, she followed it by using a hair dryer in 54

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure order to get it to shrink wrap around him. When she‟d finished, she‟d covered everything but his nipples, his cock and balls. “How does it feel?” “Like a second skin only tighter.” “Would you like to try applying it to me?” “Sure,” he said. She could pick up on his apprehension. By the time he finished, she wore a tight latex dress that hugged her body. He‟d left certain areas uncovered and stood back to look at his artwork. To anyone looking at her from a distance, it appeared she wore a tight off-the-shoulder minidress while up close, he could see everything. “You look amazing,” he said. “It feels exactly like you said,” she commented. “You‟ve done a perfect job of applying it.” “I have to,” he said. “I worry about hurting you.” “Never,” she said. Placing his hands on her breasts, she nodded. Her silent command told him everything he needed to know as he began massaging them before teasing her nipples. While he ministered to them, she grabbed his shaft and began pumping it. Somehow, she backed him over to the table and he sat on it. As she bent to take his shaft, he cupped her breasts and continued torturing her sensitive buds. Eden went down on him, his cock instantly responding. Fiercely she took him until he neared the edge. Before she could say anything, she felt his hand tangling in her hair pressing her closer. “Please, Mistress, play with your tits while I hold you in place and rub your back.” She nodded and obeyed his request. The moment he filled her with his release, his hand went down her spine as he leaned over her. His finger went between her 55

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure legs and flicked over her clit. Eden jolted but since he held her in place, she couldn‟t move. Sitting up, he pulled Eden away from his cock so he could kiss her. His free hand remained between her legs as he played with her. While they kissed, he slipped his fingers inside her and found her. Her body brushing along his, her moans drove him—the slave becoming her Master. “Come for me, Eden,” he whispered. **** Gavin Hunt enjoyed being with Eden and knew whatever she suggested would be not only erotically stimulating but amazing. When she asked about doing latex a second time, he readily agreed. Well aware of the possible dangers if anything went wrong, he knew she‟d protect him from any misuse. She did not let him down. Once she applied it to his body, she showed him what she‟d done in a full-length mirror and he grinned. From his neck down to his thighs, she covered him in red and after she applied heat to it, the material wrapped around his body gently squeezing him in several places that sent new sensations coursing through him. Because of the new piercings, she‟d left them as well as his cock free of it though the immediate areas around them had been covered and heated. She instructed him on how to apply the thin film then he watched as she literally appeared to be wearing a lavender dress— one that hugged her tightly. The more he saw the outline of every single beautiful curve, the harder he became. “Slave, how do you feel?” “Strange but I like it.” “Can you move?” “Yes.” 56

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Good,” she said before she led him to a spot underneath a spotlight. “The heat will slowly tighten the latex to our bodies. As soon as you feel any discomfort, I want to know.” “Yes, Mistress,” he said. She placed his hands on her breasts and told him what she wanted him to do. First massaging then teasing her nipples, he obeyed her commands. Handing him her favorite flogger, she took a position with her hands on her head and her feet apart. “Flog me, slave.” Taking it from her, he started out with light slaps and worked his way up to the hasher ones—the kind that made his Mistress want to come and when she did, he could only describe her reaction as violently erotic. When the sensation overtook her, she let her body go with it—one of his favorite things to watch. Besides the overhead heat from the spotlight, his own body heat helped to shrink the latex more. As the area around his balls felt the latex squeeze, he swelled more which then caused the ring to become tighter. Pent-up desires begged to be released but not until she gave the word and since he‟d been doing his damnedest to increase his stamina for her, he refused to beg for permission. “Spank me, slave,” she begged. Without a word, he spanked her ass then massaged it. After repeating it several times, he stood in front of her and used the flogger on her breasts making sure at least one of the suede tips touched her firm nipple each time. Eden had trained him in the uses of a flogger—both as a punishment and a stimulant. The moment he began the second round, her body greedily begged for more. Eden fell to her knees in front of him with her hands still on her head as if he‟d placed her under arrest. Finding his cock, she went down on it as only she knew how. As she did, he continued to flick the suede over her back—an act that caused her to take him fiercely. 57

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Unable to stand it anymore, he put his hands over hers then pressed her closer to him until her beautiful lips brushed his balls. She took him to the edge and as he loved to do to her, she held him on the brink of release. He fought his natural urges and waited until she gave him some signal but she continued taking him until he could no longer stand it and began pumping his cock into her mouth, each time feeling as if he went deeper and deeper. A slight nod—one he almost missed—gave him her silent command. As if floodgates at the great Hoover Dam opened, he exploded his essence into her mouth then down her throat. Holding her in place to prevent her from moving, he flexed his hips to make sure she took every single drop he had to give her. “Mistress Eden, I place you under arrest. You have the right to come for me…” The quiet power in his words filled the room as her body shook out of control from the orgasm she‟d staved off for a while. While she did, she went down on him again. Feeling helpless under her control, he soared again only this time, he felt the squeeze of the latex as it tightened around his overheated body. “Mistress, please…” Again she nodded only this time, he felt different. Somehow, he freed his cock from its divine prison and dropped to his knees. Eye to eye, they gazed at each other before he pressed her face to his and kissed her. As he released her hands, they wrapped in each other‟s arms and held each other while the final ripples coursed through them. “Now for the final sensation,” she whispered. “What?” “Removing the latex,” she said. “Your body is in for a surprise.” **** 58

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure When Eden woke later, she found Hunt had gotten up a short time before and showered. Now he stood leaning against the doorjamb looking out at the desert. Pushing herself up on her elbow, she took in every perfect aspect of him. I am so damned lucky… Getting out of bed, she walked up behind him and slipped her arms around him. His hands automatically went to hers holding them. “How do you feel?” “I‟ve never been so relaxed,” he said. “The latex had an odd effect on me. From being literally wrapped so tight I could hear my heart beating in my ears while feeling everything that went on inside me to the utter arousal when you peeled it off me—it‟s unexplainable.” “I think you‟ve done a good job of it.” “Did you feel the same way?” “Yes, and in some ways even more than you. If you want to do it again, I‟ll be glad to.” “I‟d like that,” he said. “There‟s something else, isn‟t there?” “You know me so well, Mistress.” “Talk to me, Gavin.” “I want to get married now. I can‟t give you a ring yet but I want this more than I ever imagined. The last few days have been sheer bliss and I don‟t want to lose that. Besides, if anything happens to me in the line of duty, I want to know you‟ll be taken care of.” “Gavin, you don‟t need to worry,” she tried to assure him. He turned to face her, the look in his eyes concerning her. “Just how much are you worth, Mistress?” “About twenty-five million,” she answered as she felt him sway. “My grandfather left me a sizable trust fund that has been invested and it‟s grown even with the economy as it stands. I can 59

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure say I‟ve been fortunate. The club is solvent and paid for and I have money set aside in case Dark Illusions needs it for any reason. I‟ll be all right, Gavin—honest.” “How the hell did I wind up with an heiress? That only happens in the movies.” “No, Gavin, it happens in real life. I wanted you to want me for myself before I told you about it. Now that you know, does it change anything?” “No, I still want to marry you and I hope to God I made you pregnant.” “Why?” “Because I love you so damned much I feel like I‟m ready to burst. I‟ve never felt like this before and I‟m terrified of losing you and it—the euphoria is amazing.” “And my possibly being pregnant?” “I love you, Eden, and I want to have a family with you. I also need to know that…” She put her fingertips on his lips. “Yes, Gavin, I will marry you as soon as you want. I‟ll call a friend…” “The judge who comes in every now and then?” “Judge May? Yes—why?” “He‟s a good tipper,” he said straight-faced. Their laughter filled the room easing the tension. “Is he all right or should I call someone else?” “He‟s fine,” he said. “I‟d like to invite someone.” “Who?” “My brother, Ronan. He‟s down in Tahoe and…” “Of course,” she said. “I look forward to meeting him.” Hunt pulled her close and held her. “Thank you for being my Mistress,” he said. “Thank you for making me feel whole.” 60

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure They watched the coming sunset for a few minutes before they went inside and started making arrangements. Within the hour, Judge May had agreed to marry them, Carson would give the bride away and Ronan Hunt would stand for his brother. The ceremony would take place in May‟s chambers and be a simple civil marriage—both Eden and Gavin happy about that. When they sat back and relaxed, Eden decided to do something she‟d enjoyed while in high school even though her mother had not approved at all. Skinny-dipping is not acceptable in our social circle… To this day, she‟d wondered about our social circle as she‟d never been accepted by her mother‟s friends. Leading him outside, she dove into the pool then invited him in. She watched him dive in, the sight of his muscular body sending heat through her. When he broke the surface, he found her at the side waiting for him and smiling. “What?” he asked. “You, my dear slave, have the most amazing body I‟ve ever seen.” “You, my dear Mistress, have a magnificent curvaceous one I love and can‟t wait to be next to for the rest of my life.” “Come here, slave, and show me.” “Yes, Mistress.” **** Hunt‟s cell phone rang. “Hunt.” “You‟d better be decent,” a voice said. “I‟m driving down your street as we speak.” “Thanks for the warning,” Hunt said before he ended the call. “What?” Eden asked. “Please get dressed,” he whispered. “My brother is on his way up the driveway and I‟m not in the mood to share with him.” “There are trunks and a robe in the dressing room.” 61

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “And who else have you had here?” “No one,” she said. “On those days you had training, I had to do something to occupy my time so I spent money on you. You have an entire wardrobe waiting for you.” “Eden, no…” “Gavin, yes and no argument. I enjoyed shopping for you. How do you think I got the rings for your gorgeous body piercings?” They dressed and went out into the living room of the sprawling house. “Does your brother know about you?” “No,” he said. “Considering I‟ve just found out, I don‟t think I‟m ready to tell him something like that yet.” “As you wish,” she said. Hunt pulled her into a kiss, pressing their bodies close together. The feel of hers against him made him want to take her right there and then but with Ronan almost on their doorstep, he held back. “I love you, Mistress,” Hunt said. “I love you, Master,” she said. “Never will I ever master you.” “You already have. My being wants to submit to you so fucking much, it‟s…” The doorbell chimed, Hunt taking a deep breath. He watched her go to the door, her black cover-up teasing him as she walked away. Wearing a black bikini under black lace drove him crazy but, as with anything in their lives, he‟d wait—a wait that would be well worth it. Opening the door, he heard his brother‟s voice and relaxed. From the tone of it, he knew Ronan would have no problem accepting what he planned to do. “I‟m Ronan, Gavin‟s brother and you must be Eden…” “I am,” she said as she grinned. 62

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “What?” Ronan asked. “Do all the men in your family have such bright blue and gorgeous eyes?” Gavin Hunt felt a tinge of jealousy go through his body hearing this—the same question every girl he‟d ever gone out with always asked when they met his brother. Half of them had gone with his brother leaving him. Now he dreaded the same thing happening. Stop being so damned insecure… “Gavin, she‟s a beauty,” Ronan said as they shook hands then hugged. “How long has it been since I stole the last one?” “Long enough,” Gavin said. “It‟s time we stopped the kid stuff. After all, we‟re it.” “True but you‟ve never had a gorgeous lady like this one.” “Bro…” Eden walked over to Gavin and slipped her arm around him, Gavin immediately calming. “I don‟t believe I want to give up what I‟ve found and I surely do not want to be the cause of the two of you fighting,” Eden said. “Believe it or not, I‟ve got a woman who actually puts up with me and my flirtatious ways. She puts me in my place and doles out punishment when she has to so…” “What are you talking about?” Gavin asked. “It may surprise you to learn this but I‟ve found I prefer submission. Lily is a beautiful woman with a firm hand and I will do anything she tells me to do. I never thought I‟d ever enjoy a relationship like this but it‟s what I‟ve needed.” Gavin Hunt started laughing. Ronan looked at him like he‟d gone stark raving mad which only added to his brother‟s delight. “What the hell is his problem?” “Your brother is my slave and I am his Mistress. We‟ve been together long enough to know what we want and that our relationship is a lifelong commitment. He worried about you finding out but it seems you both share something in common.” 63

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Is she on the up-and-up?” Ronan asked his brother. “You‟d better believe it,” Gavin said as he pulled her closer. They sat out by the pool and caught up on the last year or so of their lives. When Eden left them alone for a few moments, they compared their likes and dislikes and found they had indeed only each other and their Mistresses. “Can you picture the old man‟s face?” “Yeah and it wouldn‟t be a pretty sight.” “So then you don‟t have any problems being my best man?” “Hell no. In fact, I think our ladies should meet. Maybe we could make it a foursome…” “Eden doesn‟t share. She had a bad experience several years back that she won‟t elaborate on but I believe she got the worst end of the deal from a very harsh and unforgiving Master.” “As long as he doesn‟t intrude on your relationship…” “What do you mean?” “I‟ve heard that some Masters never forgive insolence of any type in their slaves and will hunt them down to exact punishment—no matter how long it takes. If that‟s the case, watch your ass, bro.” “I plan to. We have way too much riding on this.” “She‟s amazing and I‟m happy for you. You deserve to finally be happy.” “We both do. By the way, bring Lily to the ceremony. It‟ll only be the six of us.” “Let me know where and when and I‟m there.” “Good.” Eden returned and they talked more before Ronan Hunt left. “Are you all right?” Eden asked. “Now I am,” he said. “My mind‟s at ease.” But what about her past?

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Chapter 4 In the days before their autumn wedding, Eden Conrad made a call to Nigel Shelton. She wanted him and his wife to share in their happiness considering his status as an extremely silent partner in Dark Illusions and some other very personal reasons. Had it not been for his friendship then his wife‟s, Eden couldn‟t be sure if she would‟ve made it in Sin City or not. “Shelton,” his sexy voice answered when she called. “Nigel, how are you?” “Eden, we‟re good,” he said. “You?” “Wonderful, which is the reason why I‟m calling.” “What‟s going on?” “I‟m getting married and I‟d like you and Sephora to join us. You‟ve been a huge part of my life and I‟d hate to leave you out.” “Tell me when and where and we‟ll be there.” “We have to finalize plans but it‟ll more than likely be in Judge May‟s chambers.” “He‟s aware of…” “One of my best customers.” “Good for you,” Nigel said. “Now tell me about Mister Right.” Eden told him about Gavin Hunt and even included the fact about his brother being in the same lifestyle. “Nigel, he‟s amazing.” 65

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Sounds like it,” he agreed. “I‟m really happy for you. I have one question though…” “If you‟re going to ask about Weathers, I haven‟t seen or heard from him in over a year.” “I‟m glad and I really hate spoiling your mood but somebody had to ask.” “I‟m glad you did and trust me, I‟m terrified of him coming back into my life—now even more so. Whatever feelings he has for me will be taken out on Gavin in ways I don‟t want to even think about if Rudd decides to be a real prick.” “Keep me up on what‟s going on. Santa Fe is not that far from you and we can be up there in a heartbeat if needed.” “I need to ask you a favor and it‟s huge.” “What?” “If anything happens to me, I know what it will do to Gavin. Please take charge and do what‟s necessary.” “Has anything in your power of attorney changed of late?” “No, and Carson has instructions to call you immediately. Gavin has no clue and for now, I want it kept that way.” “And what about him? Any plans you set in motion will…” “I‟m going to try to talk to his brother…” “What‟s his name?” “Ronan Hunt,” she said. “He‟s based in Tahoe.” “I‟ll talk to him. If he‟s in the lifestyle as you believe, then he‟ll understand plus I think it would be good for Gavin to have someone he knows taking care of him. His brother is the perfect candidate from what you‟ve told me.” “Thanks, Nigel, I really appreciate this.” “Anytime,” he said. “Besides, what are silent partners for?” “Amen,” she said. “I‟ll call you with a date and location.” “Waiting with bated breath…” Eden ended the call breathing a huge sigh of relief. “Are you all right?” Hunt asked as he joined her. 66

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Never better,” she said. “I just called a friend of mine I want you to meet. He and his wife will be at the wedding.” “I thought it would be…” “Calm down, Gavin,” she said. “Had it not been for Nigel Shelton, Dark Illusions would not be open and successful.” “Your silent partner?” “Yes, why?” she asked, curious about his answer. “It‟s always been speculated about you having one so I figured…” “Who has been speculating about this?” “One of the waiters who quit here shortly after I came on. You remember—he got in trouble when he became too flirty with a businessman‟s wife and you let him go.” “Does he strike you as the type to use that kind of information to either get ahead or seek to avenge his firing?” “I‟m not sure if he‟d be that hardcore but it is always a possibility. Why do you ask?” “Gavin, as you know, I have a past and every day, I worry about it coming back into my present.” Hunt sat down beside her on the couch and took her hand. “I know you don‟t want to talk about it but if there is any hint of a threat to you or us, I want to know. Yes, you are my Mistress and we live by your rules but on the street, it‟s a different story. If he can hurt you in any way out there, I need to know so I can do my job or make sure the ones who can do it are told.” Eden took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “I‟ve been afraid to say anything to anyone about this. What I‟m going to tell you can be dangerous knowledge for you to have. With you not knowing, I might be able to protect you better but…” “No secrets, Mistress,” he said. “You got me to tell you everything about mine now it‟s your turn. I‟m a big boy and can handle it.” 67

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden gazed into his amazing blue eyes and inside she melted. “Gavin Hunt, I love you more than my life. Always know that and trust in it because what I‟m about to tell you could change everything.” **** Gavin Hunt listened to Eden tell him about her past. It hit him that he and his brother had not been the only ones who had parent problems combined with society circles and their dictates. God, I hate status… When she finished, she looked at him waiting for him to react to what she‟d told him. “Your father and mother only cared about the money?” “Yes,” she answered. “And no, I don‟t know who my real father is and, at this point, it doesn‟t matter.” “Tell me more about Weathers,” he said, the cop in him taking over. “He‟s a very attractive man who has the kind of smile that steals your heart in a moment. Once he pulls you in and gives you the impression that you are the only one who matters to him, he springs the sharing issue. He told me he didn‟t believe in that but there they sat in our living room and Rudd expected me to just go along with the game plan.” “Ronan warned me to be careful when it came to a past Master. I knew something had happened but I never realized what. To totally fuck with someone‟s emotions like that is cruel.” “I felt so degraded,” she said, choking back tears. “The idea of…” Hunt immediately pulled her to him and held her, her head under his jaw as if he feared she would run away. “I admire that you had the strength to leave and I swear you‟re stronger. You are an amazing Mistress and I understand why you are the way you are with me and I‟m very grateful.” “You aren‟t upset…” 68

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “It bothers me that there are men out there who think so little of women, they treat them like dogs or worse. That is unacceptable to me but the fact I know someone tried to force you into that kind of behavior is disgusting. I want to find this guy and kill him for what he did to you.” “Gavin, he‟s not worth going to jail for. If you ever did something like that, I‟m not sure if I could survive it much less handle conjugal visits. They monitor those rooms and I don‟t like audiences when I use my slave.” “I‟m here,” he said quietly. Eden moved the sides of his robe out of the way wanting to lick her lips at the sight of his throbbing cock begging for her attention. As she went to take him in her mouth, he stopped her. “Please, Mistress, allow me to be of service as well.” Eden stood letting her robe drop to the floor, the sight of satin trailing along her body making Hunt harder. She waited for him to adjust his position on the couch then, as he wanted, she eased her nether lips to his waiting mouth. The moment his tongue laved her clit, she virtually swallowed his length, his shock at the quick movement pleasing her. The feel of his arm going over the small of her back before bearing down on her so she couldn‟t move sent heat rushing through her. Closing her eyes, she took him with feverish intensity. While she did, she played with his balls and every so often, she‟d tighten the cock cage to drive him crazy. His tongue entered her and lapped at her as Hunt matched her pace and took her to the edge. With the slight ability to move she had, she moved up and down on his tongue as she took his cock. Hunt tried to pump his cock into her mouth but couldn‟t because of his position however that didn‟t matter. “Please, Mistress…” “On the count of three…” 69

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “How will you do it if I am filling your mouth with my cock?” Her hand left his balls long enough to show him and then he saw one, then two then three fingers in silent command. Together they came as their bodies unleashed pent-up desire. He pulled her closer while she held his balls and squeezed them. His body‟s jolt when she did this pushed her to take him again, Hunt agreeing as he orally fucked her once more. Spent from numerous orgasms overwhelming them both, they lay in the famous six/nine position trying to regain their strength. Eden did first and lifted her body off his only to face him and impale herself on his. Riding him, she could tell by the look in his eyes how he felt and let out the breath she had not realized she‟d been holding. “Do you know what I love to do?” he asked. “What, besides pleasing your Mistress?” “You have amazing tits and watching them when you ride my cock makes me want to please you more. My cock swells and all I want to do is fuck you.” “God, I love when you‟re blunt.” “Makes things easier,” he said. “Now please, Mistress, ride my body so I can watch your tits bounce freely knowing I‟m the reason.” “Then I want you sitting on the floor, your back against the couch. While you watch them, I want you to play with them, too.” “I like the way you think…” “Good, because my claim on you swears that I always will know best when we are…” Suddenly, he slipped his hand behind her neck and pulled her into a kiss. His tongue danced with hers, the kiss brutally passionate and needy. Letting her pull back just a hair, he looked at her. “I love you, Mistress Eden, and I look forward to being your husband as well as your slave. While you protect us here in our 70

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure world, I will do so in the outside world. Now your slave wants you to ride him until he can no longer take it and lets nature command him.” Kissing her again while refusing to release his hold on her neck, he felt as she took him. When he let her move, he grinned as he watched her take him as if she had been belly dancing. Her movements caused his cock to swell and instinctively, he placed his hands on her hips and began thrusting in and out of her. Unable to behave, he eased them onto the carpet, loomed over her as he lifted her hips and took her—nature having taken over. “Go for it, Gavin,” she cried. “I want you as hard as you can take me, please.” Rapt in fucking his mistress, he barely heard her command. Instinct drove him to be fiercely brutal as he pumped his cock inside her like a finely tuned engine‟s piston. Seeing her body as her breasts bounced caused his cock to swell to the point he felt he would burst something. Her satisfied look told him what he needed to know and he groaned as his cock exploded inside her filling her with his essence. Eden reached for him and tugged his nipple rings, Hunt jolting a little. “Gavin, take me to bed and chain our bodies together.” “Anything,” he said. “Just one thing…” “What?” “I want to fuck you again here and now.” “I give you my permission to do so and make me scream at the same time you do.” “Thank you.” He groaned as something deep within him pushed him to take her once more. They both knew that as long as his cock impaled her body, they‟d have the contact they craved. They both knew nothing would ever separate them—at least not of their doing. 71

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure They both knew they loved each other and that love had more strength and connection than most normal couples. They both knew… **** At the same time they opened up to each other and strengthened their relationship, Rudd Weathers made sure he got closer to Roy Gordon hoping to not only finalize the deal they‟d been negotiating but to learn more about the man‟s wayward daughter. The initial plan had been to use Amy, as Gordon knew her, to force him to sign the deal which would eventually see Gordon‟s assets being turned over to Weathers. A corporate raider most businessmen hated, he ingratiated himself into their lives then took it all away. If he found one tiny thing to make a difference he did and didn‟t care what happened after he got the desired result. He ran his personal life the same way. One person had walked away and now he had come one step closer to getting even with her. Plus, he‟d walk away with everything she had including her trust fund and the assets of her club. What interested him had been the start-up money for it— where the hell did she get it? Once he had her, he‟d find out. Someone with money fronted her and he wanted an in with that person. “Gordon, it‟s Weathers, I need to ask you something,” he said once he had Gordon on the phone. “I‟ll stop by the office in an hour.” Ending the call before Gordon had the chance to protest, Weathers snickered. Damn, I love business… An hour later, he walked into Gordon‟s office and asked one or two questions concerning their upcoming deal. “You told me your daughter is holding onto some money you want?” he asked, changing the subject. 72

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “At one time I did but the money‟s a non-issue. She won‟t give it up. Hell, it‟s more than likely gone by now.” “But if it‟s not, what if I can convince her to do so?” “I seriously doubt it. She‟s a stubborn bitch who doesn‟t believe in family.” “Hypothetically, if I could, what would you do?” “We‟d definitely be in business…” “Good, give me a little time and you‟ll have the money.” “Thanks but I‟ll believe that when I see it.” “Ye of little faith,” Weathers muttered under his breath. “Did you say something?” Gordon asked. “No,” Weathers said while mentally making notes about what he wanted to do. Then he left, went back to his office and called one of his informants. The man had worked at a club on the strip and it just happened to be Dark Illusions. Finding him on a list of disgruntled former employees, he carefully made contact with him and found the man to be a wealth of information. “Tell me about the boy toy.” “What boy toy? She refused to get involved with any of us. We‟d be asked if we wanted to spend the night with her and if we did, then it led to hot sex and a nice bonus.” “What kind of sex?” “Depended—with me, she didn‟t ask a great deal.” “And others?” “No one ever talked but I‟d heard she delved into bondage and shit like that. It‟s not my thing so I wouldn‟t know.” “Are you still in contact with anyone from the club?” “Not really,” the man answered. “I had no interest in making friends, if you know what I mean…” “I do,” Weathers answered. “So you have no idea who she might…” “No, sir.” 73

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure After he ended the call, he had his secretary contact one of the men he used for special assignments. When they finally spoke a few minutes later, Weathers told him exactly what he wanted done to his informant. No longer of any use, the man had become a loose end he needed to tie up. “Sir, this file just came for you,” his secretary said as she handed it to him. “Thank you,” he said before giving her the remainder of the afternoon off. Once she‟d left, he looked at the file and sat down wanting to read it carefully. So she’s found love with a cop… Interesting… As he read Gavin Hunt‟s dossier, he added the rookie officer to his list of things to take care of. No witnesses and no one who‟d have the resources to come after him once he took care of his errant slave. Making some notes, Weathers grinned as he decided he should give the cop some lessons in how to be a good slave. After all, he knew an errant slave would not be a hard Dominant— something a Master, or in her case a Mistress, needed to be. No, his training has yet to begin and I’ll be the perfect person to give him what he needs. Locking Hunt‟s file in his briefcase, Weathers left the office to head home to make some more plans. He wanted to make sure nothing went wrong considering all the angles he had to deal with. Once he arrived home, he took everything out to the table by the pool and reread the Hunt file. This may be easier than I thought…

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Chapter 5 With everyone gathered in Judge Clifford May‟s chambers, Gavin Hunt married Eden Conrad in a simple yet elegant ceremony. While the groom wore his dress uniform, the bride wore a white pinstripe suit—this one of the only times she ever entertained the idea of wearing anything but black though the cami hiding underneath her jacket proved to be her favorite color. Some habits never die… Nigel and Sephora Collins stood off to the side while Ronan Hunt stood for his brother, Ronan‟s partner Lily stood for Eden and Carson played father of the bride. “With the powers conferred on me by the State of Nevada, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss your bride.” Gavin Hunt pulled Eden into his arms and kissed her, both of them momentarily oblivious of the others in the room. “Uh, excuse me, folks,” his brother started, “but maybe the happy couple should get a room.” Everyone broke out laughing as Hunt drew back gazing into Eden‟s eyes then congratulated them. “Gavin, this is Nigel and his wife, Sephora,” Eden said when she introduced them. “Eden‟s told me about you and it‟s a pleasure to meet you both.” 75

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “She‟s a special lady and we‟ve been hoping she‟d find someone to settle down with. Our wishes for the best of luck to you both,” Collins said. “Thanks, Nigel, it means a lot.” Hunt turned and introduced the Collinses to his brother and Lily. While the Hunts signed some final papers, the others chatted before the wedding party left May‟s chambers heading for the club. As soon as they walked in, the staff surprised them with an intimate wedding reception since Carson had taken the liberty of closing the club for the evening. “Seeing as Gavin goes on night shift tomorrow, I want to get him home, if you don‟t mind,” she said. By this time, the judge had left as had most of the staff, leaving them with Ronan, Lily and Carson. “Before you leave, I need to speak with you,” Carson said. “About?” “It‟s time to start planning the annual masked gala,” he reminded her. “Damn, I‟d forgotten about it. What‟s pending immediately?” “Date, guest list, theme—if you want one…” “Get what we need to discuss together and show me tomorrow night when I come in. We‟ve waited this long—twentyfour hours more won‟t make a difference.” Carson nodded, turned and went to get started on making preliminary arrangements. “What‟s up?” Hunt asked his new wife. “With planning a wedding and wrapping myself up in my handsome slave, I forgot about the annual masked gala we always host around Halloween. Carson reminded me and while you are on duty tomorrow night, we‟ll start getting it planned.” “If you need help…” “I need you,” she said as he pulled her closer. “If you don‟t mind, we are out of here.” 76

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure After saying their good-byes, the newlyweds left the club heading to the house in the desert and their future together. **** “Mister Hunt, could I speak to you for a few moments?” Nigel Shelton asked Ronan Hunt. “Sure, what‟s up?” “Putting all the bullshit aside to make things easier—does your brother have any idea you‟re working for the Justice Department?” “How the hell…” “I don‟t pull a cool million or more for a job unless I know what I‟m getting into. Eden and I have been friends for years and she is very special to me so, of course, I did a background check on your brother which led me to you and your chosen profession.” “There is no fucking way you could find out about me. My status is…” “I know that and I have no intention of blowing it. The reason I wanted to talk to you is that the man you‟ve been looking at from Tahoe is the same one who has a restraining order on him from your new sister-in-law.” “Talk to me.” Nigel told Ronan what he knew about Rudd Weathers though he emphasized his interest stemmed from purely personal reasons and he had no intention of standing in the way of a Federal operation. “I want Eden to come out of this unscathed as I‟m sure you want the same for your brother. If we work together, we might be able to not only protect them but get the goods on your man and a possible conviction that might stick.” “What do you propose?” “As long as he stays away from the happy couple, I have no reason to intervene. If he comes after Eden, which he‟s threatened to do on several occasions, then I‟ll step in. If he does go through 77

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure with his threats, I guarantee he will use your brother in one way or another to satisfy his sick sense of power. He has more than likely already put Gavin on his hit list.” “So by the time we get done, we might be able to get him on racketeering charges and possibly murder?” “About that…” “And the aftermath?” “I have my instructions from Eden, as you know. Tahoe is much closer to Las Vegas than Santa Fe is meaning you will probably be more on top of what happens here than I will. If anything happens in the near future, I will follow her directions to the letter while I hope you take care of Gavin. He will need you and you understand the bond between them.” “Does he know anything at all?” “He knows about Weathers and the threat he poses but he has no clue about her plans because she believes that not only is it too soon for him to be familiar with the particulars but that emotionally, he will be shot to hell and unable to deal with what might happen. If I am required to step in and do my part, I swear I will be in constant contact with you and we will work together in their best interests.” Ronan looked at the man in front of him and found something he usually never found when meeting someone for the first time, his reaction written all over his face. “I‟m not sure why but I trust you which is not normal for me to do. We‟ll do things your way but if my brother‟s life is at stake…” “Then you will do what you have to in order to protect him and save his life.” The two men shook hands, an old-fashioned gentlemen‟s agreement between them. Nigel and his wife left to return to Santa Fe while Ronan pulled Lily tight against him and held her. 78

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Ro?” “I believe the shit will hit the fan soon, I just don‟t know when.” **** When they returned to the house, Gavin Hunt refused to allow his new wife to break with tradition. Lifting her up and kissing her, he carried her across the threshold of the home they‟d been sharing for weeks. “You can put me down now,” she said as he stood in the entryway looking at her. “I don‟t want to,” he said. “I honestly never believed I could be this happy and this grounded.” “I agree,” she said as she teased his neck with her tongue. “Are you happy?” “Extremely,” she said. “I couldn‟t have asked for anything more.” “As soon as I can, I‟ll get you the proper ring to go with the band.” “I have you—that‟s all that matters. I love jewelry but it‟s material and in essence, immaterial in our relationship. You wear my symbol of possession and I…” “Then I want to give you something to show my…” “In time,” she said. “You‟ve given me more than I could ever ask for. Right now, I want to concentrate on us.” Gavin Hunt buried his face in her hair as she held him close. There had been an undercurrent in their relationship considering how much he made as a rookie patrolman compared to how much Eden had told him she figured she might be worth. “It‟s only a number,” she‟d told him. “What is more important is how we feel about each other. Money means nothing if you are lonely and miserable. Since you came to me that night, my life has been full and I love being in love.” 79

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Slowly, he‟d accepted what she‟d said but they both knew it still bothered him. Finally, she suggested something he could accept—each paycheck would be deposited into a savings account less whatever amount he wanted to keep out. “I have a better idea—why don‟t I bank the city salary and spend my tips?” “You still want to work for me?” “Let‟s put it this way—I‟m holding on to the apartment so the department doesn‟t start asking questions about you, me and the club. How would it look if all of a sudden, I up and quit here when I‟m just starting out on duty?” “In other words, business as usual?” “Something like that.” “For how long?” “Until the club owner decides to either promote me or fire me.” “Hmmm,” she said. “Interesting idea.” “Trust me, I love being a kept man but it‟s our life and our private secret and I want to keep it that way for as long as possible.” “Then let‟s enjoy our private life. Tonight, my husband is the Master and his wife will do his bidding.” “Then I plan to strip you and bind you so you scream for mercy.” “Sounds wonderful,” she stated. “Eden‟s pleasures tonight.” “I love the way that sounds.” “Good.” **** True to his word, Hunt carried Eden to where he would do what he wanted to his wife. Placing her in the center of the room, he removed their clothes then told her not to move. As she 80

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure watched him, he went over to one of the cabinets and pulled out several lengths of ribbon plus other things he knew she‟d love. Pulling her arms behind her, he placed her hands in a wrist binder then parted her feet. Taking the ribbon, he wrapped one length around her breast then repeated the same with the other. Using the remaining lengths, he pulled them up and over her shoulders placing tension on her while the ribbon supported her. Pushing her hands up to where the ribbon hung, he tied them all together. “Are you all right?” he asked. “Yes,” she said almost gasping. He took one of their chains and threaded it through her nipple rings before attaching it to her belly ring. Able to tell what this did to her as the scent of her arousal filtered to his nose, Hunt inhaled deeply. “Scarf or ball gag?” “Your choice,” she answered. Nodding, he chose the ball gag and kissed her before gently securing it in place. Stepping back, he loved what he saw, her arousal even more evident. In the short time they‟d been practicing the art of Shibari, Gavin Hunt had become adept at expertly binding her for the utmost pleasure—this time, no exception. Taking her favorite flogger—the suede-tipped one—he lightly brushed the ends of it over her extremely sensitive buds, her body jolting. Lightly, he flogged her, Eden obviously wanting more as she tried to hold her reactions. Walking behind her, he flogged her ass, each time massaging her afterward. “Your beautiful ass is a lovely shade of pink,” he said. “Should I make it a little darker?” Eden nodded, unable to tell him how she really felt. Hunt slipped his hand around her neck, gently holding her just under her chin. Several more stinging slaps and her skin had a rosy tint to it. 81

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Kissing her neck where he had held her, he lowered his hand to her breasts and began teasing her nipples. Her body stiffened as adrenaline raced through her and beads of perspiration formed on her forehead. Standing in front of her now, he tugged the chain and led her to the couch. Sitting down on it, he gazed at his gorgeously bound captive. “Straddle me and ride me,” he commanded. Eden obeyed him, her body sliding down the length of his swollen cock. “My God, you‟re so damned hot and ready, aren‟t you?” Eden nodded furiously. His hands on her hips, he helped her take him and shortly before he neared the edge, he held her in place. Seeing the haze crossing her eyes, he knew he had her exactly where he wanted her. “Hold your position,” he said, Eden again nodding. As she bore down on him in order to take him inside her as far as she could, he tugged on the chains. Flicking his fingers over both nipples simultaneously, she again jolted and, as pure gut reaction took over, she moved on him. As they both crested the waves of sheer ecstasy, he gazed at her. “Come for me, wife,” he said. The moment she heard the command, her body soared out of control as she drowned him in her essence. At the same moment, he exploded into her filling her with his soul. “I love you, Eden Hunt—my wife, lover and Mistress. I swear to you to be the best husband, lover and slave I can be.” Her cries behind the gag sent heat racing through him as the last rushes coursed through her. As she began to fall to him, he caught her and removed the gag. When she opened her mouth to take in a breath, his tongue entered it as he kissed her. “Master, take me and do what you will. I will obey your commands and gladly suffer whatever punishment you choose to 82

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure dole out if I should misbehave. I swore I‟d never vow this again but you, Gavin, are my life and without you in it, I am nothing.” “I love you, Eden, and if that‟s what you want, I will do my best to be a good Master to you.” He kissed her again, taking her breasts and squeezing them. Again, he felt her reaction especially when her pussy clamped onto his cock. “Master, please…” “Yes, Eden, you may come—now and always.” Eden Hunt‟s ecstatic screams echoed in the room as she cried out. Hunt kissed her then slowly released her from the bindings. As soon as she could, she framed his face with her hands and kissed him as she rode him more. “What you did when you had your hand on my neck… Amazing…” “What do you mean?” “You did a light form of autoerotic asphyxiation. When you applied that tiny amount of pressure to my throat, I wanted to climb out of my skin. I‟ve read about what it can cause if it‟s done right but I‟ve never experienced it.” “I didn‟t realize…” “Please, if you want to, I‟d like to try it again. The sensation—fucking amazing…” “Just like you,” he said as he tugged the chains. Eden kissed him again as she took him. “Come, Eden…”

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Chapter 6 The Hunts stopped by the club before he reported to the station for his first evening of night shift after their marriage. Carson whistled as Hunt walked by. “Ya gotta love a man in uniform…” Hunt laughed as Eden rolled her eyes. “Back off, love…” she admonished devilishly. “He‟s taken.” “I know but I can dream, can‟t I?” “As long as it‟s only dreaming,” she said. “When you get the chance, we need to talk about the gala.” “What gala?” Hunt asked. “Every year, there‟s a masked ball held at one of the hotels and Eden is on the planning committee. They need ideas…” “I‟ll meet with you once Gavin leaves,” Eden assured her host, Carson nodding. Once she checked the evening‟s reservations, she and Hunt went upstairs to spend some time together before he left for his shift. “Okay, Mistress, tell me more about this gala affair,” he said as he pulled her into his arms. “I know you mentioned it last night but” “Each year, we hold a masked ball around the end of October or early November. Everyone who attends is asked for a donation with the proceeds going to charity. There might be a silent auction, a high roller poker game or something like that to raise extra funds 84

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure and then it‟s distributed to one or two charities in the city. We try to change the theme every year to add something different.” “Last year‟s…” he started to ask. “Outer space.” “And you went as…” “An alien in green spandex. I couldn‟t wait to get out of that costume. By the end of the evening, I think I lost a few pounds just from sweating. I‟ve never worn anything as hot as that.” “You must have looked amazing,” he said. “I‟m sorry I missed it.” “Then when you have a few days off, I‟ll let you put my entire body in latex…” “Mistress, don‟t tempt me. I‟m not sure I‟ll be able to stand the anticipation.” “I‟ll help you…” “Good,” he said before kissing her. The clock chimed three, Gavin Hunt groaning. “I‟ve got to get going so I won‟t be late.” “Be careful,” she said, “and that‟s an order.” “I will do my utmost to obey.” Eden pulled him into a deeply passionate kiss. “I need you to come home in one piece.” “I need to as well,” he said. Eden Hunt walked her husband downstairs and watched him leave the club. Turning back, she met Carson. “What‟s wrong?” he asked. “I‟m not sure I can be a cop‟s wife,” she admitted. “I mean not knowing if he‟ll come home at the end of his shift… I‟ve read about cop killers who are sitting on death row while the officers they shot are in a cemetery and not with their families. I‟m scared of…” “Eden, Gavin is very good at what he does or he wouldn‟t have graduated at the top of his class from the Academy. Give him 85

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure support and love and I guarantee he‟ll make it back to you. If you start pressuring him about the job, it‟ll lead where you don‟t want it to and I‟d hate to see that happen.” Eden smiled at him and gave him a hug. “Thanks, I needed that.” “Anytime,” he said. “Now, can we get the gala discussed and out of the way? Dark Illusions is a good club but it won‟t run itself.” Eden nodded and they went to the bar where they kicked around some ideas and made notes. When they finished, she had two pages of notes and two points she hoped her partners would go for. During the course of their conversation, they‟d come up with Elizabethan or Medieval as a theme and she hoped it would be accepted favorably. Gavin had also suggested inviting some celebrities who might be more than happy to part with some of their money depending on the theme and event of the evening. She made a few phone calls and went to sit at the bar, her nightly ritual. Her cell phone ringing startled her and when she looked at it, she noticed a text from her husband waiting. Ghunt2212: I miss you already… Darkeden: I feel the same. Ghunt2212: Are you all right? I know how you feel about the job. Darkeden: I’m fine but how do you know? Ghunt2212: Gut instinct. Most wives can’t handle the job—even strong women like you. Darkeden: Are you upset? Ghunt2212: Never, I understand and it means a lot to me that you are worried. Darkeden: I’m trying with a new experience… Ghunt2212: I know. I’m still jealous of Carson and some others you’re close to. Darkeden: Touché. Ghunt2212: I will be home as soon as I can. 86

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Darkeden: I’ll be waiting. I’m leaving the club early so I can be there. I don’t want to miss any time… Ghunt2212: Gotta go—partner here. Love you… Darkeden: Love you, too. Eden smiled as she saved the conversation. Taking the glass of champagne she‟d been served, she sipped it and headed upstairs. It will be a long evening. **** Officer Gavin Hunt had been assigned day shift while he became oriented to how the department worked and what they expected of him. His partner, Joe Cannon, had been on the force for ten years and so far, they‟d gotten along well. “If you‟ve got a Facebook page on that thing, I‟ll…” “No way,” Hunt said. “I think they‟re stupid. Too many people put extremely too much personal information on the Internet and wonder why they get in trouble. I‟ve read about burglaries set up using social networking. I don‟t want people knowing about my personal life like that.” “I hear ya,” Cannon said. “Takes all the enjoyment out of good stimulating conversation.” Hunt grinned, liking his partner‟s sense of humor and the fact he‟d been upfront with him on several occasions—a trait he always looked for in those he dealt with. Eden had been once she relaxed with him but in her case, he‟d fallen in love with her and knew she‟d never do anything to hurt him. Finding out about her past, he understood why she‟d hidden it from him until she felt the time right to open up. He‟d been the same way about his past, as well. He expected it from everyone else, though. The first few hours of the shift had been quiet by Las Vegas standards. Near eleven, they received a call on a robbery in the lobby of one of the casinos. On arrival, they found hotel security had the perp in cuffs waiting to turn him over to the arriving officers. After replacing the handcuffs, the transfer went without 87

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure problem until the man decided to make a break for it and took off into the street, hands still tie wrapped behind him. Hunt chased after him, tackling him to the ground. The man fought him, his knee making contact with Hunt. Instead of putting Hunt down as intended, it caused him to throw the perp to the ground again, holding him in place with a knee to the guy‟s back. “Twenty-two twelve to thirteen seventy-nine.” “Go ahead.” “I‟ve got him two hotels down. I need backup.” “On the way.” When Cannon arrived, he shook his head seeing how Hunt had chosen to restrain his prisoner. “Wow, remind me not to get on your wrong side.” “You have no worries—just don‟t try kicking me in the balls.” “Deal,” Cannon said as he took the man‟s elbow after Hunt yanked him to his feet. They spent the rest of the shift working the case—taking statements, charging the suspect then writing reports. When he finally walked into the locker room, Cannon looked at him and grinned. “It‟s a good first night shift,” he said. “Good work.” “Thanks,” Hunt said. “See you this afternoon.” “Yup,” Hunt said as he waved. Having the locker room to himself, he finally felt the pain from the suspect‟s attack and rued what Eden would say— especially after their conversation earlier in the day. First night and I’ve already got battle scars. Shit! **** When Gavin Hunt walked into the house, Eden met him with a cup of coffee. “Are you all right?” she asked, her concern evident. 88

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Got my first arrest,” he said. “Had to chase the guy past two of the hotels before I could tackle him.” “What aren‟t you telling me?” “He put his knee in the wrong place and I‟m just feeling it now thanks to the adrenaline rush.” “Let me take a look plus a hot shower might help.” “With you?” “Of course.” “Good,” he said as they went into their room. Hunt stripped out of his uniform and stretched out on the bed so Eden could see how badly hurt he might be. Noticing the look on her face, he knew it had to be worse than he originally thought. “Eden, what‟s wrong?” “You are a bit swollen and I believe the cock ring is not helping matters since it restricts you more than intended.” “And?” “I think we should take it off until you heal.” “Then do what you have to,” he said. “It‟s material—as you said before about the engagement ring. I know and you know what we are to each other—that‟s the important thing.” “Then calm down. You know how you react to my touch and it‟s not helping at all.” “I can‟t help myself,” he said. “I love you.” “I love you, too,” she said. Hunt held his breath and tried to think of something else while her gentle hands removed her first gift to him—her symbol of possession. Once she did, she massaged his cock and balls as her body moved up the length of his. Their lips met in a deeply passionate kiss. “Forgive me, Mistress,” he whispered. “For?” “Getting hurt so early on the job. The guy took me by surprise when he caught me.” 89

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “There is nothing to forgive—just don‟t let it happen again.” Gavin Hunt took his wife in his arms and held her. The feel of her body molding to his drove him crazy with need for the only woman in his life to ever have the effect on him that she did. I can’t lose her… “Come, I promised you a hot shower.” Eden led him to the bathroom, started running the water then pulled him into the stall with her. With the heat of the water running over them, the steam rose. Her hand slipped to his cock and held him as he leaned against the wall, his hands flat on the tile for support. Sliding down to her knees, she took his shaft into her mouth then drew back. “If this hurts in any way, I want to know immediately.” “Yes, Mistress,” he said as his body ceded control to her completely. Eden went down on her husband‟s cock as he fought to hold his reaction until she gave him permission. When she did, he exploded into her mouth, his wife taking the force of it as she swallowed his heated essence. “Mistress…” he yelled, the sound of his voice overpowered by the running water. The feel of Eden‟s hands on his ass pushed him to set his feet into a firm position moments before he began pumping his cock into her mouth again. “Eden, my God, you‟re amazing!” he screamed when he filled her again. “Only you can do this to me.” “Good,” she said as she laved his cock clean. “And it better stay that way.” “It will,” he gasped. “I swear it will.” When he finally slipped into bed, she set the alarm then slid in next to him. Without a word, he wrapped his arm around her and quickly fell asleep. I’m exactly where I want to be… 90

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure **** When Hunt woke hours later after a sound sleep, he found Eden gone from his side and tried to look for her. He could hear her voice and figured she had to be on the phone. Checking his watch, he knew why—last-minute details before the evening‟s opening of the club. Slipping out of bed and stretching, he walked to the door then went in search of his wife. When he finally found her, she sat at the counter in the kitchen with a cup of coffee and several pads of paper as well as her day planner. “That‟s good,” she said. “I‟m glad it‟s working out so nicely.” Hunt looked at her and figured she‟d been discussing the upcoming gala. Pouring a cup of coffee then refilling hers, he kissed her on the top of her head then sat on the stool next to her waiting for her to end the call. When she did, she grinned. “Good news, I suspect?” “Very good news and some of it is thanks to you.” “Me—how?” “I gave them your suggestion for inviting celebrities and they‟re running with it. They also liked the theme of medieval and renaissance and, as of this moment, plans are pretty well final.” “I‟m impressed,” he said. “How did you sleep?” “Extremely sound. The only thing bad is that I woke up without you by my side.” “Forgive me but I didn‟t want to bother you while the phone kept ringing. It‟s been busy…” Hunt took her coffee mug and set it on the counter next to his then lifted her chin so she would face him. He leaned over to her seconds before his lips covered hers. Moments later, he wrapped his arms around her holding her tight against him. “How much time do we have?” 91

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Not much,” he answered. “The lieutenant wants to see me before shift.” “Nothing serious, I hope,” she said, concern in her voice. “More than likely he wants to walk through last night with me because of it being my first arrest.” “Oh,” she said, hugging him tighter. They returned to their room where they dressed before leaving to head into the city. When he went to leave the club for the station, she pulled him into a hungry yet passionate kiss. “I‟ll be back here to pick you up once I‟m off,” he assured her. “I want you home in one piece,” she commanded. “Yes, Mistress,” he said. “I‟ll do the best I can.” “It‟s all I can ask.”

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Chapter 7 Over the next three weeks, Eden busied herself with the plans for the masquerade gala. She‟d chosen their costumes though she knew the possibility existed he would be called in to work. With several huge events taking place in the city, the officers had been told to expect extra shifts and she knew he would be expected to go in being a rookie officer. When the time came, he found out he would be going in for a swing shift which would cover the normal changeover times between afternoon and midnight shifts. “I‟ll be able to go for the first hour or two but…” “I understand,” she said. “We‟ll take your uniform and you can change before you leave.” “Or I can change at the station. Either way, I‟ll handle it.” “You have an amazing resolve when you want to. You‟re so calm about this while I‟m worried about you…” “Eden, you are my calming influence. Stuff like this used to bother me until I began to take the time to evaluate it and figure out a simple course of action. The training at the Academy helped, too.” “Well,” she said as she ran her finger along the length of his neck, “what is your plan for right now?” “I would make sure of the time before taking you upstairs and doing whatever my Mistress orders me to do.” “Then arrest me,” she said. 93

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Somehow, Hunt could tell Eden remembered back to his days in training when he would practice the proper way to apprehend a felon. Most of the time, their sessions ended up in the playroom using all the arrest tactics that ended up being illegal and cause for a suspect to get off. Heat coursed through her just thinking about it. “That might require my leaving you under house arrest until I get off shift.” “Interesting,” she said. “Do what you will.” Hunt groaned, this time he had with her before he went on duty what he needed in his life. Before he‟d met her, he‟d had an idea of what he wanted out of life but being with her gave him a focus he never had before. She‟d taught him that his feelings could not be considered wrong since a person‟s personal life had no labels and should be no one else‟s business. What they had between them molded them and he refused to lose any part of it to someone else‟s prudish moralistic pressuring. He‟d heard some of the cops talking about their opinions on sex and how it should be done. When one officer didn‟t share their opinions, they threatened him. “God will punish you for your shameful ways!” one bellowed, his words echoing through the locker room. “We live in Sin City— a name perfect for the kind of people who live here or pass through. We must remain strong and pure of their enticements.” Those words of condemnation burned into his soul because no man had any right to tell another what to do or how to do it. Because of them, Hunt made sure to either arrive and leave work in uniform or get in first then leave last so nothing could be said if the cock ring had been discovered. While he hated not wearing it, it‟d become easier at work—something Eden understood and remedied. Several days after a perp attacked his manhood, Eden presented him with a beautiful gold chain. A charm depicting his 94

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure badge hung from it with a small inscription on the back—to G love E. “Now let them say something about this.” Hunt had taken her in his arms and buried his face in her hair. Breathing deeply, he took in her scent before saying anything. “Thank you, Mistress,” he whispered. “I know how hard this must have been for you.” “Like the cock ring, it‟s material. My love for you is deep and unconditional.” Hunt smiled as he watched his wife drop the robe she‟d been wearing. Naked, she turned to him, her wrists held out to him. “Arrest me, Officer Hunt,” she said. “With pleasure,” he said, grinning. “Shall I search you for weapons?” “Body search—interesting,” she answered. “Do it.” **** The afternoon of the gala charity event, the Hunts went into the city and checked into the room she‟d reserved at the Palms. “I thought it would be easier for you to change before work plus I can be with you while you do.” “And your guests?” “They‟ll survive,” she said matter-of-factly. “There are others running this thing along with me so if I disappear for an hour, they should be able to handle things.” Hunt hung his uniform in the closet then walked over to the window to look at the view of the city he‟d sworn to protect and serve. During the day, it appeared to be like any other city but when night fell, it came alive with lights and fountains and shows—all designed to attract tourists and customers to part with their hard-earned money one way or another. “It‟s amazing,” he commented. “What is?” 95

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “The Las Vegas I‟m looking at now is nowhere near the one I‟ll be working tonight.” “That‟s one thing I love about it.” Eden stood behind him resting her chin on his shoulder, grateful for her stilettos which evened their heights. His hands went to hers, pulling them to his waist and holding them in place. “This is my idea of perfection,” he said. “No matter where you and I are, it will always be perfect as long as we‟re together.” “What are you trying to tell me?” “Have you ever thought about leaving here?” “I‟ve had the chance though something‟s always held me here.” “What do you mean?” “Nigel has always wanted me to open up another club. Dark Illusions has been so damned successful, he wanted to enjoy that success somewhere else as well as here.” “Where?” “Idaho, Santa Fe and he had some other suggestions.” “And you stayed here?” “I‟m glad I did. Had I left, we might never have gotten together.” “True,” he agreed. “Where‟s this leading?” “Actually, it‟s idle curiosity.” “Well then, keep it idle as we are wasting time talking when you could be…” Hunt grinned then led her to the bathroom where he turned the water on then pulled her into a kiss. Moments later—the water temperature just as they liked—he pressed her against the tile wall and thrust into her. Whether it had been the heat between them or that of the water—maybe both—something drove him to take her as hard and fully as he could. Gavin Hunt had no clue what pushed him but 96

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure deep inside him something told him to take her as if he‟d never do it again. “Gavin, what‟s wrong?” “Nothing,” he lied. “Why?” “I don‟t know what‟s driving you but that‟s the best shower we‟ve ever taken.” “I love you, Eden—more than anything in the world. If I ever lose you…” Eden put her finger to his lips stopping him. “I love you, too, and I have no plans on ever losing you or what we have together.” “Swear it.” “What?” “Swear it, Eden,” he stated emphatically. “Promise me we‟ll always be together.” “I promise, Gavin. I swear on everything you and I believe in and have between us. We will always be together.” **** As they finished dressing for the gala, Eden watched her husband and thought back to how he‟d acted in the shower. Nothing out of the ordinary save his intensity and if that ended up being the only thing wrong with him, then she wanted more. The only thing that bothered her had been his emotional plea to her. Where the hell did it come from? What’s bothering him? “A quarter for your thoughts,” he said, bringing her back to the present. “I‟ve heard of inflation but…” He flashed his dazzling smile as his gorgeous blue eyes twinkled with devilment. “What can I say?” “I‟m thinking I‟ve got to be going with the most handsome priest—aside from the one Daniel Craig played in Elizabeth—to ever walk the planet.” 97

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I saw that movie…” “The scene where he walks down the long corridor with his robes flowing in the breezes…” “Now I get it.” “Where do you think I came up with the idea from?” “Wonderful,” he said. “Trying to make me jealous?” “Never, slave,” she said. “I have exactly what I want.” “Good.” Eden stood and walked over to the bed where her gowns and robe had been spread out. Picking up the off-white gowns— actually two considering how thin each layer turned out to be—she let them slip over her nudity knowing how much her husband enjoyed watching. “I‟m glad I‟m the only one who has any idea what you‟re covering up with this outfit.” “And it‟ll stay that way,” she assured him as he helped her step into a lacy thong which he seductively pulled up her legs. “Only one man has the intimate knowledge of my body that you do and no other ever will.” “Even your exes?” “Even them.” As she pulled on the midnight-blue velvet outer robe, his hands cupped her breasts and squeezed them. “You're so damned soft,” he said as he bent to kiss her. “I‟m glad you like,” she said as heat coursed through her just from his hands massaging her through both layers of thin fabric. “I really wish I could describe what the hell you do to me.” “If it‟s anything like what you do to me, I‟ve got a good idea.” Kissing her carefully so he wouldn‟t smudge her make-up, he drew back gazing at her. “Gavin?” “I have got to be the luckiest guy in the world.” “We‟re both lucky.” 98

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Brushing his thumbs over her firm nipples, she held her gasp wanting him to take control. Gently pushing her to her knees, he spread his feet to have a better base then gazed at her. “I realize what I want will screw the make-up but I‟ve always wondered what went on back then. From what I‟ve seen, most men of the cloth seemed to be horny bastards who had just as much sex if not more than those they preached to.” “Tell me what to do,” she said. “I believe you know, my beautiful wench.” Heat shot through her the moment he called her that and she nodded as her hands went to the lower hem of his robe. Slowly, she lifted it, the hem resting on her arms as her hands glided up the length of his legs. “If you‟d be so kind?” Hunt held the robe up which gave his hands something to do while she took his swollen shaft deep in her throat and went down on him. Before long, one hand pressed her closer to him as he neared the point of no return. “Mistress, please…” he begged. Unable to speak, Eden did her best to nod her permission to his plea. Moments later, his essence exploded into her throat as his body shook from the force of his release. Eden‟s hands held onto the robe as she pulled him closer. Suddenly, she drew back gasping. “Eden?” he asked as he dropped to his knees. “My God, no man has ever come like that for me.” Hunt traced her lips with his tongue before kissing her. “After the party, I want to run something by you.” Eden nodded having a strange feeling she knew what he wanted to say to her. Whatever he wants to do, I will support him… Once Eden fixed her make-up, they left the room to go downstairs to the ballroom. For the next several hours, they remained inseparable until he had to leave to change into his 99

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure uniform. Leaving the ballroom, they headed back to their room where she watched him return to the Las Vegas cop she loved. “As soon as my shift is over, I‟ll be back so we can take advantage of this amazing room with the gorgeous view. If I get back early enough, I‟ll change back to the good father and join you downstairs.” “Another reason I made the reservation,” she said. “I hope you can be there at the end with me—it‟s usually fun.” “I love you, Eden,” he said as he pulled her close. “I love you, too, Gavin,” she said. “You and only you— believe that.” “I do but after witnessing the looks you‟ve gotten tonight, I gotta say it‟s hard. You‟re a gorgeous woman, Eden, and I saw several who wanted to spirit you away and…” “And they would have been disappointed. I came with one man and if you didn‟t have to leave for work, I‟d be leaving the party with the same man. I will come up here afterwards and wait for you to come back to me.” “I‟ll text you through the evening.” “As long as it‟s safe. I don‟t want you getting hurt because of texting.” “Yes, ma‟am,” he said. They left the room and took the elevator to the lobby. After he kissed her good-bye, she watched him leave the hotel and get into their car once the valet bought it around to the entrance. He waved then drove away, Eden hating the separation already. If he wants to quit the force… **** Eden Conrad Hunt walked into the ballroom and gazed over the gala she‟d had a huge hand in putting together. Thanks to her husband‟s suggestions, the celebrities attending had pushed the total amount donated to almost double what they‟d taken in years past. While most of the big names had already left, some had 100

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure remained with several of the men heading to the high stakes poker game in a private room on another floor. A cash game, each player bought in for a certain amount then whatever they won would be donated to charity. With two of the bigger names in poker playing, the tables drew some big money and if things went the right way, they‟d be playing for a long time. “Eden, I thought you‟d be interested in the final auction figures—this year‟s are off the wall and it‟s all because of you.” “I doubt that,” she said as Del Crawford handed her a piece of paper with a number on it, her eyes widening with happy shock. “You said what…” “My God, this is great,” she enthused. “And we still have a bit to go plus the poker game.” “Good news,” she agreed as they headed to the bar. “I believe champagne is the drink of choice.” “You‟re on,” Crawford said as they took their flutes from the bartender and raised them in a toast. One of the waiters came up to them needing to ask Crawford something and he excused himself. As Eden looked around, she caught sight of someone dressed like her husband had been. Taking out her cell phone, she texted him. Darkeden: Are you back here? Ghunt2212: No, still on duty. Why? Darkeden: There is someone here in a costume like yours. I’d hoped you had gotten off early. Ghunt2212: Unfortunately not. I may be tied up for a bit. The rodeo’s just ending. Darkeden: Then I’ll see you when I see you. Ghunt2212: You got it, Mistress. Love you. Darkeden: Love you, too. Knowing her husband would be tied up for a while, she turned her attention to the gala and making sure it ended on a high note. As she walked around and mingled, she kept seeing the 101

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure mysterious priest, her curiosity piqued yet not enough to chase after him to find out who it might be. Instead she went to the bar and ordered another glass of champagne. “Thank you,” she said to the bartender. As she sipped it, someone came up to the bar standing behind her. Within seconds, she gasped as she almost choked on the champagne. “It‟s time you learned to behave, Eden. Now, be a good little slave and come with me.” “Go to hell, Rudd. That part of my life is over.” “That may be but if you want the baby cop to survive tonight, you‟ll do as I tell you. Now we are going to walk out of here and you will act as if I‟m your boy toy.” “You can‟t honestly believe you‟ll get away with this…” “I do and I will. We have unfinished business plus I have someone who is holding back on signing off on a deal until I can produce you.” “Who?” “Your father, Eden—or should I call you Amy?” “I sincerely doubt I‟m a deal breaker. He‟s not even my real father.” “That may be true but you will come with me or I will make a phone call and baby cop will become another statistic.” Eden froze knowing that Rudd Weathers could easily do what he‟d threatened. After setting the flute on the bar, she went with him. While acting as he commanded, she wracked her brain trying to figure out how to get word to Hunt only Weathers had other ideas. As soon as they went out a door opening into the alley, he ordered her to place her cell phone under the tire of the waiting limo. “Why?” she asked, trying to stall. 102

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Don‟t be stupid, slave. If you honestly think I‟m going to allow you to be able to contact him or anyone else, you‟re even more naïve than I originally thought. Do it.” Eden did as he wanted and placed her cell phone on the ground where the limo would immediately run over and crush it. As she went to stand up, she felt a sting before her body began failing her. “I won‟t say I‟m sorry because I‟m not. When you wake up, we‟ll finish what we started and remember, slave, you hold someone else‟s life in your hands.” Eden‟s mind raced as she fought whatever he‟d injected into her but she couldn‟t. The last thing she remembered had been Weathers shoving her onto the floor of the limo. Unsure if her mind had played games with her, she lapsed off with two thoughts. My God, he’s using me as a footstool… Gavin… **** When Gavin returned to the hotel, Crawford met up with him and told him the gala had been over for hours. “Wait a minute—where‟s Eden?” “What do you mean?” “Didn‟t I see you two leaving the room? I figured you went somewhere to be alone…” “I‟ve been on duty all night,” Hunt said. “I tried texting her but she didn‟t respond.” “I could swear I saw her leaving with a priest—isn‟t that what you came as?” “I did but I didn‟t get back until a few moments ago though she said she saw someone dressed in a costume like mine. When did you…” “Several hours ago though it‟s not like her to leave the parties we host without telling me.” “Are you sure she went upstairs?” “Not really…” 103

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Hunt thanked him then left the room, his stomach beginning to knot up. Finding several of the waiters hired for the night, he stopped them and asked if they‟d seen her. One swore he saw her and a priest leaving out the side door. Gavin ran in that direction and found the door to the alley. With no cars parked there, he pulled out his flashlight and checked around. He groaned when he discovered the remains of Eden‟s cell phone. One thought came to mind. Taking a deep breath, he called dispatch and reported a possible kidnapping. After stating he would remain on location to wait for responding officers, he ended the call pocketing his phone and leaned against the wall of the hotel. “I swear to God, I will kill you if you harm her,” he swore, knowing Rudd Weathers had to be involved in her disappearance. While waiting for his fellow officers, he placed another call. “Gavin what‟s up?” his brother‟s voice asked. “Ronan, she‟s gone,” Hunt said almost whispering. “I think she‟s been kidnapped by her ex-Master.” “I‟m on my way and, Gavin?” “What?” “Be careful and trust no one. Anything you do can adversely affect your wife‟s safety.” “Just get here as fast as you can. I‟m at the Palms.” The sounds of sirens racing to his location didn‟t ease his mind. Ronan had been right—everything Gavin Hunt did or said could and would affect the outcome and whether or not he‟d get his wife back in one piece. When the first officers arrived, they swarmed the alley, Hunt doing his best to protect the area around where he found her crushed cell phone. He answered their questions as best as he could while being very careful what he told them. His lieutenant entered the alley and joined him. After waiting for the area to clear of officers after their initial investigations, he turned to Hunt and looked at him. 104

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Explain to me what the hell you‟re doing here.” “I came back here after my shift to meet someone. One of the waiters told me he‟d seen her coming out here but she never returned. When I came outside, I took a quick look over the immediate area and found her phone…” “Are you sure it‟s her phone?” “Yes.” “How sure?” “I‟m positive, Lieutenant,” Hunt averred. “I don‟t understand why I‟m getting cross-examined like a bad witness.” “Son, I‟ve been in this business longer than you and I know when someone‟s covering something up or for someone else. Now I believe the woman we‟re talking about is one of the city‟s elite hookers…” “She‟s not a hooker!” Hunt snapped. “Why are you getting so damned upset? You act as if this is very personal…” “It is, sir.” “Oh? Why?” “Because Eden Conrad is my wife and I believe I know who grabbed her.” “Who and why?” “The who is Rudd Weathers and the why I‟m not at liberty to discuss.” “If she‟s your wife, I need to know everything.” “And if you believe she‟s a hooker, then I know this case will not be given top level attention. I know the way most of the guys feel about what goes on in this city and their biases could get her killed. You think she‟s a common whore but she spent this evening hosting one of the city‟s biggest fundraisers—the fund for fallen police officers being among the charities benefitting—because of me. She‟s the owner of a very exclusive club with very upscale and 105

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure influential patrons yet you stand here and think of her as common street trash. You ask about it being personal—hell, yes, it is!” “Officer Hunt, you are on a desk until this case is solved.” “Why? I can do my job.” “Does the department know you‟re married?” “No, because we worried about something like this happening.” “Because you neglected to advise us, I‟m putting you on administrative discipline. You will have no contact with this case other than to answer questions. If I hear you‟ve been sticking your nose into it, I will place you on suspension with the intent to fire. Because of the conflict of interest, I can‟t have you screwing the case up if it ever makes it to court which, in this case, I doubt it will.” “Why?” “Do you know who Rudd Weathers is?” “She‟s told me about him.” “He‟s a business giant in this city. To accuse him of kidnapping is ridiculous, at best. He is worth millions and I doubt he‟s into getting his money through ransom or any other illegal methods.” “He‟s a corporate raider who makes sure the ones he deals with are those who take the fall when there is any hint of illegalities after one of his takeovers. I‟ve been told he ruined several businessmen in order to get what he wanted.” “I‟d keep that to yourself, son. We can‟t afford a libel case…” “Stop calling me son,” Hunt said. “My wife could be dying while you‟re lecturing me. She is a citizen of this city and as such, she deserves better than this.” “Officer Hunt, go home. I will see you in my office on Monday morning. I‟d take the time off and use it wisely.” “What‟s that supposed to mean?” “Don‟t do anything foolish and reconsider your personal life.” 106

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Go to hell, Lieutenant. The department cannot dictate who I associate with or marry. You‟ve just stepped over the line, I believe.” “I will consider your insubordinate conduct as being associated with what‟s happened here.” The lieutenant walked away leaving Gavin Hunt seething. Once the man had disappeared from sight, he went back into the hotel and up to the room he shared with Eden. Walking inside after unlocking the door, he found the room had evidently been searched and his priestly robe missing. Well, I know why she mistook him for me… Changing out of his uniform into a pair of shorts, he looked out the window and began what seemed to be a long wait to hear from Weathers and his brother‟s arrival. How the hell did I know something bad would happen? **** Within the hour, he heard a knock on his door. Grabbing his weapon, he held it to his side as he checked the peephole to the hallway. Seeing his brother immediately relaxed him though not enough to ease back on his grip. Opening the door, he waited for Ronan to come in then locked it immediately. “God, I‟m glad you‟re here.” “Tell me what‟s up.” Hunt went into detail about what he‟d learned once he returned from his shift, what had happened in the alley and the discussion with his superior officer. “Ro, the case is going to get tossed aside because they consider her to be another hooker. I guarantee the talk is that another whore got what she deserved.” “Trust me, we‟ll get to the bottom of all this and then I‟m going after the LVPD—no way should you have been treated that way or should the case be ignored.” 107

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I won‟t be able to do much to help—I‟m on some sort of administrative suspension and I‟ve been banned from even being near the case unless I‟m a witness answering questions.” “Bastards!” Ronan cursed. “That son of a bitch got to them.” “What do you mean?” “Gavin, it‟s time you knew something about your brother.” “What…” “I work for the Justice Department and we‟ve been investigating Weathers for the past two years. We‟ve been after him for RICO as well as several other things.” “Then you know that Eden…” “Yes, we did but her file‟s been cleared because there has never been any evidence of her involvement with his businesses. She ended up in something that, had she stayed with him, she‟d be up to her ears in and he‟d use her as a pawn to take the fall for him if need be.” “Why the fuck didn‟t you tell me, Ro?” “I couldn‟t,” Ronan answered. “This guy‟s got his hooks into a hell of a lot of people who are keeping him out of jail for one reason or another. Had you known about it, it could have jeopardized not only your life but hers, as well.” “Why do I feel like I‟ve been sucker punched?” “Because in a way, you have been. I didn‟t like keeping it from you especially with you marrying her. I wanted you to be safe— both of you—but…” “Obviously, that didn‟t work—did it?” “No, and for that I‟m deeply sorry but now is not the time for us to argue. We can do that after we bring your wife home.” “What‟s the plan?” “Let me make one phone call then we‟ll start figuring out what to do.”

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Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Gavin Hunt nodded then left the room to grab a shirt. He figured his brother wanted some privacy and he needed to splash some cold water on his face. He‟d felt chilly but now, he felt as if he‟d never be warm again. Everywhere he looked, he saw her and when he reached out to her, she vanished. With Eden‟s disappearance, he felt alone in a cold neon jungle with no one aside from his brother to help him get warm again. His trust in the department had vanished and he knew he‟d made the right decision. His plan to resign from the force could not have come at a better time and after the last hour or two, he looked forward to going back to waiting tables at Dark Illusions—the one place where he could be honest about his life and his wife. Gavin Hunt screamed, the emotional hurt echoing throughout the suite. Dropping to his knees, he wept as he prayed for her safe return. “Mistress!” **** “Shelton.” “It‟s Hunt,” Ronan said. “You‟d better get up to Vegas and quick.” “Why, what‟s happened?” Ronan quickly explained then waited for Nigel Shelton‟s reaction. “I‟m on my way.” “Good, call me when you get in and I‟ll tell you where we are.” “You got it.” Ronan Hunt ended the call then cringed when he heard his brother‟s agony. And it will only get worse…

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Chapter 8 Across Las Vegas on the opposite side of the city from where Eden owned her home, Rudd Weathers poured himself a glass of champagne and toasted his success. The ease with which he‟d taken his prey amazed him since he expected her cop to be glued to her. Since the abduction, he‟d kept his errant slave heavily sedated and under control. Two hours after her arrival, he tattooed his brand on her where it would be very obvious that she belonged to him. An R centered in a W would be a constant reminder to not only her but the boy toy as to who had the power. Once he saw it, Weathers felt quite sure Hunt would leave her—another degrading humiliation. Once he broke her down, he‟d force her to sign over ownership of Dark Illusions as well as her other assets which would leave her penniless and ripe to take the fall for him. In the process, he‟d reintroduce Eden Conrad to her father—a man who believed that rebellious Amy had amounted to absolutely nothing. If only he knew… One of his slaves—he‟d acquired a sizeable harem over the years—knelt at his feet. “Yes?” “She‟s just been given the next dose and she won‟t stop bleeding.” “Do what you have to,” he commanded. “May I please leave?” 110

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Go,” he ordered as he inwardly laughed. Amy could have been his best had she not been a damned bitch but that had happened in the past and now he planned to rectify her mistakes. When I finish with you, you’ll beg to come back. Weathers called two of his men, the ones he employed to guard his slaves. He gave them their instructions and they left as quietly as they‟d entered the room. “Mister Weathers, I thought you‟d want to see this,” another one of his men said. “Why?” “Because I just found out that the baby cop, as you call him, is married to your…” “She married a cop?” Weathers raged. “What the hell…” “Your next move?” “Get the bastard here any way you can and I want him in uniform.” “Yes, sir,” Lieutenant Christopher Garrison said before turning to leave. Once he‟d left the room, Weathers took the glass he‟d been drinking from and threw it against the wall. “Damn you!” he screamed. “Damn you both to hell!” **** When Gavin Hunt woke the next morning, he had a banging headache thanks to his brother getting him drunk so he‟d get some rest. “Don‟t ever do that to me again,” Hunt said. “You needed rest and I figured it would do the trick which it obviously did.” “Stop yelling.” “I‟m not,” Ronan said. “Here, drink this.” Ronan handed his brother a mug of strong coffee—black with no sugar or cream. He watched his brother drink it and refilled the mug before handing Gavin some aspirin. 111

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Has there been any news?” “No, and it bothers me that he hasn‟t contacted you.” “More than likely, he doesn‟t know about our marriage. I‟m sure if he did, he would have acted by now.” “Good point,” Ronan agreed. “We need to get you somewhere safe until you go to work on Monday.” “I don‟t want to hide. I have an idea where he‟s taken her and I believe if we go now, we‟ll have the element of surprise.” “Not in your condition. Besides, I‟ve got some inquiries out and need to wait for answers so we‟re better prepared.” “Exactly what the fuck are we dealing with?” “A madman, plain and simple. He gets off on hurting people—emotionally, physically and financially.” “Shit!” “What?” “Eden has a very lucrative trust fund that she invested when she came to Vegas. From what she told me, she hasn‟t touched it so it‟s been sitting and flourishing thanks to good investments. If this guy goes for the jugular, he‟d want the club and her assets.” “Can you get to the accounts?” “No, I didn‟t want access. In fact, she had me bank my city pay while I waited tables and collected tips—all part of the illusion that we felt necessary to create and present.” “What do you mean?” “How would it look to the brass to have a rookie officer who marries money yet still works as a police officer when there are people out there who need jobs? I kept the apartment, too.” “Interesting,” Ronan said. “And nobody caught on?” “Nope,” Gavin said. “Garrison had no idea.” Ronan‟s cell phone vibrated. Taking the call, he sat back in the chair and didn‟t say much. When he ended the call, he sat deep in thought. “What?” Gavin asked. “Ro, talk to me.” 112

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I had one of my associates look into those you immediately work with. Everyone checked out but one.” “Who?” “Garrison,” Ronan said. “He‟s evidently been on the take for years. His benefactor is…” “Don‟t tell me—Rudd Weathers,” Gavin said. “No wonder he avidly defended the guy. Why didn‟t I pick up on it?” “Apparently no one has. My guy found it in his bank accounts and traced the paper trail. He‟s not very smart when it comes to covering his ass.” “My God, how far does this go?” “Good question. Tell me, have you heard of any cases going south for any reason at all?” “One‟s been a huge topic of conversation from the Academy on. Seems they had a perp dead to rights in a scam and when they closed in, they found the guy after he committed suicide with a note of confession in his hand. It‟s evidently burned some of the older officers because the wounds remain open when the subject comes up—almost as much as they do when the subject of protection in the city comes up. These guys get really violent about it and it bothers me.” “What do you intend to do?” “I had planned to run this by Eden after we left the party and came up here but I have seriously considered turning in my badge. After talking with Garrison a few hours ago and the venom coming out of his mouth about my wife, I know I can‟t stay any longer than I have to. I will stay on the force long enough to see this to the end and make sure the case doesn‟t go cold before it‟s even investigated and once it‟s closed, I‟m done. They can have the badge and the gun and I‟ll have no regrets.” “I know it will be hard but whatever the department tells you to do, do it. It will look better for you in the long run—especially when I go after them.” 113

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Ronan…” “We have to follow up on the corruption angle. If Weathers has been paying off Garrison, how many others are there?” “Good question,” Gavin said, shaking his head. “How‟s the headache?” “Better—the family remedy works every time.” The brothers laughed together, one of the few times they‟d be able to in the coming days. Gavin Hunt‟s cell phone rang and when he looked at the caller ID, he groaned. “What?” “Speak of the devil…” “Take it. He‟ll expect you to be on the phone immediately.” Hunt nodded grateful for his brother‟s insight. “Hunt.” “Gavin, it‟s Lieutenant Garrison. My captain believes I may have been too harsh and hasty in my assessment of your fitness for duty. I see you‟re due in for a shift this afternoon…” “I hadn‟t even thought about it. I‟ve been more concerned about my wife.” “I understand but I expect you in my office this afternoon before you sign on. We need to talk and I might be able to give you some information about what may have happened last night.” “May have happened? My wife‟s been kidnapped and you‟re saying it may have happened?” Ronan tried to get Gavin to calm down with no success. From the way Gavin‟s side of the conversation went, Garrison had been pushing the right buttons. “In my office at three.” The call ended, Gavin dropping his phone on the couch next to him. “The guy‟s got balls and absolutely no compassion.” “Where‟s his office?” 114

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “He has two—one at the station I‟m at and the other at the main headquarters.” “Which would have the fewest people roaming around on a Sunday afternoon?” “The station since no one goes upstairs on the weekends.” “It‟s a good possibility it‟s a set-up. More than likely he‟s already informed Weathers of your marriage and he‟s stepping up his plans.” “If I don‟t go in, he‟ll suspect something and if I do, I‟m a trapped rat.” “Basically,” Ronan agreed. “Classic Catch-22.” “What the hell do I do?” “We‟ve got a couple hours and I‟ve got help on the way.” “Who?” “Nigel Shelton—I called him when you went into the bathroom.” “He must hate me. I swore to protect her…” “He‟s angrier at Weathers and knows you‟ve become a pawn in this malicious game of chess. I‟ve checked him out and he‟s a good man.” “What aren‟t you telling me?” “He has contacts in higher places than I do. He‟d ferretted out my real profession and confronted me with it.” “Leaving me the last one to know?” “Yes and no, but I‟m glad it‟s out. I‟ve always hated keeping it from you.” “We really need to catch up.” “Once we get this taken care of…” Ronan‟s cell phone rang. He took the call then hung up. “What?” “Shelton‟s on his way over.” “How…” “GPS—I told you, he‟s more covert than I am.” 115

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “You‟re kidding.” “His fee is a cool million. Someone gave him five to find your wife which he invested in the club after she convinced him it would not be in her best interest if he completed his job. He called the party involved and got the fee when he lied about not finding her.” “Who had that kind of money?” “Her father.” “No wonder they‟re close.” “You noticed?” “Yeah, but it didn‟t bother me.” “Good because he is no threat. He‟s so in love with his wife that…” “They‟re inseparable—I noticed that, too. Ain‟t love grand?” “Under the right circumstances.” “Amen.” And I’ve got perfection… **** Eden stirred, her head hurting from the amount of sedation Weathers had given her over the course of her captivity. She vaguely remembered each injection because she‟d never been good with needles but something else hurt more. Unfortunately, she didn‟t feel up to seeing why she felt like her chest had been set on fire or why she felt weak as if she‟d been suffering severe blood loss. A distant memory of that kind of pain came back to her when she recalled one night when Weathers beat her for something then apologized for doing it. As she lay on the floor begging for help, he took his time giving her something to press against her side to stop the bleeding. Unaware when it happened, she soon learned that he‟d knifed her just to see what would happen. Some things never change… Trying to move her hand, she discovered she‟d been chained to the floor. No wonder I feel stiff—he’s taken me to his infamous basement… 116

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Though foggy, she wracked her brain in order to remember what went on in the basement. She knew she lay face down on hardwood flooring with her arms out to her sides, her feet together. He‟d once told her that he‟d modeled it after a religious ceremony in the Catholic Church where the ones being elevated in rank had to lay prostrate in order to take a sacrament of some kind—that part of the ceremony long forgotten once he added his twisted additions. Weathers had altered the idea to his needs and used this room as his torture chamber for those who disobeyed him. While he‟d never done anything like that to her during their brief time together, he‟d been very eager to show her the room and tell her its history. Now I’m being added to that history… Feeling a little stronger, she lifted her head and looked straight ahead. Weathers‟ vanity required him to have mirrored walls and ceilings so he could watch himself at all times. She compared him to one of the roles Tom Cruise played though at the moment, she could care less which one. Do I even have the right actor? Looking at her reflection, she sobbed seeing what he‟d already done to her. How the hell do I face Gavin? In the center of her chest in a place she would not be able to hide unless she wore high collars all the time sat his brand—his initials in blood. She knew some masters had to mark their slaves but usually did it in a hidden spot in order to protect the relationship. This had been done to spite and humiliate her for the rest of her life and he would expect Gavin to be disgusted by it and with her. My God, he’s sick… Putting her head back on the cool wood, she prayed Weathers would keep this between them and not involve Gavin. No matter what Weathers wanted, she‟d have to do it in order to keep her husband alive—even if it meant never seeing the man she loved more than life ever again because that is what Weathers expected. If I ever get the chance to… “She‟s in here, Roy…” 117

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden cringed at the sound of Weathers‟ voice but bringing someone into this room while she lay vulnerable made her sicker. Then she heard the other man‟s voice and wanted to heave. “You‟re sure it‟s her?” “Very,” Weathers said. “You should have told me sooner and I would have reunited the both of you before now.” “As long as I get that damned trust fund…” What a fucking bastard! “Eden Conrad, meet your father,” Weathers said. “Oh, I‟m sorry, Amy…” “What the hell is this? This isn‟t my daughter…” “I never was,” Eden said. The next thing she felt jolted her sedated body into alert mode though she couldn‟t do anything. Weathers had seen fit to kick her in the side. Tasting blood, she did her damnedest not to give either one of them the satisfaction of reacting. “Watch your mouth or there‟ll be more like that.” “Go ahead. You‟ve taken my life away but neither one of you will get my money.” “What did you do with it, you little tramp?” “If it‟s any of your business, I gave it to an investor who lost it when the market crashed. It‟s all gone.” “You stupid little…” “That‟s funny when you‟re in business with a ruthless corporate raider. How much is he taking from you?” “Shut up, Eden,” Weathers growled. “What is she talking about?” Gordon demanded to know. “The hell I will. You two are meant for each other. When he gets what he wants, he‟ll do something illegal in order to get the law involved then leave you to conveniently take the fall. I‟m happy for you, Roy.” “Is that true?” 118

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “She‟s saying anything to break this deal,” Weathers said. “I‟ve kept up my end of the bargain, now I expect you to keep up yours.” “This is not my daughter,” Roy Gordon stated. “I don‟t have a daughter because Amy is dead to me. The deal‟s off.” She could feel Gordon‟s uneven footsteps as he crossed the hardwood floor toward the door. Moments later, she heard a gunshot then felt his body when it dropped to the floor. “If you want me to save your worthless life, Roy, sign the deal now and I‟ll get an ambulance here to get you to the hospital.” In excruciating pain from a non-life-threatening bullet wound, Roy Gordon agreed to Weathers‟ demand and signed the deal turning over his businesses to his daughter‟s ex-Master. Eden slowly turned her head to see two of Weathers‟ men drag Gordon from the room. She knew he‟d never see a hospital and that Weathers would keep the man alive long enough for the deal to close and become legal then his body would turn up in the desert somewhere with a note confessing to some crime he‟d supposedly committed and couldn‟t live with himself over. She‟d seen the same scenario played out once before, something Weathers had no idea about. A lot of good it does me now… Weathers came back and stood in front of her. “Kiss my shoe,” he commanded. “Go to hell.” “You‟re lucky I need your face in one piece because so help me…” “Suit yourself but you will not get my cooperation for anything and I refuse to obey your commands.” Weathers stormed from the room, Eden winning round one of their long match. Closing her eyes, she tried to rest, her body needing strength to face him in round two. It will only get worse… **** 119

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Get these papers to the judge and make sure he signs off on them—now!” “Yes, sir,” one of Rudd Weathers‟ many assistants said as he took the large folder of contracts. Though Sunday afternoon, Weathers had no qualms with getting one of his lackeys to do his immediate corporate bidding when judges usually took their weekends and forgot work. Weathers had discovered one in need of his peculiar type of help one night in a bar on the Strip. Knee-deep in gambling debts and digging himself an even deeper hole, the judge sat on the bench at the state level. “How much do you owe?” he‟d asked in casual conversation over drinks. “About a hundred grand.” “I‟ll make you a deal—I‟ll pay off the debt then you‟ll owe me. I guarantee my interest rate will be a lot lower.” “You‟ve got a deal,” Judge Allen said without thinking. Weathers remembered grinning, the other man too drunk to realize what he‟d agreed to. The debt paid, Allen came to Weathers one day with the balance of the loan he intended to pay off. “I don‟t believe you understand. I own you. Sure I paid off the loan sharks but you‟re into them again and I will take care of it as I did before…” “What do you want from me then? I‟ve paid on the loan and here‟s the balance—done deal.” “No, my friend. You still have a long way to go. In order to stay alive when it comes to your addiction, you now work for me meaning that anytime I need judicial work done—day or night, any day of the week—you will do what I need and without argument. If I call you on a Saturday night when you‟re enjoying a party, you will put my needs first. Do you understand?” “Bastard—I should have known…” 120

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Yes, you should have,” Weathers said, those words the beginning of their illicit relationship. Now, he sent the papers closing the deal with Roy Gordon to Allen to be signed off on in time for filing in the morning. As soon as that occurred, Roy Gordon would disappear—for good. Glancing at the clock, he waited for word from one of his other investments—Lieutenant Christopher Garrison. His story similar, Garrison also had a problem with gambling only his had him owing the mob for bets placed on the horses. With the threat of death and exposure of his off-duty lifestyle hanging over him, Garrison had immediately agreed to Weathers‟ terms—ones that made sure Garrison stayed alive with his badge intact, so to speak. Thanks to their association, Weathers had a quiet yet dangerous foothold in the police department—one that gave him warning of impending investigations or progress on current cases as well as warnings if any outside legal organizations had business in Vegas. With the time at hand for Garrison to bring his next target to him, Weathers poured himself a double shot of Bourbon, raised his glass and toasted himself. I love my life… **** In the time between Garrison‟s phone call and when he had to report to the station, Gavin Hunt worked closely with his brother and Nigel Shelton on a plan to see what, if anything, he could learn from his shift on duty. “I doubt he‟ll put me out on the street,” Hunt said. “Or he might do it and put you out in the open.” “This cannot be happening,” Hunt said. “I want you wired…” “How? We can only wear specific hardware on our uniforms.” “That‟s where Nigel comes in.” “I brought some state-of-the-art monitoring equipment with me. All I have to do is replace the shank to your badge and no one will ever know. It‟s virtually undetectable if you‟re searched.” 121

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “This so damned surreal,” Hunt said. “I feel like I‟m in an episode of Mission: Impossible.” “In a way, you are. You‟re walking into unchartered waters, so to speak.” “What do you mean?” “Every time we‟ve tried to investigate him with local assistance, he‟s gotten the better of us. We know he owns a judge and Garrison but we figure his reach extends further which is why I based out of Tahoe. My business brings me to Las Vegas regularly so I‟m not on his scope. I make sure to keep to myself while I check out new leads or anything else pertaining to the Weathers case. The fact that you literally married into it is advantageous though right now, getting your wife back alive takes precedence over the damned case.” Gavin Hunt shook his head. “What?” “All this time and you kept this from me. You watched me go through the Academy and you never said a damned word…” “And I hated doing it. We‟ve always been open with each other but this case has such huge implications that I couldn‟t afford to have you involved. Weathers would think nothing of using you to stop the investigation. I had to protect my family at any cost.” “What the hell do you have on him?” “All of it is circumstantial but when added together, it is compelling enough for an indictment but we want solid evidence so he won‟t walk.” “And you‟re positive Eden‟s out of it?” “Totally—we dropped her from our radar when she walked on him. With what Nigel‟s told me, she had absolutely no clue what he did when he went to work.” “At the time,” Nigel began, “he didn‟t talk about what he did when he left the house and she didn‟t ask. As a sub, she basically had no reason to ask while knowing it would more than likely piss 122

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure him off if she pried. He bragged about a punishment room he has in the basement of his house and some of the stories she told me turned my stomach. When she called and told me she‟d left him, I flew up here and took her back to Santa Fe for a few months until things calmed down and she could get some legal maneuverings in place to protect herself from him. Things stayed quiet until now.” “So why now?” “It‟s possible he found out about Eden having a relationship and wanted to bollix things between you up. Trust me, after all these years, his rage factor must be high and revenge is all he wants. I want you to prepare yourself for what you might find when you see her next. He will not be merciful when he punishes her and I guarantee he will do just that.” “And I‟m supposed to go in to work as if something may have happened and not be worried about my wife…” “No, you will go into work knowing that being on shift is not what you will be doing,” Ronan stated. “Garrison stressed uniform meaning he wants to have some sort of symbolism attached to his plans. We agree that you will more than likely be sent to Weathers‟ house on some strange assignment—whether it‟s a check the well-being call or something else—or you‟ll just be taken. Either way, with you wired, we will be able to track you.” “This fucking sucks.” “At least, you will be prepared which is more than Eden had been. You‟ll have backup though Weathers will believe you don‟t—point, our favor.” “I hope you‟re right,” Gavin said. “Trust me, so do I,” Ronan said. “Weathers is slyer than any fox. He will be full of surprises and we need to have as much advantage as we can get if we expect this to have a happy ending.” “It better,” Gavin Hunted stated. “Either way, my decision‟s been made for me.” “What decision?” 123

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I planned to tell Eden that I intended to walk away from the force. I can‟t take the opinionated officers who threaten those who disagree with them. This is one reason why we never told anyone about our marriage. I needed to be able to protect it and her. Learning about Garrison being dirty turns my stomach because it makes me wonder how many others are. I‟d rather wait tables at the club than deal with them.” “I won‟t tell you about rash decisions,” Ronan stated. “Trust me, it‟s not. Eden‟s the most important thing in my life. I can‟t afford to lose her because right now, it terrifies me that I will.” “If we have anything to do with it, you won‟t,” Shelton stated. Gavin Hunt stood up, shook both men‟s hands and excused himself. Going into the bathroom, he took a hot shower before he put on his uniform for what he figured would be the last time. I’m definitely through with the department… **** Lieutenant Christopher Garrison sat in his office at the station where Gavin Hunt had been assigned. While he waited for their meeting to begin, he went over his life and realized how much selfhatred he had for himself. I used to be a good cop… When Garrison had been approached by a stranger coming to his rescue, he should have realized then and there that the overly generous proposition would turn into a huge albatross around his neck. Since that evening at the bar when Rudd Weathers walked into his life, Garrison had no life and regretted being too eager for a quick fix to his problems. In the course of their so-called relationship, he‟d seen several cops either go missing or turn up dead under mysterious circumstances and rued that he‟d had a hand in this. Now, he‟d wound up dead center in what would amount to a double homicide involving a police officer—the one murder charge having Federal implications. I’m fucked and Weathers knows it… 124

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure The sound of footsteps on the highly polished floor leading to his office told him Weathers‟ next victim would be joining him momentarily. Taking a deep breath, he waited. “Ah, Hunt, right on time,” he said, greeting the rookie cop. “Good move.”

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Chapter 9 Las Vegas rookie patrolman Gavin Hunt went up to the third floor of the station building he worked out of and headed down the hallway to his lieutenant‟s office. The sound of his uniform shoes as he walked echoed in the silence of the floor, the eeriness bothering him. “I don‟t like this,” he mumbled, hoping his brother would be able to pick him up on the wire. Though the sci-fi aspect of the wire he wore worried him because of its cinematically special effects, he had to admit he felt better knowing his brother and Shelton could track him. This one thought would help get him through what lay ahead of him. When he reached the lieutenant‟s office, he took a deep breath before knocking on the door which sat slightly ajar. “Ah, Hunt, right on time,” Garrison said, greeting the rookie cop. “Good move.” Hunt entered the office and stood in front of the desk hating the man sitting in front of him. “Sir?” “The captain reamed me a new one because I suspended you. He doesn‟t believe it will look too good to have the highestranking graduate from the Academy deskbound. Because I am not one to back down on what I say but needing to assuage my superior officer, I called you in so you could work your shift. As Cannon is 126

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure off today, I want you to handle a simple call at the home of one of our more prominent citizens.” “Yes, sir,” Hunt said, his stomach tight as he realized the scenario for his meeting with Rudd Weathers. Dead man walking… “She‟s an older woman who is prone to hearing things when her son is on the road. You will respond to the house, check it out to ease her mind then report back to me.” “Yes, sir.” “Look, son, I know you are upset about what apparently happened last night but women like your wife go off on their own with other men because it‟s in their nature to please. She‟ll come home on her…” “If not for the fact that I respect your rank, I‟d wring your neck right now. My wife is honorable and has no need to please any other man. She‟s a good woman and I swear, once I get her home, I will be back to settle this issue with you as I cannot allow you to insult her the way you have.” “Be careful, son, you just threatened your commanding officer.” “No, I didn‟t,” Hunt said. “I am defending my wife‟s honor.” “Son, when will you learn she has no honor?” “One, stop calling me son and two, she‟s got more honor and loyalty to those she cares about in her little finger than you do in your entire body.” “What‟s that supposed to mean?” “I believe you know exactly what I mean. I don‟t have to tell you because you have to live with yourself. Just how well do you sleep at night?” “Very well,” Garrison said. Hunt figured he‟d lied again. “Is there anything else, sir?”

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Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “No, dismissed,” Garrison said, sliding Hunt‟s orders across the desk to him. “I‟ll be waiting for you to finish your assignment and meet me back here.” “I‟m sure you will be,” Hunt mumbled as he turned and left the office. God, how I hate you… **** As Gavin Hunt left the office, he looked at the address on the orders he‟d been given. Located on the opposite end of the city from where they lived, he figured it had to be Weathers‟ home. Reading the address out loud as if he talked to himself, he hoped Ronan and Nigel would hear him because the fact remained that if they didn‟t, he‟d be walking into a situation with no backup—one he more than likely wouldn‟t survive. Downstairs at the watch commander‟s desk, he waited to find out which car he‟d be assigned. He couldn‟t imagine being given a marked car—that would be too obvious. While he did, he glanced around wondering how many of the officers on duty had the same benefits Garrison did or the exact opposite—all good cops trying to enforce the law and go home every night to their families. He also noticed several of them looking at him with strange looks on their faces ranging from sympathy to resentment. I don’t stand a chance… “Hunt, the lieutenant called down and told me to give you a marked unit. Here are the keys to it,” the desk sergeant said as he handed Hunt the keys to one of the department SUVs. This made Hunt question the assignment. Maybe it is legit. He wouldn’t give me one of the newer units if he knew I wouldn’t make it back—or would he? What the hell is going on? In the lot, he found the SUV and checked it out before getting inside it. Once he did, he started it then let it run a few moments in order to get the interior cooled down. While he waited, he called Ronan. “Ro, did you get the invitation?” 128

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Yes, and we‟re waiting to see what the next step is.” “I‟ve got a department SUV so I‟m not sure when I‟ll make it.” “We‟ve got some friends coming to add to the party. Either way, everything should be all right.” “I hope so,” Hunt replied. “I‟m about ready to lose my lunch.” “Calm down and take some deep breaths. I know meeting the family for the first time is hard but you can‟t be nervous. It makes for a bad first impression.” “Right now, I‟m not sure if I care.” “On the off chance this is a legit call, you have to,” Ronan advised. “Believe me, I understand where you‟re coming from but unfortunately, the act has to play out. We‟re monitoring you and will be there when we‟re needed.” “I hope so,” Gavin Hunt said again. “Oh, don‟t be surprised if I lose the cell phone. He‟ll more than likely make me destroy it like he did hers.” “As long as we‟re monitoring the wire, you‟ll be fine. Now take a few deep breaths and go on as if you have no clue what‟s happening. The more you look like you‟re in for the long haul, the safer you‟ll be.” “How so?” “You just might find out who you can trust and who you can‟t.” “I‟ve already tried that and I‟ve come up with nil. They all look like they‟re on the take.” “Maybe some are and we‟ll ferret them out when we take the bastard down but right now, your main worry is yourself and finding Eden.” “That‟s about the only thing keeping me sane.” “Whatever works.” “I guess I‟ll see you when I see you.” 129

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Oh, you will, brother. I‟m not losing the only family I‟ve got.” “You might not have any choice in that,” Hunt responded. “Gavin, I swear, if anything happens to you or her, I will not rest until the party responsible is dead.” “That means a lot, Ro,” Hunt said. “Hey, I‟d better get going.” “Be careful, Gav—I mean it.” Hunt ended the call then did one more check before he closed the door and drove to Weathers‟ house. As he drove, he looked at the city and found it no longer held anything for him. Without Eden, his life had no purpose and he no longer cared about anything. If Eden didn‟t come back to him, then he would have no choice but to ease his pain—permanently. **** “You‟d better have good news,” Weathers barked into the phone when Garrison called him. “Baby cop is on his way to meet one of the city‟s oldest residents. Because her son is out of town, she‟s called the department with various concerns. Officer Hunt has been sent on a one-man assignment to check out the house and reassure her there is nothing wrong.” “Perfect,” Weathers said. “The timing could not be better.” When the call ended, Weathers sat back and went over the last few hours he‟d spent with Eden Conrad, now Hunt. When he reentered the room where he held her, she still lay where he‟d left her. Of course, chains and sedatives helped immensely. Nodding to the two men assigned to guard her, they automatically went to her then pulled her to the back wall of the room where they shackled her to it. Facing her away from him, Weathers grinned. “Slave, I know you can hear me and understand what I‟m saying to you. As you are aware, I have branded you as my possession and anyone who sees you will know you‟ve been an 130

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure errant slave—a scarlet woman, so to speak. While you may think this is the end of it, you‟re wrong because you see, you must be punished. You will be a harsh example to my harem of what happens when disobedience comes into play.” “You are a sick man,” Eden said slowly. “But I am not the one in your position, am I?” The door opened and several naked women filed into the room then presented themselves to their Master. Turning to them, he looked at them sternly. “I‟ve brought you here to see what will happen if you choose to be disobedient as Slave Eden here. She refused to behave in front of several other Masters—my friends—and left me. After filing legal action against me, she opened her exclusive little club and flaunted her freedom until she took on her own slave. Now that I have her back here, I will punish her as I should have done years ago and she will be an example to those who have thoughts of being bad.” Weathers pulled out a pocket knife as he walked over to where he held Eden. Taking the knife, he slit the back of the robe and her gowns to expose her back. Next, he went to a closet and chose a very lethal-looking whip. Snapping it, he saw everyone in the room with the exception of the guards jump—including Eden. Within moments, Eden‟s back resembled a bloody canvas but that didn‟t stop him. The one thing he expected out of Eden Conrad had been screaming but she never uttered a sound. The harder the hit, the more she remained silent. “I want to hear you beg, Eden!” he commanded. “Never,” she gasped. “Never.” **** Eden heard Weathers‟ footsteps as he entered the room. It had been a few hours since his last visit and she could only hazard a guess as to his next move. What he planned made her sick. 131

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure The moment he ordered the guards to move her to another position, she had the sick feeling she would be whipped. She‟d heard stories of a Master who did this—his strikes continuing until his victim screamed. Eden made the decision to refuse him satisfaction. After all, if he whipped her to death, she would never have to worry about the stigma of being Weathers‟ slave. The feel of her clothes being ripped apart came with mixed blessings. The cool breeze over her skin comforted her and eased the fever she had from the tattoo which she guessed had become infected. Leave it to Weathers to not use sterile equipment… When she heard the first crack, she immediately searched her mind for any memory of Gavin. She knew if she could concentrate on him, she‟d be able to get through what Weathers planned to do to her. For the first several strikes, it worked but as she became weaker and lost more blood, the process of busying her mind became harder and harder until she weakened to the point where she hung in the shackles, no longer able to stand on her own. “Take the bitch down and move her into the other room.” Eden barely heard his words but what did it matter? Gavin Hunt had no clue where she‟d been taken and even if he did, Eden did not want him facing off with Weathers. Thank God I left instructions with Nigel. One of the guards caught her as the other released her from the shackles. He carried her into the other room and stretched her out on a hard surface. If she remembered right, it had to be the damned altar he‟d had built shortly before she‟d moved in. He‟d told her it had come with the house but she knew differently from overhearing a phone call between Weathers and the contractor when he evidently tried to get out of paying the bill. The cold cement chilled her back though it stung where the open wounds touched the firm surface. She tried to look around her seeing the guards lighting candles at both ends of it. When she looked up, she noticed the mirrored ceiling which gave her a clear 132

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure view of what went on around her. Her image made her sick thanks to the bloody brand. Closing her eyes, she cried only she refused to allow any tears to be evident. I will not give him the satisfaction… One of the slaves stepped up to stand next to her and proceeded to straighten her clothes and her hair. “Why?” “Because he wants this,” the girl whispered. “Run…” “We can‟t—you of all people should know that. This is all your fault.” “Is that what he told you?” “Master doesn‟t lie…” “Master has you brainwashed,” Eden said slowly. Just as suddenly as she‟d appeared, the woman disappeared only to be replaced by Rudd Weathers. Looking at him and his self-satisfying face only served to prove to her that her decision to leave him had been right. Now, she wanted him to leave her alone but she knew that would be impossible. No, he has other plans. “Eden, you are the one I pattern all my slaves after. You had perfection and class and always made me look good when we went out. When you embarrassed me in front of my friends, I could not allow you to get away with it and now, I feel we are close to evening the score.” “Close to… Are you serious?” “Your boy toy is on his way here and he has orders to check out the entire house. When he comes in here, he will find his wife and see her for what she really is.” “He has nothing to do with any of this. This war is between you and me.” “Consider him collateral damage. I cannot allow him to live because of you.” “I swear if I get the chance, I will kill you,” she slowly threatened. 133

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden‟s fortitude despite what he‟d already put her through angered him. “You‟ve always been strong and that‟s admirable but this time it will do you no good.” “It doesn‟t matter, Rudd. You will never have me again. You destroyed that when you tried to humiliate me. I would never make a sub do what you expected or what your buddies did. You made me sick then and you still do now.” Rudd Weathers lost his composure, his hands going around her neck. Putting pressure on her, he tried to strangle her but she refused to fight. “Why aren‟t you trying to save your worthless life?” “Because I don‟t care…” she gasped. “You‟re a short, angry, despicable man. I wanted you out of my life and that hasn‟t changed.” Weathers increased the force of his grip. “No slave talks to me that way. I am your Master.” “I haven‟t been that for a long time. The courts became your Master when they issued the restraining order.” “Like that and your boyfriend stops me—not in this lifetime.” “This has always been between you and me.” “But you brought him into this.” “As always, you can‟t be fair.” “You…” Eden closed her eyes and allowed her body to totally relax. She wanted to die and if his anger led to that, then so be it. She thought of the last time someone had wrapped their hands around her neck and inwardly smiled. Only Gavin could nearly strangle her enough for her body to enjoy it and become more aroused. She imagined Gavin bending over her as her mind drifted away. “Gavin…”

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Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure For anyone looking at her, Eden Hunt had died by Rudd Weathers‟ hands. Eden felt at peace though she rued having not seen her husband again. Good-bye, Gavin, we had a hell of a ride… **** Weathers released his grip on Eden‟s neck when one of his slaves announced the approach of a Las Vegas Police Department vehicle. “Make sure she is perfect then leave the room. I want you and the others in the poolhouse and stay away from the windows. You must not be seen by the police officer. Do you understand?” “Yes, Master,” the one said. Weathers nodded at her, this one his longest sub to date, as he watched her leave the room. He, in turn, went into another room to watch what would happen when Hunt did as Garrison had told him to do. “Is the note ready?” he asked one of the men who‟d remained with him. “Yes, sir, it‟s on the door as you wanted.” “Good,” Weathers said. “Now, let the fun begin.” Weathers watched the entire house on several monitors thanks to extremely well-placed hidden cameras. While he watched the rest of the house on them, he‟d be able to see firsthand what went on in the room on the other side of the mirrored wall. He‟d always found it interesting to watch his slaves indulge when they thought he‟d left the house and now, he‟d watch the final moments of Eden‟s boy toy as he discovered his dead wife‟s body. “Lightscamera…action…”

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Chapter 10 Gavin Hunt found a note waiting for him on the front door of the palatial residence he‟d been sent to check out. Officer, I do not feel comfortable in the house alone. If you will check it out—and please don’t forget the basement—then come down to the poolhouse where I will meet you for your report. Thank you, RW He read it out loud and looked around the entry. “I don‟t like this one bit…” Grateful he‟d worn his leather driving gloves, he slowly pushed the door open and entered the house. Everything he did went against not only his better judgment but his training. I should have backup… “Hello? Las Vegas Police Department—is anyone here?” Seeing nothing wrong on the first and second floors of the house, he headed to the basement door. Pulling his gun wanting some protection, he cautiously went down the staircase to the lowest level of the house. He first checked what he found to be a room used for heavy duty kink as evidenced by the shackles on the floor and the ones hanging from the ceiling and attached to the wall. When he trained his flashlight on the first set, he saw traces of a small blood pool. Feeling lightheaded, he turned away from it and looked in another direction while taking some deep cleansing 136

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure breaths. As he continued his search, the beam caught more dark spots on the floor, Hunt cringing. Walking toward the wall where one set of shackles hung, he discovered more blood on the floor and some splatter on the nearby mirrored wall. I swear to God I will kill him… With the knowledge his wife had been tortured in this room, he pushed himself to check further. Leaving the room, he crossed a small hall to another door. When he opened it, he gasped. Looking over to an altar bathed in candlelight, he saw Eden lying on it. Cautiously crossing the room in case Weathers had left a surprise or two for him, he went to her side. “My God, Eden, what the hell has he done to you?” Seeing the ugly tattoo, his anger intensified. Slowly and gently placing his fingertips on her neck, he checked for a pulse but could not find one. Fearing the worst, he slid his arm under her neck and lifted her head up as he tried to hold her. “No, you swore to me that you wouldn‟t leave me,” he said as he tried once more to find a pulse or some sign of life—even a faint one. “Damn it, you promised!” **** From where he sat, Rudd Weathers enjoyed what happened in front of him. To hear the rookie officer yelling at her pleased him. I’m not the only one she’s disappointed. Leaving the safety of the control room, he entered the one next door to join the fallen couple. “Most women never keep their promises—especially her.” “You seem to have that effect on people,” Hunt said. “Careful, baby cop,” Weathers warned. “Why should I?” “I am a more senior Master and hers. That means you are sworn to obey my wishes despite anything she might have told you.” 137

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “The hell I will,” Gavin Hunt averred as he slowly laid Eden back on the altar before standing to face the man who‟d orchestrated their so-called reunion. “You should have minded your own business.” “Eden is my business. She told me all about you and what you think is fun.” “Subs do as they are told or didn‟t she tell you that you don‟t overstep your bounds?” “She taught me about cruel Masters.” “I suppose she‟s never punished you.” “That‟s not for me to say.” “Perfect slave—protect the bitch at all costs—even if it means your life.” Weathers nodded and two huge men joined them, one taking Hunt‟s service piece. “Take the officer out into the dessert and make sure he doesn‟t make it back.” “Why you…” Hunt began as he made a move toward Weathers. One of the guards grabbed his Taser and used it on him, the jolt rippling through Hunt‟s body before dropping him to the floor. “You know what to do,” Weathers said as they nodded. Picking up Hunt‟s unconscious body, they dragged him from the room. “One down, one to go,” he said as he gazed at Eden Conrad. His first slave rejoined him and set to her task of straightening Eden‟s clothes and her hair. “I hope you and the others now understand what will happen if I find you‟ve been disobedient.” “Yes, we do,” she said. “Two of the newer ones are scared and one wants to run.” “When you‟ve finished here, bring them to me.” “Yes, sir.” 138

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure The woman left, Weathers pleased with her undying loyalty. Over the years since Eden‟s departure, Alice had been perfection. Never had she denied any of his wishes and his friends enjoyed her attention when she gave it to them. Alice truly understood her place in his life and languished in it. At least I’ve found one… His cell phone vibrated, Weathers reading one message—cop taken care of, visitors at the gate. Suddenly, each door to the room burst open followed by heavily armed men. “Freeze, Weathers, you‟re under arrest!” **** Listening to what went on inside the house his brother checked out, Ronan and Nigel shook their heads. If what Gavin said proved true, this place had long been a house of pain and not just for Weathers‟ harem, as he called it. Hearing his brother‟s agony once he found Eden hurt Ronan to his core, his vow of revenge foremost in his mind. The idea that Weathers had ordered his men to take his brother into the desert angered him more but he also knew they had a job to do. At the front of the house, they split into two teams. While Team Bravo followed the trail to find his brother, Team Alpha— which included Nigel Shelton—would go after Weathers and find Eden. Since Nigel knew Eden‟s wishes, he‟d become the perfect person to take care of her while Ronan dealt with Weathers. Bursting into the room, they found Weathers hovering over Eden as if he mourned the death of a close relative. “Freeze, Weathers, you‟re under arrest!” Ronan ordered. “By whose authority?” “The United States Government.” “How can that be? You have no operations in this area so therefore, no investigation.” “That is where your information is wrong,” Ronan Hunt said. “Now, move away from the lady and don‟t try anything stupid.” 139

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “What are the charges?” Weathers asked as he slowly moved away from the altar. “Besides RICO, try attempted murder of a police officer, murder one for the lady, kidnapping, assault—I‟m just beginning.” “My lawyers will have me out of this one in no time.” “Not this time,” Ronan said. “Trust me…” While they talked, one of Hunt‟s team members placed Weathers in cuffs then stepped back. “Where did you have Officer Hunt taken?” “The intruder? He‟s been dealt with though I‟m quite sure you have a team scouring the desert looking for him. Funny, I wished I‟d found him first.” Ronan nodded and the team left the room to assist in the search for his brother while Nigel went to Eden‟s side and quickly assessed her injuries. “What the fuck did you do to her?” Shelton demanded to know. “If it‟s any of your business, I punished her as any errant slave in the history of mankind has been punished. I lashed her until she begged forgiveness.” “You damned near killed her.” “She never begged.” “Get her out of here,” Ronan said. “Your helo just landed.” Nigel nodded and cautiously slipped his arms underneath Eden‟s body. Knowing she‟d survived this relieved him but the healing process would take a long while. “Why do you care about a dead woman?” “Because she‟s getting the last laugh, you bastard. It‟s faint, but she‟s still got a pulse.” Weathers went to move, Ronan stopping him. “Now I know you‟ve got the place booby trapped. How much longer before we all die?” 140

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Go to hell,” Weathers cursed. “By the way, who the fuck are you?” Ronan stood toe-to-toe with his enemy after nodding to the last remaining agent that he could leave. “That cop you‟ve sentenced to the desert is my brother. The two of us do not take kindly to folks who fuck with us or our ladies.” “But the law says you have to take me in. I have witnesses who‟ll state that…” “At this moment, my men are taking every one of your loyal followers into custody. Several of them are already telling my men what they want to know and they haven‟t asked any questions yet. As I said, I know this place is rigged meaning I can leave you here and you‟ll be a victim of your own plans. I can spin a story as well as you can.” “You‟ll never get away with it.” “Try me.” Ronan led Weathers to the other room and shackled him to the wall. Finding the whip he‟d used on Eden, Ronan began lashing Rudd Weathers. “You can‟t be serious!” Weathers screamed. “I am,” Hunt said. “When it‟s all said and done, the story will go that you had one of your slaves obeying your every command but, being inexperienced with a whip, they accidently killed you. The papers will have a field day with this and…” While he told Weathers this, Ronan Hunt systematically lashed the man‟s back, Weathers refusing to give in. “How the hell do you know about this?” Weathers croaked after one lash. “I am a natural sub. Your reputation in our world precedes you. Not all your friends keep their mouths shut and the stories have circulated about what‟s been done for your so-called pleasure. 141

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Now I have one more question before the final strike. How and where is this place rigged?” “Fuck off,” Weathers managed to say seconds before Ronan‟s strike went around his neck. “Like I said—inexperience…” “Bastard…” “Where? You‟ve stalled long enough.” “The moment he lifted her weight off the altar…the place is set to go in five minutes…” Ronan immediately issued orders to any of his men remaining in the house to evacuate without stopping for any reason. Ronan pulled his weapon and shot at a mirrored wall to his right. Glass plummeted to the floor revealing an exit to the terrace. As he turned to run, he heard Weathers beg. “You can‟t leave me here…” “Why not? There will be a lot of people relieved that you‟re gone.” “You‟ll go to jail…” “You keep believing that,” Hunt said as he escaped the room and ran from the house. Relieved that Nigel‟s helicopter had already flown, he made sure none of his men remained in the danger zone. When he‟d accounted for everyone including Weathers‟ people, he grabbed a dirt bike and joined the search for his brother. As he rode away, the house blew up, the force of the explosion shaking the surrounding area. Ronan Hunt kept going without looking back, the search for his brother his primary concern. Several hundred feet away from the main house, he came upon a group of his agents with two men. “Well?” “They refuse to tell us anything because Weathers will kill them if they do.” 142

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Weathers is all but dead. The biggest fear they have right now is of me as I will kill them if they continue to refuse to answer.” As if on cue, the remaining part of the main house on Rudd Weathers‟ expansive desert property blew up due to a secondary explosion—the insurance blast. As debris rained down on them, Ronan glared at the men. “Where is he?” “Out there—staked to a cactus,” one blurted out. “Get them out of my sight!” Ronan ordered. “Fletcher, you and Eames take these two back and process them for attempted murder of a police officer to begin with. I‟ll add additional charges once I‟ve found my brother.” “Yes, sir,” they said before moving off. “The rest of you fan out. Gavin Hunt has been tased once already. I also want a chopper in the air and cross reference the GPS on his cell phone. Maybe we can find him that way.” **** Gavin Hunt had heard what it felt like to be tased but this became the first time he‟d experienced the sensations up close and personal. He felt the charge course through him as his muscles reacted to the abnormal stimulus. Unable to move on his own while the current overran him, he lay on the floor shivering. Weathers ordered the two men to take care of him. As they dragged him from the room, he tried to catch one last look at Eden but even that became another impossibility in his life. My God, I’ve failed you… Unable to fight for his own life, Hunt urged his body to relax—a good idea considering they didn‟t care what he hit as they took him away from the house and into the desert. The setting sun bright, the orange glow bathing the area hurt his eyes. Closing them, he saw nothing but images of what Eden had gone through. I’m so damned sorry… 143

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Knowing his brother and the others had more than likely lost contact with him at some point, Gavin accepted his fate. “How much farther?” “The usual area,” the other answered. “The boss wants him to suffer a slow death.” “What‟s the plan?” “He told me to have some fun with him before we stake him to a cactus and leave him. The cold night air will surely finish him off then the hungry predators. It‟ll be a while before anyone finds him.” Hunt felt sick knowing what Weathers had planned for him. Unless someone had lived in the area for years, very few people outside of the desert understood how low the temperatures dropped at night. With his body already weak from the tasing, he had no hope to survive especially if he had to endure anything more. Before he realized it, they‟d dropped him onto the ground in an area where various species of cacti grew—a good hiding place. “Boss said to have some fun with you, Five-O.” Inwardly, Hunt groaned. How much more am I expected to take? “Check his pockets.” The other man went through his pockets pulling out his cell phone and a few bills. Hunt had left his wallet in the SUV for some reason—something he normally never did. “Not much for a guy living with Eden Conrad. Doesn‟t she give her boy toys an allowance, Five-O?” Hunt ignored them hoping they would just drop his phone somewhere. Hearing it hit the ground a few feet away, he knew that Ronan would at least be able to coordinate the GPS signal and maybe find him before a hungry vulture did. Still unable to move, he tried to send all his strength to listening to what the men might be doing. He soon found out. 144

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure A stronger surge of current raced through his body as they played with the Taser. He could feel his muscles contracting as his body convulsed, the electrical shock rapidly traveling through him. When his body began to settle, the Taser hit him again. Hunt realized this would go on until the charge ran out and made peace with himself. I had a good life… I love you, Eden—please forgive me… As soon as the last charge left the Taser, the man using it threw it aside and the men cuffed their captive to the base of a nearby cactus in order to make sure he couldn‟t escape his fate. As they did, the ground shook. “What the hell…” “The house—it blew up,” the other said. Channeling his remaining strength to his eyes, Gavin Hunt slowly opened them and saw the heavy black smoke rising over where Weather‟s house had once stood. Closing his eyes again, he mourned his wife‟s death and prayed for his. I will find you…

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Chapter 11 “Air Rescue One to ground command,” the helicopter pilot called. “Go ahead,” Ronan Hunt answered. “Approximately three hundred feet to the right of your position, I‟m picking up a heat source though it‟s fading.” “We‟re on our way. Can you find some place close to land?” “Affirmative,” the pilot answered. “Condition?” “More than likely serious to critical. Your patient has been tased—one time that we are positive about.” “Affirmative.” While he spoke to the pilot, Ronan and his teams made their way in the direction he‟d been given. Moments later, he found his brother hidden in a large grouping of cactus. No wonder Weathers has gotten away with murder all this time… “Gavin?” he said as he reached him. “Gavin?” His brother looked at him with a look of fear in his eyes while one of the team members unlocked the cuffs freeing his hands. “No, no more…” “Gavin, it‟s over,” Ronan reassured him. “I‟m getting you out of here to a hospital.” “Hospital?” “Gav, you‟ve been tased numerous times from the looks of your wrists. We‟ve got to get you treatment before you get sicker.” 146

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “No, you‟re lying to me,” Hunt said as he tried to shy away from those trying to help him. “I know what you want to do to me…” “Gavin, listen to me,” Ronan patiently began. “I‟m not lying to you. Weathers is dead and his guards are being arrested as we speak. I‟m going to take you away from here.” “Ro?” “Yes?” “He killed Eden… The house went up in flames…” “I‟m sorry, Gav… Weathers had the place rigged to blow if anyone dared to go after him.” Gavin looked away, a tear making its way along his cheek as he shivered. Ronan took his jacket off and laid it over his brother to keep him warm. A few moments later, the medical team from Air Rescue One joined them and began to prepare Hunt for transport to Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center. As soon as they moved the stretcher toward the aircraft, Gavin cried out. “Ronan?” “I‟m right here, Gav,” he assured him. “Don‟t let them get me again…” Gavin Hunt begged. “Trust me, I won‟t.” **** Gavin shivered as the evening temperature dropped considerably once the sun disappeared. He had tried several times to free himself from the trunk of the cactus without success. Between the weakness from the constant tasing and the night chill, he‟d lost what strength remained. Silence had been his companion since the ground beneath him rumbled from what the two guys working for Weathers said had been an explosion at the main house. A glimpse of black smoke billowing into the air along with additional tremors told him that 147

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden had to have been caught in it and more than likely had not survived. Recalling the ugly brand on her beautiful skin coupled with his bloody hand when he pulled it out from under her back, he could only imagine what had been done to her. I will kill the monster if I get the chance… Hearing the familiar sound of helicopter rotors as the craft hovered above him, he wanted to sink into the landscape. No way could he take any more of Weathers‟ men‟s abuse. Hiding his face, he did his best to guard against the dust stirred up from the hovering aircraft. Between that and the cold air movement caused by the rotors, Gavin Hunt inwardly prayed to be left alone. Several sets of footsteps approached him, Gavin shying away from them. “Gavin?” a voice said as someone reached him. “Gavin?” His brother looked at him while one of the men with him unlocked the cuffs freeing his hands. “No, no more…” “Gavin, it‟s over,” Ronan reassured him. “I‟m getting you out of here to a hospital.” “Hospital?” “Gav, you‟ve been tased numerous times from the looks of your wrists. We‟ve got to get you treatment before you get sicker.” “No, you‟re lying to me,” Hunt said as he tried to shy away from those trying to help him. “I know what you want to do to me…” “Gavin, listen to me,” Ronan began slowly. “I‟m not lying to you. Weathers is dead and his guards are being arrested as we speak. I‟m going to take you away from here.” “Ro?” While the man trying to comfort him looked like his brother, Hunt couldn‟t be sure. He didn‟t trust anyone, especially after 148

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure earlier in the evening when he‟d met with Weathers. The man’s fucking crazy… “Yes,” the man said. Hearing the helicopter landing nearby, he pulled his hands close to him once they‟d been freed. Looking at the man with him, he feared trusting his mind. What if… When more people approached him, he tried to back away only he felt the very real sting of one of the prickly thorns of the cactus stabbing his neck. Frustration and the definite possibility his mind played tricks on him overtook him as he began to argue again only the man he‟d talked to removed his jacket and laid it over his shivering body to warm him. A sane part of his mind told him that the people surrounding him would help him and not torture him more. Cautiously, they prepared him to be transported to a hospital but when the team moved the stretcher, he couldn‟t see Ronan—Gavin more afraid of his brother not being with him—yet he could hear him. Unsure what went on between those around him, he knew one thing before he closed his eyes—Ronan’s here. The fact Eden had not been there when everyone located him confirmed her death in his mind. As far as things stood with him, those involved in her murder would pay. If, as Ronan had said, Weathers had died, then he would go after Garrison and anyone else having a hand in it. As soon as he‟d taken care of them, he‟d resign from the force and try to decide what to do with his life— one without the only person he needed more than life. **** Eden Hunt lapsed off waiting for Rudd Weathers to finish squeezing the life out of her. Totally relaxed, she refused to give him any satisfaction by fighting him. The end had come and she accepted her fate. If her death kept Gavin alive, that‟d be all she‟d ever ask for. 149

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Sensing that her tormentor had finally left her in peace, she concentrated on Gavin Hunt. With her last tiny bit of strength, she felt her body crave his. I’m so sorry you got caught up in this… The sound of footsteps approaching the altar startled her until she heard Gavin‟s voice then felt him sliding his arm under her neck to lift her up. As hard as she tried, she could no longer will herself to do anything but listen to his anguished cries and inwardly cry with him. “You swore you‟d never leave me,” he cried. “You promised…” I’m sorry but Weathers wielded too much power over me. He knew my weak spots. Then came the confrontation between the man she‟d once loved and the man she‟d married and sworn her life to. Heated, she heard something in Gavin‟s voice realizing she‟d never encountered his anger. Now she listened to him defend her before Weathers ordered his men to take him out into the desert. She heard something that puzzled her until she realized that one of his departmentally issued weapons had been used against him. She‟d never heard the sound of an electric charge fly through the air and prayed he‟d been able to avoid its bite only she knew that hadn‟t been so once she heard him fall to the floor and fight the aftereffects of the attack. Inwardly, she wept. My God, why… After hearing the two huge guards dragging her husband from the room, she sensed someone‟s presence looming over her. Her skin literally crawled when Weathers touched her hand. Please, leave me alone… It’s over… Another person approached the altar though she barely heard the footsteps. When she heard the voice, she knew it had to be Alice, his top slave. More than likely naked, Eden felt relief wash over her when she realized that all his slaves wore nothing meaning 150

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure he‟d taken their clothes and refused to allow them to wear anything so they couldn‟t run. Thank God, I left when I did… It’s because of you… It’s all your fault… Listening to their conversation while Alice straightened her hair and clothes bore out her conclusions, Eden certain that he had his own little cult with him as the total Master. It explained why Roy Gordon‟s body and more than likely others would never be found—anyone on the property feared what would happen if they spoke against him forcing complete loyalty. With Alice being dismissed, she had been left alone with a monster. Holding her breath, she waited to find out what his next move might be. She could tell he‟d received a text message—one that evidently pleased him. Suddenly, every door to the room burst open followed by heavily armed men entering. “Freeze, Weathers, you‟re under arrest!” Numerous people entered the room, their weapons ready to fire. Again, she had to listen to what went on around her until someone came to her left side where Alice had just been. “What the fuck did you do to her?” Nigel… If Nigel stood next to her, it meant Ronan Hunt had been the one putting Weathers under arrest. While Weathers demanded to know how this could be happening, she felt herself being lifted up and carried from the room evidently to Nigel‟s private helicopter. Maybe there is hope… With the knowledge that Nigel now had control of her life as she wanted and instructed him to do, Eden Hunt lapsed off finally feeling secure with the knowledge she‟d made some right decisions. Now I hope that Gavin will understand… **** When Shelton‟s helicopter landed in a parking lot next to a private clinic located south of Las Vegas, a team met him. 151

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Her back is nothing but open wounds and she has one on her chest. She‟s been unconscious for several hours between heavy sedation and shock. Her attacker also tried strangling her. From what I can tell, she totally relaxed her body in order to ignore the pain and concentrate on one sense or another.” “I see she‟s running a fever,” Doctor Daniel Reese observed. “And I‟ve noticed chills,” Shelton said. “Let‟s get her inside and see what we can do for her.” Between Shelton, Reece and his team, they moved Eden from the aircraft onto a stretcher making sure they positioned her on her side instead of putting more pressure on the wounds. Because of their severity, each time she moved, bleeding started all over again. Reece didn‟t like the fact that dirt and fibers had been implanted in her body. “Any idea what he did?” “Bullwhip, I believe. I can‟t see him using anything lightweight.” “So Weathers finally got to her?” Reece asked. “Yes and he also tried killing her husband. The last I heard, he‟d been tased once. For all I know, he could have fallen victim to that again. After they did that, they left him out in the desert. I‟m waiting to hear about his condition.” “Eden wants no one to know where she is, is that correct?” “Yes,” Nigel said. “I asked her about her reasons for this because of her marriage and she told me that she wanted it this way because she knew he would not be able to handle what might happen. She knew if Weathers ever got hold of her again, it would be ugly. Gavin‟s only been in her world for several months and is a relative rookie, so to speak.” “What‟s he like?” “He‟s a good man,” Nigel replied without hesitation. “His entire world revolves around her and she told me that he made her swear to never leave him—the ultimate impossibility. She did and 152

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure from what I heard, he agonized over her breaking her promise. If they get back together, they‟ll have a huge issue to deal with.” “I see,” Reece said. “It‟s going to be a while because once she‟s stable and can travel, I want to send her to a friend of mine in Stockholm, a plastic surgeon who has done wonders with cases like this. Her back can always be covered but the one on her chest— she won‟t be able to look at herself in a mirror or face him if that remains in plain sight.” “That bastard,” Nigel cursed. “Stories of his malevolence have made their way down here. For her sake, I hope that bastard‟s dead. We both know if he isn‟t what will happen.” “I agree,” Nigel said. “The trip to Sweden will give her time away from what happened as well as giving Hunt time to come to terms with some things in his life as well.” “What do you mean?” “He is a rookie cop who loved his job until he had to face the reality that most of his brother officers hate people like Eden as well as anything out of their realm of vanilla sex. His immediate superior turned out to be on the take and actually set him up for his own death thanks to being in Weathers‟ pocket. He has to deal with that and his options about the force though he told us that he intends to turn in his badge because he prefers waiting tables. This is a guy who graduated at the top of his class and he‟s been reduced to this.” “I‟m going to go see what I can do for her,” Reece said. “I‟ve got some phone calls to make.” “I‟ll be out as soon as possible.” “Take your time—I‟m not going anywhere right away.” Reece nodded and left Shelton alone to make his calls. The first one went to his wife. **** 153

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Gavin Hunt endured the trauma team‟s poking and prodding but the fact remained he still had some errant charges running through his body. He felt the spasms as his nerves continue to jump involuntarily and instinctively, he tried holding himself together to make it stop. The doctors had also treated him for exposure as well as burns where the current went straight to the areas where bare skin touched the metal of his handcuffs and the point of entries from direct contact with the Taser. Looking at his wrists, he kept seeing what happened—over and over again. No matter what he did to try to forget the last several hours, it didn‟t work. Even trying to think about Eden didn‟t work because his thoughts would come back to seeing her lying either near death or dead on a cement slab while Weathers walked around without a care. Hunt wanted to know what had happened to him but his brother had yet to see him thanks to doctor‟s orders. Until they could stabilize him and lessen the tremors, he would not be allowed visitors. This sucks… Finally, things changed. As he lay on his side trying to not shake, the door to his room opened and closed before he heard the latch engage to lock it. Wishing he had a weapon, he slowly turned over to see who‟d come into his room hoping and praying he wouldn‟t be facing one of his enemies. Even though he‟d been told by someone on the rescue team—or had it been Ronan?—that Weathers had died in the explosions and ensuing fires at the main house, he wouldn‟t believe it until he heard it from his brother. Why can’t I remember? Until then, he‟d be wary because knowing how far-reaching the man‟s control ranged, anything could be possible. “Gav, don‟t say a word,” a familiar voice said. “I haven‟t got much time.” “Ro, what the hell…” 154

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I‟ve been trying to get in to see you since you came in here but the doctors have been firm on the no visitors directive.” “So now you‟re guilty of impersonating a doctor?” “Minor detail,” Ronan said. “How do you feel?” “I can‟t stop twitching and once in a while, I act weird.” “That‟s normal. You‟re lucky to be alive considering you took almost all the current that Taser had in it.” “Whoever used it on me kept increasing the power on it. That mother hurt like fucking hell.” “I can imagine.” “Ro, I need to know something.” “What?” “Is Weathers still alive?” “No, and for now, it‟s better you don‟t know how he met his demise.” “Give whoever did it my thanks. Living with his shadow hovering over me is killing me worse than not having my wife here.” “What have they told you about her?” “I can‟t get a straight answer,” Gavin replied. “The only thing I know for sure is that she is not in this hospital.” “I haven‟t been able to find out anything either,” Ronan Hunt lied. “The damned privacy laws…” “Can you get hold of Shelton and see if he can find out?” “When he returns to the States—seems another cool million is headed his way and he‟s been out of contact since shortly after hell broke loose.” “Shit!” Hunt cursed. “I need to know about Eden. If she escaped…” “I‟ve been trying but…” “I‟d call the local hospitals but I‟m sure my badge is no longer any good.” 155

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I‟ve started an investigation into Garrison. When we go to bust him, do you want to be there?” “Damned straight,” Hunt quickly said. “He insulted Eden and patronized me before he literally sent me to my death. I owe him for that.” “I‟ll let you know what‟s going on when I can. I‟ve also got a Federal judge to investigate plus one or two other officials. Once I‟m able, they‟ll go down, too. By the time I‟m done, this town will be rid of Weathers and his damned influence.” “With Garrison discredited, would that open up the cases he may have kabashed for retrial?” “Possibly, why?” “Some of those guys from years back are still hot about the cases going south. If they find out the truth as to why, it might give them some relief that justice may be served.” “Maybe but then again, they could get mad at you for exposing one of the good old boys.” “Fucking Catch-22 again.” “You got it, Gav.” They heard a knock on the door. Ronan ducked into the closet while Gavin shuffled over to the door and unlocked it. “Mister Hunt, you can‟t be locking the door like this,” the nurse chastised him. “Sorry, I wanted some time to myself. It‟s hard dealing with my body being screwed up like this.” “Well, don‟t do it again,” she said with amusement in her eyes. “You‟re not the first and won‟t be the last.” “Our secret?” Hunt asked. “Just this once,” she said as she took his blood pressure and listened to his heart. “You sound better than you did. You may be calming down.” “I hope so,” he said. “I can‟t stand the way it makes me feel.” 156

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure She made some notes on his chart then left, closing the door behind her. Ronan came out from hiding and went to his brother. They hugged then drew back to look at each other. “As soon as you feel up to it, I‟m breaking you out of here and taking you up to Tahoe. We‟ve got lots of room and a great view.” “Nothing‟s as good as the one I‟ve lost.” “I hear ya,” Ronan agreed. “I don‟t know what I would do if I lost Lily.” “I hope you never have to find out. The hurt is unbearable.” **** A few days later when the doctors allowed him visitors, Gavin Hunt lay in his hospital bed restless and edgy. He had been able to think of nothing else other than the woman he‟d lost. His heart ached for her but no one had been able to tell him what had happened to her. All he could remember had been watching the billowing black smoke rising from the house. Could she have survived that? Hunt also wondered why no one from the department had been in to see him. Surely they had questions as to why one of their marked vehicles sat parked in front of a house that exploded and where the officer it had been assigned to had ended up. But no one came to see him—not even the guys from Internal Affairs. Something’s not right here… An orderly he‟d never seen before came into the room pushing a wheelchair. “I‟m supposed to take you to get some tests done.” “I don‟t understand. No one‟s said anything…” “Something about an E-S-C-A-P-E series,” the man said. “I guess you know what‟s going on but…” Hunt said as the man helped him into the chair. As Hunt looked out the window, the man quickly grabbed his personal possessions and shoved them into Hunt‟s lap. “What the…” 157

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “For a cop graduating top in his class, you‟re a little slow on the uptake here, aren‟t you, Gav?” the man asked as they quickly headed down the hallway toward an empty elevator. Once the doors closed, Hunt watched his brother remove the fake moustache and wig, relief overtaking him. “Ro, what the hell is going on?” “I told you I would break you out of here as soon as I could. Next stop—Tahoe.” Hunt grinned as he began to feel a little more alive. The idea of heading to a place he‟d never been before made perfect sense. Besides, Ronan Hunt would take care of him and maybe find out and tell him everything that had been going on starting with what happened to Eden. I have to know… Once inside what he considered a midsize corporate jet, Hunt relaxed in the private plane his brother flew him up to the resort town in. Gazing out the window at the clouds, he began to get philosophical about things and wondered if people like the four of them made it up to the clouds or what. Stop it—don’t do this to yourself. When they landed, Lily met them at the hanger the pilot taxied the plane to. When Ronan noticed the look on his brother‟s face, he cleared Gavin‟s mind. “Because of all the traveling between here and Vegas, the agency thought it a prudent expenditure as part of my cover. The only thing they do not realize is I intend to hold on to the inn—it‟s a very profitable business.” “Looking to retire?” “One day…” The drive to the inn quiet while Hunt took in the beauty of the mountains, the exact opposite became the case once he‟d entered the house his brother shared with his Asian beauty. “Okay, I need some answers,” he said. “To?” 158

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “First off, I thought I‟d have Internal Affairs breathing down my neck about what happened but no one from the department came in.” “That‟s because they had no idea where you‟d been taken once we flew you out of there.” “What do you mean? Surely they monitored what happened at the house,” Gavin stated. “If they did, they didn‟t listen to our frequency. Both Shelton‟s bird and the rescue one transmitted over a different band. The rescue chopper responded on special assignment from Carson City because I didn‟t trust any of the locals to get you to a hospital safely.” “You said Shelton‟s bird…” “Yeah, he flew in some team members and gear,” Ronan said, trying to skirt the issue of why Nigel Shelton had been there to begin with. “But wouldn‟t the department have been in on the explosion? In which case, I‟m sure they would have questioned why one of their SUVs sat parked at the front door.” “Their logs should show you responding to a call at the house unless someone doctored them as well. By the way, why did you leave your wallet in the car? One of my men found it when he checked the vehicle on arrival.” “I don‟t know. I guess I just didn‟t want it on me because I had a good idea what the outcome of the call would be. I never do something like that but I did and…” “I‟ll get it back to you as soon as I get into the office.” “No rush. Now explain the hospital—why no official visits?” “You went in under an assumed name so if anyone checked on you, they couldn‟t find you. The last thing I wanted or you needed would be Garrison coming in and trying to finish the job. I need you alive to take him down.” “Thanks for the love, Ro,” Hunt said. 159

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “If I didn‟t, you‟d still be out in the desert with half his other victims.” “Cold, Ronan.” “Truth,” Ronan Hunt stated. “I sent several men back to that area after dawn and they found several fresh graves—one being a Roy Gordon. Is that name familiar?” “No, should it be?” “Try Eden‟s father.” “She never talked about him. He wanted what she‟d been entrusted with and she refused to have anything to do with the man. I believe she said that she‟d learned about his being her father in name only, too.” “Interesting,” Ronan said. “The funny thing is that papers signed that evening had been filed the next day in court to finalize a deal between Gordon and Weathers.” “A judge on the payroll, as well?“ “We‟re checking into that angle, also, but yeah, more than likely.” “Shit, the department and the bench—no wonder they‟ve been burnt up about this.” “That‟s why we‟ve had so many problems trying to get evidence on him. With them in his pocket, no one stood a chance. Plus, now that the body count is rising out in the desert, we‟ll be able to link deals signed off on by the judge and approximate dates when these people died. The case is huge and you helped break it.” “Small consolation—the personal cost…” “I‟m sorry, Gav—the timing really sucks.” “Tell me about it.” “By the way, I spoke with Washington and when we go in to arrest Garrison, he wants you sworn as a Federal Marshal. That way, if Garrison tries anything, you‟re covered considering the LVPD has more than likely written you off for one reason or another.” 160

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “It‟s more than likely their way of making sure I don‟t screw up and do something stupid.” “Maybe but he understands your loss and wants to give you some bit of closure—at least on the department front.” “It‟s something but not much—maybe in the future.” **** “Has there been any news about anyone I‟ve asked about?” “No, sir,” one of the sergeants answered. “The only thing we can definitely be sure of is the fire at the house. The medical examiner has yet to make a positive ID on the remains found in the rubble. Hell, they‟re still wetting down hot spots and it‟s almost a week later.” “How it that so?” “Evidently, from what Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms has to say—which is not much—there are parts of the fireground which are still active. It seems he rigged it to be set by one detonator. Once that happened, everything else went off on a timed schedule meaning anything that didn‟t explode after the first two blasts is being considered live and dangerous. They‟ve had some near misses, too. The fire department brass is not happy.” “Something does not sound right,” Lieutenant Christopher Garrison stated. “How can it still be active with all the destruction and traffic on the property?” “It‟s sort of like a minefield. They lay waiting for just the right moment or event and bang, they go off. They‟re still finding live shit in Florida from the days of the Cuban Missile Crisis. Evidently, they planted these things and walked away figuring the mines would take out anybody when and if the enemy invaded. Now people are finding them and the bomb squads are busy.” “And there‟s been no word on Hunt or his so-called wife?” “No, sir,” the sergeant said. “Anyone of interest had been removed by the Feds before the locals arrived on location though I 161

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure can‟t find any record of them contacting the department to advise them of a Federal operation in the area.” “Another irregularity,” Garrison said though he knew why. Ever since Weathers paid his gambling debts, one of his jobs had been telling Weathers if any outside organizations had business in Las Vegas so the man could stay one step ahead of the law. Whenever they came to town, Weathers took off or scaled back his activity in order to remain under the radar. Somehow, the Feds had figured out a way to circumvent Las Vegas in order to mount a case against and arrest Rudd Weathers only where the hell had all of the parties involved disappeared to? As big as the fire had been, Garrison figured the news agencies would be able to ferret out information but there had been nothing in print or on air. Something definitely bothered him while scaring him at the same time. Over the years, he‟d been instrumental in screwing several huge cases when they came too close to Weathers and he‟d been a part of several police officers‟ murders, the latest being Gavin Hunt‟s. But if Hunt is alive then I’ve got a huge problem… His own brothers and he‟d sold them out to save his own damned neck even though he knew at any time, Weathers would let him take the fall in order to save his own. Christopher Garrison resigned himself to waiting for the other shoe to drop knowing that when it did, he would be ruined. Maybe it’s time—I haven’t liked myself at all…

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Chapter 12 Eden Hunt walked around the clinic, her body wracked with pain despite the painkillers she‟d been given to ease it. While Doctor Reece had done an excellent job of trying to start the physical healing after Weathers‟ abusive attack, the fact remained that it would be a long, painful road to recovery. The one thing she knew would make the process easier had his own problems and she‟d vowed not to subject him to what her past had done to her— to them. Nigel Shelton had been keeping her up-to-date on Gavin‟s recovery. He planned to fly her to Sweden to a specialist he recommended to try to take away the ugly scarring she‟d been left with. While her damaged back didn‟t bother her that much because she could easily give up wearing backless clothes, the ugly mark on her chest did. Weathers‟ damned initials branded into her skin as if he marked a steer left her black and blue and burned. “How do you feel this morning?” Nigel asked when he came in to see her for his morning visit. “I can‟t get past the pain.” “I‟ve got good news for you.” “What?” “Weathers didn‟t do anything more than brand and whip you. There is no evidence that he tried to be intimate with you at any point during the time he held you.” 163

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “But he had me under so damned much sedation, how could anyone tell?” “I had them do a rape kit on you when we took you in. I‟m sorry but I knew the both of you would need to know. There is absolutely no evidence whatsoever that he touched you outside the obvious wounds.” “But Gavin will wonder and it will eat at him—exactly what that bastard wanted.” “Show him the paperwork when and if you need to,” Shelton said. “The man understands definitive evidence.” “Yes, when his wife isn‟t involved. From what you‟ve been telling me, he‟s not handling things very well and he thinks I‟m dead. What are your plans if someone tells him that no other remains could be found in the house?” “Ronan‟s got that covered,” Shelton answered. I hope… “This whole thing is falling apart around us and the lies are beginning to snowball. He may never believe the truth if…” “Eden, you need the surgery before too much more scarring takes place. If you want to return to him without those initials facing him every time he looks at you, it must be done as soon as possible. They‟ve got the surgery set for whenever you arrive. Doctor Neva Sheen is very good and has done wonders on burn victims who are in far worse condition.” “Why would she want to do cosmetic surgery if she does more serious work?” “It‟s a favor to me,” Shelton said. “A mysterious contact or something of that nature?” “Something like that,” he said with amusement. “Anyway, as soon as you feel up to the flight…” “How about tomorrow—the sooner the better. I‟m already in pain, what‟s some more? Who knows—maybe I‟ll be numb to everything until it heals.” 164

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “You tell me when you want to go and I‟ll make some calls. I need to tell Sephora…” “Bring her along,” Eden said. “I haven‟t talked to her for a while.” “Sounds like a good idea and she won‟t be around if Gavin decides to call her behind his brother‟s back.” “My God, I never thought of that.” “He is starting to ask questions like how come IAD didn‟t stop by to question him on why their marked SUV sat in front of a house that exploded. You married a very smart man.” “And one who will hate me once he puts together the truth unless I get to him first and try to convince him that this has all been done in his best interests. I can‟t go back to him unless I can be damned sure Weathers‟ entire network is stopped and won‟t come after us again.” “What aren‟t you saying?” “From the gist of the conversations I had with Alice, it‟s because I left that he created his cult of sex slaves and guards. He evidently took their clothes and possessions and made sure they couldn‟t stray. When he used me as the example as to what would happen if they did, I sensed fear in the room. Then Alice told me it had been my fault entirely.” “The man had a sick mind,” Shelton said. “I‟ve never seen such a damned control freak and he surpasses every one I‟ve ever seen. I honestly equate his operation at that property to what they found in Waco and some of the others. I don‟t believe they‟ve even begun to scratch the surface on how many bodies are in the desert either.” “And Gavin almost joined them,” Eden quietly said. “Your father did,” Shelton informed her. “They located a shallow grave about five hundred feet away from where they‟d left Gavin.” 165

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “That man meant nothing to me but yet he still wanted my money. I‟m surprised I haven‟t heard from my mother.” “She tried calling you when she got the news about his death. The answering machine took it.” “Where did she call?” “The club.” “Good, I can‟t deal with her either.” “I didn‟t want to subject you to that…” “It‟s funny, I haven‟t talked to her in years and now she wants to discuss him, of all things—another ploy to get the damned trust fund.” “What do you mean?” “With the man who is my father in name only dead, that leaves her the perfect avenue to try to take it away from me. My grandfather knew the both of them and what they could be capable of which is why he told me not to let either one near it. He likened them to loan sharks only deadlier, if that‟s possible.” “While Gordon negotiated the deadly deal with Weathers, she had just lost most of her assets to one of her boy toys who took her for a ride when he had her charged with assault and won.” “Sounds like one of those supermodels…” “About that,” Shelton agreed. “What do you want me to do?” “Take the account and switch it to a numbered one in Switzerland. I want access limited to three people—you, me and Gavin. I want him to have it no matter what.” “Eden…” “When I told him about it, he wanted nothing to do with it. That told me a lot about him.” “He told us the same thing when Ronan asked about the accounts. Said he didn‟t want to know.” “It‟s our secret but that‟s how I want it handled.” “I‟ll take care of it after I get you settled in Stockholm.” “Good,” she said as she winced. 166

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Eden?” “It‟s painkiller time,” she said. “My God, he should have just finished the job. This is totally unbearable.” “And he‟s gotten what he wanted—his presence in your life and the constant reminder.” “Why do you think I‟m agreeing to the flight to Sweden? I think a few hours in flight can‟t even begin to match what I‟m dealing with right now without a moment‟s peace.” Nigel Shelton gingerly took her in his arms and gave her a careful hug. “Everything will turn out the way you want it to—I swear,” he said. “And if it doesn‟t?” “I‟ll beat some sense into him.” “Wonderful…” **** Late afternoon of the next day, Nigel Shelton‟s pilot filed a flight plan to Stockholm, Sweden after Nigel had flown his wife, Sephora up to Las Vegas so she could accompany Eden. Nigel left them alone to talk while he went up to the cockpit and sat with the pilot. Once they touched down at a smaller more private airstrip near Sweden‟s capital city, a car met them, the driver taking them directly to Doctor Sheen‟s clinic. When Eden saw it, she gasped. “Neva believes the family should be comfortable while they wait for news. Some of the procedures turn into multiple operations meaning the family needs a place to stay as well as the patient. Eden will be staying in a suite the size of a small apartment, the only difference between her quarters and other apartments is a nurse is always nearby in case the need arises.” “Sounds like she‟s really hands on.” “She is plus having the patients on site saves transport time between the incident happening and the time they finally get the 167

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure patient to hospital. Neva‟s a one-of-a-kind surgeon and that same philosophy comes across in the layout of the grounds.” “I think I‟ll like it here,” Eden said. “You‟ll be safe here—trust me.” “It‟s my trust in you that has me here,” Eden assured him. “Sorry but this entire deal has me concerned. If anything happens in Vegas, you‟re half a world away.” “And if my husband believes I‟m dead, does that make any difference?” “Point taken.” Damn it, this is all wrong. **** “Hunt,” Ronan Hunt said when he answered the phone. “It‟s Shelton,” the voice on the other end said. “Any news?” “The investigation‟s sailing along. The judge we‟ve been investigating has already been arrested and now there is an entire unit going through his cases to make sure they‟re on the up-andup. Same thing with any business deals involving Rudd Weathers.” “Anything found yet?” “One recent case is a possibility but we‟ve got two mergers that Weathers dealt for and both the other parties are dead—both found near where they found Gordon‟s body.” “So basically, he kept the new partner around long enough to get the company then either come up with a suicide reason as we suspect on some of them or he just out-and-out murdered them then dumped them in the desert where they might never be found unless the grave proved too shallow and a predator took care of the rest.” “About that in a nutshell,” Ronan Hunt answered. “And he‟s gotten away with this for how long?” “Several years that we can tell so far.” “Wonderful,” Shelton said. “How‟s your brother taking all this?” 168

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “He has his moments. He comes alive if we learn anything about Garrison and his involvement. The fact he‟s being sworn in as a Federal Marshal so he can go with me when I arrest the guy has lifted his spirits a little but then he slips into a depression where you can tell he‟s only thinking about Eden. How is she?” “We‟re in Stockholm where she‟s seeing a plastic surgeon for her back and the branding mark. If anyone can help her get rid of it, it‟s Neva.” “I trust she‟s good?” “Very,” Shelton said. “She specializes in burn victims and military personnel returning from battle who need facial reconstruction or something similar. When she‟s done, they can actually return to a somewhat normal life with better feelings about themselves than they would have if they hadn‟t seen her.” “That‟s good to hear—they both need good news.” “Has he asked any more about my part in this?” “I told him you‟re off earning another cool million somewhere and you‟re out of contact.” “Half-truths are better than full lies, I suppose,” Shelton said. “I‟m looking forward to the truth coming out. I hate keeping things from him and until recently, I never did. This is one of the hardest things I‟ve ever done with regards to my brother.” “Fortunately, we‟re ahead of schedule here so maybe by the end of the year or early next…” “I hope I can keep him on an upswing. If he finds time to become depressed, I‟m not sure he‟ll come out of it. He‟s fucking torn up about this.” “So is she,” Nigel Shelton agreed, “and believe me, I hate it, too.” **** In one of his better times, Gavin Hunt took an early morning walk breathing in the wonderful smell of freedom. The mountain air filled his lungs and, as he‟d done since his brother rescued him, 169

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure he rejoiced—grateful for being able to enjoy this and reaffirming his vow to never take anything for granted again. As he did once a day, he pulled out his cell phone and emailed his wife hoping that wherever she might be, she might be able to answer him. Ghunt2212: Are you out there? He waited for a few moments before sending another. Ghunt2212: I need you to come home. I’m lost without you. Again, he waited but got no answers—the same ritual every day and the same results. If she is alive… **** No matter where Eden Hunt might be, she pulled out her cell phone and read her husband‟s heart-wrenching emails. The fact he‟d been trying to contact her told her a great deal but until she could be absolutely positive there would be no backlashes from Weathers‟ people, she could not risk answering him because she‟d never risk his life. I love you too damned much to allow anything to happen to you… Knowing Gavin seemed to be all right though Shelton had told her of the mood swings and occasional depression, she still refused to contact him for the obvious reason as well as the personal and vain one. She dreaded that if she went back to him scarred and nowhere near his idea of perfection that he would turn away from her—something she‟d never be able to handle. Hell, I wouldn’t have come to Sweden had it not been for fear and insecurity. “Mrs. Hunt, the doctor will see you now.” “Thank you,” she said as she eased herself out of the chair and walked in to see Doctor Sheen. Since arriving in Stockholm, she‟d already had two procedures—one on her back, the other on the brand. Sheen had wanted to check her healing progress to get an idea of whether her body would accept the additional invasive actions. 170

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “How do you feel?” Sheen asked. “I hurt but whatever you‟ve been giving me for the pain is doing the trick.” “I wanted to check your progress.” Eden silently endured the dressings being removed and the doctor‟s gentle pressure on and around the wounds. Looking at the woman‟s face, Eden tried to gauge her feelings about her work but like any good doctor, Neva Sheen could hide her emotions until she felt ready to share them. “Well?” “So far, so good. I‟m very impressed with both front and back. If you keep on this course, you should be up to having the next round of work done soon meaning you might be able to get out of here by the end of the year or shortly afterward.” “That quickly?” “The amount of damage is not as severe as I first thought meaning the amount of repair that needs to be done is not as high as I‟d planned on. The tattoo, so to speak, looked a lot worse because of the swelling and constant bleeding. The man who did it knew how to hurt you for major impact but his efforts fell short of what he expected you to suffer through. I‟m very pleased about this.” “That is good news.” “When you return to the States, I want you to see Sheridan Beckham. She doesn‟t normally see patients but she‟ll see you as a favor to me.” “She‟s in Idaho, isn‟t she? Her husband is friends with Nigel Shelton.” “You‟ve heard of her?” “Yes.” “Then she‟s the best choice. The Beckhams have a huge ranch and it‟s very restful which will give you the extra time you need to recover as well as being able to remain off the radar, if you will.” 171

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “How much time there?” “That‟s up to you.” Eden nodded figuring the doctor knew best. Maybe it would be a good idea to speak to Sheridan Beckham. Maybe she can help me get back to the man I love… **** “Shelton.” “Nigel, it‟s Neva. I just made the suggestion to our mutual friend about a visit to Coeur d‟Alene and she‟s agreeable with it.” “Good, now to see if we can get the other one to agree also. Thanks, Neva, we owe you.” “If this succeeds, then we‟re square.” “Thank God for good friends,” he said. “Keep me posted.” “I will.” The call ended and right away, Nigel Shelton called Ronan Hunt to bring him up-to-date on their proposed plan to reunite the Hunts. “Any idea how long this may take—he‟s not getting any better and it scares me what he might do if I can‟t keep him interested in living.” “Evidently from what she‟s been able to tell me, Eden is doing extremely well and liked the idea of seeing Doctor Beckham. Don‟t forget one thing—she knows what‟s going on where he does not. When he learns the truth, we might all be in a world of shit because if he‟s anything…” “Don‟t say it—the Hunt men are very strong-willed and that‟s being nice. I don‟t want to see him change to act like some of the people we‟ve known in our lives. He‟s a good man and I don‟t want to lose my brother if he becomes a stranger.” “I understand.” “And I‟m truly grateful for it because had you not been involved, I don‟t know what the hell I‟d be doing. I appreciate this more than you‟ll ever know.” 172

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Trust me, I do know. I almost lost Sephora and I can‟t tell you how much it tore me apart.” After ending the call, Shelton went in search of his wife, pulled her into his arms and held her. “Thank you,” he whispered. “Thank you for being there.” “Nigel, we will get them through this…” **** Ronan Hunt entered the lounge of the inn. Standing by the window, his brother stared at the mountains. He must not have gotten an answer… “Gav, I‟ve got news.” “On Eden?” “No, but this might bring us closer to finding out what happened to her that day.” “What do you mean?” Gavin Hunt asked. “We should be able to move on Garrison in a few days. Since Weathers‟ death became public knowledge, we‟ve had several come forward with information about his part in jury tampering, corruption in the department, murder of your brother cops and that‟s not even making a dent in what the Justice Department wants to charge him with.” “Tell me more,” Gavin said, his interest piqued a little more. Ronan showed his brother the files he‟d been sent while explaining everything they had up to this moment. “So according to this, he had firsthand knowledge of how those cases wound up being lost before they ever got started.” “Especially a particular case which I figure is the one you refer to all the time. Because of his actions, the murder of an officer five or six years ago went unanswered because the defense attorney had information which turned the case.” “There are several officers who‟ve been on duty for years and every time the subject comes up, they literally fly off the handle about the injustice.” 173

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “This will give them some closure…” “While opening up new wounds about it being orchestrated by one of their own.” “There is your case, also.” “I‟m a rookie—one of those most of them want nothing to do with until we grow into the uniform. They will hate him for being the one involved yet they will hate me more for having the audacity to bring him down—especially when Eden‟s name gets dragged into it. Do you know he still believes our marriage is a sham and that her abduction had been faked so she could go fuck around behind my back?” “No wonder you‟ve been acting the way you have whenever his name is brought up.” “That bastard started his investigation by laying into me for being at the Palms and having no reason to be. He became more concerned about the fact I never notified the department about our marriage then he laid it out exactly how he felt about her.” “He mishandled the case and he will pay. If the others blame you, then so be it. You don‟t need them. Now that you‟ve been sworn in on my level, you can walk away from the locals for the Feds. By the way, my boss is impressed with the way you‟ve been working this case. He believes you have more on the ball than some of his other agents and is considering offering you a job fulltime.” “How can I take a job like that when I can‟t handle my damned life? I desperately need to know about Eden and I have to find her. Her answer will decide which path my life will take.” “Which brings me to something I‟ve wanted to discuss with you.” “What?” “After we arrest Garrison, how about you take a few weeks and head up to Coeur d‟Alene? I‟ve got a friend with a ranch up there and he‟s extended an invitation to you so you can figure out 174

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure what you want to do next. His wife is also a doctor if you feel the need to talk to someone who‟s in our world yet a complete stranger.” “It sounds good but why do I feel like you‟re trying to get rid of me?” “Never but once he‟s arrested, I‟ll be pretty damned tied up with paperwork and not much company. When this happens, Lily concentrates totally on the business—neither one of us will be good company. Who knows—maybe you‟ll find some of the answers you‟ve been searching for.” “I‟ll think about it.” “Gavin, you‟ve suffered trauma physically, emotionally and you‟re on shaky ground because of what happened to Eden. The relationship you two have is special and I don‟t want to see you lose any bit of it. If you can find something up there while you try out the slopes, all the better. I want you to get well, brother. I can‟t handle you being like this.” Gavin Hunt went to his brother and the two men hugged. “I really appreciate everything you‟ve done and yeah, I guess Idaho might be the place to go.” “There‟s something more?” “I love this place and being here has been a huge help but every time a beautiful woman walks into the lobby, I look hoping and praying it will be Eden. Each time, I‟m disappointed and I don‟t believe my heart can take it anymore.” “Then the Beckham spread should be exactly what the doctor ordered.” “Let‟s hope so,” Hunt said. “Now how are we going to arrest the good lieutenant?” “I thought you‟d never ask.”

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Chapter 13 Despite their best efforts, the arrest of Lieutenant Christopher Garrison did not come about until after the New Year. In the course of putting together their case against the man, the Hunt brothers came upon evidence that opened up an entirely new avenue in the overall cases stemming from the original one against Rudd Weathers. In the days leading up to the arrest, Gavin stumbled onto a list of officers in the LVPD—his station to be exact—who, at one time or another had been paid to look the other way. Of those names, Hunt recognized several as being the ones with the loudest opinions when it came to his wife. “Ro, it‟s beginning to fit together.” “What?” “On duty, I‟d make sure to never be in the locker room at the same time with these guys if it meant changing or showering because of certain items. When I would be in there with them, the conversations somehow always came around to Las Vegas‟ seedier nightlife and the clubs. One guy—this one…” he said, pointing to a name, “always made a point to mention the bondage clubs though he never mentioned Dark Illusions by name.” “So?” “Don‟t get me wrong—these officers made their feelings known but he always had a certain tone to his voice and what he said that the others didn‟t. Now that I look back on it, it reminds 176

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure me of a kid‟s taunt—you know…I know something you don‟t know and I‟m not going to tell.” “You think he knew about you and Eden?” “I do,” he said. “How?” Ronan asked. “Maybe someone at the club…” Gavin Hunt pulled out his cell phone and called Carson at Dark Illusions. “Gavin, how are you? We miss you both so much.” “I‟ve been better,” Hunt answered. “I have a question—from shortly before I worked there to after the charity event—can you think of anyone who may have been telling secrets about Eden and me being together?” “Not offhand but I know one of the waitresses seemed a little jealous because you two hooked up.” “Which one?” “A girl named Alice…” “Carson, you‟ve been a big help,” Hunt said. “How‟s the business…” “Good and we want to see you—some of your regulars have been asking for you.” “I‟ll try but the pain…” “We understand,” Carson said. “Mister Shelton has been helping out on the management end until you come back.” “What do you mean?” “I figured that you would be doing it in Mistress‟ place—you are her husband.” “I didn‟t even think about that.” “Talk to Mister Shelton and see if he knows anything.” “I will and thanks.” “What?” Ronan asked as his brother ended the call and dropped the phone on the table next to him. “Two things—Weathers had a mole working at Dark Illusions.” 177

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Who?” “Alice—his top slave. I remember her and she seemed nice but she had an underlying side to her that now makes sense. She‟d look at Eden with either hatred or like she felt better than my wife.” “So you believe Weathers knew everything all along and waited?” “He knew some of it but not all. When we went back to the club that night after our wedding, if I remember right, Alice had been off that week for some reason. Not being there, she wouldn‟t have known about the last-minute reception they put together for us because we never spoke about anything private with anyone other than Carson and maybe Phil, the bartender.” “That explains a great deal,” Ronan agreed. “Plus it explains why the locker room talk centered on the life when you could hear them and she‟s on the list of those arrested that day and she‟s still in custody.” “Why?” “Assaulting an officer.” “She smacked one of the customers one night for something. Eden got her out of it after she calmed the man down then warned Alice to get it together. Alice acted like she regretted what happened but something changed in her.” “Maybe she did it in order to get in closer with Eden.” “Damn it,” Gavin cursed. “We could have been shut down at any time because of Weathers.” “But he didn‟t because he wanted the money. Figure this scenario—he plants Alice in the staff and gets information on the both of you. He doesn‟t do anything with it until he finds the right time and then he moves in. I believe this all centers around money.” “But how would he know about the trust fund?” 178

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “He did business with Roy Gordon—could it be possible he found out about Gordon‟s relationship with Eden and used that angle instead?” “Makes sense—straight and direct.” “What else?” “I need to call Shelton.” “Why?” “Carson has been working with him to keep the club open but it seems like he‟s been expecting me back to run the place. I figured Shelton would be doing it anyway what with his being her silent partner but I had no idea she may have made provisions involving me.” “I have to make some calls to Washington with the latest information. You call Shelton.” Gavin Hunt nodded before his brother left the room. Taking a deep breath, he called Nigel Shelton. When the call ended, Hunt sat back in thought. Whatever Nigel Shelton has to tell me cannot be said over the phone. What the hell does he know? He had several hours to try to figure this out unless he set the issue aside and went back to working the new information on their case. Hunt decided to work the case while he waited for a visit from a man who‟d been more of a mystery since before he went to the Weathers‟ estate on official business. His helicopter had been in the area bringing in manpower and arms but once he‟d done that, Hunt had no idea what happened to him. His brother had said a job had taken him to Europe which—in Shelton‟s line of work—seemed credible but other little things began to bother him. Could he have flown Eden out of there before the explosions? I will have to ask him when he gets here… **** “How do you feel?” Nigel Shelton asked. 179

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Sore but Neva is wonderful. It‟s not as bad as I thought it would be.” “Are you sitting down?” “No, what‟s wrong?” “Gavin called me and asked about the club after he spoke to Carson. I‟m on my way to Tahoe to meet with him about it.” “And you have the letter?” she asked hesitantly. “Yes, I do but if you do not want me to give it to him…” “No, give it to him and let me know what happens. I will follow whatever recommendations you have about the business. I ask one thing—if you believe he doesn‟t want anything to do with me, please hang on as his silent partner so he doesn‟t do anything rash. You and I can always start another one—just under a different name.” “Are you sure?” “Yes,” she said. “I want to be with him but as each day passes, the chances of us being together dwindle away more. It‟s my fault and I accept full blame but no matter what happens, I want him to be secure financially. If I can‟t do it any other way, I can make sure about this, at least.” “You know I have not been happy about the way you‟ve handled this though I fully understand. I guess it‟s because I truly believe he‟d take you any way he could have you.” “I couldn‟t subject him to those memories—the brand alone would scare him off. Hell, it terrifies me.” “I need to ask something else…” “What?” “What do you know about a girl named Alice?” “She had orders to make sure I always looked my best once he laid me on the altar—why?” “Did you have any idea she‟d been working for you?” “No, I‟ve never had an Alice working for me.” “Anyone with a similar name?‟ 180

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Allyce or something like that… Why do you ask?” “From what I‟m hearing from the Brothers Hunt, Allyce turns out to be Alice. Seems Weathers had her working at the club to spy on you.” “That son of a bitch!” “Your husband figures that‟s how Weathers knew about your relationship and some other details.” “But she couldn‟t have told him about the wedding…” “We know that because she‟d been off that week which explains why Garrison didn‟t know and told Weathers after he abducted you because of when he spoke to Gavin in the alley.” “But she couldn‟t have known about Gordon either—the man‟s name never came up in conversation.” “It seems Weathers learned that by accident when he walked into Gordon‟s office and saw your picture.” “My picture?” “It had been taken years ago when you had blonde hair. Ronan figures that‟s when he learned about the money.” “Wonderful—no wonder it‟s called Sin City. What happens in Vegas…” “I‟d say he bided his time waiting for the right moment and the gala presented itself because of the masked theme. Weathers stole into your suite and took Gavin‟s costume which he knew would catch your attention while no one else would think anything of it.” “I don‟t get it,” she said. “How would he know about the suite?” “Good guess maybe or he paid somebody off to look at the register.” “And you‟re positive about him stealing the costume?” “After Gavin left to meet with Garrison, his brother thought it a smart idea to have Forensics go over the room to see what they could find. They came up with several sets of fresh prints—yours, 181

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Gavin‟s, Ronan‟s, mine and Weathers‟. We agreed it would be the best thing to do before housekeeping tried to clean it then we checked Gavin out once we knew he wouldn‟t go back there.” “I‟m glad you told me to sit down.” “Because of the new information, Garrison‟s arrest has been delayed meaning that your husband will be in Tahoe for a while longer.” “And Ronan said he‟s been sworn in as a Federal Marshal?” “He has been. Ronan did it for several reasons and from what I‟ve been hearing, the upper echelon at Justice is very pleased with his work.” “I‟m glad,” she said. “If he stays with them and works with his brother, he‟ll be better off.” “It also means you can‟t hide forever.” “What do you mean?” “Gavin Hunt has a natural curiosity that is good for an investigator. Now setting aside whatever reasons he has at the moment for doing it, he dove into the case and has made several huge discoveries. I truly believe that should you go underground if things go crazy, then he will use those talents to find you and will—probably faster than Weathers did.” “What the hell do I do?” “You‟re going to Coeur d‟Alene?” “Yes, why?” “If he has not already, Ronan is trying to convince Gavin to take time and go up to the same ranch to heal the rest of the way. Ross Beckham is a good man and offered his help. Now if you two meet up…” “And if he decides to immediately go to work with his brother?” “He won‟t.” “Nigel, I can‟t be pushy…” “No, but you are his Mistress. Pull rank if you have to.” 182

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Eden thought about their conversation and Nigel had been right. With her letter going to be delivered in a few hours, the course had been set. Now, to prepare for our reunion… **** Nigel arrived at Hunt Inn and walked into the lobby. Immediately, he spied Lily who‟d just finished up with some guests. When she saw him, a huge smile broke out on her face. “Nigel, how are you? Ronan said you might be stopping in today.” “I need to speak with Gavin about business that cannot be discussed on the phone. Is he here?” “He‟s out on the terrace. Every day about this time, he goes out there and stares at the mountains. I wish I could do something to help him but he shuts everyone out when he‟s there.” “Let me see if I can distract him.” “Good luck,” she said. “I‟m glad you‟re here.” “So am I,” he agreed. “You‟ve really done an amazing job with the place.” “Thanks,” she said. “And make sure you talk to Ronan before you leave. He‟ll be a little upset if you don‟t.” “I‟d planned to,” Shelton said as she smiled. Taking a deep breath, he went out on the terrace to join Gavin Hunt. In his pocket, he had a letter from Eden that he‟d been instructed to give her husband when the time presented itself. Unfortunately, the time had come. “Gavin?” Hunt turned around and went to shake hands with Shelton. “What‟s going on?” “What do you mean?” “The one-on-one meeting, the fact I believe you flew her away from the house before the place blew sky-high…” “First, I prefer to talk business face-to-face. In some cultures, it speaks more for the man. Second, I don‟t know what you know 183

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure but I‟d appreciate hearing what you‟ve learned so I can deny it or defend myself.” “Fair enough,” Hunt said. “As I lay out in the desert, I swear I heard your helo. Even though you‟ve got whisper mode on that beast, the rotors still make a certain sound and I heard that. You said you brought in manpower and arms but nothing has been mentioned about what you left with and I can‟t picture you leaving empty-handed. Now, Nigel, be straight with me—did you fly her out of there?” Nigel Shelton removed the envelope from the inside pocket of his jacket, laid it on the table in front of Hunt and quietly went inside to seek out his brother. “What the hell is this, Shelton? Why can‟t you answer me?” Crossing the lobby, he found Ronan waiting for him. “Well?” “He‟s too damned close. Why didn‟t you warn me that he‟d figured I flew her out?” “Because I didn‟t know.” “Damn it to bloody hell!” Nigel cursed. “What?” “He gave me the third degree and I couldn‟t answer him. I knew if I did, every bloody thing I‟d say would come out wrong. I came here to give him a letter from Eden and the only thing I could do—I put it on a table in front of him, walked away and came to find you.” “Fucking hell,” Ronan Hunt said. “My sentiments exactly.” **** Once Gavin Hunt calmed down a little, he picked up the envelope and looked at his name written in Eden‟s hand—beautiful and flowing. Slowly, he pulled out the pale blue notepaper he recognized as hers, took a deep breath as he unfolded it and began to read. 184

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure My gorgeous Gavin, If you are reading this then Nigel felt that, due to the circumstances, he should give it to you. In the days I spent planning our wedding, I spoke with Judge Clifford May who married us. While we discussed the wedding, I also spoke with him about my will and asked him to change it for me. You, my dear slave, are now Master of Dark Illusions. With this comes a club with an exclusive and established clientele plus extremely good profits. I’d appreciate it if you would run it as I have and look to both Nigel and Carson if need be. I have a very financially sound trust fund I’ve guarded for years and kept away from my parents. It is now yours, safe in an account in Switzerland. Do not let them take it from you as it does not belong to either one of them nor do they deserve it. Please remember that I love you and while we cannot be together, I pray what we have will never be forgotten. Go on with your life—that’s an order—and if you choose to turn in your badge, it’s the right thing to do. I’ve sensed your disappointment with the department and I’m sorry because I know what it meant to you to become a cop. Remember, it’s their loss. Just because I’m not with you physically does not mean I’m not with you in spirit. The demons in my life want us to suffer dissension, to split us apart and destroy our happiness. Do not let them win. Keeping the club successful as well as proving the idiots you deal with on shift wrong will be the foundation of your continued success. I believe in you—no matter what. I hope you can forgive my failing to protect you from the monsters—I’ve failed miserably and do not deserve to be your 185

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Mistress. If you can find it in your heart to not forget us then I can be happy. Yours forever, Eden Gavin Hunt felt as if someone had sucker punched him. The woman he loved not only took care of him for the rest of his life but gave him his freedom. What the hell is going on? He wanted to scream but he refused to give Nigel Shelton the satisfaction. The man knew something and the fact Shelton would not be straight with him angered Hunt to no end. I need answers… Carefully folding the letter and replacing it in the envelope, he went inside hoping he wouldn‟t see Shelton but unfortunately, the man stood with his brother. Going over to them, he asked Lily to place the envelope in his mail slot so he could get it later then he went to join the others. Walking straight over to Shelton, he stood toe-to-toe with him and looked into the man‟s eyes. “I know you know more than you‟re telling me. I know you flew my wife out of that hellhole before it blew sky-high and if you saved her life, I‟m grateful. What I don‟t understand is why you‟ve let me believe she died in that place. I love her more than life and you decided to play God and keep us apart. Who the hell do you think you are to make that kind of decision?” “Gav…” “And you, how much do you know that you aren‟t telling me? Why am I the one on the outside looking in? Eden is my wife and I should be with her no matter what. I know about the abuse she suffered at Weathers‟ hands and it doesn‟t bother me because it‟s not her fault—it‟s there and will be but it doesn‟t define who we are and what we have. I hate the fact you‟ve decided my life for me.”

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Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Gavin, you suffered a great deal between what you‟ve learned after her abduction to seeing her right before Weathers ordered your death. I know you and how you handle things…” “I‟ve grown up, Ronan, and I have a wife I love who needs me but no, you haven‟t given me any fucking credit.” “You‟re right,” Ronan said. “I‟m sorry, too. I haven‟t liked myself at all and yes, I‟ve seen how you‟ve grown. We‟re not boys anymore—we‟re both men and I seem to have forgotten that.” “No shit,” Gavin raged before he turned to leave. “What about the case and Garrison‟s arrest?” Gavin Hunt turned and looked at both men. “I will go with you to arrest the bastard because I owe him. Once that‟s done, I‟ll head to Idaho to get the hell away from you and maybe—just maybe—I‟ll be able to find some way to understand this and eventually forgive you.” Hunt left them, both men stunned. “I don‟t blame him,” Shelton said. “I told her as much.” “I haven‟t agreed with this at all but we said we‟d respect her wishes. Now, because I did that, I might very well lose my brother.” “Hopefully, they can straighten things out at Beckham‟s.” **** As part of the investigation, Ronan Hunt interviewed Alice— also known as Allyce—who remained in custody thanks to an arraignment judgment. When he met with her, he found a bitter woman who defended Rudd Weathers to the hilt. “It‟s her fault,” she accused. “Who?” “That bitch Eden,” she hissed. “If she had not run out on him then he‟d be alive today.” “Tell me what you know about that.” “She agreed to the ultimate commitment—her submission to him. Because she decided she had to be weak and run, he made 187

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure certain decisions affecting what he did with those of us who came later.” “What decisions?” “When I met him, we found a special bond existed between us. Even though I swore loyalty to him, he took my clothes and anything personal. The only time I could wear clothes had been when I worked at her club. Once I returned to the house, he took them away until I had to go to work again. He‟d bring home others and did the same with them. His rule—no clothes, no attempt to leave him.” “Did everyone agree with this?” “All but one and he took care of her. When they returned, she saw things his way.” “It sounds more like a prison than a home.” “He gave us everything we needed. All he asked for in return—unquestioned loyalty.” “And what about any reservations? Did anyone else question?” “We didn‟t dare to,” she answered. “He told us what would happen if we ever disobeyed him, especially in front of others. She did and he hated her for it.” “When he lashed her in front of you and the others, what happened?” “One, maybe two became sick. I thought he had every right to do it and I hope she died.” “Tell me what you have against Eden Hunt.” “She hurt Master Rudd—disobeyed and embarrassed him. He told me that she could have had everything but she chose to be a bitch. When he ordered me to make sure she looked good after he punished her, I wanted to strangle her myself.” “But her leaving him gave you top status with him.” “True, but she shaped him because she betrayed him. No one should get away with that.” 188

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Alice then went into detail about the slaves‟ indoctrination into Weathers‟ domination, Ronan Hunt inwardly cringing. He’s taken a great life to a new low… “How many others live with you?” “He had a harem of six plus me.” “Even though something like that is not only illegal but unacceptable in today‟s society?” “I don‟t care!” she screamed. “I loved him. The others would be gone soon anyway so…” “What do you mean by others?” As quickly as she blurted out her last statement, she clammed up and said nothing more. Ronan Hunt knew he would get no more from her and left her to go back to her cell. When he left the prison they‟d sent her to, he called the agent leading the search team in the desert. “Expand the search, there may be more,” he quietly said. When will this end? **** Shortly after two in the afternoon, a small group walked down the third-floor corridor heading to Lieutenant Christopher Garrison‟s office. Led by the Hunt brothers, the men with them took their places protecting Ronan and Gavin in case any of the officers they passed decided to interfere with their job. Both brothers saw and felt the openly hostile glares from several officers but they refused to react. “What the hell is the meaning of this, Hunt?” “I believe you know, Garrison.” “Lieutenant Garrison to you.” “I believe after you sent me to my death that I should be allowed some liberties. After all, I shouldn‟t even be here, should I?”

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Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Hunt, it‟s good to see you alive but you can‟t just barge into my office like this,” Garrison said. “Why do you have that Taser in your hand?” “I wanted to know if you have any idea what it feels like to be on the business end of this thing. To feel electricity course through your body while it takes over your muscles and nerves. Do you know what it feels like to be burned by one of these damned things?” “Hunt, I‟d leave if…” “The hell I will, Garrison. You deliberately sent me to Weathers‟ house knowing he had my wife plus sending me to certain death because I just happened to be in his way—especially after he showed me what he‟d done to her.” “I had no idea…” “Don‟t lie to me. Weathers dimed you out before he died.” “He never would have told a rookie cop anything like that.” “No, but a seasoned Federal agent—yes, he would,” Ronan stated. Garrison stared at him, shocked. “Christopher Garrison, you‟re under arrest. You have the right to remain silent,” Ronan Hunt began as he handcuffed the disgraced officer. “By whose authority—certainly not this damned probationary officer?” “No, the Unites Stated Justice Department,” Roman informed him. “This isn‟t over yet, Hunt—you have a lot to answer for!” Garrison screamed as they took him out of his office past several administrative officers, the uniforms from earlier gone to more than likely spread the word. “You should talk,” Gavin said. “What you‟ve done to my wife…” 190

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “That whore deserved it!” Garrison bellowed, the walls vibrating from the forceful venom in his voice. “No one deserves what happened to her or me,” Gavin said, speaking more to those listening than to his former superior. “I‟ll have your badge,” Garrison stated as if looking for anything he could say that might get him out of the arrest. “The captain accepted it earlier,” Gavin Hunt informed him. Garrison stopped fighting his captors and looked at Hunt. “What the hell are you talking about?” “The captain knows everything from the way you handled her kidnapping to start with then the way you‟ve handled everything else. In fact, he had me talk to the chief. When we told him how you bollixed several cases and the one all the older patrolmen still talk about, he couldn‟t wait to get you out of the department.” “I should have killed you myself,” Garrison hissed. “You should have tried.” While federal agents led Garrison past the watch commander‟s desk, every officer not on the street watched in disbelief. Then they saw Hunt, some of them paling. “Hunt, what the hell is going on?” “You tell me…” “Why is he being arrested?” “Lieutenant Garrison is being arrested and charged with corruption, attempted murder of a police officer, conspiracy—and there will be more charges pending,” Ronan Hunt announced. “What‟s your story, rookie? I hear you married a whore.” Gavin Hunt lunged at the man—one of the officers who‟d never taken the time to get to know the rookie yet made sure his opinions became well known—but Ronan held his brother back. “Don‟t do it, Gavin, he‟s not worth it,” he said as he squeezed his brother‟s shoulder. “Let it go.” “I‟m sick of her being called that,” Hunt said, gritting his teeth. 191

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Well, isn‟t she, Hunt? We heard she faked everything so she could screw around on you,” the man taunted before laughing. “Eden Hunt did not run off. The lieutenant you seem to want to support helped set her up to be murdered. No man deserves what happened to her,” Ronan informed him. “Women like her need some sort of discipline,” the officer went on. “They shouldn‟t be allowed to operate where they do— not the way they taint things.” Gavin looked at him and laughed, his blue eyes sparkling from rage and what he would say next. “You know, Green, your brother comes in regularly and leaves a happy man. I wonder if his wife knows…” Green stared at Gavin Hunt speechless. As silence filled the station, the Hunts left with their prisoner. “Are you all right, Gav?” Ronan asked. “No, but I gotta say that felt really good.”

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Chapter 14 As soon as Ronan gave Gavin the news that they no longer needed him with regards to the case, Hunt packed his bags then drove into Las Vegas where he would catch a flight to Coeur d‟Alene, Idaho but not until he visited Dark Illusions. The fact he‟d been its owner or at least the one responsible for it since Eden‟s disappearance still bothered him because he felt he had no right to it. She‟d built it along with her silent partner, Nigel Shelton. If anyone should have taken over the reins, he‟d be the logical one. Hell, what do I know about running a club—I make a better waiter. “Gavin, how are you?” Carson said as he entered the club. “We‟ve been looking forward to your visit though I wish you‟d make it longer.” “What‟s up?” “Nothing but like I told you before, you‟ve got a pretty solid fan base and they‟ve been asking for you as well as being concerned. Word traveled through the community and support for the both of you has literally flooded in. Even those members from city council have offered anything we might need.” “Interesting—it‟s city personnel who did this to begin with.” “We heard,” Carson said. “I can see you‟re doing all right physically but emotionally?” “Shot to hell, my friend. I can‟t get any information on where my wife is which is driving me absolutely insane.” 193

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Eden—if I may be up front with you…” “Please, do,” Hunt said. “She‟s a very proud woman as you know. If she suffered any kind of injury at that man‟s hands, then she‟d want to hide it from you because she knows you and more than likely fears you turning away because she no longer is the same as before all this happened. It‟s a female thing, I believe.” “Carson, the asshole either tattooed his initials into her skin or he tried branding her. When I saw it, the wound had yet to stop bleeding. When I lifted her up to hold her, my arm came back bloody which tells me she‟d been whipped. I can deal with all this because it‟s not her fault. Weathers had turned into a control freak and this may have been his way of asserting that over someone who escaped him.” “But if she doesn‟t know that…” “How can she? I haven‟t been able to talk to her. I email her every morning praying she‟ll answer me but she doesn‟t. I don‟t know what to believe.” “Do you trust me?” “Yes—why?” “Believe me when I say the woman loves you more than her own life. She‟d give her life for you if she had to and not ask any questions. For her to go underground like this means there had to be more—something no one knows about except her and she may never talk about it to anyone, even you.” “What about Shelton?” “They‟re close but she doesn‟t tell him everything.” “I had no clue,” Hunt said. “He‟s such a huge part of her life.” “But she doesn‟t sleep with him. She dominated you and married you—not him.” “Then why did she run? He flew her out of here and refused to tell me why.” 194

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Because, in her own way, she wanted to protect you from the physical hurt and the memories that more than likely she didn‟t want you living with plus Weathers has had a hold over her for years. Finding out how much pull he‟s had in the city more than likely scared the shit out of her.” “But…” “It‟s her way of protecting you. This place is her baby, so to speak. It must have torn her apart to realize she could have been closed down at any time for any reason and more than likely wouldn‟t have stood a chance seeing as he owned your lieutenant and a state level judge. How would it look for you to be arrested on a trumped-up charge that could have destroyed your career?” “Carson, I turned in my badge before we arrested Garrison. I have no career in Las Vegas.” “But how…” “I‟m a sworn Federal Agent though I‟m not sure where that will lead. Hell, if they put me through a psych test, I can guarantee I‟d fail it.” “Take some time and get your life together,” Carson suggested. “The club is still on solid ground and I can advise you every day about what‟s happening here. It‟ll be one less concern while you concentrate on what‟s important.” “I really appreciate this,” Hunt said. “I feel so alone—Eden‟s gone, my brother and I barely talk…” “Why?” “He betrayed me by withholding information on Eden.” “He more than likely did it against his will but because of the personalities involved…” “What do you mean?” “You and Mistress are very strong-willed people. I imagine your brother is as well and I know Shelton is. The amount of inner strength it took to hold back from you like that had to be hard for 195

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure him but both of them had to abide by her wishes. I believe Shelton didn‟t like it either.” “But if they are strong like you say, why didn‟t they…” “To go behind someone‟s back like that—no matter how well-intentioned—usually backfires in the long run and both of them would wind up on the outside looking in. You must also remember that, when it comes to your brother, he may recognize the more powerful Dominant or the senior one which he must respect. Don‟t be too hard on them, Gavin—the circumstances in this case are so extraordinary. Take things one day at a time—one minute at a time, if you have to. Just keep an open mind and don‟t turn your back on him.” “Why are you not a shrink?” “Because I prefer the people here.” “It‟s definitely a simple life.” “I hear ya,” Carson agreed. “How much time do you have before your flight?” “A bit—why?” “I want you to see the books before you leave so you have an idea of…” “Carson, I trust you and Shelton—despite his complicity with my wife‟s wishes. The man pulls down phenomenal fees for his work and he doesn‟t involve himself with losing propositions. I only want to know if something is going wrong in case I might be able to offer some suggestions as to what to do. I don‟t believe anything should be changed so the staff has no worries and neither does the chef. As I‟ve always heard—if it ain‟t broke, don‟t fix it.” “They will be relieved and I thank you for the trust.” “You‟ve always been a good friend and I appreciate it. Besides, I have you to thank for the night that brought us together.” Carson nodded. “Now, if I can get my wife to see it my way—hell, I just want her to see me…” 196

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure **** Eden‟s plane landed in Spokane, Washington. When she turned from collecting her luggage, she saw a man standing and holding a message board with her name on it. “I‟m Eden Hunt,” she said as he approached her to take her bags. “I‟m Kevin,” he said. “Mister Beckham sent me to pick you up.” “Thank you,” she said, trying to hide her relief. The long flight from Stockholm to New York followed by the next ones to finally get her to Spokane had begun to take a toll on her back. “I hope your flights went easily,” he said as he grabbed her luggage. “For the most part,” she answered. “Right now, I‟d like to take a hot bath and soak.” “We have another hour drive ahead of us but I can try to shorten it.” “Don‟t do anything to get in trouble,” she warned him. “I can take the achiness if I have to.” “Yes, ma‟am,” he said as he made sure she settled into the backseat of the limo. Moments later, he eased the car into traffic and headed for the Beckham ranch in Coeur d‟Alene, Idaho. As they drove, she noticed the snow covering the landscape and wondered about the skiing. “How‟s the powder?” she asked. “Beautiful but the base is still forming on the lower elevations. We had a few days of warmth which did it no good. Snow‟s expected in a day or two so it should be better after that.” Eden nodded before staring out the window. While beautiful, the scenery held nothing for her anymore thanks to part of her life being stolen away by a madman. Without the one part that made her whole, everything else meant absolutely nothing. The 197

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure realization that her self-imposed exile from the man she loved could be stopped at any time once she came to terms with what had happened only served to add to her depression. My God, how I’ve screwed up… When they neared the ranch, Kevin advised her—a good thing considering she‟d been dozing. As soon as he pulled up to the front of the main house, a very handsome couple came out to meet her. “I‟m Ross Beckham and this is my wife, Sheridan. We‟re very glad you‟ve decided to take us up on our offer.” “Neva can be very convincing,” Eden answered, the Beckhams laughing. “Yes, she can be,” Sheridan said. “How are you after your flights? I remember when I studied in England and came home—it seemed like it took forever.” “It didn‟t take as long as if you‟d been in California but suffice it to say, I‟m ready for heat on my back.” “Then let‟s get you settled in,” Sheridan offered. “Ladies, I will see you at dinner. We have another guest I need to check on.” They waited until Beckham had left them alone before Sheridan led Eden upstairs to the east wing of the house. “Neva sent me photos of your injuries. My sympathies,” Sheridan said. “She did wonders,” Eden admitted. “What she can do physically, I hope to be able to do emotionally. I know firsthand what it feels like to be held against your will so when I say I understand, I‟m being honest.” “If you don‟t mind me asking…” “Ross had an affair years before we ever met and the woman‟s husband left him broken and for dead. He also beat the hell out of his wife. To make a long story short, she killed him then returned to find Ross after she had extensive plastic surgery. Because Ross 198

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure had other interests instead of her, she decided to eliminate the competition and left me to die in the closed off wing of the house here.” “I‟m so sorry…” “Thank you,” Sheridan said. Eden could tell the hurt remained—even if only a tiny bit— and the fact she‟d gone through roughly the same trauma allowed Eden to have an easier time when talking with her. I hope… “When can we get started? I‟ve really made my life more of a living hell than it should be and I need to be able to straighten it out. Until I can come to terms with it, I stand an even greater chance of losing the good part forever.” “We can start tomorrow, if you‟d like.” “I would.” Sheridan nodded. “Dinner is at seven…” “Could you send it up to my room? I really want to relax and I‟m not up for a lot of conversation yet.” “I‟ll have it sent up,” Sheridan said. “One of the Mistresses will bring it.” “Mistresses?” “I guess no one‟s told you—here at the ranch, we take on certain guests who wish to learn about their Dominant or submissive sides as well as other things about their sexuality. When I first came here, it had been because a patient questioned my knowledge of the so-called darker side of sex.” “What do you mean?” “Before I gave up my license to practice, I had an office in Sun Valley. My patients came to me to discuss their problems when dealing with sex—vanilla sex. I believed I knew it all until she questioned me. Ross agreed to help me out and it became more than what either one of us intended. He has several Masters and 199

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Mistresses who work with our guests while he and I enjoy an amazing life together.” “I believe I‟ve just found heaven.” “I hope so…” Sheridan said. “I really hope I can help you.” “So do I,” Eden said. “I met a man who makes my body come alive to the point I will submit to him—and he‟s my slave. We married but my past got in the way. Now I have to try to repair the break between us—one I put in place because of fear and vanity.” “Sounds workable,” Sheridan assured her. “Eden, you‟ve had one of the most ultimate traumas happen to you that could ever occur in our world. Because the so-called normal world doesn‟t understand or accept it, they are cruel and harsh. You‟ve come to the right place.” “Good,” Eden said. I sure as hell hope so… **** Gavin Hunt had settled into one of the guest cabins on the opposite side of the Spread R Bar Ranch. He‟d been there a few days and felt more relaxed than at any other time in his life—not including his brief interlude with Eden. He‟d spent hours staring at the mountains and had come to one huge conclusion. I truly hate Las Vegas… The peace and tranquility of the mountains called to him and he thought about whether he wanted to try to stay in the area or if he should work full-time for the Justice Department. Of course, if he stayed, he wouldn‟t have to deal with his brother—at least until he could forgive and forget Ronan‟s betrayal. Maybe… “Hello…” a voice said. “Hey,” Hunt said. “How are you this morning, Ross?” “Good but then again I have what every man dreams of—the perfect wife and family, a beautiful ranch and a good life. I can‟t complain nor do I intend to.” “I wouldn‟t either,” Hunt said. “I can‟t thank you enough for this. I‟ve been able to do a lot of thinking…” 200

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Any answers?” “Hell, I‟m not even sure of the questions yet.” “Sheridan and I went through a forced separation as well. My past came back and took advantage of my being attacked by a bear to send her away. I didn‟t understand and the hurt could only be described as phenomenal.” “How did you handle it?” “I didn‟t. Sheridan had been sent away while I lay in the hospital in a coma. When I came home, I learned things had happened during that time and it angered me. After I took care of the in-house problem, I set my sights on getting her back.” “What did you do?” “I went after her.” “I‟ve been told nothing. Everyone else seems to know where she is but won‟t tell me. So knowing that, how can I go after her?” “Maybe the fates will intervene and you‟ll come across each other.” “Who knows?” Hunt said. “I doubt she even knows I‟m here.” “Tell me what happened to her.” Gavin Hunt bit back his emotions as he went into detail about what had happened the night of the charity gala. When he finished, Beckham did the same. “Wow,” Hunt said. “I didn‟t realize how much we had in common.” “In this lifestyle of ours, we tend to keep secrets. A good thing for the most part, it tends to sometimes drive us insane because we have no one to talk to. From what you tell me about the police force, I believe you made the right decision by getting out. As for your brother‟s betrayal, I wouldn‟t be surprised if he recognized a stronger Dominant and respected her for it. While he didn‟t like doing this, he did anyway because rank literally has its privileges and she took that knowledge and ran with it to do what she thought would be the best for both of you.” 201

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I feel like she couldn‟t trust me,” Hunt stated. “It‟s not that she couldn‟t trust you—she didn‟t understand what had happened and the only way she knew to fulfill her part of the vow you more than likely made to each other meant her leaving. Removing her presence from the equation on the slim chance more of Weathers‟ people could still be a problem gave her some semblance of still being able to protect you from them. I‟ve been in her position and it‟s not easy. We tend to make the wrong decisions while praying for the best.” “I love the lifestyle but the rules are sometimes hard to follow.” “You‟ll get used to it.” “That‟s my point—if I can‟t have Eden, then there is no reason to get used to it. I will not submit to anyone else.” “Let me ask a question—if you found out that the two of you might be in the same place, what would you do?” “I‟d go to her. I need to hear it from her that she wants to make this separation permanent. She is my life and I feel like it‟s been stolen from me.” “I understand,” Beckham said. “You still have some demons to deal with and I‟m sure Sheridan wants to talk to you some more. I know she has questions for you that need to be asked.” “When can I see her?” “How about later this afternoon? She‟s with another guest right now but once she‟s…” “Tell me when and where.” “I‟ll have her call you.” “Good.” Ross Beckham left and Gavin Hunt went back to staring at the mountains. Can I find her… **** Sheridan met Hunt at the cabin. 202

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Considering this is a relaxed environment, I thought it might be a better place to talk. I had several patients who hated the formality of my office.” “I like this,” he said. “After my last experiences in an office, I feel better here.” “Good,” she said as she began their informal session. Once Sheridan Greenlaw Beckham had made her decision to give up the psychiatric portion of her medical license, she didn‟t see patients anymore. She chose to spend her time assisting Doctor Bentley in the small clinic on the ranch. With the expansive size of it between acreage and those working it, they had their hands full. Only on certain occasions like the one she dealt with now did she try to help the emotional problems. This case intrigued her. Hunt repeated what he‟d told Ross about his wife while she listened intently. “Well, what‟s the verdict, Doc?” “I believe you‟ll be fine but time is a great healer. Now before you get upset about that line, I understand about lost time. I‟m sure Ross explained what might have been going through her mind being your Mistress but what concerns me is her slave. You‟ve dealt with your own adverse events and I‟m glad you had your brother with you. We all need a support system despite the methods involved. Not many people learn their boss is in bed with the bad guy and has a part in an act of revenge. You became caught up in it and you are dealing with the aftermath of the unknown considering this is her past that‟s interfering. With Ross and me, it came from both sides. We didn‟t have time to sit back and analyze.” “Which I‟ve done nothing but do in my spare time. Working on the case with Ronan took my mind off things but once I had nothing to do with it, everything focused on Eden. Did I do something wrong? Had I misbehaved? What had she thought about my possibly quitting the force?” 203

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Any answers?” “None except in the letter she wrote me, she said that she supported my decision, no matter what I opted to do.” “Talking about the force brings up something I wanted to ask your opinion on.” “What‟s that?” “A colleague sent me some photos of one of his patients. Another one who‟d been excessively punished and, unfortunately, she is in coma. What I need is for you to look at them and give me your opinion as to the legal implications—if there are any.” “Sure,” he said, though he couldn‟t be sure if she‟d asked the right person. Maybe Ronan… Handing him the photos plus a medical report, she sat back and waited for him to say something. She watched his face change as he viewed each item waiting for him to add everything up and face the truth. She honestly thought if he saw the photos of Eden‟s injuries taken right after she‟d been admitted to the private clinic plus the results of the rape kit that Gavin Hunt might be able to understand exactly what his wife dealt with. “My God, what did he do to her?” **** Gavin Hunt relaxed with Sheridan Beckham, their conversation easy. He‟d explained everything to her adding a few details he had not told her husband and listened to what she had to say from the submissive‟s point of view. While everyone had told him his Mistress‟ side, she‟d been the only one who could relate to him. Thank God… When she asked him to look at some photos of a colleague‟s patient, he initially cringed but took more than a casual interest in them. One shot showed the woman‟s back—bloodied and cut to shreds from what he figured to be a bullwhip. Another one showed an ugly misshapen or botched tattoo though he could not be sure what part of the poor woman‟s body it had been done to. Looking 204

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure at the medical report, he read that despite her injuries from overzealous punishment, whoever had done this to her had not been intimate with her. Then everything came together as he remembered the ugly brand on Eden‟s chest and the amount of blood on his sleeve when he pulled his arm from underneath her back. “My God, what did he do to her?” “What?” “This is Weathers‟ work, isn‟t it? These pictures and this report are hers—they‟re Eden‟s” “And if they are?” “No wonder she didn‟t want me near her.” “Why?” “It‟s not because I would have been disgusted—no, I would have killed the bastard and she wouldn‟t have been able to stop me.” “And you would have ended up in jail and apart from her anyway.” “I wanted to choke the life out of Garrison and several of the other cops the day we arrested him. I love her and I hate how they talk about her.” “Eden could be worried about others seeing her. In our world, scarring like that is like The Scarlet Letter, a big ugly symbol that the person made to wear it must endure for some sin committed. She‟d be able to cover her back without a problem but not the other one. Other Masters would see her and know she‟d been punished. That‟s a heavy burden for someone to carry for a lifetime.” “But…” “We, as their submissives, swear our loyalty to them. When they swear their oath to us, it‟s more than what we might take at face value. When they say protect, it takes in a huge realm of things. One of those is protection from embarrassment. For her to suffer 205

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure any shame when she‟s with you brings it to you but the need to protect you from that overwhelms her. We do not realize what it takes to be a Dominant and while I enjoy being in control on occasion, I could not be his Mistress.” “This is really deep…” “As with any part of life, there is philosophy to it and yes, it can be very profound. We learn to live with it and let our Dominants worry about the small shit, so to speak.” “I need to see her,” he said. “As I told you, I saw the branding mark as it swelled and bled and I know she lost a great deal of blood from her back. These pictures explain so much. I don‟t care about any of this—if need be, I‟ll find somewhere for us to go where we can live in peace.” “You truly are willing to sacrifice everything for her, aren‟t you?” “What can I say—I love her.” **** “Well?” Ross Beckham asked as his wife joined him. “I believe they‟ll be fine. They just need to get together and talk to each other.” “I spoke with him this morning while you got Eden settled in and he seems to be the type to be very loyal and faithful—no matter what.” “I got the same impression. When I showed him the photos of her injuries…” “You did what? Isn‟t that unethical?” “The beauty of informalities—I told him that a colleague sent them to me for my opinion and that I wanted his legal opinions as to what could happen later—if anything. I can‟t help it if he recognized his wife.” “I saw the photos and could see no distinguishing marks. How did…” 206

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “What he‟s evidently kept to himself is that he saw the one right after her attacker branded her. From what he told me, he saw it and held her close to try to show her his support. When Weathers forced him to move away from her, he pulled his arm out and found it covered in blood.” “But…” “Ross, you of all people should be very aware of how much we know about our partners—especially when married. If anything like that happened to me, you‟d know without question.” Beckham pulled his wife close. “You‟re right,” he agreed. “Now why don‟t we go investigate each other to see if there are any new things we should be aware of?” “Only if we do it the right way,” she said, her eyes twinkling with devilment. “Slave, upstairs,” he commanded. “Yes, Master.”

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Chapter 15 Eden asked to borrow one of the cars from the Spread R Bar Ranch but Ross‟ driver drove her into Coeur d‟Alene to do some shopping plus she needed to find out whether she could be comfortable among other people. Granted, thanks to the cold weather, she decided to wear a blouse with a heavy sweater over it but she knew what lay under the soft silk of the blouse. I need to find out if I’m strong enough… Her conversations with Sheridan Beckham had been enlightening and good for her leading her to understand that what she‟d been feeling had been normal considering the extreme violence of the trauma she‟d suffered. Getting out into the unprotected world would be a step forward and she hoped it would be one closer to reclaiming her slave. If he’ll have me… From what she‟d been told—by several people—Gavin Hunt wanted her. Despite everything that had happened at Weathers‟ estate and how her past came crashing in on them, he didn‟t care. I’ve honestly found perfection and have risked so much thanks to that bastard. The moment she realized Weathers had gotten what he wanted—even from the grave—Eden knew she had to find Gavin and beg him to forgive her. She even considered bribery—one reason she wanted to go shopping. Nigel had informed her of Gavin‟s resignation from the force in Las Vegas hours before he went into that same department and 208

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure took part in the arrest of his lieutenant. He‟d also alluded to the fact her husband had been sworn in on the federal level but when he wouldn‟t go into detail, she figured the information had to be classified or he figured it best for Hunt to tell her himself. If he did have a Federal badge, then she‟d live with it. At least he’ll be working with his brother… She thought about the breach in their relationship ruing her part in splitting the brothers apart. If I had not been so damned wrapped up in myself… Walking into a jeweler‟s, she looked around the store. One of the more exclusive shops in the Idaho resort town, she noticed the kind of money walking around gazing at the white ice in the display cases. One thing she‟d become very adept at in her years in Las Vegas—judging the size of a pocketbook. Right now, she counted several good-sized wallets walking around that she had a distinct impression would be a bit lighter once they left. Snickering, she went to look for a man‟s chain and possibly a charm to hang from it. The last one she‟d given Gavin had been a handsome piece but from it hung the custom-made charm she‟d designed for him. A tiny copy of his badge, she‟d given it to him before the true face of the department became known to him and she wouldn‟t blame him in the least if he never wanted to wear it again. Now to find something… “May I help you, ma‟am?” a female voice asked. “My name is Tiffany.” “I‟m looking for a marine link chain and possibly an anchor charm—nothing too overwhelming yet something exuding strength,” Eden replied. “If you‟ll follow me into the private shopping area, I can bring you several choices.” “Thank you,” Eden said as she followed the young woman into one of the buying rooms. 209

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure While she waited for Tiffany to return, she sat down and got comfortable in one of the oversized desk chairs at an oak table. Thinking about Gavin and whether he‟d accept it, Eden lost track of what went on around her. The sound of someone entering the room brought her back to the present until she realized that Tiffany had not returned. “Don‟t move,” a male voice said as she felt cold steel against her temple. “Tie her up and have her join the others.” Moments later, bound in the chair and gagged, a man wearing a ski mask wheeled her back into the showroom to join several other women suffering the same fate as she. Glancing around, she saw Tiffany lying on the floor with several other staff members while noticing that the male customers had been told to do the same on the opposite side of the store. Unable to do anything but wait for things to play out, Eden watched the four men—anything to keep her mind alert and not on Gavin. It’s the only way I can get out of this alive and back to him… “Now, as you can obviously tell, this is a robbery and you are our insurance. Behave yourselves and this will all be over in no time.” **** Gavin Hunt joined the Beckhams for lunch. Sure the couple would not see each other knowing where Eden had gone, they felt they could invite him to the main house without a problem. They had just finished lunch when Ross‟ cell phone rang. “Beckham…” Both Hunt and Sheridan waited until he finished the call but the look on his face piqued their curiosity. Not saying too much, Beckham listened. “What‟s the situation?” he asked. Beckham paled, Sheridan becoming visibly concerned. “I‟ll call Bentley and my wife. Is there anything else we can do?” 210

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Sheridan sat up, her eyes asking him what? “I have a US Marshall sitting across the table from me—can he help?” A few moments later, Beckham ended the call then took a deep breath. “What is going on?” Sheridan asked. “The jewelry store in town that we deal with—it‟s been held up and the gang has taken hostages which is why I need to call Bentley.” “I‟ll tell him,” she said. “There‟s something else…” “Gavin, I don‟t know how to tell you this but one of the hostages is Eden.” “Oh, my God,” Sheridan gasped. “What? How?” Hunt asked. “Are you sure? How do they know?” “Sweetheart, go tell Bentley and get what you need for triage or the like while I explain things to Gavin.” Sheridan gave her husband a quick kiss then left to go find Doctor Will Bentley so they could coordinate assistance for the medical ops of the situation unfolding in the city. Due to the size of the ranch, it had its own clinic, fire department and helicopter for medical transfers or anything it might be needed for. Periodically, in extreme emergencies, they would call Beckham for help as previously agreed on—this being one of those extraordinary times. Hunt began pacing then, once he felt sure Sheridan had left them alone, he turned to Beckham and looked at him. “What the fuck is going on?” he asked, his hands clenching into tight fists. “To make a long story short—you have both been here for the last several days. You had been given the cabin on purpose while Eden stayed in the east wing of the house here. Sheridan wanted to make sure both of you would be on the same track once you saw each other because she knew you both needed to understand what 211

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure happened that night as well as the fact your life together could continue on.” “I‟ve been agonizing over this and you didn‟t bother to tell me… You‟re no better than Shelton and my brother. Everybody in the fucking world knows the answers I‟ve been searching for yet no one wants to tell me. Now she‟s involved in a hostage situation and all of a sudden, I‟m good to go?” “Gavin, I understand your rage and believe me, I will take my share of the blame but right now, we don‟t have time for this bullshit. Eden‟s being held hostage and they want you there.” “Are you absolutely sure she‟s involved?” “My driver has already informed the police on location.” “I will go but if anything happens to her, it‟s your fault and we will discuss it later.” “I wouldn‟t have it any other way. Take my chopper—he‟ll get you into town quicker than driving.” “What about…” “The ranch has two birds—one‟s medical, the other is personal. Now go, you‟re wasting time.” Hunt nodded then left the room to get what he needed before he left. Beckham called both pilots and gave them instructions as to what they‟d be doing. The medical pilot told him he‟d already spoken to Doctor Beckham and the other one advised him he‟d be doing pre-flight as soon as the call ended. Now came the hardest part of the entire situation—waiting. Being an unnecessary extra person on scene, Beckham removed himself from it and remained at the ranch. If Sheridan or Bentley needed anything, he‟d take it to them. Why did this have to happen now? **** Gavin Hunt raced back to the cabin. Once inside, he went to his briefcase and pulled out his federal shield and the Sig 19 he‟d 212

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure bought before he ever joined the force. Not expecting to use either one of them, he‟d had them locked in his attaché since leaving Vegas. Now he slipped the badge on his belt and the gun in his shoulder holster plus extra clips. Though rage coursed through him, his professional training began to take over as he began to preplan the basics of the situation. He attempted to consider all the angles he could think of and what laws had been broken so far. Breaking and entering added to robbery would be handled at the local level though the hostage taking and weapons offences bounced it into his lap. On his way to the helicopter, he called Ross Beckham. “Can you call my brother, Ronan Hunt and see if he can get up here as soon as possible?” “What about the local federal district?” “Good point—let them know I‟m going to be on location and advise my brother as to what‟s going on.” “I will and good luck.” Hunt ended the call and boarded the chopper. Putting the headset on, he listened as the pilot took off and headed toward the city. “I‟m landing at a ballpark near the intersection where the store is located. A squad car is supposed to meet you to take you to the scene.” “Thanks,” Hunt said. The remainder of the flight, Hunt thought and strategized. In the Academy, they‟d only touched on the subject of a hostage situation because SWAT and other units handled calls like this. Gazing out the window, he said a quick prayer that he‟d make the right decisions and get Eden out in one piece. While personally involved, he had to set it to the side and treat the case as if he knew no one. Acting on a level that admitted to an attachment could not only turn the tide against them but could get either one of them killed. Am I ready for this? I’d better be… 213

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure **** Eden watched the men holding them as they taunted the police and waved their weapons errantly around. Terror filled her as the abduction came back to her. What if they… One of them—apparently the one in charge—came over to where they had moved the women bound in chairs. He looked at her and two other women then aimed his attention at her. No, please… Grabbing her, he pulled her out of the chair forcing her to stand in front of him. “I guess you didn‟t think this would happen, did you?” Eden did her best to not react—a good discipline learned over the years. While her skin crawled from the touch of the barrel of the gun he used to trace the line of her neck, she prayed he wouldn‟t decide to investigate any further. Unsure how she would take it if this stranger discovered the healing mark on her chest, she honestly did not want to find out. Yes, she wanted to know what it felt like to be out in the world again but this had not been what she‟d intended when she left the ranch earlier. Her captor untied her hands but retied them in front of her— Eden unsure why. Obviously he had no idea that he‟d have better control over her had he not done that but she used the position of her arms to protect herself. Then she learned why as one of the other men came up behind her and grabbed her upper arms to hold her in place. “I‟ve been trying to figure out why I keep coming back to you,” the first man said as he pulled the gag away from her mouth. “What is it about you and not these other high-classed broads?” Oh, God, he’s going to try to play the sex card… Eden looked at him refusing to allow her fear to show. He placed his hand on her neck while he used the gun to trace the neckline of her blouse. “What the hell do we have here?” 214

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure To Eden‟s dread, he‟d discovered the wound. Before she knew what happened, he‟d ripped her blouse out of the way exposing the ugliness of another‟s hatred. “Talk to me, bitch, or we‟ll see what a bullet does to this.” Without warning, Eden grabbed the gun and pressed the barrel against the wound. “Go ahead, asshole,” she said quietly. “Go ahead and give me peace from trash like you.” “This has to be from another man,” he taunted. “I‟d like to meet the man who knows how to handle his women.” “Good luck,” she quietly said. “He‟s dead. Now, if you have the balls…” **** Outside, Gavin Hunt approached the command unit and introduced himself. “A little out of your jurisdiction, aren‟t you?” the incident commander asked. “Downtime after an extremely bad case but considering one of the hostages is an integral part of it, maybe I‟m not,” Hunt answered. “Whatever the reason, I‟m glad to have you,” the other man said as they shook hands. “We‟ve got a bit of a wait for the Feds to come in because of regional layouts. Whatever input you can give…” “Unless I really need to, I‟d rather you retain command. You‟ve got it set up. I don‟t need to step in. I just want to be advised about what‟s happening.” “As it stands now, we have three maybe four perps. They have several woman bound in chairs they evidently wheeled out from the private buying areas. The men are prone on the floor to the right of the showroom while the female staff is on the other side.” “Three sides meaning three men and one in charge.” 215

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Chief, you‟d both better take a look at this,” one of the officers said. Handing binoculars to Hunt, the two men looked at the front of the jeweler‟s and watched the latest unfold in front of them. “Are you serious?” the chief asked. “Tell me I‟m not seeing what I think I am…” “No, sir, you are,” Hunt said quietly. “I don‟t understand…” “Right now, it‟s too long of a story to go into but suffice it to say, you‟ve got a problem.” Hunt continued to watch as the woman he loved held the perp‟s gun against her chest. He knew exactly where she pressed it and inwardly felt sick. Saying a prayer that she‟d regain some sense and not push the guy any further over the edge then he evidently might already be, he continued to watch. Reading her lips, he closed his eyes and worked hard to keep himself from breaking into the store to save her. What the fuck am I supposed to do? “Marshal?” “She just told him to shoot her if he had the guts.” “What?” the chief asked. “What‟s going through her mind?” “I know part of what may be pushing this but I‟m not sure about the full reason.” “Can you talk to her?” “Not a good idea,” Hunt said. “For what it‟s worth, she‟s controlling the situation in there. If we make any kind of move at this second…” “How long should we wait?” “Do you have a sniper?” “We have a guy who‟s a good shot on the team but he‟s not sniper qualified.” “What kind of weaponry do you have?” “Right now, the best I can give you is a 30.06.” 216

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I only need one shot,” Hunt said. “Have your team concentrate on the other members. I‟ll take the guy in charge but I won‟t shoot while she‟s in danger of having him obey her. If he shoots her, I will take him out and your people can do the rest.” “What‟s the deal here, Hunt?” “She is my wife,” Hunt said quietly, almost whispering. “Are you sure about this?” “Right now, I‟m the only one who even has a fraction of an idea of what‟s going through her mind at the moment. She is questioning his manhood which, in cases like this, is not smart but he has yet to react to her command. If he‟s smart, he‟ll back off and admit he‟s a pansy in front of everyone else in there but if he‟s got the guts, he‟ll shoot her. It‟s a fifty-fifty game right now which is why she‟s the one in charge—not you and not me or anyone else.” “Why would she…” “She has the gun aimed at a specific spot,” Hunt said. “Her injury there is from the case I referred to. The perp branded his initials into her chest so she‟d live with the shame of the action for the rest of her life. She‟s been questioning it ever since. If he taunted her in any way about it, she made the challenge in response.” “I take it she‟s a Dominant…” the chief said. “How did you know?” “I have friends who are into that kind of a relationship though he would never do anything like that to her.” “This guy took the definition of bad Master to a new low.” “I will let you go on this but if things change…” “It‟s your incident, Chief,” Hunt said. **** “Yo, this isn‟t what we planned to do, man,” one of the robbers said to their leader, now squaring off with one of the hostages. 217

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “No, you said in and out,” another one said as he restlessly looked around. “Yeah, the cops are outside and this whole thing‟s fallin‟ apart,” the third one said. “When I scoped this place out, I saw older clientele—not a hellcat like this one.” “Man, this ain‟t good,” the third one said. “One wrong move and we‟re up for murder.” “Don‟t worry, she‟s bluffing.” “Am I?” his hostage challenged. “I told you to do it or are you afraid?” “Do you have a death wish or something?” “Maybe I do,” she said as she pulled the weapon tighter against her. “And if we take you with us—you‟ll be a great insurance policy.” “But I won‟t let you leave here with me alive. You‟ll have to pull the trigger if you expect to leave here.” “Come on, man, let her go,” the first guy said. “I‟m not up for going down on murder charges.” “Neither am I.” “Same,” the third one agreed. “Then you all can leave—no cut, nothing. Take everyone with you while the lady here and I come to an agreement.” “No deal—you want to live, you‟ll have to kill me first.” While she stared at him, the others left taking everyone else in the store with them. “We‟re alone now, bitch—it‟s your game.” “Then do it,” she said. “We have the place to ourselves. All you have to do is pull the trigger, grab whatever you can and try to get out of here in one piece.” “You‟re serious, aren‟t you?” 218

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Deadly,” she said. “Besides, killing me will be the easy part. Those officers out there mean business and I don‟t think they‟ll be as accommodating as I am.” “What the hell makes you tick, crazy lady?” “I‟m tired of men pushing me around and thinking I‟ll wear their badge of shame to prove their manhood. Pull the trigger and show the world you‟re a fucking man.” By this time, she no longer spoke so only he could hear her— she spoke louder. Looking in her eyes, he saw recklessness which scared him. She’s going to make me do it… “Back off, woman, before you do something we‟ll both regret.” “I won‟t regret a thing,” she said as she refused to relinquish her hold on the gun or his hand. “No, this is not worth it…” “What are you—scared because your friends aren‟t here and you don‟t have an audience? You lost your nerve when they left?” As much as he tried to hold his rage thanks to what this strange woman said, he couldn‟t. He felt his hand move as his finger squeezed the trigger. “Why did you make me do this?” **** Eden‟s mind raced but she refused to back down from the man holding her and a store full of strangers hostage. She fully knew what she did and what she pushed him to do—anything to get away from the stigma Weathers had left her with. As much as she loved Gavin, she couldn‟t force him to look at this the rest of his life. What man in his right mind would want to be with a scarlet woman? Just like the book… The longer the situation went on, the more she wanted to push him so he‟d end it for her and maybe save the others. When his friends tried to get him to give it up, he told them to leave and take the other hostages with them. Relief coursed through her that 219

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure she‟d been able to get them released. She knew she could die with the knowledge she‟d done something good for someone else. Eden felt the gunman trying to pull the gun back as if he‟d changed his mind once his audience left but she refused to let that happen. She could tell she had the man on edge, his rage fighting common sense. She knew she had a few moments to make peace with her life and she did. Eden Hunt stared into the eyes of the man who thought he would be dealing with a scared woman—little did he know. “No, this is not worth it…” “What are you—scared because your friends aren‟t here and you don‟t have an audience? You lost your nerve when they left?” The sound of the gun going off slightly echoed through the showroom. Her eyes opened wide as the heat of the bullet seared her body while the gun burned her hand where she touched the barrel. “Why did you make me do this?” he screamed as he tried to free himself of his victim. Another loud crash broke the front window of the store. Moments later, she gazed into the eyes of the man she‟d literally been attached to for the last fifteen, maybe twenty minutes. Closing her eyes, she waited. The front door burst open and the building vibrated from numerous sets of heavy footsteps as the police stormed the place. I did a good thing… “Eden—no!” a voice screamed as it cut through to her soul. “Not like this… Don‟t leave me again…” **** The front door to the store opened as one of the gunmen came out with his hands up. “Don‟t shoot!” he yelled. “We‟re coming out with the people from the store. Don‟t shoot!” “What do you see, Hunt?” 220

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “They are leaving except for my wife and the guy with her.” “What do you want to do?” “I‟ve got a bead on him and I will not do anything unless I‟ve got the shot. Have your men take everyone to the left so there is no chance of anyone being caught in a possible crossfire.” “Command to units with those coming from the store—take them to the left of the building and hold them there until everyone is out. I repeat—the left of the building.” When his officers acknowledged the orders, he looked through the binoculars to watch the next scene in their drama unfold. What he witnessed shocked him. “Never in all my years as a cop have I ever seen anything like this.” “She‟s dealing with shame and failure,” Hunt said as he finally understood why Eden had done what she had since that night at Weathers‟. “In order for her to come to grips with both emotions, she is forcing someone else to make the decision for her but because this is her private war, she somehow got him to release the others.” “She‟s a complicated woman.” “Very,” Hunt agreed, inwardly smiling while he continued to train his sights on the gunman. Through the scope, he saw the man having second thoughts and prayed he would not pull the trigger but a quick shift to the side and Hunt saw Eden‟s determination. Immediately aiming on the suspect again, he took a deep breath and let it out slowly. Seconds later, he saw Eden begin to fall to the floor and pulled off the shot that broke the front window en route to its target. The gunman fell, the chief ordering his men to enter the building. Gavin Hunt flicked back the bolt on the rifle then handed it to the incident commander. Both men nodded before Hunt ran across the street and inside the store. “Where is she?” 221

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Over here, sir.” Making his way across the showroom being careful of the shards of glass covering the floor, he went to her side and lifted Eden into his arms. “Eden—no!” he screamed, his agony filling the store. “Not like this… Don‟t leave me again…” “She‟ll be all right,” the medic said. “The bullet missed anything vital and we got to her quickly enough to stop the bleeding.” “Doctor Bentley is outside with triage—he is her doctor…” “Medic One to Triage—send in Doctor Bentley.” “Affirmative.” Moments later, Doctors Will Bentley and Sheridan Beckham joined the medic and his patient. The medic explained what they had then moved away to allow them access to the gunshot victim. “Gavin, I need you to move a little so I can look at the wound,” Bentley said. “I‟m not leaving her again.” “You don‟t have to and I would never ask you to but I need to look at the wound.” Reality hit Hunt and he moved aside for them but he refused to let go of his wife‟s hand. He could still feel warmth but he couldn‟t be sure if he felt natural body heat or the one that existed between them. “Eden, please, don‟t do this,” he begged. “I can‟t lose you again. Please…” “Trust me, Gavin, she‟ll be all right though I‟m not sure how Neva‟s going to handle the fact her precision work has been destroyed,” Sheridan Beckham said. “Just bring her back,” Hunt begged. “I need her to know I‟ll never leave her.” “Can you handle the fact she deliberately sacrificed herself so the others could get out safely?” 222

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “That‟s not why she did it and you know it.” “But we have to make sure everyone else believes that story. Relatives of those held hostage with her will be grateful for what she did—selfish or not. She saved dozens of lives.” Both doctors worked to stop the bleeding from the wound once Bentley removed the bullet. Stabilizing their patient for transport, Bentley nodded and, with the help of the medics and several police officers, they eased her onto a backboard then a stretcher they carried out to an ambulance that would transport them to where Beckham‟s pilot had set the clinic‟s chopper down a short distance away. “We‟ll be flying her to the ranch‟s clinic since no further surgery or extreme measures are involved and we can monitor her closely and privately.” “Yes, sir,” the medic said. “Give this to the investigators,” Bentley said as he handed a small plastic bag containing the bullet he‟d removed from his patient. “Yes, sir, and thank you,” the medic said as he clipped it to his clipboard. The entire time this went on, Gavin Hunt refused to let go of Eden‟s hand, needing the contact with her. Relief coursed through him knowing she‟d have the privacy she needed to recover from what had happened to her and to them. “I will not leave you unless you command me to, Mistress,” he whispered as he gently kissed her forehead. “I swear…” **** Hours later, Eden woke in what she took to be a hospital room—while comfortable looking, it still appeared medicinal. Feeling pain in her shoulder, she groaned a little as she tried to move her hand. For some reason, something held it in place—not something, but someone. 223

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Cautiously looking to her side, she saw him sitting in a chair next to her bed, his hand over hers. Taking a few moments to take in every gorgeous inch of him, Eden smiled hesitantly. Please… “Gavin?” Jolting up, he looked at her and smiled as tears came to his eyes. “Eden,” he whispered. “How do you feel?” “Like hell,” she said. “Please, tell me I didn‟t do something stupid.” “That depends on who you talk to.” “Shit,” she cursed as memories of what happened came back to her. “Did I do what I‟m beginning to think I did?” “If you mean deliberately taking a bullet so everyone else could get out of the store safely—yeah, you did.” “And the gunman?” “After you went down and I had a safe shot, I took him out.” “One shot?” “One kill…” “I‟m glad they‟re safe but it‟s not why I did it.” “I know,” he said. “You do?” “When I tried to explain things to the incident commander, I finally understood what‟s been driving you and why you acted the way you did.” “I…” “Eden, I saw you right after Weathers did this to you and I‟ve never held you to blame for it—the same goes for what he did to your back though I doubt you‟ll ever let me do it again.” “Gavin, I can‟t force you to stay with me…” “You‟re not forcing me to do anything—I want to stay with you for the rest of our lives. I‟ve been lost without you—my anchor.” “But when you look at me…” 224

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “When I look at you, I see a gorgeous woman whose inner beauty outshines the physical. I‟m sure your doctor in Stockholm will be able to fix this like she did before…” “My God, how can I face her?” “You‟d better figure that out quick—she‟s on her way here to do what she can for you. She said she only repairs her work when it‟s marred by stubbornness.” “I should have died…” “No, don‟t ever say that,” Hunt said as he squeezed her hand and brushed her hair from her face. “My back looked like it had gone through a harvester. I couldn‟t come to you looking like an utter mess. It terrified me that every time you looked at me, you‟d remember so I went to Stockholm and endured numerous surgeries so I could feel good about having you look at me.” “It never mattered…” “But it did to me!” she screamed, Gavin pulling her close. “Shh…” he said, trying to comfort her. “It‟s all right…” “Gavin, I‟ve made a huge mess out of my life and I don‟t want it to…” “Eden Hunt, I married you for better or worse, in sickness and health…” he began. “The last several months have been hell for me. You‟re the only one I have left.” “What do you mean?” “Your friend Shelton, my brother, the Beckhams—all of them knew about you and where you‟d gone but they chose to keep me in the dark. I feel betrayed…” “That‟s my fault, as well. Nigel did it out of friendship and loyalty while your brother recognized the will of a more senior Dominant. Please, don‟t be mad at Ross and Sheridan—they‟ve been caught in the middle though I never asked them not to tell you.” 225

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “When Ross told me that you‟d been at the house for a few days and that some nutcase held you hostage, I told him if anything happened to you, I‟d hold him to blame.” “Please, Gavin, I beg you—don‟t. Sheridan did her job and helped me accept the results of Weathers‟ cruelty. Because of her advice, I went in to town to see if I felt ready enough to face the world. I thought if I could do that, then maybe I could face you.” “Don‟t you see? I‟ve not been the problem. I saw you right after he attacked you but when I checked for a pulse, I couldn‟t feel one. I held you close to me but Weathers forced me to move away from you. The next thing I knew, he had his men stake me out to a cactus after he tased the shit out of me.” “Are you all right?” “Physically, I think so but emotionally, I‟m shot to hell. Right now, I feel the best I‟ve felt in a long time unless you decide to not believe a damned word I‟ve said and send me away again.” “I admit I‟m a coward and I‟m sorry but I did what I thought best at the time.” “You should have asked me,” Gavin Hunt said to her. “I wish you‟d get it through that beautiful head of yours that I‟m in this for the long haul—despite that dominating stubbornness of yours.” “Watch your tongue, slave, or I‟ll have to punish you,” Eden warned him. Gavin Hunt grinned, his amazing blue eyes twinkling devilishly. “If that is what you desire, I‟m yours to toy with however you want.” “Are you sure?” “More than anything, Mistress. I quit the force because of my love for you.” “But now you have a Federal badge?” “May not be for much longer,” he said. “The idea had been to work with Ronan but I don‟t trust him.” 226

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “No, you must straighten things out with him—with everyone. Your brother ended up in a place no man wants to be because of my bad decisions. If you‟re mad at anyone or no longer trust, it‟s my fault—not theirs.” “But my brother is a part of me…” “And he understands the life more than you do though I believe you understand more now than you did before.” “But…” “If he asked me to keep something from you dealing with his life with Lily, I‟d have to accept his wishes whether I agreed or not. It‟s a respect Dominants have for each other and the unwritten rule is it has to be respected.” “I‟m not sure I can face any of them—not yet. I need to know where we stand.” “A Dominant can ask for no less than her slave‟s loyalty. To have that as well as undying love and devotion is a rare thing indeed and something I tried to walk away from. Can you ever forgive me for being so damned selfish and insensitive?” “I can forgive you anything,” he said as he searched his pocket for something. Gavin Hunt found what he looked for and held her left hand. “With this ring, I thee wed again…” he said as he slid an antique gold band onto her ring finger. “Gavin, it‟s beautiful but…” “It‟s strange because I stopped in that same jeweler‟s the other day and thought it would look beautiful on your hand considering I never put a ring on your finger as I should have. Will you wear it as my wife?” Slowly, Eden tried to sit up as she put her hand on Hunt‟s face. “Yes, Gavin, I will…” she said before their lips met in a deeply passionate kiss. Hunt drew back a little. 227

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Keep this up and I‟ll have to make sure my Mistress is taken care of—at least the treatment the clinic here can‟t.” “I love you, Gavin—I‟ve never stopped.” “I love you, Mistress—you are my life.”

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Epilogue The Hunts moved into the cabin at the Spread R Bar Ranch once Eden had been released from Bentley‟s care. Their reunion intense, they each discovered new things about the other as their love deepened. “Remember, it‟s up to you whether we do some of the things we did before,” he reminded her. “I know and I appreciate it but as long as I remember that it‟s you doing it out of love or at my command and not out of hatred or malice of any kind, we can do anything.” “But if anything bothers you in any way, stop me,” he said. “We may not be able to do something now but there is always later.” A knock on the door interrupted their conversation. While Eden slipped into a kimono-styled robe, he grabbed a pair of sweatpants and went to find out who waited to see them. When he opened the door, Ross Beckham handed him a box with an envelope. “A messenger just brought this by,” he said. Turning around, Beckham took a step to leave when Hunt stopped him. “I‟m sorry,” Hunt apologized. “I owe you and your wife a hell of a lot for what you did for both of us. I had no right acting the way I did and I hope you and Sheridan can find it in your hearts to forgive me.” 229

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Hunt, trust me, I understand. I‟ve been in your position before and anger rules you. Considering what you‟d been dealing with and the fact you felt we betrayed you, you have every right to be upset with us. There is nothing to forgive and I‟m glad you decided to stay here until Eden‟s ready to travel or you‟ve made some decision as to what your future plans might be.” “We appreciate the hospitality,” Hunt said. “It means a great deal.” “Like I said, we understand and Sheridan would have my head if I‟d sent you packing.” “The women in our lives…” They shook hands before Beckham walked back to the main house. “Ross brought this down,” Hunt said as he handed the box to Eden. Eden took it and slowly opened it, not sure if she felt ready for surprises. Once she did, she relaxed and smiled. “What?” “I went into the jeweler to buy you a gift. I had this strange idea that bribery might work in my favor. Tiffany left me in the private room while she went to get what I described to her for my approval only she never came back.” “Eden…” “I wanted to buy you a chain to replace the other one. Considering what happened with the police department, I figured you wouldn‟t want to wear it anymore because of the memories. Evidently, the store owner figured this might be a small expression of his appreciation.” Eden handed the box to him and held her breath. Hunt looked at the handsome marine link chain, his breath catching. “This is…” “Do you like it?” she asked hesitantly. 230

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Of course, I do,” he said. “I‟m speechless…” She waited for him to open the small pouch which sat in the center of the circle the chain created. Taking the box from him while he did, she watched as he opened it and let the contents of it fall into his hand. Onto his palm dropped an anchor charm. Holding it up to the light, it glistened in the sunlight warming the room. “You told me before that I‟m your anchor,” she began. “Well, it seems I feel the same way. Without you, my life has been a mess. Since we came back to this wonderful cabin, I feel complete and my confidence has begun to return.” “I haven‟t felt lost like I did when I couldn‟t talk to you. Now I feel like I belong and I am in a good place in my life. I don‟t want to ever feel that kind of turmoil again.” “Slave, bring me the chain,” she commanded, Hunt immediately obeying his Mistress. Removing the first chain with the badge charm, she slipped the anchor charm onto the marine link then placed it around his neck. “This is my symbol of my possession of you—do you accept this?” “Yes, Mistress, I do,” he said eagerly. “How may I please you?” “I want you to find something to tie me up with then I want you to fuck me until I scream your name,” she said as she let the robe drop to the floor at her feet. “Gladly, Mistress,” he said as he went to the bedroom and returned with a scarf and some silk ties. Helping Eden to stand, he took her hands and drew them behind her back using one of the ties to bind her. Next, he took the scarf and blindfolded her, reminiscent of their first night together. “Does this bring back any memories, Mistress?” he whispered in her ear. “Yes,” she answered. “Very good ones.” 231

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Good,” he said. “Is there anything special you‟d like me to do?” “Take charge, Officer,” she said. “I want you to command me. I want to be your toy…” “Kneel,” he said, Eden dropping to her knees. Hunt removed his sweats then stood in front of her. Placing the tip of his cock on her lips, he grinned when she automatically took him deep into her throat. Without a word, Eden went to work as she took his cock feverishly as if she hungered for him and nothing else. Trying to remain calm while she did, he could no longer take it and began pumping his cock in her mouth, his hand on the back of her head. Their paces matched, she took him as his essence exploded into her mouth. Once she had taken what he could give her, she laved his cock. The feel of her tongue tracing his length made him swell again. “Again, Mistress,” he gasped. Eden could do nothing but nod as she obeyed him. As before, he pressed her closer, her lips brushing his balls. Again, his cock pounded her mouth like a well-oiled piston only this time, he felt as if he would collapse from the force of his release. “Gavin, are you all right?” she asked. “I feel wonderful but my stamina took a hit thanks to starvation.” “We‟ll have to work on that,” she stated. “I look forward to it,” he said as he knelt in front of her. His mouth covered hers as his tongue explored her and tasted her feast on him. While they kissed, his hands cupped her breasts, periodically tugging on her nipple rings. She gasped, Hunt grinning. “Is my Mistress misbehaving?” “Yes,” she answered. “I can‟t help it.” 232

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “And should I punish you for this?” “If you desire,” she said. Hunt stood up then helped her to stand. Lifting her up, he carried her into the bedroom and laid her on the bed. “As much as I‟d love to flog you, I can‟t—not yet,” he said. “Not until we have the right place to do it.” “I will remind you then when we are in that wonderful place so you may do it.” “Yes, Mistress,” he said before he began tracing her body with his tongue. She shivered but he kept going, her body calling to his. When he reached the scar of the brand and the bullet wound, he traced the perimeter of it before returning to her breasts. Holding them, he flicked his tongue over her nipples teasing them before taking the rings between his teeth and tugging just enough to send her to the edge. Eden trembled as she pushed closer to him. He continued massaging her as he slid down the length of her body. Instinctively, she spread her legs, Hunt welcoming the access to her body. His tongue lapped her pussy before teasing her clit. Her body fought to hold its reaction but, as had his, her stamina had waned. “Come for me, Eden,” he whispered. “I want to drown in you.” Eden cried out as the orgasm overtook her. Her hands still bound behind her, they grabbed the covers beneath her and pulled tight needing something to hold on to. Before she knew anything more, she took one of his fingers in her mouth and sucked on it as she had his cock. Moments later, she felt him thrust into her before he swelled more to fill her completely. “Are you ready?” Unable to speak, she nodded.

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Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Gavin Hunt did as his Mistress wanted and fucked her until she screamed his name—several times. Each time he did, she reacted differently and more out of control. “Call to me, Eden,” he coaxed. “My God, Gavin, please…” “Please, what, Mistress?” “Never stop…” “An order I can easily obey,” he said as he took her again. **** By the end of their first week together and with Sheridan‟s help, Gavin Hunt felt able to pick up the phone and call his brother. “Ro, it‟s Gavin.” “How do you feel?” “Like the man you once knew. Between Eden and Sheridan Beckham, I understand better what happened between us and I‟m sorry for treating you the way I did. I should never have accused you…” “Gav, I could and would never intentionally hurt you and I hated myself for it but It‟s what Eden wanted and I…” “I know and I truly understand the rules, so to speak. What I am worried about is the rift between you and me. I hate it and I need to know what I have to do to close it. I don‟t want to and can‟t afford to lose my brother.” “You just did,” Ronan Hunt said, obviously relieved. “The brass wants us to work together and I‟ve been trying to stall them on an answer until I knew if we stood a chance to even speak to each other again.” “What‟s the job?” “They want an operation similar to Tahoe in the area between Baltimore and Washington. What they‟d like to do is keep me in Tahoe and set you up there. We‟d get together several times a 234

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure month to discuss business while we compare notes between here and there.” “I need to speak to Eden,” Hunt said. “Not a problem,” Ronan said. “Believe me, Lily and I have had numerous discussions about this. She‟s worried about you.” “My God, I owe her a huge apology. I treated her like shit when I left.” “Lily understands,” Ronan said. “No, I had no right taking anything out on her. Listen, can you both fly up here so we can talk face-to-face?” “Sure, when?” “As soon as possible.” “Ah, the joys of having a private jet at my constant disposal…” “Some people have all the luck,” Hunt said. “You‟ll get one, too,” Ronan said. “It‟s part of the cover.” They talked a few moments longer before the call ended. Hunt took a deep breath and made another call—this one to Nigel Shelton. “Shelton…” “Nigel, it‟s Gavin Hunt—please don‟t hang up though I won‟t blame you if you do.” “Talk to me,” Nigel Shelton said. “I wanted to call to apologize and tell you that Eden is fine.” “Go on…” “You‟re not going to make this easy, are you?” “Nope,” Shelton said. Hunt picked up a hint of amusement in his voice. “I‟m really sorry about the way I acted but it‟s frustrating when you find out the truth and no one trusted you with it.” “I only did what my friend asked of me a long time ago. When she gave me her instructions, you had not been together that long and she had no idea how you might handle anything adverse. I‟m truly sorry to say we underestimated you and I offer my sincere 235

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure apologies. You brother and I agreed the situation had been dealt with in the wrong way but by that time, it had already gone far past where it should have.” “Eden told me and I believe I understand things better now than I did back in Tahoe. I only knew then that I couldn‟t be with the woman I love and finding out why sent me over the edge.” “Understandable,” Shelton said. “I believe we‟ve all been in your position at one time or another. If I didn‟t feel that way, we wouldn‟t be having this conversation.” “I hope this doesn‟t cause a problem between you and Eden— I never intended that.” “That would never happen,” Shelton assured him. “I knew one day you‟d come to your senses.” Hunt snickered then asked him if news of the robbery attempt at the jewelry store had reached them. When Shelton stated he knew nothing about it, Hunt went into detail making sure Nigel Shelton knew Eden had survived it. “I‟m not happy with the path she chose but…” “To be blunt, it scared the shit out of me.” “I‟m glad you took the rifle. Shots like that can only be made by certain people.” “And the incident commander knew about the personal attachment. He gave me a hell of a lot of support.” “Good,” Shelton said. “Now the both of you need time. The club is doing extremely well and Carson is an amazing manager. Tell her if she decides to open another club, he would be the perfect one for Las Vegas.” “I will and thanks,” Hunt said before the men ended the call. Hunt sighed with relief then went in search of his wife. He told Eden about what he‟d discussed with his brother and her friend plus what Shelton had said about Carson. “Interesting idea,” she said. “I thought he‟d be a good choice once Nigel forwarded the financials to me.” 236

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure Gavin Hunt took his wife in his arms and held her. “What would you like to do, Mistress?” Hunt asked, completely changing the subject. “I‟ve got plenty of ideas,” she said, grinning. “I think I want my slave restrained.” “But we don‟t have what we need.” “No, but Ross has a playroom and I‟m sure he‟d let us borrow it.” “How do you know?” he asked. “One of his Masters showed me when he gave me a tour of the main house. He‟s not joking when he says he can train in all disciplines. Sheridan also told me what she experienced when she first came here.” “Amazing…” Hunt said. “Lead the way.” **** Over the next several weeks, Ronan furnished his brother with updates on Lieutenant Garrison‟s trial as well as Judge Allan‟s. On one of these trips, Ronan gave him some interesting news. When Hunt learned Garrison had been arraigned and held without bail, he breathed a sigh of relief since he dreaded the possibility of a revenge attack. When Ronan informed him that a few days into the trial, several inmates at the prison ganged up on his ex-commanding officer and beat him to death, Hunt shook his head. “Couldn‟t have happened to a nicer guy,” he muttered. “Because of the cases they‟d both been involved in and some of the ones that never saw closure, they‟ve all been opened up to intense scrutiny. There‟s a good chance some perps may go free because of their mishandling of their sworn duties. There may even be some going free that got buried in the system because either one or both felt them to be dangerous to their sidelines.” 237

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “So, in other words, if Weathers didn‟t like somebody, they got lost in the system on trumped-up charges.” “That‟s one scenario,” Ronan said. “Best protection money can buy, don‟t you think?” “Shit!” Hunt cursed. “Is there a light at the end of this tunnel?” “Depending on how you look at what I‟m about to tell you.” “Should I sit down?” “No, but I believe you‟ll want Eden to hear this, too.” Once Eden joined them, Ronan went on to explain. “The brass at Justice would definitely like you to set up a club in the Baltimore/DC area. Basically, you‟d be doing like I did on the Weathers case. They‟ve got a guy under surveillance in the capital only he knows all the agents in the area. You‟d be a fresh face and I‟m sure you‟d be able to pick up something the department could use to nail him.” “Before we can do that,” Eden stated, “I need to make a phone call.” “To?” “A man who owns a very exclusive club in that same area. If you go back in history, he ousted a senator from his club who later murdered his date for the evening for kicks then went after my friend because he‟d thrown him out.” “How did he get to him?” “Through his wife.” “Are you talking about The President’s Pub? The Grimes case…” “Yes, and as a Dominant, you know I can‟t open up a place which would be in direct competition with his without first speaking to him. It would be disrespectful to begin with and bad business all the way around.” “Can you find out and if he‟s all right with it, would he help?” “I‟m quite sure he‟d help but you might want to talk to him and see if he knows anything about whoever you‟re looking at. He has contacts all over.” 238

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Eden, before you call him,” Hunt began, “are you sure you want to move that far away from your present club?” “Gavin, it doesn‟t matter as long as we‟re together. The club is material, our life together is not and it comes first. If you need to move, we move but certain protocols must be maintained and observed—no matter where we go.” “Eden, doesn‟t your friend have contacts in Atlanta, as well?” “He might,” she answered. “Don‟t forget—we do not usually advertise what we own. I‟m damned glad that judge and the lieutenant never came into Dark Illusions. I don‟t want to even begin to imagine what they could have done to me and the business.” “Amen,” Gavin Hunt quietly agreed. “When do you have to know?” “The end of the week is good. The guy‟s been under our watch for about a year. Every time we think we‟ve got him, something happens and he‟s gone in the wind, so to speak. He‟s got a lot of influential contacts and he‟s not afraid to use them. That‟s why they want new blood.” “Hopefully, none of mine—once will always be enough.” “Same here,” Eden agreed. “Let me know as soon as you can,” Ronan said. “I‟ll be in Tahoe for a while.” “What about Vegas?” “I can‟t do anything until they turn something in the investigation. What I‟m waiting on is names of anybody else Weathers bought or anyone working for him who might be in deeper that it appears on the surface. This case is going to take a while to clear so I‟m in for the long haul.” “Any possibility the judge might turn in order to lessen his sentence? Maybe Garrison had private papers?” “We‟re hoping on both accounts though I believe the judge will turn before we get anything more from the lieutenant‟s side. 239

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure He‟s got a bunch at the department who are still protecting him for some reason—even after death.” Ronan got up to leave, his brother joining him. “Hey, how do you feel about this? I mean considering what‟s happened…” “I didn‟t want to say anything in front of Eden but before Garrison died, he stated there are others who‟ll follow his lead and the first thing he expected them to do if anything happened to him…” “What…” “He took out a contract on you,” Ronan said. “If you go back into Vegas, someone will be gunning for you. I hate to say this but more than likely they‟ll be cops. If you‟re on the East Coast, then I can find the bastards and get them before they get you.” “Lovely, when will it all end?” “Hopefully, when we get this cleared. As soon as we‟ve broken Weathers‟ hold on the city, then we‟re hopefully running the home stretch.” “Any idea who the hit man might be?” “Not yet but, like I said, it wouldn‟t surprise me if it ends up being a uniform.” “Shit!” “Exactly,” Ronan said. “Please take this assignment for me so I know the both of you are safe. I‟m sure Nigel will feel the same way and if I remember right, Anderson is a good man.” “Anderson?” “Your wife‟s friend,” Ronan said. “He‟s good at what he does and he has a great deal of pull in local law enforcement. For Eden to call him and get his okay for you to move there is a huge help.” “We‟ll see,” Hunt said. “Question…” “What?” “What if he says no?” 240

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Then I get my boss to figure out something else. I swear, I will make sure you‟re both safe.” “Damn, I hate this. We‟re finally talking again and now the brass wants to split us up.” “Consider the perks—nice home, your own business which will surely be profitable, private plane…” “Plane?” “I told them the only way you‟d consider it is if you got the same benefits I do. They didn‟t even blink an eye…” “Amazing.” Gavin and Ronan Hunt hugged each other before Ronan left to return to Lake Tahoe and his beautiful wife, Lily. Hunt felt the loss already as he watched his brother leave the ranch. “Are you all right?” Eden asked as she slipped her arm around him. “Now I am,” he replied as he pulled her closer. “Thanks to you.” **** Eden‟s call to Simon Anderson proved enlightening. “I had a call from one of my friends in the Justice Department asking me if they could set up an elite club like mine in the area. He didn‟t mention your involvement.” “He may not have known. My husband is one of their newer agents and in a way, this is a double-edged sword.” “How so?” Simon Anderson asked. “Not only do they want Gavin to open up there and do whatever it is he‟s assigned to do but there is a contract on him down in Vegas so we can‟t go home until the case is totally cleared and all the players are dealt with.” “Tell me about Dark Illusions.”

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Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “You pretty well know all there is to considering you‟ve recommended it to many of your friends who‟ve left after enjoyable evenings.” “You‟ve been hanging around with cops, haven‟t you?” “I married one. In fact, the one who ordered the contract had been Gavin‟s lieutenant and very well paid by my ex-Master. My husband arrested him under the jurisdiction of the feds and, needless to say, his past commanding officer and several others in the department are a little mad about it.” “I see,” Anderson said. “My club is in the city as are two or three others. You could choose either Virginia or Maryland between the capital and Baltimore without causing me any problems. I say that because I believe you‟ll be successful and I want you to be able to operate without being in my shadow, so to speak.” “That sounds good,” she said. “If you could call your friend at Justice back, would you mind setting it up for us so it‟s ready or near ready when we get there?” “Keep me advised on your timetable and I will do what‟s needed on this end. I look forward to seeing you again and I‟d love to have you enjoy the club as well.” “We‟d like that,” she said. “I‟ll be in touch.” Eden ended the call and looked at her husband. “Simon will take care of things on his end. It seems he‟s friends with one of your bosses.” “Amazing,” Hunt said. “When I went to work as a lowly waiter at Dark Illusions, I had no clue about any of this.” “And that‟s the way it should be. All of us are very private considering how the outside world looks at us. We might have very public lives but, in the end, we value and cherish our privacy. It gives us the chance to fuck around at any time without a problem because we‟re not in the public eye.” 242

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “I prefer it that way. When I heard the talk in the locker room, it turned me off because some of them had absolutely no clue about what they purported to be experts on. The venom floating around the station proved to be overpowering as it took over other officers and dragged them into their web of hatred. I couldn‟t wait to tell you I wanted to turn in my badge because I‟d been fighting with myself on the decision for days.” “I would‟ve supported you no matter what you chose to do.” “I know and it means a great deal,” Hunt said. “You are an amazing woman and to hear them talk about you—all I wanted to do…” “Gavin, it‟s over,” she said. “I‟m glad,” he said. “Good, now take your Mistress and fuck her brains out seeing as we‟re more than likely going to be very busy over the next few days.” “No, Mistress, don‟t let the outside world get in the way. I will gladly obey you and I want us to enjoy each other without it getting in the way. I might be a Federal Marshal but I am your slave first and foremost and I have one command I cannot disobey.” “What‟s that?” “It is my distinct pleasure to make sure Eden‟s pleasures are taken care of before my own. When you walk into the room, my life feels complete. If we‟re not together for any reason, I feel the loss and I‟m swearing this to you—if the job gets in the way of that, I‟ll turn in my badge again because you are the most important part of my world and I will not risk losing you.” “Gavin Hunt, wild horses will not pull us apart,” she said. “I also plan to do like I did in Vegas and own a home miles away from where we open. I hear there are plenty of acres to support a horse farm and I‟ve always wanted to go horseback riding au natural. I want to see you in all your glory as we canter around our property.” 243

Internet Bonds Series Book 10: Eden’s Pleasure “Are you sure?” “I‟ll have Nigel take care of the details which will keep our names out of it.” “Eden, you‟re amazing.” “And I‟m starving, slave.” “One course of Eden‟s pleasures coming up.”

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Christy Poff lives in southeastern Pennsylvania with her husband and two kids—her teenage daughter (a college freshman) and her son who serves in the Air Force. Stationed in Minot, North Dakota—he is thankfully only a cell phone call away. Previously, she wrote news articles for local newspapers and regional firefighting publications. With her articles, she added photography to her pieces. Writing for several years, she has a deep respect for the Civil War and has done extensive research into the times. This love and research have resulted in several Civil War novels including CHASE FOR AN ANGEL which was born from this love and released in March, 2006. Others will follow. She loves old cities with history like Charleston and New Orleans, the wide-open spaces of Wyoming and the Dakotas, the beauty of a Maine sunrise plus seeing the rest of the U.S. and western Canada. A volunteer firefighter for over twenty-five years, she‟s been able to use her experience in several published works for others and even in some of her own work. People wonder what she writes to—Brooks and Dunn, Gary Allan, Linkin Park, Nickelback, Harry Connick or whoever strikes her mood at the time. She loves to watch Iron Chef on the Food Network, CSI:Miami and reruns of Nash Bridges, Miami Vice, Night Court and JAG.

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