The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne
The Spying Maid By Lillith Payne
2
The Spying M...
24 downloads
912 Views
640KB Size
Report
This content was uploaded by our users and we assume good faith they have the permission to share this book. If you own the copyright to this book and it is wrongfully on our website, we offer a simple DMCA procedure to remove your content from our site. Start by pressing the button below!
Report copyright / DMCA form
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne
The Spying Maid By Lillith Payne
2
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. The Spying Maid Copyright© 2007 Lillith Payne ISBN: 978‐1‐60088‐159‐6 Cover Artist: Croco Designs Editor: Brandi Loyd All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced electronically or in print without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews. Cobblestone Press, LLC www.cobblestone‐press.com
3
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne
Dedication To Demented With Love From Kinky Thanks to everyone at Cobblestone Press for their support, especially my editor, Brandi. Thanks to Croco for the erotic cover art.
4
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne
Chapter One He awoke to pains and aches he didnʹt remember before. His mind was foggy. He jolted, gaining consciousness. When he tried to move and couldnʹt, he realized he was somehow bound. His head throbbed, and his shoulders begged to be released. Forcing his eyes to open slowly, he kept his head down, trying to survey his lot. The room he was being held in had high, stone walls, but they were in need of repair. The floor was dirt and hay, but it didnʹt have the odor of a barn. Behind him he heard hooves stamping and the movements of a horse or horses. Not yet wanting to alert his keepers to his wakefulness, he pushed back the automatic response to turn and see if the beast was his horse and in what condition. Stripped to the waist, he stood with arms and legs stretched between two large wooden posts. His wrists were shackled with lengths of sturdy chains that wound up the posts. His ankles were secured in a similar fashion. The cuffs anchoring the chain to his wrists were leather. He could only assume the ankle cuffs were similar since no chain gouged him. Around him the structure seemed abandoned, left to fall at will. Bright sunlight filtered in through missing stones in the structure. Whatever this abandoned place was, heʹd see it destroyed as his first order of business. But before that could happen, he knew he had to find out who had bound him and why.
5
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne From the shadows he caught small movements, so he raised his head to investigate, no doubt letting his captors know he was awake. In true form, he tried to take control. ʺYou there, come and unchain me, now. Donʹt make me say it again!ʺ The tone of his voice would have had lesser men scrambling to accommodate. This stranger didnʹt move from the hay bale on which he sat somewhat hidden in the shadows. ʺYou heard me. Unchain me now. Donʹt you know who I am? Iʹm—ʺ ʺYes, yes... I know who you are. Duke Raynor Walcott!ʺ The muffled voice let out a cryptic laugh. ʺDonʹt waste your time, Ray. I can call you that, no? At least while weʹre alone.ʺ A shrill laugh followed, and Raynor shook. ʺAh, you must think I am a madman. Perhaps youʹre right. Time will tell. But for now, I assure you that I am in charge of you and your destiny.ʺ Hearing the words aloud made the situation all the more real and intense. ʺCome from the shadows and show yourself, or do you not have the courage to face me?ʺ Raynor strained to see movement where there was none. Silence stretched, and he used the time to further survey his lot. Not a comfortable position for any length of time. The stone around him was unfamiliar. Stretching as best he could to turn his head, he caught a glimpse of his great black stallion, apparently quite happy with the oats and hay provided. Whoever took him at least took care of his horse. He tried to think back to what happened, forcing the pain to recede so his mind would clear. Heʹd been about to enter Lord Soederʹs spread from the north boundary when a strange, small man approached by foot. He couldnʹt remember their words... something...about his horse and the wedding. Oh, the wedding. He groaned aloud. That was another fiasco waiting to happen. If he ever got himself out of this mess. Best to take an authoritative stance and deal with his captors; they probably wanted money, a lot of which he had to give. ʺEnough of this foolishness. What do you want from me?ʺ There was no response so he shouted louder. ʺIf itʹs money you want then cut
6
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne me loose, and weʹll talk. Iʹm expected. Thereʹll be parties out looking for me as we speak.ʺ ʺNo, Ray. Not yet. Word has been sent ahead to Lord Soeder explaining your delay. You are not late, not even expected just yet.ʺ The laugh was deeper. He felt his blood pump harder through his veins, and he struggled harder to free himself. ʺItʹs a waste of time, Duke. Just relax and breathe. Take it like a man. I mean you no real harm.ʺ ʺWhy have you done this?ʺ ʺBecause I could!ʺ The laugh went wild again. Something shifted in the back of Raynorʹs mind, but the ache prevented him from thinking clearly. ʺBecause you could? I donʹt understand.ʺ ʺYou will, in my time. And then maybe you wonʹt be so arrogant.ʺ ʺCome forward and let me see who taunts me.ʺ ʺStill trying to take charge?ʺ He heard noise in several places and tried to spot the movement. He wasnʹt sure if there were two or three people watching him. Ah, yes, watching him. Suddenly it all became clearer. He was to marry the lordʹs daughter. These people must have something at stake, but what? This marriage was typical; although few people knew the whole reason. Now he had to figure out if his captors did and how they would use it against him. Raynor charged himself with keeping a careful leash on his tongue, guarding his words until he knew more. ʺHow long do you plan to keep me here?ʺ ʺUntil you have a better understanding—ʺ ʺUnderstanding of what? For Godʹs sake, man, speak openly and letʹs get this foolishness over with.ʺ He forced himself to fake the bravado in his voice, hoping to sound annoyed and inconvenienced rather than afraid or concerned. The hiss reached him a second before he felt the sting of the whip on his lower back. He jumped, but his chains held fast. ʺYou are a madman! Go and find me someone sane to deal with.ʺ
7
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺStill arrogant. I would’ve thought you would’ve grown out of that by now.ʺ ʺDo we know each other? How and where did we meet?ʺ ʺWeʹve never met, Duke Walcott. We have a much more interesting bond between us.ʺ ʺDefine it then...ʺ ʺIn time... First Iʹd like to know what your plans are for your bride.ʺ ʺWhat has she got to do with this?ʺ Raynor closed his eyes and let his head drop, blond curls of hair falling to cover his face. This must be some jilted lover or about to become jilted because of the marriage. ʺIs the lady enamored with you? Do you fear our vows will curtail your pleasures?ʺ He wasnʹt about to tell the man this would be a marriage of convenience—that he had no intention of staying here or taking his new wife home to Walcott castle with him. ʺWhat kind of husband do you plan to be?ʺ Absent, Raynor wanted to shout but didnʹt. Instead he held silent only to feel the snap of a paddle against his buttocks, the surprise more than the actual pain. He tried to shift his chains to get a look at who wielded the paddle; the figure wore a black hood and was covered from head to toe in laborerʹs clothing, fat and round in the stomach. He bit back a shout on the second and third strikes then cursed aloud. ʺThat didnʹt hurt, Ray. Just made you tingle a bit. Isnʹt that right?ʺ He dropped his head, buying time to think about his situation. The words being said were familiar and, without thinking, he stood tall when he remembered them being spoken. A rapid succession of slaps hurt more than tingled, and he tried to console himself that at least it wasnʹt the whip again. A gush of water showered his head, forcing him to shake off the excess and heed his captorʹs words. He flexed against his bonds to no avail. ʺWell, did it hurt you? Or did it excite you?ʺ ʺWhat do you want with your sick game? Let me go.ʺ ʺAh, now itʹs a sick game to you. What was it six years ago?ʺ
8
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Raynor stilled and forced his mind to accept the information heʹd been given. Six years ago was when the bargain had been struck. Back then heʹd been an arrogant boy of twenty who held all the cards, or money as it were, and let the new feelings of power get the better of him. He could still remember the maid; his cock swelled under his tight britches at the thought of her. Several hard smacks from the paddle struck his buttocks, and his cock swelled more. He groaned for too many reasons, the least of which was being held captive. ʺYour cock remembers...ʺ He heard the taunt, but refused to look down at what had prompted his captor’s remark. ʺSo, was it a sick game back then?ʺ ʺI donʹt know what you mean.ʺ ʺOf course you do. The young girl you pulled into your room and spanked until your cock rose, poking at her belly. Arenʹt these words correct? ‘Relax and breathe, my dear. Take your punishment. I mean you no real harm.’ʺ Again the voice laughed. The kidnapper was closer. ʺShe was a maid, spying on me in my private chambers. What would you expect me to do? I couldn’t let her get away with it. Who are you, her father?ʺ ʺNo. Who I am doesnʹt matter. Only that you remember her.ʺ He gave no response and was horrified and embarrassed when gloved hands reached from behind him to stroke his cock. It throbbed at the attention, and he hated himself. ʺYou spanked her until she was raw and, the whole time, you let your cock poke at her. When she cried out, you didnʹt stop either.ʺ ʺAre you her? Are you the spying maid?ʺ ʺI am just someone well informed of your visits to Soeder land.ʺ The hands continued to stroke him, one dropping to his sack and lightly twisting. He shouted with fury and swore, promising to retaliate. ʺDoes it still take the paddle to make you erect, Duke?ʺ Despite the evidence of his own arousal, he scoffed. ʺDonʹt be ridiculous. I was young then—ʺ ʺAnd what were you on the next visit?ʺ
9
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Raynor groaned, letting his head drop and knowing the outcome was going to be worse than he anticipated. ʺThink on that, Duke, and rest a while.ʺ ʺWhere are you going?ʺ His voice became urgent with the confused panic over being tormented or left alone to hang and starve. Hands squeezed his balls one last time then moved away from him. His only answer was the paddle, which struck his already burning cheeks several more times before he was left alone. Or at least he believed he was alone. In the silence, he couldnʹt help but remember that night. Heʹd been high on the rush of the deal and the brandy heʹd shared with Lord Soeder. Lying in his bed, his hand was stroking his erection; he was thinking about a maid heʹd left at home, a maid who would often take him between her lips to satisfy his urge. Closing his eyes, he pictured her face, her cheeks hollowing with each stroke, and used his hand to emulate her motions. He came fast, spraying on his naked abdomen. It was then heʹd heard the sound—a hushed, ʺOhh.ʺ Without thinking, heʹd bolted from the bed and toward the sound. He found her in the darkened corner. Pulling the spy into the dim light, he saw she was young and beautiful. Long curls of sable hair coiled down her back. Her eyes were wide with surprise, the brown reminding him of hot chocolate. She said nothing, but tried to flee. It was no use; she was no match for his strength. Raynor sighed at the memory of his brash attitude. He remembered handling her roughly and, when she fought him, he’d pulled her down over his lap, her belly landing across his thighs. Although she was dressed, he could imagine her body from the brief look heʹd gotten. She was full breasted with flawless skin shining against the candlelight. Her waist was thin despite the lack of corset, and her body flared to wider hips, which were struggling over him, bringing his cock to life a second time. He hadnʹt taken the time to fasten his breeches when he heard her, so his exposed erection rubbed against her belly, her gown a thin layer
10
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne between them. With each struggle she stroked him, renewed his arousal, and he used his hands to move and hold her over him. His excitement over the completed deal and the rush of power it spawned in his veins, especially his authority over Lord Soeder, made him impulsive. And then to find one of his maids spying on him, Raynor felt the right to do with her as he pleased. The maid was young, her flesh still full and plump, but she had expressive eyes, her fear and confusion apparent. Raynorʹs hand came down on her buttocks in several heavy swats to gain her attention. Her body stilled over him. ʺYou dare to spy on me?ʺ heʹd started, swatting her again. She didnʹt answer, only whimpered. ʺWhat did you hope to gain?ʺ His questions continued, but still she didnʹt answer, although she put up token attempts to free herself. Her refusal to answer angered him further. His palm came down on her buttocks in a flurry of hard smacks and, all that time, his cock jutted to attention, her apparent submission arousing to his senses. After several rounds, he leaned down and whispered, ʺRelax and breathe, maid. Take your punishment as the spy you are.ʺ He pulled her arms behind her, his left hand holding her wrists while his right palmed her backside. ʺI mean you no real harm, only to teach you a lesson in spying.ʺ His cock throbbed against her, and heʹd shifted her so her breasts would absorb the shock. Then he lifted her skirts and exposed her long, beautifully muscled thighs. Her legs kicked at his move to expose her, yet, she was strangely quiet. She uttered no real protest to his actions. Even her initial kicks soon subsided. His anger turning to curious arousal, he decided Lord Soeder had taught her well. He used his palm to swat her bare bottom some more until his own hand stung, and he watched her perfect, round cheeks redden before his eyes. She cried out, incoherent sounds that to him seemed orgasmic. Could she be as turned on as he? He swatted her again, and her volume increased, but she didn’t attempt to struggle free. Yes, he thought, she was
11
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne enjoying this. But this was supposed to be punishment for her spying. She wasn’t supposed to like it. At his threat to gag her, she fell silent once more. A few tears fell as her head had dropped, but she didn’t sob. His brown‐haired maid had accepted her lot. Strangely, Raynor was disappointed when her struggles ended and she accepted her due, but he kept her there a while longer, locked over his lap, until his cock leaked from its tip a second time that night. Standing, he let her body slide to the floor before he leaned down to flip back her skirts, re‐exposing her reddened cheeks. It took a few brief strokes with his own hand before he doused her well‐spanked buttocks with his cum. When she didn’t move, he reached down, pulling her up roughly. Still she didnʹt utter a word, which amazed him, but he hid it behind a façade of authoritative dominance. ʺNever spy on me or anyone in the castle again. Understand me, maid?ʺ Like the submissive he believed her to be, she nodded in agreement, so he escorted her to the door. ʺGet out. Don’t let me catch you spying again.ʺ He’d left her standing in the hall as he’d slammed the door shut. That night, heʹd thought long and hard about his silent maid, so accepting of her punishment. He’d even relived how his swats reddened her skin after which heʹd used his hand to complete yet another release. Ashamed now at his drunken behavior, Raynor groaned against his chains, a strange heat coursing through him. It was how he was raised, he told himself; the hand or switch made correction an easy bit. And in his fatherʹs home, any disobedient maid was fair game for a man who felt the need to use her. Odd that heʹd never considered taking her that night, never thought of actually sticking his cock inside her; instead, heʹd wanted to shame her for having caught him stroking his own cock. In his embarrassment and intoxication, he’d acted with abrupt instinct.
12
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne He hadnʹt seen her during the rest of his short stay and never mentioned her presence in his quarters to Donald Soeder. * * * * * The sun was lower in the sky. Raynor had no feeling left in his shoulders or arms. His buttocks, however, still stung from the paddle. Promising himself, if he got out of this alive, heʹd make the strange man feel real pain, and it wouldnʹt be anything as delicate as a paddle. His mind went on overload trying to figure out who would want to torment him. It was obvious that his situation had something to do with the spying maid. He had little doubt that his captor was intimate with her; he had to be to know the details of his visits. Raynor was hungry and tired, and somehow he knew his rest was a long time off. At some point he drifted off to sleep and later awakened to gloved hands running along his rib cage and stomach, dipping lower over his belly. Trying not to alert his captor he remained still, eyes closed, and quiet. Raynor was left in a quandary. While he was loath to admit it, the gentle hands soothing his skin somehow relieved his anxiety. Until he remembered it was a man who touched him. He cringed when the manʹs stroking made his cock harden. The thought of a man touching him turned his insides, but his cock had a mind of its own. He felt fingers touch, pinch, and pull at his nipples. Raynor tried to clear his mind, shore up his will to fight his body’s reaction to the stimulus. Instead, his nipples ached to be touched again, his whole body on alert and longing for the next stroke. But the kidnapper’s attention receded, left him wanting for what seemed like ages. Then came the strike of that whip, and he lost his erection. ʺHave you thought about your last visits, Ray?ʺ ʺWhat would be the use? Theyʹre history and canʹt be changed.ʺ
13
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺAh, but there are lessons to be learned from history. A smart, well‐ informed man such as you should understand that.ʺ ʺWhat lesson havenʹt I learned? You seem intent, so educate me.ʺ ʺYour second visit...ʺ ʺWhat about it?ʺ The whip hit his thighs and made him jerk, his body swinging on the chains. His curse words were loud, echoing through the structure. He could deal with the paddle, but that whip stung, damn it. ʺDid you see the maid again?ʺ ʺYes,” he hissed. “She was spying on me...again.ʺ ʺAnd what did you do?ʺ Raynor thought back, and his whole body blushed with shame at the recollection of what he, in his youth, had inflicted on the girl. ʺShe was in my chambers where she didn’t belong. I caught her in the act when I returned from supper.ʺ ʺDid you ask why she was in your room? Did you ask why she was waiting for you, or did you just assume?ʺ ʺShe had no right to be in my chambers!ʺ He felt a chill run through him. ʺIs the memory distasteful to you now?ʺ He closed his eyes, visualizing the girlʹs brown eyes staring up, awe and horror combined. ʺGo ahead. Tell me. What did you do?ʺ ʺNothing...ʺ The whip hit higher on his naked back, and he suspected that would leave a mark. ʺStop that! What do you want me to say?ʺ ʺThe truth, Raynor. What did you do to her?ʺ ʺShe was spying and I...caught her. I remember taking her over my knee and spanking her again.ʺ ʺAnd is that all?ʺ ʺBasically. I never truly harmed her, only wounded her pride.ʺ ʺI see. So taking the girl across your knee a second time was to teach her a lesson. And what lesson was that—how to handle your cock until you came on her face?ʺ
14
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne He gasped, wondering how this man knew so much. ʺIt just happened,ʺ he tried to justify. ʺI was still young at the time. The maid didnʹt seem to mind. She’d come to me, to my room! She never once screamed or pleaded with me to stop.ʺ He couldnʹt stop the next words from flowing from his lips. ʺI got the impression she was agreeable.ʺ The whip hit him high then low, the tip stinging across his back. ʺDid she ask you to expose her breasts and handle them? Did she ask you to drop her over your knee and pull up her skirts to bare herself to you? Did she ask you to jerk off on her face?ʺ ʺNo...ʺ ʺDid you give her a chance to leave or to change the situation?ʺ ʺShe was a spying maid. After the first time, I figured she knew what sheʹd get if I found her in my room again. I’d warned her.ʺ The gloved hands moved back to his body and pinched his nipples. He held back a curse, tried to stand the titillation. Raynor hated that his cock was hardening again, and he willed it to go flaccid. ʺSo, you gave her no time to speak, just stripped her until you could fondle her breasts before taking her over your lap. Did you explain to the girl anything about the process or did you just jerk off?ʺ ʺShe knew what was happening.ʺ ʺDid she?ʺ ʺShe was never bound; she could have run away several times. But she didnʹt. Instead she fell between my legs and...ʺ ʺAnd?ʺ ʺAnd watched me!ʺ Raynor knew his arrogance would be his downfall. ʺThatʹs one perspective.ʺ The kidnapper pulled on his nipples and stretched them. Had he been this rough with the girl? Had it aroused her as it intrigued him? He felt a biting pain then a cold weight. Before he could fathom what was happening, the same thing occurred to his other nipple. Looking down, he saw metal clamps attached to his flesh, small stones hanging from them. The weights pulled at him and made his cock once again rear
15
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne its stupid head in response. The kidnapper lifted the stones, letting them drop several times, before he stepped back. When the stranger chose to pick up the paddle instead of the whip, Raynor was grateful. Under the circumstances, it was an odd relief. ʺRest, Ray. You will need your strength.ʺ He heard movement behind him and prepared for the paddle, but it never came. He had no choice but to hang there and remember. The maid had been hiding in the shadows, but heʹd found her easily, her heavy breathing giving away her position. Heʹd grabbed her by the wrist and when she stumbled, heʹd dragged her along the carpeted floor to the side of his bed, pushing her down. Raynor groaned at the memory. Heʹd used the maidʹs image many a night since then to satisfy his lust. In recent years, though, deep down inside him, he realized she was more innocent than heʹd assumed. But at the time, heʹd only seen a servant waiting in his chambers—a servant who’d been warned not to do so—and so he’d used her as he would use any maid who brazenly disobeyed. His captor was right. He had taken things farther the second time. He’d pulled out his cock and stroked it before her face, her eyes widening as she watched his movements. Several times heʹd pulled her up and over his legs, landing biting blows to her butt. Unsatisfied with the encumbrance of her clothes, he pulled her skirts up, baring her, and alternated with spanking her and dropping her at his feet while he continued to taunt her. ʺYou came back a second time, maid. I warned you. You knew what awaited you.ʺ He used his strength to tear the gown from her shoulders. When it fell and exposed her breasts, she tried to cover herself, but he didnʹt let her. Instead, he used his hands to tease and torment her firm flesh, kneading then pinching her nipples. Watching red marks appear on her pale skin, he became aroused. He enjoyed the view of her nipples, taught raspberries when erect, not long and thin like the maid he bedded at home.
16
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne No, this maidʹs breasts rode high and firm, her nipples calling him to touch them, and he did. As he pulled on them, he was amazed when they hardened further. His little spying maid never said a word. Instead, she turned pleading eyes toward him, so he pulled and plucked harder. Raynor positioned her up between his legs and suckled her at whim, leaving signs on each perfect globe, marking her as his. Sheʹd winced and cried out when he first brought her to his lips, and the sweet sounds had goaded his need. He knew the red would turn to purple before disappearing, that eventually the marks would fade. His cock stirred. At first, sheʹd squirmed in response to the intense draw of his lips, but he recognized the moment she succumbed to her own inner need. She leaned into his mouth, offering more firm flesh to his punishing lips. Her groans became deeper, and he reached down so his hand could brush against the junction of her legs. Sheʹd frozen at the touch, but only for a second. Then she melted against him. He didn’t take her though. Instead, Raynor let her drift to the floor and, staring down at her, he used his hand to stroke his cock, now leaking clear drips from its tip. It had taken only a few pulls of his own fist before he released his cum across her breasts, her neck, and her lips. Sheʹd gone still when he ejaculated, staring wide‐eyed at the process. That night, same as the last visit, heʹd put her out of his room. Again uttering a harsh command about spying on him, he stared at her lying in the hallway, exposed to the waist, her neck and breasts still coated with his release. Her nipples were still hard, aroused peaks, and his temporary marks were apparent. Drawing her bodice up to cover herself, sheʹd turned away but didnʹt try to rise. His last image of her was of her nude back and the permanent crosshatch marks of a previous user on her flesh, which even then had made him frown. * * * * *
17
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Raynor didnʹt know how long he hung there, only that it was twilight when he was roused again, this time to feel his pants slide down his thighs, leaving him exposed and vulnerable. He tried to forget the ache in his upper chest, but each breath reminded him of the stones hanging from his nipples. The kidnapper fondled his flaccid cock to full erection, and then he felt something slip over his testicles, separating them, before it was tied tightly. He looked down to see a strand of leather wound around his cock base. It ran down along his balls, between them, and back up. The added bondage left him hard and straining. And open to the view of anyone who might look. He throbbed at the new position, knowing his erection wouldnʹt subside now. His face flushed at the vulnerability of it all and heard his captor laugh from behind him. Gloved hands reached around to stroke him several times, but left him aching for release. ʺComfortable?ʺ ʺIt could be worse.ʺ He winced, realizing his tone and words were the wrong approach to take. ʺIt could get there....ʺ ʺAnd do you plan to starve me, too? Even the lowest prisoner gets food and water.ʺ ʺIs that all your mind can think of, food and drink? My, you are a spoiled boy.ʺ ʺI am the Duke of Walcott, and Iʹll see you put down for this.ʺ ʺSure, Ray, anything you say. Have me put down. Go ahead. Use all the powers of your station... What? It seems nobody is coming to help you. Will you put me down by yourself?ʺ Laughing taunted him, and he knew his social position and all his money would not buy him out of this torture.
18
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne
Chapter Two Darkness enveloped his prison when he realized his captor was back. Heʹd spent most of his time alone trying to ignore the ache in his nipples and the warmth that spread down his belly and into his cock. Raynor was ashamed and embarrassed by his body’s reaction to his bondage, and he suspected it was exactly as his seizer meant him to feel. In the background he could hear the low tones of conversation, and he strained to hear, but what he heard wasnʹt what he expected. The words were to his horse, soothing and calming, promises of green fields to run in and fresh apples everyday. It was an odd dichotomy for which he tried to find a rational explanation. He heard his captor approach. This time he cowered away and was rewarded with a strange laugh. ʺYou cower, Ray. Do I frighten you?ʺ A cup was pressed to his lips, but he let the water fall over his lips, refusing to open them. ʺSuit yourself, but your throat must be parched by now. Are you so foolish to reject an act of kindness?ʺ He drank when the cup was pressed to his lips a second time. ʺThank you,ʺ he mumbled, angry at himself for giving in so easily. ʺWas it so hard for you to thank me? Are the small gifts of kindness we share as people everyday ignored by you, or is it just that youʹve never been denied?ʺ ʺWhat do you want from me?ʺ
19
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne He got no verbal answer. Instead his captor stroked his face, his neck, and fingered his hair from his face. A black cloth moved closer toward him. He struggled to avoid the blindfold, but it was soon secured in place despite his efforts and harsh threats. ʺWhy, Ray, are you afraid of the dark?ʺ A soft chuckle surrounded him—low and throaty, sexy with a husky air. ʺIʹm not afraid of anything, including you!ʺ ʺAh, I see your arrogance is back.ʺ The paddle struck his thighs several times in rapid succession; each stung worse than the last. He twisted and tried to change the direction of his torment. ʺWhy blind me now? Iʹve already seen this place, could identify it again with ease.ʺ ʺYes, but I did it for myself. My mask grew heavy and hot. I decided you should suffer a while, not me.ʺ His captor’s hands stroked his chest and ran along his sides to his hips, then back up, each pass making the hanging stones on his nipples move just enough to remind him of their weight. Occasionally his captor held his red cheeks and pinched them. ʺBesides, I like you unaware. Unsure of what will happen next. Iʹve been very kind to you up until now, wouldnʹt you agree? No broken bones...no severe injuries...and you’re still alive. So, Iʹve not seriously harmed you?ʺ ʺNo,ʺ he bit out, hating to answer the lunatic. ʺThen you understand how much worse this could be, could still get?ʺ ʺYes,ʺ he said. But he didnʹt add he would never forget that voice. Once the mask was removed, the garbled voice became clearer, and he strained to hear each word, each tone and inflection, committing it to memory, so when he found it again he could retaliate. Warm hands continued to stroke him, to touch him all over in a kind of strange tantalizing way. His body wanted to respond to the touch, and only the idea of it being a man who stroked him so intimately kept him from allowing the touch to affect him.
20
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺYour third visit, how old were you?ʺ Raynor had known the questions would come, more interrogation, and he wasnʹt happy about any projected outcome. ʺJust twenty four.ʺ ʺAnd did the maid spy on you this time?ʺ ʺNot exactly.ʺ ʺTell me what happened.ʺ The stroking continued, making his hard cock pulse inside the tight leather band. Since taking off the mask, his captor now had full rein to move around his body, coming from all sides instead of from the rear. He tried to listen for steps to predict the next assault but found it difficult with the floor being dirt. A light slap to his cock made him talk. ʺI found her hiding in the library.ʺ ʺHiding in a public room? Perhaps she wanted to borrow a book?ʺ ʺPerhaps, but not likely. What servant knows how to read?ʺ ʺSo you decided she was there to steal?ʺ ʺSomething like that.ʺ ʺIt had nothing to do with your want to have her again?ʺ He had no answer for that, but the paddle forced him to respond. ʺEveryone knew I was in the castle. I figured sheʹd come to find me. She was looking for attention.ʺ ʺThatʹs what you figured. And do you always assume any woman in a public room of the castle is asking for your attention?ʺ ʺIf she was so afraid of me, she would have hidden for the duration of my visit.ʺ Raynorʹs voice gave away his growing frustration, and he couldnʹt bite back his attitude. He was in pain, hungry, and tired. Humiliated. Aggravated at his body’s reaction to his tormentor’s touch. But he wouldnʹt go down without a fight. If he was anything, he was a fighter. No matter how his captor tried; he wouldnʹt defeat him. Better men had tried and failed. ʺI see. Tell me, what did you do to her that time?ʺ ʺNothing.ʺ The whip hit him across the shoulders, and he cursed. ʺStop that!ʺ he hissed through closed teeth. ʺIʹll tell you.ʺ
21
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺWell, go on. Iʹm listening.ʺ ʺIt would be easier to talk with you face to face.ʺ He hoped the comment would catch the man off guard, and heʹd pull off the blindfold. No such luck. ʺFor you perhaps, but I like this arrangement. I get to look at your reddened cheeks, to fondle them at will.ʺ Hands grabbed him and pinched hard, his erection pulsing at the touch. ʺI get to touch you all over and watch your muscles flex against your bonds. I get to look at that chiseled jaw and full set of lips. Itʹs a shame I canʹt look into your deep green eyes and see the flashes of anger you so openly display.ʺ Laughter began again of a softer tone and then, to his surprise, lips pressed against his—soft and gentle, only a whisper of a caress. A tongue tried to force its way between his lips, but the idea of kissing another man turned his empty stomach. Then a hand reached to his cock, fisting it several times in rapid succession. ʺSee, even your cock reacts.ʺ ʺMy cock has no brain!ʺ he shouted, spitting out the manʹs taste from his mouth. ʺMost menʹs donʹt, Iʹve been informed.ʺ The laugh was low and throaty...almost feminine. Caught off guard, he wondered not for the first time if his captor was a woman. The figure that had stopped him entering the grounds was small and slim. Heʹd assumed, by the clothes, it was a man, but now he wondered if a woman hadnʹt put him in this situation. Raynor groaned aloud, unsure if he was any better off. The handle of the whip lightly stroked along the thin red lines its tip left on his skin, while another hand continued to knead his sore cheeks. ʺWhat happened in the library?ʺ ʺShe wouldnʹt talk to me, tell me her name, or what she was doing there.ʺ ʺSo your reaction was to pull her over your knee once again. Is that your reaction to anyone who crosses you? You feel physical violence is the only answer?ʺ ʺI didnʹt beat her, just tapped her on the buttocks.ʺ
22
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺAnd then?ʺ ʺAnd then I threw her over my shoulder and brought her back to my room.ʺ Raynor remembered now the weight of her body balanced over his, his hand taking swats as he moved along the stairs and hallways. ʺWhere you did what with her?ʺ ʺI didnʹt rape her.ʺ ʺSo she consented?” “I...” “You what? Did you kiss her? Was she willing?ʺ ʺI didnʹt kiss her.ʺ ʺWhy?ʺ ʺShe was a stranger.ʺ ʺA stranger youʹd now met three times, each time having your urges satisfied. Why didnʹt you kiss her?ʺ He felt hot breath on his chest, on his stomach, and a wet tongue licked his belly button, causing him to again jerk at the touch. ʺCome on, Ray, why not kiss her? Donʹt you know how? Is that why you refused my kiss?ʺ ʺKissing is personal.ʺ ʺAnd you wanted no intimacy with the maid, only wanted to use her and toss her aside?ʺ ʺI donʹt kiss anyone. It breeds wants I wonʹt give into.ʺ ʺInteresting.ʺ Steady breaths bathed his belly, while gentle hands drew along his shoulders, down his chest meeting at the center, following the line of light curling hairs that led to a golden crown around his throbbing cock, still harnessed for show with the leather strap. ʺSo you fear intimacy, why?ʺ ʺIt leads to no good. I wonʹt lose my mind or heart to any woman.ʺ ʺNot even the woman you are to marry?ʺ ʺEspecially her! Sheʹs a complete stranger and will remain that way.ʺ He checked his attitude the moment he felt something brush against the tip of his cock. To his horror, pre‐cum started to ooze from him. ʺAll right. Weʹll leave that for now.ʺ
23
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺHavenʹt you had enough? Isnʹt my being strung up and humiliated enough?ʺ ʺWas it enough for you to see the maid used and tossed away like garbage? Was it enough when you paddled her in the library?ʺ ʺIt just happened. I didnʹt think about it.ʺ ʺJust like your cock; it has no mind of its own either. It just reacts before making any sane or fair judgments.ʺ Raynor groaned knowing the words were accurate. At that point in his life he had let his cock rule before his brain. ʺYou took her to your chambers, why? Surely you could have spanked her and left her in the library. Was she willing to go with you? Did you give her a choice?ʺ ʺShe was...compliant.ʺ Laughter filled the empty space, echoing back. ʺAfter sheʹd been spanked in a public room where anyone in the castle could observe and then tossed over your shoulder like a sack of potatoes and carried through the halls, you say she was compliant? What have you become, Ray? Are you compliant now?ʺ ʺShe never once struggled. How was I to know—ʺ ʺSo you felt that gave you license to...what? What happened on your third visit once you reached your chambers?ʺ ʺWhat does this matter to you? What is your stake in the matter? If youʹre not her father, who are you? Her brother?ʺ Silence again just before he felt the bite of the paddle to his backside, but he didn’t heed the warning. Not this time. ʺOr are you her, disguised as a man?ʺ There was no gasp of realization, so he didnʹt venture further. The pain from his nipple weights being lifted and dropped stopped him. ʺFrom your perspective, what happened that evening?ʺ ʺI took her to my room and...played with her for a while. I assure you, she left intact. I didnʹt put my cock inside her.ʺ ʺDidnʹt you?ʺ The paddle reminded him who was in charge, and his skin heated. ʺAll right, just stop swatting me with that thing.ʺ
24
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺTell me. You force me to use the paddle when you forget whoʹs in control.ʺ Truer words had never been said. They were both quiet for a time, and only the horseʹs movements in the background filled the space. Hands stroked his thighs and slowly worked toward his engorged balls. He spoke before the touch became painful. ʺI stripped her and bound her arms behind her back.ʺ ʺWhat did you use to bind her?ʺ ʺMy ascot...and she never said a word. She remained still and stared at me with those wide brown eyes.ʺ Raynor stiffened under his chains and tried to swing his head around. ʺDonʹt tell me the maid was mute? Is that what this is about? No, she had a voice. She cried out....ʺ ʺNo, she was not mute in the way you are thinking. Nor was she experienced in the ways of the world as you were. But she was under strict orders not to speak with you. Your wrath was the lesser of two evils. Go on. You stripped her and bound her, then what?ʺ ʺI played with her for a while.ʺ ʺIs that how you see it? Penetrating her with your fingers was just playing?ʺ ʺShe didnʹt object at the time.ʺ ʺDid you give her a chance, or was she so intimidated at having her hands bound behind her she was afraid to utter a word?ʺ He was furious, and his anger fueled his tongue. ʺI don’t know! How do you know this?ʺ There was no point in protesting the whip that whistled near him; the flick of it against his back closed his mouth. Raynor hung for a while, his nipples heavy from the hanging stones, his cock erect and pulsing at its leather confinement. A bucket of water was thrown over his head, which gave him no choice but to revive. The leather around his genitals stretched from the moisture, but he knew it would dry and tighten. ʺDid you at least prepare her?ʺ ʺWhat?ʺ
25
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺDid you make sure she was ready before you plunged your large fingers inside her vagina and anus? Did you even care or did you just have a want and got on with it?ʺ ʺShe took it—ʺ he started and realized the error of his words, reminding him not to elaborate in detail anymore. ʺYes, she took it, took your fingers into her body, while you sucked and pinched her breasts and nipples, while you pinched her already reddened bottom?ʺ ʺYes,ʺ he cried, on the verge of losing his control, tears welling in the corners of his eyes. He still didnʹt know if they were alone or if others leered in the shadows. ʺShe moistened at my touch,ʺ he all but whispered, remembering the exact second when her body caved to his will. Her nipple between his teeth, his fingers deeply embedded inside her hot body, and suddenly she was moist all around him, her body taking what was offered even if her mind didnʹt acknowledge it. ʺDid you enjoy using her?” “Yes.” He’d enjoyed her reactions to his touch. “Did you enjoy pushing your cock between her lips and feeling her suck you until you came down her throat?” “Yes.” “Was that all it was about? A new place to come?ʺ ʺNo. She never said a word, never asked me to stop. I saw the marks; I figured Lord Soeder used her and that she was taught to be compliant.ʺ ʺDid you ever stop to think the marks on her back were because she wasnʹt compliant?ʺ ʺNo,” he murmured. He hadn’t realized it then, but now he did. “If she wasnʹt Soederʹs whore, who was she?ʺ He really wanted to know. ʺWhy should it matter now, after all this time?ʺ ʺBecause itʹs why Iʹm here, isnʹt it? It’s why you’re taking revenge.ʺ ʺRevenge. Is that how you see the situation?ʺ ʺIf there is another reason, then speak up.ʺ ʺPerhaps I just enjoy inflicting pain. Maybe itʹs just the sport of it.ʺ ʺThat would make you a madman!ʺ
26
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺThen it would make you one, too. You started this when you touched her the first time. Were you a madman then? Or was it just for sport? Did it make you hard to see her submission? Did you enjoy the power your hand wielded against her flesh?ʺ ʺYes, God help me, yes.ʺ ʺThen you understand how I feel when I control you.ʺ The kidnapper ran the whip handle down his back, along his butt crack, as if to suggest... He swallowed hard. ʺItʹs not the same...ʺ ʺWhy, because I have the power now?ʺ ʺYes.ʺ “Maybe you should think about that, then. Remember your ascot?” The kidnapper slipped a cloth over his mouth and tied the gag in place. “Think about how it feels to have someone else in control and be powerless to prevent it.” There was a protracted silence.
27
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne
Chapter Three Raynor awoke to find his gag removed and soft hands rubbing something soothing into his skin along his whip marks. He was grateful for the salve, which took the sting out of his wounds. Now if only he could get the person to release him. That was the thought heʹd fallen asleep to, and that if anyone saw him, heʹd be humiliated. In the last years heʹd grown up, circumstance had forced it, and he was almost glad heʹd changed his ways. As a youth, heʹd grown up spoiled, and nobody questioned his whim. In the last two years, though, he began to realize how malicious he’d truly been. If he could go back and change all of the harm heʹd brought, he would. Knowing it was impossible, however, he resigned himself to his situation. ʺAre you ready to listen, or shall I get a larger whip?ʺ He shook his head, and the captor chuckled behind him. ʺThatʹs a good boy, Ray.ʺ Something touched his still aching cock, engorged yet denied release. ʺWhen you marry Catrina at the end of the week, I will assume youʹll treat her kindly. I will expect you to treat her as a precious being, one to be loved and protected, not paddled and used for your sole enjoyment...now that you know how it feels.ʺ He groaned and nodded his head. He couldnʹt determine how long heʹd been held captive. It didnʹt matter in the long run. Heʹd been broken in more ways than he cared to admit. Raynor promised himself and his
28
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne God if he got out of this, heʹd never take a whip to any living thing ever again. A cup was pressed to his lips. He drank deeply, not caring what the liquid was, only to realize it was a spicy wine. ʺRest for a while.ʺ He was left alone, still chained naked. Anger welled inside him, and he swore revenge if he ever found the hand that did this. After all, he was a duke, and this action had to be avenged. He knew better than to try anything now. Instead, heʹd wait his time and inflict revenge. ʺThoughtʹs of anger will hurt you in the long run, Ray.ʺ Heʹd thought he was alone but it was as if his captor could read his mind, his every thought. ʺLet us just say this was a lesson, and weʹll assume you learned it well. That youʹll never take a paddle or whip to Catrina. That youʹll think of her needs before pushing your own upon her.ʺ Raynor stilled, waiting, but for a long time nothing happened. Then he felt moisture on his cock, hot breath surrounding him, and he knew without a doubt his cock was being suckled. The strokes were quick and rapid, meant to harden him further, making the veins bulge. Then they slowed, and he almost allowed himself to relax back and accept the sweet way his member was being laved, licked with care, almost worshiped he decided, but then he remembered his situation. The lips continued to kiss him, and soon his cock was deep in his captorʹs throat, nudging its way farther, deeper until teeth bit into it, warning him to push no farther, to accept what was given. A low groan escaped his lips, but he held back instead of pushing farther, which would have been his automatic reaction. The odd dichotomy of his situation and his cock being devoured by a faceless stranger made him bold; his hips moved in search of release. It didnʹt come. Rather he was brought to the brink repeatedly and stopped, the heavy heat in his balls worsening, making them hang longer from the leather straps. It was then he wondered about the needs of his past partners. Heʹd never before considered them, only his own release.
29
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne * * * * * He awakened wondering how long heʹd been unaware. His mind had drifted, and he wondered if Lord Donald Soeder was to blame for his treatment. It wouldnʹt be that far fetched. Did the old man think heʹd gain back control of the estate after humiliating his new son‐in‐law? He still had no idea how many people had witnessed his captivity so far; that thought bothered him the most. Had there been an audience and, if so, what would they tell? Raynor would do almost anything to keep the stories of his captivity to himself. If Soeder was to blame, heʹd exact his vengeance on the man. Movement behind him had his cock stiffening once again although he felt no contact. Raynor didnʹt dare pretend to be asleep. He decided to try a different tactic and softly said, ʺThank you for taking care of my horse.ʺ He was unsure why he felt the need to thank his kidnapper, yet his voice was genuine. ʺThe horse has done nothing except have the burden to carry you on his back for the duration of his life.ʺ As if on cue the horse whinnied and stamped his hoof in apparent agreement. ʺWhat do you call him?ʺ ʺSpade.ʺ ʺBecause heʹs jet black?ʺ ʺYes, like the ace of spades.ʺ A glass was pressed to his lips, this time with fresh water, and he drank his fill. ʺTell me your impressions of Catrina.ʺ Thankful for his captor’s gentler tones and conversation, he had a new ache with which to contend. ʺIʹve never met her.ʺ ʺWhy not?ʺ Was that offense he heard in the question? ʺBecause it never mattered; my marriage arrangement is one of convenience—just a business deal. What she looks like is incidental.ʺ
30
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne “A business deal...” As if his captor wanted to put the fight back in him, the paddle lightly contacted with his thighs, the mild sting reminding him of who was in charge. Yet, his response spilled from his lips, challenging in its tone. It was nobodyʹs business. ʺI donʹt discuss business deals with anyone, and this was strictly business.ʺ He huffed as if his word on the subject were final. Their topic of discussion was surreal to Raynor, but it obviously mattered to his captor. ʺI challenge you on that, Ray. Our time is growing short; I need to know if youʹve learned anything from our time together.ʺ Hands stroked his legs and thighs, the touch—almost loving and oh so tender—just missing his cock and balls. Straying upward, they stroked his stomach, defining each muscle with a dancing finger along his sweaty skin. He closed his lips against the urge to plead for more. Still a soft groan escaped. ʺExplain the deal, Ray. Itʹs important, for more reasons than you know.ʺ ʺI wonʹt discuss this in front of strangers. Send everyone else away, let me down, and Iʹll tell you.ʺ He hoped adjusting his tone and attitude to that of a negotiator would help. He figured the paddle would tell him if he was wrong. The captor stood close by, silent for a long time. Then he heard muffled words and movement from off to one side of him. Wondering how many had been witnesses, he let his head fall forward. ʺWe’re alone, Raynor, but I can’t release you. Not yet. Tell me about the deal. Do it quickly, and this will end sooner.ʺ ʺSimple business. Lord Donald was heavily into gambling, and I wound up with his notes. When I came to foreclose on them, he made me a better offer. He said if I would promise to marry his daughter and take care of her, heʹd let me have the estate in full. Of course I had to pay off his other paltry debts and provide him with a small income to dally with, but for such an estate, the price was minimal, and a wife of convenience appealed to me at the time.ʺ ʺThat bastard!ʺ
31
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne For the first time throughout the whole ordeal, Raynor realized his captor had been taken by surprise. Again he wondered at the gender of his captor. The outburst had held more feminine pique than masculine outrage. ʺI knew he had no regard for the land, only for the money he can take from it. If this whole kidnapping was to persuade me otherwise, I fear it was to no avail. Regardless of what you do to me, Iʹll not give him back his estate or his precious, untouched daughter. For the principle behind it, if for no other reason. I can only surmise heʹs fallen deeper into debt and has tried to leverage the land a second time.ʺ ʺAre you sure of your facts, Your Grace?ʺ The voice behind him had changed, softened. He wasnʹt sure what part of his words had triggered the response, but he was grateful for it. ʺIʹm sure. I was young but not stupid. Iʹve had several men working here, since we struck the bargain, to oversee the fields and harvests.ʺ ʺWere you never curious about Catrina? If she is to be your wife...ʺ ʺIt didnʹt matter at the time. I still plan to marry her, but I’ll leave shortly thereafter. She can have the castle, and Iʹll return to Walcott. Iʹll use this place as a summer retreat to keep tongues from saying I abandoned it and her. Although, from the little information I was given, I doubt Lady Catrina will prove to be a willing partner. Donald told me she was raised in a convent and not home to be introduced. I was told sheʹd be in the convent until the wedding. Was I misinformed?ʺ A choking laugh came from beside him, a sad sound of resentment. ʺNo matter. But, just to be sure, Lord Soeder has been supported by you these last six years?ʺ ʺYes. He lives here only at my discretion.ʺ ʺTo think of all the waste, the horrible parties and excessive drinking. All for show to people who arenʹt even fond of him. Rather, they humor him because they think heʹs important.ʺ ʺYou sound disappointed in the man. Is he a relation?ʺ
32
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺNo matter, Ray. He is the least of everyoneʹs problems now. Does Catrina know of the bargain, or does she think it was a simple wedding bond?ʺ ʺI assumed her father would tell her. It wasnʹt my place to bring her into it, especially since Soeder went to such great lengths to keep her from me.ʺ He drew a deep breath and continued, his courage high and his desire to know more about his bride now overwhelming. ʺIs there something wrong with her? Is she deformed or ugly?ʺ There was a round of genuine laugher in front of him. ʺNow you want to know, when before it didn’t matter? I think I shall let you decide if you think she is ugly. After all, every man has different tastes, donʹt they?ʺ He felt lips enclose his cock, reviving its need in a most erotic way. Even though he fought the attraction, his captor’s lips loved him, cherished him in a way heʹd never known before. Then that mouth sucked him deep, the tongue swirling under his cock’s head. ʺI suppose...ʺ He let out a sensual groan even though he tried to hold it back, but how could he with his cock being touched so? Men might have different tastes in women, but such attentions would have the same affect on any man. ʺRaynor,ʺ his captor said in a breathy voice, ʺI donʹt believe Catrina knew about the money or the loans.ʺ Lips wrapped back around him, sucking, pulling, increasing his urge to come. ʺIt makes no difference. Once she is my wife Iʹll be responsible for her as I have been already in a manner of speaking for these past years.” He had trouble concentrating on his words rather than the attentions being given his body. “I just hope...my money went...to a worthwhile school.” The tantalizing pull stopped, which better enabled him to finish his thought. “And that she has been taught some manners. As a duchess, she must be able to function in society without embarrassing me.ʺ ʺYou believe money you sent paid for her schooling?ʺ ʺYes...ʺ Suddenly Raynor went limp and shook his head. ʺDon’t tell me... She never got to school, did she?ʺ ʺNo, Raynor, no convent at all.ʺ
33
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne He let out an anguished growl, the noise working its way up his throat and out of his mouth in a deep rumble. His hands fisted on the chains. It hadn’t occurred to him to ask his workmen if they’d seen or met Lady Catrina. If it had this whole situation might be different. ʺThe money is gone; it will do no good to get angry over it now. Instead, I would think your time would be better spent figuring out how to control Lord Soeder once he becomes your father‐in‐law. You might also want to see what outstanding debts heʹs collected without your knowledge.ʺ ʺWhy tell me this? Why not let me be taken further by the bastard?ʺ ʺBecause I donʹt believe you really understand just whom youʹre dealing with. Lord Soeder can be personable and polite, but he, too, has a dark side. He can be as cruel and heartless as you have been in the past. Only heʹs had more years of experience. Don’t underestimate him.ʺ ʺTell me more....ʺ ʺNo, I tire now.ʺ The wine was pressed to his lips, but he sipped, realizing the wine was tampered with, that each time he drank it, he slept. He swore to never forget the spicy tang; from now on, heʹd always know his wine was laced if it had such a taste. ʺYou never planned to be her husband in truth, did you Duke Walcott?ʺ The use of his title registered, but he chose to not draw attention to it. ʺNo, just a name to fortify my position in the area.ʺ ʺYou never intended to take her away from Soeder castle and build a life with her at Walcott? Never even considered trying to love her?ʺ ʺNo, I never planned that.ʺ ʺIs there another you love and would prefer to be with?ʺ He chuckled, his first in some time. ʺNo. I prefer to be tied to no place nor any woman. It’s too dangerous to let emotions control your life.ʺ Raynor stilled, realizing how much heʹd said and quickly added, ʺIf Catrina has a lover, I have no plans to interfere with their relationship. She can keep her admirer as long as she stays discrete.ʺ ʺYouʹve decided all of this is about her pining over losing a lover?ʺ
34
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺItʹs a possibility, is it not? There are many that have entered my mind while Iʹve hung here posed for public inspection and humiliation.ʺ ʺRest assured, Your Grace, Catrina is not my mistress in the way you imply.ʺ He was too stunned to react when the leather was carefully untied from his genitals, the relief almost making him come, yet he didnʹt. ʺPromise me one thing, Duke Walcott. Promise that you won’t retaliate against Catrina. She had no knowledge of the deal, only that she was to marry a man with whom she would spend her life. She had a dream....ʺ ʺThen sheʹs slow witted. How could she not know the man Lord Donald has become? How could—ʺ The paddle swatted his buttocks, renewing the sting. ʺShe is only guilty of being naïve and somewhat afraid of Lord Soeder.ʺ ʺShe will be wise to be fearful of me.ʺ ʺNo! Thatʹs the promise I want from you, that youʹll not retaliate physically against her.ʺ ʺWhy should I promise you that after all you have done to me?ʺ ʺJust remember, youʹve been fooled by the old man, too, you a duke and man of the world. What chance did a sheltered girl with no mother have against him?ʺ ʺAll right. You have my word. I wonʹt brand her for his sins.ʺ ʺThank you. Iʹll accept your word and trust that as a duke your reputation and honor as a gentleman is most important.ʺ ʺHow can my reputation not be sullied after this spectacle? I should consider calling off the marriage—ʺ ʺNo! If you do, Lord Donald will surely take it out on Catrina. Is that what you want? Would you have her blood on your hands?ʺ ʺWho are you to her, if not her lover or a sibling? What claim do you have to her?ʺ ʺI am none other than the person who calmed the girl you abused and then threw away three times. I didnʹt want the lady’s life to become a mirror image of the maidʹs.ʺ
35
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺI swear, I thought the servant... You are her, arenʹt you?ʺ ʺNo matter, Your Grace. Your guesses wonʹt be answered. Drink this.ʺ The tainted wine was pressed to his lips, and he swallowed it without regret, for sleep was the only time he didnʹt feel pain. ʺThe maid, she can have her freedom. I promise you,ʺ he murmured, feeling the effects of the drugged liquor. ʺCan she?ʺ ʺYes, Iʹll release her. I’ll find her and send her on with enough money to start fresh, to forget Lord Soeder ever existed.ʺ ʺItʹs a nice offer, but it wonʹt happen.ʺ ʺIt can. I am the master of Soeder estate. What I say goes. I’ll release her of any bonds and send her away. I promise never to use her again.ʺ ʺWould it be wonderful if you really meant that, and it became true.ʺ There was a wistful sigh following the words, and Raynor’s eyes grew heavy. ʺYou make me want to believe you, Raynor, but somehow I donʹt think you came here a bastard and will leave my charge as a lamb or a broken man. Youʹre too strong in your mind for that.ʺ ʺWhy was the maid whipped?ʺ His voice was low, his words slurred, hardly audible. ʺHer scars were old.ʺ ʺBecause she was available to take his anger out on, and Lord Soeder is a very angry man. Rest now, the wine will help you.ʺ
36
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne
Chapter Four Raynor awoke to daylight bright in his eyes. When he shielded them, he realized his hands were free. He struggled to clear his vision and overcome the drugging effect of the wine on his brain while he looked around him. He was outside. His back rested against a large oak tree, the leaves shielding him from most of the sun. He was dressed in his own clothing. Beside him was a sack. When he opened it, he discovered it contained bread and fruit. His horse was tethered to a nearby tree, the lead long enough for the animal to reach the river water and the large pile of oats at its disposal. He forced himself to stand, taking several staggering steps before his balance returned. Looking around him, he seemed to be alone. With tentative movements he stretched and was surprised at the absence of any serious aches and pains. How many days and nights did his captor keep him suspended? It seemed like days, but he couldn’t be certain. How many people were witnesses to it? Where the hell was he now? Discarding the many questions he couldn’t answer, he moved to check his horse, the final stiffness easing in his joints with each step he took. The animal was in even better condition than he was, and he let himself smile at the memory of his captorʹs words. It wasnʹt the beastʹs fault heʹd been chosen to carry Raynor around. That was his lot in life. He laughed aloud, something he never thought would happen again. He smoothed his palm over the horseʹs mane, whispering, ʺYou
37
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne seem no worse for the experience, Spade. Will you keep my humiliating secret?ʺ Later, after the fruit and bread settled in his empty stomach, he felt lazy and tired, as if more sleep was all he needed. He stripped and used the fresh river water to cleanse his body. Each touch to his own skin reminded him of a different lash, a different caress. He suspected his buttocks were still red, if not painful, and wondered how bad the welting from the whip had become. Wanting to avoid becoming the victim of further intimidation or threat, he forced himself from the soothing water and dressed fast and with caution. If another captor happened his way, heʹd deal with them appropriately. He checked his saddle bag, amazed to discover his pistol was still inside. Surprisingly, all his other personal items were intact. ʺSo, my kidnapper is not a thief,ʺ he said to his horse, the beast shaking his head as if he could understand. ʺIʹll walk you a while, old friend, for I fear any length of time in your saddle will only pain me. It is important I arrive at Soeder castle appearing calm and controlled. It will serve no one to allow them to think they got the better of me.ʺ After closer inspection of his surroundings, Raynor realized he was in the same location from which heʹd been taken and, with a deep breath, he headed toward the castle. He mounted Spade only when the castle came into his view, the last miles proving to be as hard on his body as expected. Each jostle of the horse beneath him jarred his muscles to a new ache. He stopped before the main entrance and was immediately welcomed by a small, nervous man whose name he remembered was Frederick. All of the fuss made over his arrival was stymied when he asked why Lord Donald didnʹt welcome him. ʺWe didnʹt know when to expect you, Your Grace,” Frederick answered. “Lord Donald said he wanted to finish up some business in town before the celebrations began.ʺ
38
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Raynor nodded. ʺTake me to my chambers, have a hot bath drawn and food sent up. And, Frederick, make sure someone sees to my horse, and send for...ʺ Raynor never faltered on the long staircase leading to his chamber. While each leg ached, he refused to allow it to show on his face. He went to the same chamber heʹd used on his previous visits and searched the space quickly and efficiently before his bath water was drawn. What surprised him was the small container of balm that someone placed beside his clothing. He opened it and found it smelled the same as the kind used on him earlier to soothe his pain. Raynor managed to get it on most of his injuries, wondering who inside the castle knew about his taking. He ate and forced himself to dress again, the clothing grating on each lash. Hours later, he strode through the library, using the room as if it were his own. He let a smile cross his lips and remembered. Heʹd talked with the men he positioned around the estate and found they managed it quite well in his absence, despite Lord Soeder. Frederick appeared with fresh brandy, and Raynor was careful of it until he was sure it wasnʹt laced. It seemed odd that even his men were reluctant to talk of Lady Catrina. None would describe her except to say she was kind and had a way with the horses. Fredrick announced, ʺLord Soeder will be back in time for dinner, Your Grace.ʺ For some reason, the man appeared nervous, but Raynor chose not to mention it, yet. ʺAnd Lady Catrina? I want to talk to her.ʺ Frederick glanced at the floor, as if the words were hard to say. ʺIʹm sorry, Your Grace. I have strict orders not to allow any contact between you and Lady Catrina for any reason until the ceremony. All of the staff has been warned.ʺ ʺI see, and do you have a reason for this?ʺ ʺThatʹs the way he wanted it.ʺ ʺAnd Catrina? Does she have no say?ʺ ʺOh, no, Your Grace.ʺ
39
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺLeave me, Frederick, but let me know when Lord Soeder returns. Show him in here immediately.ʺ ʺOf course, Your Grace.ʺ He hesitated at the doorway. The two men eyed each other before Raynor spoke. ʺWhat is it, Frederick? I prefer my staff to speak openly and skip the fuss. And the staff here is mine. To clarify, I am in charge, Frederick. Donʹt allow Donald to persuade you differently.ʺ ʺYes, Your Grace. Itʹs just that this room is off limits to anyone, to everyone.ʺ ʺAnd why is that?ʺ ʺLord Soeder uses it as his office.ʺ ʺAnd access to the books?ʺ His mind wandered back to the spying maid, so he had to ask. ʺAlso off limits... Nobody is allowed in here.ʺ ʺNot even Lady Catrina?ʺ He watched Frederick bow his head before answering. ʺNo, Your Grace, especially her. He...” “Go on.” “He caught her reading as a child and forbid her to ever enter again. There is severe punishment for anyone who breaks the rule.ʺ ʺI see. Iʹll take responsibility for being here, Frederick.ʺ ʺThank you, Your Grace.ʺ Fredrick left him alone, and Raynor got the impression the servant was relieved. Now he could say he tried to keep him out of Donaldʹs private space. The old man had probably saved himself a whipping. Raynor realized how callous his thoughts were, how easy it was to tip the whip or paddle to another when other means were available. The idea disgusted him, confused him, and a vision of himself hanging suspended made him drop onto the settee, his burning cheeks a reminder of his own wicked desires. * * * * *
40
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Raynor ate alone in the large dining hall, the meal tolerable. It mattered not to him at present. What did annoy him was that Lord Soeder had not returned as expected, but it gave him time to wonder about the spying maid heʹd caught on previous visits. Sheʹd been more afraid of Lord Soeder finding out she was in the library than she was afraid of him. The realization made him decide to run this estate to his liking, despite Lord Soeder. Hoping to catch the staff off guard, he got up and left the dining hall. Surprising everyone in the kitchens, he appeared with an empty plate in hand. He forced a smile to his lips and gave a brief bow of his head. ʺTo whom do I owe thanks for my meal?ʺ The entire group of servants froze; the normal bustling activity stopped dead. No lord of the realm ever entered the kitchens. It was unheard of. When they all started looking from one to the other, Raynor didnʹt hide his laugh. ʺIʹll take it that everyone contributed in their own way.ʺ A small murmur among them began, and he added, ʺIʹm Duke Raynor Walcott, and I am here to wed Lady Catrina.ʺ A smile perked on a chubby womanʹs lips, while another tugged her scullery cap in a nervous manner. Frederick worked his way toward the front. Raynor carefully assessed his situation. ʺFrederick, introduce everyone, will you?ʺ Frederick straightened, then he gave him a slight nod as he took the empty plate from Raynor’s hand. ʺThis is Maude, Your Grace. Sheʹs in charge of the baking.ʺ ʺHello, Maude. You make wonderful bread.ʺ She went beat red and gave him a deep curtsey. ʺThis is Thomas; heʹs in charge of the meat and fowl.ʺ ʺThomas, good to know you.ʺ The servant bowed, but didn’t speak. Before Frederick could continue, Raynor turned to the next person and, with a smile, he asked her name, commenting on her job in a
41
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne complimentary way. He continued to speak to each servant in turn, watching as each set of eyes found his, and listening to each voice. Soon, he realized the voice he remembered from his captivity didnʹt belong among this group. ʺThank you all. Itʹs been a long journey, and you have soothed my way towards the nuptials.ʺ Raynor figured heʹd see what kind of reception that got and discovered he didn’t have to wait long. Before he could turn to leave, a gray‐haired woman stepped forward. ʺLady Catrina is so lucky, Your Grace.ʺ ʺThank you, Margaret. I believe Iʹll be a lucky bridegroom.ʺ More murmurs and smiles and nods sent him on his way. The staff was starting to accept him. And he now knew one thing for sure—they all had a genuine affection for Lady Catrina. * * * * * After pacing the library into the wee hours, Raynor retired to his chamber. The habit of checking it to ensure it was empty came automatically. His bed had been turned down, but everything else seemed undisturbed. He was trying to calm his breathing, trying to find reason for everything that had happened to him, for why heʹd been hung from the rafters of some dilapidated barn—a barn he would find one day. The soft bed was most welcoming to his weary body. He slept with a strange dream of a woman, her face only hinted at through a fog, her brown hair shining in long waves around her. Her smile was small, almost timid, and he wanted to soothe her fears. She faded and returned several times during his sleep, and he awoke early the next morning with his cock hard and pulsing. One brush of the sheeting almost had him spurting off like a fountain. Her face... He knew it was his maid, the woman he’d erroneously assumed was there for his use. Would she haunt him for the rest of his days? What would she do when she saw him again? Heʹd hoped his impromptu visit with the staff would unearth her and help ease his transition into the household.
42
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne He knew now he wouldnʹt be leaving quite as soon as originally planned. No, instead, heʹd spend some time to find out just what was going on around the estate. The decision made, Raynor drifted back to sleep, an impish grin on his lips for letting his dreams take over his reality. Somehow he finally felt relieved. Another day and night passed before Lord Soeder was brought home, drunk and angry. When he stumbled in to the library, Raynor sat behind his desk, the man’s private ledgers spread before him. ʺYou have no right!ʺ he slurred. Raynor didnʹt acknowledge him. ʺFrederick, get Donald away from my sight. I donʹt want him ever walking the halls drunk again. If he canʹt control his drinking, then take it from him.ʺ There was a long silence as Frederick and Donald heard his order, the words igniting a different reaction. ʺYou canʹt do that,ʺ Donald said, indignant yet wary. ʺI already have.ʺ The hard green‐eyed look he gave Donald, as he slowly stood up, his fists planted on the desk, dared the drunken man to cross him. Obviously flustered, he said, with a nod toward the open books, ʺI can explain...ʺ ʺYes, Iʹm sure you can. But I have no patience for you now. In the morning, before the ceremony, weʹll discuss this.ʺ His tone left no room for bargaining, so Frederick stepped forward. ʺCome, Lord Soeder. Itʹs late, and you need your rest.ʺ He led the man from the room, and Raynor dropped back into the chair. He liked Frederick for staying loyal even under the embarrassing circumstances. Raynor had no plans to discuss the ledgers before the ceremony; instead, heʹd make Donald squirm until evening. He also took them with him to his chambers, to ensure they didn’t vanish before sunrise. Sleep evaded him, so he stayed before the fire in his chamber, watching its flame and trying not to remember how he’d been bound and fondled. He tried to will his cock to not harden at the idea. It all came back
43
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne to the maidʹs face, though. Her beautiful brown eyes pleading with him as he’d dominated her, taking his own pleasure. He would not bed Lady Catrina, he decided. With his wicked lusts, it would complicate the situation further. While he planned on curtailing Donaldʹs gambling and spending habits, he still didnʹt plan on taking Catrina as his wife beyond the legalities of name only. Sheʹd be free to continue any liaison she might be having, and his conscience would be clear when unwelcome changes were implemented throughout the household. He would continue to search for the brunette maid and for the voice of his captor, both high on his priority list. For appearances’ sake, heʹd continue with his plan already underway. Rising yesterday to find Donald had not returned at all, heʹd had Frederick act as guide on a more extensive tour of the castle. He wanted to inspect each room more thoroughly than he had in past visits. Each room they entered, he did a quick appraisal. From the kitchens to the cellars, he took in every detail. When they arrived in the west wing, he checked out Lord Soederʹs chambers. At the far end was the chamber heʹd stayed in and across the hall, he learned, was Lady Catrinaʹs room. Frederick didn’t offer to show him inside her chamber, and he did not push his authority. Instead, he surveyed the east wing and chose a large corner chamber with a view of the land and stable from one side, the river in the distance from the other. As he and Frederick exited the east wing, he ordered Frederick to have the room cleaned and filled with furnishings to his liking, which he chose from the unoccupied rooms. His appearance in the kitchens a second time was inconceivable, but he entered the room as if heʹd been using it all his life. As he took a cup to the table and poured cider into it, confusion rippled around him. He lifted his long leg over a bench and sat, watching the staff. ʺI understand I am different from Lord Soeder. Youʹll get used to me in time. Right now, Iʹve come to ask for your help.ʺ Low murmurs rumbled in the background, and he waited until quiet returned. ʺIʹve shown Frederick a chamber in the east wing; Iʹd like to use it as Catrinaʹs and mine. Iʹm afraid my wants are overpowering, for I hoped to have it ready to take my bride to after the nuptials tomorrow eve. Iʹd prefer our
44
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne lives to start in a place new to both of us.ʺ Again murmurs, this time of approval. ʺIʹd also like my belongings and Catrinaʹs moved there tomorrow afternoon, although Iʹd like it to be a surprise.ʺ He waited and watched faces absorb his request. ʺWeʹll clean it this day and move the furniture you requested, Your Grace,” Fredrick said. “During the reception, weʹll move Catrinaʹs things so she wonʹt know about it.ʺ ʺThank you, Frederick, and thank you all for your help.ʺ He was about to leave when Maude stepped forward and cleared her throat. ʺYour Grace... Shall we lay out a cold supper for you to enjoy at your leisure tomorrow night or would your prefer a formal meal in the dining room?ʺ Her cheeks flushed pink, and he smiled. ʺIn chambers, please. Iʹd prefer to have Lady Catrina to myself on our wedding day and skip the normal routine. Iʹm sure weʹll both be tired...ʺ He let his words drop off and winked at Maude. He left then, having established his want to take his bride to a new chamber and to be left alone with her for the evening. Even if he never touched her, the staff would assume otherwise. For all intents and purposes he knew he had to make their marriage look normal to the outside world. Like most castles and estates, what went on behind closed doors was usually anything but conventional to polite society. But he’d also learned the staff kept an estate running smoothly, and their talk of the life within its walls would become town knowledge. * * * * * The wedding was small by societyʹs standards. Heʹd opted not to have his friends travel to the farce, so only a few local gentry had been invited. The servants looked on from the hallway as the veiled bride was led in. He watched her all but glide toward him, white satin floating all around her. Her gown was simple and elegant, with a squared neckline. Her cleavage was full. Her waist narrowed in the middle, and he wondered if it was corseted in place. Her hips widened, and her height testified to long legs.
45
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Catrina was taller than heʹd expected although heʹd gone out of his way not to try and picture her, for surely heʹd be wrong and disappointed. At least her body was slim and attractive, even if he’d yet to see her face. Her hands were smooth, her fingers graceful as her hand was placed on his, but he noted she didnʹt wear the emerald engagement ring heʹd brought her on his last visit. Did it not fit? During the ceremony, the wedding band he supplied slipped easily into place on her finger. They each said one statement. ʺI do.ʺ But as Lady Catrina said her, ʺI do,ʺ something inside him tightened, his muscles coiling. They were pronounced married, and he hesitantly lifted her veils. Raynor closed his eyes for just a breath before seeing her for the first time. He held back a gasp as he took in her brown hair, styled with long curls hanging down her back. Her deep brown eyes met his, almost in defiance; he would decide later, it was a look that dared him to react in any way. Lady Catrina had clear fair skin, a slim nose, beautiful mouth with full lips, and he wet his with his tongue as he looked at her. His hands dropped to her shoulders, and he drew her to him, slowly lowering his lips over hers in a polite kiss that was expected. He drew back, saw the confusion on her face, and pulled her back for a second quick peck, after which all of the servants started to cheer and applaud. Her skin went from pink to red against her white gown, and she shuttered her eyes. A short time later, the Duke of Walcott with his new Duchess beside him smiled and thanked all for their good wishes while sipping champagne. Champagne, Raynor knew came from his pocket, as did all of the other luxuries that had been added since his last visit. But he never let on; instead he forced himself to be kind and considerate to each guest. Never letting Catrina stray from his side, he kept his arm clamped around her waist. She was nervous, kept biting her bottom lip and glancing up when, he suspected, she thought he couldnʹt see. The spectacle ended quickly after most of the guests’ curiosities were answered about the nuptials. There would be no barbaric crowd gathered to make sure the wedding was consummated as was a custom for some.
46
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Instead, heʹd take her to their chamber alone, and heʹd wait until he got her there before losing his temper. The odd thing was Catrina herself. Timid at times, smoldering at others. Heʹd glance at her and know she wished she were someplace else, yet, with others she smiled and laughed with genuine happiness. He was learning her only real friends were the staff and the gentry that enjoyed horses. Apparently he married an accomplished horsewoman. Raynorʹs cock hardened most annoyingly as he watched her, picturing her in a black riding habit, a riding crop in her gloved hand. He drew in a sharp breath as his mind altered that picture to a masked kidnapper...and a whip. Would he ever get over that, or would it haunt him forever?
47
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne
Chapter Five When the last guest left he directed both Catrina and Donald into the library. She hesitated in the doorway, almost refusing to cross the threshold until Raynorʹs arm around her waist pulled her inside. He walked her to a chair beside the fireplace and watched Donald go directly to the bar. A servant retired quickly after he lit the waiting kindling and layered heavy logs on top. And in all that time Raynor said not a word. He watched Donald serve himself several shots of bourbon in rapid succession and Catrina twist her hands in her lap, her gaze darting from one man to the other. As soon as they were alone, Donald took over. ʺWell, Raynor, you have your bride. Now, you can leave this estate and—ʺ ʺNo, Donald, I think not.ʺ There was no mistaking the hate in Donald’s eyes as Raynor approached and poured two glasses of brandy. He handed one to Catrina who hesitated to take it. ʺShe doesnʹt drink,ʺ Donald stated. ʺShe does now, if she chooses.ʺ Raynor smiled, and she accepted the glass although she didnʹt drink from it immediately. Since their exchange of vows heʹd heard her voice only a few times, low and throaty, and it made his belly heat when she laughed, the cheerful sound rather rare. All through the afternoon, he’d seen her keep watch over her shoulder, assumably to see where Donald was, before she spoke with anyone.
48
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Now, sitting in the forbidden library, he knew she waited for the axe to fall upon her. He alone knew this particular discussion was about Donald. Heʹd wait until he got her alone in their chambers before he dealt with her. Raynor sighed, realizing heʹd already lost most of his anger with her. Instead, he was softening toward her in a way he didnʹt want to investigate. ʺCatrina, why do you not wear the emerald I brought you as an engagement ring two years gone?ʺ He watched her gaze flash to his and go wide, but she made no verbal comment. Instead she glanced to Donald, her eyes shadowing. ʺDonald, the engagement emerald?ʺ ʺIt was too big for her.ʺ ʺDid you think so, Catrina?ʺ It was strange to hear himself call her by name. All afternoon heʹd made a habit of calling her his wife or the new duchess. Now, her expression softened, and he bent down before her, taking her chin between his thumb and index finger. ʺBe honest.ʺ He watched her carefully and saw a strange pleading in her eyes. ʺIʹve never seen it,ʺ she whispered. He smiled and nodded before rising, pausing to move her hand that held the brandy to her lips. ʺDonald, get the ring. Weʹll let Catrina decide.ʺ Raynor knew the ring was long gone but wanted to hear Donald say the words. He swallowed what was left in his own glass while watching Donald squirm at the bar, refilling his glass yet again. ʺItʹs gone; I sold it. Running the estate—ʺ ʺAnd the money I sent for just such expenses?ʺ ʺNot enough,ʺ Donald yelled, slamming his glass on the desk top. ʺWho do you think you are, coming in here and questioning me about my estate? Iʹll have you thrown out!ʺ The man wasnʹt prepared for Raynor to laugh, but Raynor did it, knowing it would anger him further. ʺCatrina, what were you told about our wedding arrangement?ʺ
49
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺOnly that you and father came to an agreement.ʺ ʺI see. He didnʹt tell you about the rest of the deal, about his gambling notes and...ʺ ʺStop it. That was between us. Sheʹs a mere girl, not worthy of listening to business.ʺ ʺI want my wife familiar with the running of the estate. And sheʹll know the truth today. Now, Donald. She’ll learn that you are a fraud and a drunk, a gambler and womanizer.ʺ ʺGet out. You donʹt belong here.ʺ ʺNo, Donald. Itʹs you who doesnʹt belong here. But until I talk with Catrina and decide what Iʹm to do with you, you are to stay in your chambers and not to venture out. Do you understand me?ʺ ʺYou canʹt do that!ʺ ʺI can and already have. The servants have their orders. When you leave this room, you will be taken to your chambers until I instruct them otherwise. Meals will be sent to you.ʺ He didnʹt add that all of the liquor had been taken from the room. Heʹd even watched as Frederick had removed several bottles, hidden in various places. Raynor had laughed at the collection, mentioning that Donald seemed a pack rat, storing away provisions for a rainy day. Frederick had smiled and nodded, but turned away before he could laugh. ʺI own this estate and will not be imprisoned. You overstep your authority.ʺ ʺNo, youʹve overstepped yours. Your ledgers, which weʹll discuss another day, are one piece of evidence. Your continued gambling is another. Shall I produce the new notes Iʹve covered since arriving?ʺ Raynor watched Catrina bite back a gasp at the new information and shake her head, her eyes sending him a silent apology. ʺWhat did you do with Catrinaʹs emerald?ʺ ʺI sold it.ʺ ʺTo cover gambling debts?ʺ ʺYes.ʺ Heʹd turned indignant with the bourbon on top of the champagne. ʺAnd the money I sent for her schooling at the convent? Catrina, did you go away to a convent school for the last six years?ʺ
50
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Her cheeks burned red as she shook her head no. ʺI used that money to keep the estate running.ʺ ʺBut I was also sending you a stipend to do just that. According to the ledgers—ʺ ʺDamn the ledgers! I had needs.ʺ ʺNeeds you put before your daughter?ʺ ʺShe didnʹt need fancy schooling.ʺ ʺBut I paid for it anyway.ʺ ʺThen take it out in trade with her!ʺ Catrina stood, her face red with anger and her hands tight around the brandy glass. Raynor stood beside the fireplace watching the exchange. ʺTake one step girl, and Iʹll show your new husband just how to beat you into submission.ʺ Donaldʹs eyes narrowed. Catrina stayed standing but didnʹt utter a word. Instead, she stared back at her father. ʺMake no mind of him, Catrina. He can’t harm you now. I give you my oath.ʺ She glanced at Raynor and back to her father. Raynorʹs nod had her taking her seat. Sitting tall with a wooden‐like posture, she didnʹt relax back as she had earlier. ʺDo you have any excuses for your behavior, Donald?ʺ ʺNone Iʹd give to you.ʺ ʺYet, I am the rightful owner of this estate. Arenʹt I due an answer of how you spent my funds, especially since your methods differed from my intentions?ʺ ʺJust take the girl and leave.ʺ ʺWhy would I leave an estate I own?ʺ ʺYou were to marry her and leave.ʺ By his expression and tone, it was obvious Donald didnʹt like the turn of events, and Raynor didn’t doubt Catrina knew it. ʺI never said Iʹd marry her and leave. You assumed thatʹs what would happen. Think clearly, if your drunken mind will let you, or shall I
51
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne get the documents you signed? I’m certain they can refresh your memory.ʺ ʺI jus’ ass‐shumed youʹd take her an’ go.ʺ Drink slurred his words. Raynor wondered how well it also fogged the man’s mind. ʺCatrina and I will decide when itʹs time to leave. I get the impression my new wife likes to ride. Iʹd not take her from her horses so soon.ʺ Her gaze flew to his and filled with moisture, but she didnʹt let any tears fall. ʺThose damn horses,” Donald concluded. “Thatʹs where your money went. All the feed and upkeep. They should have been sold long ago.ʺ ʺNo!ʺ Catrina stood and garnered a deep breath. ʺYou will not sell my horses or touch anything in the barn, ever. Mother left them to me, not you. I take care of them. They’re of fine breeding stock, and their fees more than cover their expenses.ʺ She drank from her glass and didnʹt let the burn trickling down her throat show. Raynor realized that she, maybe for the first time in her life, was willing to stand up for herself and her horses. They were the one thing that had any value to her, and it wasnʹt the money they brought in. She glared at her father. Raynor held back a small smile, knowing the liquor gave her courage. Raynor stood and watched Catrina come alive for the first time, realizing this was the one battle sheʹd chosen to wage against her father. He wondered how bad those battles had become. But he liked the spirit Catrina showed. Horses were her passion. Deep inside, something shifted, and he breathed in deep to push the emotion aside. ʺDuke Walcott, please donʹt sell my horses.ʺ Her voice pleaded with him, and he let out a slow smile. ʺOf course not. You seem very fond of them. Perhaps tomorrow youʹll show me your barns. You mentioned breeding stock. Do you only stud to the locals?ʺ ʺYes, father wouldnʹt let me—ʺ ʺShut up, girl.ʺ
52
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺNo, wife, continue.ʺ She was now pitted between the two men and looked from one to the other before speaking. The slow step toward Raynor made him want her all the more. Heʹd teach her to stand up for herself. It would take time, but heʹd find a way to give her confidence. Raynor reached a hand toward her, the symbolism not lost on him when she slipped her hand onto his. ʺContinue.ʺ ʺFather wouldnʹt let me travel and wouldnʹt allow others to come to us. He didnʹt want to entertain them.ʺ ʺI see. Iʹm sure we can work out something in the future.ʺ She blushed and looked down, but Raynor squeezed her fingers lightly between his. ʺEnough of this for now. We shall continue another day.ʺ He took the glass from her fingers and placed it on the mantle beside his. ʺDonald, you are excused. Iʹll call for you when Iʹm ready to discuss your fate in detail. In the mean time, donʹt harass the staff. Theyʹve been given orders they will follow.ʺ ʺHa,ʺ he exclaimed. ʺI am their lord here, and they answer to me.ʺ ʺYou were their lord, but are no longer. They are servants to the Duke and Duchess of Walcott now. They answer to Catrina and me only.ʺ Silence settled throughout the library. Raynor led Catrina from the room. They paused in the hallway as two men approached the library and waited for Donald. When they were gone from sight, Raynor turned to Frederick. ʺAll is ready as you requested, Your Grace.ʺ ʺThank you, and thank all the others for both of us. Weʹll have breakfast served in our chamber tomorrow. Iʹll ring and let you know when weʹre ready.ʺ ʺOf course, Your Grace. Good night.ʺ ʺGood night, Frederick,ʺ Catrina whispered. The old man smiled and gave her a nod. ʺI trust the estate to you for the next few days, Fred. If there are any urgent problems, let me know, but Iʹd prefer our time together not be interrupted.ʺ
53
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Catrina blushed on cue. ʺAye, Your Grace. The castle will be quiet for a few days.ʺ Frederick backed away and, when he was out of hearing distance, Catrina smiled and bit back a laugh. ʺWhat?ʺ ʺItʹs just that Iʹve never heard anyone call him Fred!ʺ ʺGet used to it.ʺ Raynor smiled back and drew her against him. ʺCome, let us rest. We have a lot to talk over.ʺ She inclined her head and walked beside him. Raynor figured she was wondering how much worse this would get.
54
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne
Chapter Six Catrina hesitated at the top of the stairs while Raynorʹs touch directed her to the east wing. He said nothing as he stopped before the corner chamber, pushing open the door to find the room just as he requested. The fire blazed, and the table was set with wine and food— enough to last them beyond the morning. The furniture had been arranged, and a massive poster bed centered the space. She paused in the doorway, looking at the room. ʺI wanted a fresh start for us,ʺ he said as he took a step closer and without thinking, slipped his arm below her buttocks and lifted her to him, taking long strides into the space before letting her to her feet. ʺIs it to your liking? Anything can be changed.ʺ ʺNo, itʹs beautiful. Iʹve never been allowed in this wing. Was all this here?ʺ She turned in small circles apparently taking in all of the luxury about her. ʺScattered over several rooms.ʺ ʺI never knew.ʺ She moved to an inlaid cabinet, her fingers running along the intricate pattern. ʺIʹm glad father didnʹt sell all this. He told me years ago he had.ʺ ʺWe have a lot to discuss, Catrina. Letʹs make ourselves comfortable, shall we?ʺ He unbuttoned his black jacket and tossed it over the back of a chair. Moving behind her, his gentle fingers took the veil from her head, bringing the coronet of flowers close to his nose, inhaling the scent. She stood wooden before him and stiffened further when his
55
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne hands ran along her shoulders and arms. ʺYou look lovely today, Catrina. Did I tell you that before?ʺ ʺNo,ʺ she managed to whisper. ʺMy error. You made a beautiful bride.ʺ ʺThank you.ʺ ʺAlthough a surprising one, I’ll admit.ʺ His hands continued to stroke her arms, and she relaxed a bit. ʺWhat would you have done if Iʹd stopped the ceremony?ʺ She spun around and stared up at him. Her brown eyes and long brown hair were so different from his sea green eyes and blond hair. His lips curled into a slow smile, and he let himself laugh. Slower still he felt her relax under his touch, saw a smile form on her lips. ʺYouʹre radiant when you smile and laugh. Iʹve seen you do it so rarely. Thatʹs the first change Iʹll make to this estate.ʺ She stilled, and he knew she feared him. And with good reason he decided. After all, theyʹd been in the company of strangers all day. He had no real choice but to save this confrontation until they were alone. ʺGo and sit by the fire, Cat. We need to talk honestly.ʺ She nodded and moved straight away. ʺCat... I like it. Does anyone else call you that?ʺ ʺNo, Your Grace.ʺ ʺNot even a lover?ʺ She blushed but didnʹt turn away. ʺCat, from now on it would be best for both of us if we could be honest with each other. Itʹs in both our best interests.ʺ ʺNo other, Your Grace.ʺ ʺDo you mind me calling you Cat?ʺ She shook her head, and he dropped the subject, pressing a glass of wine in her hand and watching as she reluctantly accepted it. ʺYou donʹt like to drink?ʺ ʺI was never allowed,ʺ she said. ʺWell, you are now, if you choose. If you donʹt like, tell me what you want.ʺ ʺIʹd like to try this,ʺ she said, slowly bringing the drink to her lips, tasting it.
56
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Raynor settled in the large wing chair opposite her and pulled open his ascot, draping it over the back of the chair, not missing Catrinaʹs eyes go wide at the sight of it. ʺI need to understand. Tell me, my spying maid, why what happened to us both, happened. Why didnʹt you even attempt to stop me?ʺ She turned red under his watchful gaze, and he leaned forward. ʺPlease, weʹre married now, and I hope to do right by both of us, but I must know the truth to make clear decisions.ʺ It was obvious she was torn between trusting him and running. ʺI wasnʹt supposed to see or talk to you. You werenʹt to know I was in the castle.ʺ She sighed. “So many times I wondered to myself how things would have been different if I had just stayed in my room, if I hadnʹt wanted just a glimpse of you.” ʺThen why spy on me?ʺ She sipped at the wine and put it aside. ʺI didnʹt start out to spy. I was curious. Father told me that you were here to make a marriage agreement, but I knew nothing of you.ʺ ʺGo on,ʺ he prompted, lifting his booted feet to the small table between them. ʺI just wanted to get a look at you, but when I saw you, I froze.ʺ ʺAnd how did you get in?ʺ ʺThere is a fake panel in the back of the closet.ʺ ʺIs there one in every chamber?ʺ ʺI donʹt know. Iʹve never been allowed to wander. I knew about that one because I used to play in there. It was my motherʹs room.ʺ That was a topic he knew he had to delve into also, but now wasnʹt the time. ʺWhy didnʹt you tell me who you were? Why let me spank you that way? It would have been so easy to just say your name.ʺ ʺBut I couldnʹt. If father found out, heʹd...ʺ ʺSo my punishment was less than his would be?ʺ ʺYes, anything was better.ʺ ʺWhat about the second time? You knew what might happen.ʺ ʺI know, and it never made sense to me, but somehow I needed to see you, to understand you. I was already ten and eight when the bargain
57
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne was struck. Father made it abundantly clear I was heading towards spinster hood and you were my only chance. For years I wondered about what Iʹd seen you doing and...ʺ Her skin flushed red, but she didnʹt turn away. Instead she sat taller and stared back at him, studying his features. ʺWhy did you let me discipline you when you could have stopped it?ʺ ʺNo, I couldnʹt.ʺ She drank her wine and steadied herself. ʺIt was like I was drawn to you, like some force had control and pulled me to you. And I was curious, so curious of what you did and how and why.ʺ ʺYou say you breed horses. You must know the mechanics of the process.ʺ ʺOf course,ʺ she said, almost a bit miffed. ʺBut you were to be my husband, and I would have to submit to you. The whole time you were away, my mind went wild wondering about you, and when you came back.ʺ ʺWere you still under Donaldʹs orders to keep hidden?ʺ ʺYes. I wasnʹt to leave my chamber at all, not even to care for the horses.ʺ ʺWhat would have happened if Iʹd mentioned to your father about the maid who spied on me in my chamber?ʺ ʺI donʹt like to think of that. Iʹd hoped by letting you...have your way...that you wouldnʹt tell him. For months afterward, I kept expecting him to call me to task for it.ʺ ʺAnd the night in the library?ʺ ʺFather had gone to town, and I knew he wouldnʹt be back until late. It was the one time I could slip inside and use his books. I never figured youʹd wander in there.ʺ Her lips tilted into a rueful smile. ʺAnd since you werenʹt allowed to be in there, again, you didnʹt identify yourself or offer any defense.ʺ ʺYour punishment would be less than his.ʺ ʺBut it wasnʹt was it?ʺ He turned away from her and shook his head. He wasnʹt prepared for her to move toward him, to take a seat on the table before him. ʺIʹm sorry. I never meant to deceive you.ʺ
58
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺIʹm sorry I hurt you, Catrina. I can tell you Iʹve grown up since then. I’ve realized might isnʹt the only way. I promise you, Iʹve stopped using maids for my pleasure, and Iʹve learned many of life’s lessons the hard way.ʺ ʺWhat happened to you, Raynor?ʺ Her voice went through him when she said his name, and he closed his eyes. ʺWould you prefer I donʹt call you by name?ʺ ʺNo, I don’t mind. Itʹs just the first time you have. And to answer your question, time and adulthood caught up with me just after my last visit. My father died.ʺ Catrina moved to the floor before his chair, taking his hand in hers. ʺIʹm so sorry, Raynor. I know what itʹs like to lose a loved one. It must have been very hard for you.ʺ He had no choice but to look down, and he instantly was transported back to his last visit. How had he not seen the panic in her eyes? Again he told himself he just didnʹt care to look at the time. Heʹd used her and tossed her aside. It wouldnʹt happen again. Raynor leaned down and pulled her onto his lap—Catrina, her expression filled with evident confusion. ʺCat, I think itʹs time we struck a bargain between us. If you can forgive me my misguided cruelties and try to forget them, I promise never to take you with force against your consent.ʺ ʺRaynor,ʺ she whispered. ʺIf only that were possible.ʺ Her arms winding around his neck, she buried her head against the great wall of his chest. She was silent against him. He pulled her closer, feeling her relax against him, his arms holding her tight. ʺTell me about your home,ʺ she said, letting one hand drop to his chest, her small fingers running along the smooth cloth of his shirt. He was a complete stranger to her, almost, and yet he sensed she felt comfortable and safe with him. A chill ran through her. He felt her shiver over him, and his cock twitched. Raynor didn’t understand how it happened, only that he held her while he told her of Walcott and the surrounding area, not so different
59
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne from her home, just two days travel from the castle. With some reluctance he let her go when she moved away, surprised she returned to fill his glass. She sat on the hearth, the flames glinting against red and blonde highlights in her long sable curls. He knew her other curls were brown too; a soft silky bed of fluff that matched her head of hair and eyebrows. His fingers itched to touch her, but she was slowly coming alive before him, almost animated when he got her talking about her horses. Night had fallen before he even noticed. ʺWill you explain something to me?ʺ she asked when there was a lull between them. ʺGo ahead. You can ask.ʺ ʺHow did you wind up with fatherʹs gambling debts?ʺ He pushed back in the chair and crossed one ankle over the other. ʺYou may not like the truth, but Iʹll answer you. I was twenty, very rich and very spoiled.ʺ He hesitated, adding, ʺAs you soon found out, I had a temper that went uncontrolled.ʺ He shook himself and began again. ʺI was playing cards with an acquaintance at my club, the stakes were high, and he only had the notes to bet with.ʺ ʺAnd you won.ʺ ʺYes. I didnʹt care about the money, but rather a chance to get my hands on land, and a lot of it. Cat, the one thing that always kept me constant while growing up was the land, what it could produce and how to use it to full advantage. I knew I wouldnʹt gain control of Walcottʹs lands until my father passed. He wasnʹt so old then, and I figured it would be many years before he died and I could inherit. Only then could I run it as I wanted to. So, when I was offered Lord Soederʹs notes, I saw a chance to own land. It was just that simple.ʺ ʺExcept my father made you bargain....ʺ ʺYes, it took some time to come to an arrangement.ʺ ʺAnd I was part of the deal.ʺ ʺYes, but I didnʹt ask for you, didnʹt know you existed. It was his stipulation to keep control of the estate a few years longer.ʺ ʺBut youʹve had your men running the fields.ʺ ʺThat was a stipulation I insisted on.ʺ
60
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺAnd now that your father has passed, you have control of Walcott land and Soeder land.ʺ ʺYes, thatʹs how it worked out.ʺ ʺIʹm sorry you were forced into this bargain. If youʹd waited...ʺ ʺThe debts had to be paid, Catrina. If not by me then by another who would play cards and gain the wagered land.ʺ ʺIʹm glad it was you, Raynor.ʺ He chuckled. ʺYou like being spanked?ʺ ʺNo! Of course not.” Her answer came quick. Too quick? She didn’t meet his gaze. “Itʹs just, well, I could have wound up in a much worse position, with a different kind of man as my husband.ʺ ʺBut all you knew of me until today was that each time I saw you, I spanked and dominated you.ʺ ʺI canʹt explain it. Somehow, all this time, I knew it would be better to be with you than to stay with father.ʺ ʺWhat would you like to happen now, Cat?ʺ Raynor watched her wander the room, eyeing each item as if it were new. ʺTell me the truth.ʺ ʺI doubt youʹll believe me. Youʹll think Iʹm daft.ʺ ʺTell me anyway.ʺ ʺI suppose, if the world were perfect, weʹd fall in love and be happy for the rest of our lives. Weʹd have a family and raise them different from how I was. That youʹd let them go to school and read, to have a love for horses or whatever they choose, and you wouldnʹt belittle them.ʺ There was a small pause before she added, ʺOr me.ʺ Raynor paced around the space, his stomach in knots. He realized just how close he was to wanting the same thing she did, but he couldnʹt let that happen. He never would let himself fall in love because it brought heartache. Knowing it was cruel, he decided to be truthful with her anyway. ʺCat, come here.ʺ He watched her all but float across toward him, stopping one pace away. ʺListen to me carefully. Iʹm going to be honest, and I’m sorry itʹs going to hurt you, but I donʹt want you pining for something that can never be.ʺ
61
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Her eyes widened, and he dropped his arms to her shoulders, holding her in front of him. ʺI will try to make you a good husband. Iʹve promised not to take you in anger or to ever beat you. Iʹll let you have your stables and travel to stud at your whim. Iʹll always take care of you, and I promise Iʹll shelter you from Lord Soeder.” Her body softened against his hands. “But, Cat, you must understand. I can never love you, will never let myself. Itʹs not you. Itʹs me and whatʹs happened in my life that youʹre unaware of. I know itʹs a disappointment to hear on your wedding night that your husband has no plans of loving his wife, but itʹs the truth.ʺ He held her in place, watching her face for any sign of what she was thinking. ʺThere is another then?ʺ she asked, apparently accepting his admission as fact. ʺNo, there is no other. Rather I refuse to allow my emotions to rule my life. Iʹve seen what it can do to people, and I donʹt want that for myself. Strangely enough, I find I donʹt want it for you either. Promise me, Cat, you wonʹt fall in love with me.ʺ Catrina turned her head to the side before saying, ʺItʹs too late, Raynor.ʺ His fingers bit into her shoulders and roused her back to his glare. ʺNo, it isnʹt. Youʹre just infatuated with me, but youʹll lose that soon enough. Everyday life will take that away.ʺ He groaned, trying to explain himself better. It struck him that until his kidnapping he never would have even talked with Catrina, rather issued orders and expected them to be carried out without question. ʺThe real world is cruel and hard. Iʹve learned you canʹt have what you want just because you expect to get it. Iʹll take care of you in every way I physically can, but I can never allow myself to love you. It would make no difference what woman stood before me; it was a hand dealt long ago. Iʹll make you a good husband, but donʹt fall in love, Cat, please donʹt. It will be a disappointment.ʺ Raynor pulled her close, her hands tightening around his waist. ʺAnything else, Cat, but not that.ʺ
62
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne He held her face before him, watching as her eyes filled. He lowered his lips to kiss the salty tears from her cheeks. And then he slid his mouth across hers, tasting her for the first time, his fingers tangling in her hair to hold her. Cat didnʹt try to get away. Instead she leaned into him and stroked his back. He froze under her touch, and she pulled away. ʺWhatʹs wrong?ʺ ʺNothing just an old injury.ʺ Her touch reminded him of the lashings, but it also made him realize he was kissing her, exploring her mouth, readying himself to take more. ʺLet me see. Maybe I can help.ʺ Her hands started to tug his shirt from his pants, but his hands stilled hers. ʺLet it go, Cat.ʺ ʺBut,ʺ she started and watched him. Something passed between them, yet neither spoke of it. ʺRaynor, if you wonʹt love me, will you at least have sex with me? I mean, isnʹt that what weʹre supposed to do? Isnʹt it your right?ʺ ʺItʹs my right, but itʹs also a decision we make together. Cat, we can have a good marriage and sex will be more than just coupling for a purpose if you have the want, but I still wonʹt fall in love with you.ʺ There was a defined silence between them, a stand off for position, but it wouldnʹt be settled right then. ʺThen I should take what you can give me.ʺ ʺYes, thatʹs right. Weʹll have fun, Cat. We can travel. The world is at our disposal. Just never ask me to say the words, never expect me to utter them in a moment of passion.ʺ ʺAnd what happens if I do, if I forget and whisper them to you?” ʺIʹll ignore you said them, for itʹs the only way.ʺ ʺA marriage without emotion seems doomed from the start.ʺ ʺItʹs better than other possibilities.ʺ
63
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne
Chapter Seven She stood at the window for a long while, watching the sky, trying to understand her new husband, and wondering what would happen next. Would he leave her here or take her with him? Turning she was surprised to find him watching her, and she blushed. There was a need building inside her, a heaviness that was new with a heat that accompanied it. Catrina stood watching him, trying to decide how to approach him. ʺIʹll sleep in another chamber if you prefer, Catrina.ʺ ʺOh, no...ʺ she said and turned when he laughed at her. ʺItʹs just Iʹm not sure what is supposed to happen next. If we arenʹt to make love...I mean I assumed youʹd want your right and...ʺ ʺDo you want me to touch you? Are you politely saying youʹd be interested in a physical relationship?ʺ She turned away, and he chuckled again. She heard him moving behind her, realized he was coming closer, and stilled when his hands dropped onto her shoulders. ʺIʹve been leery of bedding you, Cat. I wonʹt if you donʹt want it. Although itʹs a husbandʹs right, I wonʹt pressure you if youʹd prefer not.ʺ ʺOh, no, Raynor. Iʹve wondered for years what it might be like to...ʺ Catrina felt a heat rise on her skin and knew her cheeks were rosy. ʺHave you now?ʺ He said it with a slight laugh, his smile kind. ʺOh, why is it I canʹt keep my mouth shut?ʺ
64
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺIʹd prefer it to be open sometimes,ʺ he whispered, his mouth close to her ear. His fingers slowly stroked her arms, and she turned to press her breast against his hand. ʺIs that what you want, wife?ʺ Raynorʹs fingers caressed her breasts, different, gentler than the last time heʹd touched her. This was one thing he could give her, she thought, giving instead of taking. ʺIʹll stop if you tell me to.ʺ His words were almost inaudible. His lips pressed against her neck. Her nipples budded at the attention, and he sighed, taking them in his hands. ʺThis is a beautiful dress, but...take it off.ʺ ʺUnlace me, please.ʺ Her words were a hushed secret she shared with him. His fingers found the laces and ever so slowly released them, the top of the white satin falling from her shoulders. As the gown loosened, it slithered from her. His hands skimmed along her torso, capturing her breasts, taking their weight and gently kneading them. Catʹs head dropped back against his chest, and she let out a sigh. Her nipples budded harder and tighter at his attentions, and she turned in his arms, reaching to kiss him and then hesitating. Catrina knew he wouldnʹt kiss her, not the way she longed for him to. After watching his face for several seconds, she pulled herself up against him, her nipples rubbing against his shirt and hesitantly kissed his chin, his jaw, and let her tongue run along his neck. His groan gave her confidence, and she started to move against him, her hands gripping his shirt, tugging it from his trousers. ʺSettle down, Cat,ʺ Raynor told her, leaning back a bit, reaching down to pull up his shirt then pausing. ʺIʹve some scars, and I donʹt want them to scare you.ʺ ʺIʹve scars, too, Raynor.ʺ Catrina took a step back and turned. She pushed the chemise from her shoulders and let it fall, catching it at her waist, holding it for some coverage, yet letting him see the crosshatch pattern that scarred her back. ʺDamn that man!ʺ
65
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne At his outburst, she felt ashamed and struggled to cover herself. Talking too fast she began apologizing for them, promising to keep them covered. He pulled the cloth from her hands, forcing it over her hips and baring her whole back to him. He stepped closer and put his hands along her waist, tugging her back against him. ʺIʹm angry that you were beaten, Catrina, not at you or the marks themselves. I saw them once before, but you seem to have more than I recall. I’m so sorry. How old were you?ʺ She let out an anguished cry and began to sob. ʺSix the first time. It happened a short time after my mother died.ʺ ʺAnd then?ʺ ʺAround nine. He found me in the library.ʺ Raynor lifted her against him and walked toward the fireplace, gently placing her before him. He let his weight drop to the small table between the chairs and studied her in the light. His hands touched her all over, from shoulder to calf, back and front until she calmed. Only then did he lean forward to let his tongue smooth over each welted line across her back. His erection grew at the intimate touch, and she shuddered. ʺNow, look at mine and tell me, do you still want me?ʺ He pulled the shirt over his head and tossed it aside. Catrina turned to face him and pushed his shoulders back, not letting him rise from his seat. ʺI donʹt care, Raynor. Donʹt you see? I...I have no right to argue your scars, just to hope you never gain any more.ʺ Something had shifted between them in that moment, but Raynor wasnʹt sure what. It was palpable between them, yet it remained unspoken. Somehow Catrina seemed stronger, as if sheʹd gotten her will back. He sensed a renewed power within her as she moved behind him. He heard not a single gasp, no sound of surprise. Her fingers traced along each of the marks, most faint red lines, newer but none as severe as hers. ʺYour marks are fresh, Raynor.ʺ She kept smoothing her fingertips along his lines, gentle and...almost loving. He turned to look over his shoulder and saw a small smile curve her lips, an arousing light to her gaze that he found confusing, so he looked back at the fire. Her hands
66
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne then wandered around his front and over his shoulders, slipping forward to brush across his stomach. “What happened?” Raynor had his excuse prepared. Earlier in the evening heʹd known theyʹd couple, and heʹd decided then how to handle her questions. ʺThis is why I was delayed, but I’m here now. Let the past remain there.ʺ ʺIʹm sorry, Raynor, truly sorry.ʺ There was a sadness—regret?—in her voice that he found unsettling. ʺItʹs over now, Catrina. We start over, together, right now.ʺ He felt her hand squeeze his shoulder, a reassuring gesture, so he leaned back against her when her fingers moved to his nipples. ʺIs that all right?ʺ she asked, hesitant. ʺYes, itʹs wonderful,ʺ he told her. ʺMore, Cat.ʺ * * * * * Sex was sex to Raynor. In the past, it had sometimes been an act of aggressive need. At other times, pure physical pleasure, but it had always been just sex. Tonight, with Catrina under him, over him, with his cock buried deep inside her, he knew the difference. They made love, even though he refused to name it anything more than sex. It had been intimate, and it scared the hell out of him. She’d moved to kiss his mouth several times, but each time he drew back, turned away or changed their entire position. Now, she lay sleeping against his chest, his arm positioned protectively around her waist. For a long time throughout the night, he remained awake and wondered what would happen if he let himself love her, but deep fear overrode the idea. Just before sleep claimed him, heʹd talked himself into the arrangement heʹd made earlier. She could have anything she wanted, except for him to love her. And it wasnʹt about her so much as it was about what he was capable of giving. Still tired from his trip, his kidnapping, the wedding preparations, and from making love with his wife, he dozed beside her.
67
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Raynor awakened to soft whispers against his back, a trembling of her body against his. He listened to her words, a faint repeating of, ʺIʹm so sorry...ʺ He fought the urge to roll over and comfort her, to hold her against him, but he didnʹt. Instead, he feigned sleep, wondering what she regretted. Earlier, sheʹd been soft and pliant, eager to please him, and he had to force them to concentrate on her instead of him, taking a long time to suckle her breasts, using his fingers when he was sure she was moist. Heʹd kissed her nether curls, and sheʹd burst under his tongue as he touched her tip, swollen and hot. He’d suckled it further, slipping a finger inside her wet pussy, using the combination to ignite her release. When she came with a cry, he’d slipped inside her, feeling the slight barrier farther upward until he pressed deeper. Sheʹd stilled for a moment as heʹd whispered, “The pain’s over.” Catrina had taken to him naturally, letting her body react to his touch, to his words. She seemed to have no shame letting him touch her at will or kiss her anywhere. She’d peaked a second time, her pulsing tunnel grabbing at his cock, before he let go of his restraint, emptying deep inside her. By then their bodies had been slick from the exertion, yet she held onto him with the grip of a vice. Raynor knew she longed to hear words of love and wanted to say them herself, but she didnʹt. Instead she settled for his words of passion. He’d told her how special she was, how heʹd teach her many things and how theyʹd fulfill each otherʹs needs. But never once did he tell her he loved her or give her hope he might someday. Morning broke to find him awakened from his arousing dreams and stretching in the bed. He glanced around and found Catrina lying with her head by his thighs, watching his morning erection bob with each movement he made. ʺCan I touch you?ʺ ʺIf you want... You donʹt have to,ʺ he added, remembering how heʹd fucked her mouth and throat years earlier. Though he wanted to repeat the act, he’d do so only if she indicated a willingness.
68
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Her fingers touched him gently at first, but it became more firm as she gained courage. He pulsed at her touch and throbbed when her breath came close. Her lips were tentative, careful for the longest time, and Raynor wondered how he didnʹt shoot at her touch. Her mouth took his cock head, and he groaned, letting his eyes close, letting her have him. Cat was so tentative, but he made himself remain calm, letting his hips jut without any real force. Raynor was in a state of pleasured agony with Catʹs mouth around him. He almost came several times, but she seemed to instinctively pull back and wait until he regained control. What amazed him most was when she crawled up over him and lowered herself onto him. He bit his lip to keep from pushing up into her and waited while she stilled above him, shifting to take him deeper. Catʹs hips moved in a rhythmic dance over him, her breasts rising with every breath. Her hands stroked his chest, played along the line of curling blond hairs that ran from his chest down his stomach and met at the junction of his cock. She tossed her head back, her hair tickling the tops of his thighs. When Raynor pulled her hands from his skin and moved them to her breasts, her eyes shot open in surprise. ʺItʹs all right, Cat. I want to watch you touch yourself,ʺ he told her. ʺYou donʹt have to but if you donʹt mind...ʺ He released her wrists and moved to grip her hips, pulling and pushing her over him until she took his hints and moved with him, taking him into a velvet heat heʹd created inside her. He didnʹt hold back his own hand, positioning it against their joining, watching her stroke against it as he stroked her inside. With a sudden cry, she came, but he was far from finished. Raynor rolled her under him and fucked her deeply until her head was thrashing from side to side, her hands mangling the sheets under them. He reached between them, his finger just touching, flicking her bud, and she lost control a second time. A stronger climax, he realized from the inner movements she made. Her body sucked him deeper in a vice‐like grip that milked him several times until his cum emptied within her. Exhausted, he dropped beside her and waited until both their breathing had become more normal, and then he pulled her against him.
69
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺGood morning, Cat,ʺ he whispered, his lips to her forehead. ʺGood morning, Raynor.ʺ ʺThe name suits you. I think Iʹll continue to call you Cat. You writhe under me like a feline in heat. And you have such a sweet pussy, your taste and smell. Youʹre so tight against me. Yes, Iʹll call you Cat. Anyone else will think its short for Catrina, but every time I use it, youʹll know Iʹm thinking about fucking you.ʺ ʺSay it again, Raynor.ʺ ʺCat,ʺ he whispered his voice almost a purr in itself. ʺDoes that mean we can do this again?ʺ He chuckled. ʺYes, but later. I donʹt want you sore tonight. Besides, you promised to show me your horses today.ʺ He knew that would brighten her up, and it did. She pulled the cord for breakfast and wandered from cabinet to cabinet trying to find her riding clothes. Half way through their meal and still partially dressed, she paused. ʺRaynor, are you sure? If your back still hurts we could stay in bed.ʺ If she hadnʹt licked her lips or turned pink at her own words, he would have let it go. Instead, he tackled her to the bed, teasing her about her wanton ways. * * * * * Heʹd been right about how sheʹd look in a riding costume, tall and lean, the black a foil for her fair skin. She rode her favorite chestnut, Sadie, and he rode Spade. Their tour was a leisure one. He watched her expression as she surveyed the land around her, pride straightening her posture. They didnʹt talk much, rather let the horses wander toward the far northwest corner of the property. Then they guided them southward. From there they would follow the property line, eventually planning to head east, north, and west again until the estate castle came back into view. He saw several abandoned buildings but nothing that looked familiar. Raynor had entered the estate from the north and kept a watchful
70
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne eye but saw nothing that would lead him to believe heʹd been held on Soeder land. As they rode, he talked about the crops being raised, and she told him about her horses. It was the only time he saw a true, unguarded emotion from her. Sheʹd been kind and gracious, naïve at times and bold a few others. She was quick to laugh and converse with those she was comfortable with and knew instinctively when to remain shy. Heʹd watched her ire come forward when Donald mentioned her horses and sheʹd come to their defense. And last night, sheʹd succumbed to his touch, actually let herself go, trusting him enough to feel the new sensations he offered. Yes, he decided, while their union was the result of strange circumstances to say the least, Cat would make him a good wife. They stopped near the river to water the horses. He chose the spot because it was where heʹd encountered his kidnapper. His revolver was in his saddle bag just in case, but nobody was in sight. There they snacked on a lunch Frederick had readied for them and relaxed under the same tree he awoke under just days before. Cat never let on she was uncomfortable or nervous. Instead, she was relaxed and fluid, her motions calm, her voice soft. So, he questioned her further about the estate, not surprised by her answers. ʺTell me about the land, Cat. You said your mother left you the horses?ʺ ʺYes, they were her legacy to me. She died when I was six, but Iʹd already been riding for two years and followed her every step in the barns each day. They were the one thing I had left of her and the only time father would let me out of the house. I continued to tend the horses as I grew older. He said it saved on hiring another groom. When I was ten I started to learn the business side of breeding then the practical. Father didnʹt care what I did at the barns as long as I wasnʹt interrupting him. So, they became my life.ʺ ʺWhat took her from you?ʺ He pulled a blade of grass from the earth and chewed it while watching Catrina. Raynor lay on his belly, while she was stretched on her side, her head propped on her hand.
71
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺI donʹt know. She wasnʹt sick. Just one day, I was told she was gone. I was six and couldnʹt understand anything about death, except that I wanted her back so much.ʺ ʺAnd you still donʹt know?ʺ Raynor knew that would be one of the first things he found out before implementing his ideas about Donald. ʺNo. I learned not to ask.ʺ ʺHe whipped you because you asked about your mother?ʺ ʺYes. She was never to be spoken of again in the house, not by anyone. I wanted to understand, but I chose a poor time to ask. Father had been drinking and...ʺ ʺDamn him to Hades,ʺ Raynor spit out. He struggled to rein in his anger so as not to upset her. Damn himself, too, he thought, because he realized he was coming to care about her too much. Heʹd have to leave soon, establish the routine so Catrina and the staff would be accustomed to his short stays, or he might not be able to leave easily. ʺHow long did his family own the land?ʺ He wanted to change the subject to bring her back from the terrible memories. ʺHis didnʹt.ʺ A simple statement. A complete surprise. He gave her a questioning look, until she drew a breath and explained. ʺMy mother was the only living descendent of Lord Kaylan. She grew older and didnʹt want to marry. She wanted nothing more than to raise and care for her horses. Grandfather knew sheʹd lose control of the estate if he passed and she was still single. So, much like my father, he arranged a marriage contract.ʺ When she hesitated, he suspected she was deciding what to tell him and how. ʺItʹs never to be spoken of, but it was with Lord Roland Soeder. Their marriage was short, however, when my real father, Roland, was killed in a riding accident. I was young, just four, too young to remember him much. Although, his image somehow stays with me, more so than my motherʹs does. His brother, Donald, married my mother a year later. Thatʹs when things started to change, because their marriage wasnʹt a happy one. Iʹm
72
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne not sure why, but as far as I can remember, they never shared a chamber. I donʹt think father liked my mother running the estate. He assumed when grandfather died a short time after, heʹd take control, but that didn’t happen. My mother remained in charge. Iʹm not sure about the details. I just know what I overheard as a child, most of it from the servants.ʺ ʺSo this estate was never rightly his.ʺ ʺWell, it was Kaylan land, but as soon as mother passed he made everyone start calling it the Soeder estate.ʺ Raynor had heard rumors but never enquired further. Now he would. ʺWhy do you call him father when heʹs your stepfather?ʺ ʺI was never given a choice.ʺ ʺWhat was it like before your mother died?ʺ ʺIʹm not sure. I was young. I do remember we laughed and there was happiness about us. Friends came to visit, and my parents had parties. It changed when my real father died, and got even worse when she married Donald. After she passed, too, all that stopped.ʺ ʺIʹm sorry, Catrina. I wish youʹd had more time with her and with Roland.ʺ ʺThank you. So do I. But we canʹt change the past.ʺ She straightened, and he stilled, something about her voice, about the way she said the words. It gave him a chill and an instant erection. He needed to get away, to think. ʺCatrina, Iʹm going to have to leave for a while, two weeks maybe. Business at Walcott must be seen to.ʺ ʺI understand. You never expected to spend time here with me, did you?ʺ ʺNo, I hadnʹt. But now...ʺ ʺYes?ʺ Her eyes gave away more of her needs than she could hide, and he knew he had to hold firm or chance losing himself. ʺIʹll only be gone a short time.ʺ Raynor watched her brace her shoulders, stiffen her spine, and accept what he told her. ʺWhile Iʹm gone, I want you to do something for me.ʺ ʺOf course. What would you like?ʺ
73
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺI want you to go through each room in the castle, every attic and cellar and take a good look at whatʹs stored away. Have Frederick go with you and separate anything youʹd like to put back into the living spaces.ʺ ʺI couldnʹt. Father wouldnʹt—ʺ ʺYou can. You are now the Duchess of Walcott, residing in her soon to be summer home. I want you to bring the old place back to life, Cat. Like the furnishings I had moved into our new chamber, make the rest of the place comfortable, a place where youʹd be proud to socialize. Once we know whatʹs usable and whatʹs not, we can shop for replacements.ʺ Catrina lowered her eyes and shook her head. ʺItʹs a nice idea, Raynor, but I canʹt see father letting it happen.ʺ ʺTrust me. Heʹll have no say. And now, finding out heʹs your stepfather...ʺ He meant to leave it at that, but the scared look on her face made him continue. If easing her mind was easy enough with information, then heʹd give it. He touched her hand to get her attention. ʺCat, Donald wonʹt be here. Iʹm taking him to Walcott with me.ʺ ʺWhy?ʺ She stood and started to pace. ʺAre you that crazy to think heʹll let you take him from here? No matter what bargain youʹve struck or think you struck with him, heʹll never leave this land, even though he hates it.ʺ ʺI have another idea for his future. Taking him to Walcott and then to London is a necessity.ʺ ʺLondon?ʺ ʺYes, but I promise the next time I go, Iʹll bring you with me. Weʹll have a proper honeymoon, and youʹll be able to shop and eat in fancy restaurants.ʺ ʺThank you. That sounds nice. But, Iʹd prefer...ʺ ʺWhat would you prefer?ʺ He was surprised by her once again. Most maids he knew would bound at the chance for a trip to London, yet Catrina seemed uneasy. ʺI’d prefer that the money youʹd waste on a trip to London be put into the estate instead.ʺ She moved beside him, dropping to her knees. ʺPlease donʹt think me ungrateful. Itʹs just I see so much that needs to be done here, repairs he refused, and...ʺ She turned away, but not before he
74
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne caught a defeated look on her face. ʺIʹm sorry. Of course youʹll decide what repairs are needed.ʺ ʺLetʹs just get through the next few weeks, Cat. Life is going to change for us both in ways you never imagined.ʺ ʺAll right, Raynor, what ever you think is best.ʺ ʺWhat I think is best right now is for you to come here.ʺ A flush crept up her neck and stained her cheeks as she turned. ʺYou mean, here?ʺ ʺWhy not? We seem to be alone.ʺ ʺItʹs just not done. If father found out Iʹd—ʺ ʺYouʹre the Duchess of Walcott now. And if you are agreeable, having you in the daylight under this old tree excites me.ʺ His hand brushed his crotch, and she gave him a shy smile. ʺAre you sure?ʺ ʺCome here, Cat. Come and touch me and see if Iʹm not serious.ʺ Catrina returned to his side, her hand light and hesitant as she covered his hardened member, stroking it through his pants. Could she feel it pulse in her palm? Regardless, she needed no further invitation as she opened his pants, which pleased him. They never completely undressed, however. Instead, they moved garments out of the way, his intent to enter her too quick and urgent to wait until they were naked. Impatient and intense, he rolled her back over him, letting her ride him to completion. She dropped over his chest to regain her breathing. Raynor wasnʹt sure why he did it, or what impulse made him do it, but he found his hands slapping her buttocks. And with each light tap her pussy grasped at his deflating cock, bringing it back to life. Catrina moved above him, her eyes closed, and he watched her abandon everything but what they did together. He felt her inner muscles clasp him, milking him, contracting with each spank of his hand against her buttocks. Raynor knew heʹd come too fast and was surprised heʹd revived a second time already, but Catrina had that affect on him. She held his shirt in her hands, a death grip to keep her balance, and he noticed her rising up to meet the fall of his hand. Her eyes remained closed and her head tossed back, her hair long released from its
75
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne style. She writhed above him but hadn’t yet climaxed, so Raynor moved his other hand between them to stroke her, while still taking soft taps against her rear. At last, when he lost control and came, his hand came down stronger against her skin. Then, his fingers gripped her butt with tight squeezes, and she let out a primal scream, her climax shuddering through her to him. ʺJesus, Catrina,ʺ he managed to whisper. ʺIʹd never have imagined...ʺ She spoke no words as she melted against his chest, her breathing uneven, and her body in a total sweat from exertion. ʺThank you,ʺ she whispered against him. Somehow he knew the thanks were for more than just his fucking her. It had to do with him spanking her, a thought that made him twitch inside her once again. His large hands stroked her hips holding her to him. He knew sheʹd relaxed against him, but he didnʹt move her off him. Instead he held her, feeling his cum leak from her body over his cock, dripping onto his thighs and balls, the feeling making him want her again. He groaned. Heʹd just had her, twice, and he still wanted more. Catrina Soeder Walcott was becoming a danger to him. If he wasnʹt careful, sheʹd infiltrate his mind until he had none left. He roused her from her respite with a light kiss to her forehead, and she lifted her head toward him, her lips almost making contact with his. At the last second, he moved so that her lips touched his neck, but he couldnʹt block out hearing the disappointed groan that spilled out of her.
76
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne
Chapter Eight Catrina seemed surprised and relieved when he took her father, albeit reluctantly, with him the following morning. For Raynor, it was a long and lonely ten days before he returned, alone. He found her working the horses and watched from a distance, knowing she hadnʹt spotted him, yet. What intrigued him most was her appearance. Her hair was plated down her back, and she wore menʹs clothing and boots. He got the same sinking feeling in his belly as he had several other times. What astonished him more was her strength with the horse. Such demanding tasks could make a person hot and sweaty. Her muscles must be fatigued at the strain of the work out, but she proved powerful enough to do the job herself. Obviously in need of training, the animal fought her with every step, and yet she held strong to his reins, forcing the beast to follow her lead. Raynor sat forward on Spade and stroked his mane while he watched the training. When sheʹd returned to the barn and glanced in his direction, stopping for a slight pause, he felt an uncanny sense of déjà vu. Something about the way she stood... He saw her hand the reins to a groom and pull herself up onto Sadieʹs bare back, her heels prodding the horse to move toward him, faster and faster until she came up beside him, breathless and with a smile heʹd hoped to see. Her hair had come loose from her braid, and her clothing was less than feminine, but he wanted her all the same.
77
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺYouʹre home.ʺ She moved Sadie closer to Spade and reached across to her husband, not without some hesitation. ʺI mean, youʹre back,ʺ she corrected. ʺIʹm so happy to see you, Raynor.ʺ She watched him, cautious and uncertain, and he stared back. ʺIʹm happy to see you, too, my duchess.ʺ He laughed and pulled her from Sadieʹs back over to his lap. His lips brushed across hers before he even planned to kiss her. His tongue slid between her lips, stroking lightly, before he pulled back. Pressing his lips to her forehead, he hated that heʹd missed her so. Raynor figured Catrina would think the kiss was for any eyes watching them but she took all he offered, the intimacy that he knew was missing from their relationship. ʺIʹm afraid Iʹm not quite presentable. I wasnʹt sure when youʹd return.ʺ ʺThat sounds as if you didnʹt believe I would!ʺ ʺI hoped you would, prayed you would.ʺ She hid her face against his chest, and he laughed. ʺOh, Raynor, I so wanted to look pretty when you came home, like a true lady.ʺ ʺYou look wonderful to me, happy with your horses.ʺ He questioned her about the animal heʹd watched her work and eased her back onto Sadie. They rode to the barn and relinquished both horses. On their walk back she got the courage to ask about her father. ʺHeʹll be arriving tomorrow afternoon. With a guest,ʺ he added, waiting for her surprise. ʺCompany... Weʹre to have visitors? I must get a chamber ready—ʺ Raynor pulled her to him and dropped a kiss on her nose. ʺRelax, duchess, all will fall into place. Right now, I hunger for food and my wife. Then Iʹll explain.ʺ ʺWhatever the duke requires, I live to serve him....ʺ They both burst out laughing and were greeted at the front door by Frederick who grinned at their display of happiness. ʺWelcome back, Your Grace. You traveled well I hope?ʺ
78
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺI couldnʹt stay away any longer, Fred. See if you can have the kitchen staff prepare a snack, and weʹll dine later in the library before the fire.ʺ He glanced down at Catrina, and she nodded. ʺAlso, have a bath drawn; both of us could use a wash up.ʺ ʺRight away, Your Grace.ʺ * * * * * While Catrina thought it scandalous, she didnʹt hesitate to bathe with Raynor, their cleansing hands and cloths starting something so quick and intense that only their bodies could finish. Later, they snacked and then dozed on the bed, after which she reluctantly dressed for dinner. ʺWe could have it here, and we wouldnʹt have to get dressed.ʺ ʺThatʹs why weʹre going downstairs. Iʹm sure the staff is scandalized enough for one day,ʺ he added in a teasing tone. Settled before the fire after their evening meal, he handed her a brandy and, at last, told her of their company. It seemed a family friend of the Walcotts’ was returning with Donald tomorrow and would stay several weeks. She shot to her feet and started to pace. Raynor moved up behind her, his hands grabbing shoulders. ʺIt will be all right, Catrina. Heleneʹs not coming to inspect you or the estate. Rather...ʺ ʺRaynor, what is it?ʺ She studied him for a clue. ʺWell, sheʹs recently widowed and a very strong woman.ʺ ʺAnd you think her and father...ʺ Catrina let out a laugh, then more followed until she laughed so hard, tears rolled down her cheeks. She started to hiccup, and Raynor pressed the brandy back in her hand. ʺDrink,ʺ he said, using the pad of his thumb to wipe away her tears. ʺI never knew how easy it was to make you laugh, Cat.ʺ ʺReally, Raynor, Iʹve never met your friend Helene, but already I feel sorry for her. How could you inflict father on her and for such a long ride. By the time she gets here, sheʹll hate both of us.ʺ
79
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne He smiled. ʺSheʹs an amazing woman. Wait until you meet her. She has spirit and isnʹt afraid to show it. Like you sometimes. Only sheʹs learned confidence with years. She can handle Donald better than anyone else I can imagine.ʺ ʺBut father... What if heʹs rude and starts to drink. Sometimes he gets nasty.ʺ ʺHave no fear, duchess. Helene can handle him.ʺ ʺI hope youʹre right. Iʹd hate to make an enemy before we meet.ʺ ʺTrust me on this. It will be fine. I promise.ʺ ʺAll right. Iʹll leave it to you. What kind of arrangements will be necessary for her stay?ʺ Later that night, they lay naked in front of the fireplace in their chamber, Catrinaʹs back spooned against Raynorʹs front, her hips gently moving against him. ʺRaynor...” “Hmm?” “I have something to talk to you about,ʺ she started, and he felt her stiffen. ʺTell me,ʺ he whispered, wondering if it would be a grand confession. ʺIʹm sorry, but while you were gone, I bled. I didnʹt manage to make an heir.ʺ Her tone was defeated, and he pulled her closer. Her words tugged at his heart. ʺIs that all? You made me wonder if youʹd killed the kitchen staff!ʺ ʺBut, donʹt you want children?ʺ ʺOf course, but I didnʹt expect you to conceive in such a short time. Really, Cat, you of all people should know it takes time...and practice. It just means weʹll have to keep trying.ʺ His hand dropped to her lower curls, still moist from their earlier loving, and he slipped his finger inside her. Her hips moved against him. * * * * *
80
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne For Catrina the next two weeks were a blur. Lady Helene came as predicted and with her was her father; only not the man sheʹd known for the last years. The man that came home to Soeder estate was guarded and quiet, funny occasionally. And not drunk. Heʹd have a glass of wine with meals and a brandy afterwards, while they talked or played cards, but he never became drunk. It seemed Helene’s watchful eye didn’t temper him but rather eased his way through the days. At one point when they were alone in the dining room Catrina thought Donald might apologize to her, but he didn’t. A slight nod of his head was all she got. She accepted it for not to would be childish, and since marrying Raynor she was no longer a child. At the end of Heleneʹs stay, Catrina was actually growing to like her father, but he wasnʹt the same man. On what was supposed to be her last night there, Helene announced she and Donald had decided to marry and would live on her estate north of London. She assured Catrina theyʹd see each other often as the trip was a mere three days. They left a few days later following a quiet ceremony held in the library, their nuptials witnessed by the same gentry that witnessed Catrinaʹs and Raynorʹs. With them gone, the castle seemed empty. Helene was a large woman in all ways, but her smile was warm and her wit quick. And for whatever reason, Donald seemed to take to her. As they were standing in the entry, waving goodbye, Catrina turned to Raynor. ʺHow did you do that?ʺ ʺSimple. Heleneʹs been a family friend for years. When I tried to think of how to deal with Donald, she popped into my mind.ʺ ʺSo she was the business at Walcott?ʺ ʺThat, too, but I also took care of some other things.ʺ ʺWhat will happen when father starts drinking and gambling again?ʺ ʺHelene will deal with him. Sheʹs got more money than God and is generous with it to a point. I think they have come to terms with their arrangement.ʺ
81
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺThank you, Raynor. I was afraid you meant to send him away to a debtors’ prison or something. Oh, I didnʹt know. I was just afraid...ʺ ʺAfter all the years of how he treated you, you still feel for him?ʺ ʺI canʹt explain it. Truly, I canʹt. Itʹs like Iʹve been so angry with him for so long and then you came along, and he wasnʹt worth the trouble to think about anymore.ʺ ʺGood, I hoped the solution would please you.ʺ ʺIt does. Now, how can your wife please you?ʺ Frederick cleared his throat from behind them, and Catrina blushed.
82
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Chapter Nine Over the next several months, Raynor tried to spend at least two weeks out of four at Soeder with Catrina. Heʹd taken her to London as promised, and sheʹd been delighted. She was welcomed at Walcott estate and managed to charm his friends without trying. Yet, Raynor knew something was missing, something he just couldnʹt put his finger on. Catrina was warm and kind, funny and always receptive to his advances, but he knew something was lacking. He was watching her work one of his horses in the ring at the Walcott stables, almost afraid the beast was too much for her to handle, but heʹd been wrong. She had a way with animals that was rare and, while he sat watching, his mind finally connected the pieces. Her hand moved quickly and with a slight flick of her wrist, the whip cracked but didnʹt strike the animal. Finally, like a blinding light, it came to him and he knew. He stilled as blood engorged his cock, harder and harder until he had to shift to counter his growing discomfort. He stared at her riding boots, the black menʹs trousers she wore, and he knew he was right. Now all he had to do was decide how and when heʹd let her know he knew. He thought about the marks on his back, or the lack thereof. What heʹd assumed would be lifelong wounds had healed without scarring. Raynor had a decision to make and one he didnʹt take lightly. It would change both his and Catrinaʹs futures. And, once the bridge was crossed, they could never look back. He spent weeks trying to decide what to do and how. Then late one night, with Cat sleeping against him, he understood. He’d take her back to the Soeder estate, back to where it all began. There, their lives would change—whether for good or bad remained uncertain. He didnʹt want vengeance. Rather he understood the spark that was missing from her eyes. It took several days of careful planning to make it work, time to locate everything and get everything set, but he knew it would be worth the extra time. When he suggested it, Catrina was more than willing to ride off with him early in the morning. After all, it was nothing out of the usual as
83
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne far as she was concerned. Their rides together often took them to all corners of the estate, but this day he wanted to see the lands farther north. He sensed no hesitation from Catrina, until they neared the old tree where theyʹd made love so many months back. He tied their horses’ reins to the old branch and set out a carefully packed lunch. She was so naïve, he thought, as he filled her cup a second then a third time with wine. While she drank a glass with meals, she still wasnʹt a heavy drinker. Today, he made it seen normal for them to overindulge. He mentioned the wine was from a different region, asking her if she liked it. Pulling her against his chest, he told her to rest a while before they headed back. When she relaxed against him, he spoke. ʺCat, I want to talk to you about something important.ʺ When she normally might have been anxious or curious at such a serious statement, she now slid along his length, stretching against him. ʺWhat would you like, Raynor?ʺ she whispered, using her pelvis to move against him. He pulled her chin to him, taking her lips under his in a kiss that had her sighing, her fingers yanking on his shirt to get closer. She didnʹt question him about this strange turn of events, for which he was glad. Just last night, heʹd moved from her kiss, so when he pulled back and her eyes showed obvious confusion, he wasn’t surprised. ʺThis isnʹt about us, Cat. Itʹs about your parents.ʺ Struggling, she sat up and used his chest to prop herself up. She yawned and stretched. He kept his expression guarded. ʺRelax,ʺ he told her, tucking her against his chest once more, his arm wrapped around her in a protective embrace. ʺTell me... Please.ʺ ʺIt seems your mother and Ronald Soeder had been in love since they were young. Your mother was about ten years younger than him, though, and they met when she was just twelve. Much too young, but they connected, and they never forgot each other. Ronald had obligations to his family and business. He was a barrister as his father was and eventually married, under much duress, to a woman chosen for him. They
84
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne had no children together. I donʹt believe it was a happy marriage for him, Cat—rather forced. He paused when she yawned again. “Sorry,” she murmured. “Your mother grew up refusing to accept her fatherʹs wishes for marriage under any circumstances. She used her horses as an outlet and never seemed interested in men on a personal or sexual level. Catherine was a very strong‐willed woman, and she didnʹt let convention bind her.ʺ ʺBut—ʺ ʺHush, listen,ʺ he said before she could interrupt him. He didn’t have much more time to finish the story. ʺThat was because she was still in love...with Ronald. They met again when she was about eighteen, but he was already married. They fell in love all over again, and he started spending time down here on a friendʹs estate when he could get away. His wife didnʹt like the country, so his time here was his own. And he spent a lot of it with your mother.ʺ ʺWas I born out of wedlock?ʺ ʺNo. Be quiet, or I wonʹt tell you the rest.ʺ Catrina snuggled against him deeper, and he knew the wine was taking effect. ʺAnd, all this time, Donald Soeder had also loved Catherine. Only she was in love with his older brother. Starting to understand?ʺ Catrina nodded against him. ʺWhen she was twenty eight, Rolandʹs wife traveled to Spain and was killed in an accident. Iʹm still not sure what happened, but she died.ʺ ʺAnd that left him free to marry mother?ʺ ʺYes. They married and produced you.ʺ Raynor glanced at his young wife nestled against him and couldnʹt believe the strong feelings running through him. He pushed them aside to finish his tale. ʺUnfortunately, Ronald died seven years later after a fall from a horse. With him gone and your grandfather not expected to last much longer, a second marriage was quickly arranged, this time to Donald. It was supposed to be for appearances, and they all agreed. However, once
85
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne they were married, Donald wanted Catherine as his real wife. He started to drink when he realized sheʹd never come to love him.ʺ ʺItʹs all so sad, isnʹt it? My parents waited so long to be together and yet had a short time together.ʺ ʺYes, but from the information I gathered from servants, they were very happy during that time. There is no doubt about that, and you were a blessing they never thought to have.ʺ She fought to hide another yawn behind her hand then said, ʺHow did she die? I need to know, but Iʹm almost afraid to hear.ʺ ʺShe was sick, Cat, had been even before she married Donald. She knew but was so lost without Ronald, she didnʹt seek help. She married Donald as a last resort, with his promises to always take care of you and hold the estate in trust until you came of age and could take control.ʺ ʺI donʹt understand. Did Donald know she was ill?ʺ ʺNot until after the wedding, not until she refused to love him. That was when he started drinking heavily. I suppose getting married to a woman he loved all his life, finding out heʹd always be second choice, and then knowing the only reason she accepted him was to make sure you were taken care of—ʺ ʺI would have been better left to servants.ʺ ʺShe had no way of knowing that, Cat. Donʹt hold it against her. Catherine thought she was doing the right thing by protecting you and the estate. And apparently Donald was always kind and loving with her. The side of his personality you grew up with didnʹt emerge until she passed. I can only imagine each time Donald looked at you, he saw Catherine. Iʹm told you’re the spitting image of her. Do you remember what your mother looked like?ʺ ʺJust impressions.ʺ Tears slipped down her cheeks, but she didnʹt sob. “How sad. No wonder he hated me so.ʺ ʺIt wasnʹt you that made him angry, Catrina, just the circumstances that led him to become your guardian.ʺ ʺTied to a lost love through a child he never wanted—probably hated because I was his brotherʹs.ʺ
86
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺI donʹt know if he understood on that level, but you were a reminder of what he could never have. His drinking worsened with time. He started gambling, and the rest you know.ʺ ʺThank you for telling me. Itʹs very sad, yet I somehow feel better knowing I was truly wanted.ʺ ʺYes, you were wanted and loved by both your parents.ʺ ʺI suppose the changes we started to see of him with Helene was the Donald my mother knew.ʺ ʺI would assume so. Thereʹs one more thing, Cat, which brings us back here.ʺ Raynor wondered if sheʹd understand the underlying meaning and laughed when she didnʹt. ʺThis spot, Catrina, was your parent’s meeting place.ʺ ʺHere at this old tree?ʺ She yawned into his chest again. Knowing the reason for her struggle to stay awake, he hid his smile and kept talking. ʺFrederick told me. He’d found them before at this tree, but mainly they used the cavern under the old bridge just upstream.ʺ ʺThe cavern? That was why Donald never wanted anyone near it.ʺ ʺI assume so.ʺ When they grew quiet, Catrina began to drift off to a twilight sleep, her hand stroking his chest, an invitation to mating, but he lifted her fingers to his lips and kissed them before telling her again to rest. She slept as heʹd hoped she would. The additive to her wine was different from the one she’d once used on him. Staring down, he knew he wouldnʹt stop. He couldn’t. Too many nights heʹd awakened to find her crying beside him, whispering over and over, ʺIʹm sorry.ʺ * * * * * Catrina awoke with a headache and disoriented. Struggling to move, she soon realized the presence of her bonds. It took no more time to recognize the situation in which sheʹd been put. She was strung up between the two posts, the same posts to which heʹd been bound.
87
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺYour head will clear, Catrina, just take deep breaths.ʺ She turned her head toward the voice and knew it was Raynor. She knew he watched her from the shadows as she twisted against the chains. Her eyes went wide with panic and fear. She glanced around and saw the horses stabled behind her and knew this would get worse before it got better. ʺRaynor, whatʹs happening? Why are we here, and why am I chained?ʺ ʺA reasonable question, but I have a few of my own.ʺ ʺWell, then let me down, and weʹll talk about them.ʺ His laugh made her still. ʺNot so fast, Catrina. We need to get some things straight between us first.ʺ ʺMust I hang here to discuss them?ʺ In the back of her mind, she hoped if she played ignorant, she could bluff her way out. ʺYes.ʺ He didnʹt elaborate. Instead, he moved forward, a cup in his hand, pressing the water to her lips. Cat saw a different side of him, the dangerous look in his eye—one of retribution. Sheʹd seen it before, four times, three of them in the castle when he thought her a spying maid, and once more when he hung here himself. It seemed like a life time ago. ʺHave I displeased you somehow? Is that what this is about?ʺ ʺTo a point...ʺ He moved behind her, his hands sliding over her shoulders and down her back, pausing at her waist before slipping in front of her, down along her stomach and crotch. Repeating the path, he surprised her with his gentleness. It was no time before she relaxed back against him as far as her chains would let her. But then he slipped a blindfold over her eyes, and she shook before him. ʺRaynor, donʹt...ʺ ʺDonʹt what, Catrina? Donʹt blindfold you? Donʹt take the whip to you?ʺ ʺPlease, I donʹt understand.ʺ
88
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺYes, I think you do.ʺ He again began to touch her. With her eyes covered, however, each touch was a surprise. ʺDid you think I wouldnʹt find out, wouldnʹt piece it all together?ʺ She had no answer to that, and he slapped her butt with his hand. She could envision him smiling as she struggled to move out of its path. ʺReally, Catrina, itʹs nothing more than my hand. That didnʹt hurt much, did it? Maybe just stung a bit?ʺ He let out a cynical laugh, adding, ʺItʹs not as if I struck bare skin with a whip.ʺ She groaned aloud as she felt him tearing her bodice open, exposing her. She tried not to jolt when he touched her naked skin, when his fingers stroked along her breasts, when his mouth pulled on each of her hardened nipples. Catrina knew heʹd show no mercy and why should he? She shuddered when she remembered what sheʹd done to him and wondered what he had in mind. Her thoughts were overruled by her body, now pushing against his mouth, trying to force her breast farther between his lips. She gasped when his hand cupped her, his fingers forcing the material of her riding habit between her pussy lips, separating them. Her body betrayed her, moistened at his touch, longed for more. And then he was gone and so was his touch. After a while she called out to him, but got no answer. She had no idea if it had been five minutes or an hour before she felt his hands on her skin again, a rush of relief bolting through her. ʺRay, please let me down. Whatever you want to do to me Iʹll accept, just let me down.ʺ ʺYouʹve never called me Ray before...except here.ʺ ʺIʹm sorry. I wonʹt do it again,ʺ she said, her words little more than a rushed plea. ʺItʹs fine. Actually, I prefer it during our sessions from now on. Let us leave Raynor and Catrina outside the door. What Ray and...Rina do here is between them.ʺ ʺI donʹt understand.ʺ ʺOf course you do.ʺ She felt the paddle strike, a light swat against her buttocks, and she tried to shift away—his laugh behind her a reminder of her position.
89
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Catrina didnʹt know how long she stayed there, but couldn’t escape the knowledge that his hands and his mouth were all over her. He was careful to press a water glass to her lips on occasion and, when she thought about it, he hadnʹt hurt her yet. Visions of what she had done to him swam before her, making the situation worse. As she had tormented him, he repeatedly left her for time on end then returned to suckle her off guard. ʺIf you want to have sex, let me down,ʺ she tried and knew when he laughed it was the wrong approach. ʺIʹll take what I want, Rina, when I want it, so get used to the idea.ʺ His hands unfastened her skirts, let them slide down along her hips, down her thighs, and then tore them off her. The sound of the fabric giving way made her still, yet she moistened. Cat dropped her head to her chest, just as he had done so often, and awaited his next onslaught. The paddle, when it came, was light on her buttocks, and she knew sheʹd used much more force to make each slap sting. Smack after smack, she knew her bottom would be red and sore, yet she could feel her moisture starting to leak down her legs, giving away the inner feelings sheʹd never verbalize. His fingers touched her roughly, drawing the moisture onto them before he wiped them across her lips. Her own tongue reached out to taste herself. He groaned in front of her and repeated the process several times before plunging two fingers deep inside her. After several strokes, she came over him, wetting his hand. Then he left, along with his touch. Cat collapsed against her bonds, only to be shocked and revived when she felt liquid splash over her. She straightened in time to take the smacks of the paddle, all the while listening to him whisper that she liked what he did, that it made her wet, that he would fuck her until she couldnʹt come any more. “You’re mine now. You’ll never know another man.” He continued to spank her, fondle her, and murmur in her ear. “I alone can bring you to the release you so crave.”
90
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne All the while she writhed under the paddle and over his fingers. It was no surprise when he slipped a finger in her anus; sheʹd been prepared for the intrusion, remembering how sheʹd threatened to use the whip on him. Thankful he used his fingers and didn’t make similar threats, she relented and moved against him. His free hand squeezed her breast while he pumped both of her holes. She was so full, so stretched, and she wanted more. Somehow he knew and moved away, however, leaving her to hang for what seemed like an eternity. Unfulfilled and needy. ʺWhy did you do it, Rina? Who helped you take me? Who?ʺ ʺNobody,ʺ she said and knew her fate was sealed. His lips came down over hers, a rare but thorough kiss on the mouth. Only when he’d been bound had she kissed him. Never did he allow her to initiate a kiss. Something had definitely changed. His fingers drew along her sex and wiped more of her essence along her mouth, his tongue licking it off this time. Sounds came from inside her, unfamiliar and wanton. She wondered how this could be happening. ʺYouʹre hot, Rina. Hot to the touch, hotter than Iʹve ever seen you. Is this what you wanted all along, what you needed?ʺ She twisted over his hand when he entered her again, filling her. ʺNo,ʺ she tried, but knew it was useless when he laughed. The touch to her skin changed, and she became frightened. She felt the paddle trail down across her skin, from shoulder to ankle, and she couldnʹt move away from it. He told her how heʹd use it against her, how sheʹd be marked by him for life, and all the while she wetted more. ʺRay, please, I donʹt understand this.ʺ ʺMaybe not, Rina, but you soon will. Tell me, what made you kidnap me?ʺ His hand twisted her nipple, and she swore under her breath. ʺOh, the duchess curses.ʺ He teased her, pinching harder. ʺI never meant to hurt you.ʺ ʺDidnʹt you?ʺ He left her breast and walked around her several times, his voice fading and becoming clearer, then receding again. ʺWhat made you think you could kidnap and beat me, strip and fondle me, and not pay the consequences?ʺ
91
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺI didnʹt mean... It just got out of control.ʺ ʺOut of control? Tell me how.ʺ Resigned, she told him of her plan to intimidate him, to make him think twice before he married and used her. That was what sheʹd been afraid of—frightened that each night heʹd take her without any caring and toss her out as he had before. ʺIf Iʹd known there was tenderness inside you, Ray, I never would have... I just felt...ʺ ʺGo on, Rina. Tell me what you thought.ʺ ʺI thought if I was to be beaten for the rest of my life, I wanted to get in one night of my own. Something to hold onto...something to remember.ʺ ʺHow did you get me here? I donʹt remember.ʺ ʺWe talked, I told you I was lost, when you leaned down, I hit you over the head. It was a small rock, Raynor, just enough to knock you off Spade and allow me time to get you here. I never wanted to wound you, just to show you what my life would be like if that was how you truly were.ʺ ʺSo you decided to get your licks in before the wedding.ʺ She had no answer. His mouth returned, latched onto her nipple, and his fingers were stoking her lower lips again. ʺWhat else?” he asked. “Who else was here? Who saw what you did?ʺ ʺNobody. I was alone the whole time.ʺ The paddle hit her buttocks reminding her of its sting, and she told him again she was alone. ʺHow could you get me here and strung up, alone, not to mention back to the tree?ʺ ʺI just did. I dragged you most of the time and used ropes to heft you up over your horse’s back.ʺ ʺWho else, Catrina? Who else was a witness?ʺ ʺI swear, Raynor, I was alone. I swear on the memory of my mother.ʺ ʺYou spoke to people. I heard their movements.ʺ
92
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺAll me. I was just shuffling around, talking to Spade. I was trying to keep you disoriented.ʺ ʺNobody, Catrina? I find that too hard to believe.ʺ He watched her body heat. Only this time he knew it was with anger. ʺNobody but me. Nobody comes here. Itʹs forbidden. Father warned all the servants to keep away, that it was falling down, and not to be used. Everyone else feared his wrath and was smart enough to heed his word. I knew it was abandoned, but Iʹd come here to get away from him.ʺ Raynor left her to rest a few minutes. His approach was quiet, but she stirred when he pressed the water glass to her lips. ʺDo you hurt, Rina? Are your arms sore?ʺ ʺYes! Please let me down, Raynor.ʺ The paddle ran along her belly, and she quickly changed her words. ʺRay, I mean Ray, let me down, please?ʺ Another delayed silence, and he watched her face, knew her mind was working to figure him out. ʺYou wonʹt, will you? Not until youʹre ready. Even if I beg, you wonʹt let me go.ʺ Her words were a flat statement of fact, and they both knew it. “Is that what you want? To let you go... to touch you only in a bed, with the door shut and the room dark?” He brushed his hand over her red, warm buttocks. “To never make you burn? I know you like the sting of my hand. You climax at the strike of the paddle. Do you want me to stop?” She whimpered, collapsed against her bindings, and then he saw it—the subtle shake of her head. He smiled. ʺIn a while, Rina, perhaps I’ll release you, but I like you bound like this. I can have my way with you, and you have no choice but to take what I give you.ʺ He moved away to retrieve the whip from where he’d kept it hidden until now. ʺI want you to suck me, Rina, but Iʹd have to let you down, so Iʹll wait for another time.ʺ He held the whip handle up to her lips. “This will have to do instead.”
93
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne She groaned and sucked at the whip handle, taking it down her throat. He watched her every move. He pulled it from her lips and pushed it deep in her pussy. She was so wet but startled at the invasion. Slower...deeper than when he fucked her mouth with it, he used the hard leather to bring her to orgasm. The rhythmic push and pull drew something deep from inside her, drawing it to the surface. She couldn’t describe it, even if she tried, but she knew she wanted this feeling to never end. He released the whip, the leather still protruding from her pussy lips. Her inner muscles gripped it, as if refusing to let it go. She hated herself for being weak, for letting her body move and gyrate without the touch of his hand. It was his lips that tortured her now, sucking her clit while she tried to fuck herself on the whip handle. ʺGod, Rina, you have no idea how amazing you look, how hard you make me.ʺ When he moved his cock along her leg, she asked to suck it. He laughed and moved the whip inside her again, starting them over at the beginning. Rina gave herself up to him, gave him complete control of her body and soul, and hoped to one day get a small assemblage of herself back. His lips brought her to the brink repeatedly, then backed off. The paddle hit her behind. ʺOuch, stop that,ʺ she said, then realized the futility of the demand. ʺThatʹs it, Rina. Donʹt lose your spirit on me now.ʺ ʺSpirit? Is that what you want, that I should kick and scream and rant like a madwoman? Is that what it takes to make you hard, Ray?ʺ ʺAh, there. Youʹre back. Now, listen carefully, for this is important.ʺ She nodded, her sweat‐soaked body shimmering in the twilight as he cleared her hair from her face. ʺRina, from now on, when we come here, anything between us is acceptable. Iʹll never use the paddle on you in the bedroom, unless you bring it to me. But here, Iʹll take what I want, how I want, and youʹll oblige me, understand?ʺ ʺYes...Ray.ʺ
94
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺGood girl. You learn fast.ʺ He swatted her butt a few times for good measure. ʺI wonʹt use the whip against your skin, but Iʹll fuck you with it often, as well as with my cock and my fingers.ʺ ʺYes,ʺ she whispered. ʺAnd when I tell you itʹs time to visit Ray, what will you do?ʺ ʺCome here,ʺ she answered, ʺand trust you.ʺ Raynor was blown away by her candor. He was married to a very smart and strong woman. ʺThis is never discussed with anyone. Do you understand me?ʺ ʺOf course. Do you think I want anyone knowing about this?ʺ ʺI donʹt know. What I want to know is why? Why does this make you hotter than ever before? Why does this...ʺ He pushed the whip higher in her pussy for effect. ʺ...make you come over and over?ʺ ʺItʹs youʹre fault,ʺ she cried out when he filled her back side with his finger. He suspected the fullness against the whip handle in her pussy would feel different, and wondered whether she realized how she writhed at his touch. ʺWhy is it my fault? Tell me, Rina. Why is it my fault?ʺ ʺBecause I climaxed the first time you spanked me!ʺ Raynor was shocked—had never realized... ʺAnd the second time?ʺ he wanted to know. ʺYes, then, too.ʺ So, he had brought her pleasure. Had he been right to assume her compliance? ʺAnd the last time? You came with me because you wanted to, didnʹt you?ʺ ʺI didnʹt think youʹd go to the library, but once you had me, I got all...confused.ʺ ʺLust, my dear duchess, pure lust.ʺ What happened next shocked Catrina. Raynor kissed her, hard and thorough. His lips to hers started light, just a whisper of a touch then became more. Sucking her lips between his, he then offered his tongue for her to suck after battling against hers. Rina groaned, the sound more of a soft purr. She went slick under her bonds, her body taking the double fucking it had come to relish.
95
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Without prompting, as she neared coming, she sucked his tongue harder, then forced hers into his hot mouth. He sucked her hard and, with each pull of her tongue, his finger moved in her anus, moved against the leather in her pussy, and all three together pushed her over the edge. Rina let her head drop. Her mind was swooning with little, bright pinpoint lights behind her eyelids. ʺNot yet, Rina. Stay with me a bit longer,ʺ he told her and pulled his finger from her ass. She let out an involuntary cry, and he pushed it back, smiling as she settled over him. ʺYou are one hot bitch, Rina. And if I did this to you, then I accept full responsibility for what youʹve become, because it makes me hot to see you like this, to know what youʹll let me do to you.ʺ ʺOnly you,ʺ she managed, as if reinforcing their pact. ʺYes, only me.ʺ He kissed her again, and she slipped into a need building back inside her. ʺNow, tell me what you want, what it will take to make you come?ʺ ʺI donʹt know...too much already...ʺ ʺNo, it’s not, Rina.ʺ He pulled her face toward him, and she could feel his breath on her cheek. ʺWhat do you need? What will it take to make you complete?ʺ ʺI donʹt know.ʺ ʺYes, you do. I can tell because your breasts are heaving and your body is clutching at my finger. Your nipples are harder than before, and your whole body is aching for it, isn’t it? Tell me, Rina. What do you want?ʺ When she still didnʹt answer he pulled both his finger and the whip from her. Her automatic groan of disapproval made him laugh. Taking the paddle to her red butt cheeks, he gave her several swats on each side before he grabbed her hips and pushed his cock inside, fucking her pussy from behind. ʺYes, more, Ray,ʺ she managed, so he kept at her. ʺMore.ʺ She groaned. ʺGod help me, more...ʺ
96
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne Raynor pulled his cock from her pussy, dripping with her juices and, in one smooth move, rammed it deep inside her anus. Rina let out a primal scream, which became more of an encouraging moan with each thrust he took into her body. His hands held her to him, moved her the way he needed this time. ʺThatʹs it, isnʹt it? You wanted me to fuck your ass with my cock. All you had to do was ask, Rina.ʺ His lips licked her neck, sucked her earlobe, and sent shivers through her whole body and into his. With each backward pull sheʹd draw a breath, and with each inward push sheʹd expel it, taking his invasion into her body, using the chains to brace for him. ʺRay, make me come. Please...ʺ Raynor stood behind her and fucked her quicker, forgetting to be gentle and kind. Instead, using her as a vessel, he took from her what would make him complete. He reached around, slipping a finger in her pussy, and she came with a second primal scream that filled the night around them. He could hold back no longer, his cock pumping his cum deep inside her. Heated by his own release, he continued to stroke her gently and, with his finger still inside, he felt her tighten then pulse once more— lighter than before, almost like a last wish as she collapsed before him, the chains alone holding her upright. ʺI love you, Raynor. I have since I first saw you and watched you stroke your cock....ʺ Her words trailed off, and he decided she had enough. He took the cloth from her eyes but she didn’t open them. He was careful how he let her down, taking her weight over his shoulder and carrying her to the far corner where heʹd draped an old blanket over some hay. She stirred beside him but didnʹt wake for almost an hour. * * * * * Slowly, Catrina became aware and would have jolted if his hands hadnʹt stilled her against him. ʺRelax. Youʹre safe.ʺ
97
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺRay. Oh, God, what have I done to us? What have we become?ʺ ʺWeʹve become a better version of what we each might have been alone. I canʹt explain it and donʹt want to try. All I know is that when you trust me itʹs the most erotic thing thatʹs ever happened to me. And I canʹt not touch you, suck you, and fuck you. Do you know how beautiful you looked?ʺ ʺI canʹt picture it, donʹt want to. Itʹs to bewildering to be dominated yet excited.ʺ ʺBut isnʹt that the point? The first time you had an orgasm was by my hand and now, you want more. Your body knows what it needs. You just have to let your mind accept it.ʺ ʺWhat are we going to do?ʺ ʺItʹs simple, my love.ʺ She didnʹt gasp at his words, but she stilled the hand stroking his chest when their meaning became clear. ʺWhat did you say?ʺ ʺI said I have the answer, my love.ʺ He laughed wildly as she struggled from his grasp. Standing above him, she didn’t care about the way she looked—naked and sweaty with juices drying on her thighs, both hers and his. She had the temper of a wild cat, which he’d soon learn. ʺHow dare you call me that? After everything you said on our wedding day.ʺ ʺI was wrong,ʺ he said. She froze as she tried to absorb his words...and not become distracted by his erection. ʺI was wrong. There Iʹve said it again. I was wrong to think I could stop myself from loving you, from falling in love with you, no matter how hard I tried not to.” He propped himself up on one forearm. “But I was weak, Catrina. One look from those brown eyes and a few movements of your hips, and I was lost.ʺ ʺWhy now? Why tell me now and most of all, please, Raynor, tell me why you hated the idea of loving me. Don’t deny it. I could see it in your eyes. You loathed the idea.ʺ
98
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺI told you when we got married, my life changed after my last visit. My father died, Catrina. It left me hollow inside, made me face realities that Iʹd refused to acknowledge.” He sat up, took her hand, and pulled her down to kneel at his side. “He took his own life. Iʹve never told anyone the truth, only you. Everyone else thinks it was an accident—that he was cleaning his hunting rifle—but thatʹs a lie. He took his own life, because he became despondent about losing his lover.ʺ ʺYour mother?ʺ ʺNo. My mother died in childbirth when I was five, along with the baby. Heʹd been involved with Constance, our housekeeper from the time they met. I was about ten when she came to run the house. She was sick for a long time. She suffered, Cat, and it was horrible for her and him. Having to watch her everyday lose a bit more of herself... She did love my father, and he loved her. He took to his own gun less than a year after she passed away.ʺ ʺAnd youʹre afraid if you let yourself love me or any woman, you might do the same thing?ʺ ʺI have to believe Iʹm stronger than him because I have no choice anymore. I canʹt fight you day in and day out. Even leaving you for weeks at a time made me want you more. I have to believe weʹll have a long and healthy life together. Whatever children we do have will need both their parents to guide them into adulthood.ʺ ʺWhat if something happens to one of us?ʺ ʺThen weʹll both know the other is strong enough to go on and take care of our family. That no matter how much we mourn, we wonʹt let it take away our soul.ʺ ʺI love you, Raynor. Somehow the words seem insignificant.ʺ ʺNo, Cat, they donʹt. When you say you love me, it makes me whole inside in a way I didnʹt know I lacked.ʺ * * * * * They were quiet while he fed her bread and cheese and fresh water. Raynor knew her mind was working to piece together all of the
99
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne information sheʹd been given this day. And he understood it had taken him a long time to come to terms with all of it himself. ʺIs it because of this place?ʺ She pushed her arms out wide to the sides and transitioned the move into a stretch. ʺTell me, please. Is it because of today?ʺ ʺNo. I fell in love with you the moment I pulled up your veil and saw your face, the face of my spying maid. I took one look at you, and my heart just burst. And no matter how much I tell it to stop, it doesnʹt. I left here several times, trying to get you out of my mind, but I couldnʹt. Youʹre embedded in my heart and my soul. Our bond was written years ago, although neither of us realized it.ʺ He watched her stretch a second time and added, ʺNo. You knew from the start, didnʹt you?ʺ ʺI knew that the idea of you made me weak inside, and I couldnʹt get the same feeling back until your second visit.ʺ ʺCome here,ʺ he said, reaching a hand to her. She scooted closer to him and, with a mischievous grin, she took his cock in her hand, palming it before taking it in her fist. ʺI fell in love with your cock, too, although I didnʹt understand it at the time. He burst out laughing. “But I did,” she insisted. “The size, the shape, smell and taste. I wanted more and couldnʹt have it.ʺ ʺYou can have it any time you want now. Youʹre my wife, the Duchess of Walcott. Whenever you desire, my cock will be at your disposal.ʺ She smiled and lay down beside him. ʺRay...only in this place, all right?” He knew she meant more than having access to his cock. “I donʹt want this every day of our lives. I like it when our loving is slow and gentle as well.ʺ ʺOnly on occasion, Catrina. Weʹll both know when itʹs time to run away for a day.ʺ ʺYou said I had to bring you the paddle in our room?ʺ ʺI wonʹt use it on you unless you first hand it to me—a sign of what you need.ʺ
100
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne ʺAnd will you ever hand me the paddle, Raynor?ʺ He pushed up beside her, the idea having never entered his mind. She laughed at the look he gave her and used her fingers to pull his mouth to hers. ʺNot all the time, Ray, but I will take you on occasion, just to keep us fair.ʺ ʺIs that what you think?ʺ ʺItʹs what I know. My husband will want to keep me sated and, if I ask, sometimes heʹll oblige me.ʺ Her mouth covered his, and he accepted her kiss, then took control. ʺCat, I donʹt know...ʺ he started and stared. ʺYouʹll know, Ray. I feel it deep inside. It wonʹt be as often as you take me, but I will feel the strength of my hand against your skin, and it will make me wet to see it redden before me. Youʹll accept the paddle from my hand because you know it will drive me even crazier to hear it contact with your skin.ʺ ʺIʹll make you a deal. Weʹll think about the paddle, but not the whip. Never the whip, Cat.ʺ ʺWeʹll see, my love. Weʹll see.ʺ Sheʹd gotten the last word in just before rolling on top of him and pushing her hardened nipple between his lips, silencing any further argument from him. The End
101
The Spying Maid by Lillith Payne
Author Bio Having been born and raised on Long Island, New York, my husband and I were both eager to leave the urban lifestyle behind us and explore our futures. With his encouragement I’m living my dream of writing romance novels full time. Our new rural setting allows us to enjoy time together and guiltless hours in my imagination indulging my other passion. When I realized my works consistently tended towards the erotic I gave myself permission to explore places I might not venture in real life.
102