I quirk an eyebrow at him."Been busy with work."
"And other things, I hear," he says with a knowing smile."Your new sub's got everyone talking."
I take a measured sip of my drink."Is that so?"
"Don't play coy.It's not like you to scoop someone up so quickly."Jax wipes down the counter."Usually takes you months of observation before you approach anyone."
He's not wrong.I've always been methodical about selecting potential submissives, preferring to watch them interact with others, understand their boundaries and desires before making any move.With Skye, I broke all my rules and took Dante’s recommendation.I hope I don't live to regret it.
"She's different," is all I say, and Jax has the good sense not to push further.
Sky’s entrance draws my attention as she walks in, wearing a simple black dress that hugs every curve of her body.Her hair falls in loose waves around her shoulders, and her eyes scan the room until they find me.The smile that lights up her face sends a jolt of desire straight through me.
I stand as she approaches, restraining myself from pulling her into my arms in full view of everyone.We don't need people talking more than they apparently already do.
"You look beautiful," I tell her, my voice low.
Her cheeks flush slightly."Thank you, Sir."
"Drink?"I offer, gesturing to the bar.
She nods, and Jax fixes her a drink without even having to be asked.
"How was your day?"she asks, her fingers brushing mine as she takes the glass from my hand.
"Productive.Though I've been distracted thinking about tonight."I let my eyes roam over her."And you?Work go well?"
"Busy.Start of the summer rush at the salon."She takes a small sip of her drink."Lots of girls are coming in for highlights before summer break."
I nod, remembering she mentioned working at a salon.There's still so much I don't know about her life outside these walls, and a part of me wants to know everything.Another part knows it's safer to maintain distance.
"Shall we head upstairs?"I ask after she's finished half her drink.
Her eyes glint with anticipation."Yes, Sir."
Placing my hand on the small of her back, I guide her through the main room toward the private elevator.I can feel the gazes following us, curiosity and speculation in equal measure.The Gage Owens they know doesn't parade his conquests.He doesn't show affection in public spaces.He certainly doesn't look at anyone the way I'm looking at Skye right now.
The elevator doors close, and we're alone.I don't waste the opportunity, pushing her against the wall and capturing her lips with mine.Her response is immediate, hungry, her hands clutching at my shirt as she presses herself against me.
"I've been thinking about you all day," I murmur against her neck, inhaling her scent, vanilla, and something uniquely her.
"Me too," she admits, her breath catching as I nip at her pulse point.
We break apart as the elevator reaches the third floor.I take her hand, leading her down the corridor to my suite.Inside, I've already prepared everything.There are fresh sheets on the bed, ropes laid out, and candles casting a warm glow across the room.
"Tonight," I tell her as I lock the door behind us, "I'm going to push your boundaries.Are you ready for that?"
She swallows, nervousness and excitement mingling in her expression."Yes, Sir."
"Undress for me.Slowly."
She immediately complies.Her movements are deliberate as she reaches behind to unzip her dress.It falls to the floor in a whisper of fabric, revealing black lace lingerie underneath.The contrast against her pale skin is breathtaking.
"All of it," I instruct, my voice thick with desire.
She maintains eye contact as she unhooks her bra, letting it slide down her arms.Her panties follow, until she stands before me completely bare, unashamed in her nakedness.
"On the bed," I command."On your back, arms above your head."