Unbound (The Braille Club #2) (15 page)

Chapter 28

The Braille Club, London, One Year On: The Stoicum Zone gave assignees and patrons the same grace period as before, fifteen minutes before movement would register, fifteen minutes of pleasure…means fifteen minutes of pain.

London 2014

Siena

Siena broke free from the kiss breathless, her body alive but her mind in free-fall. She wanted him, God she wanted him, but marriage…

Still furious that he had ended the session, she worried about his possessiveness, his need for control; they were all the bad things she associated with Nick. She thought about the installation of a temporary safe room in their rental home. She had objected to not only the expense, but the fact it felt over the top. He would not listen to her. If they didn’t have parity in their relationship, what did that mean?

He had been unmoving and stoic about her security and that of their children. However, she felt like she lived in a prison with the ever-present cameras tracking her movements and the locking windows and doors. They had a panic button in the safe room and a back-up generator should their power be compromised; she wondered where it would all end. She needed a drink and told Benedict to pour one for them both. His eyes were smouldering as he looked at her. She knew he wanted an answer, but it wasn’t going to be that easy. It was complicated, she was complicated, and he was impossible.

Guy re-entered Caligo and his slight nod told her what she needed to know. She moved closer to Benedict, her hands trailing down his back. She took her glass from him, their fingers touching. Siena sipped her drink, her body electrified when his arm snaked around her waist and drew her to him. They drained their drinks, impatient to be together, and turned to leave. Benedict employed a full-time driver for the club. Security vetted by Guy, he was the only person Benedict trusted to drive them home. The journey was excruciating; Benedict’s hand felt like a hot brand on her thigh as his thumb caressed her bare skin. Yearning ran through her, making her shift closer to him, until at last, they were home.

Both her parents had gone to bed and Siena nipped to the toilet as Benedict locked up before they quietly went upstairs. Siena stopped outside their bedroom and whispered, “I’ve got a surprise for you. Close your eyes.”

Benedict’s face made her laugh, and she signed that he should wait. She left the bedroom lights off, a nightlight enough to see by as she clicked on the baby monitor. Gazing at the sleeping twins, her heart swelled. Guiding Benedict backwards into the room she saw his face crease in puzzlement.

“You can open your eyes now but you mustn’t turn round,” she whispered.

The dim glow of the nightlight illuminated his face, his intent clear as she reached up and their lips met. Their kiss was raw and powerful, setting her alight as her hands removed his jacket before loosening his tie. Still locked together, she edged him backwards, her lust threatening to take over as she struggled to keep in control, and her legs weakened.

“Take off your trousers and boxers,” she whispered and he happily obliged. She could feel his need for her as he pressed against her but her hands remained firm on his chest. It took a herculean effort to push him away, and caught by surprise, he stumbled backwards, the chair breaking his fall. Stunned, Benedict took a moment to react.

“Siena…?” he gasped.

“Shhh, you know the rules,” she replied, putting a finger to his lips.

Those opaque blue eyes burned hotly but he did not speak. He could not move now, and this was their parity. To take control wherever, and whenever she could, otherwise they would implode. She reached to the side of the chair and removed the prototype cuffs, gasping as his hands ran up her thighs. She wanted those hands on her flesh, her core molten with longing, but good things come to those who wait, so she pulled sharply away.

Standing in front of him, the cuffs dangling from her hand, she loosened the knot of her halter neck dress. It slipped down her body to pool at her feet, revealing her naked body.

Benedict drew in his breath sharply, his mouth a startled “O.” Siena smiled; she had removed her underwear earlier in the bathroom. She walked behind him, running her fingers down his arms before clipping first one cuff, and then the other. His body trembled in response. She pressed the chair on and reached for the silken hood. Benedict shook his head, his eyes devouring her, his body taut, but she ignored him, leaning in as close as she dared to slip it over his head. She understood now they would never participate in another zone session, he simply would not share, but this was better.

Placing her hand on his shoulders, she felt the soft vibrations of the chair. She nuzzled his ear with her lips, the air suddenly charged. Thrilling sensations ran through her as her hands snaked around his shoulders and pulled off his tie, careful not to nudge his arms. Benedict was breathing heavily, his skin hot to the touch. Her lips touched his neck and he stiffened. She was still angry with him but had never wanted him more. Everything that Benedict had experienced with the chair, she now found just as frustrating. It was too low, and she had to kneel to run her hands over his chest; he twitched, his breathing loud in the silence of the room. She undid the first button on his shirt and increased the vibrations of the chair. His sharp intake of breath was audible as she moved to the next button. The vibrations became stronger and stronger as her hands moved lower and lower. She increased the intensity of the pulse every time she undid a new button.

Knowing he was close—they both were—she needed this lesson to be successful. Everything hinged on its outcome, their life together, the club…their future. She walked around to face him, every muscle straining on his body, and liked what she saw. There was only one button left to undo as she knelt in front of him and placed her hands on his knees. He groaned, biting his lip as she moved her body between his legs, their flesh connecting as he gripped her with his thighs. Her hands parted his shirt and moved over his flesh, feeling the tautness of his chest before moving her head down to kiss first one nipple and then the other. Their breathing was laboured as their bodies and minds absorbed each new sensation. Her hands reached the last button as the bells rang.

She stood up and straddled him as she pulled the hood from his face. The cuffs unlocked automatically. Their gaze locked and his hands grabbed her hips. Pulling her down, he thrust deep inside her core. Legs buckling, she gave herself to him completely. Their orgasm was fast and powerful. As they sat panting, catching their breath, the vibrations coming from the chair had their bodies tingling again. Benedict ran his hands down her back, caressing her as she leant into him. She gasped as he cupped her buttocks and pulled her in closer. Her fingers reached down the chair, searching for the button until she found it and pushed hard. The central pulse rose up in the seat, shocking them both as Benedict gasped in surprise. He hardened inside her immediately, rocking her back and forth as she felt her climax building.

The central pulse delivered new pleasures never before experienced as it pushed upwards again and again. Siena’s thighs gripped him as she absorbed each powerful thrust; their mouths locked together, their tongues entwined as their bodies suddenly shuddered and sagged. It was several more minutes before Siena located the button and shut off the chair. They stared at each other in wonder, Benedict’s hands slowly tracing along Siena’s skin before cupping her breast. Her gasp of pleasure ignited him once more. He brought his lips to her nipples, licking, teasing, and sucking the hardened buds as she bucked and moaned in response. They collapsed onto the floor and his mouth claimed her once more, their kisses savage and primal.

“I want you…marry me?” he whispered, his need for her making his arms shake as he held himself above her, looking directly into her eyes and her heart.

She melted; there was only one answer.

“Yes,” she sighed.

He entered her and her body arched in pleasure, all coherent thought gone as their bodies joined explosively.

Chapter 29

The Braille Club, London, One Year On: The Stoicum Zone would be launched later that night. It has been Guy’s project from conception to implementation. With both Benedict and Siena expressing their doubts, only his own belief gave him the courage to continue. His reward would be an unprecedented demand by Elysian members. They couldn’t get enough of this new…darker zone.

London 2014

Ford

Esme was Ford’s first thought as he opened his eyes. He lay in bed, his mind running over the events of last night before he got up and showered. He felt a bit delicate after the mini bar challenge but knew a cooked breakfast would go a long way to curing him. What a night. He reached over and picked up his phone.

Ford: U up
?

Esme: Aye.

Ford: Brekkie?

Esme: Where?

Ford: Downstairs, I’m staying in your hotel, you’ve got 10 minutes
.

Leaving his room he felt his phone buzz again and her reply made him smile.

Esme: Already downstairs, I’m starving, you’ve got 5 minutes!

Ford felt his stomach tighten as he neared the restaurant. He realised he was nervous about seeing Esme. Had she reacted to the game they had played or had she reacted to him? He wished it was the latter but his mind was full of doubts. Esme had confessed she was gay, and the truth cut like a knife. He saw her and his heart leapt, which was a bad sign. He gave her a strained smile.

“You look like shit, Ford, you’re such a lightweight.” Esme grinned.

In contrast, she looked the picture of health and Ford couldn’t help but laugh. Esme could drink anyone under the table.

“Those hollow legs of yours. Like weapons of mass destruction, Es, no mini bar is safe with you around,” he said.

“True, you have much to learn,” she said solemnly.

“Yes, master,” he replied in deference.

A waiter appeared, interrupting their conversation, and they both busied themselves with getting coffee and breakfast but shared the same table. Ford wasn’t surprised when Esme came back with a full plate. She would always eat like a horse after a boozy night.

“See you’re watching your figure,” he replied dryly as she shovelled a full Scottish breakfast into her mouth.

“Got to keep my strength up,” she sighed dramatically.

He hoped to avoid the subject of last night but Esme had other ideas.

“Well, don’t keep me in suspense. Where did you learn that routine last night?” she asked, her voice suddenly serious.

“Can’t tell you, Esme. I’d like to, but I’m sworn to secrecy,” said Ford, equally serious.

“I see,” said Esme. “Why don’t you show me then?”

Their gaze met and Ford saw the challenge in her eyes and heard the familiar edge to her voice. His heart was doing strange things within his chest. He tried to remain calm.

“Well?” she demanded.

“Es, we’d had a lot to drink last night…”

She interrupted. “Yes or no?” she demanded.

Ford’s heart hammered as hope soared inside him. He knew he should crush that feeling but found himself saying yes.

“Good,” said Esme, standing. “Right. I’ll see you later, I’ve got to get to the home to see Mum.”

“What time are you back?” said Ford, annoyed with himself. He didn’t want her to leave. She’d only been back in his life for one day and she was causing chaos with his emotions.

She considered his question. “I’ll stay there all day; probably make it back to the hotel about sixish.”

He nodded. “Do you want to have dinner?”

Esme looked surprised. “It’s not a date, Ford; it’s purely for…research purposes,” she finished lamely, sensing she had offended him.

Ford’s face hid his disappointment as he replied, “Of course it’s not a date, don’t flatter yourself.”

They both laughed, but it was forced as they parted, each preoccupied with their own thoughts. Ford remained at the table wondering why he had agreed to see Esme later. What was the point, she obviously wasn’t attracted to him. For Ford, the wait had been torture, even with the visit to his parents as a distraction. Esme had sent him a text to meet her at the bar at 7:00 p.m. He booked the restaurant for 8:00, to give them time for a drink and travel. He was uncharacteristically nervous as he sipped his cold beer, frequently checking the doorway for Esme. As if he could have missed her. She strode confidently into the room. Her short dark hair swept across her face in soft waves, the effect feminine and sexy. The stunning black dress hugged her body revealing sharp collarbones, toned arms, and the hint of cleavage. Her legs ended in elegant high heels. Ford just stared at her, completely blown away.

“What’s a girl got to do to get a drink around here,” said Esme sarcastically. “Don’t you know it’s rude to stare?” she pointed out.

Esme was dressed to kill and when Ford met her eyes, they sparkled with mischief. He had been regretting his actions of last night. Although Guy had given permission for preliminary talks with Esme, he had been unprofessional, using the game to entice her. Now he had no idea where he stood. Did Esme like him? All he knew was she wanted more details on the Braille Club; well, who wouldn’t?

“What can I get you?” he asked hastily.

“Large glass of Pinot Grigio,” she replied.

“Well, that’s some LBD, do you always travel so well prepared?”

Esme hesitated before replying. “I bought it today after I left Mum; I had nothing suitable to wear tonight,” she confessed. “Where are we dining, you didn’t say?”

“I’ve booked Rogano,” replied Ford, giving her the large chilled wine.

“Swanky, are you hoping to impress me?”

“A little,” Ford admitted.

Rogano, with its art deco interior, was the oldest surviving restaurant in Glasgow. It specialised in seafood and had enjoyed many famous patrons through its doors.

“I have a business opportunity for you if you’re interested, but it would involve confidentiality agreements,” said Ford.

“Is it connected to last night?” asked Esme.

Ford nodded and looked uncomfortable. “Before I could tell you anything further you would need to sign these,” said Ford, pulling out the agreements he had printed out earlier.

“Let’s get a table,” Esme suggested, taking the papers from him. She sipped her wine and read.

“There’s no rush to sign them, Esme, take your time,” said Ford.

“Are you mad?” she retorted. “The suspense is killing me. I trust you, Ford. If you say it’s okay, then I’m in.”

Ford handed her a pen and she signed the paperwork quickly. He looked at his watch, the taxi would be here shortly.

“Better drink up. We’ll be leaving here soon.”

Amused, Esme looked at her empty glass ruefully.

“All this secrecy is thirsty work,” she replied.

Ford shook his head, smiling, intending to get Esme another, when he felt his phone buzz with a text. He quickly checked his phone. Their taxi had arrived.

He stood and slipped the paperwork into his jacket. Esme followed his lead and after a short journey they were soon seated in the restaurant. The night passed quickly, Ford insisting they enjoy their food with no more shop talk, but Esme would not let the subject go.

She fixed her gaze on Ford and smiled. “Start at the beginning and tell me everything…and I mean
everything
,” she insisted.

Feeling self-conscious, Ford told of the email from Guy and their subsequent meeting. He told her about Benedict and Siena and the principal behind the Braille Club.

“This is fascinating, Ford, are you sure you’re not making this up?” she asked sceptically.

He felt around in his pocket and pulled out the Braille membership card.

“What’s this then, Scotch’s mist?” he retorted.

Esme lifted the card and examined it closely. “What are these dots?”

“All card details are printed in Braille, the concept of the club is about touch and engaging the senses.”

Esme ran her fingers over the dots thoughtfully. “What does it say?” she asked.

“It’s a membership number.”

“Oh, and this?” Her fingers were pulling at the ribbon until Ford put his hand over hers.

“Not here, Esme, later,” he said.

“Do you promise?” she breathed.

Ford, unable to speak, merely nodded. He wanted to ask Esme how she felt about him but didn’t have the courage. He would know soon enough, one way or the other. The food and wine had been excellent and as he sipped his espresso, he knew it was time to leave. His heart lurched at the thought of what lay ahead.

“Do you fancy a drink elsewhere?” he asked hopefully.

Esme turned, her eyes intense. “No, let’s get a drink at the hotel. You can tell me more about your work at the Braille Club and where I fit in,” she said.

Ford signed to the waiter to bring their bill and to call a taxi. By the time they had done that and put their jackets on, it was waiting for them outside. He suddenly felt tense, his nerves returning as they travelled back to the hotel. Esme was in great spirits and didn’t seem to notice how quiet he had become.

The bar in the hotel was still open and Esme ordered a bottle of champagne.

“Let’s celebrate. This will be a very interesting project by all accounts,” she mused.

Ford said nothing as the waiter poured the champagne into their glasses.

“I’d like to make a toast,” said Esme, lifting her glass. “To the Braille Club.”

They clinked glasses and Ford took a long drink. Another bottle later and Esme was hanging on his every word.

“The hood they use is like nothing I’ve seen before. The cuffs I’m designing are unique…as is the chair. However the real challenge will be the body suit.”

Ford, his tongue loosened by the champagne, now went into the technical details explaining how these unique items operated. Esme sat enthralled, only interrupting when she needed clarification on specific details. When they ordered their third bottle of champagne to be taken to Ford’s room, the transition was easy. Deep in conversation, they entered the room, and the waiter arrived with their order minutes later. After he left they resumed talking. Ford pushed the small table against the wall, leaving a chair with room to move around. Without embarrassment he sat down and told Esme of the astounding sensory lesson he’d experienced at the Braille Club. He asked Esme to get the membership card.

She reached for his jacket on the bed. Her fingers touched the membership card and she pulled it out. She quickly unwound the ribbon as she approached Ford.

“Now you remember the rules, Es?” he asked.

She nodded as he stood up and took the ribbon from her. Breaking it apart, he quickly secured her hands, the bell tinkling as he did so and he felt Esme tense. Next, he gently pulled the blindfold over her eyes.

“How does that feel?” he asked.

“Mmm…I’m not sure,” said Esme hesitantly.

“We’re going to break the rules a bit. Can you tell me what you’re feeling by saying either hot or cold?” he instructed.

Esme laughed. “Okay, I think I can do that.”

Ford selected a song from his phone and music flooded the room. He started by touching her shoulders, caressing them gently, his fingers working along her collarbone and back.

“Warm,” she sighed.

He continued running his fingers up and down her arms, noticing the sudden goose bumps on her skin. He moved his fingers to caress her neck, and emboldened by the alcohol, put his lips to her skin.

“Warmer,” she gasped.

His lips explored her skin and he could feel Esme tense further. Was she enjoying it, he wondered, or enduring it. When he sucked on her earlobe her moan was a thrill.

“Now Esme, imagine you were wearing a suit that moulded to your body like a second skin…touching you all over.” His fingers glided over her sensitised flesh.

“Imagine that the seat you are on is vibrating, the pulses travelling through the centre of your body.” He brushed his thumb against her lips and felt her shiver. “Imagine a touch tracing up and down your body again and again.” His fingers danced along the top of her dress, skimming past her cleavage. Esme was panting; her body straining but still he wanted a reaction. “Imagine those vibrations intensifying, pushing up through the fabric of the chair and connecting with your body, igniting you…”

“Hot,” she gasped.

No longer able to resist, he bent his head and kissed her. His passion and its potency transmitted, making the kiss explosive. The only thing to bring him to his senses was the ringing of the bell. Esme hung her head as she tried to regain her composure. Ford’s hands gently removed the ribbons from her wrists before he removed the blindfold. He watched her open her eyes and blink in the light before standing up. She walked towards him.