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  “Good. Bennett is a good Dom, but a little too new yet.”

  “Lara is new too.”

  “Something tells me that Lara has a bit of experience under her belt. She’s taken in the members of the club rather well.” Max waved his hand.

  Colby was about to ask what he meant when one of the subs walked by him, nude. “Ah yes.” Max was right. Outside of a couple times Lara froze up, she’d taken the different modes of dress or undress in stride.

  “You’re off shift soon. Make sure you claim her.” Max walked away.

  Colby shook his head. Would he ever understand how Max seemed to know everything? Another Dom called his name, and Colby went to see what he needed.

  At midnight, Colby sighed. His shift was over. He made his way over to the food tables where Lara was checking on the various dishes.

  He grabbed a bagel dog and ate it. Usually, he wasn’t hungry, but smelling the food all night had his stomach growling.

  “Hi, Colby,” Lara said, straightening from the boxes that held the food.

  “Hi. Are you getting ready to leave?” He’d hoped she would walk around the club with him.

  “Not just yet.” She shifted from one foot to the other.

  Was she nervous? She hadn’t seemed to be with Bennett earlier. He picked up a plate and began filling it. “Have you eaten?”

  “A little.”

  “Will you fill a plate and come sit with me?” He kept his tone light; he didn’t want to make her any more nervous than she already was.

  “I’d like that.” She smiled and picked up a plate. When she was ready, Colby led her over to a relatively quiet area in a corner of the club. He pulled two chairs close.

  “Do you want something to drink?” he asked as he set his plate on his chair.

  “Water, please.”

  “Be right back.” Colby maneuvered his way over to the bar, retrieved two bottles of water, and returned to Lara. She was gazing around the club. The crowd had thinned out some.

  He leaned over and set the water bottles on the floor between them before he picked up his plate and sat down. “You know, you surprised everyone earlier with the comment that you’d like to join the club.”

  Lara’s hand waved in the air. “I didn’t mean to. But I do have to admit everyone’s expressions were a bit comical.”

  “Are you seriously interested?” Colby fought against the excitement pressing against his skin.

  “I wouldn’t have said that if I wasn’t. But I don’t know how I can afford it.”

  “It’s more reasonable than you think.” Colby paused. “If you want to see if you’d like it, you can come as my guest.”

  Her eyes widened. She hadn’t expected that. Good. He wanted nothing more than to play with her in the club.

  “You’d let me play with another Dom?”

  Colby sat his empty plate down and crossed his arms over his chest. “No.” He’d be honest with her. “I want to play with you. So, if you come as my guest, you only play with me. But I can’t stop you if you join.”

  Lara’s hand fluttered to her throat. “How do we know if we’re compatible?”

  His muscles relaxed. At least she was thinking about it and not shooting him down. “There’s a questionnaire we can go through together.” His gaze captured hers. “I believe in honesty, so here goes. I’ve watched you, Lara. The way you move, the way you talk to your customers, even tonight. I’m very attracted to you, and I believe we’d be good together.”

  She swallowed. “I do too.” Lara leaned over and sat her plate on the floor. “Why did you have someone pick up food for you this week?”

  Colby was surprised by the question. “Because I didn’t want to jump the gun, so to speak, for tonight.” He paused, gathering his thoughts. “I’d hoped you’d want to play.”

  Lara took a long drink of her water before setting it back down. “I have some experience in the lifestyle.”

  “Explain some to me, please.” He exhaled. She wasn’t shutting him down.

  “While I was at college, I met some people in the lifestyle. They introduced me, and I played a little bit with them. I’m just not into public exhibition.”

  Colby nodded. “Some people are not, but I believe we can work around that.” He didn’t need her nude to play with her body. He rubbed his chin. “Before we go any further, I know you’re aware I’m a Dom.”

  “That was obvious.” She laughed and lowered her eyes. “I’m a sub, but I’m not the 24/7 type.”

  “Works for me. Did you play at a club or at parties?”

  “Both. I should explain I was never nude, and I went to college at Berkeley. At that time, the Bay Area was more progressive than Pleasant Valley. Some of the lifestyle was pretty open.” She glanced around the club. “I still can’t believe the town council let Max build the club.”

  “I think a lot of us were surprised.” He remembered when he heard about the club through the lifestyle grapevine. “Did you like the parties?”

  “Some parties, I didn’t like at all; others were okay.”

  Interesting. “What was the difference?”

  “I think it had to do with who was hosting the party. Some carefully screened who they allowed in and others didn’t.”

  “And the ones that didn’t were the ones you didn’t like.”

  She grinned. “Bingo.”

  “Wicked Sanctuary has an extensive vetting procedure, but even with that, sometimes someone unsuitable slips through.”

  “Can you tell me the vetting process?”

  “Let me check.” He didn’t want to say anything out of line. “Be right back.” Colby found Max sitting with Sierra in his lap. He paused within eye sight, not approaching until Max nodded.

  “What do you need, Colby?”

  “How much can I tell Lara about the vetting process?”

  “I trust Lara to be discreet. You can tell her anything you want.”

  “Thanks, Max.” Colby made his way back to Lara. Their empty plates were gone. “Did you get rid of our plates?”

  “I did.”

  “Thank you.” He noted how she cared for everyone, even him. His heart warmed. Colby was used to taking care of himself and his mom. “Max has given me permission to discuss the vetting process with you. Would you like to move to one of the sofas to be more comfortable?”

  “I’m fine here, and I can keep an eye on the food.”

  “All right. Those interested in joining the club go through a series of classes.”

  Lara tilted her head. “Classes?”

  “Night one: you’re given an NDA to sign, a background check approval form, and a questionnaire.”

  “Oh wow. I already signed an NDA, and I’m guessing the background check causes a lot of people to leave.”

  “More than you realize.” When he joined, the first night his class had started out with fifteen people; by the end of the night, there were six of them.

  “So after the first night?”

  “If the background check comes back clean, it’s on to class two. There you get copies of everything from the week before, and we go over the rules of the club and how to address everyone.”

  “Why do I have a feeling the rules are strict?”

  “Not really that strict, but they’re for safety and to keep certain protocols in the club.”

  “What kind of protocols? I saw some strange rules at the parties I attended in Berkeley.”

  “Not high protocol. Mainly over addressing other members, clothing, and such.” Lara nodded, and Colby continued, “Class three is basically walking you through the club and explaining the equipment. The last class is an actual club night.”

  “What do you mean by club night?”

  “Like tonight.” He waved his hand. “The classes are on Thursday nights, and while the club is open, it’s pretty quiet.”

  “I see. So the club night, is that when I make a decision on a Dom?”

  “There’s no timeline on you choosing a Dom.
” Colby leaned over. “But if you’ll allow it, I’ll be your Dom through the classes.” He waited as Lara sat there, staring at him.

  “I’d like that, Sir.”

  Chapter 3

  The “sir” slipped off her lips naturally. Lara barely prevented herself from dropping to her knees and resting her head against Colby’s hard thigh. She’d seen subs do that. It wasn’t something she ever thought she’d want to do, but Colby did that to her.

  “You honor me, Lara.” Warm fingers touched her cheek.

  Fire ran over her skin. She leaned into his touch, and his eyes sparkled with desire. Oh yes, they were compatible, at least in the minor stuff.

  “I noticed when Bennett touched you earlier, you pushed him away.”

  “When Bennett put his hand on my arm, it didn’t feel right. His touch isn’t yours.” That was the only way she could think of to explain it. “So how do we do this?” Lara wondered if she was crazy for even thinking about this. No, she wasn’t. Her ex called her needs unhealthy and had refused even to consider her requests. She’d buried that part of herself. But with Colby, it was all coming out.

  She divorced Walter four years ago—after a year of marriage. She was ready to explore once again with Colby, but she wouldn’t involve her heart. She’d given it once, and that hadn’t worked out too well. She’d keep it locked away.

  “Do you want to go through the classes?”

  “I do, and I’d like to become a member.” It was quick decision on her part. It felt right, and she wasn’t going to hesitate to take what she wanted.

  Colby frowned. “Have you changed your mind?”

  “About what?” She tilted her head.

  “Me being your Dom.”

  “No. I didn’t mean it that way.” She placed her hand over his. “I only meant I wanted to become a member so we’re on even footing.”

  His fingers curled around hers. “You know in the club I’ll be in charge.”

  “Of course, but outside of it, we’re equals.”

  “Agreed.”

  Lara lifted her free hand to cover a yawn. “What time is it?”

  “Judging by the amount of people left, somewhere around two.”

  “I better get home. I wonder if I should clean up or just leave it and come back tomorrow?”

  “I’d say tomorrow, but I can check.” He pulled her from her chair. “Be right back.”

  Lara watched Colby stride across the room. Damn, that man had a fine ass. Shaking her head, she made her way over to the food table. Most of the food was gone. Lara put the empty containers back into the hot boxes she’d unplugged a while ago. Taking her time, she cleaned up the area.

  “You didn’t need to do that,” Jordan said, coming up to her with Colby.

  “No trouble.” Lara smiled.

  “If you don’t mind, why don’t you leave what’s on the table, and I’ll drop everything off to you on Monday.”

  “What about the hot boxes?” She could get them loaded into her SUV and take them back to the café tomorrow.

  “I’ll take care of those too,” Jordan said.

  “Are you sure?” Lara asked. She was used to cleaning up.

  “Yes.” Jordan gave her a kind smile. “Go home.”

  “I’m not going to argue.” Lara picked up the bag that held her purse. “If anything comes up, just give me a call.”

  Colby slipped his arm around her waist. “I’ll drive you home.”

  “There’s no need; I have my car.”

  “I don’t want you driving alone.” He stopped in the hallway. “Give me just a second.” Lara waited while he slipped into the men’s room. Then he was back. He’d slipped on a leather jacket over his t-shirt. “Let’s go.”

  “Colby, there’s no need for you to leave. I’m perfectly fine to drive.” She didn’t want him to think she was helpless.

  He frowned at her. “I’m sure you are. The road is deserted this time of night, and I’d feel better if you’d allow me to drive you home. I’ll make sure you have your car by tomorrow morning.”

  Lara let out a sigh. “Okay.”

  “Thank you.” He kissed the back of her hand and led her over to her SUV.

  “I thought you were driving?” Why were they at her vehicle?

  “I am. Keys please?” He held out her hand.

  She shook her head. “Sorry, I’m the only one who drives my SUV.” She’d bought it right after she divorced Walter, and no one had ever driven it. She was going to keep it that way. “Why can’t we go in your car?”

  “Because my car is a motorcycle.”

  Her heart skipped a beat. “A motorcycle? Don’t you know how dangerous those are?” She slapped her hand over her mouth. It was really none of her business, and she shouldn’t lecture him.

  “I’m glad you care.” He leaned down. “I’m very safe, and I never take chances. Keys.”

  “Nope.” She wouldn’t give in to him. “Why don’t you follow me? That way we can keep an eye on each other.”

  He stared at her, and she held his gaze. He puffed out a breath. “All right, but you follow me. What is your address?”

  A compromise she could live with. She rattled off her address, then climbed into her vehicle.

  Colby was right. The roads were deserted, and because of that, it only took her twenty minutes to hit the city limits. Five minutes later, they were pulling up in front of her duplex.

  “Nice area,” Colby said when she climbed out of her SUV.

  “Thanks.” She looked at him. He was tense, and she didn’t understand why. “My aunt owns them. She lives in the one on the right. I could never afford one of these places.” While the café was doing well, it wasn’t good enough for her to cover a mortgage on one of these duplexes. She refused to use her family’s money for anything. She’d do this on her own or not at all. A shiver slipped over her skin.

  “Come on. It’s too cold for you to be out here.” He guided her to her front door. “There’s a light on inside.”

  “Yes. It’s on a timer,” she said softly. Putting her key in the door, she unlocked the deadbolt and the door lock. Once it was open, she stepped inside and disarmed the alarm system.

  “Alarm?” Colby asked.

  “I live alone. Makes me feel better.”

  “Good.” His fingers ran down her cheek. “Until later, my Lara.” He leaned down, and his lips brushed over hers, then he was jogging down the steps to his bike. Lara stood there, savoring the feel of his lips on hers.

  He turned back and crossed his arms over his chest, staring at her. Lara shook her head and waved, then slipped inside her home, closed and locked the door. After a minute, she heard his bike roar away.

  Until later, he said. She couldn’t wait until Monday to see him again. Hugging herself, Lara reset the alarm and made her way to her bedroom. Soon, she’d be able to play with Colby. Excitement and nervousness warred in her mind. She’d sort them out later; right now, she wanted to enjoy the way Colby made her feel.

  * * * *

  Colby woke early Sunday morning, which surprised him. He’d arrived home close to three in the morning, showered, then fell into bed. Now he sat in his kitchen at eight, reading the local news on his tablet and drinking coffee.

  He wondered how Lara was doing. Colby’s skin itched with the need to be with her. What was so different about her? He’d been with women before, even had subs before, but Lara had called to him from the first time he saw her.

  She hadn’t even realized he watched her. The first time he’d walked into the café, she’d been busy refilling coffee cups. He’d ordered and sat down. From that day forward, he’d come to the café as often as he could, usually in the mornings and he’d watched her. Lara stopped at every table, chatting with everyone before going back behind the counter. She was great with people. No wonder her business was so successful. Was it any wonder he developed feelings for her?

  The ringing of the intercom system broke into his thoughts. He hit the button. “Morn
ing, Mom. Everything okay?”

  “I’m fine, honey.” His mother’s clear voice had his shoulders slumping in relief.

  He’d moved into the apartment above the garage so he could have some privacy, but he still worried about his mother, even if she was just next door. “What can I do for you?”

  “What? A mother can’t just call to see how her son is doing?”

  Colby laughed. “Since I live next door, it seems like overkill.”

  “Would you be able to take me to the farmers’ market today? I know you worked late last night.”

  “Of course.” His mother was aware he’d picked up a job on the weekends; he just didn’t tell her what it was. While he was pretty open with his mother, telling her he was working at a BDSM club didn’t seem right. “What time do you want to leave?”

  “Ten, if that’s okay.”

  “I’ll be ready.” The line went dead, and Colby smiled. His mother was perfectly capable of taking care of herself, high blood pressure or not. She was only sixty. But she’d had a hard life, and it was catching up with her. His father left when Colby was still a baby, and his mother raised him alone. He didn’t want her to worry about anything.

  He wondered about Lara’s family. While she said she couldn’t afford the duplex she lived in, her aunt certainly could. But he didn’t assume anything. Too many people had done that to him over the years just because he’d grown up on the poor side of town. Heck, he still lived on the edge of the area. His mother refused to move too far from their old neighborhood.

  He carried his cup to the sink and then went to dress.

  A little bit later, he folded his big body into his mother’s compact car. She’d refused something bigger. He drove them to the farmers’ market. His mother loved the market. He wandered around, keeping an eye on his mother. Then he saw someone familiar.

  “Good morning, beautiful,” he said softly, coming up behind her.

  Lara turned her head. “Colby.” Her smile widened. “What are you doing here?”

  “My mother loves the market on Sundays. What about you?”

  “My aunt loves it too.” She glanced at an older woman talking with a florist, then the woman turned and walked over to them, a bouquet of carnations in her arms.