Page 43 of Winter’s Fire

Logan’s arms tightened around her. “To the Middle East. He’ll be fine, princess. Don’t worry.”

“He should have someone to worry about him. Everyone should.”

“He’s one of the best at what he does—he’ll come back safely.”

“It’s not just that, Sir. Is it really so difficult for a submissive man to find a dominant woman?”

“It can be. It’s easy enough to compromise for the odd scene, but when you’re in it for the long haul…” His voice drifted away, banished by the shadows that lent a sudden gravity to his expression. He kissed her temple. “You okay, or are you ready to go home?”

“Can we stay a little longer, please?”

Before Logan could answer, a discreet cough interrupted their conversation.

“Master Logan?”

Chapter 12

“Yes?” Logan looked up to see the club’s duty manager standing in front of him. “Is there a problem?”

“I’m sorry to disturb you, but I wondered if I could have a quick word with you, please?”

“Of course. What’s up?”

“I don’t know if you’re acquainted with Master Clark, but he was scheduled to give a demonstration of Florentine flogging this evening. Unfortunately, he’s been delayed by an accident blocking the motorway, and at the moment, it’s looking as if he won’t make it here in time. I know you have a great deal of experience with Florentine, and I wondered if you’d agree to fill in for him.”

Any other time, Logan would have been glad to step in, but not this evening. “I’m sorry, but this is my sub’s first visit to the club. She’s new to the lifestyle, and not ready to take part in a demo like that.”

“We do have an experienced volunteer lined up, if that might persuade you?”

“Any other time, I’d have been happy to help out, but I’m not prepared to leave her on her own, either. I’m sorry.”

“Excuse me, I wonder if we might help, Master Logan? We’d be delighted if your submissive were to join us while you’re on stage.”

The new voice belonged to Lee Carmichael. He was accompanied by his sub, Tristan Rhodes. Logan had been introduced to the pair shortly after he’d joined the club, and had become good friends with them. The men weren’t just Dom and sub—they were also business partners, and a couple in a long-term relationship. Their offer to help might work, but only if Lucy felt comfortable sitting with two strangers.

“Lucy, it’s up to you.” He dropped a brief kiss on her forehead. “Will you be all right with Master Lee and Tris if I help out?”

“If they don’t mind the company?”

“Master Logan, if I may speak to your submissive?”

“Of course. Lucy, say hi to Master Lee and Tristan.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Lucy.” Lee gave her a warm smile. “It would be our privilege to escort you in Master Logan’s absence. I’m sure we can find a good spot near the stage, where you can keep an eye on him.”

“I’ll make sure one of the booths is free,” the duty manager offered, relief evident on her face. “Thank you, Master Logan. If it’s convenient, the demo is scheduled for approximately eleven-thirty.”

“I’ll need to warm up first. Master Lee, would you be all right to sit with Lucy from about quarter past?”

“It’ll be our pleasure. Till then, Master Logan. Lucy.”

The duty manager departed, followed by Lee and Tristan, leaving Logan and Lucy to their quiet corner. Logan could guess what was coming next. “Questions?”

As naturally as if they’d been together months, not days, she tucked her head against his. “I take it they’re friends of yours?”

“I know them through the club. They used to work for British Intelligence, but now they own one of the most successful cybersecurity companies in the world. They’re good guys—you’ll be safe with them.”

Her lips touched his cheek. “I never imagined I wouldn’t be. What’s Florentine flogging? I can’t remember reading anything about it. Presumably it includes a flogger of some description?”