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“I’m still not completely sure about all of this, but I feel like I’ve finally gotten my dad back. In time, maybe Lee can be like another dad to me. Tell me what it was like growing up with three dads.”
Austin didn’t answer, but continued his work.
Still hoping to peel back some of his layers, she timidly pressed on. “Your mom is really sweet.”
“She is,” he stated candidly.
Austin took the sausage out of the pan and placed it on a paper towel on a plate to drain off the grease. Then he put three eggs into the skillet and popped a couple of slices of bread into a shiny toaster. “How do you like your eggs, pet?”
The aroma of the sausage raised her appetite. “Over medium, please.”
He nodded and continued his work. Answering questions was clearly not his norm, but she needed to know more about him.
“Pappy Jack is quite a character. He sure did love your grandmother. What was she like?”
“Very sweet.”
“Tough, too, I hear. Kept him and your other granddads in line.”
Austin walked over carrying a plate of deliciousness. She reached for the dish, and he pulled it back. “I’ll be serving you the first bites, pet.”
“Yes, Master.”
He knelt down and cut off a bit of the sausage patty and then stabbed it with the fork. He held it to her mouth. “Taste.”
She parted her lips, and he pushed the meat into her mouth. He pulled the fork back, leaving the morsel on her tongue. It tasted heavenly.
“How is it, pet?”
“Mmm.” She swallowed. “Perfect. Thank you, Master.”
He handed her the plate. “Eat up.” Touching the ring on her collar, his wicked gaze went up and down her body. “Like I said, you’ll need your strength.”
Again, she wondered what he had in mind for her. Would he take her back into his dungeon or to his tree? “Yes, Master.”
Austin pulled a chair up next to her blanket. He drank coffee and watched her.
“Aren’t you going to eat?” she asked.
“Don’t worry about me, Jessie. Finish your breakfast.”
She nodded, realizing he’d called her by name. Little tingles of wonder vibrated through her. At first she thought about asking him why he hadn’t used the nickname he’d chosen for her, but then thought better of it. Austin wasn’t the kind of man who liked to be quizzed. So, she devoured the meal he’d made for her instead.
Fully satiated and not a single crumb on her plate, she looked up at the cowboy she was trying to win. His fixed stare thrilled and unnerved her.
“More coffee, pet?” He stood and took her plate.
“Yes.” She handed him her empty mug. “Thank you.”
“Tell me more about yourself, Jessie.” He placed the dish next to the sink and then refilled her mug with coffee, cream, and sugar.
“I’m an only child. I envy you having so many siblings, Master.”
“You wouldn’t if you’d grown up with them.” He handed her the fresh cup.
“You prepared breakfast. I should do the dishes.”
He snorted. “You’re too much. No, pet. I’ve got more important things in mind for you. Save your strength.” He turned and began cleaning up.
