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“Have you, uh, spanked everyone in Falcon Creek?”
“No, not everyone,” he said, chuckling. “That’s not the real question you want the answer to, is it?”
Did he and Tanner share the same brain or something? I was still having trouble voicing my question. “Would you ever punish me like that?”
“Probably not. There are lots of other ways I can handle whatever you’re throwing at me that have nothing to do with physical correction. However, if it was a curiosity in the way I’ve taken Tiana in hand, then that’s an entirely different purpose. I’m still establishing a dynamic with her, and we haven’t sat down and spoken at length yet.”
Him not saying a flat out no was not lost on me, but I did not plan on provoking his Dom side anymore tonight. “I appreciate you taking the time to help me.”
“No problem. Are you in a better place now?”
Sighing, I shook my head and closed my eyes. I was more upset about not getting a better handle on the things currently going on around us. I made decisions all the time at work, and Tiana frequently allowed me to make them for her, but I was exhausted.
Jesse took my hand, and I reluctantly opened my eyes. “Let’s go watch something funny on television while we wait for Tanner and Tia.”
“Thanks, Jesse.”
“You’re welcome.”
Following him into the den, I kept my mouth shut for fear of letting my deepest insecurities, ones I thought Tanner and I had worked on, bubble to the surface. It felt strangely wonderful to allow someone else to shoulder the responsibility differently than Tanner did. Jesse truly cared about everyone. I’d explain it all to Tanner, and he would help me sort out any remaining fears. I relaxed into the couch cushions, knowing that, somehow, everything was going to be all right.
Chapter 14
Tiana
They moved the party, and no one was the wiser. Someone said Jesse had caught wind of it, and my family and friends accepted the possibility due to his career and endless curiosity. Those closest to me knew the actual issue in case anything went sideways.
My parents understood I wasn’t completely safe yet, but they took the information better than I’d hoped.
Things seemed to have gone off without a hitch. The party was significantly smaller than we’d originally planned, but everyone was enjoying themselves. A prickling fear kept me uneasy and though I tried to shake it off and relax, I couldn’t. Earlier in the afternoon, I thought someone was watching me and I kept glancing over my shoulder every time I walked around. Could Chet have found out about the location? No, that was silly. Loading a plate up with yummy hors d’oeuvres, I had a sinking feeling in my tummy. I swore I saw Chet. Looping in a wide circle around the table, I verified my terrible suspicion. Chet was dressed as a server!
I didn’t make eye contact, but the ink on his neck and arms was unmistakable. He had found where I was hiding and he was going to hurt me or those that I loved. It had to be his bitch of a girlfriend, the one who I thought was my friend. Somehow, she pieced together bits of our conversation, or maybe tracked my cell phone. I wished I had never texted her. Her manipulation tactics aside, making me think we were friends was the least of my concerns.
Casually tugging my phone out of my pocket, I sent a text message to Jesse as he had instructed me to do.Chet is here, dressed as a server.
A text reply came through immediately.Come over here. I’ll bring you inside.
I shot back a text.I don’t want anyone to be in danger. I couldn't risk Chet hurting anyone except me. Formulating a quick plan, I headed toward the barn. That way, I could ride off the property and everyone would be safe.
Here. Now.Jesse answered.
He was dead serious and I could practically hear his growled threat, but my plan was already in motion. I lifted my head, catching his eye. He cocked an eyebrow, likely not wanting to alert Chet that he was aware.
Going to the barn. Will lead him away.
Do not test me.
Or?I texted back, biding my time.
Or I promise you will not sit comfortably for a month after the three of us punish your ass.
Jesse’s text message promised in no uncertain terms that he would spank me. Tanner and Dane would inevitably do the same, but I couldn’t worry about the potential repercussions. Sighing inwardly, I sent another text.The only person he wants to hurt is me. Nodding at Jesse, I turned and walked through the crowd of guests.
He replied instantly.You and I are going to have a long talk. I pocketed my phone without answering him. Weaving myself in between several people, I reached my twin and hugged him. “I love you, Tater.”
“I love you, Tot.” He kissed my temple. “Where are you going?”
“I just have to check something in the barn.” I motioned awkwardly, hoping he read into my behavior as silly instead of scared. “I’ll be back in a few.”
