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There’s cheering and wolf whistles from the crowd.
Rapture moves to me, whispering in my ear. “And what does Miss Kylie say?”
“Yes, of course.” My commitment comes quick, but after my words escape me, I’m left with that electrified moment of doubt before the deed actually happens. Exposing my ass to the club, having them all stare at whatever red marks the whip raises on my flesh—
“Nope.” Cannon’s booming voice echoes through the room. “No. I’m afraid we don’t have time for that. We’re actually going to have to wrap this session up now.” There’s an audible sigh from the crowd. He continues, “Madam Funai is flying in from Japan, and I’ve just gotten word she’ll be arriving a little early. Seems like the theme this week, early birds. Sorry, everyone, but we need to be ready.”
I stare down at my black leather bra, at my legs wrapped in the sexy fishnets. Disappointment comes over me. I was so looking forward to seeing where this would go, how it would feel, but I know clients come first.
Keisha strides over to me, undoing the clasps around my wrists. “You did great, ladybug.”
“You really did. Next time, we’ll go all the way,” Rapture tells me with a grin.
“Thanks to you both,” I say, lowering my arms to my sides. I turn to face the crowd, but my gaze only searches for Cannon’s face. He’s already gone, making his final round of inspections.
Rapture slides a big, heavy arm around my bare shoulders as we make our way from the room. “You’re amazing to watch. So responsive. Everyone loved you.”
“Thank you. That’s kind of you to say. I’m sorry it got cut short,” I say.
“No matter. Tomorrow night we’ll more than make up for it.” His eyes light up. “We can’t wait to play with you at ASAG.”
“ASAG?” I ask.
“All Staff Anything Goes. Once a quarter, Cannon shuts down the club to clientele and guests and gives his staff free rein of the place. He hires outside help to host, and we basically get to act like the millionaires for the evening. There’s no sign-up sheet.” Rapture gives a devilish grin. “Whatever happens, happens.”
“Really? That sounds incredible.” A thrill runs through me at the thought of such an evening.
“It is.” He gives a naughty wiggle of his brow. “You’re going to love it.”
I go to the staff room, pulling a pair of loose sweats on over my tights and slip my arms into the lightweight jacket I brought with me. The walk from Fire to Cannon’s is short. It’s a dark night, no moon, and not a star can be seen. A breeze blows by, rustling the leaves in the bushes as I walk down the stone path, my way lit only by the little fake flame solar garden lights Cannon’s had installed.
The little brick house is painted white; shiny black shutters gleam in the soft light. It’s quaint and beautiful, a homey cottage. A place I’d be happy to never have to leave.
“Signora.” A voice with a thick, local accent startles me. “Signora Barone?”
I glance over, finding a man I’ve never seen before standing just off the path. I look around to confirm my fear — I’m alone out here with him.
“Ciao?” My heart races faster. “Do I know you?”
He shakes his head and smiles. “No. I’m afraid not. But I’d like to make my introductions. I’m Max. Max Meralo.” He holds out his hand for me to shake.
Maxim Meralo. Mad Max Meralo.
They call him Mad Max for his temper and the fact he’s supposedly a genius, crafty and highly intelligent, with a short fuse. He’s the head of the Meralo family. My blood turns to ice. I shake off the chill, willing my tongue to thaw in my mouth.
I don’t offer my hand.
He pulls his back, giving a grin. A wild look rests in his eyes. “I’m not here to cause trouble. I promise.”
I cross my arms over my chest, trying to bring warmth back to my shaking body. “Then why are you here?”
“I just wanted to take one look at you. To see you in the flesh. The woman who’s owed to me to pay off the debts of her family.” His grin turns menacing. “My bride.”
“I’ll never be your bride,” I say.
Ignoring me, he reaches out to stroke my face. His hand is cold, his touch icy. “I’m not disappointed.”
I snap my head away. “I’m not going to marry you. You need to speak to Cannon. He’ll take care of everything.”
