9. Mia
Chapter nine
Mia
T he cabin door creaked open, a light breeze sneaking in behind Mia and Jax as they stepped inside.
“Wow,” said Mia, looking around the place. “This is . . . unreal. I feel like I’m Goldilocks, about to steal the Three Bear’s porridge.”
Jax turned and grinned at her. “If you want porridge, babygirl, I’ll make it for you. No need to steal.”
Mia laughed. “Don’t worry, I’m not a thief. And maybe in the morning, huh? Not sure porridge is an evening meal.”
Jax shrugged. “When you’re with me, you can eat what you want, when you want, princess. Not even kidding. Middle of the night, first thing in the morning. Whenever the mood takes you to eat, just let me know what your heart desires and I’ll go find it for you.”
Mia looked at Jack, trying to work out if he was being serious. The hazel eyes behind his thick black glasses definitely looked sincere. “Why are you being so kind to me?” she asked. “Seriously?”
“You were treated like shit for a long time,” Jax told her. “Now, you deserve to be treated like a damn princess. Anything you want. Any time you want. Just ask me and I’ll provide.”
Jax shrugged off his jacket and tossed it on the nearby chair before moving to the hearth, striking a match to light the wood piled there.
Mia watched him work, the flames casting flickering shadows across his face. She loved watching his thick biceps flex as he put logs in the fire. It was unusual to see a man look so intelligent and so buff at the same time. He was like . . . Clark Kent.
"Nice and cozy," Jax said, rubbing his hands together before joining Mia on the couch. She pulled her knees up to her chest, green eyes fixed on the fire. The warmth was a welcome change, but something else stirred inside her; a longing she couldn't quite place.
"Jax?" Her voice was quiet, barely above a whisper.
"Yeah, Mia?" He turned to her, a curious expression on his face.
"Can I . . . can I have a hug?" The vulnerability in her request caught them both by surprise. For someone who often wore an armor of attitude and defiance, this was new territory.
Jax hesitated for a moment, his eyes searching hers before he nodded. "Of course."
He opened his arms, and Mia leaned into him, resting her head on his chest. His strong arms enveloped her, providing a sense of comfort and safety she hadn't known in years. With every beat of his heart, she felt herself relaxing, her mind quieting as she focused on the warmth of his embrace.
"Thank you," she whispered, her breath tickling his skin.
"Anytime, Mia. Anytime." His voice rumbled through his chest, soothing and solid like the earth beneath them.
As they sat nestled together, Mia thought about how different Jax was from all the other men she’d been close to in recent years. He was so warm and solid. He smelled good. Like paper and steel, clean and fresh.
A part of her longed to explore the boundaries between them, to test the waters of the unknown. But she wasn’t sure if full-blown sex was something she ever wanted again. Not after all the things she’d been exposed to and forced into throughout her life. Could it ever feel like something healthy or wholesome to her? Or would she always feel afraid of it, disgusted by it, like it didn’t belong to her?
For now, she was content to be held, to feel the warmth of another's touch and know that she was safe.
"Jax?" She spoke up again, her voice laced with uncertainty.
"Yeah?"
"Thank you. For everything. Not just for taking me out of that place, but for taking me to all these new places. Showing me that there’s goodness in the world."
He tightened his arms around her, a warmth spreading through her as she realized just how important this moment was for both of them. "You're welcome, Mia. And just so you know, we haven’t even got started yet."
A thrill ran through her. What else did Jax have in store for her? Was it really possible that she could feel even better than this?
Mia's fingers traced the frayed edge of the woolen throw draped over the back of the couch, her green eyes darting between Jax and the flickering flames. The cabin was quiet, save for the crackling fire and the distant rustle of the trees outside. She bit her lip, fighting the urge to fill the silence with words—words that might be too bold, too forward.
"Hey, uh, Jax?" she asked, her voice unsteady.
He looked up from tending the fire, his brown eyes warm and inviting. "Yeah, Mia?"
"Um." She hesitated, drawing a deep breath. "Would you . . . would you share the bed with me tonight? I know it's weird, but I just . . . I don't want to be alone."
Something flickered across his face—surprise, maybe, or concern. But he didn't laugh or tease her. "Are you sure that's what you want?" He searched her eyes, seeking honesty. "I don't want you to feel uncomfortable, Mia."
"I'm sure," she said, her voice stronger now. "I just . . . need your warmth and presence beside me."
"All right." His gaze remained steady, even as he gave a small nod. "But if at any point you change your mind, just say the word. I'll take the couch."
"Thank you." Relief washed over her, mingling with a nervous excitement that sent shivers down her spine.
“It’s not quite time for bed yet, though,” said Jax, looking at her with a strange seriousness in his eyes.
“It isn’t?”
“No,” he said. “You told me you were a Little. So I think it’s time for milk and cookies and a little play, don’t you?”
Mia bit her lip. “A little play?”
A mischievous glint danced in Jax’s hazel eyes as he nodded. "Yeah, a little play. You know, to help you relax and unwind after everything you've been through."
Mia felt a mix of apprehension and curiosity churn in her stomach. She had never indulged in such innocent activities since she could remember. But the thought of letting go, even for a moment, appealed to her.
"Okay," she said tentatively.
Jax rose from the couch and disappeared into the small kitchen area of the cabin. Mia heard the clinking of dishes and rummaging before he returned with a plate of Oreo cookies and two glasses of milk.
"Here we go, princess," Jax announced cheerfully, setting the treats on the coffee table in front of them. Then, he went to his backpack and took out some paper and colored pens. “Let’s do some drawing together.”
Mia watched, intrigued, as Jax laid out the drawing materials. It felt like stepping into a world she had long forgotten, a world where simple pleasures existed without fear or pain. She tentatively picked up a colored pencil, feeling its smooth surface against her fingertips.
Jax flashed her a warm smile. "What should we draw first?"
Mia tilted her head, eyes scanning the room for inspiration. Then she noticed the flickering flames dancing in the fireplace, casting an ethereal glow across the cabin. "Let's draw the fire," she suggested.
With a nod, Jax started sketching on his paper while Mia followed suit. The scratch of pencils on paper filled the cabin, a harmonious melody of creativity mingling with crackling firewood. As they drew, Mia found herself losing track of time, lost in the quiet intimacy of the moment.
When they finished, Mia held up her drawing next to Jax's. Their styles were different—his precise and detailed, hers spiky and jagged.
“That’s great, babygirl,” Jax told her. “I really like the movement in yours. It’s almost like the fire’s alive. It’s dynamic.”
Mia felt her cheeks heat up. “Thank you. It . . . feels good to be praised by you.” She paused. “I bet you’re a very good Daddy.” Her hand shot to her mouth. “Not to me, I mean. To someone else. A Daddy to someone else.”
Jax smiled. “I haven’t ever had a Little of my own. Not really. I’ve dabbled in the club scene a little. But I’ve always been so busy. My brothers and I, we’re always working.”
Mia screwed up her nose. “But your brother, Blake, has time for a Little. Savannah. Wouldn’t you like one?”
Jax looked into Mia’s eyes. “If I found the right person.”
Mia blinked at him. “What do you think the right person would be like?”
“Hmmm,” said Jax, playfully tapping his chin. He picked up his crayon and began to draw a stickman. “They’d have to have a head, of course, like this, and a body, and most likely arms and legs, though that’s not a prerequisite.”
Mia snorted with laughter. “So you’d take just about anyone?”
“I haven’t finished yet,” said Jax, coloring in his picture. “They’d have to be bright, and brave, and on my wavelength. Oh, and they’d have to be hot. Super hot. obviously.”
Mia looked down at the stick person Jax was coloring, noticing that he’d given it dark skin and green eyes. “Hey, that looks a lot like me.”
“Does it?” said Jax. “It’s a coincidence, honest.”
“Dark skin and green eyes?” Mia pursed her lips. “It’s a pretty rare combo.”
Jax’s eyes moved from Mia’s eyes to her mouth, then back to her eyes. “It’s a damn gorgeous combo, Mia. I guess you must have inspired me.” He sighed. “Anyway, the main thing I’m looking for in a Little is someone who can put up with me and my . . . quirks.”
Mia raised an eyebrow. “Your quirks?”
“Well, maybe not quirks. Let’s say it like it is. My addiction.”
Mia swallowed. “You’re an addict?”
This was not good news. She’d been around far too many addicts in her life to know that they meant trouble. What was Jax addicted to? Coke? Crack? Sex?
“Yeah,” he said with a sigh. “Tech is my weakness.”
Mia couldn’t help but burst out laughing. “Tech?”
Jax nodded. “Yeah. It’s pretty serious I’m afraid.”
“Sorry. I’m sorry. Yeah, that’s pretty bad,” said Mia, trying to keep a straight face. “I’ve known some really messed-up crack addicts in my time, but you’re right, tech is just as serious.”
Jax smiled. “I know there are worse things out there, but honestly, I think it’s been ruining my life. I’ve been living, but I’ve been glued to my screen, so it hasn’t really felt like actual living, you know?”
Mia nodded and sighed. “I know what that’s like.”
She took a mouthful of her lovely warm milk and a bite of her cookie. “This is living, though. And you seem to be doing just fine without tech to me.” She took hold of Jax’s hand, noticing how strong his fingers felt. “Nope. You’re not even trembling. Not a bit. I think you’ll get through it.”
Jax laughed. He didn’t pull his hand away from hers immediately, and instead, gave her palm a light squeeze. “You must be my medicine, Mia.”
Mia laughed and then yawned. “This warm milk’s making me sleepy.”
“That’s the idea, sweetie,” said Jax. “Come on. Why don’t you drink the rest of it up and I’ll take you to the bathroom? Help you clean your teeth.”
Mia nodded. “Yes, Daddy.” Instantly, her hand flew to her mouth again. “Oop. I didn’t mean that you’re my . . . Only that you’re a . . . “
“Please don’t apologize,” said Jax. “I liked it. If you want to call me Daddy, simply because I’m a Daddy, not necessarily your Daddy, then go for it, babygirl. And if you want to call me Daddy because you want me to be your Daddy, then . . . well. We can talk about that.”
Mia swallowed, her throat suddenly going dry. What did Jax mean by that? Was he trying to be polite? Trying to let her down lightly?
She yawned again.
“Come on, sleepyhead. Let’s get you ready for bed.”
Jax stood up and then lifted Mia off the couch, carrying her through to the bathroom as though she was light as a feather. He’d already set out their toothbrushes—he must have done it when he went to fetch the milk and cookies. He sat Mia down on the edge of the bath and brushed her teeth for her, gently but thoroughly. She felt him working on each and every tooth, and she wasn’t sure why, but there was something inexplicably arousing about it.
When they were both done, Jax gave Mia some privacy while she finished up in the bathroom, then he carried her to the bedroom, where he’d laid out her pajamas. He left the room while she dressed, then came back in once she called out to tell him she was under the covers.
“Want a bedtime story?” he asked, perching on the edge of the bed.
“Only if you get in next to me, Daddy,” she said with a playful grin.
Jax nodded. “All right, then. But no stealing all the blankets, okay?”
He climbed into bed, still in his jeans and t-shirt.
“Don’t tell me you’re going to sleep in the bed fully clothed?” she asked.
“I don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable.”
“I’ll be uncomfortable knowing how uncomfortable you are if you sleep in your jeans,” she said.
“Duly noted.” Jax took off his jeans under the covers, and Mia felt an urge to peep under the covers. Of course, she was a good girl and didn’t do that.
“What would you like a story about?”
Mia thought for a moment, enjoying the warmth radiating from Jax's body next to hers. “Tell me a story about a brave knight who rescues a princess from a dragon,” she said with a soft smile.
Jax chuckled, the sound rumbling through his chest. “Alright, here we go. Once upon a time, in a far-off kingdom, there lived a fierce dragon. This dragon terrorized the land, burning villages and capturing maidens.”
Mia listened intently, her eyes fixed on Jax’s face as he wove the tale of the brave knight who dared to challenge the beast. His voice was soothing, lulling her into a sense of security she hadn’t felt in years.
“As the knight approached the dragon’s lair, his heart pounded with fear,” Jax continued. “But he knew he had to be strong for the princess counting on him.”
Mia felt her eyelids grow heavy as Jax’s voice washed over her like a warm blanket. She snuggled closer to him, feeling his comforting presence beside her. The combination of his deep voice and the gentle rise and fall of his chest as he spoke made her feel oddly safe.
“And when the knight finally faced the dragon,” Jax’s voice lowered, taking on a dramatic tone, “he didn’t fight with swords or shields. Instead, he used his wit and compassion to reach the creature’s heart.”
Mia felt a rush of emotion at Jax’s words, a lump forming in her throat. It was as if he was speaking directly to her, unlocking something inside that she had kept hidden for so long.
“The dragon, touched by the knight’s kindness, revealed that it was not a monster but a lost soul seeking understanding,” Jax continued softly. “In the end, the princess, the knight, and the dragon formed an unlikely bond built on trust and acceptance.”
Mia's eyes fluttered closed as Jax's voice faded into the background.
"Good night, Daddy," she murmured.
“Goodnight, sweetheart.”
In the darkness, she reached for his hand, intertwining their fingers as they lay side by side. It was a small gesture, but it felt like a promise—a commitment to walk this path together, no matter how uncertain or strange it might be.
Moonlight filtered through the curtains, casting shadows on the bedroom walls. Mia lay awake, her body tense as she listened to Jax's steady breathing beside her. Unable to ignore the questions swirling in her mind, she turned to face him.
"Jax?" she whispered, her voice barely audible. "Are you still awake?"
"Uh-huh," he murmured, opening his eyes to meet hers.
"I've been thinking about . . . well, Daddy Doms and punishment." She hesitated, biting her lip. "Can you explain it to me? I want to understand."
"Of course," Jax said, turning on his side to face her. "In a DDlg relationship, punishments are sometimes used as a way for the Daddy Dom to help guide and teach their Little. It's about maintaining structure and showing the Little where they might've gone wrong."
Mia furrowed her brow, processing the information. "But how do you make sure it doesn't go too far?"
"Communication is key," Jax answered, his voice patient, but still clearly tired. "There are hard and soft limits that both partners need to discuss and agree upon beforehand. Hard limits are absolute boundaries that should never be crossed, while soft limits can be flexible depending on the situation and consent."
"Okay," Mia nodded, her eyes searching his face. "And what about a safeword?"
"Ah, yes. A safeword is essential in any BDSM relationship," he explained. "When the safeword is spoken, everything stops – no questions asked."
Mia took a deep breath, feeling some of the tension leave her body. "That’s good."
"Remember," Jax added, his gaze intense, "as the Little, you have just as much control in a DDlg dynamic. Your boundaries and desires are important, and it's your Daddy Dom’s responsibility to respect and protect them."
"Thank you," she whispered, touched by his sincerity. "It means a lot that you're willing to explain all of this to me."
"Of course, Mia." He smiled softly. “I’ll happily teach you anything you want to know about age play, Daddy Doms, or whatever else you want to know about.”
As Jax settled back into the pillows, Mia's thoughts raced, her arousal building at the prospect of surrendering control to him. She closed her eyes, trying to steady her racing heart.
"Can I . . . can I tell you about Chad?" she asked.
"Of course," Jax replied gently.
"Chad was my Daddy, but he wasn't like what you've described," Mia said, her voice tight with emotion. "He controlled me through deprivation, not physical punishment. If I disobeyed, he'd take things away—food, sleep, even the chance to use the bathroom." Her body tensed at the memories.
"That's not how it should be, Mia. A Daddy Dom is supposed to care for and nurture his Little, not treat them cruelly."
"I know," she whispered, her gaze dropping to the sheets. "But still, there's something I can't stop thinking about."
"What is it?" Jax prompted softly.
"Spanking." The word hung in the air between them, heavy with vulnerability. "I don't know why, but I'm curious about it. And yet, I feel like it's weird, given everything I've gone through."
"Hey," Jax said, lifting her chin so their eyes met. "It's not strange for you to be curious about something like that, especially since you didn't experience it before. Your past doesn't define your desires or invalidate them."
Mia nodded, taking a shaky breath. "Thank you for understanding," she murmured, feeling a weight lift from her chest.
"Always, little one," Jax replied, his gaze steady and supportive. “Spanking is a very popular activity in age play relationships. It should be pleasurable in some way for the Little, or there’s no point doing it. It’s roleplay after all. But it often has therapeutic value too. The act of submitting to something a little painful can be a pleasure in itself for many Littles.”
As she lay there beside him, she allowed herself to entertain the thought of a different kind of life—one where pleasure and trust intertwined in a dance as mesmerizing as the dance of the embers as they smoldered in the stove.
"Exploring your desires can be a cathartic experience," Jax said, his voice soft and steady. "You deserve to heal, Mia, and if that means trying something new, that's okay."
"Really?" Her voice wavered, a mix of hope and fear fluttering in her chest.
"Absolutely," he confirmed, his hand giving hers a gentle squeeze. "It's all about trust and communication. The next time you have a Daddy Dom, just make sure he’s a good one. Talk this all through with him. And if there’s a whiff of anything strange, or controlling, you stop, okay?"
"Okay." Gratitude welled up inside her, mingling with the unfamiliar warmth of acceptance.
As they lay side by side, the quiet intimacy of the moment stirred something deep within Mia. Tentatively, she brushed her leg against Jax's, testing the boundaries between them. He didn't shy away, but instead shifted closer, their bodies aligning like pieces of a puzzle.
"Is this okay?" she whispered, her heart pounding in her ears.
"Only if you're comfortable with it," Jax replied, equally hushed.
"I trust you," she admitted, and it was true – for the first time in years, Mia felt safe enough to let down her guard.
"Good," Jax murmured, his breath warm on her neck. "I’m sure you can tell I’m attracted to you. I’d be completely insane if I wasn’t. But I’m not going to make any moves on you. So, you put your body where it needs to be, and I’ll . . . work around you."
“Work around me?” She giggled. "I’d rather you put your arm around me.”
“No problem,” he said. He gathered her close, his strong arms encircling her as a sense of peace washed over them both.
She nodded, her pulse settling into a steady rhythm as she focused on the sensation of his arm draped protectively over her waist. It felt right, somehow; like this was where she belonged.
They lay like that, breathing loudly together, their hearts pounding against one another, until eventually, Jax turned away from Mia as though to sleep.
Mia lay there in the darkness, letting her thoughts wander and listening to the comforting sound of Jax's breaths. It wasn't long before another surge of arousal coursed through her, catching her off guard. She hadn't experienced such a feeling in years, and she hesitated, unsure of how to proceed.
Jax’s breathing had slowed, and she was almost certain he was asleep, so she let her hand tentatively slide down her own body, fingers dancing over the curves of her hips and thighs. The sensation sent shivers up her spine, an unfamiliar yet exhilarating thrill. Tentatively, she traced circles around her sensitive core, gasping softly at the pleasure that began to build within her.
Mia continued exploring her body, her touch growing bolder and more confident. A soft moan escaped her lips as she found the sweet spot, her fingers working in rhythmic motions.
Jax remained silent beside her. He had to be asleep.
As Mia's pleasure intensified, she experienced a profound sense of liberation. It was because of Jax that she felt this way. He’d freed her. Mia’s heart swelled with gratitude, knowing that this man had helped her reclaim a part of herself she'd long thought lost.
She touched herself harder and faster, completely carried away now, reclaiming her body after it had been used and abused by so many others. And it felt . . . phenomenal. Gorgeous. Out of freaking control.
The world shattered around Mia as her orgasm claimed her, washing over her like a tidal wave of pleasure. It consumed her, bringing forth a release she hadn't known she so desperately needed. A choked sob escaped her lips—a sound born of both ecstasy and the weight of emotions that came crashing down.
"Shit," she whispered, her voice barely audible even to herself.
As sleep embraced her, Mia could feel the edges of her emotional armor beginning to chip away, leaving her raw, but open.
Mia awoke with a start the next morning, sunlight streaming through the cabin windows. Disoriented, she blinked rapidly, trying to make sense of her surroundings. Then, last night's events came flooding back – the intimacy, the exploration, the release.
She listened to the sound of water cascading from the showerhead in the bathroom. The image of Jax, naked and wet, invaded her thoughts, adding to the whirlwind of emotions inside her. For a moment, she thought she heard Jax groan. Was he . . . taking care of his own needs in there? Like she had done last night?
"Get it together, Mia," she muttered under her breath, pushing herself out of bed. Padding into the kitchen, she tried to focus on something else, anything to distract herself from the growing heat between her thighs.
The sight that greeted her brought a flutter of warmth to her chest. The kitchen counter was covered with an assortment of breakfast foods – scrambled eggs, toast, fresh fruit, and even a steaming pot of coffee. Plus, a bowl of piping hot porridge. Jax had prepared all this for her. Somehow, it meant more than any grand gesture ever could.
"Damn, Jax," she whispered, touching the edge of the countertop reverently. "You really know how to take care of someone."
As Mia started to load up her plate, she couldn't help but let her thoughts wander back to the man in the shower. It was undeniable now; she wanted Jax – not just as a protector or friend, but as something far deeper and intimate. Yet, at the same time, there was still so much she needed to learn about herself, about the world of DDlg, and what it meant to be a Little.
“Good morning, sleepyhead,” said Jax, as he emerged from the bathroom, his wet hair tousled and a towel wrapped low around his waist. Water droplets clung to his defined chest, making it difficult for Mia to look away. He had a six-pack. An actual six-pack. She didn’t even know if those things were possible in real life.
“Uh, good morning,” said Mia shyly. “Thanks for the breakfast.”
“How did you sleep?” asked Jax, with what could have been a knowing glint in his eye.
“Not bad thanks,” she said, her cheeks hot. “You?”
He scratched his chin. “Not bad.” He cleared his throat. “Anyway, I have a surprise for you today.”
Mia raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh yeah? What kind of surprise?"
"Pack your bags." Jax grinned, unable to contain his excitement. "We're going on a literary road trip to Bloomington, Indiana!"
"Seriously?" Mia asked, surprised by the sudden suggestion. Her heart raced at the thought of exploring new places together.
"Yep! I've been there before, and I know you'll love it," Jax assured her, his eyes lighting up. "There's this incredible bookstore I want to show you, and I promise to buy you plenty of snacks for the road trip."
"Sounds amazing," Mia admitted, her excitement growing. The image of Jax looking so happy and carefree, combined with the prospect of a road trip adventure, made her pulse quicken.
"Trust me, it will be." Jax moved into the kitchen, his fingers brushing against Mia's shoulder as he passed. She shivered at the contact, keenly aware of their proximity and the lingering tension between them.
"Thank you, Jax," Mia whispered, her voice heavy with emotion.
Jax paused, his gaze intense as it met hers. “I just want to make sure you're taken care of, Mia. And not just in the Daddy Dom sense. I . . . I care about you."
Mia smiled. “Well, snap. I guess I care about you, too.”
Jax looked as though he was about to say something else, but then he nodded, turned, and padded off to the bedroom to get dressed.