Chapter 18
CELEST
Flex’s playroom is as palatial as the rest of the club—ornate artwork on the walls interspersed with every piece of bondage furniture imaginable and all the tools to punish a submissive. It’s my dreams and fantasies combined, only surpassed by the man leading me to the bathroom.
He sets me on the cold granite countertop while he turns on the shower. “You won’t be needing this shirt,” he says as he returns to me, placing himself in between my legs. Achingly slow, he undoes each of the buttons, his fingers caressing my breasts as he moves down my body. When he’s done, he pushes it off my shoulders, letting it drop onto the countertop as he captures my mouth with his lips, darting his tongue out to lick the seam, asking for entrance.
When Flex finally breaks our kiss, the mirror is steamed up, and the shower door is cloudy with the heat. He takes a step back, giving me a show as he slips out of his shoes and socks and pushes his pants and boxers over his hips, letting them fall to the floor. He is a work of art.
“Like what you see, pet?” He catches me staring at his dick.
“Very much so, Master.”
“Too bad that’s all you’re getting for the next three months.” I have a terrible poker face. He smiles with those panty-melting lips, and my stomach starts doing cartwheels.
“Are you sure we need a no-sex policy?” That makes him chuckle as he takes my hand and pulls me toward the shower.
“Yes. I want to get to know you. Really know you and for you to know me. We already know we are compatible in the playroom, but we need to create a different kind of intimacy.”
Flex pulls me under the rainfall showerhead before cupping my face in his hands.
“I don’t want to fuck this up, Celest. I’m in uncharted territory.”
There’s something new and exciting in the way he looks at me—this Greek god. It’s more than friendship or a quick fuck. This man cares for me and sets my world on fire. “I’m scared if I close my eyes…” I rest my hand on his chest as the water cascades over every sculpted inch, “… that all of this is going to go away.”
He has a smattering of hair on his chest, his abs are etched as if in marble, and his happy trail could make a grown woman weep.
Flex reaches for his shower gel, and I immediately recognize the scent. Squeezing a small amount into his hands, he drops to his knees and starts washing me from my feet to my shoulders. His touch is so gentle, nothing like the fierce Dominant I know him to be. The urgency of release is replaced with such tenderness. There’s nothing sexual in the way he runs his hands over every inch of my skin. He’s taking care of me.
Before he moves on to my hair, he cups my face in his hands, giving me a ghost of a kiss. When he reaches for the shampoo, the tight-knit of his brow unsettles me. “What’s wrong, Master? Did I do something wrong?”
His expression softens. “You’re perfect. I just realized I don’t have shampoo for you.”
“Yours is fine.”
“But I love the way your hair smells. It gives me goose bumps. I can’t figure out what scent it is.”
Running my hands up his biceps, a thrill courses through me. “Coconut. ”
“Coconut. When I’m done with your aftercare, you can text me the brand. I want to make sure I have the right one for next time.”
The way the rivulets of water kiss his deep, defined V muscles make me want to fall to my knees and suck his dick all over again. “Three months from now?” I say with a petulant lip.
“I said no sex. I’m still going to work you into a sweat that requires me to shower you afterward.”
“And if I beg you to fuck me?”
“Then, you’ll be punished. Which, in turn, will require aftercare. You, naked, in here, with me.”
“Can I wash you?” He seems surprised by my request.
“Not tonight. Maybe another night, if you’re a good girl… or a really bad girl. Now, let me wash your hair so we can get you home.” He turns me with such care before lathering my hair with his shampoo. It’s so cute that he noticed my scent. I don’t think a Dom has ever taken the time to learn anything about me outside of a scene.
I relax into his touch, and it brings tears to my eyes. Thankfully, they are hidden by the water cascading over us. When he’s finished, he kisses me with the reverence of a long-time lover, and it has me completely disarmed.
“All done, pet. As much as I hate to say it, you need to put some clothes on before I tie you to my bed and ravish you all night long.”
“Mm… that sounds lovely.” He shuts off the water and grabs a huge, luxurious bath sheet, wrapping me up like his most treasured possession.
“You are going to be the death of me, Celest Monroe.”
Seeing Flex in nothing but a towel is a spiritual experience, as it might be the closest I ever get to God. He leads me to the closet, and sure enough, there are multiple outfits for a woman in need of some clothes. “That’s nice of you to keep some women’s clothes in case a sub needs them.”
“They aren’t for any random sub. I got them for you. No other sub has ever taken space in my closet.”
“But you didn’t even know if I would agree to your contract.”
“You’re cute.” He gives me a peck on the tip of my nose. “I may be new to the kind of relationship we’re embarking on, but it doesn’t change the fact that I’m a selfish man. I want you, Celest, and I’ll do anything it takes for you to want me back.”
“I do want you.” His smile reaches his eyes as he drops his towel and reaches for a pair of jeans and a black T-shirt. How does he make such plain clothes look like the sexiest thing in the world? Every nerve ending in my body is on high alert, overwhelmed with desire for this man.
“Then, we’re on the same page. Now, pick something to wear so I can deliver you home to Gracie and your mom. We can look over the contract on the way.”
This might be the first time I’ve wanted to stay out all night since having Gracie. I didn’t think my fairy tale could come true. Not with the lifestyle I’ve embraced. It’s not for single moms who have responsibilities. Or at least, that’s what I thought before tonight.
I throw on some comfy sweats, a hoodie, and some Converse. They all fit perfectly. “How did you know my sizes?”
“I’m just that good,” he says with a wry smile.
“How did you find out?”
“I asked Freya.”
“She never mentioned anything to me.”
“Because I asked her not to. I didn’t want to put any pressure on you, but I wanted to be prepared for when I won you over with my sparkling wit and massive dick.”
“Your dick definitely won me over,” I jest. It was neither his wit nor his impressive size that got me. It’s this—the small things. The way he cares for me and respects my situation. He isn’t asking me to prioritize him over Gracie. To hear him say that he is vying for the number two spot is everything I’ve ever wished for and dare not dream about.
“Pet, you make sweats insanely sexy. I hope you appreciate my self-control right now because I’m about to take you home when every fiber of my being wants to lock you in this playroom and worship every inch of your body until you understand what you do to me. ”
“Rain check?” I can barely speak the words, my head swimming with dark desires.
Flex chuckles, and even his laugh is hot. “Definitely. In three months, it’s not going to be rain but a fucking tsunami.”
“Promises, promises, Master Navarro.”
He grabs my wrists and backs me against the wall, pinning my hands above my head. His lips caress the shell of my ear as he whispers, “I always make good on my promises, Ms. Monroe. You’ll learn that about me.”
“I look forward to it… Master.” The rise and fall of my chest betray my attempt at nonchalance.
His lips crash down on mine, our tongues twisting and tangling, teetering on the edge. I want him to fuck me right here, right now, but he leaves me bereft, releasing me, only to take my hand and lead me out to the playroom where our contract lies strewn on the floor.
“Be a good girl and pick up your homework, pet.” His voice is like velvet, a low, rumbling sensuality in the most mundane of sentences.
I do as I’m told, eager to please him. I’m capable of very bratty behavior within the walls of this club, but I don’t know what that looks like in a twenty-four-seven relationship. Once I gather them up, he gives me a quick slap on the ass, just enough to sting. “Good girl. Now, let’s see how obedient you can be. You’re going to hold my hand as we leave through the bar. I want everyone to know you’re mine, and no one touches what’s mine. Can you do that, pet? Eyes to the floor.”
“Yes, Master Navarro. It would be my pleasure to be seen as your submissive. I welcome it.”
He bites his bottom lip, his eyes raking the length of me. “Oh, you and I are going to have some fun, pet. I guarantee it.”
“I agree.” He opens the door of his playroom, taking my hand in his once more, his possessive grip settling the storm that’s been raging in the pit of my stomach for years. Previous Doms have given me the structure to hold onto, rules to follow, and sexual satisfaction, but the way my heart beats wildly in my chest—this is new. Exciting. Real .
Flex leads me through the bar, stopping to talk to friends and enjoying my open submission to him. I’m only allowed to speak when he gives me permission, and for his purpose of parading me past friends in silence, I’m sure people are getting the message. I’m his.
As we walk past the bar, Eli tries to catch my attention. “Hey, Celest!”
“Sorry, Eli, Celest can’t talk right now.” I can almost see the smug grin that must be splitting Flex’s face.
“Why not?”
“Because she’s my submissive, and I haven’t given her permission.”
“Oh, wow. You guys are a thing now? Like a relationship? A contract?”
“Yes, yes, and yes.”
“Congrats.”
“You may speak, pet. He offered his well wishes, so it’s polite to respond.”
“May I look at him, Master Navarro?” A thrill courses through me. To be someone’s submissive again. To be his .
“Not tonight, pet. Now, be polite, and let’s go.”
“Thank you, Eli.” My cheeks flush, not with embarrassment but with pride. I can’t contain my smile, happy tears filling my eyes as we say goodnight.
“Night, Eli. Let’s set up a meeting this week to get some of the logistics for the opening knocked out.” Flex oozes confidence in everything he does, commanding any room he inhabits.
With my hand in his, I follow close behind my new Master like a good girl. I love when he praises me. I should have expected it, but I’m still surprised that his driver, Russell, has a car ready and waiting for us.
“Good evening, Mr. Navarro. Ms. Monroe.”
“Hey, Russell. We’re taking Celest to her place.”
“Very good, sir.”
Flex opens the back door of his Escalade, ushering me in before sliding in beside me. I remember the last time I was in this car with him. Russell heard things I now regret. I’m mortified.
“Thank you, Russell.”
“You’re welcome, Ms. Monroe.”
I still have my eyes cast down, waiting for Flex to instruct me otherwise.
“You can look at me now, pet.” As my eyes find his, I’m rewarded with a breathtaking smile on my Master’s gorgeous face.
“Thank you, Master.” Suddenly, his presence seems to fill the enclosed space, butterflies taking flight as he leans in, pressing his lips to mine.
“You did well, pet. Now, almost everyone in there knows you’re mine. I won’t be satisfied until everyone at Venom knows you are my sub, especially after what almost happened tonight.” The memory is a sharp stab to the chest.
“I’m so sorry.”
“I didn’t say it to guilt you, Celest. You were working within the parameters we set… sort of. I hope you’ve learned your lesson. If you see me with another woman, you can’t jump to conclusions. You come directly to me, and we’ll discuss it.”
“Will I see you with other women, Master?”
“Not the way you’re thinking. Our relationship is now exclusive. I told you that. If you see me with Jenna or anyone else, you have to trust that I will never betray you like that. Not ever.”
“You can’t say that. Life has a way of pulling the rug out from under me. If I’m prepared for the worst, then it won’t hit me as hard when the inevitable happens.”
“Come here.” He opens his arms like he did earlier, letting me crawl into his lap. He smells so good, and his hard, muscular chest gives me such comfort as I drink him in.
We sit in silence for a few minutes, listening to the muted sounds of the city around us before Flex speaks. He plays with a loose tendril of my hair, wrapping and unwrapping it around his index finger. “There is no ‘inevitable’ end to our relationship, Celest. We’re going into this with our eyes open. Will there be challenges? Yes. I will fuck up at some point, and so will you. We’ll talk these things out and become stronger for it.”
“What if you get to know me, and you stop thinking you’re in love with me?”
He holds me a little tighter. “I know you, pet. There’s nothing that would change my feelings for you.”
“You say that now, but it’s not realistic. Everyone leaves eventually.”
“Not me. I’m here, and you better get used to having me around.”
“Okay.”
“Kiss me, pet.” Lifting my hand to cup his jaw, the stubble scratches my palm, a stark juxtaposition to the softness of his lips and the gentle caress of his tongue on mine. I’m not sure how long we stay suspended in this moment, in this one kiss.
By the time I pull back, my breathing is shallow and my eyelids are heavy, drunk on the sensation. I could kiss Flex for hours and not tire or push for more.
Our bubble is burst when Russell announces our arrival. I just want a few minutes more with Flex tonight. If I lived alone, I’d already be inviting him into my bed for the evening, but since I don’t, I have to say goodbye.
“Wait a sec, I’ll get the door for you,” Flex says, the rise and fall of his chest telling me he’s as affected by our kiss as I am.
I gather the pages of the contract, gripping them tightly in my hand as Flex opens the car door and helps me out. “You don’t have to walk me to the door. It’s fine.”
Flex scans the street, his brow furrowed as he looks a few doors down from my house.
“Which of your neighbors does that car belong to? They’re not New York plates.” It’s dark, so I can barely see what he’s referring to, and I’m wondering if he has superhero vision.
“I don’t know. I’m not close with any of the neighbors. My mom might be able to answer that. Why does it matter?”
“I’ve just noticed it a few times. It seems a little out of place. Call it a gut instinct. ”
“Is this how you’re going to try and sneak into my house? Under the guise of being my security guard.”
“Sorry. Hazard of the job. Everything and everyone are potential threats.”
“I’m fine. Go home.”
He slides his hands up into my hair, his lips a whisker away from mine. “Don’t forget who makes the rules here, pet. I’m in charge.”
“I…” Any thought of protesting dissolves with his passionate kiss.
“Be a good girl and sign your contract. I’ll be in touch tomorrow.”
“Yes, Master.”
“Sweet dreams, pet.”
“I only want the wicked kind. You, me, and your playroom.”
“Don’t worry, that won’t remain a figment of your imagination. As soon at the waiting period is over, I’m taking you to Venom, chaining you down, and fucking you seven ways till Sunday.”
“Promise?” I say with a playful tone.
“Hell yeah.” He gives me one last kiss. “Goodnight, Celest.”
“Goodnight, Flex.”
He waits until I unlock the door and head inside, his car idling outside my house until the locks are in place and Flex is satisfied that I’m safe for the night. He’s got me wondering if I’m vigilant enough. I haven’t noticed anything strange in my street. Maybe I’ve grown complacent. We don’t live in the best neighborhood, and I tend to think if we keep to ourselves, then we’ll be fine. It’s better to blend into the background.
I watch his car leave through the living room window, and within a few seconds, a car pulls out and goes in the same direction. It’s not a big deal, but there’s a kernel of concern budding in the back of my mind. The house is quiet, so I slip out of my shoes and pad down the hallway to Gracie’s room.
She’s sound asleep, her soft little snore tugging at my heartstrings. Everything I do in life is for her. She’s the reason I’ve been saving as much as I can to get her out of this house and into somewhere we can call home for the rest of her childhood. I’m at least a year away from that, and I need a car, but I don’t let it deter me. I will make it happen.
I’ve been thinking about it for a while, and now is the time. Seeing Flex react to my surroundings makes me uneasy. He makes a living from assessing danger and protecting his clients. It confirms my thinking.
It’s time to get a second job and expedite a move. I need to talk to my mom about how many nights I can realistically work while she watches Gracie. I don’t want to be away from her more than I already am, but it’s the only way to give her the life she deserves.
Gracie looks angelic as I tuck her in and kiss her forehead. “Love you, Gracie. More than you’ll ever know.”
“Thank you so much for meeting with me, Carter. I appreciate it.”
Carter de Rossi is a good friend of Flex’s, and I feel bad meeting him behind his back, but I need this job.
“Is there a reason you didn’t want to meet at the club? What brings you to my vanilla nightclub empire?”
“I was hoping you might need a bartender a few nights a week.”
“Don’t you work for Dalton? He’s a generous employer. Have you spoken to him about your salary?” He’s not wrong, but I don’t want to ask for more. Mr. Callaghan took a chance on me when I needed it most. He’s done enough, and I won’t let my work for him suffer in any way.
“My salary is great, but I want to move out of where I’m living right now and find somewhere I can settle down. I’m saving every penny I can, and if you give me a chance, you won’t regret it. I’m a hard worker.”
Leaning back in his chair, he scrubs his hand over the stubble on his jaw. He’s ridiculously handsome. “What nights are you available?”
“The nights I can make the most tips. I’ll take whatever you give me.”
“Have you ever tended a bar before? ”
“No.” My heart sinks.
“Okay. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday are the best nights. You need to hit the ground running, so I’ll arrange for you to work with Eli this week on his day off. I’m sure he won’t mind coming back to his old stomping grounds for a night. He’ll give you a crash course, and he knows Viper like the back of his hand.” I don’t want anyone from Venom to know I’m doing this, but I know Eli will keep it on the down-low for me.
“He’ll train me here?”
“Yes. You need to learn this bar. When can you start?”
“ASAP.”
He opens his desk drawer and pulls out a business card. “Save my number and text me so I have yours. We’ll get you squared away and ready for your first shift on Thursday night.”
“Thank you so much, Carter. I really appreciate it, and I won’t let you down. I promise.”
“I know. If you weren’t a hard worker, you wouldn’t have lasted at The Callaghan Group. Dalton considers you one of his top employees, and that’s reference enough for me.”
I stand to shake his hand, knowing he’s a busy man. “Thank you again.”
“You’re welcome. I’ll be in touch.” He dismisses me, and I practically skip to the exit. This is going to be grueling—holding down two jobs—but it gets me one step closer to a better life for Gracie.
Checking my watch, I need to get back to work. I came to meet with Carter on my lunch break, but I didn’t get a chance to eat anything. My phone starts ringing in my bag, and I rummage around, trying to get a hold of it. When I pull it out, Flex’s picture lights the screen.
“Hello.”
“Hello, pet. Where are you?”
“Work.” My pulse quickens. “Why?”
“Because I’m at your desk, and you’re not here. Did you forget that we were going to have lunch today?” Shit! Shit! Shit!
“Oh my God, I’m so sorry. It totally slipped my mind. I’m running a few errands on my break. I’ll make it up to you, I promise.”
“Good to know I’m forgettable. You’re bruising my ego, pet,” he says in a lighthearted tone.
“I’m on my way back right now.”
“It’s fine. You’ve got stuff to do. I’ll just head back to my office. Are we still on for tomorrow night?” My heart skips a beat. I invited Flex to come for dinner at my place. It’s a big step for me. I’ve never had a guy spend time in my house, let alone with Gracie.
“Yes. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I asked Gracie what I should make you for dinner, and she suggested sweet potatoes, scrambled eggs, and gummy worms.”
“Okay, so what you’re saying is that I should eat before I come over.” His effortless laugh is music to my ears, and it scares me as much as it delights me.
“Only if you want to be completely full when Gracie force-feeds you.” I sound awkward as hell. “I mean, I won’t let her. You don’t want a three-year-old getting sticky fingers on one of your high-end suits. Plus, I’m certain you won’t enjoy the tiny hand of a kid you don’t know shoving mushy food into your mouth.” I’m prattling on. Stop talking, Celest.
“Celest.”
“Yes.”
“Take a breath, pet. It’s going to be good. I’m looking forward to seeing you and getting to know Gracie. She and I are buddies if you didn’t catch that on churro night.” Could this man be any sweeter?
“I guess your charm works on women of all ages.”
“You think I’m charming?” he teases.
“I love your humble personality, Flex.”
“All I’m hearing is that you love me.” A nervous laugh escapes me, unable to form a coherent sentence. “It was a joke, Celest. You need to chill. We’re just having dinner. I’ve seen you naked already, so dinner shouldn’t be such a stressor.”
“Naked is the easy part. ”
“I can get you naked after dinner. Understood.”
“ No! ” He’s trying to allay my fears, and it’s working. What have I gotten myself into?