Chapter 22
FREYA
Pierce has been thrashing around in his sleep for the past few nights. Always the same nightmare from what I can tell, but tonight is different. The words he’s calling out—this is a new dream. My attempts to wake him aren’t working, and with a court appearance tomorrow, I’m afraid he’s locked in his past, and there’s nothing I can do for him.
“Pierce, it’s me, Freya. You’re having a bad dream. Wake up, Daddy. I’m here.” He continues to plead for forgiveness, and it breaks my heart.
“No, Daddy. Please. I’ll be good.” Tears fall from the corners of his eyes, and I can’t hold back my own. It’s painful to watch. With tears streaming down my face, I beg him to wake up.
“Please, Pierce. Come back to me. Wake up.”
“I won’t let you hurt her anymore.” He curls into the fetal position. “I won’t let you hurt us, Daddy. You broke me. You broke Mommy.”
I wrap my arms around him, pressing my front to his back, giving him whatever strength I can at this moment.
“No one loves me, Daddy. Not you, not Mommy. I’m alone. ”
I brush his sweat-soaked blond hair off his forehead, pressing my lips to his cheek. “I love you. Wake up, Pierce.”
“I’m alone. You’ve hurt me enough, Daddy. Enough,” he whispers, and it makes my soul ache for him.
“Wake up,” I plead through my tears. I want so desperately to help him, but he won’t let me.
He startles in my embrace, fighting against my touch. “Freya?”
“Yes,” I say, stroking his arm. “It’s me. I’m here. You’re not alone.” I can feel his rapid pulse like the wings of a hummingbird.
He turns in my arms, facing me as tears spill from his darkened gaze. Haunted .
“The last thing my father did on this earth was throw me across the room so hard I needed brain surgery for a bleed.”
I stay stock-still. Pierce has never opened up to me about his past.
“I was four years old, and he hated me with such vitriol that I knew it was because of me. Something I did. I was unlovable.”
“You are very loveable, Pierce.” I press my lips to his shoulder.
“What dad hates his own kid? I had this little ambulance truck that made the coolest sound. I loved it. I knew I wanted to be a doctor even back then. He smashed it to pieces before he kicked me in the stomach and lifted me above his head. Threw me so hard against the wall everything went black.”
I want to be strong for him, but I can’t contain my silent tears. The thought of anyone hurting him is devastating.
“My mom walked in and killed him. He died right there in my bedroom, and I was glad. I was glad that my father was dead.” His voice becomes hollow. “I thought it would be better, just me and my mom, but it broke her. She loved my dad, even though he beat the crap out of both of us. She loved him and blamed me for what happened. She drank herself to death, and I went into the system. I’ve been alone ever since. No one stays, little one. I wanted so badly to have that with you, and then I let my father win one last time, and it could cost me everything.”
I gently lift his chin, forcing him to see the love in my eyes. A love so overwhelming I still have to pinch myself to know it’s real. “ We’re going to get through this. Together. I’m not going anywhere, Pierce. I love you with every fiber of my being. I love the man you are, the little boy who endured so much more than any one person should. I love you as a surgeon, a Dom, and a man who stood up to a bully to save another little boy from the same fate.
“The dream was different tonight. I was standing in the ER between that little boy and his father, except it was my father, and when I turned around to see the little boy lying broken in the bed… it was me. I had to save him. To save myself. I couldn’t let it happen again. I know I should’ve walked away, but I couldn’t, Freya. I couldn’t let that boy continue to be abused. The next blow could’ve been fatal.”
I press my lips to his, the saltiness of his tears so bittersweet. I’m so happy that he’s ready to open up to me, but knowing what he endured is heartbreaking. It’s why he struggles at times when I call him Daddy.
“You did the right thing, Pierce. You saved that little boy. He and his mom are safe now because of you. Is this why you feel unsure when I call you Daddy?”
“I love it, but I wonder if it’s because I’m fucked up.”
“Yes, it probably is. Just like I love it, knowing full well that it’s because my dad was never in the picture. It never upset me because I didn’t know any different. I have a lovely mom who did her best to put food on the table. What I’ve realized is that all of our experiences make us who we are, and if that translates to a kink we share in a committed and loving relationship, who cares! Do you enjoy being my Daddy?”
“More than I can express,” he admits, tucking an errant strand of hair off my face.
“And I love being your little one. Does it really matter what brought us to this place? We’re together, and that’s what’s important. You’re not alone anymore, Daddy. We’re family, and I will spend every day of the rest of our lives together showing you how much I love you.”
“That sounds like a plan.” His lips find mine in a soul-shattering kiss, and, for now, nothing can touch us. It’s just us, here, at this moment together until death do us part.
“Your honor, I have provided video evidence that my client was simply reacting to Mr. Lee’s attack. Dr. Harrison is a respected member of the community and is at the forefront of his field of neurosurgery. He placed himself in danger between an abusive husband and father. If not for his intervention, the next blow to the boy could very well have been fatal. We have heard from numerous character witnesses who speak to Dr. Harrison’s impeccable, professional behavior. We have also provided more than enough evidence of Mr. Lee’s violent nature to conclude that my client was in no way to blame for the altercation that night.”
The lawyer Nad suggested is the best defense lawyer in the state, and he doesn’t disappoint. I can’t even believe the case got this far. I thought the second they had the security footage, it would disappear. Instead, we’re here, and I’m hoping the judge and jury see sense and do the right thing.
“Does the prosecution have anything to add?”
They were trying to strike a deal last night. They know they have no chance of winning. They’ve seen the footage but thought they could leverage this case to lessen the one that will be brought against Mr. Lee by his wife.
Nad advised us not to make a deal with them, confident that the charges against Pierce wouldn’t hold up. I hope she’s right.
“We have nothing further, your honor.”
“Then the jury will adjourn to discuss the evidence provided and come to a verdict.”
Pierce’s jaw is tight as he sits at his lawyer’s side. Celest, Nad, Dalton, and Flex came to support him, and they’ve all been hovering around me all day. I’m pretty sure Pierce told them to look after me, never worrying for one second about himself.
Flex rests his hand on my shoulder, pulling me back to the room. “ It’s going to be fine. The jury knows what happened. It’s open and shut.”
“Do you really think so, or did Pierce tell you that’s the party line?”
“Both. I do think he’ll walk out of here with a clean record today. I really do.”
“I hope so. Whatever happens here will have a direct effect on his career. He’s unbelievable in the operating room, Flex. He’s the best there is. Truly.”
“I believe you. He’s not exactly shy about bigging up his skills,” he jests, trying to lighten the mood. “Come on, pull up your La Perla panties, and let’s go give him some support.”
“Are you really going to lord it over me that you’ve seen my panties?” I say with a sly grin.
“Only until the next time you watch me jerk off for you. I’d say you have the upper hand here. Although, my cock is very impressive.”
“What makes you think there’ll be a next time?”
“Your penchant for fucking on the voyeur floor. I hear you put on quite the show with Celest. What are the chances that’s how you want to celebrate Pierce’s freedom?” He wiggles his eyebrows at me.
“I’m sure Celest would put on a show for you, Flex.”
She turns at the mention of her name. “What would I do?”
“Flex is sad he missed our little show on the voyeur floor.”
“Oh, I could definitely do a repeat performance.” Her eyes heat under Flex’s feral gaze.
“I’ll hold you to that one, pet.”
I leave everyone else to filter out to the hallway and wait for Pierce. He looks tired today. Exhausted. “How are you holding up, little one?” He always puts my needs ahead of his own.
“Don’t worry about me, Daddy. I’m fine. How are you? I think your lawyer sealed the deal with the closing statement.”
“I’m okay. I just want this to be done. I miss operating. The thought that I might never get the chance again is more than I can fathom. These past few months have felt like a lifetime.”
“You’ll be operating by this time next week. ”
“I’m sure you’re right. And you’ll be at my side. Joseph agrees that you’re the new me.”
“High praise indeed.”
“It is. He hates teaching these days. The fact that he has a smile on his face when he talks about you is a damn miracle. That’s how good you are, and don’t you forget it.”
“I won’t. Dalton has had lunch catered at the restaurant across the street. Come and have something to eat.”
“Sure. Trust him to put on a fucking buffet at my court hearing. It could be days before the jury reach a verdict.”
“We’ll eat, hang out for a little while, and go home. He knows you need to keep your strength up.”
“I didn’t realize I needed a parent.”
“They are our family, Daddy. Just get used to it. All four of them are family. You and I are family. Forever. End of discussion.”
“You’re a bossy little submissive today.”
“Yep. Get used to that too. I’m the one who’s looking out for you. This relationship isn’t a one-way street. Just because you’re a Dom doesn’t mean you don’t get looked after too. That’s my job, and I take it very seriously.”
“If we were anywhere else right now, I’d put you over my knee for the sass in your tone.”
“Promises, promises. When we walk out of here victorious today, you can put me over your knee at the club tonight. Flex wants to see what all the fuss is about with you, me, and Celest.”
“Does he? He can look, but he can’t touch. You’re mine, little one.”
“Always.”
We walk hand-in-hand out to where the others are waiting for us, Flex inhaling his lunch. You’d think the man was starved.
Pierce is obviously nervous about the verdict, but no one acknowledges it, aware that he wouldn’t thank any of us for bringing it to his attention. I’m so glad they came to support him today. I believe the outcome will be in our favor, but I think he needs to see that more people care about him than he realizes. He matters to every person in this room. He is loved .
I’m so proud of him for standing up for that mother and son. So proud that he finally stood up to the demons that have been haunting him all these years.
We laugh and joke, distracting each other as much as we do Pierce. We’re all on tenterhooks for the next few hours, trying to relax, knowing this is going to be a waiting game. What we’re not prepared for is Nad getting a call two hours later saying the verdict is in.
I’ve got to believe that it’s quick because it is so clear that Pierce isn’t at fault here. He didn’t initiate the skirmish, and even if he did, he was doing the right thing. I steel my nerves, stuffing them as far down inside me as I can and painting a smile on my face.
Taking Pierce’s hand in mine, I lift it to my lips, savoring his scent. “Let’s go and get your not guilty verdict.”
He pulls me aside as everyone starts making their way out. “Promise me you’ll finish your training.”
“I will. With you.”
“Of course. But…”
“No ‘buts,’ Daddy. It’s me and you against the world. This is going to go our way. I can feel it. Now, kiss me like you mean it, and let’s go.”
Dropping my hand, he cups my face, his lips crushing hard against mine, his tongue begging entrance which I freely give. Keeping my eyes tightly shut, I force myself not to cry. This isn’t a goodbye kiss. It’s a deep, primal expression of the love we’re going to share for the rest of our lives, which starts today after Pierce walks out of the courtroom a free man.
The walk across the street is quiet. Dalton and Flex flank us on either side, and Nad and Celest are at our back. I’m so nervous my hand is shaking as I cling to Pierce. If he notices, he doesn’t mention it, his demeanor somber and silent.
I swallow past the lump in my throat as he kisses my cheek and releases his hold on me, going to take his place at the front of the courtroom next to his lawyer.
You could hear a pin drop as we eagerly await the judge.
“All rise. ”
A wave of nausea washes over me as I stand, Flex and Celest steadying me on either side. “Take a breath, Frey.” Celest links her hand with mine, giving me whatever strength she can at this moment.
As we sit back down, I fight to keep down what little I had for lunch.
“Have the jury come to a verdict?”
“Yes, your honor.” A gentle-spoken woman addresses the judge.
“And what say you?”
“We, the jury, find the defendant…” Time is endless as I wait to hear two words that give Pierce and me a lifetime, “… not guilty.”
I collapse against Flex, incoherent, babbling joy escaping my throat. “It’s okay, Frey. Everything’s okay.”
Before I know what’s happening, Pierce has jumped the barrier and is pulling me into his arms. “I’ve got you, little one.”
“Daddy,” I sob into his chest. I’ve been holding it all in, telling him everything will be fine, but there was a small kernel of fear deep in my gut, telling me we wouldn’t get our happily ever after. I didn’t realize until now just how gripping that fear really was.
“I’ll always have you, little one.”
Our friends usher us into the hallway before whooping and hollering, wrapping their arms around us. “It’s time to celebrate.”
“Not at the club. You two will just disappear the second we get there. We’re having a bonafide celebration tonight. I’m calling Carter. We’re going to Viper.” Flex knows us too well, and as much as I’d like to take Pierce home to our apartment and let him fuck me on every surface, in every room, I want to revel in this victory with the people who’ve been by our side through all of this.
“The man of the hour,” Dalton proclaims as he lifts a glass. There are so many of our friends from the club. Carter went all out in Viper’s VIP lounge. I’ve been taking it all in as I watch Pierce navigate the room, a genuine, heartfelt smile on his face, surrounded by friends—those who have quietly supported us and those who have been very vocal. “Pierce, you’re a good man, and I think I can speak for everyone in the room when I say what you did was noble. You stood up for those not strong enough to stand up for themselves. You’ve conducted yourself with your head held high, and we’re all so thrilled that the jury saw what we’ve always seen in you. So, let’s raise a glass to Pierce and to good winning out in the end. It couldn’t happen to a more deserving guy.”
“Cheers,” the room answers collectively.
Pierce gives a solemn nod before lifting his glass to take a sip. I move to his side, wrapping my arm around his waist and resting my head against his shoulder. “He’s right, you know. What you did was noble, and I love you even more for it.” He faced his past and slew the dragon.
“Thanks, little one. I couldn’t have gotten through any of this without you.”
“Lucky that I’m not planning on going anywhere then. You’re stuck with me for life.”
“Promise?” he asks as he pulls me against his chest, his index finger slipping under my chin, forcing me to gaze up into his striking green eyes. I could get lost in them forever and be completely content.
“Yes, Daddy.”
His phone rings just as I’m about to drag him on the dance floor. “It’s Joseph.”
“Dr. Milligan?”
“Yeah. I’m going to go outside. I can’t hear anything in here.”
I’m surprised Dr. Milligan wasn’t at court today. Pierce quickly makes his way toward the exit, leaving the merriment with a serious expression on his face.
I follow him out, too nervous to wait for his return. There’s a line around the block outside Viper, people eager to get into the hottest club in Manhattan. The night breeze almost catches the bottom of my dress as I scurry over to where Pierce paces the sidewalk.
“Don’t you think I know that already, Joseph? Hindsight is twenty-twenty. ”
I only get one side of the conversation, unable to hear what Dr. Milligan is saying. By Pierce’s demeanor, I’d say he’s giving a lecture.
“I understand.”
Shit! What does he understand? That the hospital can’t be associated with violence, even though Pierce was found innocent of any wrongdoing today? The firm set of his jaw gives me cause for concern.
“I know what you’re saying, and I appreciate you going to bat for me. My behavior was inexcusable.”
Now, I start pacing in the opposite direction, my heels stomping the sidewalk as I chew on my bottom lip. I can’t imagine a world where Pierce Harrison isn’t a neurosurgeon. He’s too talented, and he’s saved too many lives for it to be taken away by a child-abusing father, and I use the term ‘father’ loosely.
As I try to read Pierce’s expression, my heart lurches into my throat.
“Thank you, Dr. Milligan. I appreciate it.” He ends the call and shoves his phone in his pocket, his eyes meeting mine.
“What did he say?” My hands are shaking as I approach.
“I have bad news, little one.” Tears well in my eyes.
“No. They can’t do this to you.”
“It’s not me they’ve done it to. The bad news is for you. You’re stuck with me. I’m going to be riding your ass hard in the operating room on Monday. Can you deal with having me as your mentor again?” A sexy, heartfelt smile spreads across his chiseled, flawless features.
I rush into his arms, squeezing him as tight as possible. “Oh my God, why would you do that to me?” I laugh through tears of joy. “I can’t wait to be ridden by you, Dr. Harrison.”
“Jesus, little one, you’re going to make me hard as a rock in public.”
I bury my head in his neck, the scent of his cologne intoxicating my senses. “Since when has that bothered you, Daddy?”
He lifts me off my feet, spinning me around. “Thank you so much for sticking by me, little one. I was so worried that I’d taken your career mentor from you in one fell swoop. ”
When he sets me down, I cup his face in my hands. “As much as I’m ecstatic to have you back in the operating room, it’s not for me. It is for all the lives you’re going to save. I have you in all the ways that matter to me. I have your heart, and you’ll always have mine. From now until forever. You’re my Daddy, and you are mine .”
“Always.” As his lips find mine, that one word holds the key to my life’s happiness. I’ve found the love of my life, and he’ll never let me go. I will love him with everything I have and relish the submission he commands. He’s my forever, and as we walk hand in hand back into the club and our friends, I know that I’m safe in his arms, and he will always be safe in mine.