The Paramedic

The Paramedic by Trinity Marlow

*****

The Paramedic Copyright 2012 by Trinity Marlow Published by Brazen Snake Books Edited by Carol R. Ward Cover Art by Heidi Sutherlin

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book. This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the author's imagination, and used fictitiously.

Table of Contents Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11

The Paramedic Chapter 1 Maggie swore as the knife sliced cleanly through the underside of her forearm, deep enough that the cut didn't even bleed right away. Her heart beat faster as the blood started flowing and she grabbed a towel off the hook above her sink to press it tightly over the wound. Sliding to the floor, she tried to stay calm, but the questions swarmed relentlessly through her mind. What if I cut something important? What if I pass out, and no one finds me? What if I get gangrene and have to amputate my arm? The last one made her mentally roll her eyes. "Dramatic much, Mags? Breathe," she reminded herself quietly, forcing herself to take a breath, then let it out slow. Closing her eyes, she focused on her air intake, but the suffocating feeling in her chest wouldn't go away. Carefully pulling the towel away, she looked at the cut, knowing she needed to at least rinse it out. Another deep breath and she pushed to her feet and started the faucet, holding her arm under the water for several seconds. After a mental debate on whether to use soap or not, she opted to skip it. As she wrapped her arm in a clean towel, she debated going to the hospital for stitches. Trembling as she leaned against the counter, she knew she needed to calm down or she'd go into a full-blown panic attack. Just the thought of sitting on the floor gasping for air had her grabbing her keys and purse and running for the door. Not this time, she thought as she went down the first flight of stairs. The elevator was broken more than it worked, and just the thought of being stuck there for any length of time made her shiver. I won't panic. I won't. A faint voice in her head warned her that it was too late. She was already panicking, and driving was not a good idea. But she wasn't going to call the paramedics again. That was a humiliating experience she never wanted to go through again, even though the men had been kind and stayed until she was able to function again. Gasping for air, she stopped on the second floor, leaning against the wall to catch her breath. All too aware that she was wheezing air in gulps and shaking harder by the second, she slid down the wall to the floor, pulse racing and face hot as she prayed no one would come by. She never should have left her apartment. Bringing her knees up, she hugged them with her arms, squeezing her eyes shut as she tried again to control her breathing. A door opened, then shut, and she shrank back tight against the wall, hoping whoever it was wouldn't see her. "Shhh...it's okay," a mellow, soothing voice spoke close to her ear. "I'm a paramedic. I can help you." Maggie shook her head. "Go away. I'll be fine. Just...I just need to calm down. I didn't

mean to disturb anyone." She opened her eyes and turned toward the man, her pulse ratcheting up another notch at the sight of his bare, perfectly sculpted torso. Her own issues forgotten for a moment, she stared, mesmerized. How long had it been since she'd seen a man that enticing outside of a magazine? "You...ah...you're not...you're a paramedic?" He cocked his head, looking confused for a minute, then glanced at his chest. Flashing her a grin, he chuckled. "I might have to start going to work without a shirt, if that's the kind of reaction I get." Embarrassed, Maggie looked away, chagrined to realize that her breathing was almost back to normal. If she'd known all she needed was a half-naked man to shock her out of her own head, she'd have subscribed to Playgirl (TM) a long time ago. "I'll be fine," she repeated, taking a deep breath, and letting it out on a sigh. "I just...I cut myself, and I wasn't sure what to do, and I needed to just...calm down." "Well, I am a paramedic," he said, leaning closer. "Let's take a look at that cut." She held her arm out, still avoiding his gaze. "I rinsed it out in the sink, but I wasn't sure if it needed stitches or not, and...well, that's it." She decided against telling him about her fears regarding gangrene, which sounded more silly in her head with each passing moment. His touch did fun, tingly things to her skin as he gently unwrapped her arm and turned it this way and that for a better view. Finally he looked at her, his hazel eyes warm and sympathetic. "I don't think you need stitches, but a few butterfly bandages will help keep the scarring down. Do you have some at home?" She shook her head. "I'm not even sure what those are. Are they expensive?" He smiled, the expression doing funny things to her stomach. "Not at all. Come on, I have some in my apartment. We'll get you all fixed up, okay?" Reluctantly she accepted his hand and let him pull her to her feet. Trailing him to the second door on the right, she wondered if she should wait outside, but when he opened the door, he simply reached inside and brought out a navy bag with a red cross on it. He pulled the cut together with some skinny white adhesive strips, then handed her the box. "You should probably just leave that alone for awhile," he said, putting his bag back inside his door. "But if they come off, just pull it together again. It should heal in a week or two." "Thank you," Maggie said, hesitating a moment. "And thanks for...before too. It's just so stupid, but I'm such a worrywart and I think too much and it just gets way out of hand sometimes, especially when I'm by myself. Which is most of the time." She laughed, a weak, self-deprecating sound even to her own ears. God, he must think she was pathetic. "Anyways, thank you. I'll...um..see you around. Maybe." "What's your name?" he asked, holding out his right hand. "I'm Kyle. Kyle Trieber." She placed her hand lightly in his, warmth suffusing her body yet again. "Maggie Norris." He shook her hand, then held one finger up. "Wait just a second, Maggie. I'll be right back." He disappeared into the apartment, leaving the door ajar. She peeked through the opening long enough to see a massage table set up in the living room, with a pile of black rope on top. Ducking quickly back from the door, she wasn't sure whether she should be worried or intrigued. Kyle reappeared, holding out a black card with raised red lettering and a blood red

ribbon motif swirling through the front. "Here's my number. Next time you feel an attack coming on, call me. I'm a relaxation therapist when I'm not on duty. I can help." She nodded, flashing him a smile as she tucked the card in her pocket. "Thanks. I appreciate that. I'll head back upstairs now. Thanks again for everything." "My pleasure," he said, that voice doing trippy things to her pulse again. Maggie walked back to the stairs and started the climb up, not daring to look back though she could swear she felt his eyes on her. When she got to her apartment, she locked herself in and collapsed on the couch, pulling the card out of her pocket. Relaxation therapist indeed. She shook her head and tossed the card on her coffee table. No way would she ever have the courage to call. She lay back against the cushions and closed her eyes, drifting off to dream about what might happen if she ever did end up on his massage table. *** Kyle watched Maggie walk up the stairs and hoped he hadn't let her go too soon. It had been awhile since he'd seen a panic attack, but the fact that she was clearly cognizant of it and trying to control it told him she'd probably had therapy for it in the past. He almost wished he hadn't given her his business card. He wanted to help, but damn. There was something about her that made him want to gather her up in his arms and hold her until she knew nothing bad could ever hurt her. If she did call, there was no way he could treat her like just another client, and judging from how she'd reacted to him, it seemed like she might be okay with that. He closed the door and walked to his massage table, picking up the ropes he'd been working with. He'd been studying binding techniques as an alternate therapy to offer his clients, and he was just starting to get comfortable enough with the knots to look for someone to practice with. As his fingers slid over the smooth material, he thought of Maggie. He didn't claim to be a psychologist, but he'd had a few clients with similar issues and for them, it had been about a lack of control. Relaxation techniques and exercise seemed to help, but he knew that bondage done well could be very freeing for some people who were constantly grasping for control. Rolling the rope into a neat coil, he pictured the deep wine color against Maggie's pale skin and his cock twitched in response. He should have gotten her number. Maybe if he asked nicely, she'd let him practice on her. He stowed the rope in his green bag and pushed the massage table back to its spot against the wall. Tomorrow he'd find out which apartment was hers so he could check on her. It was the least he could do. He went to the kitchen for a snack, not really paying attention to the sandwich as he ate. Then he went to shower, images of his neighbor flashing unbidden in his mind. Picturing her in the shower, he admired the full breasts tipped with ruby pebbles, long slender torso, and the dusting of auburn curls that hide her most intimate places. He imagined soaping her up, the white lather sluicing down her body as he explored every inch of her with his fingers, and following with his tongue. Palming himself, he stroked his cock, imagining what it would be like to have her legs wrapped around his waist, her lips on his neck as she took him deep inside. Just the thought spurred his fist to move faster, then faster still until he came with a loud moan, surprising himself with the intensity of his orgasm.

Bed springs squeaked overhead, and he grinned as he cleaned himself up and shut off the shower. He didn't know who lived above him, but someone had gotten a free audio show tonight. Stepping out of the stall, he dried off and wrapped the towel around his waist. Padding out to the bedroom, he reached for a clean pair of sweats and pulled them on, topping it off with a t-shirt. As he headed toward the living room, the phone rang. As soon as he picked it up and heard the wheezing noise on the other end, his heart raced and he knew who it had to be. "Maggie? Is that you? What number are you in? I'm coming up."

Chapter 2 Maggie heard the pounding on her door quicker than she'd expected. She wasn't sure why she'd called Kyle, but his number had been right there and when she woke up trembling from another attack, her only thought was to stop it as fast as possible. Seeing Kyle shirtless had helped once...would it help again so soon? She forced herself off the couch and managed to make it to the door, barely stepping back in time as he pushed it open from the other side. Then he was standing there with her, reaching out to lightly stroke her arm and without thinking she leaned into his touch. He didn't seem to need more of an invitation, kicking the door shut and reaching out to lock it before pulling her into his arms, holding her tight to his chest. He was so big. So solid. So...everything, surrounding Maggie completely as he held her. Breathing in his warm male scent, she realized that the trembling had slowed, and the tightness in her chest had loosened. What was it about this man that made her feel secure? He was like her personal security blanket, except for one minor issue. He wasn't actually hers. Her heart rate back to a normal level, she pulled away, thankful for the darkness to hide the heat she felt in her face. "I'm really sorry," she said, shaking her head as she looked at the floor. "I never intended to bother you, I just woke up and your number was there, and seeing you worked before so I just…" He chuckled, the sound rich and deep to her ears. "It's fine." He awkwardly reached out a hand, letting it drop before he touched her. "I'm happy to help whenever I'm around. What guy would turn down the excuse to hold a beautiful woman?" he chided, making her smile. But his first sentence captured her true fear all at once. "How much are your rates?" she asked before she could think too hard about it. "As a therapist, I mean. I appreciate you wanting to help and all, but I need to learn how to deal with this on my own, if I can. I went to counseling for awhile, and I tried drugs, but none of that really helped much. Maybe I could try some of your techniques, see if they work better?" She could feel his eyes on her in the dark as he studied her. What did he see? She felt exposed, as if he was sizing her up for something. Hopefully he isn't a serial killer. "Can we sit down for a minute?" he asked. "Sure." She reached out to switch on a lamp, bathing the living room in a muted yellow light, then sat down on the couch, waiting as he took a seat in the armchair on the left. Resisting the urge to curl her legs up underneath her, she shifted restlessly, reminding herself to breathe. He reached out to put a hand on her knee, his touch calming her instantly. "I don't know why that works," she said, covering her face with her hands. "Normally I hate people touching me, especially when I'm spazzing out. It's kind of embarrassing." Risking a look at him, she was relieved when he just shrugged, sitting back in his chair. "That's exactly why I think you might be perfect for something new I've been working on," he said, hesitating before he continued. "Have you ever heard of shibari?"

"Shibari?" Maggie said, raising her eyebrows. "Is that some kind of funky Asian thing?" Kyle's lips turned up slightly. "More of an Americanized version of a Japanese rope art technique called Kinbaku. Knots are placed over acupuncture points, which I'm sure you've heard of." She nodded. "So like acupuncture without the needles." That might be okay, though the assessing look on his face told her there was more to it. "What's the catch?" He laughed then and leaned forward, his hand just grazing her knee. This time it wasn't just comfortable though. Maggie felt a zing of awareness slide under her skin, and suddenly the room felt very warm. "It's not a catch, exactly," he said, pulling his hand away. "Kinbaku is a Japanese style of bondage. Shibari is the westernized version of the art." Maggie leaned back against the couch cushions, resisting the urge to peel off her shirt. What had she left the heat set to, anyway? Dampness between her legs made her squeeze them together, hoping Kyle didn't notice her nervous movements. She could see the answer to her one question in his eyes, and the thought both terrified and excited her. "You want to tie me up." "Yes." Her heart began to speed up at the thought of being bound, unable to move without someone's - Kyle's - express permission. What if the rope was too tight? What if he left her there and she needed to escape a fire? What if he tied her up and did horrible things to her? She sucked in a deep breath, then another, forgetting to exhale as she felt her lungs fill too quickly with air. "Stop." Kyle's voice was deeper, more commanding than it had been just moments before. She turned to look at him, feeling her center of balance right itself the moment her eyes met his. Gradually she relaxed, holding his stare as her breathing slowed, and her heart rate returned to normal. Or sort of normal. He waited until she lowered her eyes, then moved to sit beside her on the couch, his hand on her back. "This doesn't have to be sexual," he said, his voice low and soothing as his hand traced lazy circles over her back. "Shibari is more about communication. About imparting my touch to you through the ropes. You'd be able to wear some of the designs under your clothes, and if I do it right, you'll feel like my hands are with you even when I can't be." Maggie looked at the floor, then back to the chair he'd vacated. "So I'd have to...be...you know. Naked? In front of you?" He chuckled. "That would be optimal, but we can work up to it. You can wear tightfitting clothes at first, while I'm practicing the knots on you. Part of the art is how the rope looks against the skin. But we don't have to do anything you're not comfortable with." She forced herself to stand, distancing herself from his touch. "I need some water," she said, already three steps toward the kitchen. "Would you like anything? He stood too, and gave her a knowing smile. "I think I'd better go back to my apartment. You'll be okay tonight then, right? She nodded, not really sure what else to say. "Um, I'll think about your...offer. And thank you for coming up. I really appreciate it." He smiled, the expression sending those warm tingles tripping up her spine again. Not

to mention the rest of her body. "You have my number," he said, and then went to the door and let himself out, shutting it quietly behind him. Maggie got a glass of water, and padded down the hall to her bedroom with a tired sigh. Rope bondage? Knots on her naked body, put there by a hot guy she barely knew? Who did he think she was to even suggest such a thing? She finished her water and curled up in bed, closing her eyes only to see Kyle's face in her mind. He was standing over a woman, an intricate design in course brown rope crisscrossing her naked body. Her lens zoomed in, watching as the woman lifted her head, eyes and lips open for whatever he chose. The expression on her face was so relaxed, so dreamlike that it was almost eerie. Then she sat upright, knocking over a stack of books on the nightstand as she scrambled to turn on the light. Sitting up against the headboard, she waited for the panic to start closing in, but surprisingly, it never did. She closed her eyes, unable to ban the images from her brain. Once again she looked into the bound woman's face, and was forced to acknowledge the truth. The woman in the dream was her.

Chapter 3 The next day Kyle spent twenty minutes before work wondering whether he should check on Maggie or not. Leaving the building without contacting her was one of the hardest things he'd done in a long time, but she'd seemed reluctant last night, and the last thing he wanted to do was pressure her. She had his number, and hopefully she'd call if she needed him. Five hours later, his cell phone buzzed as he and his partner Rick had just finished up another hospital run. His heart sped up when he saw Maggie's name on the screen. "Maggie?" he answered, worried at the dead silence coming across the line. "Is everything okay?" "Um, yes," she said, finally breaking the silence. "Everything is fine. How's everything with you? Are you...free tonight?" The cadence of her speech was off, and Kyle frowned. Something was definitely wrong. "Well, I'm at work right now. Three more hours to go, but I'm glad you called. Are you at home tonight?" He waited impatiently for her answer, aware that Rick was watching him closely as they stopped at a red light. "Oh...I'm sorry to have called you at work," she said, her words coming faster now. "I shouldn't...I mean, I never thought--" "Hey," Kyle said, pitching his voice low in hopes it would sooth her. "You couldn't have known, and it's fine if I take personal calls as long as we're not in the middle of a job. And I'm not. What's on your mind, Maggie?" "You're sure it's okay? I can hang up." He forced himself to stay calm. Her breathing sounded okay, so maybe she was just nervous. "Really, it's fine. Are you at your apartment? Is everything okay?" "No, and yes. At least, mostly. I had to get some groceries, so I'm just walking home. I was thinking about your proposal, actually. Wondering if...maybe..." she paused, and he waited, relieved she wasn't in trouble. He shook his head at Rick to signal it wasn't an emergency. Then the telltale wheeze reached his ear, sounding far away like the phone was muffled. "Maggie, are you having an attack? Tell me where you are. We'll come get you." "I'm fine," she said, her voice high and clipped. Kyle motioned for Rick to turn at the next corner. "If I don't think about it, I'll be okay. Just talk to me. When can we start that shibari-rope-thing?" Kyle pointed left and Rick took the next corner. "We can start whenever you want. Tonight even. Are you sitting down?" She must have put the phone to her chest, because Kyle heard her heart pounding in his ear before she spoke again. "No. I need to keep walking. I'm almost home though. Just another block or two. What time do you get off work?" She sounded out of breath now, and Kyle scanned the sidewalks as they neared the apartment. There was only one grocery store in walking distance, and they'd driven past it several blocks back. "Eleven o'clock," he said, finally spotting a figure walking quickly on the right a little

ways ahead. He pointed, and Rick nodded, pulling up to the curb so he could get out. "But you'll see me sooner than that. Turn around, Maggie." The person ahead stopped, then slowly turned around, letting her right hand drop to her side. He jogged to her, frowning when she looked at the sidewalk and turned her head away. "Hey, I thought you'd be happy to see me," he said, reaching out to tuck a finger under her chin and gently lift her face. Red and tear-streaked, she didn't look happy at all. "Talk to me, Maggie." Maggie reached out and batted Kyle's hand away. The panic had subsided, and she'd been nearly home anyway. "I didn't need you to rescue me, damn it. I just needed someone to talk to." Kyle put his hands in his pockets, regarding her far too intensely for comfort. She looked at the ground, unable to hold his stare hard as she tried. She didn't want to need him. Couldn't. The relief that had come over her when she saw him was embarrassing, and she knew he wouldn't understand. "Well, I'm here now," he said, that irresistibly deep and commanding note back in his voice. "Talk to me. I’ll walk you home." She shook her head. "No." The word sounded far weaker than she wanted it to. "I need to do this myself. I can't just rely on someone else all the time. And I've used you enough already." She started walking toward the apartment building again, stopping when his low chuckle reached her ears. "On the contrary," he said, catching up. "You haven't used me nearly enough yet. But I'm hoping you will." He winked when she looked up in shock. Maggie watched the ambulance drive off as Kyle walked past her toward their building. "Don't you need to go back to work?" she called, following at a distance, but not too far behind. Did she really want to let this man tie her up? One minute he was the sweetest guy on earth, the next he was trying to take over her life, and the next he was flirting shamelessly. Who was the real Kyle, and would he come out when she was helpless and at his mercy? "Rick's got it covered," he said, not even looking back over his shoulder. She thought about slowing down, putting more distance between them, but the thought of being alone again was enough to propel her forward at a fast clip. If his therapy worked, maybe she wouldn't be afraid anymore. Then she could tell him to take a hike. Hell, maybe she'd be able to date again, something she hadn't managed in a long time. Too long, she thought as he held the lobby door open and she brushed against him. Her body responded, but for once, it wasn't in panic mode. A gentle warmth infused her muscles, a relaxing feeling that she wished would never go away. He took the small hand cart from her as they reached the stairs, and the feel of his hand touching hers for that brief moment was soothing and arousing all at once. Nothing wrong with the guy in front of you, a voice whispered in her head as she followed Kyle up the stairs. His tight butt filled out his jeans nicely, and for just a moment she imagined her fingers digging in, pulling him closer... "Maggie? Did you hear me?" She blinked, looking up at Kyle as he grinned down at her from two steps above. Heat flooded her face and she tried to think up a good excuse, but nothing would come. Slowly

she shook her head, not even sure what she was embarrassed about. "Sorry," she said. "I'm tired. It's been a long evening." His smile faded. "I should have thought of that. Are you sure you want to start tonight? We could wait until tomorrow--" "No!" The word came out more forcefully than Maggie intended, and she looked around sheepishly to make sure no one heard. "I mean, I'd really like to try a session. Just one, to see how I...well, to see if it works."

Chapter 4 Kyle smiled at her enthusiasm. "Your place or mine?" Maggie thought for a moment. "Mine," she said finally, deciding she'd be more comfortable in her own space. "And I want to wear clothes." She waited for the teasing, but Kyle merely nodded again. "That's fine." He reached in his pocket and brought out a key ring. "Why don't you go up and change into something comfortable - loose fitting would be best. I'll get a few things and meet you up there in ten minutes." "Okay." She took her cart and went up the last set of stairs, all too aware of his gaze at her back. When she finally reached her apartment, she left the door unlocked and quickly stored her groceries. She went to her bedroom and pulled on her favorite pair of stretchy yoga pants and a light tank, deciding at the last minute to leave her bra off. The thin cotton of her top wouldn't leave much to the imagination, but the bra was definitely tight. She peeked at herself in the mirror, turning to the side with a wry smile. Her breasts weren't as perky as they'd once been, but they weren't bad, all things considered. Before she could change her mind, she padded barefoot to the living room just as someone knocked on her door. "It's open," she called, watching anxiously as the door opened. Kyle came in with a small black gym bag and locked the door behind him. "Can I get you anything?" she asked out of habit, earning a smile for the effort. He shook his head. "No thanks." He set his bag beside her coffee table and crooked a finger at her. "Come sit down," he said, his voice calm but carrying that slightly commanding note that compelled her to obey. She sat, watching quietly as he laid several lengths of thin rope and some photos on the table. "I should remind you that I haven't tried this on anyone yet - I've been practicing the knots and patterns on a mannequin. So you need to tell me right away if anything hurts or pinches, so I can fix it before we move on. Okay?" She nodded, transfixed by one of the photos in front of her. Picking it up, she stared at the naked woman, surprised and a little uncomfortable at how attracted she was to both the sculpted body and the rope pattern that stood out against the pale skin. "Do you like that one?" Kyle asked, and she put the photo down, her cheeks burning as she glanced up and shrugged. "I guess," she said, annoyed that her voice sounded so timid. That panicky feeling started coming on, and she fought it, curling her fingers into her thighs. Kyle sat down beside her and toed his shoes off, holding the picture up with one hand as he stroked her back lightly with the other. "Do you think she's beautiful?" he asked, keeping his eyes on the photo. "It's okay if you do. Many people view the naked form as a remarkable work of art." Maggie swallowed hard. Dare she admit it? Warm fingers traced circles over her back, and she slowly nodded, unable to deny it. "It's one of my favorites too," Kyle said as they looked at the photo together. "We'll

start with this one." Maggie frowned as he stood. "It won't look the same though." She looked at the floor, trying to muster up the courage for what she had in mind. Kyle's bare feet came into view. "Of course it won't," he said softly, squatting so he could look into her eyes. He lightly pushed a few stray hairs out of her face and tucked them behind her ear. "But this won't be the only time, or at least I hope it won't. There's no need to rush, Maggie. Just relax, and let's see what happens, okay?" She nodded, though she was pretty sure relaxing was out of the question. He stood, taking a long length of rope from the table. "Do you have a stiffer chair we could use? Something that will be easier to sit upright on." "I'll get one from the kitchen," she said, grateful for one last chance to move around. She brought a chair from the table and sat down, surprised that she hadn't had an attack yet. The panic was there, simmering just under her skin and she knew from experience that it wouldn't take much to push her over the edge. But as he approached, rope in hand, she actually felt that latent energy recede, replaced with a calm resignation she hadn't felt in a long time. "I'm not going to talk much," he said, running the rope across his palm. "I'd like you to close your eyes if you can and just focus on the rope. If anything hurts or pinches, tell me right away, okay?" Maggie nodded again, letting her eyelids drift down. For a long moment, she waited, her body tense and waiting for that first contact. When she finally felt the rope sliding around her torso, a shiver caught her off guard. "Okay?" Kyle's fingers lightly traced her contour above the first wrap, like he was checking that it was straight. "Yes." She lost track of time as he worked, his hands coiling the hemp over her body in some sort of intricate pattern. She'd expected the knots to dig a little, but they were so artfully placed that she hardly felt them. The binding was tight, but not arrestingly so, and by the time he stopped moving around her, she felt cocooned in a warm embrace. His touch wasn't the only thing that lingered, but his scent did too, and she breathed it in slowly, then let out a long sigh of contentment. "Maggie?" Kyle's voice sounded far away, and she tried to open her eyes. They were just so heavy though. So relaxed. "Maggie, how do you feel?" She smiled. "Amazing. Warm and secure, like nothing can touch me. I haven't been this relaxed in years." "That's good," Kyle said, his voice closer now. "Do you want to see how you look?" "I want to suck your cock."

Chapter 5 At her bold request in that soft, dreamy voice, Kyle felt the blood rush into his groin. Apparently his cock had no objection to those pretty lips. Unfortunately, his larger head had other things to consider. Like how Maggie would feel afterward when he took the rope off and left. She shifted on the chair, her nipples jutting hard against the thin fabric of her top. His rope circled and defined her breasts, putting them on display. Crisscrossed knots ran down her belly and between her legs then repeated the pattern in back. Her arms formed a square, bound behind her with rope spiraling up to her shoulders. She sat with her legs spread, and it was impossible for him to miss the dampness spreading around the rope between her thighs as she wiggled a little more. "You're so beautiful," he said quietly, scratching his bare chest. He'd taken off his shirt awhile ago due to the heat, and he couldn't help but wonder what her tongue would feel like against his flat aureoles. "I'm just not sure...I mean, I don't want you to regret anything later, sweetheart." She opened her eyes, giving him a sultry look. "Do you know how long it's been since I've had sex? Or even a date?" Her gaze drifted down over his chest, slowly examining him as her tongue snaked out to wet her lips. "You'd be doing me a huge favor," she breathed, finally staring hungrily at the bulge in his crotch. "Let me taste you, now while I'm tied up. You don't even have to call me in the morning." It was the saucy wink that did him in. Or it could have been the way she leaned forward, wiggling her hips against his rope as she lightly pushed her tongue into his navel, placing a moist kiss in the center of his stomach. Kyle was powerless to resist such a request, and he pushed his sweats down, his bare, rigid cock springing free. Before she could capture it though, he lifted her face with one hand and looked into her eyes. "I will call you in the morning," he said, meaning every word. She nodded, and he released her, holding his cock for her pleasure. She laved the tip like an ice cream cone, moaning as she seemed to savor the taste. Tiny little kisses pressed down the underside and then one by one she suckled his balls. Licking her way back up his long dick, she sucked in just the tip, released it, and then swallowed him all the way to the back of her throat. "Oh Maggie," he moaned, grasping the back of her head and thrusting gently back and forth in her mouth. "That's so good, sweetheart. God that's good." She looked up at him and batted her eyes, his cock buried between her lips. She swallowed, her throat momentarily tightening around his head and he jerked into her, powerless to hold back any longer. He held her in place as he came, shooting his seed down her throat as she swallowed around him, finally releasing her when he was spent. She slumped back in the chair and licked her lips as he tried to catch his breath. ***

Maggie waited patiently as Kyle untied her, struggling to understand how she felt when the ropes slid off her body. She hadn't panicked. Just the opposite, in fact. She'd felt safe, protected, and it didn't make any sense considering she'd been completely helpless and at Kyle's mercy. When he released her arms, he led her to the couch and then massaged her shoulders as they adjusted back to a more normal position. She thought he might sit by her, maybe even hold her, but instead he took a seat in the chair, his sweat pants back in place and that beautiful chest still on display. When he didn't speak, just regarded her with those pensive eyes, she shivered. She'd overstepped the boundaries, and now he was going to leave. He was just trying to figure out how to tell her nicely. Her skin tingled, her pulse sped up and she wrung her hands, looking down at the couch in a lame attempt to avoid what she knew was coming. If she could just hold it together for a few more minutes... "Maggie, look at me." She didn't want to, but he used that compelling, no-nonsense tone that she couldn't ignore. She raised her head, reminding herself to breathe. "Did you like being tied up?" he asked, leaning forward to brace his elbows on his knees. She could see that he already knew the answer, but wanted her to say it for some reason. "Yes." He nodded. "And you didn't have a panic attack, though I'd guess by the way you're fidgeting that you're fighting one now." She shrugged. "You're very perceptive." For some reason though, having him acknowledge her struggle made it easier. She brought her feet up onto the couch, curling her arms around her knees. "It's getting better though." He nodded again. "I thought it might." He looked at the floor for a few long seconds, apparently thinking. When he looked up again, he sat back in the chair, and spread his legs apart. "Come here. Kneel between my legs." There was that tone again. Maggie stood and went to him, dropping to her knees as he'd asked. The shivering stopped, and she realized that kneeling there, waiting for his next command had calmed her. She wasn't sure whether to be happy or embarrassed about it, but she waited patiently, happy to banish the worry again even if only for a few minutes. "I can't be your therapist, Maggie." Kyle reached out to run the fingers of one hand down the side of her face. "But I don't think you need me to be." She opened her mouth to protest, but he shook his head, holding two fingers against her lips. "You need a master," he said, letting his hand fall away. "Someone to give you the structure and security you can't seem to give yourself." She frowned. "That doesn't make any sense," she said, moving to get up. "I don't want some guy bossing me around all the time--" "Stay on your knees. And take off your shirt."

Chapter 6 Maggie sputtered with indignation. How dare Kyle order her around like he...owned her? Being tied up was kinky enough, but this? This was just too much. "You're out of your mind if you think I'm going to put up with this," she said, glaring at him. I thought you wanted to help me. I thought we had a connection. But you just want a slave, don't you? I should have known better when you wanted to tie me up..." She shook her head, then frowned as she realized he was grinning at her. "What?" He shrugged. "Your words don't match your actions, Maggie. And as mad as you are, I'm still in control, and you're not having a panic attack. Don't you find that interesting?" "You are not controlling me, mister," she said, shaking a finger at him. Then she shrunk back as he stood, towering over her like some sort of giant. A gentle giant, at least, judging by the sympathetic look in his eyes. "Then why are you still on your knees?" Maggie looked down, stunned to realize she'd never actually risen from her spot on the floor. Embarrassed, she sank down to sit on her heels, not sure what to do next. Kyle's hand appeared next to her, palm up. An offer. She didn't want to take it, but she didn't want to stay there either. So she slid her fingers over his warm skin, and allowed him to help her to her feet. "Look at me." She thought about disobeying for the hell of it, but the idea was fleeting. She wanted to please him, and that realization frightened her more than anything else. As soon as her head tilted back, he leaned in and pressed his lips over hers, a soft, undemanding connection that left her wanting when he pulled back to look at her. "I don't want to own you," he said, almost whispering, his breath warm on her skin. "I'm not looking for someone to be my live-in servant - that's not my thing. But Maggie," he stroked her arms with a feather light touch, "you respond to my commands. You're a natural submissive, and that doesn't mean you don't have your own thoughts and feelings and can never make decisions, it just means you'll be more comfortable when someone else is in control. Think about it." He kissed her again, and her body hummed with awareness as she leaned into his warmth. Then he stepped back, gave her a tentative smile, and gathered his things. She just watched as he walked to the door, wanting him to stay yet needing some space. She should say something, but what else could she say? He opened the door and gave her a long appraising look. "Get some sleep," he said, the words not a suggestion. "I'll call you tomorrow, and we'll talk, okay?" She hesitated, then nodded slowly. "Okay." The door closed behind him and she looked at the couch before turning off the lights and padding to the bedroom. Taking off her clothes, she crawled into bed and pulled the covers up tight around her shoulders. Then the tears came.

*** Kyle put the phone down for what seemed like the fiftieth time. He'd been awake since dawn, and as he checked the clock again, he slumped a little deeper into the couch cushions. Only eight-thirty? How was that possible? Definitely too early to call. He hadn't wanted to leave Maggie last night. She needed space, he knew, but it had been nearly impossible to walk out that door, knowing she'd be all alone and maybe even suffer another panic attack without him there. He wanted to help her, to be there for her. But is that all I want? It was too soon to think about things like love. There was something about her though something that her need to be tied up, to serve him, merely enhanced. She was vulnerable, and part of him warned against taking advantage. The other part warned him not to let her go. He watched the dust motes dance in a ray of light that had somehow escaped his blinds. Not that he needed to worry about any of it. She'd looked so upset when he left last night...she might just tell him to get lost when he called. No. She was his. On some level, she had to know that. There was a knock at the door. At first, he thought he was imagining things, but then he heard it again, louder. More confident. He went to answer it, his heart beating hard as he saw Maggie standing in the hall. "I was going to call," he said, stepping back and motioning for her to come in. "I didn't want to wake you." She waited while he closed and locked the door. "I...uh...had trouble sleeping. In fact, I didn't sleep much at all." "I'm sorry to hear that." Kyle took her hand and drew her toward the living room. "Can I get you anything? Something to eat? Drink?" Maggie shook her head, then glanced to where his black bag sat against the wall. Then she looked into his eyes, her expression unreadable but her idly moving fingers giving her nerves away. "I've been thinking about what you said." She turned away, looking down at her hands. "I don't want to be a slave--" She held up a hand when he started to interrupt, "and I know you said you didn't want to own me. So my only question is, what do you want from me? I mean, how do you see us moving forward?" Kyle considered the question he'd been pondering all morning. "I don't know," he said finally. "For now, I just want to get to know you, and I want you to get to know me. I want to help you get control over your body, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to control it too, sometimes." Maggie peered over her shoulder at him, eyebrows raised. He winked. She smiled. Kyle stepped forward. "So what do you say, Maggie? Should we give it a try?" She took a step toward him, staying just out of arms reach. "Aren't you the one who's supposed to give the orders?" she teased. He shook his head, closing the gap between them as he slid his hands around her waist and pulled her close. Her head fell back, and he stared at her long, gorgeous neck, dying

to taste her skin again. "Not always," he said, giving in to the temptation and kissing his way from her collarbone to her jaw. "Tell me what you want, Maggie," he whispered in her ear. She didn't hesitate even a moment. "Tie me up."

Chapter 7 Maggie stepped back, gently extricating herself from Kyle's arms. Her chest was tight, her pulse raced, and for the first time since she'd met him, the panic that threatened to envelope her was centered on him. Will he like me? Am I skinny enough? What about the scars? What if I don't please him? The voices melded in her head, a cacophonous refrain that paralyzed her limbs. Somewhere in her mind she was aware of him watching her, but everything else in the room was out of focus. She tried to move, tried to speak, but the fear was swallowing her whole. He walked to her and pulled her back into his arms, holding her close. His touch was soothing as always, and she closed her eyes, focusing on his heat, and the scent of him surrounding her. Gradually the fear subsided, and she relaxed against him, letting him lead her to one of the stools near the kitchen counter. "Want to talk about it?" he asked, stroking her arm as he sat beside her. "What made you panic?" She shook her head. "It's stupid." He shook his head. "No, it isn't," he said, taking her hands in his. "Don't you think that knowing what causes your attacks will help us figure out how to control them? I promise, whatever it is, it's not stupid. Just tell me, sweetheart." Maggie shrugged. "I know you're right, but it's just..." She took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. "Do you remember the day we met?" Kyle nodded, his thumbs tracing hypnotic circles over the backs of her hands. "I had just cut myself, and all theses scary questions kept floating through my head. Like what if I passed out and no one found me? That's where the stupid part comes in...I panic when I start thinking about all the bad things that could happen. That day I started down the stairs because I can't use an elevator without panicking, and I ended up on your floor because it just got too overwhelming." She let out a sad laugh. "Basically, I worry myself into a panic." He nodded again, his expression calm. Maggie admired that about him. If only she could be that way... "So what about today then? What were you worrying about just now, that triggered an attack?" "Um..." She closed her eyes, forcing herself not to let the questions start again. "I was worried that I...wouldn't please you. And I have scars that are--" He ran a hand down the side of her face, his fingers threading gently through her hair. "I think you're beautiful, scars and all. And there's nothing you could do that won't please me." "But how do you--"

He put two fingers over her lips, shaking his head. "Quiet. Let me show you how beautiful you are. Do you trust me?" She took a deep breath. "Yes." "Good." Kyle walked over to his black bag and pulled some things out. When he came back, there was a roll of rope in one hand, and a thicker strip of black cloth in the other. He put the rope on the counter, and held the cloth up to show her. "I'm going to blindfold you. I want you to focus on my voice, my touch, and the rope nothing else." Maggie noted that he wasn't asking permission as he walked behind her and tied the cloth in place. She closed her eyes, concentrating on the feel of his hands as he helped her stand, and then undressed her. Once she was naked, she could feel his gaze roving over her skin and hear his light footsteps as he walked around her. She jumped when his warm breath caressed her neck. "You're gorgeous," he said, his lips grazing her ear. "A stunning canvas for my rope." Then it began. Coil after coil, knot after knot, her fears diminished into nothingness, and by the time his fingers stopped moving, her mind was blissfully silent, her body serene and relaxed. She felt him lift the blindfold off her head, but she didn't open her eyes. If she could just hold on to this feeling... "Open your eyes, sweetheart." Maggie did as he commanded, disoriented as she stared at the woman in ropes sitting across from her. The intricate knot work covered nearly her whole body, the black material stark against her pale skin. Her arms were bound behind her in some sort of long sleeve, and each ankle was attached to her thigh with a shortened length of rope that wouldn't let her extend her legs straight. The position made it hard to keep her legs together, and her pussy glinted in the dim light, on display for anyone who might come through the door. On some level Maggie knew that it was her own reflection, but the other woman looked so sultry, so wanton and ready for her ... "Master," Maggie breathed as Kyle came up behind her, his eyes meeting hers in the mirror. He reached around her from behind, his fingers pinching at her hard nipples as they poked out from between two sections of rope. "That's right, Maggie," he said, his mouth next to her ear. "You belong to me." He pulled her back to lean against him then nipped her shoulder as one hand came up to wrap around the front of her neck, the other moving downward to cup her sex. "Does that make you nervous?" Maggie closed her eyes, concentrating on how his pulse beat next to hers at her neck. She tried to move her arms, wanting to pull him closer, but they wouldn’t budge. Restlessly she moved against him, needing more than the gentle fingering he was giving her. "No," she moaned, wiggling her thighs as much as she could. "I need you." The grip on her neck tightened. "I need you what?" "Master," she said quickly as he left her clit. "I need you, Master." His hand returned, and she sighed, squirming against it until he pulled away again. "Even all tied up, you're still trying to control the situation." He steadied her, then removed his hands. "You have to let go, Maggie. You have to trust me to take care of you."

She gasped when he leaned over and picked her up in his arms, holding her tight to his chest as they went down a hallway and into what must be his bedroom. He laid her on the bed, then helped her up onto her knees, her face pressing down into the flat mattress. Trussed as she was, she couldn't move in that position, and she'd never felt so vulnerable in her life, with her ass in the air and her legs spread wide for balance. She felt him get on the bed behind her, and then his tongue was on her, laving and suckling her sensitive nub as his fingers probed at her wet opening. She wiggled her bottom, unable to move more than that as he feasted between her legs. The ropes rubbed at her skin, pulling tight around her nipples every time she leaned forward and pinching with that delicious spark of pain each time that went straight to her soaking channel. He licked his way up to her puckered hole, probing for entry there too. Was there no part of her body he wouldn't own when this was over? She pressed back against him, lost in the moment and wanting to give him everything he wanted to take. "Not yet, sweetheart," he rasped out, shifting between her legs. "Someday I'll take you there, but not tonight." Then his cock slid between her lower lips, and he inched into her long-neglected channel. "Oh!" she gasped, every nerve in her body at attention. Her muscles tensed against the bindings, the knots pressing in at all the right places as he grabbed the rope at her sides and pulled her back until his balls rested against her clit. Then without warning, he started pounding into her, his sack sending electric pulses into her each time it slapped her hard nub. She cried out, helpless to do anything but ride wave after wave of sensation as he pummeled her pussy, each tug of the ropes pinching her nipples hard and tightening the net on her skin. Her eyes closed, and she let herself go, floating mindlessly as he stroked her higher and higher. Then he pulled her up, reaching underneath her arms to grasp her shoulders as he thrust hard and deep one last time, shooting hot semen deep inside her body. "Come now, Maggie." His low command was magic, and she clenched around him, the orgasm roaring through her body like a pulse of light and leaving her trembling and gasping for breath. When he pulled away, she felt bereft, as though a part of herself was gone. He began to untie the ropes, working quickly as she lay quietly on her side. With each coil that fell away, that feeling grew in the pit of her stomach, and when she was finally free and he gently massaged her sore joints, she realized she was crying.

Chapter 8 Kyle's fingers slowly kneaded out the kinks in her joints as tears rolled down Maggie's face. His touch was so gentle as he pulled a blanket over them both, and she wept against his chest as he held her close. "I'm sorry," she said as her sobs subsided. "I don't know what's wrong with me. I thought it was another attack, but this feels...different." He squeezed her tight and kissed her forehead. "It's a lot to take in. You need some time to process everything that's happened. Everything will be okay, I promise." He stroked her shoulder, the motion hypnotic as she allowed her eyes to close and drifted off to sleep. When Maggie woke alone, she wasn't sure what to think. Memories floated through her mind of what Kyle had done - what she'd let him do - to her the night before, and her face warmed at the thought. She sat up, a niggling thought making her belly flutter. What if her crying had turned him off? Was that why he'd left her here alone? She waited for the panicky feeling to spread, but it almost felt like it was just too much work to worry about anything right now. Relieved, she laid back down and stretched her arms and legs, her lips curving up at the twinges of tenderness leftover from his rope. "You have a beautiful smile." She turned her head to see him leaning with one shoulder against the wall by the door. He took her breath away, standing there in nothing but a pair of gray sweat pants riding low on his hips. Everything about him screamed sex, but also security, and that's what she wanted most just then. "Thank you," she said softly, rolling to her side. "What time is it?" He padded to the side of the bed, his bare feet making little noise. Leaning over to place a chaste kiss on her lips, he moved back far too quickly for her taste. "It's time to get up," he said, moving back toward the door. "I left you a robe on that chair - meet me in the kitchen in ten minutes. Don't be late, we have a lot to do." Maggie frowned as he disappeared through the doorway. What could he possibly have planned for her already? Not sure whether she should be irritated or excited, she reluctantly got out of bed and found the robe, pulling it around her shoulders and knotting the belt. After a quick stop in the bathroom she went to the kitchen, surprised to see two plates of scrambled eggs and bacon on the counter, with cups of coffee to match. Kyle sat on a stool in front of one, smiling as he motioned for her to take the other. "Hungry?" He waited until she was settled, then wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her in for a kiss. "I wasn't sure what you like, but if this doesn't work, we'll get something else." She shook her head, confused, but impressed with his thoughtfulness. "This is perfect thank you." She took a sip of coffee and then nibbled on a piece of bacon before she gave in. "You said you have a lot to do...if you need to go, it's okay. I don't expect you to entertain me or anything." Eyes on her plate, she wasn't really sure what to say next.

Obviously she'd been out of commission too long, because she didn't remember the morning after thing being quite this awkward. Kyle chuckled. "Today is all about you, sweetheart. Eat, and then we'll talk about it. I have something I'd like you to try." Maggie looked up, her mood suddenly lightened at the thought of spending the day with him. "Does it have anything to do with ropes?" she asked, raising her eyebrows hopefully. He merely shrugged, turning his face away again, though not before she caught the upturn of his lips. "Eat." *** Kyle waited for Maggie to finish her breakfast, trying to project calm vibes though his own body was humming with excitement. She'd responded so well to the bondage - better than he'd hoped she would. She was ready for the next step, but would she trust him enough to try? He hoped so, for her own sake. "All done?" he asked as she popped the last piece of bacon in her mouth. She nodded and moved to pick up the plate, but he put a hand on her wrist. "No, let me get it. I'll be right back, okay?" "Okay." Her voice shook the tiniest bit, but her eyes didn't waver from his. Good. He smiled, gave her a chaste kiss and took her plate to the sink. Well aware of her gaze following his every move, he walked down the hall and retrieved two coils of thin white rope from a closet, then took them back and set them in front of her. She looked at them, her lips curved up in a slight grin. "Are those for me?" He nodded when she looked up. "I'd like to try an experiment today - but it will be challenging for you. Are you okay with that?" A thoughtful expression on her face, Maggie shrugged. "What kind of experiment?" "One that requires you to trust me with the details," he replied, careful to keep his own face neutral. She met his gaze, searching his eyes for something. Apparently finding it, she finally nodded. "I trust you." A thrill went through Kyle at her words, and he wanted so badly to take her in his arms and protect her from the big bad world. But that wouldn't help. Instead, he took her arms and swiveled her on the bar stool until she was facing out from the island. Then he reached for the belt of her robe - his favorite one - and tugged it loose. She opened her mouth as if to speak, but he shook his head. Reaching up, he slid the fabric off her shoulders, following it down her arms with his fingers. Barely making contact, he traced a jagged scar over the top of her left thigh, and another diagonally across the right side of her ribs. Some day he'd ask how she'd gotten them, along with the raised skin on her back, but not today. Turning away, he retrieved her bra from the couch where it had landed last night. No under wires, he noted. Perfect. Holding it up, one hand in each strap, he put it on her and clasped it in back. One at a time, he adjusted her breasts to fit in the cups, his fingers brushing her nipples often. By the time he stepped back, they were hard little nubs poking desperately out from the silky material. Retrieving one of the rope coils, he shook it out, and then began to wrap her torso,

building a thin corset around her ribs and then wrapping carefully around her breasts and anchoring it over each shoulder. Then he took the second rope and attached it to the bottom of the corset and between her legs, coming back up. Several more passes around the top of each thigh and a few intricate and well-placed knots completed the ensemble. Standing back to admire his work, he motioned for her to stand and pointed to the mirror. "What do you think?" She stared at herself for a moment, turning one way, then the other. He could see her muscles moving against the rope, testing the feel as she slid her hands over his art. "It's amazing," she whispered, barely able to tear her hands away. "It's tight, but it feels good. Like a hug." Kyle smiled. "That's perfect." He held out the sweat pants and baggy shirt she'd worn last night. "Put these on, and we'll go to your apartment so you can change. Then we're going out."

Chapter 9 Maggie took her clothes from Kyle warily. "What do you mean by out? I've got ropes where my panties should be. Surely you can't expect--" "I can, and I do." Kyle's voice was calm, but one look in his eyes told her he was serious. "We'll discuss it in more detail when we get back, but for now, you just need to trust me." She slipped into her sweats, feeling odd with the ropes hidden beneath the thick, bulky fabric. Did she trust him enough to do what he asked? She looked up at him again, noting his tall, straight posture, the corded muscle in his arms and hands, the way he looked both relaxed and ready to move at the same time as he waited for her. That he was capable of taking care of and protecting her, she had no doubt, though she was uneasy admitting that it mattered. She should be able to take care of herself, shouldn't she? His expression was peaceful, relaxed as he watched her sizing him up. Some men would have been nervous and defensive - she'd experienced that before. But Kyle didn't blink an eye, and his quiet inner strength reassured her more than anything else. "Okay," she said finally, moving to his side. "I'm ready." His nod was a reward in itself, and his long fingers intertwined with hers as he led her into the hall and to her apartment. In her bedroom, he picked out clothing for her to wear - nothing suggestive as she'd expected. When they left the building, she actually felt more confident than she had in a long time, sporting a black cotton camisole underneath a silky-but-simple button-down blouse and a knee-length black pencil skirt. Thigh-high nylons and low heels completed her ensemble, and she'd put her hair up in a simple French twist at the back of her head. Kyle led her to his car and helped her into the passenger seat before getting behind the wheel. "You look elegant and beautiful," he said, reaching for her left hand and placing it on his thigh. The tailored black pants he wore felt cool and soft under her touch, and they blended with his black shirt perfectly. "Thank you," she said, surprised that her voice still worked. "Now will you tell me where we're going?" He grinned and shook his head. "Nope. I don't want you to worry about anything. Just take it as it comes, okay?" She smiled back. "If you insist." She slid her hand up his leg, absently running her fingers softly up and down his inner thigh. "Are you sure you don't want to just go home and..." "Later, darlin'. Right now, we have some shopping to do. Or you do, anyway." Maggie looked out the windshield as the car came to a stop, then back at Kyle, confused. "You want to go grocery shopping?" He shook his head, turning the motor off but leaving the key turned enough to keep the stereo on low. Reaching into his pocket, he took out a slip of paper and handed it to her

along with some cash. "No, I want you to get the groceries. I'll wait here." "I don't understand," Maggie said, reluctantly taking the list and money. "You got me all dressed up just to buy groceries?" Kyle gave her a measured look. "I asked you to trust me. You said that you would. Are you changing your mind now?" She thought about it for a couple of seconds, knowing somehow that if she said no, he'd take her back to her apartment and everything they'd gone through so far would be meaningless. Shaking her head, she turned away from him and opened the door. "I'll be right back." She wished she could take the inane comment back as soon as she said it. It didn't seem to bother Kyle. "I'll be right here," he said as she pushed the door closed, hearing the music get louder as she walked toward the store. It was a large gray-brick building with very little character, and Maggie got the same ominous feeling she always did as she approached the single entrance/exit. Taking a deep breath as she went through the automatic doors, she felt the ropes hugging her ribs. Rather than being constrictive, they were soothing, and she found herself relaxing into their embrace. Calmer, she checked the list and got a shopping basket, moving easily through the store to find the items. The old discomfort was still there, except now it was just an annoying itch in the background rather than a blaring foghorn in her ear. When she checked out, the cashier smiled and asked her how her day was and chattered about the weather as she bagged up Maggie's things. As if she hadn't checked Maggie out before at least a dozen times. Not sure whether to be amused or insulted, Maggie nodded politely and took the papers thrust into her hands on the way to the parking lot. After she put the bags in the trunk, she got in the passenger side of the car. "How do you feel?" Kyle asked, turning the key in the ignition. Maggie thought for a minute. "Good, actually. It was...different." "Different how?" She hesitated again. "I felt more confident, and I think that showed. The cashier talked to me. She gave me this." She held up the papers for him to see. "It's a job application." He smiled. "Are you going to fill it out?" Maggie flipped through the sheets, trying to remember how it had felt to go somewhere everyday, to get a paycheck with someone other than the government's name on it. But her last job had ended on a rather poor note, so she hesitated. "I don't know." She slid the papers into the back seat. "Today's a good day, but what if tomorrow isn't? Or the next day, or the next after that? I never know when an attack is going keep me from leaving the apartment, much less getting to work and back." Kyle looked disappointed, but he didn't say anything. She wasn't sure if she was relieved or not. He pulled into the parking lot of a popular deli that Maggie normally avoided due to the crowds, and she started getting antsy again. "What are we doing here?" she asked, dreading the answer with all of her being. "Having lunch."

Chapter 10 Kyle watched Maggie fidget out of the corner of his eye as he found a spot to park. It wasn't noon yet, so they were ahead of the lunch crowd, but not by much, and while normally he would have gotten a meal to go, he suspected one more little push would be good for Maggie before they went home. He took the keys out of the ignition, and put a hand on her knee as she moved to get out. "I know that you're scared," he said, stroking gentle circles on the side of her leg with his thumb. "I know this is going to be really uncomfortable for you, but you will not have a panic attack." Her eyes blazed as she looked at him, anger tightening her face. "Is that an order, then? I can't just stop them whenever I want to - don't you think I would if I could? You don't understand. No one understands. But hey, if you need proof that a little rope isn't going to just fix me overnight, then let's go, superman. Just promise me you'll get me out of there when I fall apart." Kyle kept his expression blank. "Are you finished?" She hesitated, then nodded. "It wasn't an order, it was a statement of fact. You won't have a panic attack today, Maggie. Not just because of the rope, or even me, though I think both of those are helping you right now. It's just that I think we're tricking your subconscious into relaxing a little, and that's a good thing, right?" He waited for her nod before he continued. "No, I can't ever fully understand what you're going through, but I've learned a lot about you in a short time, and if I didn't think you could do this, I wouldn't have brought you." He left her sitting there and let himself out, walking around the car. He offered his hand. "Come on. Let's eat." She slid her palm in his and he helped her out then closed the door. She started walking away, avoiding eye contact, but he pulled her back, twirling her around so her back was to the car and her wrists were secured tightly, one in each of his hands. He leaned in, pressing the full length of his body against hers and feeling his ropes under her clothes. "Look at me, Maggie. That is an order." She raised her head and looked into his eyes, her own glassy and red. "What more do you want from me?" she asked. "What do I have to do to make you happy?" He smiled, tilting his head down close to hers. "You just did," he said, kissing her gently at first, and then with more force as her arms snuck up around his neck. Marveling at how lost he could get in this particular woman, it took a few seconds from the time he heard the noise to realize it was a man clearing his throat. Stepping back reluctantly, he looked toward the elderly man. Holding up a key, the man pointed to the car door they were blocking. "Sorry about that," Kyle said, pulling Maggie with him out of the way. "Sometimes I just can't keep my hands off her." The man shook his head, and got in his car. They watched him pull away. Kyle turned to Maggie, who looked slightly more at ease.

"Ready?" "Yes, Sir," she said in that soft, just-been-kissed tone. He smiled, lacing his fingers with hers. "Then let's go." *** He's wrong, Maggie thought as she followed Kyle into the cafe. It was him that made the difference. Him and the rope that caressed her skin every time she moved, just as if it were his touch. It occurred to her that they were both playing with fire, that she was an experiment for him, and neither of them really knew what would happen in the end. She should probably be worried about that, she thought as she slid into the booth he indicated, leaving him room to sit beside her. She should probably be worried about a lot of things with him, but somehow, she just wasn't. "Doing okay?" he asked, nudging her with an elbow as he perused the menu. Taking a moment to watch several more people come in and sit down, she nodded. "Yes, actually. So far, so good." She picked up her menu, exhaling slowly. Most people probably had no idea that something as simple as choosing what to eat at a restaurant was hard for her. It was like the final few seconds of a game show, trying to read through all the descriptions and find something to order before the waitress came back. Usually, she made her decision before she even left home, downloading menus online so she could take her time. She never just decided to go to lunch. She tried to hold her hands and feet still, but must not quite have managed, judging from the way Kyle looked at her. "I've got this." He reached over and took her menu, laying it at the edge of the table with his own. She frowned. "But what if I don't like what you choose?" He chuckled. "Would you have liked anything you picked today?" She hesitated, then slowly shook her head. "You're right. Thank you." The waitress appeared then, and Kyle ordered a burger and fries for both of them, with soda on the side. After she left, Kyle's hand somehow ended up on Maggie's knee and she jumped a little at the unexpected touch. "What are you doing?" she whispered, glancing at the people around them, wondering if anyone could see. He laughed, sliding his fingers up higher on her inner thigh, pushing her skirt up. "I think that's obvious, don't you?" His fingers stretched to touch the other thigh now, caressing up, then down, then higher, then down again, slowly working up toward the rope that snuggled her most intimate parts. She squeezed her legs together for a second, but released them when he gave her a stern look. "Who's in charge here, Maggie?" His tone was light, but there was that quality again, the thing she couldn't quite name that made her want to obey his every command. She let her legs fall open, wide enough to give him full access just as the waitress brought their meal. Instead of pulling away as she expected, he hooked one finger into the rope over her clit while smiling pleasantly as the plates were set down. Maggie was pretty sure the girl couldn't see anything due to the angle, but no one could miss that Kyle's hand was in her lap.

Once the waitress had gone again, Kyle turned back to her. "You never answered me. Who's in charge?" "You are," Maggie whispered, hoping he'd move his hand away if she gave him what he wanted. Any minute someone was bound to notice what they were doing, and the shop was filling up for the lunch rush. He smiled, moving his finger in a slow circle over her hard nub. "Not good enough. Tell me who's in charge, Maggie." She felt the moisture seeping out around the ropes as he fingered her, felt her face growing warm. "You're in charge," she said, desperately trying to maintain control as he slipped his finger inside her. "And who am I to you?" He stroked her inner walls, and she fought against the pressure building to an unbearable level. "Master!" she gasped, no longer caring who heard her. "You're in charge, Master." A second finger joined the first, and his thrusts became quicker, more demanding. "You are not to make a sound, Maggie, but I want you to come for me. Now." She bit her lip hard, closing her eyes as she spasmed hard around his fingers.

Chapter 11 Kyle withdrew his fingers from Maggie's hot core, trying to maintain his calm facade. He'd never intended to push her that far, never intended to be anyone's master. Or not consciously, anyway. He wiped his fingers off under the table with a napkin then put his arm around her, pulling her head to his shoulder. She didn't say a word, just rested her face against his chest, spent. "We'll take this to go," he told the waitress, and she nodded, her gaze concerned, though she said nothing. Five minutes later, Kyle led Maggie out to the car, stowing their to-go boxes on the back seat before he got in beside her. He drove home in silence, knowing they needed to talk, and soon. When they reached his apartment, Maggie sat on the couch, looking up at him with big, confused eyes when he approached. "I can't believe I did that," she said, her cheeks tinged a lovely pink as she looked away. "I can't believe you made me do that. All those people..." Kyle squatted down in front of her, taking her hands in his. "I'm not sorry," he said, earning an angry glare. "Think about it, Maggie. If you truly hadn't wanted to obey me, would you have gone along with it? Or would you have walked out?" She shook her head. "No. I didn't have a choice. You didn't give me a choice. I'm wearing your ropes, for crying out loud! And you’re the only one..." She pulled her hands from his and swiped at a tear. "I didn't have a choice." Kyle stood, his temper rising. "Are you saying I forced you?" Fear shot through him like lightening, and he backed away. Everything was unraveling so quickly, he wasn't quite sure what to do or say, but he knew exactly what an accusation like that would mean for him if it got out. "You're free to leave anytime. I never meant--" "No! That's not..." she stood, her eyes still not quite meeting his as she breathed in deeply, then out. "That's not what I meant. I'm just...I don't know. There are so many things in my head right now, and I just..." Kyle crossed his arms over his chest. "Tell me." "I just...I can't. Not right now. I need to think." Her whisper was barely audible, but he heard it loud and clear. "What does that mean? If not now, when? I think we need to get this out in the open, Maggie. It would be a mistake to leave it like this." She shook her head again. "I'm sorry, I just can't. I'm going back to my apartment. I'll...we can talk about this later." He tried to stay calm, but somewhere in the back of his mind, he knew she wouldn't be back. How had he managed to screw things up so badly? Then he remembered the ropes hugging her body. "Do you want me to untie the rope for you?" "No." She hesitated for one more moment, then brushed past him on her way to the door. He followed her, his heart breaking at the sight of her slumped shoulders and dejected look.

Guilt assailed him, and he tried to think of some way he could fix this, fix them. "I'll be here when you're ready to talk," he said, hoping desperately that this wasn't the end. She nodded and walked down the hall without looking back. Closing the door, he leaned against it, closing his eyes for a moment. Why had he ever thought he could help her? He wasn't a professional, just a guy who liked tying women up...one woman, he mentally amended. And now he'd probably made things worse for her - something he'd regret for the rest of his life. Opening his eyes, he pushed away from the door and got his black bag full of rope. Carrying it to the bedroom, he tossed it in the back of his closet. This little "hobby" had cost him too much already. Laying his clean uniform on the bed and checking the clock, he stripped down and went to shower, hoping it would be a busy shift that night. Anything to keep him from thinking of her. *** Three weeks later Maggie stood outside Kyle's door, a coil of rope in one hand. The rope he'd so carefully wrapped around her the day everything had fallen apart. The day he'd shown her who she really was. Steeling herself against a potential rejection, she knocked on his door, standing back so he'd be able to see her through the peep hole. It felt like forever before she heard the deadbolt slide back. "Maggie." He didn't smile, or invite her in, but she'd expected that. She watched as he took her in, his eyes moving over every inch of her body, pausing when he saw the rope. "Is that mine?" She nodded, holding it out to him. "Yes...Master." He arched an eyebrow at the title then stepped back, opening the door a little wider as he took the coil. "May I come in?" He moved back further, and she stepped inside, waiting for him to close the door and then following him to the living room. He sat in an easy chair to the side, and she quickly shed her shirt and pants, sinking to her knees naked in front of him. He frowned and started to speak, but she held up one hand, silencing him. "Please, let me do this." He held her gaze for a long moment, his eyes probing. "Okay." Relieved, she sat back on her heels, her nipples hardening in the cool air. "I shouldn't have left you that day - I know that now," she started, holding a finger up when he started to interrupt. "I was really confused, because you showed me something about myself something I never would have known if it weren't for you. I just wasn't sure what to do about it then, and I've spent the last few weeks figuring it out." He leaned forward, bracing his forearms on his knees. "I was worried about you. You should have called." "I know. I'm sorry. I wanted...needed...to work through it on my own." She blinked back tears. "But what I needed to come to grips with is that I have a need to submit, to let someone else take charge. And I know it doesn't make any sense, but I'll never be strong enough to conquer my fears if I don't acknowledge and embrace that part of myself."

Kyle reached for her, skimming her breasts with the back of each hand as he grasped her arms and pulled her up onto his lap. Pressing her head down onto his shoulder, he curved one arm around her while the other gently played with her nipple. "It makes perfect sense," he said, rocking them back and forth with his foot. "I've been doing a lot of thinking myself, and if you hadn't shown up at my door by this weekend, I was coming to get you. I need you too, Maggie." She breathed a sigh of relief against his neck. "May I call you Master, then?" He chuckled, giving her nipple a quick pinch. "I think I prefer 'Sir', to be honest." Turning his head, he lifted her chin and placed a soft, lingering kiss on her lips. "Now sit up, and let me see you." She straddled his lap with her legs draped over both arms of the chair, completely exposed and open to his pleasure. "Like this, Sir?" He nodded, reaching for the rope she'd brought. "Just like that. Don't move." He layered the rope over her ribcage and then wrapped each breast several times, until they plumped straight out. Tying off the rope, he freed himself from his pants and then circled her clit with his thumb before moving lower and pushing into her warmth. Maggie let her head fall back as he thrust in and out a few times, whimpering for more. "Mmm...so wet. Very good." Retrieving his thumb, he held it up to her lips, and Maggie gladly sucked it clean. Hands on her waist, he pulled her forward and she cried out as his rigid cock pushed inside. Home. She rocked back and forth as he took one of her nipples in his mouth, his tongue sending pulses between her legs. He groaned as she squeezed him, gently rubbing circles over her clit and she let her head fall back, the pressure building throughout her body. "Faster," he commanded, his fingers digging into her hips, guiding her movements as he met her thrust for thrust. Maggie held tight to his shoulders, her world spinning rapidly out of control. So close. His teeth closed down on the erect tip of her breast, and she cried out, her sheath convulsing around him as the dam burst, pleasure flooding her entire being. Vaguely aware of him thrusting high and hard, she held him tight as his seed pulsed deep within her. She lay against his chest, her face in the curve of his neck as her body slowly rejoined reality. When he gently pushed at her arms, she started to slide back, but he shook his head. "Stay." His voice was quiet, gentle, and there was something tender in the way he looked at her that made her heart skip. "I just need to take these off." He untied the rope, sliding it off her skin and kissing the marks left as he went. Maggie sighed, running her fingers through his hair and caressing the side of his neck. He set the rope aside and leaned back in the chair, reaching up to cup the side of her face. "I want you to stay with me, Maggie. We can get a bigger place, whatever you want. I just don't want to be without you one more day. Say yes." She smiled at the mock command, leaned in for a kiss and laughed as his cock twitched within her. "Yes Sir. You couldn't get rid of me if you tried."

About the Author Trinity Marlow is the erotica pen name of Jamie DeBree. Born in Billings Montana, she resides there with her husband and two over-sized lap dogs. For a free serial draft of the next Naughty Encounters story, please visit TrinityMarlow.com or BrazenSnakeBooks.com.

Other Books by Trinity Marlow Working Stiffs Collection The Entertainer The Bouncer The Mechanic The Pile Driver