Toymaker

Toymaker Aubrey Ross

Enemy Embrace, Book Two

Desperate for freedom, royal concubine Bryce agrees to pose as a test subject for the infamous Toymaker. She’ll participate in his sexual study, submit her body to whatever form of pleasure his creative mind imagines. With sensual smiles and carnal responses, she’ll carefully earn his trust—then deliver him to her Master. Slade is determined to save the life of his friend and mentor Matthias, the Toymaker. Matthias has created his most ambitious toy yet, a replicant into which he will transfer his being. Though amazingly lifelike, the replicant will be an emotionless husk unless they can stimulate his intuitive programming. And what is more stimulating than raw, uninhibited sex? Passion ignites between Slade and Bryce from the moment their eyes meet. She’s supposed to arouse emotions in the replicant, but Slade can’t keep his hands off her. Her silky skin and evocative taste leave him desperate for more. They harbor secrets both dangerous and damning. Will passion or obligation win out in the end?

Ellora’s Cave Publishing

www.ellorascave.com

Toymaker ISBN 9781419931888 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Toymaker Copyright © 2011 Aubrey Ross Edited by Mary Moran Cover art by Dar Albert Electronic book publication February 2011 The terms Romantica® and Quickies® are registered trademarks of Ellora’s Cave Publishing. With the exception of quotes used in reviews, this book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.® 1056 Home Avenue, Akron OH 44310-3502. Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. No part of this book may be scanned, uploaded or distributed via the Internet or any other means, electronic or print, without the publisher’s permission. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. (http://www.fbi.gov/ipr/). Please purchase only authorized electronic or print editions and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted material. Your support of the author’s rights is appreciated. 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 authors’ imagination and used fictitiously.

TOYMAKER Aubrey Ross

Toymaker

Chapter One Halley Prime

Bryce took a deep breath and approached the grim-faced guard standing beside the main entrance to the Pleasure Palace. “I have an appointment with Matthias.” Her voice sounded calm but blood pounded in her ears, and her dry mouth made it hard to speak. The other two finalists might consider this a job opportunity, but Bryce had far more at stake than a high-paying position. Without direct access to the Toymaker, her mission was destined for failure. “Who shall I say is calling?” Tall and burly, the guard spoke with surprising decorum while his carnal interest bombarded her mind. She concealed her awareness behind an expressionless mask. Only the most powerful psychics could sense her empathic abilities. It was crucial that she not give herself away. “Bryce,” she supplied. At the Pleasure Palace, no one had more than one name. The guard activated the audiocom on the cuff of his suit jacket. “Bryce to see you, Matthias.” “Show her every courtesy, Thorne. She’s here at my request.” Bryce recognized Matthias’ deep, faintly accented voice from their audio correspondence over the past few days. Thorne motioned her inside. She didn’t say a word, doubted any sound would make it beyond her dry throat. Should she have worn something more provocative? No, the Toymaker wanted an assistant, not a sexual companion. Besides, if the guard’s reaction was any indication, her royal-blue suit dress had been a good choice. Squaring her shoulders, she followed Thorne through an opulent lobby and down a corridor. They paused before massive double doors as a facial scanner verified his

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identity. After the beam swept her face, a synthesized voice said, “Unknown person. Please identify.” “Authorization two-four-nine, guest of Matthias.” Thorne directed his voice toward the console from which the scanner beam emanated. “Authorization accepted. Enjoy your stay at the Pleasure Palace.” The doors slid into the walls, presenting Bryce with her first look at the interior of the legendary establishment. A dramatically vaulted transparent ceiling showcased the cloudless sky. The view would be spectacular at night. A gallery overlooked the main floor, providing visitors with private rooms and a vantage point from which to watch the action below. Like the rumble of distant thunder, emotions rolled through Bryce. She decreased the sensitivity of her empathic receptors. Breathing deeply, she followed Thorne into a spacious room. Separated by wide archways, two additional rooms spread beyond the first. Massage tables lined one wall, a bubbling spa tucked in the corner. A woman lay on one of the massage tables, naked and unashamed. Lethargic pleasure emanated from her as two men and a woman worked together, smoothing oil into her skin. One of the men stood beside the table, his hand pumping between the client’s thighs. Bryce looked to her right. Nine separate vidscreens took up the entire wall. Each screen depicted a different sexual act in graphic detail. The figures writhed and moaned as fingers, tongues, cocks and toys thrust into every conceivable orifice. Pleasure ’bots awaited clients through the archway on her left. A man reclined in an adjustable chair, a mouth simulator sucking away between his thighs. His pleasure was so intense Bryce felt tingling heat between her legs. Shifting her focus to the rack of sleek, metallic units, she could only guess how each was used. They passed reality simulators and private training booths before Thorne led her through the final archway. A bittersweet sensation drew her attention to the man suspended off the floor. His muscular shoulders bunched from the strain, and a solid 6

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black hood covered his head. A Pleasure Mistress stood behind him, deftly striping his back with a whip. He moaned each time the lash kissed his flesh, but a potent rush of excitement—and his jutting erection—assured Bryce he appreciated the treatment. “The other finalists have already arrived,” Thorne grumbled. “If you’d prefer to linger here, I’ll send word to Matthias.” His impatience made her smile. “That isn’t very courteous.” “Courtesy is not my strong suit.” “Lead on.” Another facial scan admitted them to a lift. Judging from the lack of ornamentation, Bryce suspected the elevator was reserved for employees. Expecting an ascent, she pressed her hand to her stomach when the lift descended with nauseating speed. Thorne stared straight ahead, his hands clasped behind his back, his features expressionless. Curious, she touched his mind and sucked in a breath at the lurid scene playing out within his imagination. The torn remnants of her panties lay upon the lift floor. Her knees draped over his brawny arms, which supported her weight against the wall as he rammed his cock into her again and again. The lift smoothly ended its plunge and the doors slid open. Bryce shook away the image. A utilitarian passageway waited beyond the threshold. Thorne motioned her onward. His professional persona never slipped. Without her gift, she would never have guessed the intensity of his lust. They passed several rooms, one obviously the workshop where the Toymaker designed his renowned inventions. She only got a glimpse before Thorne hurried her along. He opened the last door on the left. “Go on in.” She entered the office and Thorne departed. Two women sat in chairs arranged before a large, orderly desk. One was dressed much as Bryce, the other looked more as if she belonged on the entertainment floor. Her voluptuous breasts swelled above the

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wide, square neckline of her skintight shirt. The scrap of material that passed for a skirt barely reached her thighs. She took one look at Bryce and smirked, her self-confidence obvious. Bryce seated herself in the remaining chair, the tension in her belly making her nauseous. Regardless of what it took, she had to ensure that Matthias selected her. The first obstacle standing in her way was this interview. The door behind the desk opened, and a man walked into the room. Casually attired in black pants and a green T-shirt, he rolled the desk chair back and sat. Bryce concealed her anxiety behind an expressionless mask. Was this Matthias? Only a select few had ever seen the elusive Toymaker. His swarthy skin and thick, curly black hair contrasted dramatically with his wide, copper-colored eyes. Bryce had never seen eyes so vivid. Without so much as glancing her way, he activated the terminal inset in his desktop. “Which of you is Jafran Straun?” The conservatively dressed woman next to Bryce raised her hand. “How old are you?” “Nineteen.” Panic blasted from the girl, and Bryce glanced at her, noticing for the first time her youthful features. “Place your hand on this panel please.” He indicated the corner of his desk, his tone brooking no refusal. Jafran hesitated. “All right. I’m seventeen, but I’m fully qualified.” “Thank you for your time. I need someone with more maturity.” The vamp uncrossed and re-crossed her long legs, smiling at the younger woman’s predicament. “Please, Mr. Matthias.” The girl’s voice broke, and her panic turned to desperation. “I really want this job. I’ve worked in pleasure centers for the past two years. I can do— ”

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“You may go.” His gaze flashed with impatience, and a shiver sped down Bryce’s spine. What he lacked in brawn he made up for in authority and control. Sensing nothing from him, she eased into his mind. Nothing. How could that be? She’d never encountered anyone she couldn’t sense. The girl pushed back her chair and stormed from the room. His piercing gaze settled on the vamp. “Do you have experience in pleasure centers too?” “Yes sir. I’m a certified Mistress as well as—” “I made it clear in the posting that I was looking for someone outside the pleasure circuit.” He waved her toward the door. “You may leave as well.” Bryce’s heart lurched, and she concentrated on keeping her breathing even. If he dismissed her next, her only hope at freedom would sputter out like an ember in the wind. “You’re the infamous Toymaker.” The vamp crossed her arms beneath her breasts. The full mounds threatened to spill over the top of her shirt. “Do you honestly expect to find someone outside the pleasure circuit who will allow the sort of testing you require?” “The success of my project is no longer your concern.” Cold, emphatic, his tone cracked with finality. “Feel free to enjoy the amenities before you depart.” She laughed, the sound anything but amused. “You just told me to go get fucked, didn’t you?” He folded his hands on his desktop and stared at her. His expression didn’t change. Pushing to her feet, she cocked her hip and glared. “I was hoping for a change of pace. I’ll just renew my contract upstairs. I’ve worked here before.” Matthias made no comment as the vamp left the office.

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Bryce’s stomach knotted. Would his ruthless gaze fall on her now? Sitting up straight in her chair, she took a deep breath and tried again to scan his mind. Why couldn’t she sense his emotions? This had never happened before. “I only invited the other two in case you didn’t keep the appointment.” He looked directly into her eyes, and Bryce trembled. Warm curiosity replaced the cold indifference in his expression. His gaze surrounded her, caressed her with nearly tangible intensity. Her breath hitched and her nipples tightened. Shaken by her body’s unexpected reaction, she inclined her head and averted her gaze. Focus, Bryce! The interview has just begun. Apparently her fictitious identity had checked out. She was frequently amazed by what Akim could accomplish with his generous bribes. “Tell me more about your background. How extensive was your training?” He’d dismissed the others for being too familiar with the pleasure industry. She hesitated. What did he expect from his assistant? Despite what he’d said to the vamp, his posting had been rather ambiguous. “Be honest with me, Bryce.” He pronounced her name with an unusual inflection, sending another rush of awareness through her body. “I’ll know soon enough anyway.” His features were misleading. At first glance, she’d found him ordinary, but shrewd intelligence flashed in his gaze and the angle of his jaw hinted at stubbornness. She licked her lips, struggling to find her voice. Her inability to sense his emotions tightened the knots in her stomach. “On my homeworld, the pleasure industry is different than it is here on Halley Prime. Only the rich can afford trained companions, so only a select few are chosen to be trained.” “What did your training entail?” She gave up trying to penetrate his calm reserve and concentrated on the story she was weaving. Her future depended on his accepting her lie. “Each training program is

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tailored to the employer. I was hired by a man who preferred his companions obedient without being overtly submissive.” His gaze remained intent upon her face. “How many lovers have you had in the past five years?” “One.” It was more or less true. Would the fact work to her advantage? Her heart thudded within her breast. Damn. She’d never realized how heavily she relied on her empathy. “If my employer learned of any infidelity, I would have been turned out without a reference.” “Why did your employer terminate your contract?” “He didn’t.” She paused. “He passed beyond.” Matthias nodded, some of the tension leaving his posture. “You’ve been trained to enjoy the full range of sexual pleasure, yet your actual experience has been limited.” “That’s a fair assessment, yes.” “I suspect you’ll be perfect for this project, but there is one final assessment on which I must insist.” Scooting to the edge of her chair, she braced herself for his explanation. He made sex toys. There was no doubt she would be expected to perform some sexual act, but which one? It didn’t really matter. Regardless of what he asked, she would do it. She had no choice. Akim had seen to that. “What do you want me to do?”

Slade turned off the terminal and studied Bryce. She was the most confounding combination of defiance and innocence. Bursts of anger flashed through her carefully guarded expression, making him wonder why she was really here. Matthias had always been reclusive, but the rapid deterioration in his condition made the deceptions necessary. Bryce sat soldier straight, knees pressed together, hands folded in her lap. Her black hair cascaded down her back in a sleek wave. High

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cheekbones disrupted the perfect oval of her face, adding character and dimension to her features. Her determination intrigued him while her beauty aroused. This could be interesting. “Some people are unable to respond to sexual stimuli in a laboratory setting.” Slade focused on her extraordinary eyes. Tilted at an exotic angle, they were the brightest shade of blue he’d ever seen. “Modesty is out of the question. We’ll expect your full cooperation should you accept this position.” Licking her lips, she drew his attention to her mouth. Shaped like an ancient bow, with the lower lip slightly fuller than the top, her mouth begged to be kissed—or bestow kisses. Was her body as perfect as her face? Slade’s gut clenched in anticipation, but he ignored the sudden pressure in his crotch. He couldn’t lose sight of the project objective. This wasn’t about him, and it wasn’t about Bryce, regardless of how compelling he found her. She cleared her throat, shifting on her chair. “Will it only be sexual stimuli, or will I be expected to interact with—” “You’ll be expected to willingly participate in any and all scenarios. To accurately compare a simulation, one must experience the real thing.” She didn’t reply, so he rephrased the statement. “Let’s make sure we understand each other. We will need you to engage in a variety of sex acts with a combination of pleasure ’bots and human test subjects. During these sex acts, your responses will be observed and recorded. Is this agreeable to you?” Uncertainty flickered in her gaze, but she banished it with the blink of her eyes. “How many test subjects? Will they be male or female?” “If you accept the position, we’ll need a detailed description of your sexual experience and preferences. We’ll plan the scenarios accordingly.” He smiled, wanting her to relax, needing to understand her momentary fear. “We’re in the pleasure business. It would be counterproductive to subject you to situations you find 12

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distasteful.” She nodded, fiddling with a button on the front of her dress. “If you wish to continue, I’ll go set up the lab.” “I wish to continue.” She arched one eyebrow before adding, “You keep saying ‘we’. Who are you referring to?” “I’ll explain everything, if you pass the final phase of the interview.” Slade pushed back from the desk and left the office, using the same door through which he’d entered.

***** Strapped in his hover chair, his eyes bright and alert in his wasted face, Matthias gazed through the observation window. “Aren’t you glad we decided to keep the project small?” Humor lightened his wheezing tone. “She’s got me hard, and I didn’t think the little guy still had it in him.” Slade looked at Bryce, his chest as tight as his groin. They had hired test subjects before, many of them. Still, the thought of denigrating Bryce by making her a sexual object of study clawed at his gut. “Her former employer logged a glowing recommendation before he died,” Slade muttered. “Was she with him when he passed beyond?” Matthias wiggled his bushy eyebrows. “That’s how I want to go. Damn. She’s gorgeous.” “She’s also telepathic.” “Are you sure?” Matthias moved his chair closer to the observation window. “Why didn’t she list her abilities on her application?” Crossing his arms over his chest, Slade glanced at Matthias. He owed the ornery old man more than his life. He owed Matthias his sanity. How could he refuse him anything? Slade sighed and turned back to the observation window. Bryce sat quietly, her expression inscrutable. “She scanned me so fast I barely got my shields up in time.” Matthias turned his chair toward Slade. “Is she empathic?” 13

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“My gift doesn’t work like that.” Bryce knew what she was getting herself into. He’d made their expectations clear. If it didn’t bother her, why should it bother him? “The strength of her scan about knocked me backward, but I’m not able to detect the nature of her abilities.” “We requested an empath.” Matthias heaved an audible sigh. “Why would she try to hide that from us?” “Give me a few minutes and I’ll find out.” Slade raked one hand through his hair. The choice should be simple—loyalty to his best friend or protecting a woman he’d just met. So why did he feel torn? “If she doesn’t have a good reason for the deception, I won’t bother with the rest of the assessment.” “Now that would be a waste. Can’t you confront her after the final phase of the interview?” Matthias asked with a wicked grin.

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Chapter Two Petra stood in front of the surveillance grid in her plush office on the upper level of the Pleasure Palace. A top-down view of the entertainment floor dominated the display. Eight smaller scenes edged the top, and an additional eight lined the bottom. She had a top-notch security team supervising all activities, but she liked to keep an eye on things as well. Twenty years in the pleasure industry had honed her instincts to a razor’s edge. Pleasure Master Twelve had a new client bent over a padded bench. Her wristcuffs were secured to the frame and her ankles to the floor. He’d been working her for several hours, pushing her harder than a first visit usually warranted. “Display station six.” An image of the couple filled the screen. Petra studied the woman. Her face was deeply flushed and cream coated her inner thighs. She didn’t appear to be in distress. Opening a compartment in the side of the bench, Twelve withdrew a butt plug. Twelve was one of her most popular Masters. Why was he being so extreme with this woman? He turned the base of the plug and beads of lube appeared. Petra activated audio, listening in on their hushed conversation. “Did you let him fuck your ass?” He held the woman’s cheeks wide, positioning the plug. “I let him do anything he wanted, you son of a bitch.” He shoved the plug home. The woman moaned, her ass cheeks flexing. “How is that different than what you do to all these women—and men?” “This is business.” He sneered. “How did you think I pay for all your—” The door behind Petra hissed and she muted the security feed. Glancing over her shoulder, she watched Thorne amble into the room. “Twelve is using the entertainment floor to iron out his domestic disputes.” 15

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“I’ll take care of it.” He turned back toward the door. “That’s not why I paged you.” She turned back to the screen. Twelve had released the flexible tube from the other side of the bench. He pushed the sculpted tip deep into the woman’s pussy and activated the thrusting mechanism. If he’d brought her here against her will, Petra would have to fire him. She’d hate to lose him, but there were no exceptions to house policies. Vibrating the tiny audiocom attached to his wrist, she paged the Pleasure Master. He looked up, suppressing the anger in his expression. “Yes, Mistress?” “Let me speak with your client.” He lowered his wrist toward the woman’s face. “All guests of the Pleasure Palace participate willingly. Would you like to be released?” “Fuck no!” she panted. “Punishment often involves pain. Are you requesting a full demonstration of his skills?” “Yes, damn it. Let him do his worst!” “Is that acceptable, Mistress?” He sounded a bit smug. “Carry on.” Returning the security feed to a wide perspective of the dungeon, Petra turned to Thorne. “What is Matthias up to? He has Slade. Why does he need another assistant?” Matthias had insisted on complete privacy when he’d negotiated his contract eleven years before. She’d sent remote surveillance ’bots into his subterranean lair twice, but Matthias’ sensors had detected them. The second time, he’d stormed into her office, insisting she was in breach of contract, and threatened to move his operation. She hadn’t attempted to bug his level since.

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“Perhaps the assistant is for Slade.” Thorne stepped up beside her, his hands clasped behind his back. “He may seem repressed to you, but Pleasure Mistress Six has told me some stories you’d find hard to believe.” “Slade subs for that vicious bitch?” “No. She subs for him.” Petra narrowed her gaze on his profile. Was he serious? Only complete pain junkies requested Pleasure Mistress Six. “Why would my most brutal dominatrix sub for that…wimp?” “Change of pace? Maybe he’s hung like a horse.” Thorne shrugged. “I only know what I’m told. For the past two years, Slade has been utilizing her services—or rather, she’s been utilizing his.” “Is this on the books?” “No ma’am. She goes to him after her shift ends.” “Back to the original question. What does the Toymaker need with a new assistant?” “I escorted three finalists down, but he sent two back up almost immediately.” She arched her brow “Who did he keep?” “Her name is Bryce, and she may be the most delectable piece of ass I’ve ever seen.” “Could you be a little more specific?” “Raven-black hair, big blue eyes shaped like a cat’s, nice round ass. Like I said, infinitely fuckable.” She crossed to her desk, her curiosity turning to concern. “Was she processed through personnel? Why haven’t I seen her file?” “Her background workup was transmitted directly to Matthias. I haven’t been able to trace the source yet. He’s paying her salary out of his private account. She isn’t technically an employee of the Pleasure Palace.” “I don’t like this. Whenever that old goat turns secretive, it spells disaster for me.” 17

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***** Slade left the inner office and walked through the lab and into the corridor. From the inner office he could access any of the project’s six main rooms. The inner office was a central hub from which Matthias controlled the entire level. Opening the door to the outer office, he waited for Bryce to look at him. “This way please.” Bryce glanced at the door through which he’d left earlier then stood and followed him into the corridor. “My business partner suggested I allow you to complete the interview process before I confront you about your omission, but I’m feeling unusually tolerant.” Their gazes collided, suspending them in time. Beneath her stubborn composure, he sensed a vulnerability nearly opposite from the untouchable façade she presented to the world. She dragged her gaze away from his and continued down the corridor. “I never reveal my gift until I know what I’m getting into. My parents were killed by a religious cult who thought psychic abilities were of the devil.” “I’m sorry for your loss.” He wanted to touch her, assure her she was safe, that no one would hurt her here. He paused beside the lab door. She spoke in a soft monotone. Was she reciting lines, or had she repressed all emotion associated with the tragedy? “I was eleven. I had no other relatives, so I became a ward of the state.” Bitterness bled through her casual tone. “The trainers routinely swept the group homes, looking for orphans with specific qualifications. I had just turned thirteen when I was chosen to be trained.” The hint of emotion soothed Slade’s suspicion while his heart rebelled against the life she described. The Pleasure Palace, with all its decadent offerings, never coerced participation. “Did they realize you were gifted, or was it just your physical beauty that attracted their attention?”

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“Empaths make ideal trained companions. We’re able to sense exactly what pleases our employers and respond accordingly. My physical appearance was incidental. Faces can be altered, bodies sculpted, but empathic sensitivity can’t be induced.” “Actually there are programs that have managed, with varying degrees of success, to create psychic abilities. Still, I understand your point.” He scanned open the lab door. “Why do you need an empath for this project?” “The project is highly classified. I’ll explain everything—” “As soon as I pass the assessment.” She smiled, and blood rushed to Slade’s groin, hardening his semi-erect cock. Shit, if her smile gets me hard, how am I going to survive once she undresses? “Are you able to repress your abilities?” He ignored the conspicuous bulge in the front of his trousers and led her farther into the lab. Long counters and cabinets lined two walls. A fully adjustable procedure table dominated one end, and doors to the adjacent rooms completed the arrangement. “If I concentrate, I can tune everyone out, but when I get distracted, emotions creep back in.” She chuckled. “I suspect this project will be very distracting.” Slipping her hands into the seam pockets of her dress, she gazed around the room. “Is empathy your only ability?” I can communicate telepathically. Can you? Her thoughts slipped past his shield with such agility that Slade gasped. “Are you able to transmit emotions as well as thoughts?” She shook her head. “Not that I know of.” “You’ve attempted to influence others and failed?” “I think anyone with psychic abilities experiments with their range. Have you never tested the extent of your power?” “This isn’t about me.” He studied her impassive face, his respect growing alongside his concern. What other surprises did she hide behind her reserve? 19

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“I’m surprised you could hear me. My parents were the only ones who—” “I thought your parents were murdered by religious fanatics.” “They were.” She sounded sincere, but she would no longer meet his gaze. “My abilities didn’t develop over time. To the best of my knowledge, I was born like this.” “Is your empathy spontaneous, or do you have to intentionally scan for emotions?” “It’s definitely spontaneous, but I’m able to garner more specific information if I scan. Very strong emotions often translate into images in my mind, but I’m unable to read specific thoughts.” Unless they’re sent to you? She smiled. “Yes. Is this a problem? Your posting requested an empath.” “No problem. I just want to understand the specifics of your abilities.” “Fair enough.” Her gaze returned to his. “What now?” Fortifying himself with a long, steady breath, he directed, “Undress and put your clothing in that locker.” He pointed to the bank of compartments recessed in the wall on the far side of the table. She averted her face as color burst across her cheekbones. “This is where I kiss my modesty goodbye?” “I’m afraid so.” “Are you going to get naked too?” She kicked off her shoes and crossed to the lockers. Desire twisted through him. She had no idea how much he wanted to do just that. “I already have the job.” Without another word, she methodically stripped away her clothes, leaving only the golden choker encircling her neck. Slade grasped for his professional detachment with each garment she removed. Her legs were sleekly muscled, hinting at some form of physical conditioning. A sculpted abdomen confirmed his theory. Her dress had built-in support for her high, round breasts, but her panties were separate. She bent 20

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from the waist as she removed the panties, presenting Slade with a spectacular view of her firm ass. She closed the locker and turned to face him, her arms at her sides. Her feminine curls had been neatly trimmed into a perfect triangle, leaving her delicate folds visible. “Now what?” She managed to sound casual, but uncertainty and resentment shone in her eyes. He started to tell her she didn’t have to do this, but Matthias’ image appeared within his mind. She did have to do this, and so did he. “Open the locker on the end and choose a toy.” Understanding dawned in her expression, and her breasts heaved with her ragged breath. She combed her fingers through her long hair and nodded silently. With unbelievable poise, she walked to the locker and opened the door. She made her selection and closed the locker. He was about to give her further instructions when he saw her sultry smile. She held a slender dildo in one hand and a fingertip vibrator in the other. “Why don’t you roll that stool right up to the foot of the table so you can see exactly how well I respond to stimulation?” Despite her practiced smile, her gaze glassed over, concealing her true emotions. He swallowed hard. He’d seen that look so many times on the entertainment floor, people so jaded they felt nothing at all. Obedient without being overtly submissive, wasn’t that what her employer had expected? Slade hooked the stool with his foot and sat. She hopped up on the table and spread her thighs wide. Her folds parted, revealing her rosy cleft. With a siren’s smile curving her lips, she slipped the vibrator onto her index finger and went to work. She traced her lips and trailed her finger down the slender column of her throat, drawing his attention to the graceful symmetry and flawless skin. Circling each breast in turn, she had her nipples hard before she touched them with the gently humming toy. She arched her back, licking her lips as she teased her nipples. 21

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“Are you sure you don’t want to help me, sir?” Her voice purred, making him squirm. “I’d love to feel your mouth on my breasts, tugging and nibbling.” Slade groaned, adjusting his position on the stool. She eased her hand between her thighs, spreading herself wider, displaying the pearly essence already coating her folds. He wanted to drape her legs over his shoulders and thrust his tongue up her creamy cunt. He’d lick and suck until— She’s not here for you, Slade! Give it up. She lay back, pulled up her legs and placed her heels on the edge of the table. It would be so easy to open his trousers and step between her widespread thighs. She waited, tormenting him with an unobstructed view. “Continue.” The word sounded choked and desperate. She traced her slit with the tip of the dildo, up and down, up and down, pausing to rub against her clit at the top of each stroke. “This is rather awkward, sir. Won’t you please help me?” “Just make yourself come, so we can go over your contract,” he snapped. His balls ached and his cock threatened to burst his pants open. He’d thought the Pleasure Palace had desensitized him, taken him beyond this urgency. She pushed the dildo into her creamy core and left it there while she moved the vibrator to her middle finger. Intrigued by the adjustment, he followed each movement with his gaze. She held herself open with her outer fingers and circled her clit with the vibrator. Her employer must have liked to watch. She had definitely done this before. Dragging the dildo completely out, she hesitated a full second before plunging it back in. She gasped and lifted her hips off the table. Open, wet, aroused, her body arched, her breasts quivering with each firm thrust. Slade clenched his fists so hard his nails broke the skin on his palms. He couldn’t look away. Hard and fast, she fucked herself with the dildo. Her finger moved over her clit with the same frantic rhythm. Cream coated the toy and trailed down into her ass crack. She gasped and panted, her hips pumping. 22

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She cried out sharply as an orgasm burst within her. Pushing the toy deep, she flicked her clit with the vibrator until every last spasm of pleasure ran its course. Her legs shook, her ass clenched and cream dripped onto the table. With a ragged sigh, she relaxed. Her legs remained open, the base of the dildo a taunting reminder of what she’d just done. Slade pushed to his feet, shocked by the shaking of his knees. “The toys are disposable. Take a moment to dress and compose yourself. I’ll be waiting in my office.”

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Chapter Three Trembling from the aftershocks of her orgasm, Bryce listened to the pompous jerk cross the lab. Take a moment to compose herself? Yeah, right. If he thought this little demonstration had rattled her cage, he underestimated her resolve—and her desperation. She waited to move until the door closed behind him. Dragging the dildo out, she got off the table and tossed the toys in the recycler, slamming the lid closed. She crossed to the lockers, pausing for several deep breaths. She fingered the thrall collar circling her neck as hatred washed over her in scalding waves. Her fictitious past was remarkably similar to her real past. Akim had arranged it that way so she could keep her story straight. The only real variation was her parents. They were very much alive and living in relative comfort after selling her to the potentate. Shuddering, she opened the locker and retrieved her clothes. Her parents, Akim, Thorne, even the famed Toymaker were all the same. She was a commodity to be consumed and forgotten. Disappointment twisted through her. He makes sex toys, you ass. What did you expect? She’d expected exactly what she got—an indifferent man with one thing on his mind. But for a few moments, she’d let herself hope for a spark of compassion, a hint that this job would be different from the rest of her life. Well, she understood the situation now. This was familiar territory. After donning her clothes, she returned to his office. He waited behind his desk, a faint flush still visible across his broad cheekbones. He’d obviously enjoyed the show.

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“I’ll briefly outline the terms of the contract.” Emotion thickened his voice, but she could sense nothing from him. “If you return tomorrow morning, we’ll begin. If you don’t, I’ll take that to mean you aren’t willing to abide by the conditions.” “Does this mean the position is mine if I choose to accept it?” She was almost afraid to ask. So much relied on his answer. “Yes.” Tension melted from her muscles and she released a long, slow sigh. She’d done it! Freedom was within her grasp. “The salary range was included in the original post. I won’t be able to detail the specifics of the project until you sign the contract. By accepting this position you are agreeing to remain here for ninety days. Provisions for an additional ninety days are—” “What do you mean by ‘remain here’?” “To ensure that information regarding the IR-M project isn’t inadvertently leaked, you will be expected to stay here for the duration of the contract.” Hope deflated as quickly as it had expanded. “I have to stay in the Pleasure Palace for three months?” “You have to stay on this level for a minimum of three months. We will do everything we can to complete the testing within ninety days, but it may take longer. You will be allowed supervised communication, but you will not be able to leave the level.” No, he couldn’t understand how impossible that was. She had to find a compromise, some way of salvaging the situation. “Why?” “The precaution protects you as much as the project.” Warmth returned to his gaze. He started to reach across his desk then drew his hand back. “There are those who would stop at nothing to get their hands on… The precaution is necessary. You’ll understand once you hear the details. Unfortunately, I can’t share those details with

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you until you’ve agreed to abide by the terms.” He activated his terminal. “Where shall I send the contract?” “I’m staying at Prime Landing, room eleven-zero-six.” He transmitted the contract and pushed back his chair. “I’ll walk you out.” She nodded and followed him from the room. It had all been for nothing. Akim would never allow her to stay here for three months. “Is there no compromise on the confinement stipulation?” “No.” His hand came to rest against the small of her back, his gentleness inadvertently mocking her defeat. “As I said, you’ll understand the precaution when the project is explained to you.” “I’d be a veritable prisoner for three months. What’s to keep you from torturing me or conducting experiments?” He chuckled, and a faint ripple of amusement reached her empathic receptors. So, he was human after all. “You’ve got quite an imagination. You’ll be allowed to communicate with whomever you choose, so long as I’m in the room.” He stepped in front of the scanner and summoned the lift. “Is there some reason you don’t trust me?” “What’s to keep our competitors from kidnapping and torturing you?” He raised his brow, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “This isn’t about trust. It’s about security.” They rode the lift in silence, her desolation mounting with each centimeter they ascended. She had to think of something. It couldn’t end like this. Reaching for his mind, she tried one last time to understand the enigma standing beside her. His gaze shot to hers, and a sharp pang, like the snap of a rubber band, erupted within her mind.

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“Don’t,” he said as the lift doors opened. He motioned to his right. “This corridor leads to the employee shuttle lot. If you want to enjoy the Pleasure Palace before you return to your hotel, go through that door.” He pointed in the opposite direction. Bryce nodded and stepped out into the corridor. His gaze met hers, sending tingles down her spine. Should she tell him about Akim? Would he help her escape? Her heart sank, and the band around her neck seemed to tighten. Why would Matthias care? She was a test subject, one of many. She couldn’t blame him for the ordeal awaiting her. He knew nothing of her true situation. Extending his arm, he kept the lift doors open. “I know you’re uncomfortable with the stipulation. If it weren’t absolutely necessary, we wouldn’t insist.” His tone was warm, compelling. “We’re offering you the opportunity to be a part of something significant. We need you more than you realize.” He paused while his gaze caressed her face. “Don’t let the contract intimidate you. I hope to see you tomorrow.” He lowered his arm, allowing the doors to shut. Damn him. His belated show of courtesy made her defeat that much harder to swallow. She meandered down the corridor, dread building with each step. This had been her one chance at freedom, her only hope of— The door from the entertainment floor opened, and Thorne lumbered into view. She dashed in the opposite direction. Whatever he wanted was irrelevant. She’d concluded her business at the Pleasure Palace. He called out, but Bryce ignored the summons and rushed toward the employees’ entrance. Sunlight spilled into the corridor as her movement triggered the doors. She stumbled along, waiting for her eyes to adjust and her pulse to stabilize. She glanced behind her, relieved to find that Thorne hadn’t followed her from the building. Prime Landing was only a few blocks away, so she didn’t wait for the tram. She’d registered with the hotel, even taken a small bag to the room, but Akim insisted she sleep at the foot of his bed, as an obedient concubine should.

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Located on the roof of the hotel, the VIP lot was cluttered with schooners, shuttles and hovercraft. Akim oct Renarr usually traveled in his palatial interstellar yacht. Not wanting to draw attention to himself, he’d chosen a modest cruiser that blended well with the other vessels. She paused at the edge of the lot, glaring at the schooner. Her fingers rubbed the solid metal band circling her neck. For just a moment she imagined running until she hit the perimeter limit. The explosive concealed in the band would detonate and she would be free. She’d be dead, but she’d be free. No, death was the coward’s way out, and she wasn’t a coward. Akim needed her. She must use that to her advantage, barter for her freedom. A hatch opened as she approached, a set of stairs unfolding. She hesitated on the first step, concealing her hatred, suppressing her rage. “I was about to dispatch guards to retrieve you,” Akim’s familiar voice grumbled. “What took you so long?” She climbed into the cruiser, and the hatch closed behind her. Akim rose from the berth on which he’d been reclining as she entered the main cabin. Lithe and graceful, Akim met her in the middle of the room. Her eyes were on a level with his chin. She knew better than to look into his dark eyes. Golden-brown hair flowed to his shoulders. His neatly trimmed beard and mustache were several shades darker. “Why so glum, kausha?” Literally translated, the Renarrian word meant “pet”. It had always made her feel special when Fahbit used the endearment. On his son’s lips, the word grated, made her want to claw his eyes out. How she missed Fahbit. “I asked you a question.” Keeping her gaze fixed on Akim’s throat, she straightened her spine and steadied her voice. “The interview was more involved than I anticipated.”

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“In what way? The posting specifically asked for someone outside the pleasure circuit.” He grabbed the back of her hair, tilting her face until their eyes met. Possessiveness burned in his dark gaze. “Did he touch you?” “No sir.” “Did you want him to?” Unexpected heat curled though her body. Had she wanted Matthias to touch her? The possibility took her by surprise. She suppressed any outward sign. “He was cold and clinical.” Shrewd and mysterious. “I was no more interesting to him than a bio scanner.” Akim drew her skirt up along her thigh, his gaze intense, penetrating. “You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen. I’ve had more offers for you than all my other concubines combined. What aren’t you telling me?” His hand slipped between her thighs. She imagined shoving him back and spitting in his face. The repulsive weasel had no right to touch her. She should have been freed when his father passed beyond. But Akim was now the potentate of Renarr. There was no higher power to which she could appeal. Nonetheless, she would find a way to escape him! Her resistance heightened his pleasure, so she stood perfectly still. He leaned in, his mouth hovering over her ear. “You’re soaking wet, little liar.” She averted her face, knowing he’d see the fury blazing in her eyes. “He didn’t touch me. He—” Tangling his fingers in the thin fabric, Akim ripped her panties off and slid his middle finger between her folds. Despite her determination to remain passive, she grabbed his wrist. His eyes narrowed. A silent warning. “Did you pleasure yourself while he watched? I know how well you perform.” She said nothing. It was obvious he intended to punish her. Nothing she said or did would stop him now.

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“How many times did you come?” He continued to stroke her, to pet her. She remained silent and still. “Did you get the job?” Closing her eyes for a moment, Bryce focused on her options. She had to convince him to let her take the job. She didn’t know if she could enlist the Toymaker’s help, but she knew for certain she couldn’t escape Akim without it. “The position is mine if I’m willing to abide by the conditions of the contract.” “What conditions?” He cupped her mound, his middle finger rubbing her clit. Revulsion gripped her abdomen. She despised her helplessness, despised what her life had become. It grew harder and harder to disguise how much she hated him. Defiance fueled his viciousness, so Bryce distanced her mind from her body and waited for him to lose interest in his twisted game. “He transmitted the contract to my hotel room.” Like his beard, his eyebrows were darker than his hair. One arched at her ambiguity. “The main obstacle is his insistence that I remain with him for the duration of the testing. For a minimum of ninety days I won’t be allowed to leave the Pleasure Palace, and all my communication will be supervised.” “Unacceptable.” His voice snapped with finality. “Why would he need an assistant to remain… Will you also be his fuck toy?” He shoved her onto the bed, and Bryce went wild. He wouldn’t kill her. He needed her too badly. But he frequently made her long for death. She swung at him and kicked, screaming in frustration. Releasing restraints from the bulkhead, he clasped them around her wrists. She bucked and twisted. He straddled her legs. “Will you assist him in the lab by day and suck his cock at night?” She turned her face away as he shredded her dress. Crouching between her legs, he pushed her thighs apart. Bryce tugged against the restraints, knowing it was useless. Akim loved to look at her, to touch and taste her. He’d fuck her with toys and pleasure ’bots, but he never completed the act himself. She wasn’t sure if he was incapable or if

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he was denying his sexual orientation. The Renarrian Empire wasn’t intolerant of homosexuality, but the potentate must produce heirs. “Tell me about this contract.” Shocked by the sudden calm in his tone, she risked a glance at his flushed face. You’ll never convince him to allow you to return if you indulge your temper. Matthias is your only hope. Akim can’t do anything to you that he hasn’t done before. He pinched her nipple. “Answer me.” “Matthias insisted the stipulation is a security matter.” His image flashed through her memory. Before the lift door had slid closed, warmth had erupted in his gaze. Not the impersonal heat of lust but compassion. It had been ages since anyone looked at her that way. “He won’t reveal the details of the project until I agree to the stipulations.” Akim stroked her inner thighs, his gaze focused on her pussy. She concentrated on her explanation, tuning out Akim’s unwanted touch. “If I return tomorrow, we’ll execute the contract and he’ll detail what the project entails, but I won’t be allowed out until the testing is complete.” “Impossible.” He crawled off the bed, and Bryce exhaled a long, low sigh. “I can’t be without you for three months.” The finality in his voice sent chills down her spine. He’d promised to remove the thrall collar once she delivered the Toymaker to him. Akim had just confirmed her suspicion. He had no intention of setting her free. “What did you think of him?” Akim’s voice was hushed with awe. “Was he as stunning as his inventions?” He stood beside the bed, staring down at her naked body. She didn’t understand his obsession with the Toymaker, but concubines weren’t allowed to question their Masters. His rage appeared to have subsided for the moment, so she answered honestly. “I was rather disappointed to begin with, but the longer I spent in his presence, the more intriguing he became.” A visiting dignitary had presented Akim with a pleasure ’bot four months before. One side of the device perfectly replicated the female body while the other sported an 31

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incredibly lifelike cock. Akim had been fascinated by the ’bot. He spent several days exploring every feature, experimenting with each function. He found out who made the ’bot and ordered several other designs. None of it made sense to Bryce. To her knowledge, Akim was incapable of functioning even with the most sophisticated pleasure ’bot. She was one of the few who knew of his disorder, and it would mean her death if anyone found out. “What is the extent of his security?” He paced beside the bed, all but ignoring her now. “If I allow you to return, how difficult will it be to bring him to me?” Was he actually considering sending her back to the Pleasure Palace? Once she was inside, she’d be beyond his control. She swallowed, and the thrall collar reminded her that his control extended beyond the ship. “I… Getting in is much more complicated than getting out.” She wasn’t sure that was true, but Akim didn’t need to know. Her first priority was getting rid of the thrall collar. Until it was off, nothing else mattered. “If I had a weapon and a drug that would make him docile, I could lead him out to the employees’ shuttle lot and walk him right onto the ship.” “Ninety days is out of the question.” “I wouldn’t need nearly that long.” She reined in her excitement, not wanting to appear too eager. “In a week or so I could acclimate myself with the layout and plan an escape route.” He nodded. His gaze speculative. Come on, you vile bastard, take the bait! “It shouldn’t take long to earn his trust.” Bryce did her best to sound casual. “I’m a simple test subject after all. He has no reason to suspect me.” “We’d use a code phrase to let me know you had everything in place.” He crossed the cabin and opened a compartment near the door. “Wait. My voiceprint is on file with Halley Prime. You’ll have to speak with Fraun.”

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“I’ll wish him a happy birthday. Surely that wouldn’t seem suspicious.” “But who is he?” Akim retrieved a sleek metal case and returned to the bed. “According to your file, you have no relatives.” She stared at the case he held, dread knotting her belly. Why did he have the stimulator out? He wasn’t angry anymore. Was he? Swallowing past the lump in her throat, she tried to sound calm and conversational. “As you suggested, I told Matthias about the group home. I’ll claim I met Fraun there and have remained in contact with him over the years.” He laughed. His gaze cold and mocking. “Aren’t you glad I’m so clever? We can’t let the Toymaker know how worthless you really are.” The fact her parents had sold her never failed to amuse Akim. The lie had come naturally for Bryce. She’d considered her parents dead for many years. He was quiet for a long time. Bryce was afraid to breathe. If she cooperated with Matthias, would he agree to help her escape? Could he remove the thrall collar without detonating the charge? “One week, no more.” “What if I can’t arrange it that quickly? I don’t know what this project entails.” He scowled, stroking his beard as he contemplated her question. “If you can’t accomplish this in a week, you’ll abandon the mission and return to me.” Opening the case on the bed beside her, he efficiently assembled the device. She looked at the stimulator, bile rising into the back of her throat. “How have I failed you? I did everything you asked.” The stimulator would take her to the edge of orgasm again and again but never let her attain release. It was Akim’s favorite punishment. “You haven’t failed me, kausha. I just need to watch you writhe. If you wish Fraun a happy birthday, I’ll expect you and the Toymaker at nightfall. If you ask Fraun if his wife has delivered their child, I’ll be ready for you alone. Now part your thighs.”

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She averted her face, hiding her fury. He needed to believe she was defeated, malleable, his to command. He could still refuse to send her. Bending her knees, he restrained her ankles then turned his attention to the stimulator’s case. He clamped her nipples with separate triggers. She clenched her teeth. The tiny pinch was nothing compared to the sensations soon to follow. “Tell me about Matthias. Was he young or old?” “Don’t do this, Sir.” She hated the panic in her voice and the weakness it revealed. “You don’t need to motivate me. I’ll tell you everything.” “I know you will.” He clamped her clit. She cried out, twisting her hips and tugging against the restraints. “Young or old?” “Younger than I expected.” She panted, each breath increasing the pressure on her nipples. Desolate and alone, she braced for the agony, wondering how long it would take to appease his demons this time. “Did you want him to fuck you?” She closed her eyes, trembling. Anything she said would only provoke him. “You want him still, don’t you?” He sneered. “I can see it in your eyes.” Her eyes were closed! Akim activated the stimulator. Bryce whimpered, tears escaping the corners of her eyes. “If you would only learn to please me, I wouldn’t be forced to punish you.”

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Chapter Four Bryce tossed on her thin cushion, suspended between wakefulness and dreams. Vivid copper eyes haunted her, mocking her with their indifference, while warm hands moved over her exhausted body, soothing her, comforting her ravaged senses. It had been so long since anyone touched her with tenderness. She craved the simple luxury of gentleness. Fear flowed into her sleep-muddled brain. Why was she afraid? The emotion intensified, penetrating her mind, vibrating her empathic receptors. A low moan drew her attention to the bed. Akim tossed, muttering incomprehensible phrases as his arms batted away imagined assailants. Another nightmare. She heaved a ragged sigh and watched him writhe. For three ruthless hours he’d kept her in agony, stimulating her senses until she wept for release. His demons had been stubborn tonight. Echoes of the painful tension still gripped her core. Her clit felt raw and swollen. Her breasts ached. “No!” Devastation tore through the word, a blast of emotion amplifying the sound. Goose bumps broke out on her arms, and her heart lurched. It had been months since Akim had had a nightmare. She’d begun to hope he’d finally conquered them. When she was fourteen, Fahbit had summoned her from the harem to disperse his son’s emotional torment. Bryce could still remember the pleading expectancy in Fahbit’s eyes and the pathetic creature she’d been instructed to tend. Huddled in the corner of his chamber with his knees drawn up to his chest, Akim had rocked rhythmically, his eyes vacant and wild. A servant warned that the prince hadn’t been right since his “rescue” eleven weeks before. Bryce hadn’t been told anything else about the young man she was expected to comfort.

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Another pathetic moan rent the night, dragging Bryce from her memories. Let the bastard rot. He’d certainly enjoyed her suffering. Dim lights illuminated the cabin. Akim was terrified of the dark. Contorted with fear, his face was hardly recognizable. Emotions bombarded her, driving the breath from her lungs and constricting her throat. Terror, anguish, fury and utter devastation. “Bryce,” he cried. “Don’t leave me!” He sprang up in bed and grabbed the chain attached to her collar. She resisted the pull, bracing her feet against the edge of the bed. “No!” she shouted. “Not tonight. You’ll get no comfort from me.” Scrambling to the foot of the bed, he grabbed her hair with one hand and her arm with the other, dragging her onto the mattress. Pain seared her scalp. Tears swam before her eyes. She screamed in fury and fear, striking out at him blindly. He swept her beneath him, his heavy body holding her down. His mouth crushed hers, his tongue plunging deep. Stunned and disoriented, she groaned, shoving against his chest. His emotions assailed her. Her head pounded and her stomach heaved. His hands moved over her naked body, cupping her breasts and parting her thighs. He rocked his hips, grinding his crotch against her mound. His mouth moved hungrily, his tongue stabbing deep. As he rubbed against her, suspicion spread through Bryce. She concentrated on the press of his body—no bulge, no ridge, it was almost as if— “Make it stop,” he sobbed. “Make them stop!” Desperate to end his bizarre attack, she took his face between her hands and absorbed his misery. A moan escaped her as grief inundated her being. His chest heaved. His face nestled against her shoulder. He wrapped her in his arms, rolling them to their sides. Stroking her hair, he feathered kisses over her face as she dispersed his emotions. “I’m sorry,” he whispered after a long strained silence.

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“You can’t…control the dreams.” She tried to disentangle their limbs, but he wouldn’t let her go. “That’s not what I meant. I had no reason to punish you. I…” He licked his lips, his dark gaze searching her face. “What I’m about to tell you must never pass your lips. Do you understand?” She nodded, still shaky from the massive dispersal. “I know you want your freedom, but as I am now, the only way I can maintain my sanity is to keep you with me.” All it cost her was her dignity, her happiness, her soul. “The dreams come less frequently. There is hope—” “My only hope lies with the Toymaker.” He tucked her hair behind her ear. She flinched away from his touch. “Have you never wondered why I don’t fuck you?” “It’s not my place to question such things.” He chuckled. “But you have wondered?” “Of course.” “What conclusions have you drawn?” Swallowing around the lump in her throat, she turned her face away. “You…” “Speak freely.” “I thought perhaps you are struggling with your true sexual orientation.” He cupped her breast, drawing her attention back to him. “As often as I finger you and feast on your pussy, you can wonder about my sexual orientation? What else have you thought?” “That you desire women, but your body will not cooperate.” “That is far closer to the truth.” He tilted her head up until their gazes locked. “During my captivity, I was tortured, raped and mutilated.”

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Pity slammed into her chest. Resentment pushed it away. She pressed her hand over her thundering heart. No wonder he had nightmares. She opened her mouth to speak, but he placed his fingers against her lips. “The last was done in stages. If my father’s men had found me one day later, I would have been a eunuch, useless to the empire. It would have been their duty to slit my throat.” “You want the Toymaker to…reconstruct what those animals took from you?” He nodded. “As well as pleasure ’bots, the Toymaker has developed a full line of sexual enhancement implants. Combining the two concepts, I’m confident he can make me whole again.” She sat, drawing her knees to her chest. He stroked down her spine. “Don’t you see, kausha? When I am whole again, I know the dreams will leave me. I will be able to release these pent-up emotions and feel like a man again.” “Why not contact him directly and explain the situation?” He grasped her upper arm, turning her to face him. “My enemies are everywhere. Father went to great lengths to ensure no one knew what was done to me. An emasculated leader is no leader at all. The reconstruction must be done in secret.” She said nothing. Understanding made his cruelty easier to bear, but it didn’t erase the sting of his lash or the countless times he’d subjected her to the stimulator. “Once the Toymaker repairs the damage, I will release the collar and set you free.” She didn’t believe him, but what choice did she have? This was as close to escape as he’d ever allowed her to come. “It is within my right to command this of you.” His voice grew cold and distant again, their momentary affinity gone. “I suspect you are contemplating escape. Know this. If you slip through my grasp before I am made whole, I will dedicate my life to finding you.”

*****

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Thorne smiled as Bryce approached the main entrance to the Pleasure Palace the following morning. She hadn’t realized he was capable of the expression. “Good morning. Would you please let Matthias know I’m here?” He pointed at the travel bag in her hand. “What’s in the luggage?” “None of your business,” she said with a sweet smile. Unclipping a portable scanner from his belt, he passed it over her body, circled her neck then scanned the bag. “Why’d you run away from me yesterday?” Solar shields concealed his eyes, masking his expression. Though mild annoyance reached her receptors, he was doing a credible job of suppressing his emotions. Had he learned she was empathic? “I’m here to protect you, doll. I wouldn’t hurt you even if you wanted me to.” “No, you’d refer me to one of the Masters.” Between the stimulator and Akim’s nightmare, she had gotten little sleep the night before. She really didn’t have the patience for Thorne’s infatuation. He returned the scanner to his belt. “Are you going to let me in or not?” He stepped closer and lowered his solar shields, meeting her gaze over the top edge. “That’s my question for you.” “You work in a brothel, Thorne. Surely you can find someone willing to—” “For the right price, they’re all willing.” He pushed the shields back into place. “This isn’t why I came after you yesterday. Petra wants to talk to you.” “Who is Petra?” “The proprietress.” Bryce rubbed the bridge of her nose, trying to ignore the pressure building behind her eyes. “My business is with Matthias, not the proprietress.” “You’re not getting back to the lift until you’ve spoken with Petra.” “Tell Matthias I’m here now or you’ll have to explain to him why his new assistant just left.”

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His meaty hand closed around her upper arm and he dragged her into the lobby. “I don’t answer to the Toymaker.” “Get your paws off me!” She jerked against his hold and stomped on his instep. Without breaking stride, he picked her up and tossed her across his shoulder. Her breath whooshed out as her belly collided with solid muscle. Shit! He skirted the entertainment floor and headed down a private hallway. Each step he took drove his shoulder into her gut. Lights danced before her eyes. At the foot of a narrow staircase, he set her down. “Are you going to behave? Petra just wants to talk to you.” She couldn’t summon the lift without this thug, so she begrudgingly nodded. He motioned her up the stairs and knocked on the nondescript door. A panel in the wall flipped around and scanned his face. The lock released and Thorne opened the door, motioning Bryce inside. A lavish office spread before her. She took two steps into the spacious room and heard the door slide closed behind her. Floor-to-ceiling windows framed a stunning cityscape while a surveillance grid took up the adjacent wall. There were certainly no secrets in the Pleasure Palace. Even the private training rooms were monitored. “It’s intoxicating, isn’t it?” A well-modulated contralto drew Bryce’s attention to the woman seated behind a transparent desk. Immaculately attired in a lavender suit, the woman had sleek, shoulder-length hair and thick-lashed eyes that perfectly matched her clothing. Bryce didn’t reply to the question. The woman carefully guarded her expression, but wary calculation emanated from her. Matthias had made it clear Bryce would be working for him, not the Pleasure Palace. Was he at odds with this woman? “Why have you detained me?” Bryce remained near the door. “As you can see, I like to be aware of everything that transpires within my establishment. Matthias failed to inform me of his intentions to hire an assistant. I need to be sure you pose no security risk to the Pleasure Palace.” 40

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“I will have no interaction with anyone at the Pleasure Palace.” One purple eyebrow arched in silent challenge. “How do you intend to accomplish that?” She raised her travel bag. “By remaining below for the duration of the project.” Petra scowled. Her suspicion cold and constant now. “What is the nature of the project?” “I’ll not be given any information until I’ve been confined.” “You’re going to allow him to imprison you in that subterranean lair?” Petra pushed back from her desk and stood. “What has he promised you?” “None of this is your concern. I’ll be working for Matthias.” Petra approached Bryce, lavender eyes intent, speculative. “If you’re in this for the money—” “My motivations are my own. I’ll not spy for you.” “Why not? Do you feel sorry for that emaciated old man?” Bryce narrowed her gaze. Matthias had been trim, perhaps even lithe, but emaciated? As for age, who could tell anyone’s real age anymore? A sly smile curved Petra’s mouth. “Describe the man who conducted your interview.” “Why?” “Because I suspect they’re playing games with you.” Crossing her arms over her chest, Bryce stared at Petra. Matthias had mentioned a business partner, but he’d refused to explain. Would this woman be more forthcoming? “Curly dark hair, unusual copper-colored eyes. He was lean but certainly not emaciated.” “And he claimed to be the Toymaker?”

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Bryce couldn’t remember if he’d introduced himself or not. She’d presumed he was Matthias, and he’d never corrected the misconception. “The man I described is not the Toymaker?” “You described Slade. He’s a surgeon Matthias recruited when he launched his line of sexual implants six years ago. Matthias designs the toys and Slade installs them. It doesn’t sound like they trust you, sweetheart.” “They have no reason to trust me.” Knowing that she’d been duped chafed. Still, she suppressed any outward reaction. If Slade performed the actual procedures, who did Akim really need? “I’ve yet to prove myself.” “How noble. Why don’t you see how long Slade pretends to be Matthias?” Petra strolled back to her desk. “If you get tired of being toyed with, contact Thorne. Tell him to give you an audiocom. I’ll generously reward you for any information you’re willing to share.”

***** Slade turned from the surveillance feed with a frustrated hiss. “That wily bitch.” Tapping into the Pleasure Palace’s security system allowed them to view any of the rooms above at any time. Matthias’ chuckle dissolved into a deep, congested cough. Slade knew better than to rush to his side. Matthias would scowl and berate him for “hovering”. Still, it wasn’t easy for Slade to watch his best friend fade away before his eyes. “Petra knows we’re up to something, and it’s driving her crazy.” Matthias maneuvered his chair to the small coolerater and retrieved a bottle of Sustain. The potent mixture of natural and synthesized nutrients was all his fragile body could digest. “She’s planted seeds of doubt in our delightful little assistant. We can’t allow them to germinate.” “If I conveniently reveal my deception the moment she steps off the lift, won’t that seem suspicious?”

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“Not at all. You told Bryce the details would be explained if she returned today. Once you’ve executed the contract, I’ll introduce myself.” Slade grinned. “You just want to meet her.” “Well, there is that.” Matthias returned his smile. “But we can’t have her distracted by Petra’s offer.” “She should be on her way down. I’ll make sure she doesn’t get lost.” Slade hurried toward the lift. All night he’d fought the memory of her lithe body abandoned to pleasure, her soft cries and the beckoning gleam of cream on her folds. The scenario played out a hundred different ways. First he’d simply taken the toys from her and brought her to orgasm himself, but that hadn’t satisfied for long. He’d allowed her to finish then used his mouth and fingers to arouse her. Round three brought his cock into play, and from there… The lift doors slid open. Slade shook away the lingering images and quickly erected a telepathic shield. Tension gripped his abdomen as she joined him in the corridor. Dressed in stretch leggings and a casual tunic, she appeared even more desirable than she’d been the day before. “Welcome back.” He smiled. She shifted her bag from one hand to the other, her features expressionless. “A friend expects me to check in periodically. Will that be a problem?” “Your conversations will be monitored, but you’re welcome to com whomever you like.” He nodded toward her luggage. “What’s in the bag?” “A change of clothes, toiletries, nothing exciting.” “I’ll need to scan it before you settle into your room.” A smile parted her lips but didn’t reach her eyes. “Have at it.” He led her down the hallway and motioned toward a door. “Your private quarters are through here. I’ll need the clothing you’re wearing as well as all your jewelry. There’s a robe on the bed.”

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She touched the gold choker encircling her neck. “This doesn’t come off. Thorne already scanned it.” “It’s not just a necklace, I take it.” “My employer’s symbol is engraved on the band. It let others know I was not available. Only he could trigger the release mechanism, and…” “He passed beyond before he freed you from it?” She nodded. Anguish clouded her gaze, yet Slade doubted the loss of her employer had anything to do with the emotion. She squared her shoulders, took a deep breath and her mask fell back into place. “Are you going to usher me around like a prison guard?” “No. As soon as we’ve executed the contract, I’ll input your facial signature into the security system. That will allow you to move about freely on this level.” “Meaning I won’t be able to activate the lift.” “Correct.” “Can we finalize the contract before I change?” Her voice sounded distracted. She looked everywhere but at him. “I’ll feel more comfortable giving you my possessions if this is official.” “Sure.” He set down the bag and studied her features. Purple smudges circled her eyes, and her skin lacked the healthy glow he remembered from the day before. “Are you all right?” Her lips trembled and she frantically blinked back tears. Acting on instinct, Slade pulled her into his arms. Her body remained stiff and still, her arms crossed at her waist. Cursing his rash impulse for creating their awkward pose, he started to step back. She suddenly wrapped her arms around him and buried her face against his throat. He stroked her hair, easing into her mind. Chaotic emotions pelted him like hail. “What happened, Bryce? Why are you so upset?” She shook her head, her soft hair

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brushing his cheek. If she needed to be held, he’d hold her. Gods knew it was no sacrifice. Her grip on his torso relaxed. She raised her head and looked into his eyes. “You’re more powerful than I’ll ever be. Why do you need me?” In the midst of her emotional tumult, she’d sensed his light scan? Damn, she’s sensitive. He tucked her hair behind her ears, his fingers lingering against her soft skin. “We don’t just need an empath. We need a female empath.” She accepted his explanation with a nod and moved out of his embrace. He swallowed hard and gave himself a firm mental shake. “Will you please tell me what upset you?” “The last few days have been overwhelming. I’m not prone to tears. I assure you, I’m fine now.” He gazed into her eyes a moment longer then motioned down the corridor. “Did you have time to study the contract?” “Yes sir.” He chuckled. “Don’t call me sir. This isn’t the military, and I’m not a Pleasure Master.” “Then what shall I call you?” Shit. He’d walked right into that. No matter, she’d meet the real Toymaker soon enough. “My friends call me Slade.” He scanned open the door. She smiled, obviously pleased by his admission. “Nice to meet you, Slade.” They settled on opposite sides of the desk in the outer office. Slade activated the audiovisual feed and read the contract into record. He paused after each section and requested Bryce’s acknowledgement of each condition. “Do you have any questions?” he asked after the last point. “I understand the contract and enter into it willingly.” “Then welcome to the IR-M project.”

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Chapter Five Bryce told the computer to pause and pushed back from the terminal, rubbing her temples. She’d been answering the computer’s questions for several hours. They were compiling a psychological profile. She understood the purpose for the endless, repetitive questions, but the pounding behind her eyes had become intolerable. “Would you like Slade to bring you something for your headache?” Warm curiosity and compassion reached Bryce with the thin, wheezing voice. She swiveled in her chair, facing the speaker. Do you feel sorry for that emaciated old man? Petra’s words echoed through Bryce’s mind. So this was the real Toymaker. Secured in a hover chair, Matthias’ thin body and skeletal features revealed his frailty. Gray-streaked blond hair swept straight back from his brow to the nape of his neck. She focused on his luminous dark eyes, trying to imagine what he had looked like before the onset of his illness. She stood and walked to him. “I’m Bryce. And you are?” He chuckled, struggling to raise his hand. “You know who I am.” Gently clasping his fingers, Bryce smiled in return. “It’s nice to meet you, Matthias.” “Forgive us for the deception. My condition has made it necessary.” “You don’t want anyone to realize…” “I’m dying. You can say it. I accepted it a long time ago.” He laughed again. “That’s a blatant lie. I haven’t accepted a damn thing, but I’m realistic enough to know I’m running out of time.” “What is causing this degeneration?” Infants were immunized for all known diseases. How had he contracted an illness for which there was no treatment?

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“I interact with some unsavory characters. Petra thinks I finally got what I deserve.” She gasped, her gaze sweeping his wasted body. “How can anyone deserve…this?” “I delivered a shipment of pleasure ’bots and other toys to a known arms dealer. What I didn’t know was that he also dealt in chemical and biological weapons. His latest invention was a mutated version of an ancient Terran virus, paralytic poliomyelitis. It’s a delightful little germ that destroys motor neurons and causes the gradual deterioration of muscle control.” “He intentionally infected you with degenerative polio?” “Not exactly. They’d vaccinated themselves before beginning cellular manipulation. The vaccination kept them from suffering the effects, but they became carriers of the virus. I fell ill on the return trip, as did the ship’s crew. Luckily, biosensors at the space station detected the contamination. We were quarantined until the virus ran its course and the arms dealers were apprehended. None of the crewmembers survived the illness. I’m no longer contagious, but this muscular deterioration will continue until I die.” Grief and guilt blasted Bryce, warning her away from any more questions. “Enough about me.” It wasn’t a suggestion. “Do you need something for your headache?” “I’m not sure. How many more questions are in this profile?” “You’ve completed a little over half.” Groaning, she closed her eyes. “Then yes please.” Slade walked in a few minutes later with a nasal mister. He must have been monitoring the room. She took the device from him with a distracted smile and read the label to see what he was offering her. After administering the mist, she tossed the slender tube in the recycler. “As soon as you complete the questionnaire, you’ll be finished for today.”

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She nodded at Matthias, and the two men left her alone in the office. Returning to the chair in front of the desk, she waited for the drug to take effect. Slade had barely glanced at her as he handed her the mister. Why had his concern in the hallway brought her to tears? He had no idea how out of character the weakness had been. Disassociation was a survival skill she had all but mastered. She processed emotions like a factory, never allowing herself to feel their impact. Forcing away the disquieting memory, she told the computer to resume. “At what age did you lose your virginity?” Why did that matter? “Sixteen.” “There was a significant pause before your response. The accuracy of this assessment is based on the information you provide. Was your answer truthful?” “Yes. I’m just not sure I see the relevance of the question.” “Each question has relevance. Please answer truthfully.” Bryce rubbed the back of her neck. “Continue.” “State your sexual orientation.” “Hetero.” “Have you ever experimented with another woman?” A smile curved her lips. “Define ‘experimented’.” “Have you kissed another woman?” “No.” “Has another woman kissed you?” Damn. “Yes.” “Elaborate on your experience with this woman.” That wasn’t a question. This program was remarkably intuitive. She glanced around the office. Were they using a voice simulator to disguise the true inquisitor? “Who wants to know?”

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“Please restate your question.” “Who is conducting this interview? Slade or Matthias?” A long pause followed. “Most of our test subjects are more comfortable with the simulation.” Slade spoke without the voice modulator. “I’m tired and this is annoying. Just cut the crap.” He entered the office through a different door than he’d exited and sat behind the desk. “That door leads to the corridor.” She motioned behind her. “Where does that door lead?” “To the control center. The sooner you complete the profile, the sooner you can relax. You still look rather fatigued.” His gaze moved over her face, but as usual, she could sense no hint of emotion from him. What was going on behind those coppery eyes? “Tell me about the woman.” “She was one of my trainers. She used graphic videos and reality simulators as often as possible, but some things are easier to demonstrate.” “Was she the first person to kiss you?” Bryce shook her head. “I had a male instructor too.” Heat unfurled within her as he continued to stare at her. Perhaps she should have stuck with the simulation. “He kissed me and touched me several times before the female instructor tested my responsiveness.” “And were you responsive? Did her kiss excite you?” “I wasn’t repulsed, but neither was I attracted. I allowed her touch because it was expected of me.” Her gaze drifted to his mouth before she realized what she was doing. What was it about this man that fascinated her? “Did she bring you to orgasm?” His tone was hushed, distracted. “Yes.” 49

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“How?” She licked her lips. Had this portion of the interview just begun? “With a fingertip vibrator. It was the first time anyone had stimulated my clit. I responded quite readily.” He smiled and glanced down at the terminal. “Was the male instructor present?” “No. He summoned me the following day and used his mouth to make me come.” When she volunteered the information, it didn’t seem so intrusive. “Which did you prefer?” “Which do you think?” His gaze lifted to hers. “You might be surprised how many prefer pleasure ’bots to human lovers.” “I preferred the male instructor’s mouth.” In fact, she dreamed about the gentle brush of his warm lips, the teasing flick of his tongue, the skilled thrust and swirl. “You’re blushing. Is oral stimulation your preferred means of foreplay?” He’d warned her they would need a detailed profile of her sexual experience. And this was only where the fun began. As soon as they compiled the profile, the scenarios would start. Slade would watch her respond to sexual stimuli and dispassionately record her responses. Why is that thought so damn depressing? Dragging her mind back to the question at hand, she searched for a way to control the conversation. Perhaps she couldn’t control Slade, but she could sure as hell make him squirm. She leaned forward, folded her forearms on the desktop and manufactured a dreamy smile. “I’d never felt anything so wonderful. I was still a virgin, you understand, so having his tongue circle my clit and tease my folds was as close to heaven as I’d ever been.” “During the entire course of your training, no one entered you?” “Of course not. Fah— My employer had paid good money to be the first.”

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His fingers glided across the smooth surface of the terminal. “Did your employer satisfy you sexually?” “I was there to satisfy him.” She couldn’t let Slade’s detachment intimidate her. He was a man. She knew how to deal with men. “Occasionally, I’d… After he learned… Gods, this is embarrassing.” Gazing at him through her lashes, she flirted just a bit. “It doesn’t need to be.” His expression softened, became more approachable. “I’m a physician who specializes in sexual dysfunction. I’ve collected this sort of data for years.” “Not from me.” She took a deep breath and continued. “The trainers routinely checked with the employers to make sure they were satisfied with their sexual companions. My trainer mentioned how much I enjoyed oral stimulation.” “Was your employer more attentive to your needs after that?” Bryce shook her head. “He was only interested in those things that brought him pleasure. Luckily for me, he liked to watch. He hired another sexual companion to perform all those tedious acts with which he couldn’t be bothered.” “He hired someone to arouse you?” The disbelief in Slade’s tone made Bryce chuckle. She was just skimming the surface of harem life. If she told him the truth, he’d be truly mortified. “The things we did together aroused our employer too. My partner and I were allowed to pleasure each other in any way we wanted except for vaginal penetration. Only my employer was allowed to enter there.” Slade cleared his throat as he entered several more commands into the computer. “I don’t want to assume anything. So let me make sure I understand your meaning. Was your partner male?” “This could get confusing. My partner was male, and his name was Levon. My employer was concerned that I’d desire Levon more than him, so he chose a man with plain features and a small penis.” But Levon had had gentle hands and kind eyes.

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Fahbit had failed entirely. When she lay on her cushion, alone at night, she thought about Levon, not Fahbit. “Did you—” Unwilling to wait for Slade to find clinical terms for her uninhibited behavior, Bryce bombarded him with information. “I sucked Levon’s cock and he went down on me while our employer stood over us, observing from every angle. Sometimes Levon and I would do each other at the same time, and our employer would put his fingers inside me so he could feel me come. Levon kissed me and caressed my breasts while our employer fucked me hard and fast. Occasionally, if we pleased him very well, our employer would allow Levon to join us. Just so you’re perfectly clear, that means Levon would put his cock up my ass while our employer moved in my pussy.” “Thank you for the clarification.” She smiled. He might be all clinical reserve, but for just a moment while she rattled off her list, she’d felt desire penetrate his telepathic shield. He wasn’t as immune as he liked to pretend. “Did your employer enjoy it when you used graphic language?” “My employer would have been insulted if I’d used coarse words when addressing him directly.” “But he enjoyed hearing coarse words exchanged between you and Levon?” She inclined her head. “You have an accurate picture now.” “How long were you with your first employer?” “Eight years.” “And your second?” Akim held her unlawfully. She didn’t consider him her master. “I have not given myself willingly to anyone since my employer passed beyond.” He was silent for a long time, his expression troubled. “Where did you go after you lost your employer?” 52

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“His son inherited my services.” “And he is allowing your participation in this program?” Shit! She wasn’t supposed to mention Akim, even if she hadn’t said his name. “An enemy freed me from his service and left me unemployed.” Slade smiled. “I take it this didn’t break your heart.” She simply inclined her head. “What happened to your partner?” “I don’t know.” She liked to think Levon had escaped. The male attendants had more freedom than the female, and Akim had no interest in Levon. Still, it was more likely that Akim had had Levon executed. “Was your second employer abusive?” “There are many forms of abuse.” She should tell him about her experience with pleasure ’bots, but that would lead to all the indignities she had suffered at Akim’s hands. The words lodged in her throat. He paused, rubbing his jaw as he studied her expression. “How long ago did your employer pass beyond?” “Seven months, fifteen days.” “Do you miss him that badly, or were you unhappy with his son?” “My happiness has never been a priority. I was trained to give pleasure, not receive it. I find contentment in my employer’s satisfaction.” A smile parted his lips. “That’s your training, not your personality. Tell me more about Levon. He seemed to be the only one in this scenario who gave a damn about your pleasure.” “He was wonderful. We understood so much without having to say a word. I don’t know that I could have adjusted to the situation if it hadn’t been for him.” “Were you allowed to spend time with him away from your employer?”

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“No. We were only together when we performed for our employer.” Akim’s cruelty made her long for his father’s carelessness. At least as Fahbit’s favorite she’d enjoyed some measure of control. “Are we almost finished?” “Yes.” He folded his hands on the desktop, his gaze searching hers. “Were you aware of the transmitters implanted in your possessions?” “Transmitters?” Thorne had given her a tiny audiocom, but Slade made it sound like there was more than one. “Thorne scanned my bag before he brought me down here.” “One of the devices was standard Pleasure Palace issue. The other was unfamiliar to us.” She had no doubt Akim had planted the other transmitter. Had he really expected to get it beyond security? “What did you do with my things?” “They’re in a locker at the moment, but I intend to incinerate them. Is there anything with sentimental value in the bag?” She grimaced. The tranquilizer mist was in that bag. “I’m not the sentimental type.”

***** “What’s wrong now?” Petra studied Thorne as he crossed her office. This was the third time he’d disrupted her massage, and each time his announcements grew more annoying. He walked up to the retractable table and glared at Dick, her pleasure ’bot, who was rubbing her calf. How infantile. Thorne could be such a bother. “They must have found the audiocom. The signal went dead.” Lowering her face, she rested her forehead against the padded support and stared at his feet. “I figured it was a long shot, but what did we have to lose?” “We have no way to contact Bryce now. She’s entirely at their mercy.” His tremulous tone made her chuckle.

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“I’d almost think you care.” Petra waved him away. “Get back to work. I’ll figure out what’s going on down there. I always find a way.” He didn’t reply, but she could still see his shoes, so she asked, “Was there something else?” “You have your pleasure ’bot out.” He fidgeted. “I was wondering if there was anything I could do for you?” She propped herself on her forearms, intentionally displaying her naked breasts. “I’ve been trying to relax and enjoy a fucking massage for over an hour. Someone keeps interrupting me!” His gaze lingered on her breasts, but he inclined his head. “I’ll see that no one disturbs you.” “No one else, don’t you mean?” He left her office, and Petra rolled over onto her back. “Unbelievable.” Dick pulled the sheet away from her body and dropped it to the floor. He maneuvered to the side of the table and eased her legs apart. “What the hell are you doing?” she demanded. “You requested a fucking massage.” He pushed two long, warm fingers into her core. This wasn’t what she’d meant, but gods, it felt good. She closed her eyes, letting her legs fall open. An image formed within her mind and her heart lurched. Matthias. Why was it always Matthias? Opening her eyes, she looked into Dick’s bright silver gaze and sighed. The shape and movement of pleasure ’bots were remarkably realistic. Matthias hadn’t attempted to make them look human. Those silver eyes dominated sleek, subtle features. Dick’s outer casing felt like skin, but his color and temperature could be varied according to her mood. Dick rubbed her clit with his thumb while he pumped his fingers with even, rhythmic strokes.

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“Harder.” He obeyed, increasing the pressure of his thumb as well as his fingers. “No. Disengage. This isn’t working.” “Shall I lick your sweet love juices?” Petra laughed. She had to purge those phrases from his memory matrix. Matthias had thought it would amuse her… Matthias again. She sat up and pushed her hair out of her eyes. She knew what she needed. No! She wouldn’t put herself through that again. “Shall I run simulation nine?” Damn intuitive programming. Matthias had created his toys with the ability to anticipate their owners’ needs, at least as well as stored data would allow. She’d promised herself she’d delete the simulation and move on with her life. Matthias had made it abundantly clear he was through with her. “I interpret your hesitation as a negative response.” “Oh, to hell with it. Run the simulation. Maybe it will help clear my mind.” She hopped down from the massage table and crossed to her desk, standing in front of it as she’d done on that night. She remembered every detail, letting the events roll through her mind. Matthias knew the code to her office, her personal code, which bypassed the security scanner. He’d let himself in while she was studying a video brochure for a competitor’s erotic resort. “Put your hands on the desktop and don’t say a word or I’ll walk out the door.” Chills danced down her spine. She’d recreated that first sentence from audio samples of Matthias’ voice. The rest had been recorded as it happened when she touched the upper right corner of her terminal. After months of frustration and need, she’d uploaded the recording into Dick’s memory matrix and went to work on the simulation.

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She put her hands on the desk. Dick moved in close behind her, teasing her hips and torso exactly as Matthias had. “I’ve tried to stay away. I want to stay away, but I can’t get you out of my system.” She started to speak, and Dick clamped his hand over her mouth. “No words. No more lies. I’m only here so you’ll understand what you’re giving up.” For months she’d hinted that, from time to time, she wanted to include a third in their love play. Affronted, Matthias had insisted he was all she’d ever need to stay satisfied. So she solved the problem the only way she knew how. She waited until Matthias was away from his lair and summoned two Pleasure Masters to scratch her itch. She still wasn’t sure how Matthias found out. Perhaps one of the Masters bragged to him. “I would have done anything for you. Anything—except share you.” Dick cupped her breasts, squeezing and shaping them. She’d spent weeks adjusting the simulation, capturing every touch, every scrape, every lick. Her heart pounded within her breast. Memory, reality and fantasy merged. Why hadn’t he told her what he intended to do? It was such a creative compromise. He worked her nipples into tight, aching peaks, expertly manipulating the piercings. She wanted his mouth there, not just his fingers, but he wouldn’t let her turn around. Nudging her legs apart, he eased one hand between her thighs. “You’re already wet. Did you miss me as much as I missed you?” Dick pressed her down on the desktop and moved her legs wider. Kneeling behind her, he pressed his face against the apex of her thighs. His tongue darted and licked from her clit to her anus over and over again. Every sweep and flick was the same, and yet sorrow mounted, not passion. She ached for Matthias, not for release. She’d disappointed him before. Why had this time been different?

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“I’m the Toymaker. I fulfill fantasies.” Dick stood and arched over her. “Why wouldn’t you let me fulfill yours?” His long, thick cock pushed into her throbbing pussy. Petra moaned, tightening her inner muscles, losing herself in the fantasy. “Extend auxiliary cock, minimum breadth.” Knowing what came next sent shivers down her spine. She tried to look over her shoulder. Dick pressed her against the desk. “Would this have been good enough?” The ’bot’s auxiliary cock pressed against her ass. Matthias had altered his body, trying to give her what she needed. Dick held her hips in a firm grasp as he drilled her ass. She absorbed the exquisite sensations, hot, hard, full. “Nothing can change your basic nature,” he muttered against her hair. “You were destined to break my heart.” Dick’s fingers dug into her hips, and he thrust fast and deep. Stretched onto her toes, she grabbed the edge of her desk and closed her eyes.

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Chapter Six Bryce spent the next hour exploring her private quarters. Privacy was a foreign concept in the potentate’s harem. His women took their meals together, bathed together and slept on padded mats scattered about the common room. Guard droids monitored their behavior to ensure nothing untoward happened. The sole purpose for a concubine’s existence was to pleasure the potentate. To ensure that her disposition remained sweet, each concubine was allowed one hour per week in the reality simulator. Shaking away the lingering memories, Bryce continued her search. The room wasn’t large. In a few minutes she had opened every compartment and figured out how the facilities worked. Slade had taken her travel bag, and all the compartments were empty. She was stuck with the robe. Restlessness crept in. She tried to activate the terminal, but the computer asked for an access code. Akim used isolation to punish her. Maybe having her own room wasn’t such a treat after all. She paced. The silence became oppressive. Where had Slade gone? He couldn’t spend all his time in the lab. They were directly beneath a brothel. Did she really have to wonder? She tightened the belt holding her robe closed and ventured out into the corridor. Wandering down one hallway after another, she had no real destination. The underground level was a veritable labyrinth. Laughter drew her attention to an archway on her right. “If cheating is the only way you can beat me, what does that say about your strategy?” She recognized Slade’s voice, but she’d never heard him laugh before. Granted though, they’d met under unusual circumstances and he’d been all business with her. 59

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“Every time I win, you accuse me of cheating. What does that say about your sportsmanship?” The second voice was unfamiliar to Bryce. She peeked around the corner, remaining behind the molded archway as she looked at the two men. Slade sat at a gaming table with his back to her. His opponent was young and dashing. Golden streaks highlighted his light brown hair, which had been styled in messy waves. His beaming smile framed even white teeth and caused his dark eyes to shine. She narrowed her gaze. There was something familiar about those thick-lashed dark eyes. Amusement and an almost paternal pride emanated from the room. She intensified her receptors. Still, the emotions remained indistinct. Slade deactivated the game, and the three-dimensional grid disappeared. “It doesn’t appear that our guest is going to join us for dinner. Would you like to take her a tray or shall I?” “You’d actually trust me alone with her?” An unmistakable surge of desire pelted her. She ducked around the corner and pressed her hand to her throat. Which one of the men was entertaining lustful thoughts? The emotional spike had been so unexpected, she couldn’t decide. “I’d trust her alone with you.” Slade’s statement brought her back around. What did he mean by that? Had her personality profile left him with the impression she was indifferent to men? Workers in the pleasure industry often became jaded, but her experience had been different. Fahbit had seen to her satisfaction, even if it had been vicariously through Levon. “A tray isn’t necessary.” Bryce stepped beneath the archway and collided with a psychic barrier. Damn! She would love to know what Slade was hiding behind his shield. The barrier was so intense she could no longer sense emotions from the blond. “I might have been more sociable if you’d seen fit to issue me a uniform.” Slade pivoted in his chair, the hint of a smile curving one corner of his mouth. “I apologize for the oversight. The robe is charming.” 60

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The blond stood and crossed the room, extending his hand. “I’ve heard so much about you, Bryce. It’s an honor to finally meet you.” She smiled and shook his hand. “You have me at a disadvantage.” “This is Iram.” Slade joined them in the center of the room, his expression guarded. “He’s our jack of all trades, or mechanical genius, whichever he prefers at the time.” Iram laughed. “I’m the only mechanical engineer fool enough to put up with your contract.” He looked at Bryce and flashed another knee-melting smile. “Whenever Matthias gets ready to release one of his masterpieces, he locks this place down like a prison.” “This has happened before?” She’d had no choice when she accepted the contract. Why would this charismatic man agree to become a prisoner? “This is my third shut-in.” His smile dazzled her. She wanted to trace his lips with her fingers and stare into his warm gaze. Shaking away the unexpected thought, she asked, “Why do you do it?” “Same as you, I’d guess. The pay can’t be beat, and I’ve got nothing better to do.” “Are you hungry?” Slade motioned toward an adjoining room. His gaze lingered on her mouth. He wasn’t thinking about food. “We were about to have dinner. We call this the lounge, by the way. There are game consoles, vidscreens and an extensive library terminal.” “Don’t forget the reality simulator.” Iram pointed to a door adjacent to the dining room, his smile turning wicked. “It’s a prototype of the ones they use upstairs. It can simulate anything you can imagine.” Despite his animated expressions, Bryce still sensed nothing from him. Was Slade shielding them both, or was Iram psychic as well? That would explain the paternal pride. Was Iram Slade’s apprentice? Slade pressed his hand against the small of her back and guided her toward the dining room. Warm, firm without being forceful, his touch sent currents of awareness

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vibrating through her body, distracting her from the other man. With a surprising show of courtesy, Slade seated her before taking his place across the table from her. Iram sat at Slade’s side, allowing her to converse easily with both men. “How long have you worked for Matthias?” she asked Slade. “He works with Matthias, not for him.” The mischief in Iram’s tone hinted at frequent debate over the subject. “Six years, and Matthias holds patents on all of his inventions. No one mistakes me for the Toymaker.” Slade smiled at Bryce. “Unless I want them to.” “But it annoys you that he gets all the credit?” Her gaze passed between the two men. They enjoyed an obvious camaraderie. Had she ever felt this at ease with another person? The other women resented her as she was summoned night after night. All the while she wished the potentate’s attention would fall on someone else. Iram shook his head. “You’ve got it backward. Matthias wants to give Slade credit for his contributions, and Slade won’t let him. I think he’s hiding from someone.” “You have a vivid imagination.” Slade chuckled. She’d never seen him this relaxed. He was actually quite charming. A domestic ’bot entered through a service door and arranged covered dishes on the small table. Smooth and metallic, the torso sported full, round breasts while the face had been designed with only the faintest hint of features. “How many people are employed by this project?” Bryce asked. “May I bring you a beverage, Bryce?” The ’bot’s question caught her by surprise. “How does she know my name?” “All the systems on this level are integrated.” Slade stirred cream into his coffee as he went on. “I entered your profile into the central computer, so all the terminals should accept your voice commands, and the service ’bots should—” “Service you,” Iram finished with a wink. She looked at the domestic ’bot. “Ice water would be fine.” 62

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“I’ll return momentarily.” The ’bot turned, displaying her clearly defined ass, and Bryce laughed. “Gender is optional on that model.” Iram nodded toward the retreating ’bot. “We can convert one of the others to male if you’d like.” “I suspect I’m grossly outnumbered as it is.” The men uncovered their trays, so Bryce followed suit. She didn’t recognize the entrée, but it smelled wonderful. “The terminal in my room asked for an access code.” “Standard security protocol,” Slade explained. “Your access code is ‘Bryce’.” “I hope I can remember.” She paused for a nibble of the food. The savory taste rolled across her tongue, and she took a bigger bite. “Back to my original question— how many humanoids are employed by the project?” “Matthias, Iram and I are the only people you’ll have contact with outside the lab.” “I won’t be allowed to interact with the other test subjects?” “Not initially.” She accepted his statement with a silent nod. Fuck on demand without thought or emotion. Would she ever escape that scenario?

***** With her hair still damp from the cleansing mist, Bryce slipped into a fresh robe the following morning. Oversight, my ass. Slade had no intention of giving her a uniform. Why bother when she’d be naked once the tests began? Their dinner the night before left her feeling vulnerable. In the harem, she’d known what to expect. She was treated like a sexual object, which allowed her to suppress all but the most elemental emotions. For a few short hours, she’d forgotten why she was there. She’d enjoyed their food and participated in their lively conversation. Iram had demonstrated the threedimensional game he and Slade had been playing when she arrived. Her awkward attempts to control the holographic pieces had had them all laughing within minutes.

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Slade had escorted her to her room, and she’d slept peacefully for the first time in months. Then this morning her terminal had chimed and instructed her to report to the lab in one hour. A stack of identical knee-length robes had been put in her utility room during the night. No underwear and nothing for her feet, just the simple, collarless robes. To hell with it. She’d known what she was in for when she interviewed for the position. She’d just be more careful not to let her guard down. After combing out her damp hair and airbrushing her teeth, she went to the lab. Slade greeted her with a smile and proffered a steaming cup of coffee. “Let’s take a few minutes and go over the agenda for today.” “All right.” She accepted the cup and followed him to the small table in the back corner of the lab. “Do you take anything in that?” She hesitated. Was there some sexual significance to how she drank her coffee? “The tests haven’t started. Iram tends to make the coffee really strong.” Smiling at her paranoia, she took a sip. “Oh boy, definitely strong. I think I’ll need cream and sugar.” “Have a seat. I’ll be right back.” He exited through a different door than Bryce had used. The office, lounge and lab all had doors leading to the control center. A main corridor divided the larger rooms from the small, private quarters and storage areas. She’d love to see a diagram of the level. It would help her understand the unusual layout. He returned a few minutes later with cream and sugar. Fascinated by his unconscious grace, she watched him cross the room. As she made her coffee palatable, his gaze focused on her throat. “Has anyone tried to remove that choker?”

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“The release mechanism is fingerprint activated. I’m stuck with it.” She shrugged with feigned indifference. If he tried to remove the collar, the explosive would detonate. It was too soon to confide in him, so she tried to shift his focus. “Are you worried about electronic implants or something?” He shook his head. “Your scan was clean.” “When did you scan me?” “When you walked through the door.” His lips parted in a lazy smile, and her heart constricted, responding to the bittersweet temptation of his charm. Ignoring the unfamiliar pang in her chest, she asked, “What’s on the agenda for today?” “Today we’ll focus on tactile stimulation.” He took a sip of his coffee, his gaze avoiding her face. He was the clinical scientist again, polite, professional—impersonal. “There will be three subjects attempting to arouse you with nothing but touch. We’ll record your physical responses, but we also need you to compare the three and tell us how each makes you feel emotionally and mentally. Do you associate certain touches with past experiences? That sort of data doesn’t register on our scanners.” “Are they going to touch me one after the other or all at once?” “One after the other. Each has thirty minutes to bring you to orgasm. They are only allowed to use their hands, and they are not allowed to speak. They’ve been given no further instructions.” She stared into her half-finished coffee. While these men attempted to bring her to orgasm, Slade and Matthias would be recording her body’s responses, watching, judging. “Do you have any questions?” “Am I allowed to speak?” “It would be best if you didn’t. They won’t respond in any event.” Setting her cup aside, she pushed back her chair. “Where do you want me?”

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He flashed a wicked smile then dropped his professional mask back into place. “For the purpose of this test, it will be best if you stand on the padded platform.” He motioned toward a round platform about two feet high. Wristcuffs hung from the ceiling, along with leather loops. “A scanner beam will surround you, measuring your body temperature, pulse and respiration rate, and certain concentrations of humidity.” She laughed. “In other words, it will register when I get wet?” “When and how wet.” His throaty tone sent a warm tingle coursing down her spine. “I’ll need to blindfold you, but you’re welcome to use the straps if you’re not comfortable in restraints.” “I’m the curious type. If you don’t want me to touch the subjects, you better use the restraints.” “Are you ready to begin?” She shrugged. “Nothing like three orgasms to start off your day.” His warm smile was the last thing she saw as he tied a blindfold around her eyes. “Please slip off your robe.” She untied the belt and shrugged out of the garment. His warm hands guided her backward. “Step up.” She mounted the platform and found her footing on the padded surface. Without having to be told, she raised her arms above her head. He stepped up onto the platform behind her, his body pressed against hers as he secured the cuffs around her wrists. Was the scanner beam on yet? Her pulse had just shot through the roof. “I’ll announce the beginning of each test and the conclusion. Take as long as you need between tests. If you need to be released for any reason, just say the word and I’ll stop the test.” Grasping the chains above her cuffs for support, Bryce tried to relax. Darkness had never bothered her until Akim… She wouldn’t think of Akim.

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The soft hiss of the door told her Slade had departed. For the moment she was alone. Well, not really alone. Matthias and now Slade were supervising from the control center. “Are you ready for Subject A?” Matthias asked. She nodded and licked her lips. A door hissed farther away, the door from the corridor. Please let his hands be warm, let his hands be gentle. She waited, searching the silence for an indrawn breath or an excited sigh. Two hands cupped her breasts. She gasped, her fingers tightening on the chains. Firm, practiced, these hands knew how to touch a woman. They stroked and squeezed, rolling her nipples. Her body responded as it was supposed to, but her emotions remained separate, unaffected by his touch. She sensed nothing from him. His hands moved on, skimming along her abdomen to cup her mound and squeeze her ass. Like a programmed routine, the subject massaged her body. Tension gripped her abdomen, the sensation in no way pleasant. This wasn’t a man. It was a pleasure ’bot. She shifted, arching away from the unseen hands. She felt no breath against her skin, heard no sigh or hint of interest. Dead, mechanical, like the ’bots Akim used to torture her. It nudged her legs apart. She gritted her teeth, shaking, helpless. “Halt test one. Subject A, disengage.” Slade’s voice came over the comlink, and Bryce released her breath in a long, relieved sigh. “Bryce, your anxiety level shot off the scale. Please explain your reaction.” She swallowed and licked her lips before she began. “It’s a pleasure ’bot. I’ve had…unpleasant experiences with pleasure ’bots in the past.” “How did you know it was a ’bot?” Matthias asked, a note of disbelief in his weak voice. “’Bots don’t breathe, and they have no emotions. I’m empathic, remember?” “Subject A, return to your station.” A hint of amusement colored Slade’s tone. “Test one, stage one complete. Let us know when you’re ready for Subject B. I promise this one breathes.” 67

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Bryce shifted on the platform, rolling her head as far as her upraised arms would allow. She might as well get this over with. “Send in the next one.” “Test one, stage two beginning. Enter, Subject B.” Matthias definitely sounded annoyed. He was the Toymaker. Of course it would insult him that she preferred a human hand to one of his inventions. The door swished open again and muted footfalls announced Subject B’s approach. The front edge of the platform shifted. Had he knelt at her feet? His warm breath brushed her thighs and confirmed her suspicion. Tactile stimulation—Slade had said they would only touch her. Warm fingers circled her ankle, lifting her foot to a firm thigh. He caressed her foot, her calf, her knee. Heat pooled between her thighs. She wanted his touch there, parting her folds, rubbing her clit. Her breasts quivered with each harsh breath. He teased her folds, traced her cleft without entering her core or touching her clit. She pressed her lips together, stemming the pleas welling within her. She wasn’t supposed to speak. He eased her foot to the floor, and she groaned. Not more of Akim’s games! She couldn’t bear it if they left her wanting. Already her body ached. Slade had said the objective was to trigger her orgasm. Subject B caressed her breasts, rolled her nipples, gently pulled until she arched toward him. He wrapped his arms around her, cupping her ass in both hands and aligning her mound with his cock. The distinct ridge made her whimper. Oh, to feel him sliding inside her. She’d wrap her legs around his waist and ride him right here while the others watched. It had been too long! Scalding desire penetrated her mind, intensifying her arousal. Subject B needed her just as badly as she needed him. He went back down on his knees and lifted her leg to his shoulder. Lick me. Suck on my clit! Oh gods, let him lick me… He gently parted her folds, pausing. Was he looking or contemplating the consequences if he did more than touch? Two long fingers pushed into her core. She

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squeezed him greedily. A low, throaty moan escaped Subject B. Heat infused her face, her breasts, her pussy. She knew exactly what that sound meant. Circling her with his thumb, he slid his fingers in and out. She angled her leg, steadying herself against his neck. His breath fanned her cleft as his mouth hovered just out of reach. Tension gathered around his fingers, pulsing out through her abdomen. She arched, crying out sharply as pleasure released within her. He rubbed and thrust until the last ripple of sensation receded. Then, to her astonishment, he pressed his lips to her mound and breathed on her clit as he pulled his fingers out. She came again, the pulsations leaving her weak and trembling.

***** “You were only supposed to touch her,” Iram snapped as Slade entered the control center. “We agreed. No tongues until tomorrow.” “I didn’t touch her with my tongue. I touched her with my breath.” “Right after you promised her the next subject could breathe.” Matthias sounded just as angry as Iram. “You’re just pissed off because she sensed the ’bot so quickly.” Matthias glared at him. “The PB-8 is my most sophisticated— It doesn’t matter. I need to know what created her aversion to pleasure ’bots. We may have to rethink the rest of the tests.” He turned his chair toward Iram. “Release her from the restraints and conduct your phase of the test with her on the table.” “She hasn’t said she’s ready for Subject C.” Concern furrowed Iram’s brow. “Just move her to the table and hold her hand,” Matthias instructed. “Don’t touch her intimately until I give you the signal.” Iram nodded at Matthias, glared at Slade and walked from the room. “This may work to our advantage.” Matthias waited for Iram to appear on the surveillance screen. “If she doesn’t realize what Iram is, we’ll know we’re on the right track.” 69

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“And if she realizes he’s a replicant, we’ll reset his memory and let her know what we’re trying to accomplish. I intentionally let her sense my desire. She may think Iram is me.” He watched as the replicant released Bryce and lifted her into his arms. She wrapped her arms around his neck and curled her body against his chest. Jealousy clawed through Slade’s gut. He’d never wanted a woman this badly. Iram didn’t just hold her hand. He stroked it, caressed it. “Are you ready to begin, Bryce?” Matthias asked. “Is this Subject C?” Her voice trembled. Slade activated the sensor beam. Her body temperature was still slightly elevated, but her pulse and respiration had returned to normal. “Yes, you’re with Subject C.” “Then I’m ready.” Iram grinned, obviously pleased by her reply. Slade crossed his arms over his chest, scowling at the vidscreen. She raised her arms above her head and grasped the edge of the table. Did she not trust herself to keep her hands off Iram? “You’re broadcasting your thoughts as well as your emotions.” Matthias stared at him quizzically. “I can record her responses. It might be better if you didn’t watch this.” Slade reined in his emotions and raised his psychic shield. “I’m sorry. I don’t know why she’s affecting me this way.” “The closest you’ve come to making love to a real woman in the past two years is spanking the ass of that hateful bitch.” “Pleasure Mistress Six and I have…a unique relationship.” “There’s nothing unique about it, and it’s hardly a relationship. She’s been inflicting pain so long, it doesn’t excite her anymore, and you’re sexually frustrated. You punish her by fucking her senseless, and none of her customers suspect their dominatrix has gone soft.” 70

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Slade chuckled. As usual, Matthias’ assessment was accurate. “Damn, my boy learns fast.” Matthias chuckled. Shifting his gaze back to the vidscreen, Slade curled his hands into fists. Bryce had bent her knees and opened her legs, giving Iram all the room he needed. His long fingers plunged into her core hard and fast while he rubbed her clit with his other hand. She cried out, her hips lifting clear off the table. Iram didn’t stop. He inserted a third finger with a slow, steady twist of his wrist. She moaned, her legs shaking. With his fingers stretching her pussy, Iram moved his other hand to one breast, tugging and rolling her nipple. His thumb brushed back and forth across her clit as his fingers flexed and relaxed, flexed and relaxed. “Look at these levels. She’s about to—” Her sharp cry interrupted Matthias. “Two orgasms in sixteen minutes. That’s not bad for his first time.” “I had her primed and ready.” Slade gritted his teeth as Iram guided her down from the table. He thought the replicant was going to leave the room. Instead Iram bent her over the table and nudged her legs apart. He cupped one of her breasts in his palm and thrust into her with the fingers of his other hand. Fourteen minutes left—was Iram trying to kill her? She lifted her ass, obviously loving the way Iram’s fingers slid into her slick cunt. Slade raked his hair with both hands. This was just foreplay. How in the gods’ names was he going to survive once they moved on to oral arousal and actual penetration? She cried out a third time, and Iram turned her around. He moved her arms behind her, and she braced herself against the treatment table. With just his fingertip, Iram circled her clit. She trembled. Her head rolled back on her shoulders, breasts thrust forward, nipples tight. “Time’s up,” Matthias said in a soft, distracted tone. “Don’t you dare leave her like that. Tell him to stop as soon as she comes again.”

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Matthias activated audio. “The test is completed, Subject C. Bring the lady to release and return to your station.” To Slade’s horror, Iram sank to his knees, cupped her ass with both hands, and continued the firm circular motion with his tongue. Bryce came hard, shaking visibly as the spasms gripped her. Iram swept her into his arms and laid her on the table. He traced her lush lips with his fingertip then left her alone in the lab. Slade met him at the door with a punch meant for his jaw. Iram easily caught his flying fist. “I didn’t use my tongue!” Slade sneered. “The test was over.” Iram grinned and shoved past Slade.

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Chapter Seven Replete and drowsy, Bryce smiled when Slade walked into the lab. He retrieved her robe from the floor and draped it over her naked body. Then he pulled up a stool and sat beside the treatment table. “You did extremely well,” he told her. “Would you like to rest for a while, or can we begin the post-test interview?” She handed him the blindfold and rolled onto her side, facing him. “If I fall asleep, I might forget something important. Let’s get this recorded accurately.” “All right. As you realized, Subject A was a pleasure ’bot. I need to understand your reaction to him, but we’ll come back to that in a minute. Subject B—” “Undeniable human.” She sighed, remembering his skillful touch and the tantalizing heat of his breath. “The sensors recorded your body’s reaction. I need to know what went through your mind. While Subject B touched you, what were you thinking? Was there anything in particular you found arousing?” “I realized he was looking at my naked body while I could see nothing. It was surprisingly erotic. Each time he paused, his desire intensified. It aroused me to know how much he wanted me.” “Is there anything else you can tell me about Subject B?” “There was an urgency to his emotions that surprised me. I felt as if he had wanted me for days, longed to touch me and more. Was he allowed to watch the interview?” He smiled. “You’re very perceptive.” His gaze lingered on her face, focused on her mouth. Desire flared for a moment before he reinforced his mental shield. “Tell me about Subject C.”

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She arched her brow and returned his smile. “Do I really need to? What can I tell you that you don’t already know?” He averted his gaze. Letting her sense his emotions had indeed led her to the wrong conclusion. “What were you thinking while Subject C touched you?” Turning onto her back, she stared up at the vidscreen inset in the ceiling. “I’d heard surgeons have incredibly dexterous fingers.” He said nothing, so she went on. “You know I crave gentleness, but need a certain amount of aggressiveness, and you hide everything you feel behind a mental shield.” “You sensed nothing from Subject C?” “At the very end, when you put your mouth on me, I sensed a spark, a flicker of emotion you couldn’t quite suppress. It happened again just a moment ago.” He paused, shifting on the stool. Bryce sat up, tucking her robe beneath her arms and wrapping it around behind her. “You promised to explain what the IR-M project was about once we executed the contract. You’ve told me little more than I knew before.” “What would you like to know?” “IR-M? Or should I say Iram? I’m not the one being tested, am I?” “You clearly have a theory.” He pushed his hair back from his forehead, amusement sparkling in his eyes. “Let me hear it.” “This isn’t about adult toys or how accurately you’ve been able to simulate human sexuality. I think Iram is your apprentice and you’re testing how well he can suppress his psychic abilities. That’s why you needed an empath.” “Fascinating theory. So, why did I touch you?” He pushed to his feet as she struggled for a reply. She thought he’d finished questioning her. Then he stroked her cheek with the back of his fingers. “I need to know about the pleasure ’bot. Why did you react so strongly when you realized what it was?”

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She turned into his touch, rubbing her cheek against his fingers. “My employer’s son is a cruel man. He enjoys using pleasure ’bots in ways that are anything but pleasurable.”

***** “We’ll have to restructure the rest of the tests.” Matthias didn’t sound pleased about the development. Slade dragged his gaze away from Bryce’s image. She sat in the lounge playing Toktalla with Iram. The baggy uniform Slade had given her concealed her graceful curves from his eyes, not his memory. “I can take a day or two and work with her, see if I can help her overcome her fear.” “This isn’t about Bryce. Our objective is to awaken Iram.” “I haven’t lost sight of the objective.” I’ve just lost my objectivity. Heaving a sigh, Slade went on. “She said she sensed emotion from Iram when he touched her with his mouth.” “She obviously enjoys oral play.” Matthias paused, his dark gaze speculative. “She thought Iram was you. Does that work to our advantage?” “I’m not sure. Desire breeds desire. There is nothing more arousing than knowing your partner is desperate to have you.” “Her theory actually sets us up well for what we’re trying to accomplish. If she thinks you’re doing everything in your power to make Iram lose control of his emotions—” “That is basically what we’re trying to do. His intuitive programming is already simulating emotions. He laughs, smirks and sneers. It’s only a matter of time before he starts feeling the emotions he’s simulating.” Matthias’ features were drawn and pale. “Time is the one thing we don’t have. We must stimulate his programming, provoke him into adapting.”

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Slade knew his friend was right, but the things that would stimulate Iram’s programming the most were bound to drive Slade crazy. “You’ve exhausted yourself. Go rest. I’ll figure out a scenario that will be extremely provoking.” “Desire and jealousy are a powerful combination. You about tore each other apart watching from the control center. Think how much more provoking it will be if you’re both there, touching her, tasting her…” Slade shoved his hands into the pocket of his lab coat as Matthias glided from the room. Damn the wily old man. If an oral threesome didn’t trigger Iram’s emotions, nothing would. Exiting through the lab, Slade followed the outer corridor around to the lounge. Laughter and muffled fragments of conversation grew louder as he neared. How would she react if she found out Iram was a replicant? Would her past experiences with pleasure ’bots taint her responsiveness? “I think she’s getting the hang of it,” Iram said by way of a greeting. Bryce laughed. “Yeah, he only doubled my score that time.” Iram glanced beyond Slade. “Where’s Matthias?” “Resting.” Compassion gleamed in Bryce’s gaze and Slade smiled. “Are we finished for the day?” She pivoted in her chair and met his gaze directly. Matthias needed to rest. Even if Bryce believed her theory was accurate, Iram needed to think they were gathering data for the next generation of pleasure ’bots. Scientific data could only be gathered with scanner beams and official recordings, and that meant Matthias. “The next test will be tomorrow morning.” “And what will it entail?” Bryce asked. “You’ll just have to wait and see.”

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She shrugged and turned back to face the Toktalla table. “You said you’ve been through three lockdowns. How long have you worked for Matthias?” “With Matthias,” he stressed. “How long have I worked with Matthias?” “Whatever.” She laughed, struggling to divide her attention between the controls and Iram. “I don’t remember.” She groaned as her game pieces sank to the bottom of the grid. “Slade is right—you cheat.” “You’re the one who started a conversation right as I activated the game.” He leaned back in his chair and folded his arms across his chest. “I wasn’t harassing you. I really don’t have any memory of my life before.” “Before what?” “Before I woke up here, recovering from extensive injuries. Matthias saved my life.” Slade poured energy into his psychic shield as she turned her head toward him. Her gaze gleamed with suspicion. If she sensed deception now, he’d be hard-pressed to explain, but she didn’t confront him directly. “You said you’re a mechanical engineer.” She turned back to Iram. “How can that be true if you have no memory?” “I can’t remember my past, but they put me through a battery of tests. Basing their determinations on the test results, they decided I’d been highly educated and was most likely a mechanical engineer.” “I see.” Her gaze returned to Slade. “Have you scanned missing person reports and posted his profile with interstellar authorities?” “Of course.” He did his best to sound affronted. “We’ve done everything possible to unlock his past.” A strained silence descended as Bryce glared daggers at him.

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“I’m going to go check on Matthias.” Iram slipped out of his chair and headed for the archway. “Use the monitors. If he has actually managed to fall asleep, I want him to stay that way.” “Yes sir.” Slade braced himself for her tirade. He could see it in her eyes. Waiting for Iram to move out of earshot was likely the only thing holding her back. She stood and took a step toward him. “How did an accident victim come to be in the possession of the famed Toymaker?” He wasn’t fooled by her calm tone. Slade clenched his hands into fists and shoved them into his lab coat pockets. Should he recite the story he’d rehearsed with Matthias, or tell her to mind her own business? He hated lying to her, but her stubborn expression made it clear she wouldn’t leave this one alone. “If you must know, Iram was dumped in the alley behind the Pleasure Palace. He’d been beaten so badly we didn’t think he’d survive. If it weren’t for some unorthodox uses of several of Matthias’ inventions, he wouldn’t be able to walk, move his arms or make love.” Her eyes widened and the color drained from her face. She turned away before he could analyze her reaction. Was she repulsed knowing Iram had touched her? “He’s a cyborg?” Her voice gave nothing away. “How much of him is robotic and how much— Wait. Who actually found him?” Damn. He’d about had her distracted and on to the subject he wanted to discuss. “I found him and used one of the domestic ’bots to bring him down here. Petra knows nothing about any of this, and that’s the way we want it.” “What were you doing in the alley?” “Are you an amateur detective in your spare time?”

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“Your shield is stronger right now than it’s been since I met you.” She arched one eyebrow in silent challenge. “What are you trying so hard to hide?” Taking a deep breath, Slade used the opportunity to move her closer to the truth. “I occasionally have interaction with one of the Mistresses.” “You were in the alley fucking when you found Iram?” “Actually we’d finished and the Mistress had gone back inside. My activities that night are not the point.” He paused. He hadn’t seen Pleasure Mistress Six in several weeks. He’d had no intention of telling Bryce about her, but he’d needed a believable excuse. “Iram is not telepathic. The portion of his brain controlling emotional responses was damaged. Matthias replaced it with the most sophisticated cybernetic components he’s ever designed. Iram’s programming is intuitive. It adapts and adjusts as he collects data and experiences new stimuli.” Color returned to her face with a vengeance, creating bright flags over her high cheekbones. “You’re not trying to test his control. You’re trying to…kick-start his programming.” “Yes.” “Then you were… He wasn’t… Iram was Subject C. You intentionally lowered your shield to confuse me.” “If Iram’s programming enables him to feel emotion, this will be the most important scientific advancement in recent history.” She stared at him, flushed and flustered. For the first time in his life he was tempted to invade her privacy and find out exactly what she was thinking. “I told you we were working on something significant.” “He has no idea what he is.” It wasn’t a question. Still, Slade felt obligated to nod. “Was the memory loss natural, or did you—” “You have the wrong idea about my abilities. I can’t reach into someone’s mind and wipe out their past and I certainly wouldn’t even if I could.”

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“Then why do you hide your emotions from me?” “Because I can.” Closing his eyes, he calmed his voice and opened his eyes. “Most people are unnerved by empaths. No one wants their emotions to be exposed. It’s worse for me because I sense the power of your sensitivity. You’re no ordinary empath.” “I didn’t realize there was such a thing.” Soothed by her playfulness, he let the tension ease from his neck and shoulders. “We need your help. Iram is attracted to you, and he has shown competitive tendencies. You’re the only one who can tell us whether he is feeling emotion or simulating conditioned responses. We can’t do this without you.” “No more pleasure ’bots?” He smiled. “No more pleasure ’bots.”

***** Bryce awakened the following morning to the computer’s synthesized voice. “Good morning, Bryce.” She groaned and covered her eyes with her forearm. The damn thing had turned on the lights. “What time is it?” “Seven o’clock. Dixie will be outside your door shortly to lead you to the spa. It’s advisable to use the cleansing mist before you enjoy the spa’s facilities. Only a robe will be needed for this morning’s activities.” “I’m awake. Go away.” “The correct response is ‘close terminal’.” “How about ‘fuck off and die’?” The terminal blinked off and Bryce smiled. Rolling out of bed, she stumbled toward the utility room. At least the guard droids had been silent. She stood beneath the cleansing mist, debating what to do. Matthias’ illness had complicated the hell out of this situation. She couldn’t return to Akim without the

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Toymaker, but confiding in them might well endanger them more. Akim’s revenge would be swift and merciless if they helped her escape. She hadn’t anticipated caring about them. When she emerged from the utility room twenty minutes later, Bryce was still conflicted. She walked into the hallway and found her robotic escort waiting as the computer had predicted. “I thought you might enjoy this.” The big-bosomed ’bot proffered a steamy mug of coffee. Bryce accepted the beverage and took a sip. “This is wonderful. Thank you, Trixie.” “It’s Dixie, and you’re welcome.” Watching her metallic ass sway as Dixie rolled along, Bryce couldn’t help but smile. The thing’s legs didn’t move, so what was making its ass wiggle? They turned down a corridor Bryce had yet to explore, and Dixie motioned toward the only door. “They are waiting for you in the spa. I can take your mug if you like.” Bryce wasn’t quite finished, but she didn’t know what to expect in the spa. Relinquishing the mug, she muttered, “Thanks.” “You’re welcome.” Dixie turned in a tight circle and headed back the way they’d come. Leaning against the wall, Bryce paused to gather her composure. In the back of her mind, she’d thought Akim’s expectations unrealistic. Matthias made sex toys and pleasure ’bots. How could he rebuild a mutilated body? If what Slade said was true, she had grossly underestimated Matthias. She closed her eyes. Even if they repaired Akim’s physical deformity, would his mental and emotional stability return? She hadn’t known him before he was captured by the rebels. Perhaps he had always been sadistic. He will never let you go. You’re the crown jewel of his harem. His father’s pride and joy. Akim will never set you free.

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“I thought I heard voices.” Opening her eyes, she found Slade standing in the doorway to the spa. “Are you all right?” “I’m fine, just a restless night.” He stepped out into the corridor. The door slid closed behind him. “Were you upset by what I told you?” Yes! But not in the way he meant. “Knowing what Iram suffered isn’t what kept me awake.” She pushed off the wall and walked toward him. “I’ll be fine. Sleepless nights are nothing new to me.” “I’m sorry you’ve been made to suffer.” His gaze lit with compassion and he reached for her hand. Bryce blinked back tears. Damn it, he was doing it again! Why did his kindness get to her? She didn’t trust herself to decide if his expression was genuine. His warm fingers closed around hers, and her stomach gave a little flutter. He drew her closer. “If you’re not up for this, we can—” “No. The last thing I need is to mope in my room all day.” “Are you sure?” She nodded. “All right. Then we don’t have much time.” Opening the door, he led her into the spa. Exercise equipment lined the back wall, a lap pool dissected the room and a sunken hot tub waited on their left. “Iram swims laps every morning at seven forty. I want him to find us together.” “Why?” “He expects us to interact in the lab. He may not like it, but it’s within acceptable parameters. Finding us here is forbidden.” She chuckled. “You’re sneaky.” “I’ve been called worse.” He shrugged off a robe nearly identical to hers and walked naked to the hot tub. “Jets minimum.” 82

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Bryce couldn’t move. Sleekly muscled and lightly tanned, his body captivated her. Long legs led her gaze to his narrow hips and tight ass. He turned, descending the stairs into the water, and her breath caught in her throat. Fahbit had chosen Levon so Fahbit would seem large by comparison. Had Fahbit been unusually small or was Slade uncommonly large? “Get your butt in here, and you can do more than stare.” Dragging her gaze away from his semi-erect cock, Bryce nodded. She tossed her robe on top of his and joined him in the gently churning water. He pulled her against his chest with a broad smile. His hands cupped her ass, pressing her against the object of her fascination. “You’re acting as if you’ve never seen a naked man before.” “I’ve seen two, and neither of them were shaped quite like you.” “Really? I’m a bit larger than average, but you should see some of the Pleasure Masters. Of course, most of them have been augmented by yours truly.” He chuckled. “Wait until you see Iram. Keep in mind he was…reassembled by the infamous Toymaker.” “During my training, they had me watch instructional vids, but I presumed the images had been altered after I saw—” “Iram has reached zone three,” the computer informed them. “Showtime, sweetheart. Wrap your legs around my waist.” He lifted her slightly, and she encircled him with her legs. One of his hands returned to her bottom, the other cupped her breast. “Kiss me.” Pushing her fingers into his hair, Bryce covered his mouth with hers. His lips parted, and she traced his teeth with her tongue. Warm water splashed her hips. His thick shaft pressed against her mound, sending curls of heat deep into her abdomen. She sifted his hair through her fingers, rocking her hips, rubbing herself against his cock.

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“Oh gods, you feel good,” he whispered against her lips. The door slid open. Bryce didn’t turn her head. “I want you inside me, Slade. I need you now!” “What are you doing?” A spark of anger accompanied Iram’s question. Bryce clung to Slade, burying her face in his hair. He stroked her back, his cock bucking against her belly. Ignoring her own burgeoning desire, she concentrated on Iram. “You’re early,” Slade grumbled. “I arrive at exactly this time every morning.” Iram’s tone sounded stiff and annoyed. However, quick surges of other emotions erupted from him. She sensed a hint of doubt and a flicker of excitement, only to have them swept away before they fully formed. “This has nothing to do with you.” Iram’s anger intensified. Bryce peeked over her shoulder. Iram clenched his jaw, his hands fisted at his sides. She unwound herself from Slade and waded to the edge of the tub. “I realized last night there were no other test subjects, so you two had to be the ones who touched me. All night I lay awake thinking about the pleasure… I’ve never known pleasure like that before.” “Does Matthias know you’re here?” His angry gaze moved from her to Slade and back. “This isn’t a lab.” She folded her arms on the rim of the tub and smiled at him. The anger they’d incited still simmered. Could they trigger any other emotions? “What I do here is my own business.” “There are two stages left before penetration.” His gaze drifted to her naked breasts. “I reviewed the agenda last night.” “This isn’t one of the tests.” Slade wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her back against his body.

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Confusion defused Iram’s anger. He stared at them, a massive erection tenting the front of his swim trunks. Slade cupped her breasts, his thumbs stroking her nipples. She sighed, arching her back as she rested her head against Slade’s shoulder. Iram licked his lips, desire boiling up through his uncertainty. “Would you like to join us, or are you going to stand there and watch?”

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Chapter Eight Slade groaned as her sultry question sent a fresh rush of blood to his already aching cock. Her soft bottom rubbed against him, full breasts filling his hands. “You want both of us—together?” She eased away from him, and Slade felt the loss with every molecule of his sexstarved body. No, it was more than sex with Bryce. He’d spent hours analyzing why she had appealed to him so deeply from the first moment he’d walked into the outer office and seen the poignant mixture of determination and pain. She was no ordinary woman. “What is next on the agenda?” she asked with a siren’s smile. “Oral stimulation.” “Then let’s practice for the test. I came so fast when you licked me before, it was over before I realized what you intended.” Iram looked at Slade. “Is this permissible?” Slade chuckled. “I’m pretty sure we’re bending the rules, but who’s to know? Matthias is still asleep. If the lady wants to be licked, I say we lick her.” Iram started toward the stairs. “No clothes in the tub.” Bryce arched her brow. “We’re both naked. I want to see what you’re hiding beneath those trunks.” Iram laughed, and Bryce glanced at Slade. Can you hear me? Her telepathic signal just barely penetrated his shield. He eased the intensity of the barrier, enabling him to respond. Are you sensing anything from him?

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The surges are inconsistent and unpredictable, but he is feeling emotions. When he laughed a second ago, it made my entire body tingle. Slade smiled. We’ll have to see if we can recreate that sensation. She turned back to Iram as he kicked his garment aside. Slade shook his head. Her eyes rounded owlishly and her jaw dropped. Matthias didn’t do anything halfway. He looks so real. No one will ever know…except… he’s enormous! “Do I pass inspection?” Iram stroked his cock from base to tip, pride gleaming in his eyes. “I’m not sure.” She licked her lips. “Bring that monster over here. I need a closer look.” Grinning, Iram strolled to the edge of the tub and knelt. His cock arched toward her face. She tentatively encircled him with her fingers, passing her thumb over the flared tip. Cupping his heavy balls in one hand, she stroked his shaft with the other. Iram moaned, his eyes drifting shut. She swayed toward him, lips parted. “Oh no, you don’t.” Slade dragged her away, pulling her arms behind her back. “We’re going to stimulate you.” “But I enjoy giving oral stimulation as much as I enjoy receiving it.” “Maybe later.” Shifting both her wrists into one hand, he tangled his fingers in her hair. He guided her head back, angling her face so he could kiss her. She turned into the kiss, her tongue stroking over his. His lips moved against hers, his tongue exploring the sleek heat inside her mouth. The water level rose as Iram joined them in the tub. Iram cupped her breasts, bending to suckle first one nipple then the other. He moved back and forth while she trembled and moaned. She moved her tongue with more urgency, her torso arching. Slade sucked on her tongue, matching his motion to the firm pulls of Iram’s mouth. She gasped—her body stiffening between them. Slade chuckled, releasing her mouth. “Did you just come?”

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“I’m sorry,” she panted. “I—” “Don’t apologize. Come as often as you like. We’ll never leave you wanting. But we will try to make it last longer than ten seconds.” She closed her eyes, and Slade suspected she was remembering the cruel bastard who had inherited her. “We will never leave you wanting. Do you understand?” She nodded and opened her eyes. “Can you kneel, or is the water too deep?” he asked Iram. Iram sank to one knee then the other. The water sloshed around his shoulders, but his face was well above the waterline. “Lift her legs to your shoulders and give the lady what she wants.” Slade adjusted his hold, hooking his arms beneath hers and supporting her back as Iram lifted her out of the water. Iram situated himself between her thighs, her long legs draped over his shoulders. The position thrust her breasts upward, her head resting on Slade’s shoulder. He glanced at the golden choker and frowned. They’d have to find a way to get it off her. She no longer belonged to her former employer. “Tell me what he’s doing.” He whispered the words into her ear, and her nipples tightened in response. “I can only see his mouth covering you.” “His mouth is warm.” Her breath hitched and her hips jerked. “He just found my clit and he’s flicking it with his tongue.” “Gently, Iram,” Slade coached. “Let the tension build.” Bowed between them like an erotic bridge, her body sent Slade’s pulse racing. Her breasts quivered with each ragged breath, her belly flinched and her silky thighs framed Iram’s face. Slade watched Iram’s mouth move against her pussy. Slade wanted to take his place, to taste her, fill his mouth with her cream, thrust his tongue deep as she writhed in pleasure. She bucked, grinding against Iram’s mouth. Slade caught a glimpse of Iram’s tongue as it pushed into her cunt. This was torture! Cradling her close to his face, Iram

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reached around her hips and parted her folds. His lips closed on her clit, and Bryce cried out sharply. Her slender body shook. Her back arching as Iram guided her through wave after wave of release. “You do that very well.” Slade kissed Bryce on the temple. “Thank you.” Iram raised his face and grinned. “Would you like to return the favor?” Slade pulled her into his arms, walking slowly toward the stairs. “What did you have in mind?” She sounded sleepy and they’d only just begun. “I want you to sit on my face while you thank Iram for that fabulous orgasm.” “It would be my pleasure.” Iram followed silently. What are you sensing from him? Guilt and a hint of jealousy. He’s not sure we should be doing this, and he doesn’t want you touching me. Are his emotions stabilizing? I was a little distracted before, but they seem to be clearer now. Are you okay with this? He heard her laughter in his mind. Now who’s feeling guilty? I’m fine. “Iram, grab a stack of towels. This floor is hard.” Unwilling to deprive himself of her silky warmth, Slade held her against his chest while Iram unfolded the towels. Slade brushed his lips against hers as he set her down beside their makeshift bed. He lay down on his back and raised his hand. “Come here.”

Bryce looked at Slade, spread before her like a banquet. She wanted to explore every millimeter of his toned body with her hands and her mouth. His gaze smoldered with desire. Did he realize his emotions were passing across the telepathic link along with his thoughts? Probably not, or he wouldn’t be so relaxed. 89

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Iram touched her shoulder, drawing her attention away from Slade. “I believe he said something about you sitting on his face.” Tingles ricocheted through her body. Passion radiated off Iram in waves. His programming had solidified that path. She stepped over Slade, pausing with one foot on either side of his head. She knew he liked to look, so she eased her legs apart and reached for Iram. “Kiss me.” Iram cupped her breast as his tongue surged into her mouth. He tasted of her pleasure, pleasure he’d given selflessly. Slade caressed her legs, stroking as high as he could reach. Feminine power welled within her. She was free to express herself in any way she wanted. There were no Masters here, just three people enjoying the emotions flowing unhampered between them. “Help her down, Iram. Stop teasing me.” The urgency in Slade’s voice made Bryce smile. “Should we take pity on him? You could use those clever fingers again to—” “Enough!” Iram helped her kneel to straddle Slade’s face. She expected Slade to attack her with demanding kisses and punishing licks. Instead he feathered kisses along her inner thighs and against her folds. “I believe showing you my appreciation was the other half of his suggestion.” She wrapped her fingers around Iram’s shaft and leaned forward, circling his tip with her tongue. “Oh…oh gods!” She looked up along his muscular body and met his passion-drugged gaze. “No one has ever done this for you before?” “Not that I remember.” He glanced away, embarrassment foreshadowing his next confession. “I’ve used the simulator.”

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“I see.” Slade parted her folds and traced her slit from back to front with the tip of his tongue. She sighed, her warm breath wafting across Iram’s skin. He groaned. What a wonderful chain reaction. Closing her lips around the plush head of his cock, she moved her hands to his hips. He caressed her face, his eyes squeezed shut. She circled Iram with her tongue and sucked on his tip while Slade went to work between her thighs. Iram moved his hands to her breasts, pulling firmly on her nipples. Bryce shook, her thighs flexing as her hands clutched Iram’s hips. Desire swirled around her and through her. Iram’s wonder combined with Slade’s aching need, intensifying each sensation. Tilting her head back, she took Iram deep as Slade pushed his tongue into her core. She cried out, the sound muffled. Iram shifted his stance, pulling back nearly out of her mouth. “I have to move. Is that okay? This feels so damn good!” Her fingers dug into his hips, her mouth creating a firm circle around his shaft. He moved steady and strong, his fingers rolling her nipples. He thrust faster, his hands returning to her face. “I’m sorry.” Iram pushed to the back of her throat. His big body shuddered violently. Bryce waited for the warm spurt of his seed. He panted, shuddering again and again. “I’m sorry.” He dragged his cock from her mouth, snatched a towel off the floor and fled. Bryce sat back on Slade’s chest, panting softly. “When he came, he didn’t…” “Ejaculate?” She nodded. Slade stroked her thighs, his gaze fixed between them. “Iram’s damage was so extensive we had to prioritize what we fixed first. Besides, he has no way of producing sperm.”

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“But if he had a way of producing sperm, could Matthias… Are there models that…” Heaving a frustrated sigh, he slid her down his body as he sat up. She rested across his lap, her legs wrapped around his hips. “It’s a very common option in pleasure ’bots. Why is this an issue?” She couldn’t tell him, but she wanted to tell him. “I have a friend who was in an accident. Nothing as severe as Iram’s, but his penis and one of his testicles had to be removed.” “There are several hospitals on Halley Prime that handle reconstructive surgery.” He ran his index finger down the side of her face, his gaze locked with hers. “I can recommend a surgeon when your friend is ready for the procedure.” “Thank you.” She turned her face away. If only it were that simple. “Why did Iram apologize? Could you tell from his emotions?” He pushed her hair behind her shoulders and caressed her cheek with his thumb. “He was overwhelmed. I sensed pleasure, guilt and anger, but it’s impossible for me to sort out what inspired each emotion.” He chuckled, turning her face until she looked into his eyes. “Iram wasn’t the only one overwhelmed.” His mental shield was at full strength again, barring her from his feelings. Her body wrapped around his, loneliness still loomed. Night after night Akim made her long for a comforting touch, a passionate embrace, the completeness she’d only glimpsed with Levon. Her lips trembled. She pressed them together, aching. Slade brushed her lips with his. “What’s wrong?” She fought back tears, but her breath escaped on a sob. “I need you.” She found his cock and guided it toward her entrance. “I need this.”

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Cupping her bottom with both hands, he pulled her closer, driving deeper until her body was flush with his. She wrapped her arms around his neck and concentrated on the fullness. “Better?” “No.” She tightened her inner muscles, determined not to beg. “I can’t—feel you.” Clutching her to his chest, he struggled to his knees then laid her back across the towels. He lifted her hips and pushed to the hilt. “How’s that?” She hesitated, unwilling to reveal her weakness, her need. “Better,” she whispered, and unlocked her ankles. Pulling his head downward, she fitted her mouth over his and thrust with her tongue, showing him what she wanted. Slade drew back and drove deep, mirroring the movement of her tongue. She tangled her fingers in his hair, claiming his mouth as he claimed her core. Each forceful thrust reinforced her isolation. He filled her body while he held himself back, safe behind his barricade. Tearing his mouth from hers, Slade lowered her hips and stared into her eyes. “I don’t want to hurt you.” His cock bucked inside her body, his gaze bright with conflict and desire. “Surely you realize I care about you. You have to know how much I want you. I’m not hiding. My shield protects you.” Stunned by the accuracy of his words, she stared up at him. Could he read her mind? Sense her feelings? Why wouldn’t he tell her anything about his abilities? She wasn’t going to argue, not while her body burned for release. He obviously didn’t realize she’d sensed his emotions earlier. “You don’t believe me.” His gaze narrowed and he shook his head. “Minimize your sensitivity or I’ll burn you out.” He grasped the underside of her knees, pushing her thighs up and back, spreading her legs wide. Dragging his cock nearly out of her, he lowered his shield with his next thrust. Scalding desire inundated her empathic receptors, and Bryce screamed. Lust,

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savage and demanding, coursed through her body. He thrust again, and she came in rhythmic spasms, feeling more pain than pleasure. “Had enough?” He ground out the words between clenched teeth. “No! Do it again.” His body slammed into hers. Passion, longing and concern accompanied each deep thrust. She relished the fullness of his cock moving in her core, but she absorbed each emotion with greedy abandon. Akim fed her torment and pain, loathing and hatred. She was ravenous for pleasure in any form. “Don’t hold back. Please. You aren’t hurting me.” “Are you sure?” She laughed and tightened her inner muscles. “More. Now!” Awe tingled through the next wave of emotion. Bryce trembled, exhilarated by his response. She watched his face. Tension eased from his expression, replaced by tenderness. He slid in and out with careful force. She raised her arms above her head, abandoned to the pleasure. He leaned forward, bending her nearly in half as his mouth settled over hers. His tongue moved between her lips, keeping time with his cock. She offered him her body and her mind, thrilled by the intensity of their joining. Hesitation clouded his mind. He was still afraid he’d hurt her. Don’t fight it. Let me feel you come. She sent the encouragement directly to his brain. He buried himself to the hilt. Her open mouth captured his shout. His pleasure saturated her mind, triggering a powerful orgasm. Each rhythmic tightening of her pussy prolonged his release, which in turn intensified her pleasure. Bryce turned her head to the side, panting harshly. Tingles still danced along her nerve endings. She smiled then laughed, but a tear escaped the corner of her eye. He eased her legs to his hips, bracing himself on his forearms, careful not to separate their bodies.

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His thumb caught the tear before it disappeared into her hair. “Are you all right?” She tried to explain but words eluded her. Without telling him about Akim, she couldn’t make him understand. “I’m better than all right.” She managed a smile and pressed a kiss into the center of his palm. “Why were you so convinced you’d hurt me?” He had opened his mouth to answer when a shrill alarm preempted his words. The computer’s voice rang out over the general comlink. “Medical emergency. Slade to Matthias’ quarters, stat!”

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Chapter Nine Three days passed as Slade struggled to stabilize Matthias. Bryce spent much of her time in the lounge, damning her helplessness. She sat at the library terminal, her chin resting on her hand. After rereading the same page for the third time, she closed the file. “You look tired.” She glanced up to find Iram standing in the archway, dressed in swim trunks, a towel draped around his neck. He fidgeted. His gaze met hers then darted away. “Grief is pulsing through this whole level,” she said softly. “I wish I could have known the man who inspired such loyalty.” Iram nodded. “I owe Matthias my life, and he’s slipping away. Slade put him on life support a few hours ago. It’s only a matter of time.” Bryce stood, meaning to wrap her arms around him, but Iram hurried down the corridor. She sighed and returned to her chair. As his turbulent emotions receded, she was left to contemplate her own. Her week was nearly over, and she had no idea what she was going to do. Returning to Akim without the Toymaker would damn her to a fate worse than death, but the alternative was unthinkable. She would not endanger Slade or Iram. Her thoughts focused on Slade, and a slow smile bowed her lips. An elemental connection sizzled between them each time she looked into his eyes. She struggled against it, tried to convince herself it was simple physical attraction. Her heart knew better. Tingles skittered down her spine just thinking about what they’d shared in the spa. She’d expected passion and hoped for tenderness when she reached out to him that

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day. The intensity of his emotions left her breathless and amazed. She’d never dreamed pleasure like that existed. They needed more time together. She needed more— Bryce heard footsteps in the corridor. Iram hadn’t been wearing shoes. Slade strode into the lounge, his expression grim. “How is Matthias?” Grief wrapped around her. His? Hers? She couldn’t tell. “Dying.” He nodded toward the sofa situated in front of the large vidscreen. “We need to talk.” She stood and followed him across the room, reaching for his hand as they sat. “I’m not sure when or how Matthias intended to do this, but it’s irrelevant now. I have to perform the transfer soon, or it won’t be an option.” “What sort of transfer? Will it save his life?” He stroked the tops of her fingers with his thumb, his breath escaping in an audible sigh. “IR-M stands for Intuitive Replicant-Male.” “Iram is a replicant?” She narrowed her gaze on his tired face. Why did his story keep changing? Was any of it true? “Iram is Matthias’ most ambitious project and his most important. All of his pleasure ’bots are intuitive to an extent, but Iram’s programming goes far beyond anything Matthias has attempted before.” “What does this have to do with Matthias’ failing health?” She tugged her hand out of his and crossed her arms over her chest. “After your interview, I transferred a portion of Matthias’ memory into Iram’s neuro-matrix. The only way to judge—” “You transferred part of Matthias into Iram?” She scooted into the corner of the sofa, her heart pounding in her breast. “I’ve never heard of such a thing.” “Matthias and a team of other scientists perfected the process—in theory—nine years ago. His exposure to the virus forced him to move the program forward at an accelerated pace.”

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“Without the safeguards and scientific protocols associated with this sort of research?” No wonder they wouldn’t let her off the level. This wasn’t just top secret. It was probably illegal. “If he doesn’t do this, he dies. And he isn’t endangering anyone but himself.” He pushed his hair off his forehead and took a deep breath. “The partial transfer appears to be successful. Have you spent any time with Iram in the past three days?” “Not much. I thought he was with you.” “He’s stopped by the lab for updates, but mainly he’s been in his room or swimming laps in the spa. What did you sense from him when you were together?” “Grief, confusion and frustration. His good friend is dying. I didn’t sense anything unusual.” “I need to be sure the partial transfer is stable before I attempt a complete transfer.” She pulled her legs up onto the sofa and wrapped her arms around her knees. “The Toymaker is trying to cheat death by transferring his soul into a replicant?” “You’ll have to debate that with a cleric. I’m only interested in saving my best friend.” His audiocom vibrated and chimed. He activated the link. “What do you want, Petra? I’m a little busy right now.” “Oh, you’ll want to hear what I have to say. Better yet, bring Matthias. He’ll want to hear this too. I won’t page you again. Come up to my office or you’ll wish you had.” Slade deactivated the link before he spoke again. “Iram is in the spa. Would you please go talk to him? He’s been spending a lot of time in the lap pool. See if you can figure out what that’s about.” “And if his emotions are still volatile?” He stood. “It depends how volatile. Death is a certainty without the transfer. Iram is Matthias’ only chance.”

*****

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Slade left the lounge and cut through a storeroom to the lift. If this wasn’t important, he’d throw his audiocom in Petra’s face, leaving her no contact with the lower level. Matthias had sent his wristband up with a service ’bot months before. He knocked on her office door and waited impatiently as the scanner identified him. Thorne pulled the door open and nodded toward the desk. Petra sat in her highbacked chair like the proverbial queen bee, her decadent hive displayed on the security grid beside her. Color-coordinated as always, her hair, eyes, clothing and fingernails all gleamed with emerald luster. “I’m here,” Slade snapped. “What’s so important?” “Don’t snarl at me. Where is Matthias?” “He can’t leave the lab at the moment. You’re stuck with me.” “How long will he be? I’m willing to wait.” “I’m not. You have ten seconds to dazzle me or I’m out of here.” Her gaze narrowed and her full lips compressed into a grim line. “If it weren’t for Matthias, I would have—” “Five, four, three—” “Fine! Dixie, Don—get your asses out here.” A narrow service entrance slid open and two domestic ’bots rolled into the office. Identical except for their exaggerated genitalia, the ’bots glided to a stop before Petra’s desk. “Do you recognize these handy little helpers?” Slade glowered. “Dixie is ours, and Don is yours. I’m not dazzled yet.” “Don, please raise your hand.” The female ’bot lifted its hand. “I know the parts are interchangeable. I helped Matthias design this model. Are we finished?” “Don has been cruising around on your level for almost a week now. Would you like to know what he’s learned?” 99

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Clasping his hands behind his back, Slade stared at her. Even if the ’bot had managed to record Iram, Petra would have no idea of the replicant’s significance. “Don served Bryce her morning coffee and brought the mug to me.” Slade’s heart sank into his belly. This was about Bryce. “And?” Petra glanced at Thorne and smiled. “Now I have his attention.” “I really don’t have a lot of time.” “You’ve got time for this. Have a seat.” Don held his chair while Slade sat. He sent the ’bot a sidelong glare. “Have you ever heard of the Renarrian Empire?” Slade shook his head. “I didn’t think so. Fahbit oct Renarr ruled the empire for nearly thirty years. He was feared and respected by his subjects, but about eight months ago he died.” “How does this pertain to Bryce?” “Bryce was the favorite concubine of Potentate Fahbit.” A wave of heat passed through his body, followed immediately by a violent chill. Bryce had been trained to pleasure a rich man, yet she’d only had one employer. Matthias had put her through a full background check. “How did you come by this information?” “My story has barely started, but I don’t want you distracted by that detail. I ran her DNA profile through the Interstellar Bureau of Information and got the same load of crap they sent Matthias. I then sent her profile to one of my underground connections and, voilà, a very different story. Always double-check the facts. You’re both far too trusting.” “How do you know which story is true?” “I’ll get to that.” She drummed her long, enameled nails against the desktop. “Where was I?” “The potentate died,” Thorne prompted.

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“Ah yes, the potentate died and his vicious little weasel of a son ascended the throne. This is not a popular happening with the Renarrian people. From all accounts, Akim is a sadistic pig.” “Okay, so Bryce lied about her background. She’s exactly what we need. Why should I care where she came from?” Petra laughed. “Don, playback spa scene.” A panel in Don’s chest flipped over, and Slade saw red. He stood and stepped in front of the ’bot, blocking the display. “I need you.” Bryce’s plaintive voice emanated from the bot. “I need this.” “I’ve already seen you in action, lover boy.” Petra grinned. “Very impressive. End playback, Don. Would you like to know why Bryce was so desperate for your cock? Surely you didn’t think it was your charming manner?” “I know more than you believe. The story she told us isn’t that different from what you’ve learned.” He braced his hands on her desk. “What do you want?” “To save you from your own stupidity.” Petra leaned forward, staring directly into his eyes. “Her Master, Akim oct Renarr, is in the VIP lot atop Prime Landing. Your little fuck toy is a spy. Get rid of her or I will.”

***** Bryce entered the spa and stopped short as the door slid closed behind her. Iram swam against the jets in the lap pool. His muscles bunched and flexed with each powerful stroke, masculine perfection, symmetry and grace. How could he be a replicant? Thinking Matthias had salvaged a human body with sophisticated robotics had filled her with wonder and respect. Necessity had always been the mother of invention, and Iram was no exception. But Matthias hadn’t helped a traumatized victim. He was saving his own ass.

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Iram stood and spun to face her, his hair slicked back from his striking features. Emotions slammed into her brain, making her head pound. Her legs trembled and she pressed her fists against her temples. He stalked toward her, dark eyes gleaming. Lust, anger, fear—each surge was more powerful than the last. His hands closed around her upper arms, dragging her to her toes. “Why have you done this to me?” She gasped, pain slicing through her head. “Let me help you. I can disperse this—” His mouth cut her off. One arm banded her legs below her butt and pulled her off the floor. He pressed her to his damp body, grinding his cock against her belly. Angling his head, he deepened the kiss, his tongue pushing between her lips. “Matthias is dying, and I can think of nothing but you,” he whispered. “Even the simulators can’t give me relief. You’re killing me.” Bryce trembled in his arms. Her breasts ached, her nipples peaked and heat pooled between her thighs. Slade’s bright gaze flashed through her memory. He’d sent her here to “talk” to Iram. Had Slade known what she’d find? He’s been spending a lot of time in the lap pool. See if you can figure out what that’s about. She’d been hired to stimulate Iram’s programming, to awaken emotional pathways. Well, he was awake now! “Iram, you have to calm down.” She framed his face with her hands, looking into his eyes. Matthias’ eyes! Why hadn’t she noticed it before? “I’m not going anywhere.” He kissed her again, infusing her mind with another wave of scorching desire. Her core melted and throbbed. She shoved against his shoulders, parting their mouths. “Not here.” Cradling her against his smooth chest, Iram carried her from the spa. His emotions calmed, mellowed. Anticipation took the edge off his lust. He focused on what lay ahead, releasing his desperation.

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Was Slade watching from the control center, or was he still upstairs with Petra? Iram had to be emotionally stable before Slade could attempt a complete transfer. Bryce understood her responsibilities. They had to save Matthias. Iram set her down on his bed and stripped off his swim trunks. He was amazing. His dark gaze moved over her. Hunger and need caressed her, making his gaze seem tangible. She crawled to the edge of the bed and sat back on her heels, hands resting on her thighs. “You prefer Slade, don’t you?” Uncertainty parted his lustful haze. Bryce sensed his vulnerability. She raised her arms, keeping her tone soft and sincere. “I think you’re extraordinary. I’m honored to be your first.” “You may be my first woman, but I’ve had plenty of experience.” He approached the bed, a bit of a swagger sneaking into his stride. Bryce reclined on her back, sideways across the bed. Draping her hair over the side, she looked up at him and smiled. “Shall we review what we did in the spa?” His brows rose and he moved closer. “Do you really enjoy having my cock in your mouth?” “Do you enjoy licking my pussy?” “You know I do.” “It’s the same for a woman. Your excitement thrills me. I enjoy the contrast of hard and soft, the heat and the slide against my tongue.” She reached for his hips. “Come here.” “You’re still dressed.” “That’s your problem.” She caught the tip of his cock between her lips and arched her neck, sucking him deep into her mouth.

*****

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Slade stepped off the lift and released an audible sigh. Why did life have to be so complicated? Bryce despised Akim. He saw it in her eyes whenever she spoke of “her employer’s son”. There was no way she was a spy, but Petra was right to be suspicious. Bryce had an ulterior motive. He needed to learn what had brought her here. Slipping into the lab, Slade checked on Matthias. His vital signs remained steady and strong. It would probably be best to give him a day or two on life-support before Slade completed the transfer. Let his body rest and stabilize. He moved into the control center and activated the surveillance grid. All the common rooms were empty. Where had Bryce and Iram gone? Tension knotted his gut and he closed his eyes. They were together, completing Iram’s emotional evolution. That’s why she’s here. You hired her to ensure this would happen. His blood ran cold. He never should have touched her, never should have allowed himself to see her as anything but an employee. Like a primitive automaton, he entered the code for her room into the control console. Her room was empty. Slade’s hand hesitated over the controls. Did he really need to see them? They had triggered Iram’s lust, and then Matthias’ crash had forced them to abandon the tests before their natural conclusion. Iram was fucking her. Slade had no doubt. What if Iram hurt her? He’d been agitated for days. Entering the code for Iram’s quarters, Slade braced himself as the image focused. She lay sideways across the bed. Iram arched over her body, his thick cock pumping into her mouth. Her uniform top was ripped down the center and the bottom bunched around her ankles. Panic stabbed through Slade. Was he forcing her? Her hands clutched Iram’s hips and her cheeks drew in as she sucked. Slade expelled a ragged sigh. However it had begun, she was participating now. Iram finger-fucked her with one hand and teased her nipples with the other. Blood rushed to Slade’s cock and he groaned. They were beautiful together. Iram’s golden skin accented her ivory complexion. Her silky black hair flowed off the bed, brushing the floor while Iram’s dried in golden waves. 104

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Stop torturing yourself! He’s not hurting her. “Wait… I don’t want…to come until…” Iram’s sentence trailed away. His ass clenched, and his head dropped back on his shoulders. Bryce stayed with him, sucking and licking until Iram relaxed. He eased his cock out of her mouth. Shining with her saliva, the thick shaft still looked hard. She sat up and tossed the tattered uniform top aside. “I thought you’d pull it up. You’re hard on clothes.” She kicked off the uniform bottoms and smiled at Iram. “Did that take the edge off? You still look pretty interested.” “It’s going to take a lot more than that to get you out of my system. I want your taste in my mouth and your nipples imprinted in my palms. I want to stay inside you so long you take on the shape of my cock.” “I’d look rather funny walking around shaped like your cock,” she teased, but Slade spotted the flicker of fear that ignited in her eyes. “Sit on my face, like you did for Slade.” Resentment made Iram’s voice hoarse. “Will you do that for me?” “I think I might be persuaded.” Her words sounded artificial, practiced. Iram crawled onto the bed and stretched out on his back. After a moment’s hesitation, Bryce straddled his face, one knee on either side of his head, her movements stiff and resigned. Iram grabbed her ass and pulled her forward. She steadied herself against the wall. Each subtle sign of resistance fueled Slade’s suspicion. He focused on her image and concentrated his psychic energy into a thin, maneuverable stream. Unlike a true empath, he had to intentionally scan the emotions of others. He kept his touch light, counting on Iram’s hungry mouth to distract her. Where are you? The panicked catch in her tone tore at Slade’s heart. I know what must be done, but I can’t do this alone. Call out my name when you come. It will give me a reason to interrupt.

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Chapter Ten Hands fisted against the wall, Bryce concentrated on the warm swirl of Iram’s tongue against her clit. The physical sensation was pleasant and sensual appreciation flowed freely from him, but it felt wrong, hollow. For years she’d turned off her mind, isolated her emotions and submerged herself in her partner’s pleasure. Without her protective disassociation, her life would have been intolerable. Why had her detachment failed her now? Slade’s warm gaze and lazy smile flashed through her mind. A tingle erupted low in her belly. Iram needed to complete the cycle of arousal. He’d tried every alternative. Still, his body craved passion’s ultimate culmination. Iram needed her. Matthias needed Iram. And she needed Slade. Iram’s long fingers squeezed her ass cheeks, anchoring her in place. On and on he went. His lips slid, his tongue flicked and his breath caressed her. He lifted her hips, pushed his fingers into her core then went back to lapping at her folds. Bryce closed her eyes. By now she should be writhing, wild with impending climax. He drew his fingers out and replaced them with his tongue. “Slade,” she whispered. Her nails dug into her palms. Iram didn’t stop. “Oh Slade!” Iram shoved her backward, toppling her to the bed. “I am not Slade!” His chest heaved and his nostrils flared. “Why did you come here if you want him?” “I knew you needed—” “I don’t want to fuck you while you close your eyes and think of someone else.” He glared at her, his hands covering his crotch.

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A buzzer sounded, and Bryce sighed. “What’s that?” “As if you need to ask.” He combed his fingers through his hair. “Was I hurting you?” His disappointment blasted her, and Bryce turned her face away. “Enter,” Iram called. Slade stepped into the room, and the door slid closed behind him. Iram scooted to the edge of the bed. “She wants you.” He sounded so miserable Bryce wanted to wrap her arms around him. “I had my tongue inside her and she cried out for you. Gods, I hate you both.” “You need her.” Slade spoke in a calm, emphatic tone. “You’ve about worn out the simulators, and the lap pool doesn’t help. You need to complete this cycle with the person who began it.” Iram shook his head. “She wants you. Get her out of here.” “Did she respond to you in the spa the other day?” “Only because you were there too.” He turned his head and stared at her for a long, tense moment. “Is that what you want? Both of us together?” Bryce could barely swallow past the lump in her throat. She looked at Slade, and he smiled. “It’s up to you.” He continued silently. If you don’t want to do this, I’ll take him upstairs. If you stay with me, I’ll be all right. I intend to do more than watch. I certainly hope so. She took Iram’s hand and raised it to her lips. “I want both of you.” Iram reached for her then pulled away. Bryce didn’t allow his withdrawal. She took his face between her hands and kissed him slowly, tenderly. Her tongue traced his lips and stroked against his. He growled low in his throat and cupped both her breasts. 107

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“Lie back on the bed and let her take you,” Slade instructed. “Your cock is huge, my friend. Give her all the time she needs.” Iram lay back, his legs bent over the side of the bed. Bryce looked at his cock and shivered. He really was huge. I’ll help you. We’ll do this together. A wave of warmth and tenderness accompanied the words. Bryce wrapped it around her, absorbed it into her and felt her heart swell. She swung one leg over Iram’s hips, straddling his lap. Iram locked his hands behind his head, watching her through half-lowered lids. Lifting her hips, she positioned him at her entrance. Velvety soft and incredibly hot, his cock nestled between her creamy folds. Slade stroked her breast with one hand and covered her mound with the other. His middle finger found her clit and circled as she sank onto Iram’s shaft. Wider, tighter, her inner muscles stretched and accepted him. She tensed, and Slade licked his fingers then returned to stroke her clit. Heat, pressure, pleasure, pain, the sensations swirled and blended, making her tingle and burn. Iram trembled beneath her. His jaw clenched, eyes closed. “She’s so fucking tight,” Iram groaned. “No, you’re too fucking big,” she whispered. Slade continued his gentle stimulation while she completed her gradual descent. Her sensitive folds pressed flush with Iram’s groin, and she let out a ragged breath. She’d done it! Iram was inside her. Kissing her temple, Slade rewarded her with sweeping touches and soft caresses as her body adjusted to the intrusion of Iram’s cock. “You doing okay?” “It feels nice,” she whispered unsteadily. “Hold her open for me, Iram. Let’s see if we can make her feel more than nice.” Iram’s fingers parted her fleshy outer lips. Her delicate folds stretched tight around his shaft. Slade gathered her cream and circled her clit, his pattern tight and rhythmic.

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She jerked and wiggled, unsure if she was trying to capture or avoid his touch. “Too much?” “No.” She panted. “Don’t stop.” Slade gentled his touch, avoiding direct contact with her clit. Relaxing against his chest, she let sensation sweep through her. She closed her eyes and saw herself through Iram’s eyes. Her slender body arched, breasts thrust forward. Just the base of his thick cock was visible between her thighs. All her life she’d heard men speak of her beauty. In that moment, she felt beautiful. Opening her eyes, she smiled into Iram’s passion-darkened gaze. Tension eased from her body. Her core melted, surrounding him with creamy welcome. She dragged her body up along his incredible length, paused while Slade stroked her, then impaled herself again. Pleasure ricocheted through her body—hers, Iram’s, Slade’s. The sensations blended and mixed in a sensual blur. Faster, harder, she took Iram deep. Cream seeped out, wetting her inner thighs. She panted, her heart thundering. Slade cupped her breasts, pressing himself against her back while she rode Iram. “I want to fuck your ass,” Slade whispered into her ear. The graphic phrase sent her over the edge. She came in hard spasms of pleasure. Iram cried out sharply, bucking up into her as he joined her in release. “Damn,” Iram panted. “What did you say to her? She squeezed me so hard, I bet I’m bruised.” “I bruised you?” Bryce laughed. “Explain that to my poor, aching body.” “There is only one of us who is still aching.” Slade stroked his erect cock to demonstrate. Bryce lifted herself off Iram then leaned forward, pressing her breasts against Iram’s chest. “This is nice.” Iram sighed, rubbing her back.

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“There’s that word again,” Slade grumbled. “Do you both feel nice? Because what I have in mind is anything but.” “Anything butt?” She chuckled. He parted her ass cheeks and eased something slender and warm into her tight rear opening. Iram propped himself up on his elbows, trying to see what Slade was doing. “Are you really going to…” “Fuck her ass?” Slade bent down and playfully nipped one round cheek. Bryce tried to wiggle away, but his arm banded her hips. “I have a better chance of bringing her pleasure here than following after you.” She kissed Iram’s chin and pushed him back down. “He knows what he’s doing, and I’ve done this before.” “You have?” The combination of disbelief and fascination in his voice made Bryce smile. “Would you like to watch him take me like that?” The sudden surge in his excitement sent shivers all through Bryce. “Then move over here,” Slade directed. “As soon as I get in, you can finger her pussy and play with her clit.” Iram scooted out from under her, obviously eager for this new adventure. Bryce glanced over her shoulder. Slade concentrated on his task. She tried to pick up visual input as she had with Iram, but Slade’s mind was partially shielded. You want to watch too? He opened a telepathic link, and his perspective filled her mind along with the painful pressure assailing his cock. He held her bottom apart, carefully preparing her. Squeezing the tube as he pulled it out, he left a trail of wet warmth in his wake. Leaning on her forearms, Bryce moved her knees farther apart, lowering her hips. “If I hurt you, tell me and I’ll stop.”

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His insistence moved her more than he could imagine. No one put her pleasure above their own. She’d given herself to Iram because he needed her. She offered her body to Slade because she wanted him. “Ready?” Again his caring sent tingling heat coursing through her body. “Yes, oh yes.” He circled her with the tip of his cock, coating himself with the lube. She closed her eyes, and the images he sent her focused with vivid clarity. He pressed against her puckered opening. Her body parted, swallowing his flared tip. He paused. “Now, Iram. Very gently help her along.” A faint caress danced across her clit, Iram’s fingers barely touching her. Slade demonstrated patience and tenderness with every movement, every word. He pushed in, sliding, spreading her inner muscles wide. “Open your mind, Bryce. I need to know I’m not hurting you.” She relaxed, accepted the penetration from his body and his mind. He drove strong and steady until his entire length filled her. Sharing her excitement, her trust, her surrender, she lifted her arms from the bed and crossed them behind her back, praying he’d understand. His strong, warm hands clasped her wrists and held on tight. Yes! Now fuck me. I need to feel you moving inside me. He pulled back with infinite care and surged in fast and hard. Iram accented each outstroke with his fingers lightly plucking her clit. She arched her back, raising her ass, pushing out against Slade. His shield lowered as he moved faster. Emotional intensity flared, curling around her, licking at her skin like tongues of flame. “Enough.” Slade motioned Iram away. Bryce understood. Slade wanted no distraction from the possessive slide of his cock. He sent his thoughts and emotions deeper with each firm thrust. She opened her

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receptors wide, ravenous for his uninhibited passion. Only with her was he free to release his emotional restraints. It thrilled her to know she was unique. “Come for me, sweetheart. I’m not going to last much longer.” Clenching her muscles at the apex of each stroke, she intensified the tingling sensations. Reaching for his mind, she poured affection across the telepathic link. His strokes sped, his hands tightening on her arms. I love you too. The words were so faint she might have imagined them, but tenderness inundated her being, stealing the last of her uncertainty and overflowing her heart. Pleasure coiled thorough her, intensifying with amazing speed, then released in a burst of sensation. She cried out, her body pulsing around his. He thrust to the hilt, shuddering against her and within, filling her with his seed. Her nipples grazed the bed with each panting breath. He still held her arms behind her back. “Will it ever be like this for me?” Iram’s wistful tone drew her from her tingling lethargy. Slade released her arms, and she groaned as he separated their bodies. “When you find your mate, it will be wonderful.” Mate. Had Slade just called her his mate? She took a deep breath and turned around. “How do you feel?” she asked Iram. “My new neuro-pathways have stabilized.” A calm assurance reinforced his claim. She looked at Slade. I thought he didn’t know what he is? “That’s why it’s called intuitive programming,” Slade told her. “It evolves and progresses whenever new stimuli are introduced.” “Did you create me for Matthias?” “Matthias is your creator, and you’ll soon be inseparable.”

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Chapter Eleven “When will you complete the transfer?” Bryce followed Slade down the main corridor, wearing his lab coat. “Day after tomorrow.” As soon as they left Iram’s room, Slade’s shields returned with a vengeance. Had it all been an act, a performance for the benefit of Iram? She rushed to keep up with his longer stride, worrying her bottom lip. She hesitated when he turned down an unfamiliar hallway. “Come on.” He sounded impatient and something else… Something she couldn’t identify. “Where are we going?” “To my quarters. We need a shower and we need to talk. I don’t see why we can’t do both together.” She’d happily agree if he hadn’t locked her out of his mind. “Are you angry about Iram?” “Why would I be angry about Iram?” He took her hand, and she fell into step beside him. If he wasn’t angry about Iram, then why had he raised his shield? “What did Petra want?” Scanning open the door, he motioned her inside his private quarters. Had their arrival postponed his answer or was he avoiding the question? She stepped through the doorway and light illuminated the spacious room. A sitting area lay to her right, a neatly made bed to her left and a desk directly ahead. “The facilities are through that door.” He pointed to the doorway on the other side of his bed.

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“I thought we were going to talk while we showered.” “I need to check on Matthias. Go ahead and get started.” He crossed to the desk and activated the terminal inset in the desktop. Bryce entered the adjacent room, tension building in her belly. He hadn’t been angry before he talked with Petra. What had the proprietress told him? Bryce shrugged out of the lab coat and moved toward the shower stall. The door slid open and she stepped inside the enclosure. “Mist minimum.” The warm moisture saturated her hair and coated her skin. She slicked her hair back from her face and turned toward the door as Slade entered the room. “How is he?” “Stable. The computer will notify me if there is any change in his condition.” He tugged his shirt off over his head and stripped away his pants before joining her in the shower. “Let’s forgo all the denials and explanations. Petra found out who you are.” “Meaning?” He laughed. “We know Akim is camped out in the VIP lot atop Prime Landing.” Stunned, Bryce stared at him. A hundred questions raced through her mind. Two mattered, but she only asked one. “What are you going to do with me?” Why did you say you love me? He sighed, moving closer to one of the four showerheads and farther away from her. “That depends on a lot of things. First and foremost, why are you here?” Why had he chosen such an intimate setting for this confrontation? Was he trying to make her feel vulnerable or put her at ease? She turned to face one of the showerheads, and his presence slipped into her mind. He’d never invaded her privacy before. The interrogation had officially begun. She didn’t resist. Let him test the truth of her words. “The friend I told you about, the one who needs reconstructive surgery, is Akim.” Slade’s chuckle made her turn around. “Does he honestly believe it only takes one person to perform that sort of procedure?”

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“There are skilled surgeons in the Renarrian Empire. Akim expected to take the famed Toymaker back with him—” “And then what? I presume no one knows about his injury, or it would have been repaired.” “Correct.” “So Matthias performs the reconstruction, and then what does Akim do with Matthias?” Bryce crossed her arms over her breasts. “I would have helped Matthias escape if it came to that.” “How?” His gaze shone like copper coins, reflective and impenetrable. “I know you despise Akim. Why haven’t you escaped before now?” She tugged on the thrall collar. “This isn’t just a mark of ownership. If I get too far away from my Master, it will blow my head off. You’re acting like I had a choice in all this. My only choice was to live or die!” He stared at the collar, his gaze narrowed and conflicted. “Akim promised no harm would come to Matthias. He assured me—” “What did Akim promise you?” He stepped toward her. She stepped back. He put his hands on the shower stall, caging her with his arms. “He promised to let me go.” “And you believed him?” She licked her lips. “Not really. I was hoping to convince the Toymaker to help me escape. Then I met Matthias and realized it was hopeless. I was going to tell you, but Akim will kill anyone… He can’t be without me for any extended period of time.” Heat radiated off his naked body, accenting the cool surface at her back. His gaze bore into hers, demanding answers, searching for lies. “He’s tormented by emotions he has no way to release.” “So you became his whipping girl?” 115

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“It’s more complicated than the things he does to me. I’m able to absorb and disperse his emotions. Without me, he’d have gone insane.” He shook his head, his gaze softening. “From what you told me about your employer’s son, Akim’s mind shattered a long time ago. Did you absorb his emotions willingly, or did he rape your mind as he tortured your body?” Tenderness squeezed her heart. Slade wasn’t angry with her—he was angry for her. Time stood still as she gazed into his eyes. “Life was bearable with Fahbit.” She dragged her gaze from his. “It wasn’t a life I would have chosen, but I adapted. Akim made me long for death.” “His or your own?” She smiled. “More often his.” He shifted his stance. His chest brushed against her nipples, the faintest hint of contact. “Increase heat.” He pulled her into his arms as the moisture warmed. “What was the original plan?” “I had a tranquilizer mist in my travel bag, but you incinerated it. Day after tomorrow, Akim is supposed to pick me up in the employees’ shuttle lot, with or without the Toymaker.” He eased her away and lifted her chin, waiting until their gazes met. “What were you going to do?” “I wasn’t going to endanger you or Matthias because of me. I was going to ride the service lift up with Dixie—and run away.” “Until you hit the end of that damn thing’s tether and…” He lapsed into silence, his gaze fixed beyond her. “Can you postpone your meeting with Akim?” “For a few days, maybe. Why?” “If the transfer is successful, we’ll let Akim meet the Toymaker.” “You make that sound menacing.” His eyebrow arched and he smiled. “A massive cock isn’t Iram’s only weapon.” 116

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“Just his most daunting.” “Are you sore?” She nodded, too embarrassed to speak the words. “Mist off.” He left her in the stall while he snatched two towels out of a compartment inset in one wall. Handing one to her, he haphazardly dried himself with the other. “It’s warm.” Bryce snuggled into the welcome heat as Slade pulled open another compartment. She stepped out of the enclosure and finger-combed her hair, waiting for him to find what he was looking for. He took out a small round jar and closed the compartment. “What is that?” “I’ll show you.” He led her into the outer room and paused beside the bed. “Have a seat.” With the towel wrapped around her body, Bryce sat on the edge of the bed. He pushed the material high onto her thighs. “This will ease the sting. By morning, you’ll be good as new.” “What is it?” she persisted. He flipped back the lid and angled the jar so she could see the light blue contents. “It’s an organic mixture of plant extracts and—” “Opium is a plant extract. So is zenton.” “This is harmless. Look.” He scooped out a dollop and touched it to his tongue. “It doesn’t even taste bad. Now lie back and let me heal you. I’m a doctor. That’s what I do.” She laughed. “We’re going to play doctor?” “I’ll let you know in a minute.” Kneeling beside the bed, he set the jar on the floor and parted her thighs. “Raise your heels to the bed and relax. I’m not going to hurt you.”

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She drew up her legs, resting her heels on the edge of the mattress. His hands glided down her inner thighs, sending tingles skittering up her spine. If it didn’t taste bad, maybe he’d apply it with his tongue. She grinned at the wicked thought. He gently parted her folds and sighed. “Round two is definitely postponed.” His emotion-thickened voice caressed her. “Isn’t it technically round three?” Coating his fingers with ointment, he pushed them into her core and raised his gaze to hers. “I’ll never cause you pain.” Tears blurred her vision and made her throat burn. No one else cared if she hurt or bothered to ease her sting. If you slip through my grasp before I am made whole, I will dedicate my life to finding you. Akim’s hateful words echoed through her mind, mocking her moment of peace.

***** Slade emerged from sleep to find Bryce draped across him like a blanket. One of her legs nestled between his thighs, her pelvis was flush with his hip and her soft breasts pressed against his chest. Her head was tucked beneath his chin and her warm breath teased his skin. He could get used to this. Supporting her head in the crook of his elbow, he rolled her to her back. He studied her delicate features. She appeared young and innocent, lost in peaceful sleep. Guilt and anger twisted through his chest. Everyone she’d ever known had used her. He’d been no better, but never again. Regardless of the outcome of the transfer, he would ensure she was freed. He leaned down and brushed his lips over hers. She murmured and turned her face away. Smiling, he caught her earlobe between his teeth and nipped her playfully. He touched the golden choker, and his heartbeat accelerated. She lived life with death a hairsbreadth away. 118

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She turned over, presenting him with a delightful view of her rounded backside. The computer would alert him if there was a problem with Matthias. Heat erupted low in his belly, washing over him in tingling waves. He needed to touch her, establish a connection that was theirs alone. His breath hitched and his cock hardened, anxious for the tight grip of her pussy. Had the ointment done its job? He could use it as a lubricant if she hadn’t fully recovered. There was no way he’d ever cause her pain. He cupped her breast and pressed his mouth against the side of her neck above the choker. “Mmm, this is a nice way to wake up,” she whispered sleepily. “You won’t get an argument from me.” She turned her head and kissed him, stroking her tongue against his. He wrapped his arm around her hips, anchoring her in the curve of his body. Her restless movements tantalized him, but Slade was determined to go slowly, to arouse her by degrees. “Let me turn over. I want to touch you.” “This morning is for you.” He brushed her hair away from the nape of her neck. “Be utterly selfish for a while. I want you to.” A distinct tremor passed through her body then she relaxed against him. He nuzzled the back of her neck and caressed her breasts. Her nipples hardened beneath his fingertips and her breathing accelerated. Warm and smooth, her skin intrigued him. He slipped his arm beneath her neck, aligning his shoulder so he could continue teasing her nipples while he moved his other hand lower. She reached back and threaded her fingers through his hair. He smiled. She couldn’t resist touching him. It was simply her nature. Easing into her mind, he fought back a groan. Desire and gratitude assailed his senses. His need to please her had her teetering on the brink of orgasm. He gritted his teeth as a violent surge of anger stabbed through his being. Her life would change! He would see that she was appreciated and cherished, respected and adored. 119

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Carefully opening his mind to her, he revealed the depth of his attraction, let her feel his fascination, his awe. She gasped. Her fingers tightened in his hair, and she ground her bottom against his erection. You’re the most beautiful person I’ve ever met, and it has nothing to do with your appearance. Adversity has made you strong, not bitter. I’m amazed by your compassion. He touched her reverently, brushing his fingers along her side, stroking her hip and thigh. He reached beyond her and grabbed the ointment off the nightstand. She took the container from him and flipped open the lid, obviously ready to play. He chuckled, thrilled by her eagerness. Coating his fingers with the light blue paste, he slipped his hand between her thighs. She hooked her leg over his, making room for his hand. She held her breath as he parted her folds and began a gentle exploration. “How’s this feel?” he whispered against her damp skin. “I don’t think you needed the ointment. I feel fine.” He chuckled. “That’s even worse than nice.” He pushed two fingers into her core. Her moist heat surrounded him, proving her claim. Ripples of excitement flowed across their telepathic link, urging him on, taking him higher. He slid his fingers in and out, caressing her clit at the apex of each thrust. Her core fluttered and a throaty moan escaped her. “Come for me. Don’t hold back. I want to feel your pleasure.” She bent her knee and rotated her leg, giving him better access to her depths. Uncertainty still hampered her response. She wasn’t used to receiving pleasure. Her hesitation fueling his determination, he increased his speed. “I want your cock inside me,” she panted. “This is just a tease.” “Then come for me and I’ll fill you. I want to be inside you as much as you want me there.” One of her hands grasped his wrist, her nails biting into his flesh. “Now!”

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Her inner muscles squeezed his fingers with powerful spasms. Pleasure radiated from her, making his cock jerk. He waited for the last ripple to pass then eased his fingers out. Hooking his arm under her knee, he spread her legs wider. He angled his hips and found her opening with the head of his cock. “Ready?” “Gods yes!” He surged into her with one firm drive. They groaned in unison. He left her leg hooked over his thighs and moved his hand back to her mound. Closing his eyes, he pictured their bodies, tangled and entwined. Her legs open, her folds stretched around his thick shaft. He circled her clit and sent the vivid image into her mind. She trembled, whimpering softly, her arousal building in sudden bursts. Each pass of his fingertips caused her inner muscles to tighten. She stroked his shoulder and his arm, every part of him she could reach. Restless and aching, she flooded his mind with urgency, saturated his senses with her need. He tightened his arms around her and swept her body beneath his. Her bottom flexed as he raised her to her hands and knees. Finally able to move, she arched and bucked, taking him deep with each frantic thrust. “Slow down, sweetheart. We’ve got all day.” She continued her demanding movements, and Slade intensified their link. Akim had left her wanting so often, she couldn’t suppress her fear. I’ll never leave you aching. You can trust me. Reinforcing his thought with tender patience, he penetrated her momentary panic. She calmed, stilled, accepting his lead. Pulling nearly out of her snug passage, he slid back in slowly, allowing her to feel every centimeter filling her. He cupped her breasts, reveling in their firm weight. She braced her legs and arched her back as he thrust deep, again and again. Tension coiled within her, flowing into him. Slade fought back his need to come. He wasn’t ready to end this, wasn’t sure he’d ever be ready. She cried out as another orgasm burst inside her, tangling her hands in the sheets. Gritting his teeth, he blocked 121

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out her pleasure. The rhythmic pulsation of her cunt was nearly more than he could withstand. Panting and trembling, she lowered her torso toward the bed and rested on her forearms. “You’re trying to kill me. I’m convinced.” He rubbed her back and squeezed her shoulders. Her submissive position was too tempting to resist. Dipping his middle finger in the ointment, he parted her smooth ass cheeks. She groaned as he rubbed the paste into her puckered flesh. “Are you tender here?” She shook her head. “I just don’t want you to pull out.” “That’s not what I had in mind.” He pushed his middle finger into her ass and groaned. She was so tight! “I’m being greedy, I know. But I want all of you.” His words made her shiver, and both her passages tightened. He wasn’t the only greedy one. Thrusting deep with his finger, he pulled his cock back. Then he thrust in with his cock as he pulled his finger nearly out. “Yes!” She buried her face against the bed, muffling her cries of pleasure. Encouraged by the intensity of her desire, he moved faster and thrust deeper. All the while he poured emotion into her mind, surrounding her with warmth and tenderness. Possessiveness spiked as his climax neared. Mine. I want you to be mine. She arched hard, excitement blasting his mind in response to the thought. Burning desire and staggering pleasure swept away coherent thoughts. He gave her everything he had, and she offered herself with equal fervor. They joined, melded, united as reality fell away. Bryce screamed, her body squeezing him. Slade wrapped his arm around her hips and thrust deep. Shuddering over and over, he released his seed. They trembled and panted for a long moment, and then he eased his fingers from her body and rolled with her to his side. Her pussy still rippled with aftershocks. He grinned into her damp hair.

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“Can we start every morning like this?” Emotion thickened her tone. “You’ll get no argument from me.”

***** Slade spent the majority of the day preparing for the transfer. He analyzed every element of the previous procedure, optimizing the sequence, searching for flaws. “You’re going to give yourself a migraine.” Bryce moved up behind him, her hands settling on his shoulders. With firm, steady pressure, she worked at the tension knotting his neck. “Damn, that feels good.” He closed his eyes and lowered his chin, reveling in her touch. “Iram asked me to tell you that he finished his self-diagnostics and all his systems are operating at optimum.” She leaned in and nuzzled his hair. “He was a lot more fun before he realized he was a replicant.” “Do you still sense emotion from him? His programming hasn’t undone what you accomplished, has it?” “What we accomplished. And yes, I still sense emotion from Iram. He’s just stopped coming on to me.” Slade swiveled his chair around and pulled her between his legs. “I can’t say I’m upset about that.” She traced his lips with her fingertip, making him shiver. “That tickles.” “How much does Iram look like Matthias?” “You noticed his eyes?” She nodded. “In his prime, Matthias could have been Iram’s cousin, not his brother. Mainly it’s just the eyes.” “Iram helped me send an audio message to Akim. I told him I’d figured out a way to bring him the Toymaker, but I needed four more days.” “Did he respond?”

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“No. It’s possible he wasn’t onboard.” “I’ll do the transfer tomorrow. Iram will have three days to assimilate Matthias before he pays Akim a visit.” Bryce shuddered. “That makes it sound like Matthias will be digested.” Slade pushed his hair off his forehead. “The concepts are not dissimilar. The electrical impulses that—” She pressed her fingers against his lips. “I’d only understand a fraction of what you’re about to say, and I’d rather talk about something else.” He nipped her fingers. She smiled and moved her hands to his shoulder. “Anything in particular or just something else?” Their position put his face level with her breasts. He slipped his hands under the hem of her uniform top and eased them to her waist. “You know practically everything there is to know about me, yet I know little more than your name.” He cupped her breast, and her eyelids lowered. Her nipple gathered against his palm. She was so delightfully responsive. “Practically everything? Are you still harboring secrets?” “Maybe.” She grabbed his wrist but left his hand on her breast. “I’m certainly not going to tell you anything more until you ’fess up.” “You know more than you realize.” “How so?” She sounded breathless and distracted. Foreplay should be a part of every conversation. He fought back a salacious grin. “Just like you, when I tell lies, I stay as close to the truth as possible.” He moved to her other breast, rubbing her nipple with his thumb. “The only thing you’ve lied about is Iram. You’ve refused to tell me anything about yourself.”

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“The story I told you about Iram was true.” He paused, waiting for her to meet his gaze. “Only, I was the victim.” She released his wrist and stroked his cheek, her eyes clouded with compassion. “Matthias found you—” “I wasn’t mutilated, but my injuries were no less severe.” He moved his hand back to her waist. “Does this have something to do with your abilities?” “This has everything to do with my abilities.” He paused again, gathering his thoughts and enjoying her touch. “I was born with minimal telepathy. It was amusing to speak mind to mind with my parents, but beyond that, my ability had no relevance.” Her gaze narrowed, and she tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear. “You corrected me when I said empathy couldn’t be created. What happened to you?” “I was a third-year medical student when I was recruited by an ambitious group of scientists… To make a long story bearable, they took people like me with minimal natural abilities and enhanced them through a series of procedures and chemical treatments. I was so impressed by the result that I joined the team after I graduated from medical school.” “How did you end up in the alley behind the Pleasure Palace?” “The project lost its funding, so the directors offered our services to the military. They were convinced that the ends justified the means. I was adamantly opposed to the new direction, but I knew too much to walk away.” “They tried to kill you?” “They brought me to the Pleasure Palace hoping to convince me that our new benefactors were simply allowing our work to continue. I knew better. Everything our military touched became poisoned.” “Did the directors frequently conduct business in places like the Pleasure Palace?”

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“The Pleasure Palace is known throughout the sector for its opulence and decadence. This is no ordinary brothel.” “Halley Prime isn’t your homeworld?” “No. The directors didn’t want skeletons turning up in their backyard.” He pulled her closer, wanting the story finished. “When I wouldn’t come around to their way of thinking, they injected me with a lethal combination of chemicals and dumped me in the alley. Luckily for me, Matthias was standing in the shadows.” She ran her fingers through his hair and kissed his forehead. “Was he there for the same reason you told me originally?” “In a way. He’d just finished a heated argument with his lover. He wanted to end their personal relationship but continue their professional partnership, and she wasn’t happy about it.” “Why did they have this conversation in the alley?” “Because there are no secrets in the Pleasure Palace.” He wiggled his eyebrows. “He didn’t want Petra eavesdropping on the conversation?” Slade chuckled. “Petra didn’t want her employees knowing Matthias dumped her.” “Matthias and Petra were lovers?” He nodded. “That’s why she hates him. She didn’t want their affair to end.” She said nothing for a long time. He waited for her to absorb all the facts. “Do your parents believe you’re dead?” “It’s safer for everyone if the directors believe they silenced me. Petra hooked me up with a new identity, complete with medical credentials. I’ve followed the project’s progress over the years, and they don’t seem to have advanced much beyond what they were able to accomplish when I was there.” He shrugged. “They sold their souls for nothing.” “What did the treatments enable you to do?”

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“I’m sporadically telekinetic, but I can transmit my thoughts and emotions with such intensity that even those without psychic abilities can receive them. You’re the first empath who didn’t find my projection painful.” “It may be a form of conditioning. The first time I absorbed Akim’s emotions, it made me violently ill. As the years passed—” “Years? I thought Fahbit passed beyond seven months ago.” “Seven months, nineteen days. Or is it twenty?” She smiled. “I do believe I’ve lost track.” “If Fahbit has been dead less than a year, what did you mean?” “I was fourteen when I absorbed Akim’s pain for the first time. I’ve been his whipping girl for two decades.” Pushing to his feet, Slade wrapped his arms around her. “Never again. He will never hurt you again.”

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Chapter Twelve “Are you positive she’s still down there?” At Petra’s question, Thorne made an impatient sound rather like a deep snort, and she wanted to smack him. “Why would Slade ignore my warning? It’s been three days.” “He doesn’t want to part with his fuck toy. I sure as hell wouldn’t.” She glared at him. “Funny you mention that. You’ve logged sixteen hours in simulator fourteen over the last three days. I was curious what you found so interesting. Imagine my surprise when my audit revealed Slade’s fuck toy. How did you… Don. You uploaded her image from Don’s recording. Did she enjoy your cock as much as she enjoyed Slade’s?” Thorne said nothing. Pushing back from her desk, Petra turned to face the security grid. Bodies writhed in a sea of decadent pleasure. An orgy had erupted in the main dungeon. “Is this scheduled or spontaneous?” “Spontaneous. We overbooked.” “I need to open another palace,” she murmured. “Do you want me to break it up?” “No. It looks like everyone is enjoying themselves.” She tapped her bright blue fingernail against one section of the display. “Watch this thrall. That’s the fourth man her Master has instructed her to suck. If he’s pushing her too hard, ask him to leave and send her home in one of the house shuttles.” “What do we do about Bryce?” “It’s Matthias’ ass. I don’t know why I care.”

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“Because the potentate of Renarr might storm the Pleasure Palace looking for his pet.” “Good point. I’ll give them another day or two. Then you can rescue her, and I’ll return her to her rightful owner.” Thorne nodded and left the office. Petra relaxed in her chair, watching the orgy with dispassionate interest. Why wouldn’t Matthias see her? Their love-hate relationship had continued long after their official break up. Weeks would go by without his saying a word, but always he came back, if only for an hour or two. Was it her smart-ass remark about the arms dealer? She knew Matthias felt guilty about losing his crew to that phantom disease, but that had been months ago. Why was he still punishing her? She needed to be punished. Perhaps she’d summon one of the Pleasure Masters. No, what she needed was a good, hard fucking. Grinning, she turned back to her desk and activated her terminal. She quickly compiled a detailed message and transmitted it to Pleasure Master Four. Four specialized in fulfilling fantasies. She utilized his services frequently. Anticipation curled through her belly. Cream gathered in her core, soaking her panties. How long would it take him to gather the cast and explain the rules of the game? She flipped through old files and pretended to be busy. She was about ready to page Four and make sure he’d gotten her message when her office door slid open. “How did you get in here? There are no entertainments on this level.” Three well-muscled men strode across the office. The two blonds she recognized from the orgy. She had no idea where Pleasure Master Four had found the brunet. “I beg to differ with you,” the dark-haired man said. “You look damn entertaining to me.” She stood and moved out from behind her desk. “This is a private office. You need to leave immediately.” 129

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“No, you need to strip or we’re going to shred that pretty blue dress.” Folding her arms over her breasts, she decided how far she wanted to take this. “Here’s the deal, darlin’. You can do whatever we say for as long as we say, and we’ll take turns making you come. Or you can resist, and we fuck you together and then go back to the entertainments below.” “Now that’s not much of a choice. Either way, I get fucked.” “That about sums it up.” She ran her fingernail down the front of her dress. The material parted, framing her matching lingerie. A corset clung to her torso, supporting her breasts but leaving her pierced nipples exposed. Sheer blue stockings accented her long legs, and a silk thong barely covered her mound. She kicked off her shoes and pulled her arms from the sleeves of her dress. As she turned to lay the garment over her chair, one of the men whistled. “Now that is one fuckable ass.” “How do you want to do this?” one of the blonds asked. “On the floor or—” “Surely you’re not asking me,” she snapped. The point of the fantasy was not to have to think about anything! The brunet stomped to her and tangled his fingers in her hair. “He may not know what he wants, but I sure as hell do. Open your mouth. I want to taste you.” She parted her lips and accepted the warm thrust of his tongue. What his kiss lacked in skill, it made up for in enthusiasm. One of the blonds knelt behind her and stroked her smooth ass cheeks. He traced the cords of her thong until they disappeared between her thighs. “Move her legs apart, Matt. I want to lick her pussy.” She opened her eyes and smiled at the brunet. “I’m going to call you ‘Matthias’.” “Is that my name, or will it make me angry?”

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“Wait.” She pushed them both away. “This is better. I like this a lot. You two get undressed. You’re going to fuck me together on my desk, and Matthias is going to walk in on us. Matthias, you’ll be furious yet remorseful because you know you drove me to this. Once they leave, you’ll punish me with pleasure for the rest of the night.” “I want to be Matthias,” the annoying blond complained. Petra glowered at him. “I told you to get undressed.” “Yes Mistress.” She cringed. Why had Four sent her a sub? He knew better than that. Matthias strolled toward the door while the blonds shed their robes. “Give us enough time to really get into it.” He raised his hand, acknowledging her command. “You, get on my desk.” The sub lay back across her desk. His cock arched nearly to his navel. Well, that was a pleasant surprise. The other blond grabbed her around the waist from behind and pressed his cock into the crack of her ass. “Do you feel that?” “Yes,” she whispered. Her nipples peaked and her pussy fluttered at his aggression. “Mount the sub and offer me your ass.” This one had real potential. He swatted her ass hard, and she yelped. “I gave you an order. Why did you hesitate?” He grabbed her panties and ripped them from her body. The sturdy cords dug deep before snapping beneath his forceful yank. She trembled, her pulse raced and heat suffused her face. He turned one of the chairs around so she faced the seat. “Bend over and spread your legs.” She bent from the waist, bracing herself against the chair. “Wider. I want to see your cunt cream as I spank your ass.”

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Moving her legs wide, she waited for the first stinging slap. It had been months since she’d had a good spanking. This was just what she needed. His fingers found her clit and she jerked. “Hold still!” What the fuck is he doing? He slapped her ass with one hand and squeezed her clit with the other. Gods, why hadn’t she thought of this? Her ass cheeks heated while his clever fingers accelerated the pleasure. “Now mount the sub.” Petra whimpered. One more slap and she’d have come. Her clit throbbed from his firm squeezes, and her ass stung as she walked to her desk. Sensitized, aware, she tingled all over. The sub locked his hands behind his head, his cock still impressively hard. She climbed onto her desk and lowered herself onto him. The Master unlaced her corset and tossed it aside. “Bend over and offer me your ass.” Without hesitation, Petra leaned forward, pressing her breasts against the sub as she reached back and parted her cheeks for the Master. He hesitated. What was wrong? There had been nothing hesitant in his manner until now. Smiling, she reached into her desk drawer and handed him a slender tube. “Oh you naughty, naughty girl. What kind of woman has lube in her desk?” He inserted the tip and squeezed. Warm moisture filled her ass. She was naughty. He should spank her some more. The door to her office slid open, and she groaned. Matthias better realize she— The thought ground to a halt when Thorne entered the office, followed by a man she didn’t know. “What the fuck is this? Thorne, get out of here.” “Don’t stop on my account. This is precisely the sort of spectacle I adore.” Immaculately dressed in an expensive-looking suit, the bearded man moved to one of

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the chairs in front of her desk and sat. His dark eyes assessed her naked body with bland interest. Was it less humiliating to get off the sub or stay mounted? She looked at Thorne, demanding an explanation with her furious expression. “May I present Potentate Akim oct Renarr.” Thorne motioned toward the seated man. Un-fucking-believable! Why had Thorne escorted the enemy to her office like an honored guest? Her nails bit into her palms as she clenched and unclenched her hands. “Would you please give me a moment to compose myself?” “I’d much rather watch that young stud stuff his cock up your ass, but we seem to have unnerved him.” He motioned to the blond’s flaccid penis. “Does this happen often?” “Just when strangers barge in on my scene.” He looked at Petra. “Is this part of the show, Mistress?” “No.” She disentangled herself from the sub and climbed off her desk as gracefully as she could. “You may go.” Her guests shuffled from the office, leaving Thorne and Akim. She reached for her dress, which was draped over the seat beside the potentate. He grabbed the garment and pointed to her chair. “Sit down.” Jaw clenching, Petra sat. “What brings you to the Pleasure Palace?” Akim laughed, spreading her dress across his legs as he leered at her breasts. “A runaway pet.” “All of the really exotic fetishes are accommodated by our simulators. There are no animals at the Pleasure Palace.” “Is that supposed to be funny?” She folded her hands on her desktop and met his gaze directly. “I don’t find any of this funny. Tell me what you want, or get the hell out of my establishment.” 133

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“With one com, I can have this establishment closed permanently. Don’t provoke me.” He leaned forward. “Bring Bryce to me and I’ll be on my way.” “It’s not that simple. I can’t get to the level where she’s being held.” His dark brows arched. “I thought this was your establishment.” “I can send down a message and see if they respond.”

***** “This is extraordinary. I feel like I’m twenty again.” Matthias laughed. “No, I never felt this good, even at twenty.” Bryce smiled. It had only taken two days for Matthias’ personality to take over Iram. Slade still monitored him closely to make sure nothing went wrong, but all indications pointed toward a dazzling success. She’d finally convinced Slade to take the body off life-support and begin arrangements for its disposal. Dixie rolled into the lounge, positioning herself in front of Bryce. “I have a message for Bryce,” the ’bot said. The panel in her chest flipped over. A plaintive moan erupted before the image focused. Petra lay spread-eagled on her desk, her wrists and ankles securely cuffed. She writhed, her hips tossing. Thorne was secured to her office chair, forced to watch the spectacle. Akim stepped into view. “It’s time to come home, Bryce. I’m hoping you’ll bring a guest with you, but with or without, I want you up here now.” He paused, touching the control band on his wrist. Petra screamed. “Take your time. I have plenty to entertain me.” The image zoomed in on Petra, displaying the familiar triggers of the stimulator. Bryce tasted bile in the back of her throat. “Is he up there now?” “Recording was made three minutes ago,” Dixie told her. “What do we do? We can’t leave her like that. I know what it’s like… Oh gods, do I know what it’s like.” Slade wrapped his arms around her. Matthias started for the archway.

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“Matthias! You can’t go storming into her office. It would be recorded for the entire galaxy to see. How do you expect the Toymaker to disappear if you’re in a cell on Borrelly?” “Petra may be an amoral bitch, but no one deserves that.” “I agree with you,” Slade responded. “We have to lure him down here.” “And how do we do that?” Matthias snapped. Slade eased Bryce away from his chest. “Respond to his message. Tell him I’ll activate the lift as soon as I see him standing there with Petra. Tell him the Toymaker wants to meet him.” She moved in front of the ’bot, her legs trembling and her stomach knotted. “Dixie, record my response.” The ’bot’s right eye illuminated. “Recording.” “My host has agreed to meet you, despite your atrocious behavior. Release Petra immediately and bring her to the lift. When he sees you standing there with Petra—and only Petra—you will be allowed below. Dixie, end recording and get your ass back to Petra’s office.” The light blinked out, and the ’bot rolled from the lounge. Bryce sank into a chair, tears blurring her vision. Slade squeezed her shoulder. “Don’t think about Petra. Let’s figure out how we deal with Akim once he steps off the lift.” “It’s probably a good thing to get Petra down here,” Matthias muttered. “She’s not going to believe I’m dead until she sees my body.”

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Chapter Thirteen The lift door slid open, and Petra stumbled into the corridor. Her silk wrap wasn’t belted and she clutched it to her body with trembling hands. Slade focused on the opening, waiting for Akim to emerge. A mirror on a telescoping pole protruded through the opening. “I’m unarmed, you cowardly bastard.” The mirror disappeared and Akim stepped into the hallway. “I haven’t remained in power so long without being careful.” “You’ve been in power less than eight months. That’s not much to brag about.” “Is this the Toymaker?” he asked Petra. She looked at Slade for guidance, and he subtly shook his head. “No, Matthias is much older.” “Take me to him.” Akim’s imperious tone made Slade grind his teeth. “Petra, you might want to wait here.” “Not on your life. I have a thing or two to say to the Toymaker myself.” Slade inclined his head. “I thought you might.” “Where is Bryce?” Akim demanded. “You promised to free her if she got you an appointment with the Toymaker. Correct?” “She is my personal property. You have no right…” He paused, slipping both hands into the pockets of his pants. “I’m disappointed with Bryce. I will want to see her before I depart.” Slade didn’t respond. He kept Akim in front of him. I knew he was a lying bastard. He had no intention of releasing me. 136

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Slade struggled not to smile. Be ready. Once they see the body, they’re both going to go off. We’ll be ready, Matthias assured him. Slade led them into the lab. “Open partition.” The retractable portion of the wall lifted, revealing Matthias’ body. Petra gasped, covering her mouth with her hand. “What is the meaning of this?” Akim pulled a thin hand gun from each pocket, aiming one at Slade and one at Petra. “You insisted on seeing the Toymaker. Well, you’re too late. He officially passed beyond two hours ago. He was exposed to a bio-weapon that—” “No! He survived the illness.” Petra sank to her knees beside the table. “What did you do to him? Why didn’t you take him to a doctor?” “I am a doctor. There is nothing anyone could have done. The virus was engineered to be aggressive and degenerative.” Petra clasped his wasted hand to her cheek and sobbed. Akim turned both weapons on Slade. “Take me to Bryce.” “Fuck off and die.” With a burst of psychic energy, Slade sent Akim’s pistols flying across the room. “You have hurt Bryce for the last time!” Slade narrowed his gaze, dragging psychic energy across the telepathic link between Matthias, Bryce and himself. Matthias filled his mind with pain and grief and allowed Bryce to absorb them. Bryce added years of suffering, anguish and loneliness. She meticulously dispersed the emotions, streaming them across the telepathic link. Slade opened his mind. His body vibrated and his brain throbbed. “You will never hurt anyone again!” Slade sent the emotions deep into Akim, amplifying the pulse with every fiber of his being. Akim screamed, sinking to his knees as he clawed at his head. He fell to his side, writhing in agony, his fingernails drawing blood. 137

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Petra picked up one of Akim’s guns and shot him between the eyes. The blast reduced his face to fragmented debris. She didn’t even flinch. “That was probably too easy for the bastard,” she whispered. Slade grabbed a sheet from one of the compartments and draped it over Akim. Bryce had enough fodder for her nightmares without seeing this. “Toss me his wallet.” “Why?” “He’s going to spend a large chunk of his fortune before the enforcers freeze his assets.” Slade shook his head. “Ever the entrepreneur.” “I don’t want his money. I’m going to give it to Bryce.” “Did it work?” Matthias asked as he came skidding into the lab, Bryce on his heels. Bryce glanced at the blood-soaked sheet and then focused on Slade. “Did his head explode?” Slade laughed. He couldn’t help it. She was just too damn adorable. “With a little help from a pulse pistol.” She knelt beside Akim’s body, and Slade’s stomach lurched. What was she doing? “Help me get this thing off.” She pulled her hair over her shoulder and motioned toward the nape of her neck. “Squeeze his index finger and thumb on either side of the symbol.” Slade knelt beside her and maneuvered Akim’s fingers into position. Nothing happened. He squeezed harder and the thrall collar separated with a soft pop. Bryce snatched it from around her neck and tossed it onto Akim’s lifeless chest. “Yes!” She looked at him, her eyes brimming with happy tears. Slade helped her to her feet and pulled her into his arms, pressing kisses along her unfettered neck. “How did he get past security with a pulse pistol?” Matthias asked. 138

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Petra advanced on him, her eyes narrowed with suspicion. “Who are you?” “My name’s Iram. I work for…well, I worked for Matthias before he passed on.” She cupped her hand around his chin and turned his face this way and that. “You could be his son. Are you related?” “I don’t believe so.” “How often did he hire people without my knowing about it?” She threw up her hands and shook her head. “He was a wily old goat.” Slade smiled, settling his arm around Bryce’s shoulders. “He did a lot of things you’ll never know about.” “Thorne escorted Akim to my office.” Petra returned to the earlier question. “I’m betting Akim bribed his way past security. I’m also betting I see neither hide nor hair of that useless piece of shit when I return to my office.” “How do you want to handle this with the enforcers?” Petra winked at Slade. “You let me worry about the enforcers.” She set the gun down next to Akim’s body and rifled through his pockets until she found his wallet. “What did you do to him before I shot him?” “I gave him a concentrated taste of the world he’d created for Bryce.”

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Epilogue “Are you sure you don’t want to work for Petra?” Bryce poked Matthias in the arm as they waited for his tram to arrive. “She must have offered you fifteen positions before she finally gave up.” Matthias laughed. “Her fondness for different positions has always been a problem for me.” Bryce laughed. “Send us a message as soon as you get settled, Matt.” Slade gave him a quick hug. “Matt Sterling.” He nodded his tawny head. “I like the sound of it.” The tram pulled into the station, and Slade handed Matt his travel bag. “Marry her or I will.” With a blinding smile, Matt stepped onto the tram and waved goodbye as he found a seat. They stood on the platform until the tram left the station. Bryce released her breath in a ragged sigh. “Well, I guess we’ll have to get married. Matt’s much too old for you.” She flashed a sassy smile. “But he wears it so well.” He growled and pinched her bottom. She laughed and twisted away. “Even Iram could see you preferred me.” “Keep telling yourself that.” He pulled her into his arms and pressed his lips over hers. “Tell me you love me.” “You say it first.” She tried to continue the kiss, but he eased away. “I already did.” “Telepathically doesn’t count. You have to say the words out loud.”

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“Why’s that?” She shrugged. “Because I say so.” “I love you, Bryce, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you.” He saturated her senses with affection, making sure she took him seriously. “I love you too.” He took her hand and interlaced their fingers. “Let’s get out of here.” They walked toward the lift leading to the multilevel shuttle lot. The lift angled up and to the side in a smooth, sustained motion. Hundreds of commuters left their spacecraft in the enclosure and took the tram into the city. “Did we decide on our destination?” “It makes no difference to me.” The lift door slid open, and they headed toward their rented shuttle. “You’re the one who has to find employment.” “And being the infamous Toymaker’s surgeon should open interesting doors.” As if to illustrate his claim, they reached their shuttle and he scanned open the hatch. “You’re a highly qualified surgeon.” “So long as you want a penile enhancement or sexual implants.” She smiled. “A little tired of the same old routine?” “To say the least.” She led him toward the tiny aft cabin. “Thanks to Akim’s inadvertent generosity, we have enough interstellar credits to do whatever we want. You can take your time and find exactly the right position.” “I think we should work on finding the perfect position before we take off.” The cabin door slid open, and he looked at the narrow bunk. “This could be a challenge.” “I’m up for a challenge. Are you?” “Have a seat and I’ll show you.”

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About the Author Aubrey Ross writes an eclectic assortment of erotic fiction. From power struggles between futuristic clans to adventurous mystic guardians, her stories are filled with passion and imagination. Some of her recent awards include an EPPIE finalist, two Passionate Plume finalists and a CAPA nomination from the Romance Studio. With a pampered cat curled on the corner of her desk, Aubrey dreams up fascinating words and larger than life adventures—and wouldn’t have it any other way!

Aubrey welcomes comments from readers. You can find her website and email address on her author bio page at www.ellorascave.com.

Tell Us What You Think We appreciate hearing reader opinions about our books. You can email us at [email protected].

Also by Aubrey Ross Crimson Awakening Crimson Carousel 1: A Taste of Twilight Crimson Carousel 2: A Taste of Midnight Crimson Carousel 3: A Taste of Oblivion Crimson Carousel 4: A Taste of Dawn Crimson Prey Crimson Thrall Dream Warriors Ellora’s Cavemen: Flavors of Ecstasy IV anthology Enemy Embrace 1: Rebel Enslaved Hearts 1: Captives Enslaved Hearts 2: Pleasures Enslaved Hearts 3: Secrets Intimate Invasion 1: Forgotten Hope Intimate Invasion 2: Forsaken Desire Intimate Invasion 3: Forced Alliance Sensual Captivity 1: Shifter Sensual Captivity 2: Seducer Sensual Captivity 3: Sorcerer Sensual Captivity 4: Specter Sensual Captivity 5: Seer Soul Kisses

Velvet Deception

Print books by Aubrey Ross Candy Cravings anthology Ellora’s Cavemen: Flavors of Ecstasy IV anthology Sensual Captivity: Seducer Sensual Captivity: Shifter Sensual Captivity: Sorcerer

Discover for yourself why readers can’t get enough of the multiple award-winning publisher Ellora’s Cave. Whether you prefer e-books or paperbacks, be sure to visit EC on the web at www.ellorascave.com for an erotic reading experience that will leave you breathless.

www.ellorascave.com