Rebel
Aubrey Ross Enemy Embrace, Book One
Rebel leader Corry Reah has a problem. His name is Ashton VinDerley. Though they are sworn enemies, she can’t make herself hate him. Compelling and powerful, he fascinates and seduces her, making her long for pleasures she has never known before. He teases and tempts, caresses and challenges until she forgets who is captive and who is captor. Korbin is having no better luck than his sister Corry. He has promised to keep his hands off stunningly beautiful Danette, but she haunts his dreams, summoning a dark, primitive part of his nature that he hasn’t indulged in years. How can he resist a captive who wants nothing more than to submit? She offers her body without reservation and he is powerless to resist. She is crucial to the upcoming negotiations, but Korbin is no longer sure he can set her free.
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Rebel ISBN 9781419931796 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Rebel Copyright © 2011 Aubrey Ross Edited by Mary Moran Cover art by Dar Albert Electronic book publication January 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.
REBEL Aubrey Ross
Rebel
CORRY
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Chapter One “They look ridiculous.” Corry Reah shook her head as she assessed the three hostages contained within the holding cell. They sat side by side on a metal bench, leaning against each other in a dazed stupor. Two were dressed in formal finery, the third in flannel pajamas. Corry’s brother Korbin stood beside her, his expression even less hospitable than hers. “Wait until the sedative wears off. Then the real show will begin.” “Did the other two give you any trouble?” Her voice sounded hushed, distracted. From the beginning, the mission hadn’t gone as planned. All three of their targets had been scheduled to attend the New Year’s Gala. Palmer Boehme’s last-minute cancellation had forced the rebels to split up. Corry’s team collected Palmer from his university dormitory while Korbin executed the original plan. “Danette went out like a light, but VinDerley fought forever,” Korbin explained. Ashton VinDerley was the only son of Premier Hayford VinDerley, the most powerful man in the Comet Coalition. The other two hostages had similar pedigrees. Danette Tiptonn’s father was admiral of the Comet Coalition’s armed forces. Palmer Boehme’s mother was Chief Justice Renata Boehme. “So, what’s next?” Corry turned from the vidscreen and faced her brother. This was all new to them. They’d participated in protests, organized rallies and encouraged demonstrations. They embraced the term “rebel”, but this was their first act of outright treason. Korbin shrugged one shoulder with the practiced nonchalance he used to conceal his anxiety. The gesture didn’t fool Corry. She’d seen it too often over the past few weeks. “I want them to know about each other, so we’ll leave them together as the sedative wears off. Once they’re fully awake, we’ll then separate them and begin interrogation.” “Do you really think they can tell us anything we don’t already know?” He grinned. “There’s only one way to find out.” Corry was uncomfortable with Korbin’s zealous tendencies. She’d been born after the comet hit their homeworld, so she’d only heard stories of what life had been like before the cataclysm. Poverty and hunger were inescapable realities for many on the coalition outposts. Still, she had known no other life. Korbin refused to accept the dismal existence they were expected to endure while the privileged citizens of Halley Prime reveled in decadent luxury. He’d suppressed his radical ideals and violent impulses in deference to their father. But Simeon Reah was dead now, and Korbin was ready for war. 6
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“When will you contact the coalition?” Corry glanced back at the images of their hostages. Ashton and Danette made a striking couple, both golden and elegant, with all of the physical enhancements money could buy. Palmer was younger. His dark head rested on Danette’s bare shoulder. “Let them stew for three days. Then I’ll transmit our conditions.” The executive council would tremble as they pondered the fate of their precious heirs. An unexpected pang of sympathy accompanied the thought. Corry squelched the unwanted pity and strengthened her resolve. The coalition leaders had brought this on themselves with their apathy and double standards. “Let me start with the princess.” Corry tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear as she made the suggestion. “You take the college boy, and we’ll work together on his royal highness if we still have time.” Korbin responded with a salacious smile. “How about I take the princess and you do whatever you want with the other two? Three days should be more than enough time—” “You’re not going near Danette.” Corry braced for a fight. There was a predatory gleam in Korbin’s eyes every time he looked at Danette. “I’ve never forced myself on a woman, but thanks for your confidence in my integrity. Do you honestly think I’d put pleasure above the cause?” “Not intentionally.” She waited until he met her gaze to continue. “We didn’t snatch these three so we could exorcise our personal demons. I know beating VinDerley senseless and seducing the princess would be cathartic, but we have too much at stake to indulge our anger.” “Fine.” The word sounded almost like a snarl. “But they can’t stay together. There’s strength in numbers and we need them weak.” “We only have two holding cells equipped with full surveillance,” Corry reminded him. “Danette will be the first to accuse us of mistreatment. We better leave her in one of the cells.” He nodded. “VinDerley is going to be our biggest challenge. Let’s take him out to the abandoned cellblock. It’s isolated enough no one will hear him scream.” “That’s not funny,” Corry snapped. “The prisoners can’t be harmed. We have to—” “I’ll give you round one.” He turned back to the vidscreen, his expression inscrutable. “Round one?” “All three hostages are yours to do with as you will until we have the first response from the coalition. If the leaders choose not to cooperate, I take over.” It was a better compromise than she’d expected from her hotheaded brother. “Agreed.” “Keep me informed of anything you discover. I’ll tell everyone this is your baby, at least for now.” 7
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Corry nodded and Korbin left the control booth.
***** “Where are we, Ashton?” Danette asked quietly. “I don’t know.” All Ashton had seen of their surroundings was the sterile holding cell. They could be anywhere in the star system. The drug-induced haze had dissipated, but his limbs felt awkward, encumbered. Was this weakness a side effect of the sedative or were their captors using some sort of gravitational field to hamper their movements? As if to answer his unspoken question, the pressure shifted. Ashton sighed and stretched his tired muscles. The gravitation in the room normalized, confirming his suspicion. The door panel raised and a woman strode into the room. Her thick dark hair was pulled straight back away from her heart-shaped face and clasped at the nape of her neck. Her head would tuck neatly under his chin yet authority emanated from her bearing. Flanked by two uniformed guards, she was dressed casually in black slacks and an olive-green blouse. She wore no jewelry and no cosmetics that Ashton could detect. Dominated by large, bright green eyes, her features were too sophisticated for pretty yet not quite striking enough to be termed beautiful. She approached Danette, grasped her shackled wrists and pulled the blonde to her feet. A small length of chain between the ankle cuffs made walking possible but awkward. “Where are you taking me? Who the hell are you? What do you want with us?” Danette began immediately. “You won’t be harmed if you follow my instructions. If you give me any trouble, I’ll leave you bound and gagged until this is over.” Though Danette was both taller and more voluptuous than the brunette, the stranger easily controlled the situation. “You can’t treat us like this.” Uncertainty crept into Danette’s tone. “Do you know who we are?” “This wasn’t a random act, Ms. Tiptonn. I’m fully aware of who you are, or more to the point, who you call ‘Father’.” That shut her up, at least for the moment. The brunette motioned Danette from the cell, the guards following close behind. The door panel lowered a second after the guards cleared the threshold. “They didn’t reactivate the gravitational field,” Palmer whispered. “Then I doubt she’ll be gone long.” “Did you recognize her?” Ashton shook his head.
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“Will they ransom us?” “This isn’t about money.” Confusion creased Palmer’s brow. “Then what the hell is going on?” “The rebels claim the outposts are being neglected by the executive council. They’re dissatisfied with the living conditions and feel—” “Why do you know so much about the rebels?” Palmer’s dark gaze bore into his. Despite their dire circumstances, Ashton managed a smile. “I’ve been doing some research for my mother.” “Your mother is interested in the rebels? They’ve been stirring up trouble longer than I can remember. Why does your father put up with it?” “Why does he put up with the rebel demonstrations or why does he put up with my mother’s interest in them?” “Both.” The door opened and the woman stood in the opening, her arms clasped behind her back. Where were her guards? “You will come with me, Mr. VinDerley.” “For what purpose?” Ashton scooted to the edge of the bench and looked into her eyes. “For the purpose of avoiding corporal punishment.” She delivered the statement without inflection yet suppressed emotion shimmered in her vivid green eyes. He should do as she asked. He should cooperate, learn more about their situation, but she was such a tiny little thing. His pride let out a mighty roar. “Corporal punishment?” Pushing to his feet, he glanced into the corridor behind her, easily seeing over the top of her head. “And you intend to administer this punishment all by yourself?” Palmer chuckled. The softness in her gaze vanished. She stalked toward him, pulling a small metallic wand from its clasp at her waist as she went. Before Ashton could anticipate the threat, she touched his shoulder with the wand. Intense, burning pain shot down his arm and across his chest. Ashton gasped, jerking back from the device. “At a slightly higher setting it’s not necessary to touch you to cause you pain. At its highest setting you would be instantaneously incinerated. Do you require a more elaborate demonstration or shall we proceed?” Spasms cramped his arm and shoulder. “What the hell is that thing?” “A motivator. Don’t be fooled by my size or gender. I can control you and I will.” She nodded toward the door. Ashton staggered past her as the pain began to recede. “What have you done with Danette?” “She pissed me off, so I gave her to my men.”
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He narrowed his gaze on her face. Was she provoking him or was she the heartless bitch she appeared? Power stirred within him, innate abilities he hadn’t utilized since his formal training eleven years before. “And how many men do you have?” “Enough to keep her busy for quite some time.” Pausing long enough to send a calming pulse through Palmer, Ashton moved into the corridor, the woman directly behind him. She held the wand in her right hand, a silent reminder that she expected him to behave. “Where to?” “Walk down that hall on your left until you reach the door.” Accompanied by the musical jingle of his ankle restraints, Ashton headed down the corridor. Who was this woman? Why would she participate in treason? Ashton kept his empathic touch light as he scanned her emotions. Few could sense his presence. Still, he needed to be careful. Even those without telepathic abilities could learn to shield their minds. His greatest advantage came while others remained unaware of his abilities. The intensity of her personality assailed him like a gale-force wind. Uncertainty twisted around rage. Grief distorted by frustration. He sensed the depth of her devotion and unflagging loyalty. Amazed by the purity of her dedication, he recognized the nature of her calling. She was a patriot, a true believer in her cause. Ashton withdrew from her mind, reluctant admiration reshaping his initial impression of the little rebel. How did she maintain control in the face of those emotions? In the midst of her anger and resentment, he’d also sensed isolation, a gaping void, a soul-deep longing for someone to share her life with. It was a weakness easily exploited, if he were ruthless enough to use her loneliness against her. She certainly hadn’t hesitated to use her weapon on him. Moving up beside him as they reached the door, she pressed her palm against the security scanner. Her soft, floral scent drifted to him and instinct took over. He leaned toward her and inhaled deeply, whispering in a sexy purr, “Very nice.” Her gaze snapped to his as the door slid open. “Out.” “Why do you bother with perfume when you’re trying so hard to be intimidating?” She raised the wand. “Out.” He stepped through the doorway and caught a glimpse of orange-tinted sky before they reached a tunnel entrance. Diffused lighting inset in the tunnel’s walls guided their steps. The concrete floor angled gradually downward before leveling off. The tunnel extended farther than the limited light allowed him to see. Three of the six coalition settlements were located on planets with orange-tinted skies. This narrowed the possibilities somewhat—if he was still on a coalition planet. The woman remained a step behind, but he could picture her delicate features clearly in his mind. His simple taunt had worked better than he expected. Frustration radiated off her in waves, like smoldering embers he would be happy to ignite. 10
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The tunnel sloped upward. He slowed, searching the walls for surveillance equipment. “Do you have a name?” “Yes.” He glanced back and saw amusement gleaming in her eyes. “May I know it?” Pivoting on the ball of his foot, he blocked her path with his body. She raised the motivator, her expression carefully guarded. “Whose idea was it for you to handle me? Somehow I don’t think you came up with this yourself. Who put you up to it? They sure as hell know my taste in women.” He circled her, just out of reach. She’d said she could discharge the weapon, but he was nearly certain she hadn’t changed the setting. “Are they hoping I’ll overpower you? Will that give them justification to torture me? You’re very tempting bait.” “No one is going to torture you.” She followed him with her gaze but not her body. “Just cooperate and no harm will come to you.” He stopped directly behind her, leaning in almost near enough to touch her. “There’s no surveillance in this tunnel. It’s just you and me.” “And your restraints and my motivator,” she returned in the same silky tone. “So the question becomes, can I snap your neck before you touch me with your magic wand?” Truth be told, he still felt woozy from the sedative and his muscles protested every movement. Could he push through the pain? “I just adjusted it to kill and it’s pointed at your chest. Can you snap my neck before I push the button?” He looked at her hand and found the wicked little wand skillfully reversed and angled in the general direction of his heart. “How about we barter?” She stepped forward then spun around. “How about you do as you’re told while I still have a sense of humor?” Her nipples formed distinct points against the sturdy fabric of her blouse and a deep flush colored her cheeks. Danger excited her. Or he excited her. His cock hardened, eager to explore her reaction. “Tell me what to do.” He focused on her mouth. “How can I follow your directions when you haven’t told me to do anything?” “Move down the tunnel—now!” “Your nipples are hard, little rebel. I bet you’re soaking wet too. Did they tell you to fuck me or do you just want to?” “Shut up!” She darted behind him and gave the middle of his back a forceful shove. Ashton laughed. “Feel the front of my pants, sweetheart. They’re setting us up. Why are they dangling you in front of me like red meat before a lion? Make that soft, pink, succulent—” She slapped the back of his head, but Ashton only smiled. If she’d really wanted to hurt him she’d have used her magic wand. “Maybe they just want to watch. I’m game. Are you?” 11
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Despite his provocation, she simply marched him out of the tunnel and toward the entrance to a long, low structure. Again Ashton had only a moment to survey his surroundings before they entered the building. There were other, similar barracks arranged in neat rows. “Where are we? What world is this?” He wasn’t sure why he bothered asking. He knew she wouldn’t answer. The building was constructed entirely of gray concrete composite. She activated lighting with a voice command and directed him down a corridor on their right. “Why are you doing this? What do you hope to accomplish?” More questions he knew she wouldn’t answer. “What have I done to deserve your animosity?” “Don’t flatter yourself. You’re a means to an end, nothing more.” “I realize that, but a means to what end? How did you get mixed up—” “With what?” Her sharp tone made him turn around. “Vicious rebels? Radicals? With people not content with the status quo? I assure you there are legitimate reasons for our unconventional actions.” “Explain them to me.” If he could just get that damn wand away from her, the dynamics of the situation would change drastically. “What’s driving this rebellion?” “Revolution,” she countered. “Walk.” Ashton resumed his trek down the dank corridor. She wanted to tell him. He could sense the emotions seething beneath her façade. She longed to rail against the injustice and validate her position, but something or someone held her back. They entered a dismal cellblock. This building appeared derelict, far older and more neglected than the complex from which they’d come. If they were still in coalition space, this was Borrelly. The other five colonies sent all their criminals to Borrelly for punishment and rehabilitation. If a criminal element controlled the rebellion, Ashton’s fate was dubious at best. She motioned to the cell directly in front of him. “Step inside.” Not likely. He lunged for his captor, aiming a downward blow at her forearm. His head spun and his vision blurred. She sidestepped the attack and shoved him into the cell, activating an energy barrier before his equilibrium returned. “You really do think I’m a fool, don’t you?” she snapped. He braced his hands on his knees and glared at her. “It will take at least twenty-four hours for your body to metabolize the sedative. You’ll be weak and slightly disorientated. Any sudden movement will cause vertigo.” “Thanks for the rundown. I’d figured out everything except the timeline.” The cell’s only illumination came from the lighting in the corridor. It was smaller than his guestroom closet and the only furniture to speak of was a flat metal bunk, devoid of any form of bedding. With an impatient hiss, the woman touched a flat control panel attached to her forearm and his shackles released, dropping noisily to the bare floor. 12
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“Tell me about your mother. Why would the premier’s wife have an interest in our cause?” He rubbed his wrists and watched her impassive face for any spark of emotion. How had she heard his comments to Palmer? She’d been dealing with Danette. Someone must have prompted her to ask the question. He didn’t see an audiocom hooked around her ear, but the panel on her arm likely controlled communications. Ashton had seen similar devices on other worlds. “What has your research revealed?” She crossed her arms over her breasts, her smile more of a smirk. “Do you know all our secrets?” The rebels must be desperate if their actions had escalated to kidnapping. Desperate people were notoriously unpredictable. His mother was more likely to get him out of this alive than the executive council. Was it cowardly to give his captor a nudge in the right direction? “Many revolutions have been won by the accuracy of information as opposed to brute force. It can be more beneficial to identify potential allies than to overpower enemies.” “Potential allies?” Mockery sharpened her tone. “The premier’s wife sympathizes with our cause? Theirs must be a harmonious marriage.” “Don’t take my word for it. Do some research of your own.” She was silent for a moment. Leaning back against the wall, she studied him. What was she thinking? Did he dare scan her again? Each time he touched her mind, the bond intensified. At some point she would feel him there. It was inevitable. Pushing away from the wall, she stepped closer to the barrier. She clasped her hands behind her back and the hint of a smile hovered about her lips. Her voice was low and caressing as she said, “Take off your clothes.”
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Chapter Two Corry had to pinch the inside of her wrist to keep from laughing. Ashton’s brows drew together in a confused frown. His eyes widened and his lips compressed as anger burned away his confusion. A deep flush crept up along his neck. Served him right after the shit he’d pulled in the tunnel. She should’ve used the motivator on him, but she was too busy squirming. What was it about this man that kicked her hormones into hyperdrive? VinDerley is the personification of your wildest dreams. She had to stay on guard. He’d already guessed she was attracted to him. Clearing her throat, she squared her shoulders. “Did you hear me?” she asked. “I heard you.” He made no move to undress. “There’s a barrier between us now. Why didn’t you have me strip in the tunnel?” “I wasn’t in the mood then. I am now. Get busy or I’ll make you dance.” She raised the wand, making sure he understood the threat. His expression hardened and his ink-black stare bore into hers. Another moment passed in tense silence before he reached for his bowtie. She watched him silently as he shrugged off his jacket and untied the wide satin sash. He kicked off his dress shoes and went to work on the row of studs on the front of the crisp white shirt. His gaze never left hers and his cold expression never changed. He was gorgeous. There was simply no way around it. The shadowy light in the cell made his hair look darker and accented the sharp angles of his high cheekbones. And those eyes—she felt captivated and surrounded by his night-black gaze. The bunch and flex of his muscles fascinated her—the rippling definition of his abdomen, the solid thickness of his thighs. She wanted to explore the beautiful symmetry with her hands and her mouth. Heat curled through her body in a tingling spiral, lodging with demanding intensity between her thighs. Stars above, he was tempting! As he removed each item, he turned to the bunk and folded them into a neat stack. He mocked her with his careful movements and his blistering glare. Only his black silk boxers and socks remained. “Step into the corner.” “What? You don’t want the underwear too?” He slid the boxers low on his hips, drawing her attention to the unmistakable protrusion of his erect cock. Even through the black silk it looked enormous. He’s manipulating you. This is not about sex. It’s about control. She pointed the wand at the center of his chest. “Back.” 14
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With an insolent grin, he moved into the corner. She deactivated the energy barrier, grabbed his clothes, exited the cell and reactivated the barrier in an unbroken series of movements. “I’ll see if I can find you a blanket for the bunk,” she muttered. “How about a sandwich and some coffee?” His playful tone drew her gaze back to his mostly naked body. Desire slammed through her, literally knocking the breath from her lungs. The constant turmoil in her life hadn’t left much time for lovers. Still she’d never encountered anyone who appealed to her on this elemental level. Ashton reached beyond the dreary isolation and made her feel alive. A vivid image filled her mind. She saw the gaunt faces and haunted eyes of the children in Shanty Town. Corry expelled a ragged breath. She was not important. The cause must take priority over her cravings. “You can stare all you like,” he whispered. “Hell, I’ll even let you touch if you go get me something to eat.” She dragged her gaze away, shame dousing the last of her unwanted desires. “I can stare as long as it pleases me and I’ll arrange for provisions when it’s convenient.” He responded with a throaty chuckle and sat on the edge of the bunk, obviously reluctant to touch the cold metal. “Whatever you say.” It took Corry a moment to realize she’d just been dismissed.
***** Ashton was sitting on the middle of the bunk with his legs crossed in front of him when Corry returned to the cellblock. He looked remarkably at ease and rather bored. “Back to your corner.” He stood and crossed the small cell in two long-legged strides. She tried not to gawk, but his mocking smile told her she’d failed. Setting her zippered bag near the wall, she removed several food items from the tray before placing it on the floor near the energy barrier. With the motivator poised and ready, she deactivated the energy field and slid the tray forward with her foot. Ashton didn’t move until she triggered the barrier again and lowered her weapon. “What’d you bring me?” He lifted the tray to the bunk and examined its contents, so she didn’t bother to reply. This was a dangerous man. She couldn’t allow herself to be drawn in by his easy manner and practiced charm. He had never known the hardships and neglect of the people she championed. She must remain focused on the cause. “I brought blankets and clothing, but you’ll have to barter for them.” His brow rose and he grinned. “Now you’re ready to barter? What do I have that you want?”
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“Information.” She managed to sound calm despite the tightening in her stomach. He wielded charm like a weapon, with skill and lethal accuracy. “What can I tell you that you don’t already know?” His attention focused on the food. She’d provided the requested sandwich, two pieces of fruit and a large cup of coffee. “I think it might be interesting to hear a description of this conflict from the perspective of a citizen of Halley Prime. Start at the beginning. Tell me about the formation of the Comet Coalition.” He took several bites of the sandwich and sipped the coffee before he bothered to respond. “You want a history lesson?” “History through the eyes of the premier’s son.” “Perception has no power to change documented events.” “Oh I disagree. Perception has everything to do with how events are documented.” “Fine.” He relented with a shrug. “I don’t appear to be going anywhere. But conversing in my underwear is a bit uncomfortable. If I promise to relate historical events with as much detail as you care to hear, may I have one of the blankets?” She considered her options for a moment. “Back to your corner.” Once he’d obeyed, she tossed the uniform bottom into the cell. “So you hadn’t meant to keep me naked?” He pulled on the simple garment. The material was grayish-blue, and elastic at the waist and ankles made it possible for one size to fit most every inmate. Corry didn’t miss the speculative light in his dark eyes as he dressed. He was doing his best to figure out where he was. She sat and crossed her legs in front of her. “Talk,” she prompted, picking up her own cup of coffee. He munched on the remainder of his meager meal then began. “The Comet Coalition was formed by necessity just over twenty-five years ago. Our homeworld Shardrake was struck by a massive comet that obliterated life on the entire planet.” Corry sipped her coffee silently and watched the play of light and shadow on his muscular torso. Ashton shoved the tray to the foot of the bunk and picked up the coffee mug. He paced the breadth of the small cell, looking very much like a caged animal. “They had fourteen months to decide how to reorganize the entire population and six outposts far enough removed from the homeworld to survive the destruction. So the coalition was formed and the population of Shardrake relocated to the six outposts.” “No one I know will dispute those events, but some of the details are not quite so clear,” Corry told him. “The reorganization of the collective population seemed to benefit some groups far more than others.” He didn’t argue the point as she’d hoped. He nodded stiffly, the gesture not so much an agreement as an acknowledgment of her opinion. “Each outpost had been
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engineered for a specific purpose. The location, natural resources and so forth determined the focus of the outpost.” “What’s the focus of Halley Prime?” “Halley Prime is the heart of the coalition.” His gaze narrowed just a fraction as it moved over her face. “It offers order and direction, social structure and justice.” “Justice?” she mocked. “Apparently your definition of the word is vastly different from mine.” “There have been social distinctions and class disputes since the beginning of time.” He stopped directly in front of her, his hands clasped behind his back. “Those still working for a living have always resented the wealthy. You act as if the destruction of Shardrake brought about the financial security of those living on Halley Prime. We didn’t exploit the catastrophe. The citizens of Halley Prime had power and wealth long before the formation of the coalition.” “Only those privileged few who had wealth and power were allowed to settle on the only outpost sophisticated enough to provide the sort of lifestyle all of us had before the comet hit Shardrake.” “How does that differ from life in general?” His posture relaxed and he kept all traces of challenge from his tone. “Wealth equals power, and power, by definition, allows one more control over any situation.” Her fingers itched to offer him a more advanced demonstration of the motivator. He was standing in a dilapidated containment cell, the prisoner of revolutionaries, yet he spoke with calm aplomb. What would it take to rattle him? “So you subscribe to the ancient adage?” she asked. “Which adage would that be?” “The golden rule.” “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you?” he quoted with lazy curiosity. “No. Those who have the gold make the rules.” He had the audacity to laugh. “I’d never heard that before, but it’s far more accurate than the sentimental version, wouldn’t you agree?” “Accurate—and tragic. I don’t consider kindness to be a useless sentiment.” She rose and glanced down at the bundle of supplies she’d brought for him. “It’s too bad all your wealth and power can’t help you now.” With careful deliberation, she unpacked the zippered bag, arranging each item along the wall in front of the cell. He could see the promised warmth of the blankets, the light source offered by the lamp, the comfort and modesty of the uniform top, but the energy barrier would prevent him from reaching them. Without a backward glance, Corry left the cellblock.
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Her haunting floral scent penetrated the darkness, drawing Ashton from a fitful sleep. For a moment his brain couldn’t separate reality from the sensual images lingering in his mind. He’d wrapped himself around her in his dream, warming his icy flesh with the heat of her naked body, thrusting into her brutally while she writhed beneath him. The subtle shuffle of clothing and a metallic scrape jarred his senses to full alert. He opened his eyes. Unable to focus, he reached across their telepathic link and found her with his mind. She crouched in the corridor outside his cell. He could see her clearly. Years of training had strengthened his psychic abilities and increased his control. NV goggles allowed her to maneuver in the dark. She reached toward the portable lamp, hesitated, and shook her head. He fought back a smile. Why surrender her best advantage? She was nobody’s fool. Closing his eyes, he lay perfectly still, curled on his side, his head near the barrier. She took the blanket and the uniform top and turned to face his cell. After making some adjustment on the side of the goggles, she unsnapped her motivator and moved soundlessly toward the cell. Ashton eased his arm beneath him and found the back wall with his feet. Wadding the shirt inside the blanket, she prepared to toss the bundle into his cell. She deactivated the barrier and he sprang. His body collided with hers, the momentum driving her back against the corridor wall. He found her wrist and twisted. Her cry echoed down the hallway as her weapon clattered to the floor. Whipping the goggles from her face, he plunged her into the same oppressive darkness she’d inflicted on him. She tugged against his hold. “I was giving you a blanket. Let go!” “You risked your life to give me a blanket?” He firmly grasped her throat. “Are you really so stupid?” “You must think so.” She punctuated her words with the point of a knife perfectly positioned between his ribs. “I don’t want to kill you, but I will.” Her warm breath puffed against his bare chest and a violent shiver shook Ashton. He’d never been so cold in his life. Didn’t she realize hypothermia could kill in a matter of hours? His thumb moved from her windpipe to the soft underside of her jaw. Her skin felt like velvet, warm, inviting velvet. Anger and desperation drove him on. Knocking her arm away from his body, Ashton kicked her legs out from underneath her. She hit the concrete floor with a grunt. Her knife skittered out of reach. He came down on top of her, straddling her hips. She struck out at him blindly. He easily avoided her flailing fists. He was freezing and she was warm. Nothing else mattered. He ripped open her shirt and unclasped her bra. She shrieked, clawing at his hands. Ignoring her kicking legs, he jerked off her boots and stripped away her pants. Echoes of his dream flared within his mind. He wanted to thrust inside her, feel her liquid heat ripple around his aching cock. Grasping her panties with both hands, he paused. 18
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She clutched his wrists but stopped fighting. Only their harsh panting disturbed the silence. Could she sense his hesitation? Why had she stopped struggling? Blood pounded in his ears. His throat dried up and his fingers twisted the thin silk. She’d left him alone—to freeze—in utter darkness! “If you rape me, they will kill you. Not even your father will be able to stop them.” Her voice trembled and her hands moved to his shoulders, shoving with all her strength. Ashton didn’t budge. Closing his eyes, he concentrated on his psychic vision, analyzing her expression, sorting the myriad emotions seething within her. She blinked repeatedly, trying in vain to penetrate the darkness. Her lips trembled and her breasts quivered, ripe and ready for ravishment. “And if it’s not rape?” He dragged her arms above her head, grasped both wrists with one hand and circled her pebble-hard nipple with his thumb. “The cold can do this.” He slipped his hand inside her panties and lightly teased her curls. “But why are you so wet?” He claimed her mouth in a long, deep kiss, nibbling, tracing the supple contours with his tongue, careful not to venture between her teeth. He wanted to taste her, to discover the silken interior of her mouth, but that pleasure would have to wait. Sliding down along her body, he captured her nipple between his teeth, applying steady pressure until she cried out. He licked and suckled, fascinated by the rasp of her hardened crest against his tongue. “How are you… It’s almost as if you can see me.” He didn’t reply. Continuing his exploration, he moved his mouth to her other breast. He cupped her, squeezed firmly, absorbing the heat of her flesh. Her skin was warm and growing warmer. He rubbed against her breasts with greedy abandon. He needed her heat, craved her touch, wanted so much more than she was willing to give. Desire simmered within her, but he sensed fear as well. His skin stung and his joints burned. Images from his dream taunted him, keeping his cock hard and aching. Could he ease beyond her fear and free her passion? Did he really want to try? He cupped her mound. Wet. She was so excited her cream had soaked her panties. With a strangled growl, he dragged the material to her knees. “No!” She arched and twisted. “You’re not a rapist.” “And you’re not being raped.” He silenced her with his mouth and wedged his hand between her thighs. Her hot, wet folds closed around his fingers, and Ashton moaned. Intense desire spiked through his body, making his cock jerk beneath the insubstantial confinement of his boxers. He pushed two fingers into her, capturing her soft cry with his open mouth. Her core clenched and rippled despite her protests. She trembled, her inner thighs flexing against his hand.
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There was no way she could deny wanting him. Her body spoke with perfect eloquence. Finding her clit with his thumb, he rubbed, thrilled by the rhythmic flutter of her hot pussy. She twisted her hips, trying to avoid the stimulation. Fear surged within her and Ashton recoiled. Why was she still resisting? She wanted him! A sob escaped her throat. She trembled beneath him, neither responding to nor resisting his caress. Scanning her mind, he found only fear and resignation. Hissing out an exasperated breath, he accepted the inevitable. He couldn’t take her on the cold concrete floor while she cringed and whimpered. Withdrawing his fingers, he released her mouth. “I’m so fucking cold. You are going to warm me.” Why did he care if she was frightened? She deserved to be terrified. She deserved… She didn’t deserve to be raped. He grinned in the darkness. She deserved to be spanked. Her breath escaped in a heated whoosh and she tugged against his hold. “I have blankets and clothes. We’ll both freeze lying here naked on the floor.” She was right, but she felt so damn good spread out beneath him, Ashton couldn’t bring himself to move. He needed to think, to strategize. Were they still holding Palmer and Danette in the other complex? That building had been fully mechanized, far more sophisticated than this crumbling heap. Still, he couldn’t leave them at the mercy of the rebels. “I can’t breathe.” He shifted his weight to his knees and eased his hold on her wrists. As he reached for the portable lamp, she twisted her arm and jerked one of her hands out of his grasp. She lifted her hips and grappled for something beneath her. What the… Agony answered his half-formed question. The motivator pulse propelled him backward and triggered simultaneous muscle spasms throughout his entire body. He screamed. Curling into the fetal position as contraction after contraction tore through him. She turned on the lamp and stood over him, weapon poised and ready for a second shot. Ashton shook and panted, waiting for the cramps to release. “You vicious bitch.” His jaw clenched so tightly he could barely speak. “I wasn’t—going to hurt you.” She’d pulled her panties back into place, but her ruined shirt hung open, revealing the shadowed valley between her breasts. He’d been stagnating behind a desk too long. Five years ago he never would have made such a fundamental mistake. “Get your ass back in the cell before I blast you again!” Trembling uncontrollably, he grabbed the blanket bundle and staggered into the cell. “Is the truth so upsetting you have to punish me for speaking the words?” He glared, furious with himself for underestimating her brutality. “It wasn’t your words. It was your attitude.” She turned on the energy barrier and snatched her pants off the floor.
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He tugged on the uniform top and draped the blanket around his shoulders, watching while she struggled back into her pants. “How did you get mixed up in this mess?” he whispered. “You’re no terrorist.” She didn’t look at him, but her hands hesitated over one of the few buttons still attached to her shirt. “How do you know what I am? You know nothing about me.” “I recognize the sadness in your eyes. There’s fury there too, but pain is driving the anger. What or who hurt you so badly?” “We’ve all known sadness. We all live with pain.” She sounded calm and dismissive. She still wouldn’t meet his gaze. Her dark hair had escaped during their tussle. A strand curled against her smooth cheek. She finally looked at him, yet her expression was carefully guarded. “I lost my temper earlier. It’s not our intention to torture you.” “Are you apologizing for the cold or the pain?” Despite the occasional spasm still gripping his muscles, Ashton couldn’t take his eyes off her. She was so damn beautiful. “The cold. You deserved the pain.” She pulled on her boots and turned to go. “Are you leaving so soon?” Her eyes narrowed and she slowly licked her lips. “I almost didn’t leave soon enough.” “Would it have been so bad?” he asked in a throaty whisper. “I guess we’ll never know.” Don’t count on it. He smiled as she walked away. Corry forced herself not to look back or slow her steps until she was out of the cellblock. Stars above! Was she losing her mind? She had never wanted a man as badly as she wanted Ashton. Her nipples tingled as she thought of his hot mouth. Her core pulsed with unfulfilled desire. He could have killed her. He nearly fucked her in a deserted cellblock and she’d never been so turned-on in her life. What the hell is wrong with me? She stepped out of the decrepit building and raised her face to the night. A brisk breeze cooled her skin and tugged at her hair. She spread the strands around her shoulders and let the wind have its way. What if he hadn’t stopped? What would it have felt like to have him hard and thrusting inside her? Taking her and claiming her with passion and fury? Her knees wobbled and she pressed her hand over her pounding heart. Ashton captivated her. He was an incredible combination of arrogance, intelligence and raw energy. Forcing away her futile longings, Corry made her way to the commuter tram. This was her home, her reality. She couldn’t let herself forget who she was and the cause she supported—no matter how much she wanted Ashton VinDerley.
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***** Day three, Corry thought as she activated the access terminal in her tiny apartment. Korbin had sent the first message this morning and would follow it with a detailed outline of their expectations sometime this afternoon. How would the executive council respond? How much longer would Ashton be under her care? Her imagination flickered to life with a detailed image of her captive’s handsome face. Corry smiled. She was responsible for all three captives, but only one haunted her night and day. She’d visited Ashton twice the day before, leaving him food and departing without a word. She was illustrating her displeasure with his aggression. At least that’s what she kept telling herself. In truth, she was a bit intimidated, afraid of her reaction to him and wary of his ability to manipulate her emotions. Research always relaxed her. It was wonderfully tedious. Besides, she wanted to know if any of the things Ashton hinted at were relevant to her mission or if he was having fun at her expense. Information with a security rating above five required a retinal scan, but basic biographies weren’t generally classified. Activating her display, Corry maneuvered through several menus and logged on to the coalition’s main database. Without Meredith’s inadvertent assistance, Corry never would have gotten this far. Meredith—Corry no longer thought of the woman as Mother—had chosen her career over her family when Corry was still a child. It had broken her father’s heart when his wife accepted the invitation of the military elite and joined the Coalition’s Covert Corps. To put the demands of the CCC before the needs of her family had been unforgivable to Simeon Reah. A tiny part of Corry understood the temptation. Meredith had exchanged Borrelly for Halley Prime. Given the same choice… Corry let out a disgusted snort. Given the same choice, Corry would have remained loyal to her family and friends. She would have loved her daughter enough to fight for a secure future. Corry entered Meredith’s access code and activated Ashton’s professional portfolio. He’d been educated on d’Arrest. No surprise there. d’Arrest was the only outpost with universities. He spent four years in the coalition’s armed forces but accepted an honorable discharge after the initial term. His interests varied widely, but he consistently excelled at whatever he set out to do. She scrolled down to his current assignment and her mouth went dry. Director of the Comet Coalition’s Negotiations Team. No wonder he talked circles around her. He talked for a living. He solved problems and formulated compromises, defused situations and facilitated heated arguments. He was an extensively trained diplomat and likely telepathic as well. She’d heard rumors that the Negotiations Team recruited people with psychic abilities. She’d always laughed away the outlandish tales, but there was definitely something unique about Ashton.
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Returning to her research, Corry found nothing out of the ordinary on Palmer or Danette. But what she uncovered about Elaine left Corry spellbound. The file made her sound part crusader and part saint, a champion of outcasts, defender of the powerless. “Does she come complete with a cape and invisibility boots?” Corry muttered as she logged off the database and navigated the communications grid. “Person-to-person, Korbin Reah.” She leaned back in her chair, waiting for the call to connect. Korbin’s face came on-screen. “I just heard from Dr. Hollinds. You won’t believe the news.” “Can I call you right back?” “Sure.” It was a well-rehearsed routine. Whenever “Dr. Hollinds” called, Korbin would scramble their signal and return Corry’s call on a secure frequency. She quickly filled him in on everything she’d learned, ending with Ashton’s occupation. “This changes everything,” Korbin said when she paused for breath. “I don’t want you near him.” “If I don’t go near him, he’ll starve.” “That’s an excuse and you know it. Switch VinDerley and the college boy. Take Larz with you and—” “You’re being ridiculous. There’s no reason to overreact. I know what VinDerley is now. That will protect me.” “Bullshit. I want him in the new complex. He has to be supervised. No one speaks with him alone, no one!” Corry glanced away from the vidscreen, praying her panic didn’t show. She’d never admit it to her pigheaded brother, but she enjoyed her time with Ashton. He fascinated her, challenged her. She anticipated their verbal sparring, not to mention the desire still smoldering from their tussle two nights before. “I’m not bending on this one.” Korbin leaned forward, his expression unrelenting. “Get Larz and bring VinDerley to the new complex.”
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Chapter Three Ashton sat on the bunk, leaning against the back wall of the cell, his long legs spread out in front of him. He’d wrapped one of the blankets around his shoulders and the other rested across his legs. Judging from his mutinous expression, they had their work cut out for them. “Have you contacted my father?” His dark gaze darted to Larz then returned to Corry. “Get the restraints out from under the bunk.” She tried to sound assertive despite the trepidation gripping her stomach like a fist. He glared at her. “Why? Where are we going?” “Do as you’re told. Now.” Easing to the floor, Ashton retrieved the wrist restraints. “Get the ankle restraints too.” “You took away my shoes. Where the hell am I going to go?” The sedative dart couldn’t penetrate the energy barrier, but once it did hit, it would make him good and groggy. The ankle restraints were probably overkill. “Put the cuffs on and behave.” Larz pointed his motivator at Ashton, waiting for him to comply. With another scathing glare, Ashton positioned the restraints. Corry activated the cuffs and turned off the barrier. Ashton flew out of the cell, fast and low. The dart arched over his bent form, bouncing uselessly off the back wall. His shoulder slammed into Larz’s stomach, knocking the breath from his lungs and his weapon from his hand. Corry turned and aimed again. Ashton held Larz in front of him now, the chain connecting the wristcuffs tight against Larz’s throat. “Drop your weapons or watch him die.” Corry sucked in a ragged breath, her finger restless on the trigger of the dart gun. Her motivator was set on stun. She’d have to touch him to cause pain. Shit! Ashton tightened the chain. Larz’s face turned beet red. Extending her arms away from her body, Corry dropped her weapons. Larz’s motivator lay on the floor near their feet. Could she dive, knock them both backward and—maybe if she weighed three hundred pounds. Ashton tore the control band from Larz’s arm and flung him into the cell.
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Before Corry could move, Ashton twisted his hand in her hair, preventing her retreat or aggression. Larz sprawled against the back wall, clutching his arm to his chest, moaning. “Look. He’s hurt. I think you broke something.” “So sue me. Turn on the barrier.” Ashton punctuated the command by tugging on her hair. Corry reached for her arm band. Could she activate coms without his realizing— “Upper right corner,” Ashton snapped. “I’ve been watching you.” After a moment’s hesitation, she activated the barrier. “Now release these restraints.” The metal cuffs clattered noisily to the floor. His furious gaze never left her face as he tore the control band from her arm. Humiliation and anger warred within Corry. “Larz, are you hurt badly?” He silently shook his head. Her only hope was to cooperate until she found an opportunity to escape. Ashton’s hand remained in her hair, forcing her to bend as he collected the fallen restraints and one of the motivators. He draped the wristcuffs over his shoulder and glanced into the cell. Larz had crumpled onto his side, pretending to be unconscious. Ashton spared him one last glance and dragged her along the corridor. “Why take me with you?” She grabbed his wrist, trying to ease the pressure on her scalp. “I’ll just slow you down.” “Where are you holding Danette and Palmer?” She grimaced as his hand unconsciously tightened in her hair. “It’ll never happen. Your chances of getting off this planet alive are infinitesimal. Your chances of rescuing the others are nonexistent.” They turned a corner and he paused, studying the insignia on her control band. “Borrelly. Just as I thought.” He shoved her against the wall with the weight of his body as he fastened the control band around his forearm. His expression was tight with frustration. He was obviously struggling with the reality that he couldn’t help his friends. “Damn it! I can’t leave them here.” Corry fought back a smile. Maybe she was empathic too. At the moment she could read him like a book. “Guess it’s just you and me.” Fear surged through her as a ruthless gleam ignited within his eyes. He wasn’t just harassing her. He intended to take her with him. “There is no reason to drag me along!” His gaze narrowed and he moved the motivator closer to her face. “I can think of several.” Cupping her jaw with his other hand, he glared into her eyes. “You’re in so far over your head, little girl. I have no idea how you survived this long.”
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Hatred burned in his eyes, startling her. He better be ready for a fight. She had no intention of going quietly. “There are so many things I want to do to you right now I don’t know where to start.” His fingers bit into her face painfully, but Corry wasn’t sure he was aware of it. His gaze moved from her eyes to her mouth and lingered. “One taste,” he muttered. “The rest will have to wait.” Surely he didn’t mean to kiss her. His expression promised strangulation, not affection. Then his mouth possessed hers and she understood. This was not about affection. It was about domination. His arms shifted, crushing her slender body against his much-taller frame. The dangling wristcuffs bumped against her side as he captured her head in the cradle of his elbow, preventing her escape. His mouth moved over and against hers, demanding, forceful, until a ragged sob tore from her throat. He frightened her, yet her body had never been so aware, so sensitized, so ready. His heartbeat thudded against her breast and his cock pressed against her belly. It was happening again. Her body ripened, swelled and melted. She wanted his aggression, reveled in his need until her own desire matched his. Would he finish what they’d started outside his cell? Would he wrap her legs around his waist and take her roughly against the wall? She trembled. How could that thought appeal to her? She relaxed against him and he deepened the kiss. Holding her jaw firmly with one hand, he thrust his tongue into her mouth in an unmistakable parody of a more significant penetration. That’s what he wanted. That’s what they both wanted. Stars, when had she become so depraved? He cupped her breast, flicking her erect nipple through the layers of her clothes. “Does this happen with everyone or just men at your mercy?” “You’re not at my mercy anymore,” she ground out. The teasing pressure of his thumb sent darts of sensation from her nipple to her clit. He had to be a sorcerer. No one had ever affected her like this before. “I want to fuck you senseless right here against the wall. Do you think we have time?” His hand swooped down and cupped her mound. Shoving against his chest, Corry turned her face away. “Stop it!” There was a definite catch in her voice, revealing her confusion. “Do you like it rough? Are you wet and ready even now?” She swung at his smug face, but he caught her wrist. “Have you ever taken it up the ass?” “You’re disgusting.” “Maybe. But I bet you’ll love everything I do to you.” “If you want a butt buddy they’d be happy to oblige at the Pleasure Palace. For the right price of course.”
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He shoved her away, caging her against the wall with his arms. “What would you know about the Pleasure Palace? I thought you’d never been to Halley Prime?” “Go to hell.” He chuckled. “Already been there. We need to move fast, but I’ll warn you right now, little rebel, this is far from over.” Pushing off the wall, he pointed the motivator at her. “What setting did your buddy leave this on?” She said nothing. “I guess we’ll find out how compassionate you rebels are. Whatever punishment he meant for me will be delivered to you.” Ashton hadn’t planned to kiss the little rebel, but the temptation had simply been too great. She’d taunted and teased him, haunted his every waking hour and infiltrated his troubled dreams until he had to do something to exorcise her image from his mind. Fresh-faced and innocent-eyed, she sure as hell didn’t look like a criminal. Who was she? Her kiss-reddened lips trembled slightly and a lock of her dark hair had escaped the severe braid to dangle over one of her eyes. Why was she allowing herself to be used by the rebels? The questions had driven him half-mad during his long hours of isolation. He put the wristcuffs on her and triggered the locks. “Let’s go.” Her full, inviting lips compressed into a grim line as she battled some inner conflict. “Don’t do this. I can’t go with you.” “Move.” He punctuated the word with the motivator, not willing to argue. “Where are my shoes?” “I recycled them.” “Damn,” he muttered. “Socks will have to do, I guess.” “If you leave me here, I’ll tell you how to get off-world.” “I’d rather you showed me.” He flashed a taunting smile and she went wild. Jerking to the side, she slammed his fist against the wall with finger-numbing force. Her boot heel stomped his unprotected instep and her sharp little elbow jabbed his stomach. Ashton grunted. Pain radiated from his foot and his middle, and his captive slipped from his grasp. She fled down the empty corridor, boot heels ringing. Focusing past the pain, Ashton ran after her. She’d reached the security door at the end of the corridor and her palm was pressed against the scanner. He intentionally slowed his pace. Let her open the door. That was one less obstacle. The door slipped open and she stepped out into the sunlight. Ashton was right behind her. His arm circled her chest, forcing her hands to her sides. She kicked back at him, but he managed to avoid her flailing feet.
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“Stop it,” he snapped. “I’ll knock you unconscious and sling you over my shoulder. Is that what you want?” Her head slammed back into his chest. Another grunt escaped Ashton. “Fuck you!” she panted. Her temper finally exhausted his patience. Ashton picked her up and shoved her down onto a grassy patch of ground. With quick, angry movements, he tugged off her boots and her knee-high stockings. He tied her feet together with the stockings and threw the boots as far from her as he could. “How is this going to help?” she demanded. “Are you going to carry me all the way back to Halley Prime?” He didn’t respond. Sitting down beside her, he tossed one leg over her hips to hold her to the ground and turned his attention to the control band. “What’s your plan, big shot?” Ashton ignored her. She occasionally shoved against his leg with her bound hands, but most of her belligerence had been expended. The configuration of the control panel was only slightly different from models he’d used before. He established a data link and confirmed their location. “Are you employed by Corrections or is your stay here mandatory?” Her eyes narrowed, but she said nothing. The communication functions available on the band were minimal. He couldn’t contact Halley Prime and there was no one on Borrelly he could trust. He turned his focus to transportation. He needed to get off this outpost as quickly as possible.
***** Corry couldn’t believe he’d actually done it. They were off Borrelly with no one the wiser. She hadn’t told Korbin when she intended to make the switch, so it could be hours before they realized she was missing. Ashton left her shackled to the navigator’s chair and basically ignored her. “How’d ya do it, hot shot?” He leaned back, his hands hooked behind his head, as Borrelly became a miniature sphere on the vidscreen. Swiveling in the pilot’s chair, he faced her. “How’d I do what?” His insolent smirk told her he knew exactly what she asked. “How did you authorize our departure without setting off every alarm on the planet?” “Simple security.” “Security?” she echoed. “It’s sometimes important for the premier to travel incognito. So a latent program is written into every coalition security system. Dad can trigger it with a code.” “And this program does what exactly?” 28
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“It overrides all established security systems, logs a random flight plan and approves access on a supervisory level.” “So, Borrelly’s records will indicate this ship was used by some randomly generated personnel?” “The program is comprehensive enough to consider probability. It will file a flight manifest appropriate to an orbit schooner leaving this terminal at this time.” “How long has the premier had such a code?” “For as long as I can remember. The code itself changes periodically, but the ability to travel without leaving a trail has always been available to certain members of the executive council.” “Unbelievable.” The privileged citizens of Halley Prime had never felt obligated to play by the rules. Well, actually they played by their own set of rules, rules that didn’t apply to non-citizens. “Why does this bother you?” “Why wouldn’t that bother me?” she countered sharply. “Your father can come and go as he pleases with no accountability.” “It’s not a matter of accountability. It’s a matter of safety. If Father’s off-world agenda were public knowledge, it would subject him to any number of hazards.” He paused, his dark eyes narrowed. “That reminds me of another miraculous feat. How did you do it?” “How did I do what?” She fought back a smile as their conversation rewound. “How did you snatch us from the gala without setting off every alarm on Halley Prime?” “Maybe there’s more to our little band of rebels than you suppose.” “Oh come on. I told you my secret. Surely you can tell me yours.” His voice was playfully coaxing, but his dark eyes settled squarely on her face. Their gazes locked, his stare drifting to her mouth. Her lips tingled. Was he remembering their frantic kiss in the corridor, the sensual promise as yet unexplored? She hadn’t forgotten how he felt, how he tasted. He’d ignited feelings she’d never dreamed existed. “We’ve been experimenting with molecular transportation.” She needed something to distract her wayward thoughts. “Experimenting? It seems to me the project has moved beyond experimentation. How much does the coalition know?” “You tell me. You’re the one who knows all their secrets.” “Technology is not my father’s field of expertise, nor is it mine.” Her chin came up a notch. “No, you excel at head games and mind control.” “And you hide behind your anger. You shield your fascination with a wall of disdain.”
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“I hide my fascination from no one. I’m intrigued by the unknown. Everyone is. My interest in your culture doesn’t in any way negate my disdain for that same culture.” “Oh really?” His mouth curved in a mocking smile. He knew. Somehow he knew just how enthralled she was with his culture, with the privileges of citizenship. “Fascination with something doesn’t always indicate approval. You can be fascinated with a mass murderer without approving of the actions.” His smile vanished. “That’s a rather odd parallel.” “Is it? What’s so abhorrent about murder?” He just stared at her in bewilderment, so Corry answered. “Murder is a senseless waste of life. It can also destroy the lives of those closest to the victim.” “Are you going somewhere with this delightful analogy?” “The best description of the culture on Halley Prime is a senseless squandering of all life has to offer.” He laughed uproariously and Corry wanted to smack him. “Have you even been to Halley Prime?” Clenching her fists, she refused to respond. All her visits had been brief and specific, allowing her little time to explore the lavish outpost. Staring straight ahead, she finished her explanation. “Each extravagance you enjoy is paid for by the occupants of the other outposts. Countless lives have been destroyed by the coalition’s quest for power and pleasure. You stroll through life without a care in the world while the rest of the coalition starves. That’s a high price to pay for your luxury.” “Where do you get these wild ideas?” He raked a careless hand through his hair, his eyes sparkling merrily. His amusement fueled her indignation. “Have you been to Wirtanen or Chiron? There’s nothing wild about my ideas. We smuggle them food and medical supplies every chance we get, but—” She bit off her words before she revealed too much. The rebels were faithful, but they were few. “I’ve personally paid an enormous price that directly benefited the coalition.” “What price? How have you paid?” She wanted to tell him. His lightly mocking tone challenged her to reveal things she knew she shouldn’t. He was the enemy! “You’re very good, Mr. VinDerley, but you don’t know me as well as you think you do.” “I think you’d be surprised.”
***** According to Ashton’s calculations they would reach Halley Prime by late afternoon the following day. Pushing the engines any harder would exhaust their limited fuel supply, so he would just have to be patient. The schooner’s communication capabilities were pathetic. They would be able to see Halley Prime before any message sent from the ship reached his father. 30
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He didn’t have to see the little rebel to picture her petulant expression. She hadn’t spoken a word in nearly an hour. He’d charted a course, completed systems diagnostics and reviewed some of the ship’s idiosyncrasies, and still she sat silently, glaring holes in his profile. It had been several years since he’d piloted a ship himself. Halley Prime had automated docking technology, but he wanted to be prepared for what would be expected of him. “So,” he swiveled to face his hostage, “how shall we spend the next nineteen hours?” “Playing chess?” she suggested with a smirk. “Not my favorite game.” She was adorable when she was angry. No, she was always adorable, but anger added color to her cheeks and made her eyes flash. Her clothes varied little from day to day. Black pants and a solid shirt, usually some shade of green. Today she’d chosen a deep forest green that perfectly matched her wide, thick-lashed eyes. The safety restraints secured her to the chair. Why hadn’t she released them? Only her right hand was bound to the chair. More of her long dark hair had escaped the braid and framed her lovely face. “I need to use a utility closet.” Her expression filled with hostility and frustration. He better make sure there was nothing in the room she could turn into a weapon. Without bothering to explain his actions, he located the needed facility. There were four pull-down bunks in the stern cabin and one small private cabin opposite the galley. Schooners were not designed for long-range travel. He inspected the utility room thoroughly, removing the shaving razors and a bottle with a metal stem attached to the dispenser pump. There was nothing else even potentially dangerous. When he returned to the main cabin, the little rebel had released the safety restraint and knelt beside the chair, working frantically to unfasten the wristcuff. “Now this position doesn’t foster my confidence.” He folded his arms across his chest. Her gaze shot to his face and she smiled with apparent innocence. “I didn’t know if you were coming back.” “Right.” “I really do need to use the utility closet.” She stood, but her hand was still connected to the chair, forcing her to stoop a bit. “I was about to release you, but now I’m not sure that’s wise. How do I know you won’t cause trouble?” “I promise,” she said much too quickly. “Not good enough.” Then, with a slow, wicked smile, he said, “Take off your clothes.” 31
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Chapter Four Corry gasped at his outrageous demand. “I will not take off my clothes.” “You will if you want that wristcuff released.” “That’s ridiculous. There is no reason for me to undress.” “This isn’t a negotiation. It’s a simple choice. Take off your clothes or stay attached to the chair.” Payback was a bitch. He hadn’t forgotten any of the indignities he’d suffered at her hand. She could see it in his eyes, the anger, the hunger. If she refused, he’d ignore her until she gave in or soiled herself. “You’re a hateful little man,” she sneered, turning her back. Mechanically, refusing to give in to the emotions raging within her, Corry undressed. It was no easy task with one hand shackled to the chair, but she unfastened her pants and wiggled out of them, kicking them off to one side. The buttons, which secured the front of her blouse, were harder to manage. She cursed all the while, and Ashton’s soft chuckle only compounded her anger. Lifting her right arm out of the sleeve, Corry had no choice but to leave the shirt bunched around her left wrist. He’d taken away her boots already, so she was left with only her undergarments. The panties were solid black, nothing fancy, but the cut showcased her slender legs and sleek hips. The wristcuff released with a soft pop. Corry snatched her hand away and spun to face Ashton. He was enjoying the spectacle all right. His dark gaze moved with insolent thoroughness over her exposed skin. Her undershirt was designed to support and protect her breasts. The modest scoop of the neckline left only a hint of cleavage revealed, but her entire midriff was bare. “Are you finished gawking?” she asked casually, despite the resentment threatening to consume her. “Not hardly.” “Well…” She took a deep breath to steady her voice. “You’ll have to take an intermission.” She strode past him, back straight, shoulders squared—face flaming red. Only after she’d enclosed herself in the utility room did she allow her façade to slip. She’d never been so embarrassed in her life, or so angry. Even after she used the facilities, Corry lingered in the cramped lavatory. He was waiting, ready to continue her humiliation. She glanced at her reflection and groaned. Her hair was a tangled mass. Little of the braid remained. She tugged the elastic band
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off and finger-combed the long strands. Perhaps if she didn’t look quite so rattled, she’d feel stronger. A deep flush colored her cheeks and emotion swam in her tear-bright eyes. Why couldn’t he be an arrogant bastard all the time? Just when she was ready to slap him, he flashed that devastating smile and caressed her with those night-black eyes. She couldn’t afford to like him. Surrender was out of the question. She needed to calm down, to think and plan. There had to be something she could do, some way of getting herself out of this mess. One thing was certain. She couldn’t go to Halley Prime. There was nothing directly linking her with the rebel activities, but Korbin, with his characteristic zeal, hadn’t taken the same precautions to guard his identity. The rebel cause was just, and Korbin was willing to risk anything to see that they prevailed. Ashton tapped on the door, his deep voice easily penetrating the barrier. “You’re stalling. You’ve wasted enough time.” Corry took several deep breaths and willed her heart into a more natural rhythm. He could only humiliate her if she allowed herself to feel shame. With slow, deliberate motions, she unlocked and opened the door. “If I’m slowing you down, set me ashore at the nearest spaceport,” she suggested cheerfully. “And deprive myself of your charming company?” She ignored his provocation. Her gaze quickly scanned the cabin. The wristcuffs lay on the floor where they’d fallen, but her clothes were nowhere in sight. “I’d like to get dressed now,” she told him. “And I’d like you to finish undressing.” He paused for a wicked smile. “But I think we can compromise.” “This is no compromise. I’m cold.” “I’ll be happy to warm you.” Ignoring the sensual purr in his tone, Corry walked to the bank of storage compartments, searching each in turn. Empty! He must have shoved her clothes into the recycler. Determination burned through her self-consciousness. She stomped to the ship’s stern and lowered one of the pull-down bunks. The bedding was attached at the bottom. Undaunted, she continued her search. The locker in the small private cabin contained a blanket. With a defiant flourish, she shook it out and settled the soft material around her shoulders. “Feel better?” Ashton lounged in the open doorway, one shoulder rested against the doorframe, his brawny arms folded over his chest. A lock of burnished hair lay across his forehead, and the consuming intensity of his gaze bore into hers. “I feel like strangling you,” she said bitterly. “There were legitimate reasons for what I did. You’re just being petty.” 33
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He took a menacing step forward. “It’s petty to subject you to the treatment you dealt me?” “I made you undress to discourage you from escaping. Where the hell am I going to go? We’re in the middle of freaking space!” “You also left me in that freezing cell without food or light because you didn’t like what I had to say!” “Korbin would have beaten the shit out of you! You should be thankful—” Her words died in a frightened squeak as he grabbed her. One hand fisted in her hair while his other arm encircled her waist. “Korbin? Who is Korbin? Stupid question. Who is Korbin Reah to you?” She glared and her jaw clenched. “Your lover?” His hand tightened in her hair. “Shit, is he your husband?” His line of reasoning was so far off base she couldn’t help but laugh. “I thought you were psychic.” With his dark eyes blazing, he leaned in close and whispered, “I would have preferred the beating. Would you like to know how I passed the hours in that cold, dark cell?” She turned her face away, but he continued in her ear. “I ripped your clothes off while you thrashed and screamed. I relished the struggle. Your anger made me want you more.” Korbin was right. Ashton could mesmerize. He wove a spell around her, muddling her mind until all she could do was feel. He pulled her hard against his chest, his hand still twisted in her hair. With her arms trapped by the blanket all she could do was arch away, and that ground the distinct ridge of his erection into her belly. “Stop it.” She glared into his eyes and tried to wedge her arms between them. The blanket hampered her efforts. Shouldn’t she be afraid? His mouth hovered over hers, brushing against her lips with the barest hint of a caress. “I fucked you savagely twice, but soon your resignation wasn’t enough. I wanted your passion to equal mine. I touched you with my hands and my mouth.” Desire spiraled from her chest to her groin, mocking her struggle. She’d spent way too many hours imagining his hands and his mouth igniting sensations in her body. “And I begged for it, right?” She jumped ahead, hoping to minimize the images triggered by his words. “You were such a phenomenal lover I wept for joy at your touch and was powerless to resist you.” “No.” He shook his head, brushing his lips against hers. “You wept with shame because you hate me and still I made you come over and over.” “That amounts to the same thing.” “Does it?” he jeered. “I say we find out.” Corry knew he meant to kiss her the moment he put his hands on her, but she wasn’t prepared for the rush of emotion unleashed by the kiss. His mouth took possession of hers, lips urging hers apart, tongue delving between. 34
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She couldn’t breathe. Her head spun as his hand splayed across the back of her scalp, holding her in place. She wanted to resist, to hold perfectly still and show him she was unaffected by his kiss. He was warm and strong, his mouth sure, his tongue demanding. Reluctantly her tongue returned his caress, tasting him. He tugged the blanket from her hands and molded her against his body. With her breasts crushed against his chest, she could feel the steady thumping of his heart. His large palm slipped beneath her panties and cupped her bottom. Corry groaned into his mouth. He rocked his hips, intentionally rubbing his thick cock against her. It had been so long. No, it had never been like this. “Lift your arms,” he whispered. Without thought or hesitation, she obeyed. He grabbed the bottom band of her undershirt and tugged it off over her head. Cool air played across her bare skin and she shivered. His hands swept slowly down her arms and came to rest beneath her breasts. She couldn’t do this. She was betraying the cause by succumbing to his touch. Looking down, she was struck by the contrast between his gold-toned hands and her pale skin. His fingers squeezed her breasts but left her rosy nipples uncovered. They tightened, waiting for his attention. Why was she allowing this? He was repaying her for her cruelty, mocking her with her body’s eager response, and she allowed it. No, she encouraged him with her cooperation and her sighs. Shame washed over her in a cooling wave. She lowered her arms, crossing them protectively over her breasts. “You’ve made your point.” “Was I making a point?” His smile was slow and predatory. “Leave me alone.” “I don’t want to. I’d think that was obvious.” Ashton had never been so aroused in his life. What had started out as a punishment quickly took on a life of its own. The softness of her skin, the sweet taste of her mouth intoxicated him. He wanted more. He wanted to sink into her heat, feel her inner muscles tighten as pleasure shattered her world. She was frightened by her desire, but there was no denying the signs. Her nipples tightened into pebble-hard tips, a bright flush crept across her ivory skin, and her pupils dilated dramatically. She wanted him. He should stop. He should lock her in this room until they reached Halley Prime. But his first glimpse of this spirited beauty had aroused his desire and his fascination. Each interaction only reinforced his need to sample her fire. “Why did you sneak into the cellblock with the blanket?” He caged her against the wall with his arms. “I overreacted.”
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He chuckled. “When you left or when you returned?” Her lips twitched as if she suppressed a smile. “I’ve never been that angry. If you’d been a man, I probably would’ve snapped your neck, but you’re the most confounding woman I’ve ever met.” “Is that a compliment?” Using just his fingertips, he raised her chin until she looked into his eyes. “I’ve wanted you since you marched into the holding cell that first day. You were all pride and bluster, and I wanted to kiss you senseless.” “Do you always get what you want?” He answered with another lazy smile. Tracing her lips with his index finger, he waited for them to part then slowly pushed into the warm, wet interior of her mouth. She allowed the intrusion, her gaze locked with his. Her tongue swirled around his finger and Ashton guided her arms to her sides. Still wet from her mouth, his fingertip traced her nipple. Settling his mouth over hers, he coaxed and caressed. He nipped at her lips, soothing each tiny hurt with a stroke of his tongue. He wanted to devour her, to consume her, but she deserved to be savored. Her lips parted under his. Accepting the silent invitation, he slid his tongue into her mouth, tasting her, taking her. She pushed her fingers into his hair, responding with equal fervor. Her tongue slid against his, curled around his, and followed his retreat. She’d never been this bold before, never ventured into his mouth. Heat spiked through his body, spearing his groin, making his cock pound. He lifted her, wrapping her legs around his waist as he latched on to one tender nipple. Suckling firmly, he felt the beaded tip poke against his tongue. She was so passionate, so wonderfully responsive. Could he make her come just by teasing her nipples? He didn’t have the patience to find out. He didn’t have the patience for a lot of things right now. He’d meant to bring her to orgasm over and over before he finally took her. But his painful erection mocked his selfless intentions. He needed to be inside her! Pushing away from the wall, he walked to the bunk and sat her on the edge of the firm pad. He tugged his uniform top off over his head and shed the bottoms just as quickly. Kneeling on the floor, he eased her legs apart and moved between them. Her arms covered her breasts again and uncertainty filled her eyes. “I won’t hurt you. I’m not angry anymore.” “I know.” Her voice trembled and Ashton hesitated. “Everything about you tells me you want me, but I still see fear in your eyes. Are you worried about pregnancy or an STD?” “No. Injections are mandatory, even for the premier’s son.” “Then what’s wrong?” “I shouldn’t want you. It’s weak. It betrays everything I hold dear. I can’t do this.”
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Framing her face with his palms, he kissed her, distracted her while he scanned her emotions. Desire pounded through her, the intensity easily matching his. Part of what frightened her was how much she wanted him. The flickers of shame bothered him. He didn’t want her to feel guilty about the attraction flaring between them. “You’re my hostage,” he whispered against her mouth. “I’m much stronger than you. I’m a ruthless bastard. I take what I want when I want it. Your only rational choice is surrender.” She opened her eyes and nodded, understanding clear in her gaze. With those words he’d released her inhibitions, freed her from her shame and gave her an excuse to give in to her desire. “Stand up.” He used a firm, commanding tone. He didn’t move back as she stood and the silky skin of her belly brushed his face. Hooking his thumbs in the waistband of her panties, he dragged them down. She stepped out of the undergarment with one foot and kicked them aside with the other. He nuzzled her belly, teasing her with featherlight kisses while his hands explored the firm contour of her ass. Her flesh was soft and warm, addicting. He stroked her, squeezed her, memorized the texture of her skin. “Raise your leg to my shoulder. I want to taste you.” A shuddering breath escaped her mouth, but she tentatively lifted her foot off the floor. Ashton guided her leg into place and bent slightly, breathing against her damp sex. “When we’re finished, I’m going to shave these curls. You’ll love how my tongue feels sliding across your smooth, sensitive mound. Nothing should distract from such pleasures.” “Then shave me now.” He looked up at her, their gazes colliding across the quivering expanse of her naked body. “I can’t wait. Can you?” With his gaze still locked with hers, he flicked her clit with his tongue. She gasped and jerked, grasping his upper arms for support. “Didn’t think so.” Holding her firmly against his mouth, he circled the swollen nub. Her fingers tightened each time he stroked the sleek hood protecting her exquisitely sensitive nerve endings. Her feminine musk stirred his senses and her soft cries urged him on. He’d imagined this, dreamed of her taste and her trembling need. He dragged his tongue from back to front, gathering her cream on his tongue and sucking it into his mouth. She squirmed as he grew bolder, pushing into her core and exploring her tender folds. Her hips rocked. She did everything in her power to bring his tongue into contact with her clit. Each soft cry fueled his resolve to build the urgency. He wanted her panting and desperate, ready for anything. She stiffened, her breath caught on a gasp, and he quickly pulled away. “No!” Her fingers tangled in his hair. “I was almost—”
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“The first time you come for me, I want to be inside you.” Easing her back across the bunk, he pulled her hips to the edge and bent her knees. “Hold your legs open.” Her wide, luminous eyes stared up at him as he gently parted her folds and pushed two fingers into her pussy. Stars, she was hot! Her inner muscles clenched his fingers, her passage wet and incredibly tight. Why was she so tight? He pushed deeper, spreading his fingers as wide as her stubborn muscles allowed. She moaned and shook. Bracing himself against the bed with one hand, he arched over her, claiming her mouth with deep, passionate kisses. He slid his fingers in and out, rotating his wrist with each stroke. “How long has it been, sweetheart? I really don’t want to hurt you.” “A long time.” Her admission sounded hoarse and strangled. “But I ache.” How could he resist the subtle plea in her tone? She might be unsure, but she needed this as much as he did. He positioned himself against her entrance. One sharp thrust or ease in slow? What would hurt her less? With just the head of his cock inside her, he found her clit with his thumb. He rubbed firmly, pushing into her with slow, steady pressure. She stretched around him, slick and wet, and tight enough to steal his breath. Corry trembled as his cock surged into her aching pussy. Deeper and deeper he pushed, filling her, stretching her. The skillful motion of his thumb detonated tingling tremors. Her inner muscles fluttered, accepting his thick length. Her nipples felt as if they throbbed in time to the rhythm of her core. Tension coiled. She tossed her head, restless and hot. Arching, she took him deeper. “Almost there,” he whispered. How could he possibly have more to give? Did they augment everything on Halley Prime? A giggle threatened to reveal her anxiety. His balls pressed against her ass and Corry released her pent-up breath. They’d done it. He was buried to the hilt and she was alive and breathing. Her body was designed for this, but damn, he felt huge! “Am I hurting you?” He’d obviously misread her expression. “No. You’re just… I don’t think it’s just my abstinence. You’re rather—large.” Smiling down at her, he kept up the steady rhythm with his thumb. “And this is the lowest setting.” He pulled back about halfway then thrust deep again. “You’ve never been with a man who had implants?” Shocked that her fanciful thought hadn’t been fanciful at all, she asked, “Have you ever been with a woman who doesn’t?” He shook his head and grasped her hips. “Pleasure implants are the traditional gift for everyone’s sixteenth birthday.” “Not everyone’s.” Resentment seeped through her desire as she stared into his passion-glazed eyes. “Just citizens of Halley Prime.”
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He gathered her close and kissed her softly, his fingers stroking her hair. “I won’t use them if they upset you. Just relax and feel me move.” His kiss soothed her. The slide of his cock aroused, yet she was distracted by the mention of his implants. Every person on Halley Prime had pleasure implants? How could they squander precious resources on such a trivial “tradition”? “Wrap your legs around my waist,” he ordered, frustration sharpening his tone. “You’re not going to let this go until you understand, so I’ll demonstrate.” He must have sensed her distraction, her emotional withdrawal. She hooked her ankles behind his back. A subtle vibration gradually intensified until her core literally hummed with sensation. “Oh! Your… I’ve never—” Pleasure burst with spontaneous force and Corry cried out. Her pussy squeezed his vibrating cock, shooting darts of tingling heat all through her body. Trembling and dazed, Corry stared up at him. “What else can your implants do?” Ashton pulled back until only the head of his cock remained within her wet folds. “I can provide hot or cold stimulation as well as lubrication if we decide to be really adventurous. And when you’re ready, I can get significantly larger than I am right now.” “No. This is almost too much. I couldn’t…” He thrust his full length into her, ending the conversation. Corry clutched the bedding as he moved. His dark gaze never left her face, his expression tense, eyes sparkling. Confusion and tenderness swirled through Corry. How could she feel anything but resentment for him? How could she not? He was everything she’d ever wanted and more. And he was her enemy. His mouth sealed over hers, driving away the disquieting thought. His hands slipped beneath her bottom, adjusting her hips to a better angle. He reached deeper, filling her more completely than she ever dreamed possible. She shared his breath, savored his taste and surrendered completely to his demanding penetration. He moved faster, each forceful drive a distinct claim on her body. His gaze burned. His fingers dug into her hips. Pushing up with her heels, she arched into his downward thrusts. Sensation sizzled along her nerve endings. Her blood raced through her veins. She gasped and moaned. “Now.” His voice snapped with authority. “Come for me now!” Happy to oblige, Corry cried out. Her pussy rippled with wave after wave of scalding pleasure. He closed his eyes. His abdomen clenched as his cock pulsed deep within her. The last tingle hadn’t left her body when shame came crashing in. What had she done? This was Premier VinDerley’s son. “It’s a little late for regrets.” He shifted his hands to her waist, keeping his cock buried in her body. 39
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His augmented, vibrating cock! The shallow citizens of Halley Prime wasted time and money perfecting internal sex toys while thousands of children starved. Rearing up, she shoved him backward and scrambled off the bed. “This never happened!” She snatched the blanket off the floor and wrapped it around her trembling body. “What is wrong with you?” He scowled. “I know damn good and well you enjoyed that as much as I did.” “Of course. How could you not? You’re telepathic. If you can read my mind, why don’t you know why I’m pissed off?” “I’m empathic. It’s different than telepathy. I can feel how upset you are, but I can’t hear your thoughts in the way you mean.” “How unfortunate for you.” He said nothing for a long time. Gloriously naked and in no apparent hurry to redress, he just stared at her. “Does this have something to do with Korbin?” “No.” She turned her face away. He was the enemy. She couldn’t let herself forget it again. “What is your association with him?” “He’s the leader of the rebels.” “And who are you?” “Your hostage.” He tossed her panties to her and gathered his clothes. “I have work to do.” He quickly donned his uniform, frustration clouding his gaze. “In your present mood, I think you’ll be less trouble locked in here.” She didn’t reply until he reached the doorway. As the panel slid shut, she whispered, “Don’t count on it.”
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Chapter Five “I have work to do,” Corry mocked as she paced the small cabin. How much work could there be on an automated schooner? He was probably trying to extend the range of communications. Send a message to Daddy. How could she have been such a fool? She’d looked into his eyes and… It didn’t matter. She couldn’t change what happened, but she could make damn sure it didn’t happen again. She couldn’t go to Halley Prime. That’s all there was to it. No matter what it took, she had to escape. With her determination restored, Corry stopped pacing and looked more carefully at the room. There was a computer terminal built into the corner desk, but it didn’t respond to voice command. There was no keyboard or control panel, so it was either malfunctioning or Ashton had cut off her access to the rest of the ship. “Damn.” Cyber-sabotage was out of the question. She’d have to find a more overt approach. The most direct route between Borrelly and Halley Prime would take them past Chiron and Temple-Tuttle. Corry had no particular preference, but she needed to force a landing on one of the two outposts. There had to be something useful, a tool—or a weapon. Opening the wall locker, Corry continued her search. Two maintenance uniforms hung in the back of the compartment. She hadn’t noticed them earlier. There were numerous pockets and loops for tools, but the corresponding tools were nowhere in sight. At least she’d be covered. Solid gray-green, the uniform zipped up the front. It had a drawstring to adjust the waist but both the legs and sleeves were too long for her diminutive frame. She quickly rolled up the excess material and resumed her search. She spotted an access panel in the back corner of the compartment and smiled. If she could get belowdecks, it wouldn’t be hard to create some form of malfunction. She tugged on the panel until it came loose. Ducking her head down into the opening, she looked in both directions before descending the narrow metal ladder. Masses of wiring, electronic components and system housings cluttered the walls. She had acquired a basic knowledge of spacecraft for her supply runs to the outposts. This schooner was newer than hers, but locating the beryllium generator shouldn’t be that difficult. She could barely sit up in the limited space and even crawling was a challenge with the numerous obstacles. She needed to hurry. Ashton wouldn’t leave her alone for long. Spotting the generator, she inched toward the main power supply. This would be tricky without any tools. She couldn’t cause an overload or short out the system. Kneeling beside the generator, she felt its rhythmic hum vibrate through her body.
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Vibrating. Humming. Just like Ashton’s… She would not think about him! Her body tingled with echoes of sensation, but she focused entirely on escape. Highly concentrated beryllium fueled most midrange spacecraft. If she could find the manual release valves, she could simply jettison the tanks. Moving farther down the crawlspace, she located the twin cylinders. She ran her hands along the top and then the bottom of the tank closest to her. Ah, there it was. She grasped the lever with both hands and tugged. It wouldn’t budge. She readjusted her grip and tried again. Nothing. Frustrated but not ready to abandon her plan, Corry found a similar lever on the other tank. The second was stubborn but finally gave way beneath her persistent pressure. She heard an alarm sound in the distance and realized Ashton would soon know what she’d done. His angry footfalls stomped overhead and then she heard “Where the hell are you?” echo through the ship. Corry laughed despite the fury in his voice. She’d won this round. His head appeared in an open hatchway at the opposite end of the crawlspace. “Are you absolutely insane?” Another quick laugh escaped before she could suppress her excitement. She’d done it! She’d thwarted mighty Director VinDerley. “Get up here now!” “Why don’t you come get me?” she suggested with a cheeky smile. “If I touch you right now, I’ll snap your scrawny neck.” “Shouldn’t you be plotting our new course?” He muttered an especially vile curse and pulled his head out of the hatchway. Corry waited until she could maintain a straight face before she ventured abovedeck. Flaunting her success was bound to cause trouble. She found him at the helm, desperately calculating their options. “You couldn’t have jettisoned the half-empty tank, could you? We’re going to be lucky to reach the near side of Temple-Tuttle and there’s nothing there but swamps and jungles. I hope you like snakes.” He flung the criticism over his shoulder without turning his attention from the navigational screen. Temple-Tuttle, the spiritual center of the coalition. Corry had never been to the outpost. They didn’t need her smuggled supplies. But she’d seen vids of the planet’s lush jungles and undeveloped wilderness. The occupants preferred a simple, more spiritually centered life. They didn’t ban technology. It was simply unimportant to them. “There’s nowhere to set down,” he muttered. “You’ve probably killed us both, you impulsive little fool.” He suddenly reached for the safety restraints and secured himself to the pilot’s chair. 42
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He didn’t advise her to do the same, but Corry followed suit. His movements were frantic and fear hardened his expression. Corry nervously licked her lips and tugged against her safety restraints. Had she been too hasty? Would he be able to land the ship? She knew better than to ask. Her gaze focused on the vidscreen. Temple-Tuttle rushed toward them with alarming speed. The ship groaned and trembled as the planet’s atmosphere battered them with forces far greater than the shields were meant to withstand. Corry held her breath. She was jarred left then right before Ashton stabilized their trajectory. He spoke only curses. She kept silent. Corry’s hands clutched the padded arms of the chair while her heart pounded painfully. She closed her eyes, whispering nearly forgotten prayers. She didn’t want to die, hadn’t meant to kill them with her rash action. The schooner hit a solid object and spun out of control. Corry cried out. The lights flickered for a second before blinking out. They spun through the darkness like a feather on the wind. The safety restraints bit painfully into her shoulders and hips as the ship carved a new path through the external environment. As suddenly as it had lurched out of control, the schooner jerked to a stop. It rocked forward and back then settled into place. They were alive! Corry let out a ragged sigh. She giggled, a spontaneous release of tension. Perhaps a bit battered but definitely alive. “Well, little rebel,” Ashton’s voice penetrated the darkness, “I don’t know what you hoped to accomplish by forcing us down, but here we are.” She could hear him releasing his restraints. What should she do now? She had to get away from him or her actions had no purpose. “I can’t go to Halley Prime with you. I told you that. You should have left me on Borrelly.” She didn’t think he’d left his chair, but the darkness was impenetrable. “All you’ve done is postponed our arrival. I have no intention of letting you out of my sight.” “I’m out of your sight right now.” She couldn’t resist. As if at his command, the secondary power supply activated and emergency lighting flickered to life. Corry gasped. He was standing right in front of her, his long legs spread, his fists planted firmly on his hips. Before Corry could guess his intent, Ashton grabbed her hand. In one fluid movement, he snapped a cuff around her wrist and fastened the other around his own. “Let’s see you get away from me now.”
***** “The private cabin has the only bunk wide enough for both of us.” Ashton waited for her to react. She was so easy to provoke and her responses were so entertaining, he couldn’t resist. 43
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“Secure me to one of the other bunks. I am not sleeping with you.” They sat across from each other, their joined hands resting on top of the galley’s small table. “Securing you seems to be far more challenging than I anticipated. You’re as slippery as a Chironian slime eel.” “We’re going to a settlement first thing in the morning. What point would there be in running away now?” “You expect me to explain what goes on inside your twisted mind?” he teased. “I can’t explain why you forced the schooner down, much less why you’re so bent on getting away from me.” “What will you do with me once we reach Halley Prime?” Her gleaming eyes and tilted chin accented the challenge in her words. “That depends on how quickly you can convince your friends to release the other hostages.” “If they immediately release the others, then what?” “I’ll intervene where I can.” She indulged in a very childish snort. “How comforting. I’ll be sent back to Borrelly as an inmate instead of an employee.” “So you are employed by Corrections?” Her smile was slow and sly. “Not exactly. My work is philanthropic. Borrelly is centrally located. It made my…routine easier.” “What was your routine?” “Stealing from the rich and distributing to the poor. I’m a modern day Robin Hood.” “You steal supplies from Halley Prime and—” “My routine is irrelevant to this conversation.” “No piece to a puzzle is irrelevant. I don’t even know your name.” “You seem to think it’s little rebel.” “What would you prefer I call you?” “I’d prefer you didn’t call me.” He laughed. “Let’s get some sleep. We’ll have several hours of hard hiking tomorrow.” She followed him silently toward the cabin. She’d already tried using her bladder as an excuse for him to release the wristcuffs, but he’d offered to turn his back and only turn his back. “I don’t want to sleep with you.” “All we’re going to do is sleep.” The pressure on the wristcuff increased as she dug in her heels. Ashton turned to face his reluctant companion. Tension twisted her expression and anxiety radiated off her in waves. “I’m not going to hurt you.”
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“Maybe not tonight, but you’re going to hurt me.” Frustrated by the certainty in her voice, Ashton met her gaze. “What do you want me to do? I was dragged into this at weapon point. This is your mess, not mine.” “I’m not blaming you.” He stepped toward her. She backed into the wall. “If you told me what you were trying to accomplish with the kidnappings, I might be able to—” “Why would you help me?” Her gaze narrowed and suspicion stabbed at him, driving him back. “I’m not making any promises, but I certainly can’t help until I understand more about the conflict.” She looked away and her emotions softened and curled. A heated wave of excitement ripped through her and washed into him. Ashton hesitated. This was more complex than sexual attraction. His entire body felt attuned to her needs, ready to provide on some elemental level. He shook away the sensation. She was right. He had no reason to get involved. “I’m trapped,” she whispered. “They expect me to save them.” She took a deep breath and Ashton felt her emotions stabilize as if she’d raised some intangible barrier. Pushing away from the wall, she eased past him and went into the cabin. He had no choice but to follow. “Who are ‘they’?” He kept his tone soft and resisted his urge to touch her. Another erotic wrestling match wasn’t what they needed right now. “My—clients. They know I can’t provide for them forever and I can’t provide for everyone. Still, I see it in their eyes. They expect me to work a miracle, to accomplish what my—what others failed to do.” “What your…father failed to do?” It was an educated guess, but her cheeks flushed and she quickly averted her face. He sorted through the facts he’d uncovered during his research and the pieces fell into place. “Cordelia Reah? Korbin is your half brother.” “Corry. No one calls me Cordelia.” “It’s nice to finally meet you, Corry.” Unable to resist the impulse any longer, he stroked her cheek with his knuckles. “Kidnapping us was Korbin’s idea, I take it? Your father was a pacifist.” “And look where that got him. We all know his death wasn’t an accident. The council told him to shut his mouth and when he refused, they shut it for him.” She straightened her shoulders and reinforced her control. He didn’t bother debating the point. Even his mother had suspicions about the incident. “What will Korbin demand in exchange for Danette and Palmer?” “I honestly don’t know.” She glanced up at him through her lashes. “Our departure will throw a wrench in things, to say the least. I just hope he doesn’t do something stupid.”
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Stupider than kidnapping three highly placed citizens of Halley Prime? Knowing she wouldn’t appreciate his sense of humor, Ashton bit back the sarcastic question. “We’ll just pray we can put out fires faster than your brother can start them.” She shook her head and sat on the edge of the bunk. “Sometimes I feel like that sums up my life. It was easier when Dad was alive.” One corner of her mouth quirked with the hint of a smile. “We used to gang up on Korbin.” After so many days of her unflinching spirit, he found her vulnerability endearing. It made him want to shelter her with his mind and his body, protect her from anything that might mean her harm. And that included her hotheaded brother! You don’t realize it yet, sweetheart, but you’re not alone anymore. Again, he didn’t say the words out loud. She wasn’t ready to hear them. “We really should get some sleep,” he told her instead. “If the land is half as interesting as the topographic scan indicated, we’ve got our work cut out for us tomorrow.” “Will you release the cuff?” She stared into his eyes with guileless calm. “Not a chance. I’ve seen that look before.”
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Chapter Six Corry lay on her side in the darkness, crowding as close to the schooner’s wall as she could get. Ashton’s big body hugged her back. He’d slipped one of his arms beneath her neck and their linked hands rested on her pillow. His other hand cupped her breast, making her nipple harden. Was he awake? Could he sense her restlessness? “Ashton?” she whispered. “Corry.” He shifted, pressing his erection against her bottom. Heat spiraled through her body and lodged between her thighs. “I’m not usually like this,” she protested as her core clenched and her clit tingled. “Fascinating and unpredictable?” He found a bare patch of skin at the nape of her neck and gave it a playful nip. “Or feisty and passionate?” She could hear gentle teasing in his tone. Still, she needed to see his eyes. Squeezing between his chest and the wall, she rolled to her back. “I’m not ashamed of wanting you,” he told her. “My body reacted instantaneously. It just took longer for my mind to accept what my body recognized.” She shook her head and glanced away. “What’s that supposed to mean?” “You’re special. I sensed it the first time I touched you. There’s more going on here than two lonely people wanting to fuck.” Dragging her gaze back to his face, she knew the battle was lost. “Only a fool makes the same mistake twice.” “Maybe it’s not a mistake.” He leaned down and covered her mouth with his before she could argue further. Denial was a waste of time when his empathic receptors told him how much she wanted him. She ached for his touch, craving the stunning release she’d only known in his arms. She tried to touch his face, but the wristcuff brought her up short. He entwined their fingers, anchoring their hands against the pillow. “You need to say it,” he whispered. His gaze bore into hers, smoldering and caressing. “No more games, no denials. Say, ‘I want you inside me.’” Her other hand clutched the back of his uniform as he arched over her. This wasn’t about pride or domination. They couldn’t move on until she stopped lying to herself. “I want you inside me.” Tingles cascaded through her body with the admission. A sexy smile curved his lips and desire ignited in his eyes. “That’s a good start.” He found the separator and parted the front of her utility suit. The seam opened down her
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torso and between her thighs. Lifting her hips, she allowed him to divide the material as far back as he could reach. “Release the cuffs. I can’t touch you like this.” She tugged on the back of his shirt, illustrating her limitation. “But I can touch you.” He folded back the sides of her suit, framing her naked breasts. “We did this way too fast before.” While his fingers stroked her breasts and rolled her nipples, he explored her features with featherlight kisses. She refused to accept a completely passive role. Finding the hem of his uniform top, she slipped her hand underneath and splayed her fingers. His back was warm, the muscles bunching and flexing as he held himself above her. He moved downward, his mouth teasing a path along the side of her throat. “Oh Corry,” he murmured, and her excitement surged. “Say it again,” she whispered. “Corry.” Her nipples, already hardened from his touch, gathered into tight, aching peaks. He circled one with the tip of his tongue and then suckled the other. She raked his hair with her fingers, urging him on, wanting more. Shifting positions carefully on the narrow bunk, he got his legs beneath him without releasing her nipple. His hand pulled hers off the pillow and he chuckled. “This could be a bit challenging,” he said. “Not if you release the stupid thing.” With stubborn intent, he bent her leg nearly to her chest then draped it over his upper arm, alleviating the obstacle. “Much better.” He grinned and settled on his knees between her thighs. He traced her slit with his fingertip, nearing but not touching her clit. “What were you thinking about before? You were so turned-on your desire woke me up.” “Don’t ruin this with words,” she cried. “I want you inside me.” He moved their hands above her head and braced himself on his forearm. Then, staring deeply into her eyes, he pushed two fingers into her passage. “Were you dreaming or fantasizing?” He passed his thumb over her clit and she started, sensations zinging through her belly. “Tell me.” His gaze narrowed and his thumb rubbed, the warning unmistakable. “A little of both,” she admitted. He rewarded her honesty with several slow, deep thrusts. “I was mostly asleep until you touched my breast.” “What did I do in your dream?” “What you’re doing now.” She squeezed his fingers with her inner muscles, hoping to distract him from his questions. “Just this?” “No, you sucked on my nipples until I came around your fingers then turned me over and took me from behind.”
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His lips caught one of her nipples and she closed her eyes. It hadn’t been her intention when she told him her fantasy, but she’d just placed her order for the night. He pumped his fingers into her pussy. The firm strokes made her crave a more substantial penetration. Each time he drew on her nipple he also rubbed her swollen clit. Sensations darted from her chest to the apex of her thighs and back. He sucked harder and rubbed faster, his fingers never stopping the rhythmic shuttle. She tossed her head, trembling on the brink of orgasm. Her fantasies were a pale imitation of the delight he unleashed. She arched and cried out as she came in pulsing waves. A faint hiss signaled the deactivation of the restraints. She moved her arm, testing her conclusion. His empty cuff now dangled from the one still in place around her wrist. Before she could object, he grasped her hips and turned her over. Only then did he release her wrist as well. He took the restraints and dropped them to the floor beside the bunk. Too impatient to undress her completely, he helped her pull her arms out of the sleeves and peeled the suit downward. He bared her bottom and her hips, but left the material bunched around her knees as he unfastened the front of his pants. She expected frantic brutality. He had something else in mind. Kneeling behind her, he bent her over until she braced herself on her forearms. Then he eased his shaft between her legs and parted her folds. He rubbed the plush head of his cock over and around her sensitive nub. “Please,” she moaned. “No more teasing.” “Teasing is offering something you don’t intend to give.” He pushed into her just a bit. “You’ll get all of me, but I like to savor this part.” He gave her a little more. “Do you have a problem with that?” He found her clit with his thumb and forefinger, plucking gently as he slowly filled her cunt. Her legs shook and tension wound, binding tighter and tighter until she clenched her jaws to keep from screaming. “Scream if you need to.” He pinched her nipple with his other hand. “Don’t hold back.” He rocked his hips, hesitating with just the tip of his cock inside her. She tried to rock back, to bring him deeper, but he wouldn’t allow it. Then he grasped her hips and drove his full length into her with one forceful thrust. His balls slapped against her mound and sensations burst within her, spiraling up her spine and blossoming in her chest. She screamed. He thrust hard and fast, the thick slide of his shaft prolonging each spasm. Where one orgasm ended and the next began, she couldn’t say. Sensing what she needed before she understood it herself, he changed the speed and force of his thrusts. He added a teasing touch when she craved it and stopped when she wanted nothing to distract from the savage pleasure of his cock surging into her body. 49
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She felt him in her mind, forging some sort of link. Instinct warned her against the invasion. She resisted, pushing outward and shaking her head. I want you to feel me as I feel you. This will give me no greater access than I have now. His hips slowed. His hands cupped her breasts. I won’t force this on you. I want you to want it. “I will,” she panted, “just not tonight.” He came to rest deep inside her and brushed her hair away from her face. “I’m sorry.” He kissed her shoulder. “I’m moving too fast.” She didn’t argue. All of this had taken her by surprise. How could she desire the enemy? “Now you’re not moving at all,” she pointed out, hoping to minimize the damage. His hands caressed her back and the outer swell of her breasts as he resumed his strong, steady thrusting. Resting her forehead on her hands, she concentrated on the fullness and the heat they were generating. Thought suspended and reality narrowed. A darker, more primal desire twisted through her own. Sensations bombarded her brain, feelings not emanating from her body. Ashton’s pleasure poured across the half-formed link. She clutched the bedding and matched him stroke for stroke. As the intensity built, it became impossible for her to distinguish his feelings from hers. She absorbed all the pleasure with greedy abandon. Why had she resisted this? He was holding back, waiting for her to come, determined that they find release together. “If I feel you…come inside me, it will take me with you.” His fingers dug into her hips as he drove deep one last time. He shuddered against her, his hot seed bursting out in distinct jets. She closed her eyes and opened her mind. His orgasm washed over her and pulsed through her, triggering her own release. A low cry escaped her throat as she surrendered to the breath-stealing pleasure. Wrapping her in his arms, he rolled them to their sides in much the same position they’d been when they awakened. She snuggled back against him, feeling sleepy and somewhat sad as the sensations receded. “Why can’t I feel you now?” He chuckled. “I’m only human, sweetheart. Give me a few minutes.” “Not your… I can still feel that just fine. Toward the end, I could sense your emotions, but it’s like the line went dead.” “I didn’t realize the link took. I tried to dissolve the connection. I was a bit distracted at the time.” “Do you create this link every time you have sex?” He didn’t answer for a long moment. “I’ve never wanted to share myself with someone before.”
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And she’d refused the link, resisted his attempt to connect with her. “It was amazing. I should have realized you wouldn’t hurt me.” “Not intentionally.” He sighed and pressed a kiss into her hair. “Go to sleep, Corry. We have a long way to go tomorrow.”
***** Feeling like a leashed pet, Corry followed Ashton around the shuttle as he gathered what he deemed necessary for their trek through the wilderness. She tugged against the cuff every chance she got until her wrist turned red. He simply ignored her. After all they’d shared the night before, she couldn’t believe he’d had them waiting when she woke up. “None of your messages got through?” She finally broke the silence as he tied a length of rope around the pillowcase he’d filled with supplies. “No one responded. It’s possible the messages got through and the shuttle didn’t receive the reply, but I doubt it. I think we’re on our own.” “Do they have a transport station on this outpost? I’ve never been here before.” His brow arched in challenge as he reminded her, “I don’t know a damn thing about it. You’re the one who scheduled this detour.” They set off through the trees. Ashton activated the directional guide on her control band. They were east of the settlements. They just didn’t know how far. She didn’t ask questions. Dense and choked with vegetation, the jungle was nearly impenetrable. Her motivator was their only weapon. They needed a machete. Ashton tore at the vines and kicked a path through the entangled branches. It was slow going at best. Heat and humidity combined in a sweltering haze. Sweat tricked between her breasts and she stumbled over the uneven ground. Why couldn’t they have made it to Chiron? The agricultural outpost was highly populated and she could have arranged for transportation at any of its export centers. She really hadn’t planned this very well. Waving away a swarm of tiny insects, she dared to speak. “Would you happen to have insect repellent in that bag?” “Yeah, it’s right next to the homing beacon and the inflatable spaceship.” “You don’t have to be such an ass! Release the cuff and hike back to the shuttle. There was plenty of dehydrated food. You can wait for Daddy to come find you.” He paused for a glare. “Now who’s being an ass?” She scrambled for just the right obnoxious reply, but he abruptly turned away. “Do you hear that?” “Hear what?” Bugs buzzed around her face and muggy air rustled the trees, but she heard nothing out of place. He pulled her in a slightly different direction, apparently tuned in to the suspicious sound.
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She finally heard the rushing water moments before he kicked his way into the clearing. At the far side of a rippling pool, three identical waterfalls flowed from the cliffs high above. “I’ve seen this in vidfiles,” she said softly. “These are the Cliffs of Enarre, a sort of open-air temple for the Perrlain Tribe. Their settlement can’t be far.” “The Perrlain Tribe?” “They’re naturalists. They worship nature and shun technology.” He shook his head. “Why couldn’t we stumble onto the tribe that exploits nature and worships technology?” “They all live on Halley Prime.” She softened the jibe with a chuckle. A rumble erupted behind them, deep and menacing. Turning, Corry spotted a creature half-hidden by the thick underbrush. Its grizzled brown fur looked coarse and matted. Sharp quills adorned its flat tail. “I don’t think it likes you,” Ashton teased as the creature growled again. “What is it?” Ashton shook his head. “I don’t know, but stay away from that tail. Damn, those quills look painful.” As if understanding his words, the creature flipped up its tail and launched the quills directly at Corry. She yelped and ducked. Ashton threw himself in front of her. The quills caught his shoulder, embedding deeply. He cried out, clutching his upper arm just below the injury. Corry snatched her motivator from his pocket and fired on the beast. It shrieked and ran off into the trees. “This stings like a son of a bitch!” She carefully plucked the quills from his shoulder, touching only the very end. “Take off your shirt. Let me see if the wounds are swelling.” He groaned when he moved the affected arm, but they managed to rid him of his shirt. Corry angled his body toward the sunlight filtering through the canopy of leaves. He swayed. She steadied him, lifting her gaze. Perspiration gleamed upon his cheeks and dotted his upper lip. “You look terrible. Sit down before you fall.” Without a word, he slumped to the grass, his eyes bright and dazed. “You packed the shuttle’s medical kit. It might have an antitoxin.” He just stared at her and Corry’s heart lodged in her throat. The holes in his shoulder swelled, becoming inflamed and red. She turned his arm so she could reach the control panel. He didn’t try to stop her, which compounded her fear. He sat there staring, swaying slowly back and forth. As soon as the cuff released, she unhooked it from her wrist and reached around him for the supply bag. Please, God, let there be an antitoxin. Fingers shaking, she struggled to unknot the rope. Ashton groaned and collapsed onto his side.
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“Shit!” Frantic now, she clawed at the rope. It gave and she opened the pillowcase, spilling its contents into the grass. She snatched up the medical kit and struggled with the latch. Bandages, ointments—damn it, where was the mister? Finding the cylindrical device, she quickly sorted through the inserts. An antibiotic, two pain relievers… “Yes!” She grabbed the tube labeled Antitoxin and shoved it into the mister. “Hold on. This should do the trick.” She opened his mouth and depressed the trigger, releasing a cloud of mist. Hot. His skin smoldered under her palm. The puncture wounds started to seep and Corry let out a frightened cry. “Come on, Ashton. You can’t die on me now. Who would I antagonize?” He moaned. His body went rigid and then began to shake. Fuck! Was his fever triggering the seizure or was this an effect of the poison? She straightened his limbs, moving the supplies away from him and rolling him onto his side. She grabbed his shirt and ran to the pool, drenching the garment in cool water. Spreading the shirt over his torso, she smoothed her wet hands over his face. His body heat quickly saturated the shirt, making the material feel warm. Stripping off the utility jumper, she doused it in the pool. She exchanged his shirt for the cool jumper and hurried back to the water’s edge. Could she roll him into the water? Why’d he have to be so damn big? By the time she’d switched out the garments for the third time, his body relaxed and his breathing evened. He still felt hot, but his temperature had definitely lowered. She turned her attention to the puncture wounds. They had closed off, forming high, pus-filled blisters. Her stomach heaved and she gagged. “I’m not a freaking doctor. How am I supposed to know what to do?” Common sense had guided her so far. He was hot, she’d cooled him down. Okay, think. You don’t want the poison spreading, so you’ve got to let it out. Rummaging through the medical kit, she found a “splinter remover.” The thin strip of metal formed a distinct point sharp enough to lance the blisters. She opened several packets of absorbent gauze and braced herself for the task ahead. She poked the first blister and shuddered as the pus oozed out. “I am not cut out for this.” Holding her breath against the smell, she repeated the process over and over until all of the blisters were lanced. Gently lifting one lid, she gazed at his eye and then laughed at her own foolishness. “What the hell are you checking for? You don’t know what’s good or bad.” He felt cooler. His breathing was slow and steady. What else should she do? As her panic receded, she glanced down at herself. Wearing only her panties, she knelt beside her unconscious captor. What a mess! “Is your companion injured?” “Where did you come from?”
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Gasping at the softly spoken questions, Corry folded her arms over her breasts and looked behind her. Two young men stood near the pool, one blond, one dark-haired. They stared at her with a mixture of fascination and mistrust. “Our ship crashed into the trees. We were trying to find a settlement when an animal attacked my companion.” The dark-haired man moved forward. “What are his injuries?” “It had quills in its tail and it shot them right at me.” Her tone grew soft and distracted as the memory replayed within her mind. “Ashton jumped in front of me. He saved my life.” “I am Lutton. Did you remove the quills?” “Yes. Was that wrong? I didn’t know what else to do.” “They needed to be removed, but the quills of a malignari are incredibly poisonous.” Corry glanced at her hands and gasped. Her fingers were swollen, her skin starting to blister. “Go get help,” Lutton called to his friend. “We will need a litter for the man.” “I gave him an antitoxin mist. Is he still in danger?” Lutton’s grave expression sent a chill through Corry. The pounding in her head intensified and her vision blurred. “You are both in danger.” Lutton’s words followed her into the void.
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Chapter Seven Wishing her hair were three inches longer, Corry took a deep breath and entered the hut. The sweltering heat made clothing optional as far as the Perrlain Tribe was concerned. Most wore a scrap of material wrapped around their hips, but Corry had never seen so many naked breasts. Ashton sat, legs crossed in front of him, attempting to force down some unrecognizable substance contained in the bowl he held. He looked up at her entrance and smiled. His dark gaze caressed her mostly naked body and her nipples hardened in response. “Now this is much more interesting than their idea of food. When did you become so uninhibited?” “Facing death can change your attitude about a lot of things.” The Perrlain didn’t bother with furniture. She could join him on the pallet or stand. She stood. “You look better.” “I feel better.” He chuckled and set the bowl aside. “Guess that’s not surprising.” Solemn intensity replaced the amusement in his gaze. “Thank you seems pretty lame when you owe someone your life.” “I’m extremely thankful.” She watched the bunch and flex of his muscles as he pushed to his feet. “You didn’t give me a chance to say it.” He moved toward her. “I was talking about me. You worked like hell to keep me alive. I drifted in and out of consciousness, but I was more aware than you realize.” “If you hadn’t jumped in front of me in the first place, you wouldn’t have needed saving. I was just returning the favor.” She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “You’re emanating the most bizarre combination of emotions.” He placed his hands lightly on her shoulders. “What’s going on?” “My life has been one calamity after another since we snatched you off Halley Prime.” Even knowing it was ridiculous to blame him, she couldn’t resist the accusation. He just chuckled, so she moved closer, resting her head on his shoulder. “You were supposed to be an arrogant, self-absorbed jerk. That way I could hate you.” “I’m definitely arrogant, and I can be self-absorbed. Why don’t you hate me?” His warm fingers swept up and down her spine, making her skin tingle. His embrace felt wonderful and natural. She snuggled against him, stroking his back and inhaling his scent. “I’ve tried to hate you. This would all be so much easier if I could.” “But you don’t?”
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Easing back far enough so she could look into his eyes, she let affection heat her gaze. “You know exactly how I feel about you.” A sexy smile parted his lips. “We’ve cheated death twice since leaving Borrelly. I think we should find a way to celebrate.” She heaved a ragged sigh and dragged her gaze away from his handsome face. “Unfortunately, the Perrlain agree with you.” He raised her chin, drawing her gaze back to his. “What are you talking about?” “We’ve got serious trouble.” Tension coiled within her. How the hell was she going to make him understand what Lutton had just told her? “Most of this tribe wants us dead.” “They just spent three days nursing us back to health.” His brows drew together and confusion clouded his eyes. “Why do they want us dead?” “The Perrlain are separatists. They migrated to Temple-Tuttle decades before the catastrophe. The elders believe the Deity allowed the comet to destroy Shardrake because the population squandered the sacred resources.” “Shardrake was destroyed because we didn’t appreciate the planet?” “It’s more complicated than that. They believe we failed to value the divine gift of life and all its bounties. They find our materialism and lack of faith intolerable.” “Then wouldn’t they want us gone as soon as possible, before we contaminate their tribe?” His tone was light and playful. Mischief sparkled in his eyes. She narrowed her gaze. “This is serious.” He teased her skin with his thumbs. Each feathery caress made her more aware of her nakedness. “I’m listening.” He smiled lazily. “Lutton has been interceding with the elders on our behalf, but he can—” “Who is Lutton?” “He’s the chief’s son and we’re damn lucky he found us.” She rubbed her eyes and twisted away from his light hold. “I don’t know where to begin.” “Begin where I blacked out.” “I’d stabilized your fever, but the antitoxin only slowed the spread of the poison. It wasn’t neutralized. Lutton and his lover came to the pool to pray and found us. Lutton sent Baylott for help. I passed out before Baylott returned, but apparently the tribe’s healer refused to treat us. He said the Deity obviously wanted us dead.” “And how did the healer come to this conclusion?” Ashton crossed his arms over his chest, his lips pressed together. “We survived the crash only to be attacked by a malignari.” “Is that what you call those little monsters?” She nodded. “By saving a life, the Perrlain believe you interfere with the will of the Deity.” 56
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“Doesn’t their healer interfere every time he treats someone?” “We didn’t fall ill. We were attacked by a malignari. The Perrlain believe they’re the Deity’s henchmen, delivering punishments for secret sins.” “Wonderful. So what do we have to do to repay our debt to the elders?” Ashton raked his fingers through his hair, pacing the narrow breadth of the hut. “This is where it gets tricky. Our debt isn’t owed to the elders. It’s owed to the entire tribe and to the Deity. As I said, Lutton is the chief’s son and the Perrlains’ thinking on such matters is almost reversed from more common philosophies. The tribe doesn’t belong to its leaders. The leaders belong to the tribe.” Ashton pushed his fingers through his hair, his brow furrowed. “What does this have to do with us?” “You saved me, I saved you, and Lutton saved us both.” “How did Lutton save both of us? Did some of the quills hit you?” She shook her head. “I contaminated myself when I pulled them out of your shoulder. Lutton gave us the antidote even though the healer forbade it.” Ashton sat on the pallet and crossed his legs. His short, flimsy garment tempted her to peek beneath. Wet heat curled through her body. Maybe the price of freedom wasn’t so high after all. Except for the tribe and Lutton… “What do we have to do? I gather the Deity doesn’t accept coalition credits.” “That part is called the Celebration of Life, but I’ll take you through this a step at a time.” She glanced away from his handsome face and took a deep breath. “We have to prove ourselves worthy to participate in the celebration, and the tribe, as a whole, makes that decision.” “How? What makes us worthy in the eyes of the tribe?” “Respect of their traditions and a willingness to abandon pride.” She tried to remember as many of the phrases Lutton had used as possible. He made it sound so spiritual, so exalted. “There are three stages along the journey toward worthiness. Giving, receiving and sharing.” “What exactly would we give, receive and share?” “Pleasure. We must eagerly give pleasure to one of the tribe members and we must willingly receive pleasure in return. Last, we must share in the pleasure of others. Only then will we be allowed to bring our offering before the Deity.” His dark eyes gleamed, but she couldn’t read his expression. What she wouldn’t give for his empathic abilities right now. “You still haven’t told me what we’re supposed to offer,” he reminded her. “A tangible expression of our gratitude and a demonstration of our commitment to celebrate life.” “What exactly do we have to do?”
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“Fuck.” She snapped out the word, embarrassed yet wary. Wait until he realized the specifics. “The festival sounds more or less harmless. We pleasure them, they pleasure us, and then we watch them screw. We all sleep under the stars around the ceremonial fire, and at sunrise the tribe decides if we’re worthy or not.” “Define pleasure. What are they allowed to do and who is allowed to do it?” “I’m not sure who, but Lutton said no more than three will participate in the giving. They will abide by our sexual orientation and we only have to come once.” “Well, thank the Deity for that.” His sarcasm made her cringe. “Are we talking touching and kissing, or licking and sucking? You’re still leaving a lot up to interpretation.” “I think they can do whatever it takes to accomplish the goal, so the faster we come the less…” “This is one interesting religion. I’m surprised they’re not more popular.” His chuckle sounded almost sincere. “This isn’t funny.” “Let’s get the hell out of here. I’m strong enough to travel.” “We can’t.” She met his gaze directly, her heart pounding in her chest. “They’ll kill Lutton. He saved our lives. We can’t just walk away.” “Then we’ll take him with us. It might be good to have a—” “He’s the chief’s son. He belongs to the tribe. They have provided him with the best of everything knowing he will guide and protect them when his father’s time has passed.” Aghast, he spread his arms and shook his head. “What the hell are you suggesting? You want to go through with this ritual?” He studied her silently for a moment. “You said we don’t have to fuck the tribe members to be found worthy. What about Lutton? What does this Celebration of Life entail?” Overcome by self-consciousness, Corry crossed her arms over her breasts. She should have let Lutton explain it. He’d done a much better job. She didn’t subscribe to their beliefs, but he’d helped her understand them. “After the tribe finds us worthy, we will be purified. Then at sunset, we go to the Cliffs of Enarre and…Lutton has left the actual logistics up to us.” “Am I supposed to find that comforting?” “The Perrlain have a very unusual attitude about sexuality. The concept of a permanent mate is alien to them. They’re a true community, sharing everything. They put no more significance on sexual desire than on hunger. They eat because they’re hungry and food is enjoyable. They have sex with anyone who stirs their desire because it feels good.” “What about children?”
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“Children belong to the entire community and are nurtured by all.” Impatient to get to the heart of the matter, Corry tossed her head, sending her hair back out of her face. “They’re not asking us to join the tribe, just respect their beliefs.” “By participating in an orgy?” He scowled. “I put more importance on my sexual encounters than a good meal. Stop avoiding the question. What do we do when we get to the Cliffs of Enarre?” “Lutton will have to join with each of us or we’ll all have to join together for the ceremony to be complete.” “I’m heterosexual. He’s not touching me. I say we fight our way out.” She shook her head. Ashton still didn’t understand. “They won’t stop us if we try to leave. They’ll simply sacrifice Lutton.” Silence stretched between them. Ashton looked at her, averted his gaze, then stared at her some more. “Have you ever been with two men at once?” She shook her head, glancing away from his fierce expression. “I didn’t think so.” After another long pause, he asked, “Is it something you’ve fantasized about?” Licking her lips, she dragged her gaze back to his face. “For about a year after my father died I had a belated fit of adolescent angst. I experimented with a lot of things, including reality simulators.” “That’s how you knew about the Pleasure Palace. They have the best reality simulators in the sector.” She laughed. “They have the only reality simulators that provide the sort of experience I was after. I only went a couple times. I…saw someone I knew really well and never went back.” “Hundreds of people visit the Pleasure Palace every day. Why would—” “My brother was one of the Pleasure Masters. I only used the simulators, but I was taken on a tour of the dungeons and there he was. He was masked of course, but he has a birthmark on his thigh. I just couldn’t go back, knowing he was there.” “That would definitely ruin the mood.” He held out his hand and smiled. His gaze warm and inviting. She joined him on the pallet, curving her legs to one side. “So, you’ve experienced the simulation of two lovers, but you’ve never—” “The simulation progressed in stages. That would have happened during my fourth session.” His dark gaze caressed her face, searching, assessing. “If Lutton risked his life to help us, we need to help him, but I’m sensing something else. You want to do this. The tribal test, the moonlit ritual, all of it excites you.” “I… It’s not like I want to… This isn’t that much different than the simulation. We can abandon ourselves to the pleasure, knowing we’ll never see these people again.” She took a deep breath and rushed on. “Besides, we have no choice.”
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He stroked her face, his dark eyes glistening. “You used that excuse on the shuttle. When are you going to be honest with yourself? You want to be overwhelmed. You want to be stimulated until you scream.” “What do you want?” She glanced at him through her thick lashes, uncertainty tightening her belly. “I want to prove my worth to the tribe and revel in the Celebration of Life.”
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Chapter Eight At sunset Ashton and Corry were ushered to the clearing in the center of the Perrlain settlement. Despite the balmy breeze a fire burned in a shallow pit. The fire crackled and popped, shooting sparks into the hazy sky. Wavering light illuminated a sea of curious faces. Lutton indicated a large mat situated slightly apart from the others. Ashton sat in the middle and pulled Corry down beside him, forcing Lutton to take his place on Ashton’s other side. If Lutton noticed the possessive maneuver, he didn’t react. Drums throbbed in the distance, giving the night a distinct pulse. The rhythm sped as five men emerged from a dwelling on Ashton’s right. Their swarthy skin gleamed in the firelight and their long black hair had been decorated with tiny pieces of polished stone and what looked like bleached bone. With regal features and watchful eyes, they sat across the fire pit from Ashton and Corry. “The man in the middle is my father,” Lutton said. “The other four are our village elders. They are here to observe the festivities, not participate.” A row of women exited the dwelling on the other side of the clearing. Bare-breasted and graceful, they knelt on a mat beside the elders. “The high priestess and her acolytes. They will dance for you in a short while. The one near the end, with the red flowers in her hair, is Serena, my youngest sister.” Ashton gazed at the young woman and acknowledged the beauty of her face and form, but he felt nothing more. Turning his head, he looked at Corry and tenderness swelled within his heart. Her features might not turn heads, but her spirit captivated him and he felt triumphant each time she graced him with her smile. Bowls of sliced fruit and fresh vegetables were passed along the rows. Everyone ate with their fingers and spoke in hushed tones, studying them with obvious curiosity. The primitive setting had a certain charm. Sweet berry wine was poured into carved wooden cups. The rich red liquid stained Corry’s lips and Ashton had to kiss her. He curved his fingers around the back of her neck and brushed his tongue lightly over her lips. “Delicious,” he murmured then pushed into her mouth for another taste. After responding for only a moment, she wiggled away. “Everyone is watching us.” “I know, and we’re going to have to do more than kiss before the night is through. Are you sure you don’t want to find another way to pacify the Deity?” She took another sip of wine. “The only other option is to let Lutton die for saving us. I couldn’t live with myself if I let that happen.” “Would it help if I spoke with the elders?” “Not this time Director VinDerley. Their customs are clear. It’s one or the other.”
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“Then give me some more wine.” She held out her cup and he shook his head. “I want to taste it on your lips.” Her gaze darkened as she raised the cup to her mouth. Like most of the women there, Corry was naked to the waist. She kept her arms in front of her as much as possible, which made Ashton smile. The fiery part of her nature that craved this experience was buried beneath layers of inhibitions. He took her face between his hands and settled his mouth over hers. She wrapped her arms around his torso and pressed her breasts against his chest. Soft, warm and his. How was he going to survive watching others touch her and seeing her give pleasure to another man or men? His tongue stroked her lips then curled around her tongue, sliding and caressing. If we’re going to do this, let’s do it together. Let me strengthen the link. She deepened their kiss and opened her mind, welcoming his telepathic touch. He found the fragile strands he’d woven before and reinforced them, binding them together, making them stronger. “The dancing is about to begin.” Lutton’s tone held a note of warning. Sending warmth and affection across their link, Ashton separated their mouths. “Here we go,” he whispered, and she smiled. Stars, she was beautiful when she smiled. The acolytes stood and made their way across the clearing, forming a neat row between Ashton and the fire. One looked slightly older than the others and she spoke to the crowd surrounding them. “Do you understand their language?” Corry asked Ashton. “No. I’m surprised Lutton was able to speak with us.” She leaned around him and tapped Lutton on the knee. “How did you learn our language? And what is she saying?” “I attended Shardrake University as is the custom for all Perrlain chieftains. We live our lives with different priorities. That doesn’t mean we’re ignorant or barbaric.” He nodded toward the speaker. “She’s calling upon the power of pleasure to burn away your worldly taint.” “Can a person convert to your way of life or must one be born into your tribe?” She moved closer to Ashton so the Perrlain prince could hear her better. “We offer shelter and seclusion for souls in need. Sometimes they are able to refocus their spirit and return to the world beyond, other times they’re accepted into the tribe. If we never took in new members, our gene pool would become corrupted.” “True.” Ashton tossed a piece of succulent fruit into his mouth and tried to identify the taste. Most of the Perrlain food was unrecognizable to him. “Are you seeking spiritual guidance?” “No,” Corry said. “Our goals haven’t changed.” “Then watch the dance. Once the high priestess senses an adequate level of sexual energy, she will present Ashton with his team.” 62
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“Give, receive and then share?” Ashton asked. “Yes. You will give then receive pleasure. Corry’s team will be presented to her and she will do the same. First give then receive. After that you are free to share in the festivities in whatever way you want.” “This is a test,” Ashton reminded him. “What are the tribe members looking for? What makes us worthy or not?” “Honesty. Don’t put on a show for them. They all know you’re not accustomed to our ways.” The drumbeat grew louder. Tinkling bells and trilling flutes soon drifted on the night wind. The acolytes spun and swayed, undulating with sensual grace, then shook their hips and shimmied their breasts. Ashton watched the dancers for a time then his gaze drifted to Corry. Her eyes were wide, her lips slightly parted and her nipples had started to harden. Why was she more affected by this than he was? Because you’re jaded. Fate has kicked her in the gut more times than you can imagine and she can still find the wonder in life. He reached for her hand and she squeezed his fingers without shifting her gaze from the dancers. The high priestess pushed to her feet, standing tall and proud on the far side of the fire pit. She told her acolytes to return to their mat then offered further instruction in a firm, clear voice. A man and a woman moved to stand in front of Ashton and Corry. The woman was voluptuous and sultry-eyed, the man sleekly muscled, his expression fierce. “I don’t do men,” Ashton protested. “I’m sorry for the confusion,” Lutton said. “The high priestess must approve of what she senses in you. She has altered the rules to your advantage. Marri is for you, and Fyn is for Corry. The actual pleasure must be exchanged with them, but you are allowed to assist each other, as are Fyn and Marri. This is very generous of the high priestess. Fyn and Marri frequently find pleasure with each other. If you allow them to guide you, this will be over before you know it.” Ashton helped Corry to her feet. “Do I still go first?” he asked. “Yes.” Marri watched their approach through hooded eyes. Her large breasts swayed with each deep breath. Corry matched his advance step for step, but anxiety and anticipation surged across their telepathic link. He lightly touched her mind, easing her fear and encouraging her instinctive response to the sexually charged atmosphere. Fyn moved behind Marri and jerked her skirt off with one forceful yank. She gasped and her breasts jiggled. Her nipples hardened and she licked her lips. The message was clear. Marri liked it rough. She would respond best to insistent stimulation.
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Dragging her arms to the small of her back, Fyn thrust her breasts toward Ashton. Again the gesture required no translation. Ashton cupped both her breasts and squeezed firmly. Marri wiggled and twisted against Fyn’s hold, but her skin flushed and her nipples puckered against Ashton’s palms. Does she really enjoy being manhandled? Corry sounded intrigued, not appalled. Some women can’t come unless they’re restrained. Watch her face while I tease her nipples. Tell me what you see. He rolled one of Marri’s nipples while he suckled the other. The harder he pulled the louder she moaned, so he allowed the tip to scrape across his teeth each time he released the suction. She looks sunburned or feverish. Is she already wet? Encouraged by Corry’s curiosity, Ashton stroked down along Marri’s abdomen and covered her mound with his hand. The curls at the juncture of her thighs had been trimmed and shaved until only a small dark triangle remained. Fyn kicked her legs apart, making more room for Ashton’s hand. Ashton continued his assault on her nipples while he pushed his middle finger into her slit. Her wet, warm folds caressed his finger and lust expanded through his body. His gut clenched and his cock jerked, hardening with alarming speed. She’s a beautiful woman and she’s enjoying your touch. Your response is perfectly natural. Corry was reassuring him? Moments before, she had been the one in need of comfort. He released Marri’s nipple and looked at Corry. Her gaze was fixed on the other woman’s body, arched by Fyn’s unrelenting hold, helpless and waiting. Do you want to touch her? No. She replied a bit too vehemently. But I want you naked while you do. With an impatient tug, he loosened the garment wrapped around his hips and revealed his erection. He stared into Corry’s eyes as he stroked himself from base to tip several times. A throaty murmur drew his attention back to Marri. Fyn had released her arms. He was rolling and pinching her nipples with one hand and the other held her pussy open, displaying her cream-soaked passage and swollen clit. Marri rested against Fyn’s chest, her arms reaching back so she could grab his neck. Kneeling in front of her, Ashton caught her clit between his thumb and forefinger then pushed two fingers into her cunt. She rocked her hips. His fingers went deeper and he pinched her clit, rolling the tender nub until she cried out. Fyn leaned close and whispered something into Marri’s ear. She shook her head and tipped her pelvis so Ashton could move more easily. He thrust into her creamy passage while he plucked her clit again and again. “Suck—on her.” Fyn struggled with the words. Still, Ashton understood. He bent to her mound and flicked his tongue over her clit. “No. Suck…hard.”
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Catching the puffy little nub between his lips, Ashton sucked on her clit and kept right on sucking until Marri screamed with release. Her core squeezed his fingers and she pushed up against his mouth. Fyn stepped back, taking Marri with him, and then urged her to her hands and knees. She tossed her head, sending her long dark hair flying as Fyn knelt behind her. If the other man fucked her now, it would take that much longer for Corry to make him come. Ashton started to protest, but Fyn didn’t remove his garment. He made an impatient gesture. “Now she suck on you.” He twisted her long hair around his fist and raised her head. Ashton saw the carnal invitation smoldering in her dark eyes, so he pushed to his feet and moved closer to Marri. Shaken and squirming from the lust blasting across their telepathic link, Corry watched Ashton push his cock into Marri’s willing mouth. Fyn knelt behind her, using her hair to hold her head in place. Ashton braced his legs apart and rolled his hips. His eyes closed and he stroked Marri’s face while he fucked her mouth. Fyn said several things in a frantic rush. A young man brought him an open pot filled with some sort of cream and Lutton translated for Ashton. “You can’t come in her mouth. The tribe must witness your release.” Ashton nodded, never slowing the steady rocking of his hips. Corry let his pleasure wash over her. If she opened her mind, she could feel the swirl of Marri’s tongue and the firm slide of her lips along his shaft. Desire warmed Corry’s skin and made her nipples tingle. Dipping his long middle finger in the cream, Fyn traced the crease between Marri’s ass cheeks. Curiosity stirred within Corry. Was he going to put something up her ass? Go watch him, little rebel. Your curiosity is distracting me. She moved closer to Fyn and his dark gaze bore into hers for a moment before he returned his attention to Marri. He held her open with one hand while he buried his middle finger in her ass. She moaned and bucked until Fyn smacked her ass with the palm of his hand. Ashton was still moving in her mouth, so all she could do was murmur. Fyn said something low and mocking then slapped her other cheek. A deep, needful pulse erupted in Corry’s pussy. She crossed her arms under her breasts and watched Ashton slide in and out of Marri’s mouth. Fyn pulled almost out of Marri then thrust back in as he twisted his wrist. Marri pushed up each time Fyn drove into her and whimpered with each outward stroke. Ashton moved faster, holding on to her face now. Two bright red handprints formed on Marri’s bottom. Fyn growled and rubbed the discoloration then reached between her thighs, teasing her core and flicking her clit. All the while he kept up the firm thrusts into her ass.
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Ashton suddenly jerked himself out of Marri’s mouth and rubbed his cock with firm, frantic strokes. He shuddered and groaned as his seed spurted out, disappearing into the grass beside Marri. Fyn rewarded his lover with another orgasm before he withdrew his finger from her body and turned his attention on Corry. Would he spank her? Would he finger-fuck her ass? She took a step backward even as heat cascaded through her body. Ashton’s arms wrapped around her from behind and he nuzzled her hair. He’s not going to hurt you. There is no way I would let him. I have to give him pleasure before he touches me. Is that what frightens you? He’s just watched me pleasure his mate and he watched his mate pleasure me. He should go off like a solar flare with just a little encouragement. She nodded and stepped out of his embrace, taking a deep breath as she approached Fyn. He met her gaze, making no move to remove his garment or offer suggestions for how she might begin. Honesty, Lutton had said. She was no seductress. She would follow her instincts and participate to the best of her abilities. Her fingers shook as she unknotted his garment. He raised his hand and touched her face. Surprised by the gesture, she looked into his eyes and found kindness shining there. He was fierce and dominating because that’s what Marri needed. Yet sensing Corry’s vulnerability, he backed off. Soothed by his willingness to consider her needs, she grew bolder. She tossed his garment aside and brushed her hands over his smooth chest. His body was hot and hard, sculpted with muscular definition yet sleek. He stood before her motionless, allowing her exploration. She reached behind him and squeezed his ass, rubbing her breasts against his chest while his cock twitched against her belly. Easing away from her, Fyn stooped and picked up the small pot off the grass. He held out his hand and looked at her expectantly. She extended her hand and he scooped some of the cream into her palm. Then he dropped the pot back into the grass and guided her hand to his cock. She closed her fingers around his shaft and he covered her hand with his. He showed her how hard to squeeze and how fast to move then he released her. The cream allowed her hand to slide easily. She kept her fingers in a snug circle as she worked his shaft up and down. Ashton moved up behind her again, cupping both her breasts in his warm hands. She sighed and continued the smooth back-and-forth slide. Fyn covered her hand again and drastically increased the speed of her strokes. He pulled her other hand to his balls and she rolled the delicate spheres as they grew tighter and tighter. With a sudden cry, Fyn pivoted to the side and shot his cum into the grass as Ashton had done. He kept her hand firmly pulling until the last shuddering spasm ran its course. Fyn turned to Lutton and explained what he wanted.
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“Fyn would like for your mate to verify your release with his cock inside your body.” She looked at Ashton. “And how is that going to work?” “I think I know what he has in mind.” He held out his hand. “Come here.” He led her away from the mess Fyn had just made and spread out in the grass on his back. “Lower yourself onto my cock and then lie back against my chest so he can touch your pussy.” “I’m heavier than I look.” He chuckled. “I think I’ll survive.” Would Ashton stay inside her if she lay down on top of him? She ached for his cock and this was the final phase of testing. They would get through it together. Turning around so she faced away from him, she straddled his hips and guided his cock to her entrance. He pushed in, filling her and filling her until she trembled. Fyn supported her neck as she settled herself against Ashton’s chest. Her knees were bent, legs spread wide, leaving Fyn plenty of room to play between her thighs. Ashton steadied her, one hand on her stomach, the other on her upper chest. Are you all right? I love the way you feel inside me. I should be humiliated, but all I feel is your warmth against my back and your cock… Fyn knelt between their spread legs, intruding on her introspection. He squeezed her breasts. Teasing her nipples as his gaze bore into hers. The fierce Dom had returned. She was spread before him, impaled on another man’s cock, yet Fyn was in control. With firm tugs and careful pinches, he made her nipples burn. The sensation was different yet not unpleasant. Her pussy fluttered around Ashton’s cock and he flexed in response, silently reminding her he was with her, inside her where Fyn would never be. Fyn pulled Ashton’s hands to her breasts and Ashton took over as Fyn moved on. Ashton’s touch was so much better, slower, pulling her gradually from tingles to aching need. Fyn rubbed her belly and stroked her thighs before focusing his attention between her legs. Corry was stretched around Ashton’s cock. Fyn tried to get his fingers around her clit, but she was pressed too tightly against Ashton’s shaft. Instead, Fyn bent and used his tongue to caress the hood of her clit. Heat swirled up through her pussy, accenting how completely Ashton filled her. Fyn touched her delicate folds and she felt Ashton shudder. He really didn’t want another man touching him. He’s touching me, silly man. Have you always been this homophobic? I don’t particularly want him touching you either. Then concentrate on me and let me feel how much you want to move. You can’t fuck me until he makes me come. Damn good point. 67
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As if Marri overheard their telepathic communication, she knelt in the grass beside them and raised her hips high, spreading her thighs in an unmistakable invitation. Fyn kept his tongue centered over Corry’s clit, licking her just hard enough to rub her against Ashton’s shaft. Tension gathered and Corry tossed her head on Ashton’s chest. Her inner muscles clenched, holding for a breathless moment before they sprang free. Sparks of pleasure showered down on her and she arched violently. Fyn scrambled over their entwined legs and thrust his cock into Marri’s pussy. Reaching under her body, he grabbed the top of her shoulders and pounded into her. Ashton’s reaction wasn’t quite as aggressive. He rolled over, sweeping Corry beneath him and pulling her up to her knees. She dug her fingers into the grass and angled her hips to give him the deepest penetration. Murmured conversations and the frantic slap of flesh against flesh told her they weren’t the only ones who had lost complete control. Ashton moved in her and against her, and nothing had ever felt so wonderful. The wind wafted across her damp skin and the faint scent of smoke tickled her nose. They were free, abandoned to the moment and the pleasure of expressing their love. Even in her passion-muddled brain, the word ricocheted. She couldn’t be in love with Ashton. They were enemies. His pace slowed. He squeezed her breasts and caressed her folds. He touched all the places Fyn had touched, as if to erase all evidence of the other man. She smiled into the grass, pleased by his subtle show of possessiveness. He pulled up on her hips and thrust deep one last time. She closed her eyes and waited for the rhythmic pulse of his cock and the hot splash of his seed. Blinding pleasure accompanied the image, igniting her release. She cried out and caressed him with firm, rippling clenches. Sensations poured into her. She absorbed them then infused his emotions with hers and passed them back across their intimate link. They shook together, clinging to each other, never wanting it to end. A sharp cry cut through their sensual haze. Corry watched Fyn shudder as he came deep inside Marri. Similar cries echoed throughout the clearing and Corry glanced at the high priestess. She inclined her head, her lips parting in a gentle smile. Ashton rolled them to their sides, his cock still buried inside her pussy. He brushed her hair away from her shoulder and nibbled on her neck. “Think we’re on to round two of this sexcapade?” “The high priestess seemed pleased, but the tribe has the final say.” “From the number of couples who joined in, I’d say we were able to share our pleasure quite well.”
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Fyn and Marri slipped away into the darkness. Corry propped herself on her elbow and looked around. The clearing was all but deserted. Lutton crossed to them, his expression relaxed. “You have been deemed worthy by the tribe. They were impressed with your willingness to reach inside yourselves and release your inner fire. Many are too encumbered by worldliness to ever experience what you shared with us tonight.” “What happens now?” Ashton asked. “Return at dawn and your ceremonial cleansing will begin.”
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Chapter Nine Corry lay facedown in a sort of hammock, her body suspended four feet off the ground. A hole in the flexible material surrounded her face, allowing her to relax without craning her neck. A man stood on either side of her, each massaging a different part of her body. They touched her everywhere, their strong hands dragging moans from her throat. It felt wonderful, but she wasn’t comfortable with the familiarity with which they touched her. “Thanks, guys. I’ll take it from here.” Ashton! She sighed and pushed to her forearms, looking over her shoulder at him. “Are we having fun yet?” “They waxed my chest.” He rubbed the distinct contour of his pectorals. “When she moved between my legs, I kicked the pot right out of her hand. No way was she putting that stuff on my balls.” Corry chuckled. “You were going to take a razor to me” “True, but a razor doesn’t pull your hair out by the roots.” “Well, they were too fast for me. I’m naked as a baby.” “It’ll grow back.” He grinned and her heart lurched unexpectedly. She swallowed and licked her lips. “Where will I be when it does?” “One step at a time, sweetheart. Remember? Let’s get you someplace safe. Then we’ll figure out what it will take to defuse the rebellion.” “Revolution,” she corrected with a smile. His dark gaze caressed her face. There was so much she wanted to say, so much she wished he’d say to her. But he was right. Speculation was useless at this point. They had to focus on each event as it came. “What’s in the pouch?” she asked. His intense expression triggered hot flutters in her abdomen. Being naked in front of the two strangers had been awkward. An entirely different tension coiled through her now. Hollow and needful, her body ached for Ashton. As he neared the hammock, he slid his palm up the back of her leg, from ankle to thigh in one smooth motion. “Lie down and relax. This may feel odd, but you’ll thank me for it later.” She concentrated on his touch. His warm hands skimmed her hips, her thighs. Corry shivered. Her skin tingled and her pussy tightened. Would it always be like this with him, just a few caresses and her senses caught fire? He rubbed her bottom, easing her cheeks apart. “Spread your legs and push up just a little,” he coaxed her in a gentle tone.
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As she adjusted her position, moist air wafted across her folds and the puckered hole he exposed. This was so—decadent. Corry tried not to squirm, to accept the new sensations, the gentle stimulation, but part of her demanded she resist. Marri certainly hadn’t minded being entered there. She’d moaned and arched as Fyn thrust his finger in and out of her tight hole. A cool, slick object circled her anus. Corry jerked back. “Easy. You’re going to have to accept a lot more than this in a few hours.” One of his hands slipped beneath her, cupping her smooth mound. “Oh yes.” His fingers splayed, stroked and rubbed. “This is why I was going to shave you on the shuttle. You are so incredibly soft.” His gentle caress distracted her as he inserted the unseen object. Her body stretched, burned and surrendered to the firm pressure. She relaxed as his hands resumed their tender massage. “I think I’m addicted to your skin,” he muttered. “I’ll never get tired of touching you.” “And I’ll never get tired of being touched by you.” “Turn over,” he urged after a short pause. “You’re going to leave it there?” Her voice cracked, revealing her anxiety. It felt strange, alien, yet undeniably arousing. “For a while.” He helped her shift onto her back. “Then you’re going to take a bigger one and a bigger one. We’re going to do everything we can so tonight doesn’t hurt.” His dark gaze caressed her body with obvious appreciation. She was moved by the combination of fierce passion and tenderness. “Damn, you’re beautiful.” His jutting cock tented the front of his ridiculous skirt-like garment. Corry smiled and stretched, her gaze locked with his. She tightened her muscles around the butt plug. Sensation curled toward her spine. She needed to rock and thrust—and grind! “Driving you crazy?” he asked. “How could you tell?” “You’re so wet you’re creaming your inner thighs.” Sexual power surged through her, making her brazen and wild. She lowered her lashes and smiled. Moving her legs to either side of the hammock, she parted her thighs in silent invitation. Ashton trembled as she spread herself before him. God, she was a feast for the eyes. Her long, slender arms curved up and over her head, dark hair spilled around her shoulders. High, round breasts thrust toward him as she arched her back. Her belly looked soft, her navel begged for his tongue. And her pussy. Dusky, rose-hued petals peeked out between her smooth outer lips. Pearly cream glistened on her folds and pooled around the ring of the butt plug. “Are you just going to stare?” She shifted restlessly, licking her lips.
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“If I touch you intimately, I’ll have to be re-purified.” She moaned, closing her eyes. “Then why did you have me turn over?” “I want to watch you touch yourself.” A violent tremor shook her slender frame. “Will that compromise my purification?” She didn’t open her eyes. “I don’t think so, but you might be quiet just in case.” She cupped her breast with one hand and moved the other between her legs. Her fingers stroked, learning the satiny texture of her newly hairless mound. He understood the fascination. He wanted to follow her fingers with his tongue! “Tell me what you feel,” he coaxed. “I feel… I need you here.” She angled her hand and pushed her two middle fingers into her core. For a moment, she paused. Her body shook as longing pulsed through her lust, adding a bittersweet edge to her desire. Ashton’s legs trembled beneath him. His heart demanded he satisfy her longing just as powerfully as his cock ached to fill her empty cunt. Soothe her, cherish her, love her, some inner voice called out to him. Parting her folds with one hand, she pulled her fingers out and found her clit. Rocking her hips, she circled and rubbed, flicked and pressed. His gaze followed every movement. “Oh.” Her speed increased and he focused on her face. Her cheeks flushed, her neck arched and her lips parted. She’d never looked more beautiful, more desirable. Last night was bad enough, but Lutton had to enter her body… They were obligated to see this through. Still, the fist around Ashton’s heart refused to release. Why did he feel so protective, so possessive? Corry cried out and her back arched off the hammock. He smiled. She tended to be vocal when she came. That may have been as close to quiet as she had ever been. “Feel better?” Moving her hands to her belly, she sighed. “Not as better as I’d be if you crawled up here with me.” “That’s not why I’m here.” He reinforced his determination with a deep breath. Nothing would cause her pain. He reached for the pouch he’d placed on the floor earlier. “Turn over, sweetheart. Let’s finish getting you ready for tonight.”
***** Moonlight bathed the Cliffs of Enarre. Corry stood between Ashton and Lutton while the chief blessed the Celebration of Life. The distinct rhythm of drums and a trilling flute emanated from the darkness, but the musicians were nowhere in sight. The tribe elders stood near the waterfalls, waiting for the ceremony to begin. They’d watch from the shadows again. Corry pushed the disquieting thought from her mind
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and focused on the setting. A balmy breeze caressed her face, fragrant with firmine flowers and verdant grass. Countless stars twinkling high above them reflected on the rippling pool. The chief finished his blessing and the elders followed him into the surrounding jungle. Heart pounding, mouth dry, Corry wondered how they would begin. She didn’t know the choreography for this particular dance. “Sight,” Lutton reminded them. “We must celebrate each of our senses. Appreciate the magnificence of the Deity’s creation.” He untied his simple garment and tossed it aside, standing before them naked. Corry looked at him, acknowledging the masculine beauty of his strong, young body. Ashton followed suit and her heart leapt in greedy response. Lutton’s tall, youthful frame hinted at a strength and virility not yet realized. Ashton was a man in his prime. Rippling muscles and predatory grace combined with devastating effect. Lutton’s body was smooth and copper-tinted from long hours in the hot, tropical sun. His cock arched away from his body, long and hard. Shifting her gaze back to Ashton, she continued the unavoidable comparison. She wasn’t sure how much of his size was created by his pleasure implants, but his cock made her nipples tighten and her core pulse. She couldn’t wait to feel him deep inside her. “Your turn, sweetheart.” Ashton encouraged her with a lazy smile. She untied her skirt and dropped it to the grass at her feet. Her lack of body hair made her feel exposed, somehow more naked. The men returned her assessing stare, examining her shape as thoroughly as she had studied theirs. “We shall offer cries of joy as we pleasure each other with touch.” Lutton guided one of her hands to each of their cocks and raised his face to the moonlit sky. They enjoyed her firm strokes for only a moment before Ashton brushed his mouth over hers. Lutton leaned in as Ashton pulled away. She parted her lips and allowed Lutton’s tongue into her mouth. His taste was different than Ashton’s. Not better, just exotic. A soft growl escaped Ashton as Lutton’s kiss went on and on. Ashton caressed her breasts and rolled her nipples while he waited for Lutton to release her mouth. Lutton caught her wrist then turned her toward Ashton, his hands warm upon her bare shoulders. “Kiss. Show the Deity you are glad to be alive.” Ashton framed her face with his hands, his gaze intent upon her face. “I am glad to be alive, and I’m grateful.” Warm and tender, Ashton’s lips brushed hers. Shivers danced down her spine. Corry returned his kiss with equal caring, communicating her gratitude. Lutton cupped her breasts, pressing his body against her back. She clutched Ashton’s shoulders, restless, uneasy. Look at me. If you’re frightened, think only of me.
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Corry relaxed against him. I’m not afraid. Tilting his head, he ventured between her lips with his tongue. His taste was familiar and comforting. She snuggled into Ashton’s heat, but Lutton lightly restrained her, rolling her nipples and rubbing his cock against the small of her back. Releasing one breast, Lutton lifted her hair and pressed his mouth against the curve of her shoulder. His tongue swirled and his lips sucked. Tingling heat erupted deep in her belly and her nipples ached. He was a little hard to ignore. Her body certainly had no problem with his participation. “Suckle her, my brother. Draw passion’s cry from her lips.” Lutton pulled her arms behind her back and thrust her breasts forward, just as Fyn had done with Marri. Corry instinctively resisted, but Lutton’s hold was firm. She shivered and her pulse sped. How could helplessness feel so empowering? Ashton stroked her breasts, teasing her already-hardened nipples. His eyes gleamed with passion and demand. He was really into this! “Cry out for us, sweetheart. Let the Deity hear your pleasure.” Ashton’s voice was a throaty purr. Rolling one of her nipples between his thumb and forefinger, Ashton drew the other deeply into his mouth. Corry groaned. He sucked harder, applied more pressure with his fingers. Frissons of pleasure-pain spiked into her chest, sharpened by a splinter of fear. Could she really take both men into her body? Could she look into Ashton’s eyes while Lutton filled her ass? You don’t need to be afraid. This will give you pleasure like you’ve never known. Think how excited the butt plugs made you. You were born for this. Ashton knelt in the grass and lifted her leg to his shoulder. Lutton rocked her back, so she leaned against him. “Yes, my brother. Lick her pussy and taste her cream.” Parting her folds, Ashton circled her clit with his tongue. Corry rested her head on Lutton’s shoulder and closed her eyes. She listened to the drums and savored the sensations Ashton aroused in her. It didn’t matter that they weren’t alone. She didn’t care that the future was uncertain. Ashton worshiped her with his mouth, setting her senses on fire. She shed her civilized veneer and released her primal nature, unleashed the passionate longings she’d suppressed for so long. Twisting her arms out of Lutton’s grasp, she tangled her fingers in Ashton’s hair. “More,” she murmured. Ashton raised his gaze without lifting his mouth. The possessive passion in his eyes seared her entire body. “I want to come. Make me come now.” Lutton chuckled. “You heard her, brother.” Lutton rolled her nipples, pressing and tugging, while Ashton closed his lips around her clit. Pleasure built within her, gathered, tightened, ready to spring. Ashton flicked his tongue against her clit and she came with a sharp cry, shaking with spasm after spasm of release. 74
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Instead of rising, Ashton lay down in the grass and held his arms out to her. “Take me inside you, my love. I want to feel your body welcome me.” Corry’s legs trembled as she straddled Ashton’s hips. This time she faced him, which made it all the more intimate. His cock rose proud and tall, more than ready for this celebration. Lutton continued touching her, stroking her shoulders, rubbing her back. Echoes of pleasure rippled her inner muscles, making her emptiness acute. She’d never felt this uninhibited, this wild. She encircled Ashton’s cock with her fingers, stroking from base to tip and back. Hard, hot, incredibly thick, he fascinated her. She wanted to play, touch and taste. “Now!” The word sounded strangled and his expression begged for her to end their torment. She smiled, guiding him to her entrance. He arched his hips and pushed the plush head of his cock between her slippery folds. She moaned. It felt wonderful and he was just barely inside her. “Are you trying to kill me?” Thrilled by the desperation in his tone, she lowered herself onto his thick length. Inch by blissful inch, he stretched her and filled her. When she sheathed him completely, she paused, reveling in the fullness, the completeness. “Lean forward and kiss his mouth,” Lutton’s husky voice intruded. Her uncertainty surged again. She wanted to make love with Ashton, not complete this ritual. Duty and honor demanded her surrender, but her heart cried out for Ashton. This wasn’t about love and tenderness. It was survival and celebration. She stretched out across Ashton’s chest, groaning as the position changed the angle of his penetration. He took her face between his hands and captured her mouth. His tongue delved deep, sliding and exploring. Lutton stroked her hips, her back, her bottom. He rubbed her ass cheeks, squeezing and caressing while Ashton’s tongue moved in her mouth. Lutton knelt behind her. Bending close, he tasted her flesh, his tongue wandering across her rounded bottom and into the crevice separating her cheeks. Ashton attempted to distract her with his passionate kisses, but Corry felt everything Lutton did. I prepared you well for this, my love. Relax and he won’t hurt you. Focusing on Ashton’s assurance, Corry relaxed against his chest. Lutton eased her cheeks apart and smeared lubricant around and into her rear entrance. He pushed his finger in deep, twisting his wrist and drawing out slowly. Corry trembled. She was already stretched tight around Ashton. How could she… Lutton pushed in with two fingers and she gasped into Ashton’s mouth. Pleasure unfurled with each stroke, making her feel wicked and wanton. She shouldn’t be enjoying this. It was a sacrifice, necessary to earn their freedom. No. This was no sacrifice. They were celebrating life, reveling in sexual intoxication.
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When Lutton positioned his cock, Corry pushed back, accepted him and welcomed him. He murmured words she couldn’t understand, some sort of chant, perhaps a prayer. Grasping her hips, Lutton dragged her up until only the head of Ashton’s shaft remained within her. She braced herself against Ashton’s chest and his hands covered her breasts. Lutton guided her down, his cock sliding out as Ashton’s slid in. Corry cried out, her senses stretched as tightly as her body. She’d never dreamed such pleasure existed, such intensity. She clenched her inner muscles and both men groaned. She soared, exhilarated by passion’s power. “Move, my love,” Ashton whispered. “Pleasure us all.” Lutton showed her the movements, but it was easier for Corry to control. Her head reeled, her heart thundered and lights danced before her eyes. She rocked, thrust, slid, releasing one cock as she captured the other. Ashton rolled her nipples. Lutton clutched her hips, urging her on, speeding the pace. They thrashed together, straining as one. Guiding her head back and to the side, Lutton covered her mouth with his. She parted her lips and welcomed him with a swirl of her tongue. Ashton arched into her. Lutton matched the movement of his tongue to the thrusting of his cock. The drums accelerated, louder and faster, as the men pounded into her. Tearing her mouth away from Lutton’s, Corry cried out loud and clear. Pleasure tore through her body, racing from her head to her toes and back again. She pulsed, shook and screamed, unashamed of her powerful release. Ashton thrust deep, shaking violently as he came. Lutton followed a moment later, his face pressed into her hair. They collapsed into the grass in a tangle of naked limbs. The drums faded. The ceremony ended. Lutton kissed her shoulder and withdrew. “I will think of you fondly,” he whispered, and disappeared into the night. A long time passed as she lay there sprawled across Ashton’s chest. “Have the others gone?” He raised his head and looked around. “I think so. Are you all right?” “It’s not an experience I’d care to repeat every night, but yes, I’m fine.” Holding Corry close, Ashton sat and wrapped her legs around his waist. Her snug sheath hugged his cock. He wasn’t willing to lose the connection, the intimacy. A humid wind played across their perspiration-slick bodies as they stared into each other’s eyes. She raked her fingers through his hair, her gaze filled with tender affection. His heart leapt and his insides clenched. Did she realize what she revealed with her expressive eyes? The past two nights had moved him in ways he didn’t fully understand. He was relieved to have the rituals finished, yet they had been the most intensely erotic experiences of his life. He stroked her face, loving the way she leaned into his hand.
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“What happens tomorrow?” he asked. “Lutton or one of the others will lead us through the jungle.” She sounded distracted, dreamy. Her contented sigh warmed his wrist. “The nearest transport station is in Sanctuary, four days from here, but there’s a settlement a few hours away with beasts large enough to ride.” He chuckled, tracing the lush fullness of her lips. “You weren’t satisfied with riding this beast?” She didn’t respond to his teasing. A wary sort of sadness clouded her expression. “What are you thinking about?” “Am I still your prisoner?” “How can you ask me that?” He stroked her neck and squeezed her shoulder. His fingers lingered against her skin. “You saved my life. If the executive council wants you apprehended, they’re going to have to find you themselves.” She turned her face away. “How did this get so complicated?” Complicated didn’t begin to describe the feelings twisting through him. He wanted to shelter her, protect her, but he knew she’d never allow it. A true zealot would never agree to hide. “Do you have somewhere to go? You can’t return to Borrelly.” “I’ll figure out something.” He took her chin in a light grasp and guided her face back toward his. She stared at his mouth, refusing to meet his gaze. “Korbin has to release Danette and Palmer. The coalition isn’t going to negotiate with terrorists. You have to approach them—” “Don’t you think we’ve tried?” She scrambled off his lap. “My father sent countless petitions detailing the abuse and neglect, and they silenced him because of it. Believe what you like. The executive council doesn’t give a damn about the other outposts.” She stomped into the pool. Ashton watched her dive beneath the surface, her body sleek and gleaming in the moonlight. What the hell was he going to do? Like it or not, he was falling in love with this hot-headed rebel. He waded into the water, waiting for her to surface. She gasped as he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her back against his chest. “I can help you if you give me half a chance. Your stubborn pride is going to cost you this conflict. You won’t solve anything by threats and intimidation.” “We’ve tried diplomacy.” She remained stiff and unmoving in his arms. “It got us nowhere.” “Maybe you need a better diplomat, someone more familiar with how the council thinks.” She turned, resting her hands on his chest. Her gaze searched his face, intense and wary. “Why would you help us? You’re one of them.” “A certain little rebel has made me curious enough to investigate. If your issues are legitimate, I’ll negotiate with the executive council.” “Why?” 77
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He leaned down, brushing her lips with his as he whispered, “You know why.” “This can’t be about me.” She pushed him away. “Investigate. Better yet, visit Shanty Town. I welcome your help, if you believe in our cause, but I don’t want a personal favor.” “Fair enough.” He cupped her bottom and lifted her against him, smiling into her eyes. “You have to make me a promise first.” Her gaze narrowed and she tilted her head. “What?” “Give me one week to complete my investigation. During that week you stay out of sight and agree to have contact with no one but me.” “Korbin has to know—” “It’s an all-or-nothing deal. I want you safe, and contacting Korbin compromises your security.” “Will you contact him? Let him know I’m safe?” Pausing, Ashton considered the options. He resented the hell out of Korbin for allowing Corry’s involvement in the rebellion, but her request was a fair compromise. “All right. I’ll let him know you’re safe, if you promise to stay put.” “Where are you thinking of taking me? The council will have agents out looking for us by now.” “As far as anyone knows, you never left Borrelly. I’ll take you to a place on Halley Prime with better security than coalition headquarters.” “Where’s that?” “The Pleasure Palace. Petra guarantees the safety and anonymity of every client. Besides, she’s the last person in coalition space most people are willing to cross.” For a long, silent moment she stared up at him with wide, uncertain eyes. Finally, she nodded. “One week.” “We’ll work this out together, I promise. We’ll find a way.” He covered her lips with his. Her tongue surged into his mouth before he could deepen the kiss. Sucking gently on her tongue, he absorbed her taste, her texture. He touched her with gentle patience, memorizing each contour of her satiny flesh. Her breasts filled his hands, her nipples already hard against his palms. She was a delight, a wonder, so giving and passionate. She wrapped her legs around his waist, relaxing in the water. Hooking one arm under her bottom, he reached between their bodies with his other hand. Smooth, soft, ready, she gasped as he parted her folds and pushed inside. Warm and welcoming, her core rippled around his fingers. She felt so good. He slid in and out, enjoying the heat and her uninhibited response. She arched, her head falling back on her shoulders. Moonlight bathed her face and breasts. Pushing deep, he bent to her nipple, suckling firmly as his fingers worked her core.
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He wanted to feel her come, to watch her face as orgasm drove reality away, but his cock ached and his balls had drawn up tight against his body. Lifting her hips, he entered her in one smooth, sustained thrust. Her hands clutched his shoulders, her inner muscles squeezing his shaft. Ashton moaned. “Can I stay inside you forever?” He whispered the words into her hair. “You feel so damn good!” “Forever?” Sadness flickered in her gaze and her kiss tasted of desperation. She was right. He couldn’t promise her tomorrow. Why had he spoken of forever? “Lie back. Float on the water. I want to enjoy the view.” Keeping her legs locked around him, she floated. Her hair fanned out around her face and her arms drifted at her sides. Spectacular. She took his breath away and made his heart ache. “Don’t jump.” He grinned and activated his implants, making his cock vibrate. She groaned, her entire body quivered, and her inner muscles clenched rhythmically. “Come for me. I love watching you come.” Her thighs flexed against his waist and a breathless whimper escaped her throat. “I can’t…like this.” “Yes, you can. I’m not moving until you do.” He increased the intensity, pressing on her mound, pushing her clit closer to the vibration. She thrust her breasts toward the moon and surrendered. Each deep pulse of her release caressed his cock. Panting, he deactivated the vibration and increased his diameter. She cried out again, her pussy fluttering wildly. “Too much?” he asked. “No. Just move!” He pulled her up, guiding her hands to his shoulders. “Lock your elbows and hold on tight. I need hard and fast right now.” “Thank God.” She chuckled then moaned with his first forceful thrust. Bracing his legs far apart, he drove up into her wet, willing body again and again. Hard, fast, deep, wild, he gave them both what they craved. His hands clutched her bottom and her nails dug into his back. Tension knotted his muscles and his balls drew up tight. He thrust to the hilt and held her to him, coming in long, shuddering waves. He groaned into her hair. The pulses of her orgasm around him felt nearly as good as his. For a long time he just held her, the moment too perfect for words. With obvious reluctance, Ashton separated their bodies and Corry lowered her legs to the ground. They waded through the water hand in hand, enjoying the tranquil setting and the tingling afterglow. All the unanswered questions awaited them on the shore. “You’re planning on getting me a security waiver?” she asked as they started back toward the village. 79
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She knew enough about the Pleasure Palace to understand what he had in mind. The sex emporium frequently attracted off-world clients who had no other interest in Halley Prime. They were issued diplomatic waivers, allowing them full access to the Pleasure Palace without the usual security scans and background checks required to visit Halley Prime. “No one will know where you are,” Ashton stressed. “As long as I stay inside the Pleasure Palace.” “This will ensure your safety until we can develop a long-term strategy.” He raised her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles, his gaze gleaming in the moonlight. “Can you think of another way for us to be together while we negotiate peace between your world and mine?” “No,” she admitted. A gentle breeze teased her damp skin, reminding her that they were still naked. “It’s a good plan.” “Meals will be delivered to your door and I’ll instruct the service personnel not to look at or speak with you. Unique customs of visiting dignitaries are nothing unusual for Petra’s staff.” Pausing on the narrow path, she pulled her hand out of his. “Why are you on a first-name basis with the owner of the Pleasure Palace?” He chuckled and recaptured her hand. “Father likes to forget the connection whenever he can, but Petra is my mother’s sister.” She couldn’t help but laugh. His mother sympathized with the rebels and her sister owned a thriving chain of sex emporiums. Premier VinDerley had more than his share of skeletons in his closet. “I guess the only real question is, can we trust ‘Aunt Petra’?” “It should never come to our needing to trust her. The sort of security we require is standard for each of her elite clients. Still, if things turn ugly, it should comfort you to know she’s been supporting your cause for years.” “The rebel cause is being financed by the owner of the Pleasure Palace?” “Why do you sound surprised?” He tucked her hand in the crook of his elbow and resumed their trek down the path. “Korbin never told you the identity of your primary benefactor?” “Korbin never told me a lot of things.” They ducked into the hut where she had been prepared for the ceremony and Ashton pulled her into his arms. “The Perrlain have some bizarre ideas, but I think they got one thing right. We need to live our lives to the fullest and cherish each moment the Deity grants to us.” “I couldn’t agree with you more.” She pressed against him, savoring his heat and the tenderness so evident in his expression. Her heart swelled with affection and desire. “Tomorrow might belong to the revolution, but tonight belongs to us.”
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Chapter One Danette Tiptonn opened her eyes and groaned as light stabbed into her brain. Blinking repeatedly, she brought the room into focus. She sat between Ashton and Palmer in some sort of holding cell. An alloy bench protruded directly from the barren wall. Her ears buzzed and her mind felt muddled. “Where are we, Ashton?” she asked, trying to lift her head off his shoulder. Why did she feel so…weak? Had she been drugged? What was happening? “I don’t know.” He sounded groggy and annoyed. The last thing she could remember clearly was the gala. She’d been returning from the bathroom when everything went black. Ashton had been at the party, but she couldn’t remember seeing Palmer there. Forcing her head to turn, she looked at the younger man. Palmer still wore his pajamas. He must have been taken right out of his bed. But who had done this and why? As if to answer her unspoken question, the door panel rolled up into the ceiling and a dark-haired woman strode into the room. Bright green eyes dominated her delicate features. Though she was slender and less than average height, she carried herself with authority and confidence. She approached Danette, grasped her shackled wrists and urged her to stand. A small length of chain connected her ankle restraints. For the first time, Danette noticed her feet were bare. What had they done with her shoes? It was such a trivial concern it shocked Danette out of the lingering stupor. Her shoes were the least of her problems. She needed to learn as much as she could about her circumstances and that was only possible if she regained control of her emotions. “Where are you taking me?” she asked. “Who the hell are you? What do you want with us?” Despite her determination to remain calm, her tone grew sharper with each question. “You won’t be harmed if you follow my instructions. If you give me any trouble, I’ll leave you bound and gagged until this is over.” “You can’t treat us like this.” She glanced at Palmer and Ashton for reinforcement. “Do you know who we are?” “This wasn’t a random act, Ms. Tiptonn. I’m fully aware of who you are, or more to the point, who you call ‘Father’.” Rebels? Who else would attempt something so brazen? The coalition had more allies than enemies. This had to be the work of the rebels.
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Seeing no alternative but cooperation, Danette shuffled out into the corridor. The woman emerged, followed immediately by her guards. The door panel rolled into place and the woman motioned Danette down the hallway. Danette studied her surroundings as she walked, searching for any clue to her location. Was she still in coalition space? Her chains jingled and her bare feet slid over the cool tiles. Tingles skittered up her spine. “Inside,” the woman ordered, and a door on Danette’s right opened. Danette glanced inside and shuddered. The room was identical to the one she’d just left. “I’d rather stay with the others.” “I’m sure you would,” the woman muttered. “We can verify the humane treatment of each other if we’re left together.” It was a warning as much as a suggestion. “So can the surveillance feed. Go.” Before Danette could argue, the two guards picked her up and carried her into the cell. Their hands lingered against her upper arms, the backs of their fingers brushing her breasts. She twisted out of their hold with an indignant gasp as her stomach lurched. They had no right… She had no rights. She was a prisoner of war, not Admiral Tiptonn’s daughter. The sooner she adjusted her thinking, the better her chances were of surviving this ordeal. “How long will you keep us? What are you asking in return for our…” Her words trailed away as they left her alone in the tiny room. The restraints fell to the floor with a noisy clatter and Danette kicked them under the bunk. She hadn’t worn the restraints long enough to chafe her skin, but it felt good to be rid of the weight. Ashton’s farther was premier of the Comet Coalition and Palmer’s mother was chief justice. As the dark-haired woman said, this was no random act. To Danette’s knowledge, the coalition had never given in to threats. Surely the rebels knew that. So what were they hoping to accomplish? A single blanket was folded at the foot of the bunk, which was the only thing resembling furniture in the room. An open archway provided some modicum of privacy if she needed to use the toilet. Another compartment opened off the lavatory, but the door remained locked as she approached. Even the detention centers on Halley Prime were far more hospitable than this. She sat on the edge of the bed then scooted back far enough to raise her feet off the cold alloy floor. They expected a helpless socialite, a superficial twit, living only for pleasure. Perhaps she should give them exactly what they expected. Covering her mouth with her hand, she allowed tears to fill her eyes. Were they watching? Assessing her? She had to learn more about them and she couldn’t do that locked in this cell.
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She produced a pathetic sob as tears escaped the corners of her eyes. Please let there be a man watching. If the dark-haired woman was monitoring the surveillance feed, this performance was utterly wasted. An odd rumble vibrated the room and Danette yelped. “What is that?” She kept her tone breathless yet loud enough for a security transmitter to detect. “What’s going on? Please, someone talk to me.” “Ms. Tiptonn, just relax. We’ll bring you something to eat in a little while.” She slowly lowered her hand away from her mouth, making sure her lips still trembled. “Thank you.” She sniffed and inched closer to the edge of the bunk. “May I know your name?” “I’m not even supposed to be talking to you.” He had a faint accent, as had the woman. Danette scrambled to place the vocal inflection. “I’m glad you did. My stomach is really upset. Could I get some crackers or maybe—” “Someone’s coming.” After a quick crackle, there was only silence.
***** Korbin Reah walked into the control booth later that night to find Larz cheerfully chatting with Danette Tiptonn. The younger man’s gaze was fixed on the vidscreen with a mixture of lust and awe. “Is this your homeworld?” she asked. “You have such an interesting accent.” Before Larz could answer the siren’s question, Korbin reached across the console and deactivated the intercom. “Have you lost your fucking mind?” A flush crept up Larz’s neck and deepened across his cheeks. “I didn’t tell her anything. She doesn’t even know my name. She was scared to death when Corry locked her in there by herself.” “You felt sorry for her?” He made a sharp gesture toward the vidscreen. “She’s pumping you for information and you’re too turned-on to notice. We are beneath contempt to people like her and don’t you ever forget it. Go take a cold shower and get your head screwed on straight.” “But my shift doesn’t end for another hour.” “Your shift ends now!” “Yes sir.” Korbin turned back to the vidscreen as Larz left the booth. The manipulative little bitch. Larz might be dazzled by her beauty, but she’d find him harder to control. With an angry exhalation, Korbin reactivated the intercom. “Hello.” She paced the holding cell, calling out to the walls. “If that question was too personal, we can talk about something else. Just don’t ignore me. I won’t cause any trouble, I promise.”
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Korbin raked his fingers through his hair and closed his eyes against the temptation. He’d promised Corry she could play with the prisoners first. He’d promised himself he’d leave the pampered princess alone. There was no way in hell he’d play nicely, so it was better for everyone if he took a giant step back. “Hello,” she tried again. There had to be some consequence for what she’d done with Larz. She had to know her gorgeous face and perfect body weren’t going to help her here. He paused the surveillance recording and crossed his arms over his chest. This would create a lapse in their vidlog, but he was willing to take the chance. “I’ll have to review the entire conversation before I decide what penalty is appropriate for the two of you,” he said with lazy menace. Her sparkling blue eyes widened and her lips parted. “Please don’t be angry with…the young man. He only spoke to me because I was frightened.” “Are you frightened now?” He hadn’t expected her to defend Larz. It was remarkably selfless for a privileged citizen of Halley Prime. She nervously licked her lips, drawing his attention to her mouth. An odd tingle erupted in his brain. That mouth, those electric blue eyes… Did he know this woman? An image formed, distinct and shocking. She knelt before him, naked, hands bound behind her, another Master grasped the back of her hair, offering Korbin the wet heat of those scarlet-tinted lips. Had he encountered Danette at the Pleasure Palace? No, it wasn’t possible. She would have been much too young. “Should I be frightened?” she asked, lowering her gaze submissively. “Do you intend to punish me?” Desire spread through him, heating his blood and speeding his pulse. “Would you enjoy being punished?” The question was out before he realized what he was doing. He had fallen into the same trap as Larz! “I…I would enjoy a hot shower and having something else to wear. This gown is a little impractical.” “But it suits you so well, princess.” “My name is Ms. Tiptonn.” She raised her chin, her expression a bit too haughty. “Please address me as such.” Wrong time to flaunt her breeding. Wrong man to provoke with her arrogance. He deactivated the lights and listened to her scream. She’d never known hardship, never gone hungry. He doubted Admiral Tiptonn had ever raised his voice to his precious baby girl. Training her would be no challenge. Still, Danette called to Pleasure Master Nine, the part of his nature he’d forced into hibernation when he resigned his position at the Pleasure Palace. “I’m sorry.” Genuine fear made Danette’s tone shrill. “Please turn the lights back on!” “Can I call you princess?” 85
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“Yes! Call me whatever you like, just turn on the lights.” The holding cells were sealed and soundproof, the darkness absolute. “Ask me nicely.” “Please. I already said please.” Her voice broke urgently. It wouldn’t do to have her swoon. Korbin chuckled and raised the illumination to one-tenth its normal intensity. “Thank you. More please.” “Say my name.” He activated infrared, allowing him to see her despite the meager light. She stumbled forward, her arms extended. This couldn’t lead where he wanted it to lead, so why was he toying with her? “I don’t know your name.” “Sure you do. Think about it. What does every man really want to be called?” It wasn’t just her beauty. Korbin had a knack for spotting those who understood surrender. The need to submit smoldered in Danette’s eyes. “Sir?” she suggested tentatively. “Close. Try again.” “Your majesty?” He chuckled. “I have an altogether different relationship in mind.” Her hands trembled as she covered her face and took a slow, deep breath, nearly spilling her breasts from the plunging neckline of her gown. Lowering her arms to her sides, she asked, “What do you want to be called? I’m tired of this game.” “Call me Master and we’ll play a different game.” “M-Master?” She caught her bottom lip between her teeth and pressed her hand over the upper swell of her breast. Was her heart pounding? Most women would have laughed or gasped in outrage. She only sounded unsure. Who had introduced her to the pleasures of submission? “You want me to call you Master?” He dimmed the lights. “Please, Master, turn on the lights.” Her tone was hushed and husky, but the request came without hesitation. Even her voice seemed familiar. This was Danette Tiptonn. What would she have been doing at the Pleasure Palace? He increased the intensity to half. “Thank you, Master.” Possessive desire tightened his abdomen and made his cock jerk. Stars, he wanted her. Maybe he’d wait to notify her father. He could… No! He shouldn’t have started this. But the game had begun and she obviously knew the rules. “You have such a beautiful body and that gown displays it so nicely. I bet every man at the gala was desperate to be near you as soon as they saw you in that dress.” “I’m shamefully vain, Master. I shouldn’t enjoy the attention, but I do.”
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All hesitation had left her voice. She was either a trained submissive or ripe for training. Korbin shifted his hips in a futile attempt to alleviate the pressure in his crotch. The gown supported her fabulous breasts and molded to her perfect ass. Knowing the impractical gown cost more than he made in a year only added to his determination to rip the offending garment off her voluptuous body. “How badly do you want that shower?” He bumped the lights back to full and waited for her reaction. Her brow furrowed and her lips pressed into a subtle pout. Despite the blatant sexuality apparent in every move she made, there was something almost innocent about his captive. She crossed her arms just under her breasts. The position pressed the swelling mounds into greater prominence, and Korbin shook his head. An invitation? “I won’t…sleep with you.” She fiddled with her gown. Korbin studied the distinct peaks her nipples formed beneath the clingy material. Maybe she wouldn’t sleep with him, but the thought excited her. “Can I talk to your supervisor? This is illegal. There are procedures governing the treatment of prisoners.” He smiled. Now this was more like it. Admiral Tiptonn’s daughter should be outraged that he would dare treat her with disrespect. “If I were a law-abiding citizen of Halley Prime that might interest me. And as entertaining as sleeping with you might be, that wasn’t what I meant.” “What did you mean?” Pleasure Master Nine surged to the surface, refusing to be denied. “I can unlock the lav, but even the back room is under surveillance.” A delightful fire lit her gaze. Oh yes, get angry. Tell me to go to hell. Resist! “I can shower as long as I’m willing to let you watch?” “Or you can spend the night in darkness. The choice is yours.” “I’m not ashamed of my body.” She raised her chin and smoothed the gown over her hips. “I want fresh towels and clean clothes to put on when I’m done.” Korbin clenched his jaw and glared at the display. The teasing little slut! The need to subdue her clawed at his gut until he groaned. She wasn’t ashamed of her body? Why would she be? She was closer to physical perfection than any woman he’d ever seen. With a few quick commands, he triggered the door to the holding cell’s utility room. Hearing the subtle hiss, Danette spun toward the archway and rushed into the back room of the lavatory. Korbin closed the door behind her. A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. He could lock her inside. If she thought the holding cell was cramped… His hand hovered over the controls. All he had to do was enter the code and the screens would display the lavatory from three angles. Her easy acceptance of his condition abraded his pride. Chasing his quarry was half the fun. How could he 87
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conquer if she didn’t resist? Who was her Master? Korbin was more convinced than ever she had been trained. He activated the display and braced himself for the visual impact. Danette was stepping out of the gown as the video feed came into focus. She faced away from him, her long, toned legs and tight, round ass presented in naked splendor. His hand moved automatically to his crotch. All the rearranging in the world wasn’t going to help him now. She turned to hang the gown on the hook beside the door. High and full, round and rosy, her breasts tormented him. He wanted to touch and taste, to pinch those scarlet nipples until she screamed. He switched camera angles as she moved toward the shower. Her mound was smooth. Delicate pink folds peeked out from between her slender thighs. The shower activated as she stepped into the stall. A soft gasp escaped her lips and her eyes widened. “Master?” “Yes, princess.” After a long pause she asked, “Do I please you?” Her obvious need for affirmation fueled his desire. She was using him just as surely as she had pumped Larz for information. He was a fool to continue the game. Still, he couldn’t drag his gaze away. “You’re stunning,” he said in a tight, begrudging voice. “I want to touch you but we both know I can’t.” Water cascaded down her body, drenching her long blonde hair. Arching her back and raising her arms, she smoothed the mass back from her face. A dreamy smile revealed her pleasure at his praise. Her perfectly applied cosmetics were impervious to the spray. “Do you have a Master?” Why was he asking? It was irrelevant. He couldn’t fuck her. There was too much at stake to risk her crying rape. She blinked the water out of her eyes. Her lips parted as if she would speak. Instead she turned her face into the spray. “I asked you a question.” Sputtering, she reached for the shampoo dispenser protruding from the wall. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. I’m Admiral Tiptonn’s daughter. That’s all you need to know.” She was right, but what had caused the sudden change in her demeanor? Was she worried he was recording their conversation? Did she not want Daddy to find out she had a Master? As she worked the shampoo through her hair, her nipples gathered into tight red knots. Had their color been enhanced too? She skimmed her breasts with her hands, pausing to stroke her nipples. Damn her! She knew he was watching and she was punishing him.
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Unfastening his pants, Korbin freed his aching cock. Stars, it had been years since he’d relieved himself like this, but there was really no other choice. Knowing she was three doors down from the control booth only heightened the tension. She caressed her breasts. He worked his cock. She cupped her mound and Korbin’s shaft bucked within his grasp. Her slender fingers ended in long, blood-red nails. She parted her folds and rubbed her clit with her middle finger. Didn’t those nails scratch? The momentary distraction pushed back his release. He watched her fingers, wishing they were his, wishing… Leaning against the shower stall, she bent her knees, spreading her legs so he could see her glistening pussy. Pearly essence coated her fingers. Holding herself open with one hand, she slipped two fingers right up into her core. Korbin tightened his fist and worked himself hard and fast. A ragged groan tore from his throat as he angled his cock toward the floor. He came in violent spasms, his entire body shaking with the force of the pleasure. Panting harshly, he collapsed back in his chair and reached for some tissues, dropping several onto the mess he’d just made. He couldn’t drag his gaze away from the display. His princess leaned against the shower stall, finger-fucking herself in earnest. Her thumb rubbed her clit while her fingers slid in and out. You can’t have her, Korbin. You can’t even touch her. But damn, it was fun to pretend.
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Chapter Two “You don’t look pleased, little sister.” Korbin waited until Corry met his gaze before he smiled. “They’re everything I expected, and yet they’re not.” They sat across from each other at the small round table in Corry’s apartment. Spacious quarters had been assigned to Korbin with his promotion to superintendent six months before. He’d been thrilled by the luxury until he realized every room was equipped with continual surveillance. The warden assured him the practice was mandated by the coalition for all administrators and was meant entirely for his protection. He hadn’t argued with the policy, he just started spending more time in the cramped box Corry called home. “Have you interviewed all three of our guests?” he asked carefully. “Yes. Palmer is either completely uninterested in the coalition at large or a consummate actor. He never hesitated to answer any of my questions. He just had nothing important to say.” “Try again tomorrow. See if his answers change. What about the blonde? Did she cooperate?” “Ms. Tiptonn seemed disgusted and fascinated by me.” Corry made a derisive sound in the back of her throat. “She’s a spoiled rich girl to the roots of her enhanced hair. She has perfect posture, a body men dream about and permanent cosmetics.” Korbin smiled as Corry’s tone went from confounded to downright jealous. “Beyond beauty secrets, did Ms. Tiptonn have anything interesting to share?” “She knew more about the workings of the coalition than Palmer but nothing we don’t already know. I interrogated her for several hours and she never wavered.” “What about VinDerley?” She hesitated a bit too long and Korbin shook his head. “Got to you, did he?” “He’s arrogant and completely remorseless.” “He’s the premier’s son. What did you expect? He’s been groomed from the cradle to step up once his father steps down.” Corry sighed. “If the coalition knows about the transportation unit, so does VinDerley.” “I don’t think their knowledge, or lack of it, is crucial to our plans,” he reminded her with a bland sort of criticism. She was still looking for a means of negotiation, a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
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“If they haven’t managed to reproduce Father’s prototype, it gives us something to barter.” “We have the hostages. We don’t need anything else.” “The hostages are only an incentive for as long as we hold them. If we use this opportunity to prove to the coalition that we’re equal—” “I don’t want equality. I never have. I want out from underneath the coalition’s control. I want the freedom to shape my own future.” “You have that now. We need to be accepted—” “No,” he interrupted sharply. “I don’t want to belong to their society. I don’t want to dance at their soirées. I’m not fighting for acceptance and neither are the others. You need to get over your fascination with Halley Prime.” Cupping her chin, Korbin turned her head until their gazes locked. “Father is dead because of them. Your mother abandoned you for a chance to be part of their world. How can you feel anything but contempt?” “Father died believing this conflict could be resolved without destroying the coalition.” She twisted away from his grasp. “I will not let his death be in vain.” Korbin shook his head. “Father died because he tried to resolve this conflict without destroying the coalition. The time for diplomacy is past. This is a revolution!”
***** Major Meredith Caperelli squared her shoulders, straightened the jacket of her formal uniform, and took a deep breath. She’d been escorted to the council chambers door and told to enter when she was ready. Ready was a relative term. She’d been assigned to numerous missions that risked life and limb. She excelled in situations that left other officers trembling with fear. Yet a command appearance before the Comet Coalition’s executive council made her feel like a young recruit again. “This is foolish.” She stepped in front of the body scanner and waited as her identity and clearance were confirmed. The door slid open and Meredith walked into the room, her stride confident and calm. “Thank you for coming so quickly, Major Caperelli,” Admiral Tiptonn greeted her. He was the only member of the executive council Meredith had previously met. She responded with a smart salute and crossed to stand directly in front of the council’s high table. “Please have a seat. This might take awhile.” The admiral motioned toward the seat to her left. Meredith sat as Admiral Tiptonn introduced the others. Premier VinDerley was a strikingly handsome man with a full head of silvery hair and dark eyes. Chief Justice Boehme sat on his left. She was perhaps ten years younger than the two men, but her regal bearing bespoke her position of power.
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Meredith’s astute gaze returned to the admiral. She had always thought him too pretty to head the Comet Coalition’s armed forces, with his tawny hair and clear gray eyes. But his skill and ingenuity were unparalleled. She would obey his commands without question. “I asked for you personally, Major Caperelli, because you are especially suited to the situation at hand.” “How so, Admiral Tiptonn?” She kept her voice even, respectful without sounding overly eager. Premier VinDerley cut in. “Major Caperelli, you must understand the very delicate nature of the information we are about to disclose. Confidentiality is of the utmost importance.” “I understand.” This was getting more interesting with each word they spoke. Tension rippled through the room in a tangible wave. What was this about? “A small band of rebels have kidnapped our children,” Admiral Tiptonn explained. A faint gasp escaped Meredith despite her efforts to contain it. “They disappeared within minutes of each other, so the abductions were obviously premeditated. For the past three days we have tried in vain to determine their whereabouts.” The premier cleared his throat and continued. “We just received word from the kidnappers that confirms our worst suspicions.” Meredith had a hundred questions, but years of training had taught her the usefulness of listening. “They’ve not, as yet, made specific demands. Their message listed their points of contention but didn’t spell out their terms.” “Do we know who they are, Sir?” “They refer to themselves in the plural. ‘We’ are unhappy with… It is unacceptable to ‘us’ that… And so forth. But the message was closed with a single name. We think it might be an acronym, but they didn’t explain the meaning.” “You said I was uniquely qualified to handle this situation, Sir. What did you mean?” “You excel in covert operations. You have proven to be extremely discreet. The Comet Coalition has always refused to negotiate with terrorists, and we cannot afford to compromise that position.” “So, this operation is completely unofficial?” “Exactly,” the admiral confirmed. “How was the kidnapping accomplished? When and where did it take place?” “Palmer was taken from his dorm room on d’Arrest the same night Danette and Ashton disappeared from a gala.” “Disappeared?” She detected a certain significance in the word. “There were no witnesses? No apparent struggle?”
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“That’s correct,” Admiral Tiptonn muttered. “They just disappeared into thin air. No one saw or heard anything.” “May I see the message?” He opened a file folder on the table in front of him and produced a single sheet of paper. Meredith took it from him and quickly scanned the rambling contents before her gaze focused on the intricate symbol at the bottom of the page. “NëvouS.” Her heart lodged in her throat. Did they know? Was this a test of her allegiance? “Who is NëvouS? Do you know what that symbol signifies?” Admiral Tiptonn asked, his sharp gray eyes searching her features. “Perhaps.” She swallowed and scooted to the edge of her chair. “Within certain circles, my stepson Korbin Reah is known as NëvouS. He has used this avatar since he was old enough to activate an access terminal. I’m not supposed to know these things, of course, but Korbin is not quite as clever as he believes.” “Your stepson is one of the rebels?” Chief Justice Boehme was clearly upset by the prospect. “Korbin Reah is on our list of suspects,” Admiral Tiptonn reminded her. “We had no idea this man was your son.” “I was married to his father. Does this disqualify me from the mission?” “Only if you insist,” the premier said. “I think it’s a wonderful stroke of luck.”
***** Korbin knew he was being a fool, but he couldn’t stay away. After transmitting his message to the executive council through an untraceable series of relays, he’d found himself at the door to the control booth. He stood there for a long time, reminding himself of all the reasons he couldn’t interact with Danette Tiptonn. But the memory of her lather-slicked body haunted him. Her soft cries of passion echoed endlessly through his mind. He hadn’t instructed her to touch herself. She’d taunted him with the display, challenging him—summoning him. Pleasure Master Nine was happy to oblige. Korbin entered the booth. Larz sat in one of the two chairs. The control panel on his forearm emitted music as he watched the displays. “Any activity?” Korbin slipped into the chair beside the younger man. “Nope. It seems our guests are used to a more leisurely timetable than Borrelly requires. They’re both still sleeping.” “Take a break. It’s bound to be a long, boring day.” “Sure, boss.” Larz stood and started toward the door. “I’m really sorry about the other night.” Korbin managed a stiff nod. At least one of them had learned their lesson. 93
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“Did you send the message?” “Yes, but this one just confirms what we’ve done. Later this afternoon I’ll transmit our demands.” Larz nodded. “See you in a few.” Korbin focused immediately on Danette’s sleeping image. Why couldn’t he banish her from his thoughts? It wasn’t for lack of trying. With the negotiations underway, it was only a matter of time before the council responded and she was whisked back to Halley Prime. His pampered princess would be locked in her ivory tower, inaccessible to someone like him. The thought twisted around Korbin like a massive snake, stealing his breath and tightening his chest. He might never see her again. Why was that possibility so painful? It was irrational. He hardly knew her. No, he didn’t know her at all. But the need to get to know her burned through him like slow-moving lava. Desire fueled his determination and Korbin turned his attention to the control console. Larz wouldn’t be gone long. Korbin had to hurry. Programming carefully selected segments of the video record into a randomly changing loop, Korbin constructed the illusion needed to assure their privacy. The door to the control booth opened and Larz strolled in. “Anything interesting?” The younger man slipped back into his chair as Korbin stood. “The college boy has been sort of restless, but the princess is sleeping like a baby.” “Damn, she’s hot,” Larz whispered. “Look. Don’t touch. And don’t talk to her again.” Amused by his own hypocrisy, Korbin smiled. “I’ll check back with you later.” “No hurry. I can babysit with the best of them.” Larz fingered the control band on his wrist and accessed his music files. Korbin slipped from the booth and headed down the corridor. His heart beat faster with each step. He’d just talk to her, find out who trained her. Why did she seem so familiar? He’d spent four years at the Pleasure Palace, but his interaction with the clientele had been minimal. He’d been hired to train other Masters, to teach a variety of techniques and approaches to sensual power exchange. Maybe he could… Heat surged through his body, mocking his nonchalance. He’d do a whole lot more than talk if she gave the slightest indication she was agreeable. As if the scene in the shower wasn’t invitation enough? Slipping soundlessly into the holding cell, Korbin waited for his eyes to adjust to the dimness. He could barely make out her shape on the bed, but even this was too risky. He crept across the room and deactivated the lights with a Borrellian voice command.
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Chapter Three Startled from her sleep by a foreign phrase, Danette opened her eyes to darkness. “What the… Hello?” Silence. Oh shit, what now? Three days of monotonous boredom had lulled her into a sense of security. “Why did you turn off the lights?” She huddled on the bed, blinking in a futile effort to focus through the darkness. The Pleasure Master had used the dark to motivate her. Had he finally returned? A violent shiver sped down her spine. “This is suffocating.” “If you see my face, I’ll have to kill you. I thought you’d prefer the dark.” His deep, faintly accented voice came from right beside the bed. Danette gasped and scrambled into the corner. His warm hand grasped her ankle and pulled her away from the wall. She screamed. “The room is sealed. No one can hear you. Calm down.” “What… What do you want?” She twisted, trying to dislodge his hand. “I’m not going to hurt you. I just want to talk.” She laughed. “Pleasure Masters don’t talk, they command.” “Well, I’m commanding you to talk to me.” He skimmed his hands up her body until he found her shoulders. He didn’t cup her mound or fondle her breasts. It didn’t make sense. Why was he here if he didn’t mean to fuck her? “Lie back. The darkness is less disorienting if you lie still.” “Are the others… Can they hear us?” “No one can hear us. Just relax.” Applying gentle pressure, he guided her down. “That’s better.” Danette trembled. His hands were warm and strong. Awareness tightened her core, awakening long-neglected desire. She closed her eyes, wishing she could see him, wishing he would recognize the ache within her and take control. “What have you done with Palmer and Ashton?” “They’re safe, for now.” That voice. She knew that voice. “Why should I trust you?” She started to sit again, but his hands remained firm on her shoulders. If she struggled, would he understand? Would he climb on top of her and hold her down? Would he kiss her into silence and… “I don’t want your trust, and you can believe me or not, it makes no difference.” He squeezed her shoulders and stroked her neck.
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She arched away from his light caress but kept her arms at her sides. It had been so long since she experienced the freedom of submission, the pleasure only found with a Master. Please let him understand. “Why did you touch yourself in the shower?” Swallowing with difficulty, Danette debated what to say. “Because you wanted me to. You said you couldn’t touch me, so I… Isn’t that want you wanted? A hostage is supposed to cooperate with their captor. That’s what keeps them alive long enough to be rescued.” “Don’t you mean ransomed? How are you going to be rescued when no one knows where you are?” She wanted to laugh. Would it shock him to know she didn’t want to be rescued? She was just as much a prisoner on Halley Prime as she was in this holding cell. Her father planned her days and scrutinized her every movement, making sure she never did anything inappropriate again. “How much are you asking for me?” “How much are you worth?” “To my father? Everything.” “And to your Master?” Was this a trick? Was he recording their conversation? Had he recorded her wanton behavior in the shower? Her father already considered her a perverted whore. He felt it his parental obligation to save her from herself. “I no longer have a Master.” She’d spent the first nineteen years of her life in her father’s shadow. Men either avoided her entirely or tripped over each other trying to impress her. But they had no real interest in the person they romanced. She was Admiral Tiptonn’s daughter, their ticket to promotion and success. “Did he dismiss you from his service or did you ask to be released?” Pain spiked through her at his casual question. If he only knew! “Why do you care? Who are you?” Her voice barely a whisper, she confessed, “Your voice is so familiar.” He was silent for a long time. If it weren’t for his hands on her shoulders she would have thought he left the room. She searched her memory, frantically trying to connect his voice with a face, an incident. It came back to her in a startling rush. The sensual curve of his lips and the shimmer of his emerald gaze visible through the eye holes in his mask. This was Paul’s teacher. Pleasure Master Nine! Did he remember her? It had been so long ago. A slow heated pulse expanded within her, intensifying until she bit her lip to keep from groaning. He wasn’t just a Master, he taught the others, trained the trainers. Danette could scarcely breathe. “Where did you receive your training?” “We both know where we met.” 96
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He stroked the side of her face, tracing her full lower lip with his thumb. “How old are you?” His voice was hushed, speculative. “I don’t see how we could have been there at the same time.” “I was nineteen when my training began.” Sorrow choked her. Paul. Her heart cried out his name. Even after three and a half years she mourned his loss. She missed his easy smile and flashing eyes. She longed for the security and unbridled passion she’d only known as his thrall. Eight months after she agreed to be Paul’s thrall, her father rescued her from Paul’s perversion by dispatching him on a mission he couldn’t possibly survive. A sob escaped Danette and she covered her face with her hands. Pleasure Master Nine joined her on the bunk. Lying on his side, he pulled her against him and wrapped his arms around her back. “Why are you crying? Tell me now.” His tone brooked no refusal. “I can’t.” “You will.” She trembled. This was her opportunity. All she had to do was object and he’d be obligated to punish her. Her nipples hardened and her pussy clenched. No one had touched her since Paul. Her father wouldn’t let her near a Master and she didn’t want anyone else. “Go to hell.” He covered her lower body with his leg and grasped her wrists, dragging her hands above her head. He understood! Thank the stars, he understood. His muscular chest pressed her into the bunk as he reached for something above her hands. “There it is,” he muttered, and she heard a metallic click. Guiding her wrists into the restraint cuffs he’d just released from the wall, the Pleasure Master quickly secured her arms. Her heart thundered, making her giddy with anticipation. He grabbed the waistband of her uniform bottom. She kicked and twisted. “No! You promised you wouldn’t hurt me.” “And you believed me?” He laughed. “Silly princess.” He stripped her from the waist down while she thrashed and yelped. Moving between her thighs, he draped her legs over his shoulders and raised her hips off the bed. His mouth hovered over her slit. Danette arched and panted. His hot breath stirred her damp folds, but he didn’t touch her. Tension built. This was madness. She’d never been so desperate for release. Her abdomen cramped with need and he’d yet to touch her intimately. “Please… Master, don’t do this.” Slowly, dragging his tongue from back to front, he parted her folds and flicked her clit. Danette sighed as pleasure spiraled through her pussy.
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“Please, Master, don’t put your fingers inside me.” His throaty chuckle vibrated her passion-slick flesh. Thrusting two fingers deep into her core, he lavished attention on her clit. He licked and sucked, circled and flicked. Danette tossed her head and clenched her fists. It felt so good! A moan built in her throat and her inner muscles rippled. He pulled out and lifted his mouth. “No!” She’d been so damn close. The ache intensified, making her whimper. “You will only come when I tell you to. If you climax without permission, you will be punished.” Sensation receded, leaving her shaky and hollow. “Yes, Master.” He lowered her hips to the bed, arranging her legs loosely around his waist. “Shall I fuck you with my fingers? My fingers are much bigger than yours. Would you like that, princess?” “No. I don’t want your fingers inside me. I will never want your cock inside me.” Strained and husky, her voice revealed the depth of her need. He didn’t respond with words. Sliding two fingers deep into her snug core, he pressed her mound with the heel of his other hand and began to move. “How does that feel?” It felt like a teasing hint of what she really wanted, but Danette squeezed his fingers greedily and let the pleasure build. It had been so long since a man brought her to orgasm. Discreet vibrating toys and the shallow relief of her own touch was the only pleasures she’d known since… Her inner muscles throbbed and heated tingles sank deep into her body. “Please, Master, may I come?” “Yes. Come for me, princess. Let me feel your pleasure.” He thrust hard, rubbing his hand against her mound. Danette raised her hips, taking his fingers deeper. Her orgasm burst with blinding intensity. She cried out as her body shook and her inner muscles squeezed. Panting harshly, she reveled in each scorching pulse, each sensuous wave. Withdrawing his fingers, the Pleasure Master bent between her thighs and savored the essence of her passion. His tongue caressed her with long, thorough strokes. This kiss was different. It wasn’t meant to arouse. He avoided her clit. He soothed her, adored her and silently praised her response. “Oh, how I wish I could keep you.” His lips moved against her as he whispered the words. Danette stiffened. Did she dare admit her situation? Could she trust her enemy? Keep me! I don’t want to be rescued. She pressed her lips together, refusing to humiliate herself. Why did she feel safe with this man? Without seeing his face, knowing only his touch, this complete stranger made her feel more important than she’d felt in years. It was a Master’s sworn duty, his highest priority, to pleasure and protect his
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thrall. This man had taught Paul to treasure her. Trailing tender kisses down her thigh, he crawled off the bed. “Where are you going?” she asked a bit too urgently. “Have I displeased you?” “No. You please me greatly.” She heard his ragged sigh. “You’ll be examined as soon as you return to Halley Prime.” “Take my mouth. Please, Master, I offer it freely. I would be shamed to leave you wanting.” Korbin trembled. He should go. He’d stayed too long already, taken too much. But she was a prize, a jewel, a treasure. His traitorous heart pounded harder than his neglected cock. She offered herself freely for his pleasure. How could he resist? She’s Admiral Tiptonn’s daughter. You can’t keep her! “Master?” The vulnerability in her tone tore through him. She needed to pleasure him. No thrall was satisfied while their Master ached. “We will pleasure each other.” After shedding his pants, he took her slender waist and scooted her down on the bunk. He extended her arms as far as the restraints allowed and made room for his legs. He moved carefully in the darkness, positioned himself above her, straddled her face and arched over her belly, preparing to continue his feast. “You may come as soon as I do.” He chuckled. “You won’t be able to ask permission with my cock in your mouth.” “I want to touch you,” she whispered. “I know you do.” He nudged her lips with the head of his cock and she met his entrance with a welcoming swirl of her warm, wet tongue. Closing his eyes against the pleasure, he sank into her hot mouth. Deeper, she took him and took him until he had no more to give. Stars, she was fabulous. Few thralls had been able to accept his full length and she did so without hesitation. As he pulled back, an image solidified within his mind. The same image he’d seen before. Her former Master offering her luscious mouth for Korbin’s pleasure. She suckled and swirled, taking him deep again. Distracted by the memory, he pulled her legs toward him, bent her knees and spread her wide. Who was her Master? Most of his trainees had offered their thralls to him in one way or another. The answer eluded him, so Korbin let the mystery slide to the back of his mind. Her pussy was silky with hot cream. He licked and sucked, flicking his tongue against her clit. She mimicked the flick of his tongue with the swirl of hers. She was so eager, so giving, so selfless. It would be easy to treasure her. She created a tight ring with her lips and he slid in and out. Hot, wet—woman! He thrust his tongue deep into her cunt. Her muffled cry sent tingling heat darting through his body. Damn, she liked that. Shifting her legs higher, spreading her wider, he fucked her with his tongue. 99
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She arched and sucked frantically on his straining cock. They synchronized their movements, forming a frantic, primal dance. Scalding pleasure detonated within Korbin as he released his seed. He clutched her tight ass and thrust deep with his cock and his tongue. Her pussy fluttered while her mouth milked him greedily. He shook, awed and a little wary. This was the most intensely erotic experience of his life and he had to let her go. She swallowed and caressed him until he had nothing left to give. He couldn’t get enough of her creamy folds. Licking and gently sucking, he stayed with her until the last pearly drop was consumed. He had to leave now. He would jeopardize the mission and compromise the cause. He had no choice. Reluctantly disentangling their bodies, he summoned his professional detachment. “I’ll release the restraints once I’ve left the room. Re-dress quickly. I don’t want the others to know I visited you. They might see it as permission to do the same.” “I understand.” He felt his way across the holding cell. “Will you visit me again?” He’d reached the door when her question brought him up short. It was ridiculous, but he felt as if a part of his soul were about to be severed. Forcing the words past his tight throat, he said, “The council was notified this morning. You should be ransomed soon.”
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Chapter Four “Something’s wrong,” Korbin said suddenly, preempting the remainder of the meeting. The other two department heads sat across a small table from him. “You’ll have to excuse me, gentlemen, but I’ve ignored this premonition as long as I can.” “Do you often have premonitions?” Warden Restien asked. Korbin had been careful to earn this man’s trust over the past several years. His largest obstacle had been convincing the warden he didn’t share his father’s radical politics. Restien believed him to be a faithful servant of the coalition and nothing he did or said must shatter that illusion. “Not at all, sir. That’s why I’ve tried to ignore this feeling. But it won’t leave me. I need to find out what’s causing my unease.” “My wife had one of those feelings last year,” Glen Vont, director of maintenance, put in. “Our daughter had broken her arm. I’m free tomorrow afternoon to finish this up. What’s your schedule like, Warden?” “Tomorrow afternoon will be fine.” All three men pushed back their chairs and stood. “I expect a full report, Korbin. Hopefully, this is a waste of time.” Korbin walked them to the office door and thanked each man for his patience. He waited only long enough to be sure they had actually departed before he began his investigation. Corry wasn’t in her apartment and she didn’t answer the outpost-wide page. Inmates and Corrections employees were injected with ident-chips. Corry wasn’t technically an employee, so she had never allowed the procedure. Her ability to leave the outpost without being tracked had been an advantage from time to time. This wasn’t one of those times. Korbin marched to the control booth. Sharon was on duty. She greeted him with a smile. “Have you seen Corry or Larz in the past two hours?” She shook her head. “What’s the matter? You look frantic.” “Did you take food to our guests today?” “Just Danette and Palmer,” she explained. “Corry’s hoarding VinDerley.” “That’s not funny,” he growled. “What’s wrong with you?” “Page Foster. I’ll be right back.”
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After learning that VinDerley was a powerful empath, he ordered Corry and Larz to move Ashton back to the main complex. Something must have gone wrong. Tension built with each step Korbin took. Please let her be all right, let them be all right. Korbin found Larz locked in the abandoned cellblock. VinDerley and Corry were nowhere in sight. The younger man struggled to his feet as Korbin deactivated the energy barrier. “Are you okay?” “I jammed my wrist and wounded my pride, but I’m not badly hurt. He moved so fast and hit with such precision, it was all a blur. Why can a professional negotiator fight like a gorilla?” “There’s obviously more to Ashton than meets the eye. We won’t underestimate him again.” Korbin dreaded the next question. “Did he take Corry with him?” “Yeah. I don’t know why he would have taken her off-world, but they were together when they left.” Korbin led Larz back to the control booth. Foster had already arrived. “VinDerley escaped. He took Corry with him,” Korbin told the others, stunned by the sudden turn of events. “How? When? How long have they been gone?” Foster demanded. Chagrined and obviously uncomfortable, Larz explained what happened. “If they managed to get off the outpost, there has to be some sort of record,” Sharon pointed out. “Let’s start there.”
***** Danette trembled in her restraints. Being restrained didn’t frighten her. Being blindfolded was nothing new, but she heard only fury in the Master’s voice. No velvet seduction, no unyielding tenderness, just anger and demand. “Where would he have taken her?” “I told you, I don’t know. Are you sure they’re really gone? Ashton wouldn’t—” She bit back the words before she revealed too much. “Leave without you?” The wristcuffs stretched her arms well above her head, keeping Danette on the balls of her feet and slightly off balance. Something soft brushed her nipple. Startled, she jerked, swaying unsteadily before regaining her stance. “Why would VinDerley care what happens to you?” Was the Master allowing the others to watch? This was so different from his last visit. This wasn’t about pleasure. This was an interrogation. “Ashton loves to play hero. He wouldn’t have left without trying to rescue Palmer and me.” “Maybe you overestimate your appeal.”
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“It has nothing to do with appeal. Ashton would feel honor-bound to rescue anyone.” Her other nipple received a teasing stroke. “Regardless of his heroic nature, we have reason to believe he’s abandoned you to my tender mercies.” Why was he treating her like this? Without the security of her role, she was lost, vulnerable. She thought he understood. Channeling her confusion into anger, she responded boldly. “How did Ashton get off-world? Where the hell are we anyway?” “You will answer my questions.” She turned her head, following the sound of his voice as he slowly circled her. “I have answered your questions. Master, I don’t—” “I’m not your Master!” His words struck like a blow. She recoiled, turning her face away. The fantasy shattered. For a few short hours she’d been sheltered and cherished as only a pleasure thrall could be, but reality returned. She was a political hostage. The daughter of Admiral Tiptonn. Clearing her throat, she raised her chin and summoned all the arrogance her upbringing instilled. “I demand that you return my clothing and release me from these restraints. My father will hunt you down and kill you if you abuse me in any way.” “I haven’t touched you.” No, Pleasure Master Nine had. The Master had touched her and tasted her and allowed her to… “What do you want from me?” “Can VinDerley pilot a spacecraft?” “Why should I tell you anything? You already told me the executive council has been contacted. I have nothing to gain by helping you recover Ashton. You still have Palmer and me. Just let him go.” “I can’t. He took something that belongs to me.” Easily identifying possession in his tone, Danette’s heart sank even further. “You mean someone.” He didn’t deny it. “He won’t hurt her. Ashton wouldn’t hurt anyone.” “Then why did you agree to marry him? You will never be satisfied with a man who isn’t willing to hurt you, at least a little.” Danette gasped, feeling truly naked for the first time. Had he known she was engaged to Ashton when he came to her as Master? Had her submission meant nothing to him? As if a dam broke inside her, Danette sagged against her bonds. Hard, racking sobs tore from her throat and shook her body. All the lonely years, the continual scrutiny, her father’s unrelenting expectations caved in with suffocating intensity. Strong arms wrapped around her, lifting her against a solid chest, relieving the pressure from her wrists. His unexpected tenderness tormented her. He couldn’t reject her one moment and offer comfort the next. It was cruel!
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“Why are you crying?” “Leave me alone.” She couldn’t escape his embrace. His warm hands caressed her back, skimmed over her ass and came to rest on her hips, steadying her. “My private life is none of your business.” “I remember you, Danette.” The dark seduction returned. He was the Master again. Her heart leapt and heat flooded her pussy. Damn him! She couldn’t just turn her feelings on and off at his convenience. Why was he doing this? “So what? None of it matters anymore.” “It matters to me. Why did you leave Paul? He was one of the best, most perceptive Masters I’ve ever mentored.” She twisted and tugged against the restraints. Wanting to hit him, needing to feel physical pain like the emotional torment ravaging her soul. “I didn’t leave Paul. My father had him killed!” His strong arms raised her off the floor, bringing an end to her struggles. “You suspect or you know?” “Father had him assigned to a mission no one could have survived. The entire company was slaughtered, because of my perversion.” He slipped a thick cushion under her feet so she could stand more comfortably. Moving up close behind her, he stroked her breasts. “I’m sorry. Paul was a good man. I will mourn his loss with you.” “You’re a fucking liar!” She threw her weight forward. He covered her breasts with one arm and cupped her mound with his other hand, dragging her back into the heat of his body. “You don’t care about Paul. You don’t care about me. You’ll return me to my father and I’ll be married to Ashton within the year.” “Why did you agree to the engagement?” He didn’t caress her, just held her firmly while he waited for her explanation. Each breath she took rubbed her nipples against his arm. The pressure of his palm accented the hollow ache building in her core. She wanted him, needed him, but not just for today. She needed to escape from the prison of her life. Tears trailed down her cheeks. Why was she hoping to find escape at the hands of her captor? It was irrational. Pleasure Master Nine hadn’t kidnapped her. She was at the mercy of the rebels. “The engagement is a political maneuver sponsored by Premier VinDerley and Admiral Tiptonn,” she said mechanically. “Ashton isn’t happy about it either. We just haven’t figured out how to end it without incurring the wrath of both families.” “Has Ashton ever fucked you?” “That’s none of your goddamned business!” He pinched her nipple. Pleasure-pain spiked deep into her abdomen and Danette cried out. “Say my name.”
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“This isn’t fair!” She jerked and twisted, but the restraints held firm. “You’re either my Master or you’re not. I won’t be manipulated like this.” His body stiffened against her back and his warm breath stirred her hair. “You’re right.” She didn’t realize what he intended until the restraints released. Tugging the blindfold down, she caught a glimpse of his retreating back before the door rolled down behind him. Sinking to her knees on the cushion, Danette buried her face in her hands and wept. The last thing she’d wanted was to be released.
***** “There has to be something,” Korbin said, struggling to conceal the utter frustration in his voice. Sharon pushed back from the control console, sweeping her hand toward the vidscreen. “I’ve been through all the records twice. Every ship that launched in the past twenty-four hours had proper clearance and manifests. Is there any possibility they’re still on Borrelly?” “Corry isn’t tagged, but her DNA is on file. The scans Larz ran would have detected her if she was still on the outpost.” “And your interrogations?” Sharon asked. “Were either of the captives able to give you some idea where he would have taken her?” He shook his head, infuriated by his helplessness. “Ashton was acting on his own. The other two know nothing.” “Where do you think he took her?” “Home. He has no reason to hide. I’m sure they’re headed straight for Halley Prime.” “Can our sponsor help?” Again, he shook his head. “Our sponsor insisted on complete anonymity when financial support was offered.” “Corry’s your sister. You have to at least ask.” Without responding to the subtle criticism, Korbin left the control booth. Sharon was right. It wouldn’t hurt to let Petra know what was going on. If she could intervene on any level, he would be thankful. He went to Corry’s apartment and used a secure channel to page Petra. During his years at the Pleasure Palace, Korbin had learned to appreciate her business acumen. She didn’t exploit her workers, and guests could indulge their every desire so long as all parties were participating willingly. The private, person-to-person page took a few minutes to connect. Korbin’s thoughts drifted back to Danette and his mouth went dry. He had no right to want her,
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no hope of providing her with the sort of life she deserved. So why couldn’t he get her out of his mind? “Hi there, stranger.” Petra’s husky voice drew his thoughts back to the present. Her image filled the vidscreen in front of him. Apparently she’d been in an orange mood today. Her shiny orange hair just brushed her shoulders, framing features nearly lost beneath her colorful cosmetics. Her lips were bright orange, even her brows and eyelashes had been tinted the outlandish color. “Have you come to your senses and tendered your resignation? You are so wasted…where you are.” Despite his anxiety, she made him smile. Petra could be quite charming when she chose to be—ruthless but charming. “I appreciate your saying so. Unfortunately this isn’t a social call.” “What can I do for you?” Her orange lashes fluttered, drawing attention to her newly darkened eyes. The last time he’d seen her they were bright blue. “You know what I want you to do for me.” He debated what to say. This channel was as secure as any long-range communication could be. Still, one could never be too cautious. “Might this have something to do with my nephew?” she asked, her eyes gleaming with knowing amusement. “It does, but what makes you ask?” Did nothing transpire without Petra’s knowledge? This woman might possibly wield more power than Premier VinDerley. “Come now,” she smiled and arched her brow, “a lady never reveals the source of her information.” “Has anyone attempted to access the package I left with you?” “Of course not. I’m insulted that you ask. Only someone with your retina pattern and knowledge of your password rotation can access your package.” She paused for another grin. “I can’t even access the private compartments. They are private. What does this have to do with my nephew?” “Nothing, I hope. Your nephew decided to end his visit early and when he left, he took the member of my team who means the most to me with him.” “Oh dear. That can’t be good. I’ll contact Elaine and let her know—” “It might be best to wait and see. We don’t want to tip our hand unnecessarily. The only way you could know about what I’ve just told you is—” “If I heard it from a member of your team,” she finished for him. “I’ll keep my eyes and ears open. I’m guessing you’d like to be notified of any pertinent developments.” “You’re as perceptive as always.” She leaned forward as if to end the transmission then she met his gaze. “What will it take to bring you back to me?” “I’m retired.” Even as he spoke the words, Danette’s image flashed through his mind. He couldn’t release her without touching her one last time. Regardless of where the conflict took them, they would have one night. 106
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Chapter Five Danette woke up suddenly, her heart pounding in her chest. Something was wrong! She wasn’t alone. Clutching the blanket to her chest, she sat and blinked repeatedly. Oppressive darkness surrounded her. She listened for the faint shuffle of clothing or scrap of a boot sole. Silence. She’d been dreaming, nothing more. Taking a deep breath, she prepared to lie back down when the faint scent of his cologne reached her. “Master?” Her mouth went dry. He was here again! Feminine power surged through her. He could no more stay away than she could deny him. Her nipples tightened, her skin tingled, and her pussy flooded with welcome—for her Master. “I know you’re there.” She turned her face in his general direction, using his scent to guide her. “If you’re my Master, I await your pleasure. But only if you’re my Master.” “If I stay, I will expect your complete submission.” His voice sounded tense and torn. Could he see her? A display of her willingness would be far more effective than words. She tossed back the blanket and felt for the edge of the bed. She stripped in silence, keeping her calf against the bunk for reference in the darkness. Naked and shaking from a mixture of excitement and fear, she crawled back onto the bed and took her pose. She knelt with her knees at the edge of the bunk and spread her thighs wide. Raising her arms, she interlaced her fingers behind her neck, thrusting her breasts forward. This was called the Offering. A thrall could willingly assume this position for their Master or a Master could command the thrall to Offer themselves to another. Her lips trembled as she remembered the day Paul had Offered her to his mentor. Warm fingertips brushed along her collarbone. He could see her. She had no idea how, but he could definitely see her. “You are perfection, my love. A gift fit for a king.” Her lips trembled, but Danette didn’t speak. A thrall only spoke in direct response to her Master. “You’re fortunate I’m a greedy, possessive Master.” A soft sigh escaped her. She didn’t want him to share her. She wanted to serve him alone. “When Paul Offered you to me, how did that make you feel?”
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If she lied, he would punish her. Tonight she craved pleasure, not punishment. “I was frightened. You were my Master’s teacher. I feared displeasing you and shaming him.” His wandering fingers drifted over her breasts, pausing to roll her nipples. “Is that all that frightened you?” “No.” He worked her nipples into tight, sensitive buds. Danette licked her lips, restless and anxious. “I was afraid…” “Yes?” A sharp sting pinched her left nipple. “Too tight?” “No.” Stars, it felt fabulous. Her nipple burned, a persistent stimulation. He clamped her right nipple and the cold chain connecting the two brushed against her torso. “What else frightened you?” He had obviously guessed her feelings or he wouldn’t continue to question her. “I was afraid he would realize how much I wanted you. Each time Paul took me to the common room, I struggled to keep my gaze off you.” “Why? What drew your gaze to me?” She licked her lips, her mind drifting back to the Pleasure Palace. “It’s hard to explain. You were so confident, so…caring. You always knew exactly what others needed to bring them the most pleasure.” “That was my job.” “It’s more than an occupation with you. Anyone can learn the skills of a Pleasure Master. I think you were born to the role. You brought pleasure to even the most reluctant thrall and I was terrified Paul would know I wanted to submit to you. I wanted you to take me in every way a woman could be taken.” He gently pulled on the chain, increasing the pressure on her nipples. Danette moaned. “It isn’t wrong to desire someone. It’s wrong to act upon that desire unless your Master grants you permission to do so. Was I wrong to want you while you still belonged to Paul? You have no idea how often I watched your training, how much I wanted to take his place.” His words thrilled her far more than they should have. She was making herself vulnerable. This was a temporary diversion, a blissful way to pass the time until she was rescued. “Lie back and open yourself.” Danette lay on her back, digging her heels into the bunk and spreading her legs wide. The darkness caressed her as much as his voice. Her senses came alive without the distraction of visual input. She could smell his cologne mixed with the musk of her own arousal. Each sensation seemed more acute, each touch more titillating. “Part the way for me. I have other uses for my fingers.”
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Reaching between her widespread thighs, she parted her folds, offering her clit and her core for his enjoyment—for their enjoyment. “You may come as often as you like tonight. I give you permission now.” His lips closed around her clit, sucking harder than she usually enjoyed. They’d waited so long and the tension was already at a fever pitch. His aggression was perfect. She trembled. Her pussy clenched demandingly and pleasure lanced through her abdomen. Before the orgasm began to recede, he thrust three fingers deep into her cunt. With a startled cry, she came again. Danette shook. The forceful penetration drove her to a higher plane, increased the intensity until she could hardly breathe. How she’d missed this! He continued sucking on her clit while his fingers worked her passage. She came again and again, harder, her inner muscles squeezing his fingers. Without missing a beat, he drew out of her slick pussy and pushed his long middle finger into her ass. Danette arched, pressing herself against his mouth. Lost in sexual frenzy, she abandoned herself to the sensations. No sooner had one orgasm burst than another began. He pushed her hard, expecting her submission, her complete surrender. She reveled in his mastery and felt empowered by his savage tenderness. He touched her everywhere, licked her flesh as if her skin sustained him, but always he returned to her pussy, savoring her cream until she was limp and sated. He raised his face from between her thighs and rested his chin on her mound. Her legs were draped over his shoulders and her entire body glowed with a heated flush. “Were you fully trained by Paul?” His hot breath wafted across her tummy as he spoke. Panting softly and still a bit dazed, Danette wished she could see his face. “I’m not sure what you mean.” “I need to be inside you, but I know you’ll be examined.” He was right. If they found the smallest trace of his DNA, he would be charged with rape as well as kidnapping, regardless of her testimony. “I won’t come inside you, but that isn’t foolproof. It would be better if I… Did Paul prepare you for anal play?” The chain swung, tugging gently on her nipples as Danette turned over. She drew her knees beneath her and lowered her shoulders toward the bed, bracing herself on her forearms. “I await your pleasure, Master.” His warm hands caressed her bottom, spreading her cheeks and rimming her anus. “You will answer me honestly. Do you enjoy this sort of play?” He pushed his finger into her tight back passage. She gasped. “I’ve only been taken there twice, but my— Paul liked to use a toy there while he was inside my pussy.”
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“And did that please you?” He drew his finger nearly out, creating tingling heat with the simple motion. “It pleased me very much.” He smeared something cool around her anus and worked it inside with his fingers. Danette held perfectly still. She wanted this. She hungered for the fullness of his cock inside her body, but uncertainty clawed at her mind. The toy Paul had used was slender and sleek. She’d felt the Master’s thick, long cock sliding in and out of her mouth. Could he do this without hurting her? “Do exactly as I say. Rub your clit until I’m inside. I’ll do the rest.” His concern excited her more than anything she could remember. Desperate with desire, he still guarded her well-being. Her nipples stung, the chain pulling on the clamps in this position. Hot cream ran down the inside of her thighs. Stars! She was literally dripping. It had never been like this, not even with Paul. Shifting her weight to one arm, she moved the other beneath her and touched her passion-soaked folds. His fingers covered hers and he made a throaty sound—part growl, part moan. “Fuck, you’re wet.” Trembling, she tried to interpret his outburst. “Does this displease you?” Brushing her hair away from her spine, he trailed kisses along the subtle ridges. “Why would it displease me to know how much you want me?” He reached the small of her back and eased her bottom cheeks apart. She tensed. “Rub.” He pressed against her tightly puckered opening while she firmly stroked her clit. “Push back against me as I push in.” Danette braced her legs and tried to relax, to accept him. Pressure gave way to pain. A burning sting forced the breath from her lungs, but she kept right on rubbing. He drove steadily deeper, stretching her and claiming her. Blissful fullness finally eclipsed the sting. She relaxed and dragged in a shaky breath. “Is my thrall in pain?” “I welcome the pain, Master. I want all of you.” A nervous laugh escaped before she could staunch it. “You are considerably bigger than the toy.” He gathered her to him, pressing his body to the curve of her back. Massaging her shoulders and stroking her arms, he gave her time to adjust to his invasion. He teased the outer swells of her breasts, absently playing with the chain, igniting fire in her nipples. His lips explored her shoulder and the sensitive nape of her neck. “I could stay like this forever. You feel so good.” He reached beneath her and found her hand still pressed against her mound. Entwining their fingers, he caressed her with her own hand.
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Gasping into the blanket, Danette willingly succumbed to his erotic spell. He pulled back, dragging his cock nearly out. Searing pleasure flared in the wake of his withdrawal. He rubbed her clit firmly as he thrust back in. He kept their fingers entwined as he continued to caress her. Slick, hot, this was passion. He moved faster, deeper, pairing each thrust with a pass of their fingertips. Heat erupted. Spasms of pleasure detonated within her and radiated out to consume him. “I have to pull out.” The words sounded mournful and hoarse. Korbin groaned as he pulled his cock out of Danette’s hot passage. With a few frantic strokes, he sent his cum jetting across her uptilted ass and arched back. Sensations ricocheted through his body as he snatched her uniform top off the floor and wiped away the mess. He’d recycle the sheets as well, but he wasn’t taking any chances. He started to scoot off the bed and she grabbed blindly for his hand. “Don’t leave me yet. Please. I want to indulge the full range of my depravity.” Her strangled laugh ended in a sob. Sweeping her into his arms, he settled her across his lap. He caressed her breasts, her hips and her thighs. “Is it really that bad for you?” “I’m less of a prisoner here than I am on Halley Prime. I can’t go back there.” In barely a whisper, she added, “I want to stay with you.” The sincerity in her voice broke his heart. This night had increased the danger tenfold. They were being foolish and reckless, and he couldn’t seem to stop. If her father had any idea one of the rebels had touched her… “Sweetheart, this is a fantasy, a moment out of time. I can’t rescue you from your father any more than you can wave a magic wand and end this conflict. I never should have touched you—” “If this one night is all we have, I refuse to waste another minute on regret. I will savor this fantasy for the rest of my life.” He framed her face with his hands and settled his mouth over hers. She was open and waiting for his kiss, his touch, his passion. Each moment they spent together would make the inevitable end more painful. Yet it didn’t seem to matter. He traced her teeth with his tongue and savored her evocative taste. “I want your taste in my mouth too.” She whispered the words against his parted lips and he growled in response. He activated minimum lighting with a hushed voice command. She had never seen his face without a mask and this would be no better. Minimal illumination provided basic silhouettes. Tugging off his night-vision goggles, he tossed them onto the bunk and strode across the cell with Danette in his arms.
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Pausing at the lav door, he lowered her to the floor. He’d imagined fucking her in the shower ever since they’d started this little game. The door raised and he guided her inside the tiny cubicle. “I think it’s only fitting that this ends where it began.” He cursed the ridiculous catch in his tone. They were from different worlds! “It began in the Pleasure Palace.” He tugged on the chain connecting her nipple clips and she gasped. “Don’t argue with me. Get in.” The cleansing mist activated as soon as they entered the stall. Korbin rubbed it into his skin, carefully working it along the length of his cock. The speed with which he hardened amazed him. He’d never been with anyone who could arouse him so quickly. He rinsed away the residue and turned toward Danette. “If you want my taste in your mouth—” He paused for a demanding kiss. “I’d be happy to oblige.” Before she had time to move, he tossed a folded towel onto the floor in front of him. She smiled at the thoughtful gesture and lowered her knees to the towel. Without the night-vision goggles, he couldn’t see her any better than she could see him. Her warm fingers worked their way from his knees to the juncture of his thighs. He moved his legs apart, giving her plenty of room to play. Would she tease him with her tongue or immediately suck him into her mouth. The Pleasure Palace was a distant memory and her pussy had distracted him while she did this before. She tilted her head and gently sucked one of his testicles and then the other. The sensation made his toes dig into the shower’s base. His cock twitched and pulsed as blood further hardened the shaft. He pushed his fingers into her hair and pulled her away from his balls. “I want the heat of your mouth and the swirl of your tongue. I’m too…ticklish to enjoy that.” “Ticklish?” There was definitely amusement in her tone. “You’re ticklish?” “If you no longer want my cock in your mouth, I can think of all sorts of ways to spend our limited time together.” His gut clenched as he heard his own words. This was a fantasy, nothing more. He couldn’t allow himself to feel anything but lust for this pampered princess. Her lips closed around the head of his cock and her fingernails dug into his hips. He closed his eyes, welcoming the sting of her lacquered nails against his lean flesh. She pulled him closer, teasing him with the moist heat of her breath. Desire spiraled up his shaft and tightened his balls. Oh yes, this is what he needed. They only had a few hours before reality intruded again. She slowly sucked him into her mouth, flicking her tongue along his length as she pulled back. He pushed his fingers into her damp hair, guiding her movements, speeding her tempo. Beyond gentleness, but unwilling to hurt her, he listened to her muffled sounds and felt for any tug against his hold. Deeper and deeper he thrust. She
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took him eagerly, tilting her head and relaxing her throat until his balls rested on her chin. With an intentional swallow, she sent him over the edge. He shuddered and clenched, feeling as if his soul poured into her along with his seed. Dragging her to her feet, he kissed her deeply, sucking her tongue into his mouth. She shuddered in approval and did the same. She clung to him, whimpering as they savored the combined taste of their passion. A long time passed before he released her lips. “Turn around.” He didn’t give her time to disobey. With his hands on her shoulders, he turned her to face the spray. “Brace yourself against the wall. I don’t think I can be gentle.” She splayed her fingers against the shower stall and widened her stance. He pressed his chest against her upper back as he rolled her nipples. “I’ve never wanted anyone as badly as I wanted you while you were doing this to yourself.” He thrust his fingers into her pussy hard and deep. She rocked forward and groaned. His other hand left her breasts and found her clit. Pairing each drive with a clever caress, he soon had her gasping and moaning. Her cunt rippled around his fingers and her clit twitched against his fingertips. He took her to the very brink then backed off. Her head came to rest against his shoulder and her panting breaths filled his ears. “Please, Master, let me come.” Pushing his fingers in as far as he could, he rolled her clit until he felt her orgasm detonate. Her inner muscles clenched rhythmically as she cried out. With his fingers filling her, he drew spasm after spasm from her trembling body. She arched her neck allowing him to reach her mouth with his. They kissed and kissed as she drenched his fingers with fresh silken cream. With obvious reluctance, he withdrew his fingers and turned her around. He pressed her warm body against his and kissed her some more. He wanted to lick her pussy again, but there was no point. They couldn’t have what they both wanted. It had to end now. “I’ll recycle your uniform and the sheets.” He stepped back and lowered his hands to his sides. “Run the maintenance cycle as soon as you’re finished scrubbing every millimeter of your body. Regardless of the coalition’s response, I won’t come to you again.”
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Chapter Six Meredith Caperelli scowled at the orange-tinted sky. It had been nearly two years since she set foot on this dismal outpost and she wasn’t pleased to be back now. She’d chosen the other two members of her team carefully and briefed them on the way from Halley Prime. They knew their objective was hostage retrieval. However, they had only a vague understanding of who the hostages were and why they’d been taken. “Didn’t you used to live on Borrelly?” Hamilton asked as he adjusted the ship’s trajectory. “Why do you think I was chosen for this assignment?” Hamilton might be a bit too curious. But when push came to shove, he’d follow orders without question. “I can provide a plausible explanation for being on the outpost until we’re ready to spring our trap.” Meredith had never worked with Juarez before, but the young woman was fresh out of training and eager to prove herself. Hopefully her enthusiasm would outweigh her inexperience. “Do you really think Korbin Reah is the mastermind behind the rebels?” Juarez asked. “According to his file, he works for the coalition.” “What better cover for the rebel leader? He has access to the coalition data stream while he spreads his subversive propaganda,” Hamilton said without looking up from his control console. “If Korbin is the mastermind behind this operation, shutting it down should be no problem.” Meredith didn’t bother concealing her disdain. When she’d first encountered Korbin he’d been an embittered child of eight who hated everything and everyone— except his precious father. Meredith had been as attracted to Simeon as she’d been repelled by his son, so she’d pretended an interest in the pathetic little boy. Korbin had seen right through her pretense, even if Simeon hadn’t. Her marriage to Simeon had lasted four years. She’d never meant to become pregnant, but Corry had been a pleasant diversion for a time. The things that attracted Meredith to Simeon in the beginning ultimately drove them apart. His passion and ingenuity fascinated Meredith until she realized he was so consumed by his fanciful ideas there was no room in his life for anything else. When the CCC extended its invitation, she hadn’t hesitated. Corry adored her father and idolized Korbin. They were better off without her. Meredith always knew she was destined for Halley Prime. She’d freed herself from a life of drudgery and want, and never looked back.
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There were occasional visits and infrequent communications, but her involvement with the Reah family was a chapter in her life she’d considered closed. Until now. She opened a comlink to Corry’s apartment, but got no response. Was Corry mixed up in this nonsense? It would be typical for Corry to follow blindly where Korbin led. The two had always been inseparable. If Korbin had dragged Corry into this rebellion, Meredith would make sure he was punished to the full penalty of the law. Meredith grabbed the overnight bag she’d prepared hours before as Hamilton set down in the visitor’s shuttle lot. “I’ll either return shortly or com you, so don’t get too comfortable.” “Yes, Major,” Hamilton said, and Juarez snapped to attention as Meredith made her way toward the hatch. Meredith always insisted on formality, regardless of the size of the team. She went to the office building indicated in the report and asked to see Korbin Reah. “I’m afraid he’s in a meeting, Major Caperelli. Was he expecting you?” Unwilling to justify her presence to a receptionist, Meredith said, “I’ll wait.” She moved to the row of chairs facing the interior of the office complex. If Korbin tried to leave the floor, he’d have to walk right past her. The receptionist glanced at her from time to time as he continued to route communications. Meredith intentionally stared at the young man, hoping to make him uncomfortable. Two men in Corrections uniforms exited the hall and shortly after the receptionist said, “He will see you now.” Korbin sat behind a large desk, his attention focused on his access terminal. He glanced up at her entrance but didn’t greet her or acknowledge her presence in any other way. “It’s nice to see you too,” she muttered. “I have a full agenda today. For that matter, my agenda is full every day. What do you want?” She’d expected a cold reception. Korbin never pretended to feel anything but animosity for her. “Where’s Corry?” “Did you try her apartment?” His tone was casual, his expression composed. “Of course. Why do you think I came here?” She paused, studying his features, assessing his eyes. He’d always been damn good at hiding his thoughts and feelings. “I told her several weeks ago I was up for a short leave. She said she’d be available to spend some time with me.” “You’re full of shit, Meredith.” He leaned back in his chair, tapping his fingers against the armrests. “Corry has no interest in spending time with you. What do you really want?” 115
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She ignored his hostility, curiosity winning out over her urge to smack him. “When did you last see her?” “We had lunch yesterday.” “And you haven’t seen or spoken to her since?” “Why are you on Borrelly?” He folded his hands on his desktop and glared. Something was definitely wrong here. It shouldn’t take long to figure out what. “Believe what you like. I’m here to visit my daughter. If you’ll just let me in to her apartment, I’ll wait for her there.” “If you’re determined to stay, I’ll arrange accommodations,” he answered immediately. “It’s better that way.” Better for whom? Her smile turned speculative.
***** Meredith noticed the guard attempting to trail her as she left the office building. Korbin had great instincts. He just needed better help. Several abrupt turns and a bit of backtracking lured the young man into an alley. A quick blast from her pulse pistol rendered him unconscious and she returned to her ship. “Find a commuter lot. Somewhere we can stay for a couple of hours,” she ordered Hamilton as she activated the panel in front of her. “We’re about to confirm the rebels’ base of operations.” The last retinal scan logging Corry’s movements had been two days before. So much for Korbin having lunch with her. “How can we be certain this is where the hostages are being held?” Juarez asked. Meredith debated how much to tell them. The executive council had stressed that discretion was top priority. She stuck to the facts. “All residents of Borrelly, both inmates and employees, are implanted with an ident-chip. We’ll use shipboard scanners to locate any person without such a chip.” “A sector-by-sector scan could take—” “Get started.” She cut off Hamilton before he overtly questioned her decision. Corry didn’t have an ident-chip either. It was far more probable that she had left the outpost, but this might kill two birds with one stone. It was a tedious process. Hours passed as names and designations of the entire population of Borrelly scrolled across the ship’s main vidscreen. Late in the afternoon, the scanner beeped, indicating an error or what Meredith had been hoping to find, a person not identifiable to the scanner. Meredith adjusted the search parameters, closing in on the outpost’s newest facility. The complex was still under construction. She laughed. “Korbin is listed as superintendent for this project,” she told the others. “That’s pretty damn brazen,” Juarez said. “He’s hiding them in plain sight.” 116
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“At a glance, it’s business as usual. No one is going to question guards on Borrelly. Everyone is doing what they’re supposed to do.” Hamilton glanced at Meredith. “There are only two in the complex without ident-chips. Aren’t we after three hostages?” “We have to start somewhere. Juarez, put us down here.” Meredith pointed to a clearing on the far side of the complex. “Hamilton, you’re with me, so you’ll need to look the part.” Meredith and Hamilton changed out of their military garb and into nondescript workers’ uniforms. Meredith programmed her arm band to track the two signals and led Hamilton toward the complex. The side entrance was flanked by guards. They crouched on the ground, protected from view by a rounded hill. “Create a diversion and I’ll take out the guards.” He raised his brow at her command but didn’t argue. She crept to the crest of the hill on her belly and braced the rifle against her shoulder as Hamilton strode toward the guards. If this was a simple construction zone, why did they need armed guards? Hamilton’s angle was perfect, leaving her a clear shot at each target. Kill or incapacitate? She heaved a frustrated sigh. It was so much easier when the enemy was truly an enemy and not disgruntled children. Easing the intensity level back to stun, she dropped the first guard and the second in quick succession. “Nice shots,” Hamilton said as she joined him, but the gleam in his dark eyes revealed his amusement at her leniency. She looked at her arm band while Hamilton heaved one of the unconscious guards to eyelevel and scanned open the door. “Down that corridor and to the right.” With only an occasional glance from the construction workers, Meredith and Hamilton located the holding cells. A control booth separated the two small rooms. She drew her pulse pistol and crept toward the portal. Avoiding the retinal scanner, she entered the master override code Admiral Tiptonn had given her. Nothing happened. Damn it. Hamilton motioned her back and aimed a controlled energy stream into the locking mechanism. The privacy panel released with a soft hiss. A young man sat facing the wide console and multilevel displays. She fired her pulse pistol before he knew what hit him, and Hamilton shoved him back from the controls. She studied the vidscreens, her mind sifting through possibilities. Danette Tiptonn was easily recognizable even in an inmate’s uniform. The young man must be Palmer, so where was VinDerley? “Holy shit,” Hamilton muttered when he got his first look at the hostages. “Were they trying to start a war?” Meredith didn’t comment. She deactivated the energy barriers and reverted control of the doors to their motion sensors. “You get Palmer. I’ll release Danette.” The blonde
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just stared at Meredith suspiciously as she entered the holding cell. “I’m Major Caperelli. The coalition sent me.” “How do I know that?” Danette snapped, rising from the bunk. “You can trust me or stay here.” Meredith turned toward the door, unwilling to argue. “Do you know what they’ve done with the premier’s son? I haven’t been able to locate him.” “You’re really from Halley Prime?” Danette followed Meredith into the corridor, glancing around anxiously as if she expected someone to interrupt them. Interesting. “Why would I lie?” Meredith asked. “We haven’t seen Ashton in days.” Palmer accepted Meredith’s introduction with a beaming smile. Danette just nodded at Hamilton. “This way,” Meredith directed. They reached the ship without incident. If an alarm had been triggered, it wasn’t audible. Palmer didn’t speak until they were safely on the ship. “Thank you, Major. You can’t imagine how relieved I am to be away from this place.” Meredith ignored the praise. She needed to find somewhere near Korbin’s office to hide the ship. “We’re not out of the woods yet,” Danette reminded him, her tone oddly hesitant. “Where’s Ashton?” Palmer asked. “We were hoping you could tell us.” Hamilton entered new coordinates into the navigational system. “They kept us separated,” Palmer said. “We haven’t seen him since the first day.” “The leader told me Ashton escaped.” Danette cleared her throat. Her voice sounded stronger as she continued. “I think Ashton took one of the rebels with him. The leader was really upset.” “The leader? How many different people did you see?” Meredith asked. “A woman seemed to be running things to begin with,” Palmer explained, “but I haven’t seen her in a couple days. I’d only seen one of the men until the leader questioned me. Do you think Ashton took the woman?” “Describe her for me.” “Small, pretty, dark hair, green eyes.” Palmer provided the description. “Damn,” Meredith muttered. Apparently Corry was right in the middle of this mess. The small ship shuddered as it left the ground. “I want to bring the leader back with us, but I won’t risk your safety to capture him.” “How do you know who he is?” Danette asked. “We had several suspects, but finding you here on Borrelly narrowed it down considerably.” Meredith settled her gaze on Danette’s flushed face. She needed to be 118
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questioned extensively. Admiral Tiptonn’s daughter was hiding something. “Can you positively identify him?” “I never saw his face,” she answered calmly. “I was blindfolded when he questioned me. That’s probably why I’m still alive.” “I’d recognize his voice,” Palmer volunteered. “But I never saw him either. The woman seemed to be just as much a leader as the man. Do you know who she is?” “Yes,” Meredith admitted. “One thing at a time.”
***** “What are you talking about?” Korbin yelled. “Who would release the hostages? Who the hell had access to the control booth? Where is Larz?” “Let me load the surveillance file and you can tell me,” Sharon returned angrily. “Larz didn’t check in as scheduled, so I accessed the security system and brought up the holding cells. They’re both empty. That’s when I commed you.” Korbin stepped up beside Sharon as she activated the video file. “Unbefuckinglievable!” Korbin watched in helpless fury as his stepmother and her cohort foiled their entire operation. He’d known Meredith was up to no good when she showed up this morning, so he told Foster to tail her. “Has Foster checked in?” “He’s not scheduled to for another hour or so. Do you recognize her?” “Unfortunately.” He turned from the screen with another curse and raked his fingers through his hair. “How long ago did this happen?” “About twenty minutes.” “Is anyone else missing?” She raised both hands in frustration. “Not that I know of. I’ll send out a shift-wide page.” “Have any ships launched in the past twenty minutes?” “Nope. They’re still here somewhere.” “Then I’ll find them.” He paused long enough to give her shoulder an encouraging squeeze. He should have thrown Meredith’s autocratic ass in a cell the moment she arrived. Corry’s disappearance had distracted him, made him careless. It wouldn’t happen again! He marched to the warden’s office and told his executive assistant there was an emergency. “What’s so urgent?” Restien asked as Korbin was ushered into his office. “I have reason to believe there will be an escape attempt within the hour. Please order a lockdown. It will give me a better chance of locating who’s behind this.” Restien simply nodded and entered the code that put all transport stations on alert. “No one in or out until I hear from you.” 119
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“Thanks.” Korbin left without further explanation. Too impatient to wait for the elevator, Korbin sprinted down the stairs and rushed out of the office building. He’d start at the construction site. Guards were posted at each entrance. He had to make sure his people were— “Freeze.” He’d almost reached his hovercraft when he heard the ominous command. Recognizing Meredith’s voice only made the situation more infuriating. Korbin skidded to a halt beside his ship. “Put your hands behind your head and turn around.” Her pulse pistol pointed at his chest and the cold purpose in her dark eyes assured him she’d use it. “Mother.” The word was half taunt and half curse. “NëvouS.” She mimicked his tone. She motioned toward the trees lining the small shuttle lot. A ship waited just beyond the decorative perimeter. Korbin took two steps toward the ship, spun and kicked out with one foot while he grabbed for the pulse pistol. His fingers closed around her wrist, but she intentionally dropped the weapon, deftly catching it with her other hand. He wrapped his arms around her torso. She slammed her boot heel down on his instep. Pain shot up his leg and he jerked her to one side, hoping to dislodge the gun. “If I have to blast you, Korbin, you’ll really piss me off,” she snarled. “Where the hell are you going to run?” It took all his self-control not to snap her scrawny neck. He shoved her forward as he wrested the gun from her hand. She twisted as she fell, landing on her back with one leg drawn up protectively. He aimed the gun at her chest, fury burning in his heart. Pain blinded him and he screamed. His hand went numb and fire burst in his thigh, spreading out to buckle his knee. He caught himself before he collapsed completely and managed to turn his head to the side. The man he’d seen on the vidfile stood to his right, a disrupter pistol still pointed at him. Meredith snatched her gun from the ground near Korbin and scrambled to her feet. “Thank you, Hamilton.” “My pleasure, Major.” Korbin frantically rubbed at his cramping muscles. “You fucking bitch! Did you volunteer for this mission?” She panted. “Get him on the ship.” Hamilton half led, half-dragged Korbin onto the waiting transport. Each step he took sent echoes of agony crawling the length of his leg. Palmer stood in the hatchway, watching with a smug little smile. “Say something, NëvouS,” Meredith prompted. “I understand you haven’t been properly introduced.”
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Palmer stepped back as Hamilton pulled Korbin into the interior of the ship. “Fuck off and die.” “That’s him,” Palmer confirmed cheerfully. Korbin didn’t look at Danette, couldn’t bear what he’d find in her gaze. “In back,” Meredith directed. Two tiny cells comprised the “back” of the ship. When Korbin hesitated, Hamilton shoved him into one of the closet-sized cells and closed the grate. “A cage?” he sneered. “How primitive.” “Alloy bars don’t rely on a power source,” Hamilton pointed out. “You’ll never get off this outpost,” he predicted. “Care to wager on that?” Hamilton moved to the bow and took his place at the helm, his fingers flying over the smooth control panel. “Warden Restien,” Korbin heard Meredith say, “I’ve just transmitted my official authorization and identification. I need to leave your outpost immediately.” Korbin couldn’t see the vidscreen, but he heard Restien’s reply. “I must confirm this authorization, Major. I was warned of a possible escape attempt.” “Fine,” Meredith snapped. She turned her head and looked at a different display. Something had caught her attention, but Korbin couldn’t see what had caused her reaction. “You idiot,” she yelled. “Call off your men, Warden, or I will open fire.” “This is by far the most imaginative attempt I’ve ever witnessed, but I’m afraid I was forewarned.” “You were forewarned by the person I’m here to arrest. Premier VinDerley has authorized whatever means I deem necessary to apprehend certain classified persons.” “If this is official coalition business, why wasn’t I contacted?” “The details of my mission are available on a need-to-know basis. My departure in no way compromises this outpost. You have no need to know anything more than I’ve already told you.” “I disagree. I have not yet verified your identity and you’re holding one of my employees against his will. You will be treated as a fugitive until I have information confirming your story.” “Have it your way!” “If you attempt to—” She cut off the comlink and turned back to the control panel. “Buckle up, people, we’re going to have to fight our way out.” There were no safety restraints in the holding cell and Korbin’s leg still burned from the disruption pulse. He sat on the narrow bench and braced his good leg against the grate. Quick and agile, Meredith’s ship outmaneuvered the outpost troopers.
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“Restien is sure as hell going to regret this tomorrow.” Hamilton took the ship into a sudden dive and Meredith laughed triumphantly. Korbin slammed against the grate, despite his braced leg, so he stood and found a more secure position. Grasping the bars with both hands, he pressed out against the walls of the cell with his feet. His abused thigh protested the pressure. He accepted the pain, drawing it inward as he focused beyond his rage. The bitch was enjoying this! She laughed again and fired in rapid succession. One of the troopers burst into flames. “Yes!” Danette and Palmer exchanged worried glances. Clutching the grate with all his strength, Korbin concentrated on his breathing as Hamilton continued his reckless maneuvers. The ship rolled to the right then shot straight up, directly in front of one of the troopers. Meredith took out the second ship with her aft cannons and Korbin released his breath in a frustrated hiss. “Two down,” she announced, “one to go.” The third ship suddenly abandoned its pursuit and headed back toward Borrelly. “Why did it turn around?” Danette asked. “The warden must have called him off,” Meredith muttered. “Troopers don’t turn tail and run.” “Why would he call off the attack when he ordered it in the first place?” Meredith shot Danette an impatient glare. “He must have received confirmation of my identity.” Danette accepted the explanation with a silent nod. Palmer sat beside Danette, watching Meredith with fascination and awe. Korbin bristled. He remembered similar expressions on Corry’s face as she struggled to gain this woman’s attention. Had Meredith located Corry? Had others been dispatched by the premier? Meredith turned from the control panel and grinned at him. “You’re really not very good at this, are you, NëvouS?” Korbin didn’t reply. He stepped back from the bars and sat, unable to stomach her smug expression. “How’d Ashton slip through your fingers?” she asked. “He didn’t,” Korbin said. “I had him moved. It was too risky to hold all the hostages on the same outpost.” “Sure you did. Let me guess. Corry isn’t missing, she’s relocating VinDerley.” “You’re too smart for me.” Korbin propped his boot against the grate and finally glanced at Danette. His chest clenched so tightly he couldn’t breathe. Her luminous gaze surrounded him, inscrutable and intense. This was the first time she’d seen his face. Even at the Pleasure Palace he’d been masked.
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Tears gathered in her eyes, and Korbin tore his gaze away. He was in a freaking cage! What did she expect him to do?
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Chapter Seven Danette stared out her bedroom window into the gathering twilight. She was home, safe and sound, and she had never been more miserable in her life. Korbin hadn’t so much as glanced her way as Major Caperelli’s ship sped them toward Halley Prime. It felt odd to think of him by name. She tried not to stare, but the temptation had been too much. Danette had never seen Korbin’s face before, never imagined she would find his appearance so evocative. Far too intense to be termed classically handsome, Korbin commanded attention with his piercing green eyes and wavy brown hair. She wanted to run her fingers through his hair, to gaze into those vivid eyes, and kiss the frown from his mouth. If only she could talk to him. She’d assure him she would do everything in her power to set him free. Everything in her power. That was the problem. She was as powerless as Korbin. Major Caperelli dragged him off her ship at weapon’s point moments after they docked on Halley Prime. Danette watched their departure while her heart cried out in anguish. Would she ever see him again? Her father waited with his customary entourage. His embrace surprised her. Admiral Tiptonn wasn’t one for public shows of affection. The relief in his expression was destined to be short-lived however. She had refused to press charges, swearing Korbin was her lover and she was a willing participant in the rebellion. Outraged and humiliated, her father demanded a complete physical and psychological workup. She was scanned and questioned, poked and prodded, and it had all been for naught. Nothing she said or did had protected Korbin from the coalition. They intended to make an example of him. To discourage other would-be rebels. Her mother met Danette at the front door as she was escorted into her father’s estate. After a quick hug, Danette went to her bedroom and found all communication capabilities now required an access code. A code she had been denied. Her cage might be more comfortable, but she was still a prisoner. Say my name. The words echoed through her mind, tearing at her heart and drawing her thoughts inward. Fantasy was the only escape left for her now. She closed her eyes and leaned against the window frame. Their separation had been so abrupt. He’d told her he wouldn’t return, but part of her hadn’t believed him. She hadn’t been able to prepare herself emotionally for the prospect of living without him. Her surroundings faded and an image of the holding cell formed within her mind. She stood in the center of the room, her arms stretched overhead and secured with
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manacles. Her naked body trembled and ached, waiting for the brush of her Master’s hands. “Say my name.” Completely immersed in the fantasy, she welcomed the velvet command. He stood behind her, close enough to warm her skin with his body without actually touching her. This is how the interrogation had ended in reality. She’d objected to his manipulation and Korbin had vanquished Pleasure Master Nine. But what if it had been the other way around? What if her Master had sent away the rebel? Needing the bittersweet glimpse of possibility, she held on to the images and moved to the chaise lounge situated beside the window. She didn’t care if her rooms were monitored. This ache was unbearable. Reaching under her skirt, she slipped off her panties and lay down on the lounge. She cupped her mound and whimpered. Her pussy was hot, her folds slick and sensitive from thinking about him. Keeping her touch light and teasing, she reconstructed the fantasy. Naked, bound and waiting, she was his captive again. His arm circled her waist, his mouth nibbling the side of her neck. “Who is touching you?” he whispered into her ear. “Who is going to fuck you until you beg for sleep?” “My Master. Only my Master.” “They will come for you soon.” He cupped her breast and rolled her nipple, keeping his voice soft and low. “What shall I do with you then?” “Anything you please. I am yours to command.” “Would it please you to escape with me? I’m moving my base of operation. Would you like to accompany me?” Danette curved two fingers into her core, keeping pressure on her mound. Tears slipped out from under her closed eyelids. Why was she torturing herself with things that could never be? Her fantasy Master pinched her nipples and rubbed his erection against the small of her back. “I asked you a question.” “I want nothing more. But they will never let us be together.” “It’s not their decision to make! If you want me as much as I want you, we will find a way.” “I do. You know I do, but…” “Show me with your cries of pleasure and the eager grip of your cunt. Offer me everything without reservation. I will tolerate no hesitation in my thrall.” She pressed her lips together, fighting back her sobs. Her imagination was cruel in its accuracy. She could picture the scene perfectly, each sensation, each emotion tormented her mind and titillated her body.
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“Spread your legs. Let me feel how much you want me.” Her Master’s voice drew her deeper into the fantasy. Opening for him, she made room for his hand between her thighs. His fingers pushed into her slick pussy and she cried out. “Yes!” He rocked her forward with each forceful thrust. Her breasts jostled and her wrists strained against the cuffs. She welcomed the discomfort, desperate to feel anything but this agonizing loss. He reached around in front of her and rubbed her clit as he had in the shower. She rested her head against his shoulder and tightened her inner muscles. His skilled touch drove her quickly toward release. Danette moved her legs to either side of the lounge and moaned as pressure gathered in her abdomen. The shallow slide of her fingers would never feel like his. They had just begun to explore their connection when fate ripped them from each other’s arms. They needed more time. She needed more of him. Cream soaked her fingers and made her inner thighs slippery. Still her orgasm remained just out of reach. Perhaps if she imagined him here… Her fantasy Master knelt at the bottom of the lounge, his gaze ravenous. “I want the taste of your cream on my tongue for as long as I can keep it there.” He grasped her knees and pulled her down along the padded surface until her legs draped his shoulders. “Your thighs are slick and shiny. Is all this for me?” He slipped his hands beneath her bottom and raised her pussy to his mouth. She tried to simulate the skillful stroke of his tongue with her fingers, but the sensation wasn’t the same. He licked and nibbled, sucked and flicked. All she could do was rub or gently tug. With a frustrated curse, she concentrated on the fantasy, abandoning her attempt to make them correspond. She was bound again, naked and helpless as he slowly circled her. “What do you want most in all the world?” His tone was more growl than whisper. “I want you inside me.” Bending slightly, he wrapped his arm around her thighs, just below her bottom, and raised her up until her breasts were level with his mouth. He suckled her nipples, leaving one wet and rosy while he enjoyed its twin. “Wrap your legs around my waist. I want your pussy and I want it now.” He held her up so she could make the adjustment then he lowered her onto his cock. She squeezed him, caressing him the only way she could. For a long moment he stared into her eyes, those beautiful green eyes that she remembered from the Pleasure Palace. The fantasy started to fade and Danette whimpered. They had never made love like that. Their encounters had been stolen in the dark and tainted by the knowledge of how soon it would end. Would he take her hard and fast or tease her to dizzying heights before he finally let her come?
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With stubborn determination, she circled her clit, needing what little relief she could find. She would see him again. If there were no other options, she would pay criminals to break him out of the detention center. She would not let it end like this! She bit back a cry as she came, her orgasm sharp and sudden. A bit of the tension drained from her aching body. Several seconds passed in languid silence then she snatched her damp panties off the floor and retreated to the bathroom to compose herself. After splashing cool water on her face and running a comb through her hair, she donned a fresh pair of panties and returned to her bedroom. About twenty minutes later, a firm tapping drew her attention toward the large arched door. “Sweetheart, it’s me,” her mother called through the barrier. “May I come in?” She unlocked the panel with a voice command. “It’s open.” Locks weren’t really necessary when a full security contingent waited to ensure her welfare. One guard was posted outside her bedroom door and the other three patrolled near the exits. Her mother pushed open the door, hesitating in the archway. “You have a visitor.” “I know Father told you I’m not to see anyone. So, why are we having this conversation?” The only person she wanted to see was locked in the detention center. “Your hostility is only making an awkward situation worse.” Disappointment filled her mother’s eyes. “I’ve never seen you behave like this.” She narrowed her gaze and raised her chin, unwilling to pretend, even with her mother. “I’m through being his puppet. He’s not trying to protect me. This is about control.” Janice didn’t argue. Her mother avoided conflict like the plague. “Elaine VinDerley is waiting in the drawing room. Shall I send her away?” Why would Ashton’s mother be here? Danette’s heart gave a little flutter. His efforts to intervene on behalf of the rebels hadn’t been any more successful than hers. “What does she want?” “She wants to speak with you. I told her you weren’t seeing anyone, but she insisted I ask.” Danette hadn’t been allowed to speak with anyone without her father present. “Send her up.” “I think it would be better if you came down.” Danette crossed her arms over her chest and blew out an exasperated breath. Stubbornness urged her to refuse while curiosity cautioned her to bend. “Fine.” She followed her mother down the front stairs, one of the guards trailing in their wake. When he attempted to enter the drawing room, her mother stopped him with a disapproving look.
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Elaine rose from the sofa and hurried across the room. “I’m so glad you agreed to see me. I need your help.” She pulled Danette into a surprisingly tight hug and whispered in her ear. “If you want out of here, play along.” “What can I do for you, Mrs. VinDerley?” The picture of elegant composure, Elaine took her by the hand and led her to the sofa. “I know this is painful for you, but I don’t know where else to turn. Ashton hasn’t been the same since he returned.” Danette waited for a clue. Elaine had urged her to play along, so what was the strategy? “Elaine mentioned that he is refusing to press charges,” Janice said. “I told her you said the same thing and it gave us an idea. Were you coerced into saying those things?” “Of course she was,” Elaine said emphatically. “What other explanation could there be? I think they threatened Ashton to make Danette cooperate and threatened Danette so Ashton would make his ridiculous claims.” She looked at Danette, her brow arched meaningfully. “Am I right, Danette? Did they threaten you?” Brushing her hair off her forehead, Danette tried to figure out what Elaine wanted from her. How would this get her away from the guards? “Oh Danette.” Her mother sat down on her other side and tenderly rubbed her back. “You’re safe, darling. They can’t touch you ever again.” She nearly laughed at the irony. It was the thought of Korbin never being able to touch her again that frightened her the most. “I don’t think either of them believes it,” Elaine went on. “That’s why they’re acting so out of character. Danette hasn’t seen Ashton since his return. I’d like to bring the two together. If they see each other face-to-face, they might understand that it’s really over.” “Can you bring Ashton here?” Janice asked. “That’s out of the question. He’s being positively unreasonable. I can send Danette to him, but she’d have to go alone. If he realized what we intended, he would refuse or even take off.” Elaine wanted to send her to Ashton, without her armed escort. “I’d love to see Ashton, Mrs. VinDerley, but Father would never allow it.” “She’s right. The guards have orders to follow her if she sets foot outside the house. Not even my word would keep them from doing so.” “They don’t have orders to follow me.” Elaine held up her hooded cloak. “The navpanel in my shuttle is programmed with his current location. All you have to do is walk out the door.”
***** By the time Danette reached Ashton’s apartment complex her stomach was tied in knots. Why had Elaine VinDerley arranged for her escape? Why should a grown
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woman need to escape from her father? The situation was intolerable. She would find a way to be self-sufficient, even if it meant leaving Halley Prime. Ashton met her at the door with a secretive smile. “The other guests have already arrived.” He stepped back and ushered her inside. Other guests? She followed him across the foyer and paused in the archway leading to a spacious living room. Danette’s apprehension mounted as she saw the other “guests”. Was this a hostage reunion? What was Palmer doing here? Her gaze shifted to Corry and she spoke the question out loud. “What is she doing here? There’s a warrant out for her arrest.” “Ashton disabled the surveillance on the roof and brought her in through his private entrance.” Palmer chuckled. “She’s been explaining the principles driving their rebellion.” “Revolution,” Corry spontaneously corrected him. The rooftop entrance was activated by a palm scanner and there was no surveillance in the penthouse corridors. Had Corry been with Ashton this entire time? If the heat arcing between them was any indication, it was a distinct possibility. “I’m willing to listen,” Palmer said. “Are you?” “You were the one cheering when Major Caperelli blasted her way off Borrelly. What brought about this sudden change of heart?” Dazed and wary, Danette sat in a chair facing Corry as Ashton joined the rebel on the sofa. “I’m not ready to enlist,” Palmer stressed. “I just want to understand what is really going on. What makes a mother hunt down her own son and why did the rebels risk so much?” “Those are two very different questions,” Corry said softly. “Is it really that bad?” Danette asked. For three and a half hours Corry explained. She started with the horrible choices her father had been forced to make and worked her way through countless examples of injustice. “Father completed the prototype and thought the council might be willing to barter,” Corry continued. “It infuriated him that the leaders needed an incentive to do their jobs, but nothing else had worked.” Danette scooted to the edge of her chair. “This prototype, was it a teleportation device?” “Why do you ask?” “My parents had a horrible argument shortly before the accident. Father went on and on about some sort of transportation device. He said it would revolutionize shortrange travel and he couldn’t figure out how to develop the device without compromising the treaty they were working to finalize. Mother accused him of stealing the technology. I’d never seen Father so angry.”
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“I know nothing about a treaty, but your mother was right. My father was murdered when he refused to turn over his prototype.” Frustration sharpened Corry’s tone. “I’m so sorry.” Danette looked at Ashton. “This treaty affects everyone. Why would the council… I don’t understand.” “This is another example of their indifference.” Corry drew Danette’s attention back to her. “We’re expected to pay taxes and obey their laws, but we have no input into how our government is run.” “Taxation without representation,” Ashton said thoughtfully. “A war was fought on my mother’s homeworld over these same principles.” “Is that what you want to see happen?” Danette shot Corry a challenging glare. “You want to rip the coalition apart?” “Not unless they leave us no other choice,” Corry answered. “I’m open to reforms, but I’m opposed to separation.” Danette eased back in her chair and crossed her legs. “We’re all descendants of Shardrake. We should remain together.” Corry fidgeted as silence expanded within the room. “We have to get Korbin out of that detention center.” “It might work to our advantage to leave him in custody.” Ashton’s gaze lit with calculation and cunning. “Any reform movement needs a focal point. Korbin can be ours.” “I’ll contact some people, rally support,” Palmer said, joining the conversation. “It’s probably better if we keep Corry out of this. We don’t want to belittle the principles by making this into a personal vendetta.” “It is personal,” she objected. “My life has been—” “This can’t be about you,” Palmer cut her off. “Korbin will be a sort of figurehead for the cause, but this has to be a cause, not retribution.” “Is Korbin safe in custody?” Corry persisted, and Danette’s heart lurched. The question had crossed her mind more than once in the past few days. “Isn’t it possible another ‘accident’ could be arranged?” “The detention center is under continual surveillance,” Ashton reassured her. “I’ll file a report indicating our fear for Korbin’s safety and request permission to randomly review the video record. Considering the suspicious way in which your father died they’ll have no choice but to agree.” “Video files can be altered,” Danette’s pointed out, her gaze averted from everyone. “If they wanted him dead, he’d be dead. They’ve had plenty of opportunity.” Ashton stood and rubbed the back of his neck, his movements tense and anxious. Palmer stood as well, facing Ashton. “I’ll report to you once a day. We need to organize protests and flood the council with demands for reorganization. We’ll speak in a voice so loud they won’t be able to ignore us.” 130
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Ashton smiled. “This is a good start. But make sure everyone understands the protests must be non-violent. I really don’t want to start a war.” Ashton saw Palmer to the door. “I can’t go back there,” Danette said softly when Ashton returned. “I’m not sure why you guys are helping me, but I’m never going to allow my father to control my life again.” “That’s why we’re helping you. There’s a commuter shuttle on the roof next to my schooner. On the pilot’s seat you’ll find a security code. The destination is already programmed into the navpanel.” Tears blurred her vision as the full import of what they’d done unfurled. She would be free. For the first time in years, she would be free. “And what will I find when I arrive at this mysterious destination?” “An apartment building with a vacant flat. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s furnished and should provide everything you need to live independently. A close friend owns the building and your expenses are covered. No one will question your arrival. You can stay as long as you like. Oh, I almost forgot. Our engagement is off.”
***** Danette spent the next three days savoring her freedom yet aching for her Master. What good was a life of her own if the person she longed to share it with was locked in a cage? She watched demonstrations and protests spread like wildfire. Palmer had mobilized the university students with amazing speed. On the fourth day, Ashton left a message asking her to return to his apartment. He was waiting on the roof when she arrived. “I’m getting good at harboring fugitives.” He smiled and scanned open the door. “How serious are you and Corry?” she asked as they headed down the corridor. “Very serious.” He shot her a sidelong glance. “What’s going on between you and Korbin?” “Nothing at the moment,” she said wistfully. They had barely settled around Ashton’s kitchen table when the doorbell rang. “That’s probably Palmer. I’ll be right back.” Ashton went to open the door and returned with his mother. Fury blazed in Elaine’s eyes. “He knows. I don’t know how he found out but Hayford knows.” “He knows what?” Ashton asked. “He knows Corry is here and he has given me two days to convince her to turn herself in or he will have all three of us arrested. Damn it! You probably should have kept her stashed at the Pleasure Palace.”
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“She was only completely safe as long as she was alone. Each time I went there I took the risk of someone recognizing me. I wasn’t going to—” “I’ll turn myself in,” Corry said. “I won’t have you endangered—” “No!” Ashton and Elaine protested in unison. “We’ve come too far to back down now,” Elaine went on. “They’re frightened. They know this is something they can’t control and it has them scared to death.” “We have to resolve this quickly. If it becomes a pissing contest, there will be no winner.” Ashton looked at Corry and she nodded. “We need to educate them,” Corry said. “Allow the council to reevaluate the situation based on firsthand data. Petitions and vidfiles are easy to brush aside. It’s a little harder to ignore the sunken eyes of a starving child.” “What are you suggesting?” Elaine asked. “A field trip.” Corry grinned. “We transport the entire council into a shuttle and take them on an extensive tour of the outer settlements. Let them experience what this rebellion is all about.” “You have the prototype?” Elaine asked. “The council thinks your people destroyed it to keep it from falling into their hands.” “We still have it, but there’s a major complication. Only Korbin can access it.”
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Chapter Eight The unmistakable sound of flesh hitting flesh jarred Korbin from a fitful sleep. He rolled off his bunk and sprang to the balls of his feet, ready to meet the unseen assailant. Leaning so close that the energy barrier sizzled, Korbin was able to see into the hall. Ashton and a rather busty brunette struggled with a half-conscious guard. Dragging the guard’s hands to the small of his back, Ashton snatched the magnetic restraints off his belt. “What the hell’s going on?” Korbin eyed him suspiciously. “What’s it look like?” Ashton snapped. “We’re breaking you out.” After securing the guard’s hands, Ashton unfastened his control band. “Sure you are.” “Fine. Stay here, but you’re about to get some company.” He deactivated the energy barrier and rolled the guard into the holding cell. Korbin stepped over the unconscious man and helped the woman drag a second guard into the cell. “Why would you help me?” Korbin looked from Ashton to the woman and back. “I need something only you can get and Toni owes me a favor.” Ashton reactivated the barrier while Toni unbuttoned her blouse. A sleek, molded camisole supported her lush breasts and hugged her trim torso. They hurried down the corridor and into the control room. Ashton looked at the grid and said, “The stars are shining on us tonight. We’re down to four.” Korbin didn’t say a word. There would be time for questions later. In tactical formation, they crept down the outer hall, pausing at the corner to assess the hub. Ashton pulled the pistol out of his waistband as Korbin darted to the other side of the corridor. From this angle he could see Toni and the guards. She tucked her hair behind her ears, pushed the sides of her blouse back and moved into the corridor. “Oh, thank God. I am so turned around. I usually come in a different entrance, but the public lot was full.” “How can we help you, ma’am?” one of the guards asked. “Ma’am? Do I look like a ma’am?” Three of the four guards were mesmerized, offering Toni their undivided attention. The fourth, however, scanned the corridor with renewed alertness. Korbin looked at Ashton. The tension in his expression made it clear he’d come to the same conclusion. Korbin pointed to the pistol and then to himself. Ashton shook his
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head. He wasn’t sure if Ashton didn’t have another gun, or if Ashton just wasn’t ready to trust him with one. “I’m so bad with directions,” Toni simpered. “Is there any chance you could show me?” Two of the guards were around the counter before their suspicious companion could protest. Ashton mouthed the word “now” and rushed down the corridor. He fired on the steadfast guard, propelling him away from the controls. Toni launched herself at the nearest guard while the second frantically reached for his weapon. Ashton blasted the two remaining guards in quick succession. Korbin cursed his helplessness. The guard Toni had engaged ducked her roundhouse kick and grabbed her from behind. She slammed her head back into his chest, but he only grunted. “Drop it or she’s dead,” the guard snarled. He was tall and burly, easily twice her weight. “Toss me the gun,” Korbin whispered, his gaze fixed on Toni. It took Ashton a moment longer to accept that he couldn’t make the shot. The guard repeated the command. The choice was simple. Ashton could trust him or surrender. Keeping the barrel pointed at the guard, Ashton tossed the gun to Korbin. He caught it and fired with deadly accuracy. The guard rocked backward and fell, his weapon never discharging. “Well, that was fun.” Toni shook off a shudder and swept her arm toward the door. “After you.”
***** “The executive council is nothing if not predictable. They’ll convene an emergency session tomorrow at nine o’clock, and that’s when we make our move.” Korbin heard the premier’s wife speak, but his mind had yet to accept that any of this was real. As if Ashton’s actions hadn’t been shocking enough, they’d shuttled to a remote flat to find Corry and Danette waiting for them. Palmer arrived a short time later, making Korbin’s stupor complete. “When did you all turn rebel?” He looked everywhere but at Danette, afraid he’d give himself away. He’d thought of little else, aching to see her, touch her just one more time. “Ashton converted on Temple-Tuttle.” Palmer smirked. “The rest of us took a little longer to convince.” Ignoring the knowing sparkle in Palmer’s gaze, Ashton asked, “How long will it take you to retrieve the transportation device and install it on my mother’s schooner?” Corry quickly explained what they had planned, bringing Korbin up to date without elaboration. “Can you have it ready by tomorrow morning?” she asked.
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“Installation will only take an hour or so. Retrieving the device before morning could be a problem.” “Why? Where is it?” Though Ashton’s tone was casual, Korbin hesitated to explain. “In a storage compartment.” “Why are you being so evasive?” Korbin glared at Ashton. “Why are you being so helpful? How do I know you’re not after the device? The executive council would do anything to get their hands on it. Am I really supposed to believe you’ve turned rebel overnight?” He shot a suspicious glance at Elaine to reinforce his point. Corry moved to his side. “We don’t have time for this. I trust them and that’s going to have to be good enough. What do you need to retrieve the device? I…have a good idea where you hid it.” His gaze narrowed. How could she possibly know, unless she knew about… “Is it in one of the training rooms?” Shit! She knew. He swallowed hard and glanced away. How had she learned? It didn’t matter. They had work to do. “Yes, it’s in one of the training rooms. I have to have a plausible reason for retrieving it, but they can’t realize who I am. I can com Petra and make sure the room is available, but I can’t draw attention with my actions. I need a trainee.” “I’ll go.” Danette’s offer slammed into him like a fist. He still hadn’t looked directly at her. “Ms. Tiptonn,” Corry began awkwardly, “I don’t think you understand where—” “I understand. Korbin knows why I’m the perfect choice.” “You guys lost me half a conversation ago.” Palmer stood. “Are we on or not?” “If we can’t pull it off, I’ll contact you.” Ashton stood as well. “If you don’t hear from me, be at my apartment at seven tomorrow morning.” Palmer and Elaine left. “What do you need from us?” Corry glanced from Korbin to Danette and back again. “Whose apartment is this and where is the schooner?” “A friend of my mother’s owns the building,” Ashton told him. “The apartment is vacant and there is no surveillance inside the complex. As soon as you have the device, I’ll meet you with the schooner.” “We need clothing appropriate to our destination.” “I’ll take care of it.” Corry departed with Ashton, leaving Korbin alone with Danette. She flew into his arms, her lips parted and waiting. Korbin kissed her and tasted her. With a frustrated sigh, he set her away from him. “I don’t want to take you there. 135
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I’ll have to be just a faceless Dom. I can’t be Pleasure Master Nine. Too many people know he’s NëvouS, and NëvouS is a criminal. If a pleasure master wants to look at you, touch you, I’ll have to let him. I couldn’t bear—” She pressed a kiss to his mouth, smiling into his eyes. “I’ve been through it before. I know what’s allowed and what’s forbidden.” She was willing and there was no other way to retrieve the device. Still, his heart was torn. “Let’s set parameters now. If they expect a show of obedience, would you rather touch or be touched?” “Be touched.” “It will be far less suspicious if we actually use the training room. The device is with my—travel kit. Do you realize…” “I know the sessions are supervised. It doesn’t bother me. You can command me. I’ll obey, even if others are watching.” “You can’t be too obedient. The private training rooms are only used for new trainees.” “I know. I was trained at the Pleasure Palace by—” He silenced her with a lingering kiss. Corry arrived a few minutes later, carrying a large parcel. “I think everything you’ll need is in here.” She handed him the bag. “There’s an automated shuttle in slot 290. It will activate on your voice command. Com us when you’ve got the device.”
***** The Pleasure Palace. Danette had never thought to enter its halls again. Concealed completely beneath a hooded cloak, she followed in Korbin’s wake. He held the chain attached to her thrall collar as they moved through one of three common rooms. Couples sprawled everywhere in various stages of undress. The uninhibited atmosphere sent excitement skittering along her nerve endings. Her nipples tightened against the fabric of her cloak and heat erupted in her core. She’d been terrified when Paul first brought her here, but by the end of her training, she hadn’t wanted to leave. “Hold there!” The deep voice of one of the Pleasure Masters brought Korbin to a halt. “Yes Sir?” “Thralls are to be uncovered in the common rooms.” “I’m sorry, Sir. She’s just beginning her training. I reserved one of the private rooms.” “Even so, I would see her. Display your thrall.” “Yes Sir.” Korbin, whose face was concealed by a three-quarters mask, turned to Danette. “Give me your cloak.” 136
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Danette’s hand trembled as she unfastened the garment. She had worked her thick hair into a simple braid and wore a mask similar to Korbin’s. His was black, hers red. Swinging the cloak off her shoulders, she handed it to Korbin, careful to keep her gaze lowered. Supple red boots climbed to mid-thigh, held in place by the crisscrossing laces that ran up one side. A tiny triangle of red material covered her mound, leaving her ass cheeks bare. A boned corset thrust her naked breasts up and together, completing the display. “She’s fabulous!” The Pleasure Master circled her and Danette tried not to fidget. He wasn’t allowed to fuck her unless her Master gave him permission. She tried to find comfort in that fact, despite her pounding heart. “How far has her training progressed? Does she understand the Offering?” “Her training has barely begun, sir, and I am eager to proceed.” “Where are you headed?” There was only one reason he’d ask. He intended to watch the training session. Danette swallowed around the lump in her throat. As long as Korbin was the only one to take her, she didn’t care who watched. “Training room seven, Sir. May we go now?” “I would sample her first.” “Of course, Sir.” Korbin moved behind her and drew her arms to the small of her back. Danette remembered to struggle. Most new trainees would resist. The Pleasure Master stroked her breasts, rolled her nipples until they stood proud and ready for his mouth. He bent and suckled one while he plucked at the other. Danette clenched her jaw against the sensations his practiced skill evoked. She didn’t want to feel pleasure at this man’s hands. “When a Pleasure Master lavishes you with attention, sweet thrall, you show your appreciation with your cries and moans.” Korbin’s voice sounded harsh and disapproving. He cupped her breast, offering it to the Pleasure Master. Danette gasped and twisted, moaning loudly as the Pleasure Master worked her nipple. “Much better.” The Pleasure Master dragged her panties down to her thighs and pushed his middle finger into her cleft. “She’s not very wet. You will have to work on her responsiveness. Build her desire for at least an hour before you let her come.” “I understand, Sir.” “Part her for me. I would taste her clit.” Korbin’s hands moved immediately to her sex, parted her folds for the Pleasure Master. She turned her head and closed her eyes, making soft keening sounds. She loved having her pussy licked, but she didn’t want to surrender to this stranger. Her pleasure was reserved for her true Master. Only for Korbin would she come. 137
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The Pleasure Master flicked her ruthlessly, his touch skillful and persistent. He’d told Korbin not to let her come. She gasped and arched into his mouth as if an orgasm were nearly upon her. As she’d hoped, he pulled back with a laugh. “See. It’s working already. Deprive her until she is mad for it.” Danette reached for her thong, meaning to cover her naked mound. Korbin stopped her. “No. Take them off and give them to me. You’ve lost the privilege of modesty until you learn to respond without hesitation.” Pushing the scrap of material past her knees, she stepped out of her panties and handed them to Korbin. “Now apologize to the Pleasure Master and let’s be on our way.” “I’m sorry for displeasing you, Pleasure Master.” “You’re off to a good start, thrall. You just have much to learn.” “Thank you, Pleasure Master.” “When you’ve progressed a bit farther, I’ll expect a full Offering.” “Yes, Sir.” Korbin inclined his head and tugged gently on her chain. He led her across the common room and through a wide archway. “He’ll go to the control booth and watch us,” Danette whispered, head bowed. “I know.” After a pause, she whispered, “I missed you,” not daring to glance his way. “I missed you too.” Tenderness washed over her at his unexpected response. Was it possible he felt something for her? Their interaction had been unconventional to say the least. “I’ve thought of nothing but you.” He whispered so softly, she might have imagined the words. Her breath escaped in a ragged sigh. She needed to touch him! “How long do we have? Do we dare?” “We’ve got all night, sweet thrall, and I suspect you’re going to be very difficult and force me to do all sorts of nasty things to your luscious body.” “Yes, Master!” Korbin opened the training room door with the code Petra had given him. Lights blinked on as they stepped through the threshold and he waited for the privacy panel to close behind them. His gaze moved immediately to the walk-in locker, which contained the private storage bins. “Get on the table. I’ll return in a moment.” He turned her toward the high-padded table and ducked inside the adjoining room. He scanned open the compartment and heaved an audible sigh. This device might well have cost his father his life. But Korbin couldn’t think about the past tonight. He had to focus on the future.
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The “travel kit” was large and heavy enough to require a hover-case. He removed the remote from its holder and activated the unit. It hummed and levitated. He guided it out of the storage compartment. Danette sat on the edge of the table, her long legs nearly reaching the floor. The bustier supported her breasts without covering them. Gods, she looked delectable. His cock lurched in eager anticipation and warmth spread through his chest. How could he want to fuck her senseless one minute and cuddle her gently the next? She made him irrational! Her eyes widened with clever curiosity. “What’s in the case?” “I’m going to take this home with us when we’ve finished, so we can continue your training there. I find myself impatient for you to develop specific skills. The Palace has certain amenities I can’t duplicate at home, but I’ll supplement your lessons in between.” “Whatever pleases you.” “Lie on your back and extend your arms and legs.” The X-shaped table had been designed with this in mind. Wide padded cuffs secured her wrists and ankles, and a control panel allowed him to adjust her position any way he liked. He spread her legs and bent her knees. “When is it permissible for a thrall to come?” he asked in an autocratic tone. “When her Master gives her leave.” “Very good.” He turned her face toward his, looking deeply into her eyes. “I do not give you permission. You will not come until I tell you to.” “I understand.” He flicked her nipple hard and she gasped. “Yes, Master. The proper response is ‘Yes, Master.’” “Yes, Master.” Korbin opened a side compartment on his travel kit and retrieved two small metal rings. Many thralls pierced their nipples, making the rings permanent. It warmed his heart to know she hadn’t loved Paul enough to alter her body. Suckling her nipples, he worked them into tight peaks. He slipped each ring into place and suckled again, making each progressively smaller until she moaned. Danette had the most beautiful breasts Korbin had ever seen—high, round, the nipples responsive and vivid red. “How does that feel?” He breathed across her turgid peak. “I ache.” She wiggled restlessly. “It’s almost as if I can still feel your mouth on me.” He brushed his fingertips across her belly, watching the taut flesh jump and quiver. Her skin was so sensitive. He loved touching her, would never tire of touching her, but Korbin knew too well what went on in the control booths. The Pleasure Masters watched, assessed, and determined what Offerings they would demand from the thralls. Pleasure Master Sixteen had his sights set on Danette. 139
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Watching the other man touch her had been more than Korbin could bear. They would have to make a hasty exit if they wanted to avoid him on the way out. Still, if they left the training room too quickly, he might question their sudden departure. Korbin had no option but to play his role, at least for a time. “The Pleasure Master is right. You must learn to respond immediately to my every touch. You love having your pussy licked, so we’ll try something different.” He retrieved a slender dildo from one of the compartments in his travel case and depressed the end until beads of lubricant appeared along the pink shaft. “You offered me your entire body without reservation when you agreed to be my thrall. Tonight we’ll take another step toward that goal.” He stepped between her legs and pushed two fingers into her feminine core. She sighed and arched, then her eyes widened as he rubbed the toy against her anus. “I don’t want—” Her sentenced ended abruptly as he pushed the toy past her sphincter. Her horrified expression and ragged panting was perfectly convincing. “I don’t like it.” “You’ll learn to like it or I’ll be forced to punish you. Would you rather come or be punished?” “I’d rather come.” Her whispery tone was just loud enough for the surveillance feed to register. “Because this is your first time, I’ll also use vibration.” He removed his fingers long enough to twist the base of the toy. When it hummed deep in her ass, he thrust his fingers back into her cunt. “Concentrate on the vibration and the slide.” He kept his fingers buried in her pussy while he slid the dildo in and out of her ass. She moaned and tossed her head. Her breasts quivered with each harsh breath. “Come for me now!” Slowly twisting the toy as he drew it out, he felt her inner muscles spasm with release. Her cry was real and the flush spreading across her delicate skin made him want to soothe her with kisses. “You did well, but I think you can do better.” Tossing the toy into the trash bin, he returned to his case. He seldom used this next device, as it caused more pain than pleasure, but it was their ticket out of here. Korbin moved back between her legs and bent toward her pussy. Her folds glistened with cream. Could the bastard see how wet she was? He licked her slit, savoring her salty-sweet taste. “Each time you fail to respond quickly enough I will clamp your clit. It causes no permanent damage, but I’m told it’s uncomfortable.” Holding her open with one hand, he carefully applied the clamp. He had three and this was the mildest. Her sudden scream startled him and he reached for the clamp. It shouldn’t have hurt her that badly. She twisted her hips away. “No, Master, I deserve it. I will try harder to please you. I will be ready for your touch, your kiss, your cock, whenever you desire me.” She understood. He breathed a sigh of relief and unfastened her ankle cuffs. “You will wear the clamp and the rings until I take them off.” “Yes, Master.” She panted harshly. “Thank you.”
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He shot her a warning look. That last bit had been a little too much. He helped her down from the table and gathered their belongings. “We’ll continue this lesson at home.” Activating the case, he opened the door and led her into the corridor. “If we hurry, we can be out of here before he returns from the control booth.” “Well, this fucking clamp isn’t making it easy to walk,” she whispered in a sharp, agitated tone. “Ignore the pain, my love, and I promise I’ll make it up to you.”
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Chapter Nine Moments after the shuttle left the ground, Korbin swiveled Danette’s chair toward the aisle and knelt in front of her. He left her safety restraints in place and lifted her legs to his shoulders. Blood surged into her clit as he released the clamp. She cried out, clutching the armrests. His hands slipped beneath her bare bottom and his thumbs parted her folds. He pressed a kiss to her abused clit, licked, circling the swollen nub with tender strokes. She relaxed against the chair, grateful for the safety restraints, needing the confinement. On and on he soothed and caressed her. The sting faded, replaced by a delicious throb. “Yes, Master, just like that.” She hadn’t meant to speak the words, but they escaped and Korbin raised his head. Danette froze. “I’m sorry.” She knew better than to speak without permission. What was wrong with her? He’d have to punish her. Her pussy clenched and her clit gave off a little pulse of protest. As long as he didn’t clamp her again, she’d… Lowering her legs to the floor, he cupped her mound and stared into her eyes. “I can’t be your Master, Danette, not now. Perhaps not ever.” The world narrowed to his tormented expression and the pain searing her heart. “A Master must be able to protect and provide for his thrall. That’s why I worked as a Pleasure Master. It allowed me access to a lifestyle I can’t afford.” Tears swam before her eyes. She longed for him, burned for his demanding possession. How could he deny her now? “I don’t want anyone else. I…need you.” Her voice trembled, rough and raw. “You need this.” He pushed two fingers into her core, his gaze clouded, inscrutable. “You need a man who understands what it takes to please you. I can give you that, but don’t call me Master until I’ve earned the title.” Covering her mouth with his, his tongue slid, his teeth nipped. He released the safety restraints and Danette whimpered. She didn’t want to be free! She’d accept Korbin as her lover if that was the only way he’d take her. She understood his hesitation, respected his honesty. Still, she craved the security, the devotion a Master gave his thrall. She combed her fingers through his hair, moving her tongue against his. He tasted of passion—her passion—and the need consuming them. Her nipples strained against the confining rings. She wrapped her legs around his waist, opening herself, offering. Still kissing her, he swiveled his chair, aligning the two across the aisle. He shoved his pants to his knees and sat on the edge of the chair. His movements were nearly
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frantic as he freed his straining cock. She braced her feet against the chair behind him, brazenly canting her hips. He thrust to the hilt and they cried out together. Danette arched into his lunge. He took her hard and fast, and she couldn’t get enough. His fingers dug into her hips, lifting her as he drove in again and again. She clenched her inner muscles, never wanting it to end. Gathering her in his arms, he pulled her up against his chest. Her ringed nipples stung as his shirt teased their sensitive tips. His gaze burned with urgency and passion, so why had he stopped fucking her? “I…” He broke off and kissed her, his tongue delving deep. His cock jerked, the demanding rhythm driving her crazy. He caressed her back, squeezed her ass, pulled her tighter against his body. “Danette, I—” His sentence ended in a helpless laugh. “I love you too.” She smiled and squeezed as hard as she could. He groaned but still didn’t move. “I’m not afraid of the word. I know I love you. The timing is just so wrong.” Warmed by his sincerity, she traced the sensual contour of his lips. “Your timing was just fine until you stopped moving inside me.” Framing her face between his palms, he kissed her tenderly. His mouth slid with infinite care, his tongue almost tentative. She encouraged his gentleness, enjoying the unhurried pace. Their previous encounters had been rushed and bittersweet. They touched and kissed, enjoying the intimacy of their joined bodies. “Kneel across my lap,” he whispered against her lips. It was a tight fit, but she managed. He traced her spine and teased the crease between her ass cheeks. Each tantalizing caress escalated her desire. She trembled. His tenderness whetted her appetite for more. She wanted him wild and demanding, pounding into her. He lifted her hips and lunged. Danette welcomed him with a warm, wet squeeze. His fingers tightened against her hips and each thrust jarred her entire body. Her back arched. She braced her hands on the chair behind her. Korbin held her steady while he moved with firm, steady stokes. Her pussy fluttered and her nipples tingled as the tension continued to build. Gathering from all over her body, sensations converged in her abdomen. He thrust his full length into her and the impact set off a chain reaction. She clenched, and pleasure burst, pulsing outward until her toes curled. She tossed her head, shaking helplessly. He clutched her hips, holding her still while he joined her in release.
***** Ashton and Corry were waiting when they returned to Danette’s apartment.
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“We were starting to get worried.” Ashton didn’t bother with hellos. “The meeting is scheduled for six, not nine. We’re running out of time.” “Is the ship here?” Korbin asked. “My mother’s schooner would be a little conspicuous in this neighborhood. If you’re ready, I’ll help you with the installation and the women can meet us at my apartment.” Korbin’s gaze lingered on Danette’s face, but he managed to make his voice sound casual. “Does that work for you?” She smiled. “It’s fine.” “Where’s the device?” Ashton asked. “Locked in the shuttle’s hold.” The men departed and Corry turned to Danette. “Are your clothes here or on the shuttle?” “Here.” She motioned toward the bedroom. “I’ll just be a minute.” They didn’t speak again until they were onboard Ashton’s shuttle, heading for his apartment on the other side of New Shardrake. “Did you know Pleasure Master Nine before we kidnapped you, or—” “Somehow I doubt Korbin told you about his other occupation. So, what were you doing at the Pleasure Palace?” Danette shot Corry a challenging glance. “I used the simulators after my father died. What attracted you to…that lifestyle?” Danette watched the city speed by. “What difference does it make to you?” “I’m just curious about the woman who’s captured my brother’s heart. He’s not an easy man to reach.” That wasn’t the answer she’d expected from Korbin’s grim sister. “I’m not sure I can make you understand without sounding like a spoiled brat.” Corry smiled. “I already think that, so change my mind.” In concise sentences, Danette explained how the botched seduction of her bodyguard led her to the Pleasure Palace. “For years I’d felt like a mannequin, a puppet, a prisoner of my father’s position. I can’t tell you how often I was introduced without a name. ‘And this is Admiral Tiptonn’s daughter.’ I hated it.” “That’s understandable, but as a thrall you’re not allowed a name either. Are you?” “It’s completely different. Paul chose me because he wanted me, not Admiral Tiptonn’s daughter. It was the first time I was absolutely certain of that.” “How old were you?” “Nineteen.” A dreamy smile curved her lips. Corry fidgeted, obviously uncomfortable with the conversation she had launched. “And you enjoy being a thrall?”
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“It’s a Master’s responsibility to give his thrall pleasure. How many of your lovers have put your pleasure above their own?” “You met Paul at the Pleasure Palace?” Despite her discomfort, Corry couldn’t seem to stop her curiosity. “Yes. Korbin was his mentor.” Danette took a deep shuddering breath. “That’s more than you need to know. Now change the subject.” “Have you ever…been with Ashton?” Danette laughed and shook her head. “That’s not much of a subject change, but I can tell you’re dying to know. Ashton came home with me after a party about a month ago. We both intended to have sex, but after a few kisses, we realized there was no chemistry between us. We knew we had to end the engagement. Regardless of how badly our parents wanted the match, we couldn’t go through with it. We were just waiting for the right time to make a public announcement.” Corry accepted the information with a silent nod, but Danette didn’t miss the sudden sparkle in her eyes.
***** Coalition headquarters was only a few minutes from Ashton’s apartment. Still, anticipation twisted Korbin’s stomach in knots. This had to work! It was likely their last chance to reach the executive council before they locked the rebels up and lost the access codes. “We’re going to have to move fast once we arrive.” Ashton sat in the pilot’s seat. Korbin sat beside him. “This schooner has approach authorization but security will expect us to land. The council chambers are already programmed in, so we should be able to transport our guests onboard and get the hell out of here before they fire on us.” “They’ll be disoriented when they materialize,” Corry said. “But the sensation doesn’t last long.” “Father will be armed,” Danette cautioned. “He’s always armed.” Korbin took the statement as a cue and unfastened his safety restraints. “It’s all set. Just press hard right here.” He showed Ashton the section of the control panel to depress. Drawing his pulse pistol, Korbin stood to one side of the schooner. Palmer followed his example, positioning himself on the other side. “Ready?” Corry had her weapon in hand as well. “Let the fun begin.” Ashton released his safety restraints and activated the transporter. A shimmering energy field converged in the middle of the cabin. Four separate figures formed within the field. The shapes fluctuated then silhouettes solidified. They materialized in a seated position, confusion contorting their features. Hayford caught himself before he fell to the floor. Renata Boehme wasn’t quite so agile. She landed with a startled gasp, looking around with a mixture of anger and awe. 145
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The other two “guests” managed to land on their feet, weapons drawn. “Freeze!” Korbin ordered. “Hands up!” He glanced from Admiral Tiptonn to Meredith, determination forcing away all emotion. None of their intel indicated Meredith would be at the briefing this morning. So why the hell was she here? “Now,” Palmer prompted when they didn’t immediately comply. “What is the meaning of this?” Hayford demanded. “They have the transporter.” Glaring all the while, Admiral Tiptonn surrendered his pulse pistol. Korbin disarmed Meredith as well and patted them both down. Gesturing with her handgun, Corry urged Renata into an empty seat, leaving Hayford and the admiral to argue with Korbin. “Are you being coerced or are you participating in this madness?” Hayford’s startled gaze moved between Ashton and Elaine. Elaine stepped toward her husband. “The rebels have our full support. This has gone on long enough.” Korbin secured the admiral to one chair while Palmer bound Meredith to another. Danette stood before her father, her eyes bright with conviction. “You need to listen to them. What they did may have been unconventional, but their cause is legitimate.” He turned his face away, refusing to reply. Hayford took a seat across from the admiral and Korbin reached for his wrist. “That won’t be necessary.” He glanced at Elaine and fastened his safety restraints.
***** Hope bubbled inside Korbin as they loaded the schooner and left Chiron for Wirtanen. It was too soon to think they’d reached these stubborn bureaucrats, yet their thoughtfulness was encouraging. Corry’s descriptions of the crowded dormitories and the backbreaking labor expected of the inhabitants of Chiron hadn’t impressed the council members. It was only as they approached one of the harvest houses and came face-to-face with the ragged workers that their attitudes subtly changed. Intimidated by the unexpected visitors, most of the harvesters were reluctant to complain. One mouthy woman had no such qualms. Her son had died the previous winter when the overseer ignored the boy’s claims of illness. One story led to another, and soon the granary echoed with the workers’ discontent. Corry couldn’t have planned it better if she’d organized the visit months in advance. The only disadvantage to their lengthy stay was arriving on Wirtanen after dark. The outpost was dangerous during the day. At night, Shanty Town’s twisted warren harbored cutthroats and thieves. “It’s probably best if we transport down,” Corry mused. “Scavengers run rampant at night.” They hovered above one of the most crime-ridden areas of the city.
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“Why do you know so much about Wirtanen? I thought you lived on Borrelly.” The premier’s sharp gaze assessed Corry. “She’s been attempting to do your job for the past five years,” Korbin sneered. “Father established the runs. Corry took them over after he was murdered.” “What runs? What do you bring here?” Despite Korbin’s provocation, Hayford’s gaze never shifted from Corry’s face. “Let’s transport down and you can see for yourself.” “I’ll monitor your position.” Korbin turned back to the control panel. “Signal at the first sign of trouble and I’ll transport you back.” “Is it that dangerous?” Renata asked. “It can be,” Corry replied. “Then I alone will accompany you.” The admiral made it sound dramatic. Corry chuckled. “That sort of defeats the purpose for bringing you here.” The admiral glanced at Korbin. “Sounds like we’ll need our weapons and all nonessential personnel should remain onboard.” “Who do you consider nonessential?” Corry asked, and the admiral glared at her. “Everyone on the executive council is transporting down. I’m not sure why Meredith was included in the briefing, but I don’t want her to feel left out.” “You think I don’t know what’s down there?” she snapped. “I was married to the grand crusader. I probably know more about this than you.” “And still you’ve done nothing?” Danette grabbed Corry’s arm as she lunged toward Meredith. “Except arrest me.” Korbin pivoted to face the others as he added the jibe. “Why don’t you and Korbin accompany the four of us to the surface?” A cunning gleam ignited in the admiral’s eyes. “There’s no reason to endanger the others.” “I don’t think so.” Corry opened the munitions compartment and tucked a pistol in the back of her pants. “Korbin stays onboard with Danette and Elaine.” She handed a weapon to the younger VinDerley. “Ashton comes with us.” The admiral shrugged. “Whatever you say.”
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Chapter Ten “I can babysit the comlink just as well as you can, silly boy,” Elaine said with a conspirator’s wink. “We have to bring them back onboard, so it’s not like they’re going to catch you in the act.” Korbin looked at the premier’s wife, unable to make his mind accept that she had just suggested he take Danette to the aft cabin and fuck her. “When Hayford and I were in college we couldn’t keep our hands off each other. We did it every chance we got. On commuter shuttles, in fitting rooms, at the Cineplex, in the doctor’s office, under…” He took Danette by the hand and rushed her to the back of the schooner just to escape the progressively more disturbing mental images. Danette was laughing by the time he got the privacy panel secured. “She’s teasing you,” Danette assured. “Elaine might have tried to seduce Hayford in all those places, but he has always been ultraconservative.” He pressed her against the nearest wall and caged her there with his arms. “Why is she so anxious for us to be alone?” “Because she’s tired of watching us undress each other with our eyes.” Danette unfastened his pants and deftly freed his cock. “Ashton is empathic. I’ve heard he gets his abilities from her, which means she can feel exactly how much I want this inside me.” She closed her fingers around his shaft and stroked him from base to crown until a drop of moisture formed on the very tip. “Offer me your mouth.” She sank to her knees and locked her hands behind her head, looking up into his eyes. He wanted her naked, needed to see her breasts. But they had no idea how long the others would be gone. She extended her tongue and he leaned in close, allowing her to lick the drop of pre-cum off the tip of his cock. “More,” she whispered. The word combined with the desire burning in her eyes just about buckled his knees. He pushed into the waiting warmth. So soft, so giving, she swirled her tongue around him and sucked on the head of his cock until tingles raced up and down his spine. Bracing himself against the wall, he moved in her mouth, feeling only the snug heat of her lips and the velvet caress of her tongue. She tilted her head, taking him into her throat. He groaned and staggered back a step. “You’re…too good at that.” She stayed on her knees, hands locked behind her head, waiting, needing to be commanded. 148
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You’re not her Master. You shouldn’t be doing this. “Stand up,” he said in a gruff, urgent tone. She stood and he unfastened her pants, pulling them down around her ankles. He worked one of her legs free, shoe and all, leaving her pants bunched around her other leg. Pushing her against the wall, he knelt in front of her. “Put your leg on my shoulder and press your pussy against my mouth. I want to fuck you with my tongue.” With a little whimper, she did as she was told, raising her leg and tilting her hips until her sex was perfectly aligned with his seeking tongue. He stabbed into her and felt her core ripple around him. Her cream coated his lips and tongue. He pulled back and thrust in again. She trembled, her thigh flexing against the side of his face. A thrall would ask permission to come, but she wasn’t his thrall. “Please?” The question in her tone was undeniable. She still needed the security of their roles. “Yes.” He pulled back just long enough to whisper the word then he found her clit and drew on the swollen nub until she shuddered with release. He lifted her against the wall and impaled her with his erect length, keeping her leg draped over his arm. Her inner muscles squeezed and caressed him with their hot embrace. She was spread wide as he pounded into her, stretched to the point of pain. “Look at me.” He slowed his pace and gazed into her eyes. “Who’s inside you? Say my name.” “Mas—” “No! Say my name.” “Korbin. My love. The only man I want inside me.” “Kiss me. Let your tongue fill my mouth as I fill your pussy.” She shivered, the thought obviously exciting her. Framing his face with her hands, she angled her head and sealed her mouth over his. She matched the thrust of her tongue to the steady rhythm of his cock, taking him as he took her. He cupped her bottom and drove up into her wet core. She caressed his cheeks and stroked his tongue with hers. Sensations swirled around them, building in intensity. He moved faster. She cried out as an orgasm tore through her abdomen, making her core pulse with distinct spasms. Driving his full length into her, he released his seed in long, hot spurts. They clung to each other for a long time, kissing and caressing, savoring the stolen moment of passion. Not knowing when—or if—another opportunity would come their way.
*****
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Corry signaled that they were ready to return about an hour and a half later. Korbin activated the transporter and Danette watched in awe as the others materialized in the middle of the shuttle’s main cabin. It really was a miraculous device. Meredith looked pale, her eyes suspiciously bright. Even the ever-composed admiral seemed a bit shaken. No one said a word as they took their seats and fastened the safety restraints. Renata sat directly across from Danette, her face ashen, her hands trembling. “I didn’t know,” she whispered. “We’d been told life was harder in the outer settlements, but we didn’t realize… How could we know?” “It’s your job to know,” Corry reminded her. The admiral shook his head, as if to dispel the images. “We must declare Wirtanen an official disaster area. We must mobilize troops with provisions and medical supplies.” “Our action needs to unfold on two levels,” Hayford interjected. “Short-term relief and long-term change. We must meet the immediate needs of these people, but we must also look to the future. There must be a better system of accountability.” “Wirtanen has a director. All the outposts do.” Renata regained some of her composure. “How could this have been allowed to go on? Someone close to the scene should have been screaming the heavens down.” Corry pressed her lips together and clutched her armrests. Danette understood her anger and admired her restraint. Corry’s father had done everything in his power to “scream the heavens down”. They hadn’t listened. They hadn’t wanted to know. Still, the council was problem solving, so Corry kept her resentment to herself. Any outburst now would be counterproductive. Danette wasn’t sure she could have mustered the same level of control. “I’ve received quarterly reports from all the outposts and though complications were noted, nothing like this was communicated,” Hayford said. “Either the individual directors are oblivious to what’s going on or they’re profiting in some way. I’ll launch a full-scale investigation into the directorial boards of each of these outposts.” “Part of the problem is the directors have no ownership in their assignments,” Korbin said, speaking for the first time since the council’s return. “All of the outpost directors are citizens of Halley Prime. Most of them live on Halley Prime. What difference does a decision make when you’re not affected by it?” “Only citizens of Halley Prime have the qualifications needed to be directors,” the premier objected. Korbin shot him a challenging glance. “Did the formally educated, privileged director of Wirtanen keep his people from starving? If it weren’t for the rebel shipments, countless occupants would be dead.” “What are you proposing?”
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“Nothing will change on the outposts until the occupants have a say in the decisions governing them,” Korbin replied. “We’re no more qualified to decide how the changes should take place than the outpost directors,” Corry pointed out. “Representatives from each outpost need to be chosen by the population, and the representatives should work with the executive council to devise a specific plan for each outpost.” “That could take months.” Hayford shook his head. “It could, but it won’t. These people are desperate for change. They’ll welcome the opportunity to work with you and accept any help you give.” “Isn’t it sad that it took a criminal act to open your eyes?” Elaine’s tone was soft, more cajoling than provoking. “What are you going to do with these vicious rebels?” “I have no intention of bring charges against them,” Hayford volunteered. “Nor do I,” Renata added. Admiral Tiptonn was the last to speak. “You only did what we forced you to do. I can’t fault your actions.”
***** “Tell me how your father managed to get the prototype working when our research scientists told me it couldn’t be done.” They were an hour away from Halley Prime. After outlining a basic agenda for the following day, the conversation turned to lighter topics. Korbin glanced at the premier, debating what to tell him. “What do you know about our father’s murder?” “Little more than you do,” Hayford said. “I suspected foul play was involved, but I couldn’t prove it. I have investigated the matter.” Laughing and saying “bullshit” wouldn’t earn him any points with the premier, so he reined in his temper. “I can’t explain how the prototype works. The inventor is dead. Even Corry was only his assistant.” “Did he keep a journal or some form of technical notes?” the premier asked Corry. Hayford’s obvious interest in the prototype shouldn’t have surprised her, but suspicion narrowed her eyes and compressed her lips. “This outing wasn’t about the transportation device.” “I understand that. We’ve committed to taking action on behalf of the outposts. I will see that their standard of living improves immediately. But the fact remains that you possess a technology in which the coalition is very interested.” “How interested?” Korbin swiveled in his chair to face the premier. “Are you asking for a monetary figure?” “No sir.” Korbin’s easy show of deference should have warned Hayford, but he charged on ahead, oblivious to the trap directly in his path. “Then what do you want?” 151
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“Amnesty,” Korbin said evenly. “Amnesty?” the premier echoed. “You will turn over the prototype and all of your father’s documentation if I offer you amnesty?” “It’s a bit more complicated than that. I would require a written document absolving all the rebels of any wrongdoing.” The premier gaped like a fish out of water. “All the rebels? I can’t possibly—” “Korbin is being a bit too vague.” Corry tried to rescue the negotiation before he pushed too hard. She’d always been the better diplomat. “The only charges for which we would expect an acquittal are those associated with the alleged kidnapping of Ashton, Danette and Palmer.” “That would send a message to the coalition and beyond that we can be manipulated by terrorism. It would be an open invitation for more of the same. There has to be some form of reprisal for your rash actions.” “But those repercussions don’t necessarily have to involve incarceration,” Corry suggested. “Let me speak with the rest of the council and we’ll get back with you.”
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Chapter Eleven Korbin shook Larz’s hand and saw him to the door. Triple sweeps had assured Korbin every surveillance device in the apartment had been removed. He took a deep breath, reveling in the freedom. He had smashed the coalition’s microscope! A person-to-person page drew his attention to the vidscreen. “Accept call.” Corry’s smiling image appeared and Korbin returned her smile, feeling relaxed for the first time in weeks. “They couldn’t wait to get rid of you, I see,” she said playfully. “I went to the detention center to say goodbye and you were already gone.” “They remitted me into the custody of Warden Restien. I don’t have many fans on Halley Prime, but Borrelly can’t live without me.” His smile slipped a bit as he went on. “I hear congratulations are in order.” “I haven’t decided if congratulations or condolences are more appropriate, but it’s official. I’m outpost liaison, which makes me one of them.” He winked at her. “You would have been a citizen anyway as soon as Ashton marries you.” She blushed to the roots of her hair, and Korbin laughed. “He hasn’t even asked me yet.” “He will. I’ve seen the way he looks at you.” They were quiet for a time as her gaze searched his. “Have you spoken with Danette?” “No, and I don’t expect to. What’s the point? I have nothing to offer—someone like her.” “You underestimate yourself.” He just shrugged. “I had an interesting conversation with Premier VinDerley a few minutes ago. The executive council has agreed to drop all charges and seal the records as soon as I find Dad’s journals. I know they’re here somewhere. It’s just a matter of sorting through all this clutter.” “Haven’t others tried to find them?” “Yes, but I know what I’m looking for.” He chuckled and waved her away. “Get to it! I’m under house arrest until they’re found.” “Behave yourself. I’ll talk to you soon.”
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The screen blinked off and a heaviness settled over Korbin’s heart. He’d tried so hard not to think about Danette. Why did Corry have to mention her? Long hours of isolation and boredom had forced him to face his deepest fear. He was very much in love with his captive, but even love didn’t change who they were, how they’d been reared. She was a princess and he was a pauper. Korbin had outgrown fairy-tales. The door buzzer sounded and Korbin dragged himself from his discontented thoughts. Larz must have forgotten something. Korbin already checked in with the warden, and no one else on Borrelly knew he was here. He raised the privacy panel, and felt his heart miss a beat. Danette stood before him, a vision in red and gold. “What— What are you doing here?” He whispered the words, afraid the vibration of his voice would disintegrate the hallucination. “May I come in?” This couldn’t be real, yet there she stood, smiling innocently. Swallowing hard, he stepped out of the way and she moved into the foyer. Her fresh scent wrapped around him as he turned and secured the door. He scrambled for an explanation, paralyzed by possibilities. He closed his eyes. His body ached, longed for—for things he had no right to want. “I did it.” Her casual tone made him turn around. She tucked a strand of long blonde hair behind her ear. Her blue eyes sparkled, and her full lips formed a perfect smile. “You did what?” He was afraid to move, afraid to breathe. “I had it out with my father once and for all. I told him I was leaving and I wasn’t coming back. Even if you…don’t want me, I will not live like that anymore.” He cleared his throat and moved toward her, a moth captivated by a flame. “Does your father know where you are?” “I don’t think so. He’ll expect me to charter a private cruiser, so I took a commuter shuttle like everyone else.” His disobedient heart leaped, established a rhythm that made his head spin. They’d been on the same ship. He’d been contained belowdecks, away from the other passengers, and all the time Danette had been just above him. “This is what you want?” His mouth was so dry he could hardly speak. She untied the belt securing her ankle-length coat and shrugged out of the garment. Korbin grabbed the wall for support. Her luscious body was contoured by the thrall costume she’d worn the night he took her to the Pleasure Palace. “I want nothing more, Master.” Korbin circled her on trembling legs. She was spectacular, perfect and blissfully submissive. His body tightened with demanding need. He would protect and treasure her. He would cherish and pamper her… But first he must claim her as his.
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“I asked you before and you refused to tell me. As a demonstration of your obedience, tell me now. Who brought you to the Pleasure Palace? Why did you agree to be trained?” Composing his features into an expression of carnal demand, he gazed boldly at her full breasts and long, toned legs. Licking his fingers, he rolled her nipples, watching as they tightened and flushed. “I was invisible.” Her voice shook. “Raise your hands behind your head and continue.” Her breasts thrust forward as she lifted her arms. Korbin cupped them, rubbing her hardened nipples with his thumbs. “Speak or I’ll stop touching you.” “I was never alone, but no one really saw me. No one thought about my wants and needs.” He grabbed the teasing thong and ripped it from her. Danette gasped and fought back a smile. “You’ll not get what you need from me either if you keep stalling.” “I tried to seduce my bodyguard, but one of the reasons he was chosen was—” “Did you kiss him?” “Yes.” He took her face between his hands and rubbed her lips with his. “Did he make you cream?” “I ached for a man…any man.” Delving between her parted lips, he kissed her long and deep, filling her with his taste, his texture, claiming hers in return. “Where did you take him? What did you do?” “I took him into my father’s office. It was during a party at our house.” Korbin’s mouth wandered along her throat, his hands returned to her breasts, squeezing, pinching her nipples until they stood tall and proud. “Did he touch you like this? Did you suck his cock?” “I would have.” She panted. “He didn’t want me to.” He arched his brow at this. What man didn’t want his cock sucked? “What did he do to you?” She swallowed hard and licked her lips, her gaze filled with hesitation. Korbin stepped back, removing his hands from her. She whimpered. Her hands were still clasped behind her head. “I taunted and teased him. I unzipped my dress and let him see my breasts.” “And he still didn’t fuck you?” She averted her gaze. Anger and fear twisted through Korbin. Had he hurt her? Humiliated her? “He forced me down over my father’s desk and raised my skirt. I wanted to be frightened. I should have been frightened, but I was so excited I nearly screamed. He
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fucked me with his fingers and I came really hard.” She rushed through the tale, obviously confused by her reaction to the incident. Korbin slipped his hand between her thighs and groaned. Just talking about it had made her cream. He traced her slit, caressed her slick folds, never going near her clit. She closed her eyes and Korbin kissed her, needing the tenderness more than she. With his fingers still stroking her pussy, he released her mouth so she could speak. “I started crying. I didn’t understand what was wrong with me. He finally told me he was gay. That’s one of the reasons Father chose him to be my bodyguard.” “So he took you to the Pleasure Palace?” He brushed her clit once, rewarding her obedience and encouraging her cooperation. She nodded, her lips trembling, eyes passion glazed. “He suspected I needed to be dominated. The rougher he handled me the more excited I got. But he didn’t trust my training to just anyone.” “He gave you to Paul.” She shook her head. “He introduced me to the six Masters he’d approved. I allowed Paul to claim me.” Without explanation, Korbin swept her into his arms. Her sexual adventures had begun with an unfinished fantasy. He’d heard it in her voice, in the things she didn’t say. She’d wanted the bodyguard to fuck her while she was bent over the desk. Instead he’d gently rejected her and turned her over to another man. Korbin knew exactly how he’d claim her, the combination of reality and fantasy that would excite and thrill them both. Striding down the hall, he carried her into his office. Moonlight outlined the furniture, showing him all he needed to see. His wide, sturdy desk would be perfect for what he had in mind. “I’m going to finish what your bodyguard started all those years ago,” he whispered into her ear, his voice low and menacing. “We’re going to do all the things he wouldn’t, and probably quite a few more.” A violent tremor passed though her, and Korbin grinned. He wanted her mouth on his cock, but he wanted to taste her more, needed to feel her lose control. Setting her down on top of his desk, he positioned her on her hands and knees. He pulled her toward the edge so he could reach between her thighs. She didn’t make a sound, flowed from one position to the next willingly. He pushed her legs wide and covered her pussy with his mouth, shoving his tongue right into her core. Danette cried out, rocking back against his mouth. She was already so fucking wet! “Come for me, sweet slave. Let me feel you. Hard and fast, do it now.” He flicked her clit, pushed back into her cunt, and she fluttered rhythmically around his tongue. Oh yes! He licked and sucked, explored her slick cleft and traced each tender fold. He could live on her cream, or at least try to. He grinned against her damp flesh. Dragging his tongue slowly from her clit to her anus, he pulled away panting.
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“My turn,” he growled, dragging her off the desk and setting her down on her knees. “Take out my cock and suck me hard.” She unfastened his trousers and released his erect shaft with a throaty whimper. Korbin smiled. He was unusually hard. Initiating his thrall agreed with him. Using only her mouth, she caressed him, her hands clasped behind her head. He framed her face between his palms and slid deeper, advancing slowly, his gaze locked with hers. She tilted her head, allowing him into her throat. She swallowed and took even more of him. Korbin gritted his teeth against the pleasure, not ready to lose control. He reveled in the warm swirl of her tongue as she lavished him with attention. “Yes, just like that. Lick me tenderly. Love me as I have loved you.” She sucked greedily as he slid in and out of her mouth. Her gaze never left his. Her longing, her desire and her devotion were all there for him to read in her eyes. Restless and needy, he tried to concentrate on the pleasure of her mouth. It wasn’t enough. He had to be inside her. He must claim her body as his. “Enough!” His voice snapped more for her benefit than his. He dragged her to her feet and turned her toward the desk, forcing her to bend over the cool, hard surface. Kicking her legs apart, he shoved two fingers into her pussy and worked her ruthlessly. “Oh yes. Squeeze my fingers and I’ll fill you with my cock.” He circled her clit from in front while his fingers pumped into her from behind. She clutched the desk and whimpered. Her inner muscles contracted as she came. “Very good.” He stroked her back, pulling up on her hips and easing into position. “You’re an obedient thrall and you come so very sweetly.” Without further warning he impaled her, twisting his hand in her long hair. His knees kept her open as he thrust in, hard and deep, again and again. She gasped and cried out with each penetration, her inner muscles tightening. “Not yet! You don’t have permission. You will wait for me this time.” Danette groaned and stilled beneath him, obviously fighting back her orgasm. He stroked her breasts and rolled her nipples, testing her determination. “Talk to me, sweet slave. I want to hear your voice. Does my body give you what you need?” “Yes, Master. You feel wonderful. I never want to be without you again.” He drove deep and held himself there while she writhed beneath him. “Feel me. Know me. Say my name.” “Master.” She stilled, relaxing until all he could feel was the subtle ripple of her core. “Your Master loves you, sweet slave. I will protect you and provide for you to the very best of my ability. I will cherish you and treasure you from now ’til eternity.” Spread prostrate beneath him, her body stretched tight around his. She spoke the words he had never dreamed to hear, making his world complete. “Your thrall loves
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you, dear Master. I will submit body and soul, willingly. I trust you to treasure and protect me from now ’til eternity.”
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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
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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 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.
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