Slaves

Entwined Fates:

Slaves

Trista Ann Michaels

Entwined Fates: Slaves Copyright © March 2010 by Trista Ann Michaels All rights reserved. This copy is intended for the purchaser of this e-book ONLY. No part of this e-book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without prior written permission from Loose Id LLC. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author's rights. Purchase only authorized editions. eISBN 978-1-60737-548-7 Editor: Georgia A. Woods Cover Artist: Anne Cain Printed in the United States of America

Published by Loose Id LLC PO Box 425960 San Francisco CA 94142-5960 www.loose-id.com This e-book is a work of fiction. While reference might be made to actual historical events or existing locations, the names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Warning This e-book contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language and may be considered offensive to some readers. Loose Id LLC’s e-books are for sale to adults ONLY, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.

*** DISCLAIMER: Please do not try any new sexual practice, especially those that might be found in our BDSM/fetish titles without the guidance of an experienced practitioner. Neither Loose Id LLC nor its authors will be responsible for any loss, harm, injury or death resulting from use of the information contained in any of its titles.

http://www.loose-id.com

Chapter One Adjusting her bags, Lincia Morlin—Lin for the most part—made herself as comfortable as possible onboard the government transport, or the oversize pansy ship as her friend Keeran liked to call it. Lin would have to agree. All around her within the opulently decorated gathering room sat numerous galactic senators, dressed in their regal finest, chatting with their entourages of traveling companions. She would have much rather taken a public transport, but her father forbade it. As the daughter of a galactic senator, she would travel in safety. Lin rolled her eyes. God forbid Senator Morlin's daughter should be caught on a public anything. He bragged incessantly about her position with the GDRC—the Galactic Disease Research Center—but only because of the prestige. She was the youngest director ever appointed. Unfortunately not once had he expressed pride in her medical abilities or her successful containment of two plague outbreaks on planets Areon and Lunista. Of course those wouldn't matter to him. They were underdeveloped planets not even part of the Senate, so therefore not worthy of his concern. Keeran dropped into the cushioned seat next to her with a tired sigh, pulling Lin's thoughts from her father. Her black hair cascaded over her shoulder as Keeran bent down to set her bag into the secured bin next to her seat. With one dainty hand, she brushed her long black curls from her face as she sat up straight and glanced around the interior. Most senators had their own personal ships, but sometimes they traveled together on one of the transports, especially if they needed to discuss something in a group. And today looked as though they were discussing something very important. Lin knew there was a major vote coming up, but to be honest, she hadn't paid too much attention. Politics was her father's arena.

Trista Ann Michaels

2

“I saw that,” Keeran said. “Saw what?” Lin asked. “That rolling your eyes thing you do. You must have been thinking about your father.” Lin smiled, not at all surprised at just how well her friend knew her. Keeran reached up and gathered her hair off her neck and pinned it to the top of her head with a clasp. “It's so hot on these damn things.” “I know. But if you think it's hot here, just wait until we get to the lower ground of Rhinari.” Her friend studied her closely as she leaned over to gently finger the soft suede of her traveling suit. “You are changing first, right?” “I would hope you are as well.” They both smiled. “If your father knew what you were about to do…” Keeran began. “I don't even want to think about it.” “I can't believe your guards have kept quiet all this time about our antics.” Lin shrugged. “There's never been any trouble, so why bring them to his attention. As long as things go well, the guards never say anything. They may grumble and voice their concerns, but they know, ultimately, where I go is my decision. The only place they never follow me is ground zero of a medical outbreak.” Her friend grinned. “Can't say as I blame them there.” Keeran moved her gaze to the senators at the far side of the room, talking intently. “What do you suppose all the hubbub is about?” she asked. “I think it has to do with the upcoming vote this afternoon. Some of the senators are angry that the Senate hasn't done anything about the slave trade industry.” “Why haven't they?” “To be honest,” Lin said with a tiny bit of sarcasm, “I think it's because the senators that are most adamant they stay out of it are the very senators that are involved.” “Corruption in the Senate,” Keeran replied with a snort. “Who could ever imagine such a thing?”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

3

Lin giggled. “I know. Right?” Keeran nodded her chin toward the tall man who'd just entered. His long white hair and storm cloud gray eyes made his identity unmistakable. “Isn't that the former senator from Tilarus, Stefan Marcone?” Keeran asked. “Yes. And forget it. He's very happily married.” “Doesn't mean I can't look and admire,” Keeran said with a grin. Lin returned her grin. She had to agree with Keeran on that point. Stefan was definitely gorgeous. “He must be here to lobby against the slave trade. Everyone knows he's been trying for years to get the Senate to do something about it. My father, on the other hand, believes we should stay out of it.” “Why?” Keeran asked, her eyes wide with shock. “Because the girls are taken to planets outside the Senate's realm of control. Therefore, not our problem.” Keeran rolled her eyes in exasperation. “Your father is a real gem of a guy, Lin. No offense.” “You're not telling me anything I don't already know.” Keeran's eyes lit up as she sat straighter in her chair. Lin knew that look. Her friend had seen someone of interest. Lin followed her stare, then scowled once she noticed the object of her friend's interest. Captain Anthony “Tony” Carrington. Gorgeous didn't even begin to describe that man. He wore his black hair long, about halfway down his back, which made him look more like a pirate than a fleet captain. Today he had it secured at the nape of his neck, his strong neck, attached to wide, thick shoulders and a tapered waist. Her frown deepened as her gaze traveled back up his massive torso. The high neck of his dress jacket covered the scar she knew ran across his throat where someone had slit it years ago. No one knew for sure how it had happened, but the rumor was he'd pissed off weapons smugglers. That wouldn't surprise Lin. The man had a way of pissing people off, especially her.

4

Trista Ann Michaels

Despite her dislike of the man, her admiring gaze traveled upward, past a strong chin, full kissable lips and straight into eyes so light blue, they resembled arctic ice. Her heart skipped a beat the second she realized he stared right back at her. A black brow arched in mild amusement as he held her gaze. For a second, she couldn't look away. “That man has to be one of the most gorgeous men I think I've ever seen,” Keeran murmured. “I get goose bumps every time I see him.” Her friend's comment broke the spell, and she quickly averted her gaze. “Yes. And I'm sure he does too every time he looks in the mirror at himself,” Lin mumbled. “Wow,” Keeran said with a slight chuckle as she spun in her chair to face her. “Where the hell did that come from? Do you know him?” “I know of him more than I know him. But we've met a few times at my father's functions and at the Senate building.” “And?” “And?” Lin countered, trying her best to avoid the conversation she knew was coming. She usually told Keeran everything, but for some reason, she was too embarrassed to talk about this. “Oh come on. Something had to have happened for you to make a comment like that.” “Nothing's happened.” Lin used the tip of her finger to lightly scratch above her eye, avoiding her friend's curious stare. “He just rubs me the wrong way.” “Uh-huh,” Keeran said, then leaned closer to whisper, “and you're full of crap. What happened?” With a sigh, Lin thought back to that night. That hot, star-studded night that Captain Carrington had kissed her. It was a kiss she used for comparison now, even though she was loath to admit it. The man had a mouth and tongue that could make any woman submit, even her. If they hadn't been interrupted, God only knew what she would have submitted to. She'd avoided him as best she could ever since. As always, Anthony seemed to find her avoidance amusing. “Well?” her friend prodded. Lin sighed. “God, you're like a dog with a bone.” “Since when have you not been able to tell me something?”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

5

“It's not that.” “Then what?” “He kissed me. Okay?” Lin grumbled. “Now—” “What? When?” Lin sighed, knowing she would have no choice but to tell her now. “It was at one of my dad's parties. He was there.” “Really?” Keeran raised an eyebrow in interest. “What was he doing there? I mean, your father doesn't normally invite the enlisted men, even the high-ranking ones, does he?” “Not usually. He came with someone else. Senator Hiras, I think.” “That snake from the outer rim? What the hell is he doing hanging out with that guy?” “Good question.” Lin pointed her finger at her friend. “You know, maybe—” Keeran wagged hers. “Oh no you don't. Back to this kiss.” Lin's shoulders sagged. She should have known she wouldn't be able to change the subject. Her mind traveled back to that night and the feel of his lips on hers, his hands as they'd cupped her cheeks, his hard body pressed against hers. “I had escaped to the garden. You know how I hate those parties. Apparently, so does he.” She shrugged, hoping that would be the end of it. Lin frowned slightly. Now that she thought about it, she wondered what he'd been doing out there. As she'd approached, she'd thought she heard voices, then he'd appeared, distracting her. Had the kiss been a diversion of some sort? But why? The sound of Keeran's fingers snapping directly in front of her gaze brought her back to the present. “Keep going,” Keeran demanded. Lin's lips thinned. “Keeran, I really don't want to talk about this.” “Why?” “Because. It was just a kiss, nothing more.” “If it was just a kiss, then it shouldn't bother you to talk about it. Right? Are you sure there's not something else going on here, Lin? I know you, and something isn't right with all this.”

6

Trista Ann Michaels

“It bothers me because I don't trust him. I've heard things about him…things that… I just can't believe I would be attracted to someone like that.” “What things?” Keeran asked, worry filling her deep blue eyes. “Illegal things.” “It could all just be rumor,” Keeran offered. “Maybe.” “Wow. That kiss must have really made your head spin.” Lin gave a very unladylike snort. “I take that as a yes.” “He's definitely talented in that arena, I'll give him that, but—” Keeran slapped at Lin's leg and slanted her eyes toward Anthony, who slowly approached them. Lin tensed and immediately clamped her lips closed. The last thing she wanted was for more-arrogant-than-words to hear her talking about him. “Lin,” he said with a nod of his head. Lin swallowed, trying not to let his closeness affect her too much. She rubbed her palm against the side of her plush leather seat to wipe away the sweat that had begun to gather there. “Captain,” she replied.

Anthony's lips twitched slightly at Lin's haughty attitude. Tony had noticed her the second he stepped on board. A man couldn't help but notice, and he was after all just a man. He hadn't been able to stop sneaking glances at her since that night he'd kissed her. God, he could still remember the taste of her sweet lips, the smell of her soft flesh. He hadn't intended for it to go as far as it had. He'd only meant to distract her. Turned out, she'd distracted him and not in a good way. She was dangerous to his agenda, to his state of mind. He needed to keep his head clear in order to do what needed to be done. Time was of the essence, and time was running out. Unfortunately, whenever she was near, the last thing he thought about was time. Instead, he thought about satin sheets, entwined limbs, and sweaty flesh.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

7

With barely hidden annoyance, Lin brushed her long white hair back off her shoulders and stared up at him with amethyst eyes surrounded by thick black lashes that never failed to make his breath catch with their beauty. She had the most unusual eyes. He'd always thought about losing himself in their depths. More often than he should. His life was crazy enough, but sometimes, when he stood this close to her, when he remembered how good she'd felt in his arms, he wanted to complicate it even further. “Is there something we can do for you?” she asked. He blinked, wondering just how long he'd stood there like an idiot staring at her. “No,” he replied. “Just seeing how you were.” “As you can see, I'm fine.” He smiled slightly. “Yes. I see that.” Her friend watched them with interest, her gaze moving back and forth between the two of them. “Are you going to your father's office?” he asked. “No. We're going to the shopping district.” “Really?” he replied, warning flares going off in his mind. “You're on the wrong transport, then.” “We have to go by my flat first,” her friend replied, very quickly. “I see.” Anthony studied Lin closely. His gut told him she was lying, but why? What was she up to? If he knew her, something she shouldn't be. Lin had a knack for getting into trouble. “So…” her friend began. “Are you flying us today, Captain?” “Of course not.” Lin's lip curled slightly, and Tony had to force himself not to grin. “The Captain wouldn't be caught dead flying something as lowly as a transport vessel. Would you, Captain?” He smiled slightly at that. “It's common knowledge I prefer the fleet vessels,” he replied. “After all, if you're not getting shot at, where's the excitement?” “Hmm,” Lin hummed. “I find that sometimes excitement can be overrated.” Tony moved closer, deliberately invading her space. She glared at him, her eyes narrowing, and to Tony, she'd never looked sexier. He loved a woman with spunk.

8

Trista Ann Michaels

Bending at the waist, he placed his palm on the arm of her chair. She sank back just a little, then seemed to catch herself and go rigid. Her chin rose a notch in stubbornness, but her gaze burned with a hidden passion that sent his heart racing. He inhaled her flowery scent before speaking softly. “Sounds to me like you just haven't found the right excitement.” He held her gaze for a couple of seconds more. He could see her erratic pulse beating in the side of her neck, the rising flush in her cheeks. “Enjoy your flight…and your shopping.” Pushing straight, he moved his gaze to the far side of the room and quickly walked away before she could respond, or before he could do something stupid like kiss her right here in front of everyone. As he walked away, he heard her friend say, “Nothing, my ass.” Tony snickered, but quickly recovered as he moved to stand by one of the many officers lining the wall. “Sergeant,” Tony began, and the young man stood straighter. “Yes, sir,” the young man replied. “What's your name?” Tony asked. “Shawn Marks, sir.” “Do you see Senator Morlin's daughter?” The young man looked across the room and then nodded. “Yes, sir.” “I want you to stay with her when she leaves the ship. Follow her wherever she goes, but don't let her know you're doing it.” “Am I watching for something in particular, sir?” “No. Just keep an eye on her, make sure she stays safe.” The young man frowned slightly, but nodded. “Yes, sir.” “Consider this a favor to me. I know her, and she has a penchant for trouble, and right now my gut tells me she's headed for trouble.” Shawn smiled slightly. “Got it…sir.” Tony gave one nod and slapped the sergeant good-naturedly on the back of the shoulder. “Good. Contact me directly if you or she run into any problems.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

9

Chapter Two “I can't believe we're doing this,” Keeran murmured. Now that they were here, Lin had begun to have second thoughts. The ground level of Rhinari was dark and dirty. It was the seedy area of the planet, the industrial area, the poor area. Lin didn't have a problem with poor people. It was the criminals that frequented the lower levels that made her nervous. She glanced behind her, making sure their four guards were close, but not standing out like sore thumbs. They'd done this sort of thing numerous times. More times than she could count really. Nothing ever happened. They always had her guards close by. Not once had they gotten into trouble, but something about this time felt different—something in the pit of her stomach. “Tell me again why we're here?” Lin asked. She reached out and grasped her friend's arm, holding tight as they made their way through the thick crowd, periodically glancing behind her to make sure that her protection was still there. As they walked, two of the guards moved forward, one on each side of them, but they were careful to not appear conspicuous. Lin took a deep breath for courage and grimaced. The air smelled of burned coal and ash, and trash littered the streets. Dust filled the air, and she wrinkled her nose as the urge to sneeze tickled her throat. “We're here to meet with Minok,” Keeran said. “He promised me inside information on that crime ring I'm researching.” “Are you sure you can't just make this stuff up? After all, the book you're writing is fiction.” Keeran rolled her eyes. “True, but even though it's fiction, it still needs to ring true. At least to some degree.”

10

Trista Ann Michaels

Lin nodded. She knew how her friend was. This would be her fourth book, and hopefully it would be just as popular as her others. Keeran took her research seriously. She'd go anywhere to get what she needed, even one of the most dangerous places on the planet—Cellar Street. She and Keeran had been best friends since their days in college. Keeran's Earth parents had sent her to Rhinari to study politics and law, but Keeran's heart lay elsewhere. Writing. “How did you even meet this guy?” Lin asked. They stopped in the middle of the walkway and glanced up at the various flashing signs above them. “Long story,” she said, then pointed toward a bar at the far side of the walkway. “There it is.” Lin frowned at the flashing sign with undulating women and men. Her brow rose. She certainly wasn't an innocent, not by any stretch of the imagination, but a sex club? “Keeran…maybe we should reconsider?” “No way. He said he works here, and this time of the week is usually slow. Besides, we have the hounds with us, right? What are you worried about? We'll be fine.” “We'll be fine,” Lin mimicked with unhidden sarcasm. “I'll make sure we put that on your grave marker.” Keeran giggled, but Lin didn't miss the nervous catch to her voice as she spoke. “Since when are you the 'fraidy cat? I'm usually the one cowering in the corner, reluctantly chasing after you. When did we switch?” “I don't know.” Lin sighed and glanced upward toward the reddish sky and the small ships crisscrossing above them. She tugged at the scratchy material of her shirt collar and winced at the sweat covering the flesh of her neck. “It's so hot down here,” Lin said as she tried to fan herself with her free hand. “I know. Heat rises so you'd think it would be cool, but I think it all gets trapped. The pit of oppression, isn't that what your dad calls this place?” Lin coughed. “Yeah. Seems even the fumes can't escape. If we don't hurry up and get this over with, I have a feeling we might be trapped here forever.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

11

“Oh, stop being so overly dramatic. It's not your style.” Keeran tugged at her hand and pulled her with her to the club. Lin tried her best to drag her feet, but she knew Keeran. When Keeran put her mind to something there was no stopping her. Might as well get it done so they could get home. The sooner they got out of this place the better.

*** Tony stepped into Stefan's apartment through a secret panel toward the back of the suite. Stefan bought only the best, and this penthouse was definitely the best. In the living area, he spotted Stefan and his wife Krista. He stopped and watched them silently. They were so much in love, so happy. So was his sister Alyssa and her husband, Taron Marcone. Unfortunately, he didn't get to see his sister as much as he would like. He was just glad she understood. The Marcones had saved his life. He owed them this favor. Stefan walked over to Krista and brushed his fingers over the back of her cheek. She smiled up at him adoringly. He'd never had a woman look at him like that. He never stayed around long enough. He liked it that way. He preferred his freedom. His mind drifted to Lin. Now there was a woman he could spend a few nights playing house with. Stefan's head dipped in anticipation of kissing Krista. Tony cleared his throat, alerting them to his presence. Stefan turned to frown at him. Tony grinned. Most men would cower if Stefan sent them a frown so menacing, but Tony knew him well enough to know when his brother-in-law was truly angry, and now wasn't one of those times. “Don't look at me like that. You summoned me, remember?” Tony said as he leaned against the door frame. “You're late,” Stefan snapped, but Tony didn't miss the amusement twinkling in his gaze. If he'd really been angry, the gunmetal color of his eyes would turn an unmistakable deep black. “You're lucky I'm here at all.” His gaze turned to Krista who smiled at him in welcome. “Hello, beautiful.” She laughed and walked over to throw her arms around his neck. “Hello yourself, handsome. How's my favorite brother-in-law?”

12

Trista Ann Michaels

Tony snorted good-naturedly. “We all know your favorite brother-in-law is Sidious, but thanks for the lie.” Krista laughed and slapped his shoulder. “Where are my niece and nephew?” Tony asked. “Sleeping,” Stefan replied. “If you'd been here on time, you could have seen them.” “You're just not going to let that go, are you?” Tony said with a chuckle. Stefan gave him a smile, but said nothing. “I think you'll like the reason I'm late.” Stefan walked over to the wet bar and poured them both a glass of brandy. “You mean you actually have a real reason and not one you made up?” “I do,” Tony said as he took the glass Stefan offered him. “I got an invitation to Laird Ballack's home.” Stefan's eyes widened. “No shit? How did you get one so fast?” Tony cringed. “You don't want to know, Stefan. Let's just leave it at that.” “Was it illegal?” Krista asked. “Yes,” Tony replied as he swirled the brandy within the crystal glass. At Stefan's frown, he reminded him, “You said by any means necessary.” “I know I did, but if your ass is caught, Tony…” “I knew the risk going in,” Tony replied, nodding his head. “When are you going?” “He's invited me to a party he's having one month from today.” Stefan nodded, and his brow creased in thought as he stared out the window overlooking the lights of Rhinari. “We won't be able to touch Ballack,” Stefan said. “His home world is not part of the Senate. He would ask for asylum and would probably get it. But we can get the senators involved if we play our cards right.” “I agree. Do you really think that they would actually be there?”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

13

“Oh, yeah,” Stefan replied with a sigh as he turned to face Tony. “And I need you to bring me the proof that they are there. Who's involved and how deep.” “I'll do what I can.” Tony lifted the glass to his lips and sipped the warm liquid. The brandy warmed his body as it burned its way down his throat. It shouldn't be too hard. No one knew of his connection to the Marcones. Even though he and Alyssa shared the same last name, they'd kept their relationship a secret deliberately. Tony had wanted to make it on his own merits and not the merits of his sister's family by marriage. Alyssa hadn't understood that at first, but she loved him and did as he requested. When it became clear senators were involved in the slave trading business, Stefan and Sidious came to him with a plan. Anthony Carrington, the fleet captain, would become Tony Carrington, the dirty captain willing to do anything for a quick buck. It had been a great plan and had worked well so far. He just hoped their luck held up.

*** Lin stared wide-eyed around the club. She'd seen a lot of things in her twenty-six years, but nothing like this. The room was filled with dimly lit reddish light, bathing the room in an eerie glow. A fog drifted around the room, cooling the heavy air. Lin drew in a shaky breath to try to steady her nerves. The flowery smell mixed with sweaty bodies made her cringe and cover her nose. “Is this dry ice?” Keeran asked as she kicked her foot slowly through the drifting white smoke. “Maybe,” Lin replied as she moved closer to her friend. “Are you sure about this?” “Try to look at it this way, Lin. When will you ever get another chance to see something like this?” “I wouldn't consider it a loss if I hadn't. I could have gone my whole life and not witnessed this.”

Trista Ann Michaels

14

Women with oil-slicked skin danced on high platforms to thumping seductive music. A few men were scattered among them, their shiny bodies moving in time with the women's. The music was loud and vibrated through her body like a drumbeat she couldn't escape from. Customers mingled and danced throughout the bar, their voices a low rumble. She could make out nothing, not one single conversation. Although, truthfully she wasn't sure she would want to. God only knew what they were actually discussing. Her gaze landed on her four guards. She had to give them credit. They remained close and focused, their gazes not once straying to the young women meant to distract. Knowing they were there certainly made her feel safer. She just wished she could stop the simmering wave of panic in the pit of her stomach. “Oh my God,” Keeran said with a slight giggle. “What?” Lin glanced around trying to figure out what had her friend so enthralled. She saw it immediately and gasped in shock. She wanted to turn away, but couldn't. Five people were engaged in sex on the stage in the far corner—three men and two women. Lin tilted her head slightly, shocked at the positioning and the way they all seemed to be connected to one another. “Keeran, we should probably go,” Lin began, still not able to turn her eyes away from the undulating and moaning mass of bodies. “I have a really bad feeling about this.” Keeran waved a distracted hand. “Oh, don't be silly. This is great. I could use this in my book.” With a sigh, Lin turned, putting her back to the stage and hopefully blocking her friend's much too interested view. “You've seriously lost your mind and so have I for agreeing to come here with you. We need to get out of here, Keeran. Now.” Keeran's eyes narrowed in frustration until something just over Lin's left shoulder caught her attention. Her frown morphed quickly into a relieved smile as she waved her hand to whoever had caught her attention. Lin groaned as her stomach knotted in ever increasing apprehension. She had a sick feeling something terrible was about to happen. “Minok. Oh thank God,” Keeran said as she pushed past Lin to meet her informant. “I was beginning to think we wouldn't find you.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

15

Lin studied the tall, burly man before Keeran and frowned. He looked dangerous. Way too dangerous. If the long, jagged scar across his cheek was any indication, he'd seen his share of action or trouble. He looked her up and down with cold, golden eyes that gave her the creeps. She crossed her arms over her chest, but met his stare head on, refusing to show this man any fear. Though his eyes never changed, the slight tilt of his lips made her think he found her stance amusing. “I didn't know you were going to bring a friend,” he growled. “I didn't want to come here alone. I hope that's okay. She won't talk about what's said here. I promise.” The man grunted, still keeping his gaze on Lin. “I know you from somewhere,” he said. “I doubt that,” Lin replied. Again, he grunted. Raising his hand, he waved for them to follow him through the crowd. Lin quickly grabbed her friend's arm. “We can leave right now, Keeran. Just turn around and go.” “Would you stop?” she snapped. “I really want to get the information this guy has. He knows all about it.” “Probably because he's in the middle of it,” Lin harshly whispered as her friend took off after Minok. After only a second's hesitation, Lin tamped down her better judgment and took off after her friend. She found her quickly and grabbed her hand to keep them from being separated again. Keeran smiled back at her over her shoulder, excitement shining in her eyes. Lin knew how much this meant to her friend, and she hated to be such a wet blanket. They had her guards with them, so what could happen? Right? She would have to make a better effort to be supportive and to watch their backs. As she thought that very thing, she glanced around the crowd, hunching her shoulders slightly as they attempted to weave their way through the crowd without bumping against too many strange bodies. She didn't like the way the men here looked at them—like they were today's lunch special. Even some of the women appeared interested, and Lin fought off a shudder.

16

Trista Ann Michaels

Keeping watch, she caught glimpses of her guards as they followed them through the crowd. Her heart began to race when she only counted three. Where was the fourth? Minok led them toward a darkened corner at the back of the club. Lin hesitated. This is a very, very bad idea.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

17

Chapter Three Lin tensed as Minok ushered them through the alcove and into the darkened interior. A round table took up the center of the room, a semicircle of leather benches surrounded the back part of the table, giving the occupants a perfect view of the stage and its inhabitants. Swallowing, Lin moved closer to her friend. She could feel the tension in Keeran's body as well while the older man occupying the table looked them over. “I can't use her,” he said, nodding his bald head toward Lin. “Her I cannot. She's a senator's daughter. Too high profile. What the hell were you thinking?” “I didn't know she was coming. It was only supposed to be this one.” He waved his hand toward Keeran, who bristled slightly in either fear or indignation. Probably a little of both. “What do you mean you can't use me?” Lin snapped. “Keeran, I think it's time we go.” “I think you're right.” They turned to leave, but two burly men with more muscles than they should be allowed blocked their path through the alcove. “Let us pass,” Lin ordered, using her best authoritative voice. Unfortunately, it didn't faze them. “The two of you aren't going anywhere,” Minok said as he grasped Keeran's arm, pulling her back. Lin began to fight back at the sound of her friend's squeal. She swung the small bag she'd brought, hitting Minok in the side of the head. It broke his hold, allowing Keeran a small fraction of a second to slip free, but it wasn't enough. He grasped her again, holding her tight, his angry scowl boring a hole right through Lin.

18

Trista Ann Michaels

Another man grabbed her from behind as she struggled to break free. Keeran kicked and screamed to no avail. Minok took every blow with hardly a whimper. Where were her guards? What had happened to them? Lin's heart began to race in real fear. What had they gotten themselves into? Whatever it was, they were in real trouble—serious trouble, and she didn't have a clue how to get them out of it. “My guards are right outside,” Lin snapped. “You won't get away with this.” “You mean those guards?” the man behind the table asked as he stood. She stared in growing horror as her guards were thrown into the room. One by one, their lifeless bodies fell at her feet. Oh my God. He'd killed them. All of them. Her whole body began to tremble as the realization that they were truly alone finally took hold. “As you can see, we're very observant. We saw them follow you in. Once I recognized you, I knew what had to be done.” The man at the table rose and moved to stand next to Keeran. He gripped her chin, forcing her to look at him. She winced from his white-knuckled hold, and Lin tried again to break free. “Be still,” the man behind Keeran snapped, pulling her hard against him, pinning her back against his chest. “You will fetch a hefty price,” the man murmured as he studied Keeran. “Those eyes are quite lovely.” Keeran surprised both Lin and her captive when she spit in his face. He whipped away the spittle, chuckling softly. “I know several men who will enjoy breaking that spirit.” Lin met Keeran's frightened stare around the man's shoulder. “I'm sorry,” Keeran mouthed. Fighting back her own tears, Keeran again struggled to break free, but the man kept too tight a hold. All four of her guards had been murdered. They were alone and helpless. They'd been so stupid. She should have followed her gut. She should have listened to her own fears and not allowed Keeran to do this. “Do something with her,” the man said as he nodded his head toward Lin. “She's useless to me; she's too high profile.” “We can't let her go. She can identify us,” Minok warned.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

19

The man turned to look at her, studying her closely. Lin's heart froze at the malice shining in his eyes. “The senators will recognize her and be pissed that we used her as a slave. Kill her.” “No,” Keeran gasped. Lin chest tightened in fear unlike anything she'd ever experienced. Kill her? The man holding her began to pull her from the room. Keeran struggled desperately against Minok. “Lin!” she screamed. The man in charge reared his fist back and slammed it hard into Keeran's cheek, knocking her out cold. She sagged in Minok's arms as Lin struggled against her own captor's hold. “Keeran!” she yelled in fear for her friend. Her vision blurred through the tears streaming down her face. Club patrons turned to stare at her, but no one offered help. “Somebody,” she screamed, struggling harder as the man ushered her through the dance floor. “Damn you, you son of a bitch,” she snarled, dragging her feet to slow them down. Her captor turned to face her, grasping her chin in punishing hold. “Stop your incessant yelling. No one here will help you.” “Wanna bet?” a man growled from behind him. Her captor turned to look and was shot at point-blank range with a phazor. He fell to the floor, and the smell of burned flesh filled the air around her, making her want to gag. She stared in shock at the young sergeant now grasping her hand. What the hell was he doing here? “Come on, Lin. I've got to get you out of here.” “Wait!” she cried. “Keeran.” He shook his head, literally dragging her from the club. She slapped at his hand, trying to break free, but his punishing hold never let up. “We have to get Keeran,” she said as he dragged her outside into the humid night air. “Damn it, Lin! Your guards were killed, and I'm only one man. It's too late for her. I have to get you to safety.” “Damn you,” she snapped.

20

Trista Ann Michaels

She spun around to go headlong back into the club, determined to free her friend. She knew she wasn't thinking clearly, but she felt as though this was all her fault. She should have done more to talk her out of this. She should have come with more protection. The sergeant grabbed her around the waist, hauling her back out into the street. “No,” she sobbed. “No.”

*** “How can you live with this?” Lin stared at her father in disbelief, her heart sinking further with every passing second. The Senate had just refused her plea for help in regard to her missing friend, Keeran. All the while, her senator father had sat silent, not once coming to her aid. “I told you, Lin,” her father began, not meeting her gaze. “The Senate will not intervene in this matter—” “But you didn't even try. You just sat there. Is that what you would do if it were me?” Her father stiffened, his brow creasing in anger. “Don't be ridiculous.” “You know what those slave traders are doing, and yet you do nothing. Why?” she demanded. Her father's age became increasingly apparent as he slowly shuffled behind his desk. His shoulders slumped as he sank into the thick leather chair. The late afternoon sun shone bright through the large picture window behind her father. She squinted as it sank below the massive Senate Building, casting a shadow over the smaller, attached building of offices and apartments reserved for the senatorial elite. The room darkened, mimicking her mood as she stood her ground, glaring at her father. “I'm sorry, Lin, but there are some men even the Senate won't touch.” “Stefan Marcone would not have allowed this when he was a senator,” she growled. “The former Senator Marcone has the resources and the balls to go after the man himself, without the aid of the Senate. I'm afraid I do not.” “Even if it were me?” she asked quietly. “Let's not forget, Daughter. It's not you. I know she was your best friend. I understand you're upset. But I do not have the connections to go after him.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

21

“What does he have over your head, Father?” Lin strolled to the desk and leaned her palms against the gleaming black granite. Her father wouldn't meet her stare. She tensed as doubts about her father and his honesty entered her mind. “Nothing, Lin. Please understand. He's very powerful and I am very old.” Lin pushed upright in anger. “I'm not asking you to go after him yourself. Just put someone on the inside, find out who they sold her to.” “It's not that simple!” he snapped. “The hell it's not!” His eyes narrowed in anger. “I've heard enough, Lin. She's gone. Accept it. This man is way too powerful, has too many connections. Going after him would be a death sentence for both of us.” “Fine,” she snarled. “If you won't do it, then I will.” She turned to leave the apartment, her heart breaking at the cold callousness of her father. How could he do this? How could he allow a man who sold young girls off as sex slaves to get away with it? Slave trading was supposed to be illegal, but apparently not for Laird Ballack. He'd made a fortune over the years selling off young girls, most of whom didn't live past a year. There were rumors he even supplied slaves to senators. She wondered vaguely if her father had been one and swallowed down a sudden onslaught of tears. If he did participate, it would kill her. “Lin, don't do this,” her father pleaded as he followed her across the room. Lin ignored him, determined to handle this herself. With her hand on the doorknob, she turned to face her father and lifted her chin in steadfast resolve. “I may put myself in danger, but one thing I will never do is turn my back on her. I will find her…with or without your help. Which is it?” Her father shook his head. “I'm sorry, Lin. Without.” “Fine.” Tears gathered in her eyes as she left her father's apartment and slammed the door closed behind her, effectively shutting out her father for good. It was the final straw.

22

Trista Ann Michaels

She'd never been able to depend on him…not like she should. He'd disapproved of her career, her friends. It seemed no matter what she did, he found fault. It apparently didn't matter how well she'd done or how much respect she'd earned as a biochemist. Whenever he'd needed her at some senatorial function, she'd been there. Would it be so hard for him to be there for her? He did it time and again. And time and again, she kept hoping that next time… “Oh, hell,” she grumbled and swiped at a tear as it fell down her cheek. No point crying over it now. It was done. Now she needed to focus on finding her friend, and she knew just where to start.

*** One month later

Tony stood at the window in Stefan's office on Tilarus, only half listening to the Marcones' usual family banter. He loved being a part of this unusual family. They were certainly not the norm for royals. Count Stefan Marcone ruled Tilarus with compassion, much like his father had, but he had a formidability about him that few people dared cross. Taron, the middle of the three brothers and the one married to Tony's sister, handled security matters. Sidious, the youngest son, was usually the one the other two ran to for advice or help with various situations. He also handled undercover assignments for the Senate whenever the need arose. Which is what they were currently discussing today—Tony's much anticipated visit to Laird Ballack's home on Hallon 4. If Tony could keep his mind off Lin, that is. The sergeant had told him about the incident on Cellar Street and the kidnapping of her friend. What the hell had she been doing down there, and where had she disappeared to since? He had a bad taste in his mouth whenever he thought about it. He hoped she was all right, but he didn't dare inquire about her and risk blowing the cover he'd worked so hard to perfect. “Anthony!” Taron yelled, catching his attention. He spun from the window and the tenth-floor view of the city to face his brother-in-law. “I'm sorry. What were you saying?” “Where the hell is your mind today?” Taron asked.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

23

Tony grinned. “You're starting to sound more and more like Alyssa every day.” “Considering I adore her, I'll take that as a compliment, but I'll also tell you to stop skirting the subject. What's going on?” With a sigh, Tony moved to lean his hip against the edge of Stefan's oversize mahogany desk. “I'm worried about a friend.” “Is this something we can help with?” Sidious asked. “Maybe. It's Lin Morlin.” “Since when are you friends with Lin Morlin?” Stefan asked as his brow rise with undisguised interest. “I wouldn't say we're friends exactly.” Tony reached for his cup of coffee he'd placed earlier at the corner of the desk, trying to avoid three curious gazes. “What exactly would you call it?” Sidious asked. “I don't know that I would call it anything. Have you not heard about her incident on Cellar Street?” “Yes. I heard, and it's a damn shame.” Stefan sat back in his seat, resting his chin on his thumb, his brow creased in thought. “I was also there when she pleaded her case to the Senate to find her friend. She took their refusal pretty hard.” “I haven't seen her since,” Tony said as he met Stefan's gaze. Stefan pursed his lips, lifting his shoulder in a slight shrug. “She could just be off somewhere licking her wounds, trying to heal and come to terms with her loss. I would've liked to help her, but we can't risk this assignment. This one is more important.” “I know,” Tony replied with a tired sigh. “Besides, her friend has been gone a month,” Sidious said. “We have no way of knowing who they might have sold her to.” “Maybe that's something I could check into while I'm there,” Tony offered. “If you can make it happen, then do it. But the senators come first.” Tony nodded. “I know.” “Then maybe when you get back, you can pursue this interest you have in Lin,” Stefan said, his lips twitching as though fighting a grin.

Trista Ann Michaels

24

Tony shook his head, a slight grin playing at his own mouth. “I don't have a shot in hell at hiding anything from the three of you, do I?” “Nope,” Taron said, making the others chuckle. A knock sounded at the door, and all four of them turned to frown at the massive piece of antique wood. Stefan sighed. “Enter,” Stefan said. “I'm sorry to disturb you, my lord, but Senator Morlin has requested an audience with you,” Stefan's assistant said from his position in the open doorway. Tony frowned. What was he doing here? “Senator Morlin?” Stefan murmured, then nodded. “Give us a couple of minutes, then send him in.” “Yes, sir,” the assistant replied before backing out of the room. The door shut behind him with a soft click. “What the hell do you suppose he's doing here?” Taron asked. Stefan's brow creased into a hard frown. “Not sure. Slip into the adjoining office, Tony, so you can hear everything that's said.” Tony nodded and moved quickly into the adjoining office. He left the door slightly ajar but was careful to keep his body hidden. Tony heard the door open and footsteps against the tile floor as the senator quickly made his way to stand before Stefan's desk. “I'm sorry to disturb you. I know you have numerous things on your plate here on Tilarus, but…” Stefan waved his hand and stood. “It's fine, Senator. Can we get you something to drink?” “No, no, thank you,” he replied, shaking his head. From his position, Tony could see the senator's slumped shoulders and sad profile through the small crack in the door. His skin was pale, his eyes slightly sunken as though he hadn't slept in days. “Is there something wrong, Senator?” Sidious asked.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

25

“Yes. I didn't know where else to go. You see, my daughter has gone missing, and I'm afraid you're the only ones who can help me.” Tony tensed. He knew it. “She was pretty upset after the Senate meeting, Senator. Are you sure she's missing or just avoiding you?” “No. She's missing. She's not been to any of our homes; she hasn't used any of her usual transports; her credit hasn't been used. She hasn't even been to the lab where she works. Her projects are all unfinished, her research deserted. That's not like her. She's just disappeared. I'm afraid she may have gone looking for Keeran and gotten into trouble.” Shit. Tony clenched his hands by his side, waiting for what Stefan would say. “How do you think we can help you, Senator?” Stefan asked. “I know Sidious handles undercover assignments for the Senate. I need to get someone on the inside to see if they have her or not.” “Senator—” Sidious began. “No, please. I can give you inside information.” What? “I can tell you where Ballack currently is and who his buyers are. At least the ones I know of.” “And you know this how?” Stefan asked as he leaned his palms against the desk, his eyes narrowing dangerously. “Because I'm one of them.” Son of a bitch. “I'll give up everything. I'll resign. I'll confess. I'll testify. Just find my daughter. Please.”

26

Trista Ann Michaels

Chapter Four Tony flew the approach to Laird Ballack's home and stared in awe at the size of what he would simply call a palace in the clouds. It literally floated five thousand feet off the ground, hovering just above the black mountain peaks of Hallon 4. He flew his ship into the docking bay on the backside of the castle and parked alongside several other small ships from various parts of the galaxy—a couple he recognized. Raising a brow at the sight of Senator Sharpkin's runner, he slowly climbed from his ship. The cool air of the docking bay blew through his shirt, and he quickly grabbed his leather jacket from behind the pilot's seat. As he did, he frowned toward the little runner next to him. The fire-breathing dragon on the side was a dead giveaway as to whom it belonged. One would think if you were involved in criminal activities, you would at least try to disguise yourself. Apparently some senators believed they were untouchable—Sharpkin one of them. The thought of what these men did turned his stomach. What man would want to force himself on a woman? Tony could admit to enjoying the chase, the seduction, but he never followed through on that seduction unless he knew the woman was interested, despite the facade she may put forth. But never this. These men did more than seduce. They beat and tortured, bound and gagged, raped. They did whatever they wanted and got away with all of it. Tony wanted to make sure that changed. Which was one of the biggest reasons he'd agreed to this. The fact that Lin might be here, drugged and beaten, her spirit broken, tore a hole right through his chest. “Captain Carrington?” a meek voice said from behind him, and he turned to meet the gaze of a short, thin man who seemed to have a hard time looking Tony in the face. Apparently, another victim of the slave trade. But as he looked closer, Tony realized it wasn't a man, but a boy, probably no older than nineteen at best.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

27

“Yes,” Tony replied, giving him a slight smile in the hopes he made him feel a little more at ease. Right now he looked as though he wanted to bolt at the first available opportunity. The young man bowed slightly, keeping his gaze on the floor. “His Lordship is expecting you. If you will just follow me.” “Lead the way.” Tony followed behind the young man and wondered just how long he'd been here. He struggled with the massive double doors leading out of the docking bay, and Tony stepped forward to help. The young man glanced over at him, giving Tony a weak smile of thanks. “Normally it opens on its own, but for some reason today it doesn't want to cooperate. Maintenance should have it fixed by this evening.” “It's fine,” Tony replied, attempting again to put the young man at ease. Had he been beaten just like the girls had been? Was he sexually abused as well as physically? Tony swallowed down his growing anger and disgust, letting his gaze wander along the almost hospital-like halls of the castle. White marble glowed from the backside, casting a soft white light that guided their way. No pictures adorned the walls, no windows opened onto views. It was like a solid fortress, totally cut off from the outside. How would he go about finding Lin in all this space? Was she even here anymore? Or had she even been here at all? This was all something Anthony would need to find the answers to as quickly as possible. His young guide opened another set of double doors that led into a room of glass. Tony raised an eyebrow as he walked through into what appeared to be another world. Three walls of glass surrounded the room. Rays of sunlight warmed the white marble floor. Various plants and greenery filled the room, making it look like a tropical garden. The large fountain in the center gave off soothing sounds of trickling water as well as the scent of jasmine. The center of the fountain depicted an orgy scene. Fitting, Tony thought as he stared at the entwined bodies of at least six people, both male and female. “The garden room,” the young man said softly as he walked past Tony to stand just inside the door. “Captain Carrington has arrived, my lord.” “Anthony,” Laird Ballack said in welcome as he strolled toward him, arms outstretched.

Trista Ann Michaels

28

Laird Ballack was a large man and not muscular. He reminded Tony of an Earth Mafia boss, his “family” always close by. If he liked you, he loved you. If he hated you, you were most likely a dead man. His round, pudgy face spread into a warm smile of greeting as he enfolded Tony into his embrace. Tony put on his best poker face and returned the hug, smiling as he pulled away. “Hello, Laird Ballack. I want to thank you for the invitation.” “Just Ballack, please. And don't thank me. I should be thanking you for taking care of that little problem for me, no?” Tony smiled, but said nothing. “Come, come,” he said as he ushered him into the room. “Meet the others, then after dinner, I'll let you pick one of my girls. She'll be yours for the weekend to do with as you wish.” “Sounds wonderful,” Tony replied, smiling past his disgust for the man before him. Ballack gave a wicked little laugh that made Tony want to slap him, but he internally stamped the temptation down and focused on his main objective. Finding Lin. Now that Senator Morlin had come forward, the list of senators involved was irrelevant. They had all the information now that they needed to go after them. Lin's whereabouts were still unknown. He hoped she was here, or at the very least, he could find the trail here that would lead to her. “Captain Carrington,” Senator Sharpkin said as he stared down his massive hawklike nose at Tony. “I'm surprised to see you here.” “What can I say, Senator? I enjoy being the boss, so to speak.” Ballack laughed and slapped Tony on the back of the shoulder. “The boss. That's one way of putting it, isn't it, gentlemen?” “Yes,” Sharpkin replied. Tony got the distinct impression that Sharpkin didn't trust him. Why would he? He was new to the group, after all. He'd proven himself only to Ballack. It was understandable they would be suspicious. He would definitely have to watch his back here. Five other men came forward to introduce themselves, three of them senators, the other two men Tony didn't recognize, although the one from Veenori, Aiden, seemed vaguely familiar.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

29

“Ballack has a much better class of girls,” Aiden said as he stepped forward and offered Anthony his hand in greeting. Tony accepted, smiling slightly as he stared into Aiden's deep royal blue gaze. Long black hair hung around his shoulders, giving his strong face a dark, menacing look. He stood just as tall as Tony, maybe even an inch or so taller, making him close to six feet four. Aiden's wide shoulders made his height all the more noticeable. A man that tall would definitely stand out in a crowd. Something tugged at Tony's brain, some memory he couldn't quite grasp. He knew this man, but couldn't for the life of him figure out from where. “Yes, I've heard that,” Tony replied. “They're a step up from Veenori, I guess.” Aiden's lips twitched in amusement. “Devlin Armande usually gets the better girls on Veenori, leaving the rejects to the rest of us.” “Is he still running the bar on Veenori?” Tony asked, not wanting to give his connection to Devlin away. “I thought he'd retired or something.” “He comes back through occasionally. When not there, the club is run by Toroc, who is one of his oldest slaves. Although I believe he gave Toroc his freedom and a piece of the club in exchange for his services. It's an arrangement that seems to have worked out quite well for him.” Tony accepted a glass of light blue alcohol he recognized as Hallon wine from a young woman who kept her gaze lowered to the ground. Tony didn't pay her much attention. His mind was still on Aiden and that nagging feeling of familiarity. “For Devlin or Toroc?” Tony asked with a grin. “Both, I believe,” Aiden replied, returning Tony's smile. Tony's glass stopped halfway to his lips as that nagging thought took full form. He finally remembered where he knew Aiden from. Aiden was Toroc. What the hell? Aiden shook his head ever so slightly, his eyes narrowing into tiny blue pinpoints of warning. Aiden recognized him as well. Was he in danger now? Or was Aiden here for similar reasons? And why didn't the Marcones know?

Trista Ann Michaels

30

Lifting his glass to his lips, Tony frowned slightly at the unusual turn of events. A bell rang loudly through the room, and Tony glanced around to find its source. Ballack smiled and waved his hand toward his guests. “Dinner…finally. I'm starving,” Ballack said as he led the way to a large table at the far side of the room. As they followed, Aiden moved in close to Tony. “What the hell are you doing here?” Tony asked. “Not here,” Aiden murmured. “Even Ballack's servants are at your disposal,” Aiden added in a louder voice. “Matter of fact, I made use of a very pretty chambermaid last night. She was quite the handful, too.” Ballack chuckled. “I heard her screaming. Pain or pleasure?” “A little of both,” Aiden replied, his lips spreading into a wicked grin. “It's interesting how pain can be used to enhance pleasure, for both the giver and the recipient.” “If done correctly,” Sharpkin added. “Although, I sometimes just enjoy inflicting pain. I once got a woman to come with a whip. It was immensely gratifying. Almost made myself come.” Anger rolled through Tony, and he had to bite his tongue to keep from saying something he knew would raise suspicion. “I was there that night,” Ballack said with a nod. “You had an interesting expression on your face. Anthony, if you ever need any help or instruction on some of the best ways to inflict pain, just come to me. I'll help you, aye?” “Of course. I may take you up on that,” Tony replied as he settled himself into the chair a young servant boy had pulled out for him. Tony admired the table. It was made of a thick glass that was a light blue in color. The chairs were glass as well, with blue leather cushions. His gaze traveled to the long row of windows as he listened to the various conversations around him. He glanced back at Aiden. What the hell was he doing here? So many damn questions. And no time to find any answers. At least not yet.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

31

Outside the sun had began to set, casting the sky and the clouds that floated outside in a soft reddish glow. Ballack was safe up here in the clouds and would continue to be safe. The Senate wouldn't touch him, but they could certainly get the sons of bitches that surrounded him. Then there was Aiden. What was his agenda? Tony studied Aiden as he nodded his thanks to the young woman who placed a bowl of soup before him. A slave buying slaves? It's what he did on Veenori, although it was common knowledge that Devlin's slaves were not treated as such. He was good to them, took care of them, and after a certain period of time, freed them. So how had Aiden become a slave? He was a mountain of a man—obviously strong and capable. Maybe strength didn't have anything to do with it. Maybe it was something else entirely. The same young woman placed a bowl before him, and Tony glanced up to nod his thanks. When he did, he immediately recognized her. His hand snaked out, grasping her wrist with a loud clap. She'd changed her hair and eyes, but it was definitely Lin. He'd recognize that face no matter what she did to it. Her eyes widened slightly in a combination of shock, fear, and recognition as she stared down at him. “Well. It looks as though Anthony has taken an interest in my quiet little mouse,” Ballack said with a smile. Lin glanced back at Ballack quickly before returning her gaze to the floor. Tony tensed. He shouldn't have reacted like that, but it had been a shock seeing her there, and he'd acted without thinking. “Would you like to have her for the night, Anthony? If so, she's yours.” Her gaze met his through her lashes, and she appeared to be almost silently begging him. But begging him to do what? Take her? Not take her? He let his gaze wander down her frame. She'd lost a little weight, whether deliberately or not, he wasn't sure. He needed to talk to her, make sure she was all right, then figure out a way to get her the hell out of here. Not wanting to give himself away, he pulled her closer and slid his hand inside her flimsy white top, cupping her firm breast in his palm. She stiffened slightly, but didn't say a word. “She has nice breasts, no?” Ballack said. “Yes,” Tony murmured. “What other treasures do you have under that skirt, little one?”

32

Trista Ann Michaels

Her gaze met his again through her lashes, and he didn't miss the spark of anger and indignation. She still had her spirit, that much was certain. But had anyone else made use of her since she'd been here? His hand slid slowly down her body and under her skirt. He could feel the heat emanating from between her thighs as his hand moved around to the front. “Spread your legs, child. Let him feel what you have to offer him,” Ballack ordered. Lin did as she was told, but standing this close to her, Tony could feel the tension in every inch of her body. “You will be the first to taste her delights.” Tony glanced at Ballack and raised an eyebrow in interest as well as surprise. “Really?” “Yes. She's new. Hasn't been here long. I haven't even had the opportunity to try her out yet, myself. If you wish, you may be the first.” Tony grinned as he slid his fingers between her spread thighs. She visibly swallowed as he separated her labia and pushed gently into the warm opening of her vagina. “I think I would enjoy being her first,” Tony said thoughtfully. “I like a nice, tight pussy. One that's not been overly used.” Tony pulled his finger free and slid it between his lips, tasting her on his tongue. She glared at him through her lashes, and Tony inwardly smiled, both in relief that he had found her and that she hadn't been taken advantage of. “It's settled, then.” Ballack turned to the same young man who had led Tony to the garden room. “Take the young woman to be prepared. I want her especially lovely for our Anthony.” The young man nodded and moved to lead Lin away.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

33

Chapter Five Lin shook from head to toe as three women scrubbed every inch of her body in preparation for her time with Anthony. From the second she saw him, she'd been terrified he'd recognize her. His reaction when he did had surprised her. He could have gotten both of them under suspicion, but despite her anger, she could at least give him credit for the great recovery. He'd stared at her like a man full of hungry lust. And his touch…even now it made her tingle in places she'd forgotten existed. Closing her eyes briefly, she tried not to think about the traitor's touch. He was just as filthy as the rest of them, the slave-buying prick. She'd heard things about him over the last several months. Illegal activities, weapons runner, slave buyer. She'd hoped deep down that none of it was true, but it looked as though it was. But if it was, why hadn't he given her away? The woman behind her, someone she'd come to know as Lia, slid a belt around her waist. Hanging from it were two dildos. Lin tensed for she knew what was coming. Lia quietly spread lube over the dildos, then slid one into her pussy, the other into her ass. Lin gasped and grabbed hold of the pole in front of her for support. The fullness took her breath, and she gasped twice, trying to get it back. “Relax. You'll get used to it shortly. We need to prepare you.” “Prepare me?” Lin spit out harshly. “Trust me,” Lia replied. “If he plans to take you in the ass, you'll thank me later for the forethought. It will hurt more if you're not stretched properly, and some of these men take no time preparing you themselves.” Lia moved around to the front and clamped a string of tiny bells to her nipple. The gold clasp bit down on the tiny bud, and her shoulders hunched at the shocking sting. Lia repeated the

34

Trista Ann Michaels

move on her other breast, and Lin bit down on her lip to stifle her desire to squeal. The bite was uncomfortable but at the same time, pleasurable. Lin again swallowed at the very idea of Anthony doing any of these things to her. It wasn't that she was repulsed. It was actually quite the opposite. Every time she looked at him, especially after he kissed her that night at the party, her whole body heated with lust. Even now, it warmed at the thought of the coming night. Her heart, on the other hand, was determined to remain frozen and see him for what he really was. A criminal. A slave-buying treasonous criminal. Now that he'd seen her, what would happen? Would he find a way to send her home? Would he demand to know why she was here? She'd worked so hard to get here, and she was so close to finding Keeran. While here, she'd investigated and listened. She had the names of several senators who were involved as well as highly prominent businessmen from all over the galaxy. She'd even found out her friend was still here, somewhere in the castle. For some reason, Ballack had been holding onto Keeran, but she hadn't yet been able to find out why or where they were keeping her. There were also a few files that were locked down, inaccessible. Her forte was science, not electronics, and she'd been unsuccessful at hacking them. Drugs were also prevalent here, some sort of combination of aphrodisiacs and mood suppressants. Ballack used them to “encourage” some of the more resistant girls, turning them into overly horny sex fiends. It played tricks on the mind and body, leaving lasting affects that made Lin shiver in dread. She hoped he wasn't using that on her friend. She'd seen too many girls die from too much usage of the drug just in the short amount of time she'd been here. Until tonight, she'd been able to remain in the shadows and out of the ever-watchful eyes of the men who traipsed through here. Until tonight, her disguise had held. Until Anthony. He'd been the only one to see through her disguise—the only one to see her for who she really was. The only question that remained was…now what?

***

Entwined Fates: Slaves

35

Aiden stood at the massive window, looking down toward the black mountains. Three full moons brightened the hills, making them appear deep blue against the gray night sky. His mind kept drifting back to two years ago and a beautiful American traveling with an overbearing father. He'd come to Veenori on business, dragging his reluctant daughter along with him. Aiden had been surprised to see her there at first. What father would bring his daughter to such a place? The more he watched her, the more intrigued he became. Her father had been angry with her, furious that she wouldn't follow the path he'd set out for her. The American wanted to follow her own path, and Aiden respected her for that. She'd refused to meet with the men, leaving her father to handle the business meeting on his own. He'd watched her for a long time as she walked around, fascinated with what she saw, not the least bit offended by the nude dancers and gaudy sex shows. Aiden couldn't take his eyes off her. She was beautiful with long black hair and deep blue eyes that sparkled with intelligence and curiosity. Full, kissable lips he wanted to feel against his own, and a body that made his palms itch to touch. Aiden was a large man, and her curves would fit him well. He preferred women he didn't feel as though he might break. She wasn't chubby or skinny. She was perfectly in between. That woman was why he was here now. That woman was Keeran Skinner. He and Keeran had spent hours that night exploring each other while her father talked business. From the moment her eyes had met his, it had been like a spark of undeniable heat flared between them. He hadn't been able to get her to his room fast enough. He hadn't been sure what had happened or why he'd wanted her so badly, but he had. And still did. He'd done business with Ballack for years, but under another name—Aiden. Even his old boss, Devlin, had no idea of his Aiden persona. This was something he'd wanted to do on his own ever since a young, beaten woman had shown up at his club. She'd been left for dead by the man who'd bought her from Ballack.

36

Trista Ann Michaels

He'd heard her horror stories and decided to get as many girls out as he could. He didn't have the means to take Ballack down; his operation was too large, too powerful. But he did what he could, saving as many as he could in his own way. Aiden had worked hard to build his reputation as a formidable Dom, and so far, it had been successful. His knowledge of the BDSM lifestyle helped. In the presence of Ballack he could inflict pain, but in a way that made it pleasurable for the girl. Ballack liked his style and had welcomed him into his fold. A position that had given him the ability to find the most abused girls and buy them for himself. He knew Ballack had Keeran. He saw her the night she'd been brought in, but only from a distance. That distance didn't matter to Aiden. He would recognize that beautiful face anywhere. He'd certainly thought about it enough. He hadn't been able to get her out of his mind since that night at the bar. He had to get her away from Ballack, but he wasn't sure he should bring her up to the slave baron. He apparently had his reasons for keeping her hidden this long. He would just need to bide his time and see if Ballack would offer her up for bid. If not, then he would have to think of another way to get her out. Turning his head slightly, he studied Anthony in the reflection of the glass. He knew of Anthony's connection to the Marcones and why he was here. He'd known for a long time what Anthony was up to. At Devlin's request, he'd helped behind the scenes in ways Anthony was not even aware of. Anthony had no idea Aiden had been instrumental in the development of his alter ego. Aiden also wasn't stupid and realized the second Anthony had recognized him. He needed to find a way to talk with him privately, without raising suspicion. Ballack kept a close eye on his guests and didn't like it when they became secretive in his own home. “You seem awfully quiet tonight, my friend,” Ballack said from behind him. “Is anything wrong?” Aiden smiled at Ballack through the reflection of the glass. “No.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

37

“Good.” Ballack moved to stand next to him. “I have a young girl in my possession. She's been here for a month now. I've been trying to find the best buyer for her. She's quite lovely. Black hair, blue eyes. A combination I know you're fond of.” Aiden licked his lips, being careful to keep his excitement hidden. Would this young girl perhaps be Keeran? “Really?” “The girl needs a firm hand, strong discipline. She will require breaking in.” Again, Aiden nodded, biting his tongue. “If you are able to tame her, she may be of more use to you on Veenori. I think you will find her to your liking.” “You haven't let me down yet, Ballack.” Ballack smiled and slapped Aiden on the shoulder. “I know your taste in women, Aiden. This one you will definitely like.” “You have me intrigued. When can I expect her?” “Tomorrow. Tonight I believe you should get your rest. I have a feeling you'll need it.”

*** Anthony stood in his room, waiting impatiently for Lin to be brought to him. He tried to focus on the massive bed, the view from the row of windows along one wall, even the various sexual toys and equipment scattered about the room. He slowly fingered a restraining bar as he walked around it, envisioning Lin strapped to the thin table, helpless to his every whim. He grinned slightly. He could just see Lin now, her eyes blazing, her skin flushed as she fought him with everything inside her. Her defiance, her one-woman rescue mission, her jumping into danger without thought weren't unusual for the sexy biochemist. He'd heard of her traipsing headfirst into infected zones without any thought for herself to help find a cure for whatever made the people ill. She was stubborn, willful, but he also knew she had a heart of gold. When she loved, she loved hard, and she definitely loved her friend. Unfortunately, it had been a month. It was doubtful her friend was even still here. The defiant, argumentative ones were drugged. He hoped Keeran had enough common sense to keep her mouth shut as opposed to suffering the effects of Ballack's drug.

38

Trista Ann Michaels

His mind drifted back to Lin. He'd recognized her instantly. How had the senators not? A sick feeling tightened his stomach. Yes, she'd colored her hair black and changed the color of her eyes from amethyst to green. She'd lost a little weight, and she tended to walk slightly hunched, but her features were still the same. The senators had to be blind as bats not to notice the similarities. With a sigh, Tony wiped at his lips and used his other hand to impatiently tap at the restraining bar. Ballack told him she would be brought to his room without delay. Where the hell was she?

Lin made her way slowly down the hall toward Anthony's room, trying to still the tremble in her fingers as Lia led her to what felt like her doom. Could she convince him to help her? Did she dare try? She hardly knew him. Glancing toward the room next to his, she frowned as two men entered, shutting the door behind them. Lin knew what that meant. They would be watching. Voyeurism was something they often practiced here, especially if there was suspicion. Her stomach flipped. Were they suspicious of Anthony? Or was it her? She swallowed at the realization they would have to have sex. If they were being watched, they had no choice. She closed her eyes, shivering as the cool air drifting through the halls cut through her thin robe to caress the naked flesh underneath. She struggled with her footing and the two dildos shoved deep inside her. The bells on her nipples made tinkling noises as she walked or took a deep breath, which she did now in an attempt to calm her rattled nerves. Lia knocked on Anthony's door. “Enter,” he called from the other side. His voice was deep and sultry, sending a shiver of unwanted awareness over every inch of her sensitive flesh. Lia opened the door and pushed Lin inside. She blinked, trying to accustom her eyes to the darkened interior. Candles lit the corners, casting soft light across the room. Her gaze landed on Anthony, and she almost choked on a sudden intake of air.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

39

He looked amazing standing next to the restraining bar. His shirt was open, exposing a wide, strong chest, baby smooth tan skin, and a washboard stomach she was sure she could bounce a quarter off of. Long, silky black hair hung around his shoulders, doing little to soften the hard planes of his face. She'd never seen him with his hair down, but found she liked the look. Way too much. He walked toward her, his ice blue eyes narrowed, his lips set in a firm, punishing line, and she swallowed. “What the hell are you—” She stood on her tiptoes, quickly slanting her mouth over his. Tony stiffened, obviously surprised at her move. She backed away just enough to whisper and stare into his shocked, slightly confused eyes. “They're watching,” she whispered softly against his lips. His eyes narrowed into tiny, blue slits. She traced his lip with the tip of her finger, her heart racing at the stubble as it scratched at her skin. “They're in the next room.” Tony's hands lifted to rest at her waist. His thumbs gently brushed over the material of her robe, rubbing her flesh underneath and sending shivers of delight up her spine. “How do you know?” he murmured, then moved his lips to her ear, gently nibbling on the lobe. Lin again swallowed, shocked at the growing desire deep in her belly. “I saw them just before I came in.” “How do you know they're watching?” he whispered in her ear. “That's what they do when you first come here. They don't know you and want to see how you are with the slaves. If you really have sex with them. Sometimes they insist on being present. They like to watch the men whip the girls.” Lin could feel the tension in Tony's body as his fingers tightened against her waist. “Has anyone whipped you?” “Until you, no one had even noticed me.”

40

Trista Ann Michaels

He pulled away and stared down into her face. She gazed up at him, temporarily speechless from the possessiveness shining in his eyes. “Why are you here?” she asked, barely moving her lips. Tony leaned down, this time moving to the other ear. “I'm here for you,” he whispered. “At the request of your father.” “He came to you for help?” she asked. His lips brushed the sensitive spot just under her ear and she trembled, grasping his strong upper arms to hold herself upright. “In a roundabout way,” Tony replied. “If they're watching, you realize we'll have to have sex.” She nodded, swallowing the growing lump of lust in her throat. Her muscles clenched and unclenched at the rods buried within her throbbing walls. Sex with Tony was something she'd thought of on more than one occasion. She just never imagined their first time would be a show. “Then we'll figure out how to get you the hell out of here.” Lin tensed and shook her head. She attempted to pull away, but he wrapped his arms around her waist and held her close. “I'm not leaving without Keeran.” “You don't even know if she's here.” “Yes, I do,” Lin replied, close to his ear. She struggled against the growing desire to suck on his ear lobe, to taste his skin on her tongue. “I know she's here, I just haven't been able to find where he's holding her. This place is massive.” As she spoke, her lips moved against his skin. “Lin,” he growled. “Please, Anthony. I can't leave her. You have to help me.” Tony grasped a handful of her hair and tugged her head back, making her gasp in surprise. He glared at her almost angrily and her heart skipped a beat, then another and another. “You're out of your fucking mind,” he growled through tight lips. “I can't leave her,” she pleaded softly. “She would do no less for me.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

41

Tony remained silent, studying her closely. Lin could hardly breathe as she stared back, getting lost in the depths of his icy blue eyes. “Let me take a look at what's been brought to me before I consider your request for a spanking,” Tony said in a normal voice as he slid his free hand into the opening of her robe. Lin began to pant, seriously close to freaking out at the idea of him spanking her. My God. Was he serious? Would he really spank her? Her flesh warmed at the thought. His gaze traveled down her chest, settling at her breasts as he palmed one, gently cupping it beneath the bells, making them ring. Lin gasped, still held captive by the hand in her hair. “Very nice,” he murmured as he pulled the clamp free of her nipple. He rubbed his hand over it gently as though massaging it, before moving to do the same to the other. She scowled up at him, and his lips twitched with amusement, but his eyes burned with a passion she'd never seen directed at her. The idea he wanted her that much made her stomach tighten. He let go of her hair and spread her robe even wider, exposing the entire length of her flushed body to his sultry stare. He slowly walked around her, letting his fingers graze over her extended nipples as he moved to stand behind her. Her knees felt weak and shaky as he bent down to whisper in her ear. “If we're going to have to do this, you might as well enjoy it. Don't you think?” “Do you think I won't?” she asked, almost breathlessly. “I have no doubt that you will,” he murmured as he brushed her hair back from her ear with the tips of his fingers. “Will you help me?” she asked again. “I'll help you get off,” he growled softly, sending a delighted shiver up her spine. “That's not what I meant.” “I know what you meant,” he growled again. “Forget it for now.” He pushed her robe off her shoulders, letting it pool on the floor around her feet. “Right now we have a show to do, a couple of men to convince.”

42

Trista Ann Michaels

“And how will you convince them?” she asked. “By making you scream,” he whispered, cupping her breasts from behind. Lin drew in a sharp breath and fell back against his hard chest for support as her knees finally gave way.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

43

Chapter Six With his hands at her shoulders, Tony pushed Lin back up, and she moaned softly in protest. Her legs shook so badly, she wasn't sure she could remain upright much longer. A dark, sexy look lightened his eyes as he took her hand and led her to the restraining bar. Her heart leaped in her chest as he stood her before the long metal pipe with leather straps hanging from the center. A long metal cord attached the bar to ceiling, allowing the restrainer to raise and lower it as he saw fit. “Don't be frightened,” he said in her ear, his voice barely above a whisper. Amazingly, she wasn't. Not much anyway. For whatever reason, despite everything she'd heard about him, she felt safe here—with him. Staring into her eyes, he took her wrists in his hands and lifted them above her head. She watched in growing fascination as he placed her hands through the restraints and wrapped the leather around her wrists, securing them snugly in place. With a small tug against the cord, the bar lifted, pulling her to her toes. His eyes dropped to her breasts, and she glanced down as well. They were perky and firm, her nipples pink pebbles jutting outward. Her gaze moved back to meet his, where his held hers captive. She couldn't look away from the hunger burning in his eyes if she'd wanted to. She never imagined anyone would look at her like that—that anyone would want her like that. She'd always been confident, always knew she was pretty, but never imagined herself the sexy siren she always wanted to be. But when he looked at her like that, she felt sexy, felt as though she could be as wild and wanton as she wanted to be. That there wasn't anything she could do or ask of him that would offend him, shock him, or repulse him. “What are you waiting for?” she panted.

44

Trista Ann Michaels

One eyebrow lifted, intrigued. Turning, he picked up a paddle lying on the small table behind him. Her heart began massive palpitations as he slowly circled around her, the whacking of the paddle against his palm echoing around the room like an ominous threat. She smiled slightly in utter shock at how the anticipation only heightened her growing desire. Who would've imagined? Not she. The paddle landed across her hip without warning with a stinging slap. She gasped as the sharp tingle morphed into a slow burn. Another landed across the opposite hip with a loud pop. Her body swung forward, her toes dragging across the cold floor. She cried out, letting her head drop back momentarily as the sting raced through her body, making every muscle tremble in alarming pleasure. With the third slap, her anal muscles contracted around the dildo, and she shivered uncontrollably. “This is insane,” she panted, close to tears. The reaction she had to the pain of the paddle both shocked and terrified her. How could she find this pleasurable? How could she come from this? But she was so close—closer than she would have ever imagined. “This is just the beginning,” he murmured. Walking across the front of her, he dragged the rough edge of the paddle across her nipples. She gasped, arching her back for more of the delicious strokes. “Like that?” he asked as he brushed the paddle over the aching peaks once more. She swallowed, unable to reply. “Answer me,” he demanded harshly, slapping the paddle against the side of her hip, catching her by surprise. “Yes,” she hissed, fighting against the startling first stirrings of a climax. “Do those dildos satisfy you?” he purred as he walked around her, dragging the rough side of the paddle along her skin. “Or is it the sting of my paddle that sets you off?” He slapped her ass again. The harsh sting made her cry out and squeeze her eyes tightly closed against the intense, pulsing throbs of her vagina and anus. “Ohmygod,” she panted.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

45

Her clit felt as though it would explode, and she squeezed her thighs together, moaning at the applied pressure to the oversensitized nub. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough. “Come for me,” he commanded, slapping her hip one more time. “Do it.” Again, he slapped at her ass, and she let her head fall against her arm, crying out as her womb began to tense, her vagina pulse, sucking at the dildo buried inside her. Even her ass quaked and quivered. Something that shocked her, both at the unfamiliar sensation and the pleasure it caused. Another slap and her legs drew upward as her body jerked with powerful shakes. She screamed as the release began in her womb, traveled outward, into her channels, then further throughout her limbs. The pulse of her vagina and ass shook her to the very core, bringing tears to her eyes as the pleasure only seemed to increase with every throb before subsiding, robbing her of every last ounce of strength left inside her. Her head dropped forward, her eyes closed, her breathing harsh and labored. Tony gripped her chin and forced her head back upward. “Look at me,” he commanded in a hoarse voice. She weakly opened her eyes. He smiled slightly, his stare almost glowing with lust. “Very good. You know how to come on command.” She opened her lips to say something, but clamped them shut almost instantly as his eyes narrowed in warning. “For the rest of the night, you will speak only when spoken to, and you will do exactly as I tell you. Do you understand?” She nodded. “Do you understand?” he asked again, staring at her pointedly. She licked her lips. “Yes.” “For tonight,” he began as he rubbed the pad of his thumb along her jawline, “you are my slave, and I'm your Master.” Lin knew what he said was for the people watching, but at the same time, deep down inside, she liked the idea of playing the submissive. Tonight would be a way for her to fulfill a fantasy—a fantasy she didn't even realize she had.

46

Trista Ann Michaels

From the first slap of the paddle, she'd completely forgotten about the men in the other room, their eyes on them as he'd given her the best orgasm she'd ever had in her life. She wanted more and could already feel her body heating with growing lust.

Tony could hardly think. Lin had never looked more beautiful than she did right now. Her skin was flushed, her breasts high and firm, her eyes bright with growing lust. She'd enjoyed their little play, and as he stared at her, he wondered if she even knew she wanted this before now. Her reaction and the intense release she'd experienced had certainly surprised him and most definitely delighted him. He enjoyed playing the Master. He was thrilled she seemed to enjoy playing the submissive. He had so many games for her, so many things they could try. If he could make it long enough before he lost it and just threw her on the bed and fucked her brains out. His cock was already so hard every inch of his rod throbbed in pain. If he got inside her right now, he wouldn't last two seconds. Never taking his eyes off hers, he stepped back and pulled his shirt off his shoulders, tossing it to the floor. His hands moved to his slacks, releasing the buttons of his fly. Her gaze dropped to his crotch, watching with obvious interest as he opened his slacks, freeing his engorged cock to her hungry stare. She licked her lips, and he would swear he felt the swipe of her tongue against his tight flesh. “I think it's time you took care of me,” he said quietly. Her eyes jerked upward, meeting his. “I'm going to release you. Then I want you to come here and suck my cock.” She remained silent as he pushed his slacks off, then moved to release her wrists from the leather straps. Once free, she sagged against him. He caught her, holding her close for a brief second. “Are you okay?” he whispered in her ear. She nodded. “You may answer,” he said.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

47

“Yes,” she whispered. “Lie down. Let's get these dildos out.” She moved to the large bed and climbed onto the mattress. He had a clear view of her ass and pussy spread wide from the dildos, and his cock twitched to take their place. He wanted this night to last, and if he took her now, it would be over way too soon. He enjoyed the anticipation, the wait for her wet, hot pussy. At least that's what he kept telling himself. His hands clenched at his sides as she rolled to her back and lifted her knees. Her hands dropped to her stomach; her chest rose and fell with her steady breathing as she waited patiently for him to remove the toys. God, just thinking about it had him breaking into a sweat. He couldn't remember any time that he'd ever wanted someone as much as he wanted her right now. He'd spent nights lying awake, thinking about that kiss in her father's garden. A few spoken words that had been meant to distract quickly changed to something else—something that had changed him from the inside out. Taking a deep breath, he walked over and put a hand on each knee, spreading them wider. Her eyelids fluttered open, watching him with an almost dreamy expression. Even though she'd changed their color, he still saw the amethyst eyes, the platinum color of her hair, the light cappuccino tint to her skin. Full lips parted and he couldn't resist the invitation, even if she didn't realize she'd made it. He bent over her and placed a hand on the bed on either side of her head. He had to taste her again. He had to feel the silky glide of her tongue as it mated with his. Not able to resist her any longer, he dropped his head to hers, covering her lips with his own. They were soft, supple, molding to his as though they belonged there. His tongue licked past her lips, twirling around hers, commanding a response. The little minx didn't disappoint. She met his kiss, his demands. He swallowed her moans, deepening the kiss, demanding even more. “Tony,” she moaned against his mouth as he pulled away. He knew she wanted more. So did he, but he needed to stop. He needed to catch his breath so he could keep the anticipation going. He wanted to make tonight everything she could ever

48

Trista Ann Michaels

imagine and then some. He had no idea if he would ever have her beyond this weekend, so he wanted to get his fill. If that was even possible. He had a feeling he would never have her enough. Ignoring her protests, he reached between her legs and removed the dildo in her ass. She hissed softly as it slid out. Next, he removed the one in her pussy, pulling it free slowly. She closed her eyes, a soft moan slipping past her lips. Tony couldn't take his eyes off her as he teased her opening with the tip. Her hips moved with him, lifting off the bed just enough to seek a more firm touch of the toy. Tony smiled, totally captivated by the way she responded to the things he did to her. He dropped the dildo and unclipped the belt, allowing it to fall free of her waist. She looked up at him, a question in her eyes. “Anxious to take care of me?” Tony asked, not able to resist teasing her. “Anxious to feel my throbbing cock between your lips?” Her tiny pink tongue swiped along her bottom lip, and his stomach tightened. “Answer me.” “Yes,” she replied, surprising him. “Come here,” he growled as he stood straight. She sat up and stared almost greedily at his throbbing length. Her warm fingers gripped the base, and he closed his eyes, bracing for what he knew would be pure heaven. Her tongue licked up the underside, following the long vein all the way to the purple head, where she swiped at a drop of precum that glistened on the tip. He shuddered and gripped the back of her head hard, trying to fight the urge to thrust his cock between her lips and deep into her throat. “That's nice,” he groaned, licking his suddenly very dry lips. She glanced up at him through her lashes as she opened her lips and engulfed his throbbing length within her hot mouth. “Oh, son of a…” he sighed, his eyes closing in pure pleasure. Her mouth worked lower, meeting her hand as her tongue twirled and licked. When her teeth scraped across the head, he thought his knees would buckle.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

49

“That's it, baby.” He opened his eyes and watched as she sucked his rod deeper. Her cheeks sank in, her jaws stretched wide. God, she looked good. “Suck it. Harder.” He pumped his hips just a little, pushing forward as she sucked deeper, pulling back as she pulled back. Every part of his body trembled with the need to blow his seed, to fill her throat full of his cum, but, God, it felt so good he didn't want it to end. “God, woman,” he groaned. His balls tightened, drawing upward. His body tensed as his release grew ever closer. “I'm going to come in that mouth.” She looked at him through her lashes, and he could see the hot lust that mirrored his own. “I'm going to come in that hot little mouth.” She cupped his balls with her free hand, sending a shudder through him that nearly robbed the very breath from his lungs. His head dipped back, his body shivered as his balls burst, and with a loud shout toward the darkened ceiling he sent hot, pulsing semen deep into her throat. Lin didn't miss a beat, licking away every drop and leaving him weak as a newborn babe. He sighed, still staring at the ceiling while her sweet tongue continued to lick at his length, making him absolutely mindless with pleasure. She slowly stood and kissed the side of his neck. “How was that…Master?” she asked, but he didn't miss the slight hint of teasing to her voice. Tony smiled slightly, then slapped at her hip. She flinched slightly and glanced at him in slight confusion. “I didn't tell you that you could speak. As for the blowjob, that was good for starters. As to the other, you need to remember to do what you're told.” Her eyes narrowed into tiny, angry slits, and Tony had to fight had to keep from chuckling at her. He had no doubt this submission thing was driving her crazy. Watching her face, he moved his hand between her legs, cupping her pussy. Thick cream coated his fingers as he spread her labia, gently stroking her mound. She moaned, spreading her legs to give him better access. “You're wet…slave,” he said. “Did sucking my cock turn you on?”

50

Trista Ann Michaels

Chapter Seven Lin could feel the heat of a blush moving over her cheeks. Yes, it had turned her on. He was huge and the whole time she kept thinking how good he'd feel inside her, filling her like the dildos had. “Answer me,” he commanded softly. She fought the urge to bristle and say something smart in return. As much as she enjoyed the whole submissive thing so far, parts of it rubbed her the wrong way. Anthony seemed to be way too good at this. Was playing the Dom something he normally did? “Did it turn you on, Lin?” he whispered, his voice taking on that deep, sultry tone that made her insides quiver with awareness. “Maybe,” she replied. “Maybe? Do I need to spank you again? That question requires a yes or no answer. Which is it?” “Do you really need me to stroke your ego, Tony?” she whispered. Tony gripped her chin, forcing her gaze to meet his intimidating stare as he spoke softly. “What I need for you to do is to not raise suspicion. You know how it is here, Lin. You're the slave. I'm the Master. Period. You can't forget that. Going against a Dom here is a punishable offense. Not just by me, but by Ballack. You've been here long enough, you should know that. You're here to please me, not push my buttons or defy me. Now answer the question.” Lin swallowed. Tony was right. As much as it galled her, he was right. She'd seen more than one girl suffer the whip when she didn't obey her Master to his satisfaction. Sometimes Ballack applied the lash, sometimes he watched while the Dom did. “Yes,” she replied, loud and clear. “That's my girl,” he whispered.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

51

He loosened his hold on her chin and brushed his knuckles over the back of her cheek. Warm tingles swam through her veins at the way he flipped from tough to gentle. She didn't know which to expect, and surprisingly the back-and-forth, the tension in her body as she waited for his tough side to return and the thrill it gave her when it did, made her take a look inside herself for the first time. Is this why most of her relationships had felt like duds? Is this why she'd never truly been satisfied? Because deep down she wanted to submit to a man who knew how to command, how to make her heart race with anticipation and just a hint of fear? Anthony did just that. In just the short amount of time she'd been in his room, he'd made her feel things she'd never felt before and doubted she ever would again, unless by his hands. “Just go with it, Lin,” he said as though reading her mind. She swallowed and followed him with her eyes as he moved behind her. He grasped her wrists, pulling them behind her, forcing her back to arch and her breasts to thrust outward. She swallowed at the thickening of her mounds and the sudden urge to have him suck at them. Tony trailed his fingers gently down her arm, making goose bumps rise along her skin. “I bet the little pampered princess had no idea submission would be such a satisfying ride, did you?” She shook her head. “There's a lot more to this than just spanking.” Lin's whole body felt weak. How much more could there be? Or for that matter, how much more could she take? She already felt as though she was about to explode, as though every inch of her was on fire. He put his mouth close to her ear and ran his tongue along the edge. She shivered, drawing in a deep, shaky breath. “Oh, yes. Much more.” He slid his hand around her stomach, then lower. She held her breath, waiting for him to touch her. “I could make you come right here,” he murmured.

Trista Ann Michaels

52

He teased the edge of her clit with the tip of his middle finger, and her hips thrust forward in reflex, desperately seeking a firmer touch. “I could bring out the flogger, stuff this pussy full of cold, fake cock, and make you scream louder than you ever have.” Lin swallowed as his fingers moved back farther, gently separating her labia and stroking through the cream leaking from her vagina. “I could make you lie on that bed and pleasure yourself while I watch.” His cock thickened against the side of her hip, and she swayed slightly, pressing against him. His moan made her smile as she realized she had just as strong an effect on him as he had on her. “Or you could just fuck me,” she whispered without thinking. He slapped at her ass and she sucked in a gulp of air. Her pussy pulsed and throbbed while her legs shook almost uncontrollably. “Is that what you want, Lin?” He moved more to the side and thrust two fingers deep in her dripping channel. She gasped as her walls sucked hungrily at the digits. “So warm and wet,” he murmured seductively in her ear. He added a third finger, driving her insane with his slow, shallow thrusts. He tugged on her arms almost harshly, forcing her backward with a squeal. His hand at the small of her back held her wrists in place, at the same time supporting her as he bent forward and licked his tongue over her distended nipple. Her whole body shook as he pressed his fingers deeper, at the same time engulfing the tip of her breast in his hot mouth. She cried out, wiggling in his arms as her body careened closer to that edge of rapture. She wanted to shout, to beg, to plead, to command. She wanted to scream at him to give her what she wanted so badly, but she didn't dare speak again. Instead, she panted, her fingers flexing, clawing at nothing. He bit her nipple, sending sharp tingles of pleasure pain through her womb. She was almost mindless now with need. Her whole body burned with it. “I know you want it,” Tony murmured. “Say it, Lin. Tell me what you want.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

53

She sighed, then shouted. “Fuck me!” With a growl, he removed his fingers and let go of her wrists, allowing her to straighten. He shoved her backward where she landed on the mattress, bouncing twice before coming to a stop. She stared up at him in startled surprise as he practically stalked toward her like an animal ready to pounce on his prey. “Spread your thighs,” he growled menacingly. She couldn't deny him. Spreading her thighs wide, she glanced down at his long, thick cock. He was massive and glorious, and her pussy clenched in anticipation of his first thrust into her throbbing vagina. He came to a stop at the edge of the bed, watching her, his blue-gray eyes aglow with hot, burning lust. She waited, not saying anything as he bent forward and grasped her hips, dragging her to the edge of the bed. She felt as though she might fall off and lowered her hands to grip the edge as her legs wrapped around his back. His thrust came without warning, pushing past her tight walls, filling her deep. She screamed at the sudden intrusion, but not from pain. It was from pleasure. Pure, amazing, torturous pleasure. He was so big that even with her walls slick with her cream, he had to pull back and press in again, working himself deeper. He pulled almost out, making her groan in protest and wrap her legs around him tighter to hold her to him. God, if he stopped now, she'd surely die. “You want all of it?” he asked through clenched teeth. “Yes,” she hissed. He thrust forward, going balls-deep. His groin pressed against her clit, and she cried out as the pleasure made her whole body shudder. He pulled back, then thrust again, this time harder, this time grinding against her clit just before pulling back and doing it all again. She could hardly breathe and struggled to keep her eyes open and centered on his face. She wanted to yell at him to fuck her harder, really pound into her, but she could hardly speak past the rising tide of rapture racing through her veins. Her hips lifted, meeting every punishing thrust of his massive rod.

54

Trista Ann Michaels

“God, you're fucking killing me,” Tony growled as he dropped his head back. He slowed his thrust, and she mumbled her displeasure, but it soon changed to pleasure as he used the head of his cock to rub against a sensitive spot on the top of her wall. Her eyes closed, her vagina tensed, the muscles on the inside of her thighs tightened. Her hips lifted higher, her body struggling between fighting for her release and fighting against it. “Nice,” Tony hissed. “I like watching you.” Her eyes flew open, and she met his hungry gaze as he stared down at her. She hadn't known he was watching her, but now that she did, it heightened her desire. She was so close she could taste it as the tide rose within her limbs, making every inch of her spine tingle. The first stirrings began in her channel, traveling upward through her stomach. “Yes,” she hissed. “Oh, God. Yes.” Tony kept rubbing that spot, kept stroking her sensitive walls with deliberate intent, until she finally shattered, screaming toward the ceiling as her release took hold with astounding sharpness. Her walls began to pulse, sucking at his length. He pushed balls-deep, grinding against her sensitive clit and sending her headlong into another orgasm. She sobbed, lifting her hips against him almost desperately as her body rode out wave after wave of pleasure. Tony kept pounding, kept thrusting, filling her full over and over, until he tensed above her with a loud shout, emptying his seed into her sated, raw vagina. Lin sighed tiredly as the throbs faded. Her legs fell weakly from his back, and her fingers finally released the death grip they had on the edge of the mattress. They felt stiff and were slow to open. She laughed softly, then sighed as he pulled his cock free of her walls. “I have never”—she panted—“never in my life had an orgasm like that.” Tony dropped onto the bed beside her, his gaze glued to the ceiling above him. “There you go, talking again.” He glanced over at her and grinned at her wide eyes. Would she ever get the hang of this? “Or did you like that spanking that much?” The heat of a blush moved over her cheeks, and his grin widened. Yes, she had liked the spanking that much, but she refused to admit it and lifted her chin in slight defiance.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

55

Tony chuckled and rolled over to softly whisper in her ear, “If we make it out of this, you're never fucking leaving my bedroom.” Her eyes widened in shock as he backed away from her slightly. Was she supposed to say something to that? Was he serious or just kidding? The idea of never leaving his bedroom made the butterflies flutter in her stomach and at the same time made her want to throw up that invisible wall. She could not afford to develop feelings for him. He rose onto his elbow and leaned over her. “Kiss me, slave.” She only hesitated a second. She realized instantly she wanted to kiss him. She wanted to feel his lips against hers. Reaching up, she pushed his long, silky hair behind his ear. With her hand at the back of his neck, she tugged him down to her. His lips covered hers softly, gently. He brushed them sideways, teasing her lips with his. Hers parted in invitation and his tongue slipped inside, exploring her mouth with a slow thoroughness that sent her senses soaring again. Her arms wrapped around his neck, holding him close as his kiss deepened, stealing what felt like her very soul. His palm moved slowly from her shoulder blade to her hip, making her back arch in reflex. “God, you're such a hot, sexy little minx,” he whispered against her mouth, making her smile. No one had ever told her that. No one had ever made her feel this wanton. “That's twice you've drained the very life from my balls. I'll need a few if you want to do it a third time.” She giggled deep in her throat. She slid her palm over his shoulder and down his chest enjoying the feel of his muscles as they twitched beneath her explorations. She had no doubt two, three, or even four times wouldn't be enough. “I'm just a mere man,” he murmured as his lips trailed a light path of kisses down the side of her neck. Lin silently snorted. Mere man, my ass. He was incredible. Her smile faded somewhat. She really needed to be careful. He was good in bed and had given her orgasms she'd never dreamed existed, all for the benefit of dangerous men who would kill them both if they found out who she really was and why she was really here. She needed to remember it was all an act…on both their

56

Trista Ann Michaels

parts. She was just basking in the euphoria. That was all. He was here to rescue her, much to her startled surprise. What about the rumors? What about all the things she'd heard about him? Were they all a lie? Was there more to Tony than she ever knew? Simple sex had turned into something much more complicated than she wanted to deal with.

*** Ballack stepped into the room next to Tony's and nodded toward the two men watching the screens on the far wall. In the center screen, he could see Tony lying on the bed with his slave for the weekend. The two men, Liam and Cory, glanced at him over their shoulders as he shut the door and moved farther into the room. “How are they?” Ballack asked. “Humping like rabbits,” Liam replied, as they turned back to the screen. Ballack snorted. “When are you going to do something about those two?” Cory asked. “In time. I've been concerned about Lin's father lately. I could possibly use her to make sure Morlin stays in line.” “You know why Anthony is really here,” Liam said as he turned his chair to face him. “Of course I do!” Ballack snapped. “His reaction to Lin was quite interesting, though. It's possible she's partly the reason he's here, which could mean her father is aware I have her.” “You don't think he'll talk?” Cory asked. “Morlin? It's doubtful, but I'm not taking any chances. We need that vote that's coming up to pass. Lin is our insurance. Lin's showing up here worked out perfectly. I still can't believe how easily she fell into my hands.” Ballack moved closer and studied Lin as she sprawled tiredly next to Anthony. “It's pathetically obvious her forte isn't disguises. Poor child doesn't have a clue and is just naive enough to believe she's fooled us. Did you get some pictures?” “Yes,” Liam said with a nod. “I got some really good shots of her being spanked.” “Perfect. Send them to Morlin. It's time we made use of our little…serving slave. No?”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

57

“And Anthony?” Ballack looked at the screen, his eyes narrowing in anger. Tony had almost pulled the wool over his eyes—almost. He shrugged one shoulder in disinterest. “Give him till Sunday. I like him well enough to at least give him that much. When he thinks he's going to be able to leave, we'll show him otherwise.”

58

Trista Ann Michaels

Chapter Eight Keeran sat on the single bed in the middle of her dark, solitary room. Her clothes hung off her, barely clinging to her waist. She'd lost so much weight since she'd been in this hell. It wasn't that they weren't feeding her. They were; she just couldn't bring herself to eat it. It was only when her blood sugar dropped so low that her hands began to shake that she ate anything at all. She had no idea how long she'd been here. When she'd first arrived, she'd tried keeping track of the days, but with no windows, she'd had no idea how much time had passed. Her mind often wandered, sometimes taking on thoughts she would normally consider to be madness. She'd written three books since her arrival. In her head. She'd spoken aloud just to hear the sound of her voice, even though there was no one else around to hear her. She missed Lin. At the thought of her friend, her lower lip began to tremble. What had happened to her? Was she dead? If she was, it was all her fault. She should have never convinced her to come. Keeran often wondered if she even deserved to make it out alive. To die here would be a fit punishment for what she'd done. Depression hung around her neck like a weight, dragging her down deep into the bowels of utter despair. She needed to see sunlight, to smell flowers. She needed to get free. The lock on her door released and Keeran tensed, scooting backward toward the corner of the bed, pressing her back against the wall. No one ever came into her room. Her meals were delivered through a small hole in the wall. She never saw the person on the other side. It was passed through a hidden panel; then once in place, her side was unlocked allowing her access to the food. She licked her lips, waiting anxiously to see who would come through.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

59

The door opened and a tall woman with long black hair stood before her. She appeared to be around thirty with almond-shaped eyes and deeply tanned skin. She wore a black dress that hung from one shoulder, the material thin and flowing like the dress of a Greek goddess. She was certainly pretty enough to be a goddess. Keeran narrowed her eyes. “What?” The woman smiled slightly. “I am Lia. I'm here to prepare you for your new owner.” Keeran's heart stopped. “My what?” “You heard me,” she replied and held out her hand. “Now come. We don't want to keep Master Aiden waiting.” “I'm not going to be someone's slave,” Keeran snarled. “From here on out, the words 'I am not, I will not' are no longer in your vocabulary. You will get up and come with me, Keeran. Don't make me force you.” Keeran snorted, but studied Lia closely. In her weakened state, she had no doubt Lia would give her a huge run for her money, but she couldn't just give in meekly. She had to try to get free. Standing, Keeran walked slowly toward the door on shaky legs. Her pants began to slide off her hips, and she gripped the waist, tugging them back around her waist. “First order of business is new clothes.” Keeran's lips thinned as Lia grasped her elbow and led her from the room. Her grip was surprisingly tight, and Keeran winced, trying to tug her arm free. Lia's fingers tightened and dug into her flesh so hard, Keeran was sure they would leave bruises. Taking a few moments to study her surroundings, she spotted an elevator of sorts. Did she dare try it? Her heart began to race at the thought. Did she have the strength to make it? She had no idea where to go or where she was. Would it be stupidity to even try? She had to try. Pressing her lips together in determination, she balled her fists, swinging hard and hitting Lia square in the jaw. The element of surprise was her only chance, and it worked. Lia loosened her hold enough that Keeran was able to free her arm from her grasp. She took off running, heading back toward the elevator she'd seen. But once in it, which way did she go?

Trista Ann Michaels

60

“Someone stop her!” Lia yelled. Three men came at her from different directions, stopping her dead in her tracks. One grabbed her arm, twisting it behind her, and she gasped at the sharp slice of pain. Turning her, he slammed her against the wall, taking her breath. Keeran began to struggle in earnest, kicking, slapping, biting at anything and everything. One man yelped, and she felt a moment of gratification as he stepped back. Unfortunately, it was a fleeting moment. A sharp prick stung her leg and she cried out, her thigh giving way under her weight as warmth began to spread throughout her body. “You idiot!” Lia yelled, but Keeran didn't think it was directed at her. “You know Master Aiden does not like his slaves to be drugged. Ballack will be furious.” She went limp, her mind a jumbled mass caught somewhere between reality and her drugged state of euphoria. A man picked her up in his arms and headed toward the same elevator she'd tried to run to. Lia continued to follow, yelling at them almost the whole way. Keeran tried to focus on the lights above her, but her vision blurred, making everything unrecognizable, so she closed her eyes, instead focusing on the sounds, the voices. Her head lolled to the side, then fell back over the arm of the man who carried her. Her limbs felt so heavy, she couldn't move them on her own, so she had to remain in the uncomfortable position as they made their way down a long hall. She had no idea how long they walked. She felt as though she kept drifting in and out of consciousness, in and out of reality. They stopped for a brief moment. She heard a knock, then a deep voice replied, “Enter.”

Aiden tensed the second he saw Keeran dangling in the man's arms. “My God. What's wrong with her?” Ballack demanded, his tone angry. “She tried to escape,” Lia replied. Ballack walked over to Lia and wiped away a drop of blood from her lip. Aiden was surprised at the show of affection toward the woman from a man who delighted in abusing slaves.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

61

“Did she do this?” “Yes,” Lia replied. “She put up quite a fight. One of the guards drugged her, I'm afraid, in an effort to calm her down. Due to all the adrenaline running through her system with her attempt to escape, he gave her more than was required.” Aiden fisted his hands at his sides. “Put her on the bed,” he commanded and watched as the guard dropped her onto the mattress with a bounce. Aiden fought the desire to run to her and instead remained standing. Ballack knew how he felt about his slaves being drugged, but he couldn't afford to show too much anger at the situation. After all, she wasn't supposed to mean anything to him beyond a fuck. Ballack turned to him. “I am so sorry, Aiden. I know you like your women fully aware. She was meant to be a gift to you and still is. If she survives the night, she's yours for free. My gift to you.” “Then I will have to make sure she survives,” Aiden replied, smiling slightly despite his murderous anger and desire to kill them all where they stood. “I'll leave you to her, then. Again, Aiden. I'm terribly sorry. I assure you the guard responsible will pay for his idiocy.” Aiden nodded as Ballack and his crew left the room, closing the large door behind them with an ominous click. He moved to the bed and brushed her long hair from her face. She was pale, her eyes slightly sunken and lifeless, the normally bright blue color dull and cloudy. His heart ached to see her this way. He'd only been with her that one night, but it was a night he'd never been able to forget. Every woman who came into his club with black hair, he looked at twice just to make sure they weren't her. He cupped her cheek and she moaned. Her skin felt cold to the touch, so he reached for the blanket, covering her. The drug could last for hours, but in her weakened state, it might take longer for it to leave her system. That is, if it didn't overwhelm her system and shut it down. She had a fifty-fifty shot at survival; he just prayed she did survive. Stretching out next to her, he lifted the covers to her chin and brushed his hand through her hair. “Keeran,” he whispered, trying to get her to open her eyes.

62

Trista Ann Michaels

That voice. It sounded so familiar, so soothing. Did she know it? As she drifted off, his voice sounded farther and farther away. She struggled to stay with it, but couldn't. Her mind drifted back to where she'd heard it before. The night she'd let her inhibitions free. The night she'd fallen for a complete stranger and never got over him. The night she wanted to go back to. “Toroc,” she murmured.

*** “I've told you so many times,” Keeran began in frustration. This argument with her father was always the same. “I don't want to do this.” “This is your legacy,” her father snapped. “No, it's not. It's yours. I don't want your legacy,” she snapped back, determined to make her father understand. “I have a conscious. I have morals.” “What my company does is not illegal, Keeran.” “No. It's just disgusting.” “We help save lives.” “You mortgage out body parts,” she yelled. “I know what you do when they can't pay for their cloned heart or lungs.” Her father sat in the backseat of the small runner as it transported them through the desert streets of Veenori toward the bar where her father was to meet his new “contact.” A man who could help him broaden his business, his reach. “Keeran, this is a business. A business that is very successful. Recipients must understand—” “Give me a break. You want me to take law and politics so I can get into the Senate, using my connection to Senator Morlin and his daughter, so I can further your disgusting way of life. Forget it.” “Keeran—” “I'm not going to be your pawn. I hate your company, I hate what you do, and I hate what you expect me to do. You could have done this the right way, the decent way. You could work with those people who can't pay instead of…”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

63

She turned away, unable to even look at her father anymore. When she'd found out about the darker side of his business, the side that collected on the poor souls who could no longer afford to pay for the transplants they'd received, she'd become ill. How could her father sit back and allow this? “If you show mercy to one, others will follow, Keeran. If we allowed people to skirt their responsibilities, the company would go broke.” “How does killing them help? If they die, they can't pay you.” “We put insurance on them as soon as they receive the transplant. The cost is covered at the time of their death.” Keeran covered her mouth with her hand, swallowing down the bile that quickly made its way up her throat. “You're insane.” “I'm realistic…smart,” he snarled. “We will be at the Sandstorm shortly. Compose yourself.” Keeran shook her head. “Stop the transport!” she yelled. She grasped the handle of the door and practically jumped out. She had to get away from him. “Keeran, get back in this transport!” he ordered. “It's too dangerous here for you to be walking around alone.” She backed away from the car. “I don't care. Anywhere is better than with you.” “Don't you understand what I'm trying to do here, Keeran? I'm doing all of this for you.” “I want no part of it,” she snapped. “I'll follow my own path. I don't want anything from you. Ever.” She spun around and began jogging through the crowd as fast as she could. Behind her, she could hear her father still yelling, but she ignored him. Two transports would be leaving tomorrow, headed back to Earth. She'd just make sure she was on the one her father wasn't. In the meantime, she needed to find a place to stay. Glancing around at the various species of men and woman walking around her, she spotted a man who made her breath catch. He was tall, with long black hair that brushed wide, muscular

64

Trista Ann Michaels

shoulders. He wore a white shirt opened halfway down his chest and exposing smooth, tan skin. His waist was tapered and connected to hips hugged snugly by a pair of coarse brown pants. God, he looked like a pirate. Could he be a space pirate, maybe? Her pace slowed as her gaze wandered back up to his face and a pair of eyes so deep royal blue they appeared almost unnatural. There was admiration in his gaze, and she frowned, trying to ignore the tingle of awareness racing up her spine. Had he heard the argument between her and her father? Had he been watching her? He was so gorgeous it heated her body just looking at him. She'd never had that kind of reaction to a man and quickly turned away, staring down the street for somewhere to get out of the oppressive heat. Her gaze landed on a sign. MIRAGE. A bar. She smiled. Perfect. She could use a drink. Keeran stepped into the dark interior, glancing around at the massive array of people. The place was much larger than it had appeared and was absolutely packed. Loud techno music blared through the speakers in the tall ceiling as men and women danced on various tables throughout the room. Her eyebrow rose as she realized those men and women were naked, their skin sparkling with glitter. The atmosphere was meant to arouse, and she had a feeling if she stayed here much longer, aroused was exactly what she'd be. As she made her way to the bar, her gaze once again landed on her pirate. Her heart jumped slightly as his stare met hers from across the room. Two men came up and spoke to him, forcing his attention away from her. But only briefly. He cast her a sideways glance, his full lips lifting into a wicked grin that made her skin tingle. She should have seriously been afraid, but at the time, she'd been so angry with her father she hadn't thought her actions through. Now, with this gorgeous man who seemed to be following her, the various men around the bar watching her with interest, the implications of her actions were becoming loud and clear. In other words, she'd done something incredibly stupid. Maybe if she hurried, she could catch up with her father. Turning, she started to head back toward the door when a man caught her by the elbow, holding her back. His fingers bit into her

Entwined Fates: Slaves

65

flesh, his hot, alcoholic breath blew against her face making her cringe. Her anger rose a notch, and she jerked her arm, trying to free it. “Let go of me,” she snarled. His grip held and her heart really began to race. Who here would help her? “Hold on a second, pretty girl,” he said, his gaze taking in her casual pants and tank top. The heat and sand here on the planet kept her from wearing anything more dressy. “Where are you off to in such a hurry?” “I'm meeting my father,” she said. “Who should be here any minute.” “Father, huh?” he said, then snorted. “That's a new one.” She jerked her arm again, but he tightened his grip. His fingers sank into her flesh, and she winced. “You're hurting me,” she said. He moved closer, putting his face in hers, and she turned her head, her lips twisting in distaste. “Ah, this is nothing,” he said. “If you like pain, I can certainly give you plenty of that.” Before Keeran could respond, her pirate came up behind the man holding her arm. Grabbing a handful of his short, slimy hair, her rescuer jerked the man's head back. The man gasped, dropping his drink onto the floor. The glass broke and covered her shoes in whatever disgusting drink was in the glass, and Keeran breathed both a sigh of relief and one of disgust. “She's mine, Teelan,” her pirate said in a deep menacing voice. Keeran's eyes widened slightly at the thought of going from one captor to another, and immediately she tried to back away unnoticed. “Freeze, Keeran,” her pirate said, as his intense, commanding gaze met hers. She blinked in surprise. How did he know her name? “You, on the other hand, Teelan, may go home.” “I'm sorry, Toroc. I didn't know she was yours.” “Now you do.” “Yes, yes,” Teelan replied, nodding. “And I promise, hands off.” Toroc let his hair go, and the man ran like a terrified mouse. Keeran felt close to the same way, but something deep inside told her she could trust this man. “How did you know my name?” she asked.

66

Trista Ann Michaels

He grinned. “I'm psychic.” Keeran shook her head. “I saw your argument, heard him calling for you. Your husband?” Keeran snorted. “No. My father.” Toroc nodded. “Ah.” “I suppose I should thank you…for helping me just now, not for eavesdropping.” His lips spread into an adorable grin that made his eyes crinkle. He appeared to be early to midthirties, but truthfully with so many species that appeared humanoid, it was hard to tell anymore. He could be one hundred, if he was Athian or twelve if he was Cornic. “I'm Toroc. I own this”—he waved his hand around the bar—“establishment.” “Interesting place.” “Would you like a tour?” Keeran hesitated. “You really shouldn't be here alone, Keeran. It's not a safe place.” Her shoulders hunched slightly. “I'm figuring that out.” He held his hand out. “Come.” Keeran didn't think, she just acted and placed her hand in his. An immediate feeling of safety and belonging gripped her as his fingers folded around hers. She glanced up at him. Bright, intelligent blue eyes held surprise and just a hint of lust. Her skin warmed at the thought of this gorgeous man wanting her. She didn't understand what it was about him that drew her, but whatever it was, it was incredibly strong.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

67

Chapter Nine Keeran couldn't remember ever laughing so hard as the Tilacian twins danced around her legs. They were just under three and a half feet, their reddish hair long and curly, their green eyes alight with mischief. They were male, and she gasped with delight as they dropped their pants and began to pump penises that hung down to their knees. She placed her hand over her mouth. She could feel her face heating, but at the same time, couldn't seem to stop giggling at their antics as they pumped and rolled their eyes in playful rapture. “You are a delight, Keeran,” Toroc said in her ear. “They are so cute and very funny,” she said, not quite able to meet his gaze. The twins handed her a flower, and she smiled, taking it as they bowed to her before leaving to entertain more of the crowd. “What were you and your father arguing over?” he asked. “The same thing we always seem to argue over. My future. What about you?” she asked, finally turning her gaze to his. He was so close, she could smell his musky scent, feel his heat, and every inch of her came alive. “What about me?” he asked after a few seconds of silence from her. “Um,” she started, then swallowed. “You appear human, where are you from?” “I don't know.” She blinked in shock. “You don't know?” “No. I was bought by Devlin Armande when I was seventeen. I was initially to work in the mines, but Devlin bought me instead and brought me here, where I worked for him. I remember very little before that.” “An accident maybe?” she asked. “Amnesia?”

Trista Ann Michaels

68

Toroc shook his head. “No. Devlin had me examined. They believe it was a memory wipe.” She raised her eyebrow. “A what? You mean someone deliberately erased your memory? For what reason?” He shrugged his shoulders. “I do not know.” “Aren't you the least bit curious?” Toroc's lips pursed in thought. “No.” “Why?” she asked. He smiled and trailed his finger along her jawline, sending a sharp tingle of awareness down her spine. “You're a very curious little thing, aren't you? What else might you be curious about?” She took a slow deep breath. “I'm curious about lots of things.” “Are you?” he teased as his fingertips slowly moved down her neck. This reaction she had to him made her head spin. She felt as though her entire body was on fire. “Do you have a place to stay tonight, Keeran?” he asked. “Are you offering me a room?” she asked. “I only have one room to offer you,” he said as his eyes bored deeply into hers. “It's mine.” Keeran's heart jerked fast and hard in her chest. Did she dare? God, she wanted to, and if the hot look in his eyes was any indication, he wanted her as well. Why not? Why shouldn't she for once in her life be bold, wild, let her inhibitions free? She would likely never see this man again, so for one night she could be someone else. Someone other than Marcus Skinner's daughter. Someone other than a law student. She could be someone she'd always wanted to be. His head bent down close, his lips scant millimeters away from hers. She held her breath, waiting, watching for that kiss she so desperately wanted. When his lips finally touched hers, she moaned, parting her mouth to allow his tongue entrance. His fingers tightened on the back of her neck, pulling her closer as he deepened the kiss. He tasted of ale and cinnamon, smelled of musk and smoke from the bar. His body was hot and hard against hers as he tugged her close, fitting her flush along his strong frame.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

69

Keeran could hardly think. She wasn't sure she wanted to. If she did, she might talk herself out of this. “I accept,” she murmured before slanting her lips back over his, kissing him back with everything she had. Toroc moaned and fisted his fingers in her hair, holding her steady as his hot, delectable mouth expertly plundered hers. “Come with me,” he growled. Taking her hand, he practically dragged her through the club and up a set of stairs toward the back. She flew down a long hallway so fast she had little time to look around. But truthfully, she didn't have any desire to. She just wanted him and soon, or she felt as though she would combust. Toroc pulled her into his room, then slung her back against the door. She landed against the wood with a gasp, then giggled, grabbing at his shirt. With his eyes burning in lust, he placed a palm against the door on either side of her head, effectively holding her in place. Keeran inwardly snorted. Like she wanted to go anywhere. “Last chance,” he growled. “Last chance to what?” she asked. She grinned and tugged at the buttons of his shirt. “Just shut up and kiss me like you did downstairs.” His lips twitched in amusement just before his head lowered and captured her mouth in a kiss she felt clear to her toes. God, he could kiss. She pulled his shirt free from his pants and slid the flat of her hands up his back. The skin was hot to the touch, the flesh smooth, the muscles hard. They twitched as she smoothed her hands up his back. Toroc dropped his hands to her hips, lifting her. She wrapped her legs around his waist as he pressed his hard cock against her aching mound. She moaned, rubbing herself against him like some desperate fiend. If he kept grinding against her like he was, she'd come within seconds. As though he knew, he increased the pressure and the rhythm of his thrusts. She broke the kiss and dropped her head back against the door with a thud. His lips moved to her throat and she

70

Trista Ann Michaels

moaned. Every part of her tingled and tensed as she worked herself against the thick bulge she could feel beneath the material of his pants. “Toroc,” she groaned, wanting him to stop, but at the same time, not wanting him to. “Please,” she added with a whisper. Toroc moved away from the door and carried her over to the bed, where he dropped her onto her back with a slight bounce. “Get those off…now,” he said as he reached for his own pants. Keeran undid her buttons with shaky fingers, but froze as Toroc removed his. As his pants fell, he exposed a massive cock. Her pussy clenched at his girth and length, and for a second, she wondered if she would be able to take him. He met her gaze, then glanced down at her waist. Without a word, he leaned down and pulled her pants from her hips, throwing them to the floor. “Scoot back,” he said. She did, silently scooting herself back as he climbed over her. “I will not hurt you,” he whispered as he spread her thighs and settled his hips between her legs. Her hips bucked in reflex. His cock gently slid through the juices coating her labia, teasing her relentlessly. She sighed and closed her eyes, enjoying the feel of his thick length stroking her pussy. The head of his cock pushed into her opening, and she briefly tensed. “Shh,” Toroc cooed. He pressed forward slowly, his thick rod stretching her tight walls as he pressed forward, inch by deliberate inch. Keeran panted, forcing her hips to stay still as he gently stretched her, filling her with his hot, thick cock. “Fuck, you're tight,” he growled, pulling back. “No,” she gasped, putting her hands on his hips to hold him inside her. Raising up on his palms, he stared down at her while he pressed in again, this time going deeper, stretching her even more. She could feel herself sucking at him. She could feel his rod throbbing against her walls.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

71

He changed his rhythm, this time pumping with short, shallow thrusts. Her hips bucked under him, going higher in an effort to pull him into her deeper. Every few thrusts he would give her what she wanted, going deeper and making her moan in growing delight. God, he was driving her crazy, making her yell and moan and scream at him to give her more. Finally, when she thought she would go insane, he pressed hard. She yelled, her voice bouncing off the walls around them as he buried himself balls-deep, his pelvis pressing against her clit in pleasurable little circles that sent hot lava surging through her veins. Her hips rotated with his, working him deeper. He groaned, then pulled back before thrusting deep again, taking the very breath from her lungs. Once she'd become accustomed to his size, he began to pump harder, faster, forcing her upward along the mattress. She raised her hands above her, bracing them against the headboard. With a growl, she began to push back, forcing herself against him as he pounded into her over and over. She'd never had sex like this, had never been with someone as big as he, and it was incredible. He was incredible. “Oh, God,” she screamed as her release began to build in her womb. He pumped faster, forcing her over the edge with a loud shout she just knew would bring down the rafters. With every pulse of her pussy she moaned, begging him not to stop. He didn't. He kept going, giving her more, giving her all she wanted and then some, until he finally joined her, shouting her name as he came. “Toroc,” she sighed, breathless.

“Toroc.” Aiden raised up on his elbow and stared down at Keeran. She appeared to be sleeping. Using his thumb, he raised her eyelid. Her pupils were still dilated, her heart rate still way too fast. She'd been out for a while, and he was beginning to get worried. That was the second time she'd called out his name. Had she recognized his voice before she passed out? Was she remembering their one night together? Or was it just wishful thinking that night had affected her as it had him?

72

Trista Ann Michaels

He wasn't even sure how many times he'd taken her that night, but it hadn't been enough. He rubbed his palm over the cold flesh of her stomach, and she moaned, her head slowly lolling from side to side. She was still so damn cold. Standing, he removed his clothes, then hers, before climbing under the covers with her. He gathered her in his arms, gritting his teeth as her cold flesh touched his. Her leg lifted, wrapping around his hip. Her pussy rubbed against his cock, and he rolled his eyes toward the ceiling as he felt himself harden. She was wet. Very wet. “God, help me,” he growled. Her hips jerked slightly, and she moaned as his cock brushed against her labia. Aiden clenched his jaw. He would not take her like this, but damn, she was driving him insane. He pushed her thigh down with his palm. He threw his thigh over hers to keep her still and wrap her a little more in his warmth. Her body shivered slightly and she snuggled closer, trapping her arms between her and his chest. “Toroc,” she whispered again. “I love you.” He tensed. What? He cupped her face, leaning back slightly so he could see her. Her eyes were still closed, her skin still cold. She was still dreaming. “It's going to be okay, Keeran,” he murmured. “Do you hear me? It's going to be okay.”

*** Tony stomped down the hall toward the garden room. Lin had snuck out at some point while he was sleeping. He would wring her fucking neck when he got his hands on her. He spotted her at the far end of the hall and cleared his throat to get her attention. Lin's eyes widened the second she saw him, and she made a move as though she was about to flee. Tony narrowed his eyes, shaking his head ever so slightly. He fucking dared her to run right now. She apparently got the hint, for she stood her ground, waiting on him to get to her. She opened her mouth to speak, but he grasped her elbow and pulled her into a small room off to the side before first making sure no one saw them. As soon as the door was shut, she jerked her arm free and rounded on him. “You don't manhandle me like that, Tony!”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

73

“Where the hell did you go?” he asked, totally ignoring what she'd said. “None of your freakin' business,” she snarled, hands on her hips. Tony could have easily smiled at the adorable picture she presented. Unfortunately, this wasn't the time. Whether she liked it or not, they were in serious trouble, and he needed to make her understand that. With a sigh, Tony ran his hand over his mouth, trying to get his temper a little more under control. “Lin, this is serious, not a fucking game,” he snapped. “You don't think I know that?” “Apparently not,” he snarled. Her chin rose a notch in stubbornness. “I didn't do anything wrong, Tony. I left this morning because I have a job here.” “You are mine for the weekend, Lin. That means you stay with me for the whole weekend.” He stepped closer, deliberately invading her space. To her credit, she stood her ground, refusing to be intimidated by him. “Until we leave here, you are not to leave my sight, is that clear?” “Tony—” she began, but he stopped her. “The only thing I want to hear is yes, Lin. Something doesn't sit right with me about this. I find it incredibly hard to believe you pulled this off. The only thing you changed was your hair and eye color. Other than that, you look the same. Any one of the senators coming in and out of here could have and probably did recognize you.” “I think I know where they're holding Keeran,” she said softly, her eyes pleading. Tony's gut clenched. He'd had a bad feeling all morning, a nagging sense of doom he couldn't shake. He was concerned he wouldn't be able to get Lin out of here, much less Keeran. “Lin,” he began. Her eyes narrowed as a single tear slipped down her cheek. Tony felt as though he'd been punched in the gut. “I can't leave her here,” she pleaded. “How are you going to get her out, Lin? Have you even thought this through?”

74

Trista Ann Michaels

“I was hoping you would have plan.” “I don't even have a plan to get us out if we get into trouble,” he snapped. “Some rescuer you are,” she replied sarcastically, and Tony scowled. “I'll get her myself if I have to. But I will not leave her here.” “God, you're stubborn,” he snarled. He put his hands on his hips and paced the small room with a tired sigh. He knew he would regret his next question. “Where do you think she is?” “In the lower levels. I heard someone talking earlier about a woman that Ballack's been holding for a month. It could be Keeran.” Tony gave her a pointed look. “Or it might not be. What if he's already sold her?” She shook her head. “I refuse to accept that. Can't we at least go look?” Tony snorted with exasperation. “You want us to go to the lower levels?” “Lia is with Ballack right now in his quarters. The rooms downstairs are locked so they keep very guards there. They'll be easy to avoid.” She stepped forward and placed her hand on his arm. “Tony, please. I just need to know. I'll never forgive myself if we leave and she's here somewhere.” Tony looked down at her small hand, her long graceful fingers lying against his arm. She appeared fragile, but Lin was far from it. She rushed headlong into situations that would scare most men, including him. This was one of them. He took her hand in his and lifted her fingers to his mouth. The second his lips touched her fingers, he felt the tension in her arm. He studied her eyes, eyes that practically glowed with the same hunger that ate at his own insides. Last night had been amazing. She had been amazing. She'd enjoyed things he never expected her to, and he had a feeling she'd learned a few things about herself as well. He wondered if that had a little to do with why she left his room so early this morning. “We haven't had a chance to talk about last night,” he said. A pink flush covered her cheeks, and she glanced away in embarrassment. “It was a show, nothing more. There's nothing to discuss.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

75

“That's bullshit and you know it. If that was a show, you're one hell of an actress.” She shrugged one shoulder. “What do you expect? I've been acting almost my entire life where my father and his career are concerned.” He gripped her chin and lifted it, forcing her to meet his stare. In her eyes, he could see she was lying. He decided not to push it for now. He let out a short sigh. “How do I get to the lower levels?” Her face lit up and his heart skipped a beat. If only her face would light up like that when she saw him. “Really? You're going to go look for her?” “I may come to regret this, but yes, I'll go look for her. But,” he said, pointing the tip of his finger into her smiling face. “You have to agree to go back to my room and stay there.” “But—” “No buts, Lin. My room, now, or I don't go.” “Fine,” she said, albeit reluctantly. Tony studied her for a brief second, unsure if she would really obey him or not. “I'll go, I promise,” she said in exasperation.

76

Trista Ann Michaels

Chapter Ten Tony made his way through the lower levels of the estate. Most of the rooms were open, their beds empty. A few were locked, but with the small windows built into the doors, he was able to look in and see who was inside. One room had a young man who looked about twenty or so. Two others had girls, one a redhead, the other a Venitian with greenish skin and yellow eyes, but none of them contained Keeran. Tony sighed and glanced around the halls, which were surprisingly empty. Considering how secure Ballack's estate was, it stood to reason security would be lax here. After all, who would steal the girls? No one on his staff. Up ahead he heard voices and ducked around the corner of the hall to listen. “Are you jealous, Jack, that Ballack gave Sharpkin the other boy and not you?” a deep voice taunted. “Go away,” a soft voice responded. One Tony recognized as coming from the young man he'd met his first day here. “Ah, he is jealous,” another man teased, his amusement obvious in the tone of his voice. “Would you like for the two of us to take care of you, Jack? I could fuck you while you have your mouth full of cock. Would you like that?” “I said go away,” Jack responded with more bravado than Tony expected. Jack's show of brave defiance made Tony grin. His smile faded with the distinct sound of a body hitting the wall. A soft groan accompanied the thud, and Tony tensed. “You don't talk to me that way, boy,” the second man who'd spoken snarled.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

77

Tony stepped around the corner, scowling toward the tall man who held Jack against the wall by the collar. His feet dangled a few inches off the floor, his feet swinging slightly as his fingers struggled to loosen this captor's hold. Clearing his throat, Tony got their attention. Jack was immediately dropped as three pairs of eyes turned to look at him in surprise. “Master Anthony,” Jack said with a slight bow, his eyes full of gratitude that made Tony's gut clench. The other two men bowed as well. “I seem to have lost my slave,” Tony began as he turned his glare from the two larger men to Jack. “Could you give me a hand in finding her?” “Of course,” Jack replied, then quickly shuffled forward. Tony sent the other two one more glare before turning to follow Jack. “She usually works in the kitchens. My guess is, she's there,” Jack said. “I actually already know where my slave is,” Tony said. Jack stopped and turned to look at him in confusion. “It just looked as though you needed a little help back there.” Jack's head dropped, his cheeks heating in embarrassment. “They like to tease me,” he whispered. “Sometimes…” He swallowed before continuing. “Sometimes they can be very cruel. More cruel than the Master. Thank you.” Tony sighed and patted the young man on his shoulder. He felt bad for the kid. “How long have you been here?” Tony asked as they continued down the hall. “About five years. I was taken when I was fifteen.” “Do you know where you're from?” “Yes. But truthfully, as bad as it is here, where I came from is much worse.” Tony nodded, but said nothing more. “If you weren't looking for your slave, what were you doing in the lower levels?” Jack asked as he glanced at him warily from the corner of his eye. It was a bold question for a slave.

78

Trista Ann Michaels

“I was looking for the young Earth woman it's rumored that Ballack has. I was curious. I hear she's very beautiful.” Jack smiled slightly. “You mean Keeran. And yes, she's very beautiful. Ballack was saving her for Aiden.” “For Aiden?” Tony asked with surprise. “Yes. As a gift. She is with him now, I believe.” Tony nodded. “Thank you, Jack.” Jack's smile widened just a bit, and his chest began to expand with pride. Apparently, Jack received little praise. “You're welcome, Master. Is there anything else I can help you with?” “Yes. Could you see that lunch is brought to my suite, please?” Jack nodded before taking off at almost a full run. So Keeran was given to Aiden as a gift. If that was the case, she would be easy enough to find once they left here. The real question was, how would Aiden react when they showed up to take her home? Tony still couldn't get past that Aiden was even here. Why was he here? Unfortunately, he hadn't had any time alone with him to get any answers. Tony made his way quickly back to his suite before Lin took it upon herself to come looking for him. That woman had turned out to be a handful. Her stubbornness alone would get them killed. Finally making it back to his room, he entered and shut the door behind him. Lin sat at the small table, her hands clasped tightly as they rested against the glass surface. Her hair was pulled back, her face a tight mask of worry. The second she saw him, she jumped up, anxious to hear his news. “Well, I have some good news and some bad news.” “What's the bad news?” she asked. “You want the bad first?” She shrugged. “Gets it out of the way faster.” Tony's lips twitched with amusement. “Okay. Keeran wasn't down there.” Her whole face fell as she dropped back onto the chair. “You said there was good news.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

79

“I know where she is.” Her eyes widened as she looked up at him. “Where is she?” “She's still here. She was given to Aiden as a gift.” “Oh, my, God. The man from Veenori?” She jumped up and ran over to him. “Is he going to leave with her? Can we stop them?” He grabbed her shoulders, giving her a little shake. “Lin, listen to me. I know Aiden. I know where he's going. As soon as we leave here, we can go get her.” Her lips spread into the most beautiful smile he'd ever seen on her lips. “Really?” “Yes.” Her smile faded as worry crept back into her eyes. “You said you know Aiden. Will he be good to her, do you think? Will she be okay?” Truthfully, Tony wasn't quite sure what to say. He did know Aiden, but not that well. He knew Aiden worked for Devlin, and Devlin trusted him, even gave him his club. That alone spoke volumes. Tony just didn't know him well enough to be sure. “I believe that Keeran will be fine,” Tony said, trying to reassure Lin.

*** Keeran awoke slowly. Behind her forehead, what felt like a sledgehammer pounded away on her brain. Her stomach rolled and she winced, taking in slow deep breaths to ease the nausea. Filtered light shone through the windows and across the cold tile floor. Screens kept the light from blinding her, and she blinked, trying to focus on her surroundings. The sheets were soft against her skin, much softer than the ones in her cell. The room was full of unusual glass and silver furniture. Cushions of purple and gold decorated the room, giving the cold stone a splash of warmth and color. Behind her, the bed shifted and she tensed. Vague memories of the day before skipped through her mind like pictures flashing across a screen. None of it made sense. Not even the voice she'd heard. Turning her head, she met the concerned deep blue gaze of the man behind her. She squealed, jumping from the bed much too fast. Her head began to swim, and she bent forward, clutching the mattress to keep from falling headfirst to the floor in a drunken stupor.

80

Trista Ann Michaels

The room spun as she tried to regain her balance. Her vision was still a little blurry, and in her attempt to grab the table, she knocked over a small vase where it shattered against the tile. He reached for her and she jerked her hand away. “Don't touch me,” she snapped as she fell to the floor on her butt, where she landed so hard, her teeth jarred. “Keeran,” the man said, and she glanced up at him with growing fear. His face was still a blur, but his voice was so familiar. He moved from the bed to the floor, and she scooted back, trying to get away from him. The tile was cold against her naked body, and she began to shiver. Her shaking hand landed on the shattered glass on the floor, and she squealed, pulling her bleeding palm close to her body. “Keeran, stop. You're going to hurt yourself,” he commanded, but his voice wasn't harsh. It was deep and calming and so damn familiar. Where had she heard it before? “Who are you?” she asked, her voice hoarse and raspy. “You know me, Keeran. You have no reason to be afraid of me.” She swallowed and squinted to get a better look as he slowly moved closer. His features came a little more into focus, and she gasped as her gaze locked onto the deep blue of his. Those eyes. She knew those eyes. She'd dreamed of those eyes. “Toroc?” she whispered. Raising her hand, she touched his cheek. The short whiskers scratched at her flesh as her fingers explored the planes of his face. A face she'd sworn she would always remember. “It's me,” he said as he placed his hand over hers. Relief was quick to come, but just as quick to leave as she remembered where they were. Her eyes narrowed in anger. “You buy slaves?” she asked. “Yes, but it's not what you're thinking.” “Get away from me,” she snapped as she climbed shakily to her feet. “How could you do this? How could you do…” Her lower lip began to tremble as she moved to drop onto the bed. Blood covered her chest and arm from the burning cuts in her palm. She stared at it in slight confusion as tears welled up in her eyes and slid down her cheeks. Her mind was still a muddled mess, her body weak and cold.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

81

Toroc walked to the adjoining room and returned with a warm rag. “Let me fix this,” he said. He sat next to her and pulled her hand away from her chest. She let him, too weak to resist or argue. She watched as he gently wiped away the blood. “It's not bad,” he said as he studied the cuts thoughtfully. He pressed a soft rag into her palm and placed her other hand over it. “Hold this here.” “Why are you here?” she whispered. “I buy girls from Ballack and then set them free,” he said, still wiping the blood from her arm. “I try to get as many as I can. I would like to do more, but I'm just one man.” “You rescue them?” she asked with a frown. “Yes.” She squinted, studying his profile as he cleaned her arm and chest. She always thought he was handsome, but the fact that he was here seemed almost unreal. What were the odds? Could she trust her eyes and ears, or was this just another dream? Part of her drug-induced mindset? “Are you rescuing me?” she whispered, anxious to hear what he would say. He glanced at her briefly before returning his attention to the blood on her chest. “You were given to me as a gift,” he said, and her heart jerked. A gift? What did that mean exactly? “So…I…” She swallowed and licked her lips. “What are you going to do with me?” He studied her thoughtfully. Using the tip of his finger, he brushed her hair from her face, putting it behind her ear. His touch was gentle, sweet, just like she remembered, and her heart ached for what they'd shared that night. Had it affected him too? Did he remember? Or had she been just another one-night stand for him? “I think right now you need to eat something and get cleaned up. There's still a lot of that drug in your system, and it's likely whatever we talk about will be forgotten an hour from now.” She nodded and dropped her gaze to her lap, disappointment tightening her chest. Although what she was most disappointed about, she wasn't sure. “When was the last time that you ate?” he asked. “I'm not sure. How long have I been out?”

82

Trista Ann Michaels

“Several hours, but not a full day.” She frowned, thinking, trying to remember. “Then yesterday, I think.” Toroc stood and moved to a small table at the far side of the room. On it were several trays, all covered with silver lids. He lifted one, then shook his head, returning the lid. After three attempts, he finally found one he approved of and brought it over, placing the tray on her lap. She stared at the plate of meat and cheese. Steam rose off the food, carrying with it a warm spicy smell, and her stomach growled loudly. “Eat slowly,” he said. “You're still high, so if you eat too fast, it might make you sick, but you need the protein to help get the drug out of your system. The more you can eat, the better.” She nodded and picked up a piece of cheese, taking a small bite to test the flavor. It wasn't bad, and she took another, much larger bite. “Why was I given to you as a gift?” she asked around mouthfuls. Toroc's lips twitched a little, and she felt the heat of a blush move over her cheeks. She was sure her manners were out the window, but right now she wasn't sure she cared too much. “I'm not sure really. Ballack never does anything without a reason, I'm just not sure what that reason might be.” “How long have you been buying slaves?” “Several years.” He handed her a cup, and she drank down half of the sweet contents in one gulp, not realizing just how thirsty she was. “Feeling better?” he asked. She glanced around the room. Her vision was still a little blurry, and everything still sounded like it came from inside a barrel, but she at least didn't feel sick anymore. But her body had another, strange sensation working its way through her system. Now that the fear had gone, it was being replaced with something else entirely. “I feel a little weird still,” she murmured. “Weird how?” he asked. “Tingly weird,” she replied, frowning.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

83

“The drug they gave you is to enhance your arousal. They give it to slaves meant for Doms with unusually high sex drives. It relaxes you, arouses you, makes you able to have sex for long periods of time.” Her eyes went wide as she stared at him. “I'm going to get horny?” she asked. Toroc snickered. “In a manner of speaking…yes.” She dropped her piece of cheese back onto the plate. “Are you serious?” “When you tried to escape, you were running on adrenaline, so it took more of the drug to calm you down. Now that your body is ridding itself of the excess, what is left will begin to affect you.” She swallowed the growing lump in her throat. “It will pass quickly,” Toroc said. “How quickly?” she asked. Her body began to heat, her skin growing warmer with every passing second. Her breasts thickened and ached as her nipples beaded into hard, sensitive nubs desperate for his touch. “Do you normally request your girls be drugged?” she asked sarcastically, taking slow deep breaths to try and calm her racing heart. He shook his head and his long hair fell over his shoulder. She resisted the urge to touch it, to run her fingers through it like she had before. “My girls are to never to be drugged. You were because you were trying to escape and apparently putting up enough of a fight that they felt they needed to drug you.” The green-eyed monster of jealousy began to rear its ugly head. In her mind, she saw him with the other girls. All those slaves he'd bought. Turning away, she tried to get a better handle on her emotions and the arousal coursing its way through her veins at an alarming speed. Her body was coming alive faster than she could control it. Her hands began to shake, and she shoved the tray to the floor in anger. “Damn you,” she whispered, tears again welling up in her eyes. Something was happening to her—something scary and out of her control. “Was that directed at me?” Toroc asked.

84

Trista Ann Michaels

She could hear the amusement in his tone, and she turned to glare at him. “Yes. At you.” His eyebrow rose adorably, and all her traitorous mind could think about was kissing him, touching him, tasting him. Her gaze wandered down his smooth, wide chest to those pecs she'd explored before with such wild abandon to his washboard stomach and long, thick cock. She remembered how big he was, how good he'd felt inside her, and how damn sore she'd been the next day. It had been the best sex of her life. She'd half fallen in love with him that night. Okay, to be honest, she'd completely fallen in love, but he was still a total stranger. A man she barely knew, yet trusted. “Why are you mad at me?” he asked softly. “All those girls,” she blurted without thinking, her mind spinning with images of him having sex with other slaves. Toroc grinned roguishly. “You're jealous?” Her face heated as she sputtered, “I…I am not.” “It's the drug, Keeran. It enhances everything you feel. If you feared me, even a little, that fear would intensify. If you want me, that too will intensify. And if you feel even just a hint of jealousy…well…” he said with a shrug. “Then that too would intensify.” “Yes.” “I hate you,” she snarled, making him laugh. Her gaze dropped again to his cock. “Did we…um…you know?” “You can do it, but you can't say it?” he teased. “Fine. Did we fuck?” she blurted, staring him straight in the face. “Last night? No. I was trying to keep you warm. Your body temperature had dropped because of the drug. Nothing more.” She reached down and gripped the edge of the mattress, digging her fingers into the plush material. Her legs bounced in agitation as her body continued to burn in growing need. “Can I fight this?” she whispered. “Do you want to fight it?”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

85

“Don't answer a question with a question.” “You could try.” “But?” she asked, keeping her gaze on the floor. If she looked at him, she would jump him, she just knew it. She wanted him inside her so badly, her vagina actually ached. “You'll eventually get to the point where you'll beg.” She jerked her head up and stared at him, wide-eyed. The instant her eyes met his, she wanted to beg. Her whole body was on fire. The sheet beneath her was wet from the juices leaking from her pussy. “Can you make it stop?” she asked, her lower lip beginning to tremble. He cupped her cheek and she tilted her head, moving closer to his touch. “I can make it easier for you, but I can't make it stop.” “How long does it last?” she whimpered, trying desperately to fight her desire to straddle his lap and take that glorious cock deep inside her throbbing walls. “You've been under the drug's influence for several hours already. It shouldn't be too much longer.” She licked her lips and nodded. Closing her eyes, she finally gave up the fight. “Do something,” she whispered. “Please.”

86

Trista Ann Michaels

Chapter Eleven Lin paced Anthony's room in boredom. Her arms swung back and forth as she made her way from one side to the other, occasionally stopping to admire the view as the sun set behind a row of thick clouds. She noticed Anthony in the reflection of the glass, watching her intently. Turning, she frowned. “What?” “I'm trying to figure you out,” he said as he rested his chin in his hand, his elbow resting on the arm of the chair. She leaned against the glass and crossed her arms over her chest. “I'm not that hard to figure out.” “Actually, you are. What you've done doesn't surprise me. Not really. You have a reputation or a habit of throwing yourself into the thick of things, regardless of how dangerous it is.” She shrugged. “I do it to help people.” “I know.” “What's so hard to figure out about that?” “You must get that from your mother.” Lin dropped her gaze to the floor as her heart filled with sadness. “My mother died several years ago. I miss her,” she whispered. She took a deep breath and turned back around to stare out at the darkening sky. “And yes, I get it from her.” “Is she the one who got you interested in science and medicine?” Tony asked softly. “Yes. She believed research was where the real miracles happened. Finding cures for diseases long thought incurable.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

87

“My parents both died when I was younger. My sister took care of me, raised me,” Tony confessed, surprising Lin. “She's my life.” “And what would your sister think of your life now?” Tony grinned. “She's quite proud of me.” Lin snorted. “Proud? Does she have any idea—” “It's all a lie, Lin. Every bit of it. A lie set up to fool Ballack into accepting me into his fold.” Her eyes widened in surprise. “Why?” Tony shrugged with indifference. “The senate can't touch Ballack, so we're going after the senators who are involved with him. My job was to find out who those senators were.” “But you said you came here for me.” “I did.” “You haven't bought me, and Ballack hasn't given me to you. You'll have to steal me. Won't that blow your cover or ruin what progress you've made with Ballack?” “Yes. But my original mission is no longer needed.” “Why?” “Someone came forward with the information and proof we were looking for.” Lin's chest tightened. “Who came forward?” Tony sighed. “I don't know.” “You don't know?“ she replied in obvious disbelief. “You don't know, or you won't tell me?” Tony's silence spoke volumes. He knew, but why wouldn't he tell her? What was he hiding? Or whom was he hiding? She decided to try a different tactic. “Who did this person come to?” “The Marcones.” “And the Marcones then sent you? Why you? Do they even know you?” “The Marcones are who set me up for this mission to begin with. The sister I was telling you about,” Anthony began, “is Alyssa Marcone. Taron Marcone's wife.”

88

Trista Ann Michaels

“You're…” She stared at him stunned. He'd hidden it well. No one knew. No one had a clue he was related to one of the most powerful families in the universe. “Why would you hide your relationship with them? Do you realize how that would help your career?” “Absolutely. That's why I kept it hidden. I wanted to move up in the ranks by my own merits, not by my family's name. Besides, by Ballack not knowing who I really was, I was able to create a bad side. Ballack knows who the Marcones are and that they're after him.” “It didn't affect your career?” Tony shook his head. “No. I was already captain when I started this.” Lin shook her head and turned to stare back out the window. The sun had now set. The room had darkened, with only one lamp next to the bed that cast a soft, glowing light around the room. So Tony wasn't who she thought he was. Did it matter? They'd only had sex last night because they knew they were being watched. It had been a show, nothing more. At least that's what she kept trying to tell herself. If she were honest, she would admit that it was the best night of her life. He was commanding but gentle and satisfied a need in her she hadn't even realized she had. She enjoyed submitting to him. She enjoyed the spanking. That admission made her cheeks flush. Even the fact they were being watched hadn't bothered her. In truth, she'd completely forgotten about them. She studied Anthony in the reflection of the glass. He still sat in the chair, his gaze thoughtful as he too stared out the window. He hadn't made a move toward her this afternoon. Ballack and his two goons were with Lia in his playroom, so it was doubtful they were being watched. Part of her wished he would. Part of her wished he wouldn't. Just because he was apparently the good guy didn't mean she should just run into his arms. She barely knew him. She didn't know what she felt toward him, other than lust, if she even felt anything at all.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

89

He was good in bed, but was that reason enough to make the first move herself? What would he think if she did? Would he turn her away since they didn't have an audience? Would he find it amusing that she wanted him again? In the end, she decided to remain silent. Better to say nothing than to make a complete fool of herself.

*** Aiden held himself back, kept himself from throwing her to the bed and taking her right then. Keeran was still leery of him, he could see it in her eyes, feel it in the tenseness of her body when he touched her. His heart ached to tell her how he felt, to tell her she was all he'd thought about for two years, but he didn't. He'd never had feelings for a woman, not like this. He'd never imagined they could come on so fast or be so strong in such a short amount of time. He'd heard people talk about soul mates, but truthfully doubted their existence. Until now, he'd believed a person could have more than one so-called soul mate. Now he felt differently. Now he looked at Keeran and knew deep in his heart that she was it, the one, his soul mate. Devlin would be laughing right now—laughing at the friend who always said he would never get so crazy over a woman. Now look at him. Ready to throw away everything he'd worked for over the years just to get her out of here and by his side where she belonged. But what if she wanted to go home? What if she didn't feel the same way as he? He lifted her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. Her eyes were so expressive—mirrors to her inner turmoil. In them he could see lust, desire, confusion, fear, but also trust. She trusted him to take care of her. Smiling softly, he ran his thumb along her jawline, and she tilted her head just a little in response, like a kitten rubbing against the person petting it. “Do you remember the night we met?” he asked, trailing the pad of his thumb down the side of her neck. She swallowed and nodded. “Yes.”

90

Trista Ann Michaels

Her pulse pounded in the side of her neck, and he leaned over, placing a soft kiss against the pulsing flesh. She sighed, her whole body shivering. It was a response very similar to the first time he'd made love to her. She responded with everything she had in her, taking everything he had to give. His cock was aching, his balls tight and throbbing. He probably wanted her as much as she wanted him, but it wasn't because of a drug coursing through his veins. It was because of her—of the way she made him feel, the way she made him want things he never thought he would. Standing, he held his hand out to her. She placed her shaking fingers within his, her eyes aglow with passion and trust. Did she remember she'd said she loved him? Was it the truth? Was it what she truly felt? He pulled her to her feet and removed the rag from her palm. The cuts had finally stopped bleeding, but they were still red and slightly swollen. Bringing her palm to his lips, he kissed the cuts. She leaned into him, her own lips blazing a trail up the side of his neck that made his whole body shudder. Pulling away to get himself better under control, he led her to the shower. “What are we doing?” she asked. “I'm going to wash you,” he replied. “Now?” she asked. He smiled slightly. “Yes. Now.” He tugged her into the tile stall with him and nodded upward toward a pair of handcuffs hanging from the wall. She frowned, but showed no outward sign of fear. “You'll come numerous times tonight, Keeran. Almost as soon as your release passes, your body will begin to crave sex once again. It will be a wild ride of ups and downs, pain and pleasure. It will exhaust you.” He smiled at the mix of emotions crossing her face. “And me too, I would imagine. We'll start here in the shower.” “You're going to tie me up?” she asked. He nodded as he positioned her against the wall. His hands grazed her breasts, and she arched her back, moaning loudly in response to his touch. Her eyes glazed over as she stared at him hungrily.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

91

“The cuffs are more for my sanity than anything else. I won't be able to keep up with you, so some of this will be done with my hands, my mouth, toys.” She licked her lips as though anxious for him to begin. He secured her wrists inside the cuffs, locking them into place above her head. His hands slowly skimmed down her arms to cup her breasts. She moaned, arching wildly into his touch. He pinched her nipples and she gasped. The amazed look on her face set his pulse racing. “I'll use my cock too,” he whispered close to her mouth, and her lips parted in silent invitation. He smiled, then swiped his tongue along her bottom lip. “Eventually, when you can't take it anymore and need me inside you, filling you.” His hands slid lower to her waist, then her hips, smoothing over her skin. Her hips bucked outward, but he pushed them back, deliberately tormenting her. “But first, we wash you.” He turned away from her to start the water. Steam quickly filled the stall as he reached for a sponge. He loaded it with soap that smelled of jasmine and lathered it within his palms before placing it against her skin. The second it touched her, she jerked, sighing as he smoothed the soap-filled sponge over her body in slow, tantalizing circles. She groaned and bucked, arching and writhing against the tile like a wanton she-devil out of control with need. Which was exactly what she was—out of control. The need would reach a fevered pitch. She would cry, beg, and scream as the drug intensified any arousal she felt. He pushed the sponge between her legs, and she cried out, thrusting her hips toward him. He gritted his teeth, his own cock throbbing painfully. He wanted to feel her heat around him, sucking him, stroking him. Dragging in a deep breath, he tried to ignore the need. He could take her now, and then again later. He tossed the sponge to the floor and reached for the spray hose. Setting it to the pulse setting, he used it to rinse her body. He paid particular attention to her breasts, rinsing all the soap before leaning down and engulfing her hard little nipples within his mouth. She moaned, throwing her head from side to side as he suckled, swiping his tongue back and forth over the tiny nubs.

92

Trista Ann Michaels

Moving the sprayer between her legs, he watched in fascination as she exploded right before his eyes. Her eyes popped open wide as she screamed, her hips bucking wildly, begging for more. “Oh, God,” she breathed, panting as her body relaxed a bit in between bouts of rising need. He dropped the sprayer onto the floor and stroked her pussy with his palm. Her juices leaked against his hand, coating it. He kissed her cheek, then her eyes and nose. She stared up at him with a dreamy expression, and he smiled. “Wow,” she breathed. “You say that now,” he said with a grin. “Give it a second. It will start all over again.” “How is this any different from the night we spent together?” she asked. “I can remember you bringing me to a rousing state of need more than once.” “The difference with this is”—he pulled his hand from between her legs. He placed each palm on the wall beside her head and watched her—“I never have to touch you. You'll climb to that state of need all on your own. Over and over and over again, until you're begging me to make it stop.” Her eyes widened slightly. “Oh,” she whispered. He waited, watching as her breathing became more shallow, her movements more sensual and seductive. The sensations were taking over, warming her, making her want him again. He dropped his hands and grasped her hips, lifting her slightly. Her legs wrapped around his waist and locked on tight as he settled the head of his cock at her weeping entrance. Her eyes closed as he pressed forward into her tight channel. Swallowing back a moan of his own, he pushed deeper, gritting his teeth against the mindblowing warmth of her pussy, the tightness of her walls. Her pussy sucked at his length, and he moaned, his hips jerking slightly, lodging himself even deeper. She panted, pushing herself against him, trying to force him inside her more. He knew she could take all of him, she'd done it before, but he was enjoying the pulsing feel of her walls as he slowly moved in and out. “That feels so good,” she sighed, grinding her hips. “Don't stop. Give it to me.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

93

Toroc covered her mouth with his. Sliding his tongue between her lips, he swallowed her moans, her cries, and her whimpers of pleasure. With one hand, he let go of her hip and covered her breast, massaging it, squeezing it. She moaned into his kiss, arching her back as best she could, begging for more. “Damn it, Toroc,” she ground out against his mouth. “Fuck me.” He pulled back, then thrust deep and hard, filling her with every inch of his throbbing cock. She screamed, pressing into him. “Is that what you wanted?” he panted. “Yes,” she hissed, her hips grinding wildly. “Oh, yes.” He pulled back, then thrust forward again, going even deeper. He gritted his teeth, holding his own release back as best he could until she came. He pumped harder, faster, grinding his groin against her clit before pulling back and giving it to her again and again, until she erupted around him with a release that nearly drained his very soul. Pumping twice more, he found his own, emptying his seed inside her as her walls pulsed around him, sucking him, hugging him. He dropped his forehead to hers, resting for the few precious moments they would have before her need would begin again. “I haven't been with anyone else since you,” she whispered, and he pulled back to stare at her. Her eyes were closed, her face flushed. Cupping her cheek, he kissed her forehead. “I didn't want anyone else but you,” she whispered. “I couldn't stop thinking about you.” “Shh.” As badly as he wanted her to tell him how she felt, he didn't want her to do it now, not while under the influence of the drug. “The drug may make you say things you don't mean, Keeran.” She nodded and said nothing else.

Trista Ann Michaels

94

Chapter Twelve Stefan sighed and dropped the file onto his desk. He squeezed his temples, trying to ease the pounding behind his eyes. This had turned into a nightmare. Forty senators from various corners of the universe. So many. Out of those forty, Morlin knew of sixty girls and twenty boys who had been murdered either by accidental overdoses of drugs or deliberately in BDSM scenarios gone wrong. They'd even brought girls and boys into Senate functions, hiding them in rooms for the senators to use at their whim. This problem was bigger than he realized and went higher up than he ever imagined. At least the Magistrate was innocent, which so far had been their only saving grace. Without the support of the Magistrate, they didn't stand much of a chance at cleaning up this mess. “What are your plans for Morlin?” Sidious asked as he dropped tiredly into the leather chair facing Stefan's desk. The Magistrate had asked him the same question earlier. Unfortunately, Stefan still didn't have an answer. “I'm not sure. The man needs psychiatric help more than he needs punishment. He's into boys, Sidious. Fourteen- and fifteen-year-old boys.” Stefan shook his head and again squeezed his temples. “And he's not the only one.” He dropped his hand and stared helplessly at his brother. “The corruption is worse now than when the Prime Minister was in control. What the hell is happening, Sidious? We clean up one mess only to be faced with another, more demented and sick one. I'm tempted to throw up my hands and just walk away, let the Senate implode on itself.” Sidious snorted. “You know good and well you couldn't.” Stefan again sighed and dropped his head back, staring blankly at the ceiling. “What do you recommend we do with him?” Sidious shrugged. “Take him out back and shoot him?”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

95

Chuckling, Stefan dropped his gaze back to his brother. Sidious would do it too and not think twice about it. Even Sidious's wife, Mikayla, had expressed concerns Sidious would lose it and kill Morlin. “As tempting as that sounds, somehow I don't think it would help our cause. Where is Morlin, by the way?” Sidious smiled. “With a psychiatrist from Earth—Dr. Williams. Mikayla says Morlin is what Earth calls a pedophile.” “I just call it sick.” “That's very similar to what I said.” Stefan snickered. “I can well imagine what you said.” Sidious stood and strolled to the window, his brow creased into a tight frown. “I spent most of the night in my children's room, watching them sleep, wondering how anyone could… They're children, Stefan. These girls and boys that they're using are just children.” “Some of them are older.” With a harrumph, Sidious turned from the window. “Not by much.” A knock sounded at the door before Stefan's assistant strolled in carrying a small, handheld computer about the size of a book. “You're here awfully early this morning, Vaughn. Something wrong?” Stefan asked. “You asked me yesterday to make sure all Morlin's correspondence was forwarded here.” “Yeah?” Stefan said as he sat up straighter, a bad feeling in the pit of his stomach. “This came through about an hour ago.” He stepped forward and handed Stefan the computer. Looking down at it, Stefan swore softly, then handed it to Sidious. “Holy…shit,” Sidious mumbled. “Did anything else come with this?” he asked Vaughn. “A message was attached. He wanted to make sure Morlin voted yes like he said he would, otherwise his daughter wouldn't survive her next Master.” “Thank you, Vaughn,” Stefan said, and Vaughn nodded before leaving the room, shutting the door behind him. “That is Lin, right?” Stefan asked. “Her hair's a different color, but yeah, I think it's her.”

Trista Ann Michaels

96

“If he knows who Lin is, odds are…” “He knows who Anthony is,” Sidious finished for him. “I'll get Taron, you get the Vultair ready for travel. I suppose it's time we got their asses out of there.”

*** Tony's gaze moved to Lin as she stood with her back to him, gazing out the window. She appeared to be deep in thought about something. He hated lying to her, but he couldn't bring himself to tell her about her father. He knew their relationship was strained. It had been since her mother's death. Morlin overprotected her, nagged at her. He rarely approved of what she did, where she went, her friends. He hated her choice of career, where she chose to live. Matter of fact, he wasn't sure if there was anything in Lin's life her father approved of. There were times he felt bad for her. He'd seen and heard several of their arguments. As a pilot, there were numerous times throughout his career that he'd flown the senator and his daughter. More than once, he'd wanted to gather her in his arms and hold her, let her cry out her tears. He'd always stamped down that desire. Except once. That one night he'd needed to distract her and found himself giving in to his desires. That kiss had been amazing, but it had been nothing compared to last night. He wanted her again so badly he could taste it. His gaze moved down her back, past her trim waist and curvy hips. Long graceful legs were exposed beneath the short skirt, and he licked his lips, remembering how well they'd fit around his waist. Standing, he walked up behind her and placed his hands on her shoulders, gently massaging. She sighed, tilting her head to the side. “That feels nice,” she whispered. “How are we going to get out of here, Anthony?” “The same way we came in,” he replied as he worked his thumbs down her back in slow circles, working the kinks out of the tight muscles. “Through the front door.” She snorted. “Now that's ballsy.” He chuckled. “With any luck he won't notice we've left right away.” Glancing back at him over her shoulder, she asked, “Do you really think it will be that easy?”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

97

“Honestly? No.” She turned to stare back outside, and he wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her back. She settled against him as though she belonged there, her body relaxing as he rested his chin on her shoulder. “How had you planned on getting out?” he asked. “I didn't have a plan,” she whispered. “I didn't think this through. All I could think about was getting here, finding her. Getting back out never even entered my mind.” Tony sighed and kissed her shoulder. “This is why you don't do things like this, Lin.” “Don't lecture me, Anthony, please. I know I jumped before thinking. I know I made mistakes. But I'm here now, and there's nothing I can do about those mistakes.” “Everything wasn't a mistake,” he murmured as he slid his hand lower. Her breathing increased, becoming more shallow. She tried to pull away from him, but he held tight, not allowing her free. “I believe you learned something about yourself last night,” he murmured. He worked his hand under the front of her skirt and softly stroked the top of her thigh. “I believe you like submitting.” She didn't say anything, but she didn't try to pull away again either. Tony took her wrists in his hands and lifted her arms, placing her palms against the glass in front of her. “Keep them there,” he commanded softly, and she did. He could feel her heart pounding against his chest as he slowly feathered his hands down her sides toward her hips. His own heart raced wildly, something that surprised him. He'd been aroused before, in lust for a woman, but never had he been so excited at the thought of touching someone, tasting them. The anticipation actually made his fingers tremble as he slid his palms under her skirt and rubbed them over the perfectly rounded globes of her ass. “Spread your legs,” he commanded again. Without hesitation, she moved her legs apart. Tony breathed slowly, enjoying the soft feel of her skin beneath his fingers. He slid one hand around to the front, then between her legs. She was hot and wet, her labia coated with thick cream, and his cock twitched, thickening behind the zipper of his pants.

98

Trista Ann Michaels

He had no idea what would happen when they left here. He knew what he would like to happen—the same thing that happened here. They had an amazing chemistry. They fit. Slowly, he stroked her labia while watching her expression in the reflection of the glass. Her eyes were closed, her breathing shallow and quick. Separating her labia, he teased her slit, coating his fingers in her cream. She sighed and moved her hips in time with the strokes of his fingers. He could stand here and watch her all night. She was beautiful. “You're wet,” he whispered. She tilted her head slightly and licked her lips. “You're hard.” He grinned. “Yes. I am. I'm hard for you. I'm hard for this tight, hot pussy.” She licked her lips again, obviously affected by his softly spoken words. “Anthony,” she breathed. “Shh,” he admonished. “Don't think, Lin. Just feel. Feel my hands, my fingers.” He gently circled her clit with the pad of his middle finger, and she moaned. He pressed his hard cock against her hip. “Feel my cock. Remember how it felt when it was deep inside you, stretching you, fucking you.” He kissed the side of her neck, inhaling the musky scent of her flesh. He wanted her so bad. He wanted so desperately to be inside her, filling her as her walls swallowed every inch of him. “I want you, Lin,” he whispered in her ear. “I want you right here against the wall.” He moved his hand from her pussy. She moaned, and he slapped at her hip, making her gasp and her eyes pop open wide. “Like that?” he teased, just before slapping her hip again. “Yes,” she said with a sigh, and he grinned. “Good girl,” he murmured. He slid his hand to her weeping vagina from behind and thrust two fingers deep into her channel. Her hips jerked backward, trying to take more of his digits. Her walls quivered around his knuckles as he slowly thrust in and out, fucking her with his fingers.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

99

Pulling his fingers free, he slid them up the cleft of her ass. She shivered and glanced at him over her shoulder. “I didn't tell you to turn around,” he growled, then slapped at her hip a little harder. She squealed, then bit down on her lip as she turned her face back to the window. “I think you like this way too much,” she panted. “Like what?” he asked. “This?” He slapped at her hip again, and she moaned. Her flesh glowed pink, and he rubbed his hand over it, soothing the sting. “I could tie you up,” he murmured in her ear as he stroked her hip. “Spread your legs and lick your pussy till you come.” He moved his fingers back to her slit, stroking them through the cream. “I bet I could make you come just telling you what I plan to do to you.” He drew her earlobe into his mouth and softly sucked. She sighed and tilted her head, allowing him better access to the side of her neck, which he took immediate advantage of. “Then again when I fill you with my cock.” He pushed three fingers into her vagina, and she cried out, forcing her hips backward for more. “Just like that. Deep and hard. Over and over.” She moaned. With his other hand, he reached under her top and cupped a breast. “Damn it, Anthony,” she snarled as he massaged her mound, squeezing and pinching. Juices leaked from her pussy to coat his palm, her hot walls sucked at his fingers. Her nails scratched at the glass in desperation. She was so close. It wouldn't take much to send her over the edge. Not wanting it to end too soon, he pulled his fingers free and stepped back. “Anthony?” she asked, glancing back at him. “Be quiet,” he commanded. With quick, desperate movements of his own, he removed his pants, dropping them to the floor. “Remove your top,” he ordered as he removed his own. She stood straight and lifted the hem of her top over her head before tossing it to the floor.

Trista Ann Michaels

100

“Turn around,” he said, almost out of control himself. She turned to face him, and his gaze dropped from her flushed face to the firm mounds of her breasts. Her rosy nipples stood hard and erect, her chest rose and fell with her rapid breathing. He gripped his cock, holding it tight at the base and trying to get himself better under control. God, she looked amazing. Without him having to tell her, she slid her skirt down over her hips, exposing her shaved pussy and long, tan legs. He waved his finger in the air, telling her without words to turn back around. “Hands on the glass,” he ordered as he came up behind her. She placed her palms against the window and bent over slightly, forcing her ass back. He smoothed his hand over the soft flesh of her hip before gripping her with both hands, holding her steady as he placed the head of his cock at her weeping entrance. He entered her slowly, savoring the feel of her walls as they stretched, allowing him entrance to her hungry body. His eyes remained glued to his cock as it slowly disappeared into her vagina. She moaned, bending even more, taking all of him as he pressed forward, burying himself balls-deep with a loud groan of pleasure. “God, that feels good,” he growled as he pulled back just a little, then pressed in again, going even deeper. Her walls encased him like a scorching hot glove, and he sighed, pumping into her in short, deep thrusts. His fingers dug into her hips as his thrusts increased, becoming harder, going deeper. Lin moaned, taking everything he gave her and then begging for more. “Anthony,” she panted, pressing back against him. “Fuck me. Harder.” Tony growled and reached around her, pulling her back against his chest. Reaching around with both hands, he cupped her breasts, rolling her nipples between his thumb and forefinger. Lin whimpered and writhed as she reached back and dragged her nails around the side of his hips. Tony sighed and moaned his approval.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

101

“Touch between your legs,” he whispered. She placed one shaking hand between her legs and sighed. “Lower. Touch my cock.” Her fingers found where his cock entered her body, and she stroked what part of his length she could feel, then lower to his balls. “You could have this whenever you wanted,” he whispered. “You could have me inside you, fucking you, filling you. Giving you what you want.” “You want to know what I want?” she sighed. “What do you want?” She jerked away from him, catching him by surprise. With a wicked gleam in her eyes, she turned to face him, then shoved him backward with her hands on his chest. “I'll tell you exactly what I want,” she snarled as she continued to shove him back toward the bed. Tony let her, enjoying her sudden turn to dominance. “I want you to stop fooling around and fuck me, damn it!” He fell back on the mattress, and she climbed over him, straddling his hips. Gripping the base of his cock within her hand, she positioned herself over him, then sank down, taking every last inch of him inside her tight channel. Tony groaned and gripped her hips, holding her down while he thrust upward. Fuck, she felt good. He put his hands at her breasts, kneading them with his palms as she rode his cock. Her head was thrown back, her eyes closed, her skin glistening with the sweat of her arousal. “Anthony,” she squealed, riding him harder. Her pussy clenched and unclenched around his length, making him grit his teeth as his own release screamed through him. They came together, her orgasm intensifying his to the point he thought he might black out. He'd never felt anything like that in his life, and stared, stunned, at her as she fell onto his chest, limp and sweaty. “Oh my God,” she sighed into his chest. One side of his lips twitched. “My sentiments exactly,” he whispered.

102

Trista Ann Michaels

He wrapped his arms around her back, holding her close as their breathing went slowly back to normal.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

103

Chapter Thirteen Keeran could hardly breathe, definitely couldn't think. Her body was on fire. Again. This was insane. How many times had he made her come now? Five? Seven? She had no idea. All she knew was her body ached, both from the need and the constant bombardment of sensations. Her ass was stuffed with a dildo, her pussy and the insides of her thighs wet, her nipples hard and swollen. He'd only taken her that one time. All the other times he'd used his hands or his mouth or the toys. She wasn't sure how much more she could take. This time felt different. It felt weaker, her climb to the edge slower. “Toroc,” she whispered, her body withering against the sheets, now damp from her sweat. “I'm here,” he whispered as he dipped his head and licked his tongue over her nipple. She screamed, the pleasure now almost like pain as it raced up her spine. “It's almost over, Keeran. I promise. This should be the last.” “Then take me, please,” she panted. “I want to feel you inside me this time. Toroc, please.” Toroc climbed over her and settled his hips between her splayed thighs. She bucked, desperate to feel him enter her. Her pussy throbbed for release, her muscles ached from the constant tension, the roller coaster ride of ups and downs. She grasped his hips in her hands and tried to push him into her. He grabbed her wrists and moved her hands above her head, keeping them pinned there as he gently kissed her cheeks, jawline, and neck. Keeran moaned in growing frustration and fatigue. She was so tired, so worn out, but her body demanded more. Toroc had been so good to her, so patient. He'd been right here the whole time, helping her find release, holding her as she screamed out in both pain and pleasure.

104

Trista Ann Michaels

She wanted to scream now—shout at him to stop fooling around and just take her, fill her, dominate her. Wiggling, she struggled against his hold, but he held her firmly in place, not letting her move. Against her pussy, she could feel his thick length teasing her slit, stroking through the juices leaking from her channel. “Toroc,” she whimpered, now past desperation and bordering on madness. He put one hand beneath her thigh and lifted it around his hip. “Can you take me and the toy, Keeran?” he asked. She tried to focus on what he was saying, but had a hard time. Everything sounded so muddled, so distant. Toy? She tried to remember. The toy in her ass. Her eyes popped open wide as the head of his cock pressed into her entrance. Her hips bucked in reflex, trying to take him deeper. Could she take both? Her heart hammered out a wild, erratic rhythm as he pressed in again. He groaned, and the sound vibrated against her chest, tickling her nipples. “Toroc,” she gasped as he continued pushing forward, stretching her walls. With the dildo in her ass, she was much tighter and could feel his heart beat in his cock as it pounded against the walls of her pussy. She held her breath, struggling to take him, forcing herself to relax despite the raw hunger racing through her body. She began to shake as pain morphed into blinding pleasure. The deeper he went, the harder he pumped, the more she pleaded. “Oh, God. Oh, God,” she chanted, lifting her hips to meet his, taking more of him with every punishing thrust. He filled her full, going deeper than she imagined he could, the sensations intensified by the toy in her ass. Even her anal muscles contracted and pulsed as he pumped into her. The release built from her womb outward. She struggled to breathe as the pressure built, the pleasure screaming through her like a tidal wave, demolishing everything in its wake. Even her sanity. “Don't fight it, Keeran,” Toroc whispered. “Don't fight it.” “I can't,” she panted, knowing deep down she would black out with this one. She could feel it literally eating away at her.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

105

“Don't fight it,” he growled, pumping harder, grinding against her clit with his groin. “Come on, Keeran. Come with me.” She shook her head, whining loudly as the release built higher. Her legs trembled as her body exploded with sharp pinpricks of pleasure and pain. From somewhere through the haze of rapture, she heard Toroc groan. She felt his release as it hit her walls, felt the tension in his body mingled with her own just before everything went black.

“Keeran?” Toroc said as he gripped her chin and turned her face toward his. Her eyes were closed, her breathing slow and shallow. He sighed and rubbed her cheek with his palm. “Keeran?” he whispered, but she didn't answer. She was out cold. He pulled from her pussy, wincing at the tight grip she had on his shaft as he slid free. She was snug to begin with; the toy made her even tighter. Rolling to his side, he reached between her legs and removed the toy, throwing it to the floor. She sighed, mumbling something incoherent. She should sleep the rest of it off. By morning, all of the drug should be gone with little, if any, lasting effects. He hoped. They'd given her so much, he couldn't be sure of anything. He reached toward the foot of the bed and pulled the covers over her body, nestling it just below her chin before turning and resting his feet against the cold, marble floor. With a sigh, he dropped his head in his hands. Fatigue rolled through his entire body. He needed sleep. A knock sounded at the door, and he jerked his head up, frowning toward the massive wooden structure. Who the hell was that? “Enter,” he said, bracing himself for almost anything. Ballack stuck his head inside and smiled. “Am I interrupting?” Toroc's insides tensed. He was sure Ballack wanted to be interrupting, for then he could participate. He'd done it more than once. “No. She's sleeping the rest of it off.” “So she made it through the night, then?” Ballack asked as he came farther into the room.

106

Trista Ann Michaels

“Yes.” “Good, good,” he said smiling, but the smile quickly faded. “I'm going to be serving brunch in a few hours in the garden room. I'd like you there, as well as your slave.” Toroc frowned. “What's the occasion?” Ballack grinned. “A lynching.” “A what?” Ballack's grin widened into a nasty smile. “Seems someone thought they could pull the wool over my eyes. I want to make an example of him, show the others what happens when they think they can cross me.” Toroc almost forgot to breathe. “Who is this lucky example?” “Anthony,” Ballack replied. Toroc frowned, but tried to keep his body void of any other emotion. “If you knew Anthony was pulling the wool over your eyes, why did you allow him in here?” Ballak smiled. “Normally, I have other people handle the nasty side of things, but…” Ballack lifted one shoulder in a show of indifference, but the gleam in his eyes spoke volumes. “I liked Anthony. I thought he could have been a good asset to me, until I found out his real agenda. I invited him here so that I could handle the problem myself. When I saw his reaction to our little mouse, I thought I'd give him another day or two to enjoy himself. I like him well enough for that.” Toroc tilted his head, speechless. He wasn't quite sure what to say to any of that. He likes him, yet he's going to kill him. “You disapprove?” Ballack asked as he walked over and lifted the blanket covering Keeran. Toroc fought his desire to grab the cover from him, keep him from looking at her naked body. “It's not my place to approve or disapprove,” Toroc replied. Ballack grunted. “Maybe. Maybe not. She is very beautiful, isn't she?” “Yes. Very.” “You have very good taste in women, Aiden.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

107

Toroc remained silent. “I need to do this. I need to let the Senate know they can't get away with trying to infiltrate my world.” “It's your world, Ballack.” “So therefore I should do whatever I wish?” he asked, grinning. He dropped the blankets and finally moved away from Keeran. Toroc breathed a silent sigh of relief. “What about the slave you gave to Anthony?” Toroc asked. “Interested in her?” Ballack asked as his grin widened. Toroc pursed his lips in thought. “I could use her.” Ballack shook his head. “No. Besides she's not really your type, and I have other plans for her anyway. Someone will come by to get you when it's time.” Toroc stared in stunned silence as Ballack left the room, shutting the door behind him. Son of a bitch. What the hell did he do now?

*** Keeran awoke slowly and winced at the soreness between her legs. She shifted, stretching her body along the soft sheets. It was so warm under the covers, she hated the thought of moving. Was Toroc still here? She peeked over the edge of the blankets. Warm morning sunlight streamed through the glass, brightening the room. Unfortunately, there was no sign of Toroc. She sat up, holding the sheet at her breasts, and studied the room more closely, trying to see past the corner into the bathroom. Should she yell for him? Let him know she was awake? Was she even ready to face him yet? She'd begged, over and over for him to take her, make her come. Or at least she thought maybe she had. To be honest, most of the night was hazy at best. One thing she definitely remembered though was Toroc's tenderness. Just like their first night together so many months ago.

108

Trista Ann Michaels

How could she fall in love with someone in just one night and then hold on to that love for two years? Was it even real? Was she nuts? “Nuts sounds about right,” she mumbled, brushing her hair back off her forehead. “I don't even know his last name.” “Then we're even,” Toroc said. “I don't know my last name, either.” Oh God. He'd heard her talking to herself. He must think she was nuts. Keeran glanced warily at him through her lashes. He lounged against the bathroom door frame. His hair was damp and slicked back off his face, giving him a harsh look that didn't quite match with the man she'd seen last night. His blue eyes held a hint of amusement. His full lips twitched as though fighting a grin. Her heart raced at the sight of him, the fact that he was here and standing before her. Her hero. Her knight. Her new owner. What he said finally sank in, and she turned to fully face him, careful to keep the sheet covering her chest. “You don't know your last name?” He shrugged and shoved away from the door frame. The muscles of his bare chest flexed, and her gaze jerked from the graceful movements of his arms as he slid them into a shirt to his eyes. She couldn't seem to stop catching glimpses of his body, and she inwardly chastised herself for acting like such a schoolgirl. “No. But that's not important. Right now we need to talk.” She tensed slightly. “Yeah. I suppose we do. I know I was given to you as a gift, but…” He came to stand at the foot of the bed, hands on hips, face stern and serious. “That's not what we need to talk about.” “Oh,” she breathed, opening her mouth to say something more, but Toroc cut her off. “We will talk about that, Keeran, but not now. Right now I need to tell you something.” He took a deep breath, and Keeran prepared herself for whatever he seemed to have a hard time saying. “You're friend is here and…” Keeran's eyes widened. “What? Lin is alive?”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

109

Toroc raised his hand up, indicating she should settle down, but her heart was racing so hard, she wasn't sure she could. “She is. She apparently came here on her own and has been working in Ballack's home as a servant to try and find you.” “Oh my God! Are you serious?” “She's in trouble, Keeran.” Tears gathered in her eyes, and her hands began to shake in fear for her friend. “In trouble how?” “She was given to Anthony Carrington as a slave—” “Anthony is here?” she asked. “Keeran,” he said in exasperation. She climbed to her knees, clasping the sheet to her chest. “I'm sorry. I just… I thought she was dead. I thought they were going to kill her.” Toroc reached out and cupped her cheeks, forcing her to look at him. “They may still. I need you to listen to me.” She nodded, swallowing down a lump of fear for her friend. “She's changed her hair and eyes, but I recognized her right off the bat. I can only assume Ballack did as well, which is why she was allowed in here. What his reasons are, I'm not sure, but I can only assume they have something to do with her father and the Senate.” Keeran nodded and he continued. “Anthony arrived two days ago. He's been working undercover for the Senate to try and retrieve the names of senators involved in the slave trade.” “Why couldn't you give them the names?” “For one, the Marcones don't know I do this. And for two…I'm a former slave so therefore cannot testify. To the Senate, it's about the same as a criminal testifying. I know it makes no sense, but…” “I get it,” she said, rolling her eyes. Toroc dropped his hands, and she felt the loss of his touch like a slap. “How do you know who Lin is?” Keeran asked. “I know her father.”

Trista Ann Michaels

110

“You know her father how?” Keeran demanded. “He never goes to Veenori. He wouldn't be caught dead there.” Toroc nodded. “I know. I know him from here.” Keeran stared, stunned. “From here?” she asked skeptically. “Yes.” Toroc sighed and settled his hands at his hips. “He's into boys, Keeran. Young, innocent boys.” Keeran's mouth dropped open, almost hitting the floor. She shook her head, trying to clear it, to accept what he was saying to her. He had to be wrong. If Lin's father really did that sort of thing…if he was really into this sick trade, Lin would be devastated. Lin. She gasped, remembering what Toroc had told her. “You said she was given to Anthony as a slave.” Toroc nodded. “She was given to Anthony for the weekend.” Keeran snorted with amusement. “Boy, what I wouldn't give to be a fly on the wall in that room.” “Why is that?” he asked. “They have the hots for each other.” “Well, let's hope they enjoyed themselves, because it may be Anthony's last weekend alive.” Keeran's smile faded and her heart jerked in fear. “Why?” “Ballack plans to make an example of Anthony at brunch today. A group of senators are arriving, and Ballack wants to make sure they understand never to cross him.” “What about Lin?” “I tried to make an offer for her, but Ballack refused. He said he has other plans for her.” “We have to get her out of here.” Toroc reached behind him and pulled a small gun from the back of his pants. He held it out, and she stared at it, uncertain. “Do you know how to use one of these?” he asked.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

111

She took it with shaking fingers, her other hand still holding the sheet at her breasts. It was a phazor gun. It didn't shoot bullets, but lasers that burned the victim from the inside out. Dropping the sheet, she removed the safety and checked the charge. The level was set to kill. She nodded and glanced up at him. “Can you do this, Keeran?” he asked, watching her closely. Raising her chin, she met his concerned gaze head-on. “She risked her life to come here for me. I can do this for her.”

Trista Ann Michaels

112

Chapter Fourteen Lin traced the scar on Tony's neck with the tip of her finger. “Why didn't you ever have this removed?” she asked. “I just didn't. Didn't see any need to.” Tony lifted her thigh, placing it over his hip. His thick cock rubbed against her pussy, making her almost forget what she'd asked. The two of them had been at this most of the night, sleeping very little. The man was insatiable and easily made her want him again and again and again. “Anthony,” she sighed, only half meaning it. Already, she could feel herself getting wet, her desire for him growing. “I'm thinking I should get as much of you as I can while I can, before you run off and hide again like you did before,” he mumbled, his lips twitching slightly in amusement. “I wasn't hiding,” she scoffed. “Hmm,” he replied. “What would you call it, then?” “I don't know that I would call it anything. I didn't trust you.” “What about now?” he asked. His lips touched the side of her neck, making her shiver from head to toe. Long fingers tightened on the back of her thigh, holding her still as his hips moved slowly back and forth. His cock slid through the juices leaking from her vagina. “Well, considering all the things I've allowed you to do to me…” Anthony chuckled and pulled back to stare at her. His expression turned serious, and she tensed. “We need to talk about how we're going to get out of here,” he said. “When is Aiden leaving?” she asked. “I'm not sure,” he replied with a sigh. “I haven't had an opportunity to talk to him.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

113

“Do you think we could before we leave?” “Lin. You need to think about getting yourself out for now. Aiden will take care of Keeran. We can't do anything to bring any suspicion down on us. I have a bad feeling about this whole thing as it is. When we leave here, we'll head to Veenori and wait for Aiden.” She nodded, although reluctantly. She'd been here so long, been through so much to make sure her friend got out of here. But once they did, what did that mean for her and Anthony? What did she want it to mean? “Are we just going to walk out?” she asked. “I'm not sure. I need to think of a way to get you to my ship without being seen.” “I could go on my own. I'm good at sneaking through the house.” Tony cringed. “I don't know that I want you out of my sight just yet.” “Oh, stop being ridiculous. I was here a month before you arrived. Need I remind you of that?” she said as she climbed from the bed and reached for her clothes. “Where are you going?” he asked playfully. She turned to look at him as he rolled to his back. His cock was growing thicker and longer, his smile adorably roguish as he put his hands behind his head and smiled. She shook her head and turned away from him, pulling her shirt over her head. “I can't keep giving into you, Anthony.” “Why not? You enjoy it as much as I do.” She turned around long enough to throw his pants at him. “Please get dressed.” She could hear his chuckle, and she bristled, refusing to turn and look at him as she pulled her skirt up, settling it at her waist. She seriously needed to get herself more under control. He had a way of making her forget things, like how much she initially disliked him. He wrapped his arms around her from behind, startling her, and she jumped. “Relax,” he ordered, but softly. Taking a deep breath, she settled back against his chest. She felt safe in his arms, like she belonged there. She didn't like it. She didn't like feeling this needy, this out of control. “There's something else we need to talk about, Lin,” he said. “Us,” she said, sighing.

Trista Ann Michaels

114

“I'll be honest. I don't want to give this up,” he said. “So it's just sex to you?” she asked, her heart racing to hear what he would say. Truthfully, she wasn't sure what she wanted him to say. She wasn't sure about anything. How she felt. What she wanted. She never imagined she would enjoy submitting. It went against everything she was, but with Anthony, it felt right. “This isn't just about sex, Lin, and you know that,” he whispered. “I can't submit to you like this all the time, Anthony. I refuse to live my life like that.” “What are you talking about?” he asked. Grabbing her shoulders, he turned her to face him. She kept her eyes on the floor, unsure she could meet his. He put his finger under her chin, forcing it up, making her look at him anyway, regardless of what she wanted. “I may enjoy bossing you around in the bedroom, Lin, but I don't do it all the time. The dominance is a sex thing and only when you want it.” “I don't know what I want,” she admitted. Anthony started to say something but was cut off at the knock at his door. He sighed and dropped his hand. “Enter,” he said as he turned to face the door, hands on hips. Jack stepped in, his face tense and pale. “Trouble,” he whispered before quickly stepping aside and allowing six other men into the room. “What the hell are you doing in here?” Anthony demanded, placing himself between her and the men. “We're here to take you to Ballack,” the first one replied. A man Lin recognized as Cory. “For what?” Anthony snapped, his body tensing as though to brace for a fight. Lin's chest tightened in fear. This was wrong. They were in serious danger, and her fear for Anthony's safety rose up to choke her. She swallowed and put her hands on his back, glancing around his wide shoulders. “You're to come with us,” one of the men commanded, his dark eyes glittering with evil intent.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

115

Tony stepped forward, and Lin tried to grasp his elbow and hold him back, but his elbow slipped from her fingers. “Anthony,” she whispered, half pleading, half growling in anger. He couldn't take on all those men by himself. Was he insane? One of them must have realized his intent. He moved faster than Lin could react, and before she could even blink, she found herself held tight against him, a cold blade of steel against her neck. A shiver of terror ran up her spine as her gaze met Anthony's. His eyes darkened in pure fury as he stared at the man holding her captive. “Get your hands off her,” he snarled. The man snorted and pressed the tip of the blade into her skin. The bite of pain made her gasp, but she didn't dare move, didn't dare breath as warm blood slid slowly down her neck and chest. “Come with us, or she dies here and now,” the man replied. “Don't,” she breathed. Anthony shook his head before glancing silently at the floor. “Let her go,” he said, raising his narrow eyes to meet the man's behind her. “Let her go, and I'll come with you quietly.”

*** Lin hit the tile floor with a groan, the jarring impact sending pain through every bone in her body. She glanced up at several pairs of interested eyes staring down at her from the dining table. She scooted back, desperate to get away from them, to hide from their sick interest in her misery. Her gaze landed on Keeran, and she drew in a sharp breath of recognition. She sat next to Aiden, her hands clasped in her lap, her eyes downcast. She looked tired, almost gaunt, as she stared back through her lashes, shaking her head ever so slightly. It was enough, and Lin remained silent, her body tense and ready for whatever happened. She had no idea where they'd taken Anthony or how long they'd had him. Once they'd left the room, she'd been brought to a holding cell in the lower levels, left to wonder and worry, fearful for what they intended for both of them.

116

Trista Ann Michaels

The men staring down at her made her skin crawl. They were all senators, every single one of them. They all knew her. They'd all had dinner at her home. Curling her lips, she narrowed her eyes at each of them, not once backing down, not once flinching at the obvious interest and lust shining in their gazes. “Welcome to our brunch, my little mouse,” Ballack said. Lin glared at Ballack as he sat at the head of his table, his round body stuffed into a tall chair, his fat face red with glee. He appeared very proud of himself. She snarled in distaste, biting her tongue to keep from screaming obscenities at him that would do her no good. “Did you really think I didn't know who you were?” he asked, grinning. “Or Anthony?” She swallowed. “Where is Anthony?” she croaked. Ballack lifted his fork and wiped it with a cloth. “Oh, I'm sure he'll be here momentarily.” The door opened and two men walked in dragging a sagging Anthony between them. They tossed him onto the floor next to her, and she gasped in horror at the ripped flesh of his back, the blood, the exposed muscle beneath. “Oh my God,” she cried, scrambling on her knees and hands to get to his side. “Anthony.” She touched his back and he groaned. She jerked her fingers back, not wanting to hurt him any further. “You're insane!” she yelled toward the men surrounding the table. “All of you!” A couple of them swallowed, apparently shocked at the sight thrown before them. One covered his mouth with a napkin, his skin going pale and gray. “Take a good look, gentlemen,” Ballack murmured. “This is your fate if you cross me.” Anthony put his hands under his shoulders and tried to push himself up. He got as far as all fours before stopping, his body tense and shaking in pain. His shallow breaths were harsh and loud in the quiet of the room, and Lin's heart broke for him. How had he survived something like that? How was he still conscious and trying to stand? “Anthony, don't,” she whispered, placing her hand against his shoulder. One of Ballack's slaves came forward and placed the tip of a phazor against the top of his head. Lin gasped. “No,” she pleaded.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

117

She raised her hand and almost touched the gun to shove it away from him, but stopped quickly. She was fearful if she touched it, he would fire without meaning to. “No one ever crosses me, Anthony,” Ballack said from his position at the head of his table. “You could have been a good asset to me. I liked you. It's a shame it has to end like this.” Anthony raised his head slightly and glared at Ballack through his lashes. “Go to hell,” he snarled. Ballack's lips twitched slightly. “I believe you'll get there before I will. Perhaps we'll see each other again, no?” His eyes narrowed. “Take care of him.” “I wouldn't if I were you, not unless you want to see Ballack meet the same fate,” Aiden said. Everyone looked to the left of Ballack. Aiden stood with a gun pointed to Ballack's temple, his expression dead serious, his eyes blue slits of warning toward the man holding a gun to Anthony's head. Ballack's eyes widened. “Aiden,” he croaked, his voice full of surprise. He looked like a man who'd just been gut punched by a loved one. A second slave raised his gun, pointing it directly at Aiden. “You can't shoot both of us,” the slave said. Aiden's lips twitched slightly as Keeran came to her feet. “I don't have to,” Aiden replied. Keeran raised her own gun, pointing it at the second slave. Lin held her breath at the sudden turn of events, the standoff that didn't stand a chance in hell of ending well. “How did you get guns into my home?” Ballack asked as he raised his palms in an effort to calm everyone down. “The how isn't important,” Aiden snarled, his gaze darting between Ballack and the slaves. “What do you want from me, Aiden?” “I want you to let us walk out of here. Me, Keeran, Lin, and Tony.” “I can't let you walk out of here, Aiden, despite how much I might want to,” Ballack replied softly. “I can't let Lin go. She's my insurance against Morlin.”

118

Trista Ann Michaels

Lin tensed. Morlin? What did her father have to do with any of this? Tony tried again to push himself up, and she put her hand on his upper arm, trying to hold him down. “What the hell's going on, Lin?” he gasped, his breathing still harsh and shallow. The cuts on his back were bad and bleeding profusely. He needed help. As she studied his shredded back, she wondered if they'd had something attached to the end of the whip to cause so much damage. “I don't know,” she whispered, then glanced at the slave still holding the gun to Tony's head. “But it doesn't look good…for any of us.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

119

Chapter Fifteen Tony's vision blurred as searing pain sliced through his back. Every movement, no matter how small, tugged at his ripped flesh. Warm blood trickled down his back and around his stomach to drip onto the floor. He wasn't sure how much longer he could remain conscious. What the hell was Aiden doing? He couldn't raise his head up enough to see over the table. The silence was deafening, the tension palpable. The pounding sound of footsteps, angry footsteps, echoed through the halls, and Tony's stomach dropped. They didn't stand a snowball's chance in hell. He didn't have the strength to help Aiden. Nor did he have a weapon. This had been a suicide mission. The double doors burst open, and Tony closed his eyes in resignation. “Drop the guns or every fucking one of you gets it in the head.” Tony's eyes popped open at the unmistakable baritone of Sidious Marcone's voice. He tilted his head slightly and stared at the intimidating sight of his brother-in-law. His large body took up the entire opening, his steel gray eyes narrowing in fury. Men squeezed between his wide shoulders and the opening on either side, filling the room and surrounding them. “How dare you,” Ballack snarled. Sidious's lip curled. “I dare a lot, Ballack. I'll be damned if you'll harm a member of my family.” He glanced toward the men who had come with him. “Gather up the senators, gentlemen. Put them on my ship.” “You can't charge us with anything,” one of the senators replied haughtily. “I may not be able to, but the Magistrate can. At the very least, information about your private pastimes will reach your constituents. I'll make sure of it. I can guarantee your future in politics is at an end. As of today.”

120

Trista Ann Michaels

“There're still slaves here,” Lin said, relief obvious in the slight tremor to her voice. Tony wanted to gather her in his arms, but he couldn't move. He could hardly think. The movement of bodies around him was nothing more than a blur and fading fast. Sidious nodded. “Stefan and Taron are taking care of that.” Ballack rose to his feet. “You cannot! They belong to me.” Raising an eyebrow, Sidious replied, “Not anymore. If you have a problem with that…too fucking bad.” Tony snickered, then winced in pain. “He's in bad shape,” he heard Lin say as if from far away. He could feel himself slipping, falling into a dark pool. Sidious dropped to one knee and turned Tony's chin slightly. “Can you hear me, Anthony?” His arms shook with the effort to hold himself in his current position as he stared blankly at Sidious through the hair that hung around his face. “Yeah,” he whispered, then licked his lips. “But barely.” “It looks like you've lost a lot of blood. We're going to get you back to the ship and fix you up. Just stay with me long enough to get you there, all right?” Tony nodded.

Keeran handed Aiden the gun and rushed to be by Lin's side. Her friend turned and gathered her close. Tears gathered in both their eyes as they hugged, neither wanting to let the other go. “Are you okay?” Lin asked. “I'm fine,” Keeran assured as she pulled away to study her friend's pale face. “What about you?” “I'm okay.” They both watched as Tony was helped to his feet. He groaned as his back straightened, the pain obvious in the tight muscles of his face. Keeran winced, not sure she could have endured what he had.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

121

Lin appeared to be in almost as much pain as Anthony, but hers was more emotional. Had her friend grown close to Tony? Did she care more than she would admit to? There was so much they needed to talk about—so much Keeran felt she needed to admit. But all of it could wait. “Go with him,” Keeran said as she pushed her friend toward Tony. Lin turned to look at her with eyes full of anguish. She was torn. Keeran knew her friend well enough to know that. Nodding to reassure Lin, she pushed again. “Go. We'll talk later, I promise.” Her friend smiled slightly and left the room, running to catch up to the two men who held Anthony. “I will not allow you to do this!” Ballack yelled. “Damn it, Marcone. You can't come into my home and take everything I have!” “They are not things, Ballack,” Sidious yelled back. “They're people!” “What's the difference between what I do and what your friend Devlin did? He had slaves.” Sidious took two steps forward, his eyes darkening in anger, his body tense and ready for a fight. “He set them free, Ballack. He gave them a choice. You give nothing but pain. Not one slave died under Devlin. How many have died while in your possession?” Ballack's chin lifted in defiance. Sidious glanced around at the men and women who quickly filed from the room. Now that they had an out, they had no loyalty to the man who'd abused them over the years. “There's no loyalty,” Sidious said as he turned back to Ballack. “That says everything, Ballack. They can't get away from you fast enough.” Sidious turned to Toroc, his look just as fierce. “You and I need to have a chat.” Toroc nodded once, but said nothing. He glanced toward Keeran, and she smiled slightly. She was sure whatever worry she felt was in her eyes. He would be able to see it, to know. He walked over to her and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, then tilted his chin toward the door, indicating they should leave.

122

Trista Ann Michaels

“Aiden, don't,” Ballack pleaded, but they ignored him as they headed toward the exit. Keeran wanted out of here. She wanted to go home. “Aiden, please… I'm your father.” Sidious jerked around to stare at Ballack in shock. Toroc froze, staring straight ahead toward the door, his face pale, his eyes wide and disbelieving. “Toroc,” Ballack pleaded a little softer. “You're lying,” Toroc said, but still not turning around. Keeran glanced at Ballack over her shoulder. The misery in his face was unmistakable. “I swear. It's true. Your mother was one of my favorite slaves. You're the only child that I've allowed to be born here. I allowed it because I cared for her so much.” Keeran glanced at Toroc. He closed his eyes. The muscles in his jaw twitched with barely controlled anger. When Toroc didn't say anything, Ballack continued. “You were spoiled, but you always had such a soft spot for the slaves, especially the girls. You took care of them, coddled them. Until one night you saw your mother die. It was a terrible accident, but you blamed me. You even tried to kill me. I couldn't bring myself to kill you, so I had your memory wiped and then placed you on Veenori…sold you as a slave. I kept track of you throughout your life.” Ballack walked toward them, his hand outstretched as though pleading for Toroc to understand. “I knew who you were. I know you set the girls you buy here free. I've always known. And I let you.” “Stay the hell away from me,” Toroc snarled over his shoulder. Keeran touched Toroc's arm, but he jerked away. Her heart broke at his rejection. Tears gathered in her eyes, threatening to spill over and slide down her cheeks. “Get her to the ship, Sidious,” Toroc said as he headed toward the door. “Toroc, please wait,” Ballack pleaded. The loud whine of a phazor rang through the room, startling Keeran. Ballack's head splintered, sending blood flying to land on her arms and torso. She gasped and stepped back, staring in horror at Ballack's body as it fell at her feet. Glancing up, she noticed Jack a few feet away, the gun still raised and shaking. Toroc quickly grabbed it, staring in shock at Jack, then Ballack's body. “I had to,” Jack said softly. “Take me with you?”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

123

Toroc looked to Sidious, who nodded his head. “Come on, Jack,” Toroc said as he patted the young man's shoulder. “Sidious, make sure she gets home.” Sidious again nodded, and Keeran watched with a breaking heart as Toroc led Jack from the room, leaving her behind.

*** Lin sat at Anthony's bedside, watching the slow rise and fall of his breathing. With each inhale the skin of his back stretched tight, then released. The red marks looked much better now than they had hours ago. The swelling was down, the redness fading. Eventually, one would never know anything had ever happened. She touched one of the marks with the tip of her finger and slowly slid it along the ridge. His muscles twitched, but other than that there was no indication he even knew she'd touched him. He was still out of it, still deep asleep. He needed to sleep. She needed the quiet to think. Over the last couple of days, he'd made her feel things she'd never felt. She'd learned a little something about herself and what she liked and enjoyed. What she wanted in the future. Did her feelings for Anthony go deeper than lust? She had no idea. Did she want to explore it? She didn't know that either. “What the hell do you know, Lin?” she mumbled to herself. The door to his room slid open, startling her. She jerked her hand away and spun around to see who had entered. It was Sidious. He lounged casually in the open doorway and asked, “Still sleeping?” “Yes.” “He'll probably sleep for a few more hours yet. I know someone else who could use you right now.” Lin sat up straighter. “Who?” “Keeran. Toroc left.” “Toroc?” “You know him as Aiden. I think she took his leaving her pretty hard.”

124

Trista Ann Michaels

“Why?” Lin asked as she came to her feet, worry for her friend tightening her stomach. “They didn't even know each other, did they?” “That's something she'll have to tell you. I don't know Keeran, but I know enough about women to recognize a broken heart when I see one.” Lin nodded. “Where is she?” “I put her in one of the officers' quarters. I'll take you.” She followed Sidious through the corridors of the ship toward the upper level which housed the officers' quarters. She stopped outside the door and turned to Sidious. He didn't appear nearly as intimidating here as he had in Ballack's home. Here, he appeared to be just a normal man. A very large, muscular man, but normal nonetheless. He brushed his long platinum hair from his shoulder and waited for her to speak. His eyes were now a much lighter shade of gray. “Thank you,” she said. “For coming to rescue Anthony, for bringing me to Keeran, for…well, pretty much for everything.” One side of his full lips lifted briefly. “Your father is really the one you should thank. He suspected you were there, and he was right. He gave up everything for you, Lin. No matter what happens, at least remember that much.” She frowned and started to ask what he'd meant, but he hit a panel on the door, opening it. “We'll talk more later. Right now, go to her.” Lin stepped through the door into the darkened room. Outside the window, stars whizzed by in a blur. She glanced away. She had to. If she kept looking at it, she'd get dizzy. Keeran stood at the window, her blank stare watching the stars. Her cheeks were wet with tears. She still wore the same clothes she had on earlier. Her hair hung around her shoulders, unbrushed. This wasn't like Keeran. At all. Keeran was a girlie-girl. She never went anywhere unless she was immaculate and matching from head to toe. Right now, she appeared defeated, hurt, lost, and it broke Lin's heart to see her that way. “Keeran,” she whispered as she slowly walked forward and placed a hand on her friend's slumped shoulder.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

125

“I met him two years ago,” she whispered. “Met who?” Lin asked as she brushed Keeran's hair back over her shoulder. “Toroc.” “Where?” “Veenori. The night my father tried to convince me to become a more active part of his company. The last night I spoke to him.” Lin rubbed her hand up and down Keeran's back in silence, waiting for her friend to continue. Keeran had talked very little about that night, and Lin had often wondered if her friend was keeping something from her. “I'm messed up, aren't I, Lin?” Keeran whispered. “No,” Lin said in a firm voice. “Then why does this hurt so much?” “What, Keeran? What hurts?” “He just left me. He told Sidious to bring me home, and he left without even looking at me. I spent two years thinking about him, fighting the desire to go back to Veenori and see him again. I spent two years comparing every man I met to him. Then I find him again, and he saves me.” Her lower lip began to tremble. “And he can't even look at me as he leaves.” “I heard what happened after I left. Maybe…maybe he was ashamed, Keeran. It must have been hell to find out that monster was his father.” Keeran shook her head. “It can't be true.” “Sidious ran a blood test before we left. It's true.” “It doesn't matter,” Keeran said with a shake of her head. “Toroc is not Ballack.” “You know that. Maybe he just needs time to figure that out himself.” “What if he doesn't? What if I never see him again?” “Then we go to him.”

126

Trista Ann Michaels

Chapter Sixteen Lin placed the blanket over Keeran's shoulders, adjusting it around her body to make sure she stayed warm. She'd lost so much weight she almost didn't look like herself. The sedative Sidious had given her would help her to get a good night's rest, and maybe in the morning she'd feel much better. Sighing, Lin stood and left the room, leaving Keeran to sleep. She doubted she would sleep herself anytime soon. Her mind was too jumbled, too wound up. When she thought about how close they all came to dying, she wanted to throw up. Sidious's comment about her father also kept replaying itself in her mind. What could he have possibly meant by that? “Is she sleeping?” The deep timbre of Anthony's voice startled her, and she covered her heart with her hand as though to keep it from jumping free. He stood at the small bar, his shirt open, his black slacks hugging trim, firm hips—hips she could well remember digging her fingernails into as he gave her the best sex of her life. His hair hung around his shoulders, his ice blue eyes full of concern. She found she liked his hair down much better than at the nape of his neck. It softened the rough angles of his face. “You scared me,” she whispered. “I'm sorry,” he replied, his lips twitching slightly. “You look as though you're feeling better, but should you be up and around?” “I'm fine. Clean bill of health from the master,” he replied, grinning. “Sidious let me in after he gave her the sedative. I heard she took Toroc's leaving pretty hard.” Lin nodded. “Yeah. She did. What do you know of him?” she asked as she walked over to the bar to join him.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

127

Anthony shrugged. “Not much. What I do know, though, is he's not his father. He's a good man, I think. Devlin wouldn't have trusted him otherwise.” “Devlin?” “Devlin Armande. Toroc used to work for him, until Devlin retired, then left the bar to Toroc.” “The bar on Veenori,” she murmured. “Excuse me?” She waved her hand in dismissal. “Keeran met Toroc two years ago on Veenori at a bar. It must have been the bar he owned.” “What was she doing there?” Anthony asked, frowning. “Long story.” “So they knew each other, prior to Ballack's,” Anthony said with a nod. “I guess that explains her attachment and why she took it so hard.” “She's loved him for two years. I think after what he did for her, she loves him even more now. Do you think that kind of love is real? That you could meet someone and know right away that they're the one?” Anthony snorted. “I'm the wrong person to ask that question.” “Why? Have you never loved anyone?” His blue eyes met hers, and her heart skipped a beat. “You mean before now?” “Anthony…what we feel can't be… I mean…” She swallowed, unsure what to say. She'd never felt like this about anyone. All her life it had been about her career, her father's career. She'd never taken the time for relationships beyond the bedroom. She had no idea what love felt like. “It was just great sex,” she blurted. Anthony turned to fully face her. “It was more than just sex, Lin. I know it and so do you. Hell, I've been riding your tail every since that night at your father's party.” She drew in a slow steady breath. “You've been watching me?” Anthony raised an eyebrow. “Like you hadn't noticed.” Okay, maybe she had.

Trista Ann Michaels

128

He stepped closer and cupped her cheeks in his warm palms. “I want to see where this goes, Lin. I want to see if the chemistry we have reaches beyond the bedroom.” She swallowed and finally admitted to herself and him what she felt. “I do too.”

*** Two months later

Keeran walked through the door of Lin's new office and smiled at her friend behind the massive black desk. “Well, well. I believe this suits you, Senator Morlin.” Lin smiled and stood to walk around her desk. Keeran met her halfway, where they embraced in a warm hug. “I can't seem to get used to that,” Lin said with a grin. “Whenever I hear Senator Morlin, I want to look around for my father.” Keeran chuckled softly. “Speaking of your father. How is he?” With a hand at her back, Lin led her to a small light blue couch at the far end of the massive room. Since Lin had taken over her father's senatorial seat, she'd redecorated the room to suit her taste better. She'd always hated her father's choice of dark colors. “He's getting help, working through things. The Magistrate was lenient with my father because of his testimony.” “What about you? How are you doing?” “Better. I still have a hard time looking at him, though. You know, he wasn't the best dad, but he never abused me, never sexually assaulted me. He's still my dad and I'm trying to understand. Don't know that I'll ever accept it, but…” Lin shrugged, then leaned forward to pour them both a cup of coffee. “And Anthony?” Keeran asked. “Wow, what's up with the twenty questions?” Lin asked with a grin as she stood and walked toward her desk to retrieve a stack of papers. “I've been sequestered for a month and a half now writing that book. I'm a little out of touch.”

Entwined Fates: Slaves

129

Lin laughed. “Anthony is amazing. But you probably knew that already. We tried to keep the sex out of things so we could really get to know each other. That lasted about a week.” Keeran snickered. “That long?” Lin made a sour face. “It was torture. But…” she added as she came to sit back down. “I truly believe he's the best thing that's ever happened to me.” “I'm happy for you,” Keeran said as she reached out to place her hand on her friend's knee. “You deserve to be happy.” “So do you,” Lin replied as she handed her the stack of papers. Keeran glanced at it and realized it was the book she'd sent Lin to read through. It was the story of her experience and her first foray into the erotic genre. “I can't believe you still print this stuff out to read it,” Keeran said as she flipped through the pages. “That thing was amazing. Where the hell did you learn to write sex like that?” Keeran could feel her face heating and shrugged. “I don't know. It just came out that way. I needed to get this down, to get it out.” “What did your publisher think?” “She loves it. The story comes out in three months, but I'm using a different name. They want to keep this genre separate from the stuff I normally do.” “Makes sense, I guess. Are you going to do more?” “Maybe.” “Have you thought about going to see Toroc?” Keeran stood and walked toward the window, staring out at the blue-green sky. She'd thought of Toroc every day, but she didn't know if she should go to him. “What if he doesn't want me, Lin?” she asked. “You stop that right now,” Lin snapped. Keeran spun around in surprise. Her friend never took that tone with her. “Have you read your own writing? Even though it was strictly from your point of view, I could see how he cared about you by how he took care of you.”

130

Trista Ann Michaels

“My perspective could have been skewed, Lin. I was drugged. Maybe I saw and felt what I wanted to and not what was really there.” Lin shook her head. “That's bullshit.” With a snicker, Keeran walked back to drop back onto the couch. “That sounds like something Anthony would say.” “He's rubbing off on me, I guess,” she said with a smile. “I don't know, Lin. I don't think I could take another rejection from him yet.”

*** Shutting the door to her apartment, Keeran leaned her back against it and sighed. It had felt good to get out, to be with her friend again and just enjoy the afternoon. She didn't know what she would have done without Lin the first few days they'd been back. At times, she'd felt incredibly guilty. She'd been so wrapped up in her own broken heart and nightly bad dreams, she hadn't been there enough for Lin. Thank God she'd had Anthony. Anthony was good for her and vice versa. They made a great couple. With another deep sigh, she pushed herself away from the door and headed toward the kitchen area. A tall, dark figure at the far side of the room caught her eyes, and she stopped dead in her tracks, her heart skipping wildly in fear. Was someone here to get her again? Was she going to be kidnapped? This time taken somewhere much worse? She hadn't realized until this moment just how skittish she'd become. “Who are you?” she demanded, trying to keep the fear from her voice. He stepped into the light and her knees went weak. “Toroc?” she murmured in surprise. “I didn't mean to scare you,” he said. “What are you doing here?” she asked. On shaky legs, she moved to stand behind a chair, using the back as support. Her fingers tightened on the leather material as she waited to hear what he would have to say. The last thing she wanted to do was get her hopes up, so she squelched them down.

Entwined Fates: Slaves

131

“I, uh…” he held up a small handheld computer. She squinted, unable to read what was on it from this distance. He turned it to face him, then glanced at it before tossing it to the couch. “I read your book.” She frowned in confusion. “My book?” “Yes. The one you just finished.” “How the hell did you get that?” “Lin.” Keeran's mouth dropped open in shock, then anger began to boil deep in her stomach. “She did what?” she yelled. “Don't be angry with her,” Toroc said as he stepped closer. His hair was pulled back, his eyes dulled slightly and full of sadness and regret. He looked tired, like he hadn't slept any more than she had. She wanted to run to him, touch him, but her uncertainty held her in place. Why was he here? “I tried to forget you. I did. I thought that you wouldn't want anything to do with me once you found out about Ballack. I thought that seeing me would forever remind you of what happened to you.” Keeran shook her head in denial. “No.” “But I can't,” he whispered. “I couldn't forget about you after that first night, and I can't forget about you now.” Tears gathered in her eyes as she swallowed down a lump the size of an apple in her throat. “I had no idea that…at least until I read that story…that you cared for me, as well.” Keeran nodded, her lips trembling. She still hadn't been able to move, to let go of the death grip she had on the back of the chair. “In the story, he's waiting for her when she arrives on Rhinari,” he whispered as he came closer. Keeran nodded again, unable to speak past the tears, the joy choking her. “I'm a little late,” he added as he pulled her hands free from the chair and lifted them to his lips. “Do you forgive me?” “Yes,” she sobbed before throwing her arms around his neck, holding tight.

132

Trista Ann Michaels

He wrapped his arms around her waist and buried his face in her neck, breathing deeply. “I don't have much to offer, Keeran. I've spent most of my fortune buying slaves and setting them free. I just have myself.” Keeran laughed and held all the tighter. “That's all I want, Toroc. Just you.”

Loose Id(R) Titles by Trista Ann Michaels Blood Rite Deadly Crimson Leave Me Breathless Shutter Their One and Only The ENTWINED FATES Series Captive Destined for Two Remember Me Mercenary Slaves

Trista Ann Michaels Trista lives in the land of dreams, where alpha men are tender and heroines are strong and sassy. When not there, she visits the mountains of Tennessee. Not a bad place to spend a little spare time when she needs a break from all those voices in her head. Unfortunately they never fail to find her.