His Winter Princess

Blushing Books 12 Days of Christmas 2015, Book 6

By

Adaline Raine

©2015 by Blushing Books® and Adaline Raine

All rights reserved.

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Raine, Adaline

His Winter Princess

eBook ISBN: 978-1-68259-211-3

Cover Art by ABCD Graphics & Design

This book is intended for adults only. Spanking and other sexual activities represented in this book are fantasies only, intended for adults. Nothing in this book should be interpreted as Blushing Books' or the author's advocating any non-consensual spanking activity or the spanking of minors.

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Table of Contents:

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Ebook Offer

Blushing Books Newsletter

Blushing Books

Chapter One

Audra Deveraux smiled warmly at the older woman as she served her fresh sugar cookies and strawberries, then straightened and moved towards the next group of senior citizens. She loved her time spent at the nursing home just as much as the birthday parties for younger children and events she performed at.

Audra dressed up as a beautiful winter-fairy princess with gorgeous blue and silver costumes during the cold months. She lived in the Northeast of the United States and sometimes she would get contacted in the hot August heat almost as a joke that soon it would be freezing. Winter sort of ran from mid-October through April up here so her season length varied, but she happily accepted every offer.

Her regular job consisted of bartending and waitressing to cover her bills, but entertaining and dressing up in dazzling dresses covered something else. It fed her need to be around people even if she only saw them during the event. Audra, as easy-going as she appeared, had terrible social anxiety with her peers. She could make little children glow with excitement and older adults sparkle from her attention, but when it came to those in her own age group—not so much.

Audra felt eyes on her and glanced up to see a very handsome gentleman studying her. He looked familiar, she was sure she had seen him here, but never acknowledged him before. To her immense surprise, he nodded, then walked directly towards her. What did he want?

She turned up the charm she hoped she had, then stuck the plate of fruit and cookies in the man's face. "Would you care for a treat?"

He quirked a smile at her and plucked a strawberry from the plate. "Why thank you, but I had another reason for coming over here."

"Oh? Does it have something to do with me?" Audra handed him a light blue napkin so he wouldn't make a mess should he choose to eat the berry in front of her.

"I'm Clay Lawson." He extended his berry free hand to her and waited for her to shake it. She took it cautiously and marveled at how firm his handshake felt. "I wanted to know if you serve at private venues?"

"Ah, well, you mean like a child's party?"

"No, rather a private gathering of adults. I throw an annual winter party for a group of twelve and it would be fantastic if you would serve hors d'oeuvres and drinks for my guests."

"As formal as your invitation sounds, is this a bachelor party? I got roped into one of those once and they thought I was a stripper and I certainly wouldn't engage in that sort of behavior—" she covered her mouth to stop herself from spewing out any more embarrassing information.

"I can only imagine how your event turned out." His lip twitched with amusement. "But, I assure you the event is for a group of six couples and myself. This is our fifth annual party and I wanted to make it more special. I think you would be perfect."

Clay shot her a smile and she felt her reservations slipping. He was incredibly handsome with gray-green eyes and lovely brown hair. He also wore a tailored suit and she wondered what he did for a living.

"I'm not sure if I would be right for your party." Audra took in a breath and let it out slowly. "I'm much more in my element here without fancy—"

"I would pay you six-thousand dollars for three hours of your time. It's next Saturday, a week from now. Will you consider serving my engagement now?" Clay ate the strawberry very slowly, then dabbed the napkin to his lips.

She watched with rapt attention, unsure how to answer him. Part of her wanted to curtsy formally then prance away singing a jolly tune, while the other part wanted to run away screaming. What sort of man offers a woman six-thousand dollars just to waitress a party?

"Mr. Lawson, I don't really think—"

"Five-hundred dollars down as a deposit today, of course." He folded the napkin into his hand while she stood there silently gawking at the idea. Clay glanced down at his watch. "I don't mean to rush you, but I've got a phone conference I must be on in twenty minutes."

"I would, uh, love to serve you. Uh, your party. Of course." Audra glanced over her shoulder to see the nurses and orderlies wheeling out the older patrons in wheelchairs or assisting them back to their rooms.

They nodded or waved to her as they left the room, but they also waved to Clay. Surely he couldn't be so awful when a group of senior citizens smiled happily at him?  She glanced back to give Clay her full attention. "Yes, Mr. Lawson. I'm available next Saturday."

"Wonderful!" A huge grin broke out across his face. He tugged his wallet out of his pants and handed her five hundred-dollar bills. Clay produced a receipt book from his suit pocket and quickly wrote out the details. "My contact information is at the top. Please be sure to wear a formal dress, one you can move in of course. If you have one the same shade as your eyes, it will fit in flawlessly to my theme. Call me on Thursday and I will explain the details and time."

"Right. Sure." Audra nodded several times as she stood there awkwardly with the paper receipt and cash.

"It was lovely to meet you, Ms. Deveraux." Clay shook his head as she sucked in a breath clearly shocked to be addressed by her name. "The receptionist gave me your card. I apologize for not mentioning it sooner.  I look forward to seeing you again." He offered his hand once more.

"Uh, oh. Right. Well, I have to go clean up from this party. Thank you, Mr. Lawson." She shook his hand then excused herself. Who carries around a receipt book in their pocket? She looked down at the slip of paper and saw the name, Starling Vineyards at the top.

One of her favorite local wineries! How come she never saw him there? It made sense now as she thought back to the article she’d read. The local paper announced some months ago the vineyard had become a benefactor for the nursing home so it could get some major renovations taken care of as well as new equipment. A handsome, obviously well off man who was generous? She hoped there wasn't a catch to all this.

Audra cleaned up from the event with just enough time to get home and change into her night time costume – jeans and a tight tee shirt. She preferred her pretty gowns over them any day!

Her looks were good enough, she decided one night in front of the mirror. Her long, straw-colored blonde hair fell in gentle waves over her shoulders and her eyes were a pretty shade of blue. When you were blessed with a nice combination it made sense to play up features rather than hide. The gowns made her more confident, graceful, as if she were playing dress up. They gave her the almost magical ability to be sociable.

Audra had a few close acquaintances, but real friendships and relationships eluded her. Sure, she dated on and off, but nothing meaningful ever came to fruition. Maybe if she wore a sparkling silver gown to a bar she would increase her chances. She mulled the thought over a while, but more for amusing scenarios rather than actual ideas.

The rest of her night flew by in a blur rather than drag on as per usual. She blamed thoughts of the incredibly handsome Mr. Lawson. Would anything happen after the party? That was silly though, she chided herself. Someone so charming and wealthy was probably attached. He didn't wear a ring, she remembered, so perhaps not too attached.

Why the hell was the possibility even being entertained? She just met him. His gaze did make her all warm and gooey inside and something sparked when they touched. Audra hoped he felt something from their meeting as well.

Chapter Two

It was finally the afternoon of the party. Clay went over several checklists in his mind as well as several hard copies to make sure he did not forget anything. He glanced at his watch. Audra should be on her way soon. He’d spoken to her several times on the phone to finalize the time, but really it could have been accomplished in one conversation. He made up excuses to find another reason to hear her sweet voice. She really was a lovely woman.

Of course his mind was on the gorgeous winter princess who would arrive within the next hour. Right now, though, he needed to push Audra out of his mind. He technically was her employer for the night, and could not act unprofessional for any reason!

He walked into the kitchen to see his lovely chef Olga standing with a satisfied look on her face. He could not wait to see what dishes she had come up with. Clay slowly let thoughts of the gorgeous blonde slip away as he took in the fantastic aromas of the food spread out on the counters.

Normally Olga stayed to serve the food, but her daughter was getting married tomorrow and she’d requested a week off. It was no big deal, she wasn't his live in chef, besides, he had known of the upcoming nuptials for some time.

"Everything looks wonderful! I'm sure your food will be a delight, as always." Clay embraced the older woman who clapped him on the back.

"I wish I could stay, but I've got a plane, you know?" She stepped back and smiled. "You spoil your guests so! Just like you spoil me!"

Clay laughed at the accusation because it was true. Ever since his beautiful wife Evelyn had died, he spoiled everyone in his life. You never knew how many moments you would get with someone you cared for. After he built up the inherited winery he made sure to savor every minute.

"Of course, Olga. Now, get going or you will be late."

She thanked him for his understanding, then swiftly left the kitchen. He heard her open the door, but didn't hear it close after her. He wondered why and wandered out to the foyer.

In the doorway stood Audra. She looked breathtaking, even in yoga pants and a button up shirt. Her hair and make-up were done already, but instead of it seeming odd or out of place, he found it refreshing.

"I did say formal gown, but I suppose your beauty will distract from your clothes."

"What? Oh, no..." Audra looked down, horrified, and then slowly looked up as she realized he was joking. A smile tugged at her lips. "If I were going to wear sweats for your party I would at least make sure I got the colors right."

"Please come in. Olga, who you probably ran into, made the most delicious treats. I do need help arranging it on platters though. She ran out of time."

"Of course! That's why I'm not in my full princess splendor. It's difficult to plate appetizers when you have a gown on."

Clay chuckled. She was beautiful and charming naturally. She did seem a bit nervous though, and he hoped it would ease as the night wore on. "This way then." He motioned for her to follow but realized she had a garment bag and two other canvas bags in her hand. "First, go ahead and put those up in the guest bathroom. It's up the stairs. Second door on your left."

"Thank you." She smiled sweetly, then walked up the stairs as instructed. He watched her ascend the steps and though he tried not to stare, he could not break his eyes away. He loved the way her pants cupped around her bottom and showed off all her curves.

Clay hurried into the kitchen, but could not get the picture out of his head. Audra also seemed to take his direction well. Most women he encountered scoffed or rolled their eyes when he told them to do something rather than ask.

Should he tell her about the relationships his guests were in? Each one practiced their own form of domestic discipline. Nothing should happen at the party, but if one of the women got out of line or poked the bear so to speak, they might get a warning in front of Audra.

It might scare her off or worse make her think that he and his friends were some sort of misogynists. It was so far away from the truth of course, but should he open that particular can of worms? He trusted his friends to behave appropriately, but sometimes the addition of alcohol brought out rather unpleasant behaviors.

I'm worrying too much about something that probably won't happen.

Clay brushed off his reservations and began sorting the dishes as he waited for Audra to return. He wanted to make her swoon from his attentions, but it was not proper to do until after he paid her. Now he just needed to find a way to get up the nerve to ask her out.

Why was this so hard for him? Clay often described himself as peculiar, but many argued he simply liked things done his way. He had dated on and off over the years, but his business kept him too busy to get involved with a woman. No, that was a lie, one of many, he fed himself to keep the truth away. Deep down, under his posh exterior, he was scared to open up his heart again.

Audra seemed so sincere and gentle. He’d asked about her at the nursing home and they all loved the sweet woman. Who could argue with a bunch of senior citizens?

Clay moved around the kitchen and selected ten different wines for his guests. His plan was to debut a brand new flavor, and he secretly hoped it went over well. He’d really made quite a name for himself at the winery. It was something his own parents did not believe he could do, but he showed them all. Next year his business plans involved blueprints for a brand new shop three towns over. It would be a small shop and would carry the Starling name only!

Audra would be perfect for such a venture, if she was open to the idea. He let out a long breath. He just met this woman, there was no sense to get ahead of himself. He really did want to impress her and inwardly hoped she would give him a chance.

The sound of footsteps drew his attention back to the task at hand. He opened up several cabinets and gathered white and red wine glasses. There was still much to be done.

* * *

Audra marveled at the posh yet comfortable surroundings Clay kept. His townhouse was comprised of three levels. She observed one set of stairs heading down as she walked up to the bathroom. The guest bathroom surpassed her own by far. She could fit her entire bathroom and the spare one inside here comfortably. She set her belongings down, hung the garment bag which contained her dress on the shower rod, then made her way out of the room. She walked down the steps while she admired the overall charm. The whole house was done up in modern tone, mostly cool colors, but exuded warmth.

"Your house is lovely," she cooed as she stepped into the kitchen. It was huge! She could see herself performing for a camera crew as she baked decadent morsels as if on her own food show. The thought of doing it all while dressed in her princess gown made her giggle.

"Thank you, but what sort of images just ran through your head?" Clay smirked as he glanced the distance between them.

"Oh, it's nothing. You'll probably think I'm silly." Audra glanced over the trays of food. He could feed an army and a half!

"Indulge me."

"What?" She raised an eyebrow and found herself flustered at his directness. "It's nothing. I just pictured a crew in here while I baked, then pulled fully iced cakes out of the oven like magic."

"I'm so glad you admire my kitchen. You're more than welcome to come back sometime and bake." Clay checked his watch as she searched for something to say. "My guests are set to arrive at six o'clock. That leaves us an hour and a half to set-up the room and get ready. Will it be enough time for you?"

"Yes, of course."

"Would you like a glass of wine while we assemble?" Clay moved around her and plucked a bottle off the counter. "It's called Black-Rosy Finch."

"I think it's so interesting that all of your wines are named after birds. Let me guess? It's a Cabernet Sauvignon rosé with black current or blackberry undertones or similar?"

"You know of my wines?" He reached up to take down two long stem glasses. "That makes me so happy. Yes, you are correct. I haven't unveiled it yet, but I plan to for the New Year's Eve gathering at the vineyard."

"I would love a glass!" Audra grinned as he opened the bottle and poured her a glass. It was a darker rosé than she was used to but still lighter than a red. She wasn't big on red wine, even from his vineyard. "Of course, I can only indulge in one. I don't want to spill anything on your guests."

"Here you go." He handed one of the glasses to her then held his up to meet hers. "To a wonderful evening!"

"To a successful party!" she agreed and clinked her glass to his. She took a small sip, and then another. The wine teased her taste buds. She expected a rich, bittersweet drink, but the berries gave it just the right amount of sweetness without being overbearing. "Oh! Your New Year's customers are going to love this. In fact, it might be my new favorite, especially paired with the right meal."

"What would you pair it with?"

"Ah, well, something light. It's definitely not a red meat type of wine." Audra smiled again, then set the glass on the counter. "I could talk about wine for hours, but there's still a lot to do. Do you have a pattern or is everything coming out at once?"

"The actual appetizers can come out in any order as long as there is fruit prior and then fruit and pastries served last. I'd rather you relax with the atmosphere instead of being worried about the order of the food. And the wine flows freely tonight. How does that sound?" Clay took a sip from his glass. He watched her nod several times in agreement as she mentally prepared.

"Right, I can do that. Let me get everything set then I'll run up and get ready." Audra immediately got to work. "I don't usually accept this sort of offer."

"Is it for safety reasons or something else?" Clay found two silver platters for dessert as well as coffee mugs with shiny silver snowflakes on them. They fit nicely into his theme, just like Audra would.

"You'd probably never guess, but I'm very shy socially. I, uh, don't have many friends. Or really any friends. I moved here a couple years ago and I get anxious when I even think about being in public."

"Is it difficult for you to focus at large gatherings?" Clay handed one of the platters to her.

"Sometimes, but I'm not really me then." She half giggled as he raised an eyebrow. "When I'm in my blue and silver gown I'm a princess," Audra offered as an explanation. "It's like playing dress up and having a tea party only on a grander scale."

"I see. Well, I'm very happy you accepted my offer. I do hope you have a good time tonight as well."

"Thank you, Mr. Lawson. I promise I will treat your guests very well."

* * *

The party took off without a hitch. Audra kept to Clay's decree, and let the wine flow. She made sure no one went hungry while she made small talk and smiled. Both the women and the men appeared easy going and quick to relate to. She found herself in more than one meaningful conversation without neglecting her duties.

One of the women, Amanda, tugged her into the bathroom. It was a large guest bathroom on this floor and she was amazed to find two stalls!

They chatted for a few minutes and she gave her cell phone number to her. Amanda seemed to be quite flushed from the wine, but felt genuine. They walked out of the bathroom shortly after that and rejoined the party.

"Princess?" Amanda giggled. "I mean Ms. Princess?" She giggled again. "More of the Scarlet Tanager? It's my favorite!"

"Amanda," a gentleman approached her and placed his arm around her waist. "I think you've had enough wine tonight."

"Eric!" Amanda admonished. "It's my favorite!" She held her glass out to Audra. "Please?"

Eric, presumably her boyfriend or husband, covered the glass with his hand. "You've had enough."

Audra watched the exchange and felt uneasy. She wanted to give the guest, and hopefully new friend what she asked for but she did not want to witness a fight.

"I'll say when I've had enough and thank you." Amanda stuck her tongue out at him and shook his hand off the glass.

Eric promptly let go of her waist and swatted his right hand firmly across her bottom. The action sent ice-cold shivers down her spine. He did it only once, but the message was clear.

"I'm sorry, Eric." Amanda let out a long breath. "I'm sorry, Ms. Princess."

"It's... it's fine," Audra stammered. She needed to get out of there before he decided to smack her again. "Excuse me a moment." She approached the stairs at a fast pace to avoid running up them like she wanted to. Thank goodness she wore flats instead of heels.

Audra intended to go into the bathroom but her panic made her forget which door it was. Now she stood nearly face to face with Clay in what she presumed to be his bedroom. She was truly mortified!

"Are you all right?"

"It's... he... she... just..." Audra fanned herself. "I'm so sorry—"

"Are you sick?"

Clay seemingly convinced of an ailment since she couldn't answer, wrapped a strong arm around her waist, and then led her into his private bathroom. He helped her sit on the edge of the tub and frowned down at her. "Audra?"

"It's not that." She fanned herself again, unable to explain further.

"Take a deep breath."

"Clay! Hey! Can I talk to you a minute?" A strong baritone piped up outside the bathroom door. She assumed it was Eric, the gentleman friend of Amanda. Would he tell Clay that she ran out like an idiot?

"Just a moment." He replied, then grabbed a washcloth from the sink. He ran it under the water, then returned and set it on the back of her neck. "Just sit here a second. I'll be right back."

She nodded mutely and placed her hand on the washcloth as he left the room. The cloth felt cool on her neck and she used it to relax instead of focusing on the incident she witnessed.

A few minutes later Clay walked back into the room. He approached the tub, then sat down next to her. He placed a hand on her shoulder as if to comfort her. She turned her head slowly to catch his eyes.

"Are you feeling any better?"

"A little." Audra did not want to tell him how awful she’d acted in front of everyone! She shrugged and he took it as a sign to remove his hand. "Your hand wasn't bothering me."

"Shall I put it back?"

"If you want to. I've got quite a lot going on in my head at the moment."

Clay loosely looped his arm across both of her shoulders. His touch calmed the blaring thoughts of potential violence as they ran through her head. They sat like that for a little while until she completely relaxed. A few more minutes passed and her breath finally evened out.

"Eric told me what happened."

"I can't think about that right now."

"May I explain, please?"

She nodded, but didn't expect him to make any statement that would excuse what she had just seen.

"I've been friends with Eric and his wife Amanda for over five years. They are in a relationship which involves domestic discipline. Have you ever heard of it?"

He paused as he waited for some sort of reply from her. She shook her head in response.

"Basically, Amanda has asked Eric to take care of any task which is too much for her to handle. She has some anxiety issues too, which is probably why the two of you found it easy to talk to one another. She also asked Eric to set rules and boundaries, and they can include physical punishments. I assure you everything Eric does for Amanda is done with her best interests in mind. They are very much in love and have been married for almost fifteen years."

"No one else but me looked shocked. Are all of your guests in this domestic discipline lifestyle?"

"Yes, all of the couples you met tonight are. I wanted to tell you before the party, but I truly didn't think anything would come up. If you want to leave now—"

"No, no." Audra carefully got to her feet, then set the washcloth down in the tub to dry. "I believe everyone has a right to be in any lifestyle he or she chooses to be in. As long as no one is getting harmed, it's none of my business. I apologize. I shouldn't have run out like that."

"I understand why you ran. My friends understand. It's getting late anyway, so they will be leaving within the hour." Clay stood up, then gestured for her to follow him out of the bathroom.

"Thank you for telling me about everything. I'm not closed minded like a lot others might be, but I've never seen behavior like that. Amanda even apologized to me." Audra smoothed her gown down to avoid his stare. She almost leaned in and kissed him when they were side by side. Even with his oversight she really wanted his attention. "I'll go get started on the cleanup." She swiftly exited his room to put distance between them.

The thought of being in his bedroom made her stomach clench, as well as other parts of her, and she didn't want to act any more unprofessional than she already had tonight. If only she could hold on to that thought after all of his friends departed and left them alone in the house together.

Get yourself together!

Whatever chance she might have had was long gone.

Chapter Three

The guests finally said their goodbyes and left. Audra breathed an audible sigh of relief as she could now easily focus on the task at hand – cleaning up from the party.

She changed out of her gown and took an extra few minutes to scrub her face clean. It would save time later on, and since she was sure Clay had no interest in ever inviting her back, she didn't care if he saw her bare face. She undid the silver clips in her hair then pulled it up into a high ponytail. It would get in her way if she left it down.

Audra grabbed her bags, then made her way to the landing. She set everything near the foyer, then moved quickly from the living room and dining room to the kitchen and back.

She’d cleaned a few things throughout the night like the big platters to minimize the time spent at the house all alone. It wasn't because she didn't trust Clay to keep his hands to himself. No, she didn't trust her own hands, at least she didn't at the start of the party. Now she felt sure he wouldn't want to be near her, so it didn't matter what her hands did.

Audra sighed again as she gave the dessert plates a once over with a soapy sponge, then placed them in the dishwasher. The dishwasher looked fancy too. It had three rows, something she didn't even know existed.

"You can leave the rest of it if you like." Clay's voice carried over the sound of the faucet and she glanced up to seem him standing by the middle counter island.

"I'm almost finished. I don't mind." She shut off the water, then closed the door to the dishwasher. "Unless you'd like me to leave right now?"

"You're welcome to stay as long as you like. I have no plans." Clay frowned as he looked at something on her neck. "Somehow you managed to get soap on your neck." He pulled a towel from a nearby drawer then wiped it off. It put him very close to her with little personal space.

"Oh, I washed, uh, my face. It wasn't dish soap in case you were wondering." She risked a look up at him, though his eyes had traveled downwards. From this position he could probably see down the front of her flimsy shirt. He met her gaze when he realized she’d caught him, but his eyes burned with desire. For some reason, he still seemed to want her. "Mr. Lawson?"

"I thought I saw more soap," he admitted casually then traced the dishcloth over the top of her breasts.

She’d forgotten to change bras and had left her strapless, push-up one on. It literally presented her boobs to him like one might show off ripe fruit. It wasn't so bad to have him admiring her, was it? Audra swallowed hard. "I think you, uh, missed a spot."

"Did I?" Clay dragged the rag carefully over her collarbone to the base of her throat. He boldly leaned forward and planted a kiss there, then another and another until she breathed out a moan. Her fingers clawed at empty air until she grabbed his arms. Her original intention was to tell him she should go, but his tongue tickled over a sweet spot in her neck and she threw her head back in bliss.

Clay continued kissing along her neck, which opened a floodgate between her thighs. He trailed up to her mouth and kissed her passionately.

Audra kissed him back hungrily as she moaned into his mouth. She moved her hands away from his arms and looped them around his neck. He responded by lifting her up onto the counter without breaking their kiss. His right hand found her nipples and he pinched each of them in turn. Hard. It turned her on even more, but the movement pulled her back to reality.

"Clay!" She broke away with a gasp. He startled and let go. "I'm sorry, it's just... I don't know... if we keep going—"

"And then if I hand you a check, it will make you feel used? I'm dreadfully sorry for my behavior."

"No, please don't apologize. I was sure I’d embarrassed myself earlier. I figured you would be relieved when I left." Audra shivered when he set his hands on her waist and lowered her to the floor. She extended her legs as he did, to stand on her own. "I really should go."

"Would you please come over for dinner tomorrow? I should have given you more information about the friendships I keep. I really want to make it up to you."

"Yeah, okay," she confirmed, then carefully shifted out of his reach. If he looked at her again with such want and need she wouldn't be able to pull herself away again. She wondered if her own looks mimicked his. Surely he felt something or he wouldn't have lifted her up onto the counter. Damn. That memory would fuel her fantasies tonight, even if that's the only moment she shared with him. How could one man drive her so wild?

* * *

Clay watched Audra slink out of the kitchen and he followed. She put on her heavy wool coat, gathered her bags, then straightened and stood at the front door. "I don't have any more hands," she admitted.

"You also forgot your check." Clay tugged it out from his pants pocket, but felt lost in where she wanted him to place it.

"Can you, um, put it in my right pocket?"

"Gladly." He fought the urge to grin down at her like an idiot and finally tucked the paper inside her pocket. "Please put it in one of your bags when you get into the car. I'd hate for you to lose it."

"Yeah, will do." Audra looked like she wanted to say something else but then she stepped out into the night.

"Drive safely," he commanded, and heard her laugh lightly under her breath.

"I will!" Her laughter floated over the blowing winds and he longed to call her back.

What could he say that would make her understand how deeply he wanted her? He’d watched her entertain all night, shamefully unable to keep his eyes off of her.

"Sorry for wanting to make love to you on my counter," Clay mentioned to himself as he shut and locked the door. He glanced over the empty rooms and let out a long breath. The party was a success as it always was, but this part of the evening always left him unfulfilled. An empty house.

Each of his friends had such lovely wives or girlfriends. Each man would certainly do anything for him, but they had what he missed the most. A woman to submit to his commands and in turn allow him to treat her like an absolute goddess.

He knew each of the couples were surely in bed by now. They were either spooned against each other or maybe having sex early into the morning. It made a twinge run through his body and he hung his head. What would it take to find someone to make his?

He surveyed each room for anything out of place, then turned out all the lights downstairs. He started up the staircase, but paused when he heard the sound of two loud bangs with the door knocker. Who could be knocking on the door at this hour?

Clay left the lights off and traced his steps back to the front door. He opened it slowly and was more than a little surprised to see Audra on the door step.  "Are you all right?"

"It's um, really cold out here."

"It's December."

"I, uh, don't usually ask this... but... um... can I have some more wine?"

"To stay warm?" He frowned as he leaned against the door. She’d waited outside for twenty minutes to get the nerve to come back and ask for wine?

"Well, no. I figured it takes about two hours for each glass to wear off. So, if you kindly pour me three glasses, seeing that it's ten-thirty—"

He cut off her request with a kiss and pulled her up into his arms. She looped her arms around his neck and kissed back. Clay hit the door shut with his hip, then locked it after several tries with one hand.

Audra managed to get her coat off, somehow, as he carried her to the couch. He broke away from her for a moment. She wasted little time, and set to removing her shoes and socks. Audra peeled off her pants, then quickly shimmied out of her shirt.

"Did you actually want wine and I misunderstood?" She replied by putting her hands on his fly. She undid his belt and quickly unzipped his pants. He raised his eyebrows at her boldness. "I suppose not. Nudity and wine is an unusual pairing."

"You absolutely understood," she said breathlessly in response. "As much as I love wine I'd really like to do other things."

"Are you sure you want to do this? I don't do one-night stands."  Clay took her hands in his and held them away from his now overly tight trousers.

"I don't know. I've never wanted anyone to do the sort of things I'd like you to do to me." Audra bit down into her lip. The gesture was so sexy it almost made him take the words back. She moved closer so she could rest her chin underneath his.

"All I know is that you've made me feel more special in just a few days than anyone else I've ever met. I saw you watching me as I served food tonight and it made me feel sexy, and beautiful."

"You are sexy and beautiful." He nuzzled along her cheek. "But, I want to make sure you understand what will happen next."

"What happens next?" Audra nearly purred as he traced his other hand up her body until he linked it in hers. "You're talking long term stuff?"

"If we become intimate tonight, it's the start of a relationship. I can't predict the future, obviously, but this moment means something."

"You don't even know me!" As soon as the words flew out of her lips, she pulled back, as if something also pulled on her common sense. "I guess, I don't know you either." Audra frowned. "But, I've never felt such a strong urge, strong enough to make me knock on the door and boldly invite myself inside, ever. I don't mean just about relationships. I mean about everything!"

"Such passion! What? Is it over, though? Is it because I ceased our actions or because I said something you don't want to hear and you are now determined to get your way?" Clay watched her fingers tighten and release as she worked over his questions. She looked so sweet and delectable with her lovely eyebrows scrunched up in concern. She was serious about him without a doubt, but where did she want to go from here?

"I'm not sure," she finally admitted. "May I please have a glass of wine? I'll go get my things back on."

Clay watched as she gathered her discarded clothes, then walked up the stairs to the bathroom. She seemed to have more to say, but perhaps a nice, cordial would warm her tongue. He would really love to warm something else of hers, but that had to be her decision. He couldn't force a relationship on her. He felt a strong pull towards her, though, perhaps their discussion would settle the matter.

* * *

Audra tied her hair back with the spare tie she kept around her wrist in a fancy silver bracelet created for that purpose. It looked delicate on her, but held one elastic in case of emergency. Her ponytail had come out when his hand tangled in her hair somewhere between the front door and his couch. Technically not an emergency, but she wasn't going to hunt for it now.  If she could just relive that moment again, she could honestly die happy. She blushed as she returned to Clay. She’d truly never done anything like this before!

She drank about half of the cordial in the glass he gave her, but her stomach felt fluttery from the questions she wanted to ask Clay. She let out a soft breath, then picked her drink up and swirled it around. It tasted perfect, just like the wine had, but for now she did it as a distraction.

"Something on your mind?" Clay didn't miss a beat.

She bet he’d seen something in her eyes all night. Hell, the sexual tension between the two of them felt palpable even from the first moment she’d stepped into his house.

"Mmm." She made a non-committal noise and sipped some of her drink.

"Tell me. Is something bothering you?" He set his drink down but kept his gorgeous gray-green eyes on hers. Damn, this man made her wet in between her thighs just from his stare.

"Nah-no." Audra shrugged awkwardly and wondered what the hell the problem was. She didn't get flustered from attention normally. If they were out in public maybe, but here in his house they were all alone. No, it was way deeper. The thought of possibly being perched across his rock hard thighs and getting disciplined made her sweat. If he was into the same type of relationship his friends were, at least. "Well, more of a curiosity."

"Come out with it. You seemed quite unraveled earlier this evening."

"What sort of things would someone be punished for?" She felt a terrible flush wash over her face and looked away from him. She was sure her face was several shades of pink. "I mean, if two people were in that sort of relationship."

"Audra."

Clay demanded her attention with one authority-laced word. She snapped her head around to focus on his face. He had a smirk on his lovely bow shaped lips. Lips that on any other man would look feminine, but his strong jawline and five-o'clock shadow gave them a masculine touch. Clay quirked an eyebrow as he stared and it intensified her arousal.

"I'm curious, is all." Audra gulped the rest of the cordial and coughed. She covered her mouth with her hand. The alcohol was meant to be sipped and it burned her throat slightly.

"Would you like some water?"

She shook her head as she caught her breath. "Uh, no thank you. Coffee would be great though. If you have any."

"Of course." Clay stood up from the table. His hand brushed across the back of her neck as he moved to the counter. She watched him fix coffee, the seemingly old-fashioned way, with a real pot and dry coffee. Her mouth watered as he set it to brew when the strong scent wafted towards her.

"Now to get back to your question. Every couple is different. Some have rules in regards to a specific goal or endeavor. One of the lovely ladies you met tonight recently lost fifty pounds from a reward and punishment system with her husband, Beau. Another one of the ladies, Gwen, completely stopped smoking cigarettes from the same sort of set-up with her fiancé, Matthew."

"Hmm, that's interesting. So, what? Their boyfriends or husbands just decide one day to enact consequences if these rules are broken?"

"On the contrary. Except for two of the women you served, all the others approached their partners. They felt a deep desire in some fashion to be taken in hand and have ground rules and punishments. It just so happens that the men they approached, all good friends of mine, happened to share their desires." Clay reached up into the cabinet and brought down two large mugs. He then turned towards the fridge and held up a container of cream. "It's egg-nog flavored creamer. Would you like some?"

"Yes, please." Audra nodded while she processed the amount of information he had given to her. "So, it only works if you have a habit or bad behavior you want to get rid of?"

"Not exactly. That's one instance that it happens to work very well on, but it can be used to manage a household. Think, for example, of a woman who has been asked multiple times to pay the cell phone bill on time. After six months of re-activation fees her partner tells her the next time she forgets, there will be a punishment. Since they are already in this dynamic she will find a way to remember." He set the flavored creamer down, then went back to the machine to wait for it to finish.

"Forgetting a bill gets you punished? Wow." Audra snorted at the thought of it.

"It's not just forgetting a bill. In this scenario the husband has asked his wife for several months to make sure the phones are paid on time. After a few months, maybe not quite as long as six, he would enact discipline if she forgot again. It's about lessons and responsibilities." Clay carefully poured out the hot coffee into each mug then brought them to the table. He handed one to her.

"I guess I didn't think of it that way." Audra fixed her coffee and took a small sip. The creamer tasted delicious and she smiled. "So, uh, what sort of punishment?"

"Are you sure you want to know? The swat across Ms. Amanda's behind probably gives you a good idea."

"I think so." Audra wrinkled her nose at the memory, but the thought of Clay doing the same action made her tingly in between her thighs.  Her voice came out breathy instead of firm as she intended and betrayed her words.

"Well, because of her antics at the party, Eric probably put her in the corner when they got home." Clay took a long sip from his mug. "After Amanda stood there and thought about what she did, I'm sure Eric spanked her. Once the wine left her system, of course."

"What does it feel like?" Audra had sort of thought he was going down that path, but to hear him say the word spanking out loud made her squirm.

"Submitting to your partner in a way where you know he only wants what is best for you or a spanking?"

"Uh, I meant... I don't know." That word again! Audra blew out several breaths. Where had all her dignity gone? She stammered like a school girl around him. He was super formal, like one might expect a professor or other man in authority, but it was the glimpses of the man she believed to be underneath the tailored suit and expensive tastes that were getting to her.

She thought of his hands on her and their lips intertwined. When he’d planted that kiss on her collarbone and neck, then licked down towards her cleavage, she had gone wild with desire. The memory brought another wave of heat over her body. Soon she would need to excuse herself for air.

Clay reached forward and cupped her face, forcing her to look directly at him. It added to her embarrassment and she was sure her cheeks flamed the brightest pink imaginable.

"Are you asking because you want to experience it or for some other purpose?"

She opened and shut her mouth a few times as it suddenly went dry. He released her as quickly as he’d touched her then leaned back in his chair. He slowly folded his arms across his chest, waiting for her reply.

"I have another question first. Do you engage in the types of relationships you mentioned?" She took tiny sips from the mug so she didn't choke.

"Yes."

Audra waited for him to elaborate, but he didn't offer further explanation. Could he possibly mean if they got into a relationship that she could expect the same type of dynamic?

"I've been thinking a lot about what you described tonight." She leaned back in her chair as well. "Everyone seemed so happy and in tune with each other the tonight. The men and women, you could just feel all the love in the room. Seriously, it was amazing. Even after I ran out, when I returned, no one seemed to judge me." Audra shook her head. "I'm, uh, babbling."

"You haven't answered my question yet." Clay dropped his arms. "Are you asking for your own sake? Or is it just because you have questions but no real interest there?"

"I know you hired me just to serve some food at a posh party, but I felt a real connection with your friends. Yeah, I do this winter fairy get-up in a social setting, but I'm not good at going out and actually meeting people like I sort of explained before. So tonight, before everything happened, Amanda gave me her phone number. I found out that she and I have a great love of poetry readings. We're going to the local library together next week to attend one. It's really unusual for me to make plans. I'm not good at keeping them. If she got me to open up enough to want to hang out, then I can't judge her or anything."

"You're dancing around the question, Audra."

She rubbed a finger along the mug, then along the table. How the hell did she answer him? Why did his voice alone make her want to beg him for more?

"I want to know how it feels. The rules, the guidance, the punishments. All of it." Audra risked a glance but then dropped her head down at her confession.

She heard his chair shuffle along the floor, then found her chin tilted upwards, caught between the thumb and pointer finger of his right hand.

"Would you like me to give you a spanking?"

Audra gulped hard. After a moment her breath came out in gasps and she blinked up at him wordlessly. He looked so serious and sincere, but she couldn't bring herself to answer. Finally, she nodded twice.

"Verbally answer me, please."

"Uh, yeah." Huge waves of heat washed over her and beads of sweat trickled down from her brow. "Yes, please."

"Come over to the couch with me." Clay let go of her chin and held out his hand. She hesitantly placed hers in his and let him lead her to the couch. "If you are uncomfortable at any time, for any reason, I want you to tell me. Am I understood?" He dropped her hand, then removed his suit jacket.

What he did next sent delicious shivers up and down her spine. First, he unbuttoned his dress shirt at the wrist and slowly rolled it up to his elbow. Clay repeated the action with his left sleeve, then sat down on the couch. He patted his thigh, another gesture which sent more shivers, but this time they went all over her body.

"Yes, absolutely." She licked her lips in wicked anticipation, and hoped he didn't see her do it. Audra hesitated only a moment, then carefully set herself across his lap.

"I'm going to lower your pants. Is that all right?" He tapped his fingers against her hip.

Audra figured if they were in a real relationship and she'd actually done something wrong that he would not be so polite and gentlemanly. "Yes, that's fine," she squeaked out a reply.

In seconds her yoga pants were gently lowered until they reached her knees. She blushed at what she imagined Clay's saw in his line of vision.

Tonight she wore a lovely lace black garter set, old-fashioned in style to keep the look seamless under her gown, with two thigh highs clipped to the fancy belt. She wondered if he appreciated it. His fingertips trailed up each of her thighs until they reached her bottom. It was covered in equally lacy panties, black with a tiny bow in the front.

"These need to come down." Without further conversation, he set a hand on either side of her waist and edged her panties all the way down to her knees to meet her pants. "Very nice." He dragged his hand up to the top of her curves.

"Will it hurt?"

"It can hurt if it is done strictly as discipline, but luckily for you this isn't a punishment. No more questions. You can ask me later." Clay smacked his hand against each of bottom cheeks swiftly. He repeated the same pattern several times, then stopped to rub each side.

Audra flexed her toes then relaxed them. He returned to his task and landed five blows on her right cheek in succession. Each one stung like when you snapped a rubber band against your wrist, but it wasn't overly painful.

Clay continued to target every part of her bottom, from the top of her cheeks all the way down to the lower curve of her butt. His palm moved up and down with vigor and she wondered if he felt the same sting in his hand.

The intensity waxed and waned depending on the spot. She made little groans of discomfort when her upper thighs were struck, but otherwise she remained mostly quiet. Some places were more sensitive than others, but overall it was more pleasant than she imagined it to be.

As the spanking continued she thought about what her reaction must have looked like to his guests. Did they think she was closed minded and judgmental? Worse still, did he think her to be that way? No, she rationalized if that were true, he wouldn't allow his time to be wasted with this preview. She really felt a connection to the others and to Clay himself. Did he feel it too?

Audra sniffled as unexpected tears fell down her cheeks. It wasn't from the pain, but something inside of her shifted. She had thought she would be embarrassed at her response, but strangely she felt peaceful.

He tugged her panties up her legs then situated them into place. He repeated the process with her yoga pants and smoothed his hand down over her hips and bottom. She found herself slowly turned over and lifted until she could see him. He brushed a tear from her eye with his hand, then shot her a questioning look.

"I falsely judged your friend Eric when I saw him smack Amanda. I felt outraged that she immediately quieted down and behaved herself. Then after she explained she had too much to drink, then got bawdy after her husband limited her wine, I understood." Audra took in a deep breath and let it out. "I haven't been myself since I moved out of my parent's house. I've been searching for something or someone to help me with things. It's all been building up inside me, and I didn't know how to let it all out. Yes, it hurt in some spots, but it pushed through something. A wall, maybe? One I've built up and around things instead of dealing with them."

"One spanking pushed through a barrier? I'm quite intrigued by your response." Clay reached behind her to grab a box of tissues then handed them to her.

"It sounds silly, but I keep a lot in."

"I would like to help you get more out sometime. Is that something you would consider?"

"Maybe."

He let her answer, hang for a while as she settled down. She relaxed in his arms, and found them to be comforting like the way she used to feel wrapped up in her favorite childhood blanket.

"What else is on your mind?"

"You." Audra hesitantly laced her fingers in his and he responded by rubbing his fingertips across hers. "Whenever you touch me it's like little fireworks going off. I'd very much like you to kiss me."

"Is that so?" Clay leaned down to press his lips to hers, he did it hesitantly at first then deepened the kiss.

"Mmm." She melted under his touch and moaned softly into his mouth. She loved the way he tasted, but he’d already told her that he didn't do hook-ups. Audra slowly broke away.

"You're afraid of what kissing me may lead to, aren't you?"

"I, uh, don't get wrapped up easily. So, I'm a bit overwhelmed by all these feelings and thoughts." She kissed him once more then pulled back again. "I want to go back to what we discussed before."

"We've discussed quite a bit." He smiled warmly as she stared at him. "Which part do you want to address now?"

"I think I would very much like to take things to a more intimate level with you. I heard what you said about it being the start of a relationship and I'm okay with that." Audra gently shrugged. "Do you want to take that path with me?"

"I'm not normally a spontaneous person. In fact, several of my friends would say I am borderline boring at times. But, I can tell you from firsthand experience that life is very precious and short. If you're willing to take that plunge I would love to follow suit." Clay cupped his hand to her cheek. "But, you would have to let me take the lead. Are you ready to do that?"

Dozens of butterflies suddenly swarmed through her stomach, but the soft touch of his hand and the gentle dominance in his tone combined in an unexpected way. She wanted to take the leap right now! It scared her just a little, like you would feel jumping off a cliff into the water below, but it also felt exhilarating.

"Yes, I want to see where this can go." Her mouth widened into a grin. "I'm not sure where you'll lead us, but I think it will be an amazing journey."

"I'm delighted to hear you say that." He let go of her face, then slid her off his lap. "Shall we call it a night or—"

"May I pick whatever you say after 'or'?" Audra interrupted with a wicked smile.

"That's a dangerous choice." Clay held his hand out to her and she placed hers in his. "I almost had my way with you in the kitchen."

"Almost? You could have continued…" Audra shivered and lost her train of thought as his free hand traced over the curves of her body, "or something."

"I'd much rather ravage you in my bedroom." He chuckled when she let out a soft moan. "Do you like the idea?"

"The idea of you ravaging me?" Audra giggled. "I thought you were very proper in all things."

"Yes, but tonight that means I'm going to properly fuck you."

With those words he scooped her up completely into his arms and carried her up the stairs. She couldn't think of a comeback for that! He’d silenced her into awe from the boldness of his statement. He was still wearing his suit and the combination instantly aroused her. What other surprises did he have in store?

Audra gave up on an intelligent remark and instead dipped her head down to lick along his neck. She licked downwards, then undid the top buttons on his shirt. "May I remove your tie?"

"Only if you want me to reply by tying your lovely hands behind your back."

She titled her head up and scanned his face for a hint of amusement but found none. She decided he was serious and left the tie alone. For now.

A wicked idea suddenly filtered through her mind and she carefully loosened the knot. Satisfied with her work-a-round she undid the next two buttons. Audra trailed kisses over his collarbone then nipped playfully.

He responded with a low growl against her ear. "Do you normally skate around the rules, Audra?"

"Sometimes," she admitted as she looked around. They were in the hallway just outside of his room.

"Most of the time?" Clay opened the door and stepped inside. He shut the door softly behind them, then moved towards the huge four-poster bed in the center of the room. It had piqued her interest before, but now the sight gave her a thrill of anticipation.

"Maybe?" she offered sincerely. A curiosity she had to explore pushed her one step further. Audra took the knot in one hand and the long tail in the other.

"We may not have rules yet, but I'm warning you once more. I will bind your hands."

Her deep desire to find out if he would follow through on such a threat trumped her want to listen. She completely undid the knot and slowly slid the tie off his neck and into her hands. She gave a mock exclamation of surprise. "Uh-oh. It just fell off your neck."

"Imagine that."  Clay set her down on the bed. He gave her a look which promised in no uncertain terms that he would do exactly what he promised. His fingers reached down to the top of her button-down shirt and quickly undid the entire line in a flurry of movement.

He slipped the garment down her shoulders and tugged it off her arms. Clay pulled the tie firmly out of her grasp, took her right hand in his, and then knelt on the bed behind her. He looped the tie around her wrist twice, then pulled the other end through.

"I expected you to push against the boundaries." He took her other hand and swiftly but gently bound it to the other with the silky cloth. "But understand that as much I encourage you to do so, I will always follow through when it comes to my word."

"I'm not used to anyone giving me this much attention. I heard what you said, but I also needed to see what would happen if I pushed. I'm sorry, and I do believe you. Can you untie me please?"

"It doesn't work that way." He licked a long line up her neck and nipped at her earlobe. "I accept your apology, truly there isn't a reason for you to be sorry, but we've only just begun."

"Oh." She twisted her head to see his handsome face. "I almost forgot. I insist on protection, every time."

"Of course." He kissed her lips, then brushed his thumb across them. "It is very responsible for you to ask. Is there anything else I should be aware of? Like any places on your body you wouldn't want me to touch or is injured?"

Audra shook her head.

"When I ask you a question, especially in here, I am seeking a verbal reply. Let's try it again." Clay snaked his fingers into hair, flush against her scalp, and gradually inched her head back until her body pressed completely into him. She let out a soft gasp when he tugged once. "Is there anything else I should be aware of?"

"My toes go numb sometimes on my left side if my leg is in an awkward position. It's worse than pins and needles."

He rewarded her by releasing his hold. Seconds later he scooted her up the bed then laid her down on her back.

"Very good. If that happens just say 'pins' and I'll know to adjust." Clay gave her a sly smile. He undid the rest of the buttons on his shirt, then removed it. He wore a gray vee neck shirt underneath which he stripped off as well. He sat on the edge of his bed and removed his socks and shoes.

Everything about him seemed so formal and practiced! It hinted that he would be rather unbridled in bed, or so she hoped. The tie around her wrists certainly pointed in such a direction.

"Will do." Audra fought to stay still as he stood, unbuckled his belt, and yanked it through the loops with a snap. "Your belt sounds like a whip."

"Don't worry, it's not part of the fun tonight." He winked as he unzipped his pants and slid them down and off his legs.

Clay returned to the bed and climbed on top of her. He set a leg on either side of her body, then leaned down to capture her nipple in his mouth. He swirled his tongue around it, then sucked it hard. His teeth scraped gently across it. The action tore a loud moan from her throat and she bucked. Clay trailed his tongue across her chest until he reached the other nipple, then repeated his actions. She yelped this time as he increased the pressure so he slowly let it escape his lips. Clay moved his hands to her waist. He set a finger just inside the top of her panties and edged them down her hips, along her legs, and finally off her body.

"I want to touch you!" She huffed with exasperation as he painstakingly dragged his fingertips along the same path in reverse. He scratched lightly when he reached her thighs and she moaned. "Please, Clay. Undo my hands?"

"Hmm? I recall telling a very determined woman to leave my tie alone. Twice. The repercussions for not listening would be her hands bound behind her back. In a twist of delicious irony, the same tie would be used." He furrowed his brows. "Does that sound familiar to you?"

"Ugh!" Audra pouted, but nodded in reply. "Yes, I was there."

"I'll release you when we're done. Do not ask again." He drummed his fingers on top of each thigh and shifted his gaze to stare there. "Open for me."

Audra parted her legs to allow him access to her most intimate parts. "You've got a very suggestive smile on your face." She opened her mouth to make another smart comment, but he dipped his head down in between her legs to plant one well-placed kiss just over her clit. She no longer had anything funny to say.  He simultaneously slid two fingers inside her pussy and pumped them in and out. "Oooh!" She longed to hold on to him while he pleasured her, but could do little more than tighten her legs when he hit a sweet spot.

One hand tapped the inside of her thigh and she loosened her muscles. It was so hard for her to relax even when an incredibly handsome man devoured her pussy. She seldom let anyone go down on her at all but he blew any hesitations out of the water. She tried to stay still but failed. "Oh... oh..." Audra tapped her feet up and down. "Oh my gosh."

Clay lifted his head up and kissed her hip. He smirked evilly as he withdrew his fingers. "Oh my gosh? That's your response?"

"I figured if I kicked out my feet and said, 'Hell fucking yeah,' you might take offense."

"Hell fucking yeah?" He shifted his body upwards until his face hovered over hers. "Really?"

"Ye-yeah." Audra pursed her lips since she could not grab his head. He smirked again. "Please kiss me?"

"You're so cute this way." Clay kissed her hard, so hard she figured he’d just claimed her with his tongue. She delved her own tongue in and out of his mouth just as fast as he met hers. "I like to hear you beg for what you want." He dug his fingers into her blonde tresses and freed her hair from its elastic band. It tumbled loosely over her shoulders and down to the top of her nipples. "What do you want now?"

"I-I-I..." she tried, but could not make the right string of words come out of her mouth.

"Tell me." Clay untangled his hand from her long hair and pinched her left nipple. Hard. He repeated the gesture on her right and she felt a gush between her thighs.

"I want to be properly... oh!" Audra moaned when he nipped the sweet hollow of her neck. Every single touch truly drove her mad with desire. "Properly fucked!" she finished without shame.

"Good and properly fucked, I suppose?"

"Yes! Yes. Please!" Audra nearly cried. "I swear I will listen next time."

Clay chuckled, "Already making promises? My, my, my. What a sweet little thing you are." He moved off the bed to his dresser, then reached his hand in to grab something. He slid off his silky boxer briefs, then rolled on a condom.

"I try," she replied as she tried not to stare at his cock as he returned to his position. He was more well endowed than she’d imagined. Her tongue darted out to lick his bottom lip, the only part of his body she could reach.

It had been a while since she'd been in bed with anyone, so if he didn't take her soon she might lose her nerve! She didn't have to urge him on, as soon as the thought left her mind, Clay sank his cock into her heat. She groaned with pleasure and he wrapped his arms around her.

"You feel so good," he growled under his breath. "Does that feel good?"

"Yes, yes," she agreed while he plunged in and out of her pussy, hard and fast, over and over again while working up a good rhythm. "I love the way you feel inside me."

"Good to know," he mused, then kissed her passionately. He trailed kisses down her neck and over both breasts and back up again to her mouth.

"Harder," she whined. "Please?" Audra added as an afterthought.

"No whining," he admonished and tapped his finger on her nose. The gesture seemed absurd, but his tone made her clench around his cock in a good way. "Though I intend to give you exactly what you want."

Clay made good on his promise. He shifted her legs to wrap completely around his waist, then increased the speed of his hips while he kept her in place.

"Oh!" Audra could scarcely remember any other letters of the alphabet while he took her faster and higher than anyone else in her life. She came hard while she screamed his name again and again when the powerful orgasm rolled over her. Clay hit his climax and she joined him, and then came once more when he pulled out of her. "Oh, wow."

She heard him chuckle somewhere over her head as he reached across her to dispose of the condom. He then slid his hands down her arms until he reached the tie. Clay carefully undid the binding, then released both hands.

"Don't try to move them yet," he warned as he rubbed her right hand and wrist lightly. "You need to let the blood flow back." Clay also picked up her left hand and rubbed it, being careful not to massage too forcefully. He sure knew his stuff and it made her wonder what other tricks he knew.

"Mmm hmm," she mumbled while she basked in a lovely afterglow moment. Soon enough, she could wiggle her fingers and rotate her wrists freely. "Thank you."

"Would you like to stay here tonight?"

"Here in your bed or here in your house?" Audra questioned, her voice thick from a sudden feeling of exhaustion. "I like the first choice."

"So be it." Clay turned down the covers around her and she giggled as she awkwardly raised herself up to get under them. He joined her and wrapped his arms around her.

She shimmied her body closer and laid her head on his chest.

"I'm so happy you decided to knock on the door tonight."

"It took a lot of nerve." She giggled again. "Like a lot of nerve."

"More nerve than stealing my tie?"

"Uh, maybe not. It was easier to stand outside in twenty-five degree weather in a coat and no gloves rather than risk your potential consequences." Audra nuzzled against him. "Seriously, though, I'm happy I knocked too."

"Well, good. I hope that thought stays with you." He planted one more kiss against her cheek. "Goodnight my winter princess. Sweet dreams."

"Goodnight. You too," she mumbled as she fell into a deep sleep. It was filled with amazing moments from the day with the man who held her close to him like she was something precious. Whatever happened could only be the start of something wonderful.

The End

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Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

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