Page 44 of For the Sub

“Really, Sir. You’ve helped enough.”

Her tone was abrupt, and a scowl was wedged between her eyebrows.

Keeping his voice light, he asked, “Do you refuse everyone’s help?”

“Not at all.”

“Then the problem is me.”

“No! It’s…” She sucked in a breath. “Well, yes, it is you. You’re a Dom.”

“Doms are incapable of washing dishes? They need to put up their feet and have a cocktail while you do all the housework and come to bed exhausted? For good measure, you could be scolded for not moving faster and rubbing my back?”

She cracked a small smile. “Sounds ridiculous when you say it like that.”

“It is ridiculous,” he agreed. “I want to get you naked. The sooner that happens, the better.”

“Stop.” Her scowl returned.

Niles turned toward her. “I’ve made you uncomfortable. Tell me why.”

When she remained silent, he added, “I’ve somehow blundered into one of your emotional limits, and I’d like to understand why.” He wasn’t sure what in the hell had happened in the last thirty seconds, but goddamn if he’d let it go.

“I think it means something if you help me with chores.”

“Only has the meaning you give it. Can you accept help from a friend?”

“A friend? That’s not exactly how I see you, Sir.” She sighed.

He waited.

Finally, she expanded on what she meant. “People in relationships help each other with dishes.”

“Ah. So if I help you, I have to move in? Or maybe I drag you to my home and force you to cook and clean for me? You would look good in a pretty little maid’s outfit.”

She laughed, scattering the tension. “You’re being outrageous.”

“Am I?” He looped his arms around her waist and drew her close. “I hear nervousness in your voice, but it’s okay for us to relax around each other. And to be honest, I’d prefer to deal with this tonight instead of facing it in the morning before I’ve had my coffee.”

Her breath caught. “Does that mean you’re spending the night?”

Her question held a note of hesitation, something at odds with the confident person she projected.

This evening, he was witnessing the real Brandy, rather than the submissive personality she presented at the Den.

“I apologize for being presumptuous.” He folded his arms across his chest. “I’d like to spend the night, but the choice is yours.”

As he inhaled her sweetness, his body responded to hers.

He’d be a gentleman if that’s what she wanted, but his cock was voting in favor of her asking him not to leave.

Beautiful Brandy trembled.

And he ached.

What decision would she make?

Chapter Seven

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