Page 177 of Master of My Heart

“You must be willing to see things for yourself, without judging according to your past experiences. Once you come and see, you will understand more and be able to make your choice.”

“But what about Richard and Tom? You said they were my Masters. How does that affect my relationship with Chase?”

“They are your Masters. It is not a permanent bonding, but will remain in place long enough to keep you safe until you make your final decision. If you decide to marry Chase, things will change. I will be honest, though. It is not safe for you to not have a Master.” Theo frowned. “There are others who are like Elders, but they are not. They do not have good intentions. They want women like you so they can gain control over the Elders. And, ultimately, the world.”

The look on Theo’s face filled her with dread.

“We thought they were eliminated many years ago, but there are whispers they are gaining power again. You must be careful. Your past, what happened to you, makes me wonder if they have already had you. But I can decipher nothing in your mind to tell me one way or the other. That concerns me more than anything.”

Her heart beat harder in her chest as fear gripped her very soul. “I don’t want to hurt anyone,” she whispered.

“I know you do not, Sabrina, but in their hands, it would not matter what you wanted. They have a different power. It is very dark and difficult to defeat.”

“So I can protect others from this group of people by remaining with the Elders?”

Theo nodded solemnly.

“Okay.” She swallowed hard. “I’ll do as you said.”

He nodded, his golden eyes warm. “You will be content and fulfilled, Sabrina. You must accept what you are, though. Do not try to be someone you are not. It will only make you miserable.”

After a few moments of silent contemplation, she asked, “What does a Master do?”

“A Master, in your case, watches over you and keeps you safe.”

“Can he tell me what to do?”

“Yes. And if you disobey, it will be painful.”

“Painful how?”

“Each Mistress experiences disobedience differently. I recommend not finding out. But Richard will not command you to do anything unless you are a danger to yourself or others. Their control over you is a matter of respect. Yes, they can make you do things, but they will not because they respect you. And me.”

A rustling sound behind her made her turn. She saw Richard and Tom standing in the doorway, wearing black robes. Their hair was ruffled and they looked a little wide-eyed.

“Are you okay, Sabrina?” Richard asked.

She felt an urge to stand. Like she shouldn’t be sitting when her Masters were near. Masters. She swallowed and stood. “Yes.”

Richard studied her face. “Are you sure?”

She nodded. “Theo’s been explaining what happened.”

“She does not remember much,” Theo explained. “I believe her natural instincts took over and allowed you to do what needed to be done.”

Tom and Richard chuckled. She looked back at Theo, confused.

“You were quite the... What is the term you humans use? Minx?” Theo said with a grin and a twinkle in his eyes.

“What did I do?” she asked, almost afraid to find out.

“You wore us out,” Tom said with a laugh and shook his head. “My dick is sore.”

Her eyes widened and she bit her lip. “I’m sorry,” she whispered.

Tom walked over to her and cupped her chin. “Don’t be, little one. It was quite enjoyable. Very enjoyable.” He kissed her on the forehead and smiled at her. “You’re safe now. That’s the important thing.”

She let out a soft sigh and smiled up at him, her heart and spirit completely open. His eyes widened slightly, then he leaned down and kissed her gently on the lips. “I need to get home. I’m sure Kelsey is worried.” He glanced at Theo. “Can you take me home, or do I need to go the long way?”

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