Page 51 of Hooked

“It’s different because you’re not angry and I’m not—”

“What? Aroused? I can certainly fix that.”

Two fingers slid into her wetness as his thumb found her clit. When the paddle fell again, he had it flipped to the padded side and gave her a half dozen whacks. By the time the sound from the last one abated, Livia was rocking back on his fingers, moaning softly.

“You’re certainly aroused now, little one. You’re dripping.”

“It’s your fingers, and when you spank me at the same time—” Abruptly, she stopped, as he added a third finger. After that, all that came out was an unintelligible groan.

“No coming yet, Livia. Not until we finish your tattoo.”

The lettered side of the paddle fell hard on her unmarked cheek. She rocked back onto his hand, the pleasure-pain bringing her closer to the edge.

Whisper-soft, his fingers traced where he’d swatted. “Gorgeous. The word is as clear as can be. I’m going to see about ordering one of these for home.” His lips brushed over her fiery skin, his breath hot as he whispered, “You may come now, pet.”

His fingers drove quickly in and out as his tongue licked over the imprint on her cheek. In seconds, she was there, moaning as she experienced her fourth climax of the night.

Afterward, despite water and chocolate, she was hopelessly spent, her legs rubbery like overcooked noodles. So it was in the wee hours of the morning, Joseph, having swimmer’s stamina, carried her upstairs to their borrowed apartment for the night.

Chapter 13

STANDING IMPATIENTLYoutside LifeTime Fitness downtown, she checked her phone for the umpteenth time in the past ten minutes. He was late, and she wasn’t about to go into the gym for the very first visit all alone. She sent him a quick message.

Livia:Are you going to be too much longer? Should we reschedule the gym? Call me, please.

Ten minutes later, she was pacing. Something must be wrong. Joseph was rarely late and when he was, he always called or at least sent her a text.

Livia:Joseph, I’m worried. Please call.

As soon as she hit send, she heard her name. Expecting to see him in yet another natty tweed suit, his long legs carrying him rapidly toward her, she turned with a welcoming smile. But it wasn’t him striding toward her.

A coldness crept into her bones as she came face-to-face with the man she’d hoped to never see again. He was exiting the fitness center, his damp hair curling around his ears and at his neck, his handsome face wearing the all too familiar expression of superiority. He eyed her up and down slowly, and as he did so often in the past, frowned as if finding her lacking.

Livia’s stomach clenched.

“Olivia, it’s been a while.”

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