Page 16 of High Roller

“I brought you food and clothes,” I say, trying to keep my tone neutral. Nudity is a common occurrence at The High Card, we are a BDSM club after all, and a lot of the submissives are naked while they serve their Dominant partners.

“Thank you so much. It’s Gracie, right? I’m sorry we got off on the wrong foot. You seem like a real sweetheart.”

My heart softens towards her a bit, despite reminding myself of who she is.

I struggle with what to say as my gaze drifts to the marks on her thighs again.

“My husband left the bruises and bite marks,” she assures me. “Only the scratches are Victor’s. My husband is a monster. Victor was… kind.”

The image of Victor using his long fingernails on her naked body makes my stomach lurch while simultaneously turning me on. It’s a complicated twist of emotions, and I suddenly don’t want to be here anymore.

“I’m sorry I can’t be more help,” I mutter, backing toward the door.

She waves her hand. “Don’t be sorry. Something tells me a discussion in Victor’s office involves less talking and more spanking. I have no desire to get you in trouble.”

My mouth falls open. “What gives you that idea?”

Lili laughs. “I’m married, not naive or asleep. I’ve explored BDSM before. It’s clear you are in some kind of dynamic with Victor.”

“It’s strictly professional.”

“But he does spank you, right?”

I frown. “If I break the rules during club hours, yes, he’s punished me before.” It’s not always spanking. Victor can be creative. But I don’t tell her that. Why am I even answering her questions? Now I’m just annoyed with myself.

“That constitutes a power exchange dynamic, honey.”

I don’t like the way she calls me honey. It sounds condescending. I need to get out of here.

“The room has a microphone. I’ll turn it on. If you need anything, all you have to do is say my name.”

I leave the items I’ve brought on the coffee table and hurry out again.

I take a risk and go in search of Victor. He’s in his office, looking pensive.

“What is it, butterfly?”

“Is it OK to open the shop back up?”

He glances at his watch. “No. Let’s leave it closed today. Don’t worry. You’ll still get paid.”

I shake my head. “I wasn’t worried, Sir.”

He looks up at me with kindness in his eyes that I rarely see him use with others. It makes my heart flutter.

“I’m sorry about springing this on you. Forgive me?”

I give a tentative nod. “Of course. It seems important. I can live with that.”

“Good girl.”

I ignore the little thrill that washes over me at being called a good girl by the one man I’ve wanted since moving to Las Vegas. It doesn’t mean anything. It’s just a habit. I want to ask him if he likes this woman, but that seems like a ridiculous question since he kidnapped her and brought her here naked.

“What are we going to do with her?” It seems like a safer thing to ask.

Victor lets out a sharp laugh. “I have no fucking clue. When I found out who she was, I acted on instinct. Owen is pissed. I can’t get a hold of Luke or Matteo, but I’m sure they’ll be pissed too.”

“They’re in D.C. this week, remember? They’ll be back tomorrow before the party. Tobias is around, though. If you need some extra help.”

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