Page 23 of Elemental Hope
“Always.” Nathaniel ran a hand through his hair, a repetitive habit he realized he needed to break. “I propose we begin with a simple contract that outlines a few rules. This is for you just as much as me, so I expect you to contribute.” He grabbed a pad from a side table then took a pen from his shirt pocket. “I have few requirements. Honesty, obedience and a willingness to learn. I would like to give you some responsibilities around the house and Felix may also have tasks for you. You’ll follow an exercise regime and support me in my work.”
“Symeon mentioned you worked with the winds,” Damon stated. “I don’t know much more than that.”
“I have the strongest connection with the air element. My business is in renewable energy—wind farms mainly, though not exclusively. My abilities mean I am able to ensure their maximum efficiency. A large percentage of the organization’s profits is plowed back into research.”
“But you don’t have anyone to channel through? No boyfriend?”
“No. I have learned to channel through many people at once. It’s not as effective and it’s hard work, but it does the job.”
“Maybe one day you could channel through me?” Damon suggested.
“Perhaps, but in the meantime you can support me on my trips to manage the winds. Felix has been plaguing me to find an assistant for a while.”
“I want to be useful. I’ll help in any way I can.”
Damon seemed pleased. Nathaniel wrote a few lines on his pad, summarizing what they’d discussed so far.
“What happens if I break any of your rules, Sir?”
“They’re our rules, Damon, not just mine. Break them and you’ll be punished.”
“By you?”
“By me. In a way I will explain to you at the time. Any punishment will fit the crime.” He grinned. Damon rolled his eyes.
“Doms. Always ready to hand out a spanking.”
“I think you’d enjoy that too much for it to be considered a punishment.”
“I’m not saying a word.”
“Probably best. Now is there anything you want to add to the sheet?”
Damon took the pad and pen. He hesitated before writing a line or two then handed it back to Nathaniel.
“Nathaniel will protect Damon from Symeon Malus and all other supernatural threats,” Nathaniel read. “I’ll certainly do my best.” He laid his hand on Damon’s knee. “I promise.” Damon didn’t move his leg.
That evening, Nathaniel, Felix and Damon settled around the kitchen table to share a meal that Damon had prepared. The room was filled with savory aromas and Nathaniel found his mouth watering. Damon, still barefoot but now wearing a T-shirtwith his jeans, had a smudge of flour on his nose. He placed a bowl of salad on the table, which was already set for three.
“This actually smells great,” Felix announced, sounding surprised. “It’s a big improvement on anything you’ve ever produced, Nate, and I haven’t even tasted it yet.”
Nathaniel shrugged. Felix was right. Neither of them could cook worth a damn. They kept half the restaurants in the area in business with their takeout orders. “I’m amazed Damon even found enough ingredients to cook with.”
“The contents of your fridge are pathetic,” Damon said, cheerfully. “Good thing I’m a miracle worker. I will need to go to the market, though, if you want me to carry on with catering duty.” He placed a steaming dish on the table. “I made shepherd’s pie. There was ground beef in the freezer and some frozen vegetables and I found some potatoes that were just about salvageable. It would be much better with more fresh stuff.” He distributed three warm plates then handed Nathaniel a serving spoon. Nathaniel gave it back.
“You should do the honors.”
Damon’s cheeks pinked but he set to ladling generous portions onto each plate.
“Oh my God, this is good,” Felix managed between mouthfuls. “Chain him to something in here, Nate. He should never be allowed to leave the kitchen.”
Damon giggled. The sound made Nathaniel smile.Damon’s young—he should be enjoying himself. He hasn’t had much to smile about for the last few years, that’s certain.
“But if I can’t go out for groceries, you won’t get to eat more home-cooked food, Felix.”
“I’ll take you myself. I’ll even push the cart.” Felix shoved another forkful of food into his mouth with an orgasmic moan.
“You can go shopping, Damon,” Nathaniel said. “But I don’t want you going out alone until we know what Symeon is up to.”
