Page 75 of Defy

“Punish me.”

I paused for a moment.

She had no idea how I itched to delve out the consequences of her behavior. She deserved everything I gave her, and if I left her writhing, crying, and completely unsatisfied, it would have been all her own fault.

Instead of acknowledging her words, I continued on my path and set her items on the granite island.

Closing my eyes, I braced my hands on the counter’s edge.

“Damon.”

“Yes.”

“Did you hear what I said?”

“I did.”

“And?”

“And what, Sophia?”

“I want you to punish me.”

I lifted my gaze to hers, and the arousal that seemed to spark to life no matter the situation between us ignited.

My cock hardened with the desire to redden her ass, watch those fat tears stream down her cheeks, and hear her scream her frustration when I refused to give her the relief she craved.

In the past, I wouldn’t have denied a sub’s request for discipline. She wouldn’t have had to ask. It was a given.

I couldn’t think straight when it came to Sophia. I felt more, wanted more, needed more, and she sent my emotions into a tailspin.

Denial was the best option before I did something we both regretted.

“What form of punishment are you expecting from me?” I asked, resisting the urge to clench my fists. “I’m well versed in many methods.”

She licked her lips. “I only know the ones you’ve taught me.”

“Did you enjoy them?”

Her cheeks flushed, and she squirmed under my gaze. “At certain points, no, and at others, yes.”

“This new lesson, you aren’t going to like one bit.”

Her brows furrowed, and she studied me as uncertainty and suspicion lit her dark eyes. “What are you going to do?”

“I’m going to deny your request.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Punishment requires my attention. You don’t deserve it. You haven’t earned it.”

“What the hell do you mean I haven’t earned it.”

“I’m your Dom, Sophia. The way a submissive behaves reflects on her Dom. All you’ve done is disrespect me. Once you’ve earned my time and attention, I’ll give it to you.”

“So you plan to punish me by ignoring me?”

I shook my head. “There is no ignoring you. I couldn’t even if I tried. But I’m not going out of my way to cater to you either. You said you loved me, then decide if you can put me on your list of priorities.”

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