Page 20 of On His Terms

“I want you flat on your feet, so there’s no compromising your safety.” Once she nodded, he went on. “Since today is my thirty-third birthday, and you graciously offered to accept my spanking on my behalf, I’m going to flog you thirty-three times. This is a fairly lightweight implement, perfect for a light, sensual experience.”

That, she wasn’t sure about.

Could she do this? When she’d made her desperate suggestion, she’d thought maybe he’d pull her over his lap. But to be on a stool, arms stretched, naked, subjected to his lash…?

“Chelsea? Are you still with me?”

Bravely she met his eyes. Maybe it was bravado, but she wasn’t backing down. “Yes, Sir.”

He studied her for a moment before nodding. He selected a pair of cuffs—thankfully they were fabric, rather than metal—then fastened them around her wrists.

“Onto the stool when you’re ready.”

Filled with trepidation, she accepted his hand and took the small step up.

Movements sure and efficient, he attached the cuffs to the hook, then slowly hoisted it up a few inches, stretching her, crashing tension through her body.

“How’s that?” he asked.

Closing her eyes, she took a breath. “It’s fine, Sir.”

“Good.” He double-checked all the rigging. “Parsley?”

“Sir is a dreamer.” She expected the flogging to begin immediately, but he shocked her by vigorously rubbing her legs, then her buttocks and arms. He used a much gentler pressure on her front, but he covered her entire body. “That’s nice, Sir.”

“You’re welcome, sub.”

The soft growl of approval in his voice, sent skitters of awareness through her.

He picked up a flogger, and it felt as if the room temperature dropped by at least ten degrees. It had been one thing to discuss it theoretically, another to have him approach with the wicked-looking strands dangling from his hand.

“Ready?”

“Yes, Sir,” she lied. She wasn’t, but probably never would be.

The first landed on her buttocks. It was light, almost delicious.

“How are you doing?”

“Good. Shockingly.”

Then he began in earnest, back and forth, catching her buttocks, thighs, upper body, and the sensitive area beneath her ass cheeks. Within moments, she was lost to the thuddy, amazing experience.

Then suddenly, he stopped. Is that fifteen?

“Your back is red.” He traced lines where the strands had fallen. “It looks magnificent.”

“Thank you, Sir.”

“I’m glad you remembered your manners so we didn’t have to begin again.” He moved in front of her and shook out the strands. “Are you ready to continue?”

She nodded. Watching him was so different from having him behind her. Seeing his eyes narrow as he selected the spot he intended to strike was frightening. The man was more focused and intent than anyone she’d ever met.

When the strands connected with her belly, she closed her eyes. She was more relaxed when she couldn’t see what was going on.

The leather licked at her breasts and curled around her sides. Her breathing became deeper as she surrendered.

“You’re doing so well.”