Afterglow: A Brother's Best Friend Romance, page 2
We each get a blue wristband to signal we are submissives and an orange wristband to make the bartenders aware we are under twenty-one. Since neither of us knows entirely what other sub-categories we fall under, we don’t take extra bands tonight. Some people choose to show off if they are into age-play, puppy play, or a handful of other things. I’m interested in a lot of different things, but I’m not ready to try most of them yet.
The club is extremely organized, making my control-freak heart happy. Chaos makes my skin crawl.
Caidance and I saunter down the hall to the change rooms and pick a locker we’ll share. After we change, I take a minute to check myself out in the mirror. My red lace bodysuit has a plunging neckline to my navel, with bottoms cut high on the hips but not quite a thong. I’m fucking hot.
“Damn.” Caidance gasps when I step out of the curtained-off changing area.
“You like?” I giggle, and she nods.
“Too bad you’re not a Domme. I’d be your baby girl in a heartbeat,” she teases, making me laugh.
“Yeah, your bratty ass is far too much for me to tame,” I quip. “Also, if we’re going to gasp at hotness, have you looked in the mirror?” I fan myself with my hand, and she blushes.
Caidance is wearing a black corset, matching panties, and a pair of thigh-high fishnet stockings.
“Let’s go find some sexy Doms to have fun with tonight,” I suggest, pulling her toward the door of the club.
“This place is amazing,” Caidance says.
We hadn’t actually been inside the club before today. The classes were held in a separate private room.
I’m glad we arrived shortly after opening, so it isn’t busy yet. We wanted to be able to get a lay of the land before it was packed with sweaty bodies.
The lights are dimmed, and red sconces illuminate the walls. The place exudes a high-class vibe.
To the right, we find a bar with a few people standing around, talking and laughing. The atmosphere is still rather chill, but I assume that will change as the night goes on.
Instead of going to the bar, we take a few steps to a large seating area surrounding a stage, where a bench and a box sit, probably with goodies inside. Toward the back is a St. Andrews cross. I lick my lips, taking it all in, and we mosey around, discovering all sorts of hidden treasures.
Making our way to the left of the main area, we find a hall of private rooms. We saunter down, discovering a little bit about each room. Two rooms have viewing spaces outside for people who are into watching or being watched.
Voyeurism is definitely one of my kinks.
I found that out at sixteen.
At the end of the hall, we find another space much like the front of the club, but this one has a dance floor. I’m in complete awe, honestly.
“We need to hit that up later,” Caidance says.
“Why not?” I’m thankful my nerves seem to be staying at bay.
“There is a show starting in fifteen minutes on the main stage,” a gorgeous lady with curvaceous hips and giant tits informs us with a big grin.
She’s only wearing pasties and a blue thong, with not a care in the world that her stomach is on display, stretch marks and all. I wish I had that kind of confidence with my own body.
We thank her and go to the main stage, definitely wanting to take in the show.
Stopping at the bar first, we get some water before taking seats near the back. More and more people begin to fill the space, and I take my time soaking it all in. As people pass us by, I keep an eye on wristbands while also checking out the men roaming around.
“Anyone catch your eye yet?” Caidance asks, but I shake my head.
“What about you?”
She bites her lip and nods. “Actually, that lady over there.” She tilts her head toward a tall woman with breasts the size of my head. My eyes zoom in on her wrist. The bright red band signals she’s a Domme and open to play.
“Go,” I encourage her. “Just don’t forget the rules.”
She squeaks an acknowledgment and rushes off.
My focus stays on her, making sure she’s okay. She keeps her gaze on her toes, not making eye contact until requested. Her lips are moving, which is a good sign. At least she didn’t go mute. It doesn’t take long for the woman to pull Caidance down to sit next to her, and they start chatting. I’m happy for my friend, but a rush of loneliness washes over me. Shit, I hate when this happens.
I force myself to shake it off.
Squaring my shoulders, I lean against the soft material of the booth while I take in the scene of the club, trying not to let my loneliness show.
“What the hell are you doing here?” The voice is a growl in my ear. I don’t need to turn my head to know who it is.
“Same thing you are,” I sass, not bothering to look at Dax.
Why is he scolding me?
I’m not a fucking child. I’d say I’m surprised he’s here, but as this is the best sex club in our city, it’s not that shocking. However, I am a little pissed he decided to use his time to come over and growl at me.
“How the hell did you even get in here?”
I roll my eyes. “Again, the same way you did, Dax.” This time, I move to glare at him. “I’m a big girl. I don’t need you acting like a surrogate big brother. Now if you don’t mind, would you please leave so I at least have a chance at meeting someone tonight? No one is going to dare approach with you sitting here looking like someone pissed in your cornflakes.”
“What if I told you I wanted you,” he says with a raised brow.
I can’t help but laugh. I know that is not why he’s here. He has never shown any interest in me, not even the times I practically threw myself at him.
“Then take me,” I say, calling his bluff.
“Do you have any idea what you are in for tonight?” he hisses, and now I’m getting impatient.
“Yes, Dax. I do. As you’re already aware, the club has a mandatory introduction class. I took it a few weeks ago. Before that, I’ve been doing my own research for the past two years. Like I said before, I’m a big girl. You can stop acting like a complete ass any time now. I’m not yours to control. If you don’t leave now, I’m going to talk to someone and tell them how you’re acting.” I raise a brow, begging him to try and challenge me. I’m not bluffing.
He blows out a breath but doesn’t argue further. Instead, he stands abruptly and stalks away. Good fucking riddance. I scan the room, praying I can find someone else to talk to for the night.
Why the hell did Dax have to be out tonight? Obviously, I’m aware he has his own kinks, but that doesn’t mean he partakes in sex clubs.
The little girl who swooned every time he came around is long gone. I’m older and wiser now. I’ve learned no matter what I do, he’ll never see me as anything but his best friend’s little sister.
Chapter 2
Izzy
Present Day
As I walk down an aisle lined with white roses, I beam at the guests and take my spot at the front next to a gorgeous arch covered in tulle and greenery. Once I’m in place, the music changes, and everyone stands, turning their attention to my best friend, who is now walking toward her forever.
Caidance is so fucking gorgeous today. No one would be able to outshine her if they tried. Which, of course, no one would dare because Briana would murder them, I’m certain of that.
Caidance and Briana are anything but traditional. Their outfits are prime examples of that.
Caidance is decked out in a giant black ball gown. The top is fitted tight with lace flower and leaf applique adorning the bodice and straps with the neckline cut t to her belly button. Some might say it’s a risky choice, but it screams Caidance all day long. Her tits are barely contained, yet they are still perky, thanks to the boob tape we applied earlier. The rest of the dress is covered in a fine layer of tulle with giant flowers made of the same material circling the bottom. Around her neck is the gorgeous choker she’s worn every day for the last two years since Briana collared her. To most people, it’s just a beautiful, expensive diamond choker, but to those in the community, we know the real meaning. Caidance is off-limits.
When I was a little girl, I always dreamed about having a big fancy wedding, but not everyone in the kink community wants that. Most are happy with just collaring. Leo, my boyfriend, seems to be that type of guy. We’ve been together for a little over a year and moved in together last month. Shortly after that, he bought me my collar. It’s not a showstopping piece like Caidance’s, but it’s perfect for me.
Instinctively, my hand grazes over the simple band of twisted silver. On the front are blue stones, and there’s a heart lock in the middle. When Leo presented it to me, my heart stopped. I was compelled to say yes. He’s the best—kind, caring, sweet, and dominant as fuck.
He has a few shortcomings, but who doesn’t? His temper has been getting a tiny bit out of control lately, but work has been grueling for him. I wish he was here today. But unfortunately, his job has him traveling worldwide, and he couldn’t get the time off.
Caidance was pissed when he refused to move his schedule around for this. Not because she wanted him here but because I did. She’s still certain he simply didn’t want to. She believes he only does things that benefit him. If it also happens to benefit me, great, but it isn’t a requirement. She’s not a big fan of his, especially with the random mood changes he’s developed since I moved in with him. I’m more understanding than her, though. He still takes care of my needs when he’s away. Doesn’t everyone get grumpy when they work too much? Besides the odd thing here and there, I’m not seeing any other red flags.
The officiant brings my attention to the moment again, and I watch Briana and Caidance beam brightly at each other.
Briana’s outfit is a showstopper in its own right. She’s in a stark white tux but isn’t wearing a shirt underneath the jacket. The button is done just below her ample cleavage so the top of her chest and the lower part of her stomach shows. She has on blood-red pumps that match her hair, cascading down her back in spirals.
These two are perfect together. I’m so glad they found each other at our first mixer.
It took me longer to find Leo, but I’m happy with him. Sometimes it takes time to find the right person.
The wedding day events fly by in a blur of joy and community. I haven’t smiled this much in so long. It feels great to be among so many friends.
Before I know it, I’m plopping on the bed in my hotel room.
My body is heavy, and my feet hurt like a son of a bitch, but I’m not all that sleepy. Besides, Leo and I have a rule that I must call before bed every night. So, reaching for my phone, I press his name in my contacts and wait for him to pick up, but he doesn’t.
The call goes directly to voicemail, which confuses me, so I try to call again, only to get the same results. Instead, I send off a text, informing him I’m alone and waiting for our good-night call, but he doesn’t respond to that either.
I stay awake for probably an hour before the exhaustion of the day takes over, and I fall asleep.
What concerns me the most is he still hasn’t responded by the time I wake up in the morning.
Again, I call him, my heart racing and panic flooding my veins. What if something bad happened to him?
He doesn’t call me back, but a text comes through a few minutes later.
Sir: I’m working, Izzy.
I stare at my phone in shock. That message must be a mistake.
Me: I understand that, Sir. I was just concerned. You didn’t call or respond last night. That isn’t like you.
Sir: Work has been crazy, and I passed out. I’ll see you when I get home tomorrow.
Me: Okay, I’ll call tonight before I go to bed.
Sir: Don’t bother. I’m sure I’ll be passed out again.
I gasp as I read the last message. His words come across as harsh, like a stab to the chest. What did I do to deserve that? I’m sure he’s just tired, so I try not to read into it too much. He’ll be home tomorrow.
We will talk then.
“What’s wrong?” Caidance asks when we slip away to the bathroom after the gift opening.
“I’m sure it’s nothing,” I murmur, biting my lower lip.
“You’re worried about something.” She lifts a brow and stares at my lips.
Yeah, I only chew on them when I’m stressed or worried. I’m pretty sure I picked up the habit from her.
I pull out my phone to show Caidance the text exchange with Leo. She purses her lips before letting out a tiny growl at the end. “I don’t like the way he’s talking to you,” she hisses out.
I roll my eyes. “Is it really that big of a deal?”
She scoffs. “He’s changing the rules on you without consulting you. You need to tell him that’s not okay. You both set that rule because you need the end-of-day connection just as badly as he needs to check in on you. He’s only taking his needs into account, which isn’t fair.”
I mull over her words, not sure how to reply.
“I’ll talk to him when he gets home tomorrow. It will be easier to handle in person.”
She grabs my hands and stares intently into my eyes.
“Promise me you aren’t going to start compromising your needs,” she pleads. “I don’t want you to accept any changes to the rules unless you are one hundred percent okay with them.” I nod and take in a deep breath. “Would you be okay if he changes the call rule?”
I shake my head. “No, you’re right. I need that rule more than he does,” I admit, and she squeezes my hands.
“If you need me, I’m here no matter what.”
“You’re the best friend a girl could ask for.” I wink at her, and we head to where the rest of the guests are.
I’m praying Leo and I figure this out because I care for him. I’m sure this is all one big misunderstanding.
Chapter 3
Izzy
While I wait for the pasta to boil, I pace the kitchen. Leo has been radio silent all day. We need to talk tonight, but I’m nervous.
It’s been over a week since he’s been home, and he’s been avoiding me like the plague. He’s disrespecting our contract and ignoring the rules and me. I’ll be walking out the door tonight if he refuses to communicate with me. I can’t handle this anymore. We had an agreement. He doesn’t get to drop the ball because he’s tired.
I understand letting a thing or two go because work is dragging him, but this is too much. Communication is supposed to be number one in a relationship like ours. If he’s going to shut me out, there isn’t anything else I can do, and I refuse to be treated like this.
My eyes glance at the clock, and I gasp. It’s already ten o’clock, and Leo still isn’t home. Though I shouldn’t be surprised. He hasn’t been getting in until after midnight each night, which has never happened before in the year we’ve been together. Something isn’t adding up, but I will be finding out what tonight.
By the time the door creaks open, it’s one o’clock in the morning, and I’m pissed. I want to yell at him, but that won’t get the results I want. He’ll shut down, and we need to talk.
“What are you still doing up?” he asks, slurring.
Where the hell was he, and why is he drunk?
“We need to talk. Please sit,” I say, keeping my voice soft.
“I’m tired,” he mutters.
I stand, putting my hands firmly on my waist. “No, Leo. We are having this conversation. It’s been a week since you promised to talk to me. I’m done waiting.”
He rolls his eyes but plops himself on the couch, so I sit down again.
“Suck my cock first.”
I gasp and shake my head. “That is not happening.”
“You’ve been slacking on your duties, so suck my fucking cock.” He growls, fisting his hand in my hair, but instead of doing as he says, I pull away.
“What the fuck is wrong with you?” I yell. “You know what… we don’t need a conversation. We’re over.”
I go to stand, but he grabs my wrist forcefully, dragging me onto his lap.
“You know better than to talk to me like that.”
Reaching up with my free hand, I unclasp my collar and throw it across the room.
“I can talk to you however I want because you’ve broken our contract. We’re over, Leo. I’m no longer under your control. You gave up the right to have a say in anything when you refused to talk to me.” I whimper when he squeezes my wrist harder. The pain is too much. Is it possible for him to break my wrist like this?
I try to pull away, but he doesn’t let me.
“I’m the Dom here. I told you to get on your knees and suck my cock,” he screams and grabs my hair harder.
He’s so much stronger than I am, easily overpowering me. The next thing I know, his cock is pressing at my lips. Needing this to end now, I open my mouth and bite his dick as hard as I can.
He screams in pain and tosses me to the side, my head smashing into the coffee table. The blow causes my vision to spin. I’m trying to focus my eyes when I glance up to find him standing over me. His fist comes down fast on my face, pain ricocheting throughout my skull. I don’t hear the crunch of bones, but my cheek is throbbing. Maybe it’s broken. He doesn’t stop with one punch, though. He lands a few more blows, gives me a swift kick in the ribs, and walks away.
“No slut is worth this…” are the last words I hear before the front door opens and slams closed.
Tears stream down my face as I lie on the living room floor, in more pain than I’ve ever felt in my entire life.
How the hell did I get myself into this situation?
I need to get out of here now, but who the hell do I call? I could call Caidance, but I don’t want to put her in danger. Not that Briana would let that happen, but then they’d both come, probably with the police, and I don’t want all those people here right now. I simply want to leave.
