Page 9 of Blackmail

“Shut up.”

“You and Tony never seemed compatible anyway. If you ask me, this is a good thing. Shiny silver lining, you know?”

I delay my answer by returning to the action on the lower level. Even in the club’s dim lighting, I can make out the redness on Cade’s ass and shoulder blades. And upper thighs.

The light gold of the escort’s skin would have looked delicious covered in red handprints.

“He’s got strange men stuffing him at both ends. How does his husband not mind?” I’ve never liked to share.

“It’s something they both get off on. Besides, this is a private club. It’s not as if they’re out in public.”

“Half the people I do business with in town are probably members here.”

He gestures around us. “That’s what the private rooms are for.”

A waitress brings up two more drinks. Daniel whispers in her ear. She smiles and giggles before walking away.

“Please tell me you’re not sleeping with your staff.”

“Not all of them.”

“Jesus.”

“I reviewed all the applications myself, and I can safely say Jesus isn’t a member here.” He stands, a wicked grin on his face. “But allow me to introduce you to someone else who is.”

Before I can ask who, a young man steps around the door, smiling. He’s wearing black hot pants and construction boots and not much else.

“Hey, handsome,” he says to me. “I’m Tab. The boss thinks you could use some stress relief.”

I turn to Daniel. At the moment, I can’t decide if I love him or hate him. “You cannot be serious.”

“I like to give my friends gifts, Bas.” He stands and walks to the door, pulling it as he exits. “Relieve some stress. Have some fun. Tony sure as hell has been. And Tab here is excellent company.”

Tab’s cheeks flush bright red at the comment. Something tells me if Daniel isn’t screwing this kid, he’s willing to offer himself as tribute.

Before I can form a response, Daniel’s gone. The door clicks shut behind him. I turn to look at Tab. His hair is blond but shaggier looking than the subject of my recent fantasies. He’s taller. Thinner. Not quite what I’m craving, but close. Close enough to scratch the itch that whore has left in my brain, maybe.

“You'd better be legal.”

“Very.” He approaches, going down to his knees. “I hear you’re kind of new to the scene. I’m into all sorts of stuff. I’d be happy to help you explore. Sir.”

I can’t deny I like the sound of that word. Sir. I tip my head back and close my eyes, imagining the word on a different set of lips. What I wouldn’t give to show that bratty whore who’s boss.

My resolve cracks when Tab shuffles toward me on his knees and leans his forehead against my thigh. He’s not what I want, but he’ll do for now.

Have some fun. Tony sure has been.

I revisit that night in my mind—the sight of a shorter man on his hands and knees, his sinful lips, his scathing wit, and the red imprints of my fingers on his skin.

Tab smiles up at me. I reach out and slide my thumb over his lips. Then I grip his not-quite-right hair and pull his head back, causing him to gasp.

Have some fun.

His lips are too thin. His smile too flirty.

I’ll just have to pretend.

Chapter