Before You Break E-Book

K.C. Wells

• Herausgeber: Dreamspinner Press
• Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 585

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2017

Beschreibung

Secrets: Book One Six years ago Ellis walked into his first briefing as the newest member of London's Specialist Firearms unit. He was partnered with Wayne and they became fast friends. When Wayne begins to notice changes—Ellis's erratic temper, the effects of sleep deprivation—he knows he has to act before Ellis reaches his breaking point. He invites Ellis to the opening of the new BDSM club, Secrets, where Wayne has a membership. His purpose? He wants Ellis to glimpse the lifestyle before Wayne approaches him with a proposition. He wants to take Ellis in hand, to control his life because he wants his friend back, and he figures this is the only way to do it. There are a few issues, however. Ellis is straight. Stubborn. And sexy. Wayne knows he has to put his own feelings aside to be what Ellis needs. What surprises the hell out of him is finding out what Ellis actually requires.

Leseprobe

Before You Break

By K.C. Wells & Parker Williams

Six years ago Ellis walked into his first briefing as the newest member of London’s Specialist Firearms unit. He was partnered with Wayne and they became fast friends. When Wayne begins to notice changes—Ellis’s erratic temper, the effects of sleep deprivation—he knows he has to act before Ellis reaches his breaking point. He invites Ellis to the opening of the new BDSM club, Secrets, where Wayne has a membership. His purpose? He wants Ellis to glimpse the lifestyle before Wayne approaches him with a proposition. He wants to take Ellis in hand, to control his life because he wants his friend back, and he figures this is the only way to do it.

There are a few issues, however. Ellis is straight. Stubborn. And sexy. Wayne knows he has to put his own feelings aside to be what Ellis needs. What surprises the hell out of him is finding out what Ellis actually requires.

Table of Contents

Blurb

Dedication

Acknowledgments

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter Thirty-Three

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About the Authors

By K.C. Wells

By Parker Williams

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Copyright

To all those readers who loved the Collars & Cuffs series and have followed Eli and Jarod on their new journey.

Welcome aboard.

Acknowledgments

AS ALWAYS, a thank-you to our wonderful betas.

A very special thank-you to Sharon D. Simpson for her invaluable help with regards to Ellis’s situation.

And we would like to extend our gratitude to LM Somerton and Pride Publishing, as well as Elizabeth North, for allowing Joe and Olly from the fantastic series The Edge to visit on the opening night of Secrets.

Prologue

July 2016

WAYNE DWYER sat in the back seat of the ARV, Ellis Mann beside him as usual, and Shaun Temple at the wheel. Wayne’s loaded carbine lay across his knees, a pistol strapped to his thigh. The early morning was wet and quiet as the convoy of seven police cars, two police vans, and an ambulance crawled its way across South London, the drizzle misting the windscreen.

Wayne was calm, his thoughts focused on the briefing that had taken place an hour previous. They were on their way to arrest a suspect the police had reason to believe was in possession of a weapon. Intelligence came from the officers who’d spent the last few hours reconnoitering the address.

“If anything goes wrong,” Shaun commented in his quiet voice, “this could be a long night.”

Beside Wayne, Ellis twitched, clenching and unclenching his hand on his thigh.

Wayne chuckled, more to ease the tension in Ellis than for any other reason. “And he could already be tucked up fast asleep in his bed by the time we get there.” The surveillance team had reported their suspect was home. As they neared the target’s building, an ARV and another police car, this time with local officers on board, veered off to cover the back of the building.

“Then let’s hope he doesn’t wake up and decide to seize a hostage,” Shaun muttered. He pulled the car over to the curb, and the other vehicles did the same. “Okay, rendezvous point.”

Wayne knew they were out of sight and sound of the flats. He’d studied the Google Earth images and the large-scale maps of the property and neighboring area.

“I’m with you,” Ellis murmured. “I hope he’s off in the Land of Nod. Makes things a damn sight easier.” They already knew what had occurred earlier that evening; the suspect and another man, both with records of violence, had threatened someone, demanding money they claimed was owed to them. The report said both men were armed.

The three men got out of the car and were joined by four more officers, all of them armed and fully kitted out with helmets, goggles, and body armor. Lewis was in command.

“Okay, check mobiles are off and radios turned down,” he instructed in a low voice. “Cassidy and Phelps have a carbine and pistol trained on the fourth floor in case our man gets desperate and decides to try and escape through the window.”

In a close-linked single file, they moved stealthily to the ten-story block of flats, part of the depressing seventies concrete jungle of gray with its raised footbridges and stone stairwells. Lewis was the first at the downstairs glass door, which he opened with a key as quietly as possible. Shaun slipped inside first, a bulletproof shield held up to protect himself, his Glock in his hand. Behind him the six officers made their way up the flights of concrete stairs, and Wayne’s nose twitched at the faint yet unmistakable aroma of stale urine. Peters carried the battering ram.

The building was silent when they lined up outside the flat’s door. Lewis signaled for Peters and Derwent, and the quiet was shattered as they rushed forward, breaking down the red front door. All of them rushed in, weapons ready, and Lewis called out, “Armed police! Armed police! Come on out. And let’s see those hands!”

Wayne trained his carbine at the bedroom door as it opened and a young man emerged from it, unsteady on his feet, dressed in a pair of boxers. He blinked at them, mouth falling open.

“Okay, okay,” he said, waving his hands in the air. “Not armed, all right?” His chest heaved.

“Find something to cover him with before you take him outside,” Lewis directed. Shaun cuffed him, all the while reading him his rights. Wayne ducked into his bedroom and grabbed the black bedspread from the bed. He returned to the scene, threw it over the suspect’s shoulders, and watched as Shaun led him from the flat.

Ellis jerked toward the second bedroom door and froze when a small girl appeared, rubbing eyes that went wide when she saw the officers. She began to wail, and another child and a woman spilled out of the room.

“What the fuck are you doing in my home?” the woman screeched, automatically indicating for the girls to stand behind her before pulling her robe around her.

Lewis ignored her indignant shrieks. “Peters, escort these people downstairs to the third floor.” Peters did as instructed, and Ellis guided them through the door. Once they were safely out of the way, Lewis got on his radio. “Okay, bring in Troy.”

Wayne remained still while they waited for Troy, the police dog, and his handler. He gave Ellis a glance as his buddy came back into the flat. This was the nerve-racking part of such an operation—the meticulous search of the property to ensure there wasn’t a second hidden armed man. With the suspect and his family taken care of, the seven officers and dog searched all corners of the flat for the next twenty minutes. Once they were assured it was empty, it was time to go. The local officers would be in next to search for weapons.

They filed out of the flat and downstairs to the vehicles. “Debrief back at operations,” Lewis announced. Wayne knew it would be quick; everything had gone smoothly. Only two hours left until his shift ended at 7:00 a.m.

“Well, that was textbook,” Ellis commented as he climbed into the back of the ARV.

“Yeah, it’s nice when that happens.” After six years as a Specialist Firearms police officer, Wayne was accustomed to the pattern, the sudden changes in pace. One minute they could be out on a quiet patrol, the next thrown into action. From one extreme to the other.

Shaun’s radio burst into life. “Nine-nine-nine call made from an address that’s on your route,” the tinny voice stated. “A neighbor has heard a woman in the upstairs flat screaming. She has reason to believe there’s a weapon involved. We haven’t got enough to corroborate this, but given the address, you might want to check it out. Local officers have been called to this address before. Can you assist? You’re three minutes from the scene, and your commander has been advised.”

Ellis’s face fell, and Wayne knew what was going through his mind. Strictly speaking, it should have been passed on to uniform or possibly the armed officers unit. They were still on duty, however, and he knew Ellis wouldn’t suggest leaving the call to the locals, not if they were closer. Wayne leaned forward. “Take it, Shaun. If we’re closer than uniform, it makes sense. Besides, Lewis has okayed it.”

Shaun nodded and spoke into his radio mic. “Affirmative.” After receiving the details, he spoke again. “We are en route. Please ensure there will be backup.”

“Affirmative. Over and out.”

Shaun pulled away from the curb. He drove quickly through the empty streets. It seemed like no time before they were arriving at the address, a two-story house. Wayne and Ellis got out and hurried to the front door. A middle-aged woman in a blue dressing gown met them. Her eyes widened when she saw them.

“Oh my God, what have they sent me, the Flying Squad?”

“Not quite. Nearest available officers, ma’am,” Wayne said politely.

With a trembling finger, she pointed to the staircase. “They’re upstairs. You be careful now. He’s a bad’un. Everyone around here knows about—”

“It’s okay, ma’am,” Ellis interjected in a whisper. When a low cry reached them, he signaled for her to go back into her ground-floor flat before he led them toward the stairs. They inched their way up the narrow steps, Ellis’s gun drawn. When they reached the first floor, the door to the flat stood ajar. Ellis put his finger to his lips and crept inside, Wayne right behind him.

The first room was empty, but Wayne caught sight of the first signs of a struggle. A chair lay overturned, a man’s shoe beside it. Wayne quickly assessed the situation. There wasn’t enough evidence to indicate what was going on, but a loud noise from along the hallway had both of them stiffening.

“Help!” A woman’s voice, clearly frightened, pierced the quiet house. “Anybody, please!”

Before Wayne could react, Ellis shouted out, “Armed police! We’re coming in!” He darted out of the room and along the dimly lit hallway, his gun held high.

What the fuck? Wayne hurried after him, adrenaline pumping through him. What is he playing at?

When he reached the room at the end, Ellis flung open the door and Wayne followed him inside. In the middle of the room was a double bed, where a man lay on top of a woman. She was struggling beneath him, but he was clearly stronger. With one hand he pinned her wrists to the pillow above her head while the other wasn’t in sight. Her satin slip was torn at the shoulder. A large knife lay on the bed beside them, and before Wayne could react, the man clambered off her and picked it up. He brandished it at Ellis.

“Back off.” His eyes were huge, darting his gaze from Ellis to Wayne.

Ellis pointed his gun at the man. “Put the knife down,” he ordered. “Now!”

The man paled and dropped it onto the floor, where it clattered against the varnished floorboards. Wayne gave an inward sigh of relief and Ellis’s tension diminished visibly.

When the woman made a lunge for the bedside cabinet, Ellis froze. Wayne watched in disbelief as a second later she pulled out a revolver and pointed it at her assailant. Aw fuck. What dismayed him more was Ellis’s reaction.

His partner hesitated, his weapon at his side.

Wayne took control, his heart pounding. “Put that gun down now!” he shouted. He aimed his Glock, making sure she saw it.

Her face crumpled and she collapsed onto the bed, sobbing, and dropped the revolver onto the duvet.

Wayne shuddered with relief. “Cuff him,” he barked at Ellis before approaching the bed. He holstered his pistol and helped the woman to her feet. He spoke into his radio. “Shaun, has backup arrived yet? I need transport for two people as fast as you can.”

“Got it.”

Wayne guided her out of the room, leaving the revolver where it had fallen. He’d deal with that once she and the assailant were safely in police custody. Wayne followed Ellis and the man down the stairs and out of the house. By the time they reached the car, two more came around the corner and pulled up in front of it. Two local officers got out of each and separated the couple, helping each into the back seat of their cars, both of them cuffed. After a brief conversation with Wayne, the officers got into the cars and left.

“Just got to pick up the knife and revolver,” he told Shaun. He signaled to Ellis to follow him back into the house and up the stairs. Once inside the flat, Wayne couldn’t hold in his emotions any longer.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” he growled.

Ellis frowned. “What are you talking about?”

“I’m talking about you apparently leaving your brains in the car.” Wayne took a deep breath. “First off, since when do you shout out before you’ve even seen what’s going on? You had no fucking idea what was going on in that bedroom. All you did by yelling too soon was announce our presence to that guy. You put us in danger.”

“What?” Ellis gaped at him.

“You gave him time to prepare for us entering the room. We could have walked in there to find a loaded gun pointed at our chests.” He clenched his gloved fists. “But what worries me more is your lack of reaction. Why didn’t you aim at her?”

Ellis froze, his face ashen. “Instinct. I judged her to be the victim. I mean, she was the one screaming, right? And I… I didn’t think she’d shoot.”

“Why—because she’s a woman? Damn it, Ellis, you know better. You’ve come up against armed women before, same as I have, but this time you held back.”

“She… she collapsed.”

“But you couldn’t have known she’d give up so easily.”

“She wasn’t a threat,” Ellis insisted.

“Not to you—but that guy was in immediate danger. You should have issued her a warning and then fired to protect him, damn it!” Wayne pushed down hard on his anger and bewilderment. “Okay, so there were a couple of options open to you, and yeah, there’s never a right or wrong answer to the question ‘should I shoot?’ But in my opinion? I’d have gone for it.” He stared at Ellis, unblinking. “What concerns me is that you didn’t.”

Ellis swallowed. “You think I fucked up.” His chest heaved, his eyes full of dismay.

His obvious distress put a damper on Wayne’s emotions. “Let’s bag the weapons and get out of here, all right? We still have a debrief to take care of back at operations.”

“Are… are you going to mention what happened here?” Ellis locked gazes with him.

Shit.

Wayne assessed his buddy and came to a rapid decision. “No,” he said at last. “Though I should.” In his heart he knew it was the latest in a series of incidents that worried the hell out of him. Jesus, what the fuck is going on here, Ellis?

This was getting out of hand.

“Let’s move before Shaun gets it into his head that we’re taking too bloody long.” He reached out and patted Ellis’s shoulder. “We can talk about this another time.”

Ellis nodded, albeit with obvious reluctance.

Wayne bagged the knife and the revolver and followed Ellis from the flat. He stared at his retreating colleague’s back as they descended the stairs.

And we are going to talk about this.

It was time to act before Ellis did something stupid and jeopardized not only his own life, but those of his fellow officers. And Wayne knew exactly what was needed.

Time to take you in hand, boy.

Chapter One

JAROD PEARCE followed his Dom, Eli Jameson, as they stepped off the jet that had brought them from Manchester to London. They’d landed at the far end of the runway, where other private planes sat. The day had turned decidedly grim, with heavy clouds that seemed eager to let loose a torrential downpour. As far as Jarod was concerned, it matched his mood, which had dimmed considerably after they’d had to leave behind their friends—their family—to start a new life. Even the ache in his arse, the result of Eli initiating them both into the Mile High Club, hadn’t been enough to lift his spirits.

“We don’t have to do this,” Eli reminded him once again.

“We do,” Jarod insisted. He’d wanted this for his Master. A chance to try something new, to create a business that would be all theirs, which they would run together. It certainly wasn’t Eli’s fault Jarod had trouble letting go.

“It’s not the other side of the world, pet,” Eli murmured as he reached out a hand and stroked the back of Jarod’s neck. “Manchester is a couple of hours away by train. We can go back to visit any time you like.”

Jarod appreciated the sentiment, but he knew they weren’t likely to be visiting in the near future. They’d spent months taking courses, studying bookkeeping, and getting advice from Leo Hart and Thomas Williams, the owners of Collars & Cuffs. Everything had been leading them to this moment when they would be opening the doors to Secrets, the newest BDSM club in London.

“Sirs?” came a voice from behind them.

Jarod turned to find a smartly dressed man holding a placard that said “Pearce and Jameson.” He did his best to smile, but he knew it wouldn’t seem genuine. Fortunately Eli stepped forward and shook the man’s hand.

“I’m Eli Jameson. Can I help you?”

For a minute the man’s expression conveyed his confusion. “I’m Maxwell. I have your limousine waiting,” he said simply.

“You have our…?” Eli arched his brows and turned to Jarod. “This has your dainty fingerprints all over it, pet. Care to explain?”

Jarod couldn’t help but grin. “We took a private jet. How did you think we were going to get to our new place?”

“They have these things called taxis. Ever heard of them?”

The driver’s cheeks pinked as Eli continued to berate Jarod, lovingly, of course.

“You are in such hot water, pet, you have no idea. At the rate you’re burning through it, you won’t have any money left by the end of the year.”

Jarod suppressed the urge to roll his eyes. “I’m certain we won’t end up on the streets, Sir. Besides, once the club takes off, we won’t need to touch that money again. We’ll make enough to support us all.”

The all included Jarod’s mother, Maggie, who had come to London ahead of them. They’d had the top floor of their new building divided into two apartments, one for his mother and the other for Eli and Jarod. They’d also invested heavily in soundproofing because the last thing Jarod wanted was to see his mother’s knowing grin after every time he and Eli had sex. One thing was certain: Eli had a very healthy sexual appetite, which thrilled Jarod to bits.

“We will be discussing this later, pet.”

“I never doubted it for a minute,” Jarod answered with a smirk.

Eli grinned and kissed him, which caused Maxwell’s cheeks to flush. Too bad. He’ll be seeing a lot more displays of affection in the future. Which would probably be something he needed to mention to Eli at some point. Eventually. Maybe he could do it after they got home.

A long time after—they had a new bed to break in. The thought sent a shiver of anticipation skating down Jarod’s spine, but when his hole clenched, he winced. Ah. Yes.The Mile High Club.

Breaking in the bed might have to wait awhile. A couple of hours at least.

Maxwell strode quickly toward the waiting car, and Jarod realized if they’d had to carry anything, they’d never have kept up. Thank God we don’t have to worry about the move. Jarod found himself grateful that they’d had a removal company pack up their belongings and send them on ahead. The driver spoke animatedly about the city, the places to be seen, restaurants that were not to be missed, and touched on more details than Jarod could remember, but he let Max carry on chattering, enjoying the man’s energy.

“Sir?”

“Yes, pet?”

“I suppose it’s really not a good time to say this—”

“You bought the car and hired Maxwell to be our chauffeur?”

“I—yes. How did you know?”

As he reached out to stroke Jarod’s cheek, Eli grinned. “I didn’t, but I do know you.”

“In other words, you guessed.”

“I did. I want to protest, but I know you have valid reasons. I don’t think you’d ever do something without thinking it through.”

It warmed Jarod to hear Eli talk about him like this. Always effusive in his praise, there were times when Eli’s gaze would take on a dreamy quality, as if he couldn’t believe how lucky he’d gotten.

“Mother may want to shop or go out into the city. I hired Maxwell to be our chauffeur, but also to be her companion during the times I won’t be able to be with her. He’s taken first-aid classes, understands her needs, and is familiar with the city.”

“And he’s cute enough to make Maggie happy.”

Jarod gave an exaggerated gasp. “Sir, I’m shocked. Do you think my mother would…? Oh hell, who am I kidding? Yes, she’ll like that too.”

“I think it’s a brilliant idea, pet.”

They got into the car, and Jarod leaned back in the comfortable leather seat, Eli automatically curling his hand around Jarod’s.

So here we are, the first day of our new adventure.

Jarod had never been so grateful to have Eli at his side.

ELI PAUSED at the wide main door. “Ready to see how it’s all turned out, pet?”

Jarod nodded, his heart pounding. Months of preparation, consultation, and any number of phone calls were finally over, and the results of their endeavors lay beyond that door. “Ready as I’ll ever be.” He took a deep breath. Eli unlocked the door and ushered him inside. The interior lay in darkness, and with one hand, Eli plunged them into light.

“Oh my God.” Jarod gasped.

The place was gorgeous.

A wide reception desk in dark wood sat to one side, and beyond it was the social area, with leather-topped stools placed neatly along the length of a gleaming bar. The rest of the area was filled with tables and chairs, and the hardwood varnished floor reflected the LED recessed lighting up above.

“And we haven’t even seen the main floor yet,” Eli reminded him excitedly. He led Jarod through the bar to another wide door, and once through, the atmosphere changed. The floor was covered in a black material that appeared eminently more suitable for a BDSM club, and the lighting was cooler. Mirrors interspersed with racks covered the walls, and various benches and chairs stood around. Equipment cabinets hinted at delightful implements and devices hidden within them. There were slings, three or four set up against one wall, and wide frames complete with rings set into them, ready for someone to be restrained. The stage was located midway along the left wall, commanding attention even without being set up for any demonstrations. They’d had all of the gear custom made, and the quality shone through.

At the far end of the floor was the former service elevator, which Jarod knew had been renovated to allow access to the floor above, where the private rooms, group room, lockers, and showers were located.

“Fuck,” Eli whispered reverently. “It’s even more amazing than I’d imagined.”

Jarod agreed. The workers had done an amazing job and somehow managed to come in under budget. He stood in the middle of the main floor, gazing at the club. Not long now and it won’t be so quiet in here. He could almost hear it: the soft swish of a flogger, a single-tail whip slicing through the air, the thwack of a paddle connecting with a bare arse, and below all that, the sound of men engaged in various activities, low cries of mingled pleasure and pain.

“Check this out, pet,” Eli called from the bar.

Jarod joined him at the opposite end of the club, where the office was located and a lift provided access to their accommodation on the top floor. Eli pressed the call button, and the gleaming metal door slid open to reveal deep-burgundy carpeting with polished stainless steel on the lower half of the wall and mirrors on the upper half.

Eli grinned. “Okay, we are definitely going to be christening this.” He cupped Jarod’s buttcheek and squeezed. “I’m thinking you, arse tilted, facing the mirrors while I fuck you.”

Jarod raised his eyebrows. “We christened the jet an hour ago, remember?” Not that he was about to object—Eli’s words already got his dick filling. I guess an hour is enough after all. Inwardly he chuckled. We’re as bad as each other.

Eli leered. “What can I say? I get turned on easily around you.”

Jarod stifled a giggle and instead pressed his arse into Eli’s hand. “Maybe if Max takes my mother somewhere.” There was no way he was even contemplating sex if she was within earshot.

Eli cleared his throat. Oh. Max. Damn. Jarod groaned. He’d completely forgotten the man was behind them. “Sorry,” Jarod said.

“I’m not,” Eli said with a chuckle.

“I’ll wait for you down here, sir,” Max said respectfully as Eli got into the lift, pulling Jarod with him.

“Thanks, Max,” Eli said with a brief nod. The door slid shut and Eli grinned. “Let’s go see our new home.”

STEPPING INTO their new place felt like walking into a showroom. Everything from the woodwork to the dining room chandelier gleamed. The deep-pile lounge carpet, a glorious shade of red, was offset by the black leather furniture. Never in his wildest dreams had Eli ever thought he’d live in a place like this. Then he looked over at Jarod and saw the same awe.

“Pet?”

“This… is remarkable. The designs we saw don’t even do this place justice. They made this into a house. A home.”

Eli swept Jarod into his arms, then whispered in his ear, “Our home.”

They explored the loft, lingering in the bedroom with the king-size bed and wrought-iron scrollwork Eli could hardly wait to put to use. When he noticed the dark wooden steamer trunk at the foot of the bed, Eli smiled. He had an inkling what was in it.

“You have a good eye, Jarod. These things are beautiful.”

The bathroom had a walk-in shower large enough for four men, with benches inside. The frosted windows would allow a glimpse of Eli’s body as he stroked himself while Jarod stood outside and watched. He noted that for a future punishment.

The kitchen held state-of-the-art appliances, including a coffeemaker that promised a perfect cup every time. This would be Jarod’s domain. Eli might be in charge, but when it came to the kitchen, Jarod always got his way.

“This place is four times the size of my house,” Eli murmured as he ran his hand over the formal dining room table. He’d seen Jarod’s house, the one he shared with Phillip. The place had had an austere feel to it, but this felt organic, alive. Plants stood in front of the large floor-to-ceiling windows, green and vibrant. The windows themselves overlooked the St. Katharine’s docks, and Eli marveled at the ships and boats moored there.

“We should take a ride on one of the boats,” he remarked.

“We could buy a boat—”

“No.”

“But—”

“No,” Eli repeated firmly. He faced Jarod, looking him in the eye. “We used your money to buy this business and to refurbish the building. I want to be an equal partner in this, do you understand? I like participating, but when you hand out money to buy things, I feel like I’m not really a part of it.” Is this always going to be a bone of contention between us? Eli hoped not. Maybe it will just take time to get accustomed to it.

“It’s your money too.” Eli could hear the frustration in Jarod’s voice.

“Yes, it’s our money. But I don’t want to be given everything. I want us to earn it together. Do you understand that?”

Jarod’s brow crinkled. “I never thought of it like that,” he answered, his voice soft.

Eli took Jarod’s hands. “Please think about it. What would mean more? Us earning the money and going out together to buy a boat, or just having it because there is money in the bank?”

When Jarod closed his eyes, Eli hoped he would ponder what he’d said.

“I understood the money situation, and I know there is more than enough to last us several lifetimes, but I don’t want that. I want to risk it all, to take a chance on each other. Succeed together or fail together. I don’t want a safety net, pet. I need us both invested in our lives. Can you do that for me? For us?”

Jarod gave him a patient look. “Unless we give the rest of the money away, there is always going to be that safety net, but I do understand. I’ll talk to the lawyers. I’ll tell them that we won’t be drawing any money from the fund for the foreseeable future.”

Bless him. Eli leaned forward and kissed Jarod on the lips. “Thank you. And I don’t want you to think it’s completely off-limits. We have Max and a limo to take care of, after all.”

Jarod laughed. “Only until we’re operating in the black. Once that happens we’ll live within our means. Budget if we have to, but I don’t think we will. This place is going to be outstanding. Because it’s going to be run with a firm hand and a warm heart.”

Eli stroked his fingers over Jarod’s cheek. “I think you’re right. And speaking of which, are the invitations ready?”

“They are. I went through the membership lists, checked who was okay to be contacted, then wrote emails to those who chose that preference. I’m sending cards to those who left a mailing address.”

Eli stepped behind Jarod and nuzzled his neck. “We’re really doing this, aren’t we?”

Jarod hummed and tilted his head to allow Eli easier access. “Two weeks from today. I sent cards to Masters Leo and Thomas and invited everyone else. I… um… may have offered to pay for those who couldn’t afford the trip.”

“That’s a nice thing, Jarod. We’ll dip into the petty cash and buy tickets.”

“But I thought—” Jarod must have noticed the unhappy look on Eli’s face because he dipped his chin and said softly, “Yes, Sir.”

“Hey, none of that,” Eli told him. “Let me ask you something. You never spent any money at all until you met me, right?”

“That’s correct, Sir. The lawyers handled all the financial things. Paid the taxes and for the upkeep of the property. Until we decided to look into the club, I didn’t even realize how much money Phillip had put away.”

“So why now? I mean, I understand about the club. We never could have done this if you hadn’t. But now you seem more than willing to spend money, whereas before you never touched it. I’m curious as to why. Is it because you missed the life you had with Phillip? Where you could do anything you wanted and not be concerned about money?”

His pet squirmed as Eli allowed his fingers to trail over Jarod’s neck. He wanted to make sure Jarod answered without a lot of thought.

“No, Sir. That isn’t it at all,” Jarod protested. “It’s the club.”

“Can you explain that to me?”

Jarod heaved a sigh. “I’m not sure I can. I love taking care of you. I could be happy doing that for the rest of my life.”

“Oh, don’t worry about that,” Eli assured him with a grin. “You will be.”

Jarod leaned back against him, and Eli knew he needed the connection. He wrapped his arms around Jarod.

“After we gave money to the boys, and the house to Masters Thomas and Leo, I realized how good it felt to take care of others too. When we decided to open the club, it became clear to me that maybe we were meant for this. It gives you an opportunity to be in charge of more than me. You will be able to control your life. No boss to please. You would be responsible for everything. And me? I’d have the chance to take care not only of you, but my mother, and maybe the people who come to Secrets. I thought it would give us both an opportunity to be more.”

The honesty in his voice told Eli everything. Jarod had such a capacity for giving, and he wanted to make everyone happy. Eli rarely felt humbled, but Jarod had done it.

“Thank you, pet. That means a lot to me. But what I said before? That’s what I’m talking about. You don’t need money to take care of me or anyone. You—we—built this club to do that. We wanted to give people a place to be who they are. But we need to agree that we’ll stand by each other. The money could solve any problem that cropped up, but then what would be the point of us? I wouldn’t be in charge, trying to solve an issue, because the money would be there to take care of it immediately. And you? You find someone who needs help, you just pay to make their problem go away. You wouldn’t need to be involved at all.”

Jarod tilted his head back. “Is that what I’m doing?”

“I think so. Scott and Ben can’t afford to pay for a ticket, so let’s just give it to them. No need to find a creative solution because money solved it for us. Do you see what I’m saying?”

Jarod paled, and Eli’s stomach clenched.

“I’m sorry,” Jarod whispered. “I never thought of it like that.”

“No, don’t be sorry!” Eli said stridently. “Your heart’s in the right place. But maybe if you want to help people, do what Thomas and Leo did. Set up a foundation, help people who need it. Runaways, throwaways, kids who’ve been abused. Pay for people to help them. Volunteer your time. Hell, I’ll help out too. And maybe Maggie would enjoy mentoring. That’s every bit as important as the money. But the club? That’s where the two of us need to pull together to make it work.”

Jarod grinned. “I could have the lawyers set up something,” he said. “That’s a brilliant idea.”

“Well, I have been known to have a few on occasion.” Eli buffed his fingernails on his shirt, and Jarod chuckled.

“And you’re right about the club too. We’re going to make it work without the money. Together.”

“That’s the spirit, pet.”

A tingle went through Eli. They were really going to do this.

He couldn’t wait for the open-house night.

Chapter Two

WAYNE WAS beginning to feel sorry for the new guy.

Roberts had finished his probationary period and joined them for their three days’ training at Gravesend. With sixty men serving as Specialist Firearms Officers in the Met, it was understandable he hadn’t met the majority of guys, but Wayne quickly realized Roberts hadn’t come across any of the men involved in the training. He was still trying to size Roberts up when the day came to an end.

The locker room was the place for a lot of banter, some of it extremely witty and sometimes involving quite a bit of leg-pulling and teasing, albeit good-natured. Wayne was used to that. From day one he was upfront with all the guys he served with, not wishing for there to be any secrets or miscommunication between them. These were men who’d have his back in an operation, under tense, stressful conditions, and Wayne wanted to know he could rely on any of them. They didn’t say anything at first, but Wayne knew they were leery about working with a gay man, the only one, as far as he could tell; if there were others, they were doing a damn good job of staying in the closet. Wayne did everything he could to earn their respect and trust, but in the beginning, he had to put up with a lot of teasing and the usual remarks about them having to watch their backs. Nothing he didn’t anticipate, however, and in time, they all warmed to him. If anything, it helped them become a more tight-knit group.

Roberts was already off to a bad start.

During the morning briefing before they headed out into the fake town used for training exercises, Shaun commented on Roberts’s physical appearance. It was obvious he worked out; his muscles had muscles. But his face…. There was no way to describe him other than pretty. Not remotely Wayne’s type—if he had a type, that is—but he knew someone was bound to say something sooner or later. He silently counted to ten before the first salvo was fired, and of course it was Shaun, he of the sharp tongue and razor-like wit. Roberts bristled initially, but Wayne moved swiftly to ensure Shaun’s victim knew there was nothing to it, only words. Shaun had grinned, affirming Wayne’s attempt to smooth Roberts’s ruffled feathers.

The training exercise went well. The aim was to prepare them for a terrorist attack during a foreign diplomatic visit, and the debrief was useful. Wayne always treated these activities like they were the real thing. That way any errors or misconceptions could be eradicated, and should the situation arise, they would be ready. Once training was over, it was a case of off with the jackets, helmets, and other paraphernalia, into the shower, and then the rest of the evening was free.

Of course a training day wasn’t complete without some teasing.

Fourteen officers piled into the locker room, and soon steam puffed out of the showers, accompanied by loud voices telling jokes, sharing tales of football, pub crawls, sexual conquests, and holiday plans.

Wayne usually spent his locker time trying his best to avoid looking at Ellis, afraid all it would take was one glance that lingered too long on his friend’s solid body to give the game away. Of course he’d been doing this for years. Wayne had worked it out: Ellis joined the unit six years ago. Wayne reckoned they became friends about a month later. However, he’d been thinking about that magnificent body for five years, eleven months, three weeks, a couple of days, and maybe a few hours.

Thinking was all he did; Ellis was out of bounds. There was no way Wayne was about to jeopardize their friendship by making a move on his best friend—his very straight best friend.

When Roberts emerged from the showers, a towel wrapped around his waist, revealing a chiseled torso that wouldn’t have looked out of place in a magazine, Wayne knew it wouldn’t be long.

“Oh, you wanna watch out, Roberts,” Shaun called out, a wicked grin all over his face. “You’ll have our resident gay guy drooling so much you’ll need to take another shower.” Snickers echoed around the locker room.

“Ugh, gay drool. That shit gets everywhere,” Cassidy joked, and Phelps snorted.

Wayne said nothing, but watched the proceedings with a smile. His colleagues weren’t about to out him—not that he cared. They were still assessing Roberts.

Roberts opened his eyes wide. “One of you is gay?” His tone provided no clue as to his feelings about that.

Shaun’s grin widened. “Why? Is that gonna be a problem?” He flashed a glance at the others who stood around, drying off or getting dressed.

Uh-oh. Wayne knew that look.

Ellis caught Wayne’s gaze, his lips twitching. Apparently so did he.

“Uh, no….” Roberts didn’t sound too sure. “So who’s the gay bloke?” His tone was nonchalant enough, but Wayne hadn’t missed a bit of tension creeping in across his shoulders.

Shaun’s eyes gleamed. “That’s for us to know and you to find out.” He walked over to where Roberts stood and trailed a single finger down his bare back. “I’m sure a big, strong man like you can work it out—sweetheart.”

Wayne had to fight hard not to laugh out loud. Shaun was six feet two in his bare feet, with hands the size of dinner plates. To hear the endearment, uttered in his deep voice, was just… weird.

Roberts stared at him, unable to repress a shiver.

Here we go.

Phelps took the hint and sauntered over to Roberts, sashaying his hips in an exaggerated fashion. “It can’t be that difficult, surely, sweetheart.” He stroked Roberts’s shoulder before walking off in the direction of the shower.

Wayne wanted to laugh so hard, watching at least six more of his colleagues approach Roberts, every last one of them making their movements effeminate. Their voices lilted as all of them made sure to touch or stroke poor Roberts, and of course every one of them called him sweetheart. Derwent placed both hands on Roberts’s shoulders and bent down to whisper that he gave a wonderful massage, if Roberts was interested.

It took a minute before he saw the funny side and waved them off with a grin.

“You’re having a laugh, aren’t you?” Around him the guys burst into laughter, and he relaxed.

Shaun chuckled. “Yeah, we are. The important thing is so are you now.” He patted Roberts on the back. “You’ll do.”

Wayne smiled to himself. It wasn’t the first of such initiations he’d witnessed, and he doubted it would be the last. He knew none of it was meant to cause bad feelings—they wanted to know Roberts could take a joke, that he’d fit in with the rest of the men.

Shaun gave Wayne a wink before he addressed Roberts. “I gather it really isn’t a problem.”

Roberts shook his head. “Nah. Just never worked with a gay copper before.”

“That you know of,” Cassidy added with a sly smile. “Not all gay men are stereotypical, you know.” He flashed a look in Wayne’s direction and his expression sobered. “You just need to know we look out for each other around here.”

“Fair enough.” Roberts squared his jaw. “Just don’t call me pretty, all right?”

Wayne groaned. “And you were doing so well too.” When Roberts stared at him, Wayne shook his head. “Face it, you just handed them all the ammunition they needed.”

Roberts’s forehead creased into a frown.

Shaun rubbed his hands together with obvious glee. “Okay, fellas, we’ve got Roberts’s nickname sorted. From now on he’s Pretty Boy.” Guffaws and snorts rebounded around the room.

The penny dropped and Roberts sighed heavily. “I guess I walked straight into that one, right?” He dropped his towel and began to get dressed.

“Afraid so,” Wayne said with a smile. He patted Roberts’s shoulder. “Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it—after the first couple of hundred times.”

Roberts shook his head, laughing. “What’s your nickname, then?”

Before Wayne could reply, Cassidy piped up, “Well, we wanted to call him Babe. You know the little pig who rounds up all the sheep? But that didn’t go down so well, so we’re still working on it.”

Roberts guffawed. “Babe?”

Cassidy shrugged. “He makes sure we’re focused, doing our jobs.” He gave Wayne a warm look. “A good man to have around in a crisis.”

The sentiment made Wayne feel good.

Derwent slung his jacket over his shoulder and headed for the door. He paused and turned back to regard Ellis. “By the way, thanks for helping me out.”

“No problem,” Ellis replied with a wave of his hand. Derwent smiled and exited the locker room.

Wayne gave Ellis a curious glance. “What was that about?”

“Oh, it was nothing important,” Ellis said with a nonchalant air as he stepped into his jeans. Before Wayne could push him further, he called out to Phelps in the shower. “Do you have to sing while you’re showering?”

“Fuck you, I’m practicing for Britain’s Got Talent. I’m gonna be the next SuBo,” Phelps yelled back.

Ellis cackled. “I wouldn’t be handing in any letters of resignation, if I were you.” Around him there were snorts and guffaws and murmured agreements.

One by one the officers disappeared, all with a wave or a smile, until only Wayne and Ellis remained.

Ellis closed his locker and sighed. “And we get to do it all over again tomorrow.”

“Different day, different scenario,” Wayne said briskly. “It’s all good.” He glanced into his bag, and a shiver ran through him when he caught sight of the stiff envelope poking out from under his towel. Not long to go now. As Saturday drew closer, his anticipation increased until he was buzzing from it.

“What’s got you all riled up?”

Shit. Wayne hadn’t realized he’d been that obvious. But then he thought about it. This is the perfect opportunity. If he was going to help Ellis, he’d have to say something, right? Six years they’d been friends, and although Ellis knew Wayne was gay, part of Wayne’s private life—the important part—remained something he kept secret.

Maybe it’s time to share it.

Wayne sat on the wide wooden bench that stood in the middle of the room. “I’m not going to be able to make it out with you guys on Saturday,” he said. “Something’s come up, and I’ve got other plans.”

“Ooh, hot date?” Ellis teased.

No, definitely not a date. He hadn’t had a real date in years. Not since he realized the depth of his feelings for Ellis. He’d done a few scenes at the club, but nothing even remotely sexual for quite some time. That would have felt like he was cheating—even though he wasn’t—and that wasn’t how he was built.

“No, a club I belong to is having a reopening. I got an invite, and I want to go.”

Ellis cocked his head, and Wayne grinned to himself. His friend had always been the curious sort, and his reaction was exactly what Wayne counted on.

“I didn’t know you belonged to a club,” Ellis said, sitting down next to Wayne.

“Yeah, have for a few years. The owners were getting on, so they sold it to someone else. They’ve remodeled, and they’re going to be showing it off to the members and their guests.”

“Really? Sounds great. Who’s all going to be there?”

“Hopefully a lot of the members will show up. We’ve lost a few people over the last year, so this is a good chance to bring the numbers back up to what they used to be.”

“What kind of club?” Ellis asked.

“Oh, nothing you’d care about,” Wayne answered with a dismissive wave.

“Oh. Okay.”

It wasn’t okay, however. Wayne could see Ellis’s feelings were hurt. Wayne felt like a jerk, but he needed this to be Ellis’s idea. He knew his words would push Ellis’s buttons, because the man hated being in the dark about things. It took him all of two seconds to ask again.

Wayne sighed dramatically. “I’m not really comfortable talking about this because it’s a part of my private life. I don’t really share it with anyone.”

Ellis jutted his plump lip out slightly and squeezed his big brown puppy-dog eyes into a squint. “Wow. I didn’t know I was just anyone. Sorry I asked.”

When he stood to go, Wayne reached out and grabbed his bicep. Instead of pulling away, Ellis stopped and waited.

“It’s not that I don’t want to tell you. You’d actually be the only person I would tell. But this isn’t the kind of club that mixes well with what we do for a living. And you’d have to swear to keep it a secret.”

Ellis turned back to face him, his cheeky grin making Wayne’s heart stutter. He held up his hand as though he were swearing. “I won’t tell. You have my word.”

Wayne looked around, playing it up for Ellis’s benefit. “Okay, I belong to a very exclusive BDSM club.”

Ellis’s eyes were as wide as saucers. “You? So I just call you Mr. Fifty Shades or something?”

“No,” Wayne growled. He’d heard that one before, and it pissed him off to no end. “This is a real BDSM club. That other crap was… tripe. No self-respecting Dom would ever treat a sub like that.”

Holding up his hands, Ellis took a step back. “Whoa, mate. I’m teasing. So what’s it like?”

“I’m not sure I can answer that. I mean, it’s different things to different people. No two relationships are alike.”

“There are relationships like that?” Ellis asked, rubbing his chin, his eyebrows squished together.

“Yes, and before you ask, they’re not just about sex. Some relationships are, of course. But others have a deep bond that brings the people together in a way that benefits them both. For instance two of the men who used to come to the club found a third that they really fell in love with. The three of them were together quite a while, but then their submissive—do you know what a Dom or a sub is?”

“To be honest I read some of that book. I didn’t really care for it. But I know the basics, I guess.”

“Okay. I’m a Dom.”

Ellis snorted. “Yeah, no kidding. Like I didn’t know that from the way you boss everyone around.”

“Cheeky sod.” Wayne laughed. “I make no excuses for how I am. I like control.”

Ellis gestured impatiently. “Yes, I know. Carry on.”

“Okay, their submissive decided he didn’t want to be part of the relationship anymore, so he left them. Now they’re lost without a third to love.”

“But they still have each other, right?”

“They do, but they’re both Doms, and that doesn’t make for a sexually fulfilling relationship. They stayed together, though. I guess they’re hoping that their third will come back, or maybe that they’ll find someone else.” Wayne shrugged. “They’re just an example. There are so many types of BDSM relationships that it would probably boggle your mind.”

Ellis huffed. “And you think finding out that you’re into that stuff doesn’t boggle it?”

“See? You don’t know everything about me.”

“So I’m just beginning to realize.” Ellis looked away. “So what kind of things are you in to?”

“Why? Afraid I’ll be too kinky for you?”

Ellis’s gaze snapped back. “No, nothing like that!” He paused. “You’re not, right?”

Wayne laughed. “No. In the BDSM world, I’m considered pretty vanilla. I like control. I enjoy taking charge in a relationship, where what I say goes.”

Ellis nodded. “I can see that. It’s how we all see you, anyway.”

“And that’s how I am at home too. I’ve never had a submissive there, though. I confine all my playing to the club.”

Ellis regarded him closely. “Okay, this might be a stupid question, but why?”

How the hell do I answer that? “Well, see, the thing is, the idea of having sex with a sub sort of makes me feel like I’m cheating on you.” Yeah, he could see that remark going down like a lead balloon. “I haven’t met anyone who interested me,” Wayne answered. Not technically a lie, but not the full truth either.

“And no one else knows you’re in to… this?”

Wayne arched his eyebrows. “The people at the club. No one else.”

Ellis gave him a cheeky grin. “Your mum and dad? What do you think they’d say if you brought a young man home all hog-tied?”

Wayne frowned at Ellis. “Okay. One, they know I’m gay. They’re okay about it, but I think they still hold out hope that I’ll meet a woman one day. And two, I’m not into hog-tying people.” He grinned. “I’m trying not to picture attempting to get a hog-tied man through my parents’ front door. Yeah, that isn’t me. Though I do know a few men who are. One is a dentist, believe it or not.”

Ellis shook his head, then must have realized Wayne was serious. “No kidding?”

“Not at all. Like I said, the people who are interested in BDSM come from all walks of life. I haven’t been to the club in a while, so I’m looking forward to seeing them again.”

Ellis chewed the cuticle on his thumb, a familiar nervous habit. Wayne had to bite back the desire to smack his hand away from his mouth and tell him to stop. He waited, knowing as soon as Ellis worked it out in his head, he’d say whatever was on his mind. Fortunately it didn’t take long.

“Are you… um… going alone?”

Wayne wanted to shout. He knew getting Ellis’s interest would be the only thing needed before the man asked about coming with him to the party. “Well, the invitation does say I can bring a guest, but I haven’t asked anyone yet. Why? Know someone who might want to come along?”

“Well… maybe me?” Ellis asked with a grin.

“You?” Wayne did his best to act surprised.

“Sure. I mean, if you don’t mind. You’re my mate, so if it interests you, I should give it a fair shot, right?” Ellis blushed. “Will there… uh, be women there?”

“It’s a gay BDSM club, so no, no women.”

“Oh.” Ellis brightened instantly. “I guess that’s still okay. I mean, I like learning things.”

And if Wayne had his way, Ellis was about to step onto the path to learning a whole new way of life. One where Wayne would hold the reins as he brought Ellis back to being the strong man he’d fallen in love with long ago.

Chapter Three

ELLIS LOCKED his front door, shrugged off his jacket, and hung it on a hook by the hall mirror. The drive home from Gravesend had been… interesting, but not in a good way. He’d had to fight really hard to concentrate on the traffic, not that this was anything new. When he had a near collision with another car on a roundabout, he pulled off the road into a lay-by, his heartbeat racing, palms clammy. When his pulse returned to normal, Ellis pulled out onto the main road and continued his journey home.

It’s all Wayne’s fault.

He flopped into his comfy armchair, his mind not on what he was going to have for dinner but still turning Wayne’s revelations over and over.

BDSM?

Okay, so it wasn’t a huge surprise, knowing how Wayne was. But still… a BDSM club?

What really burned him was that Wayne hadn’t felt sure he could trust him. After six years of friendship, yeah, that stung. From the sound of it, this was an important part of Wayne’s life, and he hadn’t shared it. Not that Ellis expected him to blab to all and sundry—that wasn’t Wayne’s style—but to not tell him? As far as Ellis was aware, theirs was one of the tightest friendships in the unit.

He did his best to push aside his hurt and focused on this new facet to Wayne. Deep down Ellis knew why he wasn’t surprised. He’d come to depend on Wayne. He felt like Wayne was always there for him. Maybe that was Ellis responding subconsciously to that part of Wayne’s nature. He knew it felt good knowing Wayne was looking out for him and the others.

Ellis didn’t know a whole lot about BDSM barring what he’d read in fiction. Maybe I need to rectify that. Especially if I’m going to this opening night. The last thing he wanted to do was embarrass Wayne with an unguarded reaction. He still wasn’t completely sure why he agreed to go in the first place.

He forgot about dinner and instead reached for his laptop, his curiosity getting the better of him. What he found was an overwhelming array of articles, blog posts, forums—yeah, and videos. He opened up one that seemed more intended to relay information and less designed to… shock. A couple of guys sat on chairs, calmly discussing how BDSM was part of their lives, what they got out of it, and how it brought them together. It was obvious who was the Dom in their relationship, and Ellis found himself watching him with particular interest. The guy wore a black leather harness fitted snugly across his chest, metal rings set into it. His long legs were encased in a pair of tight leather pants laced across his crotch.

Is that how Wayne looks? It didn’t take much effort to picture him in that getup. Ellis imagined Wayne would look more in control than ever. But when the screen shifted to show them about to do… whatever, Ellis switched off. That wasn’t him.

It could never be him. And as long as he kept telling himself that, he’d be fine.

He went back to his research and soon was lost in a rabbit warren, each site leading him down another path, and another, and another….

When the message appeared on his screen informing him he needed to switch to another power source, as his battery was currently at 6 percent, Ellis stared at the clock at the bottom of the screen. Four hours. He’d been online for four hours. His growling stomach complained, and Ellis quickly went into the kitchen and made a piece of toast. It was way too late to think about cooking, and it wasn’t as if he was about to fade away, not with his build. It was only when he’d finished eating he realized how utterly exhausted he was. His feet heavy, Ellis trudged into his bedroom, shrugged off his clothes, and made a quick trip to the bathroom before collapsing onto his bed.

Except he couldn’t sleep.

Not that this was an unusual situation. Insomnia was fast becoming part of his life, unfortunately. He couldn’t switch off his thoughts. His head was full of a new vocabulary: power exchange, domination, submission, contract, safeword, scene, flogger, tawse…. The list went on.

And then there were the images of Wayne that flitted through his brain.

A very different Wayne, a black leather harness tight across his furry chest. A Wayne who stood, booted feet apart, taut leather hugging his thighs, a leather snake of a whip coiled in his hand. A Wayne whose piercing blue eyes seemed to see right into Ellis’s head.

I know what you need.

Fuck, those eyes. The voice that had Ellis’s belly in knots. The lean body he’d seen so often in the locker room, only this time it sent something shuddering through him, racing through him, something hot, almost primal….

His phone rang, shattering the quiet and rousing him from the dreamy state into which he’d drifted without even realizing it. One look at the screen had him groaning out loud.

What the hell can she want at this hour?

Wiping his eyes, Ellis connected the call. “Hey, what’s up?” Like he didn’t know what was coming.

“Oh, thank goodness, you’re still awake.” His sister sounded relieved.