Page 10 of Pain Play

Terry nodded. “Yeah. I think that works great.”

They gazed into each other’s eyes, the mutual decision another step in bringing them closer.

“And I’m sure you’re wondering about a permanent collar, so we can discuss that later as well.”

“A…” Terry wasn’t sure he could breathe.That’s right, I forgot, a collar. This is a genuine commitment.He didn’t want to make a fool of himself, so he didn’t dare say the ‘M’ word, but it would sort of be like they were married once he wore the collar. Would he wear it all the time? Would Phil want him to? Wouldhewant to?

Phil gave him a concerned frown. “I take it you don’t care for the idea?”

“No! Ilovethe idea.”

His breath had come back with a vengeance and Phil was back to grinning.

“That fills me with joy, baby. You have no idea.”

“We’d have to discuss it. I have no clue how all that works for a lifestyle couple. But…” Terry didn’t want to sound too needy. “But I’m glad you want to collar me.”I said that right, didn’t I?He still wasn’t great with all the BDSM lingo.

“Thrilled, would be more accurate.” Phil’s gaze searched his face as if searching for clues. “Wearing the collar, what type of collar it would be and everything else that goes along with having one as a part of defining our relationship should be something we take our time to consider. We both need to be happy with our decision.”

Terry let out a long exhale. “Yeah, you’re right. It’s a lot all at once, and I want it to be special.”

“Anything with you will always be special, baby. No matter what.” Phil grabbed Terry’s nape then pulled him close, pressing their lips together before releasing him. “And with that, I need to take a piss.”

Terry sputtered out a laugh. “Nice.” Terry rolled out of Phil’s arms, rubbing his arms as soon as his Master’s warmth was taken away. “It’s freezing in here. Should I get our shower started?” They’d done that on a few mornings when Phil had called ‘scene’, but he didn’t want to make any assumptions until they’d established a routine.

“Yes, that would be great.” Phil tossed him his robe from where it had been draped over a chair. “We can wash each other, so you’ll get an additional round of touching me.” Phil gave him another wink. “Then we’ll have breakfast, and yes, I’ll be feeding you.”

Terry sucked in a deep breath then exhaled. “I can do this.”

“Of course you can.” Phil’s voice had gone soft. “We’re off to a wonderful beginning.” Phil approached him then ran histhumb across Terry’s bottom lip, tracking the movement with his eyes. “And since we’ve already discussed some major points of our contract, the rest shouldn’t take too much longer. Which means, I’d like to take you out someplace to celebrate tonight.” Phil’s lifted his gaze to meet Terry’s. “It’s Friday, so if we also went somewhere for the weekend, you could touch me to your heart’s content.”

Terry’s eyes burned, his emotions threatening to overtake him again. “I’d love that.”

Phil gave him another quick kiss. “I was hoping that would be your reaction. Come on. Let’s begin our first day as fulltime Master and sub.”

Terry accepted Phil’s offered hand and trailed behind him to the bathroom.He’s all mine and I’m all his. We belong to each other. If happiness could be measured, Terry was sure his would be off the charts.

Chapter Five

Phil ran a dollop of product through his short hair, using his fingers to work out any areas that appeared uneven or clumpy. He didn’t typically do much to the brown strands, hadn’t even bothered to touch up the silver at his temples, however, he always maintained a neat and professional appearance. But Terry’s request that he wear the royal blue dress shirt that was his boy’s favorite, along with a hint that he should run a comb through his hair, made him more than a bit curious. Terry had been like a nervous chihuahua from the moment Phil had come home from yet another pointless industry meeting.

Wish I knew what he was up to.

Phil angled his body to one side then the other in the mirror, making sure the broadcloth shirt didn’t show even one wrinkle. He needed to behave himself for his sub, do away with his cranky mood. His mouth quirked to one side. Terry had probably gone to a lot of trouble to do something special for his birthday, so rough day or not, he wouldn’t ruin their evening by sulking.

All right, Big-Four-O, here I come.

He took one last glance in the mirror over the dresser then decided he could probably pass inspection for wherever it was Terry had planned to take him for the evening. As he rounded the corner into the living room, he came to a halt when he saw it was empty. He’d been just about to tease Terry over his mysterious demands, however, his lover was nowhere in the main part of the house.

Maybe he’s waiting in the car already?

It seemed odd, although he could’ve misunderstood when Terry had shooed him off to the bedroom. He chuckled to himself. Sometimes Terry would become overly excited about something to the point where he’d forget to convey crucial bitsof info. Phil made his way across the open floor plan so he could check outside, but before he’d had the chance to open the door, Terry called out.

“Is that you, Master? I’m in the studio if you’re ready.”

Phil shook his head, thoroughly confused. Terry had obviously needed to take care of some last-minute business. Terry never set foot in his work area once he was off the clock. Since he worked from home for the most part, he’d made a clear distinction between professional and personal space.

“Yes, baby. I’m in the foyer. Will you be a minute still?” He could always shoot off a few more project-feeler emails before they left.No matter how desperate they’re beginning to sound.