Page 2 of Power Play

His hazel eyes regarded her. “You’re probably right.” He gestured to the painting. “Will you tell me what you see?”

Regina swallowed. She wasn’t used to spilling her feelings to someone she didn’t know. Yes, she did show her emotions at Wicked Sanctuary when she played, but she knew most of those in the club. The man crossed his arms over his chest, causing his suit jacket to strain over his shoulders as he stared at her. Oh, she knew that stance. He was challenging her.

She lifted her chin and returned her attention to the painting. “I see a man sensually stroking his companion’s arm, and she’s looking up at him with desire in her eyes. There is a connection between them. One that very few people achieve.” There. Let him make of that what he would.

“Interesting.” His voice was soft and close to her ear.

Regina’s breath caught in her throat. He was right behind her, and while he wasn’t touching her, she could feel his body heat.

“Does it bother you that they’re naked and that the artist has emphasized their private bits?”

The giggle escaped before she could stop. “Private bits?”

“Would you prefer”—his breath brushed against her ear as he spoke—“that I said tits and cock?”

“That would be appropriate. After all, the artist is a fetish artist. But there’s nothing wrong with the emphasis.”

“Not everyone feels that way.”

Regina turned her head and gave him one of her stares. The one the other nurses called her annoyed-with-the-doctor glare. “They shouldn’t be here tonight. Tonight is about this artist.”

He opened his mouth but turned when someone called from across the room. A flash of annoyance skimmed over his face. “You’ll have to excuse me for a moment, but I want to continue this conversation.” He walked away, and Regina shivered. What was it about him that made her heart speed up?

She watched him, searching for the reason. There it was. In his stride. Heck, in his attitude. That man was a Dom. Disappointment filled Regina. She played in the club, but outside of it, she didn’t date. Men weren’t worth the trouble. She’d be wise to steer clear of him.

“Regina,” a female voice said.

“Hi, Sierra.” Max and Sierra, friends from the club, walked toward her.

“I’m so glad you were able to make it.” Sierra gave her a hug and a kiss. Max leaned over and brushed a kiss on cheek.

“I’m guessing at least most of the people from the club will be wandering in and out all night,” Regina said. “Sierra, I love your outfit.” Sierra was wearing an off the shoulder blue wrap-around dress that fit her figure perfectly.

“Thank you,” Max said. “It took me over an hour to get her to wear it.” His fingers trailed over Sierra’s bare shoulder.

“Behave, Max. We’re in public,” Sierra said, swatting his arm.

Max’s eyebrows rose, and Regina found herself biting her lip. Max grinned and shook his head. “Should I remindyouto behave, my dear?”

Max’s deep, husky voice sent a shiver through Regina. The Dom voice.

“Yes, Sir,” Sierra whispered as she lowered her gaze.

Regina glanced around. Nobody was watching them, and probably, no one had even noticed the exchange.

“I’ve been trying to get over here,” Anthony declared in an exasperated voice. His blue eyes were bright with excitement, and his black hair spiked in all directions, as if he’d been running his hand through it. “Regina, thank you for coming.” He pulled her in for a hug.

“Your work is fantastic, Anthony. I’m so glad to be here tonight.” She hugged him back. While she hadn’t played with Anthony in the club, the two of them had sat and talked many times.

“Thanks.” He adjusted his jacket. “I hate dressing up.”

“At least you’re not wearing a tie,” said Max.

“True. I couldn’t stand to put one on tonight.”

Regina let the conversation flow over her as she assessed the crowd. One of the things about being a nurse, at least for her, meant keeping her eye on everyone. One never knew when a medical emergency might arise.

After a few minutes, Anthony was called away, and Max and Sierra wandered off. Regina continued to wander around the gallery. She caught glimpses of the man who’d talked to her earlier.

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