Page 22 of Power Play

“I worked my way through classes at the community college, decided I wanted to leave Chicago, and came to Pleasant Valley.”

“Why Pleasant Valley?”

“You’re going to laugh.” He stayed silent. “I opened a map and stuck my finger down.”

“Adventurous thing, aren’t you?”

“I needed to get out of Chicago.”

He nodded. “Tell me how you came to be at Wicked Sanctuary.”

“I was working an ER shift one night and woman came in with marks on her back. Protocol demanded I ask her if her partner was abusing her.”

“She was in the lifestyle.”

“Yes. She assured me she wasn’t being abused, but we were supposed to report it even if the patient denied it. We talked for a long time, and she thoroughly explained the lifestyle to me. Max had just opened the club, so she invited me to visit with her and her husband one night.” Mable and Arthur were a great couple; Regina was sorry when they moved a few years ago.

“Max allowed visitors?”

“If another member brought them. Over the years, Max has changed security protocols to make sure everyone is properly vetted.”

“I’m aware.” While Theo had vouched for him, Max made him go through the background check. “How did you get through the background check?”

“I legally changed my name to Davis. I’m guessing Max figured Dutton was a married name, and I was divorced.”

“And you never corrected him.”

She shook her head. “Why would I?”

Dane stared at her, and she shivered. It wasn’t a shiver of fear, but anticipation. There was something in his gaze. More than passion and desire. A soul-searching kind of gaze.

“I’m glad we’re getting this out in the open.” He nuzzled her ear. “It doesn’t matter to me about the money or your family. You are what matters to me.”

“Dane…” Did she dare believe him?

“Quiet, sweetheart.” She shivered at his tone. “I think I understand why you didn’t tell me all this before, but there will be consequences for not telling me you were afraid I would go back to Chicago and stay.”

“Yes, Sir.” He was right. That was the most important thing between Dom and sub: no secrets, and she’d kept a big one. Yes, they were just starting a relationship, but she knew honesty between them was crucial. “I’m sorry I wasn’t honest with you.”

“I have to bear some of the responsibility as well.”

“Sir?” He wasn’t responsible for her actions; she was.

“I haven’t gone slow with you and let the trust and relationship build.” His gaze captured hers. “I was afraid you’d shut me out like you do the other Doms.”

Regina caressed his cheek, enjoying the warmth of his skin against hers. “I couldn’t shut you out from day one, even though I wanted to.” Her words were true. There had been something about him that pulled at her heart and her submissive side.

“I’m glad to hear it wasn’t one sided.” He pressed a soft kiss to her lips.

“Sorry to interrupt,” Max said. “It’s your time to scene.”

“Be right there,” Dane said, but his gaze never left hers. “Are you still up for this?”

“Yes, Sir.” Her heart was lighter now, but she still had to let go of certain emotions.

“All right.” He shifted Regina to her feet and stood. “I will make this special for you.” Dane took her hand and led her to their scene. Her heart pounded with excitement.

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