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“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Cupping her elbow, Anthony led her through the reception area and out the front door to the parking lot.

“You don’t have to come with me.”

“I’m not going to leave you to wait out here by yourself.”

“I’m a big girl.”

“And I’m the big bad wolf; maybe I want a bite of you.”

Kaley’s laughter floated in the night air and caused Anthony to chuckle. “Is there something wrong with your van that you’re getting a ride from Rose and Oliver?”

“The van is fine but too recognizable. I usually catch a ride in with Noah, and one of the subs gives me a ride home.”

Anthony filed the information away. He would make sure he was the one to drive her home, and he’d talk with Noah about driving her to the club. He stopped where Oliver’s SUV was parked and looked down at Kaley.

“I want to kiss you,” he said softly.

“Please.”

That was all the invitation he needed. Anthony cradled Kaley against his body and lowered his head. Her lips were soft and parted when he caressed them with his tongue. Kaley’s arms wrapped around his neck and tightened.

Anthony couldn’t help himself; he pulled her in tighter as he deepened the kiss. This woman could surprise him. This wasn’t a shy kiss, but one from a woman who knew what she wanted. Her tongue played with his then retreated only to return a second later.

His cock stiffened against his zipper, and he shifted his stance. Kaley’s fingers were in his hair, lightly stroking his scalp. In turn, he slipped his hand up her back, found her braid, and tugged it gently. She moaned into his mouth. Someone clearing their throat had him lifting his head.

“Hi, Oliver,” Anthony said, still holding Kaley against him.

“Anthony. Do you need us to give you a few more minutes?” Oliver asked, amusement in his voice.

Anthony wanted to say yes, but now was not the time. “We’re good.” He looked down at Kaley. Her cheeks were flushed in the parking lot lighting. “I’ll be in touch.”

“Okay,” she whispered.

Oliver unlocked the vehicle and helped Rose in. Anthony opened the rear passenger door for Kaley and helped her into the SUV. He brushed a quick kiss over her lips before he shut the door and backed away.

He stood there, watching as Oliver backed out, and waved as the vehicle pulled away. Tonight had been full of surprises. Now he had to process everything. He climbed into his own SUV and headed for home.

* * * *

“You and Anthony an item now?” Rose asked.

“I don’t know what we are.” Kaley stared out the window. Not that she could see much in the dark.

“But—”

“Behave, Rose,” Oliver said.

“Yes, Sir,” Rose responded, then fell silent.

Kaley ducked her head. Rose was curious, and Kaley didn’t blame her, but how could she explain about her and Anthony when she didn’t even know herself. Anthony wasn’t as scary as she’d thought. They’d talked, and then he touched her, but not as much as she craved. And that was another thing to think through. How could she crave a man she’d just begun talking to?

Her skin still tingled from his caresses. He’d been so careful with his hands and fingers. By the time he was done, not only was she relaxed, but aroused. And he hadn’t touched her sexually. He said he liked to go slow and learn her body. Well, that happened.

He’d been true to his word and hadn’t mentioned her sitting for him to paint. But that kiss… She lifted her fingers to her lips. When he asked if he could kiss her, she hadn’t even thought of saying no. She’d been more than ready for the kiss.

Anthony was all about consent, and she liked that about him. So many Doms wanted to jump right into the deep end, but he took his time, and with her being so new to the lifestyle, she appreciated it. Kaley bit back a laugh.

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