Page 52 of Bound By Her

She hadn’t seen Bryson’s marks in full yet, but she knew what colors he wore.

She had seen the photos.

Seth’s face lit up when he spotted Bryson, his sharp eyes softening in a way that caught Adria off guard.

Kaydon broke into a lopsided grin.

“Killer!”

Bryson’s greeting was warm, genuine. He pulled Seth into an embrace, clapping him on the back.

Adria arched a brow. Killer?

Interesting.

Seth’s kill tattoos only gave him credit for one.

Her attention shifted as Bryson and Kaydon sizedeach other up, their gazes locking in silent communication.

Adria didn’t miss it.

It was the first time she had witnessed their dynamic up close.

It was unspoken, but strong.

A bond carved into them through years of survival.

There was warmth here—real connection.

“Mr. Winters is going to be joining us for dinner this evening,” she said. “That is, if he can behave.”

She watched Bryson’s face redden. Not from arousal, but from anger. He was way too free with his emotions. It was clear from the boys’ intake packet that Bryson played the Dominant in their dynamic. Which was why this introduction was so important. With Eric’s expertise, she had planned this encounter meticulously. It was a delicate balance. Kaydon and Seth being extremely loyal to Bryson meant she had very little to work with, but what she had, she was prepared to use.

“Brysey and I had a little chat, and I’m confident he and I have come to an understanding. Isn’t that right?”

Bryson kept his posture casual. His arrogance was naïve at best, but bordered on delusional.

“It’s your show, princess,” he said, giving Kaydon a cocky smile.

Adria ignored the nickname. “You are so right.”

She put her dark hair up in a high bun. It was a simple move, but the other two had spent the better part of the last three weeks seeing her do this right before she played with them. The effect was immediate. Kaydon shifted uncomfortably, and blood flushed into Seth’s pale cheeks.

“Kneel.”

All three stayed standing.

So predictable.

She snapped her fingers, and Eric moved toward Bryson.

“Need I remind you what happens if Eric has to force you to follow my command?”

Bryson’s eyes moved to Eric and then looked at Seth. His entire body tensed, and his eyes narrowed, but his knees bent. Kaydon seemed surprised, but followed suit. Seth gave her a scathing look and took his place next to Kaydon.

Adria walked over to stand in front of the three, her blood-red stilettos stopping in front of Bryson. Reaching down, she grabbed his chin, forcing him to look up at her.

“You look so cute when you’re angry.”

---