Daddy's Little Heiress 72e3c

Published by EVERNIGHT PUBLISHING ® at Smashwords

www.evernightpublishing.com

Copyright© 2021 Lila Fox

ISBN: 978-0-3695-0385-5

Cover Artist: Jay Aheer

Editor: Audrey Bobak

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

WARNING: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. No part of this book may be used or reproduced electronically or in print without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews.

This is a work of fiction. All names, characters, and places are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

DADDY’S LITTLE HEIRESS

Daddy Series, 10

Lila Fox

Copyright © 2021

Chapter One

Lacey hid behind a stack of wood as she listened to the people in the deserted building come closer. She debated whether she should run to another floor or just hunker down and pray they wouldn’t find her. Listening to the footsteps get louder, she decided they were too close, and the opportunity for escape had ed. She wiped her shaking, dirty, sweaty hands on her equally filthy jeans. God, she’d never been this dirty, scared, or miserable in her life, but she couldn't think of an alternative. She couldn’t go to the police because her mother was wellknown and respected. She had no other relatives or even friends. Her mother had made sure of that. As the days ed, she became weaker from hunger and lack of sleep and less hopeful she would be able to come up with a solution. The thought of going back home made bile climb her throat every time. She’d rather be dead than go with the man her mother wanted to give her to. She crouched back behind the pile of wood as the footsteps got closer. **** “Daddy, I’m going to look out the window,” Kinley said. “All right, don’t walk off, though,” Eli said. “I won’t.” She walked over to the huge window and looked down at the street. There was so much activity with the different cars and people rushing down sidewalks, it almost made her dizzy. A movement in her peripheral vision had her turning her head toward a stack of construction supplies. She squinted, and when she didn’t see anything, she turned back to the window. It wasn’t a minute later that she saw a flash of blue behind the stack.

She was about to call out for her daddy when she saw the girl. The girl looked at her with fear-filled eyes and shook her head frantically. Kinley looked over her shoulder and couldn’t see Eli but could hear him in another room, so she crept over to her girl. “Hi.” The girl looked around before she murmured, “Hi.” “What are you doing here?” Kinley made sure she whispered so the men didn’t hear them. “Hiding.” “Why?” Kinley asked. “Please don’t tell them I’m here. They’ll give me back to my mother.” “Is she a bad person?” The girl nodded. “What’s your name?” “Lacey.” “My name is Kinley. Can I be your friend?” “Yes. I’d like that. I’ve never had a friend.” Kinley’s eyes widened. “Ever?” Lacey shook her head then shrank back when the men started their way. “Please don’t tell,” she begged. Kinley shook her head. “No, I won’t. I’ll bring you things tomorrow.” “You would do that?” “Yes, and then you can tell me the whole story, and we’ll see what we can do.

Now hide.” Kinley walked back over to the window. Lacey was one of the prettiest women she’d ever seen. If she weren’t so small, Kinley knew she could easily be a model. She gasped when an arm came around her waist. “Hey, love, it’s just me,” Eli said. “What’s got you so jumpy?” “I just think this floor is scary. There are so many sounds.” Eli chuckled. “You’re right. Are you ready to go?” Kinley nodded and took his hand. She casually looked around and couldn’t see Lacey. On the way back to their building, she wondered how Lacey could stay there all by herself, especially at night. She’d be terrified if that were her. Her mother must be a truly horrible person for her to go to those extremes. Eli dropped her off at their condo to rest. She watched the elevator door close before starting to making a pile of things she thought the girl would need. The task ahead of her started to get overwhelming. How was she going to sneak into the building? Especially with an arm full of things? She didn’t know how she would get everything to Lacey, and she thought about calling in reinforcements. She called up Bella and Sienna and had them come down to her condo. The girls hugged. “Okay, what’s up? You sound upset,” Sienna said and sat down beside her on the sofa. “First off, you have to promise you can’t tell anyone, especially your daddies.” “Pinky swear,” the other two said. “Okay, Daddy and I were at his friend’s new building. It’s several blocks away. I

didn’t count how many.” “And?” Sienna said impatiently. Bella giggled. Kinley rolled her eyes. “Fine. We were up on the third floor. It’s under construction and really scary. Anyway, I was standing there and saw a girl about our age.” “Saw her where?” Bella asked. “In a pile of construction supplies.” Sienna gasped. “She was dead?” “No!” “Then why was she there?” “She says she’s hiding from her mother.” Bella shook her head. “Wow, did she tell you why?” “We didn’t have time.” “What do you need from us?” Bella asked. “I need you to help me get her some things. I’m not sure how long she’s been there or how long she has to stay. I’m thinking I could talk her into coming here, but it would be hard to hide her.” “I’d take her with me,” Sienna said. “But the house isn’t ready yet, so she’d be in the condo with me. Bella looked concerned. “Why can’t she tell one of our daddies? They’d help her.” “She’s terrified. I think we have to learn more about her situation before we ask her.”

Sienna and Bella nodded. “I want to go there tomorrow, early. Can you guys help me carry things?” “I can,” Bella said. “Me, too. But how are we going to do this?” Bella grinned. “We could tell them were on a field trip.” Sienna laughed. “I say we tell the dads were together. They’ll assume in one of the condos.” “How do we explain going into the other building?” Kinley asked. Bella shrugged. “Isn’t there a back door we can sneak into?” Kinley brightened. “Maybe. We can at least try.” “Is there anything you want us to bring?” Kinley shook her head at Bella. “I think I’ve got everything. If you have backpacks to help carry it all, that would be great.” “Girls?” All three girls screeched and turned toward the elevator where Eli stood. “Do your daddies know you’re here?” he asked. Bella and Sienna shook their heads. “Then I suggest that you get home.” Bella and Sienna nodded and hugged Kinley. Sienna whispered, “Tomorrow,” in her ear. Kinley started to fidget when Eli crossed his arms and studied her. “What?”

One of his eyebrows rose. She bit down on her lip and waited. “Do you want to tell me what the three of you are up to?” She shook her head. “Nothing.” “You know what happens when I find out you’ve lied to me?” She nodded. “So, is that still your answer?” She swallowed and then nodded again. “All right. I’ll leave it for now. Why don’t you go play while I start dinner?” “Okay.” She didn’t hesitate to run down the hallway. Lying to Eli hurt her stomach. But she promised her new friend, and she couldn’t break that. It sounded like she was the only person helping her at the moment.

Chapter Two

Eli watched her go, then walked into the office and closed the door. He got both Caleb and Kane on the phone and told them about what he’d seen. “Damn, I wonder what they’re up to,” Kane said. “I say we watch them closely. The girls all have their necklaces, so we can track them if they leave the building,” Eli reminded them. “That sounds good. I won’t even ask Sienna,” Kane said. “Caleb, you shouldn’t ask Bella, either. We might never find out if we don’t catch them in the act.” Eli said, “I agree.” “Yeah, I’m in. But it’s going to be hard,” Caleb told them. Eli grinned. He wasn’t going to say anything, but then Kane spoke up. “It’s because you’re an impatient bastard.” Caleb growled. “And you’re a fuck face.” Eli laughed. “I’m going to go. I’ll see you tomorrow.” He hung up as the other two started to argue. It was never dull working with the others. Over dinner and a movie, as Eli and Kinley cuddled on the sofa, he could tell she was tense but didn’t question her. Later in bed, he rolled off her and pulled her into his arms after fucking the tension from her. He thought she’d fallen asleep when she spoke up. “Daddy, if you found another little who was gorgeous, would you leave me to be with her?” He leaned away from her and tipped her chin up with his fingers so he could see

her face. “Why in the world would you think that?” She started to get agitated again. “It’s just… I was just wondering. It’s just you’re so handsome.” “Well, I don’t ever want you to wonder about something like that. I think you’re beautiful and precious, and I love you bigger than the universe. There isn’t a woman alive who could ever take your place.” He felt her relax a bit, but he could tell she wasn’t convinced either. He rolled them until he lay on top of her. Her legs spread automatically, which he loved. Without giving her time to think, he rammed into her, making her scream. “Does this look or feel like I don’t want you, baby? I can fuck you six times a day, and I still stay hard.” She wrapped her arms around his neck. “I love you, Daddy.” “I love you, too.” He didn’t slow down. He wanted to throw her over a few times before he came. She screamed again as the first orgasm caught her off guard. When she started whimpering, he pulled out, flipped her onto her stomach, and raised her hips before plunging back into her. Eli could tell she was fighting to get to the top of the pinnacle and knew she needed a bit of pain to throw her over this last time. He pulled out and immediately started pushing his cock into her ass. He didn’t stop or slow down until he was balls deep inside of her. “This will get you where you want to go.” “Yes, Daddy.” “Tell me what you need.” “I need you to fuck my ass.” “Do you want me slow or fast?” he murmured against the side of her head.

“Hard. I need you hard and fast.” “You got it, baby girl.” He forcefully rammed into her over and over until he felt her start to tighten on him. “That’s it. Come for Daddy.” A low moan slipped from her mouth, and then her body relaxed. He smiled as he took his own pleasure. When he was done, he took a minute to get his breath back before pulling out of her. He laid her on her side and grinned when he saw her face. “Out cold.” He showered quickly before taking a washcloth in and wiping her off. Then he threw the washcloth into the bathroom and slid back into bed. He arranged her back against his chest and kissed the back of her head. “No one can take your place. Ever.” His curiosity was piqued as to what had brought on that insecurity. He hoped he would have his answers the next day.

Chapter Three

Lacey watched her new friend, Kinley, walk away and she almost shouted out to her to come back. The thought of spending another night in this scary place made her skin itch and her stomach twist in pain. Although she probably itched because she hadn’t bathed in several days, and her stomach hurt because she was hungry. Still, she hated being there, but she was afraid to move to another building in case she was seen. She pulled back at the last moment. If there were even a slight chance Kinley’s man would take her back, she’d live in the building for months or years if she had to. She knew that was unrealistic, but she’d do anything to keep herself away from her mother. Tears burned her eyes when pictures of her father popped into her head. God, she missed him so much. She knew he would have protected her and never allow her mother to do what she planned. In a way, he had saved her, even after he died. If it hadn’t been for him and the demands he put in his will, she would have already been in the hands of the monster. The minute she turned eighteen, her mother would have given her away then. But her father had put it into his will that she was to go to college and finish before her mother could get her part of his estate. Lacey was supposed to get the majority of the estate, which was one reason her mother was trying to give her away. The man she referred to as the monster would take her, and in return, her mother was supposed to get her part of the inheritance, about three-fourths of it, which was a fortune. The other reason she was giving her to him was because she owed the man for something. Lacey knew it wasn’t good or even legal, but she hadn’t been able to figure out what. He was willing to take her and not the money because he thought she was some kind of good luck charm. With her white hair and unusual eyes, it set her apart. The fact she was a virgin made her even more valuable for some reason.

She snorted in disgust. She’d had bodyguards the whole four years she went to college, and her mother had told her it was for her safety. Instead, she found out it was to keep her pure for the man she intended to give her to. Lacey lay down on a stack of tarps she’d made into a bed by one of the windows, so she at least had the light from the streetlamps. She used another tarp to cover up with because the building got so cold at night. The night slipped past, and no matter what she did, her fear wouldn’t let her relax enough to sleep. She’d never been so scared, lonely, hungry, dirty, and tired in her life. But she’d take it over the other alternative any day. The sun was coming over the horizon when her eyes finally slid closed. She didn’t know how much sleep she got before she heard footsteps on the other side of the floor she was on, and it had her running as quietly as possible to her hiding place. She headed up the steps to a floor that was dirty and dark and held old office supplies. No one had ever come up there, so she felt relatively safe. Her thoughts turned to her new friend. She wondered if she would really come back, and how would she find her? She desperately needed to talk to her, and maybe they could come up with ideas. If she died before she was twenty-five, her mother would get the inheritance. If she died after that age and wasn’t married, the inheritance would go to her father’s charities. If, by chance, she got married, her husband would be the beneficiary and take control of the estate. She was twenty-three, and her mother’s time was quickly ing. Lacey secretly wondered why her mother just didn’t have her killed. Her one hope was that it was a line her mother couldn’t go over because she was her child, and she maybe felt something for her. **** Eli, Caleb, and Kane watched and followed the trackers they had on the women. When they got to the building and snuck in the back, Eli was shocked. “Guys, this is Cason and Devon’s new building.”

“Now, what in the hell would they be doing here?” Caleb asked. “I think we’re going to find out,” Kane said. Eli pulled out his phone. “Hey, Cason. We’ve got a situation here. Can you meet us down in your lobby?” “I’ll be right down.” Eli saw him come out of the elevator and head their way. He shook his hand. “You Kane and Caleb.” Cason shook their hands. “Yes. It’s nice to see you again.” “It seems that our women have snuck into your building.” Cason’s eyes widened. “Why?” “We don’t know,” Caleb said. “But we’re going to find out.” “How do you know they are here?” “We have trackers on them,” Eli told him. Cason chuckled. “Good idea. Can you tell where they are right now?” Kane looked at his phone. “They stopped on level two for a while, then they’ll go to the next level, stay for a few minutes, and then move on.” “It sounds like they are looking for something,” Cason predicted. “Or someone,” Eli said. “We don’t have anyone on those floors, and I can’t see them wanting to see one of the construction guys who are usually here.” “They better not,” Caleb said. “Bella is already going to have a sore ass.” Eli snorted. “Let’s go get our littles, guys.”

Chapter Four

Lacey sat on one of the dusty desks by the window. It was her only form of entertainment, and watching the activity below kept her mind off her predicament. She had brought up one of the thick tarps a few days ago, so she was able to get a few hours of sleep in. The stairwell sound caught her attention, so she jumped off the desk and hid under it. She heard a few sets of footsteps, growing more afraid the closer they got. “Lacey,” Kinley whispered loudly. Oh, my God, her friend had come back. She scurried out from under the desk. “I’m here.” Kinley turned toward her. She stiffened when she saw the other girls. Kinley wrapped her hand around Lacey’s. “Don’t be afraid. These are my good friends. They came to help.” Lacey’s gaze bounced between the three. She wanted desperately to believe they would help her, but she hadn’t had anyone she could trust besides her father. “Hi, I’m Sienna, and she’s Bella.” Lacey nodded. All three were beautiful, and she could tell they all tried to make her feel safe, so she tried to relax. “Hi, I’m Lacey.” Bella came forward and shook her hand. “It’s nice to meet you. We’re here to help, and we brought some things. Are you hungry?” Lacey nodded. “I’m starving.” All three opened their backpacks and started pulling things out and putting them on the desk she’d hid under.

Tears stung her eyes at the number of things they brought. Food, juice boxes, wet wipes, clothing, coloring books and crayons, a few books to read. And a few other things. “You guys, this is so much. I can’t thank you enough.” She burst into tears and was quickly surrounded by three bodies holding her tight and crying with her. It almost made her smile. She sniffed a few times and stepped back. “I appreciate everything you’ve done.” “Oh, we’re not done,” Sienna said and handed her a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. “You eat and tell us what’s going on so we can fix it.” “I don’t think anyone can fix this.” Kinley sat on the top of the desk. “Let’s figure everything out first.” Lacey’s and Sienna’s heads jerked toward the doorway when they heard something. “Someone’s here,” Sienna whispered. Kinley glanced at her. “Go hide, Lacey. Hurry.” Lacey rushed to get under the desk again and then listened to several pairs of feet get louder. Oh, God, what if the people tried to hurt her new friends? She knew she’d do whatever she needed to help them. She relaxed a bit when she heard one of the people talk. “Kinley?” “Hi, Daddy.” Lacey heard Sienna and Bella curse under their breaths. “What are you girls doing here?” another male voice asked. “Having a picnic,” Kinley said. Lacey heard the nerves in Kinley’s voice and cringed. Oh, no, they were going to

get in trouble because of her. She didn’t know if it would be best for her to show herself or not. “I think you’re lying to me, Bella,” a deeper voice said. “I…” “Sienna?” yet another voice said. “Yes?” Lacey’s eyes widened at the feistiness of her new friend. “I think it’s time to go, baby.” “Can’t we just stay for a little bit? We wanted to finish our adventure,” Sienna said. “No.” How many men were there? It looked like escape was not going to happen if there were that many in the room. The guys talked to each other. She couldn’t hear what was said, though. She heard a scuffle, and then one of the girls mumbled like her mouth was full. “Come on, Bella.” “But, Daddy.” “Now, cupcake.” Lacey heard Bella walk off. “I don’t want to leave,” Kinley said. “But you’re going to listen to your daddy, aren’t you?” “How about I meet you downstairs…”

Lacey heard a screech, then an oomph, footsteps, and then nothing. She heard the door close and exhaled. Tears ran down her face as she pressed the heels of her hands to her eyes. Now, what was she going to do? She was alone once again, and she hated that more than anything.

Chapter Five

Cason stood still and waited. The men had caught the blue piece of fabric under the desk and decided to get the girls out and meet in the conference room for him. When he heard the sniffles, he sighed. It was either a child or a woman hiding beneath the desk, and he couldn’t take the crying another second. He walked around and squatted. He didn’t want to frighten the girl, but she would still be scared when she opened her eyes and saw him. “Honey?” Her eyes flew open, and she screamed. “Easy, I won’t hurt you, sweetheart. I’ll do whatever I can to help you.” He kept talking even though he guessed she didn’t hear a lot of what he was saying. She freaked when he tried to reach for her. She tried to push by him to run, but he stood with her in his arms. He made sure she couldn’t get away at the same time he didn’t hurt her. He waited patiently for her to calm so he could get through to her. She finally went limp in his arms. He carried her to one of the old chairs, sat with her in his lap, and rubbed her back. “Are you doing okay?” She shook her head, hiccupped, and looked up at him. “I’ll never be okay.” Cason took a second to catch his breath. Her eyes were the most unusual he’d ever seen. There was a ring of very light blue next to the pupil, and then around that was a ring of bright green. They were mesmerizing, and they took his breath away for a moment. He cleared his throat. “Yes, you will. First of all, how old are you?”

“I’m twenty-three.” She didn’t look that old, but she had several layers of dirt covering her at the moment. “How long have you been in the building?” She shrugged. “Three, no, I think it’s been four days.” His eyes widened. “That had to have been scary for you.” She nodded. “Will you let me go?” “Where would you go, honey?” “I don’t know.” “Would you let me help you? You have to be desperate to hide here for that long.” “You can’t help me. No one can.” “You don’t know that. Are you hiding from a boyfriend?” She shook her head. “You’re an adult, honey. You shouldn’t have to hide from anyone. No one can get you to do something you don’t want. And if they try, you can always go to the cops.” He got worried when her laughter turned to a sob within a split second. He cuddled her against this chest. “It will be okay. I’ll make sure of it. No matter what it is.” “You can’t.” “We won’t know until you tell me.” “You’ll take me back.”

“I swear to you, I won’t take you anywhere you don’t want to go unless it’s a doctor or a dentist.” She squinted up at him. “A dentist?” “Yes, because clean, healthy teeth are important.” She looked stunned for a moment and then started laughing. Real laughter that made him feel better. “You’re silly.” He shrugged and smiled. “Sometimes. I just don’t like seeing you sad. I swear to you I will do everything in my power to fix whatever’s going on with you.” She tucked her head under his chin, sighed, and relaxed. That little bit of trust made his heart pump faster. “My name is Cason. What’s yours?” “Lacey.” “That’s a pretty name.” “I like yours, too.” He smiled. “My friends are waiting for us.” “Why?” “Everyone wants to help you, honey. Let us be your friends.” “You’ll be my friend?” “Absolutely.” “Will you stay with me?” He pressed a kiss to her forehead. “I’ll not ever leave you if that’s what you want.” God, he couldn’t understand this burning desire to fix her problems, keep her safe, and make her happy, but he was going with his gut and keeping her

close. “Yes.” He stood with her in his arms before slowly setting her on her feet. He grabbed her hand. “Let’s get this done so we can get you in a shower and get some food in you.” “I’d like that a lot. I think I smell like a pig, and I know I’m as hungry as one.” He laughed. “I’ll take care of you.”

Chapter Six

Lacey clung to Cason’s hand as they rode the elevator down. He must have felt her start to shake because he put his arm around her, and it instantly made her feel more secure. “No one will see you.” She exhaled and nodded. Cason walked them down a long hallway before opening a door and pulling her in. She stiffened and tried to back up when her gaze fell on the three other men in the room. “Easy, honey. They are friends of mine, and they’re your new friends’ men.” She was distracted by a screech, and then three pairs of arms surround hers. The girls hugged her. They all talked at the same time, so she couldn’t understand anything they were saying. One of the other men shouted, “Girls, leave her be. She looks overwhelmed.” She relaxed when she saw the girls walk around the table and sit on the men’s laps. She saw Kinley poke her man’s chest. He smiled and looked at her. Then he smirked. “Kinley would like you to know that none of the girls told on you. We followed them, and that’s how we found you.” “Okay. I’m glad.” Cason sat in a chair and pulled her into his lap. She was confused about why it made her feel better, but she wasn’t going to question it. “By the way, my name is Eli, and I’m Kinley’s daddy. Now, tell us…”

“Daddy?” She was confused. He didn’t act like a daddy. Cason got her attention. “Have you ever heard of a Big/little relationship?” She shook her head. “It’s when the woman likes to have their man make the decisions and take care of them, and the men have a desire to be needed like that. They call them daddies as a term of endearment. They don’t think of them as real daddies. Does that make sense?” She nodded. It sounded intriguing. Cason nudged her to get her attention. “Start at the beginning.” Nerves skated up her spine. She didn’t know how much to tell them. “Oh, well … I’m not really sure where the beginning is.” “Just try, honey.” Lacey sighed. She had to trust someone because she couldn’t do this on her own. “Okay. The reason I’m hiding is that my mother has promised me to a man I call the monster.” “You know the man?” Kane asked. “No, I’ve only met him a few times. He’s really creepy, and he won’t stop touching me.” Cason took over questioning her, so she didn’t get overwhelmed. “Why would your mom give you to a man?” She shrugged. “I’m not sure. What I do know is if I’m dead or presumed dead by the time I’m twenty-five, she’ll get my part of the inheritance. Someone overheard her saying she owed him for something, so that’s also a part of it.” “But you don’t know what?” She shook her head. “No.” “Why can’t you just say no?” Kinley asked.

“I’ve been kept secluded my whole life, first by my father and then my mother. My father was protecting me because there had been a few threats against him, and he was afraid they would kidnap me. I thought when I went to college, my mom was protecting me by keeping me guarded every minute of every day. I found out she was making sure I didn’t lose my virgi…” Cason nudged her. “It’s all right. Don’t be embarrassed.” She cleared her throat. “She wanted to make sure I saved my virginity for the monster. So, I’ve got no one to go to for help. She’s also made it look like I’m mentally unstable.” “How?” Cason asked. “She had me visit a mental hospital a few times. It was weird. I’d spend the day there, and someone would show me around, and then I’d leave. She did this at a few places. I saw it documented on paper, but it said I was there for evaluation for being mentally unstable.” “Where are you getting all this information?” Cason asked. “I kept hearing snippets of things I couldn’t understand. One of the maids who was nice to me told me that something weird was going on and I should try to get away. A few of the things she told me she overheard made me want to vomit.” Lacey shuddered. She might have to tell them everything eventually, but at the moment, she wanted to forget how horrifying her future was. “My mother isn’t a nice person. The maid also said she was leaving the house the next day after she got off work, and she was never planning on going back because she was also frightened. But if I wanted a ride out, she’d meet me by the garage, and she’d hide me in her car. That night, when my mom was out, I broke into her desk, and there was a file. I took pictures with my phone and emailed it to myself, but I haven’t had a chance to get to a computer, and my phone died.” “We’ll deal with that later.” “The monster was in town and was supposed to visit a few days ago. I was afraid that was when he was going to take me away.” “You’re not going anywhere.”

“She could use the mental issue against me.” “No, she can’t.” “I guess I forgot to tell you who my mom was. She’s Lilith Holloway. Federal Judge Lilith Holloway. She has a lot of power.” She watched them take everything in. God, she shouldn’t have said anything about her mom. Now they’ll be too afraid to help her. Lacey tried to get off his lap. “Listen. I want to thank you for trying to help me, but I think it’s best if I go.” Cason tightened his grip on her and shook his head. “You're not going anywhere, honey.” “No, I have to. I just realized I could be putting you all in danger…” Sienna snorted, and her daddy smiled. “What?” Lacey asked in confusion. “Sienna had something similar happen to her, and she kept trying to protect us.” Kane chuckled. “Tell her how that went for you, baby.” Lacey watched Sienna glare at her man before she turned back to her. “As you can probably guess, I didn’t get very far.” “But you didn’t have a judge after you.” Sienna laughed. “No, I had a gang leader who was determined to make me his bitch.” The other girls in the room giggled. “Language,” Kane snapped. Sienna pressed a kiss to his nose. “Sorry, Daddy.” Kane snorted. “No, you’re not.”

Lacey smiled as she watched them. She could see the love they had for each other, and it made her envious. She wanted to think she’d have her own family one day, but her life was too unstable to think about the future. She just needed to take things day by day.

Chapter Seven

He could feel the girl shake in his arms. “I’m going to get her taken care of. She’ll stay with me, and I’ll start investigating.” Lacey’s head whipped around. “What? No. What if you get hurt?” Cason smiled down at her. “Nobody will know you’re with me for one thing…” He put a finger over her lips when she opened them. “No arguing. Let us help. I might mention we all used to be in law enforcement of some kind.” He watched her take that information in before he lifted her to her feet, stood, and then grabbed her hand. “I’ll be in touch with you later,” he told the others. He pulled her out of the room and to the elevator. When he noticed her sway, he curled his arm around her. “How much sleep have you had, honey?” “I don’t know.” “We’ll get you in the shower, and while you’re washing, I’ll make you a sandwich, and then you can go to bed.” “Will you be there? You won’t leave?” “I promise I will not leave without you knowing and having someone else here with you, so you’re not alone.” She nodded, yawned, and leaned against him. She was so much like the other littles he’d met, and now he could see the appeal. All the couples had been truly in love, and it was nice to watch, but he hadn’t thought he’d ever come across a woman like that.

Having Lacey in his arms made him hopeful that maybe, just maybe, he could have his own little someday. He’d do what he could to take care of her and figure out how to get her out of this mess and keep her safe, but he’d also get to know her and see where it led. “Now, the construction on my place isn’t all the way done. I have the kitchen, master bed, and bath, and office finished—a few pieces of furniture in the main room. I was planning on putting a hold on for the time being because I have everything I need, but we’ll see what happens. We could probably have the guest bedroom and bath done rather quickly. I also have three saferooms in the condo that I’ll show you how to get into. That will make you feel safe.” “I don’t want to disrupt your life.” “You’re not, honey. I promise.” He walked her through his condo, through his bedroom, and into his bathroom. “I’ll start the shower for you and get you some towels. Do you need help?” He smiled when she blushed and then ducked her head. “Um… I don’t think so.” “All right. I’ll go get your food. I’ll bring in one of my shirts for you to wear.” “Okay, thank you.” He walked out and shut the door. In the kitchen, he scrounged for food and was disgusted when he saw he didn’t have much. He did find a can of chicken noodle soup and warmed that up. Anything in her stomach before she lay down was good. While that was in the microwave, he went into his closet and grabbed one of his shirts. He listened at the door to make sure she was in the shower before silently opening it and laying the shirt on the counter. His gaze went to the small body on the other side of the tempered glass. He saw the muted shape of her but no details. He didn’t want to freak her out, so he quietly left and went to go check on her soup.

When it was done, he put it and a glass of milk on the counter before he went to check on her. She was just coming out of the bathroom, and he stopped dead. Damn, she was fucking beautiful. From her petite frame to her light hair and eyes. “Your hair…” She fingered the damp tresses. “What?” “I didn’t realize it was so light. Is it real?” She laughed. “Yes.” “It’s beautiful. I like you in my shirt.” She smiled. “I feel like I’m playing dress-up.” He grinned. “You can dress up in my clothes any time.” He held out his hand. “Come on, I have food waiting for you. It’s not much. I’ll have to order some groceries. Maybe you can help me with that later.” “I’d like to help.” “Good.” He walked her around the island and lifted her into one of the stools. He walked back into the kitchen and grabbed a beer out of the fridge. “Eat as much as you can. I’m going to put you in my bed since I don’t have a guest room yet, and I’ll take the sofa in the living room.” She looked over her shoulder into the living area. He knew it was very plain. There was no paint on the walls, but the flooring was done in nice dark wood. There were no curtains to keep the glare out. He had a TV over the fireplace, a chair and a sofa pit, and a few tables. Although the sofa was big, Cason was bigger, and she likely couldn’t see how he’d be comfortable on it. “I’ll sleep on the sofa.” One of his eyebrows rose, and he crossed his arms over his chest. “No, you’ll

sleep where I put you.” “But you won’t fit on the sofa.” “I’ll be just fine.” “I feel very strongly…” She stopped when he headed her way. He leaned into her until he was nose to nose. “Listen up, buttercup. You’ll do exactly what I tell you to do.” She smiled at first, then asked. “Or?”

Chapter Eight

He couldn’t believe the woman’s sass and how much he enjoyed it. He bit back his urge to chuckle. “Do you really want to find out?” he asked gruffly. “I… Um, no.” “That’s smart. Finish eating.” He turned to walk away. “Wait, Cason. Can’t we share the bed? It looked really large. I think we’d both have enough room.” He sucked in a breath when his body went from hard to painfully rigid. She had turned him on before the shower, but now with her being clean, he could see all her skin, her hair, and not the dirt that had covered all of her, and his desire for her getting worse. Her suggestion to share a bed took it over the top. “Oh, I don’t think…” “Why are you afraid of sleeping with me? Do you think I’ll hurt you?” He rolled his eyes. “No, baby. I’m not afraid of you at all. It just might get uncomfortable.” “How?” God, he had to she was a virgin, and although she most likely learned about sex in books, she didn’t know how it felt or how it could take all reason from a person. “Please,” she pleaded. “I’ll feel awful if I keep you from your bed. Besides, I’d feel safer with you right next to me.” He exhaled. Fuck. “Okay, fine. We can share.” She smiled brightly. “Thank you.”

He pointed to her bowl. “Are you about done?” She nodded. “Then finish your milk.” He saw her grin. “What?” “You’re starting to sound like a daddy. Is this the way those other guys are with their women?” Cason studied her expression. “From what I’ve seen, I’d say yes. They have the control in the relationship. Would you be able to handle a relationship like that?” She bit her lip for a moment like she was deep in thought before she shook her head. “Yes. I don’t think it would bother me. In fact, I think I’d be happier that way.” He slid his hand down her head to her back. Her hair was still a little damp, but it was dry enough for her to go to bed. “That’s good to know.” After waiting for her to finish, he lifted her off the stool, took her hand, and pulled her into the bathroom. He opened a drawer and handed her a new toothbrush and then the toothpaste. “Brush your teeth while I turn down the bed.” Cason walked into the bedroom and around to the farthest side, then pulled the comforter down to the bottom and then folded the blanket back. He went to the windows and closed the dark curtains, thankful he’d bought them. They had come in handy when he and Devon worked late and then slept in the next morning. Now the curtains would help her get some rest. She came out of the bathroom. “Over here, honey.” She absolutely took his breath away. She looked like a perfect little doll, and when he stared into her incredible eyes, he felt the cold core of cynicism and

distrust he had melt away. “Your eyes are very beautiful and unusual.” He could tell he made her uncomfortable. “I’m sorry, honey.” “No, I’m glad you like them. It’s just one of the reasons the monster wants me. He thinks I’ll bring him luck because of my light-colored hair and weird eyes.” “Here, slip into bed. I want to ask you a few questions.” He smiled when she scampered into bed and lay down. He pulled the blanket up and then sat down by her hip. “You met the monster, right?” “Yeah, a few times.” “Tell me what happened.” “He came to the house, and my mother called me down. It always felt weird because she never did that before. He came to me and grabbed my hand. Then he stared at me with a look on his face I still don’t understand, and he wouldn’t let go of me until my mother told me to go to my room.” “What else? What did he look like? Did he have an accent? Things like that.” “He was old. Older than my father, at least. He has black hair and dark skin. He did have an accent, but I don’t know what kind.” Oh, fuck. What he knew of some men from the Middle East was that they were incredibly superstitious. If this guy thought she brought him good luck, he might not stop very easily because he thought his luck would fail without her. “Okay, we’ll figure it out. Anything else?” “He had a lot of men with him. I thought it was funny that he had servants follow him everywhere.” Oh, hell. It just got worse.

“Okay, we’ll talk more later. Get some rest. Call out for me.” “Okay. Thank you, Cason.” “You’re welcome, honey.”

Chapter Nine

Cason went into his office and called his partner first. “Yeah.” Cason rolled his eyes. “Why can’t you answer the phone like a normal person?” Devon chuckled. “Fuck off. Now, what do you want?” “We’ve got a situation here in the building.” “Oh, hell, what happened?” “I’ll tell you all of it when you get here, but I’ll give you the particulars now. A woman was hiding in our building.” “Jesus. For how long?” “Four days.” “Why?” “I’ll give you the short story. Her mother wants to give her to a foreigner. She thinks some of it has to do with money but also thinks her mother owes this guy. Lacey, that’s the woman’s name, met the man a few times and called him a monster. He called her his good luck charm.” “That’s strange.” “What scares me is I think he might be mentally unstable.” “Oh, fuck.” “Yeah. The maid overheard them saying weird shit.” “How old is she?”

“Twenty-three.” “Hell, she’s an adult.” “Yes, but that’s part of the long story. Guess who her mother is.” “Oh, fuck, I know I’m not going to like it.” “Judge Lilith Holloway.” “Are you fucking kidding me? Shit, man, this could get ugly.” “I know. I didn’t tell the others yet, but I’m planning on it after I talk to you.” “Others?” “Part of the long story. When can you get here?” “It will take me a few days to finish this contract, and then I’ll head right home.” “Good. The sooner, the better.” “Gather all the information we have on that judge. God, I would love to be able to put that bitch away for the rest of her life.” “Me, too. I don’t want us to talk about it in front of Lacey.” “You got it. I’ll get back to work.” “See ya.” Cason called Eli, Kane, and Caleb on a conference call. “Do you guys have a minute?” He waited for their answers and then went into what Lacey had told him and the investigation against her mother. “Holy shit, this could get bad,” Caleb said. “Yeah, it could. I think maybe you guys should think about staying away from this for now.”

Caleb grunted. “Good luck with that, bonehead.” Cason snorted and then laughed. “I haven’t been called that since my coach said it in high school.” “Well, it fits if you think we’re going to leave it all on you.” “Devon’s headed back, so I won’t be on my own.” “Hell, I’ve never met the guy, but he’s probably a bonehead, too.” Eli cleared his throat. “I forgot to warn you about Caleb. He doesn’t have a filter unless Bella’s around.” Kane snickered. “Eli, don’t you think Caleb and Devon will be great friends?” Eli laughed. “Yeah, they're both obnoxious assholes. They’ll be best friends.” “Hey,” Caleb barked into the phone. “You keep this up, and you might hurt my feelings.” Kane chucked. “You’d have to have feelings to hurt them.” Cason threw back his head and laughed. Damn, these guys were a riot. He was glad Eli talked them into moving to Arkansas and starting their business here. They had thought to go to California, but the cost of living and properties were sky-high on the coast. “Guys, I’m going to get a file going, and we’ll talk about it tomorrow. Can you give me the name of a clothing store so I can get Lacey some things?” “I’ll have the girls take care of it. You work on the file,” Kane told him. “Thank you, guys.” “Don’t thank us yet. You’re going to really owe us.” Kane grunted. “Shut up, Caleb. Don’t listen to him, Cason.” “No, he’s right. We’ll just see what he asks for.”

Cason spent the next several hours calling s he had when he worked Homeland Security and called in a few favors. When he finally turned off the desk light, he had compiled a thick file for the guys to go over the next day. He thought about grabbing a bite to eat, but he’d been thinking about crawling into bed beside Lacey. He’d much rather do that than eat, even if he couldn’t touch her. He hurried through a shower and pulled shorts on before sliding into bed. On his side, he could make out some of her features with the dim light he left on in the bathroom in case she woke up during the night. He couldn’t get over how pretty she was, and although he wanted her, a part of him was afraid to get to attached because while he was handsome, his partner Devon was GQ gorgeous and always had women falling all over him. What if the minute she saw him, she decided she’d rather be with him? Jesus. He’d never in his life been insecure, but he was at that moment, and he would continue to be until his partner and Lacey meet. He’d decide what to do from there.

Chapter Ten

Cason woke up to a sound he’d never heard before. He listened for it. When he heard it come from Lacey, he rolled toward her and set his hand on her arm. “Honey, wake up. You’re having a nightmare.” She whimpered and tried to push him away. “No, please don’t touch me. Please… I don’t want to go with you…” He leaned up on his elbow, turned on the bedside light, and then turned to get her calmed. “Baby, wake up. It’s Cason. I’m right here, and I’ll never let anyone hurt you.” She settled down as she listened, and then her eyes blinked open. “Cason?” “Yeah, baby. It’s me.” “The monster isn’t here?” He hated how shaky her voice was. “No, and I won’t let him near you.” She wrapped her arms around his neck and sobbed. “I’d rather die than go with that man.” He relaxed back on his pillow and tucked her against his body. “Don’t say things like that.” “It’s true. I know it sounds crazy because I’ve just seen him a few times, but he’s evil. Every instinct I had screamed to run and hide when I had to be near him.” God, the thought of her with this guy made him physically sick. He’d seen too much in his years with Homeland Security and knew too much about what could happen to her. Even if the guy thought she was a good luck charm, she could be

abused every day. He guessed the man was extremely powerful from what she’d told him about the servants and things. He guessed the monster would keep her alive but secluded and under guard. She wouldn’t survive very long, and it made him want to murder the guy. “I will always tell you to go with your instincts because they are rarely wrong. We’ll get this figured out. Do you think you can get some more sleep?” She looked up at him as she wiped her eyes. “Can you hold me?” He gritted his teeth and nodded. He’d do anything to make her feel secure and cared for, even if he’d spend the remainder of the night in pain. He reached to turn off the light and then pulled her back into his arms. “Are you comfortable?” he asked as he tucked the blanket up over her shoulders. She nodded. “Thank you.” He kept up his gentle caress of her arm as he listened to her breathing slow and even out. Cason closed his eyes. He needed his sleep if he were to keep her safe and by his side, but he didn’t feel like he’d be able to sleep with the hard-on he had. Later, her movements woke him, and he was surprised to see a sliver of light come in through the curtains. When he looked down, he saw her sprawled over his chest. He hadn’t even felt her move during the night, and he was usually a light sleeper. Contentment filled him when she sighed and tucked her head under his chin. “Hey, honey, we need to get up.” Her movement told him she was starting to wake up, but it was taking a long time. “Come on, baby.” He grinned when he felt her stiffen, and then her head jerked up at him. He saw

the exact moment she realized she was on top of him. “Oh, my God.” She scrambled off of him and just about kneed him in the nuts, making him squeak and then exhale when he caught her leg in time. “Oh, no. I hurt you.” She knelt by his side and patted his chest. “Where?” “No, it’s fine,” he said. “No, I want to make it better.” “Sweetheart, everything is okay.” She shook her head, and before he could grab at it, she whipped the blanket off him. “Tell me.” She was looking over his chest and stomach. Her hand slid over his skin, making his already aching cock turn into a pulsing erection. It was also next to impossible to hide the hard ridge of his cock as it tented his shorts. “Honey…” She frowned down at him. “Cason, you’re making me feel worse because you won’t show me, so it must be bad.” He put his hand over his cock. One, to hold the fucker down, and two, to not scare or embarrass her. Her gaze followed his movements, and he saw when she realized where because she turned a bright red. “Oh, no. I hurt your penis?” He had to bite back a chuckle at the horror in her tone. “Honey, I swear…” “Let me see it to make sure.”

His mouth dropped open. That was the last thing he excepted. “No.” Her eyebrows rose. “No? Why?” “Because I said so.” He closed his eyes. God, the whole situation was ludicrous. Her bottom lip stuck out in a pout that he thought was incredibly adorable but wouldn’t work on him at this instant. He rolled out of bed when she reached for his hand. “I’m going to shower. I’ll take care of you when I’m done. Stay in bed.” She crossed her arms over her chest and scowled at him. He rolled his eyes, turned, and walked into the bathroom. He chuckled softly when he locked the door because he didn’t trust her not to come in. When she got more comfortable, he’d have to set some more rules down. An important one he’d start with would be no arguing with him. Cason snorted as he rushed through his shower. He grabbed a towel and dried himself before wrapping it around his waist.

Chapter Eleven

When he opened the bathroom door, he was surprised she hadn’t moved at all. “Wait there.” He walked into his closet and came out a minute later dressed in faded jeans, a long-sleeved shirt, and his boots. “Would you like another shower this morning?” “No.” He rolled his eyes at her terse reply. “Fine, get in the bathroom, use the toilet, and brush your teeth before coming out.” She jumped from the bed and rushed into the bathroom. A moment later, he heard the lock click in place. He shook his head and grinned. He’d let her get away with it right now, but locked doors would never happen with them in the future. The coffee was started, and he’d pulled out eggs when his phone rang. “This is Cason.” “Hey, man. It’s Eli. I’ve got some things for Lacey, and I’m downstairs. Can you approve me to come up?” “Yeah, hold on.” Cason called down to his security desk. Within a minute, he heard the elevator door open. “Hey, Eli, do you want some coffee?” “Yeah, I’ll take a cup. How’d it go last night?” Eli asked and set the bags he carried on the ground before sitting down on one of the stools. Cason handed over a mug. “She had a pretty bad nightmare, but we got her

through it, and she was able to go back to sleep.” “Is she sleeping with you?” “Yeah,” he said and grinned. “I’ll tell you how that happened later.” Eli nodded. Both men turned to the doorway to the hall. Cason held a hand out to her and was pleased when she automatically took it and pressed close to his side. Eli smiled. “Good morning, Lacey. The girls had me bring a few things for you.” “Really?” “Yeah. You’re their friend now.” Cason squeezed her when she teared up. “What’s the matter, honey?” “I’ve never had friends before.” Cason glanced at Eli and saw the same surprise and confusion that he knew was on his face. “I’ll want to talk about that later.” “Eli, do you want some eggs?” “No, I already ate. You guys go ahead while I talk.” “Can you show me what to do?” Cason glanced at her. “Have you ever cooked?” She shook her head. “No. I was never allowed. When my parents were gone, Talia, our cook, would let me watch her, but I couldn’t help because she was afraid my parents would find out.” “I’ll teach you what I know, okay?’

“I’d like that,” she said and laid her head on his arm. “The girls like to cook, so they can teach you some things when you’re with them.” Cason grinned when she shyly looked at Eli and thanked him. He set two plates with eggs on them. “Do you want coffee, honey?” Both men chuckled when she scrunched up her nose. “I think we’ve got some orange juice. But we’re definitely going to need to order groceries today.” “Can I help with that?” Lacey asked as he lifted her onto the other stool before walking back around so he could face both of them. “Sure.” Eli smiled. “The guys and I talked last night. We’ve got some information and guessed you also did.” Cason nodded. “I do. I started a file last night.” “We thought you two could come to our building. We could work on this, and Lacey can play with the others.” “I’m worried about getting her out into the open.” Eli chuckled. “The girls thought of that.” He leaned down and picked up one of the bags, and pulled a wig out. It had short curly brown hair. “She’ll wear this, and”—he pulled out a pair of gaudy pink sunglasses—“and these.” Lacey squealed. “I love them.” Cason and Eli smiled at each other. “It will help cover your eyes,” Eli told her as he handed them to her.

Cason nodded. “I think that will work.” “They have some other things. I think they’ve been watching too much TV. They have fake fingernails, fake earrings, bracelets, and sparkly barrette.” “Oh, can I try them on?” Cason pointed to her plate. “After you finish. You didn’t eat a lot last night. I also want your juice gone.” She huffed but picked up her fork and finished eating. “I’m done,” she announced and held out her plate for inspection. “Okay. Bring your dishes to the sink, and I’ll show you what to do.” He showed her how to rinse everything and then stick it in the dishwasher. “See, you’ve learned a few things already.” She smiled and wrapped her arms around his waist. “Thank you.” “You’re very welcome. We’ll leave in thirty minutes. Take the bags back to the bedroom, and I’ll be right there to pick out what you’re going to wear.” She grabbed the bags and rushed down the hall. “Thank you, Eli. I’ll make sure we thank the girls, too.” “You guys look really good together, and she already obeys you without question.” “She’s still in limbo and getting her bearings.” “Oh, it has more than that. , I have my own little?” Cason nodded. “I tried to convince myself I didn’t want one because I didn’t think I’d ever find one. It scares me to think of a future without her, but we’ve just met, and there are so many obstacles.” “And we’ll figure every one of them out. Don’t let fear keep you from having

what you want.” “I’ll try.” “Good, I’ll head back. We’ll be in my condo.” Eli gave him the code and left.

Chapter Twelve

Lacey was in shock as she went through all the things the girls had brought her. They had thought of everything, down to tampons and face cream. There were several outfits in the bags, and she set them to the side. After she had everything out on the bed, she took the bathroom things in and then tied up her hair before trying to put the wig on. She’d never done it before, and it was more difficult than she thought it would be. “Hey,” Cason said as he came through the door. “I can’t get it on,” she cried out. “It’s okay, honey. I’ll help. Between the two of us, we’ll figure it out.” Just like that, he calmed her when she was on the verge of a meltdown. She’d never had anyone like this in her life. He was patient with her and had never lost his temper. Oh, she knew they hadn’t known each other long, but whenever he was around, she felt peaceful and couldn’t say that about anyone besides her father. He pulled the wig off. “Did a stocking come with it?” “I don’t know. What would it look like?” “It might look like a round piece of hose that you put on your legs.” “Oh,” she said and brightened. “I didn’t know what that was.” She raced to the bed and moved some things around. “I found it.” “Good, bring it here.” She handed it to him and watched as he went through the things on the counter. He put her hair in a bun and pinned it before he put the wig grip on. When that

was even and secure, they slipped the wig on. They both stared at her reflection. “Wow, it’s amazing that just the wig can change your appearance,” he said. “Wait,” she yelled and ran back into the bedroom. She slipped the sunglasses on and stood in front of him again. “Would you guess this is me?” “Not at all.” He grinned at her. “This will make me feel better about taking you out.” Her gaze went to his reflection. “You’re very handsome.” He looked surprised. “Thank you, honey. I think you’re very beautiful.” “You’re my knight in shining armor.” He smiled and shook his head. “No…” She spun around and grabbed his hands. “Yes. I would have died in this building. I was terrified all the time. The only time I’ve safe in my life is with my dad and now … you. You will always belong to me, and I’ll always belong to you.” She stopped him when he opened his mouth to talk. “No. Please listen. I know it sounds fanciful or even crazy, or you might think I feel this way because of a fairytale, but I’m not thinking like a baby. I feel it deep inside. It’s like my dad sent you to save and then protect me.” Lacey knew if he kept denying it or, worse, walked away because he was freaked out, she’d be hurt. “Honey…” “Wait,” she interrupted him again. “I’m not trying to freak you out… Mmm.” She grabbed the hand that he pressed over her mouth to get her to shut up. He stared down at her. “You’re going to let me finish. I was going to say what I feel for you is nothing I’ve experienced before, and the depth of my feelings I

didn’t know existed, and this is only after a day. What’s it going to be like in a week or a year? That thought kind of scares me.” He released her when she pulled on his arm. “I’m scared, too,” she said. “I’m scared you’ll decide you don’t want a woman like me. You’ll want a sophisticated one who can wear high heels without breaking her neck.” He grinned. “Honey, so far, I love everything about you. What if you decide you don’t want a daddy or find someone you decide is more attractive than me? These are the crazy thoughts in my head.” She wrapped her arms around his waist. “God, Cason… Daddy. You’re in my soul. There isn’t anything better than that.” She smiled when he shuddered. “You calling me daddy just now. Hell, I don’t know how to tell you what it does to me.” She grinned up at him. “Good, I like saying it.” “Come on. Let’s get you dressed. They are waiting for us.” He pulled her into the bedroom and looked for the outfit he wanted. He opened a new package of panties and pulled out a pink one. He bent forward. “Here, honey. Let’s get these on.” She balanced herself with a hand on his shoulder and stepped into the panties. He pulled them up and stood. Her stomach twisted with nerves when he started to unbutton the shirt of his he let her wear. She watched his expressions when he slipped it off her shoulders. She could feel the blush start on her face and slide down her chest. If he didn’t like the way she looked, she didn’t know what she would do. “You’re beautiful, baby.” She exhaled and smiled at him. “No one has seen me naked since my nanny still bathed me when I was eight or nine.”

“You had a nanny?” “A few of them.” “Did you get to see your parents?” “My father made sure he spent time with me every day. My mother, I didn’t see as much, but I’m glad. She’s always been cold to me. I can tell she never liked me.” “I’m sorry, sweetheart.” She shrugged. It was all she knew. He got her into a bra. She knew she’d have to get her own since the one she had on was tight, and her boobs were popping out the top. He buttoned her into a white blouse and then pulled on a long skirt. “We’ll have to order some shoes today for you.” She nodded as he pulled on the only shoes she had. “I wish we could go to the house. I have a ton of shoes. Most of them I’ve never worn.” “Not yet. But soon, maybe we’ll be able to go there. Let me get the file, and then we’ll leave.” She leaned against him in the elevator. “Honey, if you get tired or scared or just need me, come to me and sit on my lap so I can hold you.” “What if you’re in a meeting or on the phone?” “I don’t care. You’re my priority now.” Her heart felt like it was about ready to burst out of her chest. To have a man like Cason wanting to take care of her was beyond anything she dreamed of because she thought she’d be stuck in that horrible house for the rest of her life.

Now, because of Cason, she possibly had a future to look forward to.

Chapter Thirteen

She gripped his hand tightly with both of hers as they walked out of the building. He debated ordering a car or getting a cab to take them to Eli’s building, but he knew Lacey would have very little time to be outside until everything was taken care of. So, he decided to walk the nine blocks. He was glad they’d done it because she was smiling when they got to the building. He bet she hadn’t been outside in a long time, even at her own house, and the fresh air did her good. Cason gave the security guard in Travis’s building his name and then got them on the elevator. “You won’t go anywhere, will you?” she asked. “No. I’ll be here if you need me.” The door slid open, and he saw Eli, Kane, Caleb, and Travis. It made him feel better that he wasn’t on his own in this, and these guys knew their stuff. “She’s here,” Eli called out. Within seconds, the girls ran down the hall. They stopped short of her and stared. “Oh, wow,” Kinley said. “You look like Orphan Annie.” Cason relaxed when they all surrounded Lacey, and she was smiling. “Can she come back with us?” Kinley asked him. “Sure.” He kissed the top of her head. “Go have fun.” Her hand tightened on his, and she stared up at him. He could see the worry in her eyes, so he cupped her face in his hand. “Baby, everything’s going to be okay. I won’t go anywhere. I promise. And , if you get scared or tired, just come out here.”

She exhaled and nodded and then let Kinley pull her down the hallway. He kept the smile on his face to reassure her every time she looked back at him before they closed the door. “Another one bites the dust,” Caleb said. Cason walked over to the table, set the file down, and looked up at Caleb. “What are you talking about?” “It’s all good, man. I’m just saying you found your own little.” He snorted. “We’ll see. What did you guys find out?” For the next few hours, they went over everything they all found. The more they learned, the tenser it got. “This is some fucked-up shit,” Caleb said. Travis pushed his fingers through his hair. “I want to know what Judge Holloway and Nasir Daher-Akrahm’s connection is.” Cason leaned back. “Fuck. I’m going to need extra security. We’ll never get her back if he gets his hands on her.” Eli nodded. “I agree. They’d have her out of the country within an hour or less.” “Do you have panic rooms in your condo yet?” Kane asked. “Yes. I had that done before the kitchen, and I’ve shown her where they are and how to use the rooms.” Cason wiped a hand down his face. “She shouldn’t be anywhere on the street. Fuck, we actually walked down here.” Eli patted his shoulder. “She was in disguise. Hell, I wouldn’t have known who she was if she wasn’t with you.” That made him feel a little better. Travis got his attention. “I’ll have the car waiting for you in the basement, and he can take you straight to your building.”

“I’ll ride along for extra ,” Eli said. “I’ll go, too.” Caleb turned to Travis. “Can you keep the girls here until we get back?” “Hell, yeah. I won’t leave your place, Eli, until you guys are back.” Cason felt real fear that he wouldn’t be able to protect her. “After we get back to my place, I’m not letting her out of the building, so if we have to meet. It will have to be there.” “I’ll bring the girls by every so often, so she doesn’t get bored.” “Thanks, Eli.” Eli stood. “Let’s make lunch, and then you guys can go.” Eli and Cason went into the kitchen and started making sandwiches while the other three men went over everything again. Caleb whistled, and they all came running like a pack of puppies, making Cason grin. They got the girls food first. Cason watched as they sat down on the living room floor around the low sofa table and had a picnic, and then the men worked on their own sandwiches. Cason was packing up his file. “Are you ready to go?” he asked the men. “Yeah. Let’s do this,” Caleb said and hugged Bella. “I’ll be right back. You stay here.” She nodded. “Wait, Lacey. You forgot your bag,” Kinley said and tore down the hallway and then was back and struggling with a heavy duffel bag. “Thank you so much for everything.” Lacey hugged her and then the other girls. “You’ll see them again soon, honey. The guys will bring them over to visit.”

“Okay. Good.” Cason relaxed a bit when the group got down to the basement and into the car. Now he just needed to get her into the condo, and he’d deal with the security detail. They made it to the back of his building without anything happening. The guys walked them to the back door, and he pulled out his keys. “It wasn’t locked the day I came,” Lacey told him. He tried the door, and it opened. “Fuck, that’s not good,” Caleb said. Cason bit back his own curse words. “No, it is not. There will be a new steel door put on here with an alarm by the end of the day.” “Let’s get you up to the condo,” Eli suggested. Cason grabbed Lacey’s hand, and they walked rapidly to the owner’s elevator and were in his place within a minute. “Honey, why don’t you take the bag back to the bedroom and pull everything out. We’ll figure out where it has to go later.” “Okay. Bye, Mr. Caleb and Mr. Eli.” “Bye, sweetheart,” Eli said. He waited until Lacey was gone. “Do you have someone you trust to guard the elevator, and what about your stairs?” Cason looked at Eli. “Both doors to the stairs are reinforced steel, and only me and Dev have a key.” “That’s good,” Caleb said. “I’ve got a few guys I absolutely trust who were in the Navy with Devon’s brother. I’m lucky to get them. I’ll call them up after you guys leave.” “If we think of anything else, we’ll get in touch with you.” Eli clutched Cason’s shoulder. “Everything is going to be okay. We have one of our resident computer

hackers looking into things.” Cason hugged Eli. When he looked at Caleb, the man held his hand up and scowled. “Don’t come any closer. I don’t do fucking hugs.” Cason laughed. “I’ll .” He waited until the men were gone before bringing the elevator back up and then locking it. He checked the stairs doors to make sure they are secure before going to look for Lacey. He stood in the bedroom doorway and looked at Lacey in the middle of the bed, asleep with all sorts of things, like books, dolls, games, and the clothes from the morning strewn all around her. She’d taken the wig off, and it lay on one of the pillows. She looked so damn sweet and innocent right then. It took his breath away and made his heart feel like it was filling with a burning tide of emotion. He covered her up with a blanket before putting the clothes in their closet. When she woke up, he’d let her decide where she wanted everything. He had some calls to make—one for groceries and another one to Brett and Cooper, but first to the door company because he wanted the back door fixed that day. This was one of the times he really missed Devon’s brother, Drake. He could have really used him, but he hadn’t checked in with Devon in the last few days. After he retired, he’d gone off-grid. He and Devon had speculated on what happened overseas to get his brother to disappear when he returned to the States, but they hadn’t come up with anything, and his teammates weren’t talking. Devon was waiting for his brother to tell him. He just wished it were soon. Cason’s only concern at the moment was taking care of Lacey.

Chapter Fourteen

Cason was unloading the groceries that were delivered when Lacey walked around the corner, rubbing her eyes. She looked so precious in her wrinkled skirt and blouse, with her hair tangled and her eyes puffy from sleeping. He had a second to set down the cans he held before she walked to him and pressed against his chest. His arms went around her, and he held her tightly. “Do you feel better after your nap?” He grinned when she nodded, and he heard her yawn. At that moment, he knew he was totally screwed because he just fell head over heels in love with her, and he’d never even kissed her. “Are you hungry, honey?” She nodded but didn’t lose her grip on him, so he leaned against the counter, pulled her in between his legs, and settled into a hug for as long as she needed it. Two minutes ed, and she still hadn’t said anything or moved. “Are you going to sleep again, baby?” She snickered and shook her head. “No, I’m afraid to let go of you because I feel if I do, I’ll lose you.” He used the side of his hand to tip her head up. “There is no way you’re going to lose me.” “You don’t know that. There is still so much you need to know. I don’t know how to do anything. I’m useless…” He pinched her chin and scowled down at her. “That’s bullshit, and I don’t want you ever to say that again. You’ve never had to learn, but I know for a fact you’re smart, and with my and your friends’ help, we can teach you everything you want to know. We have a woman, Roberta, come in five days a week to

clean our condos and offices, so you don’t have to worry about that. As far as meals, I know how to cook so that we won’t go hungry. Or we can always call in carry-out.” “I want to be able to take care of you, too.” He smoothed her hair from her face. “Just by being here, you’re taking care of me.” “But I’m not doing anything.” “You’re making me happier than I’ve ever been.” He grinned at the smile that grew on her face. “I feel the same way.” “That’s good to know. Why don’t you help me put everything away, so you know where I put it. If you want to change anything, feel free to do it. I’ll put together a quick casserole for dinner. You can watch and help me if you want.” “I’d love to.” “Good.” The next hour they spent in the kitchen organizing and making dinner. “While that’s baking, let’s go put some of your things away.” She bounced onto her toes and clapped. “You should see the things they gave me.” “When I went in to check on you and cover you up, I saw the top of the mattress filled with all sorts of things.” “They are good friends.” He nodded. “I think so, too. You all have a lot in common.” They took most of the things into the office so she could play while he did work. The rest they put in one of the drawers in the bedroom closet.

“When things settle down, we need to make you your own office/playroom.” Her eyes widened. “I get my own room like Kinley?” He smiled and pulled her into his arms. “I want to give you everything you want. I want you to be happy here.” “As long as you’re here, I’m happy.” “Baby, I’m going to kiss you unless you tell me no.” She tightened her arms around his waist. “I was afraid to ask for one. I’ve wanted one for a long time.” “Anytime you need me to cuddle, be held, a kiss, or love, come to me immediately. Don’t hesitate to ask me for what you want. All right?” “Okay, Daddy.” “Oh, hell.” He bent toward her and took her lips. He groaned, and his heart lurched in his chest when she instantly opened her mouth to take his tongue. He framed her face with his hands so he could control the angle and depth. When they were both breathless, he lifted his head. “Fuck, baby. You taste so good. I need a little more.” He bent back down and sealed their lips together, going from gentle persuasion to hungry, demanding need within a second. Her whimper of lust brought him back from the brink of taking her against the nearest wall. When he finally broke apart from her, he stared down at her. The ion-filled look on her face made him feel ten feet tall. “Baby, we need to stop. I need to feed you dinner, and then I have a few men coming up to talk. They are going to help with protecting you.” “Are they nice?” He smiled. “They’ll be nice to you.”

“What does that mean?” “Normally, they are not very nice men. They are ex-military, and it’s turned them into hard, suspicious bastards.” “They’re not going to be suspicious of me, are they? Because I’d never try to hurt them.” Cason coughed to cover his laugh. “No, I’ll tell them they can trust you.” She smiled up at him. “I’m hungry.” “Then let's get you fed, honey. I can’t have my baby being hungry.”

Chapter Fifteen

Lacey dried the last plate and stuck it in the cupboard. She felt so proud of herself that she was learning to keep the house so she could take care of Cason. Cason pulled her into his arms. “Why don’t you go and take a bath. The guys will be here shortly. Come to me when you’re finished. Wear the nightgown I left on the bed.” She went up on her tiptoes and pressed a kiss to his mouth. “I’ll be back soon.” “Take your time, baby.” She took a long bath and even washed and dried her hair, wanting to look pretty for Cason. After she pulled on panties and the nightgown, she glanced at herself in the bathroom mirror. “Oh, good God.” The white fabric was so thin she could see her nipples plain as day. She couldn’t walk into a meeting like that. She pulled on Cason’s robe and then grinned at herself in the mirror. It was like playing dress-up. The sleeves were several inches longer than she needed and were impossible to fold up. She decided she’d keep the belt tight, and it would make sure she was covered. A shiver ran up her spine when she heard the different male voices. They were all so deep and rough that it kind of scared her, but knowing Cason was in the office made her relax. He wouldn’t let those men hurt her. She stood in the doorway until Cason looked up from his desk. The two other men had their backs to her, but their sizes were very intimidating, and she didn’t want to go past them until Cason told her to. All three men zeroed in on her at the same time. Her eyes went straight to Cason, and she relaxed when he smiled and held out a hand. “Come here, honey. I’d like you to meet Brett and Cooper.”

He pulled her into his lap. “Cooper is the bigger one.” Her eyes went back and forth and whispered. “I can’t tell. They are both ginormous.” She could feel a blush mask her face when they all laughed. She tucked her head against Cason’s chest. “Cooper is the one with the darker hair.” She peeked at them. “It’s nice to meet you,” she whispered, but she knew they heard her when they both smiled. “Did you tell them about me being nice?” Cason coughed. “No, I thought if they saw you, it would help ease any concerns they had that you would hurt them.” She looked at the men. “He’s right. I don’t hurt people. Once you get to know me, you’ll see that I’m nice.” “We trust you,” Brett said. “It’s just that Cason told me you’re both suspicious bastards. But he didn’t say it to be mean. When he talked about you, I could tell he likes you both.” Cooper covered his mouth with his hand, and Brett’s mouth kept twitching. “They believe me, don’t they?” Cason clutched hair on the back of her head and turned her to face him. “Yes, they believe you. Stop worrying, all right?” She relaxed against him and nodded. “Rest here while we finish.” “Okay.”

Chapter Sixteen

“So, if you could bring in several other guys you trust implicitly, we’ll get them in and set up. Are any of them good at hacking and awesome about keeping off the radar?” Brett nodded. “Yeah, I’ll call up Warrick. He started his own computer business in Santa Barbara.” “He hates it out there. I think we can talk him into moving here,” Cooper said. Cason nodded at Cooper. “Good. Tell him he can head the computer division of the business and/or become a partner eventually. Devon and I were going to talk to you two about it also.” “He’d love that,” Cooper said. “Devon and I talked about you two heading other departments, and maybe you’ll think about becoming partners eventually.” Brett grinned. “Devon had talked about it a few times, and Cooper and I have discussed it. I say we deal with the issue we have and then talk after.” Cason kissed the top of Lacey’s head. “I’d appreciate it.” Cooper snorted and pointed to her. “I think she’s asleep.” Cason looked at her. “Yeah, she’s pretty tired from her adventure the last few days.” “Damn, man, she’s one of the prettiest things I’ve ever seen, and the first glance I had of her eyes stunned me.” Cooper nodded. “Me, too. And she’s fucking sweet. You’re a lucky bastard.” “Oh, I know it.” The two men stood.

Brett glanced at her one more time. “We’ll meet back here in the morning,” “Yes. We still have some questions to ask her, and we’ll see where we are at getting men here. We should really get on working on the other condos.” “A few of the floors have kitchenettes. Coop and I can set up temporary housing on the floor above you. That way, we’re close.” “Damn, the floors are pretty dirty, guys. Are you sure?” Brett snorted and looked at Cooper. “We have to he’s a pussy cop. He doesn’t know what it’s like to live in a dirty place for any length of time.” Cason laughed. “Fine, fuck you.” The men grinned. “We’ll see you tomorrow.” Cooper stopped at the doorway. “The elevator is still locked, so we’ll go down the stairs and make sure the door is tightly locked.” “Thanks, guys.” Cason took Lacey to bed and held her tightly in his arms all night. His phone ringing woke him early the next morning. He answered. “Cason.” “It’s me, dipshit. Unlock the elevator so I can get up.” “You could have just come up the stairs, butthead.” “Oh, and get my head blown off. No, thank you.” “Fine, I’m coming.” “Hurry, I’ve got guys bringing breakfast, and a few will have a table and chairs.” “What the hell for?” Cason asked. “You’re not going to want to take her out of the safety of the condo, man, and we

need a place to brainstorm. I’m not going to squash together on the sofa or sit on the fucking floor.” Cason carefully slid out from under Lacey and grabbed his clothes. “Fine. I’m coming.” He closed the bedroom door behind him and pulled on his clothes as he walked to the elevator. Once the key was turned, he heard the thump as it headed down. He turned on the monitor that showed the inside of the elevator. Devon and Brett stepped on with several boxes. The smell hit him the moment the elevator doors opened. “Hey, Cas, I brought your favorite.” “Thanks, Dev. Did you guys realize it was only five in the morning?” Devon and Brett looked at each other and shrugged. “He’s just a pussy,” Brett said. Devon burst out laughing. “I never would have thought of this man as a pussy.” “Yeah, well, he’s getting older,” Brett said, shrugged, and started pulling food out of the boxes. Cason rolled his eyes when Devon started laughing again. “Hey, shithead, you’re a year older than me.” Devon stopped laughing, which made Cason and Brett smile. The elevator dinged at the same time Devon’s phone rang. “Yeah, head up.” He stuck his phone in his pocket. “The three guys are coming up with the table.” Cason nodded. “I’ll get plates.” Within thirty minutes, the introductions were made with the two new guys, Jonah and Dustin, that Cason had never met. Eight men sat around the long table

with papers all over, mixed with breakfast sandwich wrappers and coffee cups. Cason didn’t realize how long they had worked for when one of the others gasped. Cason turned around to see Lacey walking toward him, still half asleep. Two men got in the way, and she still didn’t stop until she got to him. She turned around and sat down on his lap, tucked her head under his chin, sighed, and went back to sleep. “Holy fuck,” Devon said. “Is she sleepwalking?” Cason wrapped his arms around her. “No, it just takes her a while to wake up.” Brett grinned. “How in the hell did she know where you were? There are eight guys here, and she went by two guys without even stopping.” Cason shook his head. “That. I can’t tell you. Her eyes are open a little, so maybe she saw me.” “I wonder what would happen if you weren’t here?” Cason glanced at Jonah. “I’ve no idea.” Hopefully, it wouldn’t be tested any time soon. Not until they’d been together a while and gotten closer.

Chapter Seventeen

Lacey heard the men’s voices, but she didn’t care at that moment because Cason was cuddling her. She roused slowly. “There she is. Good morning, honey.” She reached up and touched his chin. “Scratchy.” He chuckled. “Yeah, I didn’t get a chance to shave yet. We’ve got some men here. We’re working on your situation.” She rubbed her eyes before she looked around the room. Seven pairs of eyes were on her, making her stiffen. When she looked down at herself and saw that she was wearing just her nightgown, she turned to Cason. “I’m not dressed,” she hissed. He chuckled. “I know. You’re covered enough, though.” She lifted up enough to whisper in his ear. “But you can see my nipples through this.” He cupped her face. “I know, baby. If I cared if these guys saw my woman’s nipples, I would have taken you back to the bedroom.” She studied his expression. “You won’t make me go naked in front of them, will you?” “I’m not going to say no because there are different circumstances you might be undressed in front of some people, but I know you’re not ready for it.” Oh, thank God. She really wasn’t, she thought. Not now, maybe never. He stood with her in his arms. “I’m going to go get her dressed, and then we’ll be right back.”

She wrapped her arms around his neck. “Have I said good morning to you yet?” He grinned. “No, you told me I was scratchy.” She giggled and rubbed her fingers over his cheek. “Well, you are.” He growled playfully after the bedroom door was closed and started kissing her face, neck, and lips. She squealed a few times when it felt pokey. When he finally stopped, her face felt like it was sunburnt. He grinned and set her down on her feet. “Do you need to use the restroom, baby?” She shook her head. “Okay, I’m going to put you in jeans and a t-shirt today.” She didn’t care as long as she was dressed. “Take the nightgown off. I’ll be right back.” After he had her dressed, Cason held her hand as they walked down the hallway. When everyone turned her way, she felt herself blush. “For everyone who doesn’t know this sweet girl, her name is Lacey, and she’s the one we’re trying to help. Say hi, baby.” She glanced up at Cason and then back to the table full of men. “Good morning.” Cason squeezed her hand to show her how pleased he was, and then she felt him kiss the top of her head. “Go ahead and sit in the empty seat. I’ll be right back with your juice, and then I’ll introduce you when I get back.” One of the men she didn’t know tapped the empty chair. “Come here, honey.” She looked over her shoulder and then turned and went and sat down. When she

glanced up again, they were all looking at her. She touched her face. “What, do I have something on my face?” “Besides the whisker burns, no.” She gasped and put her hands to her face. “You can actually see it?” The men grinned. Cason came back, set down her glass, and lifted her into his arms before he sat. “Drink your juice while I introduce them.” He went around the table. “You know Brett, Eli, Travis, and Cooper. This one to my right is my partner Devon. And the other two are Jonah and Dustin. Devon’s brother was in the military with them.” She nodded and took a drink. Travis unwrapped a sandwich and set it in front of her. “What’s this?” Cason smiled. “That’s a breakfast sandwich. It has eggs, bacon, and cheese on it.” “I’ve never had one of these before.” She took a bite and closed her eyes. “Oh, my God, it’s so good.” Dustin got her attention. “You’ve really never had one before in your life?” She shook her head. “No, I was never allowed fast food.” “That sucks,” Jonah said. She shrugged. “It’s all I knew.” “Take a few more bites, and then we’ll ask you questions we’ve come up with.” “Okay Da … Cason.”

He pressed a kiss to her temple. “Honey, these guys are cool with Big/little relationships. In fact, I’d say the majority of the guys here are in them or looking for their own little.” She relaxed and took another bite, and then pushed it away. “You don’t want anymore?” She shook her head. “No, thank you.” “All right, let’s get into the questions. We are planning on going through the computer to get your information but decided to ask you,” Travis said. “There is a possibility of them tracing us if you do that.” “Cason told us you went to college?” Eli asked. “Yes, Princeton.” “For what?” “My mother sent me there because it allows students to have security with them. She told me to pick what I wanted even though I wouldn’t use the degree.” “Why?” She wrinkled her nose. “Because Holloways don’t do common work, whatever that means. I got a ive Service degree, and I plan to use it.” “What’s that, baby?” Cason asked. “I can use it working in social state and federal assistance programs. Stuff like that. If a person needs help, I direct them on where to go.” “I bet your mother wasn’t thrilled,” Brett commented. She could feel her stomach tighten. “She didn’t care because she knew the monster was going to take me, and then I’d never have freedom again. Although, I never really have had freedom of any kind. I was either locked up in the house here or in a classroom or the house in New Jersey when I went to college. I had guards twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.”

“You weren’t allowed to go anywhere?” Devin asked. She shook her head. “No.” “It must have been very scary to go out on your own and hide in a building,” Jonah commented. She didn’t know if it was a question but answered it anyway. “I was terrified. I’d never been alone, and this building, especially at night, is really spooky. But I would have rather died than go with the man.” “Can you tell us why?” Devon asked. She swallowed a few times. “A maid at the house heard a conversation between the monster and my mother.” She knew she was shaking but couldn’t stop. “It’s okay, baby, I’ve got you.” She looked up at Cason and relaxed. He wouldn’t let anything happen to her. “She heard him say that I would be abused every day until I submitted, and I’d have to go through a ceremony. She said it sounded scary.” Brett grunted. “Fuck, I hate to ask.” “He wanted to make sure I didn’t have any American germs so I would be thoroughly cleaned, inside and out.” A burn in her chest made it was hard for her to breathe. She turned her head into Cason’s neck and cried, vaguely hearing the men’s shocked outrage in the room. Cason squeezed her tightly. “Shhh, I’ve got you.” She nodded and sniffed as she gained some control. Then she looked up at Cason. “The worst part is my mother knew what I was going to go through, and she didn’t care.” She rubbed her eyes. “How could a mother do that to her child?” He wiped the tears away. “I don’t know, baby. Frankly, I don’t consider her a mother.”

“Do you think because I have her genes, I’ll be a bad mom, too?” She heard a bunch of cursing but kept her eyes on Cason. “No. I’d bet my life you’re going to be a great mom.” She exhaled and nodded. “Anyway, the maid came right to me and told me, and then she helped me to escape. Can we still try to find her?” “Cason told me about her, and I started working on it,” Devon told her. “Tell us about the fortune your mother wants?” Eli asked. “My dad came from a wealthy family, and he did very well in the market. I can’t put an exact amount, but it’s in the billions.” She felt Cason stiffen under her. Travis shook his head. “Jesus. Some people will do anything to get their hands on that kind of money.” She nodded. “I’m supposed to get it when I’m twenty-five, so in less than two years. If I get married before then, my husband gets control of it.” “Would that bother you?” Devon asked. “No. My dad knew I’d pick the right man. But there are safeguards on the fortune also. I’m not sure what they are. You’d have to read the will.” The men talked around her, but she just wanted to cuddle in Cason’s arms. She felt his rigid muscles and looked up at him. “Are you mad at me?” she whispered. He exhaled. “No, baby. You’ve done nothing wrong.” “Okay, good. I do one rule. If I am kidnapped for ransom, it’s widely known they, the bad people, would never get anything.” “Where did you get that?” Cooper asked this question. “My mother told me that before I left for college. I think it was to make sure I

stayed with my guards at all times, and I wasn’t tempted to give my virginity away because the monster wanted it.” Cason growled. “I think that’s enough for now, baby. Why don’t you go into the office and read or organize your things? We’ll get on the internet later and get you some more.” She nodded. She’d had enough. She just wanted to forget for a while.

Chapter Eighteen

Cason waited until he heard the office door closed. “This is a clusterfuck. How in the hell are we going to pin her mom down and get that motherfucker off her back?” “I’ll look into superstitions. Maybe we can use one of them.” Cason nodded. “Good idea, Jonah. Thank you.” “I’m calling all our s at Homeland. There’s an answer somewhere, buddy,” Devon said as he stood and slapped him on the back. “Don’t give up.” “I’ll never give up.” “Hey, before everyone leaves, I have an idea,” Cooper said and waited for everyone to sit down. “Cason needs to marry her. That will be a significant first step to crushing this problem.” Cason sat back, stunned. Did he really want that? To be married to an heiress had to bring so many problems. But, fuck, if it saved her, he’d do anything. “Does anyone know a justice of the peace?” he asked. “I’ll take care of that and everything else,” Travis said. “You just be in a nice suit at five tonight.” “What should I dress Lacey in?” “I’ll send the girls over. One of them has to have a dress for the occasion. The girls will help her dress, and then we’ll all stay as witnesses. We’ll make it special.” “Jeez, Travis. That’s a lot in a short amount of time,” Cason commented. “I’ve got ways.”

Eli snorted. “Listen to the man, Cason. He’ll have everything ready. I’ll run to the jewelers and text you a picture of rings for you and her.” “Thank you all for your help. I couldn’t do this without you.” Travis grunted. “For God’s sake, don’t say that in front of Caleb.” The ones who knew the man nodded and snickered. “Now go and ask her to marry you,” Devon said and walked to the elevator with the rest of them. Cason took care of the garbage and got the papers together before heading into the office. He was nervous as hell. He’d never proposed to a woman in his life, and to do so after knowing her for a few days was madness. On the other hand, he was already in love with her and enjoyed being with her. He’d have to get used to people staring at her because of her light hair and unusual eyes. But that, he could overcome. He opened the door to see her sitting on the sofa. After he set the papers down, he sat by her. “Hey, honey, we’ve come up with an idea. It’s crazy, but it will help the situation.” She set the book down and turned to him. “What?” Fuck. He grabbed her hand and held it tight. “Will you marry me?” There was no expression on her face but shock. He started to worry as the seconds clicked by, and she stayed frozen. “If you want, we can get a divorce after you’re safe…” “Will you want a divorce?” “Well, no. But you’re kind of being forced to marry me.” She climbed into his lap and wrapped her arms around his neck. “Do you know what my first thought was?”

“God, do I want to know?” he said, half-joking. “I think so.” “All right, give it to me.” “My first thought was, why didn’t I think of that.” He smiled. “Really?” “Yes. And yes, I’ll marry you, and no, I won’t give you a divorce.” He chuckled. “All right. Good. We’re engaged.” She hooted, jumped off his lap, and started dancing around. She stopped suddenly. “Can I call my friends?” “They probably already know.” “How?” “I forgot to mention our wedding is going to happen tonight, here in the condo.” She exhaled and then nodded. “The sooner, the better.” “If you want a full wedding later, we’ll get you one.” He grunted when she jumped back in his lap and started kissing all over his face. He finally grabbed a chunk of her hair to hold her still and took her mouth the way he had wanted to. It quickly grew into a need that took their breath away and had their bodies humming with desire. He raised his head. “I’m not going to make love to you right now. I want you to read and relax for a while, then I’ll get a bath ready for you. After, I’ll wash your hair and help you blow dry it, and then your friends can take over about three thirty, so we get married at five.” “I can’t wait.”

He smiled. “I can’t either.”

Chapter Nineteen

Lacey was slathering lotion on her face and jerked when the bathroom door burst open, and Kinley, Sienna, Nia, and Bella walked in. “Jeez, you guys, ever hear of knocking?” The four grinned. “Well, sure, but it doesn’t mean we have to do it.” She glared at Kinley. “Come on, girl,” Nia said. “We’ve got an hour to have you ready.” “Well, I’m already showered and have lotion on.” Bella clapped. “Okay, I’ll do makeup. Sienna is doing your hair. Kinley and Nia are painting your fingernails and toenails.” “I’ve never done that before.” She was excited. Just having them there for the day was great. Bella told her. “We also have something to tell you.” Bella paused, and the girls grinned. “We’re your bridesmaids.” Her mouth dropped open. “I get all four of you?” Kinley grunted. “Yes, Sienna is your maid of honor. We picked with toothpicks, and we had one of the daddies do it so we couldn’t cheat.” “This is going to be great.” She looked at all of them. They all had their hair done and a bit of makeup on. “You all look beautiful. You’re not wearing jeans, are you?” “Oh, hell no,” Nia said. “We’ll dress with you. I hope you like the bridesmaid’s dresses.”

“You all could wear sacks, and I wouldn’t care as long as you’re a part of the wedding.” For the next thirty minutes, she was poked and prodded but laughed so hard she cried, which made Bella sigh and redo what she’d already done. They pulled her into the bedroom and sat her on the mattress. She watched while they all dressed, and when they were done, they stood in a line in front of her. She laughed. They all wore the same dress but in different colors. “How did you do that?” “One day a few months ago, we shopped together, and we all loved the dress but didn’t want to match, so we all got a different color.” “I love them. You all look so beautiful.” Kinley slapped her hands together and rubbed her palms back and forth. “Now, it’s your turn. We’re going to blindfold you, okay?” Lacey laughed. “Sure.” They pulled off the robe and then started putting things on her. It was kind of funny when they fought over who would do their next. “Guys, how much time do we have?” she asked. “We’ll be ready. You just relax,” Kinley told her. They had everything on but the dress, and they all helped with that. Lacey giggled when they all led her over to the closet door where there was a full-length mirror. Then they took the blindfold off. She stared at herself in shock. The dress they brought looked like a wedding dress. It was floor-length and white with an overlay of delicate lace. Cap sleeves fell off the shoulder a bit, showing her neck and upper chest. It hugged her curves so nicely she didn’t cringe at everyone looking at her shape. The neckline curved down but not enough to see her strapless bra they put her in.

“You guys, how did you do this?” “A friend of ours, you’ll meet her later, has a ton of dress-up clothes. I wearing this a few months ago, so I called her and had someone bring it right over.” Lacey twirled around. “Kinley, this is perfect.” Bella started scowling. “Don’t you dare cry. I do not want to redo your makeup again.” Lacey nodded, smiled, and blinked quickly to keep the tears away. “I’m just so…” Nia wrapped an arm around her waist. “We know. But that’s what friends are for.” “I love you guys.” They all started sniffing and hugging each other, saying they loved each other, too. “Now stop,” Bella yelled loudly. “No crying.” They all giggled and nodded and then jumped when someone knocked on the door. “Girls, is everything okay in there?” “Yes, Daddy,” Kinley yelled. “Okay. You have about five minutes, and someone will come back for you.” Nia raced to a bag on the bed and pulled out a bottle of wine and plastic cups. “Let’s do a few toasts.” Lacey got nervous. “Oh, I don’t know. I’m not a big drinker.” Sienna snorted. “None of us are. It’s just white grape juice.”

Lacey giggled and took the cup Nia handed her. Kinley raised her cup in the air. “Here’s to a beautiful bride.” They all cheered and then sipped their juice. Bella raised hers. “Here’s to the daddies.” Each one of them made a toast, and they just got funnier until they were all laughing. They were going around again when someone knocked on the door. “Hey, guys, are you ready?” “Yes. Come in.” She was a little surprised when Devon walked in and immediately scowled. “Are you girls supposed to have alcohol?” Lacey shook her head. “It’s not. It just grape juice.” His shoulders relaxed, and then he smiled. “Girls, you need to line up.” Sienna ran to another bag and pulled out flowers. The bridesmaids got small ones, and she got a bigger one. Lacey grinned. The bouquet was all white and made of roses, baby’s breath, and other flowers. “You guys thought of everything.” “They even decorated,” Devon said. Kinley nodded. “The daddies and friends helped, too.” “Before we go, Cason has a present for you.” He pulled out a velvet box and opened it. In the middle was a necklace with a large diamond, and small sapphires surrounded it. She gasped. “Oh, my, that’s beautiful.”

“Can I put it on you?” “Yes, please.” She turned her back to him and lifted her hair. When she turned back around, the girls gasped. “That’s so pretty, Lacey,” Bella said. She touched it with her fingertips and smiled. “Hey, would you mind if I walk you down the aisle, honey? I know we don’t know each other well…” “I would love that. I was afraid I’d be shaking so much I’d trip.” Devon chuckled and held out his elbow, and she slipped her hand through it. Music started, and Kinley was the first to walk out. She went so slowly, Lacey didn’t think she’d be up at the altar within ten minutes. “Girls,” Devon whispered. “Don’t go so slow.” Lacey giggled. Lacey and Devon stood right outside the bedroom doorway. “Ready?” She smiled and nodded. “Yes.” “By the way, I think you’re the most beautiful bride I’ve ever seen.” Lacey started fluttering her eyelids. “Oh, please don’t make me cry. Bella will kill me.” Devon laughed and started them walking down the hallway. Her heart felt like it would beat out of her chest at her first sight of Cason in a nice black suit and white shirt waiting for her. It was like a fairy tale.

Chapter Twenty

Cason’s first glance at Lacey weakened his knees. He’d never seen anything so beautiful in his life. The white gown she wore hit the ground and conformed to her body in the most delicious way. Her hair blended nicely with the fabric, so it didn’t make her look washed-out. She looked like a fairytale princess. The subtle makeup and blush of pleasure made her already gorgeous features shine. He almost growled at the thought of other men looking at her like this. Their gazes clashed and stuck. It was like no one else was in the room. Devon handed her hand over to him and then stepped back. “Hi,” she whispered. “Hi, baby. You look so beautiful. I feel like I can’t catch my breath.” She took a step closer until they were smashed together. She closed her eyes and raised her chin when his head started to lower. He jerked to a stop when the reverend cleared his throat. “We’re not to that part yet.” Cason heard snickers in the small crowd and felt himself blush. “You’re so handsome.” “Thank you, baby. Are you ready to get married?” “Yes.” He turned them to face the reverend Travis had found for them. He’d also got through the waiting time for a marriage license somehow. Some day he’d ask how he did it all. He turned to her to recite their vows. He waited until Lacey handed her flowers to Sienna and turned back to him. They repeated the reverend, and then he turned to Devon, who handed him the rings.

She gasped when he slid hers on and then handed her his ring to slip on his finger. All he heard next was, you may kiss the bride. She was in his arms before he blinked, making him laugh and hold her tightly again his chest, and then he lowered his head. He had no idea how long they stood there, but he heard the reverend chuckle and then clapped and hooted. Someone rested a hand on his shoulder. “Man, you better slow it down. You’ve got a party to get through.” He reluctantly raised his head and stared down at his new wife. “Thank you for the beautiful necklace.” “You’re very welcome.” He bent and gave her a quick kiss. “Are you hungry, wife?” She giggled. “Yes, husband, I am.” “Then let’s get you fed.” Cason kept her by his side all night. He couldn’t being this happy before. There were more people than he thought there would be, but he was glad because all of them had special training, so it couldn’t be safer for Lacey. Travis made sure to have the newspaper there to take pictures of them and ask a few questions. The reporter asked about a honeymoon, and he told him the story they made up that they were leaving that same night to Hawaii. He squeezed her hand not to talk, and she gripped back and just smiled. One of the guys had even arranged for two people to fly under their names and stay on the island for two weeks. The woman looked enough like Lacey and wore a wig. They thought it would work and give them time. They had a regular photographer come and take pictures. He especially liked the

one with her and the other girls and the one where he held her and they stared at each other. They had everything a normal wedding had. They even cut a cake and fed it to each other. There were two reasons for everything they did that night. One, he wanted to give her a beautiful wedding, and two, they had to make it look good, so when the reporter took pictures of the ceremony, it would look like they were madly in love, which he thought they pulled off very well because it wasn’t far from the truth on his end. They had a picture of them g the marriage certificate for more proof of their wedding. The pictures were going to be emailed to him that night. Everyone came around to congratulate them, shake his hand, and hug her. It was sometime after midnight when everyone left. Eli had set up the decoys to leave from the front of the building minutes ago, and they went into a car and headed to the airport. They also had two guys guarding the elevator and stairs in the apartment and a few downstairs. It wasn’t what he wanted his first night of marriage to be like, but he wasn’t taking chances with her. He also didn’t tell her there were two men in the condo with them. He didn’t want her to be self-conscious when he took her for the first time.

Chapter Twenty-One

Cason had an arm wrapped around her waist as he guided her down the hallway to their bedroom. “How are you feeling, baby?” he asked as he closed and locked the door behind them. She twirled around and smiled at him. “I’ve never felt better or been happier.” “Good.” He took off his coat and set it over the chair before pulling his tie off. Lacey’s heart started pounding when he stayed serious. “Are you glad you married me?” He looked surprised and then pulled her into his arms. “Yes. I’m very glad.” She wrapped her arms around his waist. “You just don’t look happy. Are you regretting it because of all the problems I have?” “Listen to me, I don’t regret it at all. I am worried about tonight.” “Why?” “Because I don’t want to hurt you.” She relaxed. “I know the first time won’t be nice for me, but I figure if you show me what to do, it will be better the next time.” “Oh, you’re going to like this time, too. It’s just when I take your virginity that I’m concerned about.” “Well, don’t be.” “Okay.” He grinned. “Turn around.” She felt the zipper in the back slowly slide down, sending a river of molten desire through her. He helped her step out of the dress and then laid it over his

coat on the chair. “Jesus,” he said as he took her in. Lacey looked down at herself and gasped. She had sheer satin hose clipped to delicate white garters that wrapped around her waist. She had on panties, but they were barely there. The strapless bra was basically two cups of lace holding her breasts up. “The girls blindfolded me when they dressed me, so I had no idea about this.” He grinned. “Well, you need to tell them they did a great job.” She giggled. “I will.” He lifted her and laid her on the bed before pulling off her white inch-high heels and then the hose. Next, he unhooked the garter and left her in just the bra and panties. She was feeling very self-conscious, especially since he was still dressed. Her heartbeat rose when he stood back and started taking his own close off until he stood in front of her, naked. Her breath stuck in her throat when her gaze traveled down, and she got her first look at his cock. The nerves she tried to hide grew until she was shaking. When his hand came up and wrapped around his erection, he started stroking up and down. Her tummy tightened further, and her breasts felt achy and heavy. “Please,” she begged. “What, baby? What do you need?” “I don’t know. I need you.” “And you’ll have every aching inch of me.” She licked her lips when she saw the drop of clear fluid seep from the tip of his cock. “I want to taste you.” He grinned. “I want that, too. Just not tonight. I’m too damn close already. If I

feel that hot little mouth on me, I’ll come.” “Please don’t make me wait, Daddy.” **** Oh, Jesus. When she called him that, it pushed his emotions to a whole new level. He lay down beside her and turned her on her side before sliding his hand up and cradling her face. “I promise, baby. I just want to make it good for you, so you’ll want me to fuck you all the time. I’ll be in this tight cunt every single day.” She lifted her mouth and opened it instantly when his lips touched hers. He consumed her mouth for a few minutes until she whimpered and pushed against him. He dragged his lips down to her neck and spent a little time finding out what made her feel good. He grinned. Her neck was very sensitive, and he wanted to explore the possibility of making her come from just that. But not tonight. He moved down, kissing the top of her breasts before unsnapping her bra. Damn, she was perfect. He threw the scrap of material to the side, bent, and latched on to one of her nipples, making her squeal and arch off the bed. While she was distracted, he tore her panties off. He continued down, dipping his tongue into her belly button, making her squirm. Moving farther down, he used his shoulders to part her thighs enough to get down to the tight soppy age he sought. “Jesus,” he murmured and dipped his tongue into her cunt before circling her clit. “You taste so fucking good.” “Stay still,” he said when she arched off the mattress. When she didn’t, he pressed his hand down on her stomach. “I need to taste my baby.” “I can’t take it.”

“Oh, you’ll take as much as I give you, baby.” He sucked, licked, and nipped at her pussy, then groaned as more of her cream slid out. “Baby, I’m going to throw you over.” “What… Wait. No. I need you.” “Will this be your first orgasm, baby?” “Yes. Please.” “And you’ll get me, but first, I’m going to make you come a few times. Let’s see how you take a finger, and it will stretch you out.” One of his fingers slid into her tight cunt. A moan tore from both of them at the tight clasp of her cunt. He pushed his finger in until it bumped against her hymen. “This is mine, isn’t it, baby?” She nodded vigorously. “You’re going to give your daddy everything he asks for. “Yes! Daddy, please.” Her cunt started to tighten until he could hardly move his finger. “That’s it, love. Come for me.” “Daddy!” she screamed as her body bowed off the mattress. “That’s it, let it take you.” He pushed her to get every drop of pleasure from her first orgasm. Lacey collapsed onto the mattress. He heard how choppy her breathing was and wanted to keep going before she came all the way down. He grinned when she opened her eyes in shock. He pulled his finger out of her and slid it into his mouth, sucking all her sweet cum.

“Mm. Baby, you taste like cotton candy.” “Please…” “You want my cock inside your tight cunt?” “Yes!” He grabbed a condom out of the nightstand, rolled it on, then moved up her body, aligning his cock with her opening. “Hold on to me.” The moment she gripped his arms, he thrust inside of her immediately, not giving her a chance to stiffen, taking her cherry and forever making her his. “Daddy, stop,” she cried out and tried to push him off. “It’s too much.” He pressed his forehead against hers and closed his eyes. “Shh, easy, baby. It’s going to be okay in just a second. Just hold really still for me.” He waited for a long moment until she started to move. “Let’s see how you feel.” He pulled a little and then pushed back in. “Does that hurt?” “No, it feels fine.” She shook her head, relaxed under him, and then started to arch to get him to do it again. “All right. If at any time it’s painful, tell me.” She nodded. Cason started at a slow, easy pace, but it quickly grew into an inferno that had them both moaning and clutching at each other. Within minutes, he was pounding inside of her, and she was begging for more. When he felt her cunt start to tighten on him, he pushed a hand between them and pressed down on her clit, making her immediately scream out in an orgasm. She was so tight he could barely move, but he drove forward to give her as much pleasure as possible and then finally take his own pleasure. With shaking arms and erratic breathing, he held himself over her. It took longer than he even thought possible to regain some semblance of control. She’d taken

all of it. Cason finally pulled out and kissed her forehead. “I’ll be right back.” He walked into the bathroom and disposed of the condom, then wet a washcloth. She stiffened and tried to push him away when he opened her thighs and wiped away her cum, sweat, and blood. “Stop. You’ll lay still and let me take care of you because it’s my job now, and I’m going to take it seriously.” After he was done, he slid into bed beside her, pulled her back against his chest, and wrapped his arm around her. He kissed the back of her head. “You’re mine now.” She nodded, sighed, and fell asleep, and he quickly followed. Several times that night, he woke her, rolled her under him, and fucked her until they were exhausted. He tried to be careful with her, but his body demanded he make her his in any way possible and as much as he could.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Cason checked on Lacey one more time as he tucked his shirt into his jeans. He smiled at how innocent she was, except when he touched her, she became demanding. The first thing he noticed when he stepped out of the bedroom was the scent of coffee. “Hell, yes,” he mumbled and then headed that way. He was surprised to see Travis, Eli, Caleb, Devon, Brett, Cooper, and a few men he hadn’t met. Eli handed him a cup of coffee. “What have we got?” Travis cleared his throat. “The morning newspaper came out.” He threw him a copy. It had a few pictures of the wedding. One especially caught his attention. “The one with the necklace showed up well.” Devon sat down beside him. “Yes. It also got a lot of attention. Let me introduce Hayden and Marek. They showed up this morning.” “Why?” Cason asked. “Their team heard some chatter. It was detailed enough that they got our names.” “Chatter? Who do you work for?” When they stayed silent. “CIA?” The men looked uncomfortable. “I’m sorry, but…” Cason held up his hand. “Yeah, I the drill. Why are you interested in us?” “The chatter was coming from a known arms dealer we’ve been after for years.” Cason’s heart just dropped. This was big stuff, and they’d have to come up with a better plan. “Nasir is a fucking arms dealer?”

Marek nodded. “Yes. We want to question Miss Holloway.” Cason shook his head. “For one thing, it’s Mrs. Buchanan, and you’ll have to go through me to get to my wife.” “Listen, you can be in the room with her.” “I don’t want her upset.” Hayden nodded. “I understand. I’d be protective too, but she might know something she doesn’t know is important. If we can get this guy, it’s better for you both.” Cason nodded. “Yeah. I get that.” “I might mention the picture of the evil eye for a necklace was ingenious, and after he thinks about it, he’ll most likely back off, but right now, he’s furious that he can’t have her and has men all over the city looking for her. He plans to torture her if he gets his hands on her.” Cason rubbed a hand through his hair. “Have you heard anything about Judge Holloway?” “Yes, she’s involved with the dealing. The terrorist group also employs her, and she has been known to be able to get the group light sentences if they come through the court system in the area.” Hayden came around the table and set a paper down. “Here is a list of the officials we think are involved.” He studied it. “Holy shit. This goes way up. There’s a goddamn senator on this list.” Hayden nodded. He turned his head when there was a murmur. Cason watched as Lacey moved around each man in the way to him. He set down his coffee and caught her when she crawled into his lap. He was glad he’d put her in his shirt this morning, or she would have come out naked.

“Fuck, is that your wife?” Cason nodded at Hayden. “What the hell?” Marek asked. Cason chuckled and pressed a kiss to the top of her head. “She’s waking up.” He started rubbing her back. “Daddy?” “Yeah, baby. I’m right here.” “I thought you were her husband?” Hayden asked. Cason glanced at a few other guys in the room. “Will someone explain it to him?” Travis popped up and told them about Big/little relationships. “No shit. I’ve heard of them, but I didn’t know they actually existed,” Hayden said. “Several of us in the room have littles, and we know many more.” Cason saw the spark of interest in both men’s eyes and almost smiled. “There she is,” Cason said when her eyes fluttered open. She gasped when she caught sight of several men. She glanced down at herself in horror until she saw she was mostly covered. “I know how you are, baby, so I put the shirt on you before I left the bedroom.” She tucked her face against his neck. “Thank you.” He grinned. “You’re welcome.” Hayden cleared his throat. “Have you decided?” Cason sighed and then tipped her chin up so he could see her face.

“Baby, there are two men here that want to ask you questions about Nasir.” She looked confused. “Who?” “The monster.” She visibly started to shake. “I don’t want to talk about him.” “I know that, baby. But if we want him to go away, we have to give these guys everything we know. You want the man gone forever, right?” She sighed, nodded, and then turned to look at the two men. Cason knew precisely the moment they saw her eyes. He laughed. “Her eyes are beautiful, aren’t they?” Both men nodded, still looking a little stunned. Caleb snorted. “We all had that reaction.” Cason stood with her in his arms. “I’ll go get her dressed and then bring her out. Can these guys stay? I need them to know everything.” The two men glanced at each other. “Sure. Just don’t interrupt us,” Marek said. Cason walked them back into the bedroom and set her on the bed. “I’ll get you clothes. Do you need to use the bathroom?” She shook her head. He came out with a skirt, bra, and shirt. “Where are the panties?” He smirked. “You’re not wearing any today.” “Really?”

“Yes, really. Let’s get you dressed, and I’ll brush your hair.” After she was dressed, she sat and hummed as the brush ran through the thick tresses. “I forgot how much I loved having my hair brushed.” “When was the last time someone brushed your hair?” “I think I was around seven or eight. My mother didn’t believe in coddling.” “That’s too young. You know who is really good at brushing hair?” She looked at him over her shoulder. “No, who?” “Devon. He has a little sister he took care of a lot.” “Do you think he’d brush mine if you can’t?” “I know he would, but we’ll ask.” “Okay.” “All right, baby, we’re done. Let’s get this over with so we can cuddle.” “I’d like that.”

Chapter Twenty-Three

Cason took her hand and led her back into the room. The two guys sat in the two chairs in the living room, so he sat them on the sofa facing the men. The rest of the men stood back out of the way but close enough to listen. “All right, Mrs. Buchanan. My name is Hayden, and this guy next to me is Marek. Can you tell us the first time you met Nasir Dahar-Akrahm?” Cason felt her stiffen and held her tightly against his side. “It was about two years ago, I think. It was during the Christmas break from college. My mother called me down from my room, and he was there.” “Was he alone?” Hayden asked. She shook her head. “No. It looked like he had servants with him. There were about six, I think. One of them stood directly behind him the whole time, and he told the other men what to do.” Marek raised a hand. “Would you be able to describe them to an artist?” “I could try.” “Okay, we’ll set something up.” “They’ll have to come here,” Cason informed them. Hayden nodded. “We can do that.” “What happened when you came into the room?” “They looked at me like I was a unicorn or something.” The men laughed. “The monster said something harsh, and then all but the monster and the guy next to him stared at me. Nasir came toward me and grabbed my hand when I

tried to pull away. I glanced at my mother, and she just stood there looking bored. He touched my face, held it between his hands. I slapped it away, and he looked really angry and said some gibberish to his friend, and he came and stood behind me.” She started crying and looked up at him. “I don’t like talking.” “Shhh, I know, baby,” he whispered and pulled her into his lap. “Everything is going to be fine. I’ve got you.” She settled a bit and turned back to the men. “The man behind me grabbed my shoulders and held me steady. When I tried to jerk away, he told me it would be best if I stood still, or the inspection could turn painful.” “You understood his English?” “Yes. Very well. He had an accent, but I would guess he’d been in America longer than where he came from.” Hayden wrote something down. “Good. Can you tell me about the inspection?” “He looked in my mouth and then studied my eyes for a long time.” “Probably to see if you were wearing s,” Marek said. “I never thought of that. Something was said between him and my mother…” Hayden interrupted her. “She understood his language?” A frown puckered her brow. “Yes, now that I think about it, she sounded fluent in it.” “Okay, go on.” “Well, it sounded like they both got mad at each other, and then the monster backed off. My mother sent me away. The other time he came, he made me sit on my knees on the floor in front of him and between his legs. I hated it. I started to struggle again, and the same guy crouched behind me and gave me the same warning.”

“What did Nasir do?” Hayden asked when she stayed silent. “He touched all over my head, neck, and then he….” She turned to Cason. He caught the panicked look in her eyes and pulled her against his chest. “Did he touch your breasts, baby?” She nodded and started crying. “He hurt me there, and then he and my mother started arguing again, and the man let me go, so I ran up to my room and locked the door. That night is when the maid came to see me.” “Tell us about that.” “She told me she overheard my mother and the monster talking. Emma, that’s the maid’s name, said that my mother asked if I would be hurt, and the man said yes, most likely every day until I obey him and learn my place.” She started shaking in his arms, and he just wanted to howl at the pain he knew she was feeling at that moment. “Emma didn’t hear what my mom said, but she didn’t sound upset. The man would come back in a few days, but she couldn’t hear what for. That’s when the maid said that I needed to leave and that she’d help me. She didn’t want to come back to the house because she was afraid, but she would if I wanted her to help me escape. I told her to come back for me the next day, and that night, when my mother left, I snuck down to her office. I was never allowed in. I found a file in the top drawer, and my name was in it. I took pictures with my phone, but I didn’t want to take any more time downstairs. I packed a small bag and waited for Emma.” Cason could see the toll this was taking on her, but they all needed her to finish. “She got me into her trunk, and then we drove through the gate. When we were out of sight of the house, the plan was for her to pull over and let me up in the front. Thankfully, we could talk to each other because she thought we were being followed, and so we took a few turns and stopped behind this building. She popped the trunk, and I jumped out. She said to hide, and she’d try to come back for me. I never saw her again.” She looked up at him. “Can I go, now?”

Cason looked at the two men. “Anything else you need?” “Can we have her phone?” Cason shook his head at Hayden. “Not until we it first.” Marek scowled. “How about we it now, and you send a copy to our email?” Cason looked at the men behind them, and they nodded. “Fine. I’ll get her phone, but I’m going to lay down with her for a bit. These guys will take care of it and come get me if you need anything.” Marek nodded and looked at Lacey with concern. “That’s fine.” Cason picked her up and carried her into the bedroom. He laid her down on the mattress, pushed his shoes off, and lay down beside her. The moment he had her against his chest, she started crying. “That's it, baby. Get it all out.” She was already tired from the ordeal, so she hiccupped and became silent within a few minutes. He kissed her forehead. “We’ll get you taken care of. You’re safe with me.”

Chapter Twenty-Four

When there was a light tap at the door, Cason raised his head, and then it opened a few inches. He motioned Devon through. Devon walked over and looked down at Lacey. “How’s she doing?” “She’s going to be okay. She’s got a lot of people who care about her now.” “That helps.” “Did you find anything interesting in the files she took pictures of?” Devon stuck his hands in his pockets and nodded. “Oh, yeah. Her mother thinks she’s above the law because she’s a judge. We’ve got more proof on her now.” “What’s the next step?” Devon snorted. “The two guys were going back to their superiors, and then they’ll get back to us. They did say it would be good to have extra security on her. They also said things were going to start rolling pretty quick now.” “Fuck, I hope they get both of them.” Devon nodded. “I’m going to get my stuff from my place and bring it down here. I’ll crash on the sofa. I can work down here just fine. I haven’t had a chance to tell you that the back door is in, and we are the only ones that have the keys right now. There’s a camera set up and a doorbell. The security will have eyes on the back now and will be the ones who allow people in. It also sets off an alarm when someone opens it.” “Good. I’m glad they could get to it so quickly.” Devon tipped his head at her. “What are you going to do with her right now?” “I’m going to get her up and fed. I might see if some of the girls can come and play for a few hours to get her mind off things.”

“That’s a good idea.” Cason watched Devon leave before smoothing the hair from her face. “Baby, let’s get you up and some food in you.” She rubbed her nose against his chest, making him chuckle. He maneuvered her up and then pulled her off the bed. “Go use the bathroom and meet me in the kitchen.” “Okay.” He pulled out his phone and called Travis. “Hey, it’s Cason.” “How’s she doing?” “Good. I want to distract her today. Is there any chance a few of the girls could come over for a while?” “Sure, I’ll set it up and call you back.” “Thank you.” “Hey, no problem.” Cason had just put some soup in the microwave when she walked around the corner. He smiled. “I’ve got a surprise, baby.” He liked the smile that crossed her face. “What is it?” “A few of your friends are coming over later to play.” Lacey clapped her hands. “Really?” He chuckled. “Yes.” **** “I’m so happy.”

“I thought you’d enjoy some company while a few of us guys sit around and do work.” She went to him and hugged his waist, and set her head on his chest. “Thank you. I’m so glad I have you.” He kissed the top of his head. “I’m glad I have you, too.” While Cason held her, the timer on the microwave went off. “Let’s get you fed.” They both sat down at the counter and ate. When they were done, she reached for both bowls. “I’ll wash these dishes.” She shivered when Cason came up behind her and wrapped an arm around her as she reached for the faucet. A moan slipped out when he kissed her neck. “I’m going to go call now.” She nodded and then felt him move away from her. She wanted to call him back in the biggest way and tell him to make love to her, but she still felt the effects of the night before and hoped it went away quickly. Within the hour, Nia, Kinley, and Sienna walked in with stuff in their arms. “What did you guys bring?” “A little of everything,” Sienna said like she was disgusted, which made Lacey grin. Nia rolled her eyes. “Sienna’s mad because we couldn’t decide, but if you , you were part of the problem.” “Why don’t you girls take it back to the bedroom. The guys will be in the office or the table.” Lacey hugged him and then followed the women down the hallway.

Chapter Twenty-Five

Lacey had no idea how much time had ed when Cason and Travis walked into the room. She could tell right away something was wrong. “Girls. There’s a situation downstairs. We’re leaving a guard by the elevator, but stay back here until we get back.” The four nodded and watched the men hurry out. They sat on the floor and stared at each other. “I’m scared,” Lacey said. Nia grabbed her hand. “It’s going to be okay.” They sat in silence until they heard a crash and then gunshots. “Push everything under the bed and get in the panic room,” Sienna said. Lacey pointed to the one in the master bedroom. The girls rushed without making too much noise. They locked the door to the panic room, and then Lacey turned the light on. Kinley and Sienna turned on the cameras in the apartment. “Holy shit,” Sienna said. Lacey ran around the table that held the computers. Her hands went to her mouth when she saw the guard down on the ground and bleeding. “Oh, my God, they killed him.” The four looked at each other in horror as two men in all black with masks started looking in every room. “What is that guy holding?” Nia asked and squinted at the monitor. Kinley gasped. “Oh, my God. It’s a syringe.”

“Can we call any of the men?” Kinley started typing away. “I’m working on it. Did anyone bring their phone in here?” They all shook their heads. Lacey looked around when Nia started opening the cupboard that held the guns. “What are you doing? You’re going to shoot yourself.” Nia snorted. “No, I’m not.” Sienna grabbed Lacey’s hand. “She knows what she’s doing. Don’t worry. We’ll be okay.” “Does anyone else know how to shoot?” Nia asked. Sienna raised her hand. “I haven’t for a long time, but I know how.” Nia nodded and handed her a gun. “It’s loaded, and the safety’s off, so be really careful.” Sienna rolled her eyes. “I know that.” Lacey watched Nia expertly load two more guns. “Okay, we’re ready to kick ass.” Lacey couldn’t believe how calm they all were while she felt like she was shaking apart. She watched in horror as one of them came into the bedroom and started looking in the closet and under the bed. “Where’s the other guy at?” Nia whispered. “He’s in the office,” Kinley said. “Okay, guys, I’m going to open the door and shoot the one that’s in here. I wish we had a silencer, but we’ll work with this. Don’t scream.”

Nia got ready. “Tell me when his back is turned toward the door.” “Okay, get ready,” Sienna said. “Now.” Nia opened the door quietly, took aim, and shot before closing the door. Lacey pressed her hands to her mouth. Nia had put a bullet in the man’s head, and he went down hard. “The second one’s headed this way,” Kinley said. “Do you want to do the same thing?” Nia nodded. “It will be a little tricker. Is he bending down to check his friend?” “He’s scanning the room. Okay, now.” Nia pushed open the door and shot again, taking out the second guy. Lacey was horrified because she’d never been around violence, but at the same time, she was extremely impressed. Now she wanted to learn how to handle a gun. Nia unloaded all but the one gun she used and sat them down. “Make sure there aren’t any other guys.” Kinley shook her head. “No. Oh, my God, the guard moved.” “Where’s your phone?” Nia asked. “Mine is under the bed in the bag,” Sienna said. “Let’s get that and call an ambulance, and then one of the daddies while I move the guns and syringe away from the bad guys. Kinley and Lacey go grab towels and see to the guard.” “Why are you taking a gun with us? They’re both dead.” Nia turned to Lacey. “Yes, but we don’t know if another one will show up, so I want to be prepared.” Lacey nodded.

“All right, let’s do this, girls,” Sienna said and opened the door. Lacey and Kinley carefully walked around the two dead men, grabbed some towels out of the kitchen, and sat down next to the guy. Kinley pressed the man down. “Be still, mister. We’ve got an ambulance on the way.” “What the fuck happened? Where are those men at?” he asked. “They’re both dead,” Lacey said. “Who the hell killed them?” “I did.” Lacey glanced at Nia over her shoulder and saw Sienna on the phone. “Listen, girl, carefully put the gun down before you hurt yourself.” All four women laughed. Nia snorted. “Mister, I can guarantee I’m a better shot than you. Just relax.” The elevator door opened, and several men stormed in. Cason got to her and yanked her into his arms. “Jesus Christ, I thought I’d lost you.” “No, these girls kicked ass. They were so calm and cool.” The elevator door opened again, and paramedics rushed in and started on the guard. Lacey watched Travis take the gun from Nia, set it aside, and then pulled her into his arms. “Nia shot the men.” Cason sighed. “I know. I’m so sorry. We made sure we had guards everywhere by the doors and elevator, but none of us thought they propel down the building

and shoot out the window.” “I want to learn how to shoot,” Lacey said. Cason groaned. “For God’s sake, let me deal with this first. I’m shaking.” She tightened her arms around his waist. “It’s okay, Daddy.” He snorted. “You're going to give me gray hair, aren’t you?” She grinned up at him. “Probably.”

Chapter Twenty-Six

“Girls, let’s go up to Devon’s while the cops take care of this.” Devon, the four daddies, and the girls sat around Devon's living room, waiting for the official people to show up. Several men Lacey had never seen before came in and started asking questions. The questioning lasted over an hour, and Lacey was starting to get tired. She opened her eyes when the elevator door opened and Hayden, Marek, and another man walked in. Her heart felt like it was going to pound out of her chest as she grabbed for Cason’s hand. “What, baby?” She pointed. “That’s the man with the monster. He’s the one that held me.” She felt Cason stiffen and then call out to Marek. “Hey, how are the girls doing?” Marek asked. Cason nodded but kept his eyes on the man. “Who’s that with you?” “Sebastian Reid.” “That’s the man with Nasir that Lacey was talking about.” Marek nodded. “Yes, he was undercover. It’s because of him and Lacey that we were able to arrest her mother and Nasir before he left the country.” Marek crouched by her, but she couldn’t take her eyes off the man. “Honey, Sebastian really wants to talk to you. Do you think you could listen to him?”

She pulled her gaze away from the man and looked at Cason. “I don’t know.” “I think it would be okay, baby. I’ll be right there with you.” She exhaled and nodded. Marek called out to the man. She could tell right away he felt terrible. “Do you mind if I sit here?” he asked and pointed to space a few feet away from her. She nodded. “I’m so glad I get to talk to you. I’m so sorry you had to go through what you did. I’d been undercover for three years, and I couldn’t blow it. If he had tried to go farther, I swear to you I would have killed him.” Cason squeezed her. “Do you understand, baby?” She nodded at Cason and then looked back at the man. “Yes. That had to have been hard being with that man for that long.” Sebastian nodded. “Yes. The man is pure evil.” The man laughed. “Your necklace freaked him out.” “How?” she asked, confused. “He kept saying it was an evil eye. I don’t think the guy is all there.” “That’s what we wanted him to think.” She looked at Cason. “Really?” “Yeah. We found out how superstitious he was and used it to protect you.” “Well, it didn’t work at first. He was just furious that he couldn’t have her. It was so hard not to laugh when he started talking gibberish about holding off the evil. I wanted to say he was the evil one but couldn’t. So, can you forgive me, honey?” She nodded. “Yes. It’s people like you and the men in this room who keep us as

safe as we are. Thank you.” The man swallowed. “Thank you.” He shook Cason’s hand and then walked back over the other two. She looked up at Cason. “When can we go home?” “We can’t tonight. We’re going to stay in Devon’s spare room until our place is cleaned and the glass replaced.” She hadn’t even thought of the glass and blood. “Can we go to bed soon? I really need you to help me forget for just a little bit.” He pressed a kiss to her temple. “Yes. Everyone is starting to leave. I’ll tell Devon we’re going to lay down for a bit. Why don’t you say goodbye to your friends? They are about to leave.” “I will.” She stood and walked to the other woman. They all hugged and teared up. “I’m so glad you guys were there today. I don’t know what I would have done.” Sienna squeezed her hand. “You would have gone in the panic room and stayed there until your daddy had come to get you.” Lacey nodded. “I hope I would have kept my cool.” “You did,” Nia said. “Most women would have started to scream at the first shot, and you haven’t fallen apart yet. You’re stronger than you realize.” “I hope so.” Travis came and wrapped an arm around Nia’s waist. “Come on, Annie Oakley. You need to take care of your daddy. He’s had a hard day.” “Who’s Annie Oakley?” Lacey asked. “A woman from a long time ago that was really good with guns,” Travis told her. “I have to say I’m glad my baby knows about guns, but she’s giving me gray hair scaring me the way she does, and that has to stop.”

“I’ll try, Daddy.” Nia smiled. “I doubt it,” Travis said and grunted. “Night, girls.” Cason came to her. “Ladies, I’m going to take my girl and lay down for a bit. Thank you for taking such good care of her.” “You’re welcome,” they said and were led away by their daddies. “Let’s go, baby.” She nodded, ready to be alone with him.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Cason pulled her into the bedroom and locked the door before he drew her over to the bed and started stripping her. “How are you holding up, baby?” Lacey nodded. “I think I’m okay.” “It might hit you later, so be aware and come right to me.” “I will, Daddy.” “Good, get in the bed and spread your legs. I want to see what belongs to me.” She scrambled up onto the bed and opened her legs as far as they would go. “Jesus, you are so beautiful, everywhere.” “I think you’re beautiful, Daddy.” He grinned and bent down to use his fingers to separate her pussy lips. He tapped the little button and grinned when she gasped and started to squirm. “Hold still,” he ordered. “I need a taste of this sweet cream.” The flavor of her burst against his taste buds as he swiped his tongue from her asshole to her clit and back. Her head thrashed back and forth, and her hands fisted the blanket beneath her. He straightened his tongue and thrust it up her cunt, making her scream. He thought about reminding her that Devon was in the condo with them but decided against it. They would both need to get used to hearing and seeing the other one fuck. “Mmmm, you taste so fucking good.”

“Daddy, I want to taste you. Please.” He raised his head. “I’ll give you a little taste, but I’m already so close to coming, and I don’t want to do it in your mouth. I was actually thinking of just fucking you, but maybe tonight is a good night to show you how I’d use all three of your special places to amp up your desire and make you come.” “God, yes.” “I’m talking about your mouth, cunt, and ass, and I don’t know if you’re ready for that.” “I don’t know, but I want to try. It feels like a big ball of tension is growing inside of me. I feel like I’ll bust apart if I don’t do something.” He nodded. “This is what I was talking about. You’re finally feeling the effects of the day.” “I thought I’d start crying.” “You will probably do both eventually. Right now, it’s built up, and it will take something harsh to fix it and release the pressure, so I think we will try your ass. It might just be what you need.” “Yes.” “Okay, get on the floor on your knees and take hold of my cock.” Cason grinned when she scrambled off the bed. He hissed as her tiny hand tried to circle it, but he was too large. “Use your tongue and taste the cum that’s coming out of my cock.” His eyes almost rolled back at the first touch of her tongue on his cock. Oh, fucking A. He wasn’t going to last long, so he needed to hurry this part up. “That’s it. Now put your mouth over it and suck.” A jolt of pure fire swept down his spine when she hollowed out her cheeks and sucked like he was a milkshake or something. He grabbed ahold of her hair to

control her movements, but he only lasted less than a minute before he pulled her off. “That’s it.” He lifted her and placed her on the mattress before going through the nightstand for a condom and the lube he knew would be there. “Spread for me.” He crawled up onto the bed between her legs and rolled on the condom. “At any time, you feel pain, you tell me.” She nodded. He lined his cock up with her cunt and pressed forward. He watched her expressions the whole time to see if she flinched, but all he saw was evidence of her pleasure. The feelings took him over, and he fought them back. He was determined to make her come at least twice that night. He kept his weight off with one elbow and reached between them to press and circle her clit. Her cunt instantly tightened on him. “That’s it, come for daddy.” Her fingernails dug into his arms, and she threw her head back as a scream built in her throat and sprang out to bounce against the walls. “That’s it, fuck.” He waited until she calmed before pulling out, flipping her onto her stomach and shoving a pillow under her hips. Cason squeezed some lube onto his finger. “Relax your bottom, baby.” He worked his finger into her. “Jesus, you’re sucking my finger in. Do you like this?” She nodded. “I think so. It’s overwhelming in a way, but I feel I need more.” He pulled out and pressed two fingers into her tight ass. “Is this a little better?” “Yes, I think I need you inside of me.” “You want my cock in your little ass?”

“Yes, but I’m scared.” “Don’t be afraid. I’d never hurt you. I might push your limits, but all you have to do is tell me to stop.” “Daddy, please fuck my bottom.” “Let me get cleaned up. Don’t you dare move.” He was back within a minute. He put the nozzle of the lube against her butt hole and squeezed a good amount into her. “It’s cold.” He laughed. “I know. Give it a second.” When he thought he used enough, he aligned his cock to her tender little hole. “Now, I need you to push out as I push in. We’ll take it slowly.” She did what he asked, and he worked himself into her until he could not go any farther. “What do you think of this, baby? Do you like having me in your ass?” “It feels weird and good at the same time.” “Are you hurting at all?” “No. I still feel that tension, though.” “I’ll work it right out of you. We’ll start slow and gentle.” He started pumping into her at a slow rate. When she started to push back, he went faster. “Harder, Daddy.” “Okay, baby. Hold on to the blanket.” He gripped her hips in a tight hold and started to pound inside of her.

“How does this feel?” “So good. More!” He didn’t think he’d last any longer, so he bent forward and manipulated her clit at the same time that he rammed into her. “Fuck, I can feel you. You’re about ready, baby. Let go and come for Daddy.” “It’s too much.” “No,” he growled. “You come now, or Daddy’s going to keep fucking you until you can’t walk straight.” She screamed, and he felt her tighten on him to the point he could barely move. “That’s it.” Her grip on him finally eased as she collapsed against the pillow. He drove in a few more times and felt himself come until he fell forward, bracing himself with his shaky arms. Cason fought to settle his heart and his breathing before he pulled out of her. He kissed her shoulder before he climbed off the bed. “Don’t move. I’ll be right back.” He grinned when she mumbled something but didn’t move a muscle. He cleaned himself up, then bathed her with a cloth before sliding into bed. He curled around her back and laid his arm on her waist. “How do you feel, baby?” “Mmm ri kk mm,” she whispered. He chuckled. “I didn’t understand that at all, but it doesn’t matter. I can tell you’re relaxed enough to go to sleep, and that’s all that matters.” He pressed a kiss to the back of her head and listened to her breathing even out. “Damn, baby. I can’t believe how much you mean to me already,” he told her,

knowing she was asleep. He didn’t want to scare her by itting his feelings for her, so he decided he’d tell her when she wouldn’t hear them for now. He sighed, closed his eyes, and fell asleep holding her.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

They were finally back into their own condo. It had taken a week to get everything cleaned and fixed. “Let’s get you dried off and into your robe, and then we’ll go watch a movie.” She smiled. “I love that idea.” “Hey,” a voice called from the front of the condo. “We’re back here.” “Daddy!” she whispered furiously. “I’m naked.” “Yes, baby, I know that. You better get used to being naked around people when I want you to, but especially with Devon. He’s the only other one who has the right to punish you if I’m not around. You go to him if you can’t find me. Do you understand?” “Fuck, man, I get to spank that sweet ass?” Her eyes widened. She covered her breasts with her arms, and she stiffened but didn’t turn. Cason chuckled. “Yes, but she has to do something to warrant it, and she doesn’t act out a lot.” “Well, damn.” She bit her lip to keep from smiling. Cason was still drying her legs, so she held really still. “Can I get my hands on her ass right now because it’s driving me nuts.?” Cason sat back on his heels and looked up at her. She didn’t know what he saw when he smiled and nodded. “Yes.”

“Um…wait…” she murmured. Cason ignored her and went back to drying her when she felt another hand on her ass. She felt a quiver go through her, making both men chuckle. “She loves being touched. Don’t you, baby?” Cason asked. “I… Oh…” “What’s he doing?” Cason asked when she stiffened. “He’s pushing his finger into…” “What, baby. Where’s his finger?” “In my bottom.” “Does it feel nice?” She started to shake her head but stopped and nodded once. “Good girl for telling the truth. If you had said no, I would have known you were lying because you’re extremely aroused right now.” She gasped and reached to steady herself on Cason’s shoulders as Devon worked the finger deeper inside of her. “Do you want me to keep going, man?” Devon asked Cason. Cason grinned. “Yeah, she likes it a lot. Go ahead and throw her over. I want to see her come.” “You got it.” Her eyes slid shut when Devon pulled out, swiped some of the cream that was sliding from her, and thrust two large fingers inside of her. “Open your eyes, baby. I want to see.” “Daddy, I can’t stand…”

He reached out and steadied her with his hands on her hips. “I’ve got you. Just feel how good Devon is making you feel. How many fingers does he have inside your tight ass?” She groaned. She loved it when he talked dirty. “T … two.” “Has he worked them all the way in?” “I … no.” Cason looked over her shoulder. “She likes the bite, so don’t be too gentle.” She heard Devon groan, and then he rammed his fingers in as far as they could go, making her scream. An arm wrapped around her waist from behind, helping to hold her up. “Oh, my God. Oh, my, God…” Cason chuckled. “Is he making you feel good?” “Yes. Daddy, I need…” “I know, baby.” She tensed when Cason pushed two fingers into her cunt. They worked in tandem, one pulled out while the other pushed in. She felt her core tighten painfully, and they still didn’t throw her over. “Please, Daddy, please, let me come.” “All right. Devon, give her three fingers, and I’ll do the same.” “Fuck yeah, I could spend all day in this ass.” Without warning, she felt both holes stretch to the point of pain, but it was the best possible kind.

“Come, baby.” Lacey saw lights flash behind her eyelids, and the sound of her ecstasy echoed in the room. She had no strength as they continued to finger-fuck her. She would have collapsed if they hadn't been holding her up. “One more.” “Oh, no…” she whined. She didn’t have any more energy. “You’ll do it because I said so.” She heard Devon curse behind her and used more force to get his fingers into her ass. “Come for me. Show Devon what a good girl you are.” She threw her head back. She vaguely heard herself scream, but her focus was on trying to get a breath with the overwhelming sensations tearing through her body. Finally, they stopped, and she collapsed into Cason’s arms. “There, baby. You did so good.” “I…” “Shhh, I’ll take care of you.” She thought she nodded but wasn’t sure. She moaned when Devon pulled his fingers from her ass. She felt him kiss her shoulder. “I’m going to get cleaned up.” “Fine. Thanks for the help.” “Anytime, I really mean anytime. That was one of the hottest things I’ve ever seen.” “I think so, too. The file you came for is on my desk.”

She felt one more kiss on top of her head. “Good night, peanut,” Devon said. “Hmm.” She couldn't keep her eyes open. Later, after she settled, she knew she’d be embarrassed, especially the first time she saw him. But at that moment, she didn’t care about anything.

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Cason held her hand as they walked into the lawyer’s office. “I’m scared.” Cason stopped and cupped her face. “There is nothing to be afraid of. Do you really think I’d let anyone hurt you?” She relaxed and shook her head. “No.” “Good.” Cason gave their names to the receptionist. “He’s waiting. Follow me, please.” The woman opened the door to let them in and then left right away. The older man looked up, pulled off his glasses, and came around the desk. “Young lady, you were supposed to come to see me when you got back from college. I’ve even left messages at the house.” “I didn’t know, sir. No one told me.” “I figured that was it. When I saw your picture in the newspaper, I tracked you down.” He smiled at her. “My name is Jefferson Morrison, and your father and I were good friends. I still miss him.” “I miss him, too.” “I’m Cason Buchanan, Lacey’s husband.” “Yes, I saw that in the paper. I have to it I checked into you. I wanted to make sure our girl was in the right hands.” “I understand perfectly.”

They shook hands, and then the man indicated the two chairs. “Have a seat.” Cason pulled her chair close to his and then held her hand. “I’d like to go over your father’s will with you.” “Yes, sir.” The man went through a list of things her father gave to other people and then came to her. “He wanted you to get three-fourth of everything and your mother the rest, but now that she’s in jail and will be for the rest of her life, you get it all. Now that you’re married, too, your husband will be in charge of it.” She looked over at Cason and saw him shake his head. “No, keep everything in her name. If she agrees and you trust them, the people who are taking care of it can keep doing it.” She nodded. “Yes, but can’t we use some of it and start a non-profit that will help with human trafficking?” “I think that’s a great idea.” He lifted her hand and kissed her knuckles. “That’s an excellent endeavor, young lady. It’s a horrendous thing to have women and children kidnapped and sold into slavery.” “I agree.” “How about I set up an in your name right now and transfer money over to it. You’ll have to think of a name for the organization, but once you have that, I can help with the paperwork.” “That would be wonderful. I know I wouldn’t know where to start.” She looked at Cason. “I can start a business, baby, but this is a whole new can of worms. You and I will research it and find people that can help. All right?” “Yes.”

“I have a few names of people who would help you start it.” She smiled at the lawyer. “Thank you so much.” “I just wish your father could see you now. He’d be so proud of you.” She felt her eyes fill with tears and blinked them away. “I hope so.” “Do you know what figure you’d like to start with?” She looked over at Cason. “What do you think?” “I say you choose. If you need more, just call Jefferson.” “I’ve never asked how much the estate is worth.” Jefferson laughed. “Neither of you know?” They shook their heads. Jefferson looked down at a file and then smiled. “As of right now, it’s two-point six billion dollars.” Her mouth fell open. She’d known it was a lot but not that high. She grinned when she saw Cason’s shock. “You know, if you put say, one billion in an , the interest you’d make would run the business forever,” Jefferson told them. She wanted to scream and jump up and down. “Yes, let’s do that.” “I’ll get it set up in an that pays good interest. We’ll figure it all out.” The lawyer chuckled. “Your husband looks a little shell-shocked.” She giggled. “Yes.” Jefferson stood and came around the desk. “How about if we meet next week, and we’ll see where to go from there.”

Cason pulled her up to stand next to him and then shook Jefferson’s hand. The older man grinned. “It was very nice to meet you both.” Lacey impulsively hugged the lawyer. The man blushed but look happy and surprised. “Thank you so much. I’m glad my father had you as a friend.” “I never married or had children, so I live vicariously through my friends that do.” Cason grinned. “Well, I want you to be a part of our family. Our children are going to need a grandparent. My parents are gone, and basically, hers are, too.” Jefferson’s eyes widened in shock. “Oh, my. I would enjoy that.” Cason shook the man’s hand. “Good. We’ll see you next week.” “Yes.” Cason wrapped an arm around her waist and walked outside. She looked up at him. “Thank you for thinking about that. I think he’s going to make a great grandparent.” Cason nodded. “I do, too. Ready to go back home?” “Yes.” He lifted her into the truck and belted her seatbelt. He glanced over at her when they pulled out. “What do you want to do to the house you used to live in, baby?” “Do you want to live there?” “Not if I don’t have to,” he said and grinned. She laughed. “Me, either. Let’s sell it and use the proceeds to find some office space to start the non-profit. Maybe we can find some building close to yours.”

“Good idea.” “Are you sure you don’t want to use any of the money for your business? There’s so much, and we’ll never be able to spend it all in ten lifetimes.” He reached for her hand. “No, Devon and I used part of our pensions, and it’s off to a great start. I think it’s going to grow as Travis’s business did. We’re already bringing in other partners.” “Well, it’s there if you ever need it.” “Do you want to find a house to buy?” She thought about it for a moment. “Can we stay in the condo until we start having children?” He smiled at her. “We can do whatever you want.” “Okay, good. The only thing I don’t like about it is there’s no parking.” “You don’t have to worry about that. We just bought the plot behind us, and we’ll turn that into a parking garage for the business. Besides, I’m going to insist you have a driver, baby. Would that be okay?” “Yes, I don’t like driving in cities. I really haven’t had a chance to since I was in college, and that was always with a bodyguard sitting nervously beside me.” She grinned. “Good, because I don’t like you driving in them either. Are you ready to go home, Mrs. Buchanan?” “Yes, and I’m never going to get tired of hearing that, Mr. Buchanan.” “Good, because you’re stuck with me.” “God, I hope so.”

Epilogue

“Hey, baby, Devon’s here to talk to you,” Cason said. She ran up and hugged Devon. “Hi. “Hi, yourself. I wanted to talk to you about Emma.” “Okay. She’s the maid I told you about. She was the one who warned me and then had me hide in her trunk to get me out. She let me out in the back of Cason’s building because she thought she was being followed. I’m hoping nothing happened to her. She was always so nice to me. I think she would have made a great friend, but it was forbidden for the servants to talk to us unless asked a question. Isn’t that pitiful?” “I think so, too,” Devon told her. “I just hope she’s okay, but I wouldn’t know how to find out.” “I’m going to try,” Devon said. “Can you tell me what you know about her?” “She’s about my age, pretty, with dark hair and eyes, and her first name is Emma. I’m not positive, but her last name could be Hammond. That’s all I know. Isn’t that pitiful, Daddy?” Cason grinned. Since she had been hanging with the other girls, everything was pitiful. Travis told him it went in phases. Next week it might be something totally different. “Yes, baby, that is pitiful. Let’s let Devon take care of that.” She nodded. “Good. I worry about her every day.” “Knowing Devon, he’ll find her rather quickly.” Lacey gave Devon one more hug and walked away. Cason studied his friend’s uneasy expression. “What’s up?”

“I found a missing person report about an Emma Hammond. Her aunt who lives in a retirement home is the one who reported her missing. She told the police that Emma had never missed a day to come visit her.” “Shit.” Cason’s stomach twisted. Being in law enforcement most of his life, he’d have to guess Emma was killed or caught and sold. “Yeah, it gets worse. She went missing that same day she helped Lacey escape, and she hasn’t been found yet.” “So her chances of surviving are pretty slim?” Devon nodded. Cason wiped a hand down his face. “Shit, how the hell am I going to tell Lacey this? It will break her heart.” “Hold off for a while. I’ll keep looking.” Devon patted his shoulder and left. Cason sighed. He would definitely be praying for a miracle. At that moment, his main goal was to keep growing his business but, most importantly, keep Lacey safe and happy. The main thing he needed to stay content was a blissful wife.

The End

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BONUS SAMPLE CHAPTER

DEVIL’S FURY

Devil’s Sons MC, 1

Lila Fox

Copyright © 2021

Sample Chapter

Amelia was startled when she was suddenly pulled aside as she came into the building she worked in. She tried to jerk her arm away until she saw it was her manager, Price. “What?” she asked, concerned about the look on his face. “I just heard about your dad and wanted to tell you I’m sorry.” She blinked several times to dispel the tears that gathered. God, she was so sick of feeling empty and sad. The last few years had been tough, with her father getting sick and then dying. Although it was expected to happen, and the nurse had even told her it would be soon, watching the life fade from her father’s eyes made something inside her die. She cleared her throat. “Thank you, Price.” “Does this mean you won’t be working here too much longer? I know you took this job because you only had to work a few hours a night, two days a week, so you could be home to take care of him.” She exhaled and looked away for a moment. “I’ll be here for another few weeks. I want to save up and make a new start somewhere else.” “You’ve given up a lot for your father.” “He was worth it.” “If you want to take the night off, I can have Candy take your shift.” “No, really. It will help take my mind off everything.” Price patted her shoulder. “Not many people would do what you did for a family member.” She hated that he was right. “Then they’re fools.”

“I wish I had a kid like you.” “You and Stacy won’t have any kids?” Her manager and his wife were in their early thirties and still had time to have a family. He snorted. “No. We decided early on our lifestyle wasn’t meant for kids.” “I think you should reconsider. It’s not the environment the child grows up in. It’s their parents and how much they are loved.” Price smiled. “I’ll talk to my wife. I think we’ll regret it if we don’t have at least one.” “I hope she agrees.” “Go on to the back and get ready. The place is already filling up.” She looked around the room and noticed more than half the tables around the stage were already filled with men. The two waitresses were rushing around, and the show hadn’t even started. As she ed by on her way to her own area, Amelia waved at some of the women in the back behind the stage where they got dressed. Several women either ignored her or were outright hostile to her. She didn’t know why and frankly didn’t care. She was there for one reason, and it was to make money. Not friends. It didn’t take her any time to get dressed because the outfits were so damn skimpy. It was the makeup and wig that took forever to get on and looking right. Tara plopped down in the chair beside her. “Hey, girl. I’m so sorry about your dad.” Amelia turned to her friend and accepted the hug and comfort. Tara was the woman she’d connected with at the very beginning. They both had so much in common and felt the same way about the family. Tara had her mom at home that she took care of while Amelia was home with her dad. They both believed that family came first.

Tara was the one she would miss the most when she left. Amelia wiped a tear from her cheek. “So, are you leaving us?” Tara asked. “God, I fucking hope so,” one of the strippers, Sadie, said as she walked by. Tara sneered at her. “Fuck off, skank. You’re just jealous that the men like her and can barely stand you.” Sadie threw a hate-filled stare at Tara and Amelia. “Fuck you.” Then she turned and stormed away. “Well, she was pleasant like always,” Tara said sarcastically, making Amelia laugh. Amelia glanced at the doorway Sadie had left through. “I think she’s just a very sad person.” “Of course you do, because you are a sweet person and find the good in everybody.” Amelia giggled at the disgust in her friend’s tone. “First off, you’re the same way, and secondly, you make it sound like a bad thing.” Tara shook her head. “Naw, I’m just afraid someone is going to take advantage of you in the future, and I won’t be there to help. I worry about you, girl. You need someone to look after you.” Amelia squeezed her friend’s hand. “I’ll get by. I’m serious. I’ll be fine. I worry about you too. You’re stripping for the same reason I am.” “I know. It works the best for both our situations. Well, I hope you stay safe, and you know where I am if you ever need me.” “I wish you could come with me when I leave.” Tara shook her head. “I can’t leave my mom.” “How is she?”

The despair on her friend’s face saddened her. Tara sighed. “The doctors think she’s going to have to be put in a home that specializes in dementia. Mrs. Clark, who watches her while I work, can’t handle her anymore, and I’m having a tough time getting her fed and watching her twenty-four hours a day.” Amelia’s heart went out to her. At least her father had ed her until the end. “I’m here for you.” Tara hugged her again. “I know. You’re what makes my situation bearable.” “I’m glad. Now we have to hurry if we don’t want to get yelled at.”

End of sample chapter

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