Defiled: A Dark Paranormal Romance Read online

  “Jesus. What a reaction,” Jenny muttered.

  “Yeah, well, my guess is my hand is going to wrap around panties, maybe even the crotchless type.” When I pulled out a pair of French stockings, perfectly nude in color and obviously expensive, I groaned.

  “See. Whoever this man is, he simply wanted you to feel like a princess.”

  The single word caught my attention and I could hear his voice.

  You will belong to me, princess, and soon you will become my queen.

  “Are you okay? You look flushed.” Jenny grabbed my arm.

  “I’m fine. I’m just...” I fingered the package, butterflies doing somersaults in my stomach. Electricity shot through every cell and muscle, leaving me breathless with excitement. Maybe meeting the perfect and glorious stranger had unlocked the very cage I’d placed myself into three years before. I wanted to live again. I wanted to enjoy carnal passion. A nervous laugh slipped past my lips. “I should get dressed.” I gathered the items in my arms, taking calculated steps toward the bathroom. There was no question about whether I would wear the stunning outfit. He expected that I would. No, he’d ceremoniously commanded me to do so.

  And for some crazy reason...

  I would obey.

  Chapter Eight

  Christoff

  Obedience. The word was indeed one of my favorites in the English language, or in any language for that matter. Sadie had no idea that within hours her training would begin, the fall from grace and into a glorified state requiring her utmost subservience. While in first appearances she’d seemed docile, perhaps frail in certain aspects, I’d learned quickly that she was quite tasty in her formidable state. She had an inner strength that some might say came from her belief in God. This would make breaking her that much more interesting.

  But first, tonight was about seduction and I would respect her limitations to an extent.

  But only for tonight.

  My needs were far too great, my cock throbbing every time I thought about her.

  “You are beautiful, princess Sadie,” I whispered as I eased her from the car.

  “I am no princess, Christoff. You will learn that soon enough.” She laughed, the sound more like a velvety purr.

  “We shall see.” She’d taken to using my full name, a delightful notion. Even the ways she said the two syllables was more like sweet music, a fine cellist offering a moonlight sonata.

  I’d captured a mere glimpse of her dormitory and a second of her roommate, a girl with a keen ability to grasp the very essence of evil. The Ouija board was nothing more than playtime for spirits, but neither girl could have any understanding of the door that had been unlocked.

  And I was the man who controlled the key.

  I held my hand against the small of her back as we were led through the restaurant toward a table of my choice. Her dress drew the attention of every male in the room, their eyes sliding from her luscious ruby-stained lips to her long legs sculpted by the stiletto heels. I’d taken another chance purchasing the items, in a sense demanding that she already succumb to her master’s wishes.

  But she’d done so without hesitation.

  My mouth watered, my thirst becoming insatiable. My patience was nil, and I had to fight not to bark at the waiter for taking so long providing the wine. As the warm glow of the candle flickered, highlighting the hint of desire in her large hazel eyes, I resisted offering any demonic antics. I was merely a man hungry for a feast. I waited until the cabernet arrived, the waiter having difficulty filling our glasses. She had no idea what effect she had on others around her.

  After all, they were in the presence of greatness.

  “Shall we begin?” I finally asked, content that she hadn’t peppered me with the usual boring questions on what would be our first of many dates.

  “You make this sound like an interview,” Sadie responded, lifting her crystal goblet for my required toast.

  After glass rim touched glass rim, I took a sip, savoring the rich flavor before continuing. “Call it curiosity.”

  “All right. I’ll play along.” She took another sip of wine and all I could concentrate on was the way the tip of her tongue gathered a wayward bead.

  “Do you believe in good versus evil?” I asked casually.

  “Yes.”

  “God?” I fingered my glass, swirling the edge of my nail around the rim.

  She rolled her eyes. “In my world, there are many Gods, not just one, but not all of them are benevolent. As far as how a God relates to good versus evil, my belief is that everyone has a hint of both dwelling deep inside. Which side becomes the driving force is dependent on various influences. A truly evil person, such as a serial killer, can have moments of utter kindness. On the flip side, even men and women considered holy could easily cross the line given the right set of circumstances. It’s all about choice, freedom of will.”

  “Fascinating answer.” She had no way of knowing that there was no such thing as freedom of will, not in terms of the darkness that did indeed dwell within. Once called upon by Lucifer, there were almost no men and even fewer women that could ignore the request. My father was a very powerful monster. Her level of innocence was beguiling, a trait that would certainly fascinate my father.

  “And one that I’ll no doubt go to hell for,” Sadie murmured. She must have seen the question in my eyes. “My father is a minister and even this conversation would be considered blasphemous. In his eyes, you are either a soul worthy of God or destined to burn in hell. There is no in between, no choice in the matter.”

  “Your father isn’t here, Sadie. You are your own woman, capable of making your own decisions. Do you believe in the other world?”

  “If you mean purgatory, perhaps. It’s still about choices made and the weaknesses that all humans tend to have. In truth, I’ll always challenge the reasoning why monsters aren’t captured and sent away without hesitation, their vileness stomped out like a mere gnat feasting on human flesh. I’m certain my words are horrific, but I’m not certain I care,” she stated with defiance. The vehemence of her statement surprised both of us, her gaze flitting in my direction as she laughed. “Can you tell I’ve had far too many of my father’s influences?”

  “Learning from one’s ancestors isn’t always a bad thing.”

  “You don’t know my father.”

  “Controlling? Dominating?”

  She pursed her voluptuous lips and leaned forward, pushing her wineglass out of the way. “My father is a strong believer in the concept that women are submissive.”

  “But you don’t.”

  “I believe that women are much stronger than men in every way.” She smiled after making the statement.

  Her answer was as unpredictable as the woman herself. I was enthralled, eager to peel away every layer, exposing the very essence of the girl. She was hiding from everyone and I planned on exposing her strengths as well as her weaknesses.

  “And your views?” she finally asked.

  “My views are simple. Men are weak in their needs and desires, yet the sanctity of domination is what they have been bred for.”

  “Hunters and gatherers,” she suggested.

  “Primal.” I could see the effect of the single word, how her mind processed the answer. Whether or not I’d won any points simply didn’t matter. This wasn’t about playing a game of words but the ability to strip away her mask.

  “And obedience?”

  “All humans were bred to follow some form of rule. Without that there would be chaos.”

  “Then when rules aren’t followed there should be a form of punishment. Is that what you’re suggesting?”

  I’d noticed how she turned the tables quickly, her ability to charm while getting what she wanted akin to my own nefarious talents. The way her lower lip trembled was nothing more than a seductive mannerism, forcing my balls to tighten, painfully pushing against my zipper.

  “Why do you ask?”

  “Because you mentioned that you thought
I was quite capable of being obedient.”

  I couldn’t help but smile before answering, “I did and you are.” I leaned further over the table, making certain our eyes locked. I allowed her to see a snippet of my soul as I spoke, keeping my tone as sensual and comforting as possible. She needed to trust me. “The respect of learning to conform is vital in all aspects of life. As with anything that we do, there are rules that must be followed or utter anarchy would prevail. To that end, you are a woman who not only understands but reveres those in complete control. You also comprehend the need for punishment if those rules aren’t followed.”

  Her lower lip quivered, just enough that I was able to notice. I also gathered the scent of her pretty pink pussy, her desire overwhelming her interlaced fears.

  “Tell me I’m wrong, Sadie. Tell me that discipline isn’t a requirement for many in this day and age, harsh punishment for those who refuse to adhere to those superior to them.”

  Sadie looked away briefly and I was drawn to her rock-hard nipples, my own arousal soaring to the point my hunger had nothing to do with food.

  “Yes, I see your point,” she finally said.

  Using just my index finger under her chin, I turned her head in my direction, homing in on her rapid heartbeat and the way her pupils were almost dilated. “And I can tell you require strict discipline in your life. You long to find the right man to provide a firm hand as well as the ultimate in pleasure. The only question in my mind is that are you ready to obey?”

  She grew more uncomfortable, biting down on the skin just under her lip. “I... don’t know. I’ve never reacted to the various forms of discipline well.”

  Her slight falter told me the truth. She was almost ready. “I think you do understand yourself better than you care to admit. By the end of this night, your journey will have begun. You will learn to obey me in all manners. If you do, you will be rewarded with the true essence of ecstasy.”

  “And if I don’t?” Her tone was defiant, a reminder that she was still a rebellious young woman.

  “If you don’t, you will be punished severely.”

  Sadie processed what I was saying and by the way she eased back from the table, I knew a test was required.

  “Perhaps we should begin. This will be a simple requirement. Go into the ladies’ room and remove your panties. Bring them to me.”

  She looked incredulous. “Are you kidding? I’m not some uneducated fawn, begging for crumbs, Christoff. That’s crazy!”

  “No, you’re far too intelligent to consume any man’s crumbs, Sadie. However, you also hunger for unfulfilled desires that have haunted you for years. Let’s try this again. There will be no hesitation when I give you a command. Consider this your first lesson and your hesitation will require discipline.”

  Sadie laughed nervously, remaining in place. “I am my own woman. No. Thank. You.”

  Another test of my resolve. Anger flowed, an emotion I couldn’t afford. I emitted a single yet deadly sounding growl, making certain she could clearly see the disappointment flashing in my eyes. “I will not hesitate to spank your ass here in the middle of the restaurant. Perhaps a taste of humiliation is exactly what you need.”

  “You wouldn’t dare.”

  I cocked my head, taking several deep breaths. There was no need to say anything else. She continued processing why she’d even consider allowing this to occur. The crimson flush on her neck moved up to her cheeks, highlighting her rosy lips and the few freckles that only appeared when she was nervous.

  “You are...” She blinked several times. A heavy breath eased past her luscious lips, then she pushed back her chair. She stood slowly, her delicate fingers lightly brushing across the table. “You are a curious man, Christoff.” A nervous smile crossed her lips as she walked very slowly toward the required destination. She continued to test me, her curiosity blanketing the fear I sensed. Her mind was reeling, trying to grab at memories that would eventually surface.

  I ordered our dinner in her absence, already knowing her preferred tastes in everything. I didn’t need the internet or friends making suggestions. All I had to do was delve into her psyche.

  When she returned, easing into the chair, she had an entirely different expression on her face. Perhaps burning desire. Or indignation. Definitely continued petulance. I wanted nothing more than to fulfill my promise, pulling her across my lap and lifting her dress, not only exposing her rounded, lush bottom but also her swollen, glistening pussy.

  True humiliation would come later and only if necessary. I certainly didn’t need prying eyes or the stuffy university staff to pick at my relationship. In fact, after tonight, she and I wouldn’t been seen again in an intimate setting. This wasn’t about starting a war, only finding my queen and securing my place as high priest on the throne.

  I reached across the table, palm up, my expression devoid of emotion. When she ever so gently placed her damp panties in my hand, I knew we’d already reached a milestone. Unable to resist, I brought the thin lace to my nose, inhaling her sweet essence. She was delicious in all manners and very ready for what she would endure.

  “Now we’re going to enjoy a lovely dinner together. Then you’re coming with me.”

  My mouth watered at the thought, my vision clouded by seeing images of her naked body, caged and waiting, desire coursing through her faster than blood itself.

  * * *

  “Your home is beautiful,” Sadie commented as she walked around the great room. She fingered the glass of wine as she studied her surroundings. Obviously nervous, the scent of her pheromones kept my cock throbbing, my balls tight as drums.

  “The house suits my needs.” I moved to my favorite chair, easing down onto the supple leather. The flickering blue-hued flames caught my attention briefly, the warmth barely enough to register against my skin. I took a sip of my brandy, savoring the bold, rich flavor as the liquid slid down my throat. My thirst for her pussy increased, my savage desires increasing.

  “Your needs are fascinating. You aren’t from around here,” Sadie suggested.

  I watched her subtle, calculated reactions as she moved from painting to painting, gazing upon the art as if dying of thirst. My arrival in town had been without fanfare, but I’d would grow accustomed to various restaurants and art galleries, drawing a certain amount of attention. An inevitable necessity. Blending in wasn’t one of my attributes. She seemed to understand the raging desire that every creation intended, studying one piece then another with a level of reverence.

  “I am from many places, never a single city will I call home. There’s simply too much of the world to see.”

  “What do you do?”

  I debated the answer. She was testing me. I had no doubt she’d searched the internet like the intelligent girl she was. By now, she knew every detail about my background and my family. Lies were necessary. “Let’s not play games, Sadie. You know who I am.”

  Blushing, she seemed embarrassed that she’d been caught. “I can’t just trust anyone, Christoff. I hope you can understand that. It’s a very dangerous world out there.” She had a faraway look in her eyes.

  “Yes, evil has many followers. The truth is that I’m fortunate enough that I don’t need to work any particular job, at least for very long, but I am involved with my father’s companies, providing leadership. I will be required to take over the helm one day.” I resisted rolling my eyes. “However, after many years of formal education, my expertise in ancient civilizations and culture, including various forms of art is often sought at various universities. Speaking engagements. Forums. Teaching certain classes from time to time.”

  “Fascinating for a man who doesn’t have to lift a finger for the rest of his life.”

  I shook my head. If only she knew the truth. “My father instilled a sense of honor, Sadie. As I told you, I value obedience and that includes myself.”

  “Then why here? A speaking engagement?” she asked, still leery at my answers. She was certainly cautious in every manner.r />
  “Yes, a symposium, plus, I’m doing some business for my father.”

  “Then why purchase the house? Are you suddenly planning on staying?” She moved toward another piece of art, her finger moving as if to trace the bold and very erotic elements. I could see her mind turning as she studied the piece.

  “I suppose anything is possible. I purchased this home because I love beautiful things surrounding me, Sadie, and I can afford to purchase and own anything that I want. When I leave, I will allow the university to use this house at its discretion.” My cock was throbbing, aching to the point of nearly blinding anguish. “You still find me... curious. That was your word, wasn’t it?”

  “Yes, at least to a point,” she whispered, darting a look in my direction. “I can see you as a traveler. I’m certain you’ve seen exotic locations, beautiful people, enjoying the more luxurious in everything.”

  There was a part of me that wanted to keep her locked away, preparing her for the ultimate rapture, but that would only soothe my selfish needs. “I am just a man, Sadie. To answer your question, yes, I’ve been fortunate enough to experience the finest the world has to offer, but very little ignites the fire burning within.”

  “Hmmm...” She darted a look in my direction. “Why don’t I believe you? Why is it that I think you’ve been playing me the entire time, believing I’m simply a waif in need of... instruction?”

  Instruction. The word was actually perfect for what would become our next few weeks together. “Because you’ve been led to believe that there is pure evil in this world, a manifestation of your father’s teachings. While I’m certain your father is a good man, his beliefs heartfelt, my guess is that he doesn’t understand the meaning of the ancient teachings, only what everyone has been led to believe about the Bible.”

  A slight smile curled on her face. “Let’s get something straight. My father is an asshole. He is cruel, heartless, and uses his beliefs in order to con people from their hard-earned money in order to fund the church. My guess is that he’s secretly rich, harboring gold in some unknown location. There isn’t an ounce of goodness in him. As far as the Bible, I have my own thoughts. However, I have seen evil in this world. Vile creatures hell bent on destroying every smidgen of humanity. Sadly, it simply comes from the wretchedness of man, not monsters. I may not be a considered holy or worthy in my father’s eyes, but I deserve happiness and I will get what I want. And I’m willing to fight the darkness in order to do so.”