4

Caroline

“Magnificent, darling. You’ve done such an incredible job. Your paintings are full of passion and verve!”

Translation, there wasn’t going to be a single sale to his haughty clients.

I glared at Mr. Reynolds, controlling my emotions. While there’d been a significant amount of traffic in and out of the gallery in the last three hours, not a single person had expressed more than limited curiosity in my paintings. “Any interest?”

“Not yet, but we still have almost an hour before we close.” He tapped his watch then acted as if he was being called, squeezing my arm in a far too comfortable manner. “Flirt, my darling. That always works. You’re a beautiful woman. Use those skills to your benefit.”

I was angry with myself for accepting his ‘deal.’ I kept my smile, the one I’d practiced for years until he walked away, slumping and glancing around the gallery. The people mingling were only here for the free booze and catered food, all coming out of whatever commissions I might make. Suddenly, I needed air, or my lungs were going to collapse. I rushed into the back, flying out the emergency exit. If I was locked out, so be it. I hovered against the brick wall, folding my arms as I dug my high heel into the pavement. I was so determined to jumpstart my own life that I was making foolish decisions. That was going to stop right now.

When I heard the door opening, I cringed, expecting Mr. Reynolds to confront me once again, wagging his plump finger in my face as he reminded me for the fifth time that he was doing this as a favor to my father.

I loathed the man, but as a bestie of my father, the gallery selection had been the logical choice. I hadn’t initially understood what he’d wanted in return for hanging my pictures in his revered gallery; certain fringe benefits for him. No, thank you, I wasn’t modeling for him for any price.

Even the ten thousand dollars he’d offered me.

“You look like you just lost your best friend, girlie.”

Relieved, I grinned, turning toward my bestie. Audrey Taylor had been my roommate at college, turning quickly into my most trusted and just about only friend. She also knew all my dirty little secrets, the kinds told over bottles of cheap merlot and Thin Mints. As she handed me a glass of wine, she winked, the action remotely visible by the garish streetlight in the alley. “Why am I here?” I accepted the drink eagerly, taking a sip then a gulp. I knew my father would have issues with what he called ‘wasting my time.’ This favor was in exchange for being a good little girl at his announcement party. What he really wanted was for me to come work with him. For him. I would be nothing more than a glorified minion doing his political biddings. No fucking thank you.

“The man is a pompous asshole but at least you’re getting some visibility.” Audrey gave her infamous scowl, the kind that could turn men into ash.

“I need to sell at least a single painting, or I’ll be paying for the caterer for the next two months and that’s only if I manage to get an actual paying job. Did you see how much food there is? I have no idea who they were expecting.” Mr. Reynolds was certainly stuffing his fat face.

“But we’ll eat very well, my darling,” she said, laughing. “Seriously, cheer up. Your paintings will hang in this gallery for a week, right?”

“Four days.”

“Well, you never know who might stop by and simply need one of your paintings. Maybe that hottie from last night.”

Her sparkling laughter normally put me in a good mood. Tonight, I wasn’t certain anything or anyone could. I hadn’t been able to get Dominick off my mind, his rugged good looks and dominating manner more stimulating than I wanted to admit. If I wiggled the right way, I could almost feel the effects of his hand hitting my naked bottom. “Not a chance. I can tell the man is a bloodsucker.”

“Wow. What did Mr. Blue Eyes do to you?”

I huffed, tapping my foot against the pavement.

Audrey crowded closer. “Did something happen between you two that you’re not telling me?”

“Nope. Not a damn thing.” I was still miffed he’d treated me like a misbehaving child, expecting me to bow down to him like some innocent fawn. I was no expert, but men like Dominick required total power, my submission in every manner possible. I wasn’t that kind of girl.

“Listen to you. You need to act like you’re having the time of your life. That’s Marketing 101.”

“I never liked marketing,” I teased as I pushed my body against hers in a playful manner. “Thank you for being here.”

“I wouldn’t have missed it for the world. You really are talented.”

We stood quietly for a few minutes, listening to the sounds of traffic flying by. This wasn’t where I’d hoped to be in my life, nor was I certain how I would pay the bills by painting. My father had insisted I obtain a decent college education. Well, here’s to you, Pops. A lot of good it was going to do me.

The creaking of the door made us both cringe.

“There you are!” Mr. Reynolds said with excitement. “You have no idea what just happened.”

I was terrified to ask. “What?”

“A very influential man purchased every single painting.” The inflection in his voice held an air of animosity.

Audrey cleared her throat and inched closer. “What did you say?”

He snorted, waving his hand as if this was nothing. “I said that one man purchased every painting in the gallery and asked if you had any others. Evidently, he is a great admirer of yours.”

I was floored, my skin tingling and the hair standing up on the back of my neck. While the paintings were priced to sell and there was Mr. Reynold’s hefty money-grubbing commission, but I would still be able to get my own place across the hallway from my studio where I could live my own life. I’d calculated the income and expenses to the penny. Excitement surged through me but knowing Mr. Reynolds, caution was required. “Who is he?”

“I suggest you come and meet him. He’s... Well, let’s just say he’s not a man to be ignored. I recommend that you have a drink with him or even dinner. Whatever he asks, Caroline. That’s my strong recommendation.”

A slight tic appeared in the corner of my mouth. Sweltering heat rushed into my system. Was the asshole trying to tell me there were strings attached? “Who is he, Mr. Reynolds?”

“I have other clients who need me at the moment, darling. Just get in here.” The door slammed shut after him, forcing both of us to jump.

“What the hell is his problem and why do I have a feeling you’re part of this deal?” Audrey quipped, huffing as she lifted her middle finger.

“I don’t know, but that’s not going to happen. I don’t care how much money the man spends. I’m not for sale.” I lifted my glass, my eye catching the full moon. Butterflies pounded my stomach, creating an almost violent wave of nausea.

“Come on. Whoever this dude is, at least he has good taste. I’ll go with you. If you need me to kick him in the balls, all ya gotta do is ask.” She yanked the empty glass out of my hand, swearing under her breath.

I nodded, taking several deep breaths and smoothing my hand down the front of my dress. I’d purposely selected a shocking red and very clingy piece for the evening, a power color. The same color as the night before. I rolled my eyes, refusing to allow the disaster from the evening before to ruin tonight. You are in charge. You are an artist. As if the mantra was going to help. There was no second guessing now. I walked back into the gallery with my head held high, peering around the corner and attempting to identify any new arrivals.

“I wonder who he is.” Audrey grabbed my arm, tugging me forward. “Why don’t I get us both another drink? I have a feeling we’re going to need it.”

“Good thinking.” I took careful steps, making certain I didn’t fall on my face given the very high stilettos I’d purchased only hours before the opening. I weaved through the blocks of designs, smiling as a few patrons gazed in my direction. Then my blood ran cold.

Dominick.

I froze, doing my best to hide my nerves and my anger. The man had the audacity to treat me in a despicable manner the night before then show up here? Was the bastard stalking me? The arrogant bastard. Huffing, I shrank back and calmed my breathing before finding him again. He stood in all his glory, a handsomely tailored suit accentuating his rugged physique and long, muscular legs. I could only imagine the fine linen cost more than ten of my paintings. What I couldn’t get over was how relaxed and carefree he seemed, standing with one hand in his pocket, the other wrapped around a crystal rocks glass. He was chic, every aspect of him coiffed in a casual manner. No socks. No tie.

There wasn’t a woman who hadn’t undressed him with their eyes.

I took a deep breath, clenched my fists, and walked closer. “Do I have you to thank for purchasing my paintings?”

He barely darted a look in my direction, instead lifting his hand, pointing with his index finger at the painting that had drawn his attention. “Your bold use of color is evocative, seductive in a manner that I doubt many would understand. Even the long sweeping brushstrokes indicate coveted submission while highlighting strength of character. I’m very impressed with your work, Caroline.”

The way my name slipped off his tongue was like smooth spun silk on a sunny afternoon. I hated to admit that I was stunned at his level of interest and trained eye, but in truth, I was. My work had been labeled provocative by more than one critic, erotic by another, yet he captured the essence in a mere paragraph where the critics had difficulty in four or more. “Thank you, Dominick. Painting is my joy, an unremitting passion.”

He lifted an eyebrow and finally glanced in my direction. The sensual smile was similar to the night before, but I shivered from the increased level of authority laced in every word. “Very obvious. Your love of darkness is creative, telling of your personality.”

My nipples ached, becoming fully erect and pressing against the thin lace of my bra. Everything about this man was intense, drawing me in, but I sensed he was dangerous in every fashion. I hadn’t taken the opportunity to find out who he was and the pointed questions to my father the night before hadn’t garnered any information. He was already out of the house by the time I’d awakened, a handwritten note left behind, apologizing for missing the showing.

As if he gave a shit.

Dominick walked toward another painting, taking his time studying the piece. “Your father mentioned you were a brilliant painter and I just had to see for myself.”

“You know my father well?”

“He and I have worked in various aspects of business over the years. He’ll make a fine president. Less pomp and circumstance.”

I laughed. “Now I know you’re lying. Not only could you not care less but my father is all about pomp and circumstance.”

His eyes shimmered as he flashed them in my direction. “And this one I believe is my favorite. The lines remind me of a woman disciplined for her disobedience but accepting that the punishment was vital to her very well being.”

I had no idea what to say, the words haunting. Butterflies settled in my stomach, returning from the night before.

As Audrey approached, I shook my head, trying to warn her off. She refused, taking longer strides in our direction, the look of concern mixed with rampant curiosity.

“Audrey Taylor. And you are?”

“Dominick Lugiano.” He gave her a polite nod, taking the glass of wine out of her hand.

She narrowed her eyes, waiting for me to give her the sign. “Are you all right?”

“I’m fine.” I knew my words were clipped, raspy.

“Hmmm... I’ll be over here if you need me. Be careful with my girl. She’s very special.” She gave Dominick a dirty look before sauntering off. I knew she’d watch me like a hawk.

“Yes, special indeed. You don’t need a bodyguard, Caroline, but you do need authority as well as someone to care for you.” He lowered the drink, his hand lingering until our fingers touched. His eyes were mesmerizing, as blue as any I’d ever seen, the stark contrast to his midnight hair more striking than I remembered.

The electricity skyrocketed, much like it had done the night before. I swallowed, loathing the fact my panties were already damp. “I need a significant number of things in my life, but domination isn’t one of them.”

“I didn’t use the word domination, Caroline, but I disagree with you.”

I gathered a scent of my desire wafting between us. Embarrassed and humiliated, I took a purposeful step back, blocking out his obvious advances. He seemed hell bent on seduction.

“Let’s cut the chit-chat. Why did you purchase my paintings, Dominick?”

“You are talented, and your style suits my needs.”

“And what are your needs?” I regretted the question as soon as I’d asked. He was like every other man, requiring payment for his good will in another form. Fuck him. I wasn’t that kind of girl.

He took his time, taking a sip of his drink as he gazed at the painting again. “I’m a dangerous man, Caroline. Some would say I’m evil by nature, but I value and appreciate beautiful things. I require them in my home and in my life. My needs center around enjoyment.”

I brought the glass to my lips, uncertain of any rebuttal that wouldn’t sound contrived. Or more curious, giving him another opening.

“No need to answer me, Caroline. Your paintings allow me to see the woman inside. You’ve been hardened by your father’s work as well as his lack of attention. You long for someone to cherish and adore you while also taking care of your desires and every infraction in a strict manner. There hasn’t been a man in your life who has been able to provide anything close. You require a man who will take the time to peel away the layers, allowing you to feel safe while experimenting in the various passionate encounters you represent in your paintings.”

I laughed, my stomach now in knots. “And you’re that man?”

He turned toward me, crowding my space. “I have many sides, Caroline, but above all I demand respect and obedience from my employees and from the women I choose to allow into my life.”

His words filtered into my mind much like his exotic cologne ignited my every sense, tingling my pussy. Exotic, filled with testosterone, I was intoxicated by the man himself. My lower lip quivered, disabling my ability to make a witty comeback.

“Mr. Lugiano. I do have some paperwork for you to deal with.” Mr. Reynolds walked into the periphery of my vision, a folder in his hand. I had the distinct feeling they’d known each other before. Another shiver trickled down my spine.

Dominick was indeed dangerous, not because he insisted that he was, but because of the way he’d managed to slide past my defenses. I felt naked standing next to him, my raw desires on display in a similar fashion as my art. Domination wasn’t one of them.

“Of course.” With a single finger, he brushed the tip across my jaw, allowing the touch to linger. “I do hope that we can continue our discussion, perhaps over a drink. I would love to see your studio if that’s a possibility. Another layer to such an incredible woman.”

I’d never taken anyone to the tiny space I’d rented in an ugly but up and coming section of the city. The location was the only one I’d been able to afford, my father refusing to allow me to paint in his house, but I’d fallen in love with the bistros and music venues close by. “We shall see, Dominick.”

He chuckled darkly as he walked away, his air of confidence and sexuality overwhelming. He assumed I’d fall prey to his desires, my defenses falling easily.

He was wrong. Dead wrong. I wasn’t the kind of woman to allow a man to dominate me in any manner.

“Who is that?” Audrey whispered, crowding my side. “He was leering at you last night in the same manner, I might add. Had you met him before?”

“No.”

“Uh-huh. He certainly seems to know you. I could tell by his body language exactly what he’s thinking. Raw sex.” She fanned her face, her grin returning. “Gorgeous. I swear I’ve seen his face somewhere. Maybe he’s a model.”

“He’s no model, Audrey.” No, he was much more powerful. I realized I’d walked closer to the back room, as if trailing behind him.

“You like this guy.”

“I don’t know. There’s something off about him purchasing every painting.”

“I think you’re jaded, my friend. Enjoy the fact you are now a successful artist.”

She was so happy for me, her joy something I should relish. She was right. I should be thankful for the fact he’d strike a check for almost thirty thousand dollars. I was aroused yet terrified that the man inside was a true carnivore, ready to ravage not only my body but my very soul. “You’re right.” I faked another smile, my hand shaking as I attempted to lift the glass.

Dominick continued to glance in my direction both before and after he pulled a checkbook from his jacket. I knew in my heart whatever plans he had for me would strip the mask away completely, exposing the very dark desires he claimed to understand. What I would never tell him was that I burned with need, my body begging for the kind of passion that I’d only read about.

But I was utterly and completely afraid, terrified not of the man himself, but what I might allow him to do.

“I need to go. The job requires an early start. Are you sure you’re going to be okay?” Audrey asked.

“What?” I’d heard her but found it difficult to take my eyes off him.

“Look, let me give you some advice. He’s sexy. He’s obviously rich and he’s very interested in you. The way he looks at you is like he’s ready to devour a hunk of juicy meat. Go for it. You haven’t had a boyfriend in months and that blond fake surfer dude doesn’t count. That’s a real man, a hungry man. Enjoy your success, my darling girl. You only live once.”

I groaned as she squeezed my arm. “That’s what I’m afraid of.”

“The success or the fact a man finds you irresistible?” She gave me a wicked smile before walking toward the entrance.

“Being devoured,” I whispered.

I waited, for some insane reason, making small talk with the few people remaining in the gallery. He’d disappeared with Mr. Reynolds into the far reaches of the back room. I had a terrible feeling they were discussing my work in some insidious fashion. The thought riled me as much as my excitement remained, creating flutters in my heart.

I stood in front of my favorite painting, tracing the lines with my fingers. Dominick was right. Every piece of art had a different meaning, but all revolved around the very intense emotions lurking in my soul.

Bold.

Confident.

Disturbing.

Those were my words.

A hand slid around my neck, the grip firm in a controlling yet gentle manner. I shivered again from his touch, my mind reeling from the reason he’d been able to see right through me.

“I understand you have at least a dozen additional paintings.” Dominick’s husky tone was even more alluring.

“The majority are works in progress,” I managed, my pulse ticking.

“I would love to see them. If they are anything like these, I will commission the finished product.”

“I don’t know you, Dominick, and what occurred last night ticked me off.” He certainly didn’t seem to appreciate my frankness, his body tensing.

“I assure you, Caroline, that if I wanted to hurt you in any manner, I would have done so already. I am interested in your art and in the woman who created them. If you will allow me, I would enjoy seeing where you create your masterpieces and determine if I’d like to purchase the remainder. Nothing more.”

I debated, my heart racing and the same electricity soaring into every cell. I was wildly attracted to him in every manner, my mouth dry from excitement and sordid anticipation. “Then I will show you, but...”

“But?” he asked, his fingers running through my hair.

“But when I say you need to leave, you will.”

“Fair enough.”

He eased the wineglass out of my hand in a manner that suggested complete possession. His fingers wrapped around mine, the grip firm as he led me through the crowd and out the front door. I hadn’t worn a coat and the frigid air was biting, my hands and feet tingling.

“My car is over here. You can follow me,” I said with as must confidence as I could muster.

“No. You will come with me.” There was no question as he pulled me into the tiny parking lot and toward a reserved space. I couldn’t help but believe his appearance at the gallery had been planned in advance.

The Ferrari was sleek, the ebony paint gleaming in the security lights, the ‘blip blip’ as the doors were unlocked creating quivers shifting down the backs of my legs. Getting into a car with a basic stranger wasn’t in any woman’s best interest. Devastatingly good looks and a checkbook to match didn’t mean he wasn’t a serial killer. My adventurous side wanted nothing more than to let go, allowing this secret encounter. My rational mind screamed to run far away.

When he opened the door, guiding me toward the plush leather seats, all resolve was demolished.

Easing into the driver’s seat, he tipped his head in my direction. “Where to, Caroline?”

“Columbus Street.”

His only acknowledgment was a slight sensuous chuckle before starting and revving the engine, maneuvering the swanky vehicle out of the parking lot within two seconds. The roar of the powerful motor hummed between my legs, goosebumps licking along every inch of skin. My nipples continued to ache and filthy thoughts slithered into my mind, the bad girl longings described in romance novels.

This was reckless.

This was dangerous.

This was... fabulous.

“Buckle up, Caroline.” His words were gruff, demanding and I obeyed his order immediately, my toes curling as he sped off down the crowded street. His command of the fabulous car was evident as he weaved through the traffic, accelerating after every traffic light, cornering the turns as if the Ferrari ran on rails.

Whether or not he was trying to frighten me, it gave me a scintillating jolt of amusement. I was used to my father’s often treacherous driving skills. I sat back in the seat, the butter-soft leather surrounding me. Opulence. The word was perfect for a man like him.

Dominick seemed to know exactly where he was going, even taking short cuts through the city that I’d only recently learned. When he turned onto Columbus, he slowed quickly, idling in the middle of the street, his gaze never leaving the windshield. “And?”

I pointed at the warehouse turned eclectic apartments and studios only a block down the street. He whipped the car in front of the brownstone with flair, exiting the vehicle within seconds after grabbing a small duffle from behind his seat. He kept his hand on the small of my back, his long, manicured fingers caressing. I was his for the night. My legs continued to tremble, my head muddled from events of the evening. Why in the hell had I allowed this to happen? No one had any idea where I’d gone and only a few apartments rented in the building. This self-proclaimed dangerous man could perform any heinous act and there would be no one responding to my cries.

If I was even allowed to beg for help.

“Fifth floor,” I whispered.

“Excellent.” While he said nothing as we waited for the elevator’s arrival, I could tell he had no patience, shifting from foot to foot. He was used to getting everything he desired, demanding his rights as if he was the only man in the city who mattered.

Powerful.

Influential.

He seemed to have it all.

Dominick crowded my space the moment the doors were closed, standing just inches away.

“What’s in the bag?” I dared to ask, trying to sound nonchalant.

“Items we may need. I was certainly hoping the night would turn out this way.” There would be no additional explanation. After dropping the bag, he palmed the steel wall on either side of my head, the same seductive smile crossing his face. “You’re very beautiful, Caroline, a precious budding flower to be nurtured and cared for in a loving manner.” Exhaling, he allowed the hot breath to cascade across my face.

I refused to give him what he required, looking into his eyes.

“Compliments bother you.” The moment he lowered his head, my heart thudded against my chest, the spark between us fueling the embers deep within my belly.

“I... Thank you and I enjoy compliments.”

Another chuckle. A deep breath. A slight growl. He lifted my chin with his index finger, inching even closer until our lips were almost touching. “There is no need to be afraid. Although there will always be pain, sometimes agonizing in nature, my desire is to provide the ultimate in pleasure.”

And I knew that pleasure would only come for a hefty price. “I’m not afraid of you, Dominick. I’m simply not entirely certain I can tolerate your cologne for much longer.”

He was silent, unmoving for ten seconds. Then he burst into laughter. “Duly noted and banished from my collection.”

He offered the statement as if he had myriad collections; toys and trinkets, all kinky in nature. I could only wonder if women were included in his private possessions.

The elevator jerked to a halt, rumbling under our feet. I’d never liked the ancient box, preferring to take the stairs whenever possible. On this night, the small enclosure was suffocating. I took several deep breaths, praying the doors would open.

There was no release from his masterful hold until he allowed, his lips remaining close to mine. He inhaled, a second growl like a feral beast ready to consume its prey. A wave of desire enraptured my frazzled mind as I licked my lips, wanting his to capture mine. Longing for him to take me into his arms, lifting me off my feet as he ravaged me with passion. I wanted his tongue thrust into my mouth, his hands roaming across my breasts, pinching my nipples.

And I longed to have his thick, throbbing cock shoved all the way inside my pussy, fucking me like a savage beast, devouring every inch of me. The wicked thought was insidious but everything I’d ever wanted. But it wasn’t going to happen. Not now. Not ever.

Not a muscle twitched as he hovered over me, waiting for my reaction.

My rational side finally took over. I stood taller, clearing my throat and nodding toward the open doors. “The floor of my studio.”

“How exciting.” Dominick slapped his hands on the steel panels, his massive body looming over me in the most consuming manner. He was daring me to respond, react to his dominating actions.

I pressed my hand against his chest, moving only millimeters but it was enough our lips finally touched. I held my breath, waiting.

Calling his bluff.

A slight breath left his mouth then he was the one to step back, yanking the duffle from the floor. “You are fascinating in every manner, Caroline Hargrove. It will be a pleasure learning your very special nuances, providing the attention you deserve, but there is something vital you should know about me.”

“That you’re obsessive? Breaching every line of authority as well as decency in your efforts to get everything you desire?” His eyes flashed, but I held firm in my convictions.

“An excellent observation, Caroline. You are correct in your assumptions. However, there is one more aspect that I suggest you accept.”

“And what is that?”

“I always win.”