Her Masters Kiss

Vivien Sparx Copyright 2012 Vivien Sparx All Rights Reserved. All characters appearing in this work are fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental. Email: viviensparx@hotmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/vivien.sparx Blog: http://viviensparx.blogspot.com.au/

This story is dedicated to Renee and the entire team at Sassy Book Lovers Blog. Day One. Applicants should approach their submissive training with an open mind.

So, you saw the advertisement and you decided you wanted to learn how to be submissive? Yes.

Yes? Is that all? Yes. Stefan glared at Renee suspiciously. I dont believe you, he said. It has been my experience that women who see my advertisement have long held the desire to be sexually submissive. Its rare indeed that anyone comes to me for training on nothing more than a whim. Im not advertising a discount shoe sale. The service I offer is very unique. Very exclusive. Its not a whim, Renee said. Ive thought about it before. When? When have I thought about it? Yes, Stefan said. Tell me exactly when you started thinking about learning

how to submit to a master. Was there something that happened? Renee hesitated for a moment. Come now, Stefan said. He opened the folder containing the girls application form and skimmed it quickly. There is nothing I see here in your answers that suggests any long-held desire to be submissive. In fact, I wonder if you even know what the art of sexual submission involves? Renee bristled. I know exactly what it involves, she said archly. Stefan smiled. Really? And where did you acquire your knowledge, Renee? Was it from reading 50 Shades? Ive read extensively on the subject. Stefan smiled grimly and closed the

folder in his hand. Im sorry. But I dont think you are suitable. I cannot train you. But why? Renee looked shocked. Because I get three phone calls every week from wannabe women just like you. Theyve read a few erotic romance stories and they suddenly believe the only way to attract their Prince Charming is to be the feme fatal in their own story; the story theyve written in their heads. They arrive here, and sit just where you are sitting. And they say exactly the same things. And? And nothing, Stefan said. I show them to the door. Just as I am about to do with you. Im sorry. I have no time to waste with women who wish to be titillated. The art of sexual submission

involves sacrifice, discipline and commitment its not like you read in romance books. Renee bit hard on her bottom lip. Im not here for a silly thrill, she said. Im here because I want to learn. I need to learn how submissive women please their men. Stefan looked at her and narrowed his eyes. Why? I just do. He shook his head. Not good enough. I need to know why this is so important to you. I need to know what makes you different from all the other women I reject. Because looking at you right now, Renee, sitting there with your legs together, your back straight and your hands clasped in

your lap, you look very much like just another wannabe. I have my reasons, she said. But theyre personal. Id rather not You would rather not tell me the truth? You would rather I train you without understanding your motivation? Stefan shook his head. Forget it. If I accept you, we are going to spend nine days together, Renee. In that time I will see you naked, I will hear you scream, I will watch you cry, and I will make you beg. The truth you are withholding cannot be any more personal, private or intimate than what we are going to share. Renee sat silently. They stared at each other. Stefan waited. My boyfriend Renee said at last.

What about him? I we things are difficult between us, she admitted awkwardly. The sex thing, I mean. And you think learning to be submissive to your boyfriend is the answer to your difficulties? Uhuh, she said, feeling her face flush with embarrassment. We well he thought it might be a good idea if I learned We havent been Stefan studied the girl, his eyes dark and cold. This is not relationship counseling, Renee. To become sexually submissive is only one half of a relationship. What you learn here would be wasted if your boyfriend were not a skilled master or at least an

experienced lover who is dominant. He needs to be able to continue your training after we conclude your time together. Otherwise all my efforts will be wasted. As I said, this is not relationship counseling. You may leave here the perfect submissive slave, ripe and willing to pleasure your master in every way he demands. But if he is inadequate? Well, lets just say there is no use giving a welltrained thoroughbred to an inexperienced jockey There was another long silence. Stefan watched Renees face carefully. She had a child-like quality that, despite himself, he found intriguing and extremely frustrating at the same time. She was a young woman, but there was so much

innocence in her huge blue eyes, he didnt know whether he should take her on as a client, or send her to her room! The contradiction of her was almost enough to make her interesting. Almost. I can pay you, Renee said softly. Your full price and more if you want it. Stefan shook his head. Look around you. The paintings are originals. The furniture is all antiques. I do not need money, any more than I need my time wasted. Im sorry. I think you should leave. She stood stiffly. Stefan escorted her to the door. There were tears in her eyes and she was trembling. At the door she turned to him in desperation.

Please, she said softly. Please. I need your help. Stefan sighed. To keep your boyfriend? No, Renee said. To win him back. He closed the door. *** Before we go any further, I want to make some things clear to you, Stefan said. Renee nodded. She watched him pace across the room as he spoke. He was a tall man with broad shoulders and he had one of those ruggedly good-looking faces that she found incredibly appealing. He was dressed in a jacket and trousers but with

his shirt unbuttoned. He looked like hed come from a business meeting and ripped his tie off as soon as the meeting was over. He had that kind of style. But what mesmerized Renee what attracted her and held her absolutely spellbound was the depth and darkness of the mans eyes. They were incredible; filled with darkness, mystery and so much she couldnt understand. She found him fascinating, and that distraction made it hard for her to concentrate. Firstly, I expect complete honesty from you. I will tolerate nothing less. That means when I ask you a question, you answer me immediately. Dont hesitate. Dont think. Dont tell me what you want

tell me what I want. She nodded. I understand. And forget everything you have read on sexual submission. The stuff they fill those romance books with is utter garbage. Its pulp dreams from people who have never experienced the reality. She nodded again. You need to keep an open mind, Stefan said, looking hard at her for emphasis. You need to be willing to learn and to obey my instructions without question, and without hesitation. I will. Stefan said nothing. His eyes were black as coal. I promise, Renee added. Stefan folded his arms and sighed.

Very well, he said heavily. But dont make me regret this. Dont waste my time. Ill do everything you say, Renee smiled gratefully. I promise I will. Obedience is easily offered, but harder when demanded. I wonder if you will be so enthusiastic when I am holding a cane, when your backside is red from punishment, or when you are standing naked before me as I inspect your body? Ill do anything, she said again softly. To please me or to win back your boyfriend? To please you, she said softly, with a subtle emphasis to her words. Stefan pointed a finger at her. Dont confuse the two issues here, Renee.

Pleasing me will make you a trained sexually submissive woman, suitable for any master who wants you. It does not guarantee you will get your boyfriend back into your bed. You must forget that notion right now. I understand. What is your ex-boyfriends name? James. Full name? James Matterson, Renee answered. Why? Stefans hand lashed out, slapping Renee hard across her face with a stinging blow. She recoiled in shock. Dont question me. Renee touched her cheek, feeling the heat. Her eyes were wide and filled with

brimming tears. She stared at Stefan in stunned silence. Stefan sighed heavily. Im giving you one last chance, he explained softly. I wanted you to get a sense of the world you are about to enter, Renee. If you really want to learn to submit, you must accept a certain level of cruelty and punishment. Please, think carefully before you commit yourself. Renee took a deep breath. I understand, she said. Your life will not be your own, he warned. You will become completely obedient to me. Every night, for another eight days, you will be here at exactly 7pm and place yourself completely into my hands to do whatever I want with your

body and your mind, Renee. Consider that. It will not be anything like what you expect. I understand, Renee repeated, her tone resolute. Stefan shook his head sadly. No. You dont. But you will. Believe me. After these nine days, you will. In fact, by the time our training sessions conclude, you may never want to see your old boyfriend again.

Day Two. Submissives must learn that their own sexual pleasure is no longer important.

Tell me what youre thinking. Exactly. Im scared, Renee admitted. Her mouth was dry. Why are you scared? Stefan asked. Because you have me blindfolded and tied to a wall. But I didnt force you. No. In fact I did everything in my power when we met last night to warn and prepare you, didnt I? Yes. And yet you returned here tonight of your own free will. Yes?

Yes. Stefan grunted. I imagine the harsh reality of your situation is very different to the romance stories you have filled your head with. You thought being a submissive slave to a master sounded romantic and exotic. Is that it? Yes, Renee admitted the truth. Despite all I warned you about at our meeting? Yes. But surely Im not the only one. Far from it, Stefan said. There have been many women just like you. Not many as attractive as you. And not many as willing as you. Most of them are pretenders. As soon as I explain the rules and blindfold them, they become scared. Renee said nothing, so Stefan said it for

her. Just like you are right now. Its a scary thing. What is? What is scary, Renee? She thought carefully before answering. Letting go, she said. Its frightening. You expect me to hand over complete control of my body to you. And that scares you? Yes. Of course. Im trusting you to Be a gentleman? No. Not that. I understand that a master is dominant and his slave is submissive. I dont expect you to be a gentleman. I expect you to enforce rules, teach me obedience. Thats what your advertisement offered. So what do you expect? I expect you to respect me.

But you volunteered, Stefan said. In fact you paid me to do this. Yes. I know. Im just saying the reality is very different to the fantasy I had in my mind. Stefan laughed again. And what was the fantasy, Renee? What did you think would happen when you arrived for your first session? A long painful silence. Renee chose her words carefully. I thought it would be more. more erotic, she said. No. Not erotic. More sensual, I guess. There was mockery in Stefans voice now. More sensual? But arent your senses heightened right now? I have you tied, facing a wall. You are stripped down to your lingerie and you are

blindfolded. How much more sensory can your experience be? Your body feels the cold hardness of the stone wall. It abrades against your nipples and your thighs each time I touch you with the whip. Your eyes are covered; youre in total darkness. So naturally the sound of my voice, and the sounds of me moving around you become more significant each word has more meaning. And the touch of my fingers on your flesh; surely you can imagine the feeling of heat on your skin? Yes. I can. Then how could this experience be more sensory Renee? I dont know. You asked me what I expected. The fantasy doesnt match with the reality.

You mean youre not aroused? Stefan asked carefully. Renee hesitated. Come now, Renee. Remember the rules when we first met. You promised you would be honest with me, even if that meant your answers embarrassed you, Stefan chided her gently. So why do you hesitate with your answer? Honesty needs no caution. You say what is in your heart and mind instantly. Its the only way to be true to yourself. Renee sighed. I am. You are what, exactly? I am aroused. Im very aroused. Renee could feel her face flushing red. And does that surprise you? Are you shocked that being stripped to your

underwear and then tied with your arms and legs spread in front of me should prove to be such a sensual turn on for you? A little. Stefan sighed. Be honest. Renee bit her lip. Im not surprised that I am aroused, she admitted. Because being restrained like this, and being vulnerable like this has been a secret fantasy of mine, Renee blurted. What surprises me is that I am more aroused than I have ever been in my life. Ever? Yes. Stefan considered this. And I still have not touched you Renee. I have not caressed your body, nor have I dragged

my hands across your breasts. I havent kissed along the inside of your thigh, or pulled your hair back and bitten your neck. Ive merely left you there anticipating such things. wondering what I might do. I know. God! I know! And how is this arousal affecting you? What do you mean? Renee asked softly. You know what I mean, Stefans voice grew harder. Describe how your body feels. Exactly. I my Im wet, Renee said. I can feel the damp heat between my legs. Its like, um, like a warmth. A warm glow.

Like a fire? No yes. Almost Silence. Renee waited. And what else? My nipples. Theyre hard. Tingling. Stefan stepped closer until his lips were brushing Renees ear. Do you want me to touch you, Renee? Do you want me to pleasure you in such a way that the warmth you feel ignites into flames? Renee gave a little gasp. Yes, she said weakly. I do. Stefan rubbed his hand lightly inside Renees thigh. He felt her flinch. Like that? Yes! Does it feel good? Yes.

You can feel my hand slowly sliding higher and higher up your leg, cant you? Uhuh Renee bit her lip to stifle her groan. And you like it, yes? You like the feel of my fingers edging closer to your heat, dont you. Youre hoping that Ill keep raising my hand until Im touching you through your panties. Yes! Renee hissed. And if I did that, Renee, would you orgasm for me? Yes! God, yes, a thousand times over! But submissives dont tell their masters what to do, and so we have a problem, Stefan said flatly. Because I dont want to touch you, Renee. I dont want you to

enjoy an orgasm. I want you to learn obedience. And patience. And if I pleasure you by rubbing my hand along the wet folds of your body, I dont think you would be able to control yourself. He stopped sliding his hand higher; held it just an inch from the lace of Renees underwear. Sometimes obedience can be torture. Exquisite torture. Do you understand this? Uhuh. Renee could feel her legs trembling. Sometimes submissives must beg for their release, Renee. Have you considered that? Have you ever thought about begging a man to pleasure you before tonight? No.

But now? Feeling the way you do feeling so very, very wet and aroused. Does that make you want to beg for relief? Renee swallowed hard. There was a lump in her throat. Her whole body was achingly aroused. No? Perhaps you are too proud, Stefan mused. Perhaps prissy, neat Renee is not yet immersed deeply enough in her new life to get on her knees before me and beg me to touch her? I will if it pleases you, she whispered. Stefan laughed. No, no, no! You dont get away with it so simply my little sex slave, he admonished her lightly. You will please me because I order you. This

is about whether you wish to be pleasured. I do, Renee confessed, stunned that she was admitting the depths of her need. I want you to touch me. Please. Hmmm. Thats not begging Please! Better. But not good enough. Renee groaned. Please! Please! she said. Im so close Stefan took a step back. His voice sounded thoughtful Perhaps I could touch you again, he teased. But first you must spread your legs wider for me. Renee tried to force her legs wider against her restraints. I I cant. Ah, yes. The bindings. Well, perhaps

you can grind yourself against my hand while I hold it against you? Why dont you try that? Renee tried to lower herself against Stefans hand, but now the restraints around her wrist made it impossible. She groaned in frustration. And here we reach the turning point, Stefan said. Here you must decide whether it is your pleasure that motivates you, or your desire to become truly submissive. This is the question you must now answer, Renee. All you need to do is say the word and I will release you long enough for you to enjoy the orgasm you so desperately crave. Or or you can deny yourself the pleasure, and take the first real step to learning the inner strength it

takes to submit completely to the will of your master. Renee gave a small sob of frustration. She was so close to exploding. So perilously close. If it does not please you to see your slave orgasm, then I submit to your will, she said regretfully. Stefan took another step away from her and tapped the rounded swell of Renees bottom with his whip. She groaned. You have learned the first lesson, Renee, Stefan smiled. You see most people believe that submissive women who become sexual slaves to their masters must be very weak women. Women who are so weak they must follow a mans instructions because they have no will of

their own. But this is not true. In my experience, it is only the strongest women who have the inner strength it requires to submit to the desires of their master. To submit, you must be strong. So I passed? Stefan smiled. Passed a test? Yes. Did I pass? Stefan grunted. You passed the first stage Renee. Only the first stage. Tonight you must understand that exquisite torture comes in many forms. So far you have been able to deny yourself the thrill of your own release. But only in its most simple form. What you have done is merely averted temptation. But what happens when temptation is thrust upon you, and still you must resist?

I I dont understand You will, Stefan said. Renee waited in the silence. She could hear Stefan breathing. Then suddenly she could feel the heat of his body close against hers, pressing against her back. Im going to tempt you, Renee, he said. Like youve never been tempted before. I know you are close. I know that you are on the edge; the slightest caress might be enough to bring about your release. But I forbid you to orgasm Renee. Do you understand? Renee gasped. Yes. Suddenly she felt his hands on her hips, burning hot against her skin. She sucked in a sharp breath and stifled a groan. As I slide my hands up the flat of your

abdomen to your breasts, I want you to block your mind against your need for release, Renee. One of Stefans hands cupped the weight of her breast. Renees body suddenly caught fire. She could feel prickles of sweat. Your breasts are so perfect, Stefan whispered in her ear. I can feel your nipple hardening even through the lacy fabric of your bra. Tell me, Renee? Do you feel yourself nearing the edge? Do you wish I would unhook your bra perhaps? Renee gritted her teeth. She tried to think about something else anything else but all she could hear was Stefans soft lulling voice close in her ear; all she could feel was the heat of his hand. She whimpered.

Aaah, Stefan smiled. I see it is becoming impossible for you, he chuckled. But still there is more to endure, Renee. Still there are parts of your body I have yet to explore. He moved his free hand down to the elastic waist of her panties. Renee sobbed. He had dragged her to the very edge of the precipice. Stefan inhaled deeply. I can smell the scent of your arousal, he purred. I cant wait to touch you, Renee. I cant wait to slide my hand down inside your panties. Imagine the feel of my fingers, Renee. Imagine them between your legs, as your hips begin to thrust and rock. Imagine the feeling as the first of my fingers slide inside the slick dampness, edging inside

you with such an agonizing, tantalizing slowness that it drives you wild. Renee groaned again, the sound escaping her lips before she had the chance to clamp her mouth closed. Her breathing was a series of broken ragged pants. Behind the blindfold her eyes were screwed shut. I I cant hold You will! Stefan snapped. I forbid you to orgasm. Restrain yourself and stay silent, he ordered harshly. The weaker your will, the more I will test you. Renee pressed her forehead against the cold brick wall and held her breath. Stefans hand slid two inches inside her panties. You are an object for my pleasure,

Stefan said, his tone suddenly soothing and gentle again. Your own needs no longer matter. Your body is for my use alone. You must free yourself. Step outside of your own sexuality and become an object only. You feel nothing, unless I command it, Renee. You are remote and removed from this place and these feelings. My fingers inside you, my hand on your breast, my breath in your ear are all to please me. That is what your body is for. Your urges your needs they exist in your mind, and that has no value to me. From this moment on your body is for my use. Stefans fingers touched Renees soft silken heat and began to slide lightly across her damp folds. She gasped and her

hips spasmed. Tell me what you are! Stefan barked. Renee sobbed. Tell me what you are! Stefan demanded again. A body, Renee said weakly. Say it again! A body, she said. Im a body. Thats all you are. Yes. Tell me again what you are. A body, she repeated. For your pleasure. Again. Im a body you use for your pleasure! Renee said. Again! Im here for your pleasure.

And what is your task? To please you. Stefan eased his fingers from Renee and she went limp against the wrist and ankle restraints. She was trembling, her whole body racked with shattering tremors. Stefan picked up the whip and landed the first stroke against Renees backside. She cried out in shock and pain. What are you? A body, she sobbed. Why are you here? Crack! To please you! Tell me again, he demanded. Why are you here? To please you! And what are you, Renee?

Crack! A slave! she cried. Im your slave! Stefan threw down the whip and left Renee slumped against the cold wall, hanging limp in her restraints. She was crying softly behind the blindfold. He untied the leather binds and Renee slumped, quivering, to the floor. Now you understand a little better, Renee. From this moment forward your own sexual pleasure is of no importance. Your ability to deny yourself and to focus only on the pleasure you give your master is the first lesson every slave must learn.

Day Three.

Submissives must learn that obedience and discipline are essential.

She arrived three minutes late. Stefan answered the door, his face dark and forbidding. Get on your knees, he snapped. Renee knelt. Stefan stalked across the room. I Im sorry my car He held up a finger to silence her. I dont care. I dont care about your excuses. Whatever they are, they are not forgiven. Do you understand? I will not tolerate this behavior.

Renees face looked stricken. Lower your eyes, Stefan snapped. Look down at the floor while I decide what to do with you. Renee obeyed. Stefan began to pace. Discipline is everything, Renee. Everything, he said. Nothing can take place in a relationship between a master and his submissive unless the submissive is committed completely to her training and to obeying her master. Renee stayed silent. Without discipline, we have no obedience. And without obedience, there is no relationship at all. And then what is the consequence? Its called marriage and look at how marriages all around the

world are failing. There must be order. There must be one person who commands and one person who follows. Do you understand what I am saying? Yes Renee said slowly. Stefan sensed her reluctance. You do not agree? Renee stayed silent. Speak your mind. She looked up at him. I dont agree. Why? She took a breath. Isnt this whole master and slave thing just about sex? Isnt this about role-playing in the bedroom as a way to spice up a relationship? Surely you cant compare that to a marriage because marriage is so much more than sex.

Stefan looked at her in shock. He shook his head. Surely you are joking, yes? Renee frowned. No. And this is what you think? Yes. Its what most people think, I imagine. He shook his head again. You are a young, blonde, attractive fool, he said. You are so nave. Renee looked confused. The master and submissive relationship extends beyond the bedroom, Renee. It is a total relationship. It is a way of life that works for many, many people. And it works because it is the natural order of things. People marry because they have things in common with their

partner but few consider the essence of each persons personality. Two leaders will not follow each other. Two followers will not go anywhere. There must be a leader and a follower. Take that one step further and you have a dominant person and a submissive person. Take that to its ultimate conclusion and you have a master and a slave. The masters happiness is the focus of the relationship. And yet the slave is fulfilled and made happy because she is the one who provides and creates that happiness. Renee frowned. Did that just actually make sense? Stefan watched her. He saw her processing his words. So. this is not just a sexy kink?

Ha! Stefan snapped his fingers. And so you begin to see and understand, I think. Renee bit her lip. You sound sexist. Stefan blinked. Not at all. But not all men are dominant and not all women submissive. Stefan smiled. Quite right. And it is equally valid to have a mistress and a slave. It matters not about the gender. It only matters about the suitability of the people to the roles they perform in, and out of the bedroom. I dont understand that. When I came to you two days ago it was Because your boyfriend and you broke up. It was because you wanted to win him back by learning the art of being sexually

submissive. Yes. And I warned you, even then, that if he is not a skilled, or natural master, then the talents you acquire could be wasted. There was a long silence. You remember, yes? Yes. But a submissives role does not begin and end at the bedroom door. Not in a successful relationship. The submissives commitment to her master must be total and absolute. Perhaps that means wearing lingerie that pleases her master. Perhaps it means completing tasks that are arousing without being blatantly sexual. Perhaps it simply means being willing and compliant to her masters desires, no matter the time

or the occasion. Perhaps it means dressing in a certain manner the list is endless. But the undeniable fact is that a successful master and slave relationship cannot be constrained to the bedroom. Its not like that in the books Renee admitted. Stefan made a face. I warned you of that also. Renee took a deep breath and sighed. I I was wrong about this, she admitted. I didnt realize the enormity of what you are training me for. I.. I thought you would teach me how to lay still while my boyfriend took his pleasure. I thought that would be my reality. Is that what your romance books tell you?

No. Not quite. Well, maybe but in a more romantic flowery way Then they are wrong, Stefan said. Because being a slave is a powerful, powerful role. It is not just a matter of fancy dress role-playing. It is a position within a relationship that is essential. As I said to you only a strong, confident woman can submit - and do it successfully. Renee nodded slowly. Im beginning to understand. Good, Stefan said. Then perhaps we can commence tonights session. Its about discipline and obedience and you are not forgiven for arriving late. Renee bowed her head again. Stand up, Stefan demanded.

Renee stood. Spread your legs. Renee edged her feet apart, her eyes still downcast. Stefan walked around her slowly, admiring the curves and lines of her tanned skin. She was wearing a simple blue sundress. Strip. Without hesitating, Renee eased the straps of her dress off her shoulders. The garment fell in a pool at her feet. Stefan sighed his disapproval. These. these undergarments that you wear, he said. They are not suitable. You come to me in a simple bra and white cotton panties. This is not sexual. It does not please me at all. In future, you will

wear lingerie. Do you understand? Yes. Red will be your color. I want you in red corsets, or red bras and panties. No other color. And you will wear the lingerie at all times even when you are not here training. I understand. And the shoes. They are boring. I insist you wear red high-heels from now on when you are in my presence. Very well. Stefan circled her once again. Wear your hair out. You have long blonde hair. I want to see it. Yes. He stepped close to her, their faces just inches apart. Renee felt her heart begin to

race and she didnt know why. You wear too much makeup. Dont come to me again with all that paint on your face. Lipstick only. I understand. Stefan stepped back and folded his arms. Very well. Now, I want you to go to my letterbox and see if there is mail. Renees eyes flashed her panic. What? Im sure you heard me. I did but she made a gesture with her arms to draw his attention to the fact that she was only wearing a bra and panties. Stefans expression did not change. Now, he said. Renee hesitated and Stefans voice

became a snarl. Go to the letterbox now! he snapped. And if you hesitate or question me again, when you return, you will find the door locked. Now go! Reluctantly, in a slow daze, Renee opened the front door and stepped out onto the lawn. It was night, but the street was well lit. She scurried in a crouch to the letterbox and back. Stefan stood at the door and watched her. Stop, he said when she was on his front step, still outside the door. Tell me how you feel. Embarrassed! Renee snapped. Humiliated! He was blocking the doorway. She couldnt get past him and inside the house.

Do it again. What? Stefan slapped her across her face. It wasnt a hard blow, but the shock of it stung Renee. Dont question me, he warned. I have told you that before. Renees mouth snapped closed. Now, I want you to go to the letterbox again, Stefan explained patiently. And this time I want you to do it like a sexy, confident woman who is proud of her body not like some pathetic child sneaking around as if they have been dared by a friend. You walk with your head held high. Renee gritted her teeth. She turned on her heel and took stilted steps to the

letterbox then came back again. Better, Stefan said. How do you feel now? Still humiliated. Stefan sighed. You are a slow learner, he said sadly. You disappoint me, Renee. I told you last night that you must disconnect your mind and your feelings from your body. You remember this, yes? Yes, she admitted. Then you must learn to see yourself as you are to me not as you are to you. To you, you are a woman with friends and family and a job, and people who might notice you. But to me you are a body; an object that is here to serve and please my every desire. That is why you have come

to me. So stop being you, and be what I demand you become! Renee felt her anger rising. He was right, and that only fueled her fury. Very well, she said. She reached impulsively behind her and unfastened her bra. Her breasts fell free. She threw the bra on the doorstep right at Stefans feet. Youre right. I am an object. Nothing but an object for you to touch and look at and use. Thats what I paid to learn. Thats what you want. So thats what you will get! She sauntered defiantly to the letterbox, each step like she was walking on a catwalk. She stepped with her head held high and her shoulders back. When she reached the letterbox she parted her legs

and bent provocatively at the waist, feeling Stefans hungry eyes on her. Then she turned and walked slowly back to the door. Her nipples were hard, and a fire of erotic heat blazed low in her belly. There is no mail, she said. Stefan smiled. You interest me, Renee, he said, and the comment was so unexpected, she was glued to the spot for a moment. You have a child-like innocence, and yet there is something below the surface that is more resilient and brash. Kept under control, they are admirable qualities. He stepped aside and Renee walked past him through the front door. Renee waited while Stefan closed the door. He turned to her, his eyes dark.

How do you feel now? Angry, Renee said. She was shivering with small tremors of adrenalin and arousal. His comment a moment ago about keeping her admirable qualities under control was forgotten in an instant. Angry? Mad as hell, actually. What happened to humiliated? She turned on him. What happened to respect? You made a fool of me. No! Stefan snapped hotly. You felt like a fool because you could not disconnect your mind. You looked like a sex goddess. Renee opened her mouth to shout back and suddenly stopped, Stefans words registering in her mind. The shock of it

drove away her rage and filled her with sudden confusion. Then then why are you treating me like this? Like what? Like a child. Because you continue to act like one, Stefan said. But you talk about the submissive being powerful, and how strong the submissive must be and then you have me perform like that? I dont understand! Because you dont learn, Stefan said harshly. All that we have covered tonight was also discussed last night and when we first met. And yet still you refuse to understand your role. You act like a child and so I treat you as one. When you begin

to act like a woman, and when you accept your role and behave accordingly, I will treat you as such. Renee blinked. Suddenly she felt lost. Do not turn your anger on me, Stefan warned. The fault here is yours. I will not lower myself to your level. I am waiting for you to rise to the challenge to immerse yourself in what you wish to become. You let yourself down. She started to cry. She didnt mean to. She didnt expect to; it just happened. She stood in the foyer, in just her panties, and she cried while Stefan watched her. Im sorry, Renee said between sobs. Youre right. Its me Im angry with. Me! Im angry because Im failing. I know I am and I cant afford to fail. I just

cant. Stefan looked at her for a long time before speaking. Put your clothes on, he said derisively, and go home. I told you that you were unprepared for the challenges. Our session is ended for tonight. Frankly, Im too disappointed in you to continue.

Day Four. Submissives must learn that they are responsible for their masters happiness and pleasure.

When the clock chimed 7pm, Stefan

opened the door, silently enraged that Renee would dare be late again. But she wasnt late. She was waiting for him, submissively kneeling on the doorstep. How long have you been here? he asked gruffly. Fifteen minutes master. Come inside, he said. Go down to the punishment room and wait for me. When Stefan entered the downstairs room, Renee was standing by the wall, wearing a brand new red corset and red panties. Stefans eyes roamed over her lithe young body. Better, he said with gruff approval. And it is good that you have stripped. It shows me that you are prepared and

willing, he nodded. You please me. Renees head was bowed respectfully, but those three simple words made her heart sing and gave her hope. She smiled inwardly. There was something incredibly satisfying in pleasing this man. It was something primitive; something instinctive that came from deep within her. She didnt know if it was because she was so attracted to him physically, or because she was responding to the man himself. Thank you, master. Stefan ran his hand over the silky fabric of the corset. I like the cut of this lingerie too. I like how it presents your breasts to me. You have chosen well. Renee shuddered, the heat of Stefans fingertips like a fiery brand on her skin.

I have been busy since you sent me away last night, she said softly. So it appears, Stefan said guardedly. But pretty lingerie does not make you a worthy submissive Renee nodded. I understand, master. But I have done more than buy the clothes you ordered. Is that so? Then perhaps you would like to explain. Renee lifted her head and smiled hopefully at Stefan. I have done a lot of thinking. About? About everything. About everything you have said to me. About everything I wanted to achieve. I havent slept. Ive been so torn between who I am, and what

you are teaching me to become. I I dont know that I have completely grasped all you have told me, but I do know that I understand it more. Enough to continue? More than enough. Enough to be obedient? Instantly. Regardless of my command? Yes. Stefan considered her expression carefully. He could see the transformation in her eyes. Enough to accept discipline? Yes. Including the whip? Of course. And tell me again why you have come

back tonight. To learn to become a skilled submissive who is able to please her masters every desire? You mean your boyfriend? I mean you. You are training me. I must serve and please you until my training is complete. Then I will try to win back James. Stefan frowned. I no longer doubt your willingness, he said carefully, but I wonder now about your intentions. This boyfriend of yours. Tell me more about him. Renee balked for the slightest fraction of a second only. What would you wish to know? What does he do for a living?

He works with a mining company. He is away sometimes for several weeks, and then home for a few days. And how did your relationship end? Badly. Stefan smiled grimly. More information. It ended with him storming from our bed one night, Renee said. He told me I was not pleasing him. He said I wasnt a very good lover. He said that? Well yes. In a fashion. She sighed. No he didnt. He actually looked me in the eye and told me I was the most boring, useless sexual partner he had ever slept with. He told me he felt like he had to do all the work in our relationship, and that I

no longer aroused him. Thats what he said. And then he just left? Yes. He said we needed time apart. He wanted to think about whether we should continue. Thats when I saw your advertisement and decided I needed to do something to save what we had. And when did this happen? Three weeks ago. And you havent heard from him since? No but he is probably working away again at the moment. And do you love him? Renee recoiled in a small shock, as though she had walked into an invisible wall. I I think so, she said slowly.

Im not sure I know what real love is. I havent had many lovers she looked away shyly. Stefans eyes narrowed thoughtfully for a moment, and then his expression changed completely. Very well, he announced. It is time to begin. Renee bowed her head again. There was an undeniable small thrill of arousal seeping through her body. She felt it every time Stefan looked at her in a certain way, and every time he moved close to her. Now it was beginning to slowly uncoil once more, seeping warm and molten deep inside her. Tonight you will learn the two basic positions that all slaves must know,

Stefan said. Often your master will simply command you into position One or Two. You must adopt these positions instantly. Renee nodded her understanding, keeping her eyes on the ground before her. Position One, Stefan said. Get down on your knees and clasp your hands behind your back. Renee dropped to the ground immediately. Now part your knees. Wider. A little wider. Yes. Like that. Renees knees were about eighteen inches apart. Straighten your back and keep your hands clasped behind you. Then open your mouth.

Renee did as she was instructed. Her mouth formed a wide-open oval of red lipstick. Stefan crouched beside her and lifted her chin until they were looking at each other. This position is so that your master can step up to you and place his hardness into your mouth. Do you understand that? Renee could only nod. In adopting this position, you are making an invitation of your mouth to your master. You are welcoming him to pleasure himself. So therefore you must adjust the height you kneel at, depending on how tall your master is. You will learn this quickly. It may be that you need to kneel back on your haunches to lower

yourself a little Renee nodded again. Stefan stood beside her and she could see the sudden bulge of his own arousal in his trousers. For me, because I am tall, you would remain straight-backed, Stefan said. He positioned himself directly in front of Renee and stepped forward until the swell in his trousers was pressed against her wide-open mouth. Renees heart leaped into her throat. The tendrils of heat uncoiling low in her abdomen suddenly whiplashed. Stefan stood, rubbing himself against her open mouth for several seconds. You must remain compliant and willing at all times in this position, he said, his voice

suddenly thicker than she remembered it. As I lace my hands into your hair and hold tight to the back of your head, it is to give me deeper access to your mouth. When I do this, it is critical that you remain relaxed. You cannot pull away. You cannot resist. I assure you, you will not suffocate or choke Renee groaned. She felt Stefans strong hands in her hair and her eyes began to water. A flood of damp desire seeped between her spread thighs. And then Stefan was backing away, his breathing a little rough, his eyes a little wide, his expression a little flustered. Renee stayed in position, but there was a pleading expression in her eyes. Stefan took a deep breath and forced

himself to scowl. Yes, that is good, he said. Remember this is called Position One. At anytime you hear the command, you will assume this exact position. Understand? Yes, Renee said, relaxing her posture a little and swallowing hard. Her mouth felt dry. Position Two begins in the same way, Stefan explained. On your knees, and remember to keep them separated. But in this position you are to lean forward and rest your head on the floor, whilst keeping your hands clasped behind your back, he said. Do it. Renee bent forward at the waist until her forehead rested on the carpet. Turn your cheek, Stefan said.

Renee rested her cheek on the ground and kept her hands linked behind her back. She was instantly aware of how open and vulnerable the position left her. Stefan stepped behind her. In this position, you are making your body available to your master in the most accessible way, Stefan noted. With your legs apart as they are, your master need only pull aside your panties and kneel between your legs to take you. Renee closed her eyes, knowing that Stefan was close behind her. She wondered if he could sense her arousal; if he was aware of the slick dampness that must surely be soaking her panties. She heard him moving, and then she realized he was on his knees behind her,

pressing himself hard against her open body. In this position, your master can hold your hips, or reach forward and grasp your hands, Stefan demonstrated. He gripped her wrists and pulled her head off the ground until she felt the small strain in her arms. Again, here you are open and available to me, he said. This gives your master total control of your body, and the ability to use you in many ways until he takes his pleasure. Understand? Yes, Renee said softly. Her voice in her own ears sounded shaky and tremulous. This is Position Two. Upon command, no matter where you are or what you are doing, you will immediately put yourself

in this position and wait for your master. I understand, Renee said. Stefan got to his feet and ordered Renee to stand. She rose uncertainly, and stood with her legs apart instinctively. If you can remember those two positions you will go a long way to pleasing your master. Remember that your obedience, and your willingness to obey instantly will be critical to your success as a submissive. The one thing that annoys a master more than anything else is if his submissive questions his instruction or if the submissive hesitates to obey any command, he said. There must always be a bond of absolute trust between master and slave. Once broken it can never be fully restored. This bond relies on the

master always being respectful of his slaves limits, and the slave always believing that her masters instructions are either for his own pleasure or, at least, not given to place the slave in danger or in harms way. Any master that abuses a willing slaves trust is a fool. And any slave who questions a masters orders is unprepared, or untrained to fulfill the role. Renee paid attention. She nodded. That is not to say that a good master will not test and stretch a slaves limits, Stefan smiled sexily. Submission is, in essence, an opportunity for the person to learn about themselves, and to challenge their levels of obedience and acceptance. A good master will always seek ways to

stretch a slaves endurance, or limits, because it keeps the relationship fresh. Each new measure of effort is an indication of the relationships growing bonds of strength. Do you understand this, Renee? Yes. Yes, I do. The slave and master relationship is very much like the military, Stefan offered. Discipline in the military is strict. When an officer issues an order, the soldier is drilled and trained to respond without question. If, at any time, an officers order is disobeyed or disputed, the result can be mutiny, and the entire structure breaks down. Although her eyes were lowered, Renee watched Stefan covertly. Not for the first

time she found her mind filling with unbidden erotic images of them entwined. The deep, steady sound of his voice was incredibly sexual and hypnotic. Very well, Stefan said at last. Your efforts tonight have pleased me greatly, Renee. Your change in attitude and your enthusiasm is a credit to you. Thank you, master, Renee glowed in his praise. I think you deserve a surprise. Renee looked up in bewilderment to see Stefan fetching a chair. He set the chair just a few feet in front of where Renee stood and sat down. I am aware the last few days have been testing for you, Stefan said. And I am aware that you have fought your own

struggles to adjust. He paused for a moment. I am also aware that our training sessions have caused you intense arousal, Renee. Forcing yourself to deny your own urges has its limits, and because of your efforts tonight, it is time you were rewarded. Stefan crossed his legs and sat back in the chair. He dangled an arm lazily over the backrest and studied Renees face intently. I want you to put your hand down inside your panties and pleasure yourself while I watch. A rapid confusion of mixed emotions flashed in Renees eyes. She was so incredibly aroused! She had been in a constant state of need for several days. But to touch herself?

While he sat and watched? Her thoughts scrambled in her mind for just a second, and then her training, and a sudden sense of detachment overcame her. It was as if she were outside her own body, watching on. Disconnected! Her hand eased slowly down her abdomen and slipped under the waistline of her panties. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes. Her fingers crawled towards the flickering heat between her parted legs. Not like that, Stefan said softly. I want you to open your eyes and look at me while you touch yourself. And I want you to tell me everything you do, and every sensation you feel.

Renee exhaled and licked her lips. Tell me, he urged. Tell me everything, Renee. Im my fingers. Theyre just touching exploring lightly. I can feel my nub. Its um raised. Swollen. I can feel the heat lower down but I dont want to touch there yet. I want to draw out these first moments And what do you feel? Aroused. Very. UmI feel like Im swaying. Teetering. Maybe like Im beginning to float And in your mind? Tell me your fantasies. Images everywhere, Renee confessed. Theyre cramming into my mind and I cant control them. Images of

you undressed. Others of me on my knees before you. So many.... but. but the one that comes back again and again is of you and me on a bed covered in red satin sheets Doing what? Stefan asked slowly. Im tied to the bed. My hands are tied, Renee described. Were naked, and youre covering me with your body. I can feel the hardness of you. Im blindfolded, and youre mouth is close to my ear. Youre whispering to me as you fill me. What do I say? You tell me over and over that I belong to you, Renees voice was a soft croaking rasp. Youre taking me. Making me your property.

And in your fantasy, what are you doing? Im giving myself to you, Renee whispered. Im arching myself up to meet your thrusts. Im panting. Groaning. Its like Im trying to pull you deeper and deeper inside me. Stefan leaned forward, not realizing that now he was sitting on the edge of the chair. His own arousal swelled hard inside his trousers. He stared at Renee, mesmerized, watching the shape of her soft lips as she spoke, and the distant hypnotic expression in her eyes. Are you still touching yourself? Yes. Faster now. Is your arousal growing? Yes. Im so wet, she confessed softly.

My fingers are slippery and warm. I can feel the soft folds of skin moving apart as I touch them as I ease the tips of my first two fingers towards the opening. Can you feel yourself edging closer? Im already on the edge, Renee said. Im trying to make it last. Stefan rose slowly from the chair and stood facing Renee. Their eyes locked. She could feel the hot intensity of his gaze. Her bottom lip quivered. Her mouth fell open in a silent moan, and without her needing to tell him, Stefan knew instinctively that Renee had just slid her fingers inside herself. Her body began to shudder. Tell me quickly, Stefan urged her. Tell me what you feel right now.

Free, she said. Alive. Is your fantasy still the same? No! she gasped Not now. Now youre behind me again, like you were tonight. Im on my hands and knees, and you are behind me. Youre filling me thrusting harder and harder. Im shaking; the pleasure is like nothing. nothing I ever imagined. Youre calling my name and and Im crying out as we both reach.! Suddenly Renees eyes seemed to roll back and her whole body spasmed, as if rocked by an earthquake. Her legs buckled, losing all strength. Her hips twisted and she began to fall. Stefan reached out and caught her in his arms; held her in his powerful safe

embrace. Renee went limp, spent and exhausted. Stefan held her for a long time, watching her face, feeling her body ripple with the aftershocks of her orgasm. And then gently he brushed a tendril of hair from her brow. That was beautiful, he said slowly. You are beautiful. And then he kissed her. At first Renee thought it was a gorgeous dream; the delicious afterglow of her intense orgasm. And then she opened her eyes; felt Stefans lips covering hers, and she opened her mouth to welcome him instinctively, reveling in the thrill of his hunger. His hold on her was both deliberate and possessive and she felt herself melting

within the circle of his muscled arms. She felt his fingers entwining in her hair, holding her as his lips plundered and dominated hers. She felt the thrusting plunge of his tongue as it explored the contours of her mouth. He kissed her with a savagery that she had never known before. Never. It was as though he was feasting insatiably on the taste of her. His lips crushed hers and she responded without inhibition; bowed to his demand but equally willing. Then the intensity of the kiss began to transform, becoming more sensual and erotic, and she was able to meet and match his smoldering passion. Renee was trembling uncontrollably. There was a sudden wildness in the air

and a fizzing in her blood. She felt it as renewed fiery heat; a blazing urgent female need that burned out of control like a wildfire. When it was too late when she was already beginning to teeter over the edge Stefan suddenly broke the kiss and held her face in his hands. His eyes burned into hers. Renee bit hard down on her kissswollen lip to stop herself from crying out as the ecstasy of her second climax turned her face into a rapturous mask. And then she was falling again drifting downward into a breathless dream-like state that felt heavenly. When Renees eyes fluttered open again, Stefan was still holding her; still staring intently at her.

She gazed up into his eyes, breathless and weak. She tried to grasp what had happened; tried to put into words what they had shared. You you owned me, she said softly in awed wonderment. I felt it Stefan blinked in shock, and then pulled back from the embrace as if scalded by what he had done. He put a pace between them. I think you should go, he said, his expression was stricken and the words were strangely painful to say, thick and clogging in the back of his throat. Now.

Day Five.

Submissives must learn that sometimes a master needs to be cruel in order to be kind.

Put your clothes back on, Stefan said. There will be no training in the punishment room tonight. We need to talk instead. Renee re-dressed quickly, filled with a dreadful sense of foreboding. Have I done something wrong? No. Have I displeased you? No. Renee frowned. I dont understand, she said meekly.

You will. Take a seat. Stefan gestured to the living room sofa. Renee sat cautiously. Wouldnt you prefer me to kneel? No. Not tonight. Not now. She stared up at him with enormous worried eyes. Stefan went to the bar and poured himself a drink. Then he paused for a long moment to thumb through the contents inside a slim manila folder he was holding in his free hand. He took a deep breath. Sighed. Turned to face Renee. How old are you? he asked suddenly. Twenty six. And how many lovers have you had? Three. Including the ex-boyfriend?

Yes, including James, she admitted. Stefan frowned. Renee, when I look at you, do you know what I see? She grimaced. A silly girl who is terrible in bed and who has her head filled with romantic notions about being a submissive? Someone so plain, and unspectacular that you would walk past me in the street and never give me a second glance if I wasnt paying you to train me. Stefan shook his head. Nothing like that, he said sincerely. When I look at you I see a slim, attractive young woman who has no confidence in herself, or how she looks. I see someone who has enormous potential as a woman, and as a submissive. But I also see someone who

doesnt yet realize how big and bad and how deceitful the world can be. I see someone who has had her self-esteem shredded, and who doesnt yet know how to go about rebuilding her own sense of value. Renee looked at him searchingly. You really think I am attractive? Very. In every way. She smiled and it was the most beautiful smile Stefan has ever seen, her face reflecting every thing he had just observed. She was sweet, and nave and vulnerable. Now look at me carefully, he said. Tell me what you see. Renee was so caught off guard by the question, she stammered for a moment. I

see a man, she said. Not a boy. And certainly not a pretty-boy. A real man. Do you mean I am ugly? Absolutely not! Renee said impulsively. I think youre very handsome, in a very manly way. What does that mean? It means youre not manicured. It means you dont fill your hair with product. It means youre not the kind of pretty-boy who spends his days staring at his reflection in the mirror and I imagine you didnt get your broad shoulders and those arms from pumping iron and admiring yourself at a gym. Stefan smiled wryly. Fine. Now tell me who you see. I I dont understand

Stefan took a sip of his drink. Youve told me how I look, he explained. Thats all on the surface, and as such, its unimportant to me. What I really want to know now is what kind of a man do you think I am. Renee didnt understand why Stefan was asking her these questions, but she knew instinctively that her answers were important to him. For some reason they mattered a great deal. Before I answer, she said guardedly, are you asking me as a man to a woman, or as a master to the slave he is training? As a man to a woman. She took a deep breath. I think you are a kind, honest man. A good man, she began. The four days Ive known you

have been the most intense of my life. In that time youve been very honest and patient with me. You could have taken advantage of me God knows there have been plenty of times I wished you had but youve always remained professional and honorable. Until last night. Until I kissed you. I didnt complain, she reminded him lightly, and then added more seriously. I understand that you might feel you violated some kind of personal code, but I loved the way you kissed me. Ill remember it until the day I die. Stefan grunted. He took another, longer sip of his drink. So you think I am honorable? Yes. Yes I do.

And you feel you can trust me? I have already. And is there any doubt even the smallest, slightest doubt that I have always been honest and open with you? No. Thank you. Now you need to look at these, he said ominously. Stefan handed Renee the manila folder. She opened it. Inside were six large black and white photographs and a single page typed report. Renee studied each photo in turn, feeling the heat rising in her cheeks. Her hand began to shake. A sudden cold sweat broke out across her brow and she felt she might be physically sick. One of the photographs slipped from her numb fingers and fell to the floor. When she had

seen them all she looked up at Stefan and her eyes were filled with tears, her face wracked with anguish. You bastard! she whispered hoarsely. Stefan picked up the photo off the floor and thrust it back into Renees lap. Look closely, he said. He stabbed a finger at the figures in the grainy long-lens image. Thats your boyfriend, James Matterson and thats his wife standing next to him. The little girl holding his hand is his daughter. Renee screwed her eyes shut. Tears spilled down her cheeks. Stefan took the folder from her and held up the typed report. James Matterson is not in the mining

industry, he said coldly, reading through information he already knew. He doesnt work away for weeks at a time. He sells mens clothing and works in a small shop in the main street of Bishops Bridge. Why? His wifes name is Connie, Stefan ignored Renees question and went on relentlessly. They have been married for six years. Their daughters name is Matilda. She has a speech impediment, and has just started school. Why? Stefan flung the report down. On the bar was an envelope. He reached for it. In here I have photographs of the three other women Matterson has been sleeping with, Renee. Do you want to see the pictures of

the other women he has been lying to? Why? Renee screamed. Why did you do this? Because you need protection from yourself. Because youre young and nave! You had no right! But you had every right to know! Stefan shouted back at her. This bastard wasnt going to take you back, Renee. He wanted to be rid of you. Thats why he said all those cruel things about you. Thats why he said you were a hopeless lover. He wasnt coming back. He was leaving you. For good! How can you know that? Because he told me! Renee recoiled in shock. You you

spoke to him? Yes, dammit. Hes leaving town, Renee. Hes taking his wife and his daughter and hes moving south. A long way south just a soon as he is discharged from hospital. Her mouth fell open. Hes in hospital? How do you know that? Because I put him there! Renee flinched. She sagged slowly back on the sofa and made a futile effort to dry the tears from her cheeks. You did? How? Why? she sobbed. I hit him four times. Broke three of his ribs. Hell be discharged in a few days, and then he will be moving south. Forever. Slowly, like a felled tree, Renee

slumped down across the sofa, tucking her knees and curling herself into a ball. And then she began to cry. Stefan reeled away, hating himself. He seized the photographs and the typed report and tore them into shreds. He hurled them behind the bar and snatched at a bottle to refill his glass. Renees painful sobs stabbed at him like a knife to his heart. Stefan drank the contents of the glass in a single gulp. Then he filled the glass and drank again, and prayed the burn of the alcohol would numb the churning sense of guilt and loathing that lay heavy in his gut. Finally he couldnt stay away from her any longer. He went to the sofa and peeled his jacket off. Tenderly he covered Renee

and then slid down against the sofa beside her. Im sorry, he said. Just tell me why? Please, she pleaded tearfully. Stefan didnt look at her. He stared off into space. Because I wanted to protect you, he said heavily. Because you were putting yourself through this hell to learn to be a submissive, and all for a man who is unworthy of you. Stefan raked his fingers though his hair and sighed guiltily. And because when I kissed you last night I felt exactly what you felt. Im starting to care for you, Renee, and I wanted to drive you away and make you hate me before it was too late.

*** Stefan sat in the dark for a long time after Renee left, trying to come to grips with his feelings. This was a place he did not want to be; a place he hadnt visited for a long time a door he was scared to open. A door he didnt want to open ever. But the girl had forced herself in somehow, and he was damned if he knew how she had done it and what he could do about it now. He cared about her. He had said it, and he knew he meant it. But he didnt know why. He had trained many women in the art

of submission over the years, and he had guarded his heart fiercely. None had come close to being anything more than subjects; objects. He trained them, he lectured them. He showed them how to act and how to please their masters and then he sent them on their way. Hell, he couldnt even remember half their names, let alone recall their faces. And thats what this girl should have been; just another body. Another face. Renee. In the dark he could remember vividly the kiss, but more importantly, the feeling he felt still lingered, like the scent of her perfume surrounding him, teasing and haunting his senses. There was something about her.

He did care about her. He cared for her. But was he in love with her? No. He wasnt. Not yet, anyhow. He didnt know if hed ever be ready for love again. He knew he wasnt ready yet. He shrugged. Maybe he would come to his senses and realize it was all an illusion. Maybe the next time he saw her he would look right through her like he had looked at all the other women. Maybe Okay, he admitted. I care about her but I dont love her. Not yet. He knew he was in jeopardy. It left him

feeling unsure and unprepared. He was in danger of falling in love with this girl if he couldnt work out why she made him feel the way he did and take steps to block her out; harden his heart. Somehow she had found a chink in his armor. But where was the chink? How had he become vulnerable to these emotions that were so shockingly unfamiliar to him? He wondered if it was because of her body. She was truly beautiful in an innocent unpretentious way. She didnt realize just how beautiful she was. But there had been others of equal beauty, and he hadnt cared about them. Then he wondered if it was because she was so brave. Every woman that came to him was scared of him. That was natural.

It was part of their obedience training. Even Renee was scared of him. But she didnt fear him Then he thought back to another time and another place; another life. Was that the connection? Was there something similar about Renee that dragged these long-ignored feelings back to the surface? He considered the question carefully, but he could find no comparisons. He was a different person now. Painfully, his world had moved on, and left him here, now, facing the thing he feared more than anything else. The fear of falling in love and Stefan didnt know how to save himself except to cut himself off from her before it was too late.

*** Try as she might, Renee just couldnt bring herself to cry over James Matterson. She should. She had every right to be heartbroken. But Stefans words echoed in her mind: Im starting to care for you She threw herself on her bed and rolled onto her back. She was tired, but she knew sleep would not come. She was too overwrought; too filled with adrenalin and confusion and uncertainty to sleep. She had to process this. She remembered again the way he had kissed her. He had felt the wonder of the moment too.

She knew she loved him. She loved everything about him; from the way he treated her to the way he made her feel safe and secure. She loved his wisdom, his thoughtfulness. She loved the sense of stable security he radiated. But up until the moment he had kissed her, she was sure it was a one-sided love that would never amount to more than a beautiful fantasy. He was just too controlled; too in control. Stefans confession tonight had stunned and shocked her. What he had done was to add fire to the smoke of her fantasizes. It was real. There was something undeniable between them. He had felt it too. And though it was just a spark, it was enough to give her hope. Renee had no illusions that Stefan loved

her back. He was too complex and too deep to give love freely. There were dark layers to him she was yet to discover, but that was okay, she told herself. He didnt need to love her. Not yet. It was enough that he truly cared for her. All he had to do was to give them the time to have a chance. And all she could do was convince him that she was worth taking the chance with. In less than a week, she had begun to fall for Stefan. Now she was facing the thing she feared more than anything else. The fear of finding love and losing it again. and Renee didnt know how to save what she was feeling except to hold on grimly to Stefan and refuse to let go,

no matter what.

Day Six. The best submissives will remain determined and patient, despite all setbacks.

There will be no training tonight, Renee. Im sorry. I dont think I can be of any further help to you. I have deposited your money back into your account. I wish you every happiness in the future. Stefan hung up the phone before the answering machine hummed in his ear. It was over.

Now all he had to do was live with himself and his decision. When the clock chimed 7pm he ignored it. He poured himself a drink instead. He sat and listened to the endless ticking. At 8pm it began to rain. He could hear the persistent patter of light showers against the windows. He refilled his glass. By 9pm he needed more scotch. He shrugged on his jacket and snatched his car keys off the bar counter. When he opened the front door, he found Renee, wearing only a red bra and panties, kneeling on his doorstep in the rain. She looked up at him, her bottom lip quivering bravely, her eyes enormous, her hair wet, her expression desolate, her slim

pale body shivering in the cold. What the hell? Stefan recoiled. What are you doing? Im waiting for my master, master. Didnt you get my message? Yes. I ignored it. Stefans mouth became a grim pale line. He shook his head. You stupid, silly little fool! He reached down for her, pulled her to her feet and wrapped his arm around her. She leaned against the warmth of him. Get inside. Youll be lucky if you dont get pneumonia. Once indoors Stefan shrugged off his jacket and wrapped it around her shoulders. While Renee stood, dripping water on his floor he fetched an armful of blankets.

How long have you been there? Since before 7pm. He shook his head again. Do you not understand English? he snapped. I thought I made myself perfectly clear when I left the message on your answering machine. I understand English. But the voice I heard wasnt the voice of my master. It sounded like the voice of a man who was scared. So I ignored it. Scared? Frightened, actually. Frightened? You think I sounded frightened? Yes. He raised an eyebrow. Of? Me. Us.

Stefan tossed a blanket over Renees shoulders and began to rub vigorously. Ill turn up the heating. Get that underwear off, he said angrily. Stefan went to the kitchen to adjust the central heating. When he returned to the living room, Renee was kneeling, naked in the middle of the room. Stefan balked in the doorway, unable to ignore the perfectness of her breasts, the slim toned lines of her legs or the scooped curve of her hips and waist. Renees head was bowed and he stole a long moment burning the image of her in his mind. Stand up and cover yourself, he snapped as he finally strode back into the room. I told you there will be no training tonight. No more training ever. Youre not

my slave, Renee. Youre no longer even in training. Get to your feet, for Gods sake. She looked up at him from where she knelt and he saw she was about to cry again. Her eyes glistened, misty with tears about to fall. She stubbornly stayed kneeling. You have to train me, she said. No. I dont. A single tear spilled from her eye and ran down her cheek. But I need your help to learn. You dont have to learn! Stefan barked. Matterson was lying to you, Renee. He wasnt coming back, no matter what you did. This. this whole training experience to learn to be a submissive was for him and now its irrelevant.

No, she shook her head solemnly. Its not irrelevant. Now, its even more important that I learn. Now that I know James was lying to me, I have no one. No one! My only chance to find someone is to learn how to be a good submissive, or else Im likely to lose the next man because Im too inexperienced, or too boring in bed. Stefan shook his head in disbelief. Thats crazy! Not to me, Renee sniffed. Now, my training means everything to me and youre responsible. Youre the one who told me to disconnect my feelings. Youre the one who told me to immerse myself. Well I have, and I realize now how much I like feeling this way! I understand more

about who I am now than I ever have before. I am a submissive. I am. And Im determined to be good at it. Its the only thing I have a chance to be good at. And you cant take that away from me. You cant! Stefan hauled Renee roughly to her feet, his grip digging into her forearms. He pulled her towards him until his face was just inches from hers. I cant train you anymore! he snapped. I. Just. Cant. She blinked up at him, her face frozen, tears streaming down her cheeks. She looked like a lost little lamb. But you are my only hope, she whispered. Please. Dont abandon me. He pushed her from him; reeled away.

I told you last night why this cant continue, he said and there was pain in his voice. I told you why. You told me you were starting to care for me. Yes! Thats why I sent you away, Renee. Thats why I ended this. Before it. Before what? she asked in a whisper. Before you fall in love with me? He stared at her. She looked up at him and held her breath. He nodded. Yes. She seemed to relax. The tension in her body seemed to dissolve, and now she stood, naked before him and tried to stop herself crying. Why is that so wrong?

Its wrong for me. Are you not allowed to fall in love? Is this because of your code of honor? Is that what this is all about? Are you punishing me because you dont allow yourself to fall in love? He shook his head. You dont even know what love is, you silly girl, he said derisively. You read your romance books and you think life is filled with flowers and music and happy endings. Well its not. Its not for most people. And its not for me. Or me, she reminded him. And I dont think life is a romance story, she said with a touch of defiance. But I do think love exists. And maybe one day Ill find true love and it will be like the

romance books, but until then, what we shared last night when you kissed me feels real enough for me to want more. For you to want more? Stefan repeated incredulously. Well this is not about you! he hissed. This is about me. Last night I told you about Matterson to protect you from being hurt any more than you already were. And I ended our agreement to protect me from any more hurt. You are afraid she said slowly. Im not afraid, he denied. Im practical. Im a realist, Renee. I live in the real world not in one of your romance stories. Dont romanticize me, and dont romanticize what happened in this relationship. I made a mistake. I let my

emotions show. Now Ive ended it. The matter is finished. She shook her head with slow realization. Who was it? she asked warily. What are you talking about? Who broke your heart? Who made you this way? Who made you want to shut yourself off like this? Get out. Renee didnt move. She was more scared than at any other time in her life. Stefans anger frightened her, but she fought against her fear and held her ground. I said get out! he shouted. He strode to the door and flung it open. Now! I cant, Renee breathed.

Then Ill throw you out! She shook her head. Now she was crying, her hand over her mouth, her eyes wide and stricken. She brushed tears from her cheeks, standing small and defiant against the raging storm of Stefans anger. Why are you angry with me? she asked, the depth of her hurt making her expression agonized. Because its easier! Stefan snapped. Because its simpler to drive you away and make you hate me than it is to uncover old wounds and realize its me that I really hate! Stefan suddenly stopped. Suddenly froze. Suddenly realized. He thrust his hands deep inside his

trouser pockets and paced across the floor like a caged lion. Renee waited in silence. Not daring to speak, not daring to breathe. She watched Stefan as he fought his own secret war. Finally the anger seemed to seep from him. He closed his eyes and braced his back against the far wall. I stopped loving on September the 19, exactly eight years ago, Stefan said softly. It was the day my wife died. I didnt know you were married Renee said softly. Stefan shook his head ruefully. We were young. We were just kids. We married when we were in our early twenties, but it was real alright. It was he searched for the right word,

beautiful. Im sorry. Her name was Tif. Tiffany. We were married for six years before she died. And I thought I would never get over it, he stared dully into space. She died of cancer. She just wasted away. It came on so fast, and we were so unprepared. One day she was fine, and the next she was in hospital, with a death sentence. I lived by her bedside for two months. Im so sorry Stefan bunched his fists in frustration. The pain she endured was awful, he said, his voice thick and unsteady. And I watched on. Helplessly. Can you imagine what thats like? I watched my wife die, and I could do nothing. Nothing at all

except hold her in my arms, feeling the bones of her through her skin, staring into the dark hollow eyes that were once so full of life. He pushed himself away from the wall and wiped at his eyes. She died two days after our sixth wedding anniversary. She died in my arms and it broke me, Stefan confessed. He stared at Renee, his eyes hard and haunted, his expression grief-stricken. I swore Id never care for anyone, or love anyone else ever again. I swore I wouldnt be helpless ever again. I made up my mind there and then that I was going to be in control from that moment on. I was never going to let anyone in, and I was never going to let my feelings be exposed to that agonizing pain ever

again. Is that when you became a master? Stefan nodded. But you just dont become a master, he said. I learned over the years about domination and submission. I studied people, and how they behave. I became immersed, he said wryly. And I found out I was good at it. I was perfect for the role. I was cold, remote and detached. No one got in. Everyone was a body; a physical thing to be pleasured and to please. Until last night, he said slowly. And thats why you Its why you have to go, Stefan cut her off harshly. The brief glimpse Renee had through to his soul had been slammed shut again in an instant. She sensed the

wave of his anger returning. Now! Please dont shut me out Now! Stefan repeated. Renee flinched. She took several quick sobbing breaths. Her heart was racing. Then slowly, uncertainly, she lowered herself back to her knees. Get up! Stefan growled. Renee ignored him. I said get up. Training is over. Its finished. No. Renee said softly. Im your slave. You made me yours last night. It was in your kiss. I cant go. I just cant. Damn you! Stefan snarled. Fine! You want training? You want a training session right now? Then thats what youre going to have. Get down to the

punishment room. Be in Position One, waiting for me. Stefan stormed out of the room. Renee got to her feet. She was trembling uncontrollably. She scurried downstairs. *** Straighten your back! Stefan snapped. He had the whip in his hand, and there was a harsh chill in his voice. Renee adjusted her position slightly. She stared straight ahead as Stefan paced across her line of sight. There was a nerve ticking under her eye and she couldnt stop it. Open your mouth wider. She did.

Wider! She tried. Position Two. Quickly Renee lowered her head to the floor, resting her cheek on the ground. She could see Stefans feet as he paced around behind her. She swallowed hard. The palms of her hands felt sweaty. Terrible! Stefan snarled. Get your backside higher. He hit her across her bottom with the whip, harder than he had wanted to. The sound of the crack was like a gunshot in the room. Renee flinched and a rush of tears filled her eyes. The pain left a searing hot welt on her skin. She sobbed. He hit her again.

Damn you! Stefan snapped. I love you, Renee said softly. No! Stefan hissed. Stop it. I cant. I wont. He whipped her again. And then again. I love you, she cried out through her tears. No. Dont say that! he shouted. I cant go through that again! He hit her once more, a criss-cross of burning lashes against her skin. I love you! Stefan threw the whip aside and slumped against the wall. His breathing was ragged, his chest heaving. There was a mist of tears in his eyes. The room was a blur. He fell against the wall and crumbled to the ground.

Renee rolled onto her side, and lay still, curled into a ball. For a long time both of them wept through the dreadful agonies of their own private pain.

Day Seven. There are many different kinds of masters, with different priorities. A good submissive must learn to adapt to the demands of her own master.

The air was brittle with tension. Stefan tried to ignore it, but he could not deny it existed. It showed in the tightness his

voice, the strained measure in his words, and in the remoteness of his attitude. Not every master is the same; there are no hard and fast rules to the dominant and submissive relationship, Stefan explained. Renee sat back on the sofa with her hands clasped in her lap and listened. She was wearing only a red bra and panties. She had arrived, hoping there would be a training session in the punishment room. She was disappointed the evening appeared instead to be a lecture. In a perfect world the master would always remain detached and in control. In the perfect world the master would always see his slave as his property; as an object that he is responsible for. Slaves

are owned, and as such they should be cared for, Stefan said. However. The world is not a perfect one, and as such, occasionally Masters fail their slaves by losing their temper in moments of passion or anguish or by revealing emotions that are best kept hidden Renee blinked. He was referring to the previous night. In a veiled way he was apologizing. These moments are regrettable, Stefan added. But they happen. The circumstances vary, of course, but they are a warning to both the master and the slave that certain boundaries can only be crossed at great peril. Peril? Renee asked softly. What are the risks?

Apart from physical injury? Yes. Renee could still feel the caning welts on her bottom. The danger is that the master and slave relationship will transcend into something else. Into deeper feelings that make the maintaining of discipline impossible. Youre saying there is a danger of the master and the slave falling in love, she said. And youre saying thats a bad thing because the master might not be able to look at his slave in the same way, and treat her as a slave because he loves her. Right? Right. And what happens in these situations? Renee asked innocently. What happens to relationships where the

master becomes too emotionally involved with his slave? Stefan paused for a long time. I dont know, he said. Its something Ive never experienced and thats what makes it so perilous. Renee gazed at him. She could see the torment in his expression. For the first time she sensed his uncertainty and that gave her another small glimmer of hope. She wasnt totally nave. She could read between the lines. What had happened between them last night had dragged Stefan into uncertain waters. Renee nodded slowly. What are some of the differences between masters? Stefan shrugged. There are many, he said, and then his expression became

serious. Renee, a master sees his slave as his property little different to his car, for example. And as we all know, some men take good care of their vehicles. Others are less considerate. Some masters treat their slaves in the same manner. There are masters who are considerate and caring, and there are others that treat their slaves badly. There are other places in the world where submissives can learn how to be slaves but there are no such training opportunities for those who would wish to be a master. Renee nodded. So I need to be wary of the master I agree to serve? Very. And slaves do have a choice. Just because a master wants you to serve him, that does not mean you must simply

agree. Slaves have an equal say in the agreement. What kind of masters are the best? Stefan sighed. Often it depends on the slave, he said. Some masters will place an emphasis on sex. Most of their training will be centered on using the slave for sexual pleasure. It is the emphasis of their thinking. Other masters are more focused on discipline and obedience. They seek opportunities to punish their slaves because the punishment aspect is the center of their focus. Likewise, some slaves are better for performing household-like tasks, where discipline should be the priority. Other slaves are naturally sexual, and best suited to sexual pleasures. Therefore a master might be

less inclined to enforce strict punishments provided the quality of sexual performance is excellent. How do I tell what kind of slave I am? Renee asked. I know Im not very good in the bedroom. Im sexually. Im not the most worldly she broke off and then tried again, If Im best suited to domestic slavery, does that mean Im going to have to settle for a fat old master who likes restaurant-quality cooking? Stefan almost laughed. Almost. Can you cook? he asked lightly. No. I cant. And Im not a very good cleaner Then you have a problem. Renee sighed. Id rather be a sex slave, she decided. It seems to me that I

would stand a better chance and I dont like the idea of violent punishments. I cant say I like the idea of serving a master who is going to get his pleasure from being abusive either. So I need to learn how to please men sexually. Fast. Not too fast, Stefan held up his hand. Remember, your role in the relationship is to be obedient. That means learning to follow a masters sexual demands. Your emphasis should not be on learning how to become an amazing lover. Your emphasis should be on learning to detach your feelings from your physical body. To sexually please your master, you dont need experience, you need to be willingly obedient. His pleasure will come from using your body for his satisfaction not

because you can swing from a chandelier. Just learn to be totally obedient and totally compliant to his every sexual desire. She shook her head. I Im not sure I follow you, she said slowly. Can you give me an example? Stefan frowned. There was a small bell sounding a dull warning in the far recesses of his mind that he couldnt explain. He shrugged. Stand up. Renee stood, spreading her legs and bowing her head instinctively. Look at me. Renee lifted her eyes to Stefan. His face was set, stern. Undress me. Renee blinked. Now, Stefan snapped. But do not

touch my skin with your hands. If you do, you will be whipped. Renee moved immediately, stepping close to Stefan. First, she peeled his jacket off his shoulders, taking care not to brush his hands with hers as she eased the jacket sleeves free of his arms. Then she stood close in front of him and unfastened the top button of his shirt. Through the fabric she could feel the muscled shape of his broad chest. Her heart was racing. Her mouth felt suddenly dry. This is an example of what I spoke about, Stefan explained as she carefully unfastened two more buttons. The situation is clearly a sexual one. You are removing your masters clothing. And yet

there are conditions you must adhere to. You cannot touch my skin with yours, or else you will be punished. In ways such as this, a master sets challenges and tasks for his slave that fulfill his needs, and yet also come with the threat of punishment for poor performance. Renee nodded. There was no way she could have spoken right then. She was trembling with a delicious excitement she found almost impossible to restrain. A domestic slave might be given the task of cooking a meal to the masters satisfaction, or risk being punished. But in that situation, the punishment is more likely to be severe if the meal is not up to the masters standard. In this situation, because the nature of the task is sexual, I

would be less inclined to punish you too severely, because I still would be planning to use your body for sex afterwards. You would? If I were your master Renee reached the last button of Stefans shirt and stopped suddenly. If you were my master, would you use me for domestic slavery? she asked. No, Stefan said. You would be a sex slave. There was a small strain in his voice that Renee noticed too. But Im not very good in bed, Renee reminded him. No. Youre not very confident in bed, Stefan corrected. And, as I have just explained, sexual skill is not the

measure. Willingness, obedience and compliance are the measures. Renee bit her lip. Stefans shirt was unbuttoned. She delicately, carefully, slid it off him and gave a small, silent gasp as the muscled hardness of his chest and abdomen were revealed. He was tanned, his chest lightly covered with dark whorls of hair. She felt the wicked thrill of her own arousal, like a throbbing pulse low in her belly. She stared into Stefans eyes. They were dark; so incredibly dark and hypnotic. Renee realized she was holding her breath. The trousers, Stefan said thickly. Renee reached with fumbling, anxious, excited fingers for Stefans belt. He stood

perfectly still, staring at her bowed head as she concentrated. He was hard. He felt her hand tugging with the buckle as her fingers brushed across the fabric of his trousers. He closed his eyes. Renee had the belt undone, and was struggling with the button. She wrestled with the fastening, taking painstaking care. Then it was free. Her fingers touched the tab of his zipper, and slowly - so very slowly - she began to unzip Stefans pants. She was too nervous to breathe; too nervous to blink. Her entire focus was concentrated. The zip began to slide down. Renees knuckles grazed across the hardness of Stefan, caressing him through the fabric. She felt the reactive swell of him. She

gave another small gasp as she realized that under his trousers, there was no underwear. She could see skin, and the shadow of dense body hair. Another inch. She was so careful! Her fingers worked as if she were performing surgery. And then suddenly she felt Stefans hand on her shoulder, sliding quickly down, past her throat. She flinched. Stefans hand cupped her breast and forced itself inside the lace of her bra. He felt the stiffness of her nipple and squeezed. The erotic shock was like a jolt of lightning. Renee couldnt help herself. She threw her head back and moaned, feeling the heat of his touch send sparks through

her body. She flinched, instinctively moving to make it easier for him and as she did so her hand on his zipper brushed against the bare skin of Stefans abdomen. Stop! he snapped. He backed away from her. Renee looked up, crestfallen. Devastated. Crushed. No! Renee cried. Thats not fair. No, she pleaded. Stefan stood staring at her. His breathing was ragged. You failed, he said. The matter is closed. You will need to be punished. Renee swallowed hard. She sensed this was the moment; it was the instant where everything hung in the balance. For a splitsecond she was so scared of the consequences she hesitated.

Take the chance! She closed the space between her and Stefan. Punish me then, she said impulsively. I dont care. Her hand went down to Stefans trousers again. She could feel the steel of him. What are you doing? Stefan barked. Get on your knees! She ignored him. Her hand felt inside his trousers and the size of him was a shock to her. Velvet covering steel, he was burning hot to her touch. Stefan wrapped a hand around her throat and slapped her hard across her face. Renees head snapped aside and her eyes filled with tears. Her senses reeled. Her vision misted with tears. So help me, Renee, if you dont obey

me What? Renee sobbed. What will you do, Stefan? Will you beat me again? Will you flog me with the whip until I cant stand up, just like you did last night? You know that was an accident. Stefan growled. And I apologized. I know it was the first time you let your guard down! Renee cried recklessly. So if thats what it takes before you will let me in, then fine, Stefan. Whip me. Beat me until I cry but show me who you really are! Stefan was still incredibly hard in her hand. Renee dropped to her knees before him, and looked up at him with pleading, tear-streaked eyes. Show me, she pleaded. Cross the

line, Stefan. I dont care if you whip me anymore. I just want you to show me your heart. No holding back. Show me how you feel. He reached down and grabbed her arms. He dragged her to her feet and shook her hard. I know what I feel! he shouted. There was a wildness in his eyes that frightened and thrilled her. Then he kissed her fiercely. There was anger and frustration and despair and hurt in the kiss. There was everything he felt. It was all in his lips; in the way his mouth lashed across hers, in the way he held her, and in the way his body remained hungry for her. He ravaged her with the kiss, and Renee swooned,

clinging to him, receiving the raw emotional intensity of it as if he was whipping her mercilessly. Finally, gasping and trembling they broke apart. Stefan gazed at her. I know what I feel he said again slowly. His voice unsteady and his breathing ragged. I just dont understand how you make me feel it. *** Stefan set the drink down at his elbow and stared again down at the page. Slowly he re-read what he had written, knowing that it could never be enough; that it could never be adequate. He wondered why it was so hard to read, and realized his eyes were beginning to well with

tears. My darling Tiffany, This is the last letter Ill write you. I think its time I moved on. I still think about you every day, but Ive met another woman, and she is forcing me to realize that I cant stay hidden in our past any longer. You would like her. She has your courage, and your passion. Tif, Im scared. I dont know what the future holds. For so long I was safe in my misery. I stayed cold and remote to honor your memory and I lost touch with who I was. I shut everyone out of my life for so long I forgot how to feel. Now Renee has

come into my life, and somehow Ive let her in. And it frightens me. I dont want to love again, because I know the pain that comes from loss. But I dont think I can keep her out of my heart. I know I cant. She already has a tiny part of it, and even though I dont understand how it has happened, I know its something Im going to have to face if shell willing to take the chance. Im a different man to the one you loved. The man I am now is a hard, cold shadow but there is something about this new woman that has forced me back into the light, and I dont like what I see. I think I need to start living and loving

again, even though the prospect scares me. I know youll understand Goodbye, Tif. Stefan.

Day Eight. The submissive must learn that to remain at her masters side she must give her body and soul to him.

Stefan wrapped the small box carefully in brown paper and set it on the bar counter. He poured himself a drink and checked the time. He had fifteen minutes.

He rehearsed the scene again in his mind, choosing his words, knowing that he had to get the tone and the meaning right. He was surprised he felt strangely anxious. The doorbell rang, startling him. When Stefan opened the door, a stunningly attractive woman was standing on his doorstep. She was tall, with flowing long dark hair, wearing a tight white dress that hugged the curves of her body with almost obscene clarity. Can I help you? Yes, the woman breathed. Im here to talk to you about the service you offer. Stefan studied the woman carefully. She was in her late twenties, and she was as beautiful as cosmetics, perfume, artificial

tanning and hairdressers could make her. You want to learn to be a submissive? Yes. I want you to teach me. It started to rain. A cloudburst filled the air with a downpour of heavy drops that detonated on the footpath, and drummed on the roof and against the windows. The woman tried to edge herself inside but Stefan stubbornly kept her on the porch. Im sorry, he said. I dont offer that service anymore. You dont? the woman was shocked. Since when? Since now, Stefan said, having to raise his voice above the sound of the boiling storm. Ive decided to change career paths. Im going to write romance

novels instead. The woman looked at him incredulously. Stefan had his hand on her arm, edging her away from the door. Lightning lit the night sky, followed by an ominous rumble of thunder. Stefan peered up into the night sky, and then a sudden flash of color in the corner of his eye made Stefan look away. Standing at his front gate, drenched in the rain, her sundress clinging soaked to her skin, stood Renee. She was staring at the couple in the doorway, her face a mask of shock and bewilderment. She stood there, frozen in place for long seconds and then, before Stefan could react she suddenly turned away and began to run.

Stefan didnt hesitate. He left the woman standing on his porch. He left his door wide open. He ran down the path, and hurdled the fence in pursuit of Renee. She had a start on him. Her shoes were in her hand and she was running barefoot along the footpath. At the end of the street she turned and ran across the road, running blindly in the torrential rain. Renee! Stefan shouted. Another rent of lightning cut a white jagged line through the boiling clouds. The rain teemed down in a solid grey curtain. Wind began to gust through the trees, snapping branches and howling between the houses. Renee! he shouted again. He ran hard. She was running towards

the park. Stefan hurdled a footpath bench and landed heavily. He regained his balance in time to see Renee disappear to the right at the end of the street. Stefan cut through the yard of a neighboring house and leaped over the back fence. Renee was just twenty paces ahead of him now. She veered off the road and disappeared into the darkened grounds of the park. The small park was bordered by trees and shrubs. The wind shrieked through the treetops. Flying debris filled the air. Driving rain stung Stefans face as he ran on. Wicked jags of lightning lit up the sky. Thunder rumbled so close and so loud the ground seemed to tremble. Renee was just ahead of him, swaying and staggering

before the force of the storm. Stefan lunged for her. They fell to the muddy grass in a heavy tumble. Stefan felt Renees elbow drive the wind from his lungs and he grunted painfully. Renee was under him, kicking her legs and flailing her arms. She was screaming something he couldnt understand. He rolled her onto her back and threw himself on top of her, forcing her down into the mud, covering her struggling body with his. Stupid! Renee cried. Im so stupid! Stupid! Using his weight to hold her down, Stefan took her face in his hand. Renee! he shouted. He slapped her. Im so damn stupid! she kept

screaming. Stefan slapped her again, harder this time, and suddenly Renee wasnt shouting anymore. She was sobbing, crying her whole body racked and shuddering under the heart-wrenching agony of her despair. Stefan let her cry. She stopped struggling, overcome now by tears. Stefan rolled off her, but kept a grip around her tiny waist. Her tears fell like the rain, and he knew there was nothing he could do to stop either. So he lay in the mud in the middle of the park while Renees despair, and the howling storm both exhausted themselves. ***

When Renees tears had turned to shuddering, gulping sobs, and when the storm front had begun to snarl further east, Stefan slid his hand up to cup her chin and force her to look at him. Why did you run? Renee shook her head. I have been so stupid! she said. I I became so wrapped up in I got swept awayI thought we Say it, Stefan encouraged. I thought we might that you might and then she bunched her fists and flailed them in the mud angrily. But I was so stupid! Just a silly little girl. You were right, Stefan. I am nave. I do have a head full of stupid, stupid romantic notions! I cant believe how I let myself

Say it, Stefan said again. Renee sighed. Ive fallen in love with you, she said, and I thought that maybe, after the other night, your feelings for me might become something more. I thought maybe you would want me as your slave, and that one day you might love me back. See! Thats how stupid and silly I am! she berated herself. I forgot what you do for a living. I forgot you have an endless parade of beautiful women falling all over you, begging you to touch them and please them. I cant compete with women like that one on your door tonight, Stefan. I cant! And. and after what James did to me I know I just know that the jealousy would tear me apart. I couldnt be your slave knowing all those other

women were spending time with you too. Id be too scared of losing you Stefan sighed. You should not have run, he said. It just happened. You ruined my plans for the evening. Renee huffed. Plans with that woman No, my plans for you. Renee frowned. So why was that woman there? She wanted me to train her to be a submissive. But I told her no. Renee blinked. You told her no? I told her no. Why? she rolled onto her side, facing Stefan, staring into his eyes to read his expression.

I told her Im no longer training women to be submissives, he said. I told her I was choosing a new career path. Why? So you and I might might have a chance, Renee, Stefan said the words he had struggled so hard to say. So that you and I might be able to find out if what I feel for you is enough to build a future on. Renees breath caught in her throat. The words echoed in her head, filling her with a sudden burst of warmth. Really? Really. She flung her arms around him, and Stefan held her close. He kissed her lightly, feeling the shape of her body as

they lay, soaked and shivering in the muddy ground. Renee hugged him like she would never let him go. So what did the woman say? she asked breathlessly. When you told her you wouldnt train her? She was upset, Stefan murmured. She couldnt believe I was going to start a new career. Renee pulled back within the circle of their embrace. And what is this new career, she asked curiously. I told her I was going to write romance novels, Stefan smiled. It seems an appropriate choice. You can be my research assistant. And your slave? And my slave if youre willing?

I am, Renee vowed. I really am.

Day Nine. The submissive commits herself when she accepts a collar. From that moment on they are truly master and slave.

Renee knelt in the living room, and could not stop herself from trembling. She had never been more nervous, or more excited in her entire life. Stefan stood before her, holding a small parcel wrapped in brown paper. His eyes were on her, his expression solemn.

This is for you, he said. Open it. He handed the parcel to Renee. She tore at the wrapping paper to reveal a slim box, about the same shape and thickness as a paperback novel. She lifted the lid to reveal a simple black collar. With reverence, she raised the collar from its tissue paper packaging and held it in her hands. The collar was a centimeter thick, made of black leather. It felt remarkably soft in her hand, not as stiff and inflexible as she thought it might have been. Attached to the collar was a silver ring. It was a simple collar, but to Renee it represented something incredibly significance. By accepting my collar, you are

accepting the terms and conditions of our agreement, Stefan warned. You bind yourself to me as my slave from the moment that collar is buckled around your neck. Do you understand that? Yes, Renee said softly. As my slave, you will be expected to be obedient at all times. Do you accept that? Yes. You will be expected to follow my instructions without question, knowing that my orders are for my pleasure, or for your own good. Do you accept that, Renee? Yes. As my slave you will be used for my sexual pleasure at any time I desire. You will be willing and available, and you

will dress and behave in the manner I demand. Do you accept this also? Yes, master. I accept it all. Very well, Stefan said. He stepped forward and took the collar from Renees hands. Bow your head. Stefan eased the collar around Renees slender neck and fastened the buckle so that it sat loosely around her throat. You are my salve, he said. I take you as my property, and in doing so I give you my pledge to continue your training as a submissive. With the collar around her neck, Renee felt soft tears of joy misting her eyes. Emotions tumbled and boiled up inside her. She was happy, she was relieved, she was excited and she was a little nervous

about what the future with this man might hold. But through it all her sense of satisfaction of feeling this was exactly where she belonged came swelling up through the background noise. She belonged. Right here. With her master. Stand, Stefan said. Renee stood. She spread her legs and bowed her head. Her hands went behind her back automatically, just as she had been trained. Stefan circled behind her; standing so close she could feel the heat of him against her skin. Then his fingers were plucking at the fastenings of her red lace bra. Stefan eased the straps off Renees

shoulders, and pulled the bra down her arms. Her breasts sat free, and Stefan reached around her waist and cupped the weight of one of them in his hand. Renee sucked in a sharp breath, and then gave a small, delicious gasp as she felt his strong fingers squeezing and teasing her nipple. It is the custom for the master and his slave to share their first night as man and woman, Stefan explained. That means we get this night together, before you begin your role as my slave. This is your one chance to be unrestrained so I suggest we make the most of it. Renee turned around to face Stefan. He hooked one of his fingers into the silver ring of her collar. Follow me to the bedroom, he said.

Stefan led Renee to a room that was sparsely furnished. A huge king-size bed dominated the space. It stood in the center of the room, and beside it, on one side, was a small table. There was a lamp on the tabletop. To Renees left was a large floor-to-ceiling window. The curtains were drawn. The room was a reflection of Stefans personality, she decided. Remote. Austere. Functional. There was nothing in the room that didnt serve a purpose. There were no photos, no paintings. No decorations at all. Renee stood in the doorway while Stefan went to the huge bed and turned down the covers. Come here, he said.

Renee padded to the side of the bed and stood nervously. She didnt know what to do. She didnt know what he wanted, or what would happen next. She had no experience like this in her past to draw on. Stefan sensed her uncertainty and smiled. Relax, he said softly. As I said, this night is for us to be a man and a woman. Tomorrow you will be my slave. While she watched, Stefan undressed. First, he peeled off his shirt and tossed it to the floor. His shoes and socks disappeared quickly. Then he deftly unbuckled and stepped free of his trousers. Renee studied him with sensually lowered eyelids, marveling in the hard

toned contours of his broad chest and the flexing muscles of his abdomen. Her eyes drifted lower. He was magnificent, and daunting. Stefan studied her expression with a hint of amusement glittering in his dark eyes. I know you are inexperienced, he said softly. I will be gentle. He guided her hand down to touch him while he stood and watched her expression. Her fingers fluttered lightly, unsure, but he nodded his encouragement. Then her grip became more certain and Stefan sighed. She was exhilarated, and excited. He pulled her closer, pressing her against him, feeling the tips of her breasts graze against his skin. An eruption of molten

desire burst its walls within Renees body, spilling and flowing through her legs until she was sure she would collapse. Stefans hands moved to her shoulders and then slid down her arms, stroking her skin with a gentle rhythm. It was as if she were a nervous kitten that needed soothing. The sparks of his touch only served to fuel her desire until every inch of her body seemed alive with electric anticipation. Then his hand was edging between them, down her body, skimming over her flanks and then moving towards her center. She could feel the flex of his fingers creeping closer to her panties and she held her breath. Then his fingers

paused and Renee was forced to wait, her body trembling with exquisite anticipation while the seconds dragged out, taunting her beyond reason. Finally, she felt his touch slide beneath the elastic of her red panties and she sucked in a deep breath, flattening her abdomen, encouraging him to reach further. Lay on the bed, Stefan said in a low voice. The corner of his mouth flirted with a smile as he gazed into her eyes. Renee crawled onto the bed and rolled onto her back. Her hair fanned out around her head, long blonde tendrils over the pillow. Stefan took a moment to admire the writhing lithe shape of her. She threw one arm over her head and her perfect

breasts swelled and moved, as if in invitation to his mouth. Panties, he said. Renee hooked the thumb of her other hand inside the band of the lingerie and tugged them down. When they reached her knees, Stefan eased himself onto the bed beside her and removed them with a flick of his fingers. I am your master, Stefan said, and there was a dangerous aspect in the way his eyes glinted hungrily. Now, give yourself to me completely. He covered her with his body and Renees legs fell open in invitation, welcoming the weight of him, reveling in the sensory overload as their bodies pressed together and she felt the fullness

of him filling her. She cried out in shock, and then her mouth fell open in a wordless, breathless gasp of pleasure as Stefan moved with slow, deliberate, expert thrusts. It couldnt last for long; it was just too intense, too erotic, and so long anticipated. Their hunger for each others body was like an insatiable, unquenchable frenzy. Quickly Stefans pace increased, his thrusts seeming deeper, seeming to fill her more completely, until Renees body arched underneath him as she cried out shattered by an intense orgasm. She clung to Stefan, her arms wrapped around the broad of his back as she felt herself being swept away again by an aftershock. She

felt her body racked with spasms that she had no control over. She was helpless beneath him as he covered her mouth with sizzling breathless kisses. Renee felt his tongue driving between her lips. She dragged her hands up the width of his back until they were laced together behind his neck, holding his head as they kissed desperately. I love you, she gasped. I love you, master. As if triggered by her words, Stefan lost all control. His whole body tensed. The muscles in his arms went taut. Renee felt his chest expand. His body was like a mighty bow, drawn and held on the verge of release. And then with a powerful rush, Stefan

exploded. Renee rode the wave of his release with him, writhing and twisting as he lost all control. When the moment passed they lay together, exhausted, but still aroused. Stefans hands roamed lightly up and down Renees body and she shuddered as his fingers found erotic places she did not know existed. We have about nine hours left until sunrise, Stefan said lazily, so perhaps you should sleep for an hour. I have a feeling you are going to be kept awake through most of the night. Renee giggled. Then Stefans fingers found a particularly pleasurable spot and the sound of her voice changed to

something altogether sexier. Im not tired, she purred sexily. Stefan smiled. Very well, he murmured, bending to kiss her throat around where the collar lay against her skin. But you should be warned tomorrow morning you start advanced training. and its going to be a very long day.

Bonus Material: Whenever Hollywood releases a new film its normal for the stars to do a wide range of interviews. I thought it would be fun to send an interviewer to talk to Stefan and Renee. This interview took place two weeks

after the story concluded:

Interviewer: Welcome to both of you. I want to dive right in here and ask the first question to you, Stefan. On the first day of Her Masters Kiss, your tone with Renee seemed very formal. Was there any glimmer of attraction for you at that early stage? Stefan: Of course there was! You have to remember that I had trained quite a number of women in the art of submission. When Renee came to me she was just another pretty face, and beautiful body. But, of course, there was a physical attraction. Its just at the early stages of our story I was able to ignore the

attraction and focus on her training.

Interviewer: We saw in the scene where you were teaching Renee the two positions of submission that the attraction between you two really began to smoulder. It was the first time you had a strong physical response. Do you recall what you were feeling at the time? Stefan: I remember the moment exactly. At the time I was struggling to contain my physical desire for her, but seeing her willingness to obey was what I found most arousing. Interviewer: And that was the night of The Kiss.

Stefan: Yes. Yes it was. After Renee had done so well to follow my instructions, I quite suddenly decided that she should be rewarded. It wasnt something I had planned. The evenings session was supposed to end with Renee understanding her submissive positions. Then I asked her to touch herself for me while I watched. And then well yes then came The Kiss. Interviewer: Renee, that was a pretty emotional evening for you too, wasnt it. We read in the story how aroused you are at that point, with Stefan showing you the positions. What were you thinking at the time?

Renee: It was a really intense scene. I was already very, very attracted to Stefan, well before that session at his home. For me it was as much an emotional realization, as it was a physical reaction. And when Stefan was standing over me, demonstrating how a master would use my body in each of the positions, I just kind of started responding. My body just reacted, I guess. Interviewer: episode?
And the touching

Renee: Oh, my God! That was nervewracking. Id never, ever done anything like that before! You know, there was a split-second where I even thought about

saying no but I was just so aroused at that point, and there was something about Stefans manner I remember it was like it wasnt any big deal. He didnt make it seem like a major moment, but rather the culmination of what we had already been doing. So I didnt react with the sort of jolt I might have. I felt a little bit like I was in a strong current being pulled downstream so I just went with the flow.

Interviewer: and The Kiss? How was that moment for you? Did it change everything in your relationship? Renee: Absolutely! The Kiss was the most erotic, sensual, emotional moment of

my life. For me it was about a connection. It was the first time I felt that Stefan had let down some of his barriers. Up until that moment there was always something guarded something he was holding back. After The Kiss, I felt our relationship was very, very different.

Interviewer? Stefan? What about you? Stefan: It wasnt the first time I had thought about kissing Renee. I had thought about it on a couple of occasions on earlier training evenings. But at those times it was more of a curiosity and something I was able to dismiss. But on Day Four. Well I guess it was a combination of things. It was just a very

erotic, sensual moment and suddenly I couldnt maintain my self-control any longer.

Interviewer: Any regrets? Stefan: About what? About kissing Renee? Interviewer: Yes. Stefan: Well, initially I actually did have regrets. I remember wondering, after she had left that night, whether I had made a big mistake. I remember sitting in the dark listening to the clock, and trying to understand exactly what had made me kiss her in that way what it was about her that had affected me so. I think I was

already starting to feel some emotional connection with Renee, but I dont think I really understood the reasons. Everything was very intense.

Interviewer: Jumping ahead from that, we come to Day Seven. That was the moment where you realized you had genuine feelings for Renee, and it follows the Second Kiss. Do you remember that? Stefan: How could I forget? Interviewer: It was certainly an intense moment in the story but I wanted to ask you about the events later that evening. After Renee had left for the night you sat down and wrote a very touching letter to your dead wife Tiffany. How hard was

that for you to do?

Stefan: Writing that letter was perhaps the most grueling aspect of our whole story. Truly, when I sat down, I still didnt understand what it was about Renee that made me feel so strongly for her. All I knew was that I couldnt move forward with Renee unless I made peace with my past. Tif was everything to me during our marriage, and I kept her spirit alive as best I could in the years afterwards. When I sat down and wrote that letter, I just couldnt find the right words to say everything I was feeling maybe because I didnt understand the feelings. It took me a long time to get those words on paper, and even now, Im not sure I managed to

capture everything I was thinking and feeling. When I re-read the letter now it feels clumsy and awkward. My only consolation is that, despite everything else it was heartfelt.

Interviewer: Renee, I think everyone would agree the whipping Stefan gave you that evening, and the way you confessed your love for him through it all, was a highlight of the story. What do you remember about that moment? Renee: It was probably the biggest moment of the story for me. I had been through a lot in the few days leading up to that night, especially the shock of discovering everything about James. I

know I felt lost really lost. I had nothing in my life I could cling to except for my desire to learn submission. Added to that was this undeniable physical attraction I had for Stefan by that time and my deepening feelings for him. I know I pushed him too hard that night, and for a moment, when he picked up the whip in the punishment room, I really was frightened. But I also knew it was probably my one chance to show him that I was committed, and that my feelings for him were real. No whip was going to change that.

Interviewer: Do you wish you could have found another way maybe? A way that didnt hurt so much?

Renee: That would have been nice.! But seriously, I dont think sending Stefan an I love You card was going to make any difference. I had to seize the one opportunity I had where he wasnt himself; where he wasnt in full control of his feelings and his actions. I knew that it was my only way of really getting through to him. In fact, I guess it was all my doing. I mean I deliberately made him angry by defying him. I just had to hope his feelings for me would show through the anger but Im glad it happened after just a few lashes of the whip, and not a few hours! My bottom really was sore for days after that session.

Interviewer: Throughout Her Masters Kiss, Renee, you certainly showed on many occasions you have a lot of will and determination. Every time Stefan put an obstacle in your way, and every time you were knocked down, you managed to get back up and maintain your desire. Did that surprise you, looking back on the events in the story? Renee: Not at the time. At the time I was so completely immersed in my situation. I really was lost. I felt I had nothing in my life to cling to apart from Stefan and our training sessions. Its not in my nature to be so strong-willed. I dont know I guess I just sensed how terribly important this was. I knew somehow it

was all worth fighting for.

Interviewer: Okay, so here we are a few weeks down the track. How has the relationship between you both changed? Renee: Well, I think were going fine. I have to say that living with Stefan as his submissive isnt anywhere near as daunting as I thought it might have been. Hes strict, hes fair but hes also loving in the way he treats me. Interviewer: Stefan? Is that true? Are you loving? Stefan: I wouldnt exactly say that! Lets just say that I spent a long time being a master, but a lot of that was a self-

defense mechanism; I did it to protect myself. I know that now. So in my relationship with Renee, we still have a master-submissive understanding, but I also see that slowly evolving. I would like to think that as time goes on, our relationship may be less about BDSM, and more about simply two people who care about each other.

Interviewer: And the future? I understand Vivien Sparx has plans to write a sequel to your story. What can you tell everyone about that? Renee: We do believe there is a sequel being planned. Its not something weve thought about too much at this stage, but I

do believe there is a lot more of our story to come.

Interviewer: And the title of the next story? Has anything been said about that? Stefan: Look, Vivien Sparx has a reputation for writing great stories with a lot of imagination. But while she might be good with words and descriptions, shes not highly imaginative when it comes to her story titles. If I had to guess, Id say the next story will be called Her Masters Kiss 2 Interviewer: Well I know there will be plenty of readers looking forward to following your life together. Thanks for your time, and good luck in the sequel.

Table of Contents
Copyright Dedication Day One. Day Two. Day Three. Day Four. Day Five. Day Six. Day Seven. Day Eight. Day Nine.