Tonight he would take it to the next level, the next step that meant there was no turning back. We had danced the dance, the rituals of mating, the te...sing, the flirting, and the sensual touching that had fueled the fire of our passion. He sees me, but we say nothing for our eyes say it all. I take his hand and lead him upstairs. Moments later we stand in the bedroom in front of the dresser with the mirror hanging above it both naked, flesh against flesh, with me standing in front of him. I. She would have done the same for mine if she had been given the time. As it was… This would have been our first party as a couple. I had been looking forward to it and expected that we would have to choose her place or mine for after the party. Now I was alone, hot, bothered and unable to participate. I had a thought. If I went to the kitchen perhaps I would find some scissors or a knife to cut the veil away from my cowl. Then at least I could have a drink. I eased my way through the crowd.. Now Clint was going to be one of Sean’s coaches. It was maddening. Clint had managed to worm his way into her life and her surroundings, yet he still hadn’t even offered or hinted at anything more. Katherine cringed as she heard Clint slam a drawer on his desk for the eighth time. He was really starting to drive her insane. His deep voice pleaded, ‘Please tell me you know where I put the updated plans from today’s meeting.’ She wasn’t purposely ignoring him, she was trying to think of where. Her stomach was heaving from the pain."In the future you will address me as Master. You will remain kneeling, seated on your feet in my presence. You will place your hands behind the back of your neck and wait for my orders," he emphasized his words torturing her with their meaning."I am going to brand you tonight. Then, when you are carrying my mark, I'll take you and you'll finally be mine, at last! What do you think about that?" He pulled her lower lip as hard as he could making it.