My fingers still move on Lachlan as I hold his chin in the locked attic, the silk already in place against his skin. The order to remain silent waits between us, and I feel him ready to obey without question.
The leather portfolio waits downstairs beside the solicitor. Discovery would hand the estate to my cousin and strip away the authority I have built my life upon. Yet the harness and the plug rest on the desk like a promise I cannot ignore.
One word and he will carry my control through the meeting, hidden and perfect. The fear of ruin should end this. Instead I open my mouth to give the command.
