Punishment

Three months passed, and Mason and his mother spoke every month on video chat. Despite the physical distance between them, their relationship flourished. He and his mother would chat, sharing stories and updates on their lives. His mother smiled with pride when she heard how her son was handling his position as managing partner at the law firm. Mason had already brought in several high-profile clients, and the firm was starting to gain national recognition as one of the most prestigious legal practices in the country.

Everyone was doing well, some more than others.

Thea sat on her desk, eyes closed and breathing heavily as Mason’s hips moved rhythmically back and forth between her legs. She felt her body flush with heat and pleasure as he kissed the curve of her neck. His cologne mixed with the musky scent of their lovemaking, intensifying the moment. Thea’s muscles tightened, pulling Mason closer to her as the sensations around them heightened. Mason let out a low growl before a moan escaped his lips. As they reached the peak of their pleasure, a soft chuckle left them both as he pulled away and disposed of the condom in the nearby wastebasket.

Thea cheeks were flushed. She grabbed her bra from the floor and pulled it up to cover her chest, fastening the hooks with trembling fingers. “It’s not that I don’t love this,” she said, taking a deep breath. “But maybe we should be more professional with how we interact now that you’re managing partner.”

Mason grabbed his dress pants and boxers, slowly pulling them up to his waist. He ran his fingers through his hair and then buckled his belt. “Why do you think we lock the door and stay quiet?” He stepped closer to her, and she felt her heart rate accelerate. His lips curled into a teasing smile as he said, “Well, some of us stay quiet.”

Thea’s fingers fumbled with the buttons on her blouse, finally grasping them and pressing them into the fabric. She glanced up, nervously biting her lower lip. “I know, sorry. I couldn’t help it,” she said with a sheepish smile.

Mason pulled one of the shirt sleeves on and stopped, his hand hovering at the cuff. His eyes had a teasing glint when he said, “Don’t ever apologize for your steamy squeals.” He smiled that small, secret smile she had grown to love and lightly shook his head as he bit his lip. His gaze held steadily on her, and he said with conviction, “It makes it that much better.”

“Mmm,” she exhaled, her mouth parting in delight as she picked up the pink silicone vibrator Mason had bought. She stuffed it into her desk drawer, cringing at the sight of the overflowing mess of sex toys already inside. With a firm push, she forced the drawer shut, despite its bulky contents. She glanced up at Mason with a playful smirk. “At this rate, we’re going to have to make a playroom here at the office!” she joked.

“Now, that’s a great idea,” Mason’s lips curled into a slow, knowing grin as he leaned on the desk, bringing his face close to Thea. His hands rested on either side of her, trapping and dominating her with just his presence. His voice was low and persuasive. “Go out on a date with me tonight,” Mason said with his signature mischievous smirk lingering on his lips.

“You’ve never asked me on a date,” Thea said.

“That can’t be true.” Mason opened his mouth in disbelief, and his brow furrowed as he searched his memories for an example to refute her statement.

“Nope,” Thea shook her head and responded. “We’ve been to random parties, galas, and charity balls, but we have yet to go on an actual date.”

His eyes changed from twinkling to solemn, and he pursed his lips. Regret spread across his face as he looked at Thea, realizing he’d never taken her out for a romantic evening. “Thea,” he said softly, “I’m so sorry.”

Thea placed a comforting hand on Mason’s arm and smiled softly. “Mason, it’s alright. We didn’t really take the conventional route to dating,” Her words hung between them, a plea for him to believe her.

He clenched his jaw, and his voice hardened. “That’s no excuse. I rectify that tonight.” His gaze was intense as his voice returned to a low, seductive tone. He leaned into her, his breath feathering across her face. “What do you think my punishment should be?”

Thea’s eyes lit up, and the corners of her mouth turned into a mischievous grin. “Oh, I have a few ideas,” she said with a wink.

His eyes widened in pure wonder, and his mouth formed into a smile. “You do?” he said, his voice rising with excitement. “I don’t think I’ve ever been more thrilled to hear the word ‘Sunflower’ than I am right now.” He leaned in and kissed her, pulling her tight against his body.

Ringgggg. Ringggggg. The shrill ringing of a cell phone echoed in the room and broke their intimate moment.

Mason sighed heavily and reached for his pocket, fingers wrapping around the familiar shape of his cell phone. “We’re not done with this conversation,” He leaned in to give Thea a kiss that sent tingles through his whole body before finally answering the call, voice taking a sharp edge as he asked, “What, Kim? I told you not to interrupt me during these meetings.” His expression shifted from annoyance to shock at the news he received, “She is? I’m on my way.” His gaze snapped back to Thea, and he gestured for her to follow. “Come with me.”