My indoctrination had been expected, known since the time I was a small boy. That's why moving to America had been somewhat of a surprise, yet an opportunity that my father had never taken for granted or without caution.
There were many in Russia who would gladly eliminate the competition to take his place.
He'd been entrusted to handle a solid portion of the East coast.
Even though I'd earned my place in the ranks of the Petrov regime with my own tactics, I'd never forgotten anything my father had taught me. Although loyalty was earned, men vying for the honor of making it up the food chain, they could often be bought.
Greed was an influential tool, even more than power.
What lengths would Peter Church go to?
I placed the gun in my desk drawer, realizing I'd soon need rest, even for a couple of hours. While I had the feeling Willow finally understood her predicament, I would reinforce my way, just as I'd promised. That would enable us to discuss plans. Her cooperation was vital, even though I had my doubts about Peter Church's love for his sister.
Something was very off about the relationship. Coercing her into becoming an assassin? Not sharing any portion of his business in any manner? No. I didn't buy their connection on any level.
I took the stairs two at a time, leading down to a locked door, the basement transformed during the building process. This was my only truly private space, a location that was secure from any concept of unwanted ears, soundproof if Bratva business was absolutely necessary.
It was also my playroom, one almost never used for encouraging the sounds of pleasure. That had ended years before.
I unlocked the door, moving inside and instantly enjoying the view.
Hearing the noise, she jerked around to face me, her hands clinging to the metal bars. She hissed, her body moving in a violent manner as she glared at me.
"What the hell is wrong with you? A cage? You locked me in a goddamn dog cage." Her anger was evident, her eyes flashing.
I moved closer, taking my time. "I was very direct with you, Willow. I told you that punishment would be swift and harsh. You earn privileges. You are not entitled to them. Now, I suggest you remain silent while I explain how things are going to be." I stood with my hands behind my back, waiting as patiently as possible for her to obey.
Finally, she slunk back, still on all fours, still full of venom and ready to strike at a moment's notice. And I knew she wouldn't hesitate.
I walked around the cage in a complete circle, allowing her to hear my footsteps. "Excellent. You can learn when to keep your mouth shut."
Bristling, she snarled but didn't allow herself to retort.
"Good girl." I eased back where she could see me clearly. "I also made a promise to keep you safe, but I can't do that unless I can place a certain amount of trust in you. Can I do that, Willow? Can I trust you enough to simply enjoy my hospitality?"
She sat back, studying me intently.
"You may speak."
"Yes." Said with such disgust.
"I think 'yes, sir' will do." I took another turn around the cage.
Willow chewed on her inner cheek, blinking several times. "Fine. Yes. Sir."
"Wonderful. We are communicating much better. I have no intention of keeping you in this cage unless you disobey me again. You have your own room and bathroom in my house, my sanctuary. You can have access to almost every room, including the kitchen. My office and the locked room upstairs are the only two locations off limits. There is no exception for any reason." I allowed the edge of my ring to ping against the bars as I walked back to the front. She didn't flinch.
"All right. I mean yes, sir."
"You are learning, which will keep you alive. However, I am going to need to punish you for your infractions." I crouched down in front of her, scanning every inch of her lovely face. She hadn't cried, as I would have expected, and she wasn't now. In fact, she was rock solid, other than being pissed off. She'd been taught what to expect if ever compromised.
She sucked in her breath, only nodding her reply.
I grabbed the keys, jingling them before sliding the correct one into the lock and opening the door. Holding out my hand, I helped her climb out, pulling her close for a brief few seconds. The feel of her in my arms was enticing, but I needed to make certain that she accepted my control. "That's much better."
After folding her arms, she stared at me defiantly. So rebellious.
So exciting.
My cock ached even more than it had before, desire building. The woman had no idea what effect she had on me. She was strong and vibrant, a dangerous combination. "Remove your clothes."
She instantly opened her mouth to retort, furrowing her brow as she glanced around the room. I noticed the nervous tic in the corner of her mouth as she studied the various apparatuses.
"I enjoy darker proclivities from time to time." I could see a single glint in her eyes. Not from fear or anxiety.
Excitement.
Maybe she did desire a dominating man, a darker relationship. My cock twitched again, pushing hard against my jeans. Punishment first before any kind of pleasure.
"Undress. If I have to ask you again, you're going to lose your right to wear clothes as well. I suspect that wouldn't make you happy."
I could almost hear the curse words flowing through her mind. Instead of turning away from me while performing the task as she'd done in my office, she kept her eyes pinned on me, a slight smile curled on her lips as she slowly removed her clothing. I found that highly provocative, perhaps more so than taking her for the first time.
Although that had been sweet indeed.
"Place your arms over your head," I directed before moving toward the ornate mahogany cabinet holding my favorite implements, at least the ones strictly used for play. I couldn't remember the last time I'd peered inside, let alone used one for discipline. I was honestly surprised at my body's reaction, the increasing pulse and skyrocketing blood pressure.
I knew she would obey me at this point, but I also knew she was playing me. As if she would be able to garner any control. It would be fun to see her try. I took a deep whiff as I opened the double doors, appreciating both the scents of old wood and leather. There was nothing better.