Mahiro became a professional figure skater for one reason -- the object of his lust from the time he was a teenager, Alex Breschi. But he never advanced far enough for Alex to notice him. Now Alex is retired from skating and working as a thriller author, while Mahiro gracefully bowed out of competition to become a successful app developer and professional Dom in New York City.<br><br>Reality and fantasy collide at a penthouse play party when Mahiro meets his idol. Alex is researching a book, and he wants to learn more about the lifestyle. In fact, he wants to be trained as a submissive. By Mahiro.<br><br>Mahiro knows it's a terrible idea. He's hardly objective, and Alex is a novice. Still, all those years of longing shatter his reserve, and he cannot refuse to have the man of his dreams in his hands.  He's going to make sure Alex notices him now. It's only a business arrangement, and since Alex is returning to Russia in a few months, Mahiro can have some fun without divulging his past ... or his obsession. What does he have to lose?

Florentine

“I would like to try the same things we tried last time,” Mahiro says and cups Alex’s chin. “I’ll give you a little extra help this time, but I still owe you a reward, you know.” Mahiro slides his hand over his stomach and hooks a thumb in his waistband, and Alex wonders if he’s thinking about the heat of Alex’s mouth on him. Alex glances up and realizes the tiny gold barbells he usually wears in his piercings have been replaced by gold loops, and Alex’s mouth waters.


“If I do well today,” he says, struck with inspiration, “may I touch those, too?”


Mahiro’s eyes flare with heat. “You may,” he says. “I’d like that very much.”


Alex smiles in smug satisfaction. It’s almost a guarantee, then. Mahiro crouches down until he’s level with Alex’s eyes, and Alex blinks confusion.


“But I expect you to listen and to obey me,” Mahiro says seriously. “Part of that obedience is to use your safeword if you need to. Is that clear?”


Chapter 28