The Braille Club Undone (The Braille Club #3) (5 page)

The Braille Club Undone

The Braille Club, London. Two Years On. Pandora Zone
.
Siena is enveloped in the intoxicating scent; it momentarily distracts her senses. Gliding into the zone, she feels her chair rotate. She breathes in and concentrates, listening intensely—is she alone? She hears the click of the door and the hum of another chair, is it Benedict? With this new zone comes...the unknown.

Benedict

Benedict kissed the top of his daughter’s head as he gazed at his wife. He still couldn’t believe they were married. His fingers touched the braille inscription on his wedding band, ‘o
nly your touch leaves a memory’
. He shivered as thoughts of her touch entered his mind. She was all he would ever want. He had gone from living on his own to living with three other people, well, five if you counted Siena’s parents. They were here so often Benedict accepted them as part of his daily life. He had gone from happy in his own company to no privacy whatsoever. Did he miss his previous life? No. He had to admit he enjoyed the peace and quiet when his children were asleep; what new parent didn’t? Equally, he loved it when his children were awake. They only had one mode—full on. He’d based himself at home for the foreseeable future. ‘Knox’, as Siena called the house, was a very pleasant environment to work from.

CCTV feeds from Harrison’s allowed him covert access to his club. Guy filled in the rest of the blanks. He had his full office set up at home the only thing missing was Trish, his secretary. She was still based at his main office, BH Architects. He relied on her to keep everything running smoothly. She still answered all his calls and diverted them to his home. The system was working well, but he knew Guy was feeling the strain. He was aware that running both clubs simultaneously was too much and started the process to find an additional manager. He was due to speak with Guy later today to share the good news.

“Coffee?” Siena asked.

He nodded. His love for her consumed him. Their wedding day had been overshadowed by Matt’s injuries. The shocking aftermath of Niven’s abduction had left its mark. She unwittingly brought danger to all their lives but Benedict didn’t hold her responsible; she was a victim herself. He had been saddened to learn from Matt they were no longer dating. Another casualty, Benedict suspected. His friend’s recovery had been slow.

Before the attack, he had offered Matt the job of Senior Architect with his firm. Now, due to his injuries, he’d been forced to promote within his company and bring in new staff until Matt was well enough to take over. On his last visit to see Matt, he told him his offer still stood. However, Benedict was worried about his friend’s state of mind. Matt seemed very depressed. Benedict had hoped the job offer would cheer Matt up, but he insisted Benedict give it to someone else.

“No, Matt. The best man for the job is you.”

“I don’t know when I’ll be fit enough,” said Matt bleakly.

“Come on, I’m taking you to lunch,” said Benedict briskly.

Lunch had been arranged at his office. Matt’s face had blanched when he realised where he was going and he tried to argue against it but Benedict’s mind was made up. Once in the office Matt had almost clung to him but gradually, little by little, he had relaxed. Of course, it was a working lunch. Benedict showed him one design after the other. Matt had pushed them away at first but then his natural curiosity got the better of him. Soon he was asking questions, which Benedict happily answered. Work would be Matt’s cure. Benedict was sure of it. He was picking Matt up today and they would be repeating the format, Matt just didn’t know it yet. He thought he was meeting Siena and the twins. Benedict had it all planned. Siena would call and pretend some emergency had cropped up, leaving Benedict with no choice but to return to work and take Matt with him.

“What time are you meeting Matt?” said Siena distractedly, trying and failing to get Leo’s shoes on as he squirmed in protest.

“11.00am. Leo, do you want to play with the ball?”

Leo stopped squirming and looked excitingly at this father. “Yes,” he clapped.

“Let mummy put your shoes on and you can,” said Benedict.

Amazingly, Leo did just that.

“How is it the twins do anything
you
ask and nothing I ask?” she huffed.

“It’s called enticement.” Benedict smiled slowly at his wife. She wore pyjama shorts and a strappy top and she looked sexy as hell.

Their door buzzed. “Hold that thought,” said Siena, returning his smile. Benedict held Reeva’s hand while Siena chased Leo down the hall. Together they pulled their coats on. Benedict opened the door to a smiling Lizzie.

“Okay, let’s get this show on the road,” she said, taking a squirming Leo and strapping him into the buggy while Siena strapped in Reeva.

“We’ll be back in a couple of hours,” said Lizzie, smiling.

“Are you sure you want to walk?” said Benedict doubtfully. “It’s no problem to give you a lift.”

“We’re fine,” assured Lizzie. “The fresh air is good for the twins and the walk is good for my waistline,” said Lizzie laughing. “I can’t seem to resist biscuits.”

With a wave, she turned the buggy and headed down the long driveway. Benedict closed the door but would rather have given them a lift and was thinking of getting the car when Siena kissed him. Their kiss deepened quickly, their need for each other urgent.

“I want you inside me,” she whispered.

Two minutes later, he had his wife just where he wanted her. Siena’s moans made him thrust harder and she climaxed quickly. He let himself go and lost himself in the exquisite feel of release. Their lovemaking was fast and passionate. Siena rolled away; he could see her mind was already focused on her next task. However, Benedict liked to watch her. Her hair was a tangled mess, the curls wild as they cascaded down her shoulders. Her nipples were still hard from his mouth, and as she disappeared into the bathroom, he got a good look at her gorgeous derriere. He still had his shirt and tie on and his trousers lay in a rumbled heap on the floor. He hardened, imagining her body wet and slippery in the shower. Siena stepped back into the bedroom, distracted, obviously looking for something.

“Are you looking for this?” He held up the hair band.

“Oh, yes. Hey.” With one tug he’d pulled her on top of him. His lips closed around the nipple he’d been admiring and sucked.

“Benedict, no...I’ve got...mmmm.”

His fingers slipped between her legs.

“Ben...” Siena gasped. He kissed her hard and her body succumbed. This time their lovemaking was slower, more intense, and when his release came it was powerful. Benedict held Siena tightly. He never wanted to let her go until he felt her elbows in his ribs.

“Hey,” he yelped.

“Don’t be late for Matt,” said Siena, her expression serious.

“You’re right,” Benedict groaned, releasing his hold and sitting up.

“Plus, it’s the only way I’m ever going to get dressed this morning,” said Siena. “Although...” Her gaze swept his body. “Half naked does suit you,” she sighed, running her fingers down his shirt.

Benedict grabbed her hand. “I won’t be responsible for my actions if you tease me.”

“You’re no fun,” Siena pouted but sat and swung her legs out of the bed.

Benedict was disappointed, he always wanted more. Siena was like a drug to him. Her essence providing the high he was now experiencing. He checked his watch, frowned and started to pull off his tie. She had her back to him as he entered the en-suite and gasped when he pulled the shower door open and joined her.

He’d made it to Matt’s with seconds to spare. Leaving Siena was always a wrench, but this was important. Matt was waiting by the window, his face anxious. Benedict parked the car and hurried up the path that Matt was slowly walking down. It was still a shock when he saw him. His weight loss had aged him, as had his injuries. Benedict resisted the temptation to help Matt. He knew he hated it. Finally, they were in the car.

“Where’s Siena and the twins?” asked Matt, puzzled.

“Siena’s meeting us there, Matt. It’s easier that way.”

“Oh,” said Matt. His face fell in disappointment.

Right on schedule, Benedict’s phone rang and as Siena’s voice filled the car, Benedict’s plan kicked into action.

“Okay, I’ll go into the office,” said Benedict, sighing for effect.

“Give me a ring when you’re free and I’ll meet you,” said Siena.

He looked at Matt and saw his face brighten a little.

“Matt, do you mind? It’s only for a few minutes.”

Matt shrugged. “If it’s okay with Siena?”

She played along beautifully, saying not to worry, just to call her when they were ready.

The Braille Club Undone

The Braille Club, London. Two Years On. Pandora Zone
.
Siena listens as the chair stops and rotates. Then both of the chairs move simultaneously. There is a shock of warmth as their bodies connect. Her mind is assessing what she feels. The frame is larger than hers and more muscular. The flesh is taunt and hard—is it him?  She must decide soon, her fingers hover over the button as she hones her four remaining senses.

Siena

Siena sat drying her hair. Happiness bubbled up inside of her. She was late, but she didn’t care. He was worth it. She was meeting Niven for coffee but she should still make it. Knox, the name she had selected for her home, was finally finished and everything she’d dreamt of. It came complete with a swimming pool, gym and hot tub. Niven’s attack had been shocking, but in some ways helped Siena conquer her own demons; it empowered her. She stopped being a victim, fought back, and won. Twice now, her life and that of her children had been put in danger but that was behind her. She thought of Nick, of course, what victim didn’t think of their attacker? Although he was in prison, he still frightened her. Bravely she murmured, “he can’t hurt you now,” repeatedly. She told herself this frequently although a feeling of uneasiness persisted.

Her finger caressed her wedding band, a habit now. The words thrilled her. She hadn’t thought it possible to love Benedict more than she already did, but somehow her love for him had deepened. Pulling her damp hair into a messy top knot she glanced in the mirror. God, she looked like the cat that got the cream. She was slightly tender from this morning but it was a lovely reminder of their passionate time together. Since moving into the house their sex life had gone off the scale and she was just as surprised as Benedict. Perhaps the combination of the zone sessions and their date nights kept them hooked.

Twenty minutes later she was sitting with Niven. Their relationship had survived and strengthened but she could see straight away her friend was upset.

“I’ve just come from my lawyer’s,” said Niven shakily. The trial date has been set.” Niven’s eyes welled with tears.

Siena took her hand. “The worst is over, Niven. Toby can’t hurt you anymore.”

“I’m scared,” she whispered. Her beautiful eyes were haunted. Siena pulled her into a hug.

“You’re strong, Niven. I’m not saying it will be easy but you must stay positive. What did your lawyer say?”

“Anna is wonderful,” said Niven, smiling. “She and Guy are an item.”

“She’s dating Guy?” said Siena incredulously. This was news to her. She liked Guy. If she hadn’t been with Benedict, she would have been attracted to him. He gave off a sexy undertone she doubted he was even aware of.

“What’s she like?” asked Siena curiously.

“She’s left nothing to chance. I feel I’m as prepared as I can be going into the trial.”

“Good, I meant what does she look like?”

“Gorgeous,” said Niven simply.

“Guy never mentions her,” said Siena puzzled.

Niven shrugged. “Guy’s not exactly the chatty type,” she giggled.

Siena smiled. “You’re right. I wonder what they talk about.”

Niven’s face fell as she nervously stirred her latte. “How’s Matt?” she asked quietly.

She looked so sad, thought Siena. “He’s in the office with Benedict. They’re having a working lunch.” Siena left out the part of how they had tricked him into going there.

Niven’s eyes lit up. “That’s fantastic. He’s better then?”

Siena shook her head. “Just the same; it’s too early to tell at the moment.”

“I miss him so much,” said Niven miserably.

“Don’t give up on him,” said Siena, unsure why she was saying it. She didn’t want to raise Niven’s hopes unnecessarily.

“We’ve not seen each other for weeks now,” said Niven bluntly. “What am I supposed to do?”

Siena didn’t have any answers. “Wait,” she said lamely.

“He blames me,” said Niven dully. “I can see it in his eyes.”

“No,” said Siena soothingly. “Niven, I took a long time to understand everything that happened in my life was not completely my fault. Nick was a time bomb waiting to explode. I think Toby was the same. You didn’t do anything wrong. Matt doesn’t blame you, I promise. It’s just he’s...”

“What?” said Niven anxiously.

“Depressed.”

There was a silence. “I know. I tried, Siena. I really tried but he didn’t want me,” said Niven dejectedly. “At first he was fine and then as the weeks went on he kept pushing me away. I thought giving him some space would help but...” A sob escaped Niven. “He doesn’t want me.”

“Give him time,” said Siena. “I don’t think Matt is really here with us at the moment. After my attack I didn’t have the time to dwell on things with the twins but for Matt it’s different.”

“What about me?” said Niven bitterly. “I’ve been so low myself. I’ve struggled to come to terms with everything...” Niven’s chest heaved. “Does Matt ever think about what I went through? He’s not the only one involved here. I thought we would get through it together.”

“I know,” said Siena hopelessly. “I know.”

“All this time he never asked,” said Niven.

“About what happened to you?” asked Siena shocked.

“Yes. It was as if his ordeal was all he could focus on. Not once did he ask me what I had gone through. I spoke to the police, discussed everything, but told Matt, the man I love, nothing.” Niven turned away. “I am consumed by guilt and to make matters worse, I’ve lost Matt. In the beginning I made excuses for his behaviour but realised the only person going to look after me was myself.”

“You have your mom now too,” said Siena gently.

“Yes, I suppose, but realistically we’re strangers.”

“For now, but that will change,” said Siena.

Niven let out a long sigh. “Sorry, Siena, I haven’t asked how you, Benedict and the twins are,” she said apologetically.

“We’re good,” Siena smiled, conscious not to go into too much detail. Like any newlywed she still glowed with happiness but could see how down Niven appeared.

“It’s great to be in our home at last. I feel more settled now.”

Niven smiled but her eyes were sad. “Good.” 

“You’re still coming to the party?”

This time Niven’s smile was genuine. “Yes, I’m looking forward to it.”

“I must be mad but I wanted to have a proper house warming. Benedict didn’t want to but it’s not up to him, thank goodness.”

“What time is it again?” asked Niven, getting out her diary.

“It’s 6.30pm. I know it’s an early start but I don’t have the energy for late nights at the moment,” said Siena, yawning. Although, this time it wasn’t the twins that were keeping her awake but her husband.

Niven looked at her watch. “Sorry, Siena, I’ve got to go.”

Siena also glanced at her iPhone and gasped. “Is that the time already?  I’m late,” she said, jumping up.

Niven laughed. “You’re always running late.”

“I know. Not enough time in the day at present but I’ve got a conference call with Esme and Ford so I need to get back to the house.”

“How are they?” asked Niven. Siena hesitated. They were completely loved up but Niven didn’t need to know that. “Good, they’re good.”

As they reached the door, Niven hugged Siena quickly. “Tell them both I said hello.”

“I will. See you at the party,” said Siena. Niven nodded and waved. Siena hurried to her car. She was troubled. Niven was putting on a brave face but she was obviously struggling. Matt was also coming to the house warming. She hadn’t told either of them about the other attending. She felt sure they were made for each other. Matt just needed time. Niven was the perfect girl for him and it was up to Siena to make sure he understood that.