Becoming His Master

With trembling fingers, Jay accepted his new ribbon and fastened it. His breathing quickened. The motion highlighted his slender abdomen and firm chest, a fact that hadn’t gone unnoticed by the submissives behind the desk. Their admiring, envious glances might have been for his attractiveness or his luck in receiving a coveted exclusive arrangement.

Emma, naturally, appeared rather more maternal and appraising. “Privileges, sir?”

Dangerous. Jay couldn’t be trusted alone. He lacked judgment and the appropriate level of awareness for his own safety.

“None.” If Henry meant to teach him properly, he couldn’t leave anything to chance. “If I’m present when he arrives, he’s to be sent to me. If I am not, he’s to be detained at the desk and I’m to be called immediately at the number on file.”

“Jay.” Calling his name in a gentle undertone, Emma tipped her head. Mahogany spirals cascaded from her upswept bun. “Do you agree to Master Henry’s terms, Jay?”

Good. Jay ought to understand he had the right to refuse. He wouldn’t, of course. His sharp nod came as no surprise.

“Wonderful.” Emma moved her fingers over the keyboard. “He’s all yours, Master Henry.”

All his. A quivering, abused pup who deserved gentleness but required firmness. Strict control.

If all went well, he’d be able to show him he needn’t accept humiliation and degradation from any master or mistress who would have him. He would teach him to recognize and respect the gift he offered. To be selective in his choices.

“Thank you, Emma.” He turned to his newest acquisition.

Head bowed, Jay revealed exquisite bone structure. His high cheekbones and steep, narrow nose acquired a glow from the lighting. Angelic and sweet to all appearances, a sculpture finished with delicate tools. But inside lay the raw, unformed nature pushing its way out.

“Come along, my dear boy. We’ve much to do.”

“The fourth Neighborly Affection book offers readers a fascinating glimpse into the real depth and complexities of a Dom/sub relationship, and the dangers that can arise when the heart becomes involved. Barber has a unique writing style that takes a little time to feel familiar, but her world soon becomes lush and increasingly intriguing.” — RT Book Reviews, ⭐⭐⭐⭐

“M.Q. Barber has one of the most distinctive voices as a BDSM author I have ever experienced reading. It’s like a breath of fresh air to see someone step outside of the S&M side of things and more into the D/s world.” — Mommy’s a Book Whore review

“Beautifully written, this is thoughtful and engaging, just like the two main characters….” — Reflection review

“The Neighborly Affection series as a whole has opened my eyes and has made me view the BDSM lifestyle in a new and refreshing light and I fully appreciated the wonderfully gifted manner in which author M.Q. Barber presented these books. This book in particular was hauntingly beautiful, what with Henry’s selflessness and Jay’s innocence and their mutual love and affection for one another.” — Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous review