The Braille Club (The Braille Club #1) (17 page)

Chapter 31

THE BRAILLE CLUB

Braille Club, London, Present Day: Although Caligo is full of the rich and famous, it is the thrill of anonymity that interests most Elysian members. It gives them the ability to enjoy themselves without being judged, participate without fear of exposure. They often lead a double life, pretending to be something in keeping with the public’s perception of them. Some are single with a hidden partner, and some are married but in name only. All are desperate to take off their famous persona and leave it behind them, just like they do with their clothes.

London, 2012

Ava

Ava just sat with her mouth hanging open for a few seconds as she watched Benedict leave, then a broad smile crept over her face. Ava thought her boss couldn’t be sexier if he tried. Preoccupied and moody was a look that suited him. He was gorgeous, and he smelled amazing as well. She smiled; she had set her cap at Benedict Harrison, and she had never failed to get her man once she set her mind to it.

She wanted to see Trish. There was no love lost between them, and she was mentally savouring the look on the old witch’s face. She couldn’t wait to tell her that she had been invited to an event…as Benedict’s partner. Her startled look had been priceless. Ava had never seen Trish lost for words before but she recovered quickly and, with a sour tone, gave Ava the date and time of the event.

Excited, she hadn’t been able to concentrate on her work all week. Benedict had said nothing to her about the upcoming charity dinner and although a little hurt, she decided that it must be because they were in the office. A bit irritated, she had tried numerous times to get him alone, but it had been impossible to get past that battle-axe Trish.

She spent every night at the gym punishing her already perfect body so she would look fantastic in the expensive dress she had picked out. It was a dark ruby red silken sheath that clung to her body and complimented the coffee tones of her skin. Cleverly cut away, it exposed the side swell of her breasts with spaghetti straps over her shoulders while the silk fabric pooled at her feet, covering her legs. The hunt for the right shoes and bag had been so time consuming. She’d taken a half day from work so she could get her hair done, her nails manicured, and everything else needed to make her look fabulous. She felt this was her chance to make an impression on Benedict, and she didn’t want to blow it. As he left his office, she purposely bumped into him. “Benedict! I’m so sorry,” said Ava, not sorry in the slightest. She had been hanging around outside his office now for ten minutes, hoping she would catch him.

“Ava, it’s fine.” Benedict stopped in his tracks.

“Er…you haven’t mentioned the arrangements for Friday, I wasn’t sure if I was just to meet you at the hotel?” said Ava as a deep flush suffused her cheeks.

“Ava, I’m sorry. Do you know what hotel it is, or should I check with Trish?”

“It’s the Savoy,” said Ava, desperately trying to retain her cool; to her horror she was acting like a love-sick fool.

“Right, well I’ll arrange to get you picked up, on the company of course, and we can meet in the reception.”

Ava dropped her gaze, trying to hide her disappointment. “Yes, that’s fine,” she murmured, her voice sounding brittle.

“Good,” said Benedict, looking at his watch and groaning.

“See you tomorrow, Ava,” he said distractedly as he headed out of the office to the elevators.

Ava just stood where she was; her burning face locked onto his retreating back, her eyes filled with anguish. 

***

Benedict

His preoccupation with Siena meant he’d completely forgotten about Ava. It was only now he remembered he was taking her with him this Friday.

Now it was only a few days away. Like Ava, he couldn’t concentrate; all he could think of was Siena. She filled his thoughts and mind completely. Her bright hazel eyes, her full pink lips, her smile. He relived their kiss at the warehouse; its intensity had taken his breath away. The longing and desperation had threatened to overwhelm them both. Desire flooded him; it was still a new sensation but not an unpleasant one, and he let out a long sigh. He wouldn’t fight it anymore, in fact couldn’t. Married or not he wanted her, but it wasn’t going to be simple. She had broken free from him, her eyes sparking with anger.

“Benedict, what the hell is this?
You
said you wanted to keep our relationship professional,
you
said I wasn’t to contact you,” Siena shouted, her voice shaking.

He stared at her warily. “Yes, I’ve made such a mess of things, Siena,” he said quietly. “Forgive me.” His voice was hoarse with emotion, his eyes never leaving her face. She suddenly lit up before she turned away.

“I’m not sure now,” she whispered. “I have everything to lose, and I hate myself. It’s me that’s made a mess of things.”

Each word seemed to wound him, tearing at his fragile heart.

“I need time, Benedict, please respect that. I’ll be in touch of course, regarding the project, but that’s all I can give at the moment.”

She didn’t turn around before walking out the door, and he let her, momentarily paralysed, the feelings of rejection all too familiar, bringing back all his dark memories. His thoughts were interrupted by the bleep of his computer. The email made his heart start to thump; it was from GFH Ltd. The email confirmed the project was agreed in principle, but they would like to meet, to finalise the plans and figures in more detail. Several dates were suggested for him to check and confirm suitability.

He should have been ecstatic…it was the response he had wanted. The project could now begin, his financier secured; a turning point achieved and an exciting challenge ahead. Instead, he felt completely deflated; he had hoped the email would be from Siena personally, not one of her team. He’d heard nothing since their meeting at the warehouse, and he was going out of his mind.

He typed a quick reply:

Wonderful news. I look forward to a long and rewarding relationship. I am available to meet on your first suggested date and look forward to it.

Benedict Harrison.

When he checked his mail some ten minutes later, he saw a reply but just at that moment Trish buzzed him. A courier had just arrived from GFH Ltd, and she walked into his office, placing the package on his desk. Refusing her offer of more coffee, Benedict waited till she had closed his office door before reaching for the package. He felt his pulse quicken as he slit it open and tipped its contents onto the desk. Out fell a key card with a long looped black ribbon with a bell on the end. Benedict’s heart started to hammer in his chest as he was enveloped in that beautiful scent. Turning the key over in his hand, he wondered what it unlocked. Dropping it onto his desk, he looked at it warily, when he remembered the email he had seen earlier. Clicking it, there was a picture of a door, nothing else, no message. As he stared at the door in puzzlement, thinking hard, he still didn’t recognise it. He slipped the key into his pocket, checking his mail continuously throughout the day, but to his frustration nothing further arrived.

Thoughts of the upcoming charity ball had his stomach in knots. He wanted to see Siena so badly but was aware her already suspicious husband would be with her, and did not know if he could stand seeing her with another man. In fact, the mere thought of Siena’s husband brought on a disturbing flash of rage, but an idea was forming in his mind.

Benedict picked up his mobile and scrolled up his contacts. In fact, it was the first one on his list, and he hesitated briefly before clicking the number; it answered on the third ring.

“Hello…Ben is that you?” said a voice that was as familiar to him as breathing; he just hadn’t heard it in a long while.

Benedict took a deep breath. “Yes, Alex, are you free to speak?”

He spent an hour talking to his twin, bringing him up to speed, apologising for not keeping in touch, and it was like before. Their bond still strong, Benedict felt a rush of love towards his brother, giving him the courage to ask him the next question.

“Alex…I need your help, are you free this Friday evening?”

“Er…this Friday?”

“Yes. I need a big favour, Alex. I wouldn’t ask, but it’s important to me.”

“I see. What were you thinking?”

Alex’s voice was like a balm and Benedict felt himself start to relax. He realised how much he missed his twin.

“It’s a long story, could we meet tonight?”

“Well, any chance you could come to the hospital? It’s just I’m working on this new project—you know how it is.”

Benedict smiled, a real smile that reached his eyes, and they transformed from their usual opaque to clear brilliant blue.

“Yes, is six-thirty okay? I’ll bring pizza.”

“Perfect,” said Alex warmly.

They said their goodbyes and Benedict hung up, his heart feeling lighter than it had in years. Siena had changed his life already and now inadvertently put him in contact with his brother. He would not have believed that was even possible a few weeks ago. Benedict clicked back to Siena’s email; the door was just the same, and he stared at it moodily before closing it down. The rest of the afternoon sped by as he dealt with clients, upcoming projects, and numerous meetings. He stretched and glanced at his watch—damn almost time to go—but he couldn’t resist having another look at the email.

As he clicked it, he noticed straight away the picture had changed; there was now a number fifteen on the door. What did it mean? He reluctantly shut down his computer and checked the key was secure in his pocket, completely intrigued.

Chapter 32

THE BRAILLE CLUB

Braille Club, London, Present Day: The E-Suites are seriously luxurious and complimentary to all Elysian members who choose to stay over. They are penthouse suites and all come with a roof terrace and hot tub. A spiral staircase within the room leads up to the private roof enclosure. Champagne sits in a loaded ice bucket while the flickering scented candles fill the room with the sensuous scent of Braille and the promise of the night to come…

Gabriella

Gabriella smiled at Max nervously; he had been so good-natured about his birthday surprise later that evening. Of course, she had given him lots of other gifts, including the Braille scent, Caligo, and was delighted he’d opened it and put it on. The smell almost made her swoon—that and the fact it was Max who was wearing it. She was still strongly attracted to her husband; his face, although older, was still handsome—his salt and pepper hair and glasses the only indicators of his years. He looked very dashing in his suit and she desperately wanted this night to be a success. The lack of intimacy between them had only heightened her desire for him, her longing; she wasn’t sure she would be strong enough to deal with another failure.

Their table was booked for eight-thirty, and she didn’t spend long deciding what she would request the chef to make. She would go with all her husband’s favourites; she knew he was a creature of habit. He loved to share his food with her, so she had devised the meal accordingly.

A seafood sharing platter of lobster, crab, scallops, oysters and langoustine, served with individual sauces of Thermidor, salty lemon mousse and chilli and lime aioli. A selection of freshly baked brown bread and herb butter would complement the starter. Their main meal of Chateaubriand would be cooked to their preference, with a selection of Max’s favourite cheeses to finish.

Max had been to every Michelin Star restaurant in London; he appreciated the style and artistry of the dishes the chefs prepared. He particularly enjoyed the flavour sensations, the originality and ingenuity brought him new and exciting taste experiences. But he always had his favourites on his birthday. A bit like turkey for Christmas, he looked forward to it and always wondered why he didn’t have it more often. He was curious about his gift, had, in fact, found himself looking forward to this evening. He caught his breath as Gabriella walked towards him; she looked wonderful in a floor length black dress, her golden brown hair in elegant curls. She had never appeared more beautiful to him.

As they travelled to the restaurant, Gabriella felt for her mobile; she wanted it close so she could access the entry code. They drew up outside shortly afterwards, and Max seemed puzzled.

“Where are we?”

“Wait and see,” said Gabriella, smiling.

They entered Harrison’s, moving quickly towards the lifts and Elysian. She took Max’s hand as they stood outside the plain, unremarkable doors, and punched in her code. The door clicked open, and they were inside in seconds.

Max stopped and stared. “What is this place?”

“I told you already, you will need to wait and see,” said Gabriella teasingly, although she could feel her stomach twist with anxiety.

They moved towards the highly polished desk where the girl smiled at them. Gabriella produced her card and key first, before turning to her husband and handing him a carefully wrapped gift.

“Happy birthday, Max. This is your surprise, I hope you like it.”

Max smiled hesitantly before ripping the paper off, and then looked confused. “What is it?” He stared at the blank card in his hand and ran his fingers over the raised dots. Gabriella indicated he give it to the girl, who took it from him, swiping it through her computer.

“Welcome to The Braille Club and happy birthday.”

She handed both Max and Gabriella a key each before returning both their membership cards. Gabriella put hers safely in the locket that hung around her neck, while Max popped his into his jacket pocket. Leaving the reception, she slipped her arm through her husband’s, trembling as the lift doors reopened and they travelled down to Caligo.

Max stopped. “Mmmm, that smell.” He took a deep breath. “It’s the same one I’m wearing.”

It seemed to be everywhere and was both powerful and intoxicating. Gabriella led him to a small intimate restaurant where a maître d’ welcomed them. As Gabriella looked around, she realized there were many faces Max would recognize, and worried it would bother him. He normally preferred anonymity as a rule and shunned eating in popular pretentious places where people ate to be seen and photographed. As he turned towards her, she tried to remain calm, as she recognized her husband’s look of dismay.

“Give it a chance, please,” she whispered, squeezing his hand.

He gave Gabriella a tight smile, but gradually she saw him begin to relax and enjoy his birthday. Although the diner was full, their table was private, and she felt he was enjoying the intimacy of being with her in beautiful surroundings. Some two hours later he was a convert. The food had been superb, and Max was now pleasantly full and a little drunk. He got up from the table with genuine regret.

“Where to now?” He smiled.

Gabriella took a deep breath and reached for her husband’s hand. She led him towards a small lounge where a bottle of champagne awaited them, and they made themselves comfortable. They were again enveloped in the incredible scent as soon as they walked into the room; it seemed more intense than before. The chairs were large, plush, and relaxing, and she saw Max’s gaze sweep the room. Gabriella held her breath; again there were many faces she recognized. Max sat down and a waiter poured their champagne but no one approached them. She toasted his birthday and they soon forgot about the other people. Gabriella had booked Elysian for eleven o’clock; unlike the zones in Caligo, it started an hour earlier. She had struggled with the timings, wanting Max to be relaxed but also aware he was no night owl.

“This has been a wonderful birthday, Gabriella, what is this place?”

“It’s a private members club with a difference,” replied Gabriella. She had rehearsed this speech so many times but suddenly found her mouth go dry. “Max, I’m going to ask that you trust in me again,” said Gabriella, handing him the small printed card with the club rules.

Max turned his slightly dazed eyes towards his wife. Gabriella could tell he was fighting several emotions. She saw incredulity, distaste, and finally curiosity cross his face. She felt her eyes fill with tears as her hopes for the evening came crashing down. Max’s gaze left the card he was holding and stared directly into Gabriella’s eyes. “I’m in your hands,” he said, sighing.

“Thank you, Max,” she responded, both surprised and relieved by his change of heart.

Gabriella looked at her watch, shocked to see how quickly the night had gone, and again her stomach twisted in fear. This was such a risk; she could end her marriage through her actions, but she had to do something. The thought of spending the rest of her life in a sexless relationship was unthinkable, but a very real possibility. She gulped her champagne, feeling tense and anxious. The piano player started playing one of Max and hers favourite tunes, and it lifted her mood, so she started to hum along. When she gazed at Max, she saw with relief he was humming along too. Just as she was starting to relax she felt her key vibrate, and she almost dropped her champagne flute in panic.

“What is it?” said Max, leaning forward.

“It’s time,” said Gabriella, taking a deep breath. “I’ll show you where we’re going.”

They both stood, and Gabriella linked her arm through Max’s as they slipped out of the room. Walking towards an elevator, they stepped inside and she slid her card into the slot, letting the lift take them to the correct floor. Max was strangely quiet and tense as they stepped out. The same double doors and keypad greeted them. Gabriella had looked at her phone in the lift and memorized the number that she punched in with trembling fingers. The door clicked open, and she led Max along a passageway which led into a decagon shaped room and walked towards the door with a light above it. She clicked the key as it vibrated, the door popped open, and she walked into the booth with Max by her side.

The opaque glass was optional, offering them complete privacy if desired, and Gabriella was glad of it, although it still allowed glimpses of movement on either side. Others left the glass clear, preferring an audience. It made them feel at home; after all, it was what they knew.

Max was compliant as she removed his jacket and shirt and pulled the sensory top over his still trim torso. She hadn’t dared suggest the entire suit in case he refused point blank. He would lose some of the intense sensations of the chair and suit working together, but she knew she had been right, as tension seemed to emit from every pore in his body. This was not going as well as she had hoped.

“Max, this is a game, and the object is not to ring the bell.” Her voice was shaking. She held up the cuffs for Max to see and almost lost her nerve as she saw the disbelief and revulsion in his eyes.

“Please…” her voice faltered, but she pressed on. “Do not speak, Max. I’m going to put a blindfold on you now.”

She pulled it gently over Max’s head and heard him grunt as he plunged into darkness. Sweat was beading on her forehead as she found the music remote and pressed play. She had agonized over what music Max would like best and hoped she’d got it right. Moving quickly, she slipped The Lapel over his head and felt him flinch at her touch before laying The Belt across his lap. The heart-breaking sting of rejection threatened to engulf her. Steadying herself, she drew Max’s arms behind his back. They were stiff and unyielding as she clipped on the velvet cuffs. Lastly, she buckled him into the chair and lifted the control tablet. She pressed play on the audio system and tried to lose herself in the music as she pushed the button on both the chair and the vest. The haunting music of Clannad’s “Harry’s Game” flooded through the room as she started to speak.

“Max, imagine I am standing in front of you. You can see me, but you cannot touch me.”
Well, that wouldn’t be a problem
, she thought sadly. “I am reaching up, and my breath is hot in your face as I unzip my dress and let it fall to the floor. I step out of it, revealing a low balcony lace bra and knickers.”

Gabriella sighed; this song was so beautiful it always made her cry, and the tears ran freely down her face as she tilted her husband’s chair slowly backwards. She had no illusions of Max ringing the bells, but if he could even stand her touch…well, that would be progress. Her fingers reached for the controls to increase the intensity of The Lapel.

“I want to place my lips against your lips Max; to feel their softness. To trace my tongue around and around your mouth. I know your mouth, Max; I know it like no one else. It’s so nice; I’d almost forgotten how sweet it is.” Gabriella stood as close to Max as she dared and experienced a little thrill as he sighed. “I am standing over you, Max, my mouth just above yours. My fingertips are grazing along your mouth. Can you feel them against your skin as I move them around and around?”

She thought she could sense Max responding; or was he resisting? She gently increased the vibrations in the lapels and chair.

“My face is reaching down, and my lips touch yours and it’s electric. I’m kissing you, Max—my tongue is in your mouth, and it feels incredible. I am lost in this kiss, in its intensity, it is everything to me, and my body is starting to tingle. You own my lips, and
you
own my body. You are in control, and I am gasping for breath, my body alight with desire. Desire for you, Max, and still you want more! I am slipping down the straps of my bra and unclipping it as I move closer to you.”

Gabriella pressed the button to activate the sensory top. Programmed on a quick oscillating cycle, her reward was a second gasp from Max. Hope surged through her; she desperately wanted to touch him but was frightened it would break the spell. She decided to talk him through it, she didn’t know if that would make a difference or not but it was worth a try. Leaning in close, she enjoyed the wonderful scent of Braille as she did so.

“Can you feel my breath on your neck, Max?”

Blowing along his neck, face, and lips, she was almost touching him. Feeling the heat of his body, the longing for him, for what they’d had, was almost unbearable. Any advance she had initiated had caused Max to freeze, the moment filled with pain and resentment, so now they didn’t even touch. Desperate to find a way back, she knew this was their last chance; make or break. She could see Max react, his lips slightly parted as she pressed the button of the belt, her last weapon. With a trembling fingertip, she grazed her husband’s top lip and felt him shudder but his arms remained stiff and still. Something in her let go as she slowly continued to move her fingertips around her husband’s lips. She increased the intensity on all the devices as her pulse quickened to match her husband’s. Max’s breathing was becoming ragged, and Gabriella couldn’t have been happier, changing the location of the pulse in the chair as Max groaned, his sensitized lips and body responding.

Gabriella continued, “Max, your lips are so soft and sensual. I’ve missed those lips, and I missed those lips kissing me, kissing my mouth, my neck, my body.” Her fingertips stopped and slipped into his mouth. “I’ve missed your tongue, Max…licking me, your mouth sucking me.”