Page 26 of Pretty ’n Peak

Mateo, who was practically quivering at the idea of his first spanking. That was something that Austin was at least pretty sure he could deliver. With the boy’s adorable enthusiasm, he didn’t think it would be beyond him to just focus on Mateo’s needs.

He could give the boy a spanking and even, as he promised, make sure that he got to come.

He knew that might involve a little more touching than just the slaps. Mateo had been eager to hand over permission for anything along the lines of sex, bondage, and impact play, with the agreement that he’d keep checking in.

Nowhere in there had they discussed Austin staying the night.

Still Mateo was a sensitive soul, and in a vulnerable position. As a Dom, even a temporary Dom, it was Austin’s job to make sure that he felt safe, both physically and emotionally. It wasn’t like he was going to skip out on aftercare.

It put the whole conversation about how Mateo had never actually fallen asleep with someone in a whole new context. Austin’s heart still hurt thinking about the monkeys dressed in silk. Was that how Mateo saw himself?

This sweet boy deserved better than some guy just walking out on him. He needed to know how perfect and desirable he was, with his warm laugh and his earnest confessions. Especially if he wanted a Daddy to take care of him.

Austin could give that special experience to him for an evening.

Decision made, Austin added to his explanation. “I want you in your own room so I can tuck you into bed and make sure that you’re settled in and comfortable. I’ll even stay while you drift off, if you like.”

“Thank you,” Mateo replied softly.

They stopped in front of a door—a darker block against the white wall. He heard the click of the locking mechanism when Mateo held up his key card.

“Should I call you Daddy?” Mateo asked, somehow managing to sound both submissive and hopeful.

“Uhh…” Austin paused for too long. He knew that was what Mateo wanted, but it felt foreign. In years past, he would have been up for some fun, taking any reasonably respectful name a boy wanted to throw at him and rolling with it.

“I suppose that’s going too far,” Mateo answered for him, sounding subdued. “Maybe Sir?”

Austin recoiled before he’d even really registered the question. He didn’t want Mateo calling him that, but he hadn’t expected it to hit him so hard.

When Carlos had called him Master Austin downstairs, it had felt odd, like a coat that didn’t fit anymore. But he’d let it go. It was a title he’d earned, even if it was out of date.

It made sense that Sir didn’t fit either. He was just a mentor, just helping out right now.

But there was something more there. He ran the name over in his mind.

That was what Cam had called him.

He knew it shouldn’t matter, but he just couldn’t make himself that vulnerable right now. “Just Austin will do.”

“Yes, Austin.”

Damn. The way Mateo said his name pulled him right back to the present. He made it sound like Daddy or Sir. The same reverence. The same sense of adoration and wonder.

Some Dom was going to be very lucky to get this boy.

They entered the room and Austin felt like he could get his focus back. He gave his first command. “Please turn on all the lights and pick up anything on the floor. When you’re done, go to the restroom if you need to, then return to me.”

“Yes, Austin.”

Fuck. That voice.

Mateo scurried around the room with a rustle of fabric and the click of lamps turning on. Austin didn’t feel the need to explain, but both requirements were necessary for his safety if he was going to move around freely.

“So,” he asked conversationally, “did you decide how you want your spanking?”

Mateo drew in a breath, all movement stilled.

Austin had given him choices downstairs. Sensual exploration? Punishment for imaginary transgressions? Laying down, pushed over a desk, or laying over Austin’s lap? Listening to him pant after each description had been half the fun.