Page 58 of Unfettered

“Actually,” Roman speaks up, “I was thinking further about it. While I don’t disagree with giving them options, I also think we should have ideas for them. This is a major adjustment, and they may not realize what we could offer them.”

“That’s an excellent point.” I smile in agreement, thinking about the possibilities, even as I draw a blank. Then again, I am the least knowledgeable of the group.

“What are you thinking?” Jude’s asks carefully, and it hits my heart hard. This is why we need to address the bullying, though, and have people interact with Master and Cristian. Too many assumptions, too many old wounds stitched together but not healed.

“To be honest, the best I could think of was to put them as Special Advisors. I don’t feel either would be comfortable or fit well as Voices. However, they have a wealth of knowledge and experience,” Roman replies.

“Especially with the allies,” I add to Roman’s statement, already seeing it take shape in my mind.

“We still need to give them options, if they choose not to take that type of role, as I can see it being potentially stressful,” Carter cautions. “But I think it’s a good idea to put forth to them. It’s also one they could eventually choose to take if they want to start elsewhere, or even not join at all right away.”

I run my fingers through my hair, likely messing it all up, but when faced with it, I know Carter is right. Master may choose to just bake for a while longer, and I’ll have to make sure not to show any disappointment if that's his choice. Or maybe he’ll choose to work with one of the Voices, or one of the Boys, like War.

“Alright, should we pull Sandro in later or should someone talk to him directly?” I ask, unsure which way would be better.

“Hmm…I think, so that Cristian doesn’t feel left out, we should do it solo. Also, so he isn’t put on the spot as much. Maybe have Tennant do it?” Carter glances at Roman.

“Agreed. I think their dynamic works best for that,” my love adds, as he narrows his eyes at me for pouring another cup of coffee, which I ignore.

“Are you sure you don’t want to try tea?” Keegan stares at me hard. I pointedly refuse to acknowledge his statement, or his threat to poison me, but promise to do something evil to him later as payback.

“Alright, call in Tennant. I’ll step out to get lunch ordered, because as long as Tennant agrees, the only thing left will be catching him up, and then meeting with the doctors for an update.”

As soon as Carter is gone, I turn to Roman, intent on stealing some time. However, Keegan interrupts us. “Can I steal Lio for a moment?”

Roman hesitates, but at my nod, he waves us off. We don’t leave the room, he just guides me to the corner. I narrow my eyes in suspicion, because this had better not be about fucking tea.

“I want to touch base with you,” he says quietly. “Introducing Tennant as a Voice is a good idea, but since you’re in a Daddy/Boy relationship that appears to be full-time… I want to make sure you’re alright.”

As much as I want to give a swift denial to his concerns, I take a deep breath and think about it. He has reason to be concerned. Master did things a certain way, and as Boys, while we could offer an opinion, his word was law. It broke us in the end. Although he’s made amends, and we’re developing a healthy relationship now—well, healthy for us—he’s always going to be my sadistic monster. Thank fuck. Tennant… I don’t believe we’ll have that issue. He doesn’t enforce his will like that on me.

Searching my heart, I offer the only reassurance I can, even though the words leave a bitter taste in my mouth. “Did you know that I left Hollis?”

He rocks back on his heels, visibly shaken. “No, I did not. I just assumed, since he was getting treatment…”

I shake my head sadly, hating myself still. “I told him that I choose myself. He wasn’t listening to me. He may have been my Owner—and if I’m lucky, he will be again—but I refuse to bend for anyone who will not listen and respect me. My submission is a gift. Master had always made me feel that way about it, until that very end.”

Keegan’s shoulders droop as he opens his arms for me to step in for a hug. It’s the best big brother hug in the world, and I appreciate it. Even if I’m slightly embarrassed.

“You did good, kid. You left your Master when he crossed a line, and I know that was hard. You did the same with your Owner. I am constantly amazed by your strength. Not only in putting yourself and those you care about first, but in your ability to forgive. You are worthy of being followed.”

Those whispered words hit me hard, and I almost cry at the relief they bring. Still, this isn’t the place for it. Although I tuck it into my heart for later, to discuss with Anderson if nothing else. Because I have all the doubts, all the time.

Stepping back, I give him a lopsided smile, hoping it covers the emotions whirling around in me. “Thanks.”

“Is everything alright?” Tennant cuts in, his hard stare trained on Keegan. I startle, as I didn’t hear him approach, but Keegan merely smirks.

“Of course. I have the Boss.” With that, he brushes Tennant off, heading toward Jude. I almost groan in frustration.

“Little One?” I shiver from the Daddy voice, almost unable to say anything. At his cocked eyebrow, I gather the courage to speak.

“Yes, Daddy,” I whisper, shyly. “We just needed a moment to go over something.”

“Hmm.” The non-committal noise doesn’t fool me, but I gesture for him to follow me over to the table.

Carter strolls in, followed by the maids and plates of food. Most importantly, a refill for the vat of coffee. Thank fuck. I may actually survive the rest of this day.

“Ah, Tennant. Thank you for joining us. If you wouldn’t mind taking a seat. There’s lunch here for you as well.”