Highest Bidder Collection - Lauren Landish Page 0,77

and is he willing to commit and stick by you to see you through these issues?”

Numb, I sit there, hugging myself, fighting back those ugly tears. Sandra’s right of course, but I don’t know what to say. I feel like I’m falling for Lucian, but in doing so, have set myself up for a broken heart. Lucian is a very rich man, with very many options. He could easily one day decide I’m not worth the effort and find himself a new Submissive. Or I may only ever be a Submissive to him. I want more. But I want it from him.

“I don’t know.” I whisper the answer.

“What I would suggest,” Sandra says softly, pulling me out of my thoughts, “is having an honest talk with Lucian about what your wants and needs are. If you want him to commit to you, tell him that. And expect him to give you an answer on it. Otherwise, despite the progress you’ve made, this relationship could be harmful and cost you a lot of emotional and mental distress.” She sets the notebook down and says, “This is just my opinion, but it seems as though there’s more than a Dom/sub relationship and that’s what’s driving these changes for you. Make sure that’s the case, and work together to continue your progress.”

I don’t know what to say. I feel so tense and on edge. I’d be asking him for more. I don’t think it’s an option. He’s going to leave me or just fuck me until the contract is over. I cover my heated face with my hands and try to just focus on me. I want this. I’m scared to death to ask him for this, but I want to. I have to. But he’s already given me so much. He’s showed me it’s possible. I’m so conflicted.

“Go talk to him, Dahlia.” Sandra’s words make my eyes snap to hers. “Let him know what you need. I hope he can continue to help you and that you’re able to work on this foundation you’ve built.”

I hope so, too, I think to myself feeling growing resolve as I leave her office and knowing that there’s only one thing left to do.

Chapter 25

Lucian

I’m no good for her. I’ve already come to terms with it. I don’t know how to help her. I know some of my own desires and needs could harm her. Emotionally, psychologically. I want to be strong enough for her. I want to have the experience to know how to heal her.

But I don’t have all the answers. My heart clenches, knowing I should let her go. Cut ties from the contract and make sure she gets the help she needs from someone else. I keep hurting her. I don’t mean to, but I know that I am.

I clench my jaw and pull out my cell phone, waiting on my sister to get here. I’m in the same spot that I was before. The same cafe we always come to. Today it’s darker. The grey clouds block the sun and rain threatens to start falling at any second, but I don’t care. I’m staying outside. At least for now.

A glance at my phone shows a text from Isaac.

It’s done.

My body stiffens slightly, and adrenaline spikes through my blood.

Her uncle is dead.

That bastard took my treasure’s innocence. Even worse, she wasn’t the first and she wasn’t the last.

The law gave him five years in prison, that’s all. And he never even went to trial for what he did to my treasure. That’s not justice. And the last girl, the second one he was prosecuted over after hurting Dahlia, was his neighbor; there wasn’t enough evidence for the judge to proceed, but I know the truth. I saw what they had on him. I read the testimonies. He needed to die.

I should feel guilty, and maybe I should even be disgusted with myself. But I don’t feel a damn thing other than satisfied. He hurt my treasure in a way I know I can never fully understand.

“Your coffee, sir.” The waitress flashes me a sweet smile, her cheeks a bright red from either the chill or more blush than necessary. “Can I get you anything else?” she asks, leaning in slightly. Too close for my comfort.

“No, thank you.” I’m short with my words, and the look on her face falls. Again, I should care. But I don’t.

“Lucian!” My sister appears from behind the waitress, sparing me whatever looks the young woman was giving