Hidden Desire book 1 (Un)Control(led)

Chapter 19. 'Daddy issues'.

Briel was dying to get away from the sharp tongue of Lincoln who kept observing him in a way that reminded him of Kincade when they first met. He just wanted to curl up on the couch and enjoy the movie-night Benny planned for them.

"What's on your mind, Angel?" Kincade asked helping him in his jacket. "I can almost hear the gears turning."

Briel found all eyes pointed at him. Unable to formulate an answer he felt the unease in his body rise and his cheeks flushed a bright red.

Benny wanted to step in, but Conrad stopped him.

"Kincade, after you walk these boys home, will you join me for a nightcap? I would like to review the agreement you signed with Gabriel."

When Briel's eyes grew bigger he raised his hand.

"Rest assured. It's standard after signing a long term agreement. I'll be wanting to speak to you some time tomorrow. Kincade will inform you about the appointment."

"Be seeing you around, boys", Lincoln looked at Briel with a sly smile raising his glass filled with the last of the Champagne.

"Thank you again for the clothes, Mr. Russell", Benny said when they reached Conrad's door.

"Can't leave a wingman hanging", Conrad answered winking at Benny followed by a fist bump.

"See you in five", Kincade promised, escorting Briel and Benny to his door.

"Enjoy your evening with Benny", he said to Briel standing in front of the door leading to the Sub apartment. "I would prefer it if you stayed in. Should you wish to leave, contact me first to appraise me of your plans. Don't leave without my permission."

Briel stopped mulling over all the variables that haunted him since Kincade asked him what was on his mind and let out a sigh of relieve.

"Will do", he nodded.

Kincade fetched his iPad from the coffee table and knocked on his brother's door. They usually enjoyed a nice glass of single malt whiskey during these talks. Kincade knew that Conrad would have some choice words about his leniency towards Gabriel's behavior at the table. Receiving the silent treatment after entering Conrad's apartment and slowly sipping his excellent whiskey, he quietly waited.

Scrolling through the document on his iPad, Conrad carefully read the surprisingly standard agreement. Nothing in it explained his brother's lax reaction to Gabriel's impudent behavior at the table.

"I can tell that you're lenient with Gabriel, but be careful not to spoil him too much. He'll get in trouble if he continues this attitude at the Club."

"I will discuss this with him", Kincade nodded.

"I see that he put 'pain' under willing to try. What are your thoughts on that?"

"That's also something we need to discuss", Kincade smiled leaning back. "Slow and steady is the way to go. Show him a bit of everything. If I go full Dom on him he'll balk for sure."

Conrad glared at him.

"I'll be happy just to see you lose the whole Daddy/boy act."

"As if", Kincade rolled his eyes. "You know that's not how I do things."

Conrad shook his head at this blatant denial.

"Like I said before, Gabriel is not into the lifestyle. This partnership is for research purposes only. Just keep it sharp and professional."

Kincade frowned at the harsh tone.

"Yes, Master Conrad."

Conrad clucked his tongue.