Unearthed (The Dungeon Black Duology 1)
Page 118
* *
Max Kelley maxthatshi 11:47 AM
to Sean
Hello, Sean.
Sorry to hear about your car. Unfortunately, my schedule doesn’t permit taxi runs. Too bad you’re unable to compensate me with the tickling. We might’ve been able to work something out. Maybe your roommate could drop you off.
Regrettably,
Your “broody” Dom, Max
* *
Sean Matthews 11:51 AM
to me
Hi again, Sir.
Sadly, a ride from my roommate isn’t possible. He’ll be leaving for work at six. Maybe you and I could find some middle ground. I might be willing to let you tickle my knees.
Your favorite sub,
Sean
Ps. Forgot to mention: I’ve officially quit smoking. For you. As a gift. Not that I’m trying to sway your decision or anything. Just thought you might like to know.
* *
Max Kelley 11:56 AM
to Sean
Hello again, Sean.
That’s awesome news. You’ve made your Dom very happy. I’ll be sure to reward you handsomely.
As for my decision regarding your dilemma, unfortunately, like your roommate, I too will be unavailable to pick you up at that time as I have another appointment before yours. That being said, I might be willing to offer an alternative solution if you were willing to swap your knees for your toes.
Your commendably versatile Dom,
Max
* *
Sean Matthews 12:01 PM
to me
Dear Sir,
Despite my better judgement, I accept your offer. In exchange for whatever arrangements you can provide for my ride, I will allow you to tickle my toes. Unfortunately, due to their extremely sensitive nature, all tickling must conclude in one minute’s time (which, I assure you, will feel like one hour to me).
Your impossibly handsome (and grateful) sub,
Sean
Ps. Thanks again for Friday’s impromptu photo op. The pictures turned out awesome. Totally worth the punishment.
* *
Max Kelley 12:07 PM
to Sean
Dear Sean,
As always, you impress me with your bravery. Tragically, I cannot make any promises regarding your time limit for tickling. I will, however, do my best.
In terms of travel arrangements, the only time I’m able to give you a ride is on my way home from work at five. Of course, this brings about another dilemma: what you’re to do with yourself at my house in the hours between our arrival and your appointment. Fortunately, as your Dom, I’ve already devised a plan. We’ll go over the details when I pick you up.
Your ridiculously accommodating Dom,
Max
Ps. Just so we’re clear, this is a one-time concession. Next time, be prepared to fucking walk.
* *
Sean Matthews 12:09 PM
to me
Yes, Sir. Thank you, Sir. I’ll see you at five.
* * * * *
Max pulled up to the address Sean had emailed him earlier and eyed the red-brick apartment building. Not super new, but definitely not old, which was pretty much how all of Mason’s off-campus housing went. Max had lucked out when he was a student. His place had been fairly newish. But that was eight years ago, so there you go.
Frowning, he cut off the engine, not pleased that he was seeing Sean outside of their appointment yet again. Twice in one week. That shit wasn’t cool. It made him uneasy. And irritable.
Fuck it. Whatever. Wouldn’t happen again. Max’s plans for Sean’s little waiting period would make sure of that.
His lips curved deviously as he shoved out of his truck and headed up the walk toward Sean’s place. The sun was out. It was a beautiful day. Made Max want to take the evening off. To just go somewhere. Do something. Step away from the mundane. Try to sort of enjoy life a little.
Max grunted and pocketed his keys, then took to the steps. Evidently Sean lived on the second floor. Apartment 207. Toward the back. He scanned each door’s number as he strode down the corridor, an unenclosed concrete passageway open to the elements. When he came to Sean’s pad, he glared at the door. He felt like a fucking chauffeur. And that shit really chafed his ass.
Knocking twice, he crossed his arms and petulantly set his jaw. Of their own accord, his eyes narrowed on the doorjamb, scrutinizing its half-assed paint job. Not too terribly horrendous, but could definitely use a fresh coat.
The door swung open, but its wielder wasn’t his sub. Must be the roommate.
“Where’s Sean.”
The guy just looked at him.
Max scowled. “Do you speak English?”
“Depends. Do you speak friendly?”
Max stilled, then muttered, “No.”
Roomie’s lips curved. “Interesting.” He waved Max in. “Sean’s in his cave. I’ll tell him you’re—”
“Max. You’re early.”
Max glanced past roomie’s shoulder. Sean was headed their way, smiling brightly. Max smirked and shook his head. Here comes the sun. “Yeah. I am. You ready?”
“Um… Well… Almost.” Sean stopped beside his roommate. “Max, Jonah—Jonah, Max— Student, teacher—Yeah.”
Jonah smiled.
Max eyed him.
Sean laughed and pulled Max inside. “Give me five minutes. I’ll be right back.”
And then he was off again, heading back the way he came.
Jonah shifted his stance, scratched his neck, cleared his throat. “I like your um… brow stud… and your uh gauges. They’re cool.”