Three Strikes (Desire Island 3)

Earlier that day, he’d lamented to Ella about all the time he’d wasted, as Abbie had been right there under his nose for so long. Ella, with her usual philosophical calm, had shaken her head. “People aren’t always in sync. You weren’t ready last year or even last month. Fortunately, Abbie was resourceful enough to finagle things so she could win you at that auction. Her actions gave you a chance to take off your blinders and step up. But ultimately, only you could decide if the M/s connection was right for you.”

She had smiled, adding, “I’ve watched you for a long time playing the field, as you called it, saying you wanted to keep your options open. But as you’ve seen this past week together, a loving M/s relationship doesn’t only require submission and grace on the part of the sub. Being a Master is about so much more than just taking dominant control. To be a true Dom, you have to give just as much, if not more, of yourself to your sub. You have to find the courage to open yourself to love.”

Ryan was grateful for the strong women in his life, including Ella, Miranda and now Abbie. He addressed Miranda, but his words were meant for them all to hear. “I’ve never forgotten what you said to me all those years ago. Though we had only just met, you had faith in me where I didn’t have it in myself. Do you remember what you said?”

“I do,” Miranda said, her smile warm. “I told you that one day you’d find the woman of your dreams. One worthy to wear your collar.”

“That’s right,” Ryan said, giving Abbie’s hand a squeeze. “And you said something else that’s always stayed with me. You said, ‘Make sure you are also worthy of her.’”

“And, are you?” Miranda asked, tilting her head as she looked past his eyes and into his soul.

“He is,” Abbie replied with quiet certainty.

They all turned to look at her, including Ryan, who thought his heart would burst with joy and pride.

“Master Ryan is the worthiest Master in the world.” Abbie touched her collar, her eyes shining as she turned to face him. “I love you, Sir,” she said softly.

Ryan caught his breath as the world fell away, leaving only Abbie and him as they stared into each other’s eyes. “And I love you, slave Abbie. With all my heart.”