Conquering Jude by Dakota Trace Read Free Book Online Page B

him with you. You want answers - go talk to your friend.”
    “Stubborn bitch!” Even as he said it, she could hear the deep affection in his voice.
    She gave him a small smile. “You betcha! Now I have to prepare for tonight. Let me know who you’re sending over for the surveillance team so I can let Carlos know.”
    * * * *
    Olivia watched on the monitor as Jackson left the club. She was just reaching for the phone when Caelan Doherty, one of her closest friends and pseudo brother, strode into her office. She frowned.
    “What can I help you with, Caelan?” Considering the hour, she’d figured he’d be at home still buried up to his neck in design requests or whatever the hell it was that graphic designers did these days.
    “Why was Jackson here? Do I need to kick his ass?” Leaning against the now closed door, Caelan crossed his arms over his chest, his amber eyes dark with genuine emotion.
    Ah hell, he’s in his protective big brother mode. It must be my day to have to deal with dominating men who think they know what’s best for me. Arching a brow, she decided to try and defuse the situation. “He does have a membership, Caelan. He’s allowed to frequent the club just like you are. He could’ve been here getting ready for an evening of play.”
    “Like hell. He wasn’t wearing his leathers, nor did he stop in the main room to peruse the available subs as is his invariable routine. Want to try again, Olivia?”
    Leaning back in her chair, the leather creaked ominously as she propped her feet on her desk. “Last time I checked this was my club, Master Caelan. If I want to talk to a Dom before hours or even during hours that is my business.”
    His expression softened. “So sue me for caring what happens to my little peathar .”
    Giving a rough sigh, she pushed back on her chair until she was staring at the ceiling. God damned Irish bastard, I should’ve known that he’d try to play the big brother card. “For the love of God, Caelan, I’m not your poor little adopted sister anymore. Nor am I the orphan that your mother dragged home. I’m a grown woman and more than capable of handling my business.” She threw an arm over her face. “If all you came by for is to bust my chops, just go. I have a long night to get ready for. I have not only your advanced shibari class with Gabriel, but Josh is also holding his first class on beginner’s whipping and flogging.”
    “Then quit ignoring the issue, Olivia. Give me a straight answer, and I’ll get out of your hair.” He paused thoughtfully. “On the other hand, don’t tell me. I’ll just call Mum and sic her on you.”
    Letting her legs drop to the floor she surged to her feet. “Don’t even think about it!” She finally straightened and faced him. “Jesus Christ! I’ve been running Olivia’s without your help or guidance for over ten years now. I ought to kick your ass to the curb. Any other Dom who tried to get into my business like this would be gone already.” Her bluster was just that – bluster, and they both knew it.
    “But I’m not any other Dom, I’m your brother. Now spill or I will call Mum. I’m sure she’ll have a bone to pick with you anyways, considering that you haven’t been home in over five years. She still asks about you when I talk to her on the phone. I’m sure she’d love to hear from you.” He tugged his cell phone out of its holster. “Hell, Master Alastar and she might even make a special trip over here to just see you.”
    “Put that damn phone away, Caelan!” She clenched her fingers before reaching for the flogger sitting on the desk. The last thing I need is Mum and Alastar showing up here. My life is already in enough upheaval because of that damn ‘I’m not a submissive’ man. I don’t need the headache of dealing with another aggravating know-it-all man plus my Mum standing over me. Standing, she began to pace, her particular custom when she was stressed. For each two steps she took, she