Chapter 135

Theo's POV

I step away for a moment to gather a few other things I’ll need, keeping one eye on them as I move. When I turn back, Mason has finished the structure. He’s stepped back to give her space, his hands falling to his sides.

She’s suspended just slightly, her weight cradled in the tension of the ropes. She’s not bound tightly. There’s enough give to keep her comfortable, enough support to hold her fully. Her body is turned slightly to the side, one leg bent, the other extended, arms tied behind her. It’s balanced. Precise. Artful. She doesn’t look restrained. She looks held.

Mason doesn’t say a word as he steps away.

I move closer and gently kiss her cheek, then her lips. She’s still calm, still settled, still breathing slow. I press the gag to her mouth, and she parts her lips without hesitation. No protest