I haven't tagged this as romance because it doesn't qualify for me, but it is the beginning of a non-traditional romance.
While this isn't what I would consider dark, I accept that my version of dark leans more toward erotic horror, and that those who don't delve into that depth of depravity, will consider this dark.
I enjoyed this story, and I will be on the lookout for the sequel. While not perfect, it captured the basic story line.
Jason is a closeted, illegal MMA fighter, who was supposed to throw a fight for the Rabid Mongrels MC, until, while about to tap out, he captures a glimpse of his High School crush, Hyde, and wants to prove himself and be noticed.
Unbeknownst to him, Hyde was counting on the loss, and thus starts the beginning of their 'relationship'. Blackmail, Electric-shock collar, and humiliation are all part of Jason's week under Hyde's care, while he gets ready to fight again.
Jason's sense of self-worth is woefully inadequate, and I struggled to get through his internal dialogue. The lack of any real backstory made it difficult for me to understand him. We got snippets, and it was bleak, but wasn't enough for me to fully connect with his depressing thoughts.
Hyde is an anti-hero and as such is hot, commanding, and brutal. I would have liked a little more depth from him, but I hope this will be made up in the sequel. I think this 'couple' could develop into something darkly dysfunctional, and sexy, with a hint of 'lurve', without taking away from the relationship development that has occurred here. I look forward to finding out how this short story is developed in the next book.
Note: This is a single character pov story, so told through Jason's pov.
Trigger warnings: while there is no dub-con or non-con there is a lot of rough treatment and humiliation, as well as objectification. Don't expect much tenderness.