Celestial Awakenings

by Julie O

edited by Amelia R.

 

Chapter 16

The next morning Ally, Beth, and Celeste were in Manhattan shopping. Each had a shopping list. Celeste was shopping for a new wardrobe for Tina. She wanted to have some appropriate clothes available to allow Tina to achieve a new look. Beth was looking for some new clothes for herself. Okay, maybe she did want to impress her boyfriend, Kevin. But he was taking her to the junior prom! Ally was looking for a nice gift for Donna. Her wedding shower was in a few weeks.

Ally found the perfect gift for Donna with Celeste's help. Celeste took them to her favorite boutique and there Ally found an absolutely dreamy, lace trimmed white nightgown and peignoir.

Between the three of them, they found some lovely outfits for Tina. Beth was a big help as she was very up to date on the latest fashions for teens. Celeste also insisted on getting Tina some more formal outfits. They had to choose mainly separates, as dresses that would fit Tina's enlarged bust were all too big in the hips.

"I'm going to bring in a fashion consultant for Tina and the others," remarked Celeste, as they waited for Beth to come out of a dressing room.

"Maybe a trip to the local salon would be nice too," added Ally.

"Good idea," replied Celeste. "I must admit that I'm a little jealous of your relationship with Beth. You're like sisters!"

"I know. It has been good for both of us. Neither of us have any real brothers or sisters. I met Beth through her parents and we just hit it off,"

"She is very mature for her age," added Celeste.

"Some of the time she is," smiled Ally. "In some ways, she's more mature than I am. Carol says that I act like a teenage girl at times!"

"Where did you meet Carol?" asked Celeste.

"Back in California. If it hadn't been for her, I wouldn't have become Ally," answered Ally. She then gave the short version of their initial meeting.

"You're so lucky. You two sound like you're deeply in love!" remarked Celeste.

"We are. She loves me, no matter what form I am. I was worried that my surgery would change our relationship. She reassured me that if the surgery made me happy, then she would be happy," replied Ally with a smile as she glanced at the ring that Carol had given her in Bermuda.

Celeste smiled. "I would love to meet her someday."

"Come over for dinner some night. You're filthy rich, so you can fly down to see us!" laughed Ally.

"I'd love that!"

"Carol loves cooking and she also wants to meet you," replied Ally.

Beth stepped out of the booth wearing a lovely floral summer dress that seemed to be made for her. The fun was interrupted by Ally's beeper and cell phone going off simultaneously. She answered the phone and listened intently for several minutes.

"I see. We'll be back as soon as we can. Thank you, Nancy. Hang in there!" stated Ally.

Beth and Celeste stared at Ally intently.

"We need to leave. That was Nancy. Tina tried to commit suicide. Don't worry, she's okay," announced Ally.

"What happened?" asked a horrified Celeste.

"She was caught trying to break into Gwen's medicine case. Thankfully, it was locked, and Tina was trying to break the lock when she was caught," stated Ally.

"Who caught her?" asked Beth.

"Believe it or not, Bébé. She heard the noise and, when she saw what was happening, she informed Ina, who immediately notified Nancy and Gwen," informed Ally.

"So she didn't actually take anything?" asked Celeste.

"No, but they are keeping her under surveillance," replied Ally. "I guess we'd better head back."

The drive back to Southampton was very quiet.

 

Chapter 17

Nancy briefed them upon their return. They were sitting in the dining room having a light dinner as none had much appetite. "Gwen and I had just left her alone in her room when Ina came rushing in. Thankfully, Bébé was walking by and heard Tina as she tried to break into Gwen's medical cabinet. When we arrived, Tina was hysterical and pleading for us to let her die. She was ranting about how all she was good for was 'sucking cock'."

"Where do you go now?" asked Ally.

"I expected her to feel massive guilt and rage. I knew suicide was a possibility. I just hope we can get her through this phase of her recovery. Gwen is sitting with her now. On the plus side, I was impressed with how Bébé responded. Her accent wasn't as prominent when she told us what happened, as she was so excited. Unfortunately, as soon as the crisis passed, she reverted back to her old submissive ways. But it's a start!"

"I'm sure glad you did a full safety sweep of the estate before you brought the teens here," stated Ally to Nancy. "Don't blame yourself. Be thankful that she is okay."

"Thanks. I just feel stupid for leaving her alone," replied Nancy.

"Forget it. We need to learn from our mistakes and move on. At least, that's what Jenna told me," smiled Ally. She involuntarily rubbed her right shoulder.

"I heard about your injury from Jenna. How're you doing?" asked Nancy.

"I'm back to almost eighty percent mobility in the shoulder and the scar is fading," replied Ally, referring to the knife wound she had received from a serial killer.

"What about the rest?" asked Nancy with a slight smile.

"The nightmares aren't as frequent," replied Ally. "Thank you for asking."

There was a long silence.

"Keep me informed. I would like to talk to Tina when you feel it's okay," replied Ally.

"I will. In fact I'd like you to talk to all the teens. I think you're an excellent role model for them," answered Nancy.

Ally nodded. "By the way, we bought a lovely new wardrobe for Tina today. When do you think she'll be ready for it?"

"I think we should wait a few days until she is more level headed. Right now she's running on pure emotion. I think that the wardrobe should make a big difference. Once she can see herself as respectable and not a sex object, she should make great progress," replied Nancy.

"So, are you still flying out tonight?" Celeste asked Ally.

"Yes. We're flying out at ten. Thank you so much for your hospitality, Celeste. I hope you'll accept my invitation and visit us in DC," stated Ally.

"That goes double for me!" added Beth.

"I will," answered Celeste. She seemed a little choked up.

"You okay?" asked Ally.

"Yes. I just don't have many real friends," smiled Celeste.

Ally got up from the table and hugged her. "Well, you can always count me as a friend!"

Beth joined the hug fest and soon there wasn't a dry eye in the room.

 

 

Celeste watched as Beth and Ally drove away in the limo. Nancy was standing next to her with her arm around her.

"Come on, let's go inside," replied Nancy.

Celeste nodded.

 

Chapter 18

The next morning, Celeste was doing some research regarding some data she had found in Margo's laptop. She was convinced it was some sort of code, but couldn't quite figure it out. It was just beyond her grasp and it was very frustrating. While Ally had taken the laptop back to DC with her, she had allowed Celeste to copy a few of the files.

In spite of her frustration, Celeste was enjoying the fact that she was participating in an actual investigation. Before she had been abducted, she had loved detective and spy novels, and now she was part of a real case! Celeste hadn't read a mystery or action adventure book since her abduction, as part of her thought that those sorts of books were strictly for men. However, she was beginning to see that this was ignorant. She decided to take a break from her investigation and called up Michael.

"Is there a good book store nearby?" she asked him.

"There're a few antique shops," he replied.

Celeste laughed. "No, I mean a regular bookstore."

"There is one of the big national chain stores thirty minutes from here," he replied in a surprised tone.

"Great! We'll leave immediately," replied Celeste.

Michael was a bit taken back and told her that that he'd have the limo up front in five minutes. He smiled as he got into the limo. The smile was a combination of acknowledging her request and his approval of her getting out of the estate.

Like Ina, Michael had worked for Mr. Farnsworth for years and he also had a strong sense of loyalty for him. This loyalty had immediately shifted to Celeste. Actually it wasn't just loyalty to Mr. Farnsworth, he honestly liked the young woman.

Mr. Farnsworth had hired him even though he had a criminal record. Granted, it was mostly minor stuff, but it had kept him from getting a decent job. Michael had been working as a cab driver in the city, when he picked up Mr. Farnsworth and drove him cross-town to a meeting. To make a long story short, Michael found a file that Mr. Farnsworth left in the cab and spent several hours tracking him down. From that day on, Mr. Farnsworth used him exclusively and eventually he was hired as Mr. Farnsworth's limo driver. He now had a house and enough money to send his son to college in the fall.

They arrived at the store and Celeste walked inside. She paused after she entered and inhaled the atmosphere. Celeste had forgotten the pure joy of entering a bookstore. The vast amount of knowledge and information in bookstores always gave Celeste a thrill. As Jeremy, they had been a refuge from the conflicts at home.

She walked around the store, stopping first at the best sellers and then moving to the employees' recommendations. Soon, Celeste was paging through a mystery recommended by an employee named Stephie. She then picked out a randy adventure novel recommended by another employee with a strange name, Pickles. The book looked interesting and she added it to her stack. She also picked out a book as a gift for Nancy. It was a novel, but she figured that Nancy could use the distraction.

Celeste worked her way slowly through the mystery and fiction sections. It was like being at a feast after being starved! Three hours and a cappuccino later, she had picked out a dozen books and had worked her way into the music section.

It had been years since she had bought any CDs, and it didn't take her long to have a small stack of CDs to add to her book selections. She remembered that Michael liked the blues and she picked out a CD for him. Celeste remembered when she had barely had enough money to buy one CD and it was a good feeling not to have to worry about buying a few books and CDs for herself and her friends.

On the way back to the estate, Celeste played one of her new CDs. It was a small step, but she felt good about going out on her own.

"Thank you for your recommendation, Michael," stated Celeste, as she handed him the CD.

"Your welcome," he replied with a smile.

 

Chapter 19

The next day Celeste broke the code. She immediately called Ally and began to explain what she had discovered.

"Margo had several files concerning overseas resorts. Most are legitimate places but I found several that seem to be fictitious. I checked online and even asked a travel agency and they couldn't find any listings for them," explained Celeste excitedly over the phone.

"Okay, I've found the files," replied Ally, as she looked at Margo's computer.

"Well I found that the names of the resorts in question are very close to the names of some small banks in those countries. My financial advisor told me that they are notorious for the hiding of funds. Many of them cater to people going through divorces who want to hide assets from their spouses," explained Celeste.

"So how do we find the accounts?" asked Ally.

"I think the account numbers are right in front of you. Look at the line that Margo added under the resort, '1 BD RM 2 WKS 200 DY 03 15 02' looks like a reservation, but it has the exact number of digits for an account," replied Celeste.

"I'll get back to you. Thanks, Celeste!" answered Ally.

Two hours later, Ally called Celeste back. "You were right. We've uncovered three more accounts and are checking on two more! So far it looks like Margo and Thomas are going to make another sizable contribution to the fund," quipped Ally.

"That would be a good name for the fund! The Simon Fund!" answered Celeste with a laugh. "How much have you recovered?"

"Fifteen million in the first three accounts," stated Ally. "I know money doesn't fix all problems, but this will help in putting some lives back in order."

"I was glad to help," replied Celeste.

"Why don't you come down for dinner this weekend? Carol and I would love to have you as a guest," offered Ally.

"That sounds wonderful. I would love that," answered Celeste.

"Great! When can you get here?" asked Ally.

"I can fly down Friday."

"Excellent. Call me when you have the details," stated Ally.

"I will. Thank you, Ally."

 

Chapter 20

Nancy was working on her reports. She was kept even busier due to Melody's departure. Her father had died and she had to take care of her mother. Nancy fully understood and told her to take care of her family.

Nancy was pleased to note that Tina no longer seemed suicidal. Tina was still very depressed, but she expressed remorse for trying to kill herself. Nancy checked Tina's file and began to search for something, anything that would give Tina a lift.

Nancy had sent out questionnaires to all the families. They had questions regarding the likes and dislikes of the teens. Nancy saw that Phillip/Tina loved oatmeal raisin cookies. She decided to ask Ina to bake up a batch for Tina. It was a small thing but it might help.

Tina's mother was very supportive and anxious to reestablish contact. However, Tina had refused to see her. Nancy had tried to get Tina to explain why, but so far Tina just said no. Nancy figured it was because Tina was embarrassed by her past. Hopefully one day Tina would change her mind. Nancy hadn't told Tina that her parents had separated. Apparently the split was over Tina, but Nancy suspected that that was just the last straw.

Bébé seemed very happy working for Celeste. Ina reported that Bébé was an excellent worker and never argued or complained. Nancy was determined to break Bébé out of her submissive nature. Nothing in Bébé's record showed she was submissive before the abduction, so there was hope.

Nancy made a point of thanking Bébé for her actions regarding Tina's attempted suicide. She asked Bébé if she wanted anything. Bébé hesitated and then said no. It was still a good sign, as a few weeks earlier Bébé would have immediately said no.

As for Celeste, Nancy was pleased that she accepted Ally's offer of spending a weekend in DC. Nancy was so worried that Celeste was becoming a recluse. Celeste needed friends and needed to enjoy life, thought Nancy.

Sarah was still not making any progress with Dot. It was very frustrating to everyone involved in the recovery of the teens. Dot's parents hadn't been overly cooperative. They didn't reject Dot, but at the same time they didn't seem overly anxious to see their child and Nancy wondered why.

 

Chapter 21

"Thank you for picking me up at the airport," stated Celeste to Ally.

"No problem. I'm so happy you came down," replied Ally, as she pulled out onto the highway.

"I'm anxious to meet Carol. I feel like I've known her and we've never even talked!" exclaimed Celeste.

"She's eager to meet you too! Also Beth is looking forward to seeing you again. I invited the Williams over tomorrow evening for dinner," stated Ally.

"That sounds wonderful," replied Celeste.

"By the way, I have some news for you. We recovered all the funds in the five accounts. We also recovered a safety deposit box at one of the banks. It had a king's ransom in diamonds inside. They're still appraising them, but the total amount of the 'donation' looks like it will be near thirty million," stated Ally.

"And all of that will go to the victims?" asked Celeste.

"Most of it will," replied Ally.

"How did Margo take the news?"

Ally broke out in a huge smile. "I got to be the one who told her. I flew out to see her yesterday. She seemed bored to see me and told me that she had no intention of helping us deprogram her 'creations'. I then informed her that we had discovered the rest of her funds. You should have seen the look on her face! All the color disappeared and she began to tremble. She then began to rant and scream. She turned to her lawyer and accused him of betrayal."

"That must have been something to see! I would have loved to see her out of control."

"Oh, it got better, Celeste. She continued to blame her lawyer saying that he'd betrayed her plan to escape. It was his turn to turn pale. I then told her that he had nothing to do with it and that one of her 'creations' had been the one who found the hidden funds. This enraged her even more. I think she now knows that escape is no longer an option and that she will be spending the rest of her life behind bars."

"What about her lawyer?"

"He is under investigation and will be facing a variety of charges," answered Ally with a big smile on her face.

"Sounds like you enjoyed that!" stated Celeste.

"I know I should be detached and not get emotional, but I'm only human. Yes, I enjoyed it a lot. I love seeing these creatures feel some of the pain they inflicted on others," explained Ally.

"No need to apologize, Ally. I understand completely."

The rest of the drive they discussed the teens.

 

Chapter 22

Ally and Celeste were sitting around the kitchen table as Carol cooked dinner. Ally was preparing the green beans.

"You sure there is nothing I can do to help?" asked Celeste.

"Not tonight. Tomorrow night you will be considered family, and then I'll put you to work," quipped Carol.

Celeste laughed. She had only met Carol an hour earlier, yet she already felt a strong bond. She also knew why Ally was so deeply in love with Carol. They were a true loving couple.

"Okay! It's a deal," replied Celeste. "Whenever I offered to help my mother in the kitchen, she shooed me away. My father was horrified that his son would want to cook!"

"Do you cook now?" asked Ally.

"Sometimes. Ina is pretty protective of the kitchen, but she has been tolerating my presence," laughed Celeste. "Actually I'm not being fair to her. She has been teaching me to cook some of her family recipes."

"Unlike some people in this room, I love to cook," quipped Carol.

Ally pointed at her chest and mouthed, "Me?"

They ate dinner in the kitchen. Afterwards they went for a walk. It was a lovely warm evening and it seemed a shame to stay inside.

Celeste noticed that Carol and Ally made no attempt to hide their affection. As they walked together, they held hands.

"I'm glad you live in an open-minded neighborhood," replied Celeste.

"Mostly open-minded. The bigots just got tired of harassing us," replied Carol. "They finally realized that we weren't going anywhere."

"Maybe they realized we had guns too," quipped Ally.

They all laughed.

"Seriously, most of the people around here just want to live their lives in peace. Besides we're not the only LGBT couple on the block," explained Carol.

"If you don't mind my asking, what do you consider yourself," Celeste asked Carol.

"In love," smiled Carol.

Ally smiled at Carol who gave her a quick kiss on the cheek.

"I hope that I meet someone else in my life. I was lucky the first time to be so much in love," sighed Celeste.

"When did you realize that you really loved Sherman, and that it wasn't just your programming?" asked Ally.

"It was a few months after I was in his care. My mind was clear, thanks to the therapists, and he sat me down and gave me the option of leaving or staying. He even offered to undo everything that the Simons had done to me. But then he added that he really wanted me to stay as he felt a bond between us. I knew right then that I loved him. Our romance started that day and lasted until the day he died. I miss him a lot," replied Celeste.

Carol and Ally just nodded.

 

Chapter 23

"I wish I could join you two as you ravage the shops of the area. But I have to go into the office today," stated Carol during breakfast.

"Make that three, Beth is joining us," interrupted Ally with a smile

"I see, so you three will be doing your part to help reduce the deficit!" laughed Carol.

"What time would you like us back?" asked Ally.

"Well, Maggie and Steve are arriving at five; I could use your help starting around three," commented Carol.

"Sounds good. Do you need us to pick up anything?" asked Ally.

"Yes, I have an order at the seafood market. I put in an order for shrimp and salmon for appetizers," stated Carol.

"With Steve coming I hope you doubled the shrimp order from last time!" quipped Ally.

"Yes, I remembered. At least none were wasted," answered Carol.

"The last time we had shrimp, Steve ate most of them," explained Ally to Celeste.

"Everyone has a food weakness," smiled Celeste.

"So what's yours?" asked Ally.

"Hmm, I'd have to say French fries!" laughed Celeste.

"Pepperoni pizza, here," stated Ally.

"Chocolate ice-cream," added Carol.

The kitchen was once again filled with laughter.

 

Chapter 24

Ally and Celeste headed over to pick up Beth.

Beth was excited to see both of them.

"I'm sorry that I seem so enthused. But I just like hanging out with adults better than my classmates," smiled Beth as she hugged Celeste.

"Adults? You've obviously mistaken us for someone else!" quipped Ally.

The morning was enjoyable for all three. Ally was searching for some new outfits for work. Beth and Celeste were just looking. Celeste did manage to pick out t-shirts for the other teens.

Lunch was equally enjoyable. Ally smiled at the fact that no one in the entire restaurant would suspect that just a few years ago all three of them were male.

After dinner they drove back towards Ally's home. That was when the day took a dramatic shift.

"I can't believe how much this area has changed," sighed Celeste, as she stared out the window.

"I forgot that you were from around here. I didn't think. I'm sorry," apologized Ally.

"No need to apologize. I had been wanting to return here someday. Oh! Could you turn down that street?" asked Celeste as she pointed to an intersection. They entered a residential neighborhood.

"Sure. Left or right," replied Ally.

"Right. Then a left at the next intersection," answered Celeste.

Celeste seemed very intense. She was scanning the road ahead as if she was looking for something. "Okay, slow down."

"What're you looking for?" asked Beth.

"Could you stop?" asked Celeste, ignoring Beth's question.

"Okay," answered Ally. She looked ahead and pulled into a parking spot.

Celeste got out of the car and stared at a brick wall that bordered two of the homes on the street. "This is where it started. I was just about to that wall when I was struck by the dart and then grabbed."

"This is your old neighborhood?" asked Ally.

Celeste nodded and pointed up the street. "I used to live just around the next corner. My parents still live there. The third house on the left."

Neither Ally nor Beth said a word.

"Do you mind if we drive by?" asked Celeste softly.

"You sure you want to do that?" asked Ally.

Celeste nodded yes.

They got back in the car and drove around the block.

"Stop there," stated Celeste. She was pointing to an open parking spot across the street from her old home.

They sat in the car in total silence for nearly five minutes. Celeste just stared out of the window at the house.

Ally then heard Celeste gasp.

"My god! That's my mother!" exclaimed Celeste.

Ally and Beth watched as a thin, well-dressed woman walked out of the house and toward a Mercedes. She was wearing a tailored suit and looked very proper. Her light brown hair was pulled back into a bun, making her look rather stern. Even from a distance, both could see the family resemblance. However, there was a major difference, as the woman lacked the humanity that Celeste possessed.

"She almost never smiles," remarked Celeste sadly, as if she could read their minds.

"What do you want to do?" asked Ally. She could feel Celeste's pain.

"Nothing," replied Celeste softly, "and that's what I mean to her, nothing."

"Her loss," stated Ally.

Beth nodded in agreement.

"We can leave now," stated Celeste.

Ally pulled out of the spot and back down the road. A few minutes later she pulled off into a park. "You want to talk about it?"

"Okay, but let's walk," stated Celeste.

The three of them got out and walked towards a picnic area across the park.

"I was hoping that she might glance over and see me and smile. But she never did that even when I was... her son," stated Celeste. "They see me as dead, but I doubt they mourn me. I see them alive and even though they never showed me love, I miss them. I would love to share my life with them. To tell them that I'm happy. To tell them how I missed them when I was abducted."

"I understand. I miss my real parents. I never had the chance to tell them goodbye," stated Beth.

"How did they die?" asked Celeste.

Beth hesitated. Ben's parents were still very much alive. But thanks to her transformation, Ben was dead to them and they didn't know Beth. She then stated the story the agency had created for her, "They died in a plane crash."

"That must have been terrible. Did you have a good relationship with them?" asked Celeste.

They arrived at an empty picnic table and sat down. The warm afternoon sun felt good.

"Yes. I miss them very much, even though I also love my adoptive parents."

"I just miss being able to share things. I have no family. Sherman only had a few relatives and they're all bent because he didn't leave them any money," sighed Celeste.

"I think I can offer a partial solution," announced Ally.

"What is that?" asked Celeste.

"Beth and I have kind of become sisters. We talk and share thoughts and ideas. Would you like to become our sister?" asked Ally.

Celeste sat there speechless.

"That's a wonderful idea!" concurred Beth.

Celeste began to cry. They were tears of joy and all she could do was nod. Ally and Beth gave her a long group hung.

After almost a minute they separated. Celeste wiped her eyes with a linen handkerchief. "So is there some sort of initiation?"

"Yes, and we just performed it," quipped Ally.

"I just want to say that you two just gave me something I have always dreamed about. I was so lonely as a child and prayed for a sister. Now I have two!" beamed Celeste. The tears began to flow again.

 

Chapter 25

Dinner was a barbecue. Carol had been anxious to try out some new recipes. There would be chicken, pork chops, shrimp, and ribs. The salmon was with the rest of the appetizers that they were nibbling on. As promised, Celeste was put to work, along with everyone else. She was working with Beth on making the salad. Maggie and Ally were helping Carol with the preparation of the meat, and Steve was assigned the task of firing up the grill.

Celeste was enjoying the camaraderie, and wished she had friends like these up in Southampton. She began to understand how important friends were in the world. She told Beth these thoughts.

"So what's keeping you up there?" asked Beth.

Celeste thought about it.

"I mean, you don't have to sell the estate. I assume you could buy another home somewhere else. Is that true?" asked Beth with a smile.

"That's true," Celeste answered. "What's on your mind?"

"I know you're thinking of going to college. I also know that Georgetown is out, but there are other universities around here and I only have one year of high school left."

Celeste laughed. "That sounds like an interesting idea. I may consider it."

Celeste thought about Beth's idea. It made sense in so many ways. She did want to go to college, but the idea of going alone was frightening. Being with Beth would be very nice.

"So where are you thinking of applying?" asked Celeste.

"I'm thinking of the University of Pennsylvania. It's a great school and it's a reasonable distance from home," smiled Beth.

"Back in my old life, I wanted to go there myself!" exclaimed Celeste.

They began to talk and plan about college.

Maggie, Ally, and Carol were secretly observing them. Ally had talked to Nancy and Jenna about helping Celeste break out of her sheltered world. Now that Ally considered Celeste both a friend and sister this took on a new urgency. Ally had accessed Celeste's file and found that Celeste/Jeremy had been considering Penn, along with several other universities on the East Coast. Ally had met with Maggie and the two of them planted the idea in Beth's head. Beth was actually considering Penn as an option, and now that her new "sister" might go at the same time, it was even more appealing.

"I hope this works," whispered Maggie to Ally and Carol. Maggie wanted Beth to stay close when she went to college, but understood her daughter's need to spread her wings. Philadelphia wasn't that far away, and if she was with a friend like Celeste then she could sleep easier. Ally had told Maggie all about Celeste and together they had hatched the plan. True, it was a bit devious, but that was their job!

"Mom, you want Celeste and I to run down and get the bread?" asked Beth.

There was good bakery nearby and they had excellent fresh bread.

"Okay, but be careful," smiled Maggie, as she pointed to the keys to their car.

"Yes, Mom!" replied Beth. "Come on, Celeste, you'll love this place."

As soon as they got in the car, Celeste turned to Beth. "Do you think they bought it?"

"Absolutely. You were very good," smiled Beth.

"Thank you. I find the whole thing funny. We all want the same thing, yet we feel the need to convince everyone else that we were tricked into doing it!"

"I understand the adult mind," answered Beth with a laugh.

Celeste glanced over at Beth. "I don't mean to pry, but you're still hiding something. I hope someday you feel that you can tell me."

Beth nodded. "I promise."

They picked up the bread and headed back to the house, talking about attending college together.

 

Chapter 26

Dinner was very enjoyable. There was a mountain of food and as expected Steve ate a lot of shrimp. Celeste was more impressed with the amount of food that Beth ate. On her plate were a chicken breast, several ribs, shrimp, salad, beans, and bread. What made this remarkable was that this was Beth's second helping!

"How can you eat so much and still be so fit and trim?" asked an astonished Celeste.

"I just have a high metabolism!" Beth replied smugly.

"You'd better hope that it never goes away!" answered Celeste.

"I've told her that many times," stated Maggie. Ally was right about Celeste, she thought. Maggie really liked Celeste and felt she could trust her. She was also glad that Beth was becoming such good friends with Celeste.

"I would still like to enter her in some eating contests," quipped Steve.

"As long as it isn't shrimp. I'd lose to you," responded Beth.

He reached over and began to tickle her. "I know your weakness!" he exclaimed.

"Dad... no!" squealed Beth as she tried to avoid Steve.

He tickled her until she was laughing uncontrollably.

Celeste smiled and saw how a real family reacted. There was real love here. Something she had never seen in her home. She turned to Ally. "Thank you so much for inviting me here."

"You're welcome, sister," smiled Ally.

 

Chapter 27

The next day Celeste was on a jet heading back to Southampton feeling renewed. The trip had been everything she could have hoped for and more. Michael picked her up at the airport and drove her home. The traffic was light and she was back at the estate in a short time.

Nancy seemed pleased to see her. "Did you have a good trip?"

"Yes, thank you," replied Celeste. She knew Nancy was most likely part of the whole Penn conspiracy, but she kept quiet about it. Celeste was secretly pleased that she had people who cared about her. Maybe she had a family after all?

"How are the teens?" asked Celeste.

"Tina seems calmer, although she is still depressed. I think tomorrow would be a good day to give her the new clothes," stated Nancy.

"I'd like that. Do you think it would be too much to take her to a salon too?" asked Celeste.

"Let's see how she responds. But I think that would be a lovely idea," smiled Nancy.

"How's Bébé doing?" asked Celeste.

"Still an attentive servant. However, I'm seeing some signs of her cracking. I have hope that she is going to change," replied Nancy.

"What about Dot?" asked Celeste.

Nancy shook her head. "Sarah is very frustrated. She still can't break through Dot's wall."

"I'm sorry to hear that," replied Celeste.

They walked into Celeste's office and sat down. Bébé brought in some tea for them. Celeste didn't notice any difference in Bébé; she seemed as obedient and happy as ever.

Celeste told Nancy about her trip.

"I wish I had something to say to make you feel you better about your family," stated Nancy.

"I know," replied Celeste.

"You up to telling me more about your story?" asked Nancy.

"Sure. I guess we start when I was delivered to Sherman," stated Celeste, as she took a sip of tea.

Nancy sat back and listened.

"I was driven up here by a very scary looking man. He did nothing to me, but I could tell that he was very dangerous. I was too passive to even think of escape, but something told me that he would have killed me in a second," stated Celeste.

"That sounds like Marcus Castillo. He was killed during the raid on the farm," interrupted Nancy.

"Good," replied Celeste. "I was brought into the house at night. I was neither blindfolded nor cuffed. I was as docile as a lap dog."

"How soon after you were brought in did you meet Sherman?"

"Immediately. He led me up to my room and showed me around. He told me to get some sleep and that he would talk to me in the morning. I was a bit confused, as I thought I was to start sexually pleasing him."

Nancy nodded.

"The next morning he brought me breakfast in bed. I was naked and waiting for him to tell me what to wear."

"You were that passive?" asked Nancy.

"Oh, yes. I had been trained to be totally submissive. That was the first thing that Sherman began to change. He explained to me that I was to select my own clothes. Margo had trained me on how to dress appropriately, so that wasn't difficult. He then told me that he knew I was transgendered and not forced into femininity. I was confused by this confession. He went on to tell me that I would be safe and would not be hurt."

"Did you try to come onto him?" asked Nancy.

"Yes. He gently resisted my advances and told me that it wasn't necessary. That totally confused me."

"So what happened next?" asked Nancy.

"Over the next few weeks he treated me kindly. He brought in therapists to break me out of my total submission. It took time, but I began to accept that it wasn't a trick and that he really wanted me to be a person and not a slave," stated Celeste.

"I read your therapist's notes. I'm trying some of their techniques on the others. Thank you for releasing them to me," stated Nancy.

"No problem. Again I think that the reason that I broke out of the programming so fast was that I wanted to be female. I was really happy that I was allowed to live as a woman."

"So what happened then?" asked Nancy.

"Sherman explained that he was looking for a kindred spirit, that he too wanted to be female, but knew that it was impossible, considering his physical size and career. He initially wanted someone else he could dress up with and not fear any repercussions."

"How did you feel about this?" asked Nancy.

"I really didn't give it a second thought. I understood his feelings, frustrations, and fears. So I helped him dress. It seemed a little strange at first, as I was teaching him how to apply makeup and how to select a wardrobe. But soon I enjoyed it. He was so happy when he saw his reflection in the mirror," stated Celeste. A smile began to blossom on her face.

Nancy nodded.

"We were soon spending the whole weekend together with him dressed. Ina and Michael just accepted that it was one of his quirks. Sherman was so happy. He asked that I call him Shirley," laughed Celeste. It was a laugh of joy and fond remembrance. "While he never really looked very feminine, his personality became softer and calmer."

Nancy nodded again.

"That's when I began to fall in love with him," smiled Celeste. She began to look at her wedding ring.

"When do you think he noticed that you loved him?" asked Nancy.

"I don't know. But he began to treat me differently. Our romance just exploded. We both knew we were made for each other, no pun intended," smiled Celeste.

"Is that when he began to take you out?" asked Nancy.

"Yes. He showed me a big beautiful world out there. He wanted to show it to me and share his love of culture and music."

"Where did he take you?"

"At first we went into the city and we would go to the various museums. Of course, he wasn't dressed as Shirley! He never left the house dressed," smiled Celeste. "Then he took me to Broadway shows and plays. We even went to the opera and ballet. It was wonderful. My eyes were opened to a world of culture and beauty that I'd never imagined existed. I also loved Sherman more for sharing it with me."

Nancy smiled.

"We then took a few weekend trips. We went up to Newport, Rhode Island for a weekend. That was a fun trip. We toured the mansions and had some wonderful dinners. We even drove up to Cooperstown for a few days. Sherman loved baseball and he loved showing me the Hall of Fame, but he also knew about the wonderful art collection at the Historical Society Museum. We stayed in a small old hotel downtown that was completely furnished with beautiful antiques and had the original early 1800s taproom in the basement. I just loved being with him."

"How did he treat you in public? How do I put this...?"

Celeste laughed and interrupted Nancy. "At first it was like father-daughter. Especially when we went into the city. Then as our love blossomed, we made no attempt to hide we were a couple. Sure, we got some dirty looks. But we didn't care. I loved to kid him when someone would ask him 'How old is your daughter or granddaughter?"

"How did you feel about being with an older man?"

"I was more scared that someone would 'make me' as transgendered. The age difference didn't bother me," replied Celeste.

"And do you still feel any fear when you go out?" asked Nancy.

Celeste hesitated. "Most of the time I am fine. Sometimes someone will glance at me as if they know my secret. I know it's foolish."

"It's not foolish."

"Thanks. I talked to Ally about it and she has the same feelings," replied Celeste.

Nancy held her hand up to her mouth to cover a yawn. "Well, I need to go to bed. Would you like to help me introduce Tina to her new wardrobe?"

"Absolutely!" exclaimed Celeste.

 

Chapter 28

Over breakfast Nancy and Celeste discussed their plan for Tina.

"Don't be disappointed if she initially rejects the clothes. We cannot force her to wear them, as we want her to change to find herself," explained Nancy.

"So we show her the clothes and let her make up her mind?' asked Celeste.

"Exactly. I think we should give her the clothes in a neutral room. I want her to think of her room as her own space, and I don't want her to feel the clothes are being forced on her."

"We can use one of the guestrooms," suggested Celeste.

"Good idea. Why don't we set everything up and then I'll have Gwen bring her in," explained Nancy.

"I wish Gwen would join us for meals, but I understand that she needs to stay near Tina," stated Celeste.

"Eventually I hope both of them will join us, along with the others."

"I hope you're right," replied Celeste.

They spent the next hour setting up the guestroom for Tina. The outfits were laid out for Tina's inspection. Celeste had also bought some new makeup for Tina and set it out on the makeup table.

"Everything looks ready. I'll let Gwen know," stated Nancy, as she took out her phone.

Celeste examined the clothes. She was pleased with the variety of outfits that her "sisters" and she had selected. There were skirts, blouses, tops, shoes, and accessories. Additionally, there was some lovely lingerie from Victoria's Secret. She smiled at the thought that she would have killed for a wardrobe like this when she was Jeremy.

"They're coming," stated Nancy, breaking Celeste out of her daydreams.

"Does Tina know why she is being brought up here?" asked Celeste.

"Yes."

"So what do I say?" asked Celeste.

"Just be yourself and tell the truth," replied Nancy.

Tina arrived and walked into the room. She was wearing an extremely short skirt, a very tight t-shirt, and a pair of four-inch pumps. "I was told that you wanted to see me."

Celeste noticed that Tina was looking at the outfits spread out over the bed.

"Yes, Tina. Celeste wanted to talk to you," answered Nancy.

Celeste nodded and turned to Tina. All Tina knew about Celeste was that she was the woman who owned the home she was living in.

"Please sit down, Tina," stated Celeste, as she pointed to a chair.

Tina nodded.

"I want to let you know that I know a little about what you're going through," stated Celeste as she sat down in a chair near Tina.

"No offense, but you haven't a clue," snapped Tina.

"Wrong. I was abducted by same people who grabbed you. I was sold to a more caring person than you were, but I suffered through the same training by the Matron that you did," replied Celeste.

Tina's eyes opened up wide.

"I was taken around the same time you were," explained Celeste. She then told Tina a condensed version of her abduction and training.

"I didn't know," replied Tina, in a soft voice.

"I wanted you to know that you're not alone. I also wanted to let you know that, like me, you are capable of being so much more than what you were programmed to be," stated Celeste. "You just need to decide who you want to be, and then we can help you do whatever is necessary to become that person."

Tina stared down at the ground without saying a word.

"I'd like you to look at these clothes. You don't have to try them on unless you want to," stated Celeste, "but they are yours if you want them."

"What's the catch?" asked Tina. "What do you want from me?"

"Nothing. I just want you to see that you do have a future, and that it includes being able to choose what you wear."

Tina looked over the clothes.

"You can try them on here or take what you want back to your room," remarked Celeste.

Tina nodded slightly. She then turned to Celeste. "Do you like being a girl?"

"Yes," replied Celeste.

"You're lucky."

There was a long silence.

"I accept that I am more female than male now. I can live with that. I just hate that I had no say in what was done to me. I'm like a monster created in a mad scientist's lab. No one ever asks the monster how it feels, they either try to control it or kill it," vented Tina.

"That's a good analogy, Tina," said Nancy, "and it shows you are really starting to think for yourself again. Do you mind if I pass it on to the therapists who are working with some of the other rescued teens?"

Tina gave a brief shadow of a smile. "I guess."

"Like I said, take what you want. If you don't want any of it, that's okay. If you want to go shopping and pick out what you want, that is cool too," stated Celeste.

Tina looked confused.

"It's your choice. But, you need to find a look that works for you," stated Celeste.

"My choice. I barely know what that means anymore," replied Tina.

"It's time to rediscover it."

"How do I go on with the guilt I feel? I've done some horrible things. If I try to be respectable, I will have that guilt follow me the rest of my life. If I just accept that I'm a slut, then what do I have to feel guilty about?" explained Tina.

"First, you shouldn't feel guilt for what others forced you to do. Do you really believe that allowing yourself to be further used and abused will make you feel better?" asked Celeste. "Second, and more important, you are a very bright and talented person, and you'll always know in your heart that you have it within you to be much more than a slut, and you'll feel guilty about not living up to your potential."

Tina shrugged her shoulders.

"I don't think you really believe that. Try to change. Explore your options. If that turns out to be too hard, then quit and throw your life away. But at least try to change first," stated Celeste firmly. "We'll let you decide."

Tina sat there and didn't say a word.

"I hope that we can talk more another time," reiterated Celeste.

Tina nodded.

"If you want to think about it, that's fine. The clothes aren't going anywhere," added Celeste.

"Tina, we'll leave you here with Gwen," stated Nancy, as she got up.

Tina just nodded.

Nancy and Celeste got up and walked out of the room. Tina just stared at the outfits. Gwen walked in and sat next to Tina.

 

Chapter 29

Back in her office, Celeste turned to Nancy. "So how much damage did I do?"

Nancy sat down in the chair across from Celeste's desk. "You did well. I like the way you handled yourself and the way you were blunt but kind with Tina. "

Celeste sat on the edge of the desk and gave Nancy a look of disbelief.

"Seriously, you gave her honest answers, and that's what she needs. We want her to feel emotions again," explained Nancy. "Oh, I left instructions with Gwen that if Tina wants any of the clothes then to have Bébé move them to Tina's room. Also I want Bébé to store any clothes that Tina doesn't want. This might kill two birds with one stone."

Celeste gave Nancy a confused look.

"Bébé might get jealous of the beautiful clothes that Tina was given. After all, Bébé has only been wearing simple clothes. Ina told me that she has seen Bébé looking longingly at your fine lingerie as she washes it," stated Nancy. "Ina has been making Bébé wear standard white panties and Playtex 18-hour bras."

Celeste smiled. "Not exactly Victoria's Secret!"

"No, far from it," answered Nancy. "I'll see you at dinner. I need to review some reports and to check with Sarah. I also owe Jenna a report."

"Okay. Thanks for letting me help you today," replied Celeste.

"You were a great help," smiled Nancy, as she got up and walked out of the office.

Celeste sat there for a moment. The idea of going to college was extremely appealing, especially if she could be joined by Beth the following year. In addition to her personal record, Sherman had created an academic record for her. It wasn't a total fabrication as he based it on Jeremy's grades and the observations of her academic tutors. Money wasn't an issue and if Penn hesitated on her academic record and age, then a small donation might grease the wheels. She could donate something in Sherman's name, as he'd like that.

Celeste called her lawyer and requested that he look into the possibility of her getting into Penn in the fall. He listened to her idea of a possible donation in Sherman's name. Next, she called her financial advisor and asked him to look into real estate in Philadelphia. She told him she was interested in a townhouse near Penn. He said that he knew a good real estate agent in Philadelphia and that he would have a list of potential listings in a few days.

Celeste felt good about taking a step forward in her life. After all, she had just told Tina that she needed to move forward with her life! Celeste didn't want to look like a hypocrite.

 

Chapter 30

Nancy was late joining Celeste for dinner. "Sorry I'm late. I was talking with Tina," apologized Nancy.

"No need to apologize. How's she doing?" asked Celeste anxiously.

"She took half the clothes back to her room. Apparently she spent the afternoon trying on various combinations of the outfits. When we talked, she downplayed the idea of changing her image, but I could see that she didn't even believe that. Her makeup was also a little more subdued. This may be the break we've been looking for," explained Nancy.

"Was she wearing a new outfit?" asked Celeste.

"Yes. She had on a khaki skirt and blue silk blouse and she looked very pretty!" stated Nancy. "She will need help with learning to do her makeup more subtly."

"That's great to hear!" exclaimed Celeste. "I can help some with the makeup, and I think a consultation with a professional cosmetologist is probably in order as well."

Maybe Tina had made that turn they were hoping for!

 

Chapter 31

The next day Celeste was pleasantly surprised to get a phone call from Ally.

"I have something that I think you'd want to know. When you told me that your parents declared you legally dead, I did some snooping. I found out a few things that I think you should know," stated Ally.

"Okay," replied Celeste.

"First they cashed in an insurance policy on you. They also cashed in your college fund," stated Ally.

There was a long silence from Celeste. "I'm not surprised. How long after I was declared dead did they go after the money?"

"Less than a week," replied Ally.

"My grandfather left me the money for college in his will. Mom was also pissed that he didn't give it to her," stated Celeste.

"I know this isn't easy to hear, Celeste," stated Ally.

"I appreciate that you told me. How did you find this out so quickly?" asked Celeste. "I know you guys are good, but to get this sort of information so quickly is quite impressive."

This time the silence came from Ally. "I didn't just get the information. We investigated all the parents."

"Why?" asked a shocked Celeste.

"We discovered that two of the teens weren't actually abducted. Their parents actually sold them to the Simons," replied Ally. "Your parents didn't do that."

Celeste gasped. "You mean that their parents really sold them?"

"I know. It's horrific. We have them in custody and have recovered most of the funds."

"What about the other teens here?" asked Celeste.

Ally was silent for a moment. "We arrested Dot's parents last week."

"Oh my God! They sold her?"

"Yes. I'm sorry I couldn't tell you this sooner," replied Ally. "They had built up massive debts and they jumped at the money that Margo offered them."

"Does Nancy know this?"

"Yes."

"Thank you for telling me this, Ally."

"We're sisters."

After she hung up the phone, Celeste stared out the window at the ocean and thought about how cruel the world could be at times. But what cheered her up was knowing that she had people who cared about her, like Ally.

 

Chapter 32

Three weeks later, they got their first big break with Bébé. Ina informed Nancy, Gwen, and Celeste that she had something she wanted to tell them. They held the meeting in Celeste's office.

"What is it, Ina?" asked Nancy.

"I've noticed that Bébé has been spending a lot of her break time out in the old greenhouse. I followed her yesterday and found that she was sneaking food out to a stray kitten," informed Ina.

"Really? Was she just feeding it or was she holding it too?" asked Gwen.

"She was holding and petting it. She was also talking to it. I wasn't close enough to hear what she was saying to it," explained Ina.

Celeste almost asked what the kitten said back, but held her tongue.

"I also think she has been sneaking it into her room," added Ina.

"This could be the break we've been hoping for!" stated Nancy.

"Why?" asked Celeste.

"We've been hoping that Bébé would rebel in some manner. We could use the kitten as the match to light the fuse. Celeste, I'll need you to play the bad cop. We'll call

Bébé in and you'll tell her that you found out about the kitten and that she must get rid of it. Hopefully, this will make her defy you in some manner," explained Nancy.

"I'll do it, but you must promise me that you'll explain to Bébé later that I'm not evil!" replied Celeste. "I love animals!"

Nancy and Gwen both laughed. "I promise!" added Nancy.

"How long do you think she's been feeding this kitten, Ina?" asked Gwen.

"I suspected something last week," answered Ina. "It's a very cute kitten. It's entirely jet-black. I think that it's only a few months old"

"Okay, Ina, I want you to go get Bébé and bring her up here," stated Nancy.

Ina hesitated. "What will happen to the kitten if Bébé agrees to get rid of it?"

"Don't worry, Ina. This is a safe haven to all kinds of strays. It will be a welcomed addition to the family," smiled Celeste.

Ina nodded and left.

"Does it really have to be me? I hate being the bad guy!" asked Celeste.

Nancy and Gwen nodded.

"Okay. I'll just pretend that I'm my mother," grumbled Celeste.

Gwen and Nancy took seats on the other side of Celeste's desk. Celeste sat at her desk thinking about what she would say. There was a knock at the door and Celeste looked up and saw Ina and Bébé. Celeste took a big breath and waved them in.

Ina directed Bébé to stand in front of Celeste's desk.

"Bébé, I'm very disappointed with your behavior," stated Celeste, in her most serious voice.

Bébé looked confused, as if she was trying to think of something she did wrong on her job.

"You're work has been excellent, however I'm talking about an affront to me personally. You have violated the hospitality of my home," continued Celeste.

Bébé looked as if she wanted to say something but stopped.

"I've found out that you've brought a filthy stray animal into my home. I want you to retrieve this animal and turn it over to Ina, who will have Michael drop it off at the shelter. What bothers me most is that you did this behind my back. I trusted you and you didn't even think to ask for my permission. I'm very disappointed by your behavior," demanded Celeste. "We will then discuss your punishment."

Bébé initially nodded slowly and began to turn, as if she was going to obey Celeste's orders. Then she stopped and looked at Celeste. "Please, Mrs. Farnsworth, she's just a little kitten. She won't cause any problems. I promise! I'll take care of her. You won't even know she's here!"

Celeste stared back at Bébé. It was the first real emotion she had ever seen Bébé show.

"No. I demand that you get rid of it," reiterated Celeste.

Bébé began to tremble slightly. Her eyes began to well up with tears. "Please, let me keep her. I've named her Violet, and she means so much to me. You treat that other girl so nice and buy her beautiful clothes, and I only wear these ugly uniforms. I work so hard for you and get nothing back. Please, let me keep Violet!"

"No. And I don't want to argue with you over this. I thought you wanted to be a maid. You're just a servant and you must know your place," stated Celeste, hoping this would put Bébé over the edge.

Bébé stood there, staring at Celeste, with rage and anger building up inside and tears running down her cheeks. Bébé hadn't felt this way since she was back in her cell and was still Randy.

"No! NO! I will not give up Violet. I've done everything I've been told, and I am tired of being told what to do," glared Bébé.

Celeste made one last push. "Bébé...."

"Don't call me that! I hate that name! That was given to me by that bitch, The Matron," demanded Bébé, as she glared at Celeste.

Nancy and Gwen were pleased to see this burst of anger from Bébé.

"What would you like to be called?" asked Gwen, in a soft soothing voice.

Bébé stood there confused. It was as if she had just woken up from a long nightmare. This was the first time in ages that someone had asked her what she wanted!

There was a slight hesitation, and then she looked at Gwen. "Please call me Brenda," she stated. "I hate that name Bébé!"

"Pleased to meet you, Brenda," stated Gwen. "Celeste, Nancy, and Ina, let me introduce you all to Brenda."

Brenda was now really confused. She glanced over at Mrs. Farnsworth; she must be Celeste, thought Brenda.

"Brenda, do you really want to be my maid?" asked Celeste.

Brenda hesitated, wondering if this was a trick. "No."

"Would you like to stay here and heal yourself?" asked Celeste.

Heal? Yes, that would be nice, Brenda thought. "Yes, Mrs. Farnsworth, but only if I can keep Violet!"

"Please call me Celeste, and of course you may keep Violet. I can't wait to meet her," replied Celeste with a big smile on her face.

Brenda looked around the room and it hit her. These people cared about her and wanted her to get well. That's when the tears started. Gwen stood up and pulled Brenda close to her and let her hold on tight. All the months of repressed emotions came pouring out. Brenda was lead to a couch where she continued to cry and hang onto Gwen. Nancy, Ina, and Celeste moved in to add their support.

Eventually Gwen led Brenda back to her room. They made one little detour and that was to get Violet from the greenhouse. Celeste sent out Michael to pick up a litter-box, a cat bed, food, and other supplies.

Back in her office, Nancy and Celeste were thanking Ina.

"You really helped Brenda break out of her shell. I cannot begin to thank you," remarked Nancy.

"I was very happy to help. I just hope she doesn't hold a grudge," replied Ina.

"Don't worry. I don't think she will. Do you want me to hire you a new assistant?" asked Celeste.

"I appreciate the offer, but I handled this home without help for years, and I have my ways of doing things. So if you don't mind, I will do without training another assistant for now," smiled Ina. "However, I do have a suggestion that I hope you will think about."

"What's that?" asked Celeste.

"Now that Bé ... Brenda has broken free, and with Tina becoming such a nice young lady, I think that it's time for both these girls, and you too, Mrs. ... Celeste, to experience being part of a real family. I think that everyone should have their meals together in the main dining room, and that everyone should share in some of the chores. These girls also need to learn the basics of housekeeping and cooking if they are ever to live out in the world, and I'm sure that Brenda would be happy to share some of her domestic skills with the others."

"That sounds like an excellent idea, Ina," said Nancy.

"It does," replied Celeste. "And I suppose that I need some of that practical experience just as much as the others do. You've spoiled me rotten, Ina, and I love you for it, but it's time for me to start growing up too.

"Beginning tonight," she continued with a smile, "we'll all eat together, family style, and we'll all help out in some way with the cooking, serving, clean-up, and other housework. However, Ina, that means that you too will eat with us - no more hiding in the kitchen for you. You will have to be here to be the 'mother' for all of us, and to keep us from acting entirely like rowdy young girls. You are just as much a part of this 'family' as anyone else."

Ina blushed, but it was easy to see that she was very flattered by Celeste's words. "Thank you," she answered. "I may need to make a few menu changes, but that won't be hard."

"Make whatever changes you feel are necessary," Celeste stated. "It probably would be a good idea for each of us to be responsible, with your coaching, for at least one meal a week."

"That sounds good," added Nancy, "and it brings up something else that needs to be addressed in getting Tina and Brenda ready for the real world, and hopefully Dot someday. I think that they all need some experience with family life, but they also need some preparation for going out in public as women."

"How about if we have two dinners a week that are 'dress up'? That would be something which we could do right here," suggested Celeste.

"Good idea," replied Nancy. "We'll need to see that Brenda and Tina have some appropriate clothes though."

"Yes, I can take care of that." Celeste grinned as she turned back to Ina. "And that means that you will need to dress up too, Ina. Part of your reward for this suggestion, and your help in turning Bébé around, is going to be a makeover at my favorite salon and a shopping spree with me in the best New York stores."

"Oh, my!" Ina blushed, but her excitement was obvious as well.

"Is there anything else you want?" asked Celeste.

Ina hesitated. Her car was giving her a lot of trouble, but she didn't want to appear greedy. "Thank you for asking, but no."

"I see. So Michael fixing your car twice in the past two weeks isn't a concern?" smiled Celeste.

Ina broke out in a small smile. You're very observant, she thought.

"I would like you to trade that old wreck in and I will buy you a new car. I don't want to hear any argument," stated Celeste.

Ina wanted to argue, but couldn't. "Thank you, Celeste."

Celeste smiled. That was the first time Ina had called her by her first name.

Ina left and Nancy and Celeste talked about Brenda. They were sitting on the leather couch, next to the window.

"I'm glad we bought some new clothes for Brenda. I imagine she won't want to wear a maid's uniform again, even a frilly French uniform," stated Celeste. "Of course, these new plans will also require more clothes for both Brenda and Tina, and salon trips as well, I think."

"That's true," stated Nancy. "You did that act with Bébé really well. I know how hard it was to press her like that. I'm very proud of you."

Celeste felt her eyes tearing up and started to say thanks but the words barely came out.

Nancy reached over and hugged Celeste. Nancy knew that Celeste was still dealing with her own issues from captivity. And, while Celeste declared, "everything is fine," Nancy knew better. "Let it out, Celeste."

Celeste began to cry and let out her emotions.

 

Chapter 33

The following day Celeste looked out the window of her office and watched with amusement as Brenda played with Violet. Celeste barely recognized Brenda. Instead of Bébé, the emotionless servant, she was watching Brenda, a laughing teenage girl. Brenda was dressed in green shorts and a white sleeveless t-shirt and was sitting on the grass dangling a cat toy in front of Violet, who was actively attacking it.

Nancy joined Celeste at the window. "Quite a remarkable turn around," stated Nancy.

"I wouldn't have thought someone could change so quickly," replied Celeste.

"Brenda had been building up for a change. Unlike Tina, Brenda only had to overcome her programming as a maid. She is still a bit submissive, but she can function in the world now. I think that we may be able to set up a visit with her parents," explained Nancy.

"That's wonderful. What about Dot?

"Sarah's still working on trying to break through her programming. She even tried to shock Dot by telling her that her parents were the ones who sold her to Margo," answered Nancy.

"What happened?"

"Nothing, at least nothing on the outside. Dot claimed that she didn't have any parents. That the only person who cared about her was The Matron," answered Nancy.

Celeste shook her head in disbelief. "How's Tina doing today?"

"She's taking little steps. She doesn't want to be a whore, but she doesn't have any idea of what she wants to do. I wish we could find something she's interested in."

"Let me talk to her," suggested Celeste. "I have an idea."

Celeste then explained her idea to Nancy, who agreed to try it.

An hour later, Celeste was walking Tina around the estate. Tina was wearing a white summer dress and sandals. Celeste had helped her with simple daytime makeup, and she now looked like a normal, pretty teen girl.

"So you own this huge house?" asked Tina in disbelief.

"Yes. My husband left me everything," replied Celeste.

"You're lucky. I don't mean about the house or stuff like that. I mean that you had true love in your life," stated Tina.

Celeste nodded and continued to show Tina around. "I know that. I'm planning on putting much of his fortune to good use. I'm going to college, and I'm setting up a foundation to help teens who have been abused. Especially those who have gender identity issues"

"I have no idea of what I'm going to do with my life."

"What did you want to do before the abduction?" asked Celeste. She was slowly working Tina towards the conservatory.

"I wanted to go to college and study music," replied Tina.

"Well, you do know that money isn't an issue? The Simon Fund will pay for any education you want."

Tina smiled at the mention of the Simon Fund. "I know. Gwen and Nancy told me that. Music was my escape, and after everything I've been through it just doesn't seem important anymore."

Celeste stopped and stared at Tina. "Do you really believe that?"

"I don't know. I've seen things that most people have no idea exist. The club I worked in back in Japan catered to some really perverted people. What really bothers me is that they didn't see anything wrong with the forced slavery of others to please them. I also know that there are many others still in captivity. I wish I could vent these feelings!"

"Why not do it with music?" asked Celeste. They started walking again.

"I thought about that. But music was always joy and beauty to me. I don't want to dirty it with the feelings of anger and rage I have inside," replied Tina.

"Don't look at it that way. Look at music as a scalpel that you can use to expose and cut away the bad memories," stated Celeste. They were just outside the conservatory. "I want show something to you."

They walked inside the hall. Tina's eyes immediately locked in on the Steinway baby grand piano.

"Do you play?" asked Tina, as she stared at the piano.

There was a gleam in Tina's eyes that Celeste hadn't seen before.

"No, but my husband did. It is yours to play whenever you want."

Tina hesitated and almost said yes. Instead she shook her head no. "Not yet."

"That's fine. But I want to make it clear that you don't have to ask my permission to play it."

Tina nodded, as she continued to stare at the piano. "Maybe another time...."

 

Chapter 34

The first group dinner was casual. Ina made tacos, rice, and beans. The idea was to have a meal that would make the participants pass things around. The seating was also planned out to try to generate conversation. Celeste had hoped that the first group dinner would be a night of forming friendships and talk. She was greatly disappointed. Tina seemed lost in her thoughts and barely talked. Brenda ate her dinner quickly and seemed eager to leave the table so she could play with Violet. Violet made a quick appearance and then ran out chasing a small ball.

After dinner, Celeste expressed her disappointment to Nancy and Gwen. "I guess I was too optimistic."

"Maybe, but at least everyone got along. We've made some great strides in the past few weeks," stated Nancy.

"I noticed Tina seemed 'far away.' I think you made an impression on her this afternoon," remarked Gwen. "I'll make my rounds and see how they're doing."

Nancy and Celeste nodded and watched as Gwen left.

"I got a call from my lawyer this afternoon. He told me that I could enter Penn this fall if I want," stated Celeste.

"And?"

"I'm thinking of waiting until the next fall. I want to start school with Beth. I also want to get started on the foundation. I have my lawyer checking into a few consultants. He's also working on the paperwork so the foundation will be legal, tax exempt, and eligible to receive grants," continued Celeste.

"My, you've been busy the past few days!"

Celeste smiled. "I want to get the foundation up quickly so we can start helping other teens like me. By the way, I will be looking for a chief therapist."

Nancy looked at Celeste. "Do you need a list of recommendations?"

"No, I already have someone in mind. I would love to have you take the position. You don't have to make up your mind right now, as the earliest we'll be up is in about four months."

"I'm honored. I must admit that I find the offer very appealing. I love my present job, but I get a real joy out of working with injured teens," stated Nancy.

"Like I said, no rush. Do you think that Gwen and Sarah would be interested?"

"I'll talk to them I think Gwen would be very interested. Sarah wants to focus on deprogramming teens, but she might sign on as a consultant."

"Part of the foundation's purpose will be education and training. I want to have positions in the foundation that can be filled by those we've helped," stated Celeste.

"That's a wonderful idea. I think that we will be able to get grant money from the Simon Fund. Jenna had an idea very similar to this, and I will talk to her. Jenna's input will be very important," explained Nancy.

"Cool!"

Nancy looked at her watch. "Speaking of Jenna, I have a report due to her tomorrow. I need to finish it up and e-mail it to her. I'll see you in the morning," stated Nancy.

"Don't stay up all night!"

Nancy laughed. "It's almost done. I just need to incorporate the latest from Sarah. Good night."

They hugged good night.

Celeste walked through the house and found Brenda watching TV. Celeste sat down on the couch next to her. Violet immediately began to stalk Celeste and pounced into her lap. Celeste began to pet the little ball of black fur, who purred her approval.

"She's a very affectionate kitten," remarked Celeste.

"I know. I guess it's because she doesn't have her real family," remarked Brenda, as she stared at Violet

"I can relate to that," replied Celeste. "I don't have my original family anymore either."

"Your family rejected you?" asked a shocked Brenda.

Celeste nodded and continued to play with Violet.

"I'm so sorry. My family wants to see me, but I'm so afraid that they'll reject me when they see what I've become," stated Brenda.

"Give them a chance. They know that what happened wasn't your choice. You might be surprised by their reaction. They've wanted to see you since you came here," replied Celeste.

Brenda nodded. "Do you mind if I ask you a few questions?"

"No, not at all," replied Celeste.

"Do you still have your..."

"My penis?" interrupted Celeste, with a smile. "I had SRS last year."

"Oh. I don't know what I'm going to do. I mean, I doubt I could look like a guy again after what they did to me. Gwen explained that they can't reverse all the effects of the hormones and surgery."

Celeste nodded. One of the other feminized teens wanted to become male again. He had requested high-dosage testosterone treatments and had gotten very sick; in fact, he had almost died.

"Do you want to stay in between?" asked Celeste.

"I don't know. I guess there's no rush. I know one thing; I'm not attracted to men," stated Brenda.

"Gender doesn't mean the same as sexuality," stated Celeste.

"I know. But what sort of woman would want me?" asked Brenda. "I don't know how to describe myself. I've never wanted to be in charge. I would rather follow, I guess that's why I was such a good maid!"

"The term you're looking for is perhaps submissive, or perhaps just a helper or team member. There are many relationships where the woman is dominant, but there are also many women who prefer to do things cooperatively as part of a group or team, rather than have a specific leader. And don't sell yourself short. I've met a few women who would be very happy to meet a girl like you," smiled Celeste. She looked down and saw that Violet had fallen into a deep sleep. It was as if her batteries needed a recharging.

"Really?"

"Yes. I even know a transgendered woman who is dating an older dominant woman. Their relationship is based on mutual love and respect," stated Celeste. She didn't think Ally would mind if she told Brenda about Carol.

"Wow!" exclaimed Brenda. "That makes me feel better."

Celeste laughed.

Brenda looked over at Celeste. "You know, I really hated you. You were such a picky and demanding bitch. Then you were going to take away my kitten! I was so angry at you."

"I'm sorry, but it was for your own good," stated Celeste. "It was hard on me too."

"I know that now and I appreciate that you did it."

They hugged. Violet slept through it, without moving a muscle.

"I was fortunate. The man who bought me immediately began to deprogram me. I want to help as many others like us as possible. I'm going to set up a foundation to help others."

"I just wish I knew what I was going to do with my life."

"Why don't you go to college? We can supply tutors to get you ready."

"What about my identity?"

"That's not a problem. The government will help you with your identity."

"Brenda Horton. It does have a nice ring to it," stated Brenda. "I just wish I didn't have this stupid accent."

Brenda's French accent wasn't as prominent, but it was still noticeable.

"Look at it this way, it makes you seem more exotic!" smiled Celeste.

"Being exotic isn't exactly a problem," replied Brenda. She looked at Celeste and they both began to laugh. Soon they were both crying from laughing so hard. Violet seemed slightly annoyed to be snapped out a sound sleep.

"That felt good. I haven't laughed in so long. I feel like I'm waking up," remarked Brenda. Violet worked her way onto Brenda's lap.

"You are. I went through the same feelings, and Tina is just beginning to come back - she's been through much more than either you or I have" stated Celeste.

Brenda nodded.

"By the way, Violet will need to see the vet this week," stated Celeste. "We want to make sure she is healthy."

"I understand. I'm just so happy that you're letting me keep her!"

"There is no way that I would separate you two. Besides, she is just so adorable!" cooed Celeste, as she reached over to pet Violet. Needless to say, Violet approved of all the attention.

"I guess I should let my parents see me. Have they really been asking about me?" asked Brenda.

"Yes. Nancy has been updating them regularly with your status."

Brenda wiped away a tear. "I do miss them. I wish I could talk to them right now."

"Let's go see Nancy, and if she approves we can call them tonight," stated Celeste.

"You mean that?" answered Brenda excitedly.

"Yes," replied Celeste.

Twenty minutes later Brenda was talking to her parents. She was laughing and crying, sometimes at the same time as she reestablished contact with her family. Overall she seemed ecstatic. Celeste and Nancy monitored her from a distance. Violet was sitting between them, stalking Nancy's fingers.

"Looks like this case is turning out okay," stated Celeste. She was suddenly envious of Brenda.

Nancy nodded in agreement. "I know. Brenda isn't completely over what happened to her, but she will make it."

"I guess I'll ask Ina to prepare the guestroom for Brenda's parents."

 

(continued)

  

  

  

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