The Mistress of Chatsford Manor

by

Donna Dee and Karen-Anne Summerfield

© February 2004

 

Part V

Mistress Erica

 

Our lunch together was really enjoyable. To eat in company and to enjoy real food was a treat, especially after the stable biscuits, which is all I'd had to feed on the past month. It was even stranger to be using a knife and fork again, and difficult because my hands still were not functioning as easily as they should. Though we talked throughout, nothing serious was discussed until I was seated next to Madison in the huge car for the journey back to her complex. Dr. Vaughan and Mrs. Parke took facing seats.

"Are these regulars or some of your specials, Dr. Vaughan?" I asked as I leaned forward to peer at the cigarette case she'd just opened.

"Regular. Why do you ask?"

"Then may I please?"

"You may," Madison answered. I'd only smoked two cigarettes before and had quite enjoyed them. "Keep your veil lowered to smoke and take liquid refreshment," she instructed.

"Tell me, Erica, now that you've been a ponygirl, what is the first thing you would change at Chatsford Manor?" Madison asked.

"What would I change, you asked, Madam?" I deeply inhaled. "Please tell me first, as my answer is contingent upon it, was my experience tailored just for me? I got the impression it was,"

"I had no hand in your training, but took the opportunity to review the file that was sent with you. It contains nothing extraordinary for a new ponygirl, not even one ostensibly belonging to Alison. Continue."

"That being true" (I did not fully believe it was) "then I'd change almost nothing, Madam." She straightened to stare at me in question. I returned a smile.

"Nothing?" Madison questioned.

"Well, at one point I thought of standardising the training programme, different trainers using different methods didn't make sense at first, but then I realised that not all ponygirls develop at the same rate. There were many aspects I hated. Much of what I was put through was in no way pleasant and almost nothing could remotely be described as enjoyable."

" 'Almost nothing', Erica?" she questioned. "Are you stating that some of what you went through, you enjoyed?" She stared in disbelief. "That was certainly not my intention I can assure you."

"You would have to experience it to understand, Madam. Chestnut and my other friends did more to help than you could possibly imagine."

"Chestnut? Who is Chestnut?" she questioned.

"I believe she means your lead ponygirl, Glasgow Red, Madam," Dr. Vaughan answered.

"How?" Madison demanded. "The orders specified you were not to be teamed!"

'We teamed ourselves…"

"What? Explain!"

"Madam, every week we were fully groomed, fitted with clean suits and tack then placed in the pasture. The first time, Samantha, Dr. Vaughan's lead ponygirl, singled me out. I was led to the others and we bonded." Madison glared at Dr. Vaughan.

"I've no knowledge of this, Madam," she stated.

"I think this merits an in depth discussion Dr. Vaughan. You'll have them talking to each other next."

"Not talking, Madam, no, we couldn't do that, but we were communicating in so far as animals can communicate with each other."

"Erica, the ponygirls are slaves with whom we can do nothing else. True, they can and do earn us a great deal of money once they are trained, but they are being trained to pull carts, sulkies and traps, not to socialise with other ponies, you knew that much before I sent you there. Please explain this departure from normality."

"Madam, my first few days there were indeed terrible – I didn't even know how long I'd been there; every muscle ached and my bum and thighs were sore from the touch of the whip – I felt very sorry for myself when I was placed in the pasture. When Samantha singled me out and took me to meet the other team members it gave me an enormous boost and helped to reinforce my resolve. I believe I am better for that contact."

Madison changed the subject. "Your mum isn't due to return from holiday for another week. In the meantime, I want you to live here and take the opportunity to return to some sense of normality, Erica. You are a human, a mistress in training and must behave as such. Your experiences as a ponygirl were designed to enable you to be more understanding of their lifestyle and it is unwise to develop any kind of relationship with the livestock – remember always that you may have to whip them later and maybe sell them the next day."

"I will, Madam," I acknowledged her order, "and I will whip them and sell them when necessary, you need have no fear of that."

"As willingly as Mistress Alison would whip them?"

"If the whipping was necessary then yes, I would."

I remained in thought several moments. "Madam, may I ask your plans for my future?" I had to ask.

"Be patient, little one," she smiled. "For now, you will stay at my complex, but I wish you to remain in Victorian attire." I saw her eyes glare disapprovingly at my hooves peeking out below the hem of my gown, but she didn't comment. "Your sixteenth birthday is Thursday after next. It is my thought to elevate you to mistress status within my organization, however there is an obstacle to your functioning in that capacity at the school. I do not think it would be conductive to good organization for you to continue to compete with your sister."

"I concur, Madam," Dr. Vaughan interjected. "We are both aware that Mistress Alison planned to keep Gretchen as her ponygirl for some time."

"That will do, Veronica," Madison cut her off. "What's done is done."

"Erica, what I would like you to do is begin to acquire a Victorian wardrobe in preparation for moving to Chatsford. We have already had some discussion regarding your taking over the operation there and your extra studies towards that end have been noted."

I, of course, was thrilled to hear Madison confirm my dreams. She smiled warmly as my face must have radiated my feelings.

Once back at the school, Madison asked me to accompany her to her office. "Julie," she addressed her secretary, "please locate Mistress Alisha and tell her to come to my office. Send her straight in. Also summon a maid to attend us."

"Certainly, Madam."

Madison waved me to a seat and lit herself another cigarette. When I started to remove my hat, she stopped me, even though she'd taken hers off. "Starting before we left Chatsford, I will require you to be properly dressed as befits your new position. Do you understand what that encompasses?"

"I think so, Madam. You want me to dress correctly."

"Yes, but it means more that just a dress, everything else you wear must conform to the standards I have set down. Congratulations on achieving such a fine figure by the way."

"Thank you, Madam. Jennipher did not consult with me regarding it." I smiled.

"No, I suppose not. While we are on that subject, Dr. Vaughan has assured me that your bust can be reduced to a more manageable DD cup or perhaps an E, you would prefer that I am sure, so have words with her on that as soon as possible."

"I have to say, Madam, that initially they frightened me; I hated the size of them when they were exposed and bouncing every this way and that, but I did get used to them eventually. In this bra, however, I am quite comfortable with them, they make me feel really feminine and with your permission I would like to wait a while before making a decision as to whether or not I have them reduced."

"Would you indeed? Very well, it is your body, but consult with Veronica as to how long you have before making your choice – mustn't leave it too late, must we? However I do not approve of you wearing those hoof boots even though they are both practical and comfortable for stable work, and so I require you to obtain suitable footwear from the cobbler. Have a variety of heel heights, as high as you can manage for best wear, some lower ones for general use, but you will be on your feet a lot and really high thin heels will be more tiring than hoof boots I assure you."

"Yes, madam."

"Secondly, and this is an order, have your hair returned to a normal length, please yourself if you wish to remain blonde, I will brook no argument on that subject, and get that monstrosity out of your nose."

"Yes, madam."

"Finally your clothing; I will permit modern corsetry, hosiery, footwear and cosmetics. Oh, modern fabrics also, as many period fabrics are almost impossible to obtain these days. The rest of your clothing, including your underwear will be in keeping with Victorian or perhaps Edwardian times, in style and design at least. You are going to practice proper etiquette. I will arrange to have you tutored in that subject."

The maid entered and curtseyed. "I'd like a gin and tonic, Anne.

"Erica?"

"May I have a cream sherry, please, Madam?"

"You may." She motioned to the maid and I watched the petticoats of her ultra-short uniform bounce away towards the bar.

"Where was I? Ah, manners. A proper lady wears her hat, with her veil covering her face, as well as tight gloves at all times, except in her own home. Consider the apartment here as your home for that purpose.

Mistress Alisha entered as Anne was serving the drinks. She curtseyed. "Thank you coming promptly, Alisha. Please be seated?

"Would you like a drink?" Madison invited, but it was declined.

"I don't know if you've met, Erica, this is Mistress Alisha. She is our resident fashion expert and chief designer.

"Mistress Alisha, Mistress to be Erica.

"Alisha, Erica is going to become the mistress at Chatsford Manor. Towards that end, she will require an appropriate wardrobe. I shall entrust that task to you. Please see to it over the next three weeks."

"My pleasure, madam. At your service, Erica, whenever you are ready."

I acknowledged her offer as she left to resume her duties.

"Now then, you will need staff and I would prefer you to choose your own. With the exception of the personal servants of the other mistresses, you may have your pick of four personal maids to attend you. However, you will need a maid for tonight and in the morning so Anne, here, will attend you. Look after her Anne, she is very precious to me"

Over the next few hours and a nice dinner in her private dining room, Madison outlined her ideas for Chatsford, but insisted that the final decisions were mine, so long as I returned a profit. Over the weekend, Alisha sent three outfits to my rooms to be going on with, and we arranged to start some serious shopping on Monday.

On Monday morning my first order of business when I went out with Alisha was to go to a jewellery store. I was wearing a beautiful polonaise ensemble in yellow and white; Alisha had chosen to wear a fitted black leather dress suit. I'm sure we made quite a sight as we walked about the shops on High Street. I couldn't help but wish that we'd arrived in a sulky pulled by a couple of ponygirls, but the Lexus allotted to me for the duration of my stay was equally grand. I vowed to do all my shopping from Chatsford in future.

At the jewellers I selected a tiny Florentine ring in white gold and had them replace my plain steel nose ring and soldered it closed. I had two additional piercings put in each lobe with temporary gold sleepers and the larger hoops replaced with a pair made of gold.

From there, we went to Madison's cobbler, where, acting on Alisha's advice, I selected three styles of boots to be made in both black and white leather. The cobbler removed my hoof boots in order to measure my feet accurately. He produced a pair of boots that fitted me perfectly so I elected to wear those and he boxed my hooves ready to be sent back to Madison's. Next was the milliner for hats then the glove maker's shop.

That afternoon as I reviewed various designs with the wardrobe mistress in her studio, I became acutely aware of the discipline that would be required to wear gloves and a hat at all times. Whilst it was much less than had been demanded of me as a ponygirl in the stables, I resolved to find a way round Madison's order for general everyday wear though the required ensemble would look perfect when meeting visitors or visiting others.

Three days later, Mum returned from her holiday in Hawaii. Whether it was on Madison's orders or not, I had no contact with Alison until an hour before Mum's return. Dr. Vaughan told me that Madison had spoken with my sister and rebuked her for her unkindness towards me. She added that the madam thought we'd be better off apart and confirmed that my promotion hadn't been mentioned to her. The doctor also confirmed that I had two, perhaps three weeks before I could still have my breasts reduced painlessly; she agreed with me that they looked fabulous. They felt good too, but as the doctor pointed out, I couldn't wear a heavy sports bra all summer.

Alison had heard I was back at Madison's; she wasn't best pleased and greeted me coolly as we met in the lobby to await Mum's return. "That's a very pretty dress, Erica, are you in costume for a play of some kind?" She was dressed in black suede with leather thigh boots and the ever-present coiled quirt on her hip. That morning, I had Anne dress me in the yellow polonaise ensemble once more, but added an elaborate new hat and pair of white knee boots. I had ordered all my new footwear with at least four-inch heels to compensate for my lack of height; some even had eight-inch heels and platform soles. Though my mane had been cut back to a conventional style, it was still platinum, (I rather liked it this colour), I'd had it left long enough so the beautician could pin it up in a high, tight French twist that my hat largely covered.

"No, Mistress, it is the required dress for my new position, or haven't you been informed?"

"Informed of what? I know where you'd be if I had my way and that's back in a stall at Chatsford."

"Well, you are quite correct that I belong at Chatsford, but I believe you will find that my accommodations will be somewhat more luxurious than a stall in the stables."

Her eyes opened wide and she gasped, but said no more. Alison was intelligent enough to understand the implications of what I had just said and the significance of my attire.

Unbeknownst to either of us, Madam had dispatched Dr. Vaughan in her Rolls to bring our mother back from the airport. Madison's chauffeuse opened the door with a curtsey and our mum emerged giggling followed by Dr. Vaughan. She had certainly got herself a suntan.

"Ah, it so good to be back in England, but it was such fun sipping pina coladas on the beach in Maui. You'll just have to join me on my next trip, Ronnie." Mum was giggling like a schoolgirl and I wondered how many of those cigarettes she'd smoked during her holiday.

"My two beautiful daughters! Alison it is so good to see you." She turned towards us and hugged my sister in a motherly fashion then faced me.

"And you must be the new Erica." With her hands on my tiny waist she looked at me carefully. "I cannot believe how you've changed and just look how you've grown, and in all the right places;" she seemed very happy. Curiously she made no comments regarding my hair colour, nose ring or distinctive attire.

"Please come inside, Mum?" Alison invited. The chauffeuse followed us with her luggage and my sister directed her to place it in her bedroom.

"Make yourselves at home in the lounge, I'll be right back," Alison directed.

We exchanged pleasantries with Dr. Vaughan while we waited. As Alison returned mum started to speak.

"Ronni has told me you have some big news to share, Erica," mum began as she sat next to the doctor on the settee, holding her hand tightly in hers, "but first let me tell you mine, alright?

"Ronni has asked me to move in with her." I don't know if Alison was surprised, but the news shocked me. We exchanged questioning looks.

"Why would you want to do that?" I asked?

"Your mum and I have been seeing a lot of each other recently, Erica, and being apart these past few weeks has made us realise we want to be together all the time, surely you realised how close we were."

Mother smiled lovingly at Dr. Vaughan. "We are lesbians, Erica, I always have been, and that's why I would never talk about your dad – because I don't know who he is. You were both conceived by artificial insemination in a private clinic. It seemed easier not to talk about it when you were younger – it might never have been mentioned if Ronni hadn't happened along."

"Well, Mum, I am very happy for you – I have always loved you, we both have," I said, smiling at Alison, "and I have a special reason for being extremely fond of Dr. Vaughan, so all I can say is good luck."

Alison scowled at that, but she hid it quite quickly and I think I was the only one that noticed.

"Thanks Erica, and you Ali. I'll be listing the house with estate agents post haste. Heaven knows that neither of you will want our old place. Perhaps if Alison could talk to Miss Parke, she might find some accommodation for you, Erica, until you find something suitable. I'm sure I'll be able to help, once the house is sold." Alison snorted, but controlled herself and uttered no further expression. It seemed just at that moment mother noticed what I was wearing.

"My that is a very pretty dress, Erica," mum smiled and took out a cigarette. ""Now, what is this news you have to tell me?"

"Actually my ensemble has something to do with that, Mum," I began. "Miss Parke has offered me a permanent position," I hesitantly offered, "as the Mistress of her stables. It has accommodations that I'm sure you'd consider to be most suitable."

"Oh that is grand news. If it's what you want then I'm so very happy for you. I imagine you had planned to tell me this and that you would like my permission to move out." Our mum was behaving as if she'd spent several hours at a pub before coming home.

"This is working out quite splendidly, don't you think, Ronni?" She was hugging Dr. Vaughan's arm, and I realised they were much more than casual acquaintances.

"Yes, dear."

'Dear'? Had Dr Vaughan actually addressed our mother with that endearment? I believed that she had.

"I suppose then you will be moving out shortly, unless you've already done so whilst I was enjoying myself on holiday halfway around the world.

"Ronni, I'm starved and you did promise me lunch. Would Miss Parke mind if we keep the car a few hours more?"

Alison stood, "I'm positive it will be fine, Mum. In any event, I shall explain it to Madison. Come along, Erica; you've lessons to attend."

"Yes, Erica. Pay attention to your sister. You must not neglect your studies. Now run along, girls. Please come round and visit me as often as you can." Alison took my hand and led me towards the door.

"We shall, Mum. Bye now."

"I wish you happiness, Mum," I said.

"Thank you, Erica, you also."

We were halfway to my apartment before my sister released my hand. "If I am not mistaken, Erica, she was bloody well drunk."

"I agree. I don't think I've seen her like that before, Mistress."

"If you've not been informed, yet, Madison has ordered that we limit our contact with each other in 'our best interests'. I think more properly, she meant 'in your best interests', but it is unimportant.

"I've a confession to make. I hope you don't hate me for this, Erica. I saw you as a threat to my position here in Madison's organization and tried to eliminate you as my competition. I intended that you'd never come out of ponygirl training, certainly not as you did.

"I had no interest in Chatsford Manor, and I didn't imagine that you had. My place is here. I certainly never wanted to be on the outskirts of civilization, though Madison once mentioned that was where she wanted me to be. You are most welcome to the estate and all that goes with it."

"Thank you for being candid, Mistress," I softly acknowledged. "I hope we can soon be friends again."

As if a burden had been relieved, I heard her let out a deep breath. "To help make up for what I tried to do to you, and for which I am truly sorry, I want you to have my ponygirls. They are a fine team, exceeded only by Madison's. I will handle the transfer of ownership."

"Thank you, Mistress. That is most generous of you."

"Now, there is something I want you to do." I knew there had to be a catch. "You must permit me to help you set things up. You are going to need maids; I never had much respect for the undisciplined lot up there. There's a really pretty girl I've been training for some time who will make an excellent First Girl. Her name is Karen-Anne and she is more than capable of selecting others to assist her and of running your household. You can leave her in charge with absolute confidence, but that doesn't mean you can spare the cane on her. Between you and I, I believe she actually enjoys it. I will instruct her to report to you for a twenty-four hour trial period within the hour.

"You are also going to need clerical staff and I've a few recommendations. You'd do well if you could talk Julie away from Madison, but I doubt that will happen. Anyway, be forewarned that Madison is a stickler for prompt and accurate reports. Paperwork is how this organization runs, even though it is not actually on paper anymore, but electronic. Do not neglect it or you'll be reminded how well Madison can wield a cane.

"Thank you. I will appreciate all the help I can have, Mistress."

"You are most welcome. Just one further piece of advice before we return to our duties," we had reached the entrance to my apartment and stopped before the door. "If Madison gives you an order or even hints that she would like you to do something, devote one hundred percent of your attention to accomplishing that."

"I will try my best to remember, Mistress, thank you. I shall give a party when I move to Chatsford, I hope you will see fit to attend."

"I hope so too, sister dear." We air kissed as we parted.

 

Can you begin to imagine the luxury of a dunlopillo bed, silk sheets and a real feather duvet after spending thirty odd nights sleeping on straw that stank of urine? OK, so it was my urine, but that doesn't really help. But wait, now add the soothing fingers of my first girl, Karen-Anne, as she insisted I remain still while she undressed me, bathed and dried me, powdered my body and then helped me into a long nightdress before all but lifting me into bed. I lay on my back and smiled at her affectionately as she stroked my forehead and temples with her long soft fingers, all the while whispering soft words of affection as my eyes began to close. I am not sure whether I felt her soft lips touch my eyelids as I slipped into dreamland. I slept like the proverbial log and was awakened with a sumptuous breakfast served on a tray, 'at madam's orders,' she insisted.

Karen-Anne looked fabulous in a low cut, extremely short black maid uniform with frilly apron and cap. Her makeup was bold, her scent intoxicating and her figure was one to amaze mathematicians the world over. Her smile was infectious as she greeted me in an accent I didn't quite recognise with a cheerful, "Good morning, Mistress, your bath will be ready by the time you have eaten and I have taken the liberty of preparing your lilac habit with the white boots and, of course, a hat and gloves should you decide to leave the apartment. I trust you slept well and that I didn't disturb you at all."

"No, Karen-Anne, you didn't disturb me, why, where did you sleep then?"

"In a cot in the corner of course, in case you needed anything."

"Your devotion is touching, Karen-Anne, but you are not required to sleep in my room. There is a bell I can use to summon you if you are required, and do not imagine I will consider your feelings whatever time of the day or night it may be." I looked at her closely, she really was attractive and seemed very sad that I wanted to sleep alone.

"I shall be going into town with Mistress Alisha today, so you will have to find something on which to busy yourself. I am impressed with you, and I can tell you now that you will almost certainly be my first girl. You will know the other house girls better than me, so perhaps you would like to choose three others to assist you in caring for me and present them later for my approval. One other thing, have you been told that in a week's time we will all be moving to Chatsford Manor?"

"I have, Mistress."

"Do you know what happens there?"

"I believe it is the stables for the ponygirls, Mistress."

"That's correct. Now then, no mechanical transport is allowed in the region, our only means of getting into town is in a carriage pulled by ponygirls. You will need to go into town for me several times a week I shouldn't wonder, and so you will need lessons in handing a ponygirl or maybe even a pair. If you wish to start learning straight away, give Mistress Jennipher a telephone call and ask to be met at the gate at whatever time you expect to arrive. You may order a car from the motor pool to take you and bring you back. I will ring her to arrange someone is available to give you lessons. Have you ever seen a ponygirl, Karen-Anne?"

"I saw some being prepared for that role in the gymnasium, Mistress, I must say I thought they looked beautiful and I thought that would be my fate too, but I was fortunate enough to be selected for maid training instead."

"You are right to consider yourself fortunate, but be aware that you can still be a ponygirl if you displease me. Mistress Alison, who you have also served, tells me that she has needed to cane you quite frequently. Once should have been enough, so why did she need to cane you more often?"

"Truly mistress I did my very best, but there were times Mistress Alison seemed impossible to please, if you'll pardon me for saying so."

"No! I will not pardon you!" I thundered. "Fetch me a cane and assume the position. Never ever presume to criticise any of your mistresses." I administered ten hard strokes to her already well-bruised naked arse, delighted that only the last stroke overlapped the preceding perfectly parallel nine. I told her to stand and warned her that her next caning would be her last from me – that if she sinned again she would be sent to work as a stable maid from which it was a very short step to becoming a ponygirl. I didn't intend to do that to her, I was already quite fond of her, but I felt it was necessary to establish my authority and the quicker the word spread that I was no soft touch, the better.

"The celebration of my birthday and elevation to full Mistress status is just a week away by which time I expect to have approved all my maids. Organise their outfits so that they are all dressed identically on any given day and ensure all their equipment and personal effects are boxed ready for transportation the day before. Nothing shall be forgotten – there will be no opportunity to return for missing items unless they wish to endure fifty lashes of my whip before and after. All my personal staff will travel to the estate with me on Friday morning. In making these arrangements you are at liberty to visit the stables yourself beforehand, but you will do so alone. Your quarters will be in the servant's dormitory on the top floor. Now then, see to my bath and assist me to dress and be quick about it."

It wasn't funny and I should not have been amused at the way Karen-Anne hobbled off to do my bidding, but I was satisfied that my right arm was functioning well enough to command respect from here on out.

 

Time flies when you've a lot to do and, as the day of my coronation, (as Dr Vaughan named it, rather sarcastically I thought) drew near, it literally vanished. Four vanloads of my things had been taken to Chatsford, transferred to the freight carts and pulled to the manor house. Even more slaves were then busy carrying it indoors under Karen-Anne's direction. She had travelled to and fro tirelessly leaving Anne to care for me. On the Wednesday before my birthday I was getting anxious because no one had informed me of what was to happen next day and so I asked Mistress Alisha if she knew anything. She seemed mystified.

"I have only seen two mistresses appointed," she told me, "and they were simply announced at morning assembly. I am not aware of any special plans for you, other than the dinner party on Thursday evening to which all the senior personnel have been invited, myself included. Looks like being rather special from what I've heard."

"Dr. Vaughan has been calling it my coronation, has she been teasing me?"

"Yes, I rather think she has. If it were extra special you would have been seeing dress makers, hair stylists and makeup artists by now, wouldn't you?"

I decided to ask Madison if my yellow polonaise outfit would be in order for Thursday's assembly and she seemed to think it an excellent choice that rather confirmed that it was indeed nothing out of the ordinary. "You'll need to be up early, Erica, proceedings start at eight o'clock sharp. Have you decided what to wear for the dinner in the evening?"

"Not finally, Madam. Karen-Anne and I have yet to choose between just two evening dresses, she favours the pink, I favour the green. Trouble is she may well be right." I curtseyed as I left her office and moved with almost indecent haste to my apartment where I screamed for my first girl to attend me at once. "You are in real trouble now, my girl," I said threateningly, "Why haven't you consulted with me regarding what I am to wear at tomorrow night's dinner party? Am I supposed to think of everything?"

I was looking round for the cane, determined to punish her severely for something I knew was as much my fault as hers; fortunately for her it wasn't in sight. I had seldom felt so angry let alone displayed it and the poor girl was terrified.

"Begging your pardon, Mistress," she said, curtseying deeply, "but Mistress Alisha brought me your gown yesterday with all the accessories you will require. I presumed you were aware of this having arranged it with her."

I thought hard; had Alisha discussed this with me? Perhaps I had forgotten in the general excitement. I had certainly been very busy on my plans for the future of Chatsford, who to place in which position, the extra stables, the extra staff and so on.

"In that case, I apologise. Where is the dress now?"

"It is hanging in your bedroom, Mistress, I have run the iron over it and it is all ready for you to wear. Is it your wish that fetch it here for you?"

"No, Karen-Anne, I will examine it later. Which dress did Mistress Alisha finally decide on – I left the decision to her you see."

"The blue chiffon, Mistress, and, if I may be so bold, you will look delightful – it is you to a tee. I shall be attending you all day tomorrow as the other three are required for waitress duties."

"Who gave permission for that?"

"Mistress Alison said that Madam Parke had given that order, Mistress."

"Oh very well. How are the preparations coming along?"

"Tables have been set and laid for one hundred and seventeen guests, Mistress, and the grand hall looks splendid – just like the films we see on television sometimes."

"Who has organised the transportation of the staff to the manor house on Friday?"

"Mistress Jennipher has it in hand, Mistress, every available ponygirl and driver has been told what they are about and she has told everyone that if there is a single hiccup they will spend a month in the pit. What's in the pit, Mistress?"

"That is where failed ponygirls end up. Just make sure you never find out, Karen-Anne."

On Thursday morning I was indeed up early, bathed, dressed and beautified in readiness. The announcement was to be made at morning assembly just as Alison's had been two years before.

"I didn't order this corset," I commented when my maid wrapped the stiff leather garment about my torso. With all of its boning, the corset was heavier than any I'd previous worn, even as a ponygirl.

"It s rumoured amongst the staff, that Dr. Vaughan convinced Madam that you were in need of a corrective spinal adjustment, Mistress." The corset was indeed straight and unbending. As Karen-Anne tightened the laces, I discovered that my waist was reshaped to give me a 'stem' look. She tied off when the measure about my middle was the same seventeen inches I'd achieved as a ponygirl. I was not going to permit it to be more.

After donning my white silk drawers and, with my corset cover in place, I sat so my maid could button up my black thigh boots. Yes, 'buttoned' – Alisha had offered laces instead, but I selected real button-tops. If I was to be a Victorian mistress then I wanted to do it right.

Once she set the buttonhook aside, Karen-Anne helped me step into the five petticoats then held up the kidskin gown. I'd argued that wearing leather was my least favoured material and I requested something in taffeta or velvet. I wasn't that fond of wearing black either as it always reminded me of funerals.

"I really do not care what colours or fabrics you choose to wear as Mistress of Chatsford Manor, once you are there, so long as they are in accordance with the dress code I've established," Madison lectured when I requested something else. "Unless you developed a fetish for rubber, which I'll happily permit. You will wear leather on Thursday. Every mistress before you wore black when she was promoted – you will not be an exception. End of discussion."

The dress was quite heavy once my maid had laced me into it over the tight gloves sheathing my arms. The bodice and leg-o-mutton sleeves were very tight, but the skirt was very full. My ensemble was completed with a leather pillbox covering my pinned up hair and a heavy veil covering my face.

I questioned why Karen-Anne handed me a cane to carry prior to leaving my rooms. "I was told that as part of the ceremony, all the mistresses demonstrate their expertise with a whip, Mistress Erica."

"Then why have you given me a punishment cane?"

She averted her eyes before she replied. "As you know, maids are never whipped, only caned, Mistress."

"Right then, which maid's bum am I to stripe this morning?"

"Mine, Mistress," she admitted.

All the guards and supervisors applauded and curtseyed to me as I accepted a scroll from Madison. "Karen-Anne? Position," Madison ordered.

She was shaking, but dutifully bent forward to grasp her ankles with her legs straight and her net covered arse displayed to the gathering.

"Twenty will be a good testament of your skill, Mistress Erica," Madison grinned. "Just make sure they don't overlap." My maid gasped, but held position. "You may demonstrate you skills. Begin."

Unlike my sister who seemed to delight in inflicting pain on the slaves, I took no pleasure from doing so. Still, it was part of my job and I laid them on hard to stripe her thighs and bum with double welts that were turning purple before I'd finished the task.

The room erupted with applause when I told the undeserving victim to straighten.

From there I went to the first aid room to rebuke Dr. Vaughan, but by this time I had seen the funny side of her little joke. I took Karen-Anne with me to have ointment rubbed into her welts.

I had only been a Saturday girl when Alison had been promoted and I had no idea if she enjoyed a banquet such as was laid on for me, but it couldn't have exceeded my party, I was certain of that. I felt fantastic; I know I looked fantastic as I stood in the doorway of the great hall alongside Madison, Dr. Vaughan my sister and the other mistresses – each of us in beautiful gowns, to welcome the guests. The presents I was given formed a pile and then a heap in the corner and mother said later that she had never in her life been so proud of her two daughters, which for me was the icing on the cake.

I was wise enough to drink very little of the wine, delicious though it was, but I did smoke an awful lot, accepting them from all and sundry the entire evening. I remember thinking that, whilst I enjoyed the occasional cigarette, I didn't want it to become a habit I couldn't shake and resolved to attend to that in the morning. Easier said than done? Tell me that tomorrow.

 

Part IX

 

The morning after the ceremony and celebration elevating me to the status of Mistress of Chatsford Manor, Karen-Anne and Anne bathed me then dressed me in a beautiful ensemble of dark green wool with sable fur trim. It was truly elegant, but a bit much to manoeuvre about in due to the mass of petticoats that I wore under the skirt. Something would have to change.

As Alisha and I had developed my new wardrobe, she had suggested hoop skirts to overcome the problem, but I'd quickly rejected them after a very brief trial. I simply did not like all of that empty space about my legs or the way they moved, especially when I sat. Petticoats seemed to be essential, but they must be lighter and thinner.

I'd a large white lace jabot between the lapels of my fitted bodice holding it in place with the present Alison had given me; a large cameo with a huge breasted ponygirl in silhouette under my chin, (was it a reminder?). Doeskin gloves matching the fur sheathed my hands and the white kidskin boots had been tightly buttoned right up to my crotch.

The dyed makeup, which Jennipher had so carefully applied in the stables, had faded enough so that Karen-Anne's skills could conceal it completely with proper cosmetics, albeit a somewhat heavy application of them. I tended to favour the painted look. My veils softened the appearance considerably and none, but my other maids and servants had seen my face uncovered.

Anne pushed through a dozen hatpins; once my First Girl had positioned my plumed hat before Karen-Anne lowered the flocked, black net veil. With my matching parasol and small purse looped over my left wrist and holding a new dress whip I'd been given – a metre long, stiff and straight made of black leather trimmed with silver, I went to join Dr. Vaughan, Alison and Madison for breakfast in Madison's private dinning room; confident that Karen-Anne would assure all of my orders for departure would be carried out fully.

Though not born a genetic girl, she was more feminine than most and I found her extremely attractive. In addition, my sister had trained her to be an excellent lady's maid.

"Good morning, Mistresses and Madam." They were all seated when I entered and curtseyed.

"You look absolutely brilliant, Erica," Madison smiled approvingly. "You may be seated."

A maid tended my chair and I carefully perched on it. Though still just seventeen inches, I now had a two-inch high stem waist with the straight-front corsets I'd started to adopt the previous day. I was forced to sit erect on just the edge.

Another maid served me freshly squeezed orange juice, a wedge of honeydew melon and two slices of lightly buttered toast whilst a second poured my favoured tea.

Madison wore a black velvet ensemble to accompany me to the manor house and Dr. Vaughan a grey linen suit. As usual, my sister was dressed in black - latex for that morning.

"What are your plans upon arrival, Erica?" Alison inquired to start the conversation.

"I shall inspect the ponygirls, stable staff then the stables themselves, Mistress Alison. Based on my past visit, I've ordered improvements in several areas that I want to see have been carried out.

"Madam and I will then take luncheon at the house to which you are both invited."

We ate quietly for a few minutes.

"Dr, Vaughan, I would like it if your duties here might permit you to visit Chatsford Manor within a fortnight. I am sure that by then we might have alterations to discuss." Though I was facing the doctor, I caught Madison's nod, but made no comment of my observation.

"I'm sure that I will be able arrange my schedule to suit your desires, Erica." As a mistress in Madison's organization all but Madison were required to show respect by using our titles once we held them. It was only with our permission that they be omitted even from private conversation. Dr. Vaughan and my sister had mine, even though I had to still address Alison as 'Mistress', or 'Mistress Alison'.

Though it wasn't much of one, it was still a convoy, albeit just Madison's Rolls Royce in which I rode with her and my first girl; we were followed by Dr Vaughan and my sister and then a van carrying the balance of my staff and a small lorry bearing the remainder my wardrobe, equipment I'd requisitioned, the presents I'd been given and the girls' luggage. Of course, Madison's motorcar took the lead.

"Tell me what initial problems you foresee, Erica?" Madison asked as we started the ride.

"I'm not comfortable with dismissing those of the current household staff, Madam. I don't even know them. I would prefer to have done this myself after a trial period."

"Don't fret about it. As you know, I sent Mistress Sabine ahead with Julie and the other office staff you quite skilfully persuaded me to let you have," she grinned. It had become a joke between us. When I'd explained I'd been taught little of the business side of the operation, yet understood how important it must be to the operation, I didn't even have to ask for Julie, Madison offered her to me. "They will have prepared and forwarded their recommendations. You, as I've told you, have no obligations to follow all or any of them, Erica. However, if it is your wish to follow them through, I will deal with the staff before today is out."

"Thank you, Madam." I bowed my head.

"They have recommended retaining the two cooks, I assure you their culinary talents are excellent. Further it is their advice to retain four of the maids currently installed. The balance of the household staff will be returned here for reassignment and replacements sent to you."

"I've been informed that you ordered Victorian attire for all of your new staff." I'd have been surprised if Madison wasn't aware, as she was paying for everything. "Please explain that?"

"I'll decide later about the stable staff, for now the household servants will dress as I've ordered. I want to return the manor house to its former splendour." I laughed, "I will retain some modern amenities, however."

Madison smiled, "I did tell you that you'll have free rein there. I will only step in if you request me to or if my profits decrease."

"I will do my best to assure that you do not find it necessary to become concerned in that regard, Madam."

Sharran, Madison's chauffeuse, turned off the motorway and parked the Rolls just outside the restricted zone on my estate. When she opened the door, Madison motioned for me to precede her.

The sight greeting me was a team of eight ponygirls. It was both Madison's and Alison's (now my) ponygirls, hitched up in rows of two to a large elegant carriage. I went to face Glasgow Red and raised my veil briefly. "Hello, Chestnut," I greeted with a curtsey and a smile. "I couldn't really thank you properly for all of your help when I was here as a ponygirl." Recognition flooded her face and she crouched with a big smile around her bit. Vigorously, she shook her breasts from side to side across my covered bosom.

"Miranda," I addressed the driver, "instruct the stable mistress when I'm finished with this team of ponygirls later this afternoon, to bed them down two-by-two just as they are paired off now in the same stalls. Samantha and Tabitha are likewise to be bedded together tonight."

"Yes…" She hesitated acknowledging my order and looked to Madison. I turned also, half expecting to be overruled.

"You clearly heard and understood Mistress Erica's order, Miranda." Her face was neutral.

"Yes, Madam." She curtseyed to Madison then turned to me again.

"Yes, Mistress," she said to me with another curtsey.

"Caroline?" She stood holding the bit of the lead ponygirl of the wagon team.

"Yes, Mistress Erica?"

"See that my luggage is transported along with my staff to the house. The girls know what to do with everything. Then you will arrange your schedule to meet with me at four o'clock for a meeting of senior staff. Make sure you are freshly groomed and convey the same instructions to Jennipher, please?"

"Yes, Mistress," my former trainer curtseyed. By the look on her face, I'd frightened her with what must be an unusual order.

"Karen-Anne?" My First Girl was quickly beside me. "We'll go to the stables now. Assist Madam Madison into the carriage." I had briefed her on what I expected. She handed Madison up then assisted me. She had been told to stand on the small step at the rear, intended for a footman, for the ride.

Once we were seated, I instructed my driver to proceed. "You stated that as long as the operation here remains profitable, that I would have free rein in the affairs here, Madam?" I sought to confirm again.

"That's correct, Erica. Have you a question?" Madison was just disconnecting her cell-phone.

"No, I was only confirming my understanding."

"Mistress Sabine tells me that the unneeded former staff have been informed that their services will no longer be required here and that they are packed and ready to return to the Centre when I depart."

"Thank you, Madam."

We moved at a brisk, but steady pace back to the stable yard where I had Miranda stop close to the main stable block. Jennipher curtseyed deeply as well she might. My inspection of the ponygirls and facilities was perfunctory and fairly casual, time enough to stamp my authority on the place when Madison had departed. I left the animals and staff assembled before the buildings whilst I toured the building with Madison, my maid and the stable mistress. There was little if any differences to be noted than when I was housed within, except that both buildings were much cleaner.

We walked to the manor house after the tour where Mistress Sabine and Julie had been appointed to head up my clerical staff. Mistress Sabine had also been assigned the interim command pending my arrival. She alone knew of my provisional plans and had investigated their feasibility on my behalf.

Already the retained staff and the new girls were attired in their new uniforms and made a pretty picture as they lined either side of the steps up to the main entrance. Mistress Sabine demonstrated the same fondness for black as my sister. Dressed in a modern satin sheath she moved beside Madison and allowed Julie in a tweed wool suit with flowing, floor-length skirt, stiffly starched white blouse and fitted bodice, to greet us. On each side were my maids, the down-stairs maids to the right in their severe, black wool uniforms and the upstairs maids wearing even more restrictive uniforms of shiny black and white latex facing them. There was a cook on either side wearing pristine white attire then my four clerks, two in each line up. They wore heavy beige linen skirts with crisp Gibson girl blouses; the scullery and laundry maids followed them.

Karen-Anne assisted me to dismount. Setting her apart from my other servants, her uniforms, while in the same period styles of the others, high collars and leg-o-mutton long sleeves, had very full white petticoats supporting extremely short skirts. Black fish net sheathed her legs and she was perched on seven-inch heeled black patent court shoes with ankle straps. Among my staff, she was, by far, the most attractive with absolutely gorgeous legs.

Madison and I went inside followed by my staff. Julie sent the others back to their chores and guided us to the dining room. Since this was my new home, I'd no qualms about telling Karen-Anne to remove my hat whilst I stripped off my gloves. Madison glared at me when I grinned at her.

"Touché, Erica," she smiled and actually curtseyed to me. "Just never let me catch you outside he house without your hat, Erica," she warned. It had been Madison's idea that I am only permitted the heavy and full covering dresses with their encumbering accessories. She'd explained her reasons, "I want you to learn to use your servants as such, Erica. You are still quite young and I've not really provided you instruction in that regard. By wearing attire as I've directed, you will be forced to make them do for you what you might otherwise be doing for yourself.

"Whilst I still personally punish my staff, I don't think you've ever seen me lift a hand to the lesser slaves."

"No, Madam, I've not," I acknowledged, "I will bear it in mind.

As I watched Karen-Anne serve our brunch when Donna and Christie brought it in from the kitchen, I began to formulate a plan for her that I'd put into action as soon as Madam had departed.

"Now remember, Erica, should you require any assistance, you must call me; my resources are available for the asking."

"I promise that I will, Madam," I said before she entered her carriage to return to her car and thence to the school. Mistress Sabine was already inside. "Good bye, Madam, I shan't disappoint you."

"I'll cane your bum myself, if you do," she smiled.

As soon as they had gone, I boarded my carriage and directed Miranda to drive me to the workshop near the stables where I had Karen-Anne accompany me inside.

"Hello, Angus," I had been told he was in charge of the working slaves there.

"Afternoon, Mistress Erica, welcome to Chatsford Manor."

"Thank you. Angus, I would like a stainless steel collar for my maid, please?"

There was a stock of them in a cupboard, which surprised me, as I'd not seen any of the other slaves wearing one. He explained that some of the clientele desired that their new slaves be collared when I'd asked.

I selected one that I fancied. Lined with black rubber, it fit Karen-Anne snugly, high on her neck. I don't think she was pleased to have the two-inch wide, thick band fastened permanently after I'd directed him to clip a twelve-foot lightweight chain to the front swivel ring.

"There will be a staff meeting in the house at four o'clock this afternoon," I informed him. "Have you a suit or other suitable attire?" I think my question embarrassed him.

"I've my church clothes, Mistress."

"See that you are clean and properly groomed then.

"Come along, Karen-Anne." I held her new lead and directed her to board the carriage for the short ride back to the house after she handed me up.

 

The Staff Meeting

 

With Karen Anne in tow, I found Anne and instructed her on what I wanted her to arrange for the staff meeting at four o'clock.

"Julie, summon a maid to escort me to my quarters, please?"

She clapped her hands and two appeared in seconds. "Jasmine, Mistress Erica, wishes to be shown her suite," Julie ordered.

"Yes, Miss Julie," she curtseyed to her and then to me.

"Please follow me, Mistress?" She was an attractive redhead and appeared to be quite young.

My rooms where on the second floor in fact they were the entire of the second floor of the manor house. We entered a large drawing room that appeared to have been extracted from the Victoria and Albert Museum. All of the furnishings and decorations were from the time of her reign.

"Jasmine, how long have you been a maid here?" I asked while I looked about.

"Two years, I believe, Mistress, but I'm not exactly sure of it."

"Why are you not sure?" I was curious.

"There are no calendars here and I've not seen a newspaper, the telly or a radio, since me mum sold me into service."

"Have you not? How old are you, Jasmine?" I asked.

"I think I'm seventeen, Mistress.

"Your bedroom is through this way, Mistress."

"You think you are seventeen? Explain?"

"Mum took a lover, I was in the way and one night, her bloke arrived with two women at the flat. They passed a thick envelope to me mum and I was taken away to the training centre with them then brought here." I chose not to pursue further inquires at that time.

"This is your boudoir, Mistress." It was gorgeous, with a huge canopied bed of solid English oak hung with burgundy velvet drapes occupying the centre on a low dais.

"Yes, this will do nicely.

"Jasmine, assist the First Girl to change my dress," I ordered. Obviously her rubber uniform encumbered the girl's movements, but I was delighted with the rustling, squeaking and popping noises it made as she worked. To her credit, she made no complaint.

Karen Anne located the red and black ensemble I desired, and I had ample time before my scheduled staff meeting to allow them to attend me properly, to re-do my makeup and fix my hair in the manner I required. For the meeting, I retained the thigh boots and added black kid gloves and a large, black plumed hat with a rather thick veil.

As the grandfather clock struck the chimes of Westminster, I entered the conference room. All fell quiet and I slapped my new whip on the table.

"Good afternoon," I greeted and sat. They curtseyed and Angus bowed.

"Caroline, your place is here." I pointed to my right.

"Julie, over here," I indicated on my immediate left then ordered the others around the table.

"You may all be seated."

"Anne, attend to tea." She had changed to a long wool uniform and was there with another parlour maid.

I had briefed Karen-Anne on how I was going to begin. She pulled the hatpins and removed my hat. I shook my head to display my now loosened platinum blonde hair. Caroline gasped.

"Some of you may remember a ponygirl named Gretchen who was a resident in the stables recently. I was that ponygirl. Now my name is Erica, Mistress Erica."

Turning, I smiled at Caroline. She was shaking with fear. "The first order of business is to restructure the organization here at Chatsford Manor to suit my needs. Our most important task is to produce more fully trained ponygirls and, with this in mind, certain changes are necessary, hence this staff meeting. Listen as I tell you my requirements and about some new appointments.

"Karen-Anne is my First Girl and as such, all of you will take orders from her as if I had issued them personally.

"Julie," I faced her, "Madam Madison had nothing but praise for your business skills. Direct your attention to them so that I find no fault. You are responsible for the clerical staff and those aspects of this operation and for keeping me informed of business trends.

"Jennipher," I had her attention, "tell me who dealt with the sale of ponygirls, grooms etc. and ancillary items?"

"Yes mistress. I personally dealt with most sales working to a tariff set by Dr. Vaughan. When an established client gave notice of their intention to purchase, I would ring then for the doctor or Madam Madison to attend, as I was not allowed to negotiate prices at all. If I thought we were going to lose a sale due to my intransigence, I would notify the office manager."

"Julie," I asked, "I presume there are records of the weekly sales somewhere in your office. I want a chart prepared showing what was sold week by week so that we can compare our progress. Madam Madison does not expect a big improvement in my first year here, but I do. I want two salesgirls trained quickly and put into Victorian uniform similar in style to my clothes. They will handle all sales, referring only to me.

"Jennipher, this will ease your burden partially and I will ease it a little more. Your methods leave room for improvement." I touched the ring through my nose and saw the fear in her eyes. "Your handling of Gretchen was much rougher than necessary. I do not wish to see it continued with the other livestock.

"Caroline, I found your training and handling of the ponygirl Gretchen to be exemplary, you were always firm, but fair and never cruel. For your performance with Gretchen, you are promoted to be my Chief of Field operations, responsible for everything that happens outside this house, but with particular attention to training methods.

"Jennipher, you are still the Stable Mistress here, you will work for Caroline and supervise the stables, the grooms and the stable maids, the tack shop and the carriages, but that is all. Relocate you possessions to the stable.

"Caroline, move into Jennipher's former room. The trainers and the Stable Mistress will report to you."

Anne and two other parlour maids entered bearing trays laden with tea, cucumber sandwiches and biscuits. I waited until everyone had been served. Karen-Anne directed them to remain standing, along one wall.

"Angus, my good man, you will be responsible for the workshops." He nodded acceptance. "You will also report to Caroline." He didn't like that, but tough.

"Right then.

"Julie, how many ponygirls have we in training, other than the elite teams?"

"With today's intake, Mistress, there are eighty-two."

"How many are ready for sale?"

"I believe eighteen are ready, Mistress."

"My information is that matched pairs and teams fetch a much higher price than singles. Caroline will select suitable ponygirls for teaming in fours or in pairs and train them accordingly."

"With respect, Mistress, few are big enough for that role," said Caroline.

"I cannot imagine any team in the world would compare to Madam's team and those of the doctor and myself, nor do they need to be. Just do as you are told.

"Julie, direct one of the maids to fetch notepads and pens so my staff might take notes." I paused to sip my tea and nibble a sandwich.

"Mistress Erica…"

"You do not have permission to speak, Jennipher," I said firmly. I needed to establish my authority. "That opportunity will come later."

When the meeting resumed, I started with my Stable Mistress, but through Caroline. "Effective immediately, I wish to see everyone outside of this room bearing a ponygirl's nose ring and I do mean every servant and slave on the estate.

"The level of staff grooming will be raised to the same standards as my First Girl adheres to – all of them. She will punish those who do not meet her standards." I glanced at Angus and he lowered his eyes.

"Further, I require that all of the stables display clinical; cleanliness.

"As to the ponygirls, they too will have their grooming raised to that of parlour ponies."

"Anne," she was startled that I addressed her, "you now have the responsibility for the maids and kitchen staff. The house is in need of a thorough cleaning." She curtseyed to acknowledge the instruction.

"If, at anytime, any of you find that you lack the resources to accomplish the tasks I set, I wish to be so informed before I find the need to punish you. No one here is exempt from punishment. Rest assured that all of you will know what a thorough caning feels like before Madam Madison finds cause to welt my bum again.

"Julie, by five o'clock tomorrow, see that my senior staff have been provided with adequate instructions for the daily reports you require. I will meet at eight o'clock in the morning to review the business aspects of the operations."

"Angus?"

"Yes, Mistress Erica."

"I wish to expand the operation such that we are self sufficient in the manufacture of all the ponygirl tack, as well as, all of the vehicles. When may I expect your detailed report to accomplish that goal?"

"I nay be sure I understand what you wish to accomplish, Mistress."

"Right. Ten o'clock tomorrow we will discuss it." I noted his appointment under Julie's on my pad.

"Caroline, I wish to improve production quantity and quality of the ponygirls here at Chatsford. Give thought to that goal and meet with me at one o'clock to discuss accomplishing it. Extra stables will be built."

"Yes, Mistress."

"One more small matter then I will entertain questions.

"How soon may I have a cage in my bedroom, say three by three by four feet long, with an electronic lock, Angus?"

"It should nae bae a problem by the night after tomorrow, Mistress."

"See that it is not then.

"Questions?" No one had any and I stood.

"Dismissed.

"Anne, a moment please?" She curtseyed and straightened.

"My First Girl has the sole responsibility of attending to my needs. Though I've not thought it all out yet, mostly my staff will be communicated through her – both to and from. Tell me what you've learned of the accommodations for the household staff?"

"There are four dormitories on the fourth level, the attic, Mistress, but for the former stable mistress, they room together grouped by assignments: that is to say scullery maids together, et cetera.

"Your senior staff, myself included, have rooms on the third floor, mostly in pairs. Miss Julie assigned me a room to share there with Karen-Anne."

"Karen-Anne will not be sharing your room." She grinned and curtseyed.

"I assumed that when I saw her lead and heard you order her … accommodations, Mistress." She smiled at my First Girl.

"For the first time since we met, Karen-Anne, I'm pleased to say that I'm happy you're prettier than me."

"Now, now girls … you are both pretty. I can easily arrange a cage for you too, Anne.

"Karen-Anne, it has been a very busy two days and I will retire early. I require no more meals this evening.

"Address what I've ordered. I do want my entire house up to standards quickly. Good night." I rippled the chain and Karen-Anne followed me upstairs.

It had been a busy day; even more tiring one had preceded it. Karen-Anne prepared me for bed in a lace-covered nightdress. Allowing her to remove her uniform, I locked her chain to the corner post of my bed and after she'd tucked me in, had her get under the covers with me.

"If you've not figured it out, Karen-Anne, the cage is for you, so enjoy the rare occasions I'll invite you to sleep with me." I gave her a light kiss. "Good night, Karen-Anne."

"Good night, Mistress Erica." The words had barely passed her pretty red lips when the started to devour mine.

 

The End of Volume I

In volume two, Erica goes from success to success and travels the world.

  

  

  

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