A slave's misery. Written by Enterprise1701_d

 

 

Chapter three: Getting better.

 

Here I sat, on the edge of the two-person waterbed. Mei had dropped me off here, literally without a word, and had locked the door. What? She was afraid I was going to run or something? For a second, I pondered that thought. Where would I run? My clothes were still in the dungeon, my luggage was in my car, but without keys it was inaccessible. I dismissed the thought almost as soon as it had risen.

I lay back on the bed, and noticed the bondage gear there as well for the first time. The wounds on my back stung a little, but they were easily ignored. I examined the bondage gear more closely. There ware pads to lock hands and feet, as well as a collar to bind the neck. There would have been a time I could have ripped the bonds from their chains without a further thought, but that had been before my Master had died. I dropped my head on the pillow and cried. I rolled up in a ball, pressed my knees against my chest and threw my arms around them. Like that, I cried. For all the pain, both physical and mental, and for all the anguish I had gone though.

Suddenly, I jerked out of my stupor. My senses, although not as accurate as before, had picked up something. For a moment, I felt the adrenaline rising, getting ready to fight, but then I realized where I was. I sat up on the bed, as someone knocked on the door.

I stood up, walked to the door, and loosened my muscles. "Yes?" I asked.

"It's Rachel. Can I come in?" Her voice was nice, friendly, and it confused me. What was she up to?

"Sure." I said, trying to sound cheerful. The door opened, and Rachel came inside. She put one of my bags next to the bed, and dropped the clothes she had on her other arm on it. She also put down a small bottle on the nightstand. Being trained the way I was, I ignored the bottle, and kept looking at her.

"Thanks." I said, my tone uncertain. Why was she being so nice to me? Agreed, I had suffered my punishment, but I had overreacted terribly, and someone could have gotten hurt.

"Can we talk?"

"Uh, sure. What about?"

"About you, and about the rules."

I eyed her suspiciously. What was this about? I sat down on the bed, and motioned for her to sit down as well.

"You see, we are not slaves full-time," she began. "In order to keep things legal, our Master has put together this form," she said, holding out a contract. Given the fact that I had to sign dozens of them a day when I was at the office, I took it and scanned through it. Meanwhile, she also told me where to find everything in the house.

"I see. From 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. The rest of the day, we're off-duty, and we can leave whenever we want." I grinned. "This is a contract for sex-slavery. In case you haven't noticed, I'm not a sex slave. I'm a slave, but this… it's not something I agreed to." My thoughts sped up. My Master must never have known about this, or he would not have agreed to it.

"I see." She was obviously disappointed. My strength and my spirit may have been low, but my people's skills hadn't withered a bit.

"You're disappointed. Why? You gain a slave, someone who would do anything for you, but you're unhappy because she won't have sex? I don't understand. You have a Master and three beautiful women to satisfy you. Why would you want me?"

"I realize that this is not easy for you. But, the way you have been raised, it's wrong! We want people to have free will here, not someone who will do everything she's asked to do without a hint of free will. Everybody is here because she wants to be here. You are here because you have to be."

I smiled. "I have not known anything else for twelve years. Simply surviving on my own is no problem. But, I want to live, really live. And I wanted to live as I did when my old Master was still…alive." I bit down a sob. I refused to show just how much I was still hurting inside. Rachel just nodded.

"I don't know how you feel. But you can always talk to me when you need to. Now, would you care for a massage? It's kind of a tradition around here. It's really soothing after a punishment, and especially one as severe as yours." I looked at her, uncertain how to react. My old Master never did this, but then again, there were no others to do it, either. I shrugged.

"It doesn't hurt much anymore, but I'm open to new experiences," I said, looking at her. Her smile almost beamed.

"Then lay down on your belly, I'll start on your back, " she said, standing up and taking the bottle off the nightstand. It appeared to be massage-oil. I did as she asked, and she sat down next to me on the double bed. She squeezed some of the oil on my battered back. The sudden cold felt good. Gently, she started rubbing the oil over my body.

"Tell me when I hurt you, ok?" Rachel's voice was nice and friendly. I just said I would, knowing very well that this woman would have to be really brutal to hurt me. Her hands rubbed gently over the crossed whip lines, easing the sting somewhat. She was right: this was really soothing. I felt myself relax as her fingers dug deeper into my tense muscles.

When she asked me to turn over, I was roused from the almost-slumber. I could kick myself for letting my guard down so much. I rolled over, and she squeezed some more oil over my breasts and the rest of my front. When she started rubbing, I paid more attention, since she now had access to more private parts. Her hands rubbed gently over my battered front, and settled on massaging my breasts.

I grunted when I felt a rush of arousal wash over me. I took her hands and stopped her, shaking my head.

"Please…" I said.

She nodded, and proceeded to massage the rest of my front. When she indicated for me to spread my legs, I shook my head again. I didn't really know how to react properly. I was scared to death she was going to call Master, and have him punish me for my insolence. All she did, however, was looking disappointed and she nodded her understanding. She stood up, and cleaned her hands.

"You know where to find me if you ever want to talk about something," Rachel said, looking at me while walking to the door. I smiled and said that I did. I got up and walked to the window. The door clicked shut, and I was alone once more.

The moment the door was shut, I lost my last bit of emotional control, and sunk to the ground, crying like a baby. It didn't last for long, however. I calmed down, and found the meditative position without actually thinking about it.

In one instant, my mind cleared and all the pain and hurting disappeared. It lasted until the first thought crept into my mind. In that one instant, my calmness was shattered. My eyes opened, and I stood up. I had thought that coming here would have solved my problems, but they had only been made worse instead.

I looked at the bag Rachel had brought me. She probably grabbed the first bag she could lay her hands on. Good for me, as the bag contained my martial arts equipment. I took a shower in a nearby bathroom, finding the door unlocked, and dressed in the Shaolin uniform I had extracted from the bag.

I wanted to exercise a little, but the room, although spacious, was not large enough for the type of exercises I had in mind. Should I ask Master for permission? I really had no idea. Struggling for an answer, I decided to start with my warming up exercises.

I went from one exercise to another, trying to find my pace. I looked at the clock. It was now 6 p.m. Midnight from my point of view. My last meal had been on the airplane over here, and I was feeling quite famished. I opened the door at a crack, and looked into the hallway. Since there was no one there, I started to walk down the stairs, when I bumped into Rachel.

"Jessie? What are you doing out of your room?"

"I was hungry, so I just went to look for the Master, to see if it was alright for me to have a snack and go to bed… I am still on British time."

"I was just coming up to get you. Dinner's ready," she said, her smile returning. I smiled, and followed her to the dining room, where Master sat at the head of the table, with the three others … sitting at the table? What is going on here? I must have managed to contain my amazement pretty well, as nobody seemed to notice.

Rachel sat down; probably thinking I would do the same. I was unsure what to do. Should I sit down at the table, or take my place at my Master's side, on the floor? I must have stood there for a little too long, since everyone looked at me.

I gave a small smile, took the plate, fork and knife and sat down near my Master's seat, just as I had done for the past twelve years with my old Master. Everyone looked at me like I was a ghost or something. It didn't bother me; I just waited for my Master to allow me to take my share of the food. This is, if he allowed me to eat.

"Jessie? What are you doing?" he asked, curiosity in his voice.

"I am waiting for my Master to allow me food," I said, and resumed my silence.

"Why aren't you sitting at the table?" Mei asked, uncertain.

"A slave's position is on the floor," I said.

"It's not here. Come, get up and sit down at the table," Master said. I looked up at him. "Master?" I asked, totally confused.

"You heard me. Have a seat at the table."

"Yes, Master. " Once again, I took the plate, fork and knife and moved, this time from the floor to the table. Dinner went by quietly. Afterwards, Master called me into the study. The rest of the girls disappeared. I didn't care where they had gone. My Master was all that mattered.

"Rachel has told me you didn't want to sign the contract." He opened the conversation. I remained standing, as I had been given no indication that I could sit down.

"Because I do not agree with it, Master."

"Which part?"

"The sexual part, Master. My old Master strictly forbid me to have sex with anyone but with the man I would marry. It is the only self-control I have, and I am reluctant to give it up," I explained.

"I see. I'll have another contract drawn up then."

"Thank you, Master. May this humble slave ask why a contract is needed?"

"Your old Master was your guardian. How he would raise you is no-one's business. But I have no legal grounds like that. In order to make this as legal as I can, I had the contracts signed up. Each girl would sign them."

"I understand, Master." He grinned and nodded.

"I thought you would. Now, why don't you get some sleep? It is getting rather late for you," he suggested.

"Yes, Master. Good night, Master." After he said good night as well, I retreated back to my room. I removed the Shaolin uniform I was still dressed in, and crawled into bed naked. I set the clock next to my bed for 5:30, allowing me time to do my exercises before anyone else was up.

The next morning, I got up at precisely 5:30. The sting of the punishment was still there, but my Shaolin training allowed me to ignore it. Pain like that only makes a person stronger. I dressed myself once more in the uniform, took the bag with my weapons, and crept downstairs. My Shaolin boots allowed me complete silence. I opened the backdoor, and walked outside.

There was a large garden, with a pool. It was still dark, with only little lighting provided by the moon. I took my time building my rhythm, and once I had warmed up, I opened the bag.

I took the bo staff, and started doing my exercises with it. The wooden staff made whooshing noises as I flung it around. After the staff came the drunken man's form. I had always enjoyed this one. It's movements seemed uncoordinated, while there was tremendous strength behind it.

By then, the sun had come up, and I took my sword. The straight Chinese sword sparkled in the early sunrays. My movements were precise, fast and coordinated, just as always. I looked at my watch, saw that it was 7:30 already, and decided to cut this as short as I could. I put the sword away, and looked around the garden. It was large, lined with flowerbeds, and trees behind them. I started running along the perimeter of the garden. After a nice run, lasting for fifteen minutes, I settled back next to the pool.

I looked over the water, marveling in the smooth calmness of the surface. I closed my eyes, imagining the calm surface for my mind's eye. I must have stood there for some time, since I was disturbed by Gina coming outside. I looked at her.

"Good morning," I said, smiling at her.

"Morning." She just responded, not keeping her eyes on me for longer than necessary. I could almost feel the uneasiness radiate off her. I sighed, and sadly shook my head. I turned back towards the water.

"I really messed things up, didn't I?" I said, almost whispered, while continuing to stare at the water, now disturbed by a gentle breeze, making the water ripple and roll in small waves.

She just snorted. "That's the understatement of the century. Master may forgive you so easily, and Rachel may too, but I certainly do not, " the dark-skinned beauty said. I sadly hung my head. A single tear dropped into the pool. Unknowing, I had moved closer to the surface, now no longer calm. Anguish ripped my heart apart. I know I made a mistake by attacking Alima, but the thought of her insulting my old Master like that… it was too much to bear.

"I understand." I gathered the staff and the sword, put them in the bag, and walked back inside. Gina didn't acknowledge what I did, and it was just fine with me. I didn't think I would be able to continue the conversation anyway. As soon as I was out of her hearing range, I ran up the stairs and into my room. I closed the door, and threw myself on the bed. What had I done? I had given up my freedom for a chance of happiness, and all I get is more pain than I ever felt before! Becoming one my favorite hobbies lately, I cried.

I jerked when I felt a hand on my shoulder. So deep had I been in my own misery that I had completely lost touch with reality. I jerked up and sideways, and raised my right hand, to deflect, or attack. It was a subconscious reaction, due to the martial arts. I looked directly into my Master's eyes.

"Master! I'm sorry…I…" I stuttered.

"I startled you. It was just a reaction, don't worry about it. I'm just grateful you didn't attack me." I cast my eyes downward at his words, guilt flooding my soul. What had I done? I had attacked one of my Master's slaves, I had disgraced myself and my training, and what was worse, I had betrayed the confidence Master Chu had placed in me when he had left and allowed me to develop further on my own. I buried my face in my pillow again, trying desperately to control my breathing, to try and stop the tears from flowing.

I felt his hand on my back again. "I'm sorry," he said. It startled me so much my head snapped upwards. A Master who apologizes? Who was this man? "I shouldn't have said that. You served your punishment."

"Master, I atta-" he stopped me with a hand motion.

"I don't know how it was with your old Master, but over here, we don't hold grudges. You made a mistake, and you were punished for it."

I bowed my head. "I wish that were true, Master. But thank you for your kind words."

He raised my head, and looked into my eyes. I had no choice but to look back, trying to cringe at the thought of the punishment that was to come now. "What do you mean by that, Jessie?" I had no idea what to say to him. Should I tell him what happened? No, that probably would ruin my relationship with the rest forever. But, if I didn't tell him, how do I talk myself out of this?

I decided on taking the easy way out. I had suffered too much hardship, and I had reached about as much as I could take. So, I told him what had happened, the training, the interruption by Gina, and her hard words that had knifed through me. His face was sympathetic, and his voice was reassuring after I concluded my story. He wrapped his arms around me, hugging me close. It felt so comforting to be held like that… I wrapped my arms around him as well, allowing myself the comfort of the close contact.

"Thank you, Master." I said, after breaking the embrace.

"Don't mention it. Oh, by the way, here are your car keys. Your car is still in the driveway, and your luggage is still in it. Maybe you could start unpacking. And drop by when you're finished, the new contract is ready." I smiled at him, and said I would do as he asked. He left the room first, and I followed him. It was remarkable, but I felt so different, now that my commitment was about to become final.

I walked out of the house, without encountering anyone else, thank God, and approached my car. I let my hand trail over the bodywork, savoring the smoothness of the paint. I opened the trunk, and unloaded the few suitcases and the bag with electronics equipment I had brought. I locked up the car, and hung the bag over my right shoulder, and lifted the two suitcases without as much as a hint of trouble.

Immerged in my own thoughts, I walked back into the house. Gina and Alima were in conversation as I walked by the living room. My acute hearing had alerted me to their conversation, but the moment they saw me, their conversation stopped, and they glared daggers at me. I closed my eyes, shook off the sadness, and walked up the stairs, and into my room.

I never had a lock on my door, so it never occurred to me to use the one I had now. I dropped my suitcases, and put the bag on the bed. I started unpacking when Gina and Alima ran into my room, closed the door, and locked it. I looked at them, curiously.

"What can I do for you?" I asked, reaching into my suitcase for the next garment to put away. Gina's hand snapped out, and grabbed my wrist. I had to fight the urge to snap my arm from her grip. I knew she wasn't a threat, and that helped what meager self-control I had.

"Why did you rat on us? Now we're going to be punished tonight, " she snapped at me.

"The Master asked, I answered him. May I have my arm back now?"

"You could have said nothing," Alima added.

I shook my head. "Lying to the Master is a very grave offense, and at this moment I am offended you even think that I would do such a thing." My tone dropped dangerously. Gina's hand immediately snapped back, releasing my wrist. I gave a grin, and continued unpacking.

"Of course, you're this goody-goody slave. Tell us, how was it like to live with an animal for twelve years?" Her intent was clear: she wanted to provoke me into hurting her again. Gina would then tell the attack was unprovoked. I knew that I was in trouble if I let myself loose. I closed my eyes, and breathed in and out calmly.

"My old Master was not an animal. He took me into his house when I lost my parents, he gave me the best education money could buy, he made sure I would be able to fend for myself under virtually every circumstance." They had clearly thought than one remark would have broken my self-control. The surprise was plainly visible on their faces.

"Now, please leave my room. I have work to do," I added, and turned back to my unpacking. I heard them unlock the door, open it, and then close it. I sunk to my knees, and spent a full minute calming myself, my body wracked in harsh emotions. How could the pain still be so intense after all this time? I managed to contain myself before breaking down completely, and resumed my unpacking.

After the unpacking, it was time for lunch. My heart did a double take when I realized it was this late and I hadn't started lunch yet. I immediately calmed down when I realized I didn't have to cook here. Yet. I dressed in some normal clothes, so I could wash the Shaolin uniform after lunch. The simple yellow dress flowed freely around my body, and I marveled in the sensation, after being dressed in the close-fitting Shaolin uniform since yesterday.

I calmly walked downstairs, and entered the dining room. Nobody was there. Curious, I walked to the kitchen. To my relief, I found Rachel there.

"Rachel?" She turned around, and looked at me. Her eyes darted over the clothing I was wearing. "How are the arrangements for lunch around here?"

"Since we're free during the day, everybody makes their own arrangements," Rachel said, turning back tot the counter, where she was making herself a sandwich.

"Thank you," I said, and scanned the spacious kitchen. I looked in the cupboards, taking in where everything was. I told Rachel so when she asked whether I was looking for something in particular.

After I had finished, I opened the fridge and took half a turkey. I then took some slices of bread, and put them on the kitchen table. After gathering some spices, I walked back to the table, and proceeded with my sandwich. My old Master had always been fond of my cooking, and I wasn't about to stop using my cooking skills now.

I sliced some pieces of the turkey, and put them on a couple of slices of bread. Like a skilled cocktail shaker, I took two small bottles of spices, and started tapping them on the table, building a rhythm. Before, I used to use music to establish the time required for the correct amount of shakes. Now, I used the tapping on the table to establish it. I hummed while shaking the bottles over the sandwiches, putting bottles down and taking others, and proceeding as if nothing had happened. I grinned as I remembered happier times, when I used to make turkey sandwiches à la Jessica for my old Master, using this very method.

I put the top slices on the sandwiches, and took a bite. "Needs more salt," I grunted, opening the sandwiches again. I shook some salt on them, and closed them up again. I took a second bite. "Perfect," I said. "I haven't forgotten it."

Rachel was still standing there, looking at me, when I turned around to leave the kitchen. I put out one sandwich. "Want one?" I offered. Looking curiously at me, she took the sandwich, and took a small, testing bite. Her face changed expressions immediately.

"Incredible!" she exclaimed. "This is incredible! How's the rest of your cooking?" she asked. I smiled.

"Thank you for the compliment. As for your question: my old Master liked everything I made, something I can't say for anyone else. He was really difficult when it came to food." I smiled when I remembered how he praised my cooking.

"You loved him very much, didn't you?" Rachel asked, clearly unsure of my reaction. I nodded, and dropped my head.

"He always took care of me, made sure I was looked after… I always felt protected, even at the times when it was he who was clearly under my protection." I looked at the clock, and noticed the time. "I promised the Master I was going to sign my new contract as soon as I was finished with my unpacking." Rachel nodded in understanding. After giving her a smile to reassure her I was okay, I dashed to the Master's study, my shoes not allowing me the silence of my Shaolin boots.

I knocked three times quietly on the door, and waited. Master said 'enter!' pretty soon after. I opened the door, and stood before his desk, looking at the ground, as I had been trained to do.

"Jessie, you should know by now that you can look me in the eye." His manner was friendly. He put some papers up on his desk, and motioned for me to take a seat. I nodded, and sat down. He pushed the papers out to me, and I read them.

"So basically, I am your slave from six in the morning till six in the evening, and I can leave only during the hours I am not on duty. My personal belongings cannot be touched without my permission, but I can be disallowed access to them for punishment purposes. My personal rights are," I smiled, "freedom of permanent harm, or sexual behavior without my express permission," I said, after reading the contract.

"That's it." He nodded. "I take it that you agree?" I smiled at him, and nodded. With a routine motion, I signed the contracts. One copy for me and one for him. Given my background, I knew perfectly well that these things were barely legal, and they would not hold up for more than a minute in court. I may not have been fully familiar with U.S. law, but I knew this. It didn't really matter to me.

"And about the house rules, Master?" I asked.

"Ah, yes. You will be ready for every minute of those twelve hours, to bring me everything I want, or need." I nodded.

"Then, I shall remain by your side at all times, so I am at your disposal whenever I am needed," I added to the rule. "That way, you don't have to come and find me every time you need a cup of coffee." He grinned at the statement.

"That'll be fine."

"How about meals, Master? Are there are specific times at which you would like your breakfast, lunch or dinner served, or any preferences as to the food itself?"

"A cook, too? You're genuine talent show, aren't you?" he laughed. I shrugged.

"My old Master required a multitude of services from me. I tried to perfect whatever service my Master required of me. There is no reason to stop doing the same now." I decided against repeating the question, as it would sound a little too commanding for a slave to address her Master.

"I see. I can appreciate such an attitude," he said. I smiled at him, the usual smile I gave when someone complimented me. "As to the food, you'll only be required to make dinner for all of us, use your own discretion as to what you make. For lunch, or breakfast, I will notify you if I want you to make something."

"As you wish, Master. Have you eaten lunch yet?"

"Isn't that a little … insolent for a slave to ask?" he asked. His voice wasn't harsh, just… prying, testing. He was trying to determine my motives. A strange man, this Michael Mackenzie.

"As I am now your slave, it is my responsibility to look after you. I was merely pointing out that, if you haven't eaten yet, it is my job to ask you if you want me to prepare you something, Master," I said, looking at him, as he wanted me to do. I found the habit not that hard to break. That made me wonder how strong the rest of my old habits were.

"I see. No, I haven't eaten yet. And I'm still fine for the moment, so I don't need anything."

"Very well, Master. Shall I remain in your office in case you need something?"

"You can have the rest of the day off, Jessie. You'll start at 0600 tomorrow morning." I was unsure how to react. 'The rest of the day off?' He still thinks of this as some kind of job… I had to refrain myself from making some wrong comment. I had picked up some bad habits during my months of freedom. I got up, thanked him, and turned on my heel. I walked out of the office, closed the door, and walked to my room. I would use my 'half-day off' to wash my uniform. From now on, I would have to do it after six in the evening. And I would have to reschedule my training as well. I would have to get up at 4:30 at the very latest. I smiled contently at the idea of finally getting some measure of normality back in my life.

So, I washed my uniform. And still had a large amount of free time. I phoned Charlene, in London. The company was fine, nothing there warranted my attention. Hanging up the receiver, I felt lost, again. I dressed back in the freshly washed Shaolin uniform, thinking nothing of the fact that I would have to wash it again. I took my bo staff and my Chinese sword, and walked to the back yard.

Putting the two weapons next to me, I got in the lotus position, and closed my eyes. Inner calmness washed over my mind and body. Relaxing, I continued the meditation. I was happy; happy to be a slave, happy to be able to do that what I know best, but most of all, I was happy because this was indeed a good Master. I opened my eyes and allowed my body to rise from the deep state of calmness it had entered. My blood pressure was now so low that it could have dangerous consequences if I made any sudden motions.

I got up, slowly, and took the staff. With a simple flick of the wrist, I made it whoosh through the air. Ever since I started training with the weapon, I loved listening to the whooshing sound of the bo staff. I found it… relaxing. Soothing.

Now that I had regained some sense of inner peace, my senses had regained some of their strength as well. I was aware that someone had entered the yard as well. Taking the staff in both my hands in a standard attack grip, I turned around. It was Rachel. I held the staff loosely with my right hand, and walked towards her. She had a slightly confused look on her face.

"How did you know I was here? I was quiet."

"You tried to be quiet." I smiled at her. "My senses are more acute, now that I have regained some sense of inner peace. It allows me to detect the presence of others."

"I see." She smiled. "You think you can teach me some of that stuff?"

I shrugged. "That depends."

"On what?"

"On what you're interested in learning." I grinned. "Some of these moves take years to learn to use correctly."

"Just some basics. You know, blocking someone's punch, and breaking something in response." She laughed.

I looked at her, no humor on my face. She quickly stopped laughing. "This is nothing to laugh about, Rachel," I said quietly. "It takes … tremendous self-control to control these abilities. You saw what happened when I lost mine. Be thankful I managed to contain myself at the last minute." I turned around, and looked at the water of the pool. Rachel put a hand on my shoulder.

"I know. But I'm not interested in hurting someone. All I want is to be able to defend myself. You know, blocking a punch and stuff like that."

I nodded. "That's easy. Come on, over here there's more room." I smiled weakly at her, and together, we walked to a more open area, behind the pool.

I showed Rachel some basic defensive moves, and some offensive ones as well. She got a pretty good grasp of them, but more training would be necessary if she were ever to master them. She agreed to train with me whenever she had some time to spare. I smiled at her and said I would be glad to help her out.

Under Rachel's watching eyes, I finished the workout I had started before. When I finished, some hour and a half later, she looked at me with tears in her eyes. Fearful of having done something wrong, I managed to ask her what was the matter.

"That was so beautiful!" she said, wiping a tear out of her eye. I just smiled at her.

"It feels beautiful too. And it's also very relaxing. Don't worry, if you keep up your training with me, you'll be doing some of these moves is no time." She smiled at me, and nodded.

We broke apart, and I went to see Master. I asked him if I should make dinner, to which he responded positively. I smiled at him, made a small bow, and left his office once more. I got out of the uniform, and washed it, again. After taking it out of the washer, I hung it up in my room to let it dry.

After checking out the kitchen, I realized that I didn't know what Master would like. Thinking for a moment, I decided to make one of my own special recipes. I got in my car, and started to drive off the premises, when I saw Mei running towards me in my rear-view mirror. I stopped, and bent over to open the passenger door.

"Where are you going?" Her tone was not exactly pleasant, but at least it wasn't plain hostile anymore. Apparently Master had a talk with her as well.

"Grocery shopping. If I'm to make dinner, I need ingredients." I smiled at her. "Want to come?"

Shrugging, she said, "Why not?" and got in the car. She gently shut the door. I eased the car away, the big, powerful engine barely touching the 2500 rpm mark.

"What car is this? I don't think I've ever seen one before." Mei asked when I drove off the private road, and eased the car on the main road.

"There are only two of them in existence, one with left-hand steering and one with right-hand steering. These cars were made by Aston Martin on my old Master's command, for my sixteenth birthday," I said proudly. "They're my babies, and only Peter can work on them, apart for me, of course."

"Cool!" Mei exclaimed. "You work on your car yourself?"

"It's a hobby of mine. My old Master didn't ask me to, but I hung around Peter so much, he showed me all I needed to know, and now I can do most things myself." I grinned. 

"I see. And what's it got in front?" she asked.

"A modified V-12, with twin superchargers. It's got 450 horsepower, due to the fact that the main characteristic is still comfort, rather than performance. But, if it is necessary, all that has to be done is replace the chip of the engine's computer, and an additional 100 horsepower becomes available."

"Come on, let it go!" Mei urged me. There was no traffic in front of me, so I checked the mirrors. No traffic there either.

"Alright. Hang on." I pushed the button for 'sports mode', and kicked the pedal to the floor. Immediately, the car shifted back, and let the engine roar to it's maximum of 7500 rpm before shifting. The twin superchargers wheezed as the engine roared in power. The acceleration pushed us back in our seats, and we were doing 150 kilometers an hour before I knew it. I continued reading the speeds.

I backed off as the town border raced toward us at ever-increasing speeds. I parked the car at the edge of town, and we walked to the center. I was silent as my thoughts dwelt on England, my company, and Peter. I found it curious that Peter played such an important role in my thoughts. I had always considered him a friend, the only one who knew the real me, but this felt as if it were more than just one friend missing the other.

I broke out of my thoughts as we walked into the center of the small town. Mei had respected my silence, and I was thankful for it. It took me about an hour to gather the ingredients I needed, even though Mei protested more than once that we didn't stop at every shop she wanted. This was work, not pleasure, I kept telling her. Finally, she understood and let herself be led through the list of ingredients I needed.

When we finally did get back to the car, there was not much left of my thoughts of England, as we had an interesting conversation about cars. I don't really know how we came back on the topic of my cars, but once we did, we didn't stop.

Still talking, we got out of the car at Master's estate. By now, it was around five in the afternoon, and I decided it was time to begin preparations for dinner.

At exactly six o'clock, I served dinner. Everyone had gathered about ten minutes in advance, and I was thankful for the fact that I didn't have to summon anyone. I still felt uneasy around either Alima or Gina. As Master had instructed me, I sat down at the table, and served myself last. The roast had turned out nicely, and I was thankful for that. It still happened more than I like to admit that my cooking didn't turn out the way it was supposed to be.

Master, Rachel, and Mei complimented me on my cooking, but Gina and Alima just munched on theirs, without uttering a word. I was used to not receiving any compliments whatsoever about my cooking from my old Master, so I didn't let it concern me. But, Master decided otherwise.

"Gina? Alima? Don't you like the roast?" he asked. They just shrugged, and said it was ok. His glare spoke volumes, but he didn't press the matter. In silence, we finished the meal. I gathered the dirty dishes, and went into the kitchen, getting ready to clean them.

"Jessie?" It was Master's voice. I turned around, and smiled.

"Yes, Master?"

"Strictly, you don't have to call me Master during your off-hours. And you don't have to wash dishes either." He grinned. "What I really disturbed you for is this: Gina and Alima are going to be punished for their treatment of you. A light punishment, given the circumstances." He said hurriedly as I wanted to convince him not to. "Since you are not required to follow my orders now, I would still ask if you're willing to come."

"I will be there, Master. And, no matter what time of day, you will always be my Master, and I will continue to address you in the proper way, and there is no reason for me to let the dishes wait till the next morning before I wash them."

He just nodded, and said that everyone was ready in the dungeon. I put the dishes in the sink, and let them soak. I then went with him, down into the dungeon. I could still feel the stings of the whip as it had hit my vagina, my breasts, or any other tender spot of my body. In short, this place gave me the creeps. Only my twelve years of experience was I able to give no outward sign of my emotions.

Gina was standing next to the same table I had been on, bound tightly, and blindfolded. Alima was strapped to the table, her back upturned. Master took a normal whip, and gave Alima ten lashes of it. The girl screamed from the first lash. I looked curiously at Rachel, who cringed back at each lash. Mei looked on, almost without emotions, but she too, displayed signs of wariness when the whip made contact with Alima's skin.

It was almost unbelievable for someone like me that there were people who could hurt so much from so little. After her ten lashes, Alima was released, and Rachel took her to her room. For the 'tradition' I had had the pleasure of enjoying as well. Then, it was Gina's turn. She too, got ten lashes. Mei took Gina to her room afterwards. I remained behind, awaiting my Master's orders, or permission to leave.

Waiting for permission to leave? Had I changed this much? I was becoming weak; I was beginning to think like Master did… it was most unsettling. I quashed the leave thought, and now I just waited for my Master's orders.

"Jessie, what did you think of the punishment?" Master suddenly asked.

"Master?"

"It is probably the first punishment you've ever witnessed, rather than experiencing it yourself, isn't it? I just want to know how it makes you feel." He said, friendly.

"It was… strange, Master. I have indeed never witnessed a punishment rather than being the one punished. It was even more strange when I imagined myself in their place."

"How so?"

"My old Master stopped punishing me with that type of whip years ago, because it no longer had any effect on me." I said quietly, bowing my head, afraid that this might have me punished.

"I see. Well, that's all. You're free now."

"As you wish, Master." I said, starting to leave.

"Oh, one more thing." I turned around, looking at him expectantly. "I'll probably sleep later tomorrow, so I'll let you know when I need you."

"Yes, Master." I said, giving a simple bow, and leaving the room.

For two weeks, everything was fine. I got up at around four in the morning, and trained for a while, so I could shower, and change, before going on duty at six in the morning. Gina and Alima ignored me for the better part of the first week, but by the end of the second week they had completely forgotten the incident. I was truly happy then. I had found my purpose in life again, and it strengthened me. My mind returned to its full strength, my Chi now able to protect my body once more as it was supposed to. Each evening, I would call Charlene, to get an update of my company's affairs. I would also talk to Peter for some time, before turning in for the night. I also continued to work with Rachel whenever she had some time to spare, and we had a marvelous time doing the various movements.

Chapter four: A new beginning.

One day, I got a phone call. It was half past twelve, and I was just bringing the dishes of Master's lunch to the kitchen, when Mei called to me:

"Jessie! Phone!"

I looked at her curiously. "Who is it?"

"Someone named Charlene Simmons. She says it's urgent."

I immediately felt worried. Charlene? I looked at the clock. 12:35. That means 6:35 PM in London. What was Charlene doing, calling me at half past six in the evening? I raced to the phone, grasped it from Mei's hands, and nodded thanks.

"Jessica Winchester."

"This is Charlene Simmons. Something happened at the company, ma'am." It was Charlene's voice all right. But, I've never heard her sound like this. It sounded afraid, angry, and confused at the same time.

"What's happened?" My back hit the wall, supporting my body. A gut-clenching feeling was beginning to manifest itself.

"Someone cleaned out our bank accounts, sold our stocks, and turned in our bonds. Everything's gone." It was as if someone had hit me with a sledgehammer. I sunk to the ground.

"Do we know who did it?"

"We suspect Andrews, but there's no proof."

Martin Andrews, the chief financial officer. "The prick. How much have we got left?"

"He left the change. Probably not easy to get away with," she said sarcastically.

I clamped the phone between my shoulder and my cheek as I motioned for Mei. "Can you get my bag with electronics from my room? It's the only one not unpacked." Mei nodded, and ran up the stairs.

"How much do we need?"

"If we can get our clients to pay up-"

"Unlikely" I added in.

"Very unlikely," she agreed. "We'll still need at least ten thousand pounds."

"And what if we have no clients who pay immediately?"

"Half a million pounds of supplier invoices, along with fifteen thousand pounds of invoices for electricity, telephone and such."

"I'll wire you a million," I said, making a decision on the spot. By now, Mei had returned with the electronics equipment, but she had also alerted Master. I didn't really pay much attention as I grabbed the bag.

"Let me know if anything new comes up," I said, getting up from the floor, where I had been sitting since this nightmare started. This alone was proof enough of my returning strength. Less then a week ago, I probably would have collapsed into tears.

"I'll do that, ma'am," Charlene said. I thanked her, and she hung up. I zipped open the bag, and began to assemble the various pieces on the cleared coffee table.

My fingers raced the keyboard of the laptop computer, and the mobile printer started printing documents. I would need to make long-term projections if I were to save the company. As soon as I had started the printer, I connected to the Internet, and logged into my Swiss bank account. I wired one million British pounds, just as I had promised.

"Jessie? What's wrong?" Master asked.

"Andrews, the prick chief financial officer, cleared our accounts. He's made a run for it. The insurance probably won't pay up within the next thirty days at least, and we're already maxed out at the bank. I've just wired one million pounds sterling to the company's bank account, in the hope of getting them through. Now I need to make some long-term projections if I'm to save it," I said, never taking my eyes of the laptop.

I could feel the terrible gut-clenching feeling increasing in strength as I continued to read the reports being sent to me over the Internet. This was not good at all. When I finally realized that I might lose the company, it became too much for me. I sniffed away at tears, managing to keep functioning through the terrible emotions running amok with my mind.

The next report to come through was one with better news. Some of the clients had paid up, and it appeared as if Charlene got an extension on some of the credit we got from our suppliers. By now, Master's living room was almost unrecognizable. Reports were scattered over the coffee table, around my laptop, mobile printer, and mobile scanner, the couch next to me was equally buried under reports.

I stared at the Excel diagrams that had been sent to me while I read the coinciding reports. Projections were good, as Charlene kept notifying me of more and more clients paying up. It appeared our company had a very good name with our clients, as most of them did what they could in paying their bills. Most couldn't pay completely, but they all paid at least a part of their invoices.

I felt relieved at the prospect of being able to keep the company, when I suddenly became aware that there was something I was forgetting… I was 'on duty'.

I let out a small curse, knowing very well that I was in for the punishment of a lifetime. I looked up from my computer, and looked around the room. There was no one here. Wasn't Master here only moment ago? I looked at the clock. 4:30 p.m.? I had been working for four hours? My attention was grabbed immediately back to my laptop, as it beeped in response to another received report. This time, it was an update for one of the financial analysis reports.

I found the old one, threw it at the rest of the old reports, and printed a copy of the new one. I opened the coinciding Excel file, and looked happily at the balance sheet. We had enough, with my million and my clients paying up, to wait for the insurance to pay up. I just hoped that they would, or that we at least would be able to catch Andrews, and have him return the money he stole.

By now, it was five in the afternoon, and I still hadn't started dinner yet. I locked out the laptop, allowing it to receive updates while no one but me would be able to access them, as I shot up towards the kitchen. It would be something simple tonight, I didn't have much time.

When I had some time, I walked to my Master's office. I knocked on the door, and waited. I opened the door at his 'enter', and it felt as if I were walking into Hell itself. I looked at the ground when I came at attention in front of his desk.

"Master, I would like to apologize for this afternoon."

"You appeared to have some kind of crisis at the company. I hope you were able to take are of it?"

"Mostly. It all depends on when the insurance will pay up, or when we'll find Andrews."

"Good." He looked at me. I could feel his gaze resting on me. It gave me the creeps. Wasn't he angry or something?

"Master, I forgot my duty- "

"It was an emergency." He interrupted me. "I understand, believe me."

"Thank you, Master." I was allowed to return to finish making dinner. That evening, I worked almost through the night, keeping in contact with London, and talking to Peter when things cleared up somewhat. I needed to hear his voice, to help me as he had done in the past. After our hour-long talk, I felt a lot better. He didn't really understand why I wouldn't come back home; I could hear it in his tone. He didn't address it directly though, and I was thankful for that. my mood improved somewhat, and I even managed a smile when he said he missed me. I told him the feeling was mutual. I slept for about an hour before I got up and started my morning training.

That day, I was constantly on edge, jumping at every phone call that came in. There were no phone calls from Charlene, which reassured me that everything was returning somewhat to normal. Everyone was very supportive of me, something I was very grateful for. I may have been able to control myself; but I could still feel the strain and the stress of the last 24 hours.

Over the next few days, Charlene kept me informed of the investigation's progress, and how the company was holding up. Everything returned mostly to normal by the end of the week.

Next Wednesday was my birthday. With my old Master, it hadn't been more than a 'happy birthday, Jessie', but it was still a special day. I asked for the day off, which was granted. I told Master I needed some time to myself. To think. Strictly speaking, that wasn't a lie. I did need some time to think about things. I told everyone I would be gone for a month, and it had nearly been a month. How would I tell everyone that I was going to stay here permanently?

I drove out of the private road, onto the main road and into town. I parked my car, and went strolling down the main street. Most people I passed were happy, smiling and laughing. It made me feel even more depressed. I purposely had hidden the fact that it was my birthday from Master and the rest because I didn't want them to know.

I walked by an ice cream parlor. It happened that my old Master would take me to one of these if I had been good. Right now, I felt like I needed some ice cream more than ever. I ordered the largest cup they had, and I felt a little better by the time I worked myself through the nine different flavors, whipped cream and sprinkles.

I was still a little down, but now I cheered myself up with remembering the good things that happened with my old Master. I was actually smiling when I got back in the car. Not a big smile, just a tiny little one. I still felt sad, but I also felt better, knowing that my old Master would be happy if he saw me now, getting better all the time.

I got back to the mansion, and walked inside to make myself lunch. I was just making myself a beef sandwich, when Mei, who had seen me enter, yelled at me from the living room:

"Jessie, you're not going to believe this!"

"Believe what?" I asked, walking into the living room. Mei pointed at the window, and I looked.

"It can't be…" I ran to the front door, yanked it open, and ran outside.

"Jess!" it was Peter, all right. He was the only one who could call me Jess, and get away with it.

"Pete!" I flung myself at him. We hugged, and he kissed me on the cheek, as he sometimes did.

"I don't understand. Why are you here?" I finally asked, escorting him back to the mansion. I ignored his protests about his bags. I saw Master and the rest of the girls standing there, obviously waiting for some kind of explanation.

"Pete, this is Michael," I was very careful not to say anything wrong. Peter still didn't know better than I was staying with a friend of my uncle's. "This is Mei, Gina, Alima, and Rachel. Everyone, this is Peter."

"Ah, yes. The wonder mechanic." Master joked. "We've heard a lot about you. Come in, come in."

"Pete, you never answered my question. What is wrong?"

"Wrong? Nothing. But, just a 'happy birthday' card and a talk over the phone is not enough in my opinion," he said. Master and the girls swirled toward me. I gave a weak smile.

"Birthday?" Master asked. "So that's why you wanted a day off."

I felt like I was dropped from a ten-story building, and came down headfirst.

"Day off?" Peter's mind connected the dots. "Oh No! You're not…" he was going ballistic, just as I had feared. He turned to Master. "You bastard! She was in a very emotional state, and you took advantage of her!"

I tried to stop him by begging "Pete, please…" but it was no avail. He kept raging. I slapped him across the cheek, snapping him out of it.

"Jess, why are you doing this? I thought, with your uncle gone, that you would have come to your senses, but…"

I shook my head. "You saw how I was. I could live alone without a problem, but I was dead inside. I was growing fat, and lazy, and I was losing the edge my uncle had given me." I tried desperately to save the situation. It would be a battle to keep Pete here. If I knew him, and I did, he would jump on the first plane back home. "I tried for three months, Pete! The three longest months in my entire life! Believe me, this was the only way!"

"So that's why you didn't come back when Andrews stole the money."

This was going better than I thought. Maybe he had already thought he was going to find something like this. I nodded. "It was."

He just sighed deeply, and I could see the pain in his eyes. He cared for me, deeply, just as I did for him, and it obviously hurt him to see me like this. But, he would accept it as he had done with my uncle.

"I don't like it, but I won't say anything more about it," he sighed, and held out a small gift-wrapped box. "Happy birthday." he smiled at me.

"Peter, you shouldn't have!" I exclaimed, taking the small box from him. I ripped off the paper, and found a small velvet box. Looking curiously at him, I opened it. It was a necklace.

It was a silver chain and a gold locket. I hugged him. "Thank you. It's beautiful," I said, my smile radiant. I may have been a slave for the better part of my life, but inside I was still the little girl who likes to receive gifts.

"It's a locket," he pointed out. "Come on, open it!"

Smiling at his urging, I opened the locket. It held a picture of me, and one of him. "Now where did you get my picture?" I asked. "The only one taken of me was when I got my driver's license."

He laughed. "Nope. I took one while you weren't looking. That's why you're not looking at the camera."

I closed the locket, and hung it around my neck. Master and the girls had disappeared, giving us some privacy. Peter and I talked for hours, catching up on things at home, or things in general until it was time for me to start making dinner. I have to say, it helped a lot to be able to share my emotional trouble with the one and only friend I have.

I made a simple dinner, making sure I had as much time as possible to talk with Peter. It was not to be, however. Master decided to join us, as did the girls. I was in my usual 'slave mode', quiet and introvert, from the moment Master joined our conversation. Peter, having noticed it, decided not to comment on it.

Then, the big question came up:

"So, Peter. Where are you staying?" Master asked.

"I have a hotel reservation in town."

Master looked curiously at him. "There are no hotels in town."

"Sure there is. Well, it's not really a hotel. It's more of a motel, but I have a room for a couple of days. And that's what's important."

"Why don't you stay here? There's room enough," Master offered. I smiled at Peter, who was looking directly at me, and gave him an encouraging smile.

"I'll be glad to, Mr. Mackenzie." Peter said, his politeness completely having replaced the rage he had displayed earlier. Peter had apologized profoundly, and Master, his usual generous self, had let him off the hook quite easily.

"Great!" Master exclaimed. "Welcome to the household. Will you need someone to help you with your bags?"

"That won't be necessary. I'm sure Jess is all the help I need. If I need help at all." I smiled at his remark. Peter never did use any of my services. I think that the dinner this evening has been the first exception to that.

I showed him to a spare room, one without bondage gear, thank God, and let him settle in. it had been a long day, and he was still on London time.

After saying good night to Master and the girls, I turned in as well. It would be an exhausting day tomorrow. I had never realized how much I had missed Peter until I actually saw him again.

The next day, I got up at my normal hour, and started my workout. I wasn't surprised when Peter joined me at around five in the morning. He always did enjoy working out with me. One day, he just showed up during one of my training sessions, and from that day, he would work out with me, trying to mimic my movements, whenever he had some time. Today, obviously, he had.

I smiled, nodded at him, and continued. As usual, he did a pretty good job for a beginner. We continued the 'training', which was more laughter about his hilarious results at times, until it was 5:5, and it was time for me to get ready.

So, I showered, put on clean clothes, and waited by my Master's bedroom door. It would normally be around seven before he woke up, so I had about an hour for myself. Well, I would have had an hour for myself, if Peter hadn't shown up.

"Jess? What are you doing?"

"Pete, please, he is my Master," I begged. He just looked at me, and slowly, ever so slowly, he nodded. I leaned against the other wall, and waited.

Curiously, I asked: "What are you doing?"

"Waiting along with you." Was the simple reply.

Together, we waited for my Master to wake up. When he finally did, Peter asked if he could have a word with my Master in private. I almost sank through the floor in shame! Peter didn't even allow my Master to wake up properly, or to get dressed. Master, too confused to say anything, just allowed Peter into his bedroom, and closed the door. Once again, I waited in silence by the door of my Master's bedroom.

Master poked his head out the door a couple of minutes later, and asked for me to prepare him breakfast. I sped to work, glad for something to keep my mind of things. No sooner had I climbed the steps, and knocked on my Master's door, or I was almost yanked inside by Peter.

Outwardly, I was calmness personified, but inwards, I was ready to explode. What was going on? I put the tray down on Master's nightstand, and waited for further instructions.

"Come on, Jess. We're leaving."

"We're WHAT ?"

"Leaving. Now, right here and now."

"Pete, I… I… I can't! You don't know what it's like…I can't be alone! I just can't!" I swayed on my feet, and my Master put me down on his bed. I smiled gratefully at him.

"I told you she wouldn't leave!" Master said. "Now I suggest YOU leave. Jessie may not have been here long, but I care as much for her as for the rest of my girls, and I won't tolerate anyone hurting her anymore than I would anyone hurting any of my girls."

I gently put my hand on Master's arm. "Master, please… he's still my friend."

"Jessie, what kind of friend doesn't allow you to make the decision on how you want to live your life?"

"Jessie, please…" Peter never called me 'Jessie'. He always called me 'Jess'. My head shot towards him, a look of non-comprehension on my face.

"Jessie, I can't stand to see you like this. With your uncle, you had never known anything else, but now you have tasted freedom, and I thought, well…"

"Pete, I tasted freedom, yes. And I hated it! It almost ruined me! I was weak, pathetic, and destroying everything my ol… my uncle built! It started with myself, but how long before the company started to suffer? Pete, please understand! I need you to understand, this was not a decision I made easily."

"I understand that, but I…" his word broke off, and I could see something in his face I hadn't seen too much before. Sadness, mixed with fear.

"But what, Peter?" I called him Peter on purpose. He didn't like it when I called him Peter.

"Because I love you Jessie." His words hit me like a sledgehammer. Those three simple words sent my mind spinning. I knew what they meant, but I always assumed that I couldn't love anyone, nor that anyone could love me… I was a slave, a tool. It was only after my old Master died that I realized that I loved him. And over here, I loved my new Master too. Not as strongly or as intensely as my old Master, but it was still a strong bond.

But love, between equals, has always been something I never dreamed possible… how do I respond? I had absolutely no experience in this matter. Master discretely left the room, but I never noticed. Peter must have seen what an impact his words had on me, because he sat down next to me, and wrapped his arms around me.

I was in a state of confusion up until then, but there was something in the way his arms felt, wrapped around me. I put my head against his shoulder, and started sobbing. He just held me tight, whispering niceties in my ear. I didn't pay much attention. My mind was in such a confused state. Love? He loves me, but can I love him back?

Then, I started thinking about how I felt about him. How I missed his voice during the day, and how difficult it was to hang up after our conversations each night. Did I love him back? 'Probably' my mind concluded. 'Charlene is a friend as well, but you didn't miss her as much as you did Peter'. Could it be? Did I love him as well?

"Pete…I…" I was so scared. If I said I loved him too, what would happen?

"Shh. You don't have to say anything." His voice sounded scared too. He was scared of having ruined our friendship.

"I need some time." I sobbed. "This is…so overwhelming." He just nodded, continuing to hold me.

It took me a couple of hours to straighten everything out, and I was terrified upon discovering that I had fallen asleep in my Master's bed, with Peter next to me, also asleep.

I gently eased myself out of the waterbed, but the absence of baffles made the bed move with everything I did. Peter woke up, just as I had feared.

"Pete, I am probably going to be punished for this. Don't talk. Please! I don't really care; I am strong enough to get over it, but, I want you to remain calm, and please, don't make this worse for me than it already is by saying something wrong to my Master."

He just nodded. "I should leave. It's probably for the best."

"Pete, no! I…I…need you! You can't just leave! Not yet!" I flung myself towards him, hugging him. It was the first time in my life I had done something like that, or spoken to anyone like that, and it made me a little scared. Fear that soon disappeared as his arms wrapped around me as well.

We disengaged, and I walked to the door, knowing very well what may lay behind it. I opened it, and walked downstairs. Master was sitting in the living room, talking with the girls. I was almost unable to contain myself as I walked in. I bowed my head in resignation, mentally preparing myself for the coming punishment.

"Master, I apo-" he cut me off.

"I understand, Jessie. How are you feeling now?" My fear for punishment faded. What a strange man! My old Master would have whipped me to his heart's content!

"Confused. Scared. I don't know what love is… between equals, I mean."

"Have a seat. You know, if you want to talk about it, you can always talk to us." Master offered. I looked up, and saw the smiles on the girls' faces as well. They all nodded, even Alima.

"Where is Peter now?" Mei asked.

"In his room… I thought I was going to be punished, as I would have been with my old Master. So I asked him to stay in his room until afterwards..." my voice kept threatening to give out. I felt so strange… more intense then I had ever felt before.

"I see." Master said. "And how do you feel towards him?" He quickly added, "You don't have to answer if you don't want to."

I shook my head. "I am scared of loosing his friendship, I don't want him to go, because I missed him so much. But I am scared what will happen if he decides to stay in the U.S."

"And if he went home? What would you do?" Rachel asked.

"I don't know! I probably would go after him, and beg him to understand…"

"It seems to me his approval means a lot to you." Mei added in. "Are you sure that you're just friends?"

"We have been until now… I'm scared he doesn't want to be my friend if I stay here."

"What if you had to choose? Staying here, and loose his friendship, or going back to London with him?"

Without a thought I responded. "London, with him."

"You got it bad, sister," Gina said.

I looked curiously at her, and the others. "What do you mean?"

"It means you love him too, silly! You're willing to go back to what you described as 'Hell', because of him." Rachel laughed. So, it was confirmed, I loved him too. Now, what to do? How do I approach this? The rest, seeing I was locked in thought again, decided to split.

It was late afternoon when Peter and I had a talk, in the living room.

"Peter, I've been thinking." His face got devoid of all color. "As you know, I have no experience with this type of emotion… please, be understanding." I was almost begging. His voice was wracked in grief… he thought the wrong thing.

"Pete, I think… I think…I love you too."

His eyes got real big, and I could see small tears forming in them. "Come here, silly," I said, hugging him. He immediately did the same.

 

It didn't take long for me to convince Master to let me go. After all, I had experience in negotiating. Peter and I flew back home the next day. Now that I had someone living with me in the big house, it no longer felt so empty, and my work didn't feel in vain. It did take some getting used to, being treated as an equal, especially if Peter asked something of me. I was still too used to obeying without a question.

Two months after we got back, we married. Peter's brother was his best man, and Charlene was bridesmaid. And I felt most honored to see Mas… Michael and the girls at my wedding as well.