An Hour in the Life- The Beginning plus 2 Illustrations

  

 As mentioned in my previous post I was sidetracked into writing a prequel to An Hour in the Life.
So the next Chapter of AVVE will be delayed for a few weeks I've started it but as ever it's subject to the usual  terms and conditions- time.

My thanks as usual to all who were kind enough to comment or tick the 'more box'. I greatly appreciate your continuing support and patience.

The story is quite long and I've included 2 illustrations so hopefully you will enjoy it.

I'll try and change the illustration at the top of the blog as soon as I can.

Take care

Carrie

An Hour in the Life – The Beginning

CarrieP

“At least Mother’s bridge friends haven’t arrived yet.” Martha said as the car neared the end of the long driveway to the imposing Georgian house “Now don’t be intimidated by her, William. She means well it’s just she has very strong views and is not easily swayed.”

William was about to say he had wondered where Martha got her own forceful opinions from but he thought better of it and quickly decided  it best not to raise the topic.

“Yes dear.” William answered.

“Now she may be a little annoyed by our engagement.” Martha continued as she brought the car to a halt.

“A little annoyed?” William asked a tad nervously.

“Well it was rather sudden and she usually wishes to view any prospective male companions.” Martha explained “She is very protective and does not wish me to make any hasty judgements when it comes to matters of romance. I do hope you understand.”

William nodded, he could see that she was excited at meeting her mother after several weeks away and did not wish to spoil her mood by mentioning that not only was it Martha’s idea to get engaged so quickly but she actually proposed to him.

“Besides,” Martha said patting his knee in a reassuring if not a tad patronising way and laughed “I’m sure once your interrogation is over you two will become the best of friends.”

William gave a nervous laugh and bit his lip.

As they stepped out of the car, two maids in grey uniforms appeared on either side of an attractive middle-aged woman in a purple knee length silk dress which was extended by several net petticoats underneath. William did not need to be told this was Martha’s mother  and as she rushed up the steps to greet her William opened the trunk of the car and  after unloading two suitcases he, with a degree of difficulty, hauled them the few feet to the steps leading to the large front door.

“That’s quite all right, sir.” one of the maids said  before he could object as she and her colleague lifted the cases and effortlessly carried them up the steps William followed marvelling at the easy work they made of lifting the luggage.

“So you are the…”Martha’s mother began in a tone that William considered to be cool at best as she scanned him from head to toe before continuing in a barely concealed  irritated voice“…the…person who has become engaged to my daughter.”

“Yes Mrs Broadshank.” he answered warmly holding out a hand which she ignored. “It all happened quite quickly. We…”

“Yes…yes.” Mrs Broadshank said brusquely before turning to her daughter “Martha you really should have told me before you even considered such an arrangement.”

“I did mention…” William began to explain.

“Please do not speak unless you are spoken to, young man.” her mother snapped.

Martha kissed her mother on the cheek and put her arm around her mother’s shoulder.

“Don’t be so unkind Mother.” she said softly “It wasn’t William’s fault I proposed to him and insisted we get engaged immediately. And like you when I make my mind up I act on it. Now I want you both to get along so be nice to your prospective new son in law. Once you get to know him I’m convinced you will become the best of friends.”

“He will have a lot of convincing to do.” her mother snorted derisively as once more she ran her eyes over William and with a smile of encouragement from Martha she finally addressed him “You may kiss me.”

William nervously approached her and kissed her on the cheek inhaling her heady perfume as he did so.

“I’m sure we will be friends, Mrs Broadshank.” he said, smiling a little nervously.

“Mummy.” she retorted.

He looked at her blankly and from the corner of one eye could see the maids smirking from the other he could see Martha’s face almost pleading with him to indulge her mother with this most embarrassing form of address. He had an inkling that Martha would be very grateful if he agreed and Martha’s gratitude, as he had come to appreciate, could be most enjoyable. He swallowed his pride at being asked to address his future mother in law like a ten year old girl.

“Ah…yes…emm...”he nevertheless spluttered.

“I’m waiting…” Mrs Broadshank said clearly becoming impatient.

Mindful of the sneering maids he answered in a whisper.

“I’m sure we will be friends… Mummy.”

Martha beamed, her mother gave a self-satisfied smile and in the background the maids made little pretence of their amusement and sniggered quietly.

“Now that wasn’t too difficult, was it William?” Martha’s mother said, her tone softening appreciably.

“Ah…no Mrs …”he replied but was immediately interrupted.

“William, I thought we agreed how you should address me.” she said in a soft but firm voice.

Four sets of female eyes fell on him. He knew it would be impossible for him to renege on this new and absurd obligation forced on him and reluctantly he replied with a great deal of discomfort and shame. It was his future mother in law’s increasingly impatient stare that prompted his response.

“No, not too difficult Mummy.”

Martha’s mother smiled broadly, clearly delighted at his acknowledgement of their new relationship. William felt more than a little ashamed but Martha’s smile eased his discomfort.

“You were right Martha, he is such a darling boy.” she addressed her daughter as she patted William’s on the head like a prize winning poodle. She then turned her gaze back to him and laughed as she continued to direct her remarks to Martha “I do hope he’s house trained.”

William blushed as he could see the maids desperately trying to stifle their giggles.

“Mother!”  Martha protested her face contorting into a scowl “William is only too well aware of how to behave in other people’s houses and is most deferential to his hostess. I can assure you will always adhere to their standards and conventions. Isn’t that right William?”

“Yes dear.” William replied quietly and although annoyed at her mother’s disrespectful remark thought better of voicing it.

“Well those dreadful bohemian female friends you brought earlier this year could not be described as such.” her mother answered tersely “I would say it bordered on impudence with little regard for my position as mistress of this house, their clothing and general grooming left a lot to be desired. Wandering about half naked from bedroom to bedroom, it was most unsettling for the servants. Yes dreadful people! I was merely trying to establish that this young man was not similarly inclined.”

She looked at William, the expression on her face meant the question did not have to be asked.

“Oh no Mrs…”he blurted before noticing the irritation on her face, he swallowed hard before continuing “Oh no…ah… Mummy I’m not like that at all.”

“Good I’m delighted to hear it.” she answered her features mellowing at his reply. “Now come along we have time for a sherry before dinner.”

As they reached the front door it opened and a tall attractive woman in a white silk blouse and knee length black pleated skirt opened it and curtsied to Martha’s mother.

“There has been a phone call for Miss Martha, Madam.” she said as she turned to Martha and smiled “Welcome home Miss Martha.”

“Thank you Mrs Manette. It is good to be back.” Martha answered “Who called?”

“Miss Felicity Rouncell, Miss.” Mrs Manette replied “She said to remind you of your college reunion tomorrow.”

“Oh damm!” Martha said and seeing the disapproving look from her mother immediately apologised “Sorry Mother but I wasn’t expecting this, I’ve obviously got my dates mixed up. I had thought it was next week and I spoke to Felicity on telephone only last week from France confirming I would attend. She is being honoured by the class for her work in promoting female empowerment and asked me to help her with her preparations. I will have to leave immediately but should only take a day or two.”

William breathed a sigh of relief, and while spending time with her college friends wasn’t exactly his cup of tea it would be considerably better than remaining here with her overbearing mother.

“Such a pity.” he sighed feigning disappointment and removed his arm from Martha’s mother grip “but I’m sure we will make it back in a few days.”

“Oh no darling.” Martha said kissing him on the cheek “I’m afraid you can’t come, it’s a girls’ only weekend and being such a masculine hunk you would not fit in.”

William was distracted by what he thought were sniggers from the maids, Martha continued,

“Besides even if you could go I would not risk you with these particular women. You would be like a lamb amongst wolves. No. You must stay here with Mother where you will be safe and sound.”

 “But I… ah… I can’t…”he spluttered clearly dumbfounded by this sudden change of events “It’s …”

“If I leave now I will make cocktails before dinner.”Martha said clearly ignoring her new fiancée’s distress. “You do understand don’t you darling? Felicity is my closest and dearest friend I simply could not leave her down when she needs me the most.”

“But…I…” William, still trying to come to terms with what was being proposed, struggled to protest but was abruptly halted by Martha’s mother.

“Stop blabbering William. I do hope you’re not going to be one of those awkward and disobedient young men.” she said with an air of authority that shocked him into silence. She turned to one of the maids “Take Miss Martha’s luggage back to her car.”

Martha kissed her mother and took William aside and kissed him tenderly on the lips.

“Don’t worry darling, I know Mother may seem a little overbearing, it’s just she’s a little too protective, just humour her and she will treat you like her little prince.” she said and as she kissed him on the cheek for reassurance “Mrs Manette is my old Governess and a dear friend she will advise you how best to get on with Mother. It’s very important to me that you two get along. So try to indulge her for my sake. You will try won’t you?”

“Do I really have to address her Mummy” he said “It seems so childish almost emasculating.”

“If you don’t, it will turn her against you and that will only make life difficult for both of us.” she cautioned him and then with a pleading smile she said “For me, please darling it would mean so much.”

 He could never resist her smile and nodded his agreement.

“Thank you darling, I knew I made the right choice in you. I promise I’ll make it up to you.” she smiled at him as she turned and skipped down the steps to the car.

He watched forlornly as she sped down the driveway, he suddenly became aware of an arm slipping inside his.

“Don’t you fret you pretty little head William.” Mrs Broadshank said “Mummy will take very good care of you.”

Still trying to understand what just had happened he felt himself being guided up the steps and through the front door. The soft thud of the large oak door closing welcomed him into the large entrance vestibule and now surrounded by women a feeling of mild claustrophobia began to engulf him.

“You must be tried after your journey.”Mrs Broadshank said as she steered him towards the imposing wide stairway. “Mrs Manette will run a bath for you and will unpack your luggage while you have a nice hot soak.”

“But I…”he began but was immediately cut short by her.

“I do hope you are not going to be difficult William.” she sighed wearily “You did say you were a most compliant and obedient young man, I would hate to think you had deceived my daughter. ”

“No…it’s just that…I …”he scrambled to think of a suitable answer.

“It’s just what exactly?” she again interrupted in a voice that almost dared him to reply.

From the corner of his eye he saw that the expressions on the maids faces was one of nervousness rather than, like moments previously, pleasure at his discomfort. He quickly deduced that if the servants were somewhat apprehensive at their mistress’s reaction then he too should be. His eyes fell to the floor and he mumbled his answer.

“Nothing.”

“Nothing, what young man?” she snapped, her delivery and tone almost made him jump, he noticed the maids had also become visibly anxious.

“Nothing Mummy.” he immediately responded quickly adding “I’m sorry Mummy.”

“Much better.” she said, her tone softening considerably and seeing how alarmed he was she embraced him and nuzzling his head against her ample bosom she consoled him “You must remember you are family now and I will treat you as if you were my own daughter Oh silly me, I mean son of course.”

 Her hug was so tight that he could feel the wire in her bra press into his cheek.

“Now you run along with Mrs Manette, I don’t want you late for afternoon tea.” she said as she released him from her enveloping arms.

William followed the tall and elegant figure up the stairs and as he went to lift his suitcase Mrs Manette stopped him.

“The maid will take that Master William.” she said with a warm smile and for a moment he considered refusing her offer but after his awkward encounter with Martha’s mother he didn’t want to antagonise this woman who, as Martha’s friend and Governess, could be invaluable in his efforts to avoid problems with his future mother in law.

 As they walked along the wide and deeply carpeted corridor the only sounds that broke the silence were the swishing of skirts and the subtle yet distinct sounds of nylon clad thighs rubbing against each other. They stopped before a door which Mrs Manette opened and gestured him to enter.

The large and expensively decorated room was dominated by a king size bed with a deep ivory satin quilt with matching pillows propped up against a large satin tufted headboard. The room was airy and opulent however William considered it quite feminine in its décor and furnishings.

“Madam says I am to familiarise you the rest of this floor” Mrs Manette informed him and nodded in the direction of the maid. “Louise will run your bath and have it ready when we return.”

William followed her as she showed him the other rooms including several other equally opulent bedrooms, a small library, a small sittingroom and an office. As they returned Mrs Manette indicated to the room next to his.

“This is Madam’s room and there is an interconnecting door.” she said “I am sure she will wish to look in on you now and then. Not that you need to be checked on, I’m sure.”  

“Master William’s bath is ready Mrs Manette.” Louise, the maid, said emerging from the bathroom.

More than a little unnerved he thanked her and quickly entered the bathroom which smelled of lavender and chamomile and immediately noticed the bath was almost overflowing with the scented foam bubbles. He winced at the idea of immersing himself in such a feminine solution but it was better than having to face Mrs Manette again. Undressing he hoped that the bath would ease his mounting tension. After a few seconds he had to admit that the warm scented water and bubbles did indeed relax him and as he felt the stress leave his body, his eyelids felt heavy and before long they closed and he drifted into a welcome sleep.

Opening his eyes he was unsure how long he had been asleep but it must have been several minutes as the water had become lukewarm he reached for a towel and still sleepy stepped from the bath to dry himself.

“Where did I…”he said out loud as he looked around the bathroom to locate his clothes and still a little drowsy he wrapped the towel around him and opened the door to the bedroom.

“Ah, William.” Mrs Broadshank’s voice greeted him “You looked so peaceful we did not wish to wake you.”

“My clothes.” he blurted and rearranging the towel higher on his body as he noticed Mrs Manette and Louise behind her.

“Your clothes?” Mrs Broadshank repeated “They looked a little shabby after your long journey, I told Mrs Manette to have them delivered to the cleaners in town.”

“Oh thank you but there was no need.” he replied, pulling the towel higher to cover his rounded, plump and less than manly pectoral muscles. A new bodily feature which he was sure had to be a side effect of the health supplements Martha and he had been taking for the last few weeks.

“I will find something suitable in my luggage.” he said advancing to the bed where his case nestled on the satin quilt.

“I’m afraid you won’t.” Mrs Broadshank sighed.

“Eh?” William spluttered.

“It appears that silly maid Margaret deposited your case in Martha’s car.” she announced, pointing at the large suitcase “This case is Martha’s.”

“But…what…”he blurted looking at the case and continued incoherently “How … my clothes…”

“Oh do stop blabbering William.” Mrs Broadshank said sternly and began walking towards the door she nodded to the maid to follow her “I’m sure I will find something suitable for you.”

As the door closed William suddenly began to feel slightly chilly.

“Oh you poor thing.”Mrs Manette said noticing his discomfort.

She picked up a silk dressing gown from the bed and draped it over him.

“But this is a woman’s dressing gown.” he protested.

“It’s a peignoir actually my dear.” she answered as she reached inside and removing the bath towel she buttoned the feather trimmed bodice arranged the lower end around his body. “It’s Madam’s but I’m sure under the circumstances she won’t mind you wearing it.”

She stood back and ran her eye over him and adjusted the soft material at his shoulders until it hung to her satisfaction.

“Yes almost perfect.” she smiled once more. ”And the colour really does suit your complexion.

“But it’s a ladies…”he feebly objected

“Yes of course it is.” she replied and laughed “Which is why it’s called a peignoir. I’m afraid there are no other men in the house so we do not have a dressing gown for a male. And we can’t have you standing there in just a towel getting cold, now can we? Miss Martha would never forgive me.”

Even he could see the logic in this remark but his face betrayed his discomfort at having to wear such a feminine garment.

“Ah…I see.”she said suddenly realising his unease “as a man you are somewhat embarrassed at having to wear an item of ladies clothing.”

He blushed at the accuracy of her assessment and could only bring himself to nod his head to confirm her suspicions.

“Oh do not be the least bit embarrassed or ashamed, Master William.” she comforted him “Many males wear styles and  types of clothing similar to that of females.”

“Eh…”he could only manage and looked incredulous.

“Scotsmen wear kilts.” she said as she took his hands in hers giving him an encouraging smile “Japanese men wear silk kimonos, the Greek Presidential Guard wear a short pleated skirt. I could go on but I think I have made my point.”

“But…I…”he struggled to find a suitable retort but she was already leading him by the hand to the dressing table. In the absence of any response she added,

“And very handsome they look too. Madam is always remarking on how fashionable these cultures are and how they could teach us something about our outmoded attitudes to male clothing and attidues.”

His first reaction was to dismiss this as ridiculous and the very idea of men wearing such garments was too outlandish to contemplate.

Men wearing pleated skirts! he harrumphed to himself.

However as she was being extremely considerate and friendly, he thought a negative remark could  be misconstrued and very easily and quickly change her attitude towards him.

“There is no need to worry Master William, Madam will find some appropriate clothing.” Mrs Manette said reassuringly as they reached the dressing table “She has such excellent taste, now please sit like a good boy we need to dry your hair or you really will catch a cold.”

He felt a little irked at such a patronising phrase as ‘good boy’ but such was her amicable almost affectionate demeanour he suppressed his irritation. As he began to sit she stopped him.

“You are probably not used to sitting in such a long garment.” she said “You will need to run your hands over your buttocks and smooth  the material otherwise it will get bunched and become uncomfortable.”

He looked at her blankly and she demonstrated.

“I’m sure you’ve seen ladies doing this the whole time.” she said.

He blushed but nonetheless followed her instructions.

After he sat she gently rubbed his hair with a towel he suddenly became aware of the soft sensuous material resting against his genitals and suddenly to his horror his manhood slowly began to engorge. He quickly placed his hands over the offending area.

“Your hair is quite long for a young man.” she said as she began to brush his thick light brown hair. “No doubt Miss Martha insisted on that, she always preferred longer hair on men. Quite the bohemian is my Miss Martha.”

Of course she was right, during their several months stay in Paris and Berlin  living amongst the artists, beatniks and jazz musicians Martha persuaded him to let his hair grow much longer than he would have liked. He thought this far too louche but at the same time also considered it was a price worth paying as she showed her appreciation in the best way possible. As Mrs Manette continued to brush his hair he became more relaxed and they chatted away for several minutes about Martha and their travels. It quickly became quite obvious that Martha was being truthful, Mrs Manette was indeed very close to her. It was only when she stopped that he noticed there was something slightly different about his hair. The way it fell about his face, making his features softer and more delicate than they were. The style was a little too foppish for his taste but he did not wish to criticise as they were getting along so well.

“Now stand up so I can see you face to face.” she said clearly delighted with her efforts and he felt it would be churlish to protest.

As he stood facing her she fussed at his hair, adjusting a strand here, a wayward lock there and also began arranging his peignoir to her satisfaction.

“Oh dear, Master William” she said in a muted and slightly perturbed voice.

“What is it?” William asked concerned by the look on her face.

“You appear to be…ahem…”she said, her eyes drawing his attention to the large protuberance in the peignoir.

His cheeks immediately became the brightest shade of crimson.

“I…ah…I…don’t…”he stammered incoherently “I’m so sorry… i…”

“Hush now my dear boy.” she whispered as she deftly opened a drawer and removed an article of silk “I was expecting something like this.”

“I…ah…it’s…”he continued to blather on, his muddled brain unable to come up with a decent explanation.

“This usually happens when the more sensitive of the male sex comes into contact with items of feminine clothing.” she explained ignoring his incomprehensible mutterings “Madam will return in a few minutes and I fear it will not reflect well on you if she sees you in such a state of arousal. There is only one way to rid you of this… ah… rather unfortunate male reaction.”

His eyes strained to bursting point in their sockets as Mrs Manette without warning adroitly enclosed his erect organ in the silk. As she skilfully applied moderate pressure and the minimum number of strokes his whole body began to jerk, he commenced to whimper before almost instantaneously climaxing.

The entire episode took less than twenty seconds and perhaps another forty for his member to fall flaccid.

“There!” Mrs Manette said watching his organ shrivel under her gaze “Disappearing like snow in April.”

Shame engulfed him and his eyes remained downcast.

“It’s not your fault I suppose.” she said as she opened a drawer “Males require help to control their more coarse and animal like urges.”

He wished the ground would open up and swallow him.

“I don’t think we can allow this to happen with Madam in attendance.” she sighed as she raised his chin with her finger and looked at him directly in the eyes. “Now can we?”

Words would not come and he shamefully he nodded his agreement.

“Good I’m glad you think so.” she said.

“If I was…”he hesitated still in the throes of burning embarrassment “… ah… wearing my underwear it would…”

“Yes I agree.” Mrs Manette said “But unfortunately the underwear you arrived in is in the washroom and as we now know your luggage is with Miss Martha.”

“I… emm…”he struggled to respond.

“The only solution I can think of would be to wear this.” She said producing a garment that he immediately recoiled at.

“But… those…ah… they’re…”he stammered

“Yes ladies undergarments.” she said holding up an ivory satin laced edged garment “French knickers or as our American cousins call them – Tap Pants. They are the closest thing to male boxer shorts.”

“But…they…”he continued to babble.

“Yes I know it is not ideal but if you have a better idea…?”  she interrupted him.

He looked aghast at the feminine item desperately trying to find a suitable response.

“I…ah…”was all he could utter.

“We really don’t have much time.” she said looking at the clock on the wall and proffering the soft material.”Of course if you feel you can control your urges?”

Blushing furiously he took the panties from her and turning his back bent and with the peignoir covering his modesty he stepped into them and pulled them up to cover his genitals.

“Now let me see if they are suitable.” she said and without asking opened the peignoir to view the result, “Yes almost a perfect fit, apart of course for that unfortunate small but noticeable bulge.”

He looked down to see satin material covering the entire area from his belly button to beyond the top of his thigh where the lace hem softly caressed his skin. Mrs Manette inspected the garment and fixed it to her satisfaction, feeling her hand through the satin material triggered yet another stirring between his legs.

“Oh dear, I fear this really is going to be a problem.” she lamented once more as she too noticed the movement. “Unlike most males it appears you like the feeling of soft feminine fabrics against your skin. Madam usually welcomes such rare sensibilities in males however I should warn you that if she notices such a… display of male crassness she will be most displeased especially after Miss Martha has told her how respectful and well behaved you are. Such a demonstration of male lewdness will not reflect well on her. ”

William began to panic, his unexpected and most unwelcome arousal was now threatening his nascent relationship with his future mother in law and by extension his fiancée. He had a knot in his stomach and felt a little light-headed.

“Well you seem to have the..…”Mrs Manette paused and looking at his groin searched for a suitable word, finally said with mild disgust“…the thing under some sort of control.”

“Eh… em …yes… I’m so sorry Mrs Manette.” he pleaded “I just don’t understand…”

“I hear Madam outside speaking to Louise.” she interrupted him and quickly added in an urgent tone “Do you think you can keep it under control? Any repetition of that ghastly display will have dire consequences.”

Understanding the repercussions of an involuntary erection a feeling of dread and consternation engulfed him.

“I don’t… I’m not sure…I…”he stuttered as he heard the door opening.

“I think I have a solution.”Mrs Manette said “But you must not argue.”

“I think I have found a suitable outfit for Master William, Mrs Manette.” Mrs Broadshank’s voice rang out from the doorway as she instructed Louise to lay the clothes on the bed. Mrs Manette nodded to him to approach his future mother in law. She looked at William and he felt she was almost reaching into his mind.

“You have been a good boy for Mrs Manette, William?” she asked her eyes burrowing into his.

“Oh yes Mummy.” he answered quickly and such as his state of anxiety he did not even realise he had used the form of address now required of him.

She beamed with delight at how natural and unforced it sounded.

“I eventually found a pair of pants that should fit you.” she said holding up a black garment “ Yes I know black may not suit your complexion and they are perhaps a size or two too small but the only other suitable pair were in pink and as virile young man I doubt if you would wear that particular colour.”

William looked in horror at the voluminous item and found it difficult to believe it was a pair of pants she was holding. It looked more like a skirt.

“Yes I know what you’re thinking my dear.” she said breezily, apparently not noticing the shock that had registered on his face, she parted the legs to show him. “The legs are wide but that’s the fashion these days. Now, underwear may be a problem.”

“I have furnished Master William with an item Madam.” Mrs Manette interjected “But I’m unsure if it will be suitable.”

“Let me see William.” Mrs Broadshank instructed.

He hesitated, it was humiliating enough standing in front of these women wearing a peignoir but to reveal the lace edged feminine satin underwear covering his genitals was asking too much. However his concerns did not bother his future mother in law and now aware of his reluctance to show her she stepped forward and opened the peignoir.

“An excellent choice under the circumstances, Mrs Manette.” she said inspecting the ghastly garment with her fingers “That particular style is one of my favourites. I hope you don’t mind wearing my lingerie William?”

“I… it’s… I mean…”the words tripped incoherently from his mouth, blushing furiously as he noticed the smirk on Louise’s face.

“They are most comfortable.” she continued ignoring his extreme unease “I’m so glad you have not made a huge fuss over wearing such an item. After all these are such unusual circumstance and we must make do with what we have, isn’t that so?”

“Yes Mrs… “he blurted and seeing her dissatisfaction quickly corrected himself  “Yes Mummy.”

As she adjusted the lace over his thigh her fingers somehow managed to brush against his member and he thought he could feel the barest hint of movement between his legs. If there was the faintest indication of arousal his reputation with her would be ruined. Help was urgently needed. His eyes shot to Mrs Manette, wordlessly the message was conveyed.

“Yes Madam,” Mrs Manette replied “They are most becoming and Master William understands the predicament you have in sourcing appropriate attire. However I suspect he feels that this particular item does not afford him the…ahem… support required  in the lower regions.”

“Mmm I think I see what you mean.” Mrs Broadshank said studying his groin for longer than William felt comfortable with, “What do you suggest?”

“A firm foundation garment Madam.”Mrs Manette suggested as William looked on with a confused look on his face.

“Ah… I see what you mean.” Mrs Broadshank said knowingly “One of my sturdier girdles would certainly give the required support and would definitely ensure he fitted into his new pants.”

“Girdle!” he repeated, unsure he heard properly but before he could ask for further clarification Mrs Manette had produced a long rigid article.

“Yes my dear.”Mrs Broadshank said “You said you needed support down… there. A girdle will provide that.”

He could not believe she expected him to ear such a monstrous garment. Refusing outright would only aggravate the situation he decided to appeal to her better nature and try and plead his way out of his dreadful predicament.

“But Mummy,” he began, attempting to gain her favour “a girdle… well it’s … it’s such a feminine…”

“Of course it is darling.” she said sweetly “But it’s the only alternative. We can’t have you wearing nothing underneath my new palazzo pants, now can we. It would be most unseemly not to mention unhygienic.”

“Please… please, Mummy. “ he beseeched looking at the peculiarly feminine garment that Mrs Manette was holding.

“Now William, “Mrs Broadshank said firmly but patiently “We were getting along so well, I do hope you are not going to be difficult with me at this point.”

He remained silent, eyes still fixed on the ghastly girdle as Mrs Manette stepped forward and proffered the garment.

“Now take your girdle and go behind the dressing screen and put in on like a good boy.” she instructed.

His mind went blank, he could think of nothing to say, his hands trembled as he took the girdle from Mrs Manette and walked slowly towards the dressing screen.

“I have a number of things to attend to downstairs and will return as soon as I can so please don’t dawdle William.” her voice drifted over the screen “If you need assistance Mrs Manette will remain here.”

He heard the soft thud of the door closing and a moment or two later Mrs Manette’s knocked on the screen before appearing, an expression of mild concern on her face.

“Yes it is a formidable garment Master William.” she said taking it from him “But I would strongly suggest you put it on immediately as Madam will be extremely annoyed if you are not dressed on her return. And I really don’t think you want to witness that. Here let me help you. Remove your peignoir.”

“But…I…”he began to protest but ignoring him she had already began unbuttoning it.

“And your panties.” she said “Or would you like me to remove them also?”

He was just about to object but she had already pulled them down to his knees, his hands dropped to cove his genitals.

“Oh please! Master William.” she laughed lightly and looked down at his hands “Don’t you think we have already crossed that particular Rubicon?”

She picked up the heavy satin girdle, examined it and paused before continuing,

“Such a beautifully constructed foundation garment.” she said quietly almost as if she was thinking out loud, stroking the soft material with her long elegant fingers “It’s one of Madam’s favourites, look here Master William, there is extra boning which makes it more rigid of course but also more supportive. And the satin, just feel it, it’s so soft, sensuous to the touch.”

She held it out for him and seeing his reluctance she took his hand in hers and ran it over the satin. The touch of the fabric sent a shiver down his spine and his heart quickened. His reaction did not go unnoticed.

“Yes it is quite sensual.” she said and noticing he seemed dazed and a little confused she gently removed his hand “Putting it on can prove a little difficult even for a lady used to such garments. Usually a maid would assist you but I don’t think you want that, now do you …Master William?”

Horrified at the sight of the girdle but mesmerised by the satin he was having difficulty concentrating.

“Er…ah…no” he mumbled, somewhere inside his head still trying to think of a way out of having to don such humiliating female underwear. But no solution was forthcoming.

“No I didn’t think you would.” she said “I often act as maid to Madam when she dresses. Would you like me to do the same for you?”

“Ah… I … em….yes.” he finally blurted having quickly decided it would be even more mortifying to have that smirking Louise present to witness this humiliation.

“Now step into it.” she said handing him the heavy girdle and watched as he slowly and hesitantly placed one leg then the other into the garment.

“Yes that’s good” she encouraged him when he had stepped into it and it was resting around his ankles “Now pull it up.” she instructed continuing to gaze intently as he tugged the girdle up his legs and gently gyrating his hips until the top of it was just under his chest.

“Perfect!” she reassured him “Now for the difficult bit. As you can see this style of girdle has hooks and eyes up the side that draws the garment together before the zipper is pulled up encasing the wearer. As I attach the eyes to the hooks you will feel the girdle pull you in tight and as this is your first time you may feel a little uncomfortable, perhaps a little compressed but don’t worry  that’s only normal. Every woman feels this when wearing a girdle. But first we need to tuck your little …ahem…appendage away between your legs so we won’t have a repeat of that earlier dreadful episode.”

Every woman feels like this when wearing a girdle.

Her words seeped into his brain and as she worked her way up his torso tugging at the girdle and fastening eyes to hooks he thought he could feel a fragility, a weakness, enter his body.

“There!” she exclaimed eventually “It just remains to pull up the zipper and you will be safe and secure.”

She pulled the zipper up slowly and as she did so he could feel his torso constricting inch by inch and catching a glimpse in a mirror he thought as his waist was being reduced his backside seemed to become slightly larger.

“Ooh.” he whimpered as she tugged the zipper to a halt.

“Oh don’t be such a little girl.” she laughed lightly, gently admonishing him. “I thought men were more resilient than us weak women.”

“But it’s so tight.” he complained.

“Now you know what we women go through every day.” she brushed aside his feeble whining with another laugh “It’s an extremely well made girdle it’s supposed to be tight.”

She  stood back  and surveying her handiwork she looked pensive.

“Mmm.”she mumbled “I hadn’t considered hosiery.”

“Hosiery?” he repeated.

“Yes, stockings.” she said as if explaining to a five year old and taking his hand she led him back to the bed.

He stood beside it wriggling and shifting from side to side making little whimpering noises as the girdle made its restricting and uncomfortable presence felt.

“Oh do stop complaining like a spoilt schoolgirl.” Mrs Manette said brusquely, her patience clearly wearing thin, her face lost its geniality as she ordered tersely  “ Sit.”

William wanted to protest at her lack of understanding for his predicament but her tone was such that he was immediately dissuaded from pursuing this course. The last thing he needed was to make an enemy of Martha’s friend and confidante.

He remained silent and sullen as he gingerly lowered himself onto the deep satin quilt, the boning on the girdle squeezing his stomach tightly.

“Yes a nice pair of dark stockings will go nicely with your pants.” she said returning to the bed with a pair of sheer black nylon.

“But I thought you meant men’s stockings.” William said horrified at the sight of the gauzy hosiery.

“Don’t be so ridiculous you silly girl.” she blurted but her tone was less severe and William decided this was not the time to rebuke her for referring to him as a ‘girl’. “Men’s stockings would never reach the girdle’s garters and would ruin the whole look. Oh my dear young man you have a lot to learn. Now hold out your right leg.”

Before he knew it she had rolled the stocking up his right leg and then proceeded to repeat the process on his left leg.

“Stand.” she instructed in a voice that did not request but demanded compliance.

“Now watch closely. As you will need to be able to do this for yourself if I’m unavailable.” she said.

Her fingers nimbly slid the stocking top between one the garter’s metal clips and secured it. He looked on in horror scarcely believing what was happening but unable to summon the courage to tell her to stop. She quickly moved on to the next one repeating the procedure and after she had attached the remaining one at the back of his leg she brought her face close to his.

“Now you try.” she instructed and watched him as his fingers initially fumbled but finally managed to replicate the process.

“Very impressive, not the quickest but certainly not the slowest I’ve seen.” she said and nodded to him to continue after struggling with the garter at the rear she relented and assisted him to secure it. “Yes not bad for a first attempt.”

She turned him around to inspect his handiwork.

“Girls usually look in the mirror to check if their seams are straight.” she lauded his effort “And yours are perfect, a girl could not have done it better. Madam will be so proud.”

She took a step back to view the image before her and sighed before adding,

“You have the shapeliest legs I have seen in quite some time, such a pity you will be wearing trousers.”

He felt a rush of anger but it was quite obvious from her demeanour and her tone that it was meant as a genuine compliment. Annoyed as he was he felt a rebuke would surely antagonise her and swallowed his anger. He managed a weak smile in response.

“However I think we will have do something about your breasts.”she said pensively gesturing with her fingers at the small but distinct protuberances jutting from his chest.

“This only …I mean…it’s…”he struggled to explain the small yet undeniable pert bumps and immediately raised his hands to cover them “Martha thinks they are a reaction from the vitamin supplements. I’ll be seeing a doctor soon.”

Mrs Manette nodded sagely and smiled sympathetically however this did nothing t ease his resentment at the blatantly absurd notion the, admittedly, fatty tissue that formed around his pectorals could be described as breasts.

“They are not breasts.” he protested, his voice vibrating with emotion.

“Oh I’m so sorry.” she apologised seeing his distress “I did not mean to offend perhaps I should have said your bosom.”

Exasperated he could not find the words to convey his anger at her continued use of a female term for his medical condition however Mrs Manette, if she noticed his outrage, was not in the least perturbed and continued with her assessment of the situation.

“Unfortunately your nipples and areolas will more than likely show through the blouse Madam has chosen for you.” she said examining the ivory satin blouse on the bed.

Nipples, areolas, blouse. he repeated, his irritation surfacing once more, he was on the cusp of exploding when Mrs Broadshank entered the room.

“Oh my!” she exclaimed, clasping her hands to her bosom and clearly overcome with emotion as she took in the sight of her future son in law in her girdle and silk stockings.

William completely taken aback by her presence and reaction grabbed the peignoir to cover his embarrassment. She rushed to his side and embraced him.

“William, my darling boy.” she gushed “Please don’t be embarrassed, you have nothing to be ashamed of.”

“I was a bit concerned Madam.”Mrs Manette addressed her mistress “That Master William’s prominent nipples may be seen through the material of his blouse. It would be most embarrassing situation for a young gentleman.”

“Let me see.”Mrs Broadshanks said and seeing William’s reluctance her voice took on a more forceful tone “William put down your peignoir so I can see if Mrs Manette’s concerns are valid.”

Wearing a lady’s girdle and stockings, the vulnerability of exposing an embarrassing medical condition to his future mother in law and her sudden annoyance at him combined to disolve his resistance to her command. He let the peignoir slip to the ground and bare his uncomfortable secret.

“Ah I see what you mean Mrs Manette.” Mrs Broadshanks said inspecting the small yet distinguishable rounded shapes identical to female breasts. “They will indeed show through his blouse.”

“If I could suggest one of your camisoles, Madam.” Mrs Manette proposed “I think the silk ivory one would be most suitable.”

“Camisole!” William blurted, trying to hide his distaste as he finally managed to find his voice.

Mrs Broadshanks was clearly unimpressed with his tone.

“William.” Mrs Broadshanks snapped before recovering her composure “How utterly ungracious. Mrs Manette and I are trying to help you, I do wish you would be more grateful. Would you prefer if we allowed you to embarrass yourself by having your breasts displayed for one and all to see? Imagine the impact on the servants. It would be most unbecoming for my future son in law to parade around the house déshabillé.”

William was taken aback by her change of mood and lack of understanding of the outlandish position he had found himself in.

“Master William may be a trifle disorientated, Madam.” Mrs Manette interjected attempting to placate her mistress as she also made eye contact with William, silently transmitting a message to remain calm. “He seems a perfectly reasonable young man, it may be that he is just a little overcome with his present circumstances.”

“Perhaps.” Mrs Broaddshanks said quietly and took hold of William’s hands in hers “Now, William, Mummy only wants what is best for you. You do understand, don’t you?”

With his embarrassing chest exposed and wearing a girdle and stockings he felt completely vulnerable and at this point just wanted to cover himself with anything to end this dreadful experience. He also instinctively knew it would not take much to upset her once more thus jeopardising their future relationship.

“For Martha’s sake, eh?” she smiled in a conciliatory tone.

He nodded his approval, her smile broadened and she embraced him tightly and as she held him he suddenly could feel a familiar, if unwelcome, stirring between his legs. However the formidable girdle would not allow his member to become erect and it was held safely, if uncomfortably within its sturdy confines. His eyes caught Mrs Manette and he knew she was aware of what was happening in his nether regions. The flush in his cheeks confirmed her suspicions.

Mrs Manette smiled as she produced the ivory silk camisole and as her mistress released him from her arms and turned to fetch something from the bed he was horrified to see that his nipples were beginning to protrude.

“My, such a feminine reaction.”Mrs Manette whispered in his ear as she slipped the soft material over his head “But don’t worry this style has built in cups so your arousal will not show through.”

She arranged the camisole so his breasts slid easily into the cups.

“More supportive I think you will find.” she smiled as she continued “Most girls no matter how small their breasts find they need support.”

So shocked and confused by his body’s reaction to Mrs Broadshanks embrace and the caress of the silk on his sensitive nipples he was rendered speechless, his thought processes seemed to be engulfed by fog. In his confusion he could only nod, she led him to the bed where Mrs Broadshanks held out the voluminous satin trousers. Mrs Broadshanks spoke to Mrs Manette over his head.

“I was a bit worried about him fitting into them.” Mrs Broadshanks mused as she surveyed the garment before turning her attention once more to William “However I suspect that magnificent girdle will take care of that particular issue.”

“Yes Madam, that particular style has never failed you.” Mrs Manette responded before addressing the increasingly bewildered young man. “Would you like me to assist you Master William?”

“Oh I really doubt if he needs your help Mrs Manette.” Mrs Broadshanks said “A big strong young man like Master William is more than capable of putting on a pair of trousers.”

His brain had become so befuddled he could not even answer her and wordlessly he reached out and took the heavy satin trousers from her. He swallowed hard as he stepped into them and felt a strange sensation as the smooth material brushed lightly against his silk stockings.

As he pulled them up around his hips Mrs Manette positioned herself behind him.

“Ladies pants… “she began and paused before continuing  “Ah… these pants have the button and zipper in the back, so being unused to this style perhaps you do need a little help.”

He could feel the pants tightening around his waist as the zipper reached the top.

“And now just the four buttons to finish.” she said as she tugged at the waistband to complete the task.

 Both women stood back to examine their work.

“A little long perhaps.” Mrs Broadshanks observed “By two maybe three inches.”

“I believe these court shoes should rectify that Madam.” Mrs Manette said and dropped to her knees and without asking lifted each foot and slipped the three inch shoes onto his silk stockinged feet.

“Oh yes.” Mrs Broadshanks exclaimed “Exactly what was required.”

“And you Dior blouse will complete the ensemble Madam.” Mrs Manette said as she held up the ivory satin garment. “And it buttons at the back which is en vogue at the moment. Master William will be quite the fashion plate.”

William’s brain was having great difficulty in comprehending what was happening and much as he tried to summon the will to object he was, on some level, aware that events had gone much too far for that. He could only stand motionless and speechless as the women busied themselves slipping his arms into the soft fabric. As Mrs Manette began fastening the six buttons on either cuff Mrs Broadshanks positioned herself behind him and commenced buttoning the blouse from the back.

“Yes fits you like it was made for you William.” Mrs Broadshanks said as she completed her task and moved to the front “Now let me tie your pussy bow.”

Pussy bow, Dior the words seeped into his brain.

He tried once more to protest but again the words would not come. It was as if he was paralyzed, a waking nightmare he could not rouse himself from.

“Master William does look a bit pale Madam.” Mrs Manette voiced her concern.

“Probably all the excitement.” Mrs Broadshanks replied as she walked to the dressing table and returning a few seconds later began dabbing his face with a small sponge like object.

“A great improvement Madam.” Mrs Manette said reviewing her mistress’s work.

“Yes much better.” Mrs Broadshanks confirmed “But the poor boy’s lips are a little dry.”

In his dazed condition William became vaguely aware of something moist and creamy moving over his lips.

“Yes Madam, a great improvement.” Mrs Manette said as she manoeuvred him in front of the mirror.

“Yes he does look more presentable.” Mrs Broadshanks agree as she evaluated her efforts. “What do you think William?”

Gazing at the mirror William searched for his own reflection but only saw three feminine figures staring back at him. He raised his hand to confirm his presence and saw the youngest of these images do the same.

He winced visibly at his appearance which did not go unnoticed.

“He’s probably unused to his new girdle.” Mrs Broadshanks said as both women nodded empathetically. “Yes it will take a little getting used to but don’t worry you will soon become accustomed to it.”

“Yes Madam.” Mrs Manette agreed “And I’m sure just like us, will probably feel naked without it.”

Both women laughed lightly as William continued to try and recognise the reflection staring back at him.

There was a knock on the door and Louise the maid entered.

“Your guests Madam…”she said but was interrupted by her mistress.

“Oh yes of course.” she said and turned to William “Oh do stop admiring yourself William. You are pretty of course but vanity is so unbecoming in a young lady... or a young man for that matter.”

He looked blankly at her.

“Martha tells me you are an accomplished bridge player.” she said as she slid her arm into his.

“Er…ah…”he spluttered unable to take his eyes away from the mirror.

“Oh you are far too modest.” she said as she moved him away from the mirror and towards the door. “The ladies are so looking forward to meeting you.”

“Master William will make a splendid addition to your bridge party Madam.” Mrs Manette said as she opened the door “I’m sure he will fit in nicely.”

“Of course he will.” Mrs Manette “And don’t be afraid of the ladies William.”

A look of consternation and alarm came over the young man's face.

“Ah…I…but…”he babbled.

“Don’t you worry my darling.” she said softly as they walked towards the stairs. “You’re Mummy’s boy now.”