A Very Victorian Education Chapter 26 with Illustration

Below is the latest chapter of AVVE and hopefully it will be a small distraction in these troubled times or perhaps that should be even more troubled times than usual.

As usual thank you to everyone who ticked the more box and especially to those who took the time and effort to comment. It means so much.

There is not much I can add except to hope everyone stays safe, observe the protocols and help people as best you can and hopefully in a few months we'll be over the worst of it.

Stay safe and take care.

Carrie

A Very Victorian Education

By

CarrieP

Chapter 26

There are certain events in people’s lives that unless locked away in the deep and dim recesses of memory will continue to haunt and bedevil far into the future. For some this approach can be successful but for others these episodes have a nasty habit of resurfacing when they are at their most vulnerable. Such an experience can prove to be most unsettling for the individual concerned.

 Aubrey St Clair was just such an individual.

Positioned securely between his female companions his arms firmly entwined with theirs, voluminous skirts of silk and taffeta brushing against his legs he was lead up the main staircase  of St Jude’s Finishing School for Young Ladies. If his brain had been functioning properly it would have instructed him to use his masculine strength to untangle himself and flee. However a lack of any meaningful manly exercise and a restricted diet had eroded what strength he possessed, much of his male confidence had also been worn down and replaced by deference to practically every female he encountered. Being under the control of the imperious Lady Charlotte for months had conditioned him to be compliant at all times when in female company. Although the desire to flee her oppressive authority was always present he felt unable to act upon it, after all leaving her house dressed as a girl was out of the question. The one opportunity he had earlier in the day when finally dressed in masculine attire was dashed by the presence of two menacing hounds. And now as he ascended the stairs he knew his time wearing male clothing would soon come to an end and within an hour he would find himself once more enveloped in layer upon layer of the hated feminine garments he had been forced to wear for the last several months.  However dreadful and humiliating this appalling vista was it could not be compared to the unimaginable horror that befell the other male to enter this school with him. If he did indeed harbour any notion of escaping it was immediately dispelled by the vision of Karl Maria below stairs dressed as a scullery maid.

Remaining securely tethered to his escorts as they mounted the stairs he resigned himself to his fate and although there could be no escape he desperately hoped that the Countess would somehow manage to limit the damage.

The young woman that held his left arm was the Honourable Miss Bella Martinet who had just recognised him as the participant in a play from several years previously which she herself had participated in. Of course this in itself would not have been sufficient reason for his consternation, the real cause of his increasing anxiety concerned the role he played. The unfortunate boy was forced by the matrons organising this theatrical performance to take the part of a girl. Until encountering Lady Charlotte this had been the most traumatic event in the young man’s life and a cause of great embarrassment. However in the intervening years he had managed to create a vault in his mind and lock this dreadful memory away hoping it would eventually fade but this mechanism was not always successful. Occasionally, usually when alone in bed at night, the memory would escape and he would relive the nightmare of that day. He could still vividly recall the laughter, mocking and merciless teasing of the girls as he tried to retain some form of masculine dignity while dressed in a pink satin ball gown. Even worse, their mothers complimented him on his delicate feminine appearance and how the gown he wore looked as natural on him as any girl.

He considered Lady Charlotte’s treatment of him to be truly appalling but at least his mortifying secret was contained within the walls of her home and crucially the half dozen servants that were aware of it were sworn to secrecy. On the dreadful day in question several years ago there were in excess of twenty girls and mothers who witnessed his humiliation and their laughter still rang in his ears. The ignominy was too much and he pleaded with his mother to send him to boarding school. He left London shortly afterwards and during school holidays he was careful to avoid any social gathering where he would come into contact with the female hoard that witnessed his humiliation. However there were occasions where he could not escape certain interactions with some of those involved.

One particular afternoon stood out in his memory when the, as usual, exclusively female company recalled, to his utter mortification, his performance and how sweet and feminine he appeared. He felt quite faint when one, a particular domineering dowager, informed his mother that he would have made a beautiful daughter. Of course this was greeted with approving expressions and ripples of acclaim by the other matrons present as his mother looked on with pride. Although squirming with discomfort at every complimentary remark he could not protest lest it cause offence. These ladies, oblivious to his irritation and disquiet, seemed to think that his dreadful experience somehow made him an honorary member of their sex. They were quite insistant he remain in their company as they discussed the latest Paris fashions, the perennial problem of training a lady’s maid, and other pressing issues of the feminine realm. They took turns to sit on either side of him and as they moved closer he began to feel almost encased by their bulky skirts which appeared from all angles to envelope his legs.  Although irritated at the constant mention of his role as a girl deep down he had to admit that encountering these ladies while embarrassing did have its merits. It provided a proximity to members of the opposite sex which although much older than himself, forty maybe even forty five years of age, were no doubt extremely attractive.  And if he was really truthful he would also have to acknowledge that they were never cruel or unkind in their comments and despite his misgivings he quickly began to enjoy the attention they lavished on him.

This particular afternoon was memorable as it was the first time that  he was kissed by a woman other than his mother, the lady in question was so enamoured with his transformation  in the play it almost overcame her. To this day he could still recall the smell of her jasmine perfume, the heavy boning of her corset and her cumbersome satin skirts as she drew him close and kissed him fleetingly but tenderly on the lips. This encouraged the other ladies and each of them took turns at showing their affection in a similar way. Such was the excitation he experienced between his legs he had to quickly sit down and discreetly place a cushion over his groin to hide the growing embarrassment inside his trousers.

However in the midst of this newly discovered emotional excitement a voice from somewhere inside his head was trying to make itself heard, warning him there was something wrong with accepting the plaudits of these women. As the voice became more persistent his emotions became more confused and he was torn between what he heard in his head and what he was experiencing between his legs. Gradually his masculinity began asserting itself, questioning whether it was appropriate for a virile young man to be spending so much time in the company of women- the weaker sex.

He began to feel conflicted. This new experience had provided him with his first kiss and the arousal it brought was like nothing he had felt before. Encounters with girls his own age had not been pleasant, they were by and large nasty and cruel treating him with disdain at every opportunity. But in the company of these mature attractive women he was regarded in a much different way, fussed over and lavished with attention and of course –those kisses and the urges they brought with them.  There was no doubt being forced to wear female clothing for that dreadful play  was a truly degrading experience but at least some good had come of it with the attention of attractive older ladies.

And yet the voice kept whispering.

His mind was finally made up with the arrival of their ghastly daughters and nieces. The remarks and observations of these preening, haughty girls, while overtly echoing their elders’ views, were interpreted quite differently by Aubrey. Where the older women’s comments were sincerely expressed with genuine affection the voices of the girls were subtly laced with notes of derision and hints of mockery. Quite soon after their arrival he made an excuse and hurriedly left, echoes of girlish giggles and squeals of laughter ringing in his ears.

Naturally after his performance in that terrible play his name was mentioned in certain elevated yet discreet social circles and consequently there were a number of such afternoons with these and other ladies. He became so endeared to this cohort that once they even asked him to accompany them to a bedroom where he was asked to hold various gowns to his body while the ladies commented on their suitability for particular social gatherings. It was not the kind of thing a manly youth would normally agree to but the consideration, warmth and fondness that these ladies displayed towards him made it almost impossible for him to refuse. He barely realised he was been drawn ever closer to their feminine orbit.

Boarding school interrupted these delightful afternoons and the rigours of an all male environment began to erode the enjoyable nature of these memories and instilled in him a sense of masculine superiority. Of course occasionally they would resurface causing him so much shame that they were immediately dispatched to the dark vault he created in his subconscious.

Now, ascending the stairs between Bella Martinet and the Countess and knowing what he faced he felt the cold shiver of fear run down what now passed for his masculine spine. Having to admit his shameful secret to the Countess was a most upsetting experience but now… now this girl, this spectre from his past would witness his humiliating transition from male clothing to the layers of restricting and mortifying feminine garments. It was almost too much to bear and he could feel the beginnings of a teary sob bubbling up inside.

His lachrymose state did not go unnoticed by his companions.

“There’s no need for tears Aubrey.” the Countess said tersely “After all it was your suggestion that you return to feminine clothing.”

“His suggestion!” Bella Martinet blurted.

“Yes my dear.” the Countess answered “Aubrey has this extraordinary notion that Madam Olivia and Miss Lillian may wish to… shall we say … offer him their hospitality for an extended period. Lady Charlotte may have mentioned to Madam Olivia that his behaviour in the past has been less than exemplary and he believes they may feel he would be an ideal candidate to join my son in receiving the corrective education required for such recalcitrant young males. Aubrey became so alarmed when this was suggested that he panicked and confessed he was merely masquerading as a boy as a ruse to lure my son here. Of course not wishing to see the boy so distressed I went along with this subterfuge. And as Aubrey has such soft, exquisitely delicate… and dare I say it… almost feminine features I managed to assure the ladies that although his countenance may not be considered classically female he was indeed a girl. They were sceptical at first but eventually they were convinced. And as you know he already has some knowledge of posing as a girl.”

Bella laughed and looked intently at Aubrey.

 “Well his fears are well founded. It is true that Madam and Miss Lillian take young and difficult males occasionally to test and refine their theories of behaviour modification.” Bella confirmed Aubrey’s fears as they steered their tearful charge down a long corridor “Males are generally such ghastly and shameless reprobates and would greatly benefit from a year or two in the company of the gentle sex. Madam has never yet failed.”

Aubrey thought there was nothing gentle in what he witness happen to the Countess’s son.

Bella looked at Aubrey and smiled sweetly. It was a smile that did nothing to reassure him.

“You’re not that type of boy, are you Aubrey?” she asked in a voice that only increased his anxiety.

Aubrey, still sobbing, was unable or perhaps unwilling to bring himself to answer such an uncomfortable and inconvenient question. It was now quite obvious to him that Bella Martinet despite her angelic face had grasped that he was now in no position to question her. His lack of response and shameful countenance confirmed her suspicions, she resumed the conversation with the Countess over his head.

 “So by pretending to be a girl he feels that he will avoid this fate?” she said.

“Precisely.” The Countess replied and glancing at Aubrey smiled “And I’m sure Aubrey would be most appreciative for any assistance you would give. Isn’t that right Aubrey?”

The young man could only nod between sobs.

 “He is certainly pretty enough.” Bella blurted struggling to contain her excitement as they stopped at the door to one of the rooms and stared at the young man “I always thought he was far too delicate to be a boy. But I wonder how he will comport himself as it has been several years since he has worn female clothing and even then it was only for a few hours.”

“He may surprise you my dear.” The Countess replied as she guided Aubrey into the room “I have also come to know that Aubrey is a very quick learner and has spent the last several months in Lady Charlotte’s guardianship. As you may be aware the company she keeps is exclusively female and I doubt if Aubrey has had any contact with a male in several months so  I expect he is extremely well acquainted with the mannerisms and traits of our sex.  Isn’t that so Aubrey?”

The young man shamefully agreed with another nod of his head.

“Now my dear, while Aubrey undresses we can choose something appropriate for him.” the Countess said as she steered Bella towards the large walk in closet.

As they left the room Aubrey glanced at the door. The thought of fleeing momentarily entered his head but just as quickly he calculated the chances of escape were very slim. Even if he managed to avoid the hefty servant girls and make it as far as the front door he would still have the dogs to contend with. Lady Charlotte would view such an action as a cruel betrayal and he would no doubt pay dearly for such a reckless and ill conceived plan. Aubrey was quite certain if he was caught he would immediately be consigned to a similar fate as the Countess’s son Karl Maria.

The risk was not worth the consequences. For Bella Martinet to once more dress him as a girl would indeed be extremely humiliating but the alternative of spending a year maybe even two in St Jude’s was something that instilled a feeling of dread he could barely comprehend. He undressed down to the silk chemise and bloomers that Lady Charlotte insisted he wear to ensure he did not forget he was still firmly under her control. Seeing his reflection in the mirror he immediately became extremely self- conscious and engulfed by shame. He grabbed a pale blue silk dressing gown to cover his lingerie.

“Most becoming Aubrey.” the Countess said as they both re-entered the room “But there is no need for such modesty. We’re all girls here after all.”

Bella giggled as the Countess gestured her to remove his robe.

“Would you like me to ring for assistance Aubrey.” the Countess said observing his hesitancy.

The image of the two muscular servant girls loomed large and he immediately removed the peignoir.

“Oh my!” Bella gasped, holding her hands to her bosom as she viewed the figure in front of her and stepped forward to inspect him. “Such beautiful lingerie but… why is he already…”

She looked at Aubrey then turned to the Countess, her mouth slightly agape. The Countess smiled. Bella still a little confused continued,

“Wearing girls’ lingerie under his male clothes?”

Aubrey could feel his shame deepening as even more of his secret was being divulged.

“Lady Charlotte’s insists on such beautiful garments.” the Countess confirmed “Isn’t that right Aubrey?”

Aubrey’s head was hanging in mortification and was unable to meet their eyes or bring himself to answer.

“Aubrey!” the Countess snapped and he knew an answer was now unavoidable.

“Yes Countess, Lady Charlotte insists I wear lingerie at all times.” he replied.

He could see from the corner of his eye that Bella was both amazed and amused by this revelation.

“Lingerie!...But…why…how… does he…?” Bella’s babbled as her excitement took hold, she touched his silk chemise and after a moment or two her hand dropped to stroke his matching silk bloomers.

“And you don’t mind? You don’t…protest at such an indignity/” Bella asked lifting the mortified young man’s chin with her forefinger and gazed deeply into his eyes.

“It’s not…I…ah… it’s…she…”he stammered unintelligently and trying to justify his shameful circumstances he almost sobbed “Lady Charlotte…she…insists.”

Even as he uttered the words he knew such a defence sounded pathetic.

“Oh you poor thing.” Bella sighed in a faux sympathetic voice as she struggled to control her laughter“I suppose for such a strong, virile boy like you it must be most embarrassing being forced to wear girls’ lingerie.”

She looked at the Countess before resuming her interrogation,

“And not only lingerie?  Do I understand from what the Countess suggests that Lady Charlotte has on occasion dressed youas a girl. The haughty and conceited Aubrey St Clair reduced to wearing skirts and petticoats.” she gloated, a broad smirk finally breaking out on her face.

Her goading was too much for Aubrey to bear and despite his degrading circumstances, some small part of his long suppressed masculine pride surfaced.

“It’s not fair…you don’t understand.” Aubrey snapped with a vehemence that surprised even him, his voice rose to an almost angry tone and he stamped his foot “I was forced to wear these clothes. I had no choice.”

“Oh dear.” The Countess declared her face a mixture of dismay and surprise “I thought he was much better trained than this. I suspect Lady Charlotte will be most disappointed when I inform her of such masculine ferocity.”

“Ferocity?” Aubrey repeated incredulously but the mention of Lady Charlotte tempered his frustration and understanding the consequences he managed to overcome his annoyance and moderating his tone he attempted to plead his case “I… was… emm… merely stating that… ah… the circumstances…”

“I must say I am shocked by such an intemperate display of male aggression.” The Countess continued, ignoring his rambling plea “Yes her ladyship will be quite disenchanted by such an exhibition of male arrogance not to mention ingratitude considering for all she has done for you.”

Exposed in his dainty feminine underwear and under the intense gaze of these two females Aubrey felt helpless and vulnerable, he desperately wanted to refute such a grotesque proposition but the words could not reach his mouth. The mere utterance of his guardian’s name had the desired effect and his feeble attempt at assertiveness was quickly abandoned. His attitude immediately reverted to the more familiar meek and passive one he had adopted under her tutelage.

“Oh please Countess…don’t…”he pleaded, imagining how his conduct would be reported to Lady Charlotte but more importantly what her reaction would be. At the very least  he would be punished with a caning but this would be nothing against the prospect of being dispatched as a pupil to this dreadful establishment. The possibility of months or perhaps even years imprisoned under the control of Madam Olivia and Miss Lillian and surrounded by exclusively feminine company was a future he dreaded contemplate. It was an outlook that brought him close to tears.

“I am so sorry.” he sobbed, his fear generating a belief that he had indeed behaved in an aggressive manner “I don’t know what came over me.”

“Hmm” the Countess murmured thoughtfully as she scrutinised his face for signs of insincerity.

“Perhaps he is telling the truth.” Bella said much to Aubrey’s surprise and relief.

“Hmm.” the Countess repeated, apparently unconvinced “Perhaps.”

Bella took both his hands in hers and looked him in the eye.

“You’re really not one of those horrible arrogant, conceited males, now are you Aubrey?” she asked sweetly.

It was an opportunity to redeem himself and avoid the dreaded fate of imprisonment in St Jude’s.

“Oh no, Bella.” he replied with genuine enthusiasm, only too happy to confirm her evaluation of him.

“Miss Bella” she corrected him with an engaging smile, her tone although still quite harmonious now had a subtle yet distinct assertiveness to it that was impossible to ignore “I am Head Girl and apart from the senior prefects every girl addresses me as ‘Miss’.

He was unsure if this was request or a demand, she was perhaps two years younger than him but to him at that moment she appeared to exude an air of authority of someone much more mature than her girlish appearance conveyed. Her facial expression while still pleasant nevertheless took on a more self assured look, he could not be describe it as threatening but it was a little unsettling. However given his predicament he felt the best course of action would be to accede to her request.

“Miss Bella.” he repeated softly with a degree of deference that he had become used to when addressing authority figures such as Lady Charlotte, the Countess and countless other females who instilled in him levels of docility and subservience usually only observed in servants.

“Much better.” Bella said patting his cheek as a mother or aunt would do to a well-behaved child “If I’m to supervise you it’s so important that you observe the proper formalities particularly in front of the other girls. Isn’t that so?”

Aubrey assessed his options and very quickly came to the conclusion that he was in no position to refuse or argue. An innocuous remark had already placed him in a very precarious position and it was becoming increasingly obvious that anything less than deference to these women would be completely misinterpreted and presented to Lady Charlotte as a re-emergence  of male arrogance. More importantly for Aubrey, St Jude’s was not the place to make enemies.

“Yes Bella…”he said meekly before immediately correcting himself “I’m sorry… Miss Bella.”

“Good I’m so glad you agree.” Bella replied “Of course when we’re alone I may give you permission to be less formal.”

“Thank you Miss Bella.” Aubrey answered immediately feeling a twinge of shame at his eagerness to please this girl who, a few months previously, he would barely acknowledge. Now she, together with the Countess, would have complete control over him until Lady Charlotte returned.

From the frying pan into the fire he thought bitterly.

“I’m sure we will become the best of friends after we spend some time together.” she said taking his hands in hers once more and looking him directly in the eye. “Girls usually form special friendships once they help each other dress.”

“Yes.” the Countess agreed as she crossed the room, her taffeta and silk petticoats rustling as she joined Bella “For ladies it is indeed a most private and personal ritual and one tends to form very close relationships with one’s own sex through such intimate familiarity , be it a friend or a maid.”

Both of them looked at each other and smiled knowingly. Aubrey immediately blushed crimson at the Countess’s explicit suggestion.

It was obvious that, whether he liked it or not, he was now to be considered as part of this sorority and just to confirm this dreadful suspicion Bella added with a girlish enthusiasm he found deeply perturbing.

“It will be such fun!”

However just when he thought matters could not get any worse Bella looked down at the silk bloomers gathered  in an elaborate frill at his knees and in a surprised voice blurted,

“He…”she hesitated and looked at the Countess in amazement as she gestured towards his groin “he does not appear to have a…thing. Is he one of those hermaphrodites.”

“I doubt that very much.” the Countess answered “However I had better check. You are far too young to see what constitutes the male sex so please turn your back.”

“But…” Bella protested, her gaze remaining firmly fixed to this area of singular interest between his legs.

“Turn you back young lady.” the Countess ordered in a voice that registered an authority Bella recognised and although she briefly thought about objecting she reluctantly complied.

Before  Aubrey’s could react the Countess pulled down the silk garment to reveal his penis tucked neatly between his legs and confined in a small device that was identical in every way to a boned satin corset and anchored to another device inserted in his anus.

“Ingenious!” she said, her hand caressing the small protuberance and seeing Aubrey’s eyes widen, there was  a small yet distinct reaction from the organ and  as she stroked it she whispered “Yes, Lady Charlotte is most creative, most creative indeed.”

Aubrey despite his best efforts could not control the uncomfortable swelling of his restricted member. His embarrassment was all too evident and he tried to avert his eyes but the Countess placing her long elegant forefinger under his chin raised his head and her eyes met his. She leaned forward and softly breathed into his ear and squeezed his straining organ,

“We all really must become better acquainted.”

After what seemed like an hour but was merely a few seconds she withdrew her hand and pulled the silk bloomers up around his waist.

“You can turn around now.” she instructed Bella. “I have confirmed he is indeed in possession of the male…ahem… organ. The poor boy is so alarmed by this turn of events the items in question have…shall we say diminished considerably. Wearing ladies clothing obviously has a most moderating effect and keeps the ghastly thing under control.”

Bella looked more than a little disappointed.

“Don’t you worry my dear.” the Countess assured her “I’m sure that when Lady Charlotte knows how helpful and considerate you have been she will extend an invitation to tea with Aubrey so you can become better acquainted after all these years. I’m certain Aubrey would like that, wouldn’t you Aubrey?”

Such was the turmoil in the young man’s head he was now practically incapable of processing any information and unable to engage in conversation beyond a few words.

He had learned under Lady Charlotte’s strict regieme, the word no was rarely used to a lady or any female for that matter. The first rule of life with Lady Charlotte was obedience.

“Oh yes Countess.” he managed to say and hoped he had said it with sufficient enthusiasm.

The most valuable lesson he had learned under Lady Charlotte was that obedience and enthusiasm were guaranteed to ensure a lady would look favourably on him. There was a time when he would have cringed with shame at such obsequiousness before a female but like many things that seemed so long ago now. Seeing Bella’s frustration and knowing he was now totally dependent on her to safeguard his shameful secret he was desperate to ensure her cooperation. The frown on her face was not a good omen and immediately recognising the danger a well practiced sweet smile appeared on  his face and he gushed with an eagerness that almost convinced himself,

“That would be delightful. I so look forward to it.”

Another layer of his masculinity slipped away without him even noticing.

Bella’s face softened and she rushed to embrace him.

“Do you really mean that Aubrey?” she enquired as she stepped closer “You seem a little hesitant. I’d hate to think you were just toying with my affections.”

“Oh no, Bella…” he blurted and immediately correcting himself “I mean… Miss Bella, it would be wonderful if you could take tea with us.”

“Well if you really want it…”she said, her tone softening

“Oh yes Miss Bella.” he interrupted her, his voice a mixture of concern and eagerness and keen to quell any doubts she had.

“Now girls,” the Countess interrupted “Enough of this chatter, we really need to get Aubrey dressed or we may soon be joined by Madam Olivia and Miss Lillian.”

Aubrey paled visibly at the mention of St. Jude’s Headmistress and her assistant.

It did not go unnoticed by his female companions.

“I’ve locked the door.” the Countess said reassuringly “and if we work quickly I’m sure Bella and I will have you dressed in less than twenty minutes.”

He gave a weak smile and fingered his silk underwear nervously.

“Don’t you worry your pretty little head Aubrey.” Bella said in a comforting and sisterly voice as she held both his hands “It is the duty of the Head Girl to protect her junior girls.”

It was now quite clear to all that he was now to be considered a member of the weaker sex – and a junior one at that. Being referred to as a girl by his new protectors was, despite his desperation at his predicament, more than a little disconcerting. However in the greater scheme of things he felt now was not the time to express these concerns.

His antennae, thanks to months of conditioning under Lady Charlotte,  were finely attuned to the nuances of  feminine hierarchy and it only took an instant for him to recognise that her statement required an appropriate response of gratitude.

“Oh thank you Miss Bella.” he fawned and briefly thought about curtsying but the remnants of his submerged masculinity somehow managed to transmit that  this would be too blatant a display of submissiveness.

It had the desired effect and Bella’s face lit up at his docile and deferential attitude.

“You are welcome my darling little one.” she replied, patting his cheek once more as if speaking to a child.

He didn’t have time to consider such a patronising response as suddenly he felt a familiar sensation, around his torso the Countess placed a heavy pink satin corset made and before he had time to draw another breath she had begun tugging the laces.

“Aaah…”he whimpered as the garment’s embrace began compressing his frame, first from his shoulders before she turned her attention to the laces at the bottom.

“Oh don’t be such a baby. You know very well ladies suffer this daily. ” the Countess chided him out loud for Bella’s benefit before leaning towards him and whispering in his ear “Yes my darling boy welcome back to the joys of femininity.”

He let out another low unintelligible whine and he jumped slightly as she smacked him on his right buttocks. A small but significant gesture, as if it was needed, reminding him who was in charge.

In the mirror he caught a glimpse of Bella, her face etched with pure excitement at the scene unfolding in front of her. It did not go unnoticed by the ever observant Countess.

The Countess broke off her labours momentarily as was usually the case with every woman who had performed this task on him. As he recovered from her reprimand his experience told him this was only a brief respite to allow his body to become used to the sensation of confinement. He knew it would only be a matter of seconds before the torment resumed. He sought to ease his discomfort and shame by telling himself that ultimately it was a price worth paying. 

“Would you like to complete his lacing Bella?” she asked to Aubrey’s horror and before the last syllable had left her mouth the girl was standing behind him, her hands picking up the lacing dangling from the corset as the Countess stepped to one side.

“Now, not too tight Bella.” she instructed as she moved away to select some petticoats “We don’t want him to have a fit of the vapours like some hysterical young debutante before her first ball.”

“Oh no, Countess.” Bella replied as she tugged sharply on the laces much like a rider would pull on the reins of a horse to convey to the animal who was in charge. “I’ll be as gentle as I can.”

With the Countess’s back turned Bella gave a sharp slap on his left buttock and he recoiled once more at the impact of the stroke. She once more used the laces like reins to pull him closer to her and then leaned into him and murmured in his ear,

“You are going to be a good girl for me, aren’t you Aubrey?”

She drew in the laces sharply and he felt his back jerking slightly and his midriff being pulled in tightly.

Being corseted and then dressed by women was a daily feature of Aubrey’s life and no matter how many times he was forced to experience it the sensation of abject humiliation at their hands cut into his masculinity like a knife.

It never got any easier and served to reinforce his helplessness. The reply was as docile and subservient as always.

“Yes Miss.”

“That’s a good girl.” she said returning to her task as she gently but firmly plucked at the laces at the top of the corset before drawing them tight as she added in a low voice “ There’s no need to be anxious Aubrey, when my junior girls are compliant  I treat them really well. Once you remember that I’m sure we’ll get along. ”

Her remark alarmed him but he was in no position to question her and was reduced to giving the required answer expected of a subordinate.

“Yes Miss.”

“That’s a good boy,” she said in a patronising tone that he was becoming used to “I wish all my junior girls were as manageable as you.”

The remark stung him, being referred to as a boy and a girl in the same sentence as quite disconcerting but he remained quiet. Her voice fell silent as did the room apart from the barely audible sound of the creaking sound of the corset’s boning straining against the heavy satin material- and of course Aubrey’s occasional whimpering. Bella was so close he felt her warm breath on his shoulders and her girlish rose petal scent in his nostrils. She then turned her attention to the laces at the bottom pulling at them in small jerks which caused another low moan from the young man. Another furtive glance in the mirror showed a satisfied, almost triumphant smile on her face. With a final tug of the laces she expertly tied a strong knot and tucked away neatly the excess lacing.

“Now turn around young man.” Bella ordered and as he did so a troubled look came over her face “Oh dear…”

“Yes unfortunately there is one department where he does not look quite so feminine.” the Countess said with a smile as she picked up an object from the bed “Obviously not the real thing but they are a reasonably good facsimile and under a corset and gown will be undetectable from a real bosom.”

She slipped the rubber object into the right cup of the corset and settled it into place before repeating the exercise with the second one.

“I had these made for Karl-Maria.” the Countess, ignoring Aubrey addressed her remarks over his head to Bella “But I suspect they would be wasted under a scullery maid’s drab shapeless uniform.

The mention of the Countess’s son, now forced into domestic servitude albeit temporarily for insulting the Headmistress, immediately concentrated Aubrey’s mind and he instinctively knew upsetting or irritating his new overseer would quickly result in St Jude’s cook Mrs Coldstrap taking custody of another scullery maid. He would do anything to avoid such a fate and immediately decided to comply with any of Bella or the Countess’s instructions or whims no matter how humiliating. Lady Charlotte would surely return in a matter of hours and it was vital she received a glowing report regarding his behaviour.

There must be no display or hint of my masculinity. he warned himself as the Countess completed fitting his false breasts.

Somewhere inside his head he heard a faint but distinct hollow laugh.

Ha! What little remains of it. the sarcastic voice berated as Aubrey cheeks began to colour.

“Oh my darling boy, you’ve gone quite red.” The Countess said softly and leaned into him as Bella was busy arranging items of clothes on the bed “I understand it must be shameful for a young man to be corseted and dressed in feminine clothing but surely you must be used to it by now. You’ll feel much more comfortable once we get you into your dress.”

Close to tears, humiliated and trussed up in such a feminine garment, Aubrey knew if there was one thing worse than wearing a dress it was being exposed in his corset and lingerie. An occurrence  which appeared to delight Lady Charlotte’s servants who dressed him on a daily basis.  If Lady Charlotte or his Governess felt he wasn’t making sufficient progress he was forced to walk around the house only in his corset and satin frilled bloomers eliciting sniggers and giggles form the maids.  It was a most distressing experience so when Bella returned with several flounced and frilled petticoats he was only too happy to put them on. As much as he hated to admit it the Countess was right, he would feel less vulnerable once he was fully dressed.

“Oh Countess these really are gorgeous, and so very fashionable.” Bella gushed excitedly as she settled the first petticoat, a plain lawn one with lace at the hem over his hips and tied it into place “So light yet quite crisp.”

“Yes my dear I ensured my maid had extra starch put in.” the Countess answered as she arranged the hem of the petticoat around Aubrey ankles “It creates a beautiful rustle when combined with the remaining taffeta ones. So very distinctly feminine.”

Aubrey squirmed inside but in order to ensure he did not cause offence nevertheless managed a smile.

 “You are a very lucky boy Aubrey.” Bella said as she lifted one of cream coloured taffeta petticoats over his head. “These petticoats are the most stylish I have seen, I am so jealous.”

“Madame Monique is an excellent designer.” the Countess said and looked at the subdued young man “Isn’t that so Aubrey?”

“Yes Countess.” he murmured.

“You have been to Madame Monique’s?” Bella asked incredulously pausing momentarily before continuing her task, placing another petticoat over him and fixing it in place over the previous one, she added “A male in one of the most exclusive corsetiere’s in London?”

“Yes, he accompanied Lady Charlotte on a visit.” the Countess said helping her arrange the petticoat “He is devoted to her and accompanies her everywhere. He’s like a …”

Aubrey wanted her to stop but dared not open his mouth, he was forced to endure the continuing torment.

“Daughter.” Bella interrupted with a barely concealed snigger.

The Countess laughed lightly but made no reply.  Aubrey could feel the tears well up inside.

“Don’t you dare cry, young man. You’re more of a girl than I thought.” Bella admonished him before lifting the last silk flounced petticoat over his head “We don’t want salt tears on your beautiful dress now do we?”

 He closed his eyes as both women placed the gown over his head and gently drew it down his corseted upper body and without seeing  could feel the heavy weight of the material rest around his hips. The women, absorbed in their task, passed complimentary remarks about the style, colour and fit of the dress as Aubrey was once more being imprisoned in the full feminine attire he had hoped would never again adorn his body. Without being told he outstretched his arms allowing them to draw the sleeves’ cool silk material over his skin. As he was already wearing the silk stockings Lady Charlotte insisted he wear under his male garb the only thing that remained was to button the back of the gown.

“Would you like to button him up.” the Countess addressed Bella as a slight shiver went down his spine.

“It would indeed be a pleasure.” Bella smirked, obviously delighted at the opportunity to perform the coup de grace. He was pulled closer as she tugged the silk material taut and began to thread the small buttons through the buttonholes.

Aubrey still could not bear to open his eyes and only did so when he felt the soft stroke of a brush on his cheeks.

“We can’t have you appearing without a little colour on your face.” the Countess said and as Bella worked her way up the dress he felt the dress enveloping him.

“What a beautiful figure he has.”Bella said reaching his shoulders and he knew in a few seconds the fastening of the buttons at the back of his neck would complete his incarceration. He imagined  this is how a prisoner would feel when the key to his cell turned and he found himself unable to escape. As Bella pushed the last button through its hole he was now completely confined by his warders in silk and satin.

She led him to the bed, his back ramrod straight from the rigid corset and grimaced as he slowly lowered himself onto the bed’s soft satin quilt. The Countess produced a pair of black patent leather calf high boots with a three inch heels and lifting his skirts Bella placed them on either foot and each woman took it in turns to fasten each of the ten silver buttons.

“Stand.” Bella issued the command like a sergeant-major “Time to view our new girl in all her finery.”

He raised himself to his feet and without thinking he instinctively fluffed out the skirt and ensured it fell properly before he even moved away from the bed. Both women looked at each other and smiled.

The Countess is wrong, no matter how many times this happens I will never get used to it. Although it is a nice colour however I’m not sure I like the bodice he said to himself as his hands intuitively smoothed out some small folds in the soft material  I’m only agreeing to this to avoid being held captive in this ghastly place.”

“Now walk up and down so we can see how your gown fits and moves and if we need to correct your gait.” Bella ordered.

“If needs be I have also included in my son’s new wardrobe a pair of shackles for his ankles which would restrict his stride.” the Countess said much to Aubrey’s horror “However I suspect they may not be required .”

Under the women’s gaze Aubrey nervously took his first steps across the bedroom floor and walked towards the far wall where one of several full length mirrors stood.

The gown, in claret, had lace and crenulated trim at the neck a bib front and cuff with a floral cut velvet bodice and skirt front panel.

Countless hours of walking practice under Lady Charlotte’s watchful eye had all but eliminated Aubrey’s manly bearing and although he could not see it himself he glided across the room in the most gracefully feminine fashion.

I wonder how it would look in a royal blue he mused examining every detail the dress as he approached the mirror And I’m really not so sure about the chenille fringe although I do like the draped skirt and pointed pleats.

Suddenly Aubrey noticed the women studying him intently in the mirror and for a moment had a horrible thought that they were privy to the thoughts in his head and to his consternation immediately realised how far he had become assimilated into the feminine realm. Turning to retrace his steps he desperately began to search deep inside himself for his absent masculinity and much as he tried to affect a manly stride was unable to do so. It was as if the heavy and voluminous gown would not allow such an unsophisticated, awkward motion to desecrate a thing of exquisite elegance. And so despite himself he moved across the room with all the elegance of a ship under sail.

The Countess smiled at his mastery of the feminine gait, hips moving gently from side to side and one foot following the other in short restrained steps and wondered how many weeks it took Lady Charlotte to perfect it. None of the girls she saw here could match his gracefulness.

“Hmm. Not bad I suppose.” Bella grumbled, quite disappointed he was so accomplished  but was determined to assert her authority over him. “But it still needs a little work and I doubt if he has any idea how a girl should behave in company. However if he follows instructions and obeys everything I say I think he may succeed in convincing everyone he really is a girl.”

The Countess struggled to suppress a laugh, Aubrey was more a more sophisticated and well schooled example of femininity than any girl in the school including Bella. However as it was important that Bella not reveal his true identity and to this end the Countess felt Bella should believe she had a role to play in this subterfuge.

“I think you are right my dear.” the Countess said. “He needs a firm guiding hand and is lucky to have you perform such a task. Show Bella just how grateful you are Aubrey.”

“Thank you Miss Bella.” he said quietly and seeing the Countess’s discreet but deliberate nod he curtsied.

The Countess almost laughed as she saw the look of excitement on Bella’s face and glanced at the clock.

“Now girls, I think it is time we were going.” she said linking her arms in Aubrey’s as she steered them both towards the door.

Aubrey let out a low whimper as the sound of rusting silk and satin filled the air.