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.”

Afternoon Tea with the Ladies

Mea culpa, mea maxima culpa.

I know I’m very late posting this time but life has been so hectic both personal and work . I’m blessed with a patient readership so hopefully you will understand.

I hope the very short story below will do until the next post.

I had begun the next chapter of AVVE and was making decent progress but the idea of a prequel to An Hour in The Life kept popping into my head. And as you probably know by now I have the attention span of a fruit fly. So I suspended the AVVE chapter and began the prequel   which I thought would be about 3k words (approx double the original) at the moment it’s north of 7.5k but on the plus side it’s very close to completion. I had hoped last week end but realistically it will be next week end at the earliest as I have yet to begin the illustration.

However I resurrected a discarded illustration from A Suitable Position (at least I think I didn’t use it- if I did please let me know) and wrote a few hundred words to accompany it. The women are far too young but I didn’t have time to change them hopefully it won’t detract from the story.

Thank you once again for your patience.

Take care

Carrie

Afternoon Tea with the Ladies

By

CarrieP

William enjoys the benefits of living with his wealthy aunt as her companion but this comes at a price. He is never left out of her sight, is forbidden any contact with other males and must accompany her to every social function, like today when she is having afternoon tea at a friend’s house. As always her friends make a big fuss over the only male in the room.

“I must say Agatha,” Miss Hardcastle said settling into her seat “William’s complexion has improved greatly since he first arrived with you.”

“And growing out his hair has made him appear so angelic.” Miss Fitzsimmons added.

“His deportment is most becoming in a young man.” Mrs Bardell contributed “My daughters could learn a thing or two from him.”

“William!” Aunt Agatha snapped.

Her rebuke had its effect.

“Thank you ladies.” he said in a meek voice, knowing if he irritated his aunt he would suffer the consequences later. It was a misdemeanour so it would probably mean being put to bed before six. Hopefully she would be lenient this time but another lapse would definitely mean some form of punishment.

“It is most kind of you to notice.” he added for good measure.

“And his posture is excellent, unlike my own niece.” Mrs Nightingale said.

William prayed that his aunt would not reveal the reason for his upright bearing.

“Good corsetry is the key to good posture.” Mrs Hardcastle said as all the ladies agreed.

“But I’m sure with such good posture you don’t need such formidable foundation wear William like us ladies.” Mrs Bardell said and smiled knowingly at the other women.

William’s face immediately turned crimson and he was sure they could see the straps of his corselette under his silk shirt.

“Ladies. Miss Fitzsimmons said which thankfully diverted their attention “I have called you here to discuss my servant problem. As you know I have been having difficulty with one of my new maids she is a good girl but is the only female in a family of six brothers so unfortunately has acquired some dreadful masculine habits not to mention a manly gait.  I have tried everything I can think of but her unfortunate her masculine quirks are difficult to rectify. She needs to be taught how to behave more like a female, like a proper housemaid and not some farm labourer. My grand aunt suggested a most unusual solution.”

“Which is?” Mrs Hardcastle said.

“She proposes that the girl be dressed in the uniform of the Victorian era.” Miss Fitzsimmons replied “Of course she would also have to wear the corsetry of the time which would have the added advantage of restricting her movements. It would instil in her a more disciplined attitude and ensure she comported herself in a manner more becoming to that of a female servant.”

This was greeted with an excited chorus of approval by the ladies. William, aware that he was under observation also joined in with as much enthusiasm as he could muster.

“I was hoping that my niece Gertrude would be here today to model the uniform but alas she is indisposed.” Miss Fitzsimmons sighed “So I can only show you the uniform rather than have it paraded for you.”

There was a collective groan of disappointment

“Gertrude?” Aunt Agatha asked her hostess“The girl I met last month?”

“The very one.”Miss Fitzsimmons nodded.

“I know this may sound a trifle unorthodox. “ Aunt Agatha said “But William is of a similar stature as Gertrude, perhaphs…”

“Are you suggesting…” Mrs Badell asked “He is dressed in the uniform?”

All the ladies became very excited at this novel idea.

“A male housemaid!” Mrs Hardcastle giggled.

William paled significantly  wondering if he had heard correctly.

“Are you sure he won’t mind?” Miss Fitzsimmons asked after the chatter died down.

“After all it would mean him dressing as a girl.” Mrs Badell said. “And in a housemaid’s uniform at that.”

“Yes, I’m sure the poor boy would feel most uncomfortable, if not mortified.” Mrs Hardcastle added with a degree of sympathy. “Particularly with the restrictive Victorian corsetry.”

Four pairs of female eyes rested on William.

“Aaah…”he let out a low whimper at the prospect of such an appalling vista.

“William will do as he is told. He is such a well trained and obedient boy.” Aunt Agatha informed her friends. “Isn’t that so William?”

 “Aaah…”he mewled once more.

As the group stood and Miss Fitzsimmons said to Aunt Agatha .

“I hope he won’t mind wearing the four petticoats that are part of the uniform.”

“Perhaps we can braid his hair also?” Mrs Badell added excitedly.

Mrs Hardcastle and Miss Fitzsimmons slipped an arm each inside the arms stupefied young man and led him from the room.

“As I said. “ Aunt Agatha said “William will do as he is told.”

A Very Victorian Education Chapter 25 plus 2 illustrations

Below is Chapter 25

I thought I would have had it finished a lot sooner as I had over 80% of it completed over 3 weeks ago but there were three possible endings and it took me a while to decide on the final one so hopefully it works out ok.

There are 2 illustrations and one of these (in the bedroom ) I had done before I had settled on the ending so it does not fully reflect the story , actually the scene is not even in this chapter but I’m sure you don’t mind about that. I would have taken too long to re-do it.

Many thanks as usual to all who were kind enough to comment and tick the more box  as always I greatly appreciate it.

It's quite long so hopefully you will enjoy it.

Take care

Carrie

PS I'll try to replace the heading illustration in the next week or two.

A Very Victorian Education

By

CarrieP

Chapter 25

M

ost young men have ambitions, goals, objectives, aspirations or if you prefer –dreams. A career in the army or navy, perhaps a garlanded sportsman or possibly a famous surgeon or scientist. Aubrey St Clair was no different except his current dreams would be considered strange to most young men unless of course they were aware of his circumstances. This young gentleman’s dream was more banal, something taken for granted by his peers. What could be such an everyday occurrence that exercised him so? It was quite simply to be able to wear male clothing, a right that had been denied to him over the past several months by his present guardian Lady Charlotte de Winter, a close friend of his absent mother. In order to improve his increasingly bad behaviour Lady Charlotte had insisted, or in Aubrey’s mind, forced him to  feminine clothing on a daily basis. Today, however, was different and his dream had come true – or so it appeared at first. In order to assist her new friend Magdalena, Countess von Utterdorf to incarcerate her son in St Jude’s Finishing School for Young Ladies  Lady Charlotte required Aubrey to be dressed in male garb in order to participate in the subterfuge.

Now attired in fashionable male garments, the young man who had until the previous day been confined for months in feminine frills and flounces, stood in the office of Madam Olivia Strangelove the formidable headmistress of St Jude’s and her ever present assistant Miss Lillian. Naturally he should have been delighted to finally have realised his ambition however the surroundings he now found himself left him feeling more anxious than ever. From the moment he set foot in this institution he felt unnerved, first by these two matronly women and then by dozens of the school’s pupils as he took tea with Madam Olivia and Miss Lillian. He sensed every pair of eyes was on him – and not in an admiring way. It was as if he was surrounded by a pack of hungry wolves just waiting for the chance to pounce and relieve the lone sheep of his wool. The confidence that he expected his male clothes to confer did not materialise and he could not help but to feel threatened and intimidated, from what he was not exactly sure but he knew these girls were not staring at him with romantic intent.

And as if that disconcerting episode was not enough to alarm him, he had just witnessed a most unsettling and unpleasant scene where the Countess’s son, Karl Maria, had been strapped to a frame and caned by  Miss Lillian before being dispatched to the kitchens to begin work as a lowly scullery maid. Of course he knew that the object of visiting the school was to detain the arrogant young man and eventually feminise him but the manner in which this was done shocked and terrified Aubrey. And to make matters worse Lady Charlotte had been called away to attend to an elderly relative. This was extremely bad news for Aubrey as Lady Charlotte despite her ghastly treatment of him was nevertheless still regarded by him as his protector. In her absence she had given control over him to the Countess.

A sudden fear gripped Aubrey, this was the same woman who had conspired to commit her own son to this dreadful academy. Complicating the matter the Countess believed Aubrey was actually a girl who had, like Roberta Lady Charlotte’s goddaughter, a tendency to act and dress as a tomboy.

Aubrey stood and watched as the Countess lowered herself gracefully onto the sofa.

“Oh dear,” she said as she was arranging her skirts before lifting them them slightly to examine her footwear “I think some the buttons on my boots may have become undone.” 

“I can ring for a maid.” Madam Olivia said.

“I don’t want to take your servants away from their duties.” the Countess replied “Perhaps Aubrey could perform the task. Lady Charlotte tells me she is most helpful when her maid is not present.”

Aubrey spluttered and became a little flustered. 

“Would you be so kind as to adjust them Aubrey?” the Countess smiled at him.

“Emm…I … ah…I…”he babbled desperately searching for an excuse before finally thinking of one “It would require a button hook and unfortunately I don’t have one.”

The Countess was correct Aubrey had indeed been taught how to button ladies boots however it was extremely difficult to do this without the correct implement which allowed the person lacing the boot to draw the button through the eyelet of the boot.

“I do.” Madam Olivia said opening a drawer and handing the six inch instrument to Miss Lillian who then offered it to Aubrey. 

“My maid can be a little lax sometimes. You know how servants are, ladies” The Countess said as Miss Lillian and Madam Olivia smiled knowingly and nodded their agreement. She smiled at Aubrey and proffered her leg, the hem of her cream coloured taffeta petticoats showing. “Would you be so kind as to re-button them Aubrey?”

The thought briefly crossed his mind to refuse but having just witnessed Karl Maria’s fate he was extremely reluctant to test the Countess’s reaction to any hint of disobedience. The implement in his hand he looked around for a small footstool that he could sit on.

“On your knees.” Miss Lillian said tersely interrupting his thoughts before adding in a softer voice “It is far more practical.”

“Yes it is the position my maid takes.” the Countess said as she raised her highly polished booted foot to Aubrey who immediately took it and rested it on his lap and red faced raised her skirts to allow him access to her ankle high boot. “I would imagine It is the most suitable position for such a task. Are you comfortable Aubrey?”

“Ah…I...”he stammered, his mouth agape still shocked that he found himself in this situation “Yes Countess.”

The Countess gazed at the young man kneeling in front of her holding her foot in his hands, her large brown eyes transfixing him.

“Well get on with it then.” she laughed softly.

He blushed deeply before setting about his task threading the metal instrument through the eyelet, expertly placing the hook around the button and drawing it back through the boot’s eyelet. It was something he had done hundreds of times over the last several months as Lady Charlotte felt performing such tasks would instil in him a level of humility as well as benefiting his overall feminine education. Of course she was right he had become extremely proficient at buttoning all types of female footwear.

“How many buttons were undone?” the Countess asked.

Aubrey interrupted his efforts and quickly calculated that four of the fifteen buttons on her right boot were undone and two on the left.

“Six in total Countess.” he replied.

“Lazy girl!” the Countess uttered contemptuously and Aubrey immediately looked up in shock as this was a phrase that Alice, his Governess, often used when he failed in any the tasks she had set him.

“Oh not you, Aubrey.” she laughed lightly much to his relief and addressed the other women “I was referring to my lady’s maid of course. She has become very distracted and careless lately, only this morning she laid out the wrong corset and only two petticoats not to mention the incorrect stockings.”

She looked once more at the anxious young man at her feet.

“You are far more capable Aubrey.” she continued “I notice how skilful and efficient you are. You have obviously done this for Lady Charlotte and it is quite obvious she has trained you well. Any lady would be delighted to have you as her maid.”

The cheeks of his face immediately turned scarlet.

“Oh I’m so sorry my dear.” she apologised noticing his discomfort. “Did I embarrass you?”

Aubrey blushed even more but afraid to confirm her observation he shook his head.

“Good.” she said and noting he was still holding her booted foot as he looked up at her she quickly added “Well continue your work. We don’t want you to pick up any bad habits like my maid.”

From his subservient kneeling position Aubrey heard the sound of laughter from Madam Olivia and Miss Lillian but the indignation he felt did not give him sufficient courage to reprimand them. Burning with shame he remained silent as he resumed his task.

“Yes Countess,” Miss Lillian, regaining her composure, offered her opinion “servants can become quite lax and slipshod unless they are constantly supervised.”

“And disciplined.” Madam Olivia added sternly much to Aubrey’s unease.

“I wholeheartedly agree ladies.” the Countess concurred “Training maidservants properly is such a necessary yet time consuming chore but if done correctly can produce a most satisfactory girl. They require structure and purpose, a little like children.”

“Or males.” Madam Olivia snorted in a tone that Aubrey, working diligently on the Countess’s boot, found disturbing.

“And of course the old adage is correct.” Miss Lillian contributed “Spare the rod and spoil the child.”

“How true.That was a most unfortunate and costly mistake I made with my own son.” the Countess sighed “His Nanny and Governess controlled him up to the age he went to boarding school where he developed those ghastly male traits. After several years of school his attitude towards females had become unbearable and I had to ask them to return in order to remedy the damage. Of course his behaviour improved once he was back under their authority but as their stay was only temporary he quickly reverted to his old ways.”

“Typical male!” Madam Olivia consoled her guest.

“Yes, males are by and large incorrigible reprobates.” Miss Lillian said and a cruel smile came over her face “However if caught in time and trained properly they can be moulded into passive, docile and obedient chattels, dependent on and subservient  to their mothers, sisters and wives.”

“I dearly hope Karl Maria will become the creature you have described.” the Countess said.

“Oh he will, my dear Countess.” Miss Lillian assured her “He will be all these things and more after his stay with us. His previous life will be a faded distant memory, by the time of his release he will have acquired the mannerisms and graceful demeanour of a demure young lady, respectful and deferential to every female he comes into contact with. He will be as much at ease in a ballgown as he once was in a morning suit, as comfortable in afternoon tea gown as he was in a tweed jacket. Familiarity with a lady’s toilette will become second nature, he will become as acquainted with the beneficial effects of firm corsetry and delicate lingerie as any society lady. He will know what dress to wear on any occasion, what accessories to wear with it, how many petticoats to wear under it, what colours will compliment his complexion. In short he will be the compliant and feminised son you have always wanted, completely under your authority, attentive to your every need and obeying your every wish. And equally importantly, he will be an ideal husband for any future daughter-in-law.”

“That’s sounds delightful.” the Countess beamed.

“However, Countess.” Madam Olivia cautioned “He will have to be kept constantly under observation particularly in the first four to six weeks after his release. It is at this stage that a small minority of feminised males may feel emboldened enough to begin to think about rebelling. It is important to notice the first signs of this to firmly nip any nascent defiance in the bud. It usually begins with the young male complaining about the rigidity of a particular corset, grumbling about the number of petticoats he has to wear in warm weather, or fretting at having to use a parasol to protect his pale complexion. It could be any number of things and may seem trivial at the time, something any young lady would complain about to their mother, governess or lady’s maid. But you must be vigilant, if you allow one concession, one small compromise it will lead to more demands. For example he may ask for his corset to be laced a little looser or his heels an inch lower, mark my words Countess it will be the first steps on the road to perdition. It will lead to an unravelling of his education, his newly acquired acceptance of your authority will weaken and he will become gradually more rebellious. It is imperative disobedience and dissent is stamped out immediately.”

The conviction in her voice disturbed Aubrey who having completed his task began to rise from his kneeling position.

“One moment if you please, young man.” Miss Lillian said placing her hand on his head preventing him from rising to his feet “I would appreciate it if you would check the hem of my petticoats for a slight tear. I was assisting some of our pupils to disembark from a punt after an excursion on the lake before you arrived and I fear I may have inadvertently caught it on a rough surface and caused some damage to the fabric.”

Aubrey was in no doubt that this was being done to humiliate him purely because he was male. He was convinced that any male unlucky enough to find himself in this dreadful establishment would undergo a plethora of similar indignities. With small variations, Alice had used very much the same methods to shame him into submission and of course any hint of rebellion or even mild resentment on his part  would only result in further ignominy. Harsh experience had taught him to dismiss immediately any such notions. Far better to suffer a minor humiliation rather than find himself forced face down on a bed, skirts raised above his head and his bare buttocks chastised with a paddle or hairbrush. After witnessing the fate of Karl Maria he felt certain that as the remaining male he was in grave danger in joining him in the kitchen as Mrs Coldstrap’s second scullery maid. The slightest of misdemeanours, a perceived disobedience to one of these women, or any one of a hundred unknown transgressions would be presented to Lady Charlotte as evidence of re-emergence of unacceptable male behaviour. A horrible thought screamed inside his head.

I could be incarcerated here for years.

Without Lady Charlotte or Roberta as protectors he would have to rely on the Countess’s goodwill. His thoughts were interrupted by Miss Lillian.

“This young man is a good example.” she said gesturing to Aubrey who had finished his task and to the Countess’s delight was busy adjusting her skirts back into position, “He is clearly very accomplished and well trained however I suspect he would benefit from…”

A knock on the door interrupted her mid sentence and after being told to enter, a crisply capped and aproned maid slipped quietly into the room and curtsied to her mistress before whispering something in her ear.

“I’m afraid there is something both Madam Olivia and I need to attend to as a matter of urgency.” Miss Lillian informed the Countess “Hopefully it should not take too long.”

As Miss Lillian waited for Madam Olivia to join her Aubrey instinctively moved to the door and opened it and stood back to allow them to pass. Both women stopped a few feet from him to inspect their appearance in the large mirror prior to leaving the room, he strained every fibre of his auditory faculties  to hear their conversation and grew even more fretful as he discreetly eavesdropped.

“Perhaps Lady Charlotte could be persuaded to allow him to stay here for a few months.” Madam Olivia said quietly “She was extremely interested in our program for misbehaving young males.”

“Yes.” Miss Lillian replied sotto voce “But he is far too pretty for Mrs Coldstrap, we could give him to the senior girls they would have so much fun with him.”

Aubrey looked away and fumbled with a button on his jacket, afraid that they would think he was prying however their exchange alarmed and terrified him. He tried but failed to stifle the moan that was mounting inside him.

As they reached the door they smiled at him.

“Yes such a pretty boy.” Miss Lillian said and when she thought they were out of earshot added. “He will make a splendid addition.”

“After all we have never let anyone in trousers escape yet.” Madam Olivia said quietly.

Closing the door he had to hold on to the handle to support his trembling knees.

“Oh dear, you do look quite pale Aubrey.” The Countess said rising from her seat and skirts swishing she made her way to the pale figure. “Come and sit with me.”

Placing her arm around him she guided him back to the sofa and plumping the large satin cushion she gestured him to sit.

“A glass of Madeira will soon put you right.” she smiled reassuringly offering him a small crystal glass. “You look as if you have seen a ghost. Is everything all right?”

“I…ah…it is…”he stammered clearly shaken as he lowered himself onto the cushion, the panic he now felt completely displaced the physical discomfort of the object inserted inside him.

“My dear Aubrey, although we have only known one another for a short time I have become very fond of you and would protect you as if you my own daughter.” the Countess said softly as she took both his hands in hers “You can tell me what troubles you. Lady Charlotte said you are not like other girls, you are quite delicate and extremely sensitive. In fact she said she wished to confide in me today but now having being called away she did not have the opportunity.”

Aubrey could not prevent a low whimper escaping.

“Ah…it’s… I…I…” he struggled, his fear gripping him as tightly as any corset before finally blurting “I need to leave here immediately.”

He tried to stand up but his legs would not support him.

“What are you afraid of?” the Countess asked. “I know you were probably shocked by the treatment of my son but I assure you he thoroughly deserves everything that’s happening to him.”

“I… they…it’s …because…I…”he spluttered incoherently.

“Oh I think I understand.” she said calmly “Is it because you look quite boyish and are wearing male clothes?”

He nodded vigorously.

“And you believe they may wish to keep you here?” she continued.

Gripped in a heightened state of anxiety and still unable to speak he could only nod his head in confirmation.

“Oh I doubt that.” she said and then a pensive look came over her face “Although I suppose like me, Lady Charlotte is extremely interested in the school’s methods.”

This did not assuage Aubrey’s mounting fear of joining Karl Maria.

“Silly me.” she laughed “You played your part so well I forgot you were a girl masquerading as a young man. That is probably why they showed so much interest.”

She patted his thigh and laughed once more.

“And of course, you’re not a young man are you?”

Aubrey felt a familiar queasiness in the pit of his stomach. Earlier that morning when he donned male clothes for the first time in almost six months he never envisaged it could possibly worsen his situation. And yet it did. His clothing and the incident with the guard dogs had naturally led Madam Olivia and Miss Lillian to believe he was male even though they were slightly perplexed at first with his distinct feminine features and subtle female mannerisms.  Under, what amounted to an interrogation, he also admitted Lady Charlotte had dressed him as a girl and to his horror this in turn had prompted them to suggest he would benefit from a three month stay in St Jude’s. Far from providing a possible escape route from his feminised life, his male garb had conspired to draw him even closer to the hideous and humiliating universe that was St Jude’s.

The image of Karl Maria’s gagged face and shackled ankles being led away to his fate as a scullery maid flashed into Aubrey’s mind. He now realised his male clothes could easily  consign him to a similar destiny. Panic began to engulf him. He gulped the contents of the glass.

“Surely you cannot be worried?” the Countess asked “As I said you have nothing to fear, you are not a young male.”

Silence filled the room. Mouth slightly open but unable to answer Aubrey could only stare at her blankly.

“Aubrey?” she said, her voice a mixture of concern and annoyance “What on earth is the matter? Is this something to do with what Lady Charlotte wanted to divulge to me?”

Still speechless he nodded.

“Well, tell me.” the Countess said in  a sympathetic voice “I promise I will protect you just like Lady Charlotte but in order to do so I must know what is causing you such distress.”

She looked deeply into his eyes and smiled as she gently and reassuringly squeezed his hand.

Aubrey knew if he was to avoid Karl Maria’s fate he would need someone influential and powerful to protect him and that person was sitting next to him holding his hand and smiling benevolently at him. Until now his worst nightmare was the humiliation of being discovered as a corseted and petticoated male wearing a dress but the prospect of life at St Jude’s was an unimaginable horror. He would have to reveal his secret to this woman and hope she would save him from such a horrendous future.

There was no other option.

“I am a young man not a girl.” he blurted as the tears began to flow.

“You really are a young man?” the Countess asked “But …Madame Monique’s … you looked so feminine. A little boyish perhaps but many girls have a similar characteristics.  I have seen girls here that are not nearly as pretty as you.”

This was no comfort to Aubrey and he cried even harder.

She took a deep breath and looked at him closely.

“Remarkable!” she continued touching his face “Even dressed as a male you still retain a distinct feminine quality. I confess  I did  suspect something unusual in your demeanour but you carried yourself with such feminine poise, such elegance I quickly discarded it. With such a face and a remarkable figure why would I think of you as a male.”

She placed her hands on his chest.

“A false bosom.” he said, his eyes avoiding hers as he answered her unasked question.

“So this is what Lady Charlotte wanted to tell me.” she said softly her eyes her drawn to his groin. She stood up and taking his hands once more she raised him to his feet.

She looked at his pubic area, her eyes widened as she noted the absence of any male protuberance. Her hand brushed lightly against the material of his trousers checking for evidence of manhood. Finding none he looked at him quizzically, he tried to avoid her eyes but it was too late. She held his gaze and he blushed deeply as her right hand slipped between his legs and after checking for a moment or two she finally found the evidence held in place by the apparatus Lady Charlotte had placed his member into.

“To control the ghastly male impulse, I presume.” the Countess said, clearly fascinated. “And no doubt to keep you from flaunting any display of masculinity.”

He remained silent his humiliation burning his cheeks.

She placed her fingers under his chin and looked him directly in the eyes.

“What an amazing transformation.” she said “I have so many questions. Who else knows?”

“Only the servants in Lady Charlotte’s home.” Aubrey sobbed “Before you arrived and Madam Olivia and Miss Lillian thought I was your son, they intimidated me so much I admitted I had worn girl’s clothes previously but they know nothing else.”

Emotion overcame him and he fell to his knees and wrapped his hands around her voluminous skirts.

 “Please, please help me Countess.” he blubbered gazing up at his only hope. “I don’t want to stay here with all these girls.”

As the Countess studied the distraught figure at her feet her mind drifted back to the exquisitely feminine, elegant girl she first encountered at Madame Monique’s.

How very extraordinary! she said to herself I thought there was something unusual, something I could not quite put my finger on about Aubrey, something unconventional yet still feminine.

And this is it. Aubrey is male after all. He really is just so precious even when dressed as male he still manages to radiate a singular femininity. Lady Charlotte has created a splendid example of everything I wish my son to be.

 He is obviously terrified at the prospect of being confined here which is not surprising after what he has just witnessed. However it is inconceivable that Lady Charlotte would part with such a superb and rare creature but it is obvious that Aubrey is so firmly under her thumb he does not see this.

The Countess interrupted her musings to comfort the poor boy.

“Hush now dear boy.” she consoled him gently stroking his hair but stopping short of guaranteeing he would not be consigned to a similar fat as the unfortunate Karl Maria “One hopes it will not come to that.”

It had the desired effect and he clung to her even more tightly. Her heart quickened as she considered the power she now held.

So this is what it is like to have so much control over a male. I suspect in this petrified state he would agree to anything. Hmm… I wonder…

“There must be a way to avoid such an outcome.” the Countess said as she bent to disentangle his arms from around her skirts and assisting him to his feet she added in a faux absentminded voice “What would cause the ladies to reconsider their plans for you? The only reason they wish to detain you here is because you are male. Perhaps you could convince them otherwise?”

He looked at her blankly and still in shock remained motionless as she deftly unbuttoned his trousers and pulled them down revealing his knee length cream silk bloomers. There was still no manly bulge on view.

“Perfect!” she smiled and re-buttoned the garment.

“You mean that I should revert to playing the part of a girl.” he said not quite understanding her “But I told them I was…”

“Yes, yes, a boy, I know.” the Countess said impatiently “But I can tell them you were flustered and you meant to say ‘tomboy’. I can point out to them your…ahem… shall we say absence of male attributes. By the way I look forward to hearing how Lady Charlotte achieved such novel effect. I will tell them I was aware of these inclinations and asked you to assist me in my plan and I will also explain that your small breasts have been bound to complete your male appearance. ”

“But…I…they will…”he spluttered, his brain still trying to determine which was the best or probably the least worst option.

“Oh I know you are probably thinking all your pretty dresses are in Lady Charlotte’s home.” the Countess said breezily  “But Karl- Maria’s new clothes, the ones I had made in Madame Monique’s, are already here. I thought it best to send them last week and as Madame told me you are both of a similar size you can wear one of his gowns. As we both know he won’t be wearing it for quite some time. Miss Lillian told me earlier this week his feminine clothes  were already unpacked and in his room. Of course as a scullery maid he will not be occupying that room for several days at the very least. Maybe even a week.”

By now the horrible reality of his situation had begun to seep into his brain. There was no best or worst option -only the lesser of two evils.

“But…I… ah…” Aubrey continued to babble like an idiot.

“Yes of course you are right.” she said ignoring his confusion and clasping her hands excitedly, her voice becoming more enthusiastic by the second, she began to pace up and down, skirts swishing and the rustling sound of satin and taffeta petticoats filling the room.  “Suggesting a return to female attire would be the best course, after all what red blooded male would ever willingly propose being laced into a corset and then don petticoats- the very essence of femininity. They would surely not consider you a male after that. I don’t think anyone would. What a splendid solution, Lady Charlotte would be very proud, you are such a clever boy.”

“Ah…I…er…”he continued to struggle for words as he wondered exactly at what point did he suggest such an outlandish notion.

It’s the last thing I want. he screamed inside his head but immediately realised what the alternative was, the words in his brain  rang out like the chimes of Big Ben.

 The lesser of two evils.

If the Countess saw his bewilderment she did not show it, her face was aglow with an excitement Aubrey neither shared nor understood.

“Such a request together with my version of events will no doubt convince them you are indeed a girl.” the Countess stated confidently before finally noticing Aubrey’s lack of enthusiasm for her plan. Her excitement cooled considerably.

“Of course you could remain as you are.” she said quietly, more than a hint of disappointment in her voice and added in a tone freighted with doubt that alarmed him “Perhaps nothing will happen.”

She patted his thigh and looked wistfully at the door.

“I wonder how Karl Maria is getting along with Mrs Coldstrap?” she said in a quiet almost dethatched voice, seemingly oblivious to Aubrey’s terror.

The mention of Karl Maria and his cruel fate concentrated Aubrey’s mind. He knew from experience that ladies of a certain age do not take disappointment very well and can, if they are so inclined, very easily find ways to make life extremely difficult.

The lesser of two evils he repeated silently, bracing himself for the inevitable surrender.

“I…ah… perhaps it ….” he struggled.

“Yes Aubrey? You have something to say?” the Countess asked, her head tilting slightly as she looked at the clock before adding in a tone that set Aubrey’s pulse racing “I expect the ladies will return shortly.”

“On reflection it may be for the best if I …”he faltered momentarily,

“Yes Aubrey?” the Countess repeated, a knowing smile crossing her attractive face.

He swallowed before continuing.

 “…if I…” another gulp interrupted his flow before blurting “… it may be best if return to female clothes.

The Countess’s face softened, taking on a more sympathetic look.

“A very wise decision Aubrey.” she said putting her hands on his shoulders she drew him close, so close his chest took the full brunt of her ample breasts. He could feel the ridges of her formidable corset and his legs were practically encircled by her bulky satin skirts.

“I promise you will not fall under the good ladies authority.” she said tenderly as she kissed gently him on the lips.

Voices outside the door alerted them to the imminent return of Madam Olivia and Miss Lillian.

“I will do the talking.” the Countess said composing herself “And I would strongly suggest an air of enthusiasm on your part at any suggestion I make.”

“Ah, Ladies.” the Countess said “Aubrey has asked to return to Lady Charlotte’s home, now that our little subterfuge has been completed  she wishes to divest herself of her male garb and dress in a more appropriate fashion.”

Aubrey could see that both women were perplexed but the Countess’s remarks.

“But..you… Aubrey…” Madam Olivia stumbled over her words, clearly taken aback at this revelation.

“She? …Her?” Miss Lillian asked equally befuddled.

“Oh yes, now I understand.” the Countess laughed “Aubrey’s polished performance convinced you she was a young man.”

The Countess looked at Aubrey who made a very passable attempt at a genuine smile.

“But he…this is most irregular.” Madam Olivia said crossing the room in a flurry of swishing skirts “He said he…

“She is such a good actress.” the Countess corrected  her as she took hold of Aubrey’s hands and smiled at him as if he was her prized possession “Of course it is true that dear Aubrey did have a strong inclination to be unconventional, tomboyish I believe is what you call it in England, isn’t that true Aubrey?”

“Yes Countess.” Aubrey lied and as she squeezed his hands their eyes met, conveying the Countess’s silent instructions. He groaned inside at the thought of what he was now expected of him but was also very much aware that such a humiliating acknowledgement would have to be convincing if he was to avoid the fate of Karl Maria.

“It is true…”he hesitated momentarily as he recognised the significance of what he was about to say “ since I was young I had a tendency to act and behave in a boyish fashion, climbing trees, playing with boys toys, having a dislike of feminine pursuits.”

“And clothes.” The Countess interrupted.

“Yes, yes.” Aubrey quickly agreed “And feminine clothes. I pestered my mother to wear more masculine attire.”

“Hmm.” Madam Olivia murmured not sounding totally convinced and Aubrey knew he would have to debase himself even further, he continued,

“However since I came to live with Lady Charlotte I have…”he stumbled trying to find the right words

 “Left such aspirations behind.” the Countess interjected helpfully.

“Yes, left them behind.”Aubrey blurted “Which is why I became so perturbed this morning. Wearing male clothes once more has somewhat…”

“Disoriented you.” the Countess once again intervened.

“Yes, wearing such clothes for the first time in months was a strange and confusing experience.” he agreed, not untruthfully “I became extremely flustered was not really sure of what I was saying. I apologise for misleading you.”

 “Lady Charlotte and I did not fully appreciate quite how unsettling our little deception would affect dear Aubrey.” the Countess continued “And to avoid disconcerting the poor creature further it would be best if he… oh dear even I have fallen victim to her acting abilities…”the Countess laughed at her error before continuing “if she was returned to clothing befitting a young lady.”

“But he…” Madam Olivia, looking quite confused herself, began and after  gazing once more at Aubrey she continued “…she appears… well I grant you …perhaps not entirely masculine but certainly has some features that could be described as boyish.”

“Yes I suppose you have a point.” the Countess said and gesturing both ladies to step closer to Aubrey and pointed to his groin area “However as you can see there is none of that ghastly male protuberance in evidence. See for yourself ladies.”

Aubrey tensed as the Countess ran the back of her hand up the smooth surface between Aubrey legs and to his alarm he was then subjected to a similar examination by both women. His terror was such that he thought he could feel his member shrinking as each second passed to a point where even he was unsure as to the organ’s existence. It was as if  his penis had disappeared entirely into his body.

“I must admit Countess we are a little disappointed.” Madam Olivia said somewhat glumly as her cursory inspection between Aubrey’s legs failed to locate any manifestation of male genitalia and regarding him closely once more she added in a tone that alarmed Aubrey “We had our hearts set on another male joining us it is always a delight to train a young man to the same standards as our pupils. With those very unusual features we were completely taken in. Please don’t be offended my dear but even looking at you now I find it hard to believe you are a girl. Your portrayal of a young man was most realistic.”

“Yes, most realistic.” Miss Lillian agreed and gesturing towards his pubic area she laughed “but obviously not that realistic.

“Yes, the one place where Aubrey fails the masculinity  test.” the Countess joined the laughter.

Aubrey was so relived he even gave a weak smile.

 “The breasts are bound you say, Countess?” Miss Lillian enquired.

“Yes.” The Countess replied confidently before laughing “Not that it required much effort.”

Aubrey’s anxiety returned once more, now fearful they would wish to inspect his non-existent bosom however the Countess true to her word as his protector took him by the hand and drew him close to her skirts.

“I think you now understand why Aubrey wishes to get out of these dreadful garments.  the Countess said in an authoritative voice “This has been a most distressing experience.”

The women nodded in agreement and just as Miss Lillian was about to speak the Countess once more asserted her authority.

“I believe you have unpacked the clothes I sent for my son.” the Countess enquired.

“Yes but…” Madam Olivia began however the Countess ignored her interjection and continued

“Excellent, I think it would be best if we went upstairs to Karl Maria’s room and changed Aubrey in something more ladylike.”

“But …I would like…”Madam Olivia once more tried to engage the Countess but she had already began moving towards the door with Aubrey held firmly by the hand as if he was a five year old.

“Now if you will be so kind as to ring for a maid to show me to the room. It has been such a trying day for such a delicate creature.” the Countess said in a tone that left Madam Olivia in no doubt that a further attempt at conversation would incur the Countess’s displeasure.

“Of course, Countess.” Madam Olivia surrendered and ringing the hand bell added in a voice that Aubrey thought almost subservient “At once, Countess.”

A maid immediately appeared and was issued instructions by Madam Olivia.

“Come along Aubrey.” the Countess said as the maid opened the door and despite their smiles he could see that both women were extremely disappointed to be deprived of their prize.

It was a bittersweet moment for the young man, saved from what would have been an unbelievably appalling experience at their hands yet now facing a return to his hated feminine clothes. The worst of all was the Countess now knew his secret.

The lesser of two evils. Aubrey sighed silently trying to console himself as he emerged into the hallway still held firmly by the Countess’s hand like a five year old. As they followed the maid to the wide staircase it became obvious to him that he had become the focus of the several girls gathered in a group at the bottom of the stairs. He could see the barely concealed smiles on their faces as the Countess guided them both across the spacious vestibule. Several yards before they reached the staircase the Countess stopped and turned to him,

“Oh dear I have left my purse in Madam Olivia office.” she announced as she let go of his hand and patted his cheek and in a voice that he felt was a little too loud added “Now be a good boy until I return.”

As Aubrey watched her glide towards Madam Olivia’s office his eye was drawn to the front door about fifteen yards away with no one between it and him.

He considered his options. Surely the servants could not run as fast as him in their long and cumbersome skirts and maybe he would be lucky, the dogs could be sleeping or somewhere in the grounds far away from the front door, perhaps he could get to the gates before they could reach him. Of course if he was to fail in his escape bid… a shiver went down his spine.

“I do hope you are not thinking about running for the door.” a voice interrupted his deliberations.

Startled, he turned around to find the group of girls had suddenly materialised and now began to encircle him. He felt his throat dry up and the beginnings of a weakness in his legs.

“You should know what happens to disobedient and headstrong boys.” another said as the group encroached further.

“I don’t think you would like it below stairs.” a third girl suggested.

“Yes you are far too pretty to be hidden away in the kitchens with Mrs Coldstrap.” a girl in a blue satin dress giggled.

“Although Mrs Coldstrap does like the pretty ones too.” a tall,well proportioned girl said.

“Oh don’t we all Emily!” another said and they all laughed.

“Why don’t you try?” a girl wearing a two piece gown of soft burgundy silk smiled as she asked “Surely a few soft and weak girls would not be able to stop such a strong and virile young man like you?”

With a rustle of silk and satin an opening appeared in the circle.

“Yes he’d probably prefer to join his manly friends than spend time with us.” a girl in a long and tight bodiced maroon silk satin dress said.

 Aubrey’s legs were becoming weaker by the moment and his heart was beating like a squadron of drummers, his eyes darted from the girls to the door, he could feel a bead or two of sweat form on his forehead.

Although his brain was in turmoil somewhere deep within himself he knew any attempt at escape would not end well. He opened his mouth to speak but could only emit a low whimper of resignation. It was a sound which greatly amused his tormentors.

“I take it from your response that you would like to stay with us.” a girl in a blue silk taffeta dress said.

“A…aaah…”was all he could reply.

“A very wise decision.” she said “You would not have got five feet beyond the door before those two large maidservants that escorted your friend to Mrs Coldstrap would have caught you.”

Aubrey’s relief of avoiding Karl Maria’s fate was immediately replaced by one of anxiety as the circle of silk, satin and taffeta enclosed him once more.

“He didn’t even try.” one of them said in a slightly disappointed voice. “I like it when they at least try.”

“Maybe he is one of those boys who prefers feminine company.” another said.

“Is that true?” the tallest girl enquired “You would prefer to stay with us girls rather than those ghastly young men we hear so much about?”

“A…aaah…”he repeated his unintelligible response.

“Feel his skin girls.” one of them said as she stroked his cheek “So soft and feminine, almost like silk. I’m so jealous. And such small hands for a boy.”

“He shouldn’t take too long to train.” the girl in the maroon silk satin said clapping her hands.

“But Madam may wish to place him as a maid with the junior girls first.” another said “They need practice in dealing with males as well as servants.”

It all became too much for Aubrey and he began to cry.

“You beastly girls.” the Countess’s voice rang out as she arrived with a flurry of swishing skirts. “You have made my darling Aubrey cry.”

She enveloped him in her arms and held him tight to her ample bosom as she consoled him.

“There, there my darling.” she soothed him “Did those mean girls upset you?”

To a brash and confident young man like Aubrey seeking the solace and protection of a middle aged matron from mere girls would have been laughable months ago. But that was before his masculine resources had been eroded so much that any shame was far outweighed by the safety and security he felt clinging to the Countess skirts. Feeling the rigid boning of her corset through the satin material of her dress gave him a feeling of reassurance. Such was his insecurity the Countess had to gently prise him away from her body.

“Don’t you worry Aubrey.” she said softly “You are safe with me.”

“We are so sorry.” One of the girls said as she curtsied “We were expecting a boy for training and thought …”

“A boy? Ah yes, the clothes. Understandable mistake I suppose.” the Countess said composing herself and meeting Aubrey’s eyes gave a little laugh “You’re not a boy, are you Aubrey?”

Six pairs of eyes were fixed on Aubrey.

He was so petrified he would have admitted to anything.

“Ah…no…”he stammered and looking at their disbelieving faces quickly added “Of course not.”

“You mean he’s…a…” one of them said, unable disguise her incredulity “a…girl!”

Aubrey looked at the Countess whose face was expressionless except for a barely raised eyebrow.

“Well I suppose he does have some feminine features.” another said.

“Soft skin and a porcelain complexion.” the first girl added “I suppose that is unusual in a male.”

“And those high cheek bones and full lips.” a third said.

The girls could not quite believe this admission and drew closer to examine him. The Countess fearing he would faint halted their advance and repeated the narrative she had told to Madam Olivia and Miss Lillian adding that Aubrey was feeling unwell and wished to lie down for an hour.

“Ah…”one said knowingly “It’s probably that time.”

“Yes.” another agreed “all of us girls know that horrible feeling once a month.”

They all nodded sympathetically. Aubrey didn’t know what they were talking about but was grateful that their attitude had changed.

“Now please run along ladies, Aubrey needs to rest.” the Countess repeated tersely. “Before changing into more suitable feminine attire.

 Disappointed at not securing their prey they withdrew apart from one girl who stayed.

 “He does look somewhat tired.” the girl said quietly.

“She” the Countess, irked by the use of the male pronoun, corrected her.

The girl smiled sweetly at the Countess and addressed Aubrey.

“As I recall exclusively feminine company always made Aubrey quite uneasy.” she said as she moved a little closer.

Aubrey could not prevent himself emitting a low moan and to his horror noticed that for once the Countess remained silent, a sudden tremble occurred in his knees and he had to hold on to her arm for support.

“I wasn’t sure at first as it has been several years since we met.” the girl said “but then I noticed that heart shaped mole at the nape of his neck. Most unique.”

Aubrey felt queasy at the mention of his distinctive mole very few people had seen it however his brain was in such turmoil he had no recollection of ever meeting this girl.

“Do you know this girl Aubrey?”the Countess asked clearly surprised by this turn of events and as Aubrey was plainly incapable of replying the girl continued.

“My name is Bella. You probably don’t remember me but I’m sure you remember my aunt.”

He looked at her blankly.

“Lady Theodora Martinet.” she said in a sweet voice.

“A…aa…aah…”Aubrey let out a low whimper and held on to the Countess arm for support.

“Lady Theodora Martinet?” the Countess repeated.

“A…aa…aah…”Aubrey emitted another moan, the events from his past now lighting up in his brain.

“Oh do be quiet Aubrey.” the Countess reprimanded him.

“My aunt persuaded Aubrey to understudy in a play when one of the girls became ill.”Bella  said.

“He played a girl?” the Countess asked.

“A…aa…aah…”Aubrey mewled once more, the dreadful events of that afternoon now dredged up from the deep recesses of his memory.

“Shush, Aubrey.” she admonished him and indicated to the girl to continue.

“Yes.” Bella answered “And a very pretty one too, he wore a pink duchesse satin gown. All the girls and their mothers were so enamoured with him.”

Both of them looked at Aubrey who had gone deathly pale.

 “I’m not sure there is a similar gown upstairs.” the Countess said “But perhaps you would like to recount some more detail while we choose something equally pretty for him.”

As the Countess slipped her arm under Aubrey’s left arm Bell did the same on his right.

“I think you will find Aubrey is still as pretty as ever in a satin dress” the Countess said as they assisted a weak kneed Aubrey up the wide staircase.