Even More Femdom!
by Bea
Two Novelettes of Male Subjugation
SMASHWORDS EDITION
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PUBLISHED BY:
Bea on Smashwords
Even More Femdom!
Copyright 2011 Bea
Smashwords Edition, License Notes
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PREFACE
In this book , Bea goes international. The first novelette "Driving to Distraction" is set in Scotland where a rather weak young man acts as a driver for his domineering mother in law and a group of her friends. His mother in law is a successful businesswoman and is eager to please one of her acquaintances on the trip. That lady likes effeminate young men. In very little time, he is well on his way to pleasing her.
In the second novelette "Ice Crystals on Velvet" the action takes place in Canada, just north of Toronto. In this case a male secretary to a famous female author, gradually becomes feminized by she and her companion.
DRIVING TO DISTRACTION
I knew I was in trouble as soon as I saw Maisie's shit-eating grin.
Normally, I'd have answered the phone, but that particular morning she was already at her worktable, poring over advertisements for her upcoming trade show, so just picked up the phone, which was close to her on the first ring. I was just in the process of reading my morning newspaper and, as most of the incoming telephone calls are for my wife anyway, paid no attention once she started chatting and didn't call for me.
I sat enjoying my croissant and sipping on my coffee as Irma, the maid, bustled around tidying away our breakfast dishes. I accepted her offer of more coffee with a gracious smile. As usual, her grim expression didn't alter by one iota – she falls all over herself for Maisie, but you'd think I was some insignificant member of the household the way she normally treated me. Okay, I'll admit it – I had maybe been a little rough on her when I'd first married Maisie – but I wasn't used to having servants. Knew that I wasn't supposed to get too familiar with them, so was probably a little overbearing when I first joined the household. She'd been friendly and polite at the beginning. Seemed genuinely happy that Maisie had finally latched onto a man. That hadn't lasted too long though. Now she was polite as anyone could ask for – but distant and cold towards me, to say the least.
I was too far away from the telephone to hear the conversation that was going on – but something caught my interest. Didn't know what it was, but suddenly found myself very conscious of the pitch of Maisie's voice – or maybe it was a chuckle, I have no idea. Whatever it was, I finally gave up trying to read my paper and looked up. Maisie was looking at me, a look of amusement – a sort of pitying amusement that was widening into a look of unholy glee. She put the telephone back down into its cradle very slowly, her lips turning up at the corners as she fixed her piercing blue eyes on me. Beckoned to me with a forefinger. "Roger dear? That was mummy. She requires a large favor of you. Naturally, I said that you would only be TOO happy to assist her in any way that you possibly could. That's true, isn't it?"
"Something go wrong on her trip?" I asked as I got up and made my way to her. "I thought she was over in France?"
"No darling. Seemingly Mrs. Chalmers – her American friend - has become entranced by Scotland so instead of going over to the continent as planned, they've decided to spend the rest of their time in just gradually working their way back down south. As I see it, they're a little north of Aberdeen at the moment and will be there for a few days, then going cross country to Oban for a day or so, then spending a little time in Edinburgh before heading back here to London."
"So what's the problem?" I asked.
"Well, it appears that Elaine – mummy's companion? She's hurt her wrist badly and they'll need a driver. It looks like you're elected darling."
"Oh shit!" I said feelingly. "How long is this going to be for?"
"I'd imagine about five or six days. Don't think that Elaine's broken anything – just a bad sprain. But why do you ask? You have anything planned?"
I blushed. "No. Can't say that I do. But how come your mother asked for me? She's not exactly too keen on me at the moment."
Maisie's smile broadened. "You can say that again dearie – but she's well aware that you have been effectively unemployed for the last few weeks. Already realizes that you'll probably be after her for seed money for your next venture – whatever it'll be - and, as she says, she feels that she should be getting SOME return on all the money she's invested in you so far – even if it's only your time."
As always, Maisie was making sense. Her mother had loaned me money to start my own business – and I had failed miserably, there was no two ways about it. I was perfectly aware that I was going to have to do something, but the thought of approaching the old battle-axe had scared the hell out of me even though it was the only viable solution to my problem. There was no way that Maisie would give me any of her own capital – she was already supporting me one hundred percent. Now? I was already beginning to see the advantages inherent in helping her mother out of her current bind – me becoming the hero to the rescue did promise certain benefits downstream.
"Who's all in the party?" I asked.
Maisie thought for a minute. "Well, there's mummy and Elaine of course. Mrs. Chalmers, the American lady – her name's May, if I remember correctly. Then Anne Smith, mummy's old friend."
"So how long do you think Elaine will be before she rejoins the party?" I wondered out loud.
"Elaine? No dear, she's not leaving the party at all. You're just taking her driving duties over until she can perform them again."
"Five in a car? Jesus, that'll be cozy!" I said.
"Darling – they're using mummy's old Rolls Royce – the damn thing is HUGE – you could probably get another five in it and hardly notice it!"
"Oh." I said, visualizing the huge beast of a car I was going to be driving. "I guess that's okay. But when am I supposed to get up there?"
Maisie grinned again. Looked at her watch. "There'll be a car here in about forty minutes to pick you up. Dennison's Tool Works have their own private airfield about ten miles from here and have a corporate jet in the hanger there. Being on the Board, mummy twisted a few arms and they're going to fly you up to Aberdeen this morning. So darling? If I were you, I'd get my arse in gear and get packed."
I stared at her in some consternation. "Well – that quickly? I don't know. . "
My voice trailed away as she picked up the phone, her grin diminished, but some derision showing still. "Want me to dial mummy? You can suggest something different perhaps? Maybe explain that you're too busy?"
I gave her a weak grin. "Don't think that'll be necessary. Any suggestions on what clothes I should take?
She shrugged. "I don't think that the ladies are into anything that will require business clothes – I'd suggest casual wear - but I'd get a move on if I were you. Have you showered yet today? And when did you last shave?"
"No, I'd better shower." I said. "But I don't need a shave yet – it's only been about four or five days since I last shaved. Should be good for another few days at least."
Maisie shrugged again, the smile back on her face. "Whatever." She said. "Want me to have Irma give you a hand to pack?"
I exhaled through puffed cheeks. "No. Don't think so – but thanks. Think I'd better do it myself. God knows what I'd be missing when I got there."
Maisie nodded. "Other than me, darling? I have to admit it; you seem to have a wonderful knack of pissing women off. Yeah, I see your point. Better safe than sorry."
Normally I'd have suggested again that she should reprimand the maid. Get her to show me a little more respect, but it didn't seem to be the place or the time, so I just went and grabbed a few medium sized suitcases then packed, following Maisie's suggestion by taking practically nothing but casual clothes. I looked out an outfit for traveling, then went and showered. I had the suitcases at the front door about ten minutes before the car arrived, which gave me enough time to say my farewells to Maisie. She was preoccupied with her advertisements again, but bade me a fond farewell, the derision muted now – but still there. She gave me a kiss and said, smiling,
"I hope that you manage to get the fright out of your eyes by the time you get there dear. Mummy's not really so bad you know."
I kissed her back, and gave her a weak grin. "Easy for you to say. I don't think I'm her favorite son in law."
"You're her ONLY son in law dear," she laughed. "And, unless we get divorced, the only one she's likely to have. So cheer up! Have a nice time!" With that, she kissed me quickly again and patted my backside in farewell as the chauffeur approached the door. A few minutes later, I was on my way.
I was surprised by the smoothness of the whole operation. We drove onto the airpark, where a white Learjet was sitting going through preflight checking. The chauffeur took my luggage to the plane, where an attractive hostess stowed my suitcases, before welcoming me on board. I saw the car drive away and then the stewardess was asking me if I wanted a drink. A little intimidated, I asked for a large Scotch. She took only a minute or so to make my drink and then, she told me to secure my seat belt – and we were taxiing for take off.
She then moved forward towards the pilot cabin and seated herself – and we were up in the air within a minute.
The flight time was only about three hours or less, but it gave me a chance to think. Gave me some time to try and calm myself, because to tell the truth I was really frightened of my mother in law. Yes, I thought of her as a battle axe - had even referred to her in that fashion once to Maisie – but there was no affection in that term – not in my mind anyway.
I'd met Maisie when I'd installed her personal computer at her home. She's a large, friendly, woman, not particularly good looking – although she can be stunning when she dresses up to the nines and gets her war paint on. On the other hand, I am on the small side – almost dainty. Tend to be shy of women and even though I don't look it, am quite a few years older than my wife, though am often taken to be younger. This doesn't faze Maisie in the slightest. She's aggressive and has once or twice laughingly referred to me as her "trophy husband".
I'd never been used to money – and certainly not at the level of wealth that Maisie and her mother – Doris – enjoyed so, from the very beginning was somewhat intimidated by their wealth and confidence. I think that Maisie had actually been shy around men, but when I had appeared on the scene, she must have been getting fed up with her single status – or saw me as easy meat. Regardless, she simply gobbled me up. Naturally, her mother was NOT happy – seeing me as (decidedly) of a lower class and, what is worse, lacking in any form of charismatic or leadership capacities as a son in law. Treated me with a bored condescension at best – an icy disdain at other times.
Doris was a damned attractive woman. Took excellent care of herself. Kept herself in shape by playing tennis and golf regularly. Dressed with taste at all times. Seemed to be thought of as an outgoing, friendly person, by just about everyone – except me. Elaine was her personal confidante, and had been for a year or two now. I wasn't sure how to describe the true relationship – it was a friendly one, of that there was no doubt, but Elaine handled her correspondence and performed other secretarial functions, while also performing such mundane tasks as taking to, and picking up, clothes from the dry cleaners and suchlike. Accordingly, she WAS a servant. I'd only met her once or twice and found her pleasant, but quiet. Seemed to consider me an equal.
I was served a very nice lunch on the plane, and had a nice glass of Merlot along with it. Still a little scared of what the next few days would bring, I was nevertheless relaxed when we touched down at Dyce airpark, just north of Aberdeen. I was decidedly happy, and pleasantly surprised to find Elaine waiting for me. She gave me a sympathetic smile. "Oh, you poor thing. It looks as if I've got you into trouble. My sincere apologies. Here, let me take one of your cases."
As I'd been struggling with the load, I was grateful for her offer. Her right hand had a lightweight cast, but she took one of my cases in her left hand, with surprisingly little effort. "I've got a taxi waiting for us," she explained as I puffed alongside her. "I had to go down to the doctor's in Aberdeen to let him have another look at my wrist, so everyone thought it a good idea for me to kill two birds with one stone by providing you with a guide back to the cottage. I also thought it would give me a chance to fill you in on what the ladies are expecting of you. Okay?"
The taxi driver had opened the trunk, so I let him put my case in. Elaine just demurred his offer of service and heaved my other case in there with absolutely no effort. I was quite impressed. She and I are almost exactly the same size and physique – as a matter of fact, we had been taken for brother and sister a few times – twins on occasion. I knew that my cases weren't heavy, but I'm not very strong so had had a little difficulty. To make matters worse, I was pretty sure that she'd had the heavier case of the two.
On the way to the house, she explained that she'd simply tripped and fallen awkwardly on her hand two days before. It had swollen badly, and ice had been applied immediately, but it turned out to be a very bad sprain. Despite her protestations, no one in the party would hear of her driving. May Chalmers was an accomplished driver but being an American categorically refused to drive anything, professing terror at the idea of driving on the 'Brit' side of the road. Anne Smith was too damn dithery, by her own admission, to drive anything but a golf cart and Doris declined. "Just as well," Elaine laughed. "She's scary driving. Feels that the bloody road belongs to her and that everyone else is just driving on HER road as a deliberate aggravation."
Then she added. "I thought that it might be helpful too, if I had a chance to give you some of the scoop on what's facing you. Maybe offer some advice?"
"I'd be very grateful for that." I answered honestly.
"Okay then. May Chalmers first. She does NOT like men for starters. Being Doris's guest though, I think she'll be more inclined to ignore you than anything else. She's a tough cookie, but very pleasant on the whole."
"I'm glad you told me that." I said. "Now I know not to try and win her over with my manly charms, huh?"
Elaine smiled. "I don't think so." She paused. "She's already made quite a play for me."
I was surprised. "Oh, you mean that she's a lesbian?"
"Yes. I guess that's what she is. But she's nice. The minute I let her know I wasn't interested, she backed off."
Okay, that's one down," I said. "But what is Anne Smith like?"
"Annie? A delightful lady. Loves to fool around – just a barrel of fun. Not a mean bone in her body. You'll like here – guaranteed."
"I wish I could say the same for my mother in law." I sighed.
Elaine shook her head. "You two have problems with each other, but do you mind if I give my opinion as to why?"
"Fire away!" I said gallantly. "I'd appreciate any sensible insight into the problems that Doris has with me."
Elaine shot me a look that I couldn't read too well. Sniffed. "Frankly? I think you make a mistake by not standing up to her."
I tapped myself on the chest. "ME? Stand up to HER? You must be joking! She'd run over me like a tank."
She shook her head a little. "Honestly? I think that's most of the problem right there. You show that you're scared of her – and she only respects people who stand up to her. Trust me, you and she will get on much better if you tell her to get stuffed now and again."
I blanched at the very thought of such a thing. Elaine laughed sympathetically and patted my knee gently. "Honest? Doris is a NICE person! This will be a good chance for you two to get to know each other. A week or so? You'll be so friendly . ."
"A week or WHAT?" I interrupted, dumbfounded. "I thought it was only for four or five DAYS!"
She blinked. Shook her head a little. "Well, I don't know where you got that idea. Even before I went to the doctor again this morning it was known that my wrist was going to be out of commission for four days to a week. Just found out this morning that now that the X-rays have been evaluated, it'll probably be longer than that even."
I made a prodigious sigh, remembering the amusement on Maisie's face. "Oh grief! Looks like I'm in for it! Now I think on it, my wife probably got a great deal of amusement from setting me up."
Elaine smiled sympathetically. "Oh, it won't be THAT bad. Squiring four attractive women about on a fun vacation? Tennis, golf, all expenses paid? You can grouch all you want, but you're sure to have a wonderful time". She looked out of the taxi window and spoke to the driver. "A right turn at this driveway coming up driver. The house is well set back from the road." She turned her attention back to me. "Well at least you'll have a few days to settle in. Maybe get used to the car? We'll be heading for the West coast in a few days."
"No specific schedule or itinerary then?"
"No. We're just playing it by ear – the only thing is that we've got to end up in Edinburgh before we head South, back into England. May has something she wants to attend there."
I had intended to respond and let her know that I hadn't brought my golf clubs or tennis racquet, but had the words driven out of my mouth by the sight of my mother in law and her two friends come out of the front door in an informal welcoming committee. The day was rather gloomy, but the trio made a very attractive display. Doris and one of the other women wore pant suits, the other wore a sleeveless yellow linen dress with white piping and sandals to match They all looked immaculate and colorful, standing out in stark contrast to the gray clouds above.
As soon as the taxi stopped, Doris moved forward and as soon as the driver got out, paid him off – with a very generous tip, if his reaction was anything to go by. He practically ran to the trunk and pulled my suitcases out then, smiling wide thanks, he got back into the car and drove off.
I was welcomed. A trifle formally I thought but for once, Doris wasn't glowering contemptuously at me as she did normally. As a matter of fact, she was quite pleasant as she introduced me to May Chalmers – the other woman wearing a pant suit – and to Anne Smith, she of the yellow linen dress.
I don't know how to describe the three women. They were all completely different, yet I would swear that they were all cut from the same cookie cutter. Doris – brunette – about five foot eight inches. May a little taller – auburn hair, glowing hazel eyes, and a tan that never came from any tanning salon. Anne, maybe an inch shorter – bright and blonde. Blue eyes shining with mischief and a face a little on the plump side. Now, when I say her face was plump? It's in relationship to the other two women only.
So, what have I described – a blonde, a brunette, and a redhead. All similar in height but with differing skin tones and eye color. Yet they were all alike in one important aspect – a money-glow. I knew that Doris was in her late forties, and assumed that her companions were in the same age bracket. But that was strictly logical thinking, because it's amazing what adhering to strict diets, personal trainers, exercise and beauty salon experts can do for a woman's appearance. None of the three would have had the slightest problem in passing for mid to late thirties.
I'd been flattered by the fact that the women had come out to meet me – though that dissipated quickly when I discovered that they were more interested in what had transpired with Elaine's visit to the doctor. The looks of disappointment when they discovered that she was going to be disabled for even longer than they'd thought that morning, evidenced their liking for her. It brought their interest back to me again though.
Both Anne and May had shook hands as we were introduced. As May was wearing flats, she was just a little taller than me. Anne, however was wearing heels with her dress and looked down on me with an amused smile as she shook my hand. "My! You're a tiny little thing, aren't you? You must have something going for you," she said insinuatingly. "Or else, why would a big girl like Maisie see anything in you?"
"Now there's a question for the ages!" Doris said grimly.
"Oh Doris! Don't be such a grouch." Anne laughed. "Leave the poor boy alone! He's doing us a favor, remember? Don't be scaring him off before we even get started."
Doris snorted, but her expression softened as she looked at her friend. "Well – I'll try." She said. "Though what Maisie ever saw in . . ."
"Doris! Behave!" Anne said firmly.
"Yeah – yeah. I'm sorry Roger. Thanks for coming so quickly." Doris apologized to me, nearly knocking me over with surprise.
May advanced on me, examining me openly, her eyes assessing me calmly as she also shook my hand. Like Anne, she had a firm grip, though there was no merriment evident in her eyes. Just a sort of distance – or disinterest. It was hard to tell. She was a damn fine looking woman though. We muttered politely at each other, then the group looked as if it were heading into the house
I went and picked up my two suitcases, one with each hand and started to follow the ladies into the house, struggling a little with the weight. "Here. Let me give you a hand." Elaine said, taking one of them in her left hand.
"What are you doing Elaine?" Doris asked. "He's a big boy. Surely he can handle a few tiny suitcases? And you should be taking care of yourself, not . ."
"Doris? I'm not a bloody invalid!" Elaine said tartly. "I'm just being friendly is all. Roger must be tired and I thought I'd help. Okay?"
Again, I was surprised. Elaine talked to Doris as if she were an equal – and Doris accepted it! Just shrugged as if to say – 'okay then, do as you wish' – and walked in through the door. Elaine smiled at me. "See what I mean?" she said softly. "She's fine. All you have to do is stand up for yourself."
I nodded, but knew damn well that I still wasn't altogether convinced.
I had a nice room with an adjoining bathroom. I had just finished unpacking when a knock came to the door. "Yes?" I called out.
"It's me Roger. Doris. I'd like a word with you if I may?"
"Of course. Please come in." I replied.
She opened the door and entered, closing it quietly behind her. "Before I say what I wanted? I thought to give my apologies if I was rude to you when you arrived Roger. I meant no offense."
"None taken, Doris. No need to apologize." I said.
She practically ignored my reply, looking around her. "Room alright? Any problems with it?"
"No. It's very nice. Thank you."
"Good." Then she turned her attention back fully on me. "I hope that requesting your assistance is not an imposition on your good will, but you seemed the logical choice. You are currently unemployed, so have time on your hands. You can drive an automobile, and I believe that you can play golf and tennis. Is this true?"
There was no friendship in her voice. I was being addressed as if I was a servant. I remembered Elaine's advice and for a second, thought of telling her this – and that I objected to it. Nevertheless, I could feel my fear of her choking down any thought I had of showing rebellion.
I grinned inanely. "All correct Doris. Though I haven't played much of anything in the last six months. I may be out of practice."
She sighed softly. "Well, we'll see. Elaine isn't that good either but we play mostly for fun, and a foursome makes for more sense than three. But what I wanted to cover with you?" She paused, expectantly.
"Yes Doris?"
She shook her head sharply. "But before I start. First things first Roger! From now on? I think you should start calling me 'mummy'. For some reason it aggravates me and I react negatively every time you address me by my given name."
"You want me to call you 'mummy'? But I'd feel like a little kid!" I protested, laughing. "That's what Maisie calls you."
Her stare got icy. "Are you insinuating that my daughter is childish?"
"Oh God, no!" I panted, visions of a furious Maisie riding through my head.
"Well then?" She said, her eyes still cold.
"I guess that it'd be okay . . mummy?" I capitulated.
She smiled at my surrender. "That's much better Roger!" then she came and wrapped her right arm around my shoulders. "Now, here's what mummy wants. Okay?"
Cooing down to me now, it dawned on me that she had gone from talking as if to a servant, to talking to as if to a four year old in less than a few minutes!
Blushing, I nodded.
"Good! Now this is important! May Chalmers, as well as being a friend of mine is also a very important factor in the amalgamation of some firms where I am a principal shareholder - with her company – one of the major advertising companies in the United States. With the amount of money that we spend on advertising for our individual companies here alone, the deal makes sense, but there are additional ramifications that make the possibility of her becoming part of our group of tremendous importance. Do you understand?"
"Yes. I think so"
She still had a hold of my shoulder – but I could actually feel her body cool and a drop in the room temperature. The reason dawned on me. "I'm sorry," I said. "Yes . . mummy."
"Mmmm!" she said, but she was pleased, no two ways about it and her voice lightened as she continued. "Then Roger, it should be very clear to you that I'll expect you to behave very properly around May. She does NOT like men particularly, so I want you to be very careful in how you project your personality – especially in quoting any of those macho opinions I've heard you spout from time to time."
I wanted to argue with her. WHAT macho opinions exactly? Any time around her, I was always more mouse than man – but she was now taking my chin in her left hand and turning my face so that she was staring into my eyes, intimidating the hell out of me. I couldn't meet her gaze. Dropped my eyes to stare at the floor.
Her right hand dropped down my back and her hand came to rest on my buttocks. She was whispering in my ear now. "I think that Maisie lets you away with far too much Roger. I intend to keep you on a very short leash. You'll be GOOD. Do as I tell you, won't you?"
As she spoke, she caressed my backside very gently, as if soothing me.
"Yes mummy." I whispered in reply.
"Not going to be naughty then, are you?" she asked next, her hand no longer caressing my backside, now patting it quite firmly – the implication of a spanking clear!
"No mummy." I said meekly, my face aflame with embarrassment at my craven behavior.
She gave a satisfied sniff, then turned me to face her. "Look at me, Roger. Come on now. That's it!" I looked up at her openly scornful face. "Now we know where we stand dearie – doesn't that feel good? Aren't you glad we had this little chat?"
A timid little rabbit (Me) looked up into the power of a mountain lion (Her) smiled weakly and nodded happily. "Oh YES mummy!" I said – and she gave me an 'air kiss' in the manner of one woman kissing another. She then gave me another proprietary pat on the backside and left, saying. "We'll be going out for an early dinner Roger, so if you feel the need for a nap? Go ahead, but be up and ready to make cocktails about four o'clock. But I don't want you drinking and driving, so just soft drinks for you."
I wasn't really sleepy, but did end up having a short nap. Then I showered and changed and went back out into the main part of the house just about four o'clock.
The women had all changed clothes. Elaine, Doris and Anne were all now wearing simple dresses, very understated, but obviously expensive. May was in another pant suit, just a little more dressy than the one she'd worn earlier.
I served up the drinks to everyone, then joined them in a rather pleasant chat. Started getting some idea of the itinerary we would be following as we traversed Scotland, working our way south to England. It turned out that, with the quick change in plans, Elaine had contacted a series of Doris's acquaintances and managed to get the 'loan' of a series of summer 'cottages' belonging to her friends. On such quick notice, the houses wouldn't be staffed with servants, but the group had said they'd gladly fend for ourselves, doing their own laundry, making beds – 'roughing it' for their time in Scotland. It turned out that we were staying in our current place for another few days, then heading over to the West of Scotland, not far from the town of Oban.
Anne took an appreciative sip of her cocktail and looked around. "Hey Elaine? Great job! If all the places we borrow turn out to be as nice as this? It'll be great!"
I joined the others in raising our glasses in a toast to Elaine, who blushed prettily.
Shortly after that, we all left and piled into the Rolls Royce. Elaine sat beside me up front and the three ladies sat in the back. We lowered the glass screen that separated the two compartments and took off. The restaurant we were going to was about ten miles away by quiet roads, so it gave me a chance to become acquainted with the car. It didn't take me long to become comfortable. Despite its size, it was a car that was very quiet, very easy to handle.
About three miles from our destination, I did something very silly and, to be honest, totally out of character. In front of us was a couple riding on a small motor bike – dawdling along. The girl riding pillion was quite pretty from the back, blonde hair flying even though she'd attempted to tie it down with a headscarf.
I decided to pass them, even though the road was narrow. I could see a long way in front though, so saw no danger. Pulled out to pass, and did so. Then, stupidly – for god knows what reason – leaned on the horn. Now, it is quite a melodic horn, but loud. Loud enough to obviously give the bike driver quite a scare. The bike wobbled crazily for a minute and, though I immediately felt badly, I couldn't help it, I had to laugh at the antics of the driver as he tried to stay upright.
"Good God Roger! What on earth are you doing?" Elaine snapped at me. "That was downright dangerous. I think you should stop and apologize."
Actually? The thought had crossed my mind, but I'd just about had enough of being bossed around that day, so I just shrugged and ignored her. A few minutes later, I pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant, cut the engine and got out so that I could open the doors for May, who was sitting behind me, while Elaine was opening the door for Doris and Anne.
I must have heard the sound of the motor bike coming into the parking lot, but my mind must have been on other things. I did see a look of interest on May's face as she looked over my shoulder, and she started to say something – but I didn't hear it in time as a hand grabbed my shoulder and spun me around.
At first, I thought it was a small man – but it was a girl. Short hair mind you, but even in her motor-cycle leathers she was obviously a girl – a red faced, furious, girl!
"You fuckin' son of a bitch!" she yelled – and punched me in the stomach! "Laugh at us, will you, you hoity-toity bastard!"
I'd doubled over and gone backward, but the car had stopped me from falling. I looked up, just in time to see the next punch coming at my face, and managed to move to the side enough that it hit me on the shoulder and straightened me up. Madder than ever, she used one hand to grab my shirt at the front and pulled me towards her, lifting her fist to hit me again.
I've never been a fighter. Not brave or anything. Didn't know how to even try to defend myself. Started to cry. "Please don't hit me! Please don't. I'm sorry. Honest. Please don't hit me again. I'm sorry!"
She stopped her fist before it hit me again, a look of absolute disbelief written all over her face. She looked back over her shoulder. "Dorothy? You want to say something to this fucking Nancy boy?"
I didn't hear any response, but the next thing was that she'd let me go – and now it was the blonde girl I'd seen riding pillion that was holding me by the collar, her blue eyes blazing.
I cowered and put my hands up between us, cowering behind them.
"Put your hands DOWN!" she commanded.
I obeyed – and she slapped me across the face! "Ooooh! Ow! Stop it! Please don't hit me!" I wailed, gushets of tears coursing down my face.
"Put your hands DOWN – you goddam Nancy!" she said again.
"Please stop?" I cried softly, but obeyed her by taking my hands down.
Her hand was flying towards my face again, when another hand came from nowhere and stopped the forward motion by grabbing her wrist. It was Elaine who had stepped in. She stared at both of my attackers. "You are absolutely right to be furious," she said calmly "but he has said he's sorry – and I think you've hit him enough. If it's anything to you? I don't think it was anything intentional on his part – just a stupid impulse. But you've punished him enough, don't you think?"
Her calm reasonable approach worked wonders. Both girls lost the fire in their eyes immediately and actually looked somewhat abashed. She herded them back to their motor cycle, still talking softly to them.
I was surprised to find a strong, comforting arm around my shoulders, a quiet voice whispering, "Come on Roger. Let's get you cleaned up. Let's go. Come on." What made it even more surprising was the fact that the soft, comforting, voice belonged to May! Still upset, tears still running, I found my head on her shoulders as we entered the front doors of the restaurant. I wasn't thinking as I was led into a bathroom, where May provided me with paper towels that had been cooled in water and gently bathed my swollen eyelids, talking comforting words to me all the while as, gradually, my crying subsided.
Then, to my horror, two young ladies walked in and stared at me in astonishment for a second. Still stupefied, I couldn't figure out their reaction until May glared at them silently, and they forced their eyes away, then came to the mirror and started repairing their makeup – and I realized that I was in the Ladies room!
They left a few minutes later, and I blurted out "I'm SO ashamed May! I was so stupid – I deserved everything that happened to me! But I HAVE to get out of here! I can't be standing in a ladies toilet!"
"That's okay honey." She said softly. "Nothing to be ashamed about." A smile crossed her lips. "I use ladies toilets ALL the time – and I'm certainly not ashamed! But are you feeling better now? Finished crying?"
She was being SO kind and considerate! She put her arm around my shoulders again. "And, honey? I'm told that a good cry helps a lot. Do you find that's true?"
I did feel better. Calmed down and comforted. Nodded.
"Well then!" she said cheerily. "Let's go and join the rest of the girls, shall we?"
There was something in the way that she was treating me that made me feel a little off kilter. I just could not put my finger on it. I had a faint suspicion that she was coming on to me – but she was a lesbian for Christ's sake! I finally came to the conclusion that she was just being kind. Nevertheless, this feeling continued as the took my hand and linked it in through her arm and led me to our table in the restaurant. I wasn't used to linking arms with a woman in making an entrance – but something felt decidedly wrong. Nobody else seemed to notice though as we joined the group.
We had a pleasant, though subdued, meal. Again, being the driver, I wasn't allowed a drink, but everyone else seemed to benefit from the alcohol – particularly Elaine, who had been looking at me strangely since I'd rejoined the group. She wasn't cold, or distant, mind you. Seemed puzzled more than anything else. Anyway? The meal passed pleasantly enough and I was quite surprised to discover that it was ten o'clock in the evening when Doris finally paid the bill and we left. As we walked to the car in the parking lot, I was surprised to find that May walked close to me, her arm protectively around my shoulder. When Anne made a funny remark about this, May replied, seriously enough "Just taking care of our driver – amn't I honey?" and giving me a comforting squeeze as she spoke. I didn't quite know what to make of the fact that she opened my door for me, and patted me on the backside as I got in the car, though I was uncomfortably close to feeling like a girl on a date with her boyfriend.
On the way home, Elaine was quiet. Anne and Doris got into some discussion about music. May, who was sitting behind me again tapped me on the shoulder.
"Yes May. Can I do anything for you?" I said.
"I've just been wondering?" she said.
"What?"
"These girls that beat you up? Both of them called you Nancy. How come? Had you met them before when you were going by that name?"
I was speechless for a second, but Elaine stepped in. "No May," she laughed. "It's a figure of speech we Brits use. They didn't say his name was Nancy. They used a figure of speech. Actually called him a 'Nancy boy'."
"A Nancy boy? Never heard that expression." May said thoughtfully. "At least I don't think so. What does it mean – a fag?"
I felt as if I was shriveling up with mortification, but Anne laughed and joined in the conversation. "No May. Here in the U.K? A fag usually means a cigarette. They were calling him a sissy – you know, with him crying and not defending himself – that kind of thing."
"Oh, I see. A sissy! That's a shame!" May replied.
"Perfectly appropriate!" Doris said tartly. "He was certainly acting like a Nancy boy! Jesus! Letting a little girl like that slap him around! Standing there crying – and then going into the Ladies room with you May? Some man my daughter married!" She leaned forward and tapped me on the shoulder. "Fix your lipstick while you were in there, sweetie?"
"Oh leave the poor guy alone!" May protested. "That first little gal sucker-punched him and got him in trouble right there. I was just saying it was a shame for the name Nancy to be used like that over here. One of the sweetest little gals I ever knew was called Nancy – and I've been partial to people with that name ever since."
The conversation had turned into one of the most humiliating experiences of my life – my masculinity being dissected and discussed by a bunch of women – so I was very glad to see the driveway to our cottage come into view. Again, I underwent May's possessive attitude as we entered the house as she put her arm around my shoulders and walked me in.
I'd discovered that they had a nightly ritual of changing into their nightwear and having a coffee or drink before bed. I would have declined, but it was made pretty obvious that I was responsible for the coffee preparation and serving, so I went to my room and changed into my pajamas and robe. I'd just finished, when a soft knock came to the door.
"Yes?" I said.
"It's me. Elaine. Can I talk to you for a minute?" I heard.
"Sure. Come in." I said and opened the door.
She gave a quick look around her, then slipped in, closing the door very quietly behind her.
"This looks very mysterious." I laughed. "What's up?"
She simply stared at me in disbelief then said "What on earth are you doing? Are you absolutely nuts?"
"What are you talking about? I'm not doing anything. Least, not that I know of." I protested.
A look of amazement crossed her face. "You've not been coming on to May?"
"What – me? Coming on to May? Of course not! You told me that she was a lesbian!"
Elaine smiled uncertainly. Shook her head. "Well, in that case, she's surely coming onto YOU – or hadn't you noticed? All the hugs – and patting you on the arse? I thought you were deliberately acting all girlish to attract her! But you're not?"
"Acting girlish! Me? Of course not!" I yelped, my voice filled with righteous indignation.
She shook her head again. Started ticking off on her fingers as she listed her points: "One! Standing crying like that, pleading with a little girl to stop hitting you! Two! Weeping like a woman – and letting May take you into the Ladies room. Three! Linking your arm into hers – don't you know that when you came into the restaurant proper, you were led in like her possession? Four! Letting her open your car door for you? Five! Sitting in the car, letting a bunch of women call you a pansy – not even protesting when your mother in law asks you if you were fixing your lipstick? For god's sake Roger, how do you think you've been acting?"
I stared at her in horror. Had no idea what to say – but just then, another knock came to the door. "Anybody home?" May's voice cooed.
"Yes May. Just about ready." I faltered.
She opened the door and stood there, resplendent in a red brocade robe, with dark silk pajama legs showing beneath it. "Well don't you look like just the cutest thing!" she enthused, coming forward and kissing me firmly on the lips. Then she backed away a little. "Come on, sweetie! May needs a drink!" She looked at me fondly. "But just wait a minute. I've messed up your lips with my lipstick. Just hold on a sec!"
And, in front of Elaine, May took a fingertip and gently smoothed out the traces of lipstick on my lips until it was an almost even application. "Much better!" she enthused. "Isn't it, Elaine?"
But without waiting for an answer, she took my hand, linked it through the crook of her arm – and once again, I was led into a room as if I was her girl – and although this time, I was well aware of what she was doing, I still didn't protest, even though I was sensing Elaine's amusement behind us.
I thought I'd escaped when she allowed me the freedom to make and serve the drinks for Doris, Anne, and Elaine, saying that she was going to teach me how to make her favorite martini when I was finished. Somehow, she found ways to brush seductively up against me as I measured the gin and vermouth to her exact requirements, and carefully skewered the two olives she required. I was expecting to make my own drink when I'd finished hers, but she simply refused to let me, pulling me over to the couch – then to my horrified embarrassment, pulling me down to sit in her lap!
Mouth open in astonishment, I looked over at Doris – to see how she was reacting to having her son in law pawed by a woman other than her daughter. But there was no doubt about it – she was delighted! Gave me a little nod of approval even.
May practically ignored me though – gave me little sips from her drink at times, but held conversations with the others as if I wasn't there. Allowed me to get up to refresh drinks though, but when I tried to seat myself somewhere else, she snapped her fingers as one would to a dog, and I obediently went and sat back down on her lap again. It didn't dawn on me until later that night that she was simply laying a claim to ownership of me – and that I had acquiesced, without a murmur, in accepting the position as her 'pet'.
About a half hour before we broke up and went to bed, Doris asked Anne if she would work on her hair. Anne was delighted – seemingly she loved to do things like that, and asked if anyone else wanted a minor fix. As nobody took her up on her offer, she simply pouted and went and got her stuff. I was impressed at the speed with which she fixed Doris's hair into rollers and wrapped her head up in a turban, while maintaining a conversation with both Elaine and May.
Finally, we all broke up. I took the dirty glasses to the kitchen sink, rinsed them then put them in the dishwasher, then went and found that instead of just saying goodnight to the ladies I was expected to participate in a round of kissing everyone goodnight. I must admit that they all felt and smelled delightful though and, apart from a tiny pat on the backside, May kissed me goodnight in exactly the same fashion as she kissed the rest of the ladies.