A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Solos =&gt; Topic started by: Zealously Jaded on 15-11-2010, 00:23:09</h2>
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				Title: <strong>A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>15-11-2010, 00:23:09</strong>
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				Sophia ran down the cobbled back streets the wind and snow seemed to be chasing her. She shivered, pulling the thin shawl around her shoulders as she kept walking; each footstep was draining more of her energy. Pushing her dark red hair from her eyes she almost collapsed on the step of a gate. She had found herself at the more reputable part of town, far away from the steam-powered factories that lined the docks; in the distance she could see the tall chimney stacks as low flying steam-powered machines drifted through the smog that was London.<br><br>Leaning against the gate she waited a few seconds hoping to regain some feeling in her feet before she carried on walking. Nudging the handle the gate opened causing her to fall onto the ground, landing hard on her shoulder. Quickly she stood up hoping that no one was in the kitchen but the house was empty, she wondered where everyone was. <br><br>She had been in the workhouse for so long she didn’t relise that it was Christmas eve and that everyone in the house was at church, not because they were religious but because it was the ‘right thing to do’ on such a special day. Moving to the door, she checked under the mat, there was a key. The first break she had caught today, unlocking the door she opened it checking for a dog, but there was none, heading inside she was cold and the fire in the hearth was still lit. The room was so warm and inviting, the smell of spiced wine and roasting turkey made her stomach growl; it had been over 2 days since she last ate.<br><br>She looked round there was so much food they wouldn’t mind if she borrowed some bread, cutting a thin slice off she moved to the hearth sitting down on the small stool eating the bread and rubbing her shoulders. After a few minutes she knew that she needed to leave but she was so cold, and the snow was coming down thicker now, a minute or two wouldn’t hurt her.<br><br>But the minute or two became longer, she closed her eyes falling asleep quickly, if she was conscious she would have left as soon as the front door opened…but she wasn’t…someone was coming home.
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>15-11-2010, 10:59:28</strong>
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				James Harkor looked down at the young woman curled up by the fire, sound asleep. He had indeed been at Church, and had headed home early in anticipation of having to play host to a number of Christmas guests. Instead, he had returned home to find his door ajar, and fearing a thief, he had entered his home with his cane - a beautiful Beechwood model with a heavy silver head - brandished as a weapon.<br><br>Instead, he found a slightly molested loaf of bread, and a slip of a girl lying on his floor. An...unusual circumstance in the least. Returning to the front hall, he shuts the door quietly behind him, locking it from the inside in case she tried to run, before pulling up a chair and sitting near her, nudging her rear-end gently with the cane.<br><br>"It takes an act of profound trust, or profound foolishness, to lay down on the floor of a house that you have robbed, don't you think?" He asked the sleeping girl, in a remarkably...conversational voice.
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>15-11-2010, 12:51:37</strong>
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				She didn’t felt something nudging her, opening her eyes she realised that she had fallen asleep, the voice behind her scared her, he didn’t seem angry. Sitting up she pulling back from her until her back was against the wall, her knees under her chin as she wrapped her arms around them. Looking up at him with large green eyes she tried hard not to cry.<br><br>Wrapping the thin ragged shawl round her shoulder she hoped that he wasn’t going to beat her with the cane in his hand, she had been beaten so many times before but the pain never lessened. She was wearing a thing black dress, her feet were bare, blackened, and she was only just regaining feeling in them. If she had been stood he would have realised that she was just about 5ft4, she had a thin waist but a pleasant curve to her hips and breasts. Despite only being 18 she looked younger, that was until he looked into her eyes, she was tired from years of hard labour in the work house, and her skin was blackened by shovelling coal into the large furnaces all day. If she had been a free labourer she would have been given a wage but since she lived in the workhouse all she earned went there…and there was no chance of getting it back.<br><br>“I’m sorry, Sir…” She whispered, her body shaking from cold and fear, but unbeknownst to her she was coming down with flu, and if she wasn’t helped soon she would be dead by morning. Looking into his eyes she shivered, her face was turning white. “Please don’t call the police, I…I’m sorry.” She whispered, her head was spinning now, she felt faint. Looking into his eyes she whimpered. “I’m sorry, I only meant to stay a few minutes, and it’s so cold out there.” She felt dizzy suddenly fainting.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>15-11-2010, 22:21:36</strong>
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				He sat calmly in the chair, looking over the young waif that had slipped into his house. In truth, she wasn't much younger than he was - although her appearance made the gap seem wider. His eyes softened slightly at her pleading, and the battered state she is in. Though he didn't know her condition precisely, he was nigh positive on a night like this, if he summoned the police or turned her out into the cold, she'd be a corpse.<br><br>Not very Christian, and it seemed a waste to him.<br><br>"Calm down girl, I'm not..." he stopped speaking as her eyes suddenly go wide and she faints. Shaking his head softly, he set his cane aside, picking up the slender young girl and taking her upstairs. His sister had lived with him for awhile, and he had seen no need to redecorate the room when she had decided to go on an airship tour of the colonies last year. He undressed the girl in a swift, businesslike manner, his gaze stopping to linger on her nude form for only a moment before tucking her into the warm down blankets of the bed. He selected a dress - one of his sister's - which judging from her will probably be slightly too tight in the hips and bust but fit well enough, and left it hanging for her.<br><br>Heading back downstairs, he goes to the kitchen, confronting the maid who had just returned from services as well. "There's a beggar girl upstairs. When you're finished laying out dinner, please bring some warm tea and a decent meal up to her. And make sure she doesn't leave before I have spoken with her."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>15-11-2010, 23:48:06</strong>
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				Sophia woke up a few hours later, the sound of people downstairs made it obvious that there was a party going on. Her eyes were still closed, her feet were warm and there were sheets beneath her on the bed, this had to wrong had she had to have died, but she daren’t open her eyes in case she found out she was really in hell. Biting her lip she opened her eyes just as the door was opened.<br><br>“Oh you’re awake.” A voice called out from the relative darkness of the room, a maid brought a tray up with a candle on it. She frowned looking at the woman. “How are you feeling?” She asked kindly, but she didn’t expect it. As the woman set the tray down she walked closer to her, reaching a hand out Sophia pulled back scared that she was going to hit her. “I’m just checking you’re tempreture, I saw you earlier, you were burning up a shivering.” She felt the maid’s hand on her forehead. “You’re still a bit hot…but the fever seems to have broken…do you have a name?”<br><br>Sophia looked at the woman as she picked up a cup of tea, as she offered it to the girl in the bed she hesitantly took it, never seeing such a beautiful pattern before. Taking a sip of the tea she put it on the table. “Sophia…” She said quietly, “Why…” she frowned trying to think of how to word her question. “Why wasn’t I taken to the police?” She whispered.<br><br>The maid smiled, “Well Sir, does what he wants I guess you caught him on a charitable day, since it’s Christmas Eve, I hope you aren’t with child.” She laughed at her own joke.<br><br>Sophia smiled slightly as the maid picked up the tray placing it over her knees as she lit the lamps either side of the bed giving the room more light. “I need to tell Sir that you’re awake, don’t worry about him…he won’t hurt you he just wants some answers.” <br><br>With that the maid left heading down into the party to give ‘Sir’ the message that the girl was awake, and the name she had given.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>16-11-2010, 00:23:08</strong>
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				James nodded, thanking the woman and then returning to tend to his guests, hosting the rest of his Christmas party. Fortunately however, the event will not run too long. Each of his guests have their own families to call on as well, and there are rumors of Lord Conarvin planning an elaborate fireworks and rocketry display across the river at the aerodrome. Spectacle was, as always, good for drawing crowds.<br><br>When the last of them has left, he made his way up the stairs again to the room, the dim illumination of candlelight leaking from the shut door. He sits at the foot of the bed, looking at the frightened girl.<br><br>"Juliet..." he paused for a moment "the maid who brought you up some food earlier, says your name is Sophia? And by her telling of it, you're quite ill. So tell me girl, what brought you to be curled up by my hearth?" <br><br>It's unclear from that if he wants the short version, or the long one.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>16-11-2010, 00:32:50</strong>
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				She was slowly eating the soup she had been brought despite the fact it was now cold, she didn’t want to rush she wasn’t sure when her next meal would be. The door opened she put the spoon down in the almost full bowl, she looked at the man as he walked in she knew she was in trouble, she looked away from him as she held the tray on her lap.<br><br>He spoke, “Yes, my name is Sophia. If she thinks I’m ill…I’m not a doctor.” She bit her lip hoping that she didn’t sound rude she was trying to make a joke but it was sounded wrong in her ears. “I’m sorry.” She whispered, he started with the last question she looked at him.<br><br>“I saw the fire in the kitchen…I found the key under the mat and I took some bread.” She whispered looking away from him. “I am very sorry…if…you want to get the police I understand.” Her voice was disappearing with each second, she looked at the soup longing to finish it, and so she could feel full for once in her life. “I worked in the workhouse on Bailey Street.” She shivered as she said that, there was a reputation at that place, it was dark, cold, and the people that ran it worked their ‘guests’ unto an early grave. “Everyone was heading to church; I just ran…I couldn’t do it anymore. I was so cold and tired.” Tears filled her eyes. “I’m sorry for breaking into your house. I…I just needed to warm my feet…though truth be told I probably wouldn’t have made it to the end off the street.” She bit her lip looking up at him.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>16-11-2010, 01:05:30</strong>
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				When she looked up at him at the end of her tail, tears having carved tracks over her dirty cheeks, his expression is not exactly soft, but certainly kind enough, more than she has seen from most in a long time.<br><br>"Bailey Street is a hard place." It was an understatement, and a rather vast one. He had actually refused to do business with that workhouse when the occasion presented itself - somehow it felt like the despair and hopelessness of the place seeped into the products themselves. He smiled at her, the expression his best attempt at being reassuring.<br><br>"I'm not of a mind to send you back there, nor call the Police. It is Christmas after all, and when given the whole run of the house, you chose to steal a bit of bread and the warmth of a fire. Not that I'm condoning it mind you. But we'll deal with that later." He pats near her foot reassuringly. "When you're done with your meal, call for Juliet and she'll draw you a warm bath - its the surest way to warm your feet back up, and you could use it. I want you to shave yourself as well, everything below your neck. No offense my dear girl, but my patience and generosity ends at lice. Once your finished, dress yourself," he nodded to the hanging dress "you may use that, and find me in the study."
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>16-11-2010, 01:32:16</strong>
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				She listened to him as he said that he would not call the police, relief flooded over her, for once in her life she felt safe, it was almost too much she ran her fingers through her hair as she started to cry. “Thank you.” She whispered trying to stop the tears. Listening to the rest of his commands, shaving her hair off seemed strange but his reasoning was sound. She looked at him, “I will Sir, thank you.” She whispered.<br><br>He left quickly, she carried on with her soup, as she finished the maid Juliet told her that her bath was ready, she got out of bed and with a bit of help she managed to shuffle in the adjoining bathroom. The ones in the work house were basic, sever tin tubs side by side as a large tank of water was slightly heated by small bits of coal and the dust at the bottom of the bags it was stacked in. But this room was tiled in blue from floor to ceiling, the room was spotless she was almost scared to step into the room for fear of making it dirty. She could smell lavender, rose, orange, and other scents that she could never imagine or guess in a million years. The golden taps had been turned off but the tub was filled with water, she could see the steam rising off from the top.<br><br>Juliet seemed not to be shy at all she started to strip Sophia of her clothes, before filling the sink with hot water. “The bath might be a bit hot for you, so I’m going to get the dirt off you first and then you can relax.” She smiled as she grabbed the cloth and soap and started to attack Sophia’s body as if she was a child who hadn’t had a bath in a while. <br><br>After a few minutes and a change of water in the sink she was clean except for her head. She was positioned over the sink as water was poured on her head, and soap scrubbed into her hair, after a few minutes it was rinced out and repeated until the water that ran into the sink was clear. Juliet wrapped a towel round Sophia’s hair and helped her into the cooling bath. <br><br>Placing a razor beside her she smiled, “I’ll go change the bed sheets since you’re now clean.” She headed out the room taking Sophia’s clothing with her. It took a few minutes to enjoy the warmth of the water before she started work, it took a few more minutes to remove her hair. Once she was clean, and completely hairless from the neck down she got out of the bathtub wrapping the towel round her and heading into the bedroom. <br><br>Her feet did feel better, she looked cleaner then she ever did, she wondered if she was always this pale, she quickly pulled on the clothes he had left for her before pulling the towel off her hair, it was still wet but curling already. She headed out of the room, looking at the doors she spotted one with light coming from underneath, knocking on the door she waited until she got a reply to head inside. “Sir?” She said softly.
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>16-11-2010, 09:26:22</strong>
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				"Come in, come in." His voice is strong, if somewhat distracted from the other side. "The Study" it turns out, is a massive room, taking up both of the two stories of his house - modest by society standards, but nearly palatial for someone like her. The top floor is lined floor to ceiling with bookshelves, while the level she has entered is a more comfortable sitting room, adorned with large leather chairs and a well-worn table in the middle, on which a tray of tea rests. A number of rolls of paper - some fresh and new, some yellowing, are strewn about, and there are piles of books resting near one of the chairs. Apparently Juliet - or someone else on the staff - who has managed to keep the rest of the house immaculate, has simply given up on this room.<br><br>When the girl enters, he looks at her appraisingly and nods. "Much improved, no?"<br><br>His somewhat welcoming expression hardens, ever so slightly. "Sophia...we have a good many things to talk about, you and I, about your future. But it is my philosophy that one should never discuss new business without first resolving old entanglements. Most notably, your minor theft. I would like you to place your hands on the table and bend over - I assure you I will not be overly harsh."
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>16-11-2010, 21:40:03</strong>
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				She walked into the room, the dress she was wearing was the dark green dress of his sisters, her hair was a few shades lighter since it was clear of dirty and grime. Looking round the room it was huge filled with books; she was astounded at the amount of books considering she couldn’t read. Looking over at him she smiled slightly.<br><br>“Thank you for your kindness Sir, I know you didn’t have to help me.” She bit her lip hearing that she needed to be punished for the bread she stole she nodded her head. Frowning she looked at him as he said to place her hands onto the table. Biting her lip she bends over the table placing her hands there wondering what was going to happen. Looking over at him she bit her lip. <br><br>“Like this?” She whispered, looking at him her eyes filled with fear as she was in an exposed position.
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>18-11-2010, 19:09:04</strong>
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				The girl is a lovely sight in the dress, bathed and cleaned. He rises, going to the bent over young woman, placing a hand gently on her rear, pulling the dress up so the back rests slightly above her hip, her ass bared. For the briefest instant, he's tempted to claim this girl in a more intimate way. She likely wouldn't resist - a life of unwilling sex was among the things she was facing in the workhouse, and here she would at least be warm, safe and well fed.<br><br>But he pushes the urge aside, instead setting a hand on her rear. "Juliet tells me you stole about five shillings in bread. I think a stroke per shilling should dispel an urge to do it again." Holding her steady, he spanks her five times in a deliberate, businesslike manner, her cheeks slightly pink from the strikes. When he finishes, he pulls her dress back down.<br><br>"There then, please, sit." He knows when she does, her rear will be a little sore.
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 01:24:59</strong>
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				She bit her lip feeling him pull the dress up over her hips, she knew that he could violate her if he wanted to, in the work house she had managed to go 19 years without being touched by a man and now the first night she was free from it…she was sure she was about to be used. Closing her eyes she was glad when she heard him speak but jumped as he placed his hand on her rear. <br><br>She heard what he had said, she was sure that she hadn’t taken that much bread but she knew better then to ague…after all he didn’t call the police or send her back into the cold. She knew her numbers upto 10 but she could not read or write save recognising her own name when written down. She bit her lip counting with him there were 5 each one landing on a different cheek, she knew that it would hurt to sit down but she couldn’t do anything about that.<br><br>He pulled away sitting down, telling her to sit she did looking at him her face as red as her bottom.
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 01:37:52</strong>
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				He looks at the blush on her face, musing to himself. He doubted the girl had been touched - she had been trembling like a frightened puppy the moment her skirt had gone up. Still, compared to either a rape, or a beating at the hands of one of the work house masters, a light spanking was mild. <br><br>Leaning back in his chair, he studies her softly. "How old are you Sophia?" Once he hears she's of age, he continues. "It is clear, Sophia, that the work house is not a healthy place for you. And I've already said I'm not turning you into the police. You're free to go if you wish - I'll see you provided with a coat and boots if you wish." He pauses, looking at the girl with genuine concern.<br><br>"I would beg you to take another option however. You could find employment here, in my household."
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 01:45:56</strong>
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				Sophia looked at him as she sat down, hearing the question she looked at him “I’m 19” She whispered. She bit her lip listening to the rest of his speech, she didn’t want to leave but if he wanted her gone she couldn’t say anything, the offer of a coat and boots was generous since he could have thrown her out the minute he had found her.<br><br>She was about to reply when he carried on, “Do you have work to spare? I know that houses this size tend to only need one maid and Juliet seems very good at her work.” She bit her lip wondering when she had talked herself out of a potential position. “But if you did have something for me to do…I would be grateful…the workhouse doesn’t exactly pay very well.” She smiled weakly, it was meant to be a job but she was deadly serious, in fact it didn’t pay anything at all.<br><br>“What would you like me to do?”
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 01:59:27</strong>
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				He smiles gently at her. "It's true that Juliet can probably handle the tasks of the house on her own. But I'm not hurting for funds - I have yet to have some lovely wife to drain them, and she would likely appreciate a lighter load."<br><br>He considers her for a moment. Well above the age of majority - again, the temptation rose within him. "Other than that, I'm sure you will find uses for yourself."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 02:04:28</strong>
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				She smiled slightly at him as he said that Juliet would like some help. “How…come you’re not married? I thought that people were forced together by their parents…” She bit her lip, being poor was different the strong got what they wanted and the weak were left with what was rest. Biting her lip she looked over at him, running her fingers through her hair. “I didn’t meant to say anything out of turn.” She whispered.<br><br>Looking at him she bit her lip, she didn’t like that sound of his ‘find uses’ comment, in the work house it meant getting inside a cold furnace and scrubbing it…if you were lucky you got out before it was fired up. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 02:10:14</strong>
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				He sighs softly. "You don't have to be so nervous around me. Be respectful, but you do not need to be so afraid. I'm not going to throw you out for asking a question."<br><br>Sitting back, he explains his single status. "I'm afraid I travel a great deal, and work when I don't. Juliet tolerates it, but I suppose she must, but I have yet to find a wife who suits me. As I do not *have* to marry - as some understandably do - I haven't yet. Perhaps someday."<br><br>He has a certain wistful expression, and for an instant looks profoundly lonely.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 02:18:05</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked at him, “I’m sorry, I’m use to being beaten for say something…sometimes even for not saying something.” She whispered looking over at him. Her back was covered in silver scars from being beaten, it was hard to know what the foreman wanted at the workhouse but she had to try and guess.<br><br>“I’m sorry Sir, I hope that you find a woman who will travel with you…and will make you happy.” She smiled genuinely at him. “Where have you travelled?” She smiled, she really did want to know she had never been out of the city so if he wanted to speak about his travels she would gladly listen. <br><br>Seeing his lost expression she bit her lip, knowing it all too well, but she didn’t say anything she didn’t want to anger him by asking him questions that he didn’t want to hear.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 02:46:34</strong>
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				"It's alright dear. The worst you can expect from me - unless you get profoundly creative - is a slightly reddened rear end. And generally speaking, I'd prefer to hear you speak your mind rather than let a problem fester."<br><br>Sitting back, her motions to her to come closer, gesturing to a low Ottoman. "I've been to a great many places. The continent, the Orient, even visited the States a few times. Is there somewhere you'd particularly like to hear about?" He seems to get more animated, his dark expression fading, as he talks of travel.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 02:51:50</strong>
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				She smiled at him as he said that the worst she’ll get is a spanking that was good, she hated being beaten. One time she had dared to question one of the men they all took turned beating her, then forced her to work 18 straight hours, it took over a month for her back to heal every time she moved it cracked the scars and caused them to bleed, but at least hey didn’t try and rape her.<br><br>He motioned her for her to move closer, moving to the ottoman she smiled at him. “I’ve never been out of London so anywhere…is it true there that in some places they have summer during our winter…and that there are animals that are bigger then horses…?” She smiled, she knew she sounded like a little kid but she didn’t care she was so excited.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 04:00:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As she settles down on the Ottoman, he strokes her hair gently, affectionately, his fingers combing through it in long, gentle strokes, his expression a mix of fondness and almost a paternal expression.<br><br>"It is true. Anywhere south of the equator - the imaginary line that divides the Earth in two - has winter when we have summer. And there are many animals bigger than horses." He smiles, musing. "The mighty Bison, the long-necked giraffe, and many creatures of the sea. Tell me, have you ever been to the zoo?"<br><br>He looks briefly at a book, before looking back at her. "You cannot read, can you Sophia?"<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 19:41:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked at him blushing as he ran his fingers through her hair, she was startled for a second but realised that he wasn’t going to hit her. She smiled softly looking into his eyes before he carried on talking.<br><br>He spoke about the equator, she couldn’t imagine it, “I’ve only seen a picture of a world once…” She blushed, biting her lip slightly, hearing him speak about the animals they seemed to crazy to believe. He asked her about the zoo, blushing she looked over at him. “Oh um…no I’ve never been to the zoo.” She whispered.<br><br>Hearing his question she bit her lip blushing. “No I can’t read…I can read my name…but that’s it.” She whispered, feeling really stupid compared to him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 20:48:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He continues to stroke her hair softly, his expression affectionate, the girl's innocence helping to temper some of his desire to simply haul the young woman to bed, and see that she paid for her food and lodgings there. When she confesses to not being able to read, he smiles kindly.<br><br>"Perhaps I shall teach you if you behave." He stands, leaving her on the ottoman and heading to his bookshelf, looking through a number of volumes before selecting one on an explorer's trip to Africa. It's heavily illustrated with pictures of landscapes and wildlife. Returning, he hands it to her.<br><br>"Here you are. There should be enough pictures there that you will not miss much for being unable to read."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 21:39:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled looking over at him, as he was kind towards her; looking over at him she bit her lip. He spoke about teaching her she smiled… “It’s alright…you don’t have to teach me.” She whispered looking at him, she knew that he probably wouldn’t so she didn’t get her hopes up.<br><br>He handed her a book, she looked through the pages, she smiled seeing the pictures, she could see an elephant, a rhino, a lion, gazelle. She smiled at him. “I can’t believe there are really these animals. Placing the book on the arm of the chair as she pointed to a picture of a crocodile, “That looks like a monster.” She whispered, running her fingers through her hair she smiled softly. “Is that really an animal?” She blushed looking up at him. <br><br>The clock chimed from the clock in the corner, it was midnight. Looking at him she blushed. “Oh…it’s very late.” She whispered looking up at him, “I didn’t mean to keep you up all night.” She still didn’t know it was Christmas.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 21:47:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckles at her description of the crocodile.<br><br>"Monster and animal, a bit of both. Unpleasant creatures." Looking at the clock as it chimed, he shakes his head. <br><br>"Its not bother Sophia, I'm a bit of a night-person to begin with. Besides, it's Christmas, its a good time to stay up and welcome the new day."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 22:13:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at him looking at the picture, it looked like a giant monster she couldn’t believe that it was real. Biting her lip she looked at him, as he said it was Christmas. Frowning she looked at him, she knew she should know what that meant but it wasn’t ringing a bell.<br><br>“Christmas?” She frowned as it came to her; she managed to remember what it was. “It isn’t Christmas is it?” Looking over at him she ran her fingers through her hair, “If you’re sure I’m not keeping you up.” She bit her lip looking over up at him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 22:37:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckles. "You're not my dear, if you were, I likely would have sent you to bed."<br><br>Standing, he motions for her to get up. "I do believe there was a fireworks display planned. Shall we go see if we can see it from the balcony?" Walking with her, he gets a thoughtful expression. "You know, you haven't actually said yes to my offer yet."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 22:56:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Smiling she looked over at him, “Thank you,” Running her fingers through her hair she smiled softly. Looking up at him she bit her lip, standing up she followed him to the balcony. <br><br>As he opened the door she paused when he did. “Oh… I’m sorry…I would be over happy to accept…if it’s still on offer.” She smiled, wrapping her arms around her shoulders trying to keep herself warm from the sudden blast of cold air.<br><br>(Happy 1000 posts)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 23:11:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				((woo! thanks))<br><br>"Of course it's still an offer, otherwise I wouldn't have brought it up." Seeing her shiver, he draws her close to him, wrapping his arms around the slight, slender girl to help keep her warm as one of the Zeppelin barges over the river begins the display, launching multi-colored rockets high into the clear night air.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 23:35:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Biting her lip she looked over at him, as he wrapped his arm around her, she was sure that if he wanted to he could snap her in two she was that slender. Looking at him she smiled softly, until the fireworks appeared. With open mouth she stared at the rockets, she had only seen fireworks when she was a child…and even then when she was caught she was beaten. “That is amazing.” She whispered.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 23:38:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It is indeed."<br><br>He stands on the balcony of his home, holding the girl gently, watching the fireworks for a long, lingering half-an-hour, until the last of them has faded away. With a yawn, he lets her go, holding the door for her to go inside.<br><br>"I believe now it is time for me to get some sleep." He considers beckoning her to his bed for a moment, admiring the slender girl in the fine dress, but once more, pushes the notion aside. He would not force himself on her like that - not on Christmas.<br><br>"Merry Christmas Sophia."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 23:51:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She watched until it finished, she was chilled to the bone but she didn’t complain. Looking at him as he yawned she smiled, running her fingers through her hair she smiled, blushing as he let go of her, she was enjoying the feel of his arm around her.<br><br>“I should sleep as well…I suppose Juliet will get me up in the morning and set me to work.” She smiled looking up into his eyes. “Thank you for everything.” Yawning herself she looked over at him, “Merry Christmas Sir.” She smiled softly at him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>19-11-2010, 23:54:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He gives her a last, lingering look at he heads to his room.<br><br>"If you need anything, feel free to wake me if Juliet isn't up. Lord knows she could use the rest, and I'm a light sleeper anyway."<br><br>Watching her disappear into his sister's room, he goes to his own, starting a small fire in the fireplace before undressing and crawling into bed.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>20-11-2010, 00:17:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Looking at him as he left she smiled “I will…if I need something.” Running her fingers through her hair she smiled softly. “Goodnight Sir.” She whispered before heading into his sister’s room, getting undressed she climbed into the soft sheets. <br><br>She fell asleep quickly but woke up shortly before 5am, it was normal. She stayed in the bedroom, she pulled on the robe sitting on the window ledge looking out over the streets looking over at the snow, she had never had so much free time but she didn’t want to head downstairs in case she woke someone up. She was use to only being able to sleep for a few hours at night so it was unusual for her to be able to sleep so long.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>20-11-2010, 00:28:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eventually, Juliet comes into the room, and makes a decidedly frightened noise.<br><br>"Oh! Forgive me Sophia. I had expected you to be in Sir's bedroo..." she cuts herself off as she realize what's she's saying, shaking her head.<br><br>"Never mind, lets get you fed. I suppose this means you took his offer then?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>20-11-2010, 00:42:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She frowned at the girl, “What?” She bit her lip blushing slightly. “You thought I’d be in Sir’s bedroom…why?” She frowned looking at her wondering what she was thinking.<br><br>Getting off the ledge she wrapped it round her tighter. “Yer I took his offer.” She bit her lip wondering if she should have done that… “Oh um…I should get dressed before breakfast.” Biting her lip she looked at the woman.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>20-11-2010, 04:53:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Juliet blushes. <br><br>"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said that. I've just seen you and Sir together, the way he looks at you. I thought perhaps, in light of his kindness and the like you'd..." she looks down. "Oh heavens, don't tell him I said that please? He'd be mortified.<br><br>The maid does have a point. More than one girl in the workhouse managed to get herself a warm blanket for her cot in exchange for 10 minutes kneeling on a dirty floor. One girl was particularly disliked - she slept as many nights as not in an overseer's bed, and was fed scraps from their table. Of course, noone envied the bruises she came back with.<br><br>"I'll leave you to dress. I expect any of the Lady's dresses are free for you to use."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>20-11-2010, 22:49:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Looking at Juliet she blushed listening to why she thought that she was going to be in the Masters bedroom. “Oh um…” She whispered. “I won’t say anything.” Biting her lip she whispered, running her fingers through her hair she bit her lip. <br><br>She knew that there were women who would cosy up to the men who were in control. Biting her lip she looked over at her. “If that’s alright?” She smiled letting her leave, heading to the wardrobe she pulled a plain dress out, getting dressed she pulled the dress on heading out of the bedroom. <br><br>Juliet was standing outside, “That was quick, lets get some breakfast…why don’t you go wake Sir up…I’ll start cooking.” She smiled pointing to the door down the hallway. “Just knock on the door.” She quickly turned and headed down into his room, knocking on the door slowly but loudly, she didn’t hear a reply, slowly she headed into the room “Sir?” She called out into the room.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 04:37:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				No answer comes to the knock on the door. As she peeks her head in, she sees his room is remarkably small for the master of the house, no larger than her own, illuminated by the sunlight pouring in from a window. The space is dominated by a large bed. Hearing her voice, he wakes, sitting up. He isn't wearing a shirt, and she can make out his strong, lean chest - with a faint scar right above his heart.<br><br>"Yes? Oh...Sophia" He smiles gently. "Morning is it?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 18:54:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked round the room for a second before he woke up, it was surprisingly small. Looking over at him she bit her lip as he sat up, she saw that he was topless. Biting her lip she looked over at him. “Yes, Sir…it’s morning.” Blushing she looked over at him. “Juliet told to wake you up this morning.” Running her fingers through her hair she smiled seeing that he wasn’t upset with her wake him up.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 18:56:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiles, stretching. <br><br>"Ah, well, a pretty girl coming to wake me up is hardly the worst thing that's ever happened to me." He remains in bed, looking the young woman over. "Did you sleep well my dear? I know unfamiliar surroundings can be disorienting."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 19:12:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at him as he called her pretty. Blushing she ran her fingers through her hair softly. “I slept well.” She bit her lip blushing slightly. “Considering I slept by the fire the bed was so comfortable. I’ve never slept in a bed…before.” She whispered, blushing slightly. She had a corner of the floor with just a blanket to cover her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 21:05:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The next few weeks fall into a remarkably even pattern, Sophia being to put to work as a maid, helping Juliet around the house, although it is abundantly clear that there isn't two people's worth of work to be done. When she has free time, 'Sir' has taken to teaching her the basics of reading and writing, as well as giving her time to herself. Until one day, having had her bring in the mail, he smiles at one of the letters.<br><br>"Sophia, I've been invited to visit an old friend of mine I haven't seen in awhile. Would you like to come along? I'd have use of a maid while I travel."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 22:10:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophia headed up to Sir’s study, knocking on the door she headed into the room. She handed him the mail waiting to see if he was going to write any replies that she would have to deliver.<br><br>He spoke to her asking if she would want to go travel with him. “Oh…wouldn’t Juliet be better going with you?” She bit her lip, she didn’t want to seem eager to stay but she was nervous of going to meet his friends. “But…if you want me to go then I would be very glad.” She whispered. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 22:15:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckles. "No, Juliet rather doesn't like to leave the house. I'm half convinced she thinks if she stops working it will fall apart." Stroking her hair fondly, he smiles at her.<br><br>"Besides, if would be good for you to see at least a small bit of the countryside. Come, pack your things." He has over the past few weeks provided her with a small number of belongings - a few dresses that fit better, a comb and the like. Before long Juliet manages to summon a carriage - one of the new kinds driven by tireless mechanical steeds, which sits waiting for them outside.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 23:06:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at him. “Oh, I get the feeling she goes over everything that I’ve cleaned she goes over and makes sure that it’s alright.” Looking over at him she felt his hands running through her hair.<br><br>“It would be nice to get out of London.” She whispered looking over at him, running her fingers through her hair she smiled. “Alright…” she smiled heading to the door. She didn’t want to seem too excited, every time she got excited it usually ended badly for her. Biting her lip packed a bag that Juliet had left on the bed, it was barely half full by the time she headed downstairs hearing his voice down there. She smiled as she pulled on the coat that she was given for New Years since it was certain that she was staying and not a thief. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 23:22:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The trip out from London, despite beginning in the morning, takes the better part of the day, the carriage only stopping at a roadside inn long enough to send her inside with a handful of coins - more than she had ever held at a single time - for some food for the trip. Eventually they pull up to a large country estate, larger than his own, and pull into the long circular driveway, James leading the girl - who was left to carry the bags - towards the door. There, a handsome young man, about his age, comes out.<br><br>"James! Good to see you! And this is the girl you wrote of? She's charming." He bows slightly. "Edward Londham. And you I presume are young Sophia?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 23:32:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				They pulled up she was given so much money, she could have run away with…but she knew better. She got some food handing him back the change as she sat down next to him. “I hope that I got everything that you like.” She smiled.<br><br>She sat in the carriage staring out the window in wonder as the tall building turned into green pastures. Running her fingers through her hair she smiled at him. “I can’t believe how green it is.” She smiled she found his hand squeezing slightly.<br><br>Once the carriage pulled up at the large estate she got out of the carriage carrying the bags upto the house, Sir’s bag was a lot heavier then her own. As they got to the door it opened a man walked out. She heard him speaking to Sir before addressing her, she smiled and curtseyed as Sir had shown her. “Yes…I’m Sophia…Sir.” She bit her lip she wasn’t sure how to address him or what she should say. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 23:37:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Edward chuckles. "Timid little thing, isn't she. Amanda and her will get along swimmingly I suspect. Come in, come in - it's freezing out."<br><br>He ushers them both inside, and shows them to their room - it's a single room, with a slightly unorthodox layout. There is the usual bed, dresser etc., and instead of a single washroom adjoining the room, there are a pair of doors. One is the washroom, the other a small room with a simple, small bed and a similarly small dresser - an attached maid's room. He gives her an affectionate glance as she deposits the bags.<br><br>"Why don't you unpack Sophia, and I'll see you downstairs?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 23:44:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She blushed as the man chuckled she got the feeling that she had just interrupted a conversation that was not for her ears. Blushing she looked at the man following him upstairs.<br><br>There was one bed and two door, after placing the bags on the floor he told her to unpack. She smiled. “Yes Sir.” She whispered, she placed his bag on the bed starting to hang his clothes up and put his other things away. Looking at the washroom there seemed to be an average size bathtub, toilet and a sink. Placing his wash bag on the side she started to unpack it, razor, comb, tooth brush…everything that he needed. Once the bag was empty she only needed a few minutes to put her things in the small room, she didn’t put any of her things in the wash room…considering it was his she was sure that she would have to go use a servants one up stairs… That was going to be an awkward question. <br><br>Sitting on the bed for a second she was glad that there was a window, from her view on the bed she could see out over the rolling hills and green fields. After a minute or tow she headed back downstairs, making her way down the stairs she followed the sound of talking. Knocking on the door she walked inside slowly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>22-11-2010, 23:50:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The two of them were sitting in comfortable chairs, catching up on old times. Her 'boss', seated on a couch, motioned her next to him.<br><br>"No, no, the contract went fine. It's the damned French - they're bound and determined to make everything four steps harder than it should be. We design a fuel hose that connects to the right, and they insist it should connect to the left..." He shrugs his shoulder, turning the conversation in a somewhat more welcoming direction.<br><br>"Sophia, Edward has been to a great deal more of the world than I have. If you'd like, I'm sure he would be happy to tell you of his travels. He always did like a rapt audience." Smiling, he looks up as a fourth person walks into the room. A young, pretty woman in a scarlet red dress, too short to be fully proper and with her breasts fully exposed, cupped and thrust up with a severe corset, enters, smiling sweetly before nestling down on her knees beside Edward, accepting an affectionate pat on the head.<br><br>"You must be the Master's guests. I'm Amanda." Her voice is odd, an accent Sophia hasn't heard.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 00:03:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She walked in hearing the conversation between the two men she knew it had nothing to do with her she wasn’t even sure what it was about. As she walked closer their attention turned to her, she stopped as Sir said her name she felt certain he was going to shout at her for interrupting her but he didn’t seem to be angry or upset with her. <br><br>Hearing what he said she sat beside him hearing that Edward would be happy to share stories of his travels. She smiled, “That would be nice…” She bit her lip blushing, luckily a woman appeared, the dress she was wearing would have been considered obscene even for a prostitute but Sophia didn’t seem to notice, she was taken in by the colour she had never seen anything so bright…even the clothes Sir had given her were on the gray side.<br><br>She saw the woman kneel on the floor next to Edward…she spoke with a strange accent, since she had never travelled anywhere she had no idea where it was from. “Hello.” She smiled slightly not sure what else to say, reaching up she got a lock of her hair fiddling with it like she did when she was nervous trying to read a sentence he had put in front of her her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 00:06:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Edward continues to pet the woman kneeling beside him, his manner possessive but affectionate, like Sophia could remember someone petting their dog. Keying off a previous comment, he speaks to Sophia.<br><br>"Little Amanda here is from the colonies, all the way across the ocean." He smiles down at the woman, before looking up at the pair of them. "James tells me you've been working as a maid?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 00:12:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She found him petting her slightly strange but she didn’t comment yet she could tell the look on her face was giving her away. She looked at Sir…remembering the times he ran his fingers through his hair. She thought that it was just him comforting her but ti seemed as if he was claiming ownership of her…she did owe him so much…without him she would have been dead and buried by now.<br><br>Sophia got snapped out of her thoughts by Edward, he said that she was from the colonies, she had heard of the word but she had no idea where it was, she assumed that it was an island like Britain was on the large maps they had on the stalls at the fair. <br><br>“Yes, I’ve been lucky enough to work as a maid…” She smiled. “Thought I’m sure that Juliet doesn’t think I’m doing a good enough job.” She bit her lip hoping she hadn’t spoken out of turn.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 00:23:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Edward grunts, and smiles at what looks like distant memories. <br><br>"You could hire the Virgin Mary herself, and that woman would find a flaw in her. She does however make a delicious roast, and for that, many things could be forgiven." He coughs, and looks apologetically at Sophia. "I'm afraid I must be unforgivably rude and talk some business with James before the night is out - a few letters need to be sent in the morning. Would you mind if I left you in Amanda's capable hands?"<br><br>Assuming she agreed, the two men would leave to the study, leaving her alone with the serene, immodestly dressed woman. "James seems like a very kind man."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 01:36:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at him as he spoke about Juliet biting her lip she knew that he would be right that she could find flaw in perfection. She felt the air turn suddenly as he coughed, she was about to be left with the woman…Amanda from the colonies (wherever that was). Biting her lip she smiled and nodded not sure what to say, it wasn’t her place to have an opinion so she just gave a nod.<br><br>Watching them leave she looked at the woman smiling politely. “He is a very kind man…he gave me a job, a place to live and more…if it wasn’t for him I would be dead.” She smiled. She shifted in the chair; ever since she ran through the snow her feet would lose all feeling. “Excuse me.” She said standing up walking round trying to get the circulation back into her legs. It was alright if she was working because she was always on her feet but sitting down or being asleep in bed made her legs weak, she would wake up with muscle cramp in her calves…but she was sure that there was nothing that could be done. “I’m sorry…my legs went numb.” She whispered, after a few minutes she sat down again. “Please don’t tell Sir… he doesn’t know.” She bit her lip feeling worried, she was scared that he might ask her to leave if he found out.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 04:18:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The woman rises, going next to her and settling back down at her knees at the foot of the couch.<br><br>"May I touch you?" Her voice is respectful - considerably more respectful than Sophia is used to, even in these days. She looks down at the girl's legs. She has a concerned look on her face, looking up at her.<br><br>"You should tell him - I see how he looks at you," the second time a woman has said that to her, "he cares for you." She looks down at herself, her fairly exposed form, and shakes her head. "What you must think, someone like me giving advice."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 20:14:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She watched the woman coming over to her, running her fingers through her hair she smiled slightly nodding as she asked if she could touch her. She wasn’t used to being asked…even when working Juliet would just move her out of the way. <br><br>Seeing the look on his face she frowned looking at her, “I will tell him.” She bit her lip, “he cares for me?” She frowned. “I don’t think that he does…he’s just a nice man, who’s helped me a lot.” She whispered.<br><br>“What do you mean someone like you?” She frowned not understand why Amanda was different from Sophia. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 20:38:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The woman begins gently massaging her legs as they talk, her eyes curious.<br><br>"Sweetie, a man like him. He took you in, he helped you out, he's trying to make you something...I don't know...something better. You don't just do that without caring for the person."<br><br>At first Amanda clearly thinks Sophia is being cruel, before a hint of understanding hits her face. She looks up at the maid, blushing softly. "Y...you don't know what I am, do you?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 21:00:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked at her massaging her legs she smiled slightly. “I don’t know what he is trying to make me, but whatever it is he is a very kind man…he could have called the police or thrown me out into the snow.” She whispered.<br><br>Running her fingers through her hair she saw the look on her face seeing that she had&nbsp; said something wrong. Biting her lip she looked over at her. “No…are you any different?” She whispered looking over at her. Her legs were feeling better, from her touch. <br><br>“Did I say something wrong?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 21:08:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The woman laughs, the sound kind, welcoming. She shakes her head, continuing to work on the girl's legs.<br><br>"No my dear, it is merely a surprise. I have forgotten that there is life beyond this." She pauses, looking at the girl quietly.<br><br>"Do you know what a slave is?" The question is fairly blunt, but Sophia can tell its important to whatever this woman seems to be.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 21:20:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked at her smiling as she nodded. “There is not much life out there in London…” she bit her lip, obviously not understanding what she meant…thinking she meant life outside the building.<br><br>“I know what a slave is. But I get the feeling that you know another meaning.” She whispered. “I was practically a slave at the workhouse...” Biting her lip she looked at the woman. “What do you think it means?” She whispered.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 21:28:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				In a way, she did mean that, but eventually she gets the idea that she will have to explain these things slowly - deliberately - for the young woman. She nods softly.<br><br>"You know enough." She looks at the door where the two men disappeared to. "I...I am a slave. The nobles here, they have more polite names for it, being a concubine, or a bonded companion, but the intent is the same. He owns me, my body is his to do with as he wishes, and I have about the same rights as a horse." She shrugs. "It's not a bad life, but for me to be giving advice to a free woman...some would be insulted by it."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 21:58:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She frowned as she started to explain what she was, “You think I’m free?” She smiled slightly, “I suppose I am in a way…but in another way I certainly am not.” Looking up at her she bit her lip. <br><br>“If you’re happy, safe…and not being beaten…then it I don’t know how it couldn’t be a bad life.” She bit her lip. “I know I don’t understand everything that you are saying, or everything that you do…but this life does not seem to be as bad as the workhouse.” She whispered. “Please don’t think I’m being rude…I was just trying to understand what you were saying.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 22:03:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiles. "You are, at least legally. I...I never will be." Stroking the girl's leg, she shakes her head. "It will take much more than honest questions to upset me. And no, life with Master is preferable to a workhouse..." her expression is distant for a moment. "You are not so different than a younger version of myself. If you have questions, ask them and I will answer them as best I can."<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 22:35:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at her. “What will happen if you can no longer be with your…Master?” She whispered looking over at her; she felt a pang of sadness running through her at the idea of being away from Sir. <br><br>Looking over at her she smiled slightly, “Where are the colonies?” She frowned still not knowing where it was. Running her fingers through her hair she bit her lip, “I know it was spoken about earlier…I have no idea where it is.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 22:41:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The woman stands, giving Sophia a brief view of her bound form, offering her hand. "Come, I'll show you on a map." Walking through the house, Sophia notices she has a very high set of heels on, but seems to walk as gracefully as if she had been barefoot.<br><br>"When I can no longer be with Master?" She muses for a moment, thinking. "I suppose it depends on why. He owns me, for life. If it was because he died or the like, I would be given to whoever he specified in his will, or if he was generous, freed with a small amount of money to establish myself. If it was because he tired of me, I suppose he would sell me on to another."<br><br>Reaching the library, she smiles. "A somewhat more comfortable room." Setting an atlas on her lap, she points to a map of the western hemisphere. "This island here? This is England, and that small dot, London." A slender finger traces across an expanse of blue, to another landmass. "And this is America, the colonies, where I was born."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 23:42:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophia stood up slowly following her through the house, she saw her shoes she had never seen any shoes so high. “You’re shoes are so big. I never imagined that shoes could be so…tall.” She bit her lip blushing slightly, she knew that it was just practice but it still made her worried. <br><br>She listened to her hearing what she said about what would happen if he left. “He might sell you?” She frowned biting her lip looking at her; she imagined being owned by him, the idea made her happy…but the idea of him selling her made her more then a little upset. Biting her lip she ran her fingers through her hair.<br><br>Once the library door opened she smiled looking at her, “It’s very impressive. Sir has been teaching me how to read…” She looked over at him smiling. Looking at the book she saw the familiar image of the England, then the tiny image of London. She watched as she saw the large blue bit then the colonies. “What is that blue stuff?” She frowned. “I must seem very stupid to you.” Looking at the pages she looked at the map. “Is that the world?” She smiled.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>23-11-2010, 23:53:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Amanda shakes her head. "No my dear, you're not stupid at all. Poorly educated, but that is not failing of yours." She touches her cheek with delicate, carefully maintained hands. "And besides, I did tell you we were not so different once, did I not? There was a time when these things were new to me as well. Master saw fit to educate me, I suspect so I could hold my own conversations at parties."<br><br>She smiles gently. "And yes, he might sell me, as is his right. But I doubt he will - he seems content enough with my service. I suspect I will serve loyally, and well, until he tires of me, and then I will find some other pursuit that pleases him."<br><br>"The blue stuff is water, the great Atlantic Ocean, which takes many days to cross, even by airship. And yes, this book is a collection of maps of the world."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 00:11:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at her as she spoke about being educated. “How did you and your Master come to be together?” She smiled softly as she looked at her. “What do you mean by other pursuits?” She frowned. “Is your Master married?” she whispered, “I mean…does he consider being with you being married?” She frowned thinking that she didn’t understand what she was saying.<br><br>“Oh…I’ve never seen a colour map before…just the black and white ones at a fair when I was little…” She smiled slightly, her eyes scanned over the map stopped at a country on the European continent… “Is that Deutschland?” She whispered pointing to a Germany. “There where I’m from.” She smiled. “My parents came from Munich, they were travelling round England, I don’t remember why, and then…I ended up in the work house…having to learn another language.” She bit her lip. “I was 7…I think that they…died.” She looked at the map as she looked at the pages finding Germany… “Here.” She smiled.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 00:19:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Amanda blushes softly. "By other pursuits, I mean not serving him so directly. Perhaps by then, he will be married, and his wife in need of a maid. Or a nurse for the children. Or something else. And no, he doesn't consider me being married - there are many noblemen who keep both a wife and a concubine like me." <br><br>"As for how we met? Master is a lawyer, he was working in the colonies, and he took my case. He convinced the judge to relax my sentence in exchange for me signing myself over to him and well, here I am."<br><br>Her story elicits an expression of sympathy from the woman.<br><br>"You poor girl. That must have been very hard for you. Yes, that's Germany - that's what Deustschland is called in English."<br><br>She draws the girl into something of an embrace, oblivious to the discomfort her near nudity might cause.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 00:30:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Oh…I can imagine it would be hard to see someone you love not longer want you in the same way…or have to turn their attentions towards someone else.” She whispered. “What did you do…to need a judge?” She whispered. “How long ago was that? If I can ask that?” She blushed.<br><br>“I don’t really remember much, learning English was the hardest part…I use to get beaten for not knowing what they were saying…I don’t remember much Deutsch, I’m sure I would if I could go back there…but I don’t know if I ever will.” She smiled. “I just wish I could remember my parents…what they looked like, what they were called…but it’s alright. It happened and I can’t change it.” She smiled. “I haven’t told Sir about being from Deutschland… I never really thought it was relevant.” She smiled.<br><br>As she went to hug her she was confused thinking that she was going to hurt her but she didn’t, she didn’t know what to say or do.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 00:36:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She continues to embrace the girl. "Yes, I'm sure the day Master doesn't see me as his sexy young plaything, ripe with potential, will be a day I cry a great deal in. But he's given me a decent enough life, and until that day..." she blushes softly "it is a thrill to be so bonded to someone."<br><br>Her story continues. "As for the judge? I had inherited my families debts, and with no means to pay them, I had turned to petty theft. We don't have poor houses - you simply get thrown in prison. But by becoming property...well, among other things, I cannot be jailed."<br><br>As the conversation turns to the girl's past, she nods, listening. "You should tell him - perhaps he'd take you there. May I ask you a question...would you be jealous, if he took another woman?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 00:48:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked at her, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to bring up the terrible idea.” She bit her lip. “I’m sure that would never happen.” She smiled pulling back. “I’m sorry but I’m glad that you found him and that you’re happy.” She bit her lip.<br><br>“I don’t know if I could go back…” She smiled, the truth was she was worried, if she had family there…maybe she would want to stay but she owed Sir so much…and she was happy with him, she couldn’t just leave him. “I like where I am.” She smiled.<br><br>Hearing the question she thought about it for a second, “I don’t know… we don’t have the kind of relationship where I would get jealous…besides…I would want him to be happy.” She smiled, but inside she frowned, she would be jealous even the idea of him being with someone else. She felt like a terrible person…she knew that he would never consider being with her she was just a poor girl, who was now his servant. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 03:06:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The woman seems to pick up on her agitation.<br><br>"I see. I ask because, well..." she blushes softly. "Your young benefactor is single, and if I understand correctly, has not been with anyone for awhile. There's a good chance Master will send me to him tonight - but I could perhaps talk him out of it, if it would upset you greatly."<br><br>She puts a hand on her cheek. "Because you do not seem entirely content to be just his maid."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 03:15:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She frowned looking at her. “Why would your master send you to Sr?” she frowned, looked away from her she bit her lip. “If he wants you to go to him…it’s not my place to stop you.” Standing up she headed over to the window, “My legs are hurting again.” She whispered trying to push away the feelings she had. <br><br>“What I want doesn’t matter.” She whispered her fingers running through her hair as she looked out of the window.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 03:37:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Because I'm, at least I like to think so, a pretty young woman who won't say no to parting me legs for him?"<br><br>She looks at the girl, sliding up onto the couch once she's risen. "And to me, and between us, what you want matters."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 04:04:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She bit her lip looking over at her. “Well even if I did want him…I don’t think that he would want me…I’ve never been with a man before.” She whispered looking over at her. <br><br>Looking over at her she ran her fingers through her hair, she heard the men in the hallway laughing, they were about to head into the room.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 04:33:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Hearing the men approach, Amanda goes near her, holding her hip gently and whispering in her ear.<br><br>"Believe me Sophia. An untouched little thing like you...he would want you. He does want you." <br><br>They are interrupted by the two returning, Edward calling to them. "Ah! There you two are. What have you two pretties been up to?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 15:40:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophia blushed as she heard the woman speak…maybe he did want her…but she wasn’t sure. “Maybe…” She smiled slightly looking at her. She jumped as the door opened and the men appeared. <br><br>She blushed as the looked at Sir. Amanda spoke before Sophia could. “We were just talking…Sophia wanted to know where the colonies were…so I showed her.” She smiled heading over to the sofa picking up the book. She showed them the page but it was still on Germany.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 20:18:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				James chuckles, fingering the page open on the atlas. "I hope you weren't teaching her errantly Amanda. Or have we colonized Germany and noone bothered to tell me?"<br><br>Eying the two of them, he motions to Sophia. "Shall we go rest before dinner? The ride was a long one."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>24-11-2010, 20:29:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She blushed at James, she was about to tell him when she figured it would be better that maybe she told him in private. “I was looking at the different countries.” She smiled softly looking at him.<br><br>He suggested going to rest she smiled, “A rest would be nice.” She smiled, they said goodbye before heading upstairs going back into the bedroom. She headed inside, “I think that I should tell you some things.” She bit her lip. “I hve a problem with my legs…since the night that I came to yours, my legs keep going numb, and then they get really painful, especially when I sleep. Amanda said I should tell you.” She bit her lip looking at him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>25-11-2010, 07:20:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nodding slightly as he regarded the atlas before closing it, James taps a finger on the map. "Find any you like?"<br><br>Once they've headed upstairs to his room, he sits on the edge of the bed, looking at her with concern as she spills her secret. His voice is firm, but worried, like a distant memory of her father's.<br><br>"You are always to tell me when something like that is wrong. Always." He takes her gently by the land and leads her to the large bed, scooting her skirt up carefully - only to above the knee. Tracing his fingers over her feet, he feels how cold they are and nods.<br><br>"Your circulation is bad. Too much damage&nbsp; from the workhouse and the cold I imagine. My father had a similar condition, he got it climbing." Returning her skirt to its proper location, he nods. "It will get better with time, and better socks. I'll get you some when we're back in London."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>25-11-2010, 15:11:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked away from him as he said placed her on the bed she felt like she was being told off. Running her fingers through her hair, she watched as he looked at her legs. She smiled slightly at him, looking into his eyes. “Oh…so it will be ok.” She blushed slightly.<br><br>As he pulled her skirt back over her knees she smiled at him. “Thank you.” She smiled at him. “You asked about the maps…” She paused wondering if she should tell him. “I was born in Deustchland. In Munich, my parents came here, something happened I don’t remember much just that they were ‘gone’ and I was in the workhouse.” She bit her lip looking up at him. <br><br>“I thought that I’d better tell you.” She smiled slightly, standing up she headed to the door to her room. “I know that you’re tired I’ll let you sleep…” She paused looking at him. “Amanda said that she might be instructed to come to your room tonight…would you…want that?” She whispered trying to hide the sadness from her face.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>25-11-2010, 20:22:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckles softly and pats her legs.<br><br>"Yes little one, you will be fine. But you should tell me about these things." He gives her a careful look, taking a guess as to the young woman's fear. "I will not turn you out for something like that." He listens carefully to the rest of her story, nodding slightly. "A day of revelations it seems. Munich you said? Would you like to go back there someday, see where you are from?"<br><br>Her next question gives him pause, and he takes a moment to consider before he nods. "Edward had made an off-handed offer. It seems his girl anticipated it. I will be honest with you - it has been a long time since I have laid with a woman, and Amanda is...very pretty. I cannot say I would turn her away if she came to me."<br><br><em>Or you...</em> he adds in his mind.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>25-11-2010, 23:35:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at him, running her fingers through her hair, “I’m sorry it’s been so long since I’ve been able to trust someone.” She ran her fingers through her hair, “It never occurred to me to mention Munich until I saw the map in the book.”<br><br>Listening to his answer she bit her lip, she got the feeling that he wanted her. Running her fingers through her hair she listened to him. She nodded at him; she didn’t want to see like she was jealous, she wasn’t sure that he even wanted her. <br><br>Moving back to him she turned her back to him. “Will you unfasten the hooks at the back?” She smiled softly. “I can’t lie down in my dress.” She bit her lip blushing as she looked back at him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 06:00:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Of course little one." He turned her gently to the side so her back faced him, gentle fingers working the small clasps of her dress apart, leaving the garment hanging limply from her shoulders. He traces his finger down the line of her spine, his touch affectionate, lingering.<br><br>"Will that do?"<br><br>He can feel the tension in her shoulders, wondering what other secrets the poor girl is letting build inside her frame.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 15:53:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked back over her shoulder at him, she smiled softly. She hoped that in the light he couldn’t see the thin silver scars crisscrossing over her back. She shivered as she felt his finger moving over his spine. <br><br>“I think that will do.” She smiled at him, she turned slowly hoping that he would say or do something to show that he wanted her. “Thank you.” She smiled slightly, “I don’t mean just for unfastening my dress, I mean thank you for everything. I spent years hoping that my life would change and it did…because of you.” She smiled softly at him blushing. “I just wanted you to know that.” She blushed holding the dress against herself.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 19:33:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiles, part of his mind willing the cloth separating him and her to slip for a moment. Regarding her for a moment, he stands, touching her blushing cheek.<br><br>"You're welcome little Sophia. You have been...most welcome in my home, and my life." He kisses her forehead. "I'm glad you decided to steal some bread." He sits back down on the bed, removing his shoes.<br><br>"Did you enjoy your talk with Amanda?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 19:44:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at him, biting her lip she looked at him feeling his hand on her cheek, she looked into his eyes. But as he kissed her forehead she blushed pulling back from him, he obviously didn’t see her as she wanted.<br><br>She pulled back from him as he sat down on the bed, “I glad I fell asleep.” She bit her lip, she wanted him to do something but she got the feeling that he saw her as nothing more then just the servant. <br><br>Looking up at him she bit her lip, “I did, she’s nice.” She smiled slightly, “I’m sure that she’ll make you happy until you go home.” She looked away from him. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 19:50:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Finally, he decides to push, as she seems to vacillate between hopeful and disappointed.<br><br>He tilts his head to the side, drawing her close to him, so she is standing before him while he sits on the bed. "And yet you'd prefer she not." He states this as a fact, not a question, and looks her squarely in the eyes. "Because you'd rather another young woman in this house be in her place."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 19:56:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Biting her lip she looked down at him as he moved her towards him, holding her dress against her she bit her lip blushing. “It’s not my place to say such things…I am sorry I did not mean to overstep my boundary.” She whispered looking down at him. “Is there someone else you would rather be with?” <br><br>Sophia bit her lip remembering what Amanda said about him wanting her; she found it impossible to believe that he would chose herself over someone as beautiful as Amanda. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 20:04:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Drawing her down onto her knees, so she is now at a slightly lower position than her is, he draws her close, letting the young woman lay her head on his chest. <br><br>"I would not rape you Sophia - but if you wanted to be with me, to be mine...that is what I would want." He holds her, waiting for her answer, wanting her to give voice to her desires at least once.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 20:16:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;Blushing she held her dress against her as he moved her down onto her knees. Looking up at him she bit her lip as she pressing her head on his chest softly. Hearing him speak she bit her lip. <br><br>She pulled back from him as she heard him speak. “Why would you want me?” She whispered, “You can have any woman you want, so why me?” She bit her lip blushing heavily. “If I did want you…what would you say to that?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 20:24:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Because I enjoy your company my dear Sophia. You are gentle, timid and," he smiles down at the girl, embracing her firmly, "you underestimate your appeal, my pretty little German maid. You are beautiful, and as you grow more confident, better fed, and less abused, you grow yet more beautiful." <br><br>He strokes her cheek softly. "I would say that we should talk about what you would like to be to me, and then likely take you to bed and keep you from that nap you were hoping for."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 20:36:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Looking at him she smiled slightly as he grabbed her pulled her towards him wrapping his arms around her. Biting her lip she smiled slightly, as he said she was beautiful. “Thank you.” She smiled looking up at him. <br><br>“What can I be…to you?” She bit her lip blushing heavily as she ran her fingers through her hair, her dress almost falling from her. “I’m scared…that you’re going to…get bored…” She remembered the conversation with Amanda about her getting sold. Looking up at him she bit her lip.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 20:39:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He strokes her cheek gently, smiling softly as her dress slides a bit.<br><br>"You should not worry about me getting bored my little Sophia. As with anything, these things can be resolved." Standing and leaving her for a moment, he goes to lock the door to their room. "As for what you can be...I am sorry, but I cannot marry you." Her resumes stroking her cheek, moving down to her neck and shoulder.<br><br>"Which leaves you either being my maid, as you are now, but with additional duties..." he winks playfully. "Or a courtesan like Amanda, where your life, job and duties are all focused on my pleasure. Does either one of those seem to suit you?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 20:53:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked at him as he stood up moving to the door to lock it. He said that he could not marry her she knew that would be the case, that he would never marry her. Looking up at him she felt his fingers running over her neck and shoulder. <br><br>He said about being a courtesan, she was worried…what if she did and he got married…she wasn’t sure that she could stand that…but if it was the best she could get. “I don’t know…” She whispered looking up at him; she knew that if he ever wanted to get rid of her or was bored she wouldn’t be able to stand it. He was the first person who was ever kind to her. “I really don't know.” She bit her lip blushing.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 21:03:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nods. "Would you like to simply think on it, or talk out your concerns with me? Or someone like Amanda?" He presents her with a number of options, wanting her to be comfortable, happy, not yet wanting to simply impose his will on her. Not yet, not until she came willingly to him and asked. It would be different if she were a maid, versus if she went and devoted herself to his pleasure.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 21:09:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Looking at him she bit her lip, “What if you get bored? What if you get married? What if you find someone else?” She blushed, “I don’t know if I could stand it. I don’t know if I could go through being left again.” She looked at him hoping he didn’t pick up the word again. There was something more that she didn’t tell him, her parents didn’t die…they left her at the work house, in a foreign country.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 21:25:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He looks at her, his eyes sympathetic.<br><br>"Even if all those things happened, I would provide for you. At worst you would have to share me, or I would set you up with another job in my house. You're not going to be abandoned Sophia." His expression turns probing for a moment. "And what do you mean again?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 21:38:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked at him; he obviously heard the word again. “My parents, came to England and left me at the workhouse.” Running her fingers through her hair she looked over at him. “I remember them speaking to the man that run the place leaving me in the workhouse…I never trusted anyone…I’m scared to trust you. I know you say that you won’t hurt me…but…I don’t know.” Running her fingers through her hair.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 21:41:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He strokes her hair reassuringly.<br><br>"My poor dear. May I ask you to consider something however? Which will hurt more - giving me up, and the certainty of hearing or seeing me with someone like Amanda, or the <em>possibility</em> I might hurt you later?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 21:48:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked at him, “I’d rather not be hurt at all.” She smiled looking over at him. “I really care for you, alright…I will take a risk…” She bit her lip looking into his eyes. Hold her dress against her tighter she tried to stop it from falling.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 21:50:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nods. "And I will endeavor not to hurt you. You still haven't answered my question yet however, on what you might hope to be."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 23:03:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She bit her lip. “I suppose, I would like to be like Amanda…but…can I be just for you.” She whispered looking up at him. She wanted to give herself to him but she was scared of being hurt again. Biting her lip she looked up at him, “I really like you.” She smiled slightly as she looked at him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 23:09:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nodded. "You want to be my concubine?" His fingers gently go to her dress, easing it down her shoulder. "Yes," he kisses her fully on the lips. "I don't share my toys."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 23:11:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She stiffened to his touch as he pushed her dressed down, looking up at him she felt his lips pressing against her. Closing her eyes she sighed slightly, she was shaking as she let the dress drop to the floor she was just in pantaloons. “You consider me a toy?” She whispered as she looked up at him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 23:25:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He looks down at her, pressing a finger to her lips. "It's a term of affection little one." He looks down at her pantaloons. "Off with those as well. If you're going to be mine, I want to see you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 23:29:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Blushing she looked up at him feeling his finger on her lip. As he told her to take off the pantaloons she blushed pushing them down off hesitantly. Looking up at him she blushed, she had never been naked before anyone before.<br><br>"<em>If</em> I'm going to be yours? Are you going to change your mind?" She whispered looking up at him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 23:38:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He moves to the bed, straddling her completely, his weight not yet on her slender form. "I have not changed my mind, and will not. I want you to trust me little Sophia. Know that I will always do what is best for you." He strokes her hand, cupping her chin as his hand moves down.<br><br>"Can you do that?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 23:45:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked up at him with wide eyes, biting her lip she listened to him. “I will trust you…I just don’t trust myself with you.” Biting her lip she ran her fingers through her hair biting her lip. “I will trust you.” She felt her face flushing as she his hand cupped her chin and his hand moving down. “I will do anything for you.” She bit her lip.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>26-11-2010, 23:50:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Good girl." He takes on a firmer, less yielding tone with the young woman. "You are mine. You do not need to trust yourself, you need to trust me, and obey me. Is that clear my pet?"<br><br>Leaning down, he kisses her firmly on the mouth again. "Now, would you like me to make you fully mine?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>27-11-2010, 00:13:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Looking up at him she blushed heavily. “I will obey you.” She bit her lip hearing his tone, she was worried that she had done or said something wrong to anger him. <br><br>Feeling his lips on hers, she closed her eyes, sighing softly. “How are you going to make me fully yours?” She whispered biting her lip, “What are you going to do?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>28-11-2010, 04:21:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He looks down at her, his eyes soft but intent.<br><br>"I'm going to take your virginity my dear. In this bed, right now." He slides his hand up to her breast, cupping it gently but firmly. "If that is what you want."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>28-11-2010, 13:35:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked at him, she felt really nervous when he said that. She had been told that this would be painful. Her body stiffened as his hand took her breast squeezing slightly. Looking up at him she knew that she would never be able to get married, so would this really be such a bad thing. <br><br>“I…want you.” She whispered.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>01-12-2010, 00:06:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Good girl. My sweet little Sophia. Stay there."<br><br>He rises, undressing quickly, his clothes left in a pile on the floor. Climbing back into the bed, he nudges her legs apart gently, kissing her gently on the mouth. "You are beautiful my dear."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>01-12-2010, 00:21:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She watched as he undressed, and moved back towards her parting her legs. Biting her lip she felt his lips pressing against hers. Gasping slightly she looked up at him. “I’m not so sure about this.” She whispered, it was just her nervous she was scared of what he was going to do and whether it was going to hurt.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>01-12-2010, 20:46:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Hush little one." He strokes her cheek gently, smiling down at her. "It's alright my little Sophia, it will only hurt for a moment." Pulling her into a tender kiss, he gently begins fondling her breasts.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>01-12-2010, 21:14:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled weakly looking up at him, “I’d rather it didn’t hurt at all.” She smiled trying to make a joke. Biting her lip she looked up at him, her fingers running through her hair as he leant down kissing his breasts softly. Closing he eyes she sighed slightly “Hmmmm."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>01-12-2010, 21:22:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckles slightly, stroking her cheek. "I know my sweet." He continues to gently fondle her, one hand straying down her belly to between her legs, parting her nether lips, gentle probing fingers reaching her clit.<br><br>"Gasp for me my little pet."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>01-12-2010, 21:39:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She blushed as she heard him chuckling, looking up at him she felt one of his hands moving between her leg. Her body stiffened up as his fingers pushed between her lips his fingers teasing over her. Looking up at him she ran her fingers through her hair. “What are you going to do?” She whispered.<br><br>As he touched her clit she gasped her eyes widening at the sudden feeling of pleasure.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>02-12-2010, 18:39:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I am going to make you want me. Beg for me. Forget about your worries for a moment and just let yourself go."<br><br>Cleverly moving a bit so the hand running through her hair is lightly pinned under her head, taking grip of her other hand and moving it there as well before his hands return to their work, gently teasing as her clit, enjoying the soft sounds she makes.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>02-12-2010, 20:36:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Biting her lip she looked up at him, “I’ll try to forget my worries.” She felt him pull her hands behind her head she bit her lip looking up at him. “What are you going to do?” She blushed heavily.<br><br>Closing her eyes she felt his hands moving down over her body his fingers teasing over her clit softly. “Hmmmm.” She sighed pushing back against him loving the way he felt teasing her body.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>02-12-2010, 21:40:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He doesn't answer her questions, instead smiling tenderly down at her. "You will see my dear Sophia."<br><br>Focusing more on what is taking place between her legs, he gently begins working a finger around her clit in a slow, deliberate circle.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>03-12-2010, 02:25:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Looking up at him she smiled slightly, she gasped slightly as he ran her fingers around her clit softly. Biting her lip she shivered as ripples of pleasure ran through her. <br><br>Arching her back she closed her eyes, her body shaking slightly. “Hmmm.” She pushed back against him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>09-12-2010, 23:23:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				((Sorry for the delay, rough week))<br><br>Smiling as the girl began to push back against him, he continued his gentle, tender attention, one finger rubbing her clit in slow, purposeful movements while another traces gently over her nether lips. He wants her there, dazed with pleasure, perhaps even in the throws of an orgasm when he finally claims her virginity.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>10-12-2010, 02:35:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				((It's ok hun))<br><br>She moaned pushing against his fingers, she arched her back slightly loving the feel of his hands over her body. “Oh God.” She whimpered her body shaking slightly as she pleasure built up. With each touch and each ragged breath she could feel herself close she just needed something to push her over the edge.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>10-12-2010, 21:02:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A hand traced up her body as he continued his tender ministrations, cupping her breast gently, playing with a nipple while his fingers worked to bring her to climax. As she trembles, he presses his lips to hers, kissing her lovingly.<br><br>"Come for me my little Sophia..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>11-12-2010, 00:49:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Arching her back she moaned harder in pleasure, her body shaking slightly as she felt his fingers teasing her clit, she shivered looking up at him she ran her fingers through her hair. “Oh God.” She moaned harder, as he told her to cum she felt the pleasure running over her.<br><br>“Oh fuck.” She screamed in pleasure as she came hard her puss clamping down on his fingers.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>11-12-2010, 00:54:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As the girl screamed in pleasure he moved so it was his body now between her parted thighs, and slides into her wet, clenching tunnel. Not wanting to prolong her suffering over-much, he tears through her maidenhead in a single firm thrust, hoping the wave of pleasure helps temper her pain.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>11-12-2010, 02:09:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Arching her back she felt him parting her legs before pushing himself deep into her tight wet cunt. With a single thrust he pushed in tearing her maidenhead. “Oh God.” She screamed in pain, her body now still. “Oh God.” She took in a breath as she looked up at him. “Don’t move.” She whispered, taking a few breaths she looked up at him. “I think I’m alright now.” She smiled.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>15-12-2010, 05:44:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He allowed the young woman beneath him a moment to collect herself, to recover from the feeling of her virginity being torn away, before her smile and reassurance compelled him back into things.<br><br>With gentle, careful but firm strokes - much like his life with Sophia - he begins easing deeper into the girl.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>16-12-2010, 00:02:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Closing her eyes she felt herself slowly adjusting to the size within her. “Ohhhh.” She moaned her body shaking slightly as he thrust inside her. “W…what are you going to do?” She bit her lip, her knowledge on sex was limited she knew little of what a man and a women did together. <br><br>Biting her lip she felt him pulling back slightly, before pushing back inside her. Gasping at the strange sensation she found it wasn’t unpleasant just awkward to begin with.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>16-12-2010, 23:43:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He looks at her in surprise for a moment at her question, not realizing that she wouldn't have any clue.<br><br>"I am going to do this my sweet, until I have had my pleasure from you. You'll know when that will be." As she adjusts, he continues his firm, deep but gentle thrusts into her, his shaft moving in and out in slow, deliberate motions, a hand holding her hips tightly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>17-12-2010, 00:33:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Closing her eyes she moaned softly in pleasure, as he pulled back from him. She could hear what he was saying. “What do you mean? I’ll know when that will be?” Arching her back she felt his hand on her hip as he pushed inside her slowly and firmly.<br><br>Parting her legs, she shifted her hips so that he could push deep inside her. “Oh God.” She bit her lip, looking over at him she ran her fingers through his hair as she pulled him down for a kiss.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>17-12-2010, 21:14:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kissing her deeply, he thrusts into her, and once the kiss is broken, he slips a hand gently but firmly over her mouth, silencing any more questions she has. Holding her to him, he thrusts more roughly into her, enjoying the mix of pleasure and confusion on her face as he finally claims the girl he's wanted, but has been too gentlemanly to act upon until she clearly offered it.<br><br>But now she was his, yielding underneath him as he slid in and out of her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>17-12-2010, 22:41:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She blushed as he covered her mouth from asking question. Biting her lip gasped slightly as he pushed himself deep inside her. “Ooooh.” She whispered, closing her eyes she felt him pushing deeper inside her loving the way it felt pushing deep inside her. <br><br>Arching her back she moaned softly in pleasure. “Oh God…” She whispered looking back at him she ran her fingers through her hair. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>20-12-2010, 17:39:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Working in and out of the young woman beneath him, her obviously growing pleasure spurring him on. It is perhaps another five minutes before he climaxes deep within her, the warm surge of his seed spreading through her womanhood. He smiles down at her, putting her hand aside and stroking her hair himself.<br><br>"Well done my sweet Sophia."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>21-12-2010, 00:18:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Moaning harder in pleasure she felt him thrusting deeper and harder inside her, bringing her quickly to orgasm. The pleasure running through her was almost too much to take, with her tight pussy clamping down hard onto his cock, she felt him shoot deep inside her.<br><br>Closing here eyes she breathed deeply trying to relax, she felt him moving her hand from her hair as he played with it himself. "Oh...Master." She whispered her breathing slowly becoming normal again.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>21-12-2010, 06:49:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He grins down at her, pulling out before rolling over beside her.<br><br>"And now little Sophia, you are a woman - and mine. Collect yourself for a moment, and we'll talk about your future." There is a decided tone of satisfaction in his voice.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>21-12-2010, 19:19:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>She blushed as he pulled back, gasping slightly she looked up at him. Turning to the side she smiled, leaning her head on his chest she sighed… “Can we just lie here?” She bit her lip looking over at him. “Just for a little while.” She whispered.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>21-12-2010, 19:30:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Softly stroking her hair, he nods, holding her gently to him.<br><br>"Yes my sweet, we can do that too." He draws a blanket up over the slender girl and lets her rest against him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>22-12-2010, 01:55:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Smiled she curled into him as he pulled the blanket over them. Looking up at him she kissed him softly, pressing herself against him she smiled softly. <br><br>“You’ve changed my life love.” She whispered, her eyes closing she quickly she fell asleep. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 01:13:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He holds her for awhile, letting the girl cradle herself in his arms, the covers keeping the both of them warm. He slept well, with the intense satisfaction that his timid little thief-girl had offered herself to him - and the possibilities that went with it. He awoke slightly before her, and dressed, leaving her asleep in bed, going to find his friend's companion somewhere in the house.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>03-01-2011, 02:22:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Amanda was sat in the drawing room, just reading a book as the door opened. “Oh Hello.” She smiled warmly as she looked past him. “No Sophia?” She smiled slightly looking over him. “Edward’s catching up on some paperwork.” She stood up slowly heading over to him, taking his hand she led him to the sofa. <br><br>“So are things not working out between you and Sophia. I’m sorry.” She smiled her hand stroking his arm softly. “But you know I’m here for you to play with me.” She giggled softly her fingers running through his hair softly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>03-01-2011, 23:53:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He let himself be led to the couch, enjoying the fond, casual affection of the young woman, unable to deny, even this shortly after making love to Sophia that she was a <em>very</em> appealing woman. He smiles, setting a hand on her thigh.<br><br>"I do...Edward was very generous about that. But if you don't mind, I'd like to talk a bit first, about Sophia..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>04-01-2011, 00:03:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She sighed as he turned her down, pouting she picked his hand up running her fingers&nbsp; over his palm softly. “Oh…you want to talk about Sophia? Don’t you want to talk about me?” She giggled looking over at him, seeing the look on his face she realised that he wasn’t in the mood to talk about it. Pressing herself against him she sighed, her fingers running through his hair.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>04-01-2011, 00:24:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He strokes her back gently, knowing her ego was a bit bruised by the objection. "In good time my sweet. After all, I can't have Edward thinking I rejected his generosity. Besides, you should be flattered..." He smiled, tapping her lips gently.<br><br>"Sophia seems to be quite taken with you...she's..." he smiles sligtly, "she's offered herself in a similar capacity."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>04-01-2011, 00:38:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at him slightly, accepting his words. Hearing what he said about Sophia she sighed, “I think that it is my fault she did that…she seemed jealous that you were going to be with me instead of her, I might have pushed her to that course.” She pulled back from him.<br><br>“She loves you…I don’t want to risk her being hurt because of me…I know what its like to find the man you love in the arms of another woman.” She sighed.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>04-01-2011, 00:40:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nods. "You may have pushed her in that direction, but if she was jealous and wants to be with me...you and I both know that's what she would have to accept. Her other options are...even less savory. That's why I was wanting to talk to you - I don't want her hurt either. I was hoping - well, I was hoping you'd train her."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>04-01-2011, 00:55:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;She looked up at him, “I’ll train her if you promise not to hurt her…” Running her figners through her hair she sighed slightly. “She’s young and innocent, she deserves to be happy, not like us, we’re jaded.” She smiled slightly as she patted his thigh, “Go and get some rest, tonight will be interesting.” She smiled warmly at him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>04-01-2011, 01:11:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nods. "I've never done anything but that. You know what I could have done to a young thief who slipped into my house. And I haven't. She's precious to me." He kisses her chastely on the cheek, though it does result in him being against her exposed breasts.<br><br>"I will - I trust you have a key to our room?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>04-01-2011, 01:19:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“I know you could have sent her to prison, I know you wont hurt her.” She smiled at him as he said she was precious. “I’ve never taught anyone before.” She frowned, as he kissed her cheek. <br><br>“I have a key to every room.” She smiled, “Now go and rest or you will be a bad mood for dinner.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>04-01-2011, 01:29:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckled, leaving her there, his thoughts on what the young, beautiful woman could do, and returns to the room holding his sweet, innocent Sophia. Laying down next to her, he draws her small form back into his arms before closing his eyes to sleep as well.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>04-01-2011, 02:04:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophia felt the bed move, and him pulling her back to his arms. “Hmmm, I missed you.” She whispered as she fell asleep again. <br><br>The door opened a few hours later as Amanda walked inside. “James, Sophia?” She smiled, “You need to wake up, its nearly time for dinner.” She smiled as she hung something on the door of the wardrobe, it was a dress for Sophia to wear, it wasn’t as revealing as Amanda’s but it would mark her as a companion.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>04-01-2011, 07:55:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He wakes softly, nodding gratefully to Amanda as he stretches, before gently easing Sophia awake.<br><br>"Rise and shine my sweet pet. Amanda's brought a new dress for you. It will show that you've agreed to be a companion." He rubs her thigh gently. "My wonderful little companion."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>05-01-2011, 04:03:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She grumbled slightly as he woke her up, turning onto her back she put her arms above her head her eyes still closed. “Can I sleep a bit longer?” She whispered, “I’m still tired.” She smiled as she felt his hand on her thigh, but her eyes were still closed.<br><br>Sighing slightly she opens one eyes. “5 more minutes.” She pouts at him, “You can come and lay beside me if you want.” She giggles softly, trying to tease him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>05-01-2011, 19:24:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Temptress." He allows her an indulgent five more minutes, sliding beside her and using the time to gently massage the girl's soft, smooth skin before be gives her rump a light, playful smack.<br><br>"Alright you. Up you come, you'll miss dinner."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>05-01-2011, 19:30:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Smiling she kisses his lips softly, as she felt his hands moving over her, "Hmmmm." She sighs as she stretches out. Squealing as he spanks her arse she giggles. "That's really mean." She pouts at him.<br><br>"I guess I can't miss dinner," Getting up slowly she stretches, moving to the dress she bit her lip. "Oh well atleast its not as revealing as Amanda's." She smiled as she pulled it on the dress was knee lenght skin tight silk, in a soft blue it looked like she was wearing liquid.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>05-01-2011, 20:22:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiles at the dress, running his hands over the smooth expanse of her stomach before resting on her breasts. "I think you look perfect my pet."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>05-01-2011, 20:24:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She blushed looking up at him, "Really? I feel so naked." She whispered, her fingers running through her hair.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>06-01-2011, 00:50:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He laughed, easing her hands back down to her sides and kissing her.<br><br>"You're under the mistaken impression 'perfect' and 'near naked' aren't the same thing my dear. I'm pretty sure if we had our way, companions would wear nothing at all." He slides his hand down her, gently gripping her rear. "Now come, lets not let dinner get cold."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>06-01-2011, 03:22:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She blushed looking up at him, "So perfect and near naked are the same thing?" She pretended to look shocked and appalled.<br><br>She giggled feeling his hands moving down over her, before squeezing her arse. "Maybe if you eat it might stop you from being too...excited."<br><br>They headed downstairs to the diningroom, taking his arm she decided it would be best to let him lead.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>06-01-2011, 06:02:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"In your case? Yes." He gives her a wicked, playful grin and led her down the stairs. "I very much doubt food is going to temper my excitement at finally having you my dear..." He leads her toward the dining room, where the house's owner and his companion can be heard conversing.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>06-01-2011, 16:41:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled, “So if I’m perfect when I’m nearly naked, what am I going to be when I’m fully naked?” She smiled as she took his arm stroking softly.<br><br>They got into the dining room, smiling as they sat down at the table. Biting her lip she ran her fingers through her hair. “Thank you for the dress Amanda.” She smiled looking over at her, she was wearing something just as revealing as last night.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>06-01-2011, 21:02:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He kisses her forehead. "Singularly exceptional."<br><br>The American woman smiles, her dress consisting primarily of a tightly cinched corset, leaving her breasts cupped, but for the most part visible, the dress parting in such a way that it only covered her back and sides, the rest veiled behind a much more thin layer of silk.<br><br>"You are most welcome Sophia." She smiles, nodding to John. "He tells me you've asked to be his companion?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>06-01-2011, 23:34:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at him as he said she was singularly exceptional, giggling she ran her fingers through her hair. She looked at Amanda smiling, “Um, yes…I guess…not that I’m sure I know what I’m meant to do…I guess I’ll learn.” She smiled her fingers running through her hair. <br><br>The first course was served she smiled as she started to eat, it seemed strange how much her life had changed over the past few weeks she had gone from being a worker in a factory to this.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>10-01-2011, 20:18:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Amanda smiles gently, winking softly. "John had asked me, and Edward has given his permission...well..." she blushed softly, even for an experienced companion. "Edward is going on a business trip to Paris this next week, and he offered to let you two stay here and...well, for me to show you the ropes, as it were."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>12-01-2011, 00:49:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sophia bit her lip as she listened to the woman, “Perhaps it would be fun.” She bit her lip, her fingers running through her hair. She picked up the glass taking a large mouthful of wine. “Thank you Sir for being so gracious with offering help.” She smiled biting her lip slightly her fingers through her hair
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>13-01-2011, 21:51:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Edward nods slightly. "My pleasure dear - you needn't be nervous. Amanda was trained similarly, and she came out no more worse for the wear. Besides, its always good to have someone to ease up the pressure of a new master's...full attentions." He winks at his friend.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>14-01-2011, 17:35:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She frowned as he spoke about someone else to ease up the pressure of a master’s attention. She knew she shouldn’t feel jealous but she couldn’t help it, biting her lip she ran her fingers through her hair. “Thank you.” She smiled looking over at Edward and then at Amanda.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>14-01-2011, 19:10:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Amanda smiles gently at the girl. "Eat up Sophia, you'll need it."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>14-01-2011, 19:43:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She started to eat but she didn't say anything, she just kept thinking about what had happened it was all so quick. A few hours ago she was just a maid now she was his companion only needed to keep him happy. Biting her lip she looked over at him, running her fingers through her hair. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>18-01-2011, 21:54:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dinner is passed in polite, quiet conversation, before Edward stands once they're finished. "If you two will excuse us, I need to go back, and say goodbye to my darling little companion here." Amanda blushes softly and follows, leaving Sophia and her new...Master? alone in the large dining room.<br><br>"I know this is happening swiftly Sophia...are you alright?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>19-01-2011, 00:53:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled trying to relax, she needed some time to think. Edward and Amanda make excuses to leave James and Sophia alone. Looking up at him she bit her lip. “I don’t know…I mean weeks ago I was just a workhouse girl, now I’m…well I’m not sure what I am. You say companion but its really a mistress isn’t it? Well maybe not…I don’t know what to think anymore.” She whispered. <br><br>Leaning her head against him she just needed to feel his arm around her, she just wanted some comfort from him…whether she would get it was a different matter. She didn’t know him that well.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>19-01-2011, 22:33:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He draws her reassuringly to him, holding her gently. "Yes, I suppose a mistress is as workable a term as any. Do you object?" He strokes her cheek, smiling down. "I want you to be happy little Sophia, however that can happen."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>22-01-2011, 01:50:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled weakly as he held her, she was scared of being cast aside, it had happened all her life, she knew that he’ll end up getting bored of her. Curling into him she pressed her head on his shoulder. “Just hold me.” She whispered, she didn’t want to tell him truth she didn’t know how he would react to her fears.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>24-01-2011, 19:48:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He does as the girl asks, holding her gently, stroking her hair in gentle, even strokes.<br><br>"My dear, you must tell me your fears, is that clear? Unspoken, they can grow and become unmanageable. But if you tell me, we can face them together." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>25-01-2011, 04:50:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Listening to his words she nodded slightly, “I’m scared.” She whispered, “I’m scared that you’ll leave me, or get bored or me like everyone else has.” She looked at him.<br><br>“I don’t want to have feelings for you just for them to end up being hurt.” She looked away from him, this should have been the happiest day of her life but it was so scary, she had something to lose now.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>27-01-2011, 21:11:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He stroked her reassuringly, holding her close to him. "I won't leave you, and I won't grow bored and cast you aside." He holds her tightly, as if that will bring her some comfort. "I care for you deeply Sophia. If I did not, I would not have asked you to do this. Oh no my sweet, I intend on keeping you for a very long time."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>27-01-2011, 21:31:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Looking up at him she smiled softly. “Do you really mean that?” She whispered, curling into him she wanted to believe that but she was still worried. “But what if you find a wife?” She whispered, “You might feel the need to get rid of me.” She bit her lip, she knew that she shouldn’t think like that, but she couldn’t help it, every time something good happened to her it never lasted long.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>27-01-2011, 21:34:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"If I find a wife? You are mine, and part of my life. She will have to accept that. Though you might have to tolerate sharing me, or being shared, but I won't simply cast you aside. I give you my word."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>27-01-2011, 22:06:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked at him, “You will give me to another?” She bit her lip, “Why would you do that?” She ran her fingers through her hair. Looking up at him she pulled back. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to question you.” She felt so unsure about everything, it was like she was back at the workhouse.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>27-01-2011, 22:14:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckles. "No my sweet, it's alright. What I meant was, at worst, you might be brought to bed with both my wife and I, and asked to please both of us. I wouldn't give you away."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>27-01-2011, 22:48:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Biting her lip she didn’t know what to say in reply, he was her Master, she had no choice or say. Running her fingers through her hair she looked up at him. Leaning her head on his shoulder she bit her lip.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>27-01-2011, 23:04:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He holds her soothingly, petting her back. "But you needn't worry about those things. You are my prized and cherished girl Sophia, and I won't simply cast you aside. You can trust me to take care of you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>28-01-2011, 21:40:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled as she pressed herself against him, she was enjoying the touch and his words. Looking up at him she ran her hand over his chest softly as she curled into him. “What do we do now?” She whispered.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>01-02-2011, 20:49:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiles down at her indulgently. "I suppose the first two questions to answer that are if you're feeling better, and if you're hungry?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>02-02-2011, 02:27:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at him as she curled into his body, she just wanted to sit like this forever and not move. “I am feeling better…I was scared that’s all.” She bit her lip looking up at him. “I’m not that hungry…just tired really. I didn’t really get that rest this afternoon.” She smiled softly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>11-02-2011, 09:18:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It is alright to be scared my dear, just make sure you don't let those fears fester, or they will grow outside our ability to address."<br><br>He stands, pulling out her chair for and helping her up. "Come my little pet, let us see you back to bed."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>11-02-2011, 20:49:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She blushed as she looked up at him, “I’ll try not to let my fears get too much.” She whispered looking up at him.<br><br>She stood up next to him, she took his arm softly. “Alright.” She smiled slightly her fingers running through his hair softly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>20-02-2011, 10:57:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nods, leading her up to her room. "And yet you must learn to trust me, if you are going to be mine little one." He eases her into bed, drawing the blankets over her with a gentle expression.<br><br>"Now, would you like company, or a little peace and quiet?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>20-02-2011, 23:11:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled as he placed her in bed pulling the blanket over her. Looking up at him she smiled softly. “I will trust you?” She took his hand pulling him onto the bed. <br><br>“I’d like some company.” She whispered her fingers running through his hair as hse kissed him softly. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>27-02-2011, 10:02:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiled, kissing her back before withdrawing, undressing and sliding into bed next to her. "Sleep well my little gem, we will start your new life tomorrow." He wraps an arm tenderly around her, equal parts affectionate and possessive.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>27-02-2011, 20:55:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Curling into him as he got into bed beside her. Sighing hse curled into him. "Goodnight." She whispered, closing her eyes she drifted off into sleep as she pressed herself against him. "Hmmmm." She sighed softly enjoying the feel of his body against her as she fell quickly asleep.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>01-03-2011, 00:43:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The night is peaceful, and both sleep soundly, curled together. Early the next morning, she is awakened by a gentle hand on her shoulder, not Edward, but her fellow consort Amanda, kneeling by the bed, a soft, reassuring expression on her face.<br><br>"Hello sweet heart. Ready to begin?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>01-03-2011, 04:29:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>She woke up slowly, seeing a face by the bed she moved back away from the face. “Jesus Amanda…what are you doing here?” She frowned. Sitting up she looked round. “Where’s Edward?” She bit her lip, as she pushed a lock of hair from her eyes.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>01-03-2011, 07:50:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The girl jumps back a bit, smiling apologetically, then nodding to the sleeping man beside her. "Sorry for startling you hun - it's just useful for a companion to be up and ready for the day before her Master wakes up. James has already left so - I thought you and I could use the time alone."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>01-03-2011, 19:48:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She sighed “What do you mean ready?” She pulled the cover up as she sat up in bed. Looking over at Edward, running her fingers through her hair she bit her lip. “What am I meant to do?” She looked over at him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>02-03-2011, 03:18:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her voice kept low, she tries to sound reassuring. "Nothing bad dear...the usual. Bathing, dressing, having breakfast laid out already..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>03-03-2011, 03:07:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She but her lip looking at the woman, “I’d be happier to sleep…but if that is what I must do.” She remembered that she was naked, “Could you step outside? I know that you’re happy to be nude, but I’m not.” She bit her lip blushing heavily.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>03-03-2011, 10:17:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The girl smiled, shaking her head gently.<br><br>"Of course you would love. The first lesson...his happiness comes first. Then yours." She stands. "Dress if you like, but do pick something...appealing?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>03-03-2011, 17:53:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled slightly. “So I have to make sure he’s happy even if that causes me to be unhappy?” She frowned. “I have a lot to learn.” She whispered, as Amanda left she headed over to her clothes finding something, it was her best Sunday dress, it was clingy but not revealing. <br><br>She looked round finding Amanda.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>05-03-2011, 00:56:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Amanda is in the kitchen, supervising breakfast being laid out in the dining room, which has been converted to a somewhat more informal setting. It appears she's been up for hours. Seeing Sophia, she smiles softly, nodding in approval at the dress.<br><br>"An excellent start."<br><br>She straightens a plate, thinking. "And no...you needn't sacrifice your own happiness for his. Just be mindful of it. If you are fortunate, you'll come to find your own pleasure in serving him."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>05-03-2011, 02:35:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She blushed as she nodded at the dress, “Start?” She sighed, “I’ll tell the Father that you said that the next time I’m at church.” She smiled heading over to her wondering what she should do.<br><br>“But what if what he wants is the opposite of what he wants...?” She bit her lip, but she knew the answer all ready. Looking over at her she bit her lip, “What do you want me to do? Can I ask you something? Do you think he brought me here so that I would meet you and choose to become a companion...was it planned?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>05-03-2011, 09:34:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Amanda gives her a genuine smile, laughing. "You may, though I doubt the start I had in mind is the same one as the good Father did."<br><br>"I believe there's juice in the kitchen that needs pouring, tea as well." The woman talks as she works, her expression thoughtful. "If it is not more than you can bear...you bear it." The next question seems to take her by surprise, though she shakes her head.<br><br>"I doubt that, I doubt that very much. At least not in a way where they told me to do so." She shrugs slightly. "If it was, despite you saying yes, it doesn't seem to be working very well." When she says the last part, her tone seems...a little sad.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>05-03-2011, 21:32:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled, “Well maybe you can help me find something more suitable to wear…if it would be alright with Edward.” She smiled softly her fingers running through her hair. <br><br>“Oh it isn’t working?” She frowned biting her lip slightly. “Oh um…I’ll go get the juice.” She walked out the room quickly, she was worried that she wasn’t learning quick enough…and that Edward wasn’t happy with her. <br><br>She headed into the kitchen waiting a few minutes before grabbing the juice she headed out a few minutes later walking into the dining room. “I didn’t know if you had any cups.” She bit her lip not wanting to look at Amanda.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>08-03-2011, 23:37:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"If the idea was for you to end up like me, no, I wouldn't say it was working dear. You...don't seem to think very highly of how I live." She looks down for a moment. "Or perhaps of me. Who knows."<br><br>By the time the girl returns, whatever Amanda was feeling has been tucked carefully behind her usual demeanor. "You needn't worry so much, this isn't your home. Come, I'll show you..." She leads the girl into the kitchen, giving her a brief tour to help her get her bearings.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>08-03-2011, 23:48:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked at Amanda came out and was shown back to the kitchen. "I don't think lowly of you, I admire you. If I thought lowly of you I wouldn't want to be around you. I'm scared that I'm not going to be good enough." <br><br>Taking her hand she looked at her. "I'm sorry if I seemed unkind to you. Forgive me." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>14-03-2011, 23:21:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Amanda shrugs slightly. "Perhaps I am too sensitive. I've been called James' little American whore enough times that...I suppose I expect to be judged poorly."<br><br>She smiles, shaking her head. "You'll be fine sweetie - Edward is very clearly taken with you. You're halfway there already." Looking at the table, she nods. "We're ready. Why don't you go wake him."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>15-03-2011, 02:48:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She bit her lip as she looked at Amanda. “I am sorry, can we be friends? I get the feeling that being a companion means we don’t have many friends.” She hugged her quickly before pulling back.<br><br>“Thank you, I just worry that I’m not going to make him happy. “ She smiled, running her fingers through her hair. “Alright I’ll go wake him up.” She smiled as she headed upstairs. Getting back into the room she walked over to him. “Edward?” She bit her lip as she looked up at him. “It’s time to wake up.” She smiled as she ran her fingers through his hair. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>18-03-2011, 06:43:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Amanda nods. "Of course we can my dear - and please, speak your mind to me, even if you might insult me. It would be nice to hear the...unfettered truth. And I'll do my best to help you."<br><br>Edward stirs slightly, his eyes coming open, hands affectionately resting on her hips. "Come to wake me up my little pet? I had the most wonderful dream about you..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>18-03-2011, 20:29:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at Edward, sitting beside him she ran her fingers through his hair softly . “Apparently, I would have liked to stay in bed with you, but Amada made me get up.” She sighed pouting at him. <br><br>She moved onto the bed beside him despite being on top of the covers she pressed herself against him kissing him deeply. “I love you.” She whispered. “So what was the dream about?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>22-03-2011, 11:02:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiles. "That cruel taskmistress. Teach you anything useful?"<br><br>Edward strokes her hip softly as she kisses him, savoring the feeling. "I love you too my dear. As for the dream...it involved you and all manner of unsavory activity." He winked playfully.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>22-03-2011, 22:06:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled. “I’m sure that the cruel taskmistress will be angry that we aren’t downstairs for breakfast straight away.” She sighed her fingers running through her hair. <br><br>“Oh…well perhaps we can make your dreams come true.” She giggled kissing his lips deeply. “I love you.” She whispered her fingertips running over his cheek softly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>31-03-2011, 22:41:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Will she indeed?" He rises, sliding out of bed, clearly not terribly concerned about being undressed in front of Sophia - if he had his way, she'd grow quite used to the concept indeed. "I love you too my pet. And yes, I imagine we will be seeing about those dreams. Now come, lets see what the two of you have provided for breakfast."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>02-04-2011, 03:00:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Possibly.” She smiled watching him getting out of bed, standing up as well she blushed seeing that he was naked. “I can’t wait to see what those dreams are about.” She giggled looking over at him, she frowned slightly. “Don’t you want to get dressed?” She frowned as she rushed over getting his robe before offering it to him. “It’s cold downstairs, I don’t want you to get ill.” She smiled, the truth was she didn’t want Amanda seeing him naked.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>04-04-2011, 08:10:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiled as he took the robe, silencing the part of him that wanted to say no. Wanted to throw her head first into the deep-end of her new role - and perhaps see if Amanda couldn't give her some pointers on how to keep herself occupied under a breakfast table. <br><br>But that could wait. Tying the robe closed, he gently, affectionately groped her rear as they left his room, heading down stairs.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>05-04-2011, 01:33:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled breathing a sigh of relief as he took the robe from her, she looked at him, she didn’t want Amanda to see him naked but she knew that he might go to her if she doesn’t satisfy him. Biting her lip she looked over at him, he groped her rear she smiled. <br><br>“Are you alright?” She followed him downstairs towards the dining room. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>05-04-2011, 07:55:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Yes my pet, fine, why do you ask?"<br><br>He gives her an appraising glance. "And for that matter, are you?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>05-04-2011, 20:05:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“I just wondered, you didn’t seem too happy that I gave you the robe.” She frowned looking up at him.<br><br>“I’m alright, just a bit nervous…I guess I’m not use to everything still. It happened so quickly.” Running her fingers through her hair she bit her lip looking up at him.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>06-04-2011, 08:50:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He shakes his head slightly. "Not angry my dear little German." As they walk, he draws her possessively into his arms. "You giving me the robe was fine - it just had not occurred to me to get dressed. I blame the presence of a pretty young girl who agreed to be mine."<br><br>He strokes her cheek gently. "You will grow used to it in time. I know it has gone fast my pet..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>06-04-2011, 22:49:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled warmly at him, enjoying the feel of his arm around her, cuddling into him she looked up at him. “It just doesn’t occur to me that people would like to be without clothes.” She blushed looking up at him, running her fingers through her hair she smiled slightly.<br><br>Looking up at him as he stroked her cheek she smiled. “I hope I grow use to it.” Smiling she headed over to the dining room motioning to the chair for him to sit at.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mercurial</strong> on <strong>07-04-2011, 07:28:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You are already doing quite well my dear Sophia. Think of how far you have come in so little time."<br><br>He sits, and nods for her to do so as well, Amanda joining them a short time later - modestly dressed, by her standards. They eat quietly, until Amanda breaks the ice a bit. "Sophia, is there anything in particular you'd like to do today?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Christmas Gift (Mercurial + ~AT~)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zealously Jaded</strong> on <strong>08-04-2011, 01:18:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She sits down a few seconds after he motions to her, running her fingers through her hair she started to cover his plate with food, not sure if he could eat all this but she just piled it on for him. She got some food for her but she didn’t put too much on, she was just so nervous.<br><br>Looking at Amanda as she spoke she looked over at her. “Oh um…I don’t know…what are we meant to so?” She ran her fingers through her hair. <br>
			</dd>
		</dl>
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