Chapter 7.

Despite treating her bruises with vitamin K cream and aloe vera, it was still impossible for Cindy to sit or stand without pain. The entire week was spent performing her chores in extreme discomfort, made even worse by Alison and Jessica smacking her bottom as a “thank you” for bringing them their snacks and refreshments.

She wasn’t complaining, though. In fact, she wouldn’t have changed a thing. Those few seconds of orgasm her goddess granted her were the most magical of her entire life. It made her squirm in her chastity to think of it. Maybe if she was a good girl, then Eleanor might unlock her and give her little clitty another rubbing.

She had not forgotten Eleanor expected Sarah to serve at the party alongside her mother. It was all she thought about. She felt guilty for bringing Sarah into this, but the throbbing in her pussy was too demanding to refuse. She could not disappoint her goddess and key holder. What if she was never allowed to orgasm again?

Her job, unpaid bills, notices, final notices: none of it mattered. She shoved unopened envelopes in a drawer, out of sight and out of mind. It wasn’t as if she had any money left to pay them anyway. The only debt she worried about was what she still owed Eleanor for failing to cover her expenses at the spa. Her home, car, and life were insignificant by comparison. Spankings, service, and orgasms were fast becoming her only purpose in life.

And why not? Didn’t she deserve a chance to do something she truly wanted to do? It wasn’t as if she owed Pete anything. The man was a shiftless bum. Even now, the stubborn ass refused to talk until she apologized. It was laughable. How long would he continue the silent treatment once he realized she was done bankrolling him to watch TV and lose at the casino? She might have felt a little guilty if he had at least tried to find a job. Fuck him.

She did feel bad for Sarah, though. It would be distressing to lose her childhood home and see her parents split. But she was a grown woman now with a job and money of her own. She had far more in savings than Cindy did.

Still, how long could Sarah continue to flip burgers? She would need a real job one day. Without a college education, her prospects were limited. Cindy did not want her to become like her, offering twenty years to a crappy job, and watching others gain promotions and bonuses because she was too shy and aroused to speak up.

It was important Sarah found something she loved. Eleanor’s party could be just the thing she needed to springboard her to a better life. Eleanor had said that many powerful people would be there. If Sarah showed them what a diligent worker she was then maybe they would see her potential and offer her a job. How many opportunities like this would come along again? It would make Cindy a terrible mother if she didn't bring Sarah with her to serve at the party.

The more she told herself the lie, the braver she became to finally ask.

She opened the door to Sarah’s room to find her sitting cross-legged on her bed, typing something on her laptop. She seemed startled and quickly closed the cover.

“Can’t you knock?” she said.

“Sorry, honey,” she said, “I just have some exciting news.”

“Um, okay? Are you going to stop sleeping in the bathroom?”

Cindy found herself blushing. “Honey, your dad and me-”

“You’re going through some things. It’s okay. I get it. What do you want to tell me?”

Cindy smiled.  “You know my new job over in Paradise Hills? I have some great news! Mrs. Noble is hosting a fancy soiree and she wants us both to work as servers. Isn’t that wonderful?”

Sarah blinked at her.

“It’s this Friday!”

“Um…I’m already working?”

“Oh, Sarah. This is far more important than serving cheeseburgers. You’ll be serving some of the most influential people in the whole city, maybe even the whole state; the whole country. These are the kinds of people who wouldn’t be seen dead in a Burger King.”

“Mom, I know you’re into this new job of yours, but seriously, have you heard yourself? I’ve no interest in kowtowing to a bunch of overprivileged snobs who made their money by exploiting the labors of-”

“Sarah, stop that nonsense. Who do you think is making money from your labor at Burger King? Faceless CEOs and shareholders. At least this way you can actually look these people in the eye.”

Sarah sighed. “Mom, these are the same people that literally left you to drown in their swimming pool. I can’t just forget that. And you’ve been weird ever since you started at this place. I mean, forget sleeping in the bathroom for a second, you’re wearing a literal dog collar and I’m pretty sure I haven’t seen you sit down for a week. I don’t know what they’ve done to you, but I don’t want any part of it.”

Cindy felt her panic rise. She could not let Sarah refuse. Eleanor wanted her. Eleanor expected her. She could not fail her. She needed to be a good girl. She needed to cum so so bad.

“$200 for a single night's work? I know you need the money.”

“Because you borrowed a thousand dollars from me?”

Cindy glanced ashamedly down to her feet. Eleanor had never suggested she would pay Sarah. Cindy would have to find the money herself. Somehow.

“Sorry, Mom. That wasn’t fair. I know you’re in a difficult position. I just wish you’d talk to Dad. I hate that the two of you can’t even be in the same room together. Isn’t there any way you can reconnect?”

Cindy smiled to herself. Reconnect? That would imply they had once been connected. Still, Pete was Sarah’s father and Cindy could not just dismiss that. “Okay, honey,” she said, seizing on the opening. “If you come and help me at the party, I’ll have a nice long talk with your father. Deal?”

“Mom, I really don’t-”

“Sarah please!” she blurted, covering her mouth with her hand to avoid breaking down into tears. She inhaled through her nose to compose herself. “Look, I’m sorry. This job is really important to me. I…said that you’d help me with this. I know I shouldn’t have volunteered you without asking but…you have to understand, I’ve finally found something I love. I just want to make a good impression on them. Please help me.”

Sarah swallowed. Her eyes glistened with understanding. She nodded along and Cindy felt awful for blackmailing her so deviously. She just had to remember that the ends justified the means. It would help Sarah to work at the party. Cindy would make sure Sarah was compensated. And it wasn’t as if anything bad was going to happen. It was a party. Bad things didn’t happen at parties.

Repeating the lie over and over in her head made her start to believe this really could be for the best.

“Okay, Mom,” said Sarah, getting off her bed and giving Cindy a hug. “I’m not going to pretend like I understand why this means so much to you, but I’ll do it for you.”

“Thank you,” said Cindy, weeping into Sarah’s hair.

*

The setting sun cast the sky in a brilliant shade of orange. It was the perfect backdrop to Eleanor’s magnificent mansion.

Cindy was amused to see Sarah’s mouth hang open as she witnessed its scale. Cindy could not have asked for a better first impression of Eleanor’s power. Sarah would see that working hard to impress could only improve her future prospects. A reference from Eleanor Noble would be priceless.

“Um, Mom? Just how rich are they?”

“Very rich,” said Cindy, smugly proud of her goddess’ achievements as if Cindy herself had played some tiny role in them. She thought back to all those sleepless nights, perfecting Eleanor's homework into the early hours to ensure she got top marks. It may have been to her own detriment, but Eleanor’s success showed she’d made the right choice.

They trudged up the long driveway and passed between two white marble statues of Venus signifying they were now entering the world of the divine.

“Remember,” said Cindy, feeling the excited nerves of seeing her goddess again, “you must call Eleanor: Mrs. Noble. I suggest you call everyone else you meet either Miss or Sir.”

Sarah scoffed.

Cindy stopped and grabbed Sarah by her arms. “I’m serious,” she said, sounding more anxious than she’d intended. “Look where we are. People who live like this expect to be shown respect at all times.”

“Why? Because we should bow to people who got rich by avoiding tax and screwing over their workers?”

“Sarah, I’m begging you. No politics. Please. Promise me!” She found herself squeezing Sarah’s arm.

“Ow, Mom, chill. I won’t do anything to embarrass you. I promise.”

Cindy breathed relief and released her. They continued on their way and arrived at the stairs that led to the main entranceway Cindy had never once used. Large double doors were flanked by Corinthian columns wrapped in ivy. Sarah placed her foot on the first step and Cindy’s skin prickled as if the action was blasphemous.

“Sarah, stop,” she said, pulling her daughter back, “we need to use the kitchen entrance.”

“Why?”

“It’s…easier. Just trust me.”

Sarah shrugged and followed Cindy around the side of the house between the immaculately trimmed hedgerow and white limestone of the mansion.

They walked across the patio with the romanesque pool glistening in the final rays of sunlight. Alison and several of her friends sat on the edge, dipping their feet in the crystal-clear water. Alison wore her baby pink Versace that showed off her tanned skin and curves. Her cheeks were dimpled adorably as she laughed along with her friends.

The object of their mirth became apparent when Alison lifted her foot and a spluttering Emily rose to the surface with red rings around her eyes. Alison allowed her just a couple of seconds to recover her breath before pressing her foot down and dunking her once again. All her friends laughed and cheered.

Alison spotted Cindy and smiled at her as if daring her to intervene. Cindy gulped and opened the kitchen door. She glanced back at Sarah who thankfully had not seemed to notice since she held her chin lowered with her eyes fixed on the ground, clearly hoping to remain invisible to the girls who must have reminded her of her own bullies from high school.

Cindy smiled at her daughter in the hopes of reassuring her and motioned for her to enter the mansion. Sarah leaped through the door and away from Alison as quickly as she could. Cindy followed, far from proud of herself for abandoning Emily. But really, was it any of her business?

She knew it was the justification of a coward.

*

Eleanor outstretched her arms to present the décor of the ballroom, pushing forward her breasts in her tight-fitting black sweater, and showing her nipples through the expensive material.

The wainscoting walls were a luxurious cream trimmed in gold. The marble floor was patterned in gleaming diamonds that looked opulent enough to lick. Circular tables were decorated with Panama linen, candles, centerpiece bouquets, and silverware. There was a raised platform where the polished instruments of a small orchestra waited to be played. The entire hall was basked in a decadent glow from low-hanging crystal chandeliers.

“So,” said Eleanor, pouting, “what do you think?”

Cindy had to restrain herself from gushing her admiration, aware that Sarah was standing next to her, wide-eyed and speechless.

“Really amazing, G-” Cindy cleared her throat before speaking Eleanor’s true title. Eleanor had already warned her that Mrs. Noble would suffice for this evening. “G-great,” she said, recovering, “really great.”

Eleanor’s pout became a knowing smirk. She clipped her thumbs inside her calfskin leather belt with the golden Gancini buckle. The key to Cindy’s chastity was on display, dangling over her breasts, shimmering in the light as if mocking her. Cindy suddenly felt hot.

“Um, M-Mrs. Noble?” she said, trying to distract herself from her rising arousal, “we’d like to thank you for this opportunity. Wouldn’t we Sarah?”

Sarah blushed at the drop of her name. Eleanor continued to smirk as she observed the mother-and-daughter duo.

“Go on,” whispered Cindy to Sarah, grabbing her hand and encouraging her to step forward.

Sarah stumbled, giving Cindy a what-the-fuck look. “H-hello,” she said, struggling to look Eleanor in the eye.

Cindy cleared her throat at her daughter. Sarah had already forgotten to show Eleanor respect.

Sarah glanced at Cindy irritably at the passive reprimand. “Mrs. Noble,” she added hesitantly.

Eleanor appeared more amused than offended, much to Cindy’s relief.

“Best listen to your mother, girl,” said Eleanor. “I expect you to treat my guests with the respect they’re due. You will refer to them as either Miss or Sir. Think you can manage that?”

Sarah nodded, more begrudgingly than Cindy would have liked.

From behind them, there was an exultant squeal. Cindy turned to see Jessica and Kaylee, holding each other’s hands, bounding up to Sarah with huge grins on their pretty faces, and their breasts bouncing inside their backless crop tops.

Sarah took a step back and glanced nervously at Cindy as they invaded her space, owning it. Jessica and Kaylee were taller and stronger, and as much as Cindy hated herself for thinking it, far more beautiful than Sarah could ever hope to be. Cindy gave her daughter an encouraging smile to help put her at ease, but Cindy knew the cruelty they were capable of if given the chance. She felt anxiety on Sarah’s behalf.

“So,” said Jessica, “you must be Sarah?”

A bead of sweat dripped down the side of Sarah’s forehead. She didn’t know where to look as the beautiful and intimidating, blonds loomed into her face.

Kaylee grinned. “She sort of looks like her mom, doesn’t she?”

Jessica laughed. “This is so funny. Hey, Mom? Have you shown them their uniforms yet?”

“Wait a sec,” said Sarah, “n-nobody said anything about a uniform.”

Jessica shrugged. “It should be pretty obvious. You’re not a guest, you're just the help. We have to know who to summon when we want a drink.”

Kaylee laughed. “Besides,” she said, pulling on Sarah’s cardigan, “you didn’t really think you’d be wearing this? Where did you even find it? A thrift store?”

Sarah pulled her arm away defensively and looked at her mom questioningly, but Cindy just stood awkwardly smiling at the scene. She could not dare stand up to them. Sarah could survive a little teasing far better than Cindy’s buttocks could survive another beating. Not that she could explain that to her daughter.

Mercifully, Eleanor took charge. “Now now, girls,” she said, “be nice. I’m sure Sarah only wore those clothes for the journey. Nobody could possibly think they were appropriate service attire.”

It was one of Sarah’s best cardigans. Cindy had specifically made her wear it. Mother and daughter blushed with mutual embarrassment.

“Oh my god,” said Jessica. “Look at her face. She actually thought this looked good.”

“No way,” said Kaylee, “nobody can be that stupid.”

“Girls,” said Eleanor firmly but light-heartedly. “You should start getting ready.”

“Urf,” said Jessica, “can’t we wait and see them in their uniforms first?”

“You’ll see them later, baby. I haven’t even given them their instructions yet.”

Jessica tutted. “Fine. I guess we’ll see you around then, Sarah.” She blew her a gentle kiss and then turned and led Kaylee away with their arms interlocked, chatting excitedly together.

“So then,” said Eleanor once they were gone, “listen closely because I do not want to repeat myself.”

Cindy straightened herself to receive her orders. It did not go unnoticed by Sarah who stared at her oddly. Cindy tried to ignore her to concentrate on the words of her goddess. They were here to do a job. She would not let Eleanor down.

“We already have a team of professional caterers who will be performing the most important duties. Your task is actually quite simple. You will assist in serving champagne and hors d’ouveres. I think even your untrained eyes should be able to spot when someone is in immediate need of refreshment. Yes?”

“Yes,” said Cindy, a little too eagerly, aware of Sarah’s eyes upon her.

Eleanor continued. “Kourtney is in charge of the staff. I’ve already explained the situation. You’ll be reporting directly to her. She is as much your boss as I am, so you will show her respect. Dressing you in separate uniforms from her staff was her idea. She has a reputation to consider, and if something goes awry, she does not want her good name associated with your mishaps.”

“Nothing will go awry-”

“I’m still speaking!”

Cindy buckled into a curtsey at the raise of Eleanor’s voice.

Sarah stared in disbelief. Cindy averted her eyes to the floor from embarrassment. Not pissing Eleanor off was her top priority. Eleanor controlled her orgasms and they mattered far more than maintaining Sarah’s respect.

Eleanor inhaled, inflating her chest before exhaling her irritation slowly through her nose. “And don’t even think about interacting with my guests either. You’re here to serve. If they want to talk to you, they will ask you a question. If not, you are invisible. Think of yourselves as floating trays. Is that clear?”

“Absolutely,” said Cindy, “we won’t let you down, Mrs. Noble.”

Eleanor pouted. “See that you don’t.”

Sarah raised her hand to speak. Cindy could tell it was a force of will for Sarah to look Eleanor in the eye. It was as if she was trying to fight against her very nature. “Um, how long do you expect us to stay here?”

Cindy gulped. What was Sarah doing? She hadn’t even addressed her as Mrs. Noble. She looked across worriedly at Eleanor.

Eleanor narrowed her eyes. “You are here until I tell you otherwise, young lady.”

Sarah was visibly shaken and yet still she persisted, despite herself. “You know,” she said meekly, “we’re entitled to a ten-minute break every four hours then?” Her weak voice lacked the conviction of her words.

The silence made the blood pump in Cindy’s brain. Sarah needed to stop speaking.

“Well,” said Eleanor at last, her voice as sharp as her stare, “aren’t you quite the little socialist.”

Cindy laughed in the hopes of diffusing the tension and saving her own ass from whatever punishment Eleanor might inflict because of Sarah’s mouth. “Oh, Sarah, you and your politics. Um, can we take a moment please, Mrs. Noble? I think we need a quick chat.”

“Yes,” said Eleanor, staring as if they were insects. “I think you do.”

Cindy laughed and wrapped her arm around Sarah’s shoulder. This was going about as badly as it could. She had to up her performance if she hoped to gain release today.

“Your uniforms are waiting for you in the east bathroom,” said Eleanor. “I expect you to present yourselves to Kourtney within twenty minutes.”

“No problem, Mrs. Noble. Thank you.”

Sarah’s whole face scrunched, disgusted at her mother. Cindy gave her a push and the two of them started to walk from the ballroom.

She whispered angrily into Sarah’s ear. “What are you doing?”

“What am I doing? What are you doing?”

Cindy looked worriedly behind her shoulder. Eleanor was still staring them down. Cindy hurried Sarah out the door and down the east corridor to gain some privacy.

“I’m trying to keep my job,” she answered, “something you don’t seem to care about.”

“Mom, this is insane. She’s treating us like her own personal servants.”

Cindy bit her lip. That was exactly what they were. She had never been allowed at one of Eleanor’s parties back in high school. Not even as a server. It was always her dream to be invited.

She hadn’t even gone to prom. Cindy was one of the losers that Eleanor and the other popular students had rightly banned from attendance. After all, it could hardly be special if every geek and nerd was allowed entry. Cindy had regretted not being there to cast her vote for Eleanor as prom queen. Luckily, Eleanor won regardless. But now, twenty-five years later, she had a chance to be at a real Eleanor party and Sarah was ruining it.

Sarah continued. “And was that her daughter who basically attacked me? What the fuck, Mom? This is very fucking weird. And why are you still wearing that collar?”

Cindy grasped it protectively. “W-what do you mean?”

Sarah shook her head. “I fucking knew it. She’s making you wear it, isn’t she? Mom, this has to end. I’m not letting you humiliate yourself for the sake of some evil, privileged snobs.”

“Sarah, shush, someone might hear you.”

“I don’t care.”

Cindy knew that was a lie. She’d seen the frightened look on Sarah’s face when accosted by Jessica and Kaylee. She’d seen how hard it was for her to look Eleanor in the eye. Sarah was brave now nobody was around to challenge her.

Cindy wished her daughter could understand that it was okay to be meek in the presence of people like Eleanor. She did not have to pretend to be something she wasn’t.

“Honey, we can talk in the bathroom,” said Cindy as placatingly as she could, “come on.”

She led Sarah inside the marble and chrome east bathroom. There were two clear garment bags over the side of the rectangular spa tub that contained their uniforms.

Sarah picked one up and scoffed as she held it up for Cindy to see the French Maid costume inside. It had a long stiff skirt edged in old-fashioned lace. The apron was sewn onto the shoulder and dropped across the torso in gruesome frills. There was a black bow over the chest and a white bow tied around the waist. Long white socks and schoolgirl buckle shoes had been left to complete the look.

Cindy felt her skin prickle at the prospect of wearing it. An actual nineteenth-century French maid would have been embarrassed to wear something so ugly. But at least it wasn’t…sexual? It would be impossible for anyone to feel sexy in something so grotesque.

“She can’t be serious,” said Sarah.

“Sarah,” said Cindy, as brightly as she could, “please calm down. This is just for one night, remember? You’ll get paid and then you don’t need to ever see these people again.”

“I thought you said this would help my prospects?”

Cindy froze. “It…it will, honey.”

“Mom, I don’t know what kind of hold that bitch Eleanor has on you. But it ends here.”

Cindy slapped her. Nobody spoke about her goddess like that, not even her daughter. Sarah clutched her cheek and stared back in shock. Cindy swallowed her regret. What had she done? She had never struck her before in her life.

“S-Sarah, I’m so sorry.”

Sarah shook her head. The look of betrayal on her face wounded Cindy to her core. Sarah threw the maid costume down and pushed past her. She was done. Cindy panicked. She had to save this. It was turning into her worst nightmare. She reached for Sarah’s arm, gripping it tightly.

“Sarah, please, don’t go, please.”

“Let go of me,” yelled Sarah, struggling against Cindy’s surprisingly strong grip.

“Please,” said Cindy, her voice cracking as tears fell, “I need you. I can’t do this alone. Please help me. Please!”

“Mom, you’re scaring me.”

She released her grip and Sarah backed away with a concerned look on her face. Cindy dropped to her knees and clasped her hands together.

“I’m begging you. You have to stay. I know I’ve been awful to you. I’m so sorry. It’ll never happen again. I promise. But please. If you love me, you’ll help me. Please. Please!”

“Mom…I…what’s going on?”

She had been given a reprieve. She had to take it. Sarah would never understand the truth. She had to manipulate her into staying. It was her only chance.

“I’m in trouble. Serious, serious trouble.” She gave her best doe-eyes. She could see Sarah’s anger dissipating. Cindy knew she was a terrible person to exploit her daughter’s good nature. “We’re going to lose the house. I’ve more debt than I can ever pay. Your father won’t help me. I’m on my own. Please don’t leave me.”

Sarah swallowed and joined her mother on the floor, taking her hands and squeezing.

Cindy gave a weak smile and sniffed back her tears. “I was fired from Krogers. Eleanor gave me a job. She’s the only one who would. She’s helping us climb out of debt. She’s the only chance we have. I mean, look at me. Who else would hire me? I’ve no references, no qualifications. It’s impossible for me to get out of this mess without Eleanor.”

“But, Mom, she’s-”

Cindy cut her off before Sarah dared insult her again. She could not guarantee she would not slap her again if she tried. “I know she’s demanding, but that’s just what people at the top are like. It’s how they got there and stay there. She’s actually really good to me. I’m part of her family now. You’ll see this is all worth it. You’ll see…you’ll-”

She broke down into hysterical sobbing. Sarah brought her close and gave her a huge hug.

“It’s okay, Mom,” she said. “I didn’t know things were this bad. You’re under stress. I know you didn’t mean to hit me.”

“I can’t serve at this party alone, Sarah. I just can’t. I need this job. I can’t mess it up. Please help.”

“Okay, Mom, I’ll stay.”

“Really?”

“Yes. I love you, Mom.”

Cindy did not deserve such a sweet daughter. She hated herself for what she had done to her. “I love you too. Thank you. Thank you so much. This means more to me than you will ever know.”

*

Cindy fingered the black polyester of her costume. She had dressed inside the shower to avoid the unpleasantness of Sarah accidentally catching her mother’s chastity. That would take more creativity to explain than Cindy could deliver.

Sarah’s face was as red as a cherry as she stood awkwardly in the ill-fitting dress that seemed purposefully designed to be baggy and tight in all the most unflattering of places.

“You look cute, honey,” said Cindy, reddening further at the obviousness of her lie.

“We look like the world’s biggest dorks, Mom. They seriously want us to wear these? Why?”

Sarah had already answered her own question.

“Oh, it isn’t so bad,” said Cindy giving a twirl, making the best of the terrible situation.

Sarah suppressed a laugh. It made Cindy feel like things couldn’t be so bad if she could still make Sarah smile. She had never dreamed that she and Sarah would be side by side dressed as French Maids about to serve the party guests of her old high school obsession. Still, she was glad Sarah was with her. It gave her strength. She hoped Sarah felt the same.

“After you then, M’Lady,” said Sarah, giving a curtsey.

Cindy laughed and gave one of her own. The irony of her actually curtseying to Eleanor was not lost. Her stomach suddenly writhed with guilt. She could not allow Sarah to think this joke was somehow at Eleanor’s expense. The idea of insulting her goddess was horrifying.

“Okay,” she said seriously, “we need to start work now.”

Sarah’s smile faded.

Cindy walked beyond her.

“Jesus, Mom,” said Sarah, grabbing Cindy’s collar as she passed, “take this off at least.”

“Sarah, wait,” she said, attempting to wrap her fingers around the collar to fight back. But it was too late. Sarah had already unbuckled it and loosened the strap. “No!”

A sensor beeped. Cindy took a sharp intake of breath, and in a split second, a violent rush of electricity had zapped across her neck.

She gargled as the shock waves shot through her whole body. Her limbs convulsed and her neck felt as if it were being compacted within a lethal vice. She screamed through clenched teeth and collapsed to her knees.

Sarah screamed. “Mom! Mom! What’s going on?”

“Gyaa, the…collar…put….it…back…pleaasse.”

Sarah was in tears as she fumbled with the buckle, trying to lock it back, apologizing the whole time.

Cindy spasmed on the spot until Sarah successfully tightened it enough to make it stop. She fell onto her face, shaking and gasping for breath.

Sarah knelt by her side and patted her hair.  “I’m so sorry, Mom. I didn’t know. I’m so sorry.”

“It’s…okay…”

“What was that?”

There was nowhere to hide. Cindy gathered her breath, trying to think of an excuse that might satisfy her. There really wasn’t anything she could say. She was wearing a shock collar. How could that ever be explained?

“I’m sorry you had to see that,” she said.

“She did this to you, didn’t you?” Sarah was beginning to shift from grief to anger. Cindy had to put a stop to that before it began.

“No! There is no one to blame for this but me. I put this on myself. I’m the one who installed the mechanism. It’s designed to give me an electric shock if I try to remove it. I did it because I wanted it.”

She hoped she sounded convincing.

“What? Why would you do that?”

Trying to preserve her daughter’s respect was an effort in futility now. The best she could do was have Sarah feel sorry for her enough to stay and not cause a scene.

“Look,” she said, not sure where she was going with this but hoping for the best, “I have this thing. I…like to feel trapped.”

Sarah blinked at her.

“Sarah please try and understand. This is embarrassing for me. I didn’t think I’d have to explain this to you. But…it gives me pleasure. I like to know I have no choice but to wear it. It’s designed to shock me as soon as I try to take it off.”

“Pleasure? You mean-”

“Yes. I’m sorry Sarah.”

She could see the gears moving inside Sarah’s mind as the realization of what her mother became clear.

“You’re a…masochist?” She hushed the last word as if it was forbidden.

“It’s all self-inflicted, honey. I just…feel like I deserve it sometimes. I’ve failed you as a mother. I’ve failed as a person. I’m in debt. This is my bondage and it makes me feel better. Does that make sense?”

“Oh, Mom, you’re breaking my heart. You aren’t a failure.”

Cindy laughed. “Look at me, what else am I?”

“You’re my mom and I love you.”

Cindy smiled. “You aren’t mad?”

“Of course not. I would never judge anyone for their kinks. I have more than a few of my own you know. I admire you for being brave enough to go through with them. Just…promise me that you’ll try and work on your self-esteem. It hurts me to hear you talk about yourself like that.”

“Okay, I will. Thank you, Sarah. For everything.”

They gave each other a large embrace. Cindy knew she did not deserve a daughter as great as Sarah.

*

The aromas of exquisite cuisine filled the outdoor pavilion. Multiple chefs delicately completed the hors d'oeuvres for service. Expensive champagne bottles were being popped and crystal glasses were filled. The professional servers were dressed smartly in pristine shirts, and either pencil skirts or dress pants.

There were derisive snorts as Cindy and Sarah skulked inside to present themselves for duty. There could be no doubt Cindy and Sarah were the outcasts. Sarah could barely lift her eyes from her feet. Even Cindy, despite her experience of being collared, leashed, naked, and caged, still felt uncomfortable.

A woman in soft suede Salvatore Ferragamo heels marched toward them. Her black hair was slick. Her pure white blouse was tucked into her high-waist mini business skirt and unbuttoned to reveal her cleavage. Her long legs were covered by striped Prada tights. A heavy golden necklace, bracelets, and Cartier hoops showed off her wealth. A sneer was fixed on her classically beautiful face. She could only have been Kourtney. The boss.

“So, you’re the volunteers?” she said, placing her hands on her hips and speaking down at them from below her nose.

Sarah furrowed her brow and looked questioningly at Cindy. Cindy wished Kourtney had not used that term. Sarah did not need to know this whole thing was unpaid labor.

“We’re here to work,” she said, trying to be as vague as possible. Cindy would find Sarah the $200 she promised her. It was just as good as Eleanor personally paying her. Money was money. Sarah didn’t need to know where it came from.

Kourtney stared at her pointedly. “Do I know you?”

“Um, I don’t know, Miss. I don’t think so.”

“Yes, I do. Oh my god. It’s you. That little bitch who spilled iced tea over my Amalfi tank top.”

The pavilion grew quiet as everyone stopped working to observe the confrontation. Cindy quaked in her schoolgirl shoes. She had forgotten all about it. She had been in such a rush to make it from the mall to Eleanor’s in time. She hadn’t been looking where she was going. She had run away like a coward rather than face up to what she’d done.

“M-Miss Kourtney,” said Cindy, struggling to speak through her dry mouth, “I’m…I’m so, so sorry. I was in a rush and-”

“You think that’s an excuse? You ruined one of my favorite tank tops.”

“I know, I’m sorry. I’ll uh, happily pay for any dry cleaning or-”

“It was made from Italian Shantung silk. You don’t just dry clean material like that, you idiot.”

“I’ll b-buy you another then, Miss.”

“Oh, you can bet your life you’re buying me another. You can’t escape me now. What’s your name?”

“C-Cindy. Cindy Johnson.”

“Well, Cindy Johnson,” she said with an evil smile, “looks like you’re mine tonight.”

Cindy gulped. The servers and chefs muttered amongst themselves and got back to work after the excitement.

“Did Eleanor explain the situation to you?”

“I think so, Miss.”

“I don’t want anyone thinking you two are associated with my business in any way. Although,” she said, looking Cindy and Sarah over, “there isn’t much danger of that now.” There were laughs from her staff and she smirked at her own joke.

Cindy smiled nervously and nodded.

Sarah’s face reddened even more. “Um, excuse me,” she said irately. Kourtney stared her down. “Just because my mom caused an accident doesn’t give you the right to speak to her like this.”

Cindy looked at her in horror, silently begging her to stay quiet.

Kourtney scoffed. “Ah, yes. The little socialist. Eleanor warned me about you. Nobody is forcing your mom to stay here. I don’t even want her here. So how about you both go and explain to Eleanor that I decided not to use you after all? That I don’t appreciate attitude like yours.”

“No,” said Cindy, panicked, imagining Eleanor snatching the key away from her chastity. She could not let it happen. She needed an orgasm more than anything. “No, Miss Kourtney, Sarah doesn’t mean anything by it. We’re really eager to help out. Aren’t we, Sarah?”

Sarah stared at her mom in disbelief. Cindy’s eyes watered with pleading. Sarah sighed and gave a slight nod.

“What was that?” said Kourtney, enjoying seeing Sarah squirm.

“I’m sorry,” said Sarah, looking away.

“I’m sorry, Miss Kourtney,” said Kourtney.

Cindy could see the torture on Sarah’s face. “I’m sorry, Miss Kourtney,” she repeated begrudgingly.

Kourtney pressed her advantage. “Please put me to work, Miss Kourtney. I promise I’ll be good.”

Cindy nodded encouragingly at Sarah, praying she would repeat. Sarah bit down on her lip and repeated it back to Kourtney.

Kourtney grinned. “Very well. I suppose I can find a use for you.” She lifted her hand from her hip and clicked her fingers. “Bring the contraption.”

There were excitable murmurings from her staff. Two of Kourtney’s servers approached carrying large silver trays in their arms with holes cut in the middle of each. Metal cuffs dangled on chains at the bottom. There were plenty of snickers as the other staff watched. Cindy tried to keep smiling as if that might somehow make it better. Sarah’s jaw gaped.

“Now then,” said Kourtney, pointing to the floor, “kneel.”

Sarah scoffed. “You can’t be serious.”

Kourtney stared her down so intensely that Sarah was forced to avert her eyes to her feet, visibly reduced. There were more snickers from the staff as they enjoyed watching their boss put Sarah in her place.

“Oh, I’m deadly serious.” She reached and grabbed Sarah’s arm, squeezing and digging her nails into Sarah’s skin.

Sarah gasped. She tried to pull away but Kourtney was too strong for her.

Kourtney continued. “I’ve been in this business a long time. I have high standards. I can see at a glance who is capable of meeting them and who isn’t. You are far too scrawny to carry trays by hand. This is the only way I can trust you not to spill anything. You got that?”

Sarah whimpered and nodded. Kourtney grinned and threw her away. Sarah trembled, rubbing her hand over her arm.

Cindy saw for herself why and how Sarah had been so relentlessly bullied at school. She had a big mouth without the confidence to back it up. It was as if she knew she should stand up for herself but lacked the ability to do so. It made her a clear and easy target. It was easy for women like Kourtney to bulldoze her into servility. If only Sarah wasn’t so stubborn, she would be a happier person.

“It’s okay, Sarah,” she said, smiling bravely to help give her daughter strength. As hollow a gesture as it was, it was all she could think to do. A normal person would have just taken Sarah home. But Cindy was not normal. Cindy needed her chastity unlocked. She had to be a good girl.

“Miss Kourtney is right,” she continued brightly. “This will be easier for us. We can support the weight on our shoulders. It’s actually a genius idea, Miss.” She kneeled on the floor, hoping Sarah would see it was no big deal.

Kourtney seemed a little surprised. She nodded to her servers and they placed the tray over Cindy’s head. They grabbed her hands and locked them in the cuffs, forcing her hands to remain balanced on each end of the tray to give it extra support, trapping her to it. She was truly a living serving tray. No matter how tired her arms got, she would remain locked in place.

“Perfect,” said Kourtney, obviously pleased with herself and the amused reactions of her staff. “Start loading her. She can start with the champagne and the salmon caviar bilini.”

Cindy remained squatted as they loaded everything on her. She looked over at Sarah and smiled. Her eyes watered for her daughter to be good and comply.

Sarah was hesitant as she likewise dropped to her knees. She hung her head, too embarrassed to look at the servers as they grabbed her hands and cuffed them in place. Kourtney ordered Sarah to carry more champagne and the foei gras. Sarah took it in defeated silence.

Kourtney clicked both her fingers at Cindy and Sarah and pointed up. Cindy understood the cue and rose to a standing position, carefully balancing the tray, glad for the extra support her cuffed hands offered. There was only a little rattling of champagne glasses.

Sarah’s rise was less smooth. Cindy’s heart stopped for a moment as she thought the glasses might tip. Luckily, they remained upright, despite some splash.

Kourtney pointed at Sarah's face. “Be careful you idiot. You’re paying for anything you break.”

Sarah blushed, keeping her eyes low.

“I don’t know if Eleanor gave you your instructions, but I’m going to reiterate them regardless. You are not to speak to anyone unless they speak to your first. These are important people and they do not need to waste their time conversing with the likes of you. If nobody partakes, you will politely move on to the next group. Continue to make the rounds until you are out of champagne and then make yourself available to collect the empty glasses before returning here for a restock. Pretty straightforward, right? I think even you two should be able to do that without too much trouble.”

“Yes, Miss Kourtney,” said Cindy.

Kourtney stared at Sarah. She lifted her chin, forcing her to look into her eyes. “Are there going to be any problems? Because if you keep that attitude, you can just forget the whole thing. Is that what you want?”

Cindy panicked. “No, no, Miss Kourtney. We can do this. Can’t we Sarah?” she said hopefully.

Sarah slowly nodded. Her red face was a mixture of rage and fear.

“See that you do,” said Kourtney, releasing Sarah’s chin. She placed her hands back on her hips and pushed her breasts forward commandingly. “Off you go then.”

There were titters as Cindy and Sarah made their march from the pavilion into the gardens. The tray was heavy and unwieldy, but at least the support of her shoulders made it easier to bear. She stopped to allow Sarah to catch up. Her daughter was having a harder time than she was. Sarah’s face seemed to be a permanent shade of embarrassment.

A good mother would have taken her home. She would certainly not have allowed her daughter to be talked down to and bullied into becoming less than a person. A good mother would not manipulate her daughter’s good nature with emotional blackmail. She would not have cared more about her own orgasms than her daughter’s welfare. But the key around Eleanor’s neck was a magnet pulling Cindy’s pussy. She couldn’t help herself. She wanted Eleanor’s total control. She had never felt more alive.

“Mom, what the fuck?” whispered Sarah, turning slightly with her tray, clinking glasses together, she cringed and Cindy could almost see her heart pounding in her chest. Nobody had followed them yet.

“Don’t you think this is easier than carrying them normally?” said Cindy.

“You can’t be fucking serious right now? Look at us.”

“Honey, please. It’s just one evening. Nobody will even notice us. Remember what Mrs. Noble said, we are invisible walking service trays. Nobody cares about us.”

“Have you heard yourself? That’s the problem. They don’t care about us. I mean, fuck. We’re employees. We have rights. This is breaking so many fucking employment laws I don’t even know what to say. Did you know this was going to happen?”

“Of course not. But Sarah, look. We just have to get through this. I need this job. It’s the only thing keeping us from living on the streets.”

“I would never let that happen.”

“Then help me now. It won’t be so bad once you get used to it. We’ll keep our heads down and do as we’re told and we’ll make some money. Easy right?”

Sarah looked at her suspiciously. “We are getting paid for this, right?”

Cindy laughed nervously. “Of course, honey. You think I’d be doing this for free?”

She had to disarm Sarah’s rising agitation. She only knew one way. Manipulation. “I’m really happy you’re here with me. You’re my best friend. You know that?”

Sarah sighed. “You’re mine too, Mom. I suppose I’m in this deep, there isn’t much point bailing now. Plus, it can’t possibly get any worse than this, can it?”

Cindy wished she could have given her more of a guarantee than her nervous smile offered.