Long story about a consensual auctioning of a young woman to a wealthy man for a timed contract

[EtR3]

I recall certain erotic stories I read years ago, some of which conform to the requirements of this site. If I post the details I remember, might others be able to suggest a title or titles? I finally joined the site recently (rather than just reading anonymously) for the sole purpose of finding these stories.

#1
For instance, I recall a (Romance? BDSM? Novella?) story about a young woman undergoing an "auction evening" after having been educated by a secret society (like Skull and Bones, but for young women). All is consensual. She is a favorite of the Mistress of the society, and ponders a few offers, eventually settling on a contract with a powerful, rich man. After taking up residence in one of his mansions, she discovers he is more exacting than she supposed or is used to, so she acts out. Each are somewhat puzzled by the other's behavior, as well as by their own (unexpected) intense responses to it. He ends up being ticked off enough to leave on an extended business jaunt just as she realizes her true affection for him. The remainder of the work is her feelings and attempts to show her appreciation of him without wholly giving up her own power. It was quite affecting, and I'd love to read it again, but cannot recall the title or author.

Can anyone help me?

 

[Wargamer]

I can only think of Wife sold at Auction by MichaelsD82 or The Auction by Westcam

 

[EtR3]

Thanks, Wargamer, but (upon investigation) it's neither of those.

This story begins by explaining the consensual nature of the young women's individual choices to participate in the benefits of the secret society. They are educated both culturally and sexually, and, IIRC, obtain the equivalent of a college degree education. They are then presented like debutantes to various wealthy sponsors of the society during a single evening.

So, there is nothing forced going on. It just requires a "very progressive" mindset in a young woman to see the advantages. The contracts do often end up becoming marriages, executive positions, or turning into longer term sponsorships of one kind or another, with eligible wealthy men looking for a cultured, obedient partner.

The more I describe it, the more it drives me crazy. Argh!