On the Auction Block (Closed to DungeonsofDread)

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

After Constance sat down Thomas moved to one of the draws in the nearby desk. He retrieved a small container with a specially homemade cream.

"When my mother and I worked with the horses for so many hours in the day we developed our fair share of cuts and bruises. Through trial and error my mother discovered the medicinal properties of a plant that grew around our property. She fashioned it into a cream which I still use to this very day." Thomas explained as he unbuttoned her back of her dress to gain better access to her injuries. He applied the cream generously lathering her skin with soft gentle strokes.

Whilst applying the cream he kneaded the tight knots in her neck and back muscles relieving all the tension he felt in her body. As he worked closer to her shoulders his hands shifted her dress down ever so slightly. Thomas quickly drew himself back realising where his mind and body were taking him. She thanked him, her voice slightly broken. He allowed her to stand and she retired to her room with an ambivalent expression that left him puzzled.

After she stepped through Thomas locked the door behind her seemingly doing the same to his own feelings. This woman brought to him so much more than any of the others. Indeed, she stirred the feelings of lust deep within his loins but there was something more as well. Unlike so many of others that had come before, he not only wanted her for the pleasures of the flesh but also a need for her companionship that he scarcely recognised.

Thomas stepped into his personal bathroom that also adjoined his room, he didn't request for any of his servants to run the bath because he needed the time alone to his own thoughts. He relaxed in the bath, physically and metaphorically washing away all his worries and doubts. Tomorrow would bring new and exciting challenges his mother always said to him and it was at times like his where he truly missed her council. Thomas finished his bath and prepared himself for sleep. He wore only his thin light leggings for bed, leaving his bare chest exposed. The nights were still warm and he felt especially heated tonight.

A loud scream woke him from his peaceful slumber. Thomas realised it was emanating from Constance's room and leapt from his bed to aid her. He was doubly certain that there was no other way into her room aside from that door yet there was the possibility that someone had managed to slip past him. Thomas checked for the key under his pillow and grasped it immediately.

He rushed over to her door and fumbled with the lock desperately. From what he could gather it sounded as if she were being attacked or possibly even raped. His mind pushed all other thoughts aside as he managed to unlock the door. When he burst through he found her writhing around on her bed, he checked for the presence of another and was relieved to find none. She continued the imaginary struggle in her sleep, her breath ragged and body covered in fearful sweat. Not knowing any other way to calm her he cautiously laid by her side and pulled her into a strong embrace, he used a massage technique similar to before to help relax. When her body calmed and her mind gained some semblance of control he heard her whisper his name. She called to him softly like a lost princess to her faithful knight.

"I'm here Constance, you were having a nightmare. Shhh" he said soothingly whilst rocking her gently. They stayed that way for a short moment and without any thought of his own actions, he planted a small kiss on the top of her head. The thin material of her nightgown did very little to hide the shape and feel of her femininity and her natural borne scent stirred his desire strongly. Thomas had to actively curb his growing arousal for fear of scaring her in such a vulnerable position.

When her breathing calmed enough Thomas released her and stood back up. In his heightened emotional state it was difficult to form the words of his desire. He looked deep into her eyes before speaking

"I wish I could....no I can't....you deserve much more." he stuttered nervously.

"I will see you in the morning." Thomas blurted out. It seemed to be all he could manage before slowly shutting the door.

 

[ChaseMePleez]

Constance's heart calmed as he massaged the tension and fear from her body. There was such care in jow he touched her as if she were a porcelain doll he was afraid to break. She called to him with a soft longing in her voice for him. There a sense of safety in those strong arms as he rocked her. The kiss he planted on her forehead warmed her heart.

The dark images were still so fresh in her mind and her small body shook against his. She clung to him like a lifeline to a safer reality. The only light in the room was the lightning that flashed near the window, making her jump. The violent storm reflected the tension in the room in the aftermath of such a nightmare. Constance felt Thomas tense up.

She could tell when something changed for him. Constance was a virgin but she wasn't lily white. She could feel the growing arousal against her hip. It didn't scare her, knowing that he wanted her. The way he looked into her eyes she could see a conflict going on inside of him. She had never heard him stutter before! "Thomas! Please wait!"

Her small feet padded across the room towards the door. Her small dark curls framing her small face. "Please don't go." When Thomas peaked back into the room, she reached up and touched his face. Her thumb softly caressed his lips and she stood on tip toe to plant a small chaste kiss there. It was so sweet and made her ache just a little. "Please stay with me. Just for tonight. I feel safe with you. I fear the nightmare might return."

The lightning flashed and she flinched towards Thomas. The storm was doing very little to calm her frazzled nerves. Constance hadn't shared her bed with anyone since she was a child. Her brother would climb into bed with her when their father was on one of his drunken tirades. She would soothe his fears while her own haunted her. No one, other than her mother, had cared to calm her fears or to hold her when they were too much.

She slid her small hand into his, guiding him back into the room. Constance gave him some distance so he could sit at the opposite side of the bed. She climbed under the comforter facing him. She wouldn't pressure him to stay with her but she needed him with her tonight. She smiled softly at him once he lay on top of the comforter. Constance felt oddly comforted by his presence in the room

Slowly but surely she fell asleep. Even in sleep she wanted him near her. Her small body inched its way towards him, looking to take in his body's warmth. Her small hand touched his chest as she slept. The demeanor of her calm sleep changed when Constance's dreams turned erotic. She saw images of Thomas and she together with him on top her.

As her dream became more active, Constance started to talk in her sleep not knowing that someone was hearing every word or what it was doing to him. Small moans escaped her lips and she sighed out, "Thomas." The voice held a hint of hunger to it that could tempt even a saint.

 

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

She called back to him with desperation in her voice. He quickly swung the door back open and found her standing in front of him, Thomas felt the pang of guilt creep through his body, her chest was heaving and her eyes were full of fear. As her hand gently touched the side of his face he could feel the drum of his heart beat accelerate. Thomas felt frozen on the spot, never had woman elicited the feelings of intimacy in him. The overwhelming need to comfort her felt foreign in his mind and he struggled against it.

Like a musical crescendo the rumble of thunder sounded in the background as she reached up and planted a light kiss on his lips. Her soft gentle touch felt so genuine he could hardly maintain his composure. In that small brief moment Constance delivered a message of salvation, she did not seek his fortune or fame. Her desire was fueled by a need that only he could fulfill.

Thomas felt her small delicate hand intertwine with his own. His body felt as if it were on a cloud drifting with the currents of the wind. Constance guided him towards the edge of her bed and sat him down, she positioned herself opposite him her longing eyes never leaving his own. In his tired state he welcomed the opportunity to lie down and she followed suit. She remained facing him and slowly but surely her eyes fluttered closed.

Thomas found it difficult to sleep, not because the bed was uncomfortable but instead because he could not keep his eyes off the sleeping beauty before him. Constance stirred in her sleep slightly and he thought she was experiencing another nightmare. Instead of flailing about however she crawled toward him and lay her hand gently on his chest. It was if her dream self needed the reassurance of his presence. Thomas placed his arm cautiously around her trying not to interrupt her sleep. When he pulled her body toward him, her face fell naturally against his chest.

Thomas had to ponder at the transformation of the amazing woman before him. When he first met this girl at the Auction Block she was the most outspoken and aggressive woman he'd ever had the pleasure of meeting. He felt as if he would fight with her every step of the way but when he looked down at the sleeping angel in his arms he wondered whether he'd dreamed the whole incident.

He felt her stir in his arms again, this time her body moved against his own almost seductively, Thomas felt his arousal straining against his thin leggings forming a tent at the top of his pants. He decided with high certainty that she was not experiencing a nightmare. Her soft moans of pleasure built upon his arousal and the sensual call of his name pushed against boundary of his control. So, he mused, it seemed the fiery vixen he'd met was still there, deep inside. Thomas wanted her trust. No. He needed her trust and to take advantage of her now would likely break that which he desired the most. He stilled his mind as best as he could and used a well taught meditation technique to help him sleep.

Thomas awoke to the morning light streaming through the slight gap in the curtains. Constance still lay against him with a peaceful look upon her face. He had no desire to scare her and wasn't sure if she would remember the previous nights events. With carefully slow movements Thomas edged himself away from her grasp and crept into his room. He made sure the door to her room was unlocked and he began to open his draws and cupboards to prepare his clothing for the day. He moved around the room purposely to make enough noise to wake the dead.

 

[ChaseMePleez]

"I love your imperfections
I love your everything
Your broken heart, your broken wings
I love you when you hold me
And when you turn away
I love you still and I'm not afraid
Cause I know you feel the same way
And you'll stay

Cause when we're torn apart
Shattered and scarred
Love has the grace to save us
We're just two tarnished hearts
When in each other's arms
We become saints and angels."​

Constance slowly awoke to the very loud machinations of Thomas next door. She felt lost without his welcoming warmth against her body. The memory of the chaste kiss they had shared still effected her. She saw that his door was open and she peered inside to look for him. Thomas was retreating to his own bathroom and they locked eyes briefly. She saw an array of emotions in those eyes.

She was circumvented by the young maid that had brought her clothing yesterday. The woman handed her what looked like a riding habit. Constance was rather surprised that he would have her dress above her station. The maid took her by the hand to bring her back into her own room but Constance looked back on Thomas but he had already went to dress himself.

Once she was dressed, a tray was brought in, filled with her breakfast. She assumed Thomas would explain everything to her eventually. The food was delicious as usual and Constance reminded herself to thank the cook for his efforts. Alone, she contemplated her situation and the feelings that were becoming more evident with the passing day. Once she had finished with her meal she lay her utensils on her plate as she had been taught.

Constance smiled at the young kitchen maid as she took away the tray. The young girl couldn't have been more than 18 years old. The personal maid arrived, waiting for the younger girl to exit the room. "The master wishes for you to be escorted to the stables. Please come with me." She walked behind the woman as she was escorted outside. The day was beautiful, bright and sunny which put Constance in a good mood.

The maid left her at a stall in the stables and left Constance to her own devices. Not really used to being around a formal stable, she got curious. She jumped suddenly when she heard the whinny of a mare across the way. It was stalled away from the other horses but she was so beautiful. She walked up to the animal and it balked up, whinnying at her presence.

Constance knew that look in the animal's eyes. She held a bare hand and just waited. "It's alright. You don't me yet but I won't hurt you. You're just scared. I know what that's like. When the fear is so intense, all you can do is lash out to keep others away to protect yourself." Something in her words must have reached the animal because she came closer to her and nuzzled her nose into the palm of Constance's hand.

She gave the horse a gentle smile and watched as the mare came closer, allowing her to pet her. "We're kindred souls, you and I." The mare nuzzled at the side of Constance's face and she gave an honest to god laugh. "And you have sweet side too." She stayed with the mare just petting her nose and talking to the animal as if she were human.

A stable hand stood off to the side, staring in shock. The young lad went off to find the master, who was approaching the stable with a man servant. "Sir, you must come. It's the new lady you brought back." He clearly was nervous. "The girl must be a witch. She's charmed that mare...your mare!"

 

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

Whilst Thomas readied himself, Angela, one of his maids came in to tend to any of his morning needs. He instructed her that he was to go riding with Constance and she was to bring him his riding gear and something equivalent for her.

Thomas opened the door to his bathroom, he heard the sound of the opposite door creak open and he turned. His eyes locked with hers, the knowing intensity in their stare slowed time to a stand still, the universe centered around that very moment like a snowflake on the brink of falling to the ground. Another maid returned with breakfast and their riding gear, she ushered Constance back into her room to get her prepared. Thomas wasn't yet ready to discuss the events of the night before and so he turned away and entered the bathroom shutting the door behind him.

When he heard Constance leaving with Angela, Thomas had just finished preparing himself. He opened the door and proceeded to consume his own breakfast alone. He felt as if he was avoiding her, but he needed time still to regain his composure as the master of the house.

When he'd satisfied his hunger Thomas made his way down to the stables. On his way he was intercepted by Brian the young stable boy, he informed Thomas of Constance's supposed witchery. Thomas couldn't help but let a smile form on his face. With Brian's assistance, Thomas retrieved a specially designed saddle meant for two riders along with the other gear they would need. They found Constance gently stroking his mare whispering to her gently.

"I see you've become acquainted with Reanee. She used to be quite the fire cracker, similar to someone else I know." he jested with a bright smile.

Thomas and Brian saddled Reanee and led her out of the stables. Thomas sat himself on her back and reached out to Constance, she seemed slightly apprehensive at the gesture.

"Do you trust me?" he asked gently.

 

[ChaseMePleez]

The servants in the background watched on in mild in fascination at how the two were with the other. Constance smiled as she heard Thomas's voice and smiled as he approached. She watched as a saddle for two was taken out and set upon Raenee. A warm blush painted her skin and hid a warm giggle behind her hand. It had been so long since she felt like this. Was this what contentment was like?

"Think I have been tamed, eh?" Her voice laced with amusement. "I am still quite the firecracker when the situation calls for it." Her smile lit up her face and the small dimple in her cheek made an appearance. She watched Thomas mount the mare and reach out for her.

Although the mare had calmed with her, Constance was a little apprehensive about getting onto her. Did she trust him? She had slept in his arms last night.He was the one who calmed her fears when her past came back to haunt her. She reached up. "Yes, I trust you." She climbed onto the horse and they rode off.

Constance felt a wild sense of freedom as the mare galloped into the countryside. They slowed as they entered the forest that ran along the side of Thomas's estate. The greenery was so breathtaking and Constance seldom got to see the better part of the country. "It's so beautiful here." They came to a small pond and Thomas dismounted. Reach for her, he helped Constance down. For a moment he held her against him and she couldn't breath.

The two of them finally woke from the moment and Thomas took the horse's reins, tying them a branch so she could graze while they talked. Constance looked on as a band of wild rabbits scampered across the green grass. She didn't care if she looked childish, she chased after one of them, a white one. The little demon was fast too but she caught him eventually.

Although the animal did manage to trip her up and make her fall on her rump. Her face was beet red but she got her quarry. The fuzzy little dear cuddled into Constance's embrace as she walked back towards Thomas. They each took a seat on a boulder that stood near the pond. "I haven't seen or pet a rabbit since I was eight years old. Franc took us out to catch something for dinner once. One of his trap snared a very fat rabbit. I took one look at that poor thing and burst into tears. There was no way I was going to let the cute animal die."

She laughed at her memory. "My godfather obliged me despite having to eat soup again for dinner. That gets old after the tenth night." Across the pond she saw a doe running along with a pair of fawns. Apparently the forest was teaming with wildlife. "I could learn to love it here."

Constance glanced up at Thomas, not sure how to ask what was eating at her. "I want to thank you for what you did last night." She gave him a sad smile. "Strange how the past can sneak into your mind when your defenses are down. Some things can haunt you for as long as you can remember them. The storm made things worse. The nightmare was bound to happen but I am grateful for what you did."

She nuzzled the small furry rabbit with a genuine small and released him to be with his friends. "Why did you leave so quickly this morning? You seemed almost nervous last night as well. I know it may not be my place to ask but if it was something I did, I would like to know so I may apologize."

 

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

Yes, I trust you

It was with those words that brought Thomas the moment of happiness he'd longed for. His expression matched his mood as he lifted her toward him and sat her in front of him. When she was secure he whispered lightly in her ear.

"I'd like to see that firecracker again."

They rode off together slowly cantering around the grounds of his property. Through the process of building his business Thomas had expanded his land to the point where he owned one of the largest in all of outer London. His land encompassed acres and open plains, part of a forest and a small lake at the edge. As they rode, Thomas pointed out to Constance various points of interest on his tour of the land, the closeness of her body coupled with her pleasing aroma perked the beginnings of his arousal again, luckily for him the saddle allowed for movement giving him the opportunity to adjust.

He took her into the secluded forest that he had spent what little spare time he had as a child. Thomas laughed joyishly as he watched Constance chase after a small critter around the forest. With perseverance and a slight fall, she managed to capture her quarry and bring it back for inspection. It warmed his heart to see her so happy, she spoke and laughed as if they were old friends.

Thomas observed as Constance petted the small rabbit in her arms. He'd never shown any kind of affection for anything in his life. Even with his mother, she made sure he never let his guard down around others. On the rare occasion he did spy her embracing his father lovingly but she mostly presented a strong resolve to the world that Thomas always took on board. Constance thanked him for the evening before, he was pleased that she remembered his presence and he compelled to explain his ignorance in the morning..

"My mother always told me a man in my position could not afford to be soft and gentle. She told me, that to love is to hurt and the pain of love runs deeper than any physical wound one could ever receive." Thomas sighed openly.

"When I think about it now, I believe my mother was referring to my father. She loved him so dearly that it pained her greatly to see him suffer so. It was perhaps why she so strongly wanted his business to flourish, she saw it as a way of keeping the part of him that she remembered alive." Thomas continued looking out at the forest.

"I've always guarded that part of my life. I've never allowed anybody to get close to me for fear of the hurt that my mother suffered. Last night when we laid together I felt as if the barriers of my defense were slowly crumbling. When I see you, when we touch my heart aches for more and I start to understand the pain my mother told me about. I know it might sound strange but this morning I was afraid. Afraid of what you offered and what I could lose." he spoke honestly staring intently into her eyes.

 

[ChaseMePleez]

Her heart hurt for him. His mother had meant well but had given Thomas the wrong idea. Constance could see that it took awhile but he had come to understand his mother's fears but it didn't mean that he could let his guard down now. A part of her was happy that she effected him that way but the other part didn't want him to fear what he felt. "Fear is a powerful emotion. It can put us on our guard or lash out to keep others away. I guess I am as guilty of that as Raenee when you first attained her. Strange how you and I met in a similar fashion."

Constance sighed and picked a wildflower that had grown along the side of the boulder. "Since the chaos of my life has started I have felt like I was stuck in a whirlwind with nothing to hang onto to keep me grounded. But I was also afraid to take a chance on the few who reached out to save me from the winds, so afraid they would eventually let me go." She felt a small pain in her heart, thinking about the insecurities and fear that had shaped her life.

"You're the first that I feel will not let me go." She stared into eyes as she twirled the small flower in her fingers. "I have never felt as safe as I did last night when you held me. For a man who was taught not to be soft or gentle, you were plenty of both for me. You've given me plenty already with losing a thing." Constance reached out with the flower and traced the line of his jaw with it softly.

There was a new type of tension between them but she persisted. "You make me feel different than most men have." Constance wouldn't let him look away from her. "I have never trusted any man enough to want him to touch me. I'm not sure if its possible to feel this when I barely know you. I just know that I do." She touched his face, coming even closer to him.

Her heart beat fast in her chest. "I've seen kindness in you so I do think you're capable of much more. You don't have to be afraid with me. I felt it too." She gulped, feeling nervous. "You were in my dreams last night. I know very little of men but last night I got a taste of what being with you could be like. I will not ask anything of you that I wouldn't be willing to give of myself."

She could see Thomas's misgivings get the best of him for a moment and he walked away from her. Constance followed him and grabbed his hand. "I have been alone in the cold for so long and finally you bring me here. It is like coming home to a warm fire. I cannot just turn away from that, not when neither of us has really tried." She walked into his body, her small arms wrapped around his waist.

Constance looked up at him. "It scares me too, being so vulnerable to a man. I trust you, Thomas." She stood on tiptoe and pulled him to her, her mouth tenderly touching his. She never knew anything of passion or desire. All she felt was a deep longing in her that made her ache for him.

 

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

Like a page turning in a book of her life, Thomas felt as if another part of her had been revealed to him. He had already felt the similarities in their personality yet he had no idea they shared the same heartache for love.

As she confided within him he couldn't help but feel slightly uncomfortable, she told him of her desires late at night and although he wasn't unfamiliar with the passion shared between a man and woman he felt unworthy of showing her what she desired the most. Thomas had developed a specific set of tastes and now that he knew how he felt about her he wasn't sure he was willing to bring her into his world of dark fantasies.

I trust you, Thomas

Constance told him again only this time the truth lay much deeper beneath the surface. It was if she had given him permission to invite her into his life, to give him what he had denied himself for so long. Her kiss was unexpected, the feel of her soft lips against his brought his world into that single moment. Their surroundings paused in anticipation to his next move, Thomas could not deny himself any longer she offered him the universe itself, he only hoped he could do the same for her.

Thomas brought one of his hands to rest lightly on the side of her jaw line and the other on the small of her back. He knew she would be inexperienced and that he would have to guide her step by step. He pulled her closer to him and deepened the kiss by opening her mouth with his own, when she complied he used his tongue to gently lap at her own. After careful coaxing he managed to animate her tongue to begin a slow passionate dance. With the guidance of his hand and mouth he wordlessly taught her the finer points kissing marking the beginnings of their reluctant attraction.

After what seemed like an eternity Thomas finally broke the kiss. As much as he wished to continue the sun was now directly above them bringing the end of the morning and the start of noon.

"We should return, lest my staff think something unfortunate has befallen us." he suggested with a wink. They remounted Raenee and started the journey back to the homestead. As they rode he decided to continue his story.

"You're right about yourself and Raenee, after I had gained her initial respect it took a great deal of time to earn her trust. When she finally allowed me to ride her I felt a connection between us had been formed, an unbreakable bond between a myself and her giving us the opportunity to accomplish amazing things." he explained. Then without warning Thomas spurred Raenee on to gallop the final leg toward the house. Due to the fact that there were two of them riding her she wouldn't be able to reach her top speed but with the wind racing past them and the ground below them a blur any onlooker would only see the lightning speed of her dash.

 

[ChaseMePleez]

Constance heart felt like it would beat right out of her chest. His lips executed a sinful dance on her own and she couldn'r restrain the small moan that escaped her lips. She relished in the strong arms that held her to him. Her small finger laced behind his neck and she enjoyed her first kiss. Her pulse picked up when his tongue touched her own and she felt a dampness between her thighs. Her nipple felt full, tight and heavy.

These kinds of feelings were so foreign to her but he didn't scare her. The only thing she regretted was when he pulled back. She gave him a beautiful smile at his flirting. "If you say so, Sir." Constance's voice was highly amused and proper at the same time, wanting to tempt him into a response. They remounted the lovely mare and listened to the rest of his story.

Constance could only look at him, emotion in her eyes. Did that mean he felt connected to her as well? Her hand found his for a moment and caressed it lightly. "May be that is why fate made us cross paths? So we can accomplish something together or to give each other something we didn't even know we needed." She held on for dear life as he kicked the horse into a gallop.

Once they arrived, she followed Thomas back to his office where he did more work. By his insistence, she was to do the mending she had to do while in his presence. Constance did think it was a little strange but she didn't mind. She sat mindlessly mending some of Thomas's shirts as he worked. Without thinking she began to sing quietly to herself. The tune was a country folk lovesong that was played at most country barn dances nowadays.

Her voice was light and airy, the melody as fluid and beautiful as that of a nightangle. Simply put, Constance felt at peace as she worked. She dreamed silly little dreams and some of those hope of a good future were coming back to life. He had given back her hope and she had to find a way to give him back his. Thomas may have wealth and all its trappings but Constance could see an emptiness in his eyes that needed to filled.

Constance jumped as she felt something soft rubbing against her leg. When she looked down there was a small soft black kitten mewing at her. "Where did you come from, little one?" She put aside the shirt she had been working on and picked up the kitten. She smiled innocently at the animal. "You are so precious." The little feline meowed back at her as if to answer her. She gave a low giggle and hugged the animal to her chest.

She watched Thomas who seemed to be finishing up whatever work he had been doing. Constance shushed the small kitty and placed it in the crook of her bodice so she could finish the last shirt that needed to be mended. Her voice once again graced the air in melodic beauty. She was almost finished mending the last shirt when she felt a hand on her shoulder. Constance looked up and smiled.

 

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

When they arrived back at the house Thomas retrieved the daily mail from one of the other servants. It seemed he would be inundated for several more hours, lunch and getting changed would have to wait for the moment .

"I'm sorry Constance, its seems work has caught up with me once again." he sighed looking up at her. He thoroughly enjoyed their morning and loathed to return to the world of paper and ink.

"There are some urgent documents that need my attention, if you would please follow me into my office." Thomas asked politely with a open hand gesture toward the room.

On the way Thomas sifted through the rest of the non business mail and was reminded of his friends party. He was to attend on the weekend and so he requested that Angela bring some of his dress shirts and a sewing repair kit to the office. He began his work immediately and directed Constance to begin cleaning the office like the day previous. Angela arrived moments later and placed the shirts on a nearby table, she began to unpack the repair kit to start her work.

"Angela, that is fine. Ms Denton will be conducting the mending of my shirts today." Thomas informed her. Angela looked at him with a look of confusion, then she slowly looked at Constance. As if deciding that it wasn't worth questioning she dismissed herself politely.

"I hope your needle work is as delicate as your lovely skin my dear, it seems I have a party to attend this weekend and will need these shirts fully repaired by then." Thomas asked with cheek. She went about her work quietly and Thomas resumed his own. Thomas kept his mind on the mountain of work before him, he barely registered the soft feminine hum in the background. After signing the the forth contract he looked up to see her singing happily to herself, her body swayed slightly to the music in her head. Although he didn't recognise the song he appreciated the light mood she presented.

An hour later he had almost completed most of the critical paperwork. He looked up to see Constance had introduced herself to his feline companion Shadow. Thomas quietly stood up from his desk and approached her placing his hand on her shoulder. She was so engrossed in her work that he startled her.

"It seems you have meet my old friend Shadow. Curious? He's normally a nocturnal beast." Thomas commented with a light smile. Shadow snuggled deeper into her bodice upon hearing his voice.

"It seems you've made a friend. Don't expect too much from him though, he is a cat after all." Thomas warned.

"Don't worry about that last shirt, personally I don't like it. My mother told me it brought out the colour of my eyes but I think it look ridiculous on me. Come, we should change and have a late lunch." Thomas commented and directed her out of the room.

They walked back to his room to change, she went back to the adjoining room and Thomas went to his cupboards to pick his evening wear. He opted for a simple white shirt with an open collar and black breaches.

 

[ChaseMePleez]

Constance smiled. “I took up the mending for my family when my mother’s arthritis got too painful. I still find it hard to believe what a man can do to a perfectly fine shirt.” They both had gone unaware of the little kitten until Shadow decided to befriend Constance but not before nearly giving her a spook. She petted the soft creature lovingly and the animal cuddled deeper into her bodice. “Oh no no , kitty.” She colored just a bit as she fished the little cat from her chest.

She hid her red face behind her hand. “He’s so cute, Thomas.” As if on cue, Shadow gave out a small meow. “My godfather once told me of ancient creature that could lure a sailor into the deadly rocks that lined the shores of Ireland just by using their song. He also said it could tame any form of beast.” He had had a cash cow of stories that left her with a wild imagination.
“Who could resist that little face?” Constance nodded. “I had a similar experience as a child when we started school. Mother dressed me in this ridiculous dress that her employer had given to us. It was big and poofy, making me look like a big cotton ball with legs.”

She took her new little friend back to her room to change. Constance placed the little kitten on the bed. “Be good.” The animal looked incredulously at her as if to question her sanity for speaking to an animal. It didn’t take very long for her to change clothes. Absently she ran her fingers over her lips, remembering the passion in his kiss. She had never felt it before.

She left Shadow in her room to play with a ball of yarn and left the small room to eat with Thomas. Constance noticed the small maid that was carrying the tray for Thomas flinched as she picked it up. “Let me.” She had never been afraid of work and took it to where Thomas sat. A male servant, who nearly bumped into her, placed a tray next to where Thomas was eating. She could imagine the servants were questioning as to why their master was treating a slave so well.

Once lunch was done with, Constance followed Thomas to a large den. Huge paintings hung on the walls and the fireplace was immense. The furniture was dark leather and there lay a bearskin before the hearth of the fireplace. “So what do you do here?”

 

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

Thomas and Constance enjoyed a quiet lunch together, it was an odd combination of her eating and serving him at the same time. Still though, her continued presence comforted him deeply.

He led her to one of his sitting rooms in the vast mansion. The room was very spacious with high ceilings and all manor of his favourite art decorated the walls. Thomas motioned Constance to sit on one of the leather couches while he stoked the fire. When he was satisfied Thomas headed to a nearby cupboard to retrieve an old family heirloom. It was a wooden chess set; each piece was intricately carved in a fashion that would have taken many painstaking hours to complete. His father taught him the game before he lost his sanity and for Thomas, it was the last happy memory he could recall of his father.

"I like to come here to relax in the afternoon, I hope you know the game of chess, my Father told me that the way one plays chess reveals a great deal about a persons character." he commented before gently placing the set on the nearby table. Thomas enjoyed the game immensely, it had been a long time since he'd played against anybody who could match his skill; he was a patient man and as such preferred to play defensively, baiting his opponent into making a mistake. He was very interested in how Constance played for he was sure a woman of her education knew the game.

"White of black?" he asked as he slowly set the board up.

 

[ChaseMePleez]

Constance watched him stoke the fire as she sat on the leather couch. She admired how the firelight reflected on the angled of his face. Her face heated and she looked away quickly, not wanting him to catch her staring at him. She smiled when she saw the antique chest set. It was a particularly lovely set that was made in great detail. It had been a long time since she had enjoyed a game of chess with her godfather. "My godfather taught how to play when I was 8 years old. He said that chess was a game of war, maneuvering your soldiers and capturing the target."

It was a happy memory for her. They would play at night when she would run to his home when her father was in a drunken stupor. When he had that much liquor in him, her father didn't care who was in front of him when he let his fists fly. Franc had been almost obsessed with developing her mind. It was like it was a labor of love for her mother that he protected and tried to be a second father to Constance.

Her eyes warmed when she realized it was something she would be able to share with Thomas as well. "Black." Constance had played the older gentlemen in Rockford Park during the spring months when she was a teenager. The gentlemen were always quite surprised at her knowledge of certain strategies and openings. It was a source of amusement that she was able to suceed against those stuffy English noblemen who underestimated her.

Once they were situated Constance smiled knowingly, trying not to look too cocky. She watched Thomas make his first move and proceeded to use an opening called the Dutch Defence. An old general she met in the park when she seventeen taught her that particular method. When she wasn't watching the board, she watched Thomas's eyes. It was at those calm moments that she tried to figure him out. Constance knew enough to know he was holding back something of himself.

She looked back down at the board and nearly laughed. He had found a way around her maneuver! "You do know what you're doing. I am impressed." Constance smiled at him. She was enjoying this. A challenge was far more exciting than an easy victory. When she took another one of his pawns, the small piece almost fell and they both went to grab it, instead gripping each other's hand.

Constance blushed immensely and looked away. His hand was warm and strong, leaving her wanting more. Thoughts that were dangerous when alone with him. "This set is very lovely and very old from the look of it." She needed to break the silence a little. His voice felt like a warm blanket to her and at that moment, she missed it.

 

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

Black? Her choice surprised him. Perhaps it was she who would be observing his strategy and not the other way around. As shocked as he was, Thomas maintained his composure, playing chess was as much about playing the person as the board.

He recognised an age old technique she employed in the first few rounds of play. She commented at his rebuttal happily, it seemed tonight they would be as much as challenge to each other on the board as in real life. Thomas sat back and steepled his fingers beneath his chin without answering, he couldn't hide his smile of amusement though and let it shine out brilliantly.

With another of his piece captured he wondered if perhaps she was using some form of feminine based distraction to keep his mind occupied. It wasn't her attire for sure; she was still only in the simple maids outfit. She wore no facial paint or any other fashionable accessory he was so accustom to seeing on a woman. Abruptly, he discovered the solution plaguing his mind, it was her eyes, her smile and her voice. Each of these three had become her weapons in a battle of wits he was sure to loose.

He looked back down at the board contemplating his next move when she accidentally knocked a piece of the board. With quick reflexes Thomas reached down to catch the piece only to find his hand interlocked with hers. They paused. Their eyes searching each other for a mystery unknown, her soft delicate hands held the precious chess piece whilst his own cradled hers. Constance's appraisal of the pawn broke him out of his reverie. His eyes studied the piece in her hand, the memories flooding back into his mind.

"It was my Great Grandfather's, given to him as a gift from a skilled wood carver. There is no other set like it in all of England." Thomas explained, his hands never leaving hers. With a light pressure he closed his around hers tightening the piece within her grasp. When he was satisfied of its security he released her and brought his attention back to the board.

The future of the game seemed glum. His normally unbroken strategy of patience was not paying off. In fact if anything, she had been using it to her advantage, allowing him to adjust to each change of her own strategies only to thwart him moments later with an unorthodox maneuver. Before long he was reduced to his King, one Pawn and one Knight against her King, Queen, Rook and Bishop. Rather than conceding defeat at this point he continued playing the game trying in vain to prolong his impending loss.

Not long after Thomas gently tapped on his King knocking it over in defeat. Despite the fact it had been the first time since he'd been beaten in a long while he didn't feel like a loser. A lesson was learned and he understood it well, one cannot dwell on the past using the same techniques and strategies in the present. Adaptation and change were the key to success along with a few unexpected turns. Constance, in his mind represented the catalyst for a change in himself. Was it for the better? Did it truly matter? The journey had most certainly become more rewarding than the final prize.

"Few men have beaten me at this game, and only one woman. You truly are a magnificent specimen." Thomas conceeded he stood up and held his open palm out toward her in a gesture of friendship.

"I feel the rumble of hunger brewing in my stomach, please join me for dinner as we did the night previous. I enjoy your company immensely and there is more I wish to show you." Thomas offered. This time he meant it as a request, not a command.

 

[ChaseMePleez]

Constance was greatly impressed by the heirloom. Since her family literally had literally started in England after running from Ireland, she had no family heirlooms. Whatever her father may have brought with them had been hawked to pay bills or debts incurred over the last few years. "The set that I learned on was carved of wood also. The wood came from the wreckage a boat he worked on called The Banshee. He considered it lucky because the storm that destroyed her should have also killed every member on board. There wasn't one death that night."

Franc had considered the set lucky and had to hide it regularly from her father. The wreck had been news even all the way in England. The chess set might have fetched a god price if her father had gotten his hands on it. Constance enjoyed the game immensely, watching as Thomas tried to circumvent her strategy. It was working so far but given a few more games he could figure it out just as her godfather had.

Constance watched his handsome face in concentration. She felt a sense of victory when he knocked over his King. The flutter in her stomach was unexpected at the flattery. Taking his hand, Constance smiled softly. "It has been a long time since I had anyone except Franc to share this with. I enjoyed the game." She blushed intensely. "Thank you, Thomas." It was amazing to her that she had blushed more in the past day in this man's presence than she had in her entire life.

She looked down and saw that their hands were still holding each other and she gave a small laugh, taking back her hand. Her own stomach was starting t protest at the lack sustenance. "I think we both forgot about everything but the game. It happens to me when I am caught up in something I enjoy." Constance felt her heart thud against her chest. "I enjoy your company too.I would love to join you for dinner."

Instead of going straight to the dining area, Constance opted to wash up in her room before eating. After washing her face she looked at herself in the mirror that hung in the washroom. What could he possibly want to show her? Once back in the dining room, Constance smelled a beef stew that was cooking. Her stomach growl involuntarily and she laughed, slightly embarrassed. "Your cook must be one of the best. The aromas coming from the kitchen are nothing short of heavenly."

The taste lived up to the smell as well. Constance had not eaten this well since she was a child and they lived on the estate of her mother's employer. She thought she felt Thomas staring at her at certain points during the meal but she wasn't sure. She wanted to just reach out and touch his face. Once the meal was done, she was slightly nervous and curious at the same time. "You wanted to show me more? You have peaked my curiosity, Thomas."

 

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

Thomas could see that Constance was truly settling into her new life. They enjoyed a quiet dinner together and Thomas gave his compliments to his cook on their behalf. It seemed that he'd put himself in such a rut before meeting Constance that he stopped enjoying finer points in life. A lovely meal with a lovely lady for instance.

Thomas stood up from the dinner table at her question. He gave her a knowing smile accompanied by his usual chivalrous hand gesture.

"Right this way, the wonders of the night await." he offered.

Thomas guided her up to the attic of his glorious mansion, there were no stairs to get there and thus he had to assist her up the ladder pointed toward the ceiling. Unlike the rest of the house this room was devoid of decorative art and furniture. The low roof meant that Thomas had to keep his head down as he walked across the creaky floor boards. At the end of the attic situated against a large overlooking window sat his prized telescope.

"The night is clear and the moon is absent, a perfect night to gaze at the heavens don't you think?" he commented with a smirk.

Thomas made his way over to the telescope, opened the large double windows and walked out onto a rooftop balcony, he maneuvered the telescope carefully, placing it on the edge near the railing. After looking into the scope and readjusting it to the desired position he gestured Constance to join him and look through the lens.

"What you are looking at is the constellation Sagittarius" he explained. Thomas came behind her and placed hand around her waist and pressed the side of his body against hers. From this position he guided the telescope to a different location allowing her to look again,

"And this is Hercules." Thomas spoke softly into her ear. He lightly breathed in the soft feminine scent of her skin.

 

[ChaseMePleez]

Dinner had been delicious as usual, appeasing her appetite better than the prison ever had with its filth. Thomas's smile was a welcome sight to her.Constance enjoyed seeing that light in Thomas's eyes and gladly followed him. Her curiosity was peaked at what he possibly have planned for her now. When he opened the door to the attic, she couldn't have been more surprised.

The climb inside was quite the chore. Even with his help, getting into the attic was a little difficult for her but it was worth it. "A perfect night indeed." In more ways that one. She left that unsaid but it was understood. She watched him adjust the telescope that lay on the railing. Smiling as she joined him, Constance got her first look through it's lens. Her eyes sparkled when all was revealed to her.

The stars were indeed beautiful tonight, like small diamonds hung in the sky by mother nature. Constance felt her cheeks flush at the hand on her waist, her heart fluttering at his nearness. She wondered if he was aware of his effect on her. Her voice cracked a little as she spoke. "He's supposedly wearing the skin of the NImean Lion in his constellation." Constance pointed one out to him that was visible just beyond the trees. "Cassioppeia. She was the mother to Andromeda, a princess that was supposed to be sacrificed to a sea monster after she bragged that her daughter's beauty rivaled that of the great goddesses."

The stars told many stories if you paid close enough attention. "I think I can see Draco as well." She laughed. "It is so lovely out here. I was taught that if you knew your way around the stars you would never lose your way." It was something her mother had told her as a child. "This spot is perfect. You must have spent many a night here." Franc had once told her another tale of the stars. "Someone once told me the brightest souls that have lived their time on Earth become stars when their time is through. This way they could watch over their loved ones forever."

There had been an instance when she was only six years old and had caught her mother talking to the night sky. Constance had asked her mother who she was talking to and the older woman said it was her grandmother she was speaking to. She said that it eased her own soul to speak with her, to have a connection to her after all the time they had lost.

Constance leaned in and kissed his cheek. "Thank you for showing me this." It was almost odd, this feeling of peace in her soul. It was completely different than what she had been used to after all this time. "You grow more interesting by the day. I keep wondering what you might be revealing to me next."

 

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

Thomas was no longer surprised by Constance's never ending knowledge of the world. To him she was the Yin to his Yang, his light in the darkness, a part of his whole. He enjoyed her company immensely and her closeness even more, he was beginning to catch on to her own attraction as he increased the frequency of their bodily contact.

With another light kiss on his cheek she left his mind in a daze. a calm serene came over him as her words washed through his body.

"It was my pleasure. It seems, there is also no end to your own knowledge. Perhaps with time, I shall stump you but until then." he began and slowly bent down toward her. He turned his head slightly and brought his lips lightly against hers. Taking a deep breathe and inhaling her intoxicating natural perfume he pressed himself against her; bringing her into a light yet passionate kiss.

After an indeterminate amount of time Thomas felt the chill of the night creep up on them. He broke the kiss and noticed her slight shiver, offering her his coat he lead them back inside and bring his telescope with them. They made their way back down the rickety ladder and down to the lower levels. He directed her back to their rooms and once inside he felt the undeniable urge to have her stay with him in his own room.

"Constance wait. I have something else I want to share with you. Do you trust me?" he asked in his usually confident voice.

 

[ChaseMePleez]

The night air didn't bother her as the flush crept up her cheeks. Being this close to him was a pleasure. She enjoyed his company immensely and his mind was interesting. It was a wonderful surprise how much they had in common. The atmosphere was calming and set her heart at ease. A person could lose themselves in those stars, the troubles of the day fading into the diamonds that mother nature hung in the sky just for them.

Constance laughed. "You may try, Mr. Stevenson. I do enjoy a challenge." When his head lowered to hers she swore he stole the breath from her when their lips touched. Her heart fluttered inside her chest. His strong body against hers was warm and welcoming to her small one. She kissed him back, nibbling at his bottom lip. Time went by silently as they touched. He had no idea what he did to her when he kissed her. The world stopped spinning and all there was him .

When the kiss broke she felt th enight air come in on her and she shivered. Constance smiled when he offered his coat. The material enveloped her in his scent, making her feel safe. Once they headed towards their rooms Constance felt a sense of disappointment that the day was almost over. Her heart could ahve jumped for joy when he asked her to wait.

She smiled at him. "I'll always trust you, Thomas." Constance touched his cheek gently. The answer was completely honest and innocent in its trust. Their attraction had only strengthened the bond that had begun to form between them. She did not panic when the blindfold was placed over her eyes. Thomas would never hurt her and had never given her reason to think so. She gave him her trust and did as he needed her to.

 

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

Pleased with her trust Thomas quickly went over to one of the locked draws by his bed. He retrieved a black silk blindfold which he then placed over Constance's eyes and head. He led her over to his bed and gently guided her to lie on her back.

Long ago Thomas had installed all manner of tie down systems tethered to the bottom of his large bed. Tonight he made use of the light silk ties which he had become very adept at using. With his skilled knot work Thomas pulled out each tie one at a time and braced Constance's wrists and ankles to the bed. At the complete mercy to his touch Constance lay before him spread eagled on his bed.

From the same draw as before, he pulled out a feather quill, it was specially designed so that the writing end was longer and much stronger, the feather side was much the same and the whole tool was roughly finger tips to elbow in length.

Thomas started with the feathery end and trailed a path beginning at her nose down the soft delicate features of her face. He proceeded down past her chin and along the insides of her neck. He kept his movements slow and made sure to brush over every inch of visible skin several times before continuing on. He used a combination of the feather tip and the feather side to generate a varying range of sensations across her skin. Never once did he allow any other part of his body to come in contact with her.

Thomas's next path took him along her upper torso and along the insides of her cleavage. The maids outfit was simple and did not allow him to proceed further. He trailed the feather over and along each arm and then he reached over to lightly play down the smooth skin of her creamy white legs. The knee high skirt meant that he could only reach up to the top of her calves.

With his hand still teasing her legs he leaned in close to her ear.

"Can you feel that?" he whispered lightly.

"Do you want more?" he added huskily.

 

[ChaseMePleez]

The blindfold did not frighten her but gave the situation a sense of intrigue. In the darkness it was impossible to predict what may happen next and some people enjoyed that sense spontaneity. The feel of his body next to hers was like a warm fire, soothing and welcoming but also capable of burning through her skin to her very core.

Constance felt Thomas lay her in his bed. The familiar scent of his skin was in the very material she lay upon enveloping in a feeling of safety she always had with him. She was slightly confused when he tied silky pieces of material to her wrists and ankles but she reminded herself that she trusted him. The lightest of touches began at the tip of her nose and down her chin. She gasped lightly as the touched traced her features and went down to her cleavage.

There was a strange eroticism to the touch as it graced her skin. Never in her life had she been in such a position. Before Thomas, no man had touched her with such a passion that was also gentle. She just never trusted anyone enough to let them touch her until now.

Beneath the maid's outfit she felt her nipples harden, the touching teasingly erotic its lightness. It felt like a feather to her but she couldn't be sure. Constance licked her lips when she felt it on her legs, inching upwards. That sensual voice whispered into her ear and she gasped out, "Yes." She couldn't help how she whimpered. "Yes, I want more."

She felt the light touch on her soft lips, as soft as a kiss. It lavished her neck, causing her to shiver and goosebumps to erupt on her skin. Constance could almost sense when he was near, the heat from his body beckoning to her.

 

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

Thomas heard the desperation in her voice, she called at the beast within him dragging it from the deep recess of his mind. His body ached to touch her but he restrained himself. He would earn the pleasure of her touch soon enough for now though, her pleasure would be the source of his own.

Knowing that she would be able to hear every movement Thomas carefully reached back into his top draw. He pulled out a pair of sewing scissors he kept nearby for this very task. The damage of her maids uniform was inconsequential, despite the cost of reacquiring a new one it was well worth it for this instance.

Making sure that no part of his body touched her skin he slowly cut a path down the front of her dress until it split into two parts. With careful accuracy he shifted the side of the material away to reveal the shear fabric of her underclothes.

He began again at the tip of her nose, this time he used the pointed end of his quill. Unlike a normal quill this end was blunted enough that it wouldn't injure her but would still generate the desired sensations. With the layer of her dress removed he was afforded much greater access to her cleavage which he gladly took advantage of. He traced the line down the center of her mountainous valleys and unlike the feathered end he was able to sneak a touch under the top line of her underclothes in an overly teasing gesture.

Thomas enjoyed the expressions that played upon her bewitching face, especially as his journey took him up the length of her legs. Like before, without the dress covering as much he was granted more access to sensual curves of her lower half. He trailed the tip up the insides of her thighs, when he reached the edge of her bloomers he traced small paths up and down the borders of the fabric shifting under every so often. He leaned in close with his lips not quite touching her ear.

"Do you want more?" he asked breathing her scent as he spoke.

 

[ChaseMePleez]

Constance felt a need in her that only came when she touched Thomas. It was a yearning that made a warmth bloom in her lower stomach. Each time they had come together it had burned hotter and the need became harder for her to resist.

She heard the wood sliding against itself as the drawer opened again. Constance had no idea what he was doing until she heard the first snip. The heaviness of the material of her dress began to slide away a piece at a time. Her skin was slowly exposed the cool air.

Her body felt exposed in this state but she fought back her insecurities about herself. Constance could feel her nipples poking through the material of her underclothes. She listened for Thomas to see what he would do next.

The touch of a blunt end brushed against her nose and she shivered hard. Her lips trembled as it touched the valleys of her breasts, skimming inside her underclothes and just barely touched one of her nipples. Constance let out a little moan and her stomach did a flip flop. She never felt like this before. There was a craving inside her, a wanting that he fed with those little caresses.

Her legs were very sensitive and she couldn't stop the little noises that erupted from her lips when she felt the blunt end again. Her heart was beating hard in her ribs, her skin felt alive and tight against her body. Her breathing fluttered a bit when she felt it going up her thighs. There was a throbbing in between her legs. Dear lord, what was he doing to her?

Did she want more? “Yes...I need more, Thomas.”

 

[DungeonsOfDread]

Thomas Stevenson

Her words whimpered softly as she requested more of his attentions. Using the scissors again, Thomas unhurriedly cut straight through center of the top half of her underclothing. The flimsy material flopped to the sides revealing the slight hint of her erect nipples.

With the feathered end of his quill, Thomas brushed the remaining cloth away to reveal the absolute fullness of her luscious breasts. Although he had seen her glorious peaks before it seemed so long ago, like a distant yet pleasant memory resurfacing.

Thomas used the quill to make brush like strokes over the edges of her nipples and along the side of her pert breasts. When he was satisfied with her responses he switched ends again and traced the length of her fleshy mounds. He paid careful attention to each erect nipple using small circles around the edges ending in a small touch on the tips at the end.

"More?"