Fiction: Companionship - Part 3
May. 30th, 2010 05:40 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
kethniName: Part 3 - Mentoring
Pairing: Matt/Mohinder
Rating: 18
Warnings: Sex, adult, sad stuff
Note: Vaguely historical AU. Back to part 2
This week we have been concentrating on advanced erogenous zones. I think that this probably my favourite practical practice. I think I say that every week, but this time I’m sure.
‘Stop giggling,’ Matt laughs. He’s spooned behind me on the bed: kissing and nibbling my neck while he stokes my side.
‘My neck is ticklish!’
‘Mmm, I like your ticklish neck,’ he says. ‘I like kissing and biting it.’
‘How am I going to learn about different techniques when you keep sneaking up on me?’ I look over my shoulder at him. ‘I can’t see what you’re doing.’
‘But Mohinder how else can I kiss the nape of your neck, mmm?’ His hand slides between my legs. ‘How else can I make you giggle and wriggle while I do this.’
Matt visits between three and five times a week depending on both of our schedules. He will be expected to enter into negotiations to marry in the next few years, so there are certain rituals and ceremonies he’s expected to master. But for the next year, he’s all mine.
He generally arrives late afternoon or early evening and we go through some of the hospitality rituals. After that, we eat either in one of the private dining rooms or in my room. I have a weekly schedule of practice and a monthly checklist of optional achievements for extra credit. Matt is very good about the optional achievements even when it’s something that isn’t completely to his taste. Then after the practice, we have a shower before I read poetry, sing, or otherwise entertain while Matt gives me far too much attention. Usually, he stays over, so we often make love before going to sleep together. I think waking up with Matt is as pleasant as anything I can remember.
It’s early morning; the sun is low and bright through the windows, and Matt is already awake, just lying in bed looking at me.
‘You didn’t wake me.’
‘It’s early,’ Matt says gently and strokes my stomach, ‘I was watching you sleep.’
‘There are more fun things we can be doing,’ I suggest, sliding my arms around his broad, broad shoulders.
‘I can’t, I have an early meeting with your clothier,’ he says kissing me. ‘Being a mentor is a terrible burden indeed.’
‘Wait, why do you have a meeting with my clothier?’
‘That is rather unseemly curiosity in a companion,’ Matt teases, tapping my nose. ‘You ought to be gracious but affect polite disinterest.’ He scowls at me playfully. ‘While sneaking around trying to find out what I’m doing.’
‘I am sure I don’t know what you mean to imply,’ I say with dignity and slide out from underneath him. ‘I would not have you late for your meeting so please do not let me distract you from your ablutions.’
Matt sits up and shakes his head. ‘Don’t pout.’
‘I can if I want!’
And he laughs! Laughs at me, but in that gentle, warm way that makes me feel only a little embarrassed.
‘You can,’ he agrees. ‘But please don’t? It ruins your beautiful face and makes me want to spank you.’
‘Ooh!’ I say, climbing onto his knee. ‘Should I ask for that as one of my electives?’
‘I can’t wait that long.’ He kisses my forehead. ‘You know that I don’t enjoy the companion “games,” but you do need to learn them.’
‘I’m aware of that,’ I say, adjusting my posture. ‘I ought to have been pleasantly intrigued, perhaps engaging some mild flirtation to gratify your desire to tease me, but maintaining my dignity.’ I return his kiss and stand up. ‘But I am still learning to control myself around you.’
‘Why do I feel I have been expertly manipulated?’ Matt laughs, and pats my bottom.
‘I have no idea,’ I say nicely.
‘I have permission to take you out tomorrow night,’ he says in a carefully casual way.
This time I do smile nicely. ‘Oh? May I be allowed to enquire where we are going?’
‘You may ask,’ he agrees. ‘But I won’t tell you. It’s a surprise.’
I lean back against the wall and make a leg, which of course draws his gaze. ‘Would I be terribly mistaken to imagine that you are meeting with my clothier to have a costume made for our night out?’ I ask, fluttering my eyes.
‘No,’ he says with a wink. ‘Not terribly mistaken.’
‘Would you give me a teeny, tiny clue? Pretty please?’
Matt purses his lips thoughtfully. ‘Brush up on your Italian,’ he suggests.
The opera! Matt is taking me to the opera! The gown he’s had made for me is layered silk, a rich red with gold trim, and beautifully cut. It’s rather brighter and more colourful than I would usually wear, but a companion is expected to attract, and maintain, attention. My Gentleman will expect me to be an ornament as well as adding lustre to his reputation. If all eyes are in the room are on me then my Gentleman can bask in the envy of his peers.
I have been shaved, had my hair styled, and had my body perfumed. I am relatively confident that I will not embarrass him with my appearance. My behaviour tonight is, admittedly, giving me rather more cause for concern. It is not that I am badly behaved or that my deportment has ever given my tutors cause for alarm. But it will be my very first public engagement, in front of so many of potential clients and their peers, and in a place where Matt is surely known. I think perhaps that the risk of embarrassing Matt is worrying me far more than merely ruining my reputation and my future career. I am aware, of course, that my tutors would consider my priorities completely inappropriate. I know that I should certainly be far more concerned about my future. However, since my concerns for myself and for Matt’s reputation dovetail neatly, I will not trouble myself overmuch on the fine details of my priorities.
Matt looks so handsome in his sand coloured robe. I wouldn’t have thought the colour would be particularly flattering to anyone but it truly does suit Matt. His skin has been treated with a fine, light oil that has left it sleek and soft. It feels odd but pleasant when I kiss his cheek. Although I know that Matt has had it done for my benefit I feel a tiny spear of resentment that he didn’t have me do it. I know that it’s unreasonable; I know that he wanted to surprise me, and I do appreciate it, I truly do. But I am still a little jealous that someone else was looking after him.
‘You look very handsome,’ I say, adjusting his hair. It doesn’t really need it, but someone else has styled it and so I want to make my mark.
It has taken some time for me to accept that I can be a little, just a very little, possessive. It took me a little longer to deal with the uncomfortable fact that Matt already knew this, and apparently finds it amusing. I feel I might be getting a little more emotionally invested than is probably safe for me.
‘I think that’s my line,’ Matt says, taking my hand. ‘You look wonderful; I think you’ll be fighting off admirers tonight.’
‘You’ll protect me, won’t you Matt?’ I ask, smiling nicely.
Matt taps my nose and smiles, but there’s a little quaver. ‘I’ll throw myself in front of a horde of adoring millionaires for you if you want. But isn’t building yourself a reputation something every companion should begin doing as soon as possible?’
The more desired I am and the wider my renown, than the better a price my contract will fetch. It is something I should be thinking about of course, and I am slightly chagrined that Matt is the one considering my reputation.
‘Naturally, but I think I might enjoy being enigmatic this evening,’ I suggest.
‘I’m not going to throw you to the wolves,’ Matt laughs, and offers me his arm. ‘I didn’t think you were the shy type,’ he teases. ‘Is this perhaps some new technique to make me feel protective over you?’
‘Why Matt, do I need to encourage you to feel protective?’ I ask sweetly.
‘No,’ he says gently. ‘Never.’
Previously, my only trips out of the pleasure school have been educational ones to museums, galleries, and the like. My only experience of the opera has been amateur productions at the school. I have a pleasant enough singing voice but that’s all, my range is rather limited, and I lack the power needed for a truly operatic voice.
Matt’s family has a fine, if slightly worn, coach and four that is very neatly furnished and, I suspect, has been cleaned recently. Riding to the opera with Matt in his coach is enough to make my heart pound.
‘Mohinder, take a breath, you need to be calm so you can sweep in there and stun everyone with your grace, elegance, and beauty,’ Matt teases.
‘I suppose that one of us ought to be calm,’ I agree sweetly.
Matt just smiles and shakes his head. He stands up when the coach halts and steps outside, turning to help me down. It isn’t that I need assistance of course; but that it helps the gentleman feel strong, and manly, which is always to be encouraged.
‘Thank you.’
‘Of course,’ Matt says graciously. I don’t often mention his natural courtesy and easy manners, which is terribly unfair because he has both in abundance. He offers me his arm and leads me through the double doors in the opera building.
There are a number of boxes, some larger ones further up, and a number of smaller ones. This box, embossed with the Parkman family crest, holds just the two of us but does it comfortably. It’s rather cosy; we can watch the opera as if we are the only ones here.
‘The socialising proper happens at the soiree afterwards,’ Matt explains. ‘They’ll all have been gawping at you throughout the opera so you should expect a lot of attention.’
‘Won’t they be listening to the music?’ I ask.
Matt makes himself comfortable in his seat. ‘Only as a background to catching up on gossip, making deals, and admiring the beautiful and enigmatic young man bizarrely spending his time with young Lord Parkman,’ he jokes.
‘I can’t think of anywhere else this young man would rather be,’ I say, sitting back in my chair.
Matt puts his hand over mine as the orchestra begin checking their instruments. ‘This is the part of the evening that’s just us,’ he says quietly. ‘Afterwards is public. I’ll introduce you to as many people as I can and my friend Adam, the Duke of Kensei, has agreed to introduce to anyone else that I’m not on proper terms with.’
I should thank him for his concern and forethought. I want to tell him that I’ll be happy simply to stay on his arm.
‘That’s very kind of you, Matt, I think I will be happy not to mingle too widely. It might be better to tease society rather than explode onto it.’
Matt looks at me and smiles slightly. ‘I get shy too,’ he says gently. ‘But Adam is a good man and he’ll make sure you don’t get out of your depth. He has a somewhat... tart sense of humour, but nothing a bright lad such as you can’t deal with.’
‘You’ve never mentioned him before,’ I whisper as the curtain goes up.
‘I always mean to,’ he says. ‘For some reason when I’m with you I forget all about it.’
The soiree is in the Velvet Reception Room, a large, plush room, with enormous elaborate chandeliers, knee-deep carpeting, and huge couches for the well-to-do to lounge on.
There are several hundred of the richest and most powerful men and women in the country in this room. It seems, at the moment, as though they’re all looking at me. Then an attractive young man of about Matt’s age, blond with wide blue eyes, walks over and greets Matt familiarly.
‘Dear boy, aren’t you going to introduce me?’
Matt smiles and looks at me, ‘Mohinder Suresh, may I introduce my friend Adam, Duke of Kensei. Adam, this is Mohinder Suresh. Mohinder is a student at the Primatech Pleasure School.’
Adam takes my hand. ‘Either I’m getting older or the students entering society are getting a great deal more polished at a younger age,’ he says.
‘Sign of old age,’ Matt suggests. ‘Mohinder is in the school’s advanced training track though,’ he adds.
I have to bite my tongue to stop myself from asking Matt how he knew that.
‘A great pleasure to meet you,’ Adam says, making deep eye contact. ‘Matt has chewed my ear off talking about you, oh don’t worry, I know he hasn’t mentioned me to you. He’s never dealt well with competition.’
‘How do you do?’ I reply nicely. ‘Perhaps there is another kindly, gracious Duke of Kensei about whom I have heard so much.’
‘Touché!’ Adam laughs, and finally lets go of my hand. ‘Loyalty in front of the old stick is absolutely the way to go,’ he says with a wink. ‘Now, shall we see about introducing you to the kind of people who don’t deserve you but can certainly afford you?’
‘I’ll find us a couple of drinks, Mohinder,’ Matt says, starting to move away.
‘Certainly not!’ Adam says quickly. ‘It’s long past time that you expanded your social circle, Matt. I’m sure Mohinder agrees with me that society can only be improved by your increased participation.’
Matt starts and waves his hands. ‘Don’t try double-teaming me.’
‘I would never dream of attempting to pressure Matt,’ I say nicely.
‘Thank you,’ Matt says, narrowing his eyes at Adam.
‘I think you’ll find that the operative word in that sentence was “attempting,” the beautiful boy didn’t say he wouldn’t succeed in pressuring you.’ Adam raises an eyebrow. ‘Although if he’s even half as bright as he’s beautiful then “pressuring” wouldn’t really be the word. But honestly, Matt, for Mohinder’s sake, you ought to meet more families. More families and better social connections mean more opportunities for Mohinder.’
I open my mouth to argue that Adam is going too far, too quickly, but Matt nods.
‘I know that,’ he says. ‘I just wanted to start slowly.’ Matt takes my hand and squeezes it gently. ‘Mohinder’s decided that he’s shy today.’
Adam claps his hands together. ‘I’m sure Mohinder appreciates that your chances of a good marriage will also be improved by climbing the social ladder.’
‘May I ask if your wife-to-be is with your tonight, Your Grace’ I ask, noting that Matt is turning unpleasantly red.
Adam turns forty-five degrees and indicates an attractive young woman on the other side of the room. ‘Lady Elle is flirting outrageously with some third cousin of the brother-in-law of the Viscount of God-knows-where.’ He waggles his eyebrows at me. ‘Elle has heard that it’s terribly bad form for a woman to pay attention to her husband in public and is clearly practicing in advance.’ Adam shrugs easily. ‘As long as she waits until after she’s provided me with an heir and a spare before she goes further than flirting.’ He puts down his drink on a small table. ‘Come on boys, let’s mingle.’
Although he isn’t quite to my taste, Adam does at least have the decency to address me directly and include me in the conversation. Even if he and Matt have a tendency to talk about what’s best for me. Many of the men and women I’m introduced to talk about me as if I weren’t present, or as if I were unable to understand the conversation. They aren’t unpleasant; they merely talk as though I were some species of exotic animal.
Which I am, of course, I’m a companion. Glamour and mystery are my trade; the pedestrian, prosaic details of reality are anathema to me.
Still, it rather more pleasant to be treated like a human being.
Poor Matt is finding all of this socialising rather heavy going. Between Matt’s tendencies to be a homebody and the depleted family finances I suspect that he doesn’t travel much in society. Adam on the other hand is effortless as he tows the two of us around the room, never letting us linger too long, while I try to put the faces to the names I have been taught.
‘Ahh,’ Adam says, looking across at the dark haired young man staring across at us. ‘I believe that is the infamous Mr Grey. Dear Lord is he walking over? Do either of you know him?’
Approaching someone of a higher social standing when you have not already been formally introduced is a shocking breach of etiquette. It would be bad enough for Mr Grey to approach Matt, but Adam is the second most senior Duke in the entire country.
‘Never been introduced,’ Matt says flatly, scowling. ‘What’s he thinking?’
‘I was told he approached the pleasure school about mentoring me,’ I say quickly. ‘I have never met him though.’
Adam rolls his eyes. ‘Well there are rules for a reason, children. Might I suggest we at least observe them?’
‘Meaning we snub him?’ Matt snorts. ‘He looks determined.’
‘I mean that for the sake of Mohinder’s reputation, he shouldn’t talk to the... gentleman unless one of us introduces him.’
In honesty, it’s a suggestion with which I am extremely pleased to comply. There is something unnerving about someone so utterly disregarding of the social rules. If they won’t even obey simply social niceties then how can you be sure they will comply with the common norms of behaviour generally?
Matt actually steps in front of me as Mr Grey reaches us and Adam steps up next to him. I’m not entirely sure what they think he’s going to do but the sheer machismo is equally exciting and amusing.
‘Gabriel Grey, you’ll be the Duke of Kensei and young Lord Parkman. Am I supposed to be impressed?’
‘I understand that you’re “new money” and therefore perhaps you are unaware of the gross social impropriety of approaching us?’ Adam asks calmly. ‘Therefore I suggest that you turn around and walk away before you cause yourself further embarrassment.’
Mr Grey snorts and shakes his head. ‘I’m not impressed with your ridiculous, calcified traditions. I have my position because I make money and I wield power, not because I’m the pampered, over-indulged great-grandson of some robber baron who bribed the king for his dukedom.’
‘What do you want?’ Matt asks, and his hand is on the hilt of his sword.
This is ridiculous! Surely things couldn’t possibly...
‘Your mentee should’ve been mine,’ Mr Grey says darkly. ‘What you can possibly show him besides the slow death of the aristocracy? I’m surprised you managed to afford tickets, I hear you’re pawning the family jewellery to buy clothes.’
That’s a ridiculous exaggeration! Matt will surely not take it seriously.
Matt laughs, not the gentle warm laugh, but a cold, hard bark of laughter.
‘And yet I was infinitely preferable to you.’ Matt takes a small step away from me, so that I can see Mr Grey clearly for the first time. ‘Mohinder, I think it is time for me to take you home.’
I step forward between Matt and Adam, and bow to Adam. ‘It was a great honour to meet you, Your Grace,’ I say, not looking at Mr Grey.
‘The pleasure was all mine,’ Adam says. ‘I hope to see you again soon.’
Mr Grey claps his hands. ‘You think that this is social superiority? We’ll see who has the real power.’
In the coach, Matt is ill at ease, struggling to sit comfortably. I move across next to him and take off his cloak, moving my hands to rub his shoulders.
‘Thank you,’ he says quietly.
‘I appreciate you working so hard to help me enter society. I know it isn’t to your taste.’
‘I can’t say I enjoy mingling with large groups of people,’ Matt says wryly. ‘I didn’t realise I did quite such a poor job of presenting an appropriate demeanour.’
‘I should hope that I can judge your moods better than most strangers,’ I tease.
‘That Grey creature makes me uneasy,’ he admits. ‘I over-reacted and I don’t like that.’
‘I understand that the pleasure school considered him a very poor choice for mentor,’ I say. ‘I told you they were careful.’
Matt looks at me over his shoulder and smiles. ‘Even so, I cannot blame him for his taste in men.’
‘I am very pleased to hear it.’
Every quarter I am assessed for both the theoretical and practical parts of my education. The theoretical assessment is simply a combination of a written and a vocal test. The practical is by its nature well... practical. Technically speaking for the basic relaxation massage the assessor can be in the room with us, but Matt finds that too to be extremely uncomfortable. Madam Sandra is my prima now and so she runs each assessment and has two other tutors on each assessment. This quarter I am being assessed on a full sequence: a hospitality ritual, anal intercourse – receiving, a shower, and fellatio - performing. For optional credit, I’m being assessed on foot worship and a basic bondage sequence. It’s an all day assessment, which is quite an investment of time, but Matt’s terribly good about the time it takes and the required practice. As I progress, I’ll be assessed on sequences of increasing complexity including specific specialised sexual acts and practices.
Matt didn’t stay last night; he said he thought it would help us concentrate on the assessment if we started fresh when he arrives in the morning. I don’t think I could concentrate any more on the assessment than I have been. I think that Matt secretly wanted an evening where he was doing something, anything other than worrying about the assessment, which I don’t blame him for at all.
‘Now sweetie, do you remember how this works from last time?’ Madam Sandra asks, squeezing my hand.
‘I think so Madam, we will be in the assessment room for the entire duration of the day, while you will be observing from behind a one way screen. The sequence will begin with hospitality...’
‘Ah ah!’ Madam Sandra says, playfully wagging her finger. ‘Now don’t spoil the surprise. I’m looking forward to seeing exactly what kind of sequence you’ve put together, Mohinder. I’m sure that you’ll wow us all.’
It is something of a risk, but I’ve decided for the hospitality portion to serve breakfast and go through the tea ritual. If I misjudge the timing then I might ruin both the breakfast and the tea ceremony, which would surely set a terrible pall over the rest of the day. But I have practiced and, perhaps more importantly, I have bribed the slaves well to have everything ready well in advance.
I have everything laid out and waiting when Matt is shown in. He looks especially handsome today, freshly shaved and wearing a new robe. It
‘Good morning, Matt,’ I say, kissing his cheek. ‘Would you sit down, please?’
If the repeated practices have irritated Matt then he doesn’t show it, instead he plays his part with grace and good humour. I doubt that there are many would-be mentors realise the amount of effort and hard work that it means. Matt hardly ever complains, although he did playfully threaten to run away when I broached the matter of bondage with him.
It might come as something of a surprise to know that it is more common for a Gentleman to want to be in bondage than to apply it. This can be something of a mixed blessing since the application of bondage, especially high intensity, long duration; bondage can cause considerable damage if not done perfectly. No Companion wishes to injure their Gentleman, certainly not, but if the other option is be injured themselves then most of us would prefer it. However, high intensity bondage isn’t to my taste and I have no desire to study it. Even if I had, I still wouldn’t study it as Matt’s tolerance, both in bondage and applying it, begins at light intensity, and ends at moderate. The infliction and receipt of pain is a distinct but related subject and one I will not be pursuing.
The slaves bring in the samovar as Matt pushes away his empty plate. I pick up the breakfast dishes and put them on the side as the slaves place the samovar down in the centre of the table. They carry away the breakfast accoutrements without slowing or hesitating. With the breakfast ritual successfully concluded, I set out the tea things while Matt wipes his mouth and washes his hands in the small bowl. We can both take a few moments to relax now the potentially difficult crossover of rituals is completed.
Matt dislikes being undressed, finds the sensation of being grovelled to distasteful, but he does an admirable job of hiding his aversion. I recite lightly ribald amusing poetry as I undress him, and he laughs while he tries to relax. I am far more used to being monitored and assessed than Matt is and far more comfortable with sexual intimacy as performance. It was his idea for us to lie on our sides with him behind me, which does mean that the assessors will have unrestricted views of our faces, although I think Matt suggested it because he likes being able to kiss my neck.
It might sound odd that a view of our faces would be a benefit, but not only is it a better indicator of Matt’s arousal, or not, but whether I can convincingly appear aroused. Only a very small percentage of people prefer their partner appear disinterested. Although generally being aroused by Matt comes quite naturally, being assessed does rather put a damper on things. I had some slight concern that Matt might have had some difficulties, but if he did, then he’s recovered perfectly.
‘Everything okay?’ he asks, nipping at me ear.
‘Mmm, perfect.’
‘I’m nearly... nearly ready.’
Matt’s been very careful not to actually arouse me for this. It doesn’t suit him at all, but he understands that this has to be seen as work to the assessors. If I achieve release then all I’ve proved is that I enjoy sex with Matt, and that hardly needs assessing.
Matt bites my shoulder as he comes, and then drapes an arm around my waist. ‘Mmm,’ he sighs, ‘do I have to get up right away to have a shower?’
‘How would dragging you out of a warm bed make me look like a good companion?’ I tease, looking at him over my shoulder. ‘Why don’t you have a nap while I clear up?’
‘Good plan.’ Matt rolls onto his back, pulling me onto his chest, and closes his eyes.
‘Don’t sleep for too long,’ I say, slipping from his arms.
I have the shower prepared, candles burning, scented lotions standing by, and warmed, clean towels to one side, when Matt wakes. He’s always a little disoriented when he wakes but, happily, I had the slaves bring in some coffee for him mere moments ago.
‘How did you manage that?’ Matt asks, smiling as I prepare his coffee.
‘You never nap for very long, and I saw your sleep was getting lighter,’ I explain, sipping my coffee. ‘Did you have a pleasant sleep?’
‘I dreamt there were people in the walls watching,’ he says wryly. ‘Mmm, this is extremely good coffee.’
‘I’ve scheduled us something light to eat after the next two exercises,’ I say.
Matt laughs and stretches. ‘I have to keep my strength up, hmm?’
‘Wouldn’t do for one of us to collapse mid-way through the sequence,’ I agree. ‘Is everything agreeable so far?’
‘All superb,’ Matt says, finishing his coffee and putting the cup down. ‘I’m happily anticipating the shower.’
I put my cup down and stand up. ‘Far be it for me to leave you in suspense. Would you accompany me to the shower?’
The shower is a blissful bubble of privacy for us both. While we wash, the assessors can compare notes, make ablutions, or what have you.
‘I think you have something here that requires attention,’ Matt whispers into my ear.
‘We’re supposed to be washing!’ I protest, but only a little. Matt has soaped us both down until our bodies are slick with foam and now his hand is circling my thighs.
‘Is it here?’ he laughs. ‘No, not quite. How about here...’
I start to squeal but he quickly clamps his free hand over my mouth.
‘Don’t want them thinking that you’re enjoying yourself now, do we?’ Matt whispers. ‘That would never do.’ He smiles into my eyes as he leans his forehead against mine. ‘You could at least make a little effort at resisting, squirm about a little.’
Matt has a little fancy for my struggling and squirming, and I almost wish it were more of a trial indulging him. As it is, a little writhing and wriggling is hardly any effort, and pleasing Matt would be worth considerable exertion.
‘Far better,’ he says happily. ‘Now how about this...’
Despite his best efforts, I’m afraid that I do make rather a lot of noise.
The slaves have put out several jugs of wine and juice as well as a bowl of warm water and several flavoured oils. Their timing is perfect and I must remember to reward them for it. Steam is rising from the bowl as I dress Matt in a clean robe and then dress myself.
‘Would you care for some refreshment?’ I ask as Matt sits down on the chaise.
‘A glass of juice would be very pleasant, thank you.’
Matt takes the glass of juice I hand him and settles back in the chair. ‘No tickling, now.’
‘I will allow that shocking slur on my technique to pass by unchallenged,’ I say with dignity as I sit down on the floor, ‘this once.’
I pull Matt’s feet into my lap as he carefully puts his drink to one side. We caused a considerable amount of work for my poor room slave when I did accidentally tickle Matt’s feet and he was holding a glass. Foot worship isn’t to either of our tastes but in a way that is a positive thing for the assessment, since it shows that I master techniques for which I have no particular affinity.
I wash Matt’s feet, dry them, and rub them with an edible oil flavoured with a mix of citrus fruits. Throughout we chat about a play that Matt thinks I would enjoy and a book that I have leant him. When his feet are anointed with a general measure of oil, he sits back and closes his eyes.
I kiss along the tarsus, nip softly at the fleshy padding over the calcaneus, kiss along the plantar, and draw the hallux into my mouth.
We have some light dishes for lunch; smoked salmon, roasted tomatoes, and toasted Portobello mushrooms topped with cheese.
‘Washed the taste out of your mouth?’ Matt asks, smiling impishly as he takes a sip of wine.
‘I find the tartness of the wine sets it off beautifully,’ I say sweetly.
Matt nibbles a toasted mushroom and leans back in his chair. ‘You’re certainly becoming a better liar,’ he says with a grin.
‘I always aim to please.’
‘Is more alacrity needed?’ Matt asks quietly, glancing at the timepiece.
I shake my head and lean across to put my hand over his. ‘No, we have plenty of time to finish eating and to have ablutions. I hope that meets with your approval?’
‘Forgive me, I know of course that you have timed everything,’ he says, smiling at me. ‘Next is my favourite part of the sequence is it?’
Poor Matt, in all today is not much to his taste. He is very good to indulge my choices of optional credit. I have been trying to think of something particularly special I can do for him but so far to no avail.
‘It is,’ I say with a nod. ‘I hope that you have working on your stretches,’ I tease. Matt’s body is completely unlike mine, broad, strong, but somewhat inflexible. He’s an oak to my willow, and I know that he is a little anxious about the flexibility required for the bondage sequence. To be honest though we have practiced a number of different positions without any difficulties since I always help Matt warm up and cool down.
‘I have,’ he says smiling bravely. ‘You may still have to rough me up a little.’
It is a little indulgent to powder Matt’s wrists and ankles since he won’t be in restraints very long. It’s more generally used under leatherwear to prevent chafing but I want to make sure that Matt is comfortable.
The chair is padded and quite comfortable, I’ve tried it myself, and it provides a different aesthetic from using the bed. The assessment does include extra points for creating and maintaining visual interest, too many companions show a lack of imagination when it comes to staging and equipment, and we’ve already used the bed. The leg rests are a little high and wider than is strictly comfortable, and Matt winces a little but hides it well. I tighten the straps around his wrists and ankles before sliding on the padded blindfold.
I find “abuse talk” uninteresting but not difficult, although Matt has a tendency to get the giggles when I try it. Fortunately when he sets his mind to it Matt can do practically anything, and he doesn’t so much as smile when I call him all manner of names. In fact, he does a very creditable job of simpering and whimpering as he begs and calls me Master. Mmm, I think I could get used to that.
I check Matt’s fingers and toes for circulation before I go any further. Safety is the paramount concern in a bondage scenario. There are so many things that can go badly wrong, which I suspect is part of the attraction.
‘The safe word is Rosewood,’ I say, climbing onto his lap. ‘If you feel any numbness or pain in your fingers and toes shout out right away.’
‘I will,’ Matt says, smiling slightly.
I slap his face lightly and he pouts.
‘I don’t think you’re taking this seriously,’ I scowl, and bite his lower lip playfully. ‘Bad boy.’ I slide down off his lap and between his legs. I slide his robe up his legs and pool it around his thighs. I’m pleasantly surprised to see that he’s already partially tumescent. Matt’s refractory period is short, he’s young and in fairly good health, but even so I was expecting to have to work harder to arouse him.
I’m sure that the blindfold is helping in that respect. In class, we have briefly discussed the use of blindfolds or darkness to increase sensory awareness and heighten pleasure, but not in detail. Plus, of course, Matt finds the assessors’ presence quite off-putting and not having to see the screen must help.
I trail my tongue around Matt’s testicles, keeping a light pressure over the delicate, frail skin, and carefully draw them into my mouth. Matt makes a soft, animal whine that sets my heart hammering.
This is an assessment exercise, Mohinder. Concentrate on your task. The little whines and moans that Matt’s making are a useful guide, that’s all. That’s all.
Matt’s legs try to kick as I release his testicles and blow softly on the damp skin. There is a creak as Matt throws back his head, pressing back against the headrest. I kiss along Matt’s length, slow and open-mouthed kisses, until I reach the apex. I roll my tongue around it before taking Matt into my mouth.
Out of the corner of my eye, I see his arms tugging futilely at the restraints.
Matt’s voice is a little hoarse now. It’s adorable, and combined with the faint flush in his cheeks it makes me want to push him to the floor and kiss him all over. Instead, I wash and dress him before having the chair removed. The final ceremony in the sequence is a leave-taking, a simple little ritual in which we share a bowl of fermented milk and honey and discuss the day.
‘When might I see you again?’
‘Tomorrow, in the early evening,’ Matt says, and smiles at me over the rim of the bowl. ‘To rest.’
‘I will endeavour to provide a relaxing, tranquil environment for you,’ I say nicely.
‘You always do.’
Once the room is returned to normal I stand in front on the screen and wait. When it slides across, I see that as well as Madam Sandra I am being assessed by Madam Angela, and Master Robert. Oh dear. Madam Angela is, in fact, probably the least difficult of the three. She knows me very well and will know that I have spared nothing in performing this sequence. She will be more generous knowing that I have worked to the best of my ability than she would be if the same sequence were presented by someone of more skill. Theoretically, that is. I am in the top one or two of all my classes. Madam Sandra will try to be fair but she doesn’t know me as well as Madam Angela. She may or may not have an accurate judgement of my abilities. Master Robert on the other hand... Master Robert I know only by reputation, and it is not good. He’s known for having a mercurial temper, oh, he always smiles, but students say you never know if he’s going to commend or condemn you.
‘Please sit down, Mohinder,’ Madam Sandra says, smiling. ‘You’ve performed a very long sequence and you must be tired.’
‘Thank you, Madam.’
She folds her hands in her lap. ‘Well, I thought it was a lovely sequence. I’ve seen many sequences Mohinder, of all different types, and that was... that was a very well put together sequence. You looked very graceful, nice easy movements, and your form was beautiful. You had a lot of... disparate elements there but you put them together very well.’ She smiles at me. ‘I was very impressed, Mohinder. Well done!’
‘Well,’ Master Robert says, cleaning his glasses and putting them back on his nose. ‘Combining the breakfast ceremony and the tea ritual was certainly unique,’ he says dryly. ‘What were you trying to do?’
I take a deep breath. ‘I was attempting to present a hospitality ceremony in a slightly different way.’
‘What’s wrong with the usual ways?’ Master Robert asks. ‘This profession is built on tradition. The point of ceremonies and rituals is that they have been the same way for hundreds of years. Is that a problem for you, Mr Suresh?’
‘Oh don’t be ridiculous, Bob,’ Madam Angela says before I can reply. ‘Mohinder is on the advanced track. If he simply followed by rote then you’d be complaining he wasn’t fulfilling his potential.’
‘Combining the two ceremonies could have been disastrous,’ Master Robert argues. ‘One small misstep and both could have been ruined.’
Madam Angela rolls her eyes. ‘Yes, Bob, but the point is that there was no misstep. You can’t score Mohinder on what could have been.’
‘It smacks of arrogance to me.’ He sniffs and shakes his head, ‘The same sort of arrogance as combining the fellatio with the optional bondage. That or sheer laziness, what is it Mr Suresh, arrogant or just lazy?’
‘I want to score highly,’ I say honestly. ‘I thought the best way to score highly was to do something quite different from the usual. If that makes me arrogant then I am arrogant. I’m certainly not lazy, Sir.’
‘See, this is what annoys me about students,’ Master Robert says hotly. ‘It’s all about a high score. It should be about doing what you love, not caring about the score.’
‘If the score is so unimportant, Bob,’ Madam Sandra says, smiling too sweetly, ‘Why do you assess students?’
‘I happen to hold the reputation of this institution very highly,’ Master Robert says, calming down. ‘I don’t think that we do the institution any favours by sending out lazy, arrogant students.’
Madam Angela rolls her eyes. ‘Talk sense, Bob, how can Mohinder be lazy when your major complaint is that he performed two hospitality rituals instead of one? You’re the expert; did he abrogate or edit the rituals in any way?’
Master Robert raises an eyebrow and looks me over. ‘I think it would be a cold day indeed that one of your former students abrogated any ritual. No, his technique was some of the most precise I’ve ever seen.’ He addresses me directly again. ‘Nobody is denying that you have technical brilliance, Mohinder, but that’s no excuse for arrogance. That’s a very slippery road.’
‘Thank you, sir,’ I say as calmly as I can. I can live with being called arrogant if it comes with being considered technically brilliant.
Madam Angela steeples her fingers and looks at me. ‘Tell me Mohinder; are you happy with your performance today?’
I am considered quite the skilled liar now, but long experience has shown that there is nothing to be gained from attempting to lie to Madam Angela and everything to lose.
‘Yes Madam.’
A tiny, almost unnoticeable smile plays around her lips. ‘Why?’
I take a breath as I try to order my thoughts. ‘I composed the most sensually and aesthetically pleasing sequence that I could, incorporating as many varying techniques as I could, and I feel that I did my very best in performing them.’
‘So would you consider your assessment today to be a success?’ she prompts.
I have seen her annihilate students when they mistakenly gave the wrong answer. But Madam Angela likes me, or at least she approves of me on some level.
‘Yes, Madam. I believe I was successful in performing the sequence to the best of my ability.’
Madam Angela smiles, a bright, wide smile. ‘Good. I found your choices to be unusual, exciting, and exceptionally well performed. Give my regards to young Lord Parkman. He’s one of the better mentors I’ve seen.’
As satisfying as it is to get rare praise from Madam Angela, hearing her praise Matt is even more pleasant.
In a little over a week, I will be signing my new contract as the auction is at the end of this week. All of the other students are so excited to be leaving the pleasure school and entering contracts.
All I want is for everything to stop, right now, and never change. In a little over a week, I will have my last night with Matt. However much I fantasise I know, I know that there is no chance, no chance at all that he will be able to buy my contract. When my contract is over, I’ll be twenty-eight. Matt might think I’m too old, if he hasn’t forgotten about me.
To celebrate the second anniversary of my mentoring, Matt has brought me to the Royal Garden Party. It’s terrifying. All around is the cream of society, or as Matt says, the people who float to the top at least. There are fully qualified Companions here, beautifully dressed, elegant, and engaging. When I am introduced to Eden and Simone, I feel like such a child besides them.
‘My dear boy,’ Adam says, squeezing my shoulder. ‘You’re positively radiant today. Don’t panic, child, Matt’s over with the clerk of the court requesting you be formally introduced to the King.’
I nearly drop my glass of wine. ‘But... but Matt can’t do that!’
Adam grins and takes my arm. I do wish he wouldn’t do that. Adam has always been flirtatious, it’s his nature, but in recent months, he’s become increasingly attentive. It’s become unpleasantly clear that he is harbouring some genuine attraction beyond the surface. It isn’t that I like dislike Adam, I find him very amiable company, but he’s Matt’s friend. He’s probably Matt’s best friend, and it seems terribly disrespectful and wrong for him to be attracted to me.
‘He can now I’ve given a formal recommendation,’ Adam says, waggling his eyebrows. ‘Oh don’t look so unhappy, Mohinder, it doesn’t suit you. Meeting the King will be a huge boost to your social standing. Neither Eden nor Simone has met him. Just think; you may have a wider social standing than your Gentleman, and that would be immensely valuable.’
‘I know that Matt is trying to do his best for me.’ Matt hates social situations and I know that this would be difficult for him even without the amount of attention I’m getting.
Adam squeezes my arm. ‘Dear heart, have some appreciation for how much this is shredding Matt. There is no telling how you will age or how the fashions will have changed by the time your contract ends. You may have to live on your contract sale for fifty years or more! You need your contract to sell for as much as possible.’ He smiles and shrugs. ‘Matt is very aware of that, and if your contract sale doesn’t leave you very comfortable for the rest of your life then he’ll never forgive himself.’
‘I’d rather be with Matt than rich.’
Adam raises his eyebrows. ‘Naturally, but that isn’t an option. If Matt were to sell everything, then he might just scrape together enough to cover the pleasure school’s expenses, but nothing more. When your contract ended, you would be destitute. He’d never do that to you and he would never let you do that to yourself.’ Adam glances over my shoulder and then looks at me. ‘Here comes the man himself now. This is breaking his heart, so put some of that Companion training into practice, and soothe his brow.’
Matt is trying so hard to seem cheerful as he sweeps me up. ‘Did Adam tell you my secret?’
‘No, what?’ I ask, taking his arm and smiling warmly.
‘I’ve arranged for you to be introduced to the King,’ Matt says. ‘It’s taken a little while but I’ve just made the final arrangements with the clerk’s court. It should elevate your standing very quickly. Is it a good surprise, hmm?’
I kiss his cheek, anything more would be unseemly in public, and squeeze his hand. ‘It’s a wonderful surprise. I don’t think I tell you enough how much I appreciate you.’
‘You don’t have to,’ he says. ‘It’s my job.’ Matt puts his hand to my face. ‘I love seeing you work a room. Every step you take has people turning to watch where you’re going. Do you see how many of the men here are wearing a one- shouldered robe with gold thread? That’s because you wore one last week at the theatre. You’ve not even graduated and already you’re leading society.’
I take his hand and hold it between mine. ‘I have an excellent mentor,’ I say honestly.
Matt blushes and for a few minutes I can’t speak.
‘Adam is waiting for you,’ Matt says quietly. ‘He’ll present you to the King.’ He holds up a hand. ‘I haven’t been presented myself, and besides it’ll look better if Adam does it.’
‘Fuck how it looks.’
‘Mohinder!’ Matt hisses. ‘What... what...’
‘I love you!’ There. I’ve broken the absolute first rule of being a Companion. It feels liberating. ‘This is the last time we’ll be in public together, Matt. After my contract is sold all we will have is polite conversation and glances across the room. Ten years of nothing but hope and memories. Let me have this. Let me claim you one more time, in front of society, the King, and God.’
Matt looks away and then back at me. ‘You know I’ll always be yours,’ he says, squeezing my hand. ‘Promise me you won’t ruin all your hard work.’
‘Matt...’
‘I’ll never forgive you if you do,’ he says without a trace of levity. ‘I mean it, Mohinder.’
‘I just want this one thing, Matt,’ I ask. ‘Just give me this one public acknowledgement of what we are and I promise. I promise that I will perform the role of companion to the very best of my ability.’
Matt tucks a lock of hair behind my ear. ‘I’ll ask,’ he says softly. ‘I can’t promise.’
‘Thank you.’
I watch Matt walk over to Adam and speak quietly. Adam smiles widely and gives a complacent nod. Matt turns red and storms over to me with a suddenly chastened Adam rushing behind him.
‘I don’t like being manipulated,’ Matt says sharply.
‘When have I ever manipulated you?’ I ask.
‘You want me to present you and when I ask Adam he’s already organised it?’
Adam rolls his eyes. ‘Had it occurred to you that I might actually know Mohinder well enough to anticipate this happening?’
‘It didn’t occur to me!’ Matt snaps.
‘Well dear boy,’ Adam says folding his arms, ‘if you had been thinking clearly recently, then it would have.’
‘There now,’ Adam says, handing us both small glasses of champagne. ‘Being presented wasn’t so painful. Now you are both fit for the height of society.’
‘He means to marry me to his cousin,’ Matt says glumly.
‘You have to marry someone.’
People scatter as someone barges through the crowd. Trays and glasses are knocked over, spinning and smashing on the floor. Mr Grey, red-faced and with teeth bared, storms across the room right for Matt, who has his back turned.
Adam seems him a moment after I do and draws his sword. The movement sets Matt turning around and putting his hand to the hilt of his own sword. He steps in front of me but leaves his hand on the sword, watching warily.
‘Mr Grey.’
‘How did you do it?’ Mr Grey demands. ‘You haven’t the money to bribe a child.’
Matt snorts and takes a more aggressive stance. ‘You were denied access to the auction, is that it?’
‘Well, I’m glad to hear it,’ Adam says airily.
Mr Grey lurches for his sword, but Matt and Adam have their blades up and at his throat in seconds.
‘The auction is by invitation,’ Matt says calmly. ‘I had no influence on it.’
‘You expect me to believe that?’ Grey sneers.
‘I don’t care,’ Matt says with a casual shrug.
There is a rattle of armour as the Royal Guard march into the room with the King strolling along behind them. Matt and Adam drop their swords swiftly and step back, bowing as the King saunters over.
‘My,’ the King drawls. ‘A swordfight, how exciting.’
Mr Grey matches his names as he spins around, drops his sword, and bows. ‘Your Majesty I...’
‘We are not addressed by those we have not been introduced to,’ the King says looking directly at me. ‘Mr Suresh, how charming to see you again, is this ill-mannered oaf bothering you?’
‘You honour me with your attention, Majesty,’ I say, almost keeping my voice level. ‘Lord Parkman and His Grace were attempting to prevent his bothering me.’
The King waves a hand idly. ‘Chamberlain, explain the consequences of bothering my friends here to the oaf.’ He bows to me and then to Matt and Adam. ‘Mr Suresh, Gentlemen. Enjoy the rest of the evening.’
Matt blows out his cheeks as Mr Grey is dragged away. ‘I think the King’s friendship is rather too exciting for me.’
‘It’ll do you the world of good,’ Adam says firmly. ‘Both of you.’
‘Don’t go,’ I ask, trying to pull Matt back to the bed. ‘It’s our last night.’
Matt kisses me softly and then rests his forehead against mine. ‘I have to. Mohinder, please understand, I have to go to the auction.’
‘You can’t afford my contract!’ My voice is creaking. ‘I’m sorry... I’m sorry but...’
‘I know,’ he whispers. ‘But I have to try.’
‘We can have this night can’t we?’ I beg. ‘Once last night.’
‘I’ll come back after the auction. It won’t come into effect until the morning,’ Matt says thickly. ‘I won’t be long.’
‘Don’t go.’
‘I have to,’ he says again, holding my hands in his. ‘I have to do this. I have to try. I know it’s hopeless. It’s completely hopeless, but I have to try.’
Matt gently moves me over to the bed and sits me down. ‘I’ll be back soon. I love you.’
I’m nodding stupidly as I scrub at my eyes. ‘Okay. Okay.’
‘I wouldn’t have changed anything,’ Matt says, trying to smile. ‘I wouldn’t for anything.’
Matt tries to smile when he walks back into the room but he looks ill. His skin has a greyish tinge where it isn’t blotchy and red.
‘I haven’t had word,’ I say, taking his hand. ‘Is it... is it someone nice?’
Matt nods firmly. ‘Yes,’ he says squeezing my hand. ‘Second best possible really. I tried Mohinder... I had to.’
‘I know.’ I take him over to the bed and sit down with him. ‘Do I know him?’
‘What? Oh God, I’m sorry, of course you’re worried. It’s Adam,’ he says.
The blood pounds in my ears. ‘What?’
‘It was a close thing. For a while Lord Nirand was giving him a run but um, but he got there,’ Matt says, as if it’s a good thing.
‘Adam’s your friend! How dare he! How dare he do that to you! What kind of a friend... what kind of a man would do that to a friend?’
‘Adam’s a good man,’ Matt says quietly. ‘He’ll treat you properly; he’ll be kind and generous.’
‘He bid against you!’
‘No, no he didn’t,’ Matt says quickly. ‘He didn’t bid until I had to drop out. We... we discussed it. I don’t want you to think badly of him. It’s for the best, Mohinder. He’ll look after you.’
‘You gave him permission?’ I ask. ‘Worked it out between you, did you? Like I’m some sort of pet to be passed on?’
Matt sighs and looks down at his hands. ‘Adam has liked you for a long time, Mohinder. You know that. I’m not sure that you know how much he likes you. It isn’t that he’s doing me some sort of favour.’ He looks up at me. ‘Adam said he wouldn’t bid without my say-so although I’m sure I wouldn’t like to make him choose. I love you. I can’t be with you. That’s how it is. Do you blame me for agreeing to someone who genuinely cares for you buying your contract?’
‘No,’ I say, as I slip my arm through his. ‘I’m sorry.’
‘I’m to marry his cousin,’ Matt says quietly. ‘A prickly sort of woman but honest and without guile.’
‘At least we can see each other socially,’ I say. ‘At parties and the like.’
Matt looks at me. ‘Is that what you want, to be so close but unable to touch? Forever seeing each other but never able to talk about anything but the weather, or business, or politics?’
‘I... I don’t know.’
Matt plays with my hand. ‘I thought we might go abroad to my family’s interests,’ he admits. ‘I think it will be easier on us both.’
‘I’ll wait. I’ll wait for you.’
Matt looks up. ‘For ten years?’
‘Ten, fifty, a hundred,’ I promise.
Matt smiles. ‘Write to me then, in ten years, if you still... if not I’ll understand.’
‘I’ll write,’ I pledge. ‘I’ll wait.’
Matt kisses me for the last time.
Pairing: Matt/Mohinder
Rating: 18
Warnings: Sex, adult, sad stuff
Note: Vaguely historical AU. Back to part 2
This week we have been concentrating on advanced erogenous zones. I think that this probably my favourite practical practice. I think I say that every week, but this time I’m sure.
‘Stop giggling,’ Matt laughs. He’s spooned behind me on the bed: kissing and nibbling my neck while he stokes my side.
‘My neck is ticklish!’
‘Mmm, I like your ticklish neck,’ he says. ‘I like kissing and biting it.’
‘How am I going to learn about different techniques when you keep sneaking up on me?’ I look over my shoulder at him. ‘I can’t see what you’re doing.’
‘But Mohinder how else can I kiss the nape of your neck, mmm?’ His hand slides between my legs. ‘How else can I make you giggle and wriggle while I do this.’
Matt visits between three and five times a week depending on both of our schedules. He will be expected to enter into negotiations to marry in the next few years, so there are certain rituals and ceremonies he’s expected to master. But for the next year, he’s all mine.
He generally arrives late afternoon or early evening and we go through some of the hospitality rituals. After that, we eat either in one of the private dining rooms or in my room. I have a weekly schedule of practice and a monthly checklist of optional achievements for extra credit. Matt is very good about the optional achievements even when it’s something that isn’t completely to his taste. Then after the practice, we have a shower before I read poetry, sing, or otherwise entertain while Matt gives me far too much attention. Usually, he stays over, so we often make love before going to sleep together. I think waking up with Matt is as pleasant as anything I can remember.
It’s early morning; the sun is low and bright through the windows, and Matt is already awake, just lying in bed looking at me.
‘You didn’t wake me.’
‘It’s early,’ Matt says gently and strokes my stomach, ‘I was watching you sleep.’
‘There are more fun things we can be doing,’ I suggest, sliding my arms around his broad, broad shoulders.
‘I can’t, I have an early meeting with your clothier,’ he says kissing me. ‘Being a mentor is a terrible burden indeed.’
‘Wait, why do you have a meeting with my clothier?’
‘That is rather unseemly curiosity in a companion,’ Matt teases, tapping my nose. ‘You ought to be gracious but affect polite disinterest.’ He scowls at me playfully. ‘While sneaking around trying to find out what I’m doing.’
‘I am sure I don’t know what you mean to imply,’ I say with dignity and slide out from underneath him. ‘I would not have you late for your meeting so please do not let me distract you from your ablutions.’
Matt sits up and shakes his head. ‘Don’t pout.’
‘I can if I want!’
And he laughs! Laughs at me, but in that gentle, warm way that makes me feel only a little embarrassed.
‘You can,’ he agrees. ‘But please don’t? It ruins your beautiful face and makes me want to spank you.’
‘Ooh!’ I say, climbing onto his knee. ‘Should I ask for that as one of my electives?’
‘I can’t wait that long.’ He kisses my forehead. ‘You know that I don’t enjoy the companion “games,” but you do need to learn them.’
‘I’m aware of that,’ I say, adjusting my posture. ‘I ought to have been pleasantly intrigued, perhaps engaging some mild flirtation to gratify your desire to tease me, but maintaining my dignity.’ I return his kiss and stand up. ‘But I am still learning to control myself around you.’
‘Why do I feel I have been expertly manipulated?’ Matt laughs, and pats my bottom.
‘I have no idea,’ I say nicely.
‘I have permission to take you out tomorrow night,’ he says in a carefully casual way.
This time I do smile nicely. ‘Oh? May I be allowed to enquire where we are going?’
‘You may ask,’ he agrees. ‘But I won’t tell you. It’s a surprise.’
I lean back against the wall and make a leg, which of course draws his gaze. ‘Would I be terribly mistaken to imagine that you are meeting with my clothier to have a costume made for our night out?’ I ask, fluttering my eyes.
‘No,’ he says with a wink. ‘Not terribly mistaken.’
‘Would you give me a teeny, tiny clue? Pretty please?’
Matt purses his lips thoughtfully. ‘Brush up on your Italian,’ he suggests.
The opera! Matt is taking me to the opera! The gown he’s had made for me is layered silk, a rich red with gold trim, and beautifully cut. It’s rather brighter and more colourful than I would usually wear, but a companion is expected to attract, and maintain, attention. My Gentleman will expect me to be an ornament as well as adding lustre to his reputation. If all eyes are in the room are on me then my Gentleman can bask in the envy of his peers.
I have been shaved, had my hair styled, and had my body perfumed. I am relatively confident that I will not embarrass him with my appearance. My behaviour tonight is, admittedly, giving me rather more cause for concern. It is not that I am badly behaved or that my deportment has ever given my tutors cause for alarm. But it will be my very first public engagement, in front of so many of potential clients and their peers, and in a place where Matt is surely known. I think perhaps that the risk of embarrassing Matt is worrying me far more than merely ruining my reputation and my future career. I am aware, of course, that my tutors would consider my priorities completely inappropriate. I know that I should certainly be far more concerned about my future. However, since my concerns for myself and for Matt’s reputation dovetail neatly, I will not trouble myself overmuch on the fine details of my priorities.
Matt looks so handsome in his sand coloured robe. I wouldn’t have thought the colour would be particularly flattering to anyone but it truly does suit Matt. His skin has been treated with a fine, light oil that has left it sleek and soft. It feels odd but pleasant when I kiss his cheek. Although I know that Matt has had it done for my benefit I feel a tiny spear of resentment that he didn’t have me do it. I know that it’s unreasonable; I know that he wanted to surprise me, and I do appreciate it, I truly do. But I am still a little jealous that someone else was looking after him.
‘You look very handsome,’ I say, adjusting his hair. It doesn’t really need it, but someone else has styled it and so I want to make my mark.
It has taken some time for me to accept that I can be a little, just a very little, possessive. It took me a little longer to deal with the uncomfortable fact that Matt already knew this, and apparently finds it amusing. I feel I might be getting a little more emotionally invested than is probably safe for me.
‘I think that’s my line,’ Matt says, taking my hand. ‘You look wonderful; I think you’ll be fighting off admirers tonight.’
‘You’ll protect me, won’t you Matt?’ I ask, smiling nicely.
Matt taps my nose and smiles, but there’s a little quaver. ‘I’ll throw myself in front of a horde of adoring millionaires for you if you want. But isn’t building yourself a reputation something every companion should begin doing as soon as possible?’
The more desired I am and the wider my renown, than the better a price my contract will fetch. It is something I should be thinking about of course, and I am slightly chagrined that Matt is the one considering my reputation.
‘Naturally, but I think I might enjoy being enigmatic this evening,’ I suggest.
‘I’m not going to throw you to the wolves,’ Matt laughs, and offers me his arm. ‘I didn’t think you were the shy type,’ he teases. ‘Is this perhaps some new technique to make me feel protective over you?’
‘Why Matt, do I need to encourage you to feel protective?’ I ask sweetly.
‘No,’ he says gently. ‘Never.’
Previously, my only trips out of the pleasure school have been educational ones to museums, galleries, and the like. My only experience of the opera has been amateur productions at the school. I have a pleasant enough singing voice but that’s all, my range is rather limited, and I lack the power needed for a truly operatic voice.
Matt’s family has a fine, if slightly worn, coach and four that is very neatly furnished and, I suspect, has been cleaned recently. Riding to the opera with Matt in his coach is enough to make my heart pound.
‘Mohinder, take a breath, you need to be calm so you can sweep in there and stun everyone with your grace, elegance, and beauty,’ Matt teases.
‘I suppose that one of us ought to be calm,’ I agree sweetly.
Matt just smiles and shakes his head. He stands up when the coach halts and steps outside, turning to help me down. It isn’t that I need assistance of course; but that it helps the gentleman feel strong, and manly, which is always to be encouraged.
‘Thank you.’
‘Of course,’ Matt says graciously. I don’t often mention his natural courtesy and easy manners, which is terribly unfair because he has both in abundance. He offers me his arm and leads me through the double doors in the opera building.
There are a number of boxes, some larger ones further up, and a number of smaller ones. This box, embossed with the Parkman family crest, holds just the two of us but does it comfortably. It’s rather cosy; we can watch the opera as if we are the only ones here.
‘The socialising proper happens at the soiree afterwards,’ Matt explains. ‘They’ll all have been gawping at you throughout the opera so you should expect a lot of attention.’
‘Won’t they be listening to the music?’ I ask.
Matt makes himself comfortable in his seat. ‘Only as a background to catching up on gossip, making deals, and admiring the beautiful and enigmatic young man bizarrely spending his time with young Lord Parkman,’ he jokes.
‘I can’t think of anywhere else this young man would rather be,’ I say, sitting back in my chair.
Matt puts his hand over mine as the orchestra begin checking their instruments. ‘This is the part of the evening that’s just us,’ he says quietly. ‘Afterwards is public. I’ll introduce you to as many people as I can and my friend Adam, the Duke of Kensei, has agreed to introduce to anyone else that I’m not on proper terms with.’
I should thank him for his concern and forethought. I want to tell him that I’ll be happy simply to stay on his arm.
‘That’s very kind of you, Matt, I think I will be happy not to mingle too widely. It might be better to tease society rather than explode onto it.’
Matt looks at me and smiles slightly. ‘I get shy too,’ he says gently. ‘But Adam is a good man and he’ll make sure you don’t get out of your depth. He has a somewhat... tart sense of humour, but nothing a bright lad such as you can’t deal with.’
‘You’ve never mentioned him before,’ I whisper as the curtain goes up.
‘I always mean to,’ he says. ‘For some reason when I’m with you I forget all about it.’
The soiree is in the Velvet Reception Room, a large, plush room, with enormous elaborate chandeliers, knee-deep carpeting, and huge couches for the well-to-do to lounge on.
There are several hundred of the richest and most powerful men and women in the country in this room. It seems, at the moment, as though they’re all looking at me. Then an attractive young man of about Matt’s age, blond with wide blue eyes, walks over and greets Matt familiarly.
‘Dear boy, aren’t you going to introduce me?’
Matt smiles and looks at me, ‘Mohinder Suresh, may I introduce my friend Adam, Duke of Kensei. Adam, this is Mohinder Suresh. Mohinder is a student at the Primatech Pleasure School.’
Adam takes my hand. ‘Either I’m getting older or the students entering society are getting a great deal more polished at a younger age,’ he says.
‘Sign of old age,’ Matt suggests. ‘Mohinder is in the school’s advanced training track though,’ he adds.
I have to bite my tongue to stop myself from asking Matt how he knew that.
‘A great pleasure to meet you,’ Adam says, making deep eye contact. ‘Matt has chewed my ear off talking about you, oh don’t worry, I know he hasn’t mentioned me to you. He’s never dealt well with competition.’
‘How do you do?’ I reply nicely. ‘Perhaps there is another kindly, gracious Duke of Kensei about whom I have heard so much.’
‘Touché!’ Adam laughs, and finally lets go of my hand. ‘Loyalty in front of the old stick is absolutely the way to go,’ he says with a wink. ‘Now, shall we see about introducing you to the kind of people who don’t deserve you but can certainly afford you?’
‘I’ll find us a couple of drinks, Mohinder,’ Matt says, starting to move away.
‘Certainly not!’ Adam says quickly. ‘It’s long past time that you expanded your social circle, Matt. I’m sure Mohinder agrees with me that society can only be improved by your increased participation.’
Matt starts and waves his hands. ‘Don’t try double-teaming me.’
‘I would never dream of attempting to pressure Matt,’ I say nicely.
‘Thank you,’ Matt says, narrowing his eyes at Adam.
‘I think you’ll find that the operative word in that sentence was “attempting,” the beautiful boy didn’t say he wouldn’t succeed in pressuring you.’ Adam raises an eyebrow. ‘Although if he’s even half as bright as he’s beautiful then “pressuring” wouldn’t really be the word. But honestly, Matt, for Mohinder’s sake, you ought to meet more families. More families and better social connections mean more opportunities for Mohinder.’
I open my mouth to argue that Adam is going too far, too quickly, but Matt nods.
‘I know that,’ he says. ‘I just wanted to start slowly.’ Matt takes my hand and squeezes it gently. ‘Mohinder’s decided that he’s shy today.’
Adam claps his hands together. ‘I’m sure Mohinder appreciates that your chances of a good marriage will also be improved by climbing the social ladder.’
‘May I ask if your wife-to-be is with your tonight, Your Grace’ I ask, noting that Matt is turning unpleasantly red.
Adam turns forty-five degrees and indicates an attractive young woman on the other side of the room. ‘Lady Elle is flirting outrageously with some third cousin of the brother-in-law of the Viscount of God-knows-where.’ He waggles his eyebrows at me. ‘Elle has heard that it’s terribly bad form for a woman to pay attention to her husband in public and is clearly practicing in advance.’ Adam shrugs easily. ‘As long as she waits until after she’s provided me with an heir and a spare before she goes further than flirting.’ He puts down his drink on a small table. ‘Come on boys, let’s mingle.’
Although he isn’t quite to my taste, Adam does at least have the decency to address me directly and include me in the conversation. Even if he and Matt have a tendency to talk about what’s best for me. Many of the men and women I’m introduced to talk about me as if I weren’t present, or as if I were unable to understand the conversation. They aren’t unpleasant; they merely talk as though I were some species of exotic animal.
Which I am, of course, I’m a companion. Glamour and mystery are my trade; the pedestrian, prosaic details of reality are anathema to me.
Still, it rather more pleasant to be treated like a human being.
Poor Matt is finding all of this socialising rather heavy going. Between Matt’s tendencies to be a homebody and the depleted family finances I suspect that he doesn’t travel much in society. Adam on the other hand is effortless as he tows the two of us around the room, never letting us linger too long, while I try to put the faces to the names I have been taught.
‘Ahh,’ Adam says, looking across at the dark haired young man staring across at us. ‘I believe that is the infamous Mr Grey. Dear Lord is he walking over? Do either of you know him?’
Approaching someone of a higher social standing when you have not already been formally introduced is a shocking breach of etiquette. It would be bad enough for Mr Grey to approach Matt, but Adam is the second most senior Duke in the entire country.
‘Never been introduced,’ Matt says flatly, scowling. ‘What’s he thinking?’
‘I was told he approached the pleasure school about mentoring me,’ I say quickly. ‘I have never met him though.’
Adam rolls his eyes. ‘Well there are rules for a reason, children. Might I suggest we at least observe them?’
‘Meaning we snub him?’ Matt snorts. ‘He looks determined.’
‘I mean that for the sake of Mohinder’s reputation, he shouldn’t talk to the... gentleman unless one of us introduces him.’
In honesty, it’s a suggestion with which I am extremely pleased to comply. There is something unnerving about someone so utterly disregarding of the social rules. If they won’t even obey simply social niceties then how can you be sure they will comply with the common norms of behaviour generally?
Matt actually steps in front of me as Mr Grey reaches us and Adam steps up next to him. I’m not entirely sure what they think he’s going to do but the sheer machismo is equally exciting and amusing.
‘Gabriel Grey, you’ll be the Duke of Kensei and young Lord Parkman. Am I supposed to be impressed?’
‘I understand that you’re “new money” and therefore perhaps you are unaware of the gross social impropriety of approaching us?’ Adam asks calmly. ‘Therefore I suggest that you turn around and walk away before you cause yourself further embarrassment.’
Mr Grey snorts and shakes his head. ‘I’m not impressed with your ridiculous, calcified traditions. I have my position because I make money and I wield power, not because I’m the pampered, over-indulged great-grandson of some robber baron who bribed the king for his dukedom.’
‘What do you want?’ Matt asks, and his hand is on the hilt of his sword.
This is ridiculous! Surely things couldn’t possibly...
‘Your mentee should’ve been mine,’ Mr Grey says darkly. ‘What you can possibly show him besides the slow death of the aristocracy? I’m surprised you managed to afford tickets, I hear you’re pawning the family jewellery to buy clothes.’
That’s a ridiculous exaggeration! Matt will surely not take it seriously.
Matt laughs, not the gentle warm laugh, but a cold, hard bark of laughter.
‘And yet I was infinitely preferable to you.’ Matt takes a small step away from me, so that I can see Mr Grey clearly for the first time. ‘Mohinder, I think it is time for me to take you home.’
I step forward between Matt and Adam, and bow to Adam. ‘It was a great honour to meet you, Your Grace,’ I say, not looking at Mr Grey.
‘The pleasure was all mine,’ Adam says. ‘I hope to see you again soon.’
Mr Grey claps his hands. ‘You think that this is social superiority? We’ll see who has the real power.’
In the coach, Matt is ill at ease, struggling to sit comfortably. I move across next to him and take off his cloak, moving my hands to rub his shoulders.
‘Thank you,’ he says quietly.
‘I appreciate you working so hard to help me enter society. I know it isn’t to your taste.’
‘I can’t say I enjoy mingling with large groups of people,’ Matt says wryly. ‘I didn’t realise I did quite such a poor job of presenting an appropriate demeanour.’
‘I should hope that I can judge your moods better than most strangers,’ I tease.
‘That Grey creature makes me uneasy,’ he admits. ‘I over-reacted and I don’t like that.’
‘I understand that the pleasure school considered him a very poor choice for mentor,’ I say. ‘I told you they were careful.’
Matt looks at me over his shoulder and smiles. ‘Even so, I cannot blame him for his taste in men.’
‘I am very pleased to hear it.’
Every quarter I am assessed for both the theoretical and practical parts of my education. The theoretical assessment is simply a combination of a written and a vocal test. The practical is by its nature well... practical. Technically speaking for the basic relaxation massage the assessor can be in the room with us, but Matt finds that too to be extremely uncomfortable. Madam Sandra is my prima now and so she runs each assessment and has two other tutors on each assessment. This quarter I am being assessed on a full sequence: a hospitality ritual, anal intercourse – receiving, a shower, and fellatio - performing. For optional credit, I’m being assessed on foot worship and a basic bondage sequence. It’s an all day assessment, which is quite an investment of time, but Matt’s terribly good about the time it takes and the required practice. As I progress, I’ll be assessed on sequences of increasing complexity including specific specialised sexual acts and practices.
Matt didn’t stay last night; he said he thought it would help us concentrate on the assessment if we started fresh when he arrives in the morning. I don’t think I could concentrate any more on the assessment than I have been. I think that Matt secretly wanted an evening where he was doing something, anything other than worrying about the assessment, which I don’t blame him for at all.
‘Now sweetie, do you remember how this works from last time?’ Madam Sandra asks, squeezing my hand.
‘I think so Madam, we will be in the assessment room for the entire duration of the day, while you will be observing from behind a one way screen. The sequence will begin with hospitality...’
‘Ah ah!’ Madam Sandra says, playfully wagging her finger. ‘Now don’t spoil the surprise. I’m looking forward to seeing exactly what kind of sequence you’ve put together, Mohinder. I’m sure that you’ll wow us all.’
It is something of a risk, but I’ve decided for the hospitality portion to serve breakfast and go through the tea ritual. If I misjudge the timing then I might ruin both the breakfast and the tea ceremony, which would surely set a terrible pall over the rest of the day. But I have practiced and, perhaps more importantly, I have bribed the slaves well to have everything ready well in advance.
I have everything laid out and waiting when Matt is shown in. He looks especially handsome today, freshly shaved and wearing a new robe. It
‘Good morning, Matt,’ I say, kissing his cheek. ‘Would you sit down, please?’
If the repeated practices have irritated Matt then he doesn’t show it, instead he plays his part with grace and good humour. I doubt that there are many would-be mentors realise the amount of effort and hard work that it means. Matt hardly ever complains, although he did playfully threaten to run away when I broached the matter of bondage with him.
It might come as something of a surprise to know that it is more common for a Gentleman to want to be in bondage than to apply it. This can be something of a mixed blessing since the application of bondage, especially high intensity, long duration; bondage can cause considerable damage if not done perfectly. No Companion wishes to injure their Gentleman, certainly not, but if the other option is be injured themselves then most of us would prefer it. However, high intensity bondage isn’t to my taste and I have no desire to study it. Even if I had, I still wouldn’t study it as Matt’s tolerance, both in bondage and applying it, begins at light intensity, and ends at moderate. The infliction and receipt of pain is a distinct but related subject and one I will not be pursuing.
The slaves bring in the samovar as Matt pushes away his empty plate. I pick up the breakfast dishes and put them on the side as the slaves place the samovar down in the centre of the table. They carry away the breakfast accoutrements without slowing or hesitating. With the breakfast ritual successfully concluded, I set out the tea things while Matt wipes his mouth and washes his hands in the small bowl. We can both take a few moments to relax now the potentially difficult crossover of rituals is completed.
Matt dislikes being undressed, finds the sensation of being grovelled to distasteful, but he does an admirable job of hiding his aversion. I recite lightly ribald amusing poetry as I undress him, and he laughs while he tries to relax. I am far more used to being monitored and assessed than Matt is and far more comfortable with sexual intimacy as performance. It was his idea for us to lie on our sides with him behind me, which does mean that the assessors will have unrestricted views of our faces, although I think Matt suggested it because he likes being able to kiss my neck.
It might sound odd that a view of our faces would be a benefit, but not only is it a better indicator of Matt’s arousal, or not, but whether I can convincingly appear aroused. Only a very small percentage of people prefer their partner appear disinterested. Although generally being aroused by Matt comes quite naturally, being assessed does rather put a damper on things. I had some slight concern that Matt might have had some difficulties, but if he did, then he’s recovered perfectly.
‘Everything okay?’ he asks, nipping at me ear.
‘Mmm, perfect.’
‘I’m nearly... nearly ready.’
Matt’s been very careful not to actually arouse me for this. It doesn’t suit him at all, but he understands that this has to be seen as work to the assessors. If I achieve release then all I’ve proved is that I enjoy sex with Matt, and that hardly needs assessing.
Matt bites my shoulder as he comes, and then drapes an arm around my waist. ‘Mmm,’ he sighs, ‘do I have to get up right away to have a shower?’
‘How would dragging you out of a warm bed make me look like a good companion?’ I tease, looking at him over my shoulder. ‘Why don’t you have a nap while I clear up?’
‘Good plan.’ Matt rolls onto his back, pulling me onto his chest, and closes his eyes.
‘Don’t sleep for too long,’ I say, slipping from his arms.
I have the shower prepared, candles burning, scented lotions standing by, and warmed, clean towels to one side, when Matt wakes. He’s always a little disoriented when he wakes but, happily, I had the slaves bring in some coffee for him mere moments ago.
‘How did you manage that?’ Matt asks, smiling as I prepare his coffee.
‘You never nap for very long, and I saw your sleep was getting lighter,’ I explain, sipping my coffee. ‘Did you have a pleasant sleep?’
‘I dreamt there were people in the walls watching,’ he says wryly. ‘Mmm, this is extremely good coffee.’
‘I’ve scheduled us something light to eat after the next two exercises,’ I say.
Matt laughs and stretches. ‘I have to keep my strength up, hmm?’
‘Wouldn’t do for one of us to collapse mid-way through the sequence,’ I agree. ‘Is everything agreeable so far?’
‘All superb,’ Matt says, finishing his coffee and putting the cup down. ‘I’m happily anticipating the shower.’
I put my cup down and stand up. ‘Far be it for me to leave you in suspense. Would you accompany me to the shower?’
The shower is a blissful bubble of privacy for us both. While we wash, the assessors can compare notes, make ablutions, or what have you.
‘I think you have something here that requires attention,’ Matt whispers into my ear.
‘We’re supposed to be washing!’ I protest, but only a little. Matt has soaped us both down until our bodies are slick with foam and now his hand is circling my thighs.
‘Is it here?’ he laughs. ‘No, not quite. How about here...’
I start to squeal but he quickly clamps his free hand over my mouth.
‘Don’t want them thinking that you’re enjoying yourself now, do we?’ Matt whispers. ‘That would never do.’ He smiles into my eyes as he leans his forehead against mine. ‘You could at least make a little effort at resisting, squirm about a little.’
Matt has a little fancy for my struggling and squirming, and I almost wish it were more of a trial indulging him. As it is, a little writhing and wriggling is hardly any effort, and pleasing Matt would be worth considerable exertion.
‘Far better,’ he says happily. ‘Now how about this...’
Despite his best efforts, I’m afraid that I do make rather a lot of noise.
The slaves have put out several jugs of wine and juice as well as a bowl of warm water and several flavoured oils. Their timing is perfect and I must remember to reward them for it. Steam is rising from the bowl as I dress Matt in a clean robe and then dress myself.
‘Would you care for some refreshment?’ I ask as Matt sits down on the chaise.
‘A glass of juice would be very pleasant, thank you.’
Matt takes the glass of juice I hand him and settles back in the chair. ‘No tickling, now.’
‘I will allow that shocking slur on my technique to pass by unchallenged,’ I say with dignity as I sit down on the floor, ‘this once.’
I pull Matt’s feet into my lap as he carefully puts his drink to one side. We caused a considerable amount of work for my poor room slave when I did accidentally tickle Matt’s feet and he was holding a glass. Foot worship isn’t to either of our tastes but in a way that is a positive thing for the assessment, since it shows that I master techniques for which I have no particular affinity.
I wash Matt’s feet, dry them, and rub them with an edible oil flavoured with a mix of citrus fruits. Throughout we chat about a play that Matt thinks I would enjoy and a book that I have leant him. When his feet are anointed with a general measure of oil, he sits back and closes his eyes.
I kiss along the tarsus, nip softly at the fleshy padding over the calcaneus, kiss along the plantar, and draw the hallux into my mouth.
We have some light dishes for lunch; smoked salmon, roasted tomatoes, and toasted Portobello mushrooms topped with cheese.
‘Washed the taste out of your mouth?’ Matt asks, smiling impishly as he takes a sip of wine.
‘I find the tartness of the wine sets it off beautifully,’ I say sweetly.
Matt nibbles a toasted mushroom and leans back in his chair. ‘You’re certainly becoming a better liar,’ he says with a grin.
‘I always aim to please.’
‘Is more alacrity needed?’ Matt asks quietly, glancing at the timepiece.
I shake my head and lean across to put my hand over his. ‘No, we have plenty of time to finish eating and to have ablutions. I hope that meets with your approval?’
‘Forgive me, I know of course that you have timed everything,’ he says, smiling at me. ‘Next is my favourite part of the sequence is it?’
Poor Matt, in all today is not much to his taste. He is very good to indulge my choices of optional credit. I have been trying to think of something particularly special I can do for him but so far to no avail.
‘It is,’ I say with a nod. ‘I hope that you have working on your stretches,’ I tease. Matt’s body is completely unlike mine, broad, strong, but somewhat inflexible. He’s an oak to my willow, and I know that he is a little anxious about the flexibility required for the bondage sequence. To be honest though we have practiced a number of different positions without any difficulties since I always help Matt warm up and cool down.
‘I have,’ he says smiling bravely. ‘You may still have to rough me up a little.’
It is a little indulgent to powder Matt’s wrists and ankles since he won’t be in restraints very long. It’s more generally used under leatherwear to prevent chafing but I want to make sure that Matt is comfortable.
The chair is padded and quite comfortable, I’ve tried it myself, and it provides a different aesthetic from using the bed. The assessment does include extra points for creating and maintaining visual interest, too many companions show a lack of imagination when it comes to staging and equipment, and we’ve already used the bed. The leg rests are a little high and wider than is strictly comfortable, and Matt winces a little but hides it well. I tighten the straps around his wrists and ankles before sliding on the padded blindfold.
I find “abuse talk” uninteresting but not difficult, although Matt has a tendency to get the giggles when I try it. Fortunately when he sets his mind to it Matt can do practically anything, and he doesn’t so much as smile when I call him all manner of names. In fact, he does a very creditable job of simpering and whimpering as he begs and calls me Master. Mmm, I think I could get used to that.
I check Matt’s fingers and toes for circulation before I go any further. Safety is the paramount concern in a bondage scenario. There are so many things that can go badly wrong, which I suspect is part of the attraction.
‘The safe word is Rosewood,’ I say, climbing onto his lap. ‘If you feel any numbness or pain in your fingers and toes shout out right away.’
‘I will,’ Matt says, smiling slightly.
I slap his face lightly and he pouts.
‘I don’t think you’re taking this seriously,’ I scowl, and bite his lower lip playfully. ‘Bad boy.’ I slide down off his lap and between his legs. I slide his robe up his legs and pool it around his thighs. I’m pleasantly surprised to see that he’s already partially tumescent. Matt’s refractory period is short, he’s young and in fairly good health, but even so I was expecting to have to work harder to arouse him.
I’m sure that the blindfold is helping in that respect. In class, we have briefly discussed the use of blindfolds or darkness to increase sensory awareness and heighten pleasure, but not in detail. Plus, of course, Matt finds the assessors’ presence quite off-putting and not having to see the screen must help.
I trail my tongue around Matt’s testicles, keeping a light pressure over the delicate, frail skin, and carefully draw them into my mouth. Matt makes a soft, animal whine that sets my heart hammering.
This is an assessment exercise, Mohinder. Concentrate on your task. The little whines and moans that Matt’s making are a useful guide, that’s all. That’s all.
Matt’s legs try to kick as I release his testicles and blow softly on the damp skin. There is a creak as Matt throws back his head, pressing back against the headrest. I kiss along Matt’s length, slow and open-mouthed kisses, until I reach the apex. I roll my tongue around it before taking Matt into my mouth.
Out of the corner of my eye, I see his arms tugging futilely at the restraints.
Matt’s voice is a little hoarse now. It’s adorable, and combined with the faint flush in his cheeks it makes me want to push him to the floor and kiss him all over. Instead, I wash and dress him before having the chair removed. The final ceremony in the sequence is a leave-taking, a simple little ritual in which we share a bowl of fermented milk and honey and discuss the day.
‘When might I see you again?’
‘Tomorrow, in the early evening,’ Matt says, and smiles at me over the rim of the bowl. ‘To rest.’
‘I will endeavour to provide a relaxing, tranquil environment for you,’ I say nicely.
‘You always do.’
Once the room is returned to normal I stand in front on the screen and wait. When it slides across, I see that as well as Madam Sandra I am being assessed by Madam Angela, and Master Robert. Oh dear. Madam Angela is, in fact, probably the least difficult of the three. She knows me very well and will know that I have spared nothing in performing this sequence. She will be more generous knowing that I have worked to the best of my ability than she would be if the same sequence were presented by someone of more skill. Theoretically, that is. I am in the top one or two of all my classes. Madam Sandra will try to be fair but she doesn’t know me as well as Madam Angela. She may or may not have an accurate judgement of my abilities. Master Robert on the other hand... Master Robert I know only by reputation, and it is not good. He’s known for having a mercurial temper, oh, he always smiles, but students say you never know if he’s going to commend or condemn you.
‘Please sit down, Mohinder,’ Madam Sandra says, smiling. ‘You’ve performed a very long sequence and you must be tired.’
‘Thank you, Madam.’
She folds her hands in her lap. ‘Well, I thought it was a lovely sequence. I’ve seen many sequences Mohinder, of all different types, and that was... that was a very well put together sequence. You looked very graceful, nice easy movements, and your form was beautiful. You had a lot of... disparate elements there but you put them together very well.’ She smiles at me. ‘I was very impressed, Mohinder. Well done!’
‘Well,’ Master Robert says, cleaning his glasses and putting them back on his nose. ‘Combining the breakfast ceremony and the tea ritual was certainly unique,’ he says dryly. ‘What were you trying to do?’
I take a deep breath. ‘I was attempting to present a hospitality ceremony in a slightly different way.’
‘What’s wrong with the usual ways?’ Master Robert asks. ‘This profession is built on tradition. The point of ceremonies and rituals is that they have been the same way for hundreds of years. Is that a problem for you, Mr Suresh?’
‘Oh don’t be ridiculous, Bob,’ Madam Angela says before I can reply. ‘Mohinder is on the advanced track. If he simply followed by rote then you’d be complaining he wasn’t fulfilling his potential.’
‘Combining the two ceremonies could have been disastrous,’ Master Robert argues. ‘One small misstep and both could have been ruined.’
Madam Angela rolls her eyes. ‘Yes, Bob, but the point is that there was no misstep. You can’t score Mohinder on what could have been.’
‘It smacks of arrogance to me.’ He sniffs and shakes his head, ‘The same sort of arrogance as combining the fellatio with the optional bondage. That or sheer laziness, what is it Mr Suresh, arrogant or just lazy?’
‘I want to score highly,’ I say honestly. ‘I thought the best way to score highly was to do something quite different from the usual. If that makes me arrogant then I am arrogant. I’m certainly not lazy, Sir.’
‘See, this is what annoys me about students,’ Master Robert says hotly. ‘It’s all about a high score. It should be about doing what you love, not caring about the score.’
‘If the score is so unimportant, Bob,’ Madam Sandra says, smiling too sweetly, ‘Why do you assess students?’
‘I happen to hold the reputation of this institution very highly,’ Master Robert says, calming down. ‘I don’t think that we do the institution any favours by sending out lazy, arrogant students.’
Madam Angela rolls her eyes. ‘Talk sense, Bob, how can Mohinder be lazy when your major complaint is that he performed two hospitality rituals instead of one? You’re the expert; did he abrogate or edit the rituals in any way?’
Master Robert raises an eyebrow and looks me over. ‘I think it would be a cold day indeed that one of your former students abrogated any ritual. No, his technique was some of the most precise I’ve ever seen.’ He addresses me directly again. ‘Nobody is denying that you have technical brilliance, Mohinder, but that’s no excuse for arrogance. That’s a very slippery road.’
‘Thank you, sir,’ I say as calmly as I can. I can live with being called arrogant if it comes with being considered technically brilliant.
Madam Angela steeples her fingers and looks at me. ‘Tell me Mohinder; are you happy with your performance today?’
I am considered quite the skilled liar now, but long experience has shown that there is nothing to be gained from attempting to lie to Madam Angela and everything to lose.
‘Yes Madam.’
A tiny, almost unnoticeable smile plays around her lips. ‘Why?’
I take a breath as I try to order my thoughts. ‘I composed the most sensually and aesthetically pleasing sequence that I could, incorporating as many varying techniques as I could, and I feel that I did my very best in performing them.’
‘So would you consider your assessment today to be a success?’ she prompts.
I have seen her annihilate students when they mistakenly gave the wrong answer. But Madam Angela likes me, or at least she approves of me on some level.
‘Yes, Madam. I believe I was successful in performing the sequence to the best of my ability.’
Madam Angela smiles, a bright, wide smile. ‘Good. I found your choices to be unusual, exciting, and exceptionally well performed. Give my regards to young Lord Parkman. He’s one of the better mentors I’ve seen.’
As satisfying as it is to get rare praise from Madam Angela, hearing her praise Matt is even more pleasant.
In a little over a week, I will be signing my new contract as the auction is at the end of this week. All of the other students are so excited to be leaving the pleasure school and entering contracts.
All I want is for everything to stop, right now, and never change. In a little over a week, I will have my last night with Matt. However much I fantasise I know, I know that there is no chance, no chance at all that he will be able to buy my contract. When my contract is over, I’ll be twenty-eight. Matt might think I’m too old, if he hasn’t forgotten about me.
To celebrate the second anniversary of my mentoring, Matt has brought me to the Royal Garden Party. It’s terrifying. All around is the cream of society, or as Matt says, the people who float to the top at least. There are fully qualified Companions here, beautifully dressed, elegant, and engaging. When I am introduced to Eden and Simone, I feel like such a child besides them.
‘My dear boy,’ Adam says, squeezing my shoulder. ‘You’re positively radiant today. Don’t panic, child, Matt’s over with the clerk of the court requesting you be formally introduced to the King.’
I nearly drop my glass of wine. ‘But... but Matt can’t do that!’
Adam grins and takes my arm. I do wish he wouldn’t do that. Adam has always been flirtatious, it’s his nature, but in recent months, he’s become increasingly attentive. It’s become unpleasantly clear that he is harbouring some genuine attraction beyond the surface. It isn’t that I like dislike Adam, I find him very amiable company, but he’s Matt’s friend. He’s probably Matt’s best friend, and it seems terribly disrespectful and wrong for him to be attracted to me.
‘He can now I’ve given a formal recommendation,’ Adam says, waggling his eyebrows. ‘Oh don’t look so unhappy, Mohinder, it doesn’t suit you. Meeting the King will be a huge boost to your social standing. Neither Eden nor Simone has met him. Just think; you may have a wider social standing than your Gentleman, and that would be immensely valuable.’
‘I know that Matt is trying to do his best for me.’ Matt hates social situations and I know that this would be difficult for him even without the amount of attention I’m getting.
Adam squeezes my arm. ‘Dear heart, have some appreciation for how much this is shredding Matt. There is no telling how you will age or how the fashions will have changed by the time your contract ends. You may have to live on your contract sale for fifty years or more! You need your contract to sell for as much as possible.’ He smiles and shrugs. ‘Matt is very aware of that, and if your contract sale doesn’t leave you very comfortable for the rest of your life then he’ll never forgive himself.’
‘I’d rather be with Matt than rich.’
Adam raises his eyebrows. ‘Naturally, but that isn’t an option. If Matt were to sell everything, then he might just scrape together enough to cover the pleasure school’s expenses, but nothing more. When your contract ended, you would be destitute. He’d never do that to you and he would never let you do that to yourself.’ Adam glances over my shoulder and then looks at me. ‘Here comes the man himself now. This is breaking his heart, so put some of that Companion training into practice, and soothe his brow.’
Matt is trying so hard to seem cheerful as he sweeps me up. ‘Did Adam tell you my secret?’
‘No, what?’ I ask, taking his arm and smiling warmly.
‘I’ve arranged for you to be introduced to the King,’ Matt says. ‘It’s taken a little while but I’ve just made the final arrangements with the clerk’s court. It should elevate your standing very quickly. Is it a good surprise, hmm?’
I kiss his cheek, anything more would be unseemly in public, and squeeze his hand. ‘It’s a wonderful surprise. I don’t think I tell you enough how much I appreciate you.’
‘You don’t have to,’ he says. ‘It’s my job.’ Matt puts his hand to my face. ‘I love seeing you work a room. Every step you take has people turning to watch where you’re going. Do you see how many of the men here are wearing a one- shouldered robe with gold thread? That’s because you wore one last week at the theatre. You’ve not even graduated and already you’re leading society.’
I take his hand and hold it between mine. ‘I have an excellent mentor,’ I say honestly.
Matt blushes and for a few minutes I can’t speak.
‘Adam is waiting for you,’ Matt says quietly. ‘He’ll present you to the King.’ He holds up a hand. ‘I haven’t been presented myself, and besides it’ll look better if Adam does it.’
‘Fuck how it looks.’
‘Mohinder!’ Matt hisses. ‘What... what...’
‘I love you!’ There. I’ve broken the absolute first rule of being a Companion. It feels liberating. ‘This is the last time we’ll be in public together, Matt. After my contract is sold all we will have is polite conversation and glances across the room. Ten years of nothing but hope and memories. Let me have this. Let me claim you one more time, in front of society, the King, and God.’
Matt looks away and then back at me. ‘You know I’ll always be yours,’ he says, squeezing my hand. ‘Promise me you won’t ruin all your hard work.’
‘Matt...’
‘I’ll never forgive you if you do,’ he says without a trace of levity. ‘I mean it, Mohinder.’
‘I just want this one thing, Matt,’ I ask. ‘Just give me this one public acknowledgement of what we are and I promise. I promise that I will perform the role of companion to the very best of my ability.’
Matt tucks a lock of hair behind my ear. ‘I’ll ask,’ he says softly. ‘I can’t promise.’
‘Thank you.’
I watch Matt walk over to Adam and speak quietly. Adam smiles widely and gives a complacent nod. Matt turns red and storms over to me with a suddenly chastened Adam rushing behind him.
‘I don’t like being manipulated,’ Matt says sharply.
‘When have I ever manipulated you?’ I ask.
‘You want me to present you and when I ask Adam he’s already organised it?’
Adam rolls his eyes. ‘Had it occurred to you that I might actually know Mohinder well enough to anticipate this happening?’
‘It didn’t occur to me!’ Matt snaps.
‘Well dear boy,’ Adam says folding his arms, ‘if you had been thinking clearly recently, then it would have.’
‘There now,’ Adam says, handing us both small glasses of champagne. ‘Being presented wasn’t so painful. Now you are both fit for the height of society.’
‘He means to marry me to his cousin,’ Matt says glumly.
‘You have to marry someone.’
People scatter as someone barges through the crowd. Trays and glasses are knocked over, spinning and smashing on the floor. Mr Grey, red-faced and with teeth bared, storms across the room right for Matt, who has his back turned.
Adam seems him a moment after I do and draws his sword. The movement sets Matt turning around and putting his hand to the hilt of his own sword. He steps in front of me but leaves his hand on the sword, watching warily.
‘Mr Grey.’
‘How did you do it?’ Mr Grey demands. ‘You haven’t the money to bribe a child.’
Matt snorts and takes a more aggressive stance. ‘You were denied access to the auction, is that it?’
‘Well, I’m glad to hear it,’ Adam says airily.
Mr Grey lurches for his sword, but Matt and Adam have their blades up and at his throat in seconds.
‘The auction is by invitation,’ Matt says calmly. ‘I had no influence on it.’
‘You expect me to believe that?’ Grey sneers.
‘I don’t care,’ Matt says with a casual shrug.
There is a rattle of armour as the Royal Guard march into the room with the King strolling along behind them. Matt and Adam drop their swords swiftly and step back, bowing as the King saunters over.
‘My,’ the King drawls. ‘A swordfight, how exciting.’
Mr Grey matches his names as he spins around, drops his sword, and bows. ‘Your Majesty I...’
‘We are not addressed by those we have not been introduced to,’ the King says looking directly at me. ‘Mr Suresh, how charming to see you again, is this ill-mannered oaf bothering you?’
‘You honour me with your attention, Majesty,’ I say, almost keeping my voice level. ‘Lord Parkman and His Grace were attempting to prevent his bothering me.’
The King waves a hand idly. ‘Chamberlain, explain the consequences of bothering my friends here to the oaf.’ He bows to me and then to Matt and Adam. ‘Mr Suresh, Gentlemen. Enjoy the rest of the evening.’
Matt blows out his cheeks as Mr Grey is dragged away. ‘I think the King’s friendship is rather too exciting for me.’
‘It’ll do you the world of good,’ Adam says firmly. ‘Both of you.’
‘Don’t go,’ I ask, trying to pull Matt back to the bed. ‘It’s our last night.’
Matt kisses me softly and then rests his forehead against mine. ‘I have to. Mohinder, please understand, I have to go to the auction.’
‘You can’t afford my contract!’ My voice is creaking. ‘I’m sorry... I’m sorry but...’
‘I know,’ he whispers. ‘But I have to try.’
‘We can have this night can’t we?’ I beg. ‘Once last night.’
‘I’ll come back after the auction. It won’t come into effect until the morning,’ Matt says thickly. ‘I won’t be long.’
‘Don’t go.’
‘I have to,’ he says again, holding my hands in his. ‘I have to do this. I have to try. I know it’s hopeless. It’s completely hopeless, but I have to try.’
Matt gently moves me over to the bed and sits me down. ‘I’ll be back soon. I love you.’
I’m nodding stupidly as I scrub at my eyes. ‘Okay. Okay.’
‘I wouldn’t have changed anything,’ Matt says, trying to smile. ‘I wouldn’t for anything.’
Matt tries to smile when he walks back into the room but he looks ill. His skin has a greyish tinge where it isn’t blotchy and red.
‘I haven’t had word,’ I say, taking his hand. ‘Is it... is it someone nice?’
Matt nods firmly. ‘Yes,’ he says squeezing my hand. ‘Second best possible really. I tried Mohinder... I had to.’
‘I know.’ I take him over to the bed and sit down with him. ‘Do I know him?’
‘What? Oh God, I’m sorry, of course you’re worried. It’s Adam,’ he says.
The blood pounds in my ears. ‘What?’
‘It was a close thing. For a while Lord Nirand was giving him a run but um, but he got there,’ Matt says, as if it’s a good thing.
‘Adam’s your friend! How dare he! How dare he do that to you! What kind of a friend... what kind of a man would do that to a friend?’
‘Adam’s a good man,’ Matt says quietly. ‘He’ll treat you properly; he’ll be kind and generous.’
‘He bid against you!’
‘No, no he didn’t,’ Matt says quickly. ‘He didn’t bid until I had to drop out. We... we discussed it. I don’t want you to think badly of him. It’s for the best, Mohinder. He’ll look after you.’
‘You gave him permission?’ I ask. ‘Worked it out between you, did you? Like I’m some sort of pet to be passed on?’
Matt sighs and looks down at his hands. ‘Adam has liked you for a long time, Mohinder. You know that. I’m not sure that you know how much he likes you. It isn’t that he’s doing me some sort of favour.’ He looks up at me. ‘Adam said he wouldn’t bid without my say-so although I’m sure I wouldn’t like to make him choose. I love you. I can’t be with you. That’s how it is. Do you blame me for agreeing to someone who genuinely cares for you buying your contract?’
‘No,’ I say, as I slip my arm through his. ‘I’m sorry.’
‘I’m to marry his cousin,’ Matt says quietly. ‘A prickly sort of woman but honest and without guile.’
‘At least we can see each other socially,’ I say. ‘At parties and the like.’
Matt looks at me. ‘Is that what you want, to be so close but unable to touch? Forever seeing each other but never able to talk about anything but the weather, or business, or politics?’
‘I... I don’t know.’
Matt plays with my hand. ‘I thought we might go abroad to my family’s interests,’ he admits. ‘I think it will be easier on us both.’
‘I’ll wait. I’ll wait for you.’
Matt looks up. ‘For ten years?’
‘Ten, fifty, a hundred,’ I promise.
Matt smiles. ‘Write to me then, in ten years, if you still... if not I’ll understand.’
‘I’ll write,’ I pledge. ‘I’ll wait.’
Matt kisses me for the last time.
![[identity profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/openid.png){kind=small}
no subject
Date: 2010-05-31 01:43 am (UTC)The ending was so sad yet hopeful that they'd meet again. But perhaps after Matt had increased the Parkman family's holdings to a point that Matt could buy and sell Mr. Grey ten times over.
no subject
Date: 2010-05-31 02:58 pm (UTC)I haven't quite worked out what happens next but I like the idea of Matt making a triumphant return rich and powerful :)
no subject
Date: 2010-05-31 04:40 am (UTC)Matt kisses me for the last time. brb: crying :'(
no subject
Date: 2010-05-31 03:02 pm (UTC)Aww I'm sorry it made you cry. I'll try to have the final part done ASAP.
no subject
Date: 2010-06-01 04:07 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2010-06-01 01:24 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2010-06-03 07:09 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2010-06-03 07:45 pm (UTC)Matt definitely did the best he could under the circumstances. (Part 4 is also up)