Lady Mandrax

Copyright: David William Kirby:2012

The Dogbreaths Publishing

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LADY MANDRAX
Prologue

As storm clouds gathered high in the pale Carolina sky, she was thrust into this world through
a dent in her mothers pride. Eyes rolling and bewildered, her small limbs reached out for a
father who was unknown and a mother still cursing the childs conception.

The mother sighed, suppressing a groan for fear of being heard and snipped the umbilical
cord with a pair of rusted scissors. Then, cradling the baby in her teenage arms she looked up
at the storm clouds overhead and praised Jesus.
Thank you... she whispered softly as a spot of rain fell on her upturned face.
...thank you lord for giving me my baby healthy.

Knowing in her heart that this child would make a hard life harder; still, she was glad the
ordeal of birth was over and now she had to find them both somewhere to live.

From that day the young girl became a woman. Aware that her life was no longer her own but
the childs also. Being black in Southern America, what with the Jim Crow laws and
entrenched racism, was one thing but being black with an illegitimate child was quite another.
As 1948 spilt into 1949 the woman thought about crushing a stone into the childs head or
throwing themselves under the wheels of an unforgiving train; but the faith in the hereafter
prevented these thoughts progressing.

One look into those bright green eyes set within that pale brown skin made her depression
disappear. The child may be a problem but it also gave her the strength to fight on; that baby
had all the confidence in the world beaming through her eyes and her mother gained
confidence from them too.

In January 1949 the woman walked to the rear door of a big old house down a clear Carolina
lane. It was a whitewashed old plantation house and she knocked hard after opening the
screen door. She knew here she would be expected to scrub floors, clean windows, do
laundry, ironing and cooking; but it would be a home for them both.

Presently the door was opened by an old white man who was dressed in grey overalls. He
looked the girl and baby up and down with an inquisitive eye before pulling the door wide
and allowing them entry.
You aint no whore are you? he spat as the woman entered; gesturing toward the child in
her arms.

Listen mister. She said with a firm look. I may have a baby but I aint no whore. This
beautiful child was the result of an act of violence; you hear that, an act of violence by a
selfish brute. But they say, every cloud has a silver lining and this ray of sunshine is mine.
Like that, is it? the old man said rubbing his bristling chin.
Yes... She said confidently ,with her bright eyes wide and shoulders held proudly back.
...Its like that.
Ill take you to your room.

He led the way through the kitchen and scullery and down a long dark hall.
The master isnt here today but he knew you were coming. Old Mrs Jones worked for him
all her life till the cancer took her last month. Hed had that card in the shop only a few days
when you phoned him. I guess hell want me to tell him if youre any good when he gets
back; I suppose youll meet him then.

Until that time you make yourself comfortable, when you ready, come back to the kitchen; I
want my food before it gets dark. Of course, Ill do it myself tonight, rest for now and
tomorrow you can start working.

She looked at his old back as she dragged her suitcase in one hand and the baby in the other
and pulled a face.
And who are you? she asked as he opened a door which led into a side room containing a
sink, bed and sideboard.
My name is Jed. The old man replied handing over a key.
Im the masters farmhand. This is you an the babys room. I sleep over there.

He indicated a door on the other side of the hall before walking back towards the scullery.
When youre ready Ill have some eggs and coffee waiting for you.
Thank you. She replied hesitantly.
She watched him go to the end of the hall and walked into her new home. The bed was
simple but soft and the window overlooked the sweeping hills beyond. It was a view she
would get used to watching, as the green grass slowly dried out to a brown mat over the
summer and the parched ground split; thirsty for rain.

Then the winters would strip the trees of their leaves and the ground would turn to mud as the
wind and rain battered her window. It was a view she would watch as each night the sun set
over the far off hills and every morning the shadows would grow and the sky light up with
every colour of the rainbow. From that day her life would not be her own and, although
slavery was a long time past, she would be a willing slave to that house and its master until
the child grew up.

Still, she was still grateful for what the lord had provided considering the last few nights had
been spent sleeping in cornfields. She laid the baby on the bed and got on her knees to thank
Jesus for her good fortune and as the whispered prayer was uttered the first ray of strong
sunshine came through the thin curtain and bathed her and the baby in the warm and divine
light of the morning sun.

The baby grew while her mother polished furniture and swept passages until her arms ached
and broom-heads wore down to their base. The young girl, Mandy, sat on a rug in the
kitchen while her mother scrubbed pans and cooked food. Over the winter months the old
stove would keep them warm and in the summer shed sit in the yard while her mother
scrubbed clothes and hung the bed sheets on the line.

Yet every Sunday morning the woman would dress the child in her best threadbare clothes
and lead her down the lane to church. They always sat at the back trying to ignore the cupped
hands and gossiping mouths of other parishioners. She never even tried to form relationships
with them; they shared the church but nothing else.

She knew they were talking about her and that bastard child when the service was over; but it
would not stop her going. The experience made her and the young girl stronger. She may
have been a nigger with a half-breed bastard to them, words she heard regularly outside the
building, but in the eyes of God she was a saint and her child a little angel.

As Mandy grew older her beauty became apparent, she had long legs and long curly hair,
long eyelashes and the kind of hips that make men melt. About the time of her fourteenth
birthday the master took an un-natural interest in her.

Come here Girl. He said as she passed the door to his day room. She looked in and saw the
fat, lazy white man that owned the house leering at her. Hed never spoken to her before
although she had noticed that hed been watching her grow for some time. His eyes followed
her about the room if he could find a reason to visit the scullery or her mother sent her into
his room for something.
The man never smiled, never said anything kind or interesting. He just chewed on a long
cigar and let his eyes eat her up. Occasionally she would turn and find him behind her, a little
too close, that smell of sweat and bad tobacco lingering in her nose long after he was gone.
Now he had called her, wanting her to approach him when no one else was in the room. She
stepped toward him and looked hard into his eyes confidently.
You wanted me?

He looked at her and she saw his gaze fall to her breasts and down to her legs just barely
covered in the short denim skirt she was wearing.
You have grown some, girl. He said patting the sweat from his brow with a stained hankie.
Come a little closer and let me see you properly.

She did as he asked and snarled as his thick fingers reached out and touched her between her
knees. He started to stroke further upward and as his fingers touched the bottom of her skirt
she snapped.
What do you think you are doing?
Dont be like that girl. He drawled, a smile cracked his fat face as more sweat wet his
brow.
Youre at the right age to find out what your pussys for. Now keep still.

If your fingers move one more inch mister... She said placing her hands on her hips.
...youll find out what my fist is for. You may think you can tell my mother to do your
bidding but I dont work for you or anyone.

Beside, when I find a use for my pussy it will be on a day I decide and with a person whose
dick isnt buried in five layers of gut fat. You got that?
Ha...He chuckled. ...You think you gonna play hard to get with me, girl?

She turned and sniffed loudly, deciding to leave that house as soon as possible, with her
mother or without.
You can go... the fat white man shouted after her.but you cant hide; not in my house.
Well see about that! Mandy cursed under her breath.

Later that day she packed a small bag, kissed her mother on the cheek and walked from that
house never to look back. She was tired of seeing her mother sweat over his stove, scrub his
floors and clean up like a Good nigger, a Grateful nigger; like a nigger without a care in the
world, as he was always reminding her.

It wasnt what she wanted from her life and her mother always said she was a clever girl and
she was going to use her head to get on.
Keep in touch, baby her mother had shouted as the girl headed out the gate into the lane
yonder.
...and never turn your back on the Lord.

Bullshit, Mandy thought as she stamped ahead with clenched teeth. Dont turn your back on
the lord, she thought, because if you do hell screw you in the butt. Thats what white people
are like and God had to be white otherwise he wouldnt be god.

Well, not a god whitey would want to worship. She was sick of it all, the religious hypocrisy,
and the racist attitudes. Each step was taking her further away from it all; the days of
servitude to a big, white lord was over and she would do all she could to make sure they
never came back.

Chapter One
Mandy hiked a lift out of Carolina along the main interstate heading west. She told the driver
that she was going wherever he was heading. He was going all the way to California, to Los
Angeles and so this became her destination too.

He was another fat white man who had a thick growth of beard and sleep in his eyes; but his
eyes had a look of humour in them but when he smiled he exposed a mouth full of green
teeth. It was an overcast day and yet the man was sweating profusely as the corner of his eyes
surveyed her legs.

He was keeping them on the road most of the time although she could tell he was interested
in them; she noticed the furtive glance occasionally. He was just like all the other white men
she had known; they would call her a nigger in front of their friends then try to fuck her when
she was alone.

How old are you Girl? the driver asked making casual conversation.
Sixteen. She lied looking away from him and out the side window at the farmland that was
shooting past. The wheat was growing tall and they fields seemed to stretch to the horizon in
every direction.

Youre a big girl for sixteen. He replied, there was something in his tone that made her
glance at him quickly. Just in time to see that he had been leering at her intently.
If you dont keep your eyes on the road mister she snapped. ...I might never see my
seventeenth birthday. Still... she added with a wry smile.

...at least well have the pleasure of dyeing together. Your fat gut spread over the tarmac and
my face splattered against the windscreen. What a sight.

Im looking at the road. The driver said anxiously looking back to the road and gripping the
wheel with his fat hairy fingers. There was a long pause before he said anything further.

I was only admiring your legs. He said softly.

You have the most beautiful legs Ive ever seen.

You need to get out more. She huffed. Mandy turned her attention to the window again and
hoped that he would lose interest.
Youre a little young to be making this journey on your own arent you? The driver said
eventually breaking the awkward silence. You got family in Los Angeles?
Nope. she replied abruptly.
You got friends down there? He continued trying
to get her to relax.
Nope. she replied.

You sure dont say much do you? he said with a breathless sigh. I guess youre one of
these people that can walk into a town like Los Angeles, not knowing a soul, with no family
and settle down like theyve lived there all their life?
Thats right.
They drove for a further few kilometres and the sun got low on the horizon as they journeyed
on. She was thinking about her mother and wondering if she was sitting by the old stove
quietly crying for her.

She thought too about the big old boss that owned the house and if he had taken his anger out
on the old woman. She knew she had upset him but perhaps she had done the only thing to
make things better; he was sure to have continued trying to get into her panties and it was
better to nip things in the bud by removing the temptation.

You got a job fixed up in L.A? the driver said eventually as he flicked a switch and the
road
ahead was flooded with headlight. Mandy faced him and wondered if she should stop
being so defensive; the last thing she wanted was to be put out in the dark in the middle of
nowhere.

I hope to find a job. She replied with a small smile. You know, earn a little money, be
something better than a
She stopped in mid sentence and looked away.

Better than a what? The driver asked. Dont be shy. Im not going to judge you. He gave
her a dumb smile that made her giggle, the fat from his chin collected up on his shirt collar in
great folds giving the impression of several chins.

Thats better. He said making the chins wobble.

You look much better with a smile on that face of yours; now young lady, better than what?
A maid. She said eventually, looking out through the side window at the bleak dark
landscape beyond only visible when moon light broke through the clouds in silvery shafts.
A maid. The driver gasped. Is that what youve been doing lately?
My mother, Ive been living with her.

Dont knock being a maid girl, the driver said with a beefy smile. My mother was a whore
and shed given her eyeteeth to have been a maid. She was a good old girl and she had some
mighty fine friends. Its only a way of paying the rent after all. So your mother earns money
scrubbing floors, would you have been happier if shed earned rent on her back?
No. I guess not. She said with an air of depression; he sensed that he shouldnt have
mentioned his mothers profession to the young girl and tried another tract.

Well, little miss, what you are hoping to do in the big city; youve ruled out being a maid
and, er, my mothers profession. Could you work in a store?
I dont know. She said softly. Truly, Ive not ruled anything out just yet. I guess I never
really ruled out being a whore; Im sure I have the goods men want. I just meant Id never be
a maid.
So youd do anything for cash, eh? the driver said looking away from the road and at her
legs again. My momma warned me about girls like you.

Oh, stop messing. She laughed looking out the window into the darkness. She could see
him reflected in the mirror looking around at her and although he was disgusting to look at it
made her feel powerful.
How would you like to earn fifty buck right now? He said cautiously.
A girl like you could go a long way with fifty bucks in her pocket book. Especially in a city
like L.A; youre going to need money for a place to stay when you get there.
Oh yha... she sneered looking at him. ...I guess that would mean letting you fuck me;
right?

She smiled seeing his hands get white as their grip on the steering wheel tightened.
Well... He stuttered. ...only If you say so.

They drove on a little further until the lights of a small motel drew along beside them. He
pulled the truck into the car park behind the rooms and went to check. Mandy watched him
waddle away and wondered what she was letting herself in for.

Ive checked us in as Mr Farley and his daughter, Constance. He said pulling the truck door
open and up at her. That okay with you?
Sure. She said sliding out of the truck and standing beside him. It was then she noticed just
how small he was.
Were in N0 5 he said leading around the building to where the rooms were situated.
You are a beauty, anyone ever told you that?
Yha, you have, about twenty times so far.
Sorry... Farley replied nervously. ...Im not used to this.
Neither am I.

Once inside the room he tugged the blinds down and pulled her towards him whispering in
her ear that he was going to fuck her bad.
Not without giving me my fifty dollars first, youre not.

You got me! he laughed taking out a battered wallet and passing over a crisp new note.
Dont you spend it all at once.
Ill keep it to buy me a new school uniform. She smiled tucking it into her blouse.
Now what did you have to say that for? He said with a deep sigh and then stared at her
nervously.
Making it out like Im a paedophile or something.

Well, she said pushing him down on the bed. I am underage, so I guess you are. Now how
you gonna fuck me again?
Nah, he sniffed looking up at her with a frown. You have ruined it now.
Spose you want your money back? she asked hoping that he wouldnt.
Look. He said after a long pause. If I cant fuck you, you can let me have a wank while I
look at those legs.

Whatever. She replied not understanding what a wank was, shed never heard the word
before. Perhaps, she thought, it was like crank, or thank. Well whatever he was getting at she
decided just to let him get on with it.

He tugged at her legs until she was laying with her panties facing him and she was staring up
at the ceiling. She heard a grunt and then he sat up.
Thank you. He said breathlessly.

For what? she asked with a confused smile. All I did was lay there.
Oh, you got me. He laughed doing up his fly and throwing a towel across the room. You
sure got me there.

They both fell to sleep on the bed fully dressed and she had a strange dream. It was as though
it was a memory stored in her mind like a faded photograph.

There was an old fashioned oil lamp in what looked like an old cellar. She could see shadows
cast upon the bare brick walls and the painted faces of china dolls. She had felt safe and
warm there, in his lair, lets play an adult game he said.
Yes she said as the old master touched the place dollies never had.

She awoke as the fist beams of dawn were bursting through the windows. The driver was still
asleep and he was sucking air through his nostrils and then blowing warms gusts against her
face. One of his great arms was over her shoulder and she pushed it aside and stepped off the
bed towards the window.

After taking a shower she went through the still sleeping mans trouser pockets. His wallet
had just a couple of hundred dollar bills and a faded photograph of a woman. Mandy took her
to be his wife.

She was tempted to take the money and run away but the thought of being a whore was one
thing, being a thief something quite different.

She replaced the money and the wallet and then adjusted her hair in the mirror before going
out on the veranda. There was a diner opposite the room block that advertised all day
breakfast and so she crossed the road and bought some coffee for them both.

They were a little hostile at first but the colour of her money helped them get over the colour
of her skin. When she woke him the driver didnt even wash before getting dressed, drinking
the coffee and going out to see if his truck was okay.

Hed paid for the room in advance so there was nothing left to do except visit the bathroom
and get going. He didnt say much during the first part of their journey and eventually she
broke the silence.
Have I upset you?

No, he replied shooting her an awkward look. Why do you ask?

Youve not said anything since we got going. She replied with a slight smile. I wondered
if Id done something wrong.

Its not you girl. The man said after a long pause. I feel like I took advantage last night,
Im not like that really.
How did you take advantage? she laughed. You didnt rape me or nothing.

But I forced you to have sex, didnt I He shook his head and glanced away from the road
towards her. She saw that there were tears welling up in his eyes and she started to feel guilty.
Did you? I didnt notice.

You know what I mean. He tutted and looked back towards the road.
 I got a daughter who is a little older then you. If a man took advantage of her Id find him
and Id kill him.

You didnt take advantage. She smiled reaching out and touching his arm gently.
In fact, you were the perfect gentleman. I felt safe with you.
Thank you. He said flashing his yellow teeth towards her. Thats made me feel a whole lot
better about things; even though Im old enough to be your father.
If I had a pappy like you, Id be one happy little girl.

A few hours later they were in a diner eating a brunch of eggs, bacon and coffee.
Do you watch football? the driver asked as he dipped a slice of toast into a soggy egg yolk.
No. she replied with a smile. Why do you ask?

Aw... He replied taking a sniff and gulp of coffee. ...Im Just trying to make conversation.
I thought it was better to ask that than
Than what? she asked looking at him intently.

Then asking what you were running away from? He looked down at his food and acted as
if the question wasnt nosey.
I dont want to pry, I mean, you could tell me to mind my own business if you want.
Okay she laughed. Mind your own business.

He shrugged and continued to eat in silence for a while until she ate the last of her eggs.
Whos the woman in the photograph? she asked before realising that hed know shed been
down his pockets.

He looked up at her with his mouth half open and an awkward silence descended between
them both before his face broke into a craggy smile.
I thought youd been through my pockets. You put the wallet back in the wrong one.
Thanks

Thanks. She said biting her lower lip, wide eyed.

Thanks, for what?
For not ripping me off and running.

There was another thick silence between them until he eventually took a bite from the last
piece of toast and pushed the plate away.
That was frugging delicious.
I was going to. She said softly gazing out the window wistfully.
Why not; I mean you could have, I was away with the fairies; best sleep Id had for ages.
Im not like that, I guess. She replied before looking out the window longingly.

The noise in the diner seemed to slip away as her thoughts returned to her mother; she had
never spent a whole night away from her in the past and she wondered if she was also
thinking about her.

Wondering if her momma was sitting beside the stove darning or working out in the yard. At
that time of the day Jed, usually came in from the garden to grab a bite to eat. She thought
about them both sitting there just as she and her new friend were.
Were they passing the morning with a little superficial small talk, thinking about the past,
about those who they loved? Did she miss her? Mandy certainly missed her mother and if she
dwelt on it any further she knew she would begin to cry.

Luckily enough, her companion seemed to guess this and pulled her from the daydream with
a simple question.
The photo?
Yes, who was she? She asked looking back toward him and regretting that shed been
through his pockets in the first place.
I thought she was your wife.
Yha. He said. Shes been dead ten years now, like I said, the cancer took her.
Im so sorry. Mandy replied softly. She reached out a hand and touched his shaking fist on
the tabletop.

You said your mother was a maid? he said after a while. What about your father?
Hes dead. She lied thinking this lie was much better than the truth.
Im sorry to hear that, how old was he

Can we change the subject? she snapped throwing him a stern glair. What is it with you,
quiz of the week or something?

Sorry, sorry, he said realising that he had pried enough and that it really wasnt any of his
business.
You sure are wound up tight. He laughed. But bright as a button.
Its me who should say sorry. She smiled, trying to relax as best she could, before adding.
its true, I am wound up like a spring....
You are, seriously.

...this is the furthest Ive ever been from home and my confidence is pretty shallow. Im
frightened Ill make a mistake and screw things up; but I will never go home again, never. No
matter what!
Oh, youll make mistakes girl, whoppers... the man chuckled making those chins wobble
like jelly. Then he looked serious and flashed her a nod.
...youll recover, and get over it; shit every time it happens youll be stronger.

Nothing more than chit-chat passed between them for the rest of their journey. It wasnt
necessary and they both felt as if theyd said enough. There was a small amount of polite
small-talk of course, it was a long journey. But they gradually developed that mutual
understanding which is indispensable when in such close quarters , the sort of respectful
relationship that only exists under circumstances such as during that long, boring drive to Los
Angeles; he adopted the fatherly role and she his compliant daughter.

She was asleep when the sudden motion of the truck stopped and the lack of engine noise
pulled her from her dreams. It was hot and bright and she had to shield her eyes from the
glare of the sun as she looked up at him.

This is as far as I go Honey. He said as the truck rattled out of gear.

You can catch a bus down there and itll take you right into town; Im going to the freight
terminal.
Right, okay. She said sitting up and wiping the sleep from her eyes.
Take this. He said handing her another twenty dollars and a piece of paper with an address
scrawled on it.
If you do go there, ask for Ruby and you might land yourself a job or somewhere to stay.
Okay?

Thank you. She replied looking at the address .

Thanks for being so good to me.
It was a pleasure. He smiled. Tell Ruby Tom Farley sent you; shell look after you.

Okay. She opened the truck door and jumped down onto the road.
See you later Tom Farley. She shouted slamming the truck door.
Perhaps Ill run into you again?

He nodded and she heard that familiar laugh as the truck burst into motion before
disappearing in a cloud of dust. She folded the paper note carefully and placed it in her breast
pocket before picking up her battered carpetbag and heading towards the bus stop.

Chapter two
People were everywhere, on the sidewalk, in steamy cars at the side of the road, people in
cafes and bars, standing on street corners looking around expectantly; there were so many of
them. Big people, small people, fat, thin, ugly people, beautiful people, some had nothing and
some looked like they had everything. Mandy saw a man in rags talking to god, cursing Him
under his breath.
He was cursing the sun, the sky, cursing the cars and the road, damning them all.

She saw a huge woman with bright red hair scratching her fat butt while puffing on a
cigarette. She called out to a passing car shining in the mid-morning heat.
Hay bud, want some business?

Mandy saw another fat woman who had a child in her arms. The child was screaming and the
woman could be heard saying.
Ill feed you when I get some money.

Mandy looked down at the sidewalk and saw inlaid stars on every other paving stone. Within
each brass star was a name, she didnt recognize any of them and wondered why they should
be honoured like that.

Then she saw a name she did recognise, Clark Gable. Oh, she thought, they must all be
actors. Of course, this is where the Hollywood films are made.
This made her smile.

The sun hung in the air like a big yellow balloon and its veins of light were fluted through the
towering palm trees that edged the road. She noticed a faint smell on the wind and then the
scent of lilac reached her nose and it reminded her of home; long ago as a child she used to
watch her mother hang the washing. The bright summer sun and the smell of lilac brought it
all back vividly.

This thought disappeared as the rank stench of stale urine and musty armpits flooded her
senses. A dazed woman in a faded dress, stained and threadbare almost bumped her into the
road. The woman cradled a plastic bag filled with tin cans to her breast and softly mumbled
something about god.

The smell faded as Mandy strode away towards and old theatre set back from the road. There
were two people standing in the square that the theatre edged chatting about nothing in
particular.
Excuse me. Mandy asked as she reached them.
We aint got no money. One of the strangers replied defensively. They both faced her with
hardened looks.

Im not begging. Mandy replied indignantly. Im new to town and I wondered if you knew
where this address was?
She held the piece of paper Tom Farley had given to her up so the pair could read it and one
of the strangers looked at it intently.

Oh, the woman said after a long pause. My reading aint as good as it used to be
Oh really? Mandy said as the other stranger took the piece of paper and examined it.
I can read it mother. The stranger said looking up with a smile.
Its an address along the strip there.

Really. The boys mother said examining the piece of paper with a squint.
Its along that way miss. The boy said nodding along the road. Go left at that junction,
thats Vine
Vine? Mandy replied looking in the direction he had indicated.
If you go left there, Sunset intersects it, this is a high number so thats right at Sunset. You
cant miss it.
Left down Vine... Mandy repeated. ...until Sunset intersects it, then right?
Thats it Honey, good luck yaw.

Mandy thanked them and walked to the junction theyd indicated and found herself walking
away from the Chinese Theatre. There was a schoolyard on her left and a group of small
children played with a ball in it. At the bottom of Vine Street she found Sunset Strip cutting
across.

It was a wide, busy road that seemed to stretch as far as her eyes could see in either direction.
High lighting towers stood to attention every hundred yards or so while traffic idled at the
intersection.
Unaware of which direction to take she checked the nearest buildings and saw that the
numbers went up on her left and down on her right. The number she wanted were only a few
steps from the junction.

She took a deep breath when she reached the tall and wide iron gates that were set into a
hedge. The gate upright had the same number on it, etched into a brass plate, as the one
Farley had given her and she peered through the gates at the house beyond.

It really was a huge place and imposing. The path that led from the gate to the front porch
seemed to go on for two or three hundred yards and was framed on either side by a colourful
array of bedding plants and shrubs.
Mandy pushed open the gate and stepped onto the gravel path towards the huge white porch
that framed the sturdy stained-glass panelled front door. There was a small flight of steps,
which she found unable to climb. The imposing nature of the building filled her with anxiety
for some reason.

Perhaps it was lack of confidence, perhaps it was fear of the unknown but something held her
there rooted to the spot. She had to say under her breath, come on girl, get a grip, before
another step forwards could be taken.

The art-deco stained glass that was fitted in the door she reached fascinated her. It was a
picture of a nude girl holding a ball, all picked out in different coloured glass. The image
made her smile.
Wow. She mused. Just look at that.

There was a brass bell push set into the wooden frame and she carefully touched the button
without pressing it as thoughts rushed through her mind. Surely, she wondered, Farley
wouldnt have given her this address if he didnt think theyd help her?

She didnt think that shed be able to rent a room in such a mansion and he was aware that
she did not intend becoming a maid; even for rich folks like these. So what would they be
able to do for her, if anything?

The only way to find out would be to press that button. Her finger pressed hard and she stood
back, up right with her chin proud. After an immeasurable period of time the door was
opened slightly and the face of an old black woman in a traditional maids uniform peered
out.

Mandy could see by the cleanliness of the apron the woman wore that she wasnt a maid of
all work; or someone that did dirty work. This woman certainly didnt get on her knees and
do the sort of jobs her mother performed every day of her life. The sort of work white women
never did.
And what can I do for you? the woman in the maids costume asked sarcastically; eyeing
Mandy from the tips of her toes to the top of her head.
Id like to speak to your master. Mandy replied desperately trying to sound confident.
Oh, you would, would you? The maid replied with a laugh. Well, get you.
Would he be available? Mandy stuttered, astonished by the womans attitude.
You either got the wrong house... The old woman spat closing the door sharply. ...or you
got a death wish, or something.

Wait. Mandy said as the door was closed. She looked through the glass and saw the old
woman begin to walk away and so she pressed the doorbell again until she saw her turn and
come to the door again.
I have the right address. She stuttered as the old women inspected her through the glass.
Tom Farley sent me, and look she held out the piece of paper he had scrawled the
address upon. ..he wrote it in his own hand; said I could find work here.

The old woman stared through the stained glass for a moment before cautiously opening the
door. You want work?
Ah ha, yep!
And Tom Farley sent you?
Thats right. Mandy replied. The old woman opened the door wider and looked over the
girls shoulder down the path towards the gate.
Well, she sniffed. You had better come in then.

Mandy stepped through the door and into the hall that lay beyond. It was bright with
windows all around, painted woodwork and stained dark floorboards. The fittings of brass
and chrome sparkled in the morning sunshine and a sweeping staircase of stained wood and
brass swept up to another floor to her right.

The opulence amazed the country girl and her eyes darted everywhere before coming to rest
upon a painting that hung on the far wall.

It was of a naked girl, reclining temptingly on a bed of roses. Her long red hair curled down
across ivory shoulders and the intense auburn was picked up again in the fold of her exposed
pubis.
I was told to ask for Mr Ruby. Mandy said softly clutching her bag to her waist nervously.
Ill tell you once the old woman snapped. There aint no master in this house.
There isnt? Mandy replied. Is Ruby the boss, is she a lady?

Well, you could say that. The maid replied shaking her head and laughing loudly. Theres
only one boss in this house, and she aint no lady.
Im sorry, Im confused. Mandy replied staring at the old woman anxiously. Ruby is the
mistress, the madam?

Youre confused... The old woman laughed again, showing a set of white teeth with the
odd gap here and there.
...if you stay confused youll get on fine here; you can bet your life on that, make no mistake
about it. Anyway you can call her Miss, or Madame and watch your lip because if you gonna
work for Ruby Valentine then if she says jump; you say, how high. Got that?

The maid walked off leaving the girl standing next to the stairs facing the picture of the naked
girl. Shell have to see you. Wait there and Ill tell her you here.
Being further inside the house the girl could see that there were other oil paintings decorating
the rest of the wall space.

They were all of naked girls, some were dark and brooding with plump ladies posing
seductively, others appeared more modern with stark colours and brittle images. One was of
the rear end of a well proportioned lady dressed in tight plastic shorts and fishnet stockings
bending over. The heels of her patient leather shoes being at least nine inches high if not
more.
Lordy, look at those heels. Mandy said under her breath.

Mandy raised an eyebrow, wide eyed she thought about the house she had left her mother
cleaning; it had always seemed like a palace to her but compared to this place it was really
one up from a shack.

She recalled that there was no art in the old house, the white master hated art; especially
modern art; she remembered him speaking about Picasso once and saying that it was an
affront to peoples intelligence.
Mandy didnt know what he meant at the time and still didnt understand fully but seeing
these glorious images surrounding her just made her think that he was wrong. She looked up
and hanging above her head was a vast crystal chandelier.

It caught the light and shimmered like water if she moved her head from side to side. She
found it mesmerising. The smell of rose blooms filled the air as a breeze floated into the hall
from the garden; she smiled softly sucking the aroma in.

There was a tall, long case clock further down the hall and the steady clicking of its
movement ticked the seconds by. Mandy heard the rustle of taffeta and a small giggle above
her on the second floor and she peered up towards the sound.

She just caught a glimpse of another young girl who darted away quickly when she looked
up; another hushed giggle echoed down the stairs.
Come, Girl! The maid said abruptly. Madam will see you now.

Mandy placed her shoulders back and held her bag slightly behind her as she followed the
maid down the hall. She was led into a side room and the door closed briskly behind her.

The room was huge and expensively furnished in red and pink. Red carpet swept from wall to
wall; mahogany chairs upholstered in pink satin stood at intervals around the room and here
and there arrangements of roses and pink carnations flushed from bright vases. There was a
large mahogany desk in the centre of the room behind which sat two women; one white,
middle aged and seated and one black, who stood just beside the other.

Both women eyed the young girl intently which made Mandy very uncomfortable. She
shuffled from one foot to the other and bit her lip. The black womans eyes were piercing and
Mandy could hardly look at her without feeling guilty for some reason.

Shall I stand or sit? Mandy asked breaking the silence.

Just stay where you are. The black woman snapped filling the young country girl with fear.
We are looking at you.

I see? Mandy replied not really seeing at all. She did not want to appear frightened. She
was normally very confident meeting new people but this situation was unlike any other she
had ever been in.

She looked at the white woman, not young but very beautiful, she thought. Her light pink
dress shone in the sunlight that entered through a window behind the desk; it was evidently
silk or satin. The woman had bright auburn hair and Mandy realised the picture in the hall
was of this woman in her youth. She smiled at the realisation.

She had long fingers and each one was decorated with jewels; the index finger of her left
hand having one of the biggest Rubys Mandy had ever seen. It shone like fire on the band of
glittering gold.
Whats your name? The woman asked softly before taking a cigarette from the silver
container on the desk. The black woman leant forwards and lit the cigarette with gold lighter.

Mandy. She replied softly. My name is Mandy, Mam.

Mandy, hmm? the woman drawled in a haze of cigarette smoke. Where does Mandy, hail
from?
Im from Carolina, Mam.
Really? she asked suspiciously before taking another puff on the cigarette. Is that where
you know Tom Farley?
No, not really... Mandy replied looking the woman directly in the eyes. ...its just that he
tried to fuck me on the way down here.
The two women laughed out loud. It was just the sort of response Mandy hoped for.
Sounds like Tom? the white woman laughed.

He said you may be able to offer me some work. Mandy said putting on her best smile.
Both women looked at her in silence and with stony faces. She wondered if they were
estimating Tom Farleys talent for spotting a young beauty or if they were horrified by the
condition of her old leather sandals.

What sort of work did you think you could get here? The white woman asked with a smug
smile.
Well, Mandy replied leaning her head to one side. I havent come here to be a maid. Id
consider anything else.
Tell me dear? the white woman enquired taking another puff on her cigarette. Did Tom
manage to get it up?
Did he what?
Did he actually fuck you? the woman said abruptly. Or did he just try?
I said no, but he got his rocks off anyway. Mandy said with a blush.
He raped you? the black woman asked with an astonished expression.
No, he played with himself; thats what men do isnt it?

Some men. The white woman added with a solemn frown . I only asked because I needed
to ascertain if you were still a virgin.
Ah ha. Mandy nodded shyly.
That would be a yes? The black woman asked through pursed lips.
Yes, sorry Im a little nervous.
Well then, little miss country girl... the white woman smiled. ...you can calm down; I
think you have yourself a job here.
Thank you madam. Mandy beamed.

Thats provided you drop the madam bullshit. My name is Ruby... She continued throwing
her colleague a knowing nod.
...Youll get full board and residence plus a clothing allowance.
Wow, thank you madam. Mandy smiled relaxing for the first time since entering that room.
...Er, Ruby.

She wanted to jump in the air and shout aloud in celebration but was content to smile sweetly
and thank the women. This was a little difficult because it appeared as if both had equal
power and where she had come from only white people got treated like they were in charge;
other black people were far less formal.
Do you want the job? the black woman asked.
I know you said full board and all that... Mandy said hesitantly. ...but will I be getting any
hard cash? I have to send money to my mother.
Of course you will. The white woman laughed again, a deep fruity laugh that relaxed
Mandy even further. Her smile was broad and friendly, full of light and knowing beauty. It
made her feel happy just to look at the woman.
You think Id let anyone touch you without paying hard cash? Not on your Nelly, girl.
Virgins dont just walk through the door every day.

Youll get ten dollars for each and every punter. The black woman added.
...they pay me and Ill pay you at the end of each week. Money never changes hands in the
rooms; that will get you sacked.
A punter? Mandy replied with raised eyebrows.
Thats a john, a mark, you know a customer. Ruby smiled.
A man? Mandy asked with a frown.

Normally, but anything goes here... The black woman said straight faced. ...although we
dont do animals, kids or dead bodies, is that clear; if thats your thing you may as well walk
away now.
What? Mandy said confused by the remark. What, she thought, would be the use of an
animal in an establishment like this? I guess, she mused, shell find out later.

So you want to join our madhouse? Ruby asked again.

Yes, thank you. Mandy replied without hesitation.
Well then, Ruby said standing up. First things first, this is Sam, my foreman.
She approached Mandy and walked slowly around her inspecting her bottom closely.

Each girl has to do at least one punter a night. Sam said businesslike.
Any tips are yours although they come to me first; Ill pass them on at the end of the week.
The punter pays me and I give him a ticket like this... she held up a blue slip of paper for
Mandy to see.
...You have to be on duty every night at six oclock, in the lounge. Ill get someone to show
you around. Youll have your own room although you may work in any of the fantasy rooms
we have and Ill tell you about them in time. You do get time off but that will be allocated in
future. In the meantime, you work. Is that clear?

Yes. Mandy replied turning to see Ruby staring at her intently.

Any questions? Ruby asked. Mandy shrugged and shook her head making her curls flop
into her green eyes.
Right then, Sam give the girl fifty dollars.
Fifty dollars? Mandy said confused.
Sam opened the desk drawer and withdrew a wad of banknotes. She counted five ten dollar
notes and placed them on the desk.
This is an advance... Ruby smiled pushing the notes across the desk. ...go buy yourself
some new underwear and something nice for your first night; Ill get it back from your first
months earnings; okay?

Yes. Mandy said taking the five notes and clutching them tightly.

Ill get one of the girls to go with you so you dont get lost, Sam? she said nodding towards
her partner who picked up the telephone and pressed a button.
Youd better get that mad bitch Liz to move Velta from the white room. Off you go.
Okay boss. Sam replied looking at Mandy with an intense expression.
Chapter Three
Mandy looked at both women and understood that she was being told to leave the room. She
smiled and walked to the door, which was opened, on cue, by the maid. Once outside the
room the maid gave a small hoot and winked at Mandy.
Were you listening at the key hole? Mandy asked with a smile.
What if I was? the old woman croaked placing her hands on her hips defiantly.

Youre a strange one. Mandy laughed. Im to tell mad bitch Liz to move Velta from the

The White room... The old woman interjected. ...well, country girl. Im Lizzy and I aint
no mad bitch, you unnerstand?
I am sorry. Mandy said embarrassed by her comment. I didnt mean to be rude. They
said
I know what THEY said. The old woman interjected pulling an extraordinary face.
So you got to go in the white room.
You were listening?

Put her in the white room, in the white room, I ask you... the old woman mumbled.
...How am I gonna do that?
Is there a problem? Mandy asked trying to keep up with Liz as she shuffled down the hall
toward the staircase mumbling.

Not for you. She replied throwing Mandy a snarl before leading the girl up the stairs. But
there might be for Velta?
Velta? Mandy asked.
Yes! Liz said at the top of the stairs before taking a deep breath and screaming VELTA!
as loud as she could.

She was led down another wide and well lit hall decorated in the finest furniture with
paintings every few feet. The maid opened the first door and Mandy looked in. There was a
young woman inside sitting upon a big brass bed in bra, knickers and nothing else; she was
painting her nails a deep red.
Didnt you hear me calling you? the maid asked abruptly. She picked up a dressing gown
that was strewn across the floor and threw it at the woman.
Velta, it looks like youre moving.
Who said I was moving? Velta replied with a sneer.

The boss. The maid replied taking the girl by the arm and dragging her to the door.
Hay, just hang on a minute. Velta stuttered. I like this room.
Mandy stepped out of their way as the maid took the girl past the door and into the hall.
An who are you? Velta demanded to know as the two girls met.
My names Man
Dont worry bout her. The old woman interjected throwing the dressing gown at Veltas
head. Just make yourself at home, country girl. Ill introduce you to the others soon
enough.
Velta stamped her foot and stormed off down the hall.
Change the bed clothes and leave the old ones in the hall for me; the new ones are in the
cupboards over there. The old woman stomped off after Velta leaving Mandy to look about
her; she could see why this was called The White Room.

The walls and soft furnishings, the bed spread and curtains were all picked out in different
shades of white; making the room bright and antiseptic looking. Mandy realised It had been a
long day and she could do with a bath and some rest.

She knew that she couldnt go on duty, as they called it, at six oclock without getting
something to wear but then she didnt want to go out shopping without having a bath. She
stood and looked at herself in the reflection of a full length mirror that hung on the wall
opposite the bed. She was still holding the fifty dollars that Sam had given her and so she left
her bag on the bed and walked down to the staircase where she found Liz standing.

I want to find a shop. She said as the two women met by the stained glass porch.
I need something to wear, any ideas?
Well. Liz replied thinking hard for a moment. Theres a pet shop down the road that do a
nice line in Dog-coats and flea collars; would that do?

She sniggered gently and her tongue poked around the few teeth that were still left in the old
womans mouth.
Not really. Mandy replied looking confused by the comment. I mean a dress shop.
Well the malls just down the road, country girl. Liz drawled nodding in the direction of the
road.
It aint far from here, just up that hill yonder.

Okay. Mandy smiled brushing past the woman and heading through the front door.
But Sam wanted someone to go with you! Liz shouted. It was no use, Mandy had left the
building and was almost skipping away down the gravel path.

Chapter 4
AS the grandfather clock in the downstairs hall struck six pm Mandy was waiting in her
room. She was feeling nervous and continually looked in the full length mirror at her
reflection. She placed her long curly hair behind one ear and pinned it into place with a
flower hair-pin she purchased earlier; then her eyes fell upon the gleaming brass bed that was
reflected in the mirror behind her.

It was a big bed, not a king size, not even a queen size, in fact she wondered whether these
beds were made off the shelf at all; they were probably ordered. She turned and looked at it,
six people could quite comfortably sleep side by side on it and their shoulders would never
touch.

The white quilt was covered in delicate designs of summer flowers and drifting clouds picked
out in cream thread. The bed beckoned her tired body to lay and rest, to sleep and dream of
strolling through those summer fields under the warm summer sky.

When she had gone out she hadnt found a Shopping Mall, just as Liz had said. But on the
way, close to Hollywood Boulevard, Mandy had seen a shop that stocked nothing but forty
dollar frocks. She had sorted through the rails as the sound of loud rock music filtered
through the shop from hidden speakers. There was a picture of Lyndon B. Johnson hanging
on the wall upon which someone had drawn a moustache and a pair of Mickey Mouse ears.
She had laughed at that.

It had amused her also that most of the men she had seen in the street had grown their hair
mostly down to their earlobes but some had hair that went down their backs. That had made
her turn and shake her head. In Carolina all the men had short hair and anyone that differed
from this norm would have been an outcast. But there were even long haired men working in
this dress shop, some of them wore tight white trousers and floral shirts which made her
curious. She had never seen men dressed like that in her life before and she liked it.

She had found a pretty dress amongst those on the rails and it fitted her perfectly. As she
looked at herself in the mirror she felt glamorous for the first time in her life; like a
Hollywood star, in a forty dollar dress.

Are you deaf or something, Girl? the maid said sticking her head around the door and
giving Mandy a fright.
Havent you ever heard of knocking? Mandy replied with a snarl.
Get you bitch! the maid huffed. If you dont get your skinny ass downstairs now, Ill be
knocking on your head.

Oh God. She said under her breath as the maid left her and stomped down the hall. She had
forgotten what the time was; even though she thought it was important to do the right thing in
the beginning. She ran from the room and past the startled maid.
You had better slow down, country girl. Liz said as Mandy rushed past her towards the
stairs.
If you want to make good money round here you have to learn to slow down a little.

Mandy lost her footing at the bottom of the stairs and stumbled forwards straight through the
double doors and into the lounge. Here she fell in an undignified heap on the floor.
What an entrance! Ruby said holding a drink to her lips.

The room was large and well lit with a long bar down one wall and several small love chairs
at locations throughout. Mandy could only look up from her position and smile as Ruby
turned to the bar and ordered Sam to pour the girl a drink.
Get her a cola. She smiled watching Mandy drag herself up.

The room had half a dozen other girls there who she took to be her workmates. Two were
white, one black and another who looked Greek or Italian. Then there was Velta who looked
at Mandy like the cat had dragged her in before turning to do her lipstick reflected in mirror
on the wall.
The black girl walked up to her and smiled before taking a stool beside the bar.
This Girls Ruby announced with flair. ...is our newest member, Mandy.

Thats a nice name, the black girl whispered shyly. Im Jo.

Hi Jo. Mandy replied sitting on a stool beside her. She looked behind the bar at Sam and
saw only open hostility staring back.

The others turned and looked at her briefly before turning back to what they were doing.
Theyre like that... Jo said. ...its this time of night, it makes them feel competitive so
dont take it personally. Have you have done this type of work before?
No, Mandy replied sliding her stool up closer beside her new found friend. Sam placed a
record on a deck behind the bar and adjusted the lights. It was a Marvin Gaye song and the
music changed the mood instantly.
This is my first time.

I love this tune... Jo said nodding her head in time with the beat. ...Youll be okay, If Ruby
knows youre new to the game she always looks out for you.
Really? Mandy replied. Im glad to hear it.
Shes in the white room tonight. Ruby suddenly shouted over the top of the music.
Do you hear that Velta?

Sure, Velta snarled. Ive been moved into that shit hole with no shower. The, so-called,
Roman Room.
Theres a bath in there. Sam said, correcting her and giving the woman a frosty stare.
I dont like baths, I like showers; but I aint got no choice have I?
Thats right, you aint. Sam said sternly. So get used to it.

Ladies. Ruby interjected. Were one big happy family really, so stop whinging.
She gulped back her drink and gave the empty glass to Sam to re-fill. Then she said to
Mandy.
When you finish that cola Ill let you have one drink of something stronger; what do you
want?
Sorry Mam... Mandy replied with a small smile. ...the colas fine, I dont drink alcohol.

Lets hope the little country girl knows how to suck cock. Velta cursed under her breath.
Enough! Sam said sternly slamming her palm down on the bar. Keep your big mouth shut.
If I want to hear from you, youll know about it.
Thank you Sam. Ruby said with a half smile. She moved closer towards Mandy and Jo.
Youll get used to Velta... She said taking a sip from her new glass.
...she doesnt mean any harm, its just her way.

Shes just plain rude. Jo said firmly.

Oh, youll get used to her. Ruby replied as she rapped her painted nails upon the bar. Tell
me, Mandy, have you never drunk?

Of course. Mandy lied. She thought back to Carolina and the fact that the town was dry and
had been since prohibition. The only person she ever met who smelt of booze when she was
growing up was the old white master. He used to drive to the next town and stock up on Bud
occasionally while nodding at the ministers anti booze sermons in church on Sundays.
I just want a clear head the first time, so I remember.
When you been at it as long as some of us... Jo replied with a smile. ...you need a drink to
forget it.

Thats funny. Roared Ruby as she howled and hooted, slapping her hands together.
My girls like to laugh. She said eventually after her throaty chuckles subsided. She then
coughed loudly, lit a cigarette and downed the last of her drink.

Give me another Gin, Sam. She shouted. Mandy glanced at Jo for a second and caught her
making a mime of someone drinking from a bottle. Both girls giggled.
I like to hear laughter at work. Ruby said as Sam got her a drink. If were relaxed the
punters relax...

She lowered her voice and leant forwards saying solemnly.

Mandy, Ill introduce you to your sisters here. If you treat them like your sisters theyll treat
you like
a sister in return. Im right eh, Jo?
Yes Ruby. Jo replied with a hint of cynicism.

Well... Ruby continued taking another glass from Sam. you have met Sam, shes my
deputy around here; any problems you take them to Sam, okay Hon?
Right. Mandy replied
Youve met Jo? Ruby continued before turning towards the room to introduce the other
four girls. Shes one of my best girls; very popular. The gasbag at the back is Velta of
course.
Weve met. Mandy said softly. The girl sitting near Velta who was wearing a red gown
with a matching hat put down the magazine she was reading and looked up.
Thats Jayne, Ruby continued. Shes a nice girl, very popular with the oldies; Grandpas
love her and she loves them.
I love their money. Jayne quipped. Give me that silver dollar any time you like.

Thats Carol. Ruby continued pointing towards one of the other girls who was sitting on a
love seat next to another girl dressed in a nursemaids uniform.
Carol was a contortionist when she was younger, what she can do with her body would
make
your eyes water.

I can do any position in the Karma Sutra, and more. Carol said with a smile. The girl in the
nurses uniform smiled too.
Thats Roma? Ruby said turning to face Mandy.
She does our big babies, water sports, enemas, you know, colonic irrigation and that. For
those with specialised tastes.
What on earth is a colon, er? Mandy sputtered.
Colonic irrigation. Ruby corrected her.
You do not want to know... Jo added with a sneer. ...Just make sure she washes her hands
before taking a sandwich from her.

Jo looked at Mandy intently and noted that she seemed unsure of herself and nervous. She
remembered the first time she had sex for money and how terrible the experience had been,
lacking feeling with absolutely no tenderness; the whole situation had nearly put her off men
for good.

You look nice. Jo smiled taking a sip from her glass. Did you buy this today?
Forty dollars. Mandy replied hesitantly, she looked at Ruby who was talking to Sam and bit
her bottom lip anxiously.
She gave me fifty dollars, shall I give her the change?
Dont worry. Jo replied. Shell get that back and more beside.
I got some new knickers and stockings with the ten dollars change, the ones I had were old
and worn.
You look very pretty. Jo smiled. I guess youre feeling nervous?
A little.

Its always nerve racking the first time, Jo said looking directly at Mandy. I dont care
who you are, when that door closes and youre alone with that first punter youre nerves go.
Rubys good though, shell make sure the first one will look out for you; nothing too heavy.
Really?
Yha, Jo replied nodding. A soft smile formed on her face before she added thoughtfully.
I shit myself that first time; and boy, he was a fucking asshole.
Right! Ruby suddenly announced. Its time to get that door open. She lifted herself
unsteadily from her stool and straightened out the creases in her dress before heading towards
the door.
Go and relax for a while with the other girls... She said to Mandy as she wobbled past.
...Ill make sure you get a nice man to break you in tonight.
Shes okay with me here... Jo said defensively. ...unless you want to chat with the others?
Therell be time to do that, are you from Los Angeles? Mandy asked. She could see that Jo
was black but she didnt have a southern accent like the other black girls shed met. In fact,
Mandy thought, she sounded Latino.

My parents come from Mexico City, but I was brought up here. Jo replied. Well, in Seattle
really. I moved to L.A three years ago. Youre not local are you; Id say youre from a
farming community somewhere on the East Coast?
Is it that obvious? Mandy replied. ...yha, Im just a dumb country girl in the big city.
I didnt mean it like that... Jo giggled. ...Its just that people from farming communities
always have great complexions.
Thank you. Mandy replied with a beaming smile, she tucked her hair behind her ear and
flashed those green eyes at her new friend.

Youre mixed arent you? Jo asked. Although my family are Mexicans I have some Negro
in there somewhere; I think my great, great granddaddy was from Saint Lucia; thats what I
was told anyway.
Mixed? Mandy asked. What, mixed up?
Mixed race? Jo laughed aloud. You have beautiful coffee coloured skin babe, but your
eyes are pure bred white boy.
I never knew my father. Mandy said softly. She looked into her cool drink and thought for
a moment. Jo recognised that this was a touchy subject and felt guilty for raising the issue.

Im sorry. She said softly. Its none of my business.

No, its me. Mandy replied bravely; smiling when really she felt like crying. She always
did when she thought about having a father. The only significant male role model in her
childhood was the fat, old master and he was just awful to her.

She often saw other young girls with their fathers out in the street or church and she envied
them. Having a father around to look out for the family was natural. He would go to work
each day and earn the money while the mother stayed at home looking after the kids and
doing housework. At night hed take his daughter to bed and read her a story before kissing
her gently and reminding her that daddies loved their little girls.

My mother never talked about him. Mandy said after a long pause. He could have been
white, yellow, red or green for all I know.
Well he sure gave you a beautiful pair of eyes, country girl.... Jo said reassuringly. ...and
that curly hair must be so manageable.
What do you mean? Mandy asked a little confused by the remark.
We women of colour have a thing about our hair...Jo said with a frown. ...I saw my
mother torture herself with wigs and weaves and whatnot, all her life; trying to deny her race.
As soon as I left home I shaved my head, it was a teenage reaction to weaves and wigs. I
shaved the whole lot.

But I like the way you wear your hair now. Mandy giggled. I cant imagine you bald.
Yes baby, I was bald for two years but now Im digging my fro... Jo smiled flashing her
strong white teeth and giggled. ..afro is the way to go. Im growing it as big as it will get.
Im proud of my fro, it makes me a beautiful, and real, black woman.

How are you liking my room? a voice said from behind. Mandy turned and was faced by
Velta who placed a glass on the bar and looked at Sam briefly.
Same again, please.

Its okay, Im sorry to put you out. Mandy replied making space for the woman to get
closer to the bar and turning to face her.
You get used to being moved without notice round here... Velta sniffed. She looked at
Mandy from head to toe and half smiled; a cross between a frown and a snarl.
...Youre a fast mover, coming today and starting the very same evening.
Oh, I thought Mandy said as Sam passed Velta a glass of brandy.
Normally people try to get to know the place before starting. Velta interjected.

Leave her alone. Jo said casually. The girl needs work, Jesus, dont we all?
I met a guy on the way over and he gave me the address. Mandy continued. I dont know
anyone in this town so I guess I thought I was lucky to land on my feet; how about you?
Lets just say I met Ruby through a friend of a friend. Velta replied. Ive been here ever
since; much to my disgust.

So youre not happy? Mandy asked trying to sound interesting. She picked up a signal from
Jo which made her feel uncomfortable; as if she was telling her not to pry too much.
Velta rubbed her fingers in her scalp and lowered her voice for a moment.
They all hate me. She whispered. All these bitches hate me.

Mandy was puzzled by this comment and wondered if she should enquire more. Jo was
looking more and more uncomfortable as the seconds ticked by.
Why would you think such a thing? Mandy asked innocently seeing Jo shake her head
behind Velta.
Because I know. Velta replied looking over her shoulder at Sam and lowering her voice
further.
I know all about them and they hate me for it.
What do you know? Mandy enquired further as Jo shrugged and looked away.

See that one there? Velta replied nodding towards Jayne. Shes a devious, sarcastic bitch.
Fucking junkie. Carols another one, a two faced bitch. If you mix it up with Jayne you got to
mix it with Carol, theyre two peas in a pod, them two.
Leave it out Velta. Jo interjected. Let the girl make her own impressions, filling her head
up with crap on the girls first night.
Im Just putting her right. Velta snapped. Then theres Sam.
She said looking across the bar quickly and talking in a very low voice.
The bosss girl, shes weird with a capital W.
Come on. Mandy said softly. Shes a bit strict but
Youll see what I mean eventually. Velta interjected picking up her drink.
Dont get mixed up with her, unless you want to end up like Lorri.
Velta! Jo said firmly. Thats enough.

Whats going on here? Sam said stepping over to the group and examining the three
women. Nothing. Velta replied before strolling away. Just chewing the fat.
Sam walked away and Mandy looked at Jo who was trying to look cool but was obviously
very wound up.

Who was Lorri? Mandy asked her friend as Velta returned to the mirror on the opposite
wall.
Sam has a john called Carter, hes English and he comes here a lot. He is weird, seriously
weird. He doesnt do any other girl normally, just Sam, they have a very intense thing going
on. Lorri got involved with the two of them; in that room
Im intrigued now. Mandy said hushing her voice too. What room?

Sams got her own room; youll find out about that. Jo looked behind her to make sure they
were not being overheard before continuing.
One night the three of them were in there together and Im with a punter in the room below I
could hear all this noise, Carters shouting about pigs and dogs and shit. Nothing unusual but
then there was this awful scream and this smell that made you feel sick. It was fucking awful.

Later, after we closed I heard Ruby and Sam arguing which was unusual, very unusual. Ruby
really lost it and punched her flat in the face; I mean, in front of all of us. These two women
are close like this. Jo made a sign of two crossed fingers.
They never argue, but that night Ruby kicked her arse.
What about Lorri?

I dont know. Jo said taking a gulp from her glass. The next day she was gone and we
havent seen her since. If anyone asks, Ruby just flashes Sam a cold look and comes out with
some bullshit about her leaving. I mean, in the middle of the night?

Wow. Mandy replied taking a quick look at Sam.

Then, Jo continued. I caught Lizzy burning a load of clothing a few days later. I think they
murdered Lorri, in that room up there, and cut her body into little pieces. We all do.

Thats really scary. Mandy said softly. She looked about the room and its features seemed
different somehow; like her view of the place had changed in that instant.
What makes you think they cut her up? she asked innocently. What, to get rid of the body
more easily?
You know what I think? Jo replied.
What?
I think Carter ate her. She laughed loudly.
A shadow fell across the two women and Mandy looked up to see Ruby standing over them
with a stone cold expression on her face.
If you two have finished Jawing... Ruby said abruptly. ...Perhaps Jo could get to work and
entertain Mr Walsh.

She nodded to the other end of the bar towards a man who had entered the room. Sam was
pouring him a drink. Jo got off her stool smiled briefly and strolled towards the man.
Mandy? Ruby said through pursed lips.
Yes?
When I told you to go mix with the girls I didnt mean for you to sit here exchanging horror
stories with Jo; understand?
Horror stories? Mandy said trying to look confused and innocent. She failed on both
accounts.
Just dont believe everything you hear in this place. Ruby said taking a drink from Sam
who had joined them both.
These girls have got vivid imaginations, okay kid?

Mandy nodded and went to stand nearer the two girls on the love seat. She was thinking
about what Jo had said and wondered how much was true, if anything. Sam did look strange
but a murderer, perhaps not. She decided to not make her mind up about any of it until she
had been there a little longer, and until she had met this person called Carter; then she would
know.

Mandy Honey. Ruby called from the bar. Come join us, baby.
Mandy looked over and saw Ruby smiling and waving for her to join them. She was holding
a glass of gin and a wisp of stray red hair had fallen across her drunken face. Mandy noticed
for the first time that Ruby had a slight bulge across her waist, a middle aged spread, and it
was spreading quickly.

As Mandy went to join her she saw a man standing next to Ruby, he was a tall white man
with blond flecked dark hair. Dressed neatly in a suit and tie the man smiled a full set of
gleaming white teeth at the girl as she joined them.
Mandy, Ruby beamed. This is Max.

Delighted. Max hissed like a snake taking Mandys hand as she met him and kissing it
gently. Mandy felt the roughness of his chin touch her skin and a shock of electricity shot up
her spine.
This is Mandy.... Ruby said as if she was trying to sell a new motorcar. ...our newest girl,
a delicate child untouched by human hand. Shes lovely wouldnt you agree?
Yes. Max replied raising an eyebrow and drinking the girl in. Lovely, really beautiful.

Thank you. Mandy said flattered by the mans attention. Mandy wrinkled her face with a
coy expression. Was he a man, she thought, no hes no more than a boy; tall, thin, wide
shouldered with a pale pretty pace and blond hair that curled down over one eye. He smiled
again, a clean antiseptic smile with perfectly straight and white teeth.

This, she thought, was the smile of a quiet schoolboy, the type who breaks school windows at
midnight and gets away with a smile at the headmistress. A boy who steals flowers from a
garden but gives them to his mother. This was Max.
Shes really a virgin, you know. Ruby announced so that all could hear but it was intended
for Maxs ears especially.
I didnt think there were any left. Max quipped flashing that wide bright smile.
Oh yes, dear... Ruby said to him swigging more gin. ...this girls a treasure. The daughter
of an African queen, kidnapped as a small babe by a wicked witchdoctor.

Really? Max laughed. He cast a knowing smile at Mandy who listened with quiet
amazement to Rubys fantastic tale. A smile crossed her lips and her eyes met Maxs gaze for
a brief moment as a flash of heat rippled through her body.
Yes Ruby continued. ...taken by the beast to Jpan where she escaped and found safety
in a nunnery in Peking.
Hmm. Max interrupted. I always thought Peking was in China.

No dear. Ruby slurred with a wry smile. Peking, Jpan. Anyone with half a brain knows
there are two of them. Anyway, where was I. Oh yes, during the Jap revolution she was
smuggled out in the back of a truck full of bibles and taken to America by a God fearing
member of the U.S Navy.
Jesus... Max laughed. ...and shes still a virgin, whats going on here?
He was important. Ruby sniffed knocking back another gin.
And impotent, I guess. Max said with a knowing smile.
Well dear. Ruby said as Sam filled her glass again. I can see you two are going to get on
like a house on fire. She turned to Mandy and winked.
Take the man to your room dear, youre in good hands.

Mandy took Maxs arm and while he sank the last of his drink led him to the door and on to
her room.
So this is it? Max asked sitting on the bed as she followed him in.
Thats right, a room with a view. Mandy replied coyly.
Ah... Max said softly as his fingers stroked the white quilt. ...but a view to what?
To sex of course. She purred trying to not look too nervous.
Your mothers not really an African queen I take it? He asked with a crooked smile.

If you want. She replied joining him on the bed.

What about the nuns and Peking?
Whatever you want baby. She replied taking the strap from her dress and letting it fall from
her shoulder. She reached over and touched his groin.

She could feel his cock was already hard and it throbbed gently in her hand.
It was the first time she had held a mans penis and the thought of seeing it made her wild
with excitement, she could feel the blood filling her crotch and the heat was unbearable.
Hay, princess...Max whispered as he pushed the hair from her eyes. ...slow down a little.

He reached over and let her other strap fall down and this made the dress slip from her body
exposing her small plump breasts. She stood and removed it together with her panties and lay
back on the bed smiling at him.

His eyes drank her in from the green of her eyes to the small mound of black hair between
her legs. He stood and started to undress. She looked at the huge long lump throbbing through
his pants and laughed.
Whats funny? he asked taking off his shirt and exposing his smooth white chest.
I just wondered what my mother would think if she saw me now?

The African queen? he smiled taking down his pants. His cock bounced up like a rod and
as she looked it moved with a life of its own in gentle throbs.
Thats the one. She gasped as he thrust it between her legs.
Ah... she moaned feeling it probe her hymen. ...Slowly, please.
She would be very proud of you.

He did as she asked and pushed a little more gently. She felt a ripping inside her that hurt just
a little
but it was a nice hurt, a hurt that made her sigh loudly. Then he was in a bit further and she
could feel her juices run warm down there, lubricating the smooth action as he thrust further
and deeper into her body.

He was breathing in her ear and she couldnt contain herself as a cry left her lips that made
him look in her eyes and ask if she was okay. She couldnt speak only push her groin into
him, taking him deeper into her body and reaching down towards his soft buttocks. Then he
collapsed upon her and she felt a strange spurting deep inside her; feeling his cock throb
again and again and again as he quivered and sighed loudly.
Thank you. He said softly after an immeasurable period of time laying on her with his
breath in her ear. Then, rolling from her, he said.
Now its your turn.

It is? She said confused. He pulled her knees open and his fingers reached out to stroke her
crotch. She felt them touching her intimately and stroking her so softly she that she melted
like chocolate.
His head went down and she felt his tongue eating her up and sucking it all out of her until
she could take it no longer. She beat the mattress with her fists and cried out aloud as her
body exploded with sensation.

Go on. He said softly. Masturbate for me.

What? she replied breathlessly.
Touch yourself... Max smiled. ...like you would in private. I want to look at you.
Really? Mandy asked. It was something she had not even considered being asked but
thought, he was paying for the time, so why not.

She did as he wanted and looked across as he furiously beat on his penis with a clenched fist.
The sight made her more and more excited and again she shook with orgasmic passion just as
his penis exploded with come, it shot through the air and splashed across her breasts.

He reached out and played with it for a moment before licking his own come up with his
tongue. Mandy though that was slightly strange but she smiled anyway. Then he was dressing
and they were both heading back to the bar; in silence, as if the whole scene hand never
happened. It left her feeling cold and unsatisfied, but it was business after all, not a
relationship. She could have spent a night in that room with him and wondered why he
dressed so quickly; perhaps she had upset him.

Later at the bar she looked across the room and saw Max talking to Jayne and Carol. They
were laughing at his jokes and playing with each other to get his hand back in his pocket and
pay out more cash. She shook her head and turned towards the bar and saw that Sam was
staring at her.

Ruby was now very drunk and talking to another man, her face was red and swollen and her
eye makeup had run a little. Mandy could feel Sams eyes burning into her and it made her
feel uneasy.

Those cold black eyes were as mysterious as death itself; rotten yet seductive; the eyes of
mystery. She could have been the scarlet women from the bible, riding on a many headed
beast, her name written in sparkling spangles upon the beasts brow.

Mystery, she was named, Babylonia the great mother of whores and abominations.

Hi. Mandy smiled, trying to see if she could break that cold stare. Sam just snarled and
turned away toward Ruby
I thought we were all sisters round here? Mandy said softly annoyed by the rebuttal

Sisters? Sam replied looking towards her. Bullshit, Im the boss and youre just a whore;
you got that whore?
You fucking bitch! Mandy spat. I was only trying
Hay, hay. Whats going on here? Ruby shouted abruptly slapping hand down hard on the
bar and looking away from her male friend. She acted like she was used to clearing up after
Sam. Ruby was just about to add something else when the door opened and a voice
resounded around the room.
Good evening.

Chapter 5
All three women turned to see a man enter the room and join them. Mandy noticed at once
that Sams expression changed; she didnt smile but her eyes creased in the corners as if she
wanted to but couldnt drop the pretence in front of the staff.
Good evening to you, Carter. Ruby drooled.

Mandy looked at this man she had heard was a killer, he certainly looked deathly white and
his pupils were the size of large saucepan lids; glassy. He had dark purple lines under his eyes
and his blue lips appeared dry and cracked. His tongue darted in and out of his mouth like a
serpent; red and slippery.

Who is this beauty? he said with a fake smile turning his gaze upon Mandy, she felt like
she was being picked out by bright searchlights and every fault would be illuminated
brightly.
This is Mandy... Ruby sniffed pushing the girl forwards closer towards him. ...shes my
newest Girl; youll love her.

Yes, he snarled. I have a thing for Mandies, theyre my favourite past-time. Everyone
loves a Mandy in the morning, aint that right? Although I love Mandies at anytime of the
day.

He smiled broadly and then leant forwards digging in his pocket and pulling out a bag of
pills. Do you want one?
One what? Mandy replied confused by the mans animation. She looked at the bag and
screwed her nose up.
One what? he laughed seemingly mimicking her country accent. The others laughed with
him like they knew the joke and she didnt.
Did you hear that he screamed, ...one what? A fucking Mandrax of course.

Whats a Mandrax? Mandy smiled trying to get with the joke but failing. They had all
known each other for a long time before she came along; and she realised it would take time
before she would get it.
Whats a fucking Mandrax. Carter screamed pulling a really vile face that instantly
frightened her. What are you, fucking stupid or what?

Shes new here, Carter, go easy on her; my newest girl isnt used to our games. Ruby
snivelled unconvincingly as one of her false eye lashes came unstuck and fluttered in her eye
like a lost blue-bottle. Carters vile expression melted into a sycophantic smile and Carter
nodded at Ruby like he was doing a small bow.

Try one, Bitch. He said taking a pill out of the bag and holding it to her mouth.
Im not your bitch. Mandy said firmly.
Ohh... he laughed aloud. ...this ones got balls. Come on woman, Im only pulling your
leg; try it. Just one little old pill isnt gonna do much is it? he squealed in that thick British
accent.

She relented and opened her mouth to take the pill. The others all cheered while Mandy
looked around to see Sam, sneering at her amongst the smiling faces. She actually looked
jealous because Carter was giving his attention to her rather than the Bosses foreman.

From today, my dear... Carter announced to the room. ...your name will be Lady Mandrax;
my little pill.
Sam then appeared at the bar beside him like a bad smell and offered Carter a drink which he
greedily took; it was her way of getting his attention.

Id better keep an eye on you. A voice said from behind. Mandy turned and found Jo
standing beside her. The punter shed been with was putting his coat on and leaving.
How was he? Mandy asked casually.
Big mouth, small dick. Jo replied with a smile.
How was it for you... Jo asked leaning on the bar between Carter and Mandy.
... I hear Max is quite the ladies man?

It was okay. Mandy replied looking across the room towards him and Carol. She was doing
her party trick of placing both ankles behind her head.
It seems I didnt interest him for too long.

Dont let that bother you girl. Jo smiled. Remember, these men are controlled by their
dicks, they dont have brains in their heads. All their motivations down in their pants. Just
think about the cash; youll remember me saying that one day; you wait and see.

Mandy suddenly started to feel dies-associated. The room appeared further away in her vision
and Jos voice started to come and go in waves.
Are you starting to feel that Quaalude?
I can feel something. Mandy replied reaching out for the bar and holding on tightly.
Its weird.

They always are the first time. Jo replied. I like this track, come dance, itll make you feel
better.
Dance, who me? Mandy replied as Jo took her by the hand.

The music was a soul track that was played on the radio all the time in Carolina; some girl
group out of Motor city, Detroit. Their shrill voices appeared to filled the room as the beat
thumped on relentlessly.

Baby Love, Oh Baby love, I need you,

Oh I need your love
When youre far away from me
Why do you do me like you do
When I been true to you
Loving through all these years...

Mandy felt good shaking her body to the sound and facing Jo who was smiling and throwing
her hair about, which in turn made her laugh.
Yha, thats so cool. Max shouted seeing the two women moving together.

Mandy rolled her hair and rocked her head and thrust her groin in time to the beat. She felt a
hundred feet high in that moment and nothing could touch her.
Yha! she shouted as the beat drummed into her dizzy mind. Then Jo had her arms around
her hips and was swinging her around and around and around.

The room took on a blurred shape and the music echoed into silence; she found herself laying
on her bed and the night had gone by in a flash. That night the air was thick and warm as she
lay in her bed sleeping. Dreams came and went, fractured visions invaded her mind and then
were gone like the buzzing of a night mosquito.

Mandy saw her mother briefly riding the clouds on wings of fire. In her hand was a long
black switch. Thats what shed call the thin branches that grew in the garden of the old
house. If ever Mandy had misbehaved her mother would get angry and get herself armed with
a switch. Then shed use it to beat her.

The sound of the thin branch swooping through the air was more terrifying then the sting it
left in her buttocks.
Praise the Lord. Her mother screamed as that switch cracked the air and swooped down.
Mandy opened her tightly clenched eyes and looked down between her legs to see a vision of
horror there. Bloodied and thick with gristle Carter was eating her.

She sat up and gasped. The room was quiet and empty and a small breeze blew through the
grey chintz curtain. Her head ached and her mouth was dry and something bothered her, she
was unsure what. A cold sweat dripped down her spine and covered her face in a thin film.
For some reason she felt fearful but could not understand why; she tried to remember her
dream but it was gone.
She got out of bed and pulled on a dressing gown before going to the door and peering out.
The hall was empty and she saw the bathroom door open so she ran quickly to it and stepped
inside having her morning toilet. Then she returned to her room and turned on the shower
Velta was whinging about missing.

Running the steaming water over her body, Mandy realised why Velta had moaned so much;
it was bliss, and to have a shower in her room was heavenly. Mandy quickly washed her
private parts and then her face. Then she tried to remove the film of sweat that covered her
body from the humid night in that huge bed; before using a bottle of shampoo to clean her
hair. It felt good to have the water rushing over her body.

There was an old razor on the floor of the shower which she brushed over her legs and under
her arms before rinsing it and placing it back where she found it.

Mandy then wrapped a towel around herself and sat on the only chair in the room. Situated by
the dressing table it allowed her to gaze into huge mirror above it; she ran her fingers through
her curly hair and looked into her green eyes. There were rings below them like she had seen
around Carters the previous evening.

Carter, she thought, he was a strange one. Really animated like he was high as a kite; he
probably was, she concluded. Then another thought occurred to her; it was a memory of last
nights dream, the switch, the pain, the screams of delight from her mothers mouth; Carters
eyes.

All the images seemed to roll up and get jumbled in her brain until all she could think of was
that pain she got when Max had thrust his cock into her. It was a nice pain, something she
wanted to experience again.

Miss Ruby wants to see you, Girl. Liz called from the doorway snapping Mandy from her
thoughts. She was startled at first and then angry.
Dont you ever knock? she said abruptly.
Youd better put some clothes on instead of catching flies with that big mouth of yours...
Liz replied, flashing her that toothless grin. ...Miss Ruby dont like being kept waiting, no
sir. Not by any country girl anyhow.

Mandy did as she was told and a few minutes later was tapping on Rubys office door.
Enter. A horse voice crocked from within. Mandy entered the room and closed the door
behind her.
Morning Dear. Ruby smiled brightly. I hope you slept well?

She fumbled around for a cigarette and then looked for a lighter which Mandy saw on the
table behind a lamp. She picked it up and lit Rubys cigarette.
I suppose youre wondering why Ive called you down here so early? Ruby asked with a
wry grin. Mandy raised an expectant eyebrow and took a seat facing the woman.

Well, she announced breathing out a cloud of cigarette smoke. I got the feeling that you
felt a little persecuted by Sam last night; I wanted a quiet word just to put your mind at ease.
I dont like being called a fucking whore or a bitch... Mandy replied confidently. ... If she
treats everyone like that its a wonder no one has given her a slap.
People have tried, my dear. Ruby huffed. I abhor physical violence personally; but its just
Sams way. Shes very protective of me and my business; she says its having boundaries...
Ruby shrugged and frowned.
...As you are new around here I didnt want our relationship to end so soon after it had
begun.
She smiled like a tiger about to eat a chicken. Do you understand?

I guess so. Mandy replied realising that she was being told that she was the hired help and
Sam was in charge; any offence she felt had to be swallowed; at least for the time being.
Youre telling me to cool it with Sam until Ive got to know her better.
Thats it Dear.
Even if she calls me names?

Sticks and stones and all that Ruby smiled. ...just dont take it personally; If you want to
keep your job that is. There, I think we understand each other. Now, how are you getting on
with the other girls?
They seem a nice bunch, well, Velta can be a handful but

Now listen here Ruby interrupted her with a cloud of smoke filling the space between
them. ...whatever Velta comes out with you have to take with a pinch of salt; that goes for
most of these girls. She paused for a moment before sucking hard on her cigarette and
breaking into a soft smile.
How was it with Max?
Okay, but I
Good girl... Ruby interjected again, making it clear she wasnt really interested in anything
Mandy had to say.
...now you run along and Ill see you at six.

Ruby smiled again before picking up some papers and inspecting them. Mandy didnt have to
be told so she turned to go.
Oh, Deary?
Yes Ruby? Mandy replied as she stepped to the door.
Tonight, just go along with whatever I say, okay love?
Sure.

Chapter 6
Liz was cleaning the stairs as Mandy climbed to the top. The old woman gave her a toothless
grin before turning back to her cleaning.
Whats up there? Mandy asked pointing to the flight of stairs that led to the next floor.
Nothing of interest to you, country girl. Liz snapped back.
Can I go up there? Mandy persisted. She was going to have to get to know the entire house
and so far the next level was the only floor shed not seen.

Nope! Liz replied without turning. Her hands scrubbed at the banister forcefully as if she
had become tense all of a sudden.
Whys that? Mandy asked knowing that Liz didnt want to explain why and this made her
all the more inquisitive.
Look, young lady Liz drawled putting down her duster and turning to face the young
girl.
Theres only two rooms up there and they are no business of yours.
Whos rooms are they? Mandy persisted.
One is Sams bedroom and the other is The old woman broke off and looked over her
shoulder.
Well?
The other is the Black Room. Liz picked up her duster and carried on scrubbing at the
woodwork.
I wonder if Ill get a chance to work there? Mandy said casually. I like the colour Black.
You wont want to work in that room? Liz said peering over her shoulder.
Why not?

The old womans expression turned hard and she looked at Mandy intensely for a few
moments before adding.
She wont let you do that?
Who wont let me do what? Mandy asked.
Sam Liz sneered. ...She wont let you work the black room. If you knew what you was
saying you wouldnt want to go near the place either.
Whats Sam go to do with it? Mandy replied peering up the stairs. I just like the colour
Black; thats all.
You like the colour?
Yes. Mandy replied.
You like the colour black? Liz repeated firmly.
Ah, Ha!

Liz pursed her lips and squinted her eyes before looking the girl up and down saying.
Has Velta been talking to you about what goes on up there? The old woman screwed up her
face and paused for a moment looking deep into Mandys eyes.
No.
Then Jo, shes been talking?
No. Mandy replied. Why should they?
Oh, no reason. Liz replied placing her duster back in the box she used to carry it and the
other cleaning stuffs around in.
You just like the colour black?
Thats right.
Like black shoes? Liz smiled.
Thats right. Mandy smiled back.
Black shirts?
Them too. Mandy replied.
How about Liz said hushing her voice and leaning forwards slightly. How about
black leather?
Black leather... Mandy repeated. ...I love black leather. How about you? I can just see you
in a pair of tight leather pants.
Shut up! The old woman snapped before shuffling off towards the bottom of the stairs
cursing under her breath.
Get that bitch. She mumbled with a hoot. ...imagine me in black leather? Id look like a
garbage bag with legs; what a sight.
Mandy laughed out loud and went to her room.

Chapter 7
Max sat back in his chair and put his feet up on the desk. Looking around the office, at the
threadbare carpet, the un-shaded light bulb which hung limply from the dusty ceiling and the
battered and cluttered desk; he pondered the state of insurance and, more importantly, why no
one was buying any.

Looking at the static telephone and wondering if it was ever going to ring before the rental
became due again he felt slightly depressed. He lit a cigarette and closed his eyes. Then, like
a light in the midst of his depression, he saw her green eyes shining like comets in a black
sky.

He imagined her soft curls falling upon her delicate shoulders and her glowing face so full of
youthful optimism. If only, he pondered, he could reach out his fingers and find her there.

Max glanced at his old Rolex watch and saw it was about time for some lunch. Perhaps if he
took a stroll down Sunset Avenue he might catch a sight of her. He swung his feet off the
desk and stood up.

The warm sun shone gently upon his face and bare arms as he stepped into the street. It was
sticky and humid and it made him realise just how good the air conditioning was in that
battered old office. He set out into the bright light and wished hed worn a hat as the sun
glinted off passing traffic almost blinding him. After only a few steps he could feel the back
of his collar become wet and his feet felt moist tight within his shoes.

Flowers, Mac? A bent and wrinkled old man asked holding up a bunch of roses as Max
approached.
How much for a bunch? Max asked while secretly counting the change in his pants
pocket.
A Dollar. The old man replied passing the bunch to Max as he pulled a handful of change
out for inspection.
How about 96 cents?
Ah, go on then. The old man sniffed taking the handful of change and giving over the
bunch of blooms.

Mandy looked from her window at the bright summer day and thought that shed like to go
and have a look around her new neighbourhood. Slipping on a pair of open toes sandals and
checking her appearance in the mirror she dashed out the room and bumped into Jayne in the
hall.
Hello, she smiled. Its Jayne isnt it?
Thats right Honey. The woman replied with a wide smile and southern drawl.
So how you finding it so far?

Last night was okay. I guess Ive not been here long enough to make any real
impressions
Going through your honeymoon period? Jayne smiled. Her eyes creased up in the corners
like she was examining something awful and this made Mandy feel uncomfortable
.Yes, I guess you could say that. Mandy replied.
You going out for a walk?
Thats right. Mandy smiled, edging past the woman. Its a nice day, I thought why not.
Well you take care now. Jayne frowned.

As she left the building the heat from the sun struck her face like a hot rod. She took a deep
breath before going down the gravel path towards the gate at the end and didnt notice the
chintz curtain of the main downstairs room twitch as a cold pair of eyes watched her go. She
closed the gate behind her and was deciding which way to go when a bunch of roses appeared
under her nose.

Hi. A voice said softly. She looked up and saw Max smiling at her with those perfect teeth.
Oh, hello. Mandy replied somewhat awkwardly; he was the last person she expected to run
into.
What are you doing here?

Oh, He replied looking over her shoulder at the house. Insurance is a bit quiet today.
Well, she smiled back. I dont work till tonight.
Im not here for that. He said with a stutter.
No, I just fancied a walk and I was going this way and
You thought Id like some flowers?
I bought them for you. He continued. I was going to pop them into you.
Insurance cant be that slow she laughed. ...If you can afford to waste money on
flowers.

Not if they are for you. He whispered.

Well, thank you. She said. When I get back Ill put them in water.

She looked at him and raised her eyebrows before saying awkwardly.
I was just going somewhere. Shall I see you later?
Dont be like that. Max whined. I thought we could
Im not working right now. She repeated as she started to walk away from him.
I just thought that
What Max? She snapped.

Mandy stopped and turned to face him; the smile had gone and her expression was now
sterner and more intense.
You thought what?
I thought, as youre not working we could get to know one another better; you know, as
friends.
Oh Max. She laughed remembering how he had gone and spent the rest of the previous
night with Carol and Jayne..
...Just fuck off.

She turned and continued to walk. He was shocked by her language and looked at her storm
away like he had lost the fight for a moment. Then a wide smile broke out on his face and he
ran to catch her up.
Wait a minute. He said grabbing on to her arm and stopping her.
Cant I just walk with you?

Let go of my arm Max. She struggled to pull free.

Give me five minutes. He pleaded holding her tighter.
Okay. She spat pulling her arm from his grip.
Five minutes.
She continued to walk and as he stepped beside her, Max was desperately trying to think of
something to say that would catch her interest.
Cant we be friends? He asked after a short pause. Out of work hours?

Oh come on Max. she sighed looking at him briefly. It wouldnt work.

Why?
Because. She said smelling the flowers and thinking of the last time she had the scent of
roses in her nose. They grew outside the old masters bedroom window and when she was a
girl she would get that scent every time she was passing there. That scent had a meaning all
of its own and she was not sure if she liked it.
Because what? Max asked with a puppy dog smile.
...Because Im not good for you. She turned to face him and sighed as a curl of hair fell into
her eyes she pushed it behind her ear and caught him in her emerald gaze.
Im not the sort of girl youd take home to your mother.

My mothers dead... He lied hoping to put that argument to bed. ...and anyway, I think I
love you.
Bullshit. She spat. Now I know youre full of crap.

She shook her head and walked away from him secretly smiling to herself. As she got to the
end of the road she heard him calling her name.
Mandy? he shouted. Ill see you tonight then?

She did not look back and as she continued to walk Mandy couldnt help but laugh out loud;
that was the funniest thing shed ever heard. As she returned to the house and pushed open
the street door Mandy found Liz waiting inside the porch for her.
Miss Ruby wants you.
What again? Mandy replied with a loud sigh. Surely Ruby didnt question all the girls on a
twice daily basis. Perhaps she had done something else wrong. She prepared herself for
another lecture and followed Liz through the hall towards Rubys office once more but now
with some trepidation.
Sams in there with her Liz said softly blocking the door. ...they want to speak to you;
together.
Well let me in then. Mandy replied with a huff.

Come in Mandy, dear Ruby smiled in a haze of cigarette smoke as Mandy closed the
door behind her. Sam, as usual, was situated just behind the seated Ruby almost silhouetted
against the huge bay window; a shiny black shadow caught in a bright halo of sunlight.
Mandy took in the tall black leather boots Sam wore and particularly the six inch heels that
looked sharper then a pencil tip.

Her legs emerged from the top of her boots like fish-net clad pillars, toned and strong. A
small black leather skirt clung to her hips and a black leather bodice flowed from it perfectly
holding her shape; toned but not too muscular.

The sleeves were fastened with cord and the sides decorated with silver studs. Sams hair was
pulled back into a tight bun as brutal as the look she was giving Mandy. The glare was so
intense the young girl looked away to avoid its cut; feeling like a dear in headlights or timid
prey caught in the crosshairs of the snipers rifle..
Well, Ruby said confidently. You seem to be settling in okay?
It was more of an observation then a question.
Okay. Mandy replied wondering what they really wanted. She felt like she had done
something wrong and was about to be asked to leave but then, Sam had a habit of making her
feel like that whenever they were in the same room, so they could be giving her a promotion.
Mandy guessed Sams expression would always be the same.

Its just that Ruby continued. She paused and sucked on the cigarette for a moment
thoughtfully, then glancing at Sam momentarily, she continued.
...Liz mentioned that you might be interested in some of the more specialised work we
provide here.
Did she? Mandy replied puzzled by the remark. She thought back to her conversation with
the maid earlier and wondered what, exactly, she did say.

Yes... Ruby said in another cloud of smoke. ...she said you thought you might like to try it
in the Black Room?
Oh, that? Mandy enthused remembering the casual comment she had made earlier. Yes,
the thought did cross my mind
What do you know of Role Play? Sam butted in. She cut across Ruby and demanded to
know several things Mandy had never heard of.
what do you know of Role Play? What do you know of domination and Sadism?
Mandy looked at her and pulled a puzzled expression, she knew the words and had an idea of
their meaning but didnt know how to express herself for fear of looking stupid.
Are you talking about those tie me up and kiss me games? she replied softly. When I was
at school they took us to a library at one time and I saw a book by Masters and Johnson; I
read a little about it there.
What about tie me up and beat me games...Sam smiled. ...games where you inflict real
pain
Real pain? Mandy replied
Yes, pain. Sam reiterated.

Well, the young girl replied slowly, picking her words carefully. Pain doesnt have to be a
bad thing, in moderation it can add to situations. I like the idea of role playing; a dominant
Mistress perhaps, you know, the one who has to smack the naughty schoolboy.
She thought for a moment and continued.

I could do that, I could enjoy doing that provided it wasnt serious. I guess I could also role
play the naughty schoolgirl, you know, who has to be smacked by teacher. It sounds like fun
to me.

What about bondage? Sam asked. Her smile had gone and her expression was blank and
taut once again.
Tell me, what do you know about that?

Mandy thought for a moment, in fact she had little idea about the subject. She recalled seeing,
as a small child, a book the old master had in his study. It contained photographs of a woman
in various poses and states of undress. Each one had been bound with rope, sometimes just a
close-up of her bound wrists, sometimes the photos were full length. Pictures of the models
wrapped from heel to head in knots. The black and white pictures fascinated her although in
her small mind their meaning was lost.
If you tie them up she replied after a moment of tense silence. You can beat them
harder.

This made Ruby smile. She nodded her head and glanced around at Sam as if to get her
approval but none was forthcoming. Sam just stared ahead deep in thought.
Humiliation? Sam asked eventually. What do you know, tell me?

Hum, humilli, humilliwhat? Mandy stuttered. She had heard the word before but was now
lost in that stare struggling to for a coherent answer.
Humiliation, Sam said softly. is an art-form. Its a role-play whereby, through the use of
words and actions, a persons ego is reduced to a state of total obedience and service. They
become filth.
Do you understand?

Look. Mandy replied confidently. Im just a dumb country girl who may not be very good
at long words but I know what I want and I can act hard if I want to. Role-play is just acting
in my book and thats something I can do very well. I am prepared to give anything a go and
when I do, Ill give one hundred per cent.

You have a lot to learn. Sam replied. Sadomasochism is an art form and, I might add, a
way of life. Its far from a childs dressing up game and sexual penetration is seldom
necessary. There are far more dangerous ways to get aroused; just how far are you prepared
to go?
The two women looked at each other in the eye and for the first time since they had met
Mandy, felt like she was talking on equal terms with Sam. She pursed her lips and replied.
All the way, boss, all the way.

Good. Ruby said lighting another cigarette from the stub of the last.
Sam will show you the room this afternoon and once you become familiar with the
equipment well give you a chance to use it; youre pay will stay the same on this trial period.
If you get on you will earn extra; but keep that to yourself.
She looked around at Sam who just nodded in silence.
You will be her apprentice for a while, okay, good.

Mandy let this information sink into her head and wanted to smile but thought better of it.
She nodded at Ruby and looked one last time at her new tutor before Ruby said with a broad
smile. You can go now, dear. Ill send Liz for you about four o clock.

Chapter 8
Mandy made her way back to her room feeling shell -shocked. The interview with Ruby that
morning had been draining but the one she had just left made her feel empty. The only
positive thing that had come out of it was the promise of alternative work; although she had
only fucked Max the thought of fucking a stranger every night wasnt comforting. It was just
a means of making money.

If she could make money and not get fucked in the process, well, that seemed like a better
way to go. The only sticking point was that shes have to work more closely with Sam and
that didnt appeal to her at all.
Remembering her days as a young school girl a thought occurred to her. One teacher had told
her that Bullies were generally cowards who had to put on a tough act to protect themselves;
that they were really weak inside.

Perhaps this was Sams problem; behind that stern exterior lurked a weak and frightened little
girl. This thought made her smile. As she passed the bathroom door it opened and Jayne
stepped into the hall. She was damp and her hair was tied above her head with a towel. A
damp dressing gown slung over her shoulders hardly covered her large breasts; she
awkwardly tried to prevent them falling out.

Hi Ya? she smiled. Mandy looked at her and saw that the girl had a deathly complexion.
Her eyes were sunk into their sockets and ringed with purple lines. Jaynes high cheekbones
stuck out from her face and her pale skin seemed stretched over them.
How you getting on?

The voice was slurred and slow like she was drugged. Mandy was unsure if she should
mention her meeting with Ruby and Sam and decided to keep it to herself for the time being.
Im fine, and you?
Yaknow how it is babe. Jayne smiled, her teeth were white but had yellow stains in the
gaps which Mandy took for an indication of bad oral hygiene. This girls got problems, she
thought.
Sure.
See you later. Jayne slurred before stumbling off to her room. Mandy watched her go and
thought that she might end up in the same way if she was not careful; tainted, used goods. It
was something she wanted to avoid.

After reaching her room Mandy lay on her bed and drifted off to sleep, it had been a busy day
and she could still feel the chemicals from the previous evening in her system. Her heavy lids
flickered and her breathing slowed as she succumbed to the world of dreams.

Her eye lids fluttered, the only outward sign of the turmoil in her head, and she slipped
further into a dream state. She could see a flapping banner, or was it the wings of a great bird
flying in an empty sky?

Vague and maddening, echoing images of flushed red faces, devils dancing in a desert scene
with wild and writhing weaving. They pranced and danced around seething, rippling waters.
Her eye-lids spasm; here comes Mother emerges from the darkness a bible held high and a
cross of gold burning in her eyes.
Spasm.
Sams six inch high heels clicking across a cold stone floor; a flickering black candle.
Spasm.
Carter sprinkles holy water, the colour of blood, red and thick across her beating heart;
whispering hail Mary as the wind howls.
Spasm.
She feels a shock of electric rush though her spine as a vision of Sam flash against a red sky;
her cigarette smoking like a viper cruciform; red liquid seeping from the palms of a Christ.

SPASM!
Mandy opened her eyes and sat up. The clock beside the bed said it was nearly four; she
shook the sleep from her eyes and went to the door arranging her hair quickly in the mirror.

Wow! she said stepping inside the Black Room for the first time. She had met Liz at the
top of the stairs with a duster in one hand and a bucket in the other. The old woman turned on
the lighting and began to clean as Mandy looked around. The light was subtle, there was no
natural sunlight and green spots converged with red at random intervals from hidden lamps.

The floor was a bare stone giving the room a cold ambiance like a dungeon or cellar.
Attached to the grey brick walls were iron hooks that held chains of varying thickness and
ropes. Dark and sinister shadows hung silently in the far off corners and Mandy caught a
sight of leather straps and hoods and other garments hanging on a rail.

Hanging from a rack was a selection of beating instruments, a riding crop, a rounded rubber
club, various canes of differing thickness and length. Beside this was a table that was laid out
with a selection of chrome plated utensils reminding her of a dentists set of tools. As she
moved further into the room she saw a long low table that had leather clasps at one end and a
fixed barrel at the other, a rope came from this and had two clasps attached to its end.
Whats this? Mandy asked looking at the object.
Dont ask me girl. Liz replied rubbing her duster over various objects. I just work and
keep my mouth shut.

Mandy saw a black box on the floor beside a far wall. It was four feet high, two feet wide and
about a foot deep. It was clasped shut with a thick bracket and padlock, she ran her fingers
over the cold steel top.
I guess you dont know what this is for either? she asked looking intently at the box.
Its a gimp seclusion device. Sams cold voice replied. Mandy turned to see Sam had
entered the room. Liz looked at her momentarily and left swiftly after; dragging her bucket
behind her.

Its for sensory deprivation. Sam continued. She stepped to the box and looked at it with a
sneer on her lips. Some of our clients like to be in there for hours; it helps them to think.
They can be pretty smelly when we let them out.
Wow, really? Mandy replied.

Hence the shower room through there... Sam nodded towards a door set into a far wall.
...we also use that room for wet games.
Water, soap and things? Mandy asked softly.
Piss! Sam said abruptly opening the door and showing the room was lined with black
rubber tiles.
Piss and other things... She continued with a sneering tone. ...I wouldnt expect anyone to
work in there unless they wanted to, of course.
Of course. Mandy replied peering into the room.

Roma does a lot of work in here. Sam closed the door and looked directly into Mandys
eyes. Then she turned and led her to an area towards the centre of the room.
This is where most of the discipline takes place.
She said nodding towards a leather harness hanging from the ceiling. We hang them there
and beat them, of course we must always interview a client prior to their session to find out
what their preferences are.
I see.
And to select their control word. Sam paused. Mandy raised an eyebrow and fingered the
harness.
Control word?
Its important to never cross a persons pain threshold... Sam replied. ...If they say their
control word we know they have had enough. Of course some people do not have any sense
of control; in which case we must be careful not to permanently harm or disfigure them.

I see. Mandy was then led to the bed like contraption that she had inspected earlier.
This is our rack. Sam said in a matter of fact fashion. If you tie their feet at that end, they
are pulled, stretched. If it is used properly the rack can be used for auto sexual asphyxiation.
Strangulation? Mandy said under her breath.

Some of our clients like this while we perform other actions; it is an advanced piece of kit;
dangerous. I will show you one day how to use it. For now She said simply. You will
just interview the client prior to him entering the room. Its important that he meets the
dominatrix only, when the game begins. Understand?

I think so. Could you show me how this works now? Mandy looked towards the rack and
gave a small smile.
What, why now? Sam replied. She creased her eyes in the same way Mandy had seen the
previous evening when Carter had entered the room.
Lets say Im fascinated.
Well... Sam said softly. If you want, get on.

Mandy smiled awkwardly and lay upon the contraption allowing Sam to go to work in
silence. Her hands were pulled through the two clasps at one end of the bed and the buckles
pulled tightly. The creaking leather echoed around the room.

Sam then went to the other end and connected the buckles there to Mandys ankles. Mandy
closed her eyes as Sam lent over her and connected the neck buckle. She could feel the cord
that connected this to the barrel pull against her head and then she heard it; a slow clicking
that ticked in her ears.

The barrel turned and a ratchet caught, preventing its recoil under the strain of the cords
connected to Mandys body. She could feel the constriction pulling on her wrists and ankles
and particularly around her neck as the leather strap tightened with each click. It occurred to
her that she had not given a control word and she suddenly felt very vulnerable laying there
unable to move.
She opened her eyes in time to see Sam looking down at her wickedly.
The clicking stopped in awful silence and her breathing became laboured.

Mandy could feel the blood in her head pumping hard and the veins in her forehead felt like
they were going to explode as small vessels in her face pumped under pressure. Her breathing
was harder and Mandys eye lashes fluttered as Sam lifted her skirt and pulled down Mandys
panties. Mandy felt a cold draft caress her exposed pubis as her panties were pulled over her
thighs. Then fingers tipped with short, sharp nails groped and poked, enquiring and frantic.
Her labia was pulled, pinched and examined until a gush of lubrication enabled the probing to
become slower and more thoughtful. Stroking sluggishly, lingering upon her clitoris Sams
fingers manipulated and stimulated the young girl there.

Mandy opened her eyes and saw Sam lower her head and felt the caress of her tongue warm
upon her skin; kissing it, adoring it, probing and pushing into her. She quivered under its
spell, breathing deeply and riveted to the sensation.

Then from the centre of her being she felt a rush of blood burst through her spine as she felt
her groin spasm with the most delicious orgasm. It was uncontrollable and spurting, making
her feel faint, dizzy and blissfully abused. Her breathing loud and laboured; she sighed an
exquisite gasp.
You liked that? Sam said releasing the ratchet and allowing the cords holding her to
slacken.
I knew you would.

Mandy just sucked air into her lungs and looked at her teacher in astonishment. Sam silently
undid the straps and buckles before walking to the door. Before she left the room she turned
and faced Mandy still reclining on the machine.
Be in the bar at six as usual. Ruby wants you to stay in the white room and be a virgin for
another couple of nights.
Okay. Mandy replied sitting up on her elbows.
Ill give you further instruction over the weekend. Sam turned and left the room.
I cant wait. Mandy sighed under her breath.

How was your day? Jo said as Mandy slithered up to the bar just after six. She had
showered again and done her make up before changing the bed sheets and making her way
down. There was a tray of sandwiches on the bar which Mandy dived into.
Im famished.

Go girl. Jo smiled sipping an orange drink. Ruby was behind her. She was already drunk
and talking to a fat Texan with a beer belly and bald head.
Max was waiting outside when I went for a walk. Mandy said munching through a quarter
of a cheese and tomato sandwich.
Youll get used to that. Jo sniffed. Hero worship, some of these punters just dont know
when to stop.
Then, this afternoon, I had dirty, perverted sex with someone.
Really... Jo giggled. ...You do get around, who was that with?
Later. Mandy smiled.
Thats what I like about you girl. Jo laughed. You can be so green and, Jesus, dumb with
it, but then youre as savvy as any one of us. I guess were all perverted in the eyes of
somebody.

Jo looked at Mandys face and her eyebrows pinched slightly. You look tired, maybe its
that lipstick.
I thought deep red suited me. Mandy replied taking another sandwich and tucking into it.
No girl... Jo smiled. ...We women of colour need to be a little adventurous. I wear gold a
lot, or blue, that looks so cool on a dark skin. Come to my room one day and Ill show you;
my friend in Europe sends me stuff you just cant get here. You know, make up just for
beautiful black women.

Mandy saw Sam approach across the bar looking stern as usual. She stood nearby as if
listening for a moment and Mandy looked at her coyly before saying.
Could I have a gin please?
See... Jo giggled. ...You were a teetotal virgin last night and tonight youre a lush.

Both women burst into laughter as Sam pushed a glass across the bar. Ruby looked over her
shoulder and grabbed the arm of the fat Texan she had been talking to.
This is my new Girl, she said pushing herself between Jo and Mandy. Shes untouched by
any man.
Really? The Texan sniffed looking at Mandys breasts. So I get to break in a black mare
tonight?
She might be a bucking bronco for all you know. Ruby laughed.
Thatll do for me honey. He laughed showing a set of ivory dentures. Jo sneered and raised
her eyebrows before turning and leaving them to it.
Now then. Ruby smiled facing Mandy. Why dont you take Mr Smith to your room and
let him get a ride?

Mandy smiled as best she could and led the man up to her room. He giggled all the way and
rubbed his fat crotch with a sick grin; as she closed the door behind them he slapped her
backside hard.
I never tasted no nigger juice before. Smith drooled unbuckling his belt.
Well then. Mandy smirked sarcastically. You got a treat in store for you, havent you
cowboy. Just wash your fat dick in that sink over there and I might just let you stick it in me.

He missed the sarcasm and he did as he was told dropping his Y.fronts to his ankles. She
looked at his sagging butt and gagged. Mandy lifted up her skirt and revealed her black pubic
hair and reclined on the bed as he turned. She didnt want to look at him because she was sure
it would make the act even more hideous so she looked at the ceiling and hoped it would be
over soon.

Smith waddled towards her and she could smell the stench of stale tobacco mixed with sweat
coming from his clothing as his breathless body touched hers.
Is it in there yet? Smith asked as he pushed his fat gut on her reclining body.
Yes, stud. She lied. That fat dick is deep inside my tight cunt.

She thought he might come more quickly if she gave him something to think about, she could
feel the tip of his dick in the crease between her thigh and her pubic bone as he tried to get a
little friction going. She spat on her fingers and placed her hand between her legs to stimulate
him a little. It didnt take much, soon a gush of sticky come filled her fist and he fell forwards
like he was having a cardiac arrest.
Oh, she lied. Look at that blood from my pussy, you broke me in good.

He tried to look but she had already wiped her fingers with a tissue. Smith stood up and she
glanced at his groin for a second wishing immediately that she had not.
Aint that funny? Smith smiled after pulling his trousers up. Your pussys just like a white
womans, but dark like.
Well whoopee. She sneered. Guess I cant be one hundred per cent nigger, perhaps those
big white dicks are turning my race. What do you think cowboy?
Yha, he laughed. Not with those eyes; I never seen a Negro with green eyes before.
Well cowboy. She smiled standing and tossing the tissue in the bin.
You should get out more, honey child.

He reached into his wallet and withdrew a ten dollar note and offering it to her. She laughed
and pushed his hand away; after all, he had been there before and may have been testing her.
You pay Ruby. Mandy said, as if it were a matter of fact. Come, put your money away,
Ill take you to her.

That was quick. Ruby smiled as the two entered the bar. I hope my little virgin looked
after you Mr Smith.
Fantastic. He huffed. Best fuck Ive ever had.

Its probably the only one hes had in years. Jo whispered to Mandy as she joined her at the
bar. Mandy looked but could not see Sam, the drinks were being served by Liz who busied
herself behind the bar.
Wheres Sam? Mandy asked casually looking about the room.
I dont know, Jo replied. Perhaps shes with Carter or someone.

Oh Jimmy. Jayne cried from across the room. They all turned to see a little old man
presenting her with a small blue box. Jayne opened it and a glittering gold bracelet sparkled
in the light of the bar. Its beautiful.
Perks of the job. Jo whispered as the old man wrapped the bracelet around Jaynes wrist
and did up the clasp.
It must have cost a fortune. Jayne whined making sure everyone else in the room could
hear.
Anything for my baby. The old man smiled.

Anything for my baby Jo mimicked. ...I must be sucking dick badly or something.
Why do you say that? Mandy laughed.
Well, no one ever bought me a gold band. Perhaps she mused sipping from her glass.
I should start using my teeth more often, you know, draw a little blood now and then.

Ruby stepped up to the women with a young man on her arm. He was aged about 19 and had
a clear complexion.
This is a friend of mine. She smiled drunkenly. His name is Joe and this is his nineteenth
birthday.
Happy birthday, Joe. Both girls smiled.
This young lady is Josephine Ruby slurred nodding at Jo drunkenly.
and this is Mandy, the newest girl in the house; still a virgin; untouched by human hand.

Really. Joe said believing every word. Mandy looked at him and tried to look coy and his
eyes darted between hers and her chest.
Which one of these ladies would you like to take care of you? Ruby asked the boy.

He did not need to be asked twice stepping towards Mandy and taking her by the arm. Jo
winced behind his back and stepped aside allowing the boy to take her place.
Now, young lady... Ruby whispered in Mandys ear. ...This boys a friend of the family,
so to speak, you take him to your room and get him educated in the ways of the world.

Mandy giggled and looked up at the boy. She could see that he probably didnt shave yet and
he had that awkward look of a youth whod grown taller than his bones could deal with. She
tugged his shirt and pulled him towards the door.
Come on Joe-Boy, lets go. She smiled leading him to the door.

They were soon in the white room and she sat him on the bed, he looked shy and slightly
nervous. How would you like to do this Joe? Mandy asked softly. She didnt want to take
things too fast and wanted the boy to remember his first time with a smile on his face.
I dont know. He replied after a while. What do you think?
How about if we get down to out underwear... She smiled. ...Then we can take it from
there.
Okay. Joe replied.

He stood and started to undo his shirt. She looked up from the bed as he stripped it off and
hung it on the back of a chair. His body was thin and wiry, white and clear of and mark or
hair. She saw only a small tuff of gentle down under his armpit as he took his vest off and
placed that on the chair with his shirt.

Mandy pulled down her dress straps and let it fall to the floor leaving her in her silky bra and
panties. He glanced at her and bit his lower lip as he pulled at the belt around his pants and
popped the buttons of his fly. He kicked off his boots and his trousers fell to his ankles
exposing a baggy pair of shorts above a pair of long, thin legs. Only his thighs had any
muscle so to speak and she saw a thin covering of soft down over them.
Come here. She whispered. He stepped towards her and she took one of his soft white
hands and placed it on her breast, Do you like that Joe?
Yha, its nice. He stuttered flicking a finger under her bra and swiping its tip across her
erect nipple.

Mandy reached up and stroked his tummy softly, her fingers swept lower and brushed the top
of his shorts before sweeping the fingers down to his thighs and the inside of his legs; just
stopping below where the shorts began.

He swallowed hard as she ran her fingers up again only this time sweeping the tips of her
fingers under his shorts and stroking his balls, the soft bristle that covered them became
electric to her touch, the boy quivered and shook catching his breath.

She could see a gradual lump forming under there and her fingers went to work. That long
thin lump pressed against the inside of his shorts like a lion wanting to escape. She leant
forwards and licked it gently with her tongue. She looked up at his face and thought about the
women in the church she used to go to every Sunday, with her mother. They had probably
never been this close or intimate with a white boy in their entire lives; this made her smile.

Stop! Joe whispered trying to catch his breath. He reached out and ran his long fingers
through her hair, slipping them under her ear lobe and along the side of her neck.
Stop please, or Ill come.
Thats okay. Mandy replied. She slipped off her bra and pushed her panties down to her
feet, laying back on the bed while she looked up at him intently.
Fuck me Joe. She murmured pulling him down onto her. Fuck me like you have always
dreamed. Fuck me like you have fantasised; go on Joe, fuck me like your life depended upon
it.

He allowed his thighs to push her legs apart and pushed his shorts to his knees as his cock
pushed into her. It was a little dry and so he had to thrust with his hips to get the length taken
in but then she groaned and a spasm released a pool of slippery juice from deep inside. His
cock then started to slip with ease in and out and in again.

He rested his elbows on either side of her head and she clutched his buttocks to help. Their
gaze met half way between heaven and ecstasy momentarily and Mandy pushed her chin
forwards so their lips brushed barely. Joes tongue swept across the top of her lower lip,
savouring it as his cock burst within her.

Falling down so that his entire weight was upon her chest Mandy could feel the hard throb
intensely between her legs. The steady pulse of hard tissue pounding deep inside her body
was a sensation she had grown to enjoy.

She thrust into him, pushing her labia apart and her forcing clitoris into his pubic mound like
a beast being fed meat for the first time. His breath was in her ear and running her finger
along his buttock she could felt a bead of sweat roll down across the back of his scrotum.
Did I hurt you? Joe asked after a small, breathless pause.

His cock was going soft inside her and although it was still pulsing the throbs were weaker
now and subsiding like the ebbing tide or a sudden shower on a autumn day.
No Joe. Mandy replied. It was fantastic, You were fantastic.
Its only he said softly taking his weight back up by manoeuvring his arms a little. Their
eyes met and as she smiled he did also.
Only what? she asked with a coy look.
Well he said. Then he pulled his cock from her pussy and looked around for a towel. She
reached behind her and grabbed the towel she kept under the spare pillow.
...You being a virgin, and all.

Oh that? she laughed almost forgetting that long tale. She must have been the most screwed
virgin in all L.A, she mused to herself. He threw Mandy a casual look before wiping his dick
carefully with the towel. There was a hard lump of come sitting on the end of it which Joe
picked at
with his fingernail and examined with interest.

He pulled a frown and flicked it across the room like it was something hed salvaged from his
nose. He pulled an expectant frown and smiled at her.
No, it was fine. She giggled. Mandy took the towel and wiped between her legs briefly
before slipping her bra back into place and pulling up her dress.

Shouldnt there be blood, or something? Joe asked as he pulled on his pants, proceeding to
get dressed.
Theres not always blood apparently... Mandy lied hoping hed not ask too many questions.
...So I have been led to believe.
Oh. He replied softly. Joe shrugged and looked for his boots, very soon they were both
dressed and Mandy checked her hair in the mirror and pulled her fringe across her eyes in a
style that she thought suited her. Then she pecked the boy gently on his cheek before leading
him back to the bar.

Heres my man! Ruby slurred loudly as they both entered the room. She was now very
drunk and Mandy recognised this at once. It was the way in which Rubys eyes flickered
from the effects which made it so obvious. They made her appear sleepy and dour although
she never seemed to lose her sharp wit no matter how intoxicated she became.

Did the girl look after you? Ruby beamed passing a drink to Joe as he came to the bar.
Thank you. Joe said simply, slightly embarrassed by the attention. Ruby had a habit of
talking loudly especially when drunk and it made everyone in the room look in their
direction.
She was great. The boy replied churlishly.

He cast Mandy a casual smile but her attention was elsewhere. She had seen Sam behind the
bar and just as she was about to speak to her a familiar voice whispered in her ear.
Lady Mandrake. Carter cooed stepping towards her. His eyes were alight with the fire of
desire and Mandy could sense his intentions before he actually said anything further.
Come, let me lick you.

He pushed his mouth towards hers and as their lips met she felt his tongue slip onto hers. A
small pill was deposited at the back of her throat and as he withdrew, Carter winked with a
beady smile.
Swallow lady, swallow. Carter smiled passing her a glass. Mandy bit into the pill and a
flush of bitter chemicals flooded over her taste buds.

What was that? She asked gulping back the contents of the glass. Sam was already pushing
another glass across the bar towards them both. Mandy glanced at her and noticed a small cut
under Sams left eye.

Brandy, dear lady. Carter hissed. He kissed the back of his fingers and exhaled a cloud of
sweetly smelling smoke.
Take this! he said passing Mandy an expertly rolled joint of grass. Sam raised an eyebrow
and stepped back from the bar giving Mandy no opportunity to ask about the injury. Instead
she took a deep draw on the end of the joint before looking around for someone to pass it on
towards.

The bar was full now, there were several people standing on either side talking and
listening to the loud music. Jo shimmered in the light of a flashing spot which cast a blue, red
and green haze across the heads of the assembled people. Then reaching out she took the joint
from Mandy and stepped back into the crowd nodding her head in time with the beat.

My Lady Mandrake... Carter drooled slipping up close to Mandy. She could smell the
aroma of his cologne on his clothes and in the half-light she noticed his eyes were lined with
kohl.
This did not make him look effeminate or even better looking, it made him look more
sinister. Contrasting with his deathly pallor the darkness of his eyes gave him an alien
appearance; like one of the undead.

...Dont you just love this time of the evening? Carter asked. Mandy did not reply being
captivated by the apparition before her.
...The darkness is so full of mystery and anticipation, dont you think. I only come alive
when the sun goes down; how about you?
What was it? She managed to say again referring to the pill he had slipped into her mouth.
She guessed it might have been another mandrax, or qualude as they were known on the
street; but was unsure. She was finding out that anything was possible with Carter.

Just a gift dear lady... He hissed sucking on the drink Sam had given him. a gift of
mystery, that has filled you with anticipation. I just love anticipation, dont you? He lingered
on the word, playing with it on his tongue as if to act out its meaning.
...Anticipation, isnt it exciting. Not knowing what may lay ahead and having only your
imagination to prepare yourself. You do have imagination dont you, Lady, my Lady
Mandrax.
I like to know what goes into my body. She replied at last. Drugs can be funny if youve
never taken them before; some people get a reaction.

Lucky them! Carter laughed and leant forwards as if to take her into his confidence.
Between you and me, some people would be better off if they stopped using the juice and
popped a few pills occasionally.

He nodded towards Ruby who was deep in conversation with an elderly man at the end of the
bar. She was very intoxicated and slouched from her stool towards the ashtray with a bent
cigarette between her fingers. She noticed them looking at her and smiled drunkenly.

Take no notice of that man, dear. Ruby shouted to Mandy across the crowded bar.
It wasnt a donkey, it was a donkey sized vibrator.
Oh, was it now... Carter laughed sycophantically, ho, ho ho-ing ike a bad Santa
impersonation. Just humour the old cow... He said under his breath. ...Thats right, silly
old bean, we got you.
He gave Ruby a small wave and she reciprocated.
Look at the state of her, dozy old mare.

You are awful. Mandy giggled. That woman has really helped me since I arrived in town;
I dont like to make fun of her.
Im only kidding you. Carter sighed with a broad toothy smile. Truthfully, shed help
anyone provided theyre making her money. That vat of kindness would dry up in an instant
if she couldnt sell your ass easily; anyway, she brought up the donkey not me. Oh and
talking of old nags

He glanced over Mandys shoulder and she turned to see Velta entering the room being
followed by a sweaty looking man. He was huge and had a belly that hung below his shirt
tails and ruffled the top of his pants.
Thanks honey. The man wheezed giving Velta a cheesy smile. You got the goods alright.
Im glad I could help. She replied superficially. Mandy saw her look about the bar for an
excuse to dump the fat man and then Mandy noticed Joe trying to get her attention. When
their eyes met he smiled and walked towards her and Carter.
Are you busy? Joe asked looking firstly at her and then towards Carter.
I am right now. She replied gently. Come back tomorrow; we can see each other again
then.

Okay Sonny Jim. Carter smiled. Youve had your fun for the evening, now the shops
closed and the little man has gone home.
What? Joe said looking bewildered.

The doors closed, the gates locked and the lights are out. Carter announced with a
sardonic smile.
Now be a good chap and toddle off. Go find another little dolly to play with, unless
Unless what? Joe asked innocently. He tried to smile at Mandy but found Carter drawing
his attention.
Why.. Carter replied. unless you fancy playing find the sausage with me sweetie?

Find the Joe sputtered.

Just come tomorrow honey. Mandy said with a cool smile. I promise Ill give you my full
attention then. I promise, okay?
Okay. He said like a small child. Joe turned and walked towards Ruby, no doubt to arrange
his reservation for the following evening. He glanced back once to throw a confused look at
Carter.

Why, you are popular... Carter drooled. He watched the boy go and screwed up his nose.
...I bet he has a divine asshole; just look at that butt wobbling away.

Mandy smiled and blinked. There was something going on behind her eyes that caught her
off her guard. It was a sensation that crept up like a thief in the night; a small eruption of
neurons in her brain that heightened her sense of being. It was the strangest feeling,
something mystical and as she thought about it; a further wave hit her senses.

Wow. She said aloud. What was that?

Here it comes baby... Carter beamed, his smile now twinkled in the light and she saw
streams of colour fill her vision; rainbows of light filing the room. A faint rattle behind her
now echoed slightly with muffled voices and animal sounds.

Just go with it. He continued as the sensations grew inside her head and filtered down her
spinal cord.
Let the rush take you with it, dont fight it baby. Enjoy, relax, just dont fight it baby. Slip
into the mainstream of imagination, ride that lightening storm honey; feel it in your blood and
cruise that highway. Youre on that high way, way up high baby and youre getting higher,
can you feel it. Can you feel it taking you higher?

Mandy could feel something. It was something unexpected and yet familiar, strange and yet
understood by no-one. The disassociation wrapped her up in a cocoon of warm intimacy. No
one else mattered, at that precise moment in time the universe and everything in it existed for
her sake only. She was a shining star about which galaxies orbit.
The centre of everything, she was permeating the cosmos like a tolling bell and it felt great,
riding a slip stream of emotions. Mandy opened her eyes again and the room whirled into
focus, all chattering voices and animal creatures. The music provided a backdrop of echoing
bleeps and pulses which competed with the smell of mutated human bodies.

The only thing that seemed familiar or recognisable in the chaos was Carters face. His hair
had taken on a life of its own and was dancing to the music on his head. She sighed really
loudly and shook her hair, it felt good and she saw stars falling from the tips to descend about
them.
Back with us again are we dear? Carter smiled a row of flashing white teeth. His tongue
darted about his lips like a viper, a serpent smile across his sallow face .

She tried to form words but their meaning became lost in her mouth. It was a dry, parched
mouth that felt like a desert road. He recognised that she needed to drink and passed her his
glass.

Mandy looked at it intently, watching the liquid sparkle inside; glisten with moisture. Her
mouth wanted so much to taste that moisture and yet the motion was forgotten. He laughed
and helped her lifting the glass to her lips and tipped the liquid inside.
Thats it honey, let Daddy sock it to you.

The last time she had looked at the clock on the wall it had said seven thirty and yet looking
at it now it read a quarter past midnight. Mandy didnt understand where the time had gone
but as her senses came back she was aware that it had slipped by in a flicker of her eyelids.
Is that the time? she said softly. Wow, where have I been for the past couple of hours?

Youve been on Planet Mandra, Lady Mandrake. Carter replied squeezing her neck
sensitively. The feeling of his fingers against her bare skin made Mandy shiver with passion.
It run down her back and into her pussy, when she clenched her pelvic muscles she could
almost feel his touch there, inside her.

Get it? he said flashing that smile again. Manda, M.D.A, Maaaaan-DA! That stuff takes
you places only Rubys donkey vibrator could reach. I can see youre back in the land of the
living again although I thought I had lost you for good; a while ago.

Whys that? she replied looking about the bar. Liz was busy collecting glasses and Ruby
was still chatting to the same man at the bar; oh, but was it the same man, she was not sure.
Velta was nowhere to be seen and neither was Jayne or Carol. She was sure they had been
there a moment ago. Sam was looking at her.

Mandy looked away from that stare; it was too intense and it penetrated into her brain making
Mandy feel instantly guilty for some reason. She remembered that, as a child, the old master
could do that to her.

No matter what the situation, whatever she had been doing just one look from that man put
her straight into a state of guilt riddled anxiety. That was just how she felt then, with Sams
gaze baring into her head like a laser beam.
Open wide! Carter said breaking into Mandys thoughts.
She opened her mouth slightly and felt the touch of his soft fingers brush against her lips.
Then her mouth filled with an acrid chemical taste which burned nicely upon the sour sensors
of her tongue.
A mandrake for Lady Mandrax. Carter hissed. That will put the lid on your coffin.
What? I dont know if I like the sound of that she smiled gulping back the pill.

Just a metaphor. Carter replied taking her hand and leading her across the room to a space
where they could dance. There was a track that had a thumping tango-like beat and he led her
through a dance which caught each bump and thump of the bass and each kick and snap of
the drum.
A what? she laughed.

Its like a meteor with words... He giggled spinning her, this way and that. ...Or is it an
analogy,
He smiled turning her upon an axis.
...or perhaps an allegory, if we are children of the night, we need to emerge from our coffin-
like daytime existence to sing with the wolves. Instead of a nail I should have said crowbar.
You should? she replied now getting very confused. Now Im lost totally.

Good. He hissed leaning her back and running his tongue along the tip of her shoulder.
I am going to use a crowbar to smash into the casket and release you from the chains of
bondage.
You are?

Only to tie you up with the ropes, the ropes of freedom; would you like that?
I would. She sighed as the sense of disassociation crept into her spine and up her
Back again. The room began to spin and they stopped still in the moment; frozen like ice
statues in an arctic landscape.

Come with me. He said suddenly as the room, the sounds, the colours and the people all
suddenly came to life and filled her head with sensation. She stumbled forwards and saw
Ruby, Sam and Liz staring at them both intensely.

Excuse us, Ladies. Carter suddenly announced leading Mandy towards the door. She tried
to say something but only her jaw worked, her tongue was useless and she could just about
stop it hanging from her mouth limply.
We have work to do.

The three women watched as he led Mandy towards the door; the music faded into the
background and Mandy could swear she heard the sound of Sams breathing echoing on the
air behind them. Jo suddenly appeared from a shadow and leant forwards to whisper in
Mandys ear.
Be careful. She said softly as he dragged her outside the bar.
Hes got her in his clutches, got her good and proper... Roma said in her Eastern European
accent as she slipped up to the bar beside Jo.
...Hes giving her those drugs and soon she will be totally addicted to him, like Jayne; thats
a dangerous place to be. Someone should tell her what he did to Lorri before its too late.
Shut, the fuck up... Sam shouted from behind the bar. She stepped up to Roma and pressed
her face into Romas nose.
...you bitches dont know anything and just gossip for the sake of hearing your own voices.
Now, leave it, I dont want to hear another word.

Chapter 9
They stumbled in the half light from the dimmed hall lamps up the stairs towards the black
room. Mandy felt her legs go from under her as she was half led and half dragged up each
step.

Once outside he turned towards her and she felt a stinging sensation across her right cheek as
the flat of his hand bounced off her face.
Say nothing. He said sternly. From the next step, say nothing.

The door opened and as they entered Carter grabbed a small horse whip that had been
hanging from a hook beside the door. He struck it against the side of his leg making a sharp
clap that echoed around the room. Carter removed his jacket and shirt revealing a bare chest
covered in tattoos. The markings were of birds and dragons and insects and blazoned across
the back of his shoulders in three inch high letters was the motto Bastard written in a
Germanic script.

He stepped toward Mandy, his skin tight jeans fitting snug around the top of his leather biker
boots. There was a leather cap hanging from the arm of a chair which he threw on his head to
complete the look. The whip cracked again.

She was kneeling in front of him. Awash with the chemical taste of mandrax when he
carefully placed the horse whip under the strap of her dress and forced it to fall from her
shoulder. Her breast became exposed and he knelt forwards and pinched the nipple.
Do you like that Bitch?

Mandy could not reply because the combination of drugs had by now totally overcome her;
she was doing all she could to keep her eyes focussed on Carter as he stepped around her
viciously cracking the whip against his leg.

He placed the leather strap from the end of the whip under the other strap of her dress and it
too fell down completely exposing her breasts.
Take it off. He said softly.

You want she mumbled but the words caught in her throat as the whip cracked across her
face.
Shut up, bitch. He screamed. ..You will talk only when instructed to and not before.

She slid the dress from her legs and tossed it to one side.
And the panties. He said with a sardonic sneer. Come on, come on, faster.

Mandy slipped off her panties and looked up at him feeling totally vulnerable. Her hair was
falling into her eyes and her vision was blurred a little but she could make out his vague
shape as Carter marched around her.
Lay back and open your legs.
She lay back and moved her knees apart. She felt the toe of his boot push her labia apart
gently and heard the sounds of his breathing. A rush of sensation travelled up her spin and
into her head as his boot tip rubbed against her clitoris.
Open your legs wider.

She did as she was told and heard his breathing become more laboured. Mandy looked up at
him and saw that he was now furiously rubbing his crutch through his jeans. She could see
the hardness of his cock almost bursting out from under the blue fabric and she too felt her
juices start flowing.

He removed his boot and she heard the sound of his belt buckle undoing and then he was
eating her madly. She could feel the hard bristle of his unshaven chin rubbing at the soft flesh
of her labia. It was rough and hard and it hurt just a little but the softness of his tongue made
her want him more.

She could feel it penetrating her pussy. Pushing deep inside her and probing the flesh while
his arm furiously massaged his throbbing cock. Then he pushed his penis deep inside her.
Thrusting like she had never felt before, so hard it was pushing into her cervix deep into her
womb. Carter bit into her breast and she felt blood drip from the wound. He was panting like
a dog and biting all over her, taking small painful nips.
That hurts. She whimpered as his fist smashed into her face.

Shut up, you fucking bitch. You fucking cunt, bitch, slag, slut, you fucking dog, whore;
Bitch, Fucking Bitch Whore. She felt his come shoot inside her like a warm burst from a
pistol. The ejaculation throbbed again and again as he panted and bit and pinched.

Bitch, whore. You fucking slut. You fucking bitch, you fucking, skank-whore. He was
mumbling the abuse over and over again like a madman, the sound of those terrible words
ceased to have any meaning to her and were almost like a prayer to some perverse like god.

He was now laying across her battered body limply. Carter lifted his head up and adjusted his
weight with his arms. Then he lifted himself up and stood pulling his pants up and did up his
belt.
Get dressed. He spat

He turned, placed the leather cap on the chair arm where it had lain previously and pulled his
shirt over his shoulders. Then without another word he left the room. Her pupils were
distorted and in her field of vision Mandy saw fairy lights flickering. Laying on that stone,
cold floor her mind began to wander.

Like the crumpled panties at her side and the dress strewn across the flagstones faded
memories were crumpled and discarded in her mind. The old white house that she and mom
shared with the old, white master came back to her. It had dry rot and weeds, cobwebs and
dust; there was always somewhere that needed attention but he was too old and broke to
notice. He just sat in that old armchair in a threadbare cotton shirt drinking malt whiskey or
bud all day.

There was Jed, of course, the unshaven and worn out handy man who wasnt handy any
longer. He walked about with a hammer in his belt and a screw-driver in his hand but hadnt
screwed any screws or hammered any nails for a long time.
They made him appear busy, like he had a purpose in his pitiful life; but her momma knew
the truth. Old Jed just ate the food, kept himself warm in winter and cool in the summer. He
helped himself to the old masters whiskey and gin and every now and then would chop some
wood. Just enough to make it look like he was earning his keep. Only her mother worked in
that house.

Her mother scrubbed floors, windows and work tops. She cooked and cleaned and washed
and ironed and did all the jobs the two old men needed if they were going to get by. They
never said thank you, never asked if she was okay, never even smiled when she presented
those meals she cooked for them. They didnt even look at her; but they both looked at her
daughter.

Mandy recalled how Jeds eyes would follow her across the room when shed come in from
school. She saw that old, un-shaved chin quiver and that dry old tongue dart between those
cracked lips.
She remembered asking innocently if Jed could help her paint a picture for her Momma and
he lifted her up and placed her on his lap. The smell of tobacco and sweat hit her tender little
nose as he touched her little hand and held a pencil in it for her.

She could feel his hard cock pressing into her butt as his hand pushed the pencil across the
paper. He was moving gently this way and that and his breathing was long and laboured. She
couldnt wait for her Momma to return so that she could get off his lap and go to her. It was
an experience she never wanted to have again even if that little picture became her mommas
favourite treasure.

Are you okay? Mandy looked towards the door and saw Sam entering the room. She closed
it softly behind her and walked to where Mandy was sprawled.
I didnt want you to go with him alone tonight. Sam added with a wry frown. He can get
carried away sometimes.
Im okay. Mandy replied sitting up and reaching out for her panties. She pulled them on
and looked for her dress.
Did he do that? Sam asked touching Mandys cheek.

There was a red mark that looked swollen. You had better put some ice on it otherwise it
may bruise.
Is it that bad? Mandy said pulling her dress over her shoulder. Im so high, I didnt feel a
thing.
Those pills he hands out are dangerous. Sam said abruptly. She helped Mandy up and
placed her fingers under her chin to examine the wound more closely.
He really has done a number on you girl. She said softly, almost tenderly if you ignored her
natural hardness.

It matches yours. Did he do that to you? Mandy asked with a vague smile. Sam looked at
her and resumed her normal attitude. Putting her shoulders back her defensiveness went up
like a shield.
I fell against that thing. She said nodding towards the rack. The handle that controlled the
ratchet was stuck into the air and Mandy could see how it would bruise if you fell against it.
Ruby wants you to go to your room and relax for the rest of the night. Sam said as she
stood and looked over the room. Dont ever come here again with him alone, understood,
not till I think youre ready.
Okay. Mandy replied. She was glad that she didnt have to go back downstairs again even
though she could still hear the dull thud of music coming from the bar.
Max called. Sam added.
Really?
Hes booked you for tomorrow at six.

Mandy bit her lip and walked to the door.

Id better get some sleep then. She said opening up the door and left. The hallway was cool
and airy compared to the dark and dank room she had been in. She sucked in a lungful of the
refreshing night air and made her way unsteadily to her room.

The following evening, at six pm, the red lights burned dimly in the bar room. Transparent
wafts of cigar smoke drifted through the air like ghostly apparitions. The thick smell lingered
uneasily with the smell of roses set in a vase on the bar.

Carol sat on a stool by the bar sipping orange juice while she talked to a fat, balding New
Yorker who was puffing on a cigar. He wiped the sweat from the back of his thick neck and
tugged at his shirt collar with his free stubby hand waving a fifty dollar bill with the other.
Hay... He cried across the bar towards a harassed looking Liz. ...give me a rum and black
and a vodka and orange for the lady.
Hang on mister. Liz shouted from the other end of the bar. Cant you see Im busy down
here?

She prepared his a rum and black-current and poured orange juice for Carol placing the
money for the vodka in her tips jar. Jayne sat across one of the sofas balancing her head on
the arm of a tall Italian while the dirty fingers of his hand groped at her breast through her
pale dress.
Hmm baby. She whispered with a slur. Lets go and fuck upstairs.
In a moment. He replied enjoying the sensation of her nipple while the others in the bar
ignored them.
I want to finish my drink, after all it cost me five dollars.

Velta strolled across the room in the arm of a young sailor boy. Waving a bottle of rum in the
air and trying to prevent the boy from falling was all she could do as they flopped into a
chair. The sailor groped at her crutch and belched loudly before collapsing in a fit of giggles.

Ruby, sitting at the bar beside a smartly dressed gentleman raised her eyebrows and sneered.
I cant stand it when they cant hold their liquor. She announced to no one in particular.

She then continued her discussion with the man in soft whispers about how she looked when
she was younger; tender and untouched. How she was the toast of this city in her twentieth
year. It was so long ago, she mused, back then, anything was possible. The grey haired man
nodded politely and looked around the room for a girl to take upstairs.

Sam stood nearby watching everything, her dark eyes darting here and there, never missing
anything. Mandy sat nearby sipping lemonade and trying to control the butterflies in her
stomach.
Hello! said a loud voice as the clock struck 6.15.

She looked up and saw Max standing beside her dressed in a smart blue suit, a crisp white
shirt with a matching blue tie. His smile melted into a frown when she turned to face him.

What happened to you? he asked looking at the bruise on her cheek. His eyebrows pinched
together and he gazed at her suspiciously.
I fell. Mandy replied simply. She looked away and at Liz behind the bar.
You dont look very pleased to see me. Max said defensively. I have money so I guess it
dont matter if you dont want to see me; as long as I pay.

Is that what you think? She replied giving him a sharp look before turning away again.
Max grabbed her shoulder and turned her to face him again.
Hay sweetheart, he snapped. Im talking to you.

Mandy looked away and saw Sam approaching. I dont know whats wrong with you
tonight. He said defiantly as Sam stood behind him. She tapped him on the shoulder and
said.
Choose another girl. Sam then stood between them both. This ones taken for tonight.

What do you mean? Max said loudly. Already taken, I called yesterday.
I mean. Sam said firmly pushing her face close to his.
Shes already taken, choose someone else.

I dont understand. Max whined. I got money, isnt my money any good round here?
Not with her, not tonight. Sam said softly. Go and choose another girl; Jo is free, Ill get
her.
I dont want Jo, Fuck Jo. I want this girl.
Tough. Sam said abruptly.

Max fumbled inside his pocket and withdrew a wad of notes.

How much did she say when I booked her?, He started to raise his voice making all the
others looks at them.
Fifty, sixty, well; how much?
If you want this girl, Sam replied with a cool, relaxed and ultimately menacing tone.
You will have to calm down; and come back tomorrow.

Fuck you! he snapped thrusting the notes into his jacket again. Fuck you and fuck her; I
dont need this shit. He turned and walked from the room slamming the door behind him.
Thanks. Mandy said softly.

Dont thank me. Sam replied still concentrating on the door. Go to the black room and put
on the uniform Ive arranged by the box. It should fit. I have someone we should both deal
with coming in a while.
Okay. She replied. Mandy didnt bother to ask anything else she just did as she was told.

Upon entering the black room and walking to the box she was surprised to find a black latex
jump suit folded on its top. There was a pair of long black rubber gloves that went with it and
a pair of impossibly high heels. The heels were so stacked she was almost standing on the tips
of her toes when she tried them on.
The jump suit fitted like a glove and she enjoyed doing the small silver buckles up that closed
the collar around her neck. There were smaller buckles down the outside of each leg which
pulled straps that were attached to the inside of the leg seam.
Each buckle pulled the leg tighter in increments down to the smallest buckle at the ankle.
She looked at herself in the mirror and decided that her hair would look better pulled away
from her face. Using a couple of pins she tied it into a tight bun at the back of her head and
then squeezed into the high shoes. Just then the door opened.
Good. Sam said walking into the room with a small black bag in her hand. Wear this. She
said passing the bag to Mandy.

Mandy opened the bag and withdrew a black leather hood that just had slits of the eyes and
pulled down from the back of her neck; coming over her head to stop at the tip of her nose at
the front.
Wear a bright red lipstick, he likes that.

Who does? Mandy asked pulling the hood over her eyes.
The man will answer to the name DOG! Sam said abruptly. His code word is ICE, do
you
understand?
I think so, what does he want?
He wants you to humiliate and abuse him. Start off with some foot worship.
Foot worship?
Youll get it Sam continued. Then a little corporal punishment, nothing too strong
perhaps some spanking; you know. Then just play with the role a little; youll enjoy it after
last night. I will lead him in and place him on the floor. You must be in character from the
moment I leave. He is a very well paying client so I am relying on you not to let me down.
No laughter, giggling or talking out of character.
Okay. Mandy replied uneasily.

I know you can do this. Sam said with a tone of reassurance. Just take all your frustrations
out on him, he wont mind; its what he wants; imagine hes Max.
Fine. Mandy replied anxiously biting her lip . Im ready.

She pulled on the gloves and teetered over to the array of whips and paddles that hung from
the rail in the shadow. Sam left the room and closed the door.
Be in character. She repeated before leaving the room.

Mandy saw a tube of bright red lipstick on the side next to the bag which the hood was in.
She applied an extra thick coat to her lips and sucked air through her nose to relax. In the
silence of that room, in that moment Mandy discovered a sense of overpowering exhilaration.
The anticipation was all consuming as she waited like a black widow spider for her prey to
enter. Then the door opened sharply and a fan of light shot across the stone floor.

She waited in silence feeling and hearing her hot breath come from her nose and rebound on
the leather hood. The crack of light filled with the shape of two humans as Sam entered the
room dragging a small figure behind her, an elderly gentleman with a baldhead and blindfold.
He was stripped naked except for a pair of see through plastic shorts.
Kneel here. Sam shouted. Madame will join you shortly.
Thank you mistress. The man snivelled.
After the door closed Mandy stood in the shadows looking at the man for a moment. He
looked scared and insignificant as he knelt in silence in the centre of the room. She leaned
forwards and the rubber suit she was wearing squeaked gently in the shadows.
Mistress, is that you? he said meekly.

Mandy stepped from the shadows as firmly as she could balancing on her tip-toes. The man
looked up at her approaching and his nose tweaked as he listened to her breathing.
Shut up! she snapped. Speak when I tell you too.
Yes mistress. He grovelled. anything you say mistress.
Shut up.
Sorry. He said abruptly.

She reached down and removed his blindfold and the man placed a pair of thick spectacles on
to better see his tormentor. Mandy placed her foot by his crutch and took her time to apply
more lipstick. He seemed to enjoy watching her do this so she put much more on then would
usually be necessary.
Tell me? Mandy hissed What are you bothering me for?

S. He quivered through trembling lips. His eyes stared, through the thick panes of glass of
his spectacles at the goddess before him. In the semi-darkened room the man knelt, a thin
film of greasy sweat over his bare torso.

The hood Mandy wore, being tied with tight laces behind her head felt hot and uncomfortable
so she wondered how long this had to continue. Looking down at her prey, she thought It was
if he were in prayer waiting for the benediction of the leather studded Madonna.
S, What? she demanded as her bright-red lipstick glistening in the faint light; below a set of
eyes which pierced through the leather mask. Her rubberised chest panted and a delicate
hand, wearing tight, black rubber gloves, fondled a short riding crop tipped with a thin strip
of braided black leather.

S and M. He replied furtively. Her fingers flicked and the crop left another red stripe across
the mans back causing a groan to echo about them.
S and M, What? she demanded once more. Her question punctuated by the crack of crop
against his bare skin.
S and M, Mistress! the man replied breathlessly.

She paused and gently stroked the crop against the mans trembling shoulders, his head
stooped lower, before she drew it slowly around the mans neck.
You are a filthy, miserable, disgusting little dog turd. She whispered.
Yes, Mistress.
What are you? she screamed striking the leather tip against the mans skin leaving another
red welt on his back.

I am a filthy, miserable, disgusting little dog turd. He replied softly. His shocking blue eyes
dared peer up to glance furtively at his tormenter. She caught his glare and her eyes blazed
back.
What are you? She screamed.
A filthy, miserable, disgusting little dog turd, Mistress.
Yes. She replied softly. The rubber clad woman paused and slowly drew the riding crop
against his bare flesh again.
You are making my floor dirty and your dirt has made my shoes unclean.

His piercing blue eyes examined her thin legs covered in rubber and then lingered over her
black, patient-leather shoes. Laced, from the tip of the toes to the bottom of her delicate
calves, very tightly laced she twisted them for his delight.
Lick the dirt from the soles of my shoes. She hissed as the mans head fell forwards and his
tongue swept across his dry lips. He felt the constraint of the handcuffs that locked his hands
behind his bare back and pushed his tongue towards the shoe she presented to him.
She pulled them away and smiled.
Clean my shoes with your tongue. The woman hissed through those bright red lips.
You disgusting, filthy animal. You dog.

The woman smiled wickedly as she saw his tongue almost brush against the side of her sole
which she kept just out of reach, teasing him with it. She violently flicked the crop against his
face and the man bit his tongue. This was too much she thought and so she allowed him to
gently lick the sole of her shoe, sitting herself down upon the gimp box.

She had teased him enough and slowly moved her other foot within his reach allowing his
nose to smell the scent of the leather and her silk fishnets. She saw the excitement rise within
him as he greedily leant towards her.

The man slowly swept his tongue up and down the black sole of her shoe; leaving a thin film
of saliva in its wake. His breathing became laboured and intense, his tongue vibrating just a
little as his body filled with lusty hormones.
Now the heel! She whispered watching intently as his tongue slowly circled the base of her
eight inch heels and then swept gradually, intently, confidently down the shaft toward the
pin-point tip.
Stop. She shouted pulling her foot away. The woman cracked the riding crop against the
mans back and he lowered his head instantly in obedience.
Yes Mistress? He asked.

Clean my other heel, you dirty dog. She whispered presenting the second tightly laced foot
for his attention. His tongue furtively touched the tip of her toes and slowly ran down the side
of the heel. She heard him groan very gently and felt a little excited by the sound.
Clean them. She hissed softly. Clean my shoes, you filthy dog.

Mandy snarled towards the man prostrate before her and glanced quickly at her watch. Five
more minutes of this, she thought, then shed have to get back downstairs and see if any other
guests had arrived. She looked down again at her punter and tapped him on the head with her
riding crop.
Thats your lot.
Mandy stood and walked to the door.

Oh, Mistress? The old man said.

Yes?
You were truly wonderful. The man said as she opened the door and stepped outside. Sam
was on the other side with a small smirk on her face.
Praise indeed. She said showing that she had been listening to every word between them.
I must get these heels off, before I break my ankle. Ill be in my room.
Good. Sam said as she stumbled down the hall. Good job.

Chapter 10
The following morning Mandy lay in bed in the white room as sunlight began to stream in
through the crack in the curtain. She had woken with a dull throb in her left breast and upon
inspection noticed that the bite she had got from Carter two nights ago was now a large and
ugly bruise.

It was going to be a hot day and she wondered if she had a top that would cover it and still be
cool. There was a small tap on her door and she sat up in bed covering the breast.
Who is it?
Only me. Jo said opening the door and peering in.
Ive brought the lipsticks I was telling you about, can I come in?
Please. Mandy replied with a smile.

She reached out and took her dressing gown from bed stand and pulled it over her shoulders
as Jo closed the bed room door. She came and sat on the bed.
Look at this one; a friend sent it from London.

Gold. Mandy said twisting the bottom of the stick and allowing the lip covering to emerge.
Wow, thats really groovy.
Its Biba Jo replied. ...thats a really cool shop in London.
What colour is that one?

Its freaky man... Jo replied opening another stick. ...I got this down town here in L.A, in a
small boutique. Its blue in normal light but glows black in ultra-violet. Its really trippy.
I guess you know all about that?

What trips? Jo replied wide eyed. A friend of mine hangs out with the Grateful Dead in
their house, man, theyre all into acid there. I went to a couple of parties and hung out but
being a black chick can be a drag with all those white dudes.
You can handle them, I bet. Mandy laughed.

Ive seen you with the white dudes that come here, theyre butter in your hands.
I wish. Jo giggled. I find most white guys dont know how to talk to black people in this
town; they either think youve just come off the cotton plantation or that youre on some civil
rights trip. Dont get me wrong, Im all for civil rights but I dont want to be discussing it
when Im fucking my man. You know what I mean sister?

It was cool hearing Dr King speaking to all those people in Washington last March. What
was it he said. I believe were all created equal in the eyes of God; yha, that was some
speech.
You got it, although Mandy paused and looked at her friend. someone should tell the
folks in the town where I was brought up. Back there if you are black youre treated worse
than a dog. I bet they have never even heard of Dr King. Back there even other black people
looked down on me and my momma; she was a single parent see, that dont sit well with
church people.
Jo hummed an agreement.
You and Samantha are getting along. Jo said after a pause.
I guess. Mandy replied cagily.
Youre the only person Ive seen get close to her in the whole time I been here.
We have an understanding.
Come on, spill the beans. Jo laughed prodding her friend with a long manicured fingernail.
Theres nothing to say.
But you are working in that room upstairs?
Its just work, and the less I have to fuck the better. Mandy said with a cool smile.

Suddenly there was a loud commotion in the hall outside the door and both women looked at
each other. Mandy gave a shrug hearing a loud bang and more screaming. Jo stood and went
to the door.

Its Velta and Jayne, they hate each other.

Oh, let me listen.
Mandy got off the bed and crept to the door. Both women opened it a little and peered outside
to find Velta and Jayne rolling about on the floor just outside.

You fucking bitch. Jayne shouted pulling Veltas hair. Give it back to me.
Let me go Velta screamed scratching Jaynes face. I havent got your stupid bracelet.

Just at that moment Liz appeared and she also started screaming.
I been an told Miss Sammy and shes mad as hell getting her out of bed this early. Now stop
your bitching and go to your rooms.
Give it back! Jayne screamed. Velta had her hair between her fingers and both women
rolled across the floor forcing Liz to jump out the way.
Shes going to batter youre asses if you dont stop. Liz said trying to split the pair. Veltas
hand pulled a lump of hair from Jaynes head and her fist caught Liz square in the face on the
recoil.
Ah, shit. Liz shouted holding her eye. Look what you bitches done now.

Then Mandy and Jo heard a rumbling sound that came closer and closer. Eventually Sam
appeared dressed in a pink chiffon, barbi-doll nightdress and pink furry slippers. Both women
looked at each other and smirked behind the door at the incongruity of the vision in pink.
Right, you fucking whores. Sam shouted pulling both girls apart by the hair. What the
fuck is going on here?
Shes taken my bracelet. Jayne shouted kicking out at Velta. The one Johnny bought for
me. Shes taken it from my room and I want it back.

Have you? Sam demanded to know pushing her face into Veltas.
Why would I touch that cheap trash? Velta shouted as she tried to kick out at Jayne.
If I wanted jewels Id at least make sure they were real.

They were real. Jayne screamed.

Enough! Sam screamed throwing both girls against opposite sides of the hall. Go back to
your rooms and Ill deal with you later. Liz, I want this house searched from top to bottom.
Yes Miss. Liz said still holding her eye.
Havent you two got anything better to do? Sam said towards Jo and Mandy as she spied
them peering from the door. They both withdrew into Mandys room and closed the door
before collapsing on the floor in a fit of laughter.

Everyone into the lounge! Liz called as she made her way through the house a little later in
the morning. She was banging on every door as she went.
Its not ten am yet. Jo said looking at Mandy who had now dressed and was trying on the
make-up Jo had brought.
It must be about what happened earlier She said as Liz banged on her door again.
Can you make your way to the bar. Liz shouted through the door. Put down what you
doing; Miss Ruby wants yaall.

Jo and Mandy stepped to the door and opened it in time to see a bruised Velta walk past.
Carol followed her and Roma came after her.
What is it? Roma asked as she walked past the two women.
Were not sure. Mandy replied.

The women walked down the stairs and entered the bar. Jayne was already there looking very
angry and sporting a large scratch across her face. She looked away as Velta walked into the
room.

The group of women sat in silence for a few moments before hearing a bang and a crash. The
door flew open and Sam entered followed by Ruby and Liz. Sam was carrying a large
television set while Ruby carried the wires and plug and Liz the aerial.

I was going to give you lot a right mouthful. Ruby said as Sam placed the T.V on the bar.
Ruby looked for a electrical socket and pushed the plug into it. The TV burst into life.
But something else has come up.

Liz held up the TV aerial and the black and white picture lost its fuzzy lines. Walter Cronkite
sat behind a desk solemnly and removed his thick framed eye glasses before addressing the
television audience.
Friday November 22 1963 he said in an even and flat tone which had an element of
suppressed emotion.
A date that will live on forever; we can confirm, once again, that President John F Kennedy
is dead.

A shriek rang out in the room and Carol burst into tears while the other women examined the
screen in silence.
How? Jo whispered.

Well shortly cross to Dallas once again to hear about the condition of Governor Connelly
who was also injured in this incident. The shooting happened as the Presidents motorcade
drove through Dee lie Plaza in the centre of Dallas earlier today and as we have just heard,
President Kennedy; the thirty fifth president of the united states, died of his injuries a few
moments ago.
Oh, my God! Roma shrieked.

He was shot. Ruby announced to no-one in particular.

There goes the civil rights movement. Jo whispered. He was going to support it and now
hes dead.
They probably killed him because of that. Mandy replied.

Who needs civil rights legislation? Ruby said looking around at the women. In this house
everyone has civil rights no matter who they are. Thats how it should be everywhere.

Its not though, is it? Jo replied. Outside this house black people are treated like crapola.
Kennedy was actually in dialogue with Martin Luther King and trying to push through laws
that would protect us. Now theyve killed him for it.
Dont forget. Roma said in her thick European brogue. This country is at war in Vietnam.
It could be them who have killed him; the Viet Cong.

The Vietnamese? Carol laughed. I dont think so; its more likely to have something to do
with the Cubans. Remember we have just got over the missile crisis. We have all their
refugees turning up in boats wanting to stay here
Its probable some nut. Sam said loudly. This country has too many guns and some
nutcase has probably got a hard-on over something stupid and decided to wipe Kennedy out
because of it.

The room fell silent before Liz looked up and shouted.

Can I put this aerial down now?
Yes, turn it off. Ruby said as Sam flicked the switch on the television and the picture
disappeared into a small white dot in the centre of the screen. They hung their heads and
frowned thinking about the news theyd heard until Jayne said bluntly.

Can we talk about the thief who stole my bracelet now?

Do we have to? Carol replied raising her eyebrows. Dont you think we have more
important things to worry about?
It may not seem important to you. Jayne sneered.
But its important to me.

I dont know why. Carol said under her breath. It was only a bit of cheep tat.
No it wasnt. Jayne said loudly. That was 18 caret gold and it was brought by someone
who I care about.
Someone whos money you care about. Carol whispered.
You fucking bitch! Jayne shouted. Youre only jealous.

Stop it, you two! Sam said slamming her hand down on the bar. Ive just about had
enough of this. Now, if you cant work together then you must both go, understand?
Its not me. Carol said looking at Sam wide eyed.
Its little Miss Gold finger here.

While you all here, Ill go and look. Liz said.

Thats a good idea. Ruby said looking across to Liz. Go and have a look in every room
and see if you can find it.

Liz nodded and left the room.

In the meantime. Ruby continued. I want you all to know that one thing I cant abide is a
thief. If that bracelet is found in any room it shouldnt be in, someones head is going to roll.
It will roll all the way down the front path, down the road and out of here.
Good. Sam interjected.You got that Velta?

Shes probably sold it. Velta said picking a magazine up from a nearby rack and reading it.
Enough! Sam said firmly. Lets just play nice till we hear if Liz finds anything.

The minutes passed slowly as the old, grand clock in the hall, ticked by every second. The
room heated up and the atmosphere grew thick and heavy while the small group contemplate
the outcome.

Jaynes eyes darted here and there, avoiding contact with Velta in case it should lead to
another confrontation. Roma filed at her fingernails with a long emery board.
Carol read another magazine although her concentration was poor. Every now and then this
fact would be given away as she peered up suspiciously.

Velta stared ahead with a stern frown etched upon her over made-up face. Mandy and Jo sat
together opposite Ruby who, at the bar, sipped from a long glass of ice and whiskey that Sam
topped up occasionally.

That room which normally appeared bright and airy felt hot and oppressive. Mandy realised
that the people made it so and that it was a room that could feel cheery or dull dependent on
the people congregating within it.

The seconds became minutes and the minutes became hours. As the clock in the hall chimed
the five oclock the door opened sharply. Liz entered with a half frown, half scowl etched
upon her lined and sharp-featured face.
Well? Sam asked, unable to stand the tension for a moment longer. Did you find
anything?
Yes. Liz replied turning to look at Jayne. Jayne stood and clutched her hands under her
breast.

Youve found it? She asked with a breathless sigh. Looking down towards where Velta was
sitting, her face turned into a wicked grimace.
Did she, indeed? Velta sneered.

Where was it? Sam said as Liz pulled the long gold chain from a pocket in her apron. It
sparkled in the light from the low lamps and all the women stared at it as the chain swung
from Lizs thin fingers.
Guess? Liz smiled.

Velta had it? Jayne said with a smug tone in her voice. Didnt she; go on, admit it.
I didnt Velta protested shaking her head from side to side.
Where was it? Ruby asked loudly causing a frightening silence to descend upon the room
Stop playing and tell us.
I found it Liz smiled looking about the room.
In
Well? Jayne said expectantly. The tension was palpable. Each woman sat on the edge of
her seat as Liz looked from eye to eye, face to face. When, at last, her gaze met Sams, she
flicked the chain into a small pile of sparkling gold. It sat in the palm of her hand and caught
the light in every facet.
the laundry basket. Liz smiled. The laundry basket in her room.
What? Jayne protested reaching out for the chain.

In your laundry basket. Liz replied shaking her head. I looked in your room last after
checking everywhere else.
Yes? Jayne remarked holding her hand out. Where was it?
It was in your basket, Liz said to Ruby as she passed the chain to Jayne. I looked in there
and saw it attached to your jersey sleeve; must have caught it taking the jersey off.
Or when a punter ripped her clothes off. Velta sneered.
Ladies! Sam said walking to address the women in front of the bar.
Jayne, you owe Velta an apology.

I owe that bitch, nothing. Jayne replied looking around to face Velta.
Jayne! Ruby said with a firm voice and sharp look. Jayne understood this look at once and
guessed it was wise not to ignore it.
Velta. Jayne said with a sniff. The words catching in her throat like poison.
Velta, I am sorry for accusing you.
And the rest. Sam said prodding the young woman with her index finger.
Okay, and Im sorry for hitting you.

Thats right. Velta announced standing on her feet and heading to the door. Get your facts
right next time, honey. She opened the door and left the room cursing under her breath.
Thats it ladies. Sam said clapping her hands together. We will still be opening those
doors in an hour or so. Get yourself ready and wear something respectable; if you have it.

Will black do? Roma asked softly. She looked around the room at the other girls while they
in turn looked towards Ruby and Sam for guidance.
Black will be fine. Ruby answered. Ill wear my mourning jewellery; diamonds on black
silk; how does that sound?
Classy. Sam answered with what passed for a smile in her litany of scowls.
Very classy.

Chapter 11
At 9.30pm Carter walked into the dimly lit bar. Wearing a pale blue suit and fedora hat he
stood like a ghost for a moment in the doorway. Those cold, black eyes considered what was
going on in the room, all the action and occupants were taken in with a sweeping; suspicious
glance from a tilted head. The eyes were searching, possible for threats, possible dangers or
impossible menace. What lurked in the shadows, the deep and dark shadows of his paranoia?

A madman with a knife could be hidden under a table or a policeman with a gun, perhaps, sat
behind a sofa. Carter assured himself that only one madman was in that room at that
particular moment and he was it. Like a cockroach he scuttled across the room to the bar.
Painful past experiences had taught him how to read a room, how to work people out in an
instant and tonight he was reassured that no threats existed, no drug squad or drug rip offs; he
could now relax.
He caught sight of Mandy and Sam standing under a pale red light on the other side of the L
shaped bar. He raised two fingers to the brim of his fedora to acknowledge them before
sliding across the room to join them.
Good evening, dear ladies... He hissed in his clipped British accent.
...or should I say, pleasant evening on a bad day?

Evening! Sam replied with no hint of emotion in her voice. She opened a bottle of beer
from the bar and took a swig from the bottle. What would you like?
Hmmm. Carter replied drinking Mandy in with his eyes.
She gave him a coy look and saw it reflected back in those huge black pupils of his. Like
diamonds glittering on black velvet those eyes sparkled at her unnaturally; the only outward
sign of his bombed out status.

Whiskey chaser. He said softly. Sam looked at Liz who had heard the order and went off to
pour a whiskey into a short glass for him.
What would you like? he asked Mandy. The question was loaded with innuendo and
accompanied with that look in his eyes it could have been an invitation to murder.
Mandy thought Carter was sending her messages through the ether. A telepathic message that
she could just about make out; even though it was subtle and oblique, he was fucking her
brain with his thoughts.

Such a nice girl. He hissed licking his lips slowly with that thin red tongue.
You look, my dear, good enough to eat.
He leant forwards and whispered in her ear out of earshot of everyone else.
Tonight Im going to eat your cunt till you cry for mercy.
Oh, Mr Carter... She giggled. ...Im sure you are trying to embarrass me.

For MERCY! he shouted as the whiskey chaser was placed in his fist. The bar room fell
into silence and everyone turned to look in their direction making Mandy feel distinctly
uncomfortable.
Sorry everyone. Carter announced bowing humbly towards the room.
I didnt mean to raise my voice. Just carry on as if I wasnt here.

The others in the room knew that when this man asked them to do something it would be
better for them to do it. He looked dangerous, even from a distance.
Why Carter... Ruby drooled as she joined them clutching the bar for support. ...you look
wonderful tonight; every inch a sophisticated gentleman.
Thank you Madame. Carter replied taking a deep breath and facing her
I am truly flattered. Is it not strange that a rather well then less known writer once observed
that one can not acquire style, one has to be born with it.

I most certainly must have been because the only virtue I was taught as a child was that to be
dressed was itself decent and whether you are decently dressed or not was beside the point.
But what else could be expected from a family whose motto was Sodomy, Insanity, Incest
and Lies?

Oh, Mr Carter. Ruby laughed girlishly throwing him a confused look. You are a card.
Most certainly Madame. He replied rubbing his nose with his index finger while staring
into Rubys eyes.
And you my dear, are a picture of beauty, a vision of voluptuousness, a stunning starlet
whose glowing radiance outshines even the brightest sunburst. You are positive purity
and
Pissed as a judge... Ruby interjected with a giggle.
...but not so pissed to be outdone by a little course flattery. She laughed.

Mandy laughed aloud watching the woman turn on her heels and head back to her stool on
the end of the bar.
Your honesty belittles me madam. Carter shouted after her but the old woman could only
turn her head and wave benignly.

Silly old cow. He said to Mandy as soon as she was out of earshot. ...look at the size of
that arse. A women could only grow such an appendage by spending every hour God sends
eating chocolate and smoking; while sitting upon it.
Are you as two faced with everyone? Mandy asked seriously.

Lighten up girl. He smiled showing a full set of white teeth. Im only having a laugh.
But at whose expense? she sniffed.
I shouldnt be so flippant. Carter said after a long pause. The music in the background
phased in and out of the conversation; the Beatles, rocking the USSR, filled in the spaces
between his words and gave his voice a sing-song tone.
Kennedys death has got everyone uptight. Sorry for not being sensitive to your loss.

Thank you. Mandy replied. I didnt know much about him but he was young and he said
the right things. I was disappointed that the War in Vietnam has gone on so long, and all that
stuff with Cuba was worrying. Still, I thought he was doing the best he can.

You are right. Carter replied firmly. I just send up the old bag because shes making so
much ciggy and chocci dough on your backsides. Perhaps Im too cynical but I know one
thing; I need a pick me up.

With that he removed a small pill bottle from his jacket pocket and flipped the lid off. He
poured three white tablets into the palm of his hand and threw two into his mouth.
Fancy one?

Go on. Mandy replied closing her eyes and opening her mouth slightly. She felt the pill pop
in and she closed her mouth to suck on it. The bitterness almost made her throw up
immediately but then she relished the sensation on her tongue.

Shall we proceed? Carter suggested placing his empty glass on the bar and smiling
moodily. Mandy gulped back the last of her drink and looked about quickly. Everyone was
busy in their own little groups except for Sam who was just looking at her and Carter. Mandy
gave her a nod and gestured for Carter to lead the way.

As they climbed the staircase leading to the top of the house Mandy felt a strange numbness
overcome her. It felt like her ears had become blocked and sounds were dampened, she felt
dizzy momentarily and her vision blurred.
A vague sensation of apprehension came over her and each step was filled with a mounting
dread. It was claustrophobic and tense, a gradual feeling of being suffocated with a wet
blanket.
Are you okay? Carter said passing in and out of focus.
Dizzy. She replied holding tightly to the stair rail. It was all she could say although Mandy
wanted to say much more the words could not form in her mouth.

The staircase went on forever, from hell to high heaven and beyond. They climbed like
animal savages, a hunting party in quest of themselves; victims of Inca blood sacrifice;
climbing the steps to the temple at the top of the world where a ceremonial dagger waited in
the hands of the Prince of death.

There, in a graveyard of lost souls, at the foot of a bloodstained altar he stood dressed in Bird
of Paradise feathers. She was marching at the helm of a party of savages towards oblivion.
Upon her sacrifice she would rise again; Mystery, the mother of whores whose abominations
marked her forehead. Leading her, an experienced Angel of Death, Carter; his eyes flash with
fire and fury, those savage eyes turned all to stone that dare look into them.

Behind him walks deaths sickly friend. A smile of tormented agony etched like a mask on
her face. His cold marble eyes, black and empty called her on; toward desolation, toward
passion, toward the fleeting swoop of the priests dagger and the rescue of her still beating
heart.

Mandy felt detached and cocooned from what was going on. Like an outsider, she was
looking through a spy-hole into the private world of strangers. She shivered slightly and
wondered, inexperienced and shy, was she ready for what he had in store for her; did she
really sign up for this?

What great illusion the night held, it was wrapped up in a shroud of tension, a puzzle in an
enigma. The apprehension was growing inside her whole body making her shake violently,
yet she climbed higher into the dark shadows, higher into the void; towards the inevitable
slice of the dagger.

When at last they reached the top of the stairs the hall seemed colder than usual. The small
red lamps that protruded from the walls burned too dimly for their purpose. They walked
further, in unison, in time as if dancing to a unheard tempo they marched towards destiny.

Then it was baring down upon them, the huge polished black door that was the access to a
dreamland or just a place of nightmares. That door could have been a coffin lid, she thought,
because beyond it; lay a grave.

A thick stream of translucent sun light beamed through a crack in the curtain and stretched
across the room like a laser. Mandy was alone in the plump white bedding in that white room
which she had made her own.

She was curled up on the bed like a twisted rag doll curled around the duvet and pillows that
kept most of the light from her sleepy eyes. Mandy moaned softly and turned upon her side,
again she moaned almost a whimper, turning again in a restless half-sleep. Then, with a
wincing gasp, she sat up.
Ouch, that smarts. Mandy whispered to herself as she rubbed sleepily the bruise on her
breast. She dragged her exhausted body off the bed and sat at the dressing table opposite the
large mirror that sat on its top.

Mandy examined the bruise hed given her, it resembled exactly the one on her other breast
and when she looked closely she could see the teeth marks that fitted his smile perfectly, even
down to the gap between his two front teeth. A screwed up smile swept across her face as she
remembered getting that bite during the previous evening.

She went through her drawers and pulled out a thick black bra that covered her breasts
modestly and looked in the mirror again; it covered the bruises completely. Getting up she
pulled back the curtains and flooded the room in electric white light.

A bead of sweat ran down her forehead and onto her lips tasting salty on her tongue. Picking
up a brush as Mandy began to comb her thick curly hair as she heard a slight tapping on the
door.
Who could that be? she whispered looking towards the door. The gentle tapping came
again.
Im coming. Mandy called; approaching the door.

Hi! Carol smiled as Mandy pulled the door to one side. Carol walked past her and into the
room giving its contents a casual inspection.
I wondered if youd be up.

It is early. Mandy replied looking for her dressing gown briefly and pulling it on. Is there
anything I can do for you?
Oh... Carol smiled limply. ...I just thought Id knock to see if you were still alive.
Youve been listening to Velta too much. Mandy said sarcastically and she began to apply
some thick mascara.
I dont think so. Carol replied sitting upon the bed and looking around the room.
Me and Velta dont talk.

Mandy continued to build up her already excessive mascara and looked at Carols reflection
in the mirror.
If you not talking about the bullshit Veltas been coming out with, what exactly do you
mean?
You know. Carol smiled. Her eyes were glassy and hard and her expression void of feeling.
I heard the sounds coming from upstairs last night.
You did? Mandy said cautiously.

Im just concerned, thats all, youre so young and pretty. I just dont want you to take any
un-necessary risks.
Look honey. Mandy replied as she applied some of the pale pink lipstick Jo had given her.
Dont you worry your pretty little head about me; Im a big girl now.

I dont want to gossip but Carol said softly.

If you dont want to gossip Mandy interjected. ...Dont!
But I worry about you. Carol sighed.
Thank you for the concern. Mandy said turning to face her. But dont waste it on me, after
all, we dont even know each other, do we?
Carol was silent for a while as Mandy continued to apply her makeup.
We may not know each other well, yet. Carol said thoughtfully. But I like you and thought
that perhaps we could become good friends. Especially as you have to work up in that room
now, with she paused and lowered her breath before saying softly.
...Sam and that Carter fellow.

Look Honey. Mandy said with a slight irritation in her tone. Carol, I appreciate the
concern and all that, I really do. But I am okay and theres no reason for you to worry. Its
not like Im being forced to do anything I dont want to do.
Sure. Carol said with a small frown before adding. Just be careful babes. Please; you dont
know what hes capable of.
The door opened suddenly without a knock and a mop of damp blond hair appeared closely
followed by Jaynes face.

Is Carol in here? Jayne mumbled. She saw Carol sitting on the bed and her eyes darted
towards Mandy who was turning away from the mirror to see who had come into the room.
Jayne threw Mandy a cold glance and turned to face Carol. Are you coming, or what? she
demanded with a icy tone.

Didnt you learn to knock before entering a room? Mandy said to no one in particular. Or
were you brought up in a barn.
Jayne did not reply she just threw Mandy a colder glance and said.
Come on Before sniffing. ...unless you want to talk to this dumb nigger.

What did you say, bitch? Mandy said rising from her chair. Carol also stood and rushed
towards the door.
Its time that I went... She said giving Mandy a smile. ...Its been great talking to you.
You dont have to go. Mandy replied looking at Jayne intently. Not if you dont want to.
Fuck that black bitch. Jayne snarled.

Why you Mandy screamed throwing herself towards the door. Carol stood in her path
and pushed Jayne out of the room before gritting her teeth and nodding goodbye.
Take no notice Carol said softly as she left the room
Shes like it with everyone.

Mandy was fuming with anger and kicked the door closed behind them. She had decided a
long time ago that if she ever got called a black bitch the comment would be written in her
imaginary book of revenge.

Beside it would be added the perpetrators name and what torturous activity awaited them in
the not to distant future. It could be consistent rudeness, occasional sabotage of food or
clothing. Pins stuck in fruit and razor blades in soap were other ideas she would furnish that
torture chamber that she constructed in her imagination.
Mandy sat at the dressing table and cursed under her breath.
Black bitch, eh.... She whispered. ...Ill show that white trash what sort of black bitch I
can be.

She snapped the eyebrow pencil she was holding in two accidentally. Shaking her head
Mandy did what she could to her brow with what was left of the pencil and got dressed. As
the Old clock in the hall struck One Oclock midday Mandy stepped slowly down the stairs
and secretly out the front door. The warm sun was at its apex in the afternoon sky and the
street shimmered in bright white light.

The avenue sweated in the heat and a woman pushed a small child in a buggy along the
sidewalk as Mandy closed the gate behind her.
Afternoon. The woman smiled. Mandy nodded and smiled back. Pulling her shoulders back
she headed towards the main street.

Across the road a man glanced anxiously at his watch and tugged at his damp shirt collar. His
face was bloated and red in the midday sun. Cursing under his breath the man made his way
to the nearest telephone booth and sheltered from the blistering sun for a moment. Two lovers
walked past Mandy, hand in hand. The young girl sucked seductively on an ice-pole and the
boy placed his hand in the back pocket of her jeans.
Fancy meeting you here?

Mandy looked up and saw Max standing beside her. She smiled and greeted him in a
cautious, almost guilty tone that relayed her guilt about their last encounter.
Max, how lovely to see you.
I thought you hated me. He replied glancing at the floor briefly.
Come on. I was at work. She sighed referring to the way Sam had talked to him that
evening.
I just do what Im told in that house.

Yha, sorry. He smiled. Going my way?

I was so hot in my room; so I fancied a walk.
Well, he bowed and stretched out a hand, Lead the way, pretty lady. In fact, theres a
small park nearby with a paddling pool.
Really?
If you could handle getting your feet wet, we could
That sounds great.

A few moments later they were splashing about in the park with a group of kids and a few
lost dogs. Everyone was cooling off in the hot sun and the splashes of water soon got into
Mandys thin dress making it cling to her slender body.

Max looked at her when her attention was elsewhere and took in the shape of her breasts and
butt with a lingering gaze. She turned and caught him staring.
Does this look obscene? she asked referring to the dress.
It looks fantastic? he replied with a smile.
Obscene, but fantastic.

After a while they sat on the grass and Max brought them both ice cream. it was while she
sucked on the cold cone of ice that he noticed the bruise under the neckline of her dress.
How did you get that?
Oh, its nothing
Mandy! he replied loudly. Max leant closer and pulled the neckline down a little revealing
the bite marks clearly imprinted on her flesh in blue bruises.
Thats not nothing. Who did this to you?
No one Max. she said pulling her top up and away from him. Its nothing.
She did it. He snapped referring to Sam.
The fucking bitch; I wish you didnt have to work in that place with those freaks.

Max. she said firmly. Weve been through this before. Its a job and a job that I enjoy.
You enjoy being beaten and fucked. Thats nice.

Max. she stood and looked down at him. Dont ruin this afternoon. Please.
Sorry, babe. He said softly standing and taking her hand in his. I just worry about you.
Well dont. she said pulling her hand away.
Ive got to go now. Thank you for the ice cream.

Dont be like that Mandy. Max said as she turned and began to walk away.
I am coming tonight. He shouted after her. Tell that fucking bitch that Im coming
tonight. Max looked at her go into the shimmering distance and kicked out at a tuff of grass
in desperate frustration for messing it up again.

At six thirty she was sitting on a stool in the bar watching the fat punters arrive with their
pocket books full of dough and their balls full of spunk. Ruby sat at the bar on her usual stool
and Sam lingered nearby. Carol and Jayne were occupying one of the sofas while they
entertained a fat Texan while Velta stood near the door with a middle aged Italian who was
wearing a well cut suit. Only Roma sat alone, lost in her thoughts.

Mandy had passed Jo as she entered the bar. Her friend was on her way up to the rooms with
a man a little for the worse due to alcohol and she just whispered a howdy as they passed
each other.
Liz, who was behind the bar serving drinks glanced over Mandys shoulder and snarled.
Hi baby. Max smiled slipping up to the bar and joining her.
I hope you hadnt forgotten our date?

Mandy half smiled and looked towards Liz who was pursing her lips and giving Max the
once over.
What do you want... Liz asked impatiently....scotch, vodka, brandy or a beer?
Ill have a lemonade. Mandy whispered.
Come on. Max laughed tickling her gently. He withdrew a wad of notes from his pocket.
Tonight Im flush and tomorrow your tips jar will be showing a profit. Order something
nice, something expensive.
Ill have a sunrise. Mandy smiled back.
Tequila for both of us. Max said slamming a ten dollar note on the bar.

Mandy looked at him and noticed that his loudness was probably an act to cover his
nervousness. She looked at Sam quickly and was relieved to see that she was talking to Ruby
quietly. Sam looked up cautiously, keeping a secret eye on them both.
Hay you. Max called to Liz. Dont scrimp on the tequila. Hold off with the orange.
Do you want to make it as well Mister? Liz replied sarcastically as she poured the tequila
on top of the bright orange grenadine.

I love the kinky footwear. Max said running his fingers down the side of Mandys leather
knee length boots. Are they new?
I got them today, in the flea market.
Fab, you look so cool. He flashed her a wide smile boyish smile and she realised just how
young he was.

She did not want to tell him that Mr Dog, the man she had whipped so expertly a couple of
nights ago and bought them for her. It was the kind of information that Max would get angry
about so she told a lie to save the aggravation of being truthful.

Shit. Max belched after gulping the drink Liz had served.
If that had any tequila in it Im a monkeys uncle.
Liz placed four dollars in change by his empty glass and threw Max another snarl.
Give me another. He said abruptly. ...You know princess. Max said turning to face
Mandy.
You are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen.
Come on. Mandy smiled sipping her drink slowly.
But you are. He insisted as Liz left a dollar next to a glass full of orange liquid; another
tequila sunrise.

When I was younger.... He said looking at the drink and placing the dollar in his pocket.
You know, when I was at school, there was this girl. Jesus, she was so gorgeous; exquisite.
Just like a movie star, she had long black hair like yours and dark brown eyes that were so
clear they were like pools of water.

In those days schools around where I lived were segregated. Not just boys and girls but
colour, you know, black and white. She went to a black girls school that was run by Baptists
or something. I had such a crush on that girl that I used to wait outside her school yard at
lunch times just hoping that Id get a small look at her.

One night I asked if I could carry her books home but her brothers thought I was giving her a
hard time. Can you believe that? There I was being nice and they thought I was going to rob
her or something; boy, did they give me a thrashing.

What? she giggled. They beat you up?

They kicked my ass good. Max continued. I tried to explain to my parents but they were
horrified that I was interested in a black girl. They sent me to a psychiatrist like I was
mentally defective.

They were right there. She laughed. So what happened?

I eventually asked her to go on a date, I wanted to take her to see a movie with Marlon
Brando in it. There I was standing outside the cinema all suited and booted...

He paused for a while and played with the glass on the bar seemingly deep in thought.
So? Mandy asked. What happened, did she show or what?
No. He said softly. I was stood up.
Oh, shame. She giggled with a soft smile. Mandy took her hair from her eyes and looked at
him while she tucked it behind her ear. Max had suddenly become quite morose and she
started to feel very soft for him. Mandy reached out and touched his hand.
So did you see her again?
I saw her brother. He said. Apparently she was excited about meeting me and spent a long
time getting ready for the night. Anyway she rushed from the house so she wouldnt be too
late...
Really? Mandy said wondering what happened. So why didnt she turn up?
She was run over by a truck.
No!

Seriously. Max continued. She was on her way to see me when a truck hit her and killed
her instantly. I was so shaken up by that I stayed away from girls for a while.
Max. Mandy sighed with a faint nervous smile.
Im so sorry, thats the saddest story Ive ever heard.

Thats why when I saw you He looked around and deep into her eyes. When I saw you
all sorts of feelings came up. Feelings I thought Id pushed deep inside me; feelings I
couldnt explain to you or anyone. Do you understand now?
Of course. She replied. I had no idea.
Dont get embarrassed. Max said perking up a little. I didnt mean to embarrass you or
make you depressed.

Its okay. She giggled. Now youre acting up to it.

Thats what I like about you. Max laughed. You know how to put me in my place.
Well then, Mandy said softly. She looked about to see it they were being overheard. I
guess we should go upstairs.

Max smiled and raised his eyebrows as if to say, now youre talking. He hardly noticed the
quick look Mandy gave to Sam as she observed them from her corner. He looked up and saw
her walking towards them.
Hay, hang on! Max exclaimed loudly. The other people in the bar heard his voice and
looked around to see what the commotion was about.
Whats going on here?

Sam stood next to Mandy and looked at him with that expression on her face that made others
feel uncomfortable.
Whats the problem? Sam hissed softly taking Max in that gaze.
I mean. Max growled. What the fuck do you want?

She works with me, Max. Mandy replied standing and looking into his eyes. We work the
black room. I thought you knew
You what? he stuttered.
I thought thats what you wanted? Mandy said looking between Max and Sam in
succession.
Well you thought wrong. He said firmly. If youre in a different room, thats cool with me
but Im paying for your company not hers.

We come together. Mandy said softly but as she did so they heard Ruby clearing her throat
above the sound of the music and they turned to see if she was okay. Ruby looked at Sam and
raised her eyebrow and in that instant a whole conversation flowed between her and Sam.
Both women knew each other so well that this one small gesture conveyed a message which
they both understood. Sam nodded back and turned to Mandy.
Its okay, show him the ropes on your own, Im busy. Then she bent her lips up slightly in
what could almost be a smile had it not been laced with menace. Mandy raised her eyebrows
with surprise as Sam left them and she turned to Max.
Well, she smiled. Now you have me all to yourself.

Mandy reached out to Max as they climbed the stairs.

You were quite rude. She said as they reached the landing. Sam only wants to make sure
we, the girls, are okay.
Fuck her. Max replied. The smell of alcohol swept across the space between them and was
almost intoxicating as it hit Mandys nose.
I dont need anyone to hold my dick, Princess. He slurred propping himself up on the
banister. Beside, what is she? What is SHE, a creature, a thing; thats what. I didnt want her
around me because she makes my skin crawl, thats all, you cant blame me for that, can
you?

It was not a question, it was a statement and it was made in a drunken rant that would be
forgotten in the morning; forgotten, but only by Max.
She acts all big but shes just a pig ugly whore like everyone else in this shithole. If I wanted
to fuck a pig ugly whore Id gone to a fucking pig ugly whorehouse

Max realised what he had said and started to laugh out loud. Mandy tried to shush him and
waved her hands bedside his face quickly.
Keep your voice down. She said anxiously.
I mean a cheaper whorehouse Max laughed in a hush.

Mandy grabbed his arm and pulled him towards the last flight of stairs towards the hall
outside the Black Room.
You are so much better than her. Max whispered as they climbed the last stairs.
Really Princess and dont you ever doubt it.
She pulled him across the small landing and to the door of the Black Room and propped him
up as the door swung open silently.
Phew. Max whistled. Just what is this place?
The Black Room. Mandy replied leading him into the room and pushing him onto the gimp
box.
Somewhere that dreams can come true.

Max threw her a bewildered glance and stood unsteadily to walk around the room examining
every object and piece of furnishing like relics in a museum. He paused by a set of chains that
hung from a hook in the ceiling and reached out to rattle them.
A place where dreams come true... he said softly. ...how about nightmares, eh babe? This
is a torture chamber, isnt it?

Its where I work now. She replied placing a hand upon her bony hip and throwing back
her head proudly.
We provide a specialist service to particular clients who require more than just straight sex.

What are you going on about? Max asked with an astonished look on his face.
Particular clients... He said mimicking her. ...you mean peculiar clients, dont you?
Perverts, theyre all bloody perverted the guys into this shit.
Mandy looked at him without an expression and decided to carry on as if he were a normal
Black Room customer. With that in mind she spoke firmly trying to sound as dominant as
Sam had the first time Mandy had visited that room.
Shall we proceed?

Proceed? Max laughed as he did a bad impression of Mandys voice.

Proceed with what, do you want to chain me up and swing me from the ceiling?
Shut up! she said firmly.
Fuck you. He slurred before turning to make his way to the door.
Max, what are you doing?

Fuck you. He replied. She shook her head and caught up with him.
Max, she sighed taking him by the arm and turning him to face her.
I was in character. Its like dressing up, you know, a role play.
I dont play games.... He snapped. ...especially when its costing 40 dollars an hour.

Mandy let go of his arm and her whole manner changed as she realised that he was only
interested in screwing her and going. He wasnt interested in what she did or who she was. It
was just about the sex and nothing else. That thought made her feel very depressed. She felt
like such a fool to believe that he was actually interested in her.

Oh, Mandy. He sighed realising just what he had said and more importantly how it was
interpreted. Im sorry, I didnt mean to hurt you. Its just that I want you so badly; not as a
gimp whore, not just a fucking playmate. I want to go to your old room and be intimate. I
want to hold you in my arms and smell your hair in my nose. I want to feel your skin against
mine; thats all. I want to love you.

He reached out and put his arms around Mandys shoulders and pulled her towards him
gently.
Jesus, Mandy.... He said softly into her ear. ...I cant stand to see you doing this to
yourself; I worry about you, thats all.
Dont Max. she replied laying her head upon his shoulder. It felt safe in his arms and she
let herself go, feeling all the tension in her body leave her and they became so close it was
like they were joined.

I worry that Ill lose you. He said softly and she felt his breathing shudder gently and
realised that he was weeping. I want to be with you forever.
Please Max. she said feeling a warm tear fall down onto her shoulder.
Please dont do this to yourself; ask yourself, are you weeping for me, or that girl who was
run over?

Dont say that... He replied pulling away and avoiding her gaze.
...how do you think it makes me feel?
Look, this is just a job Max. she sighed. Its work. Its what I have chosen to do and I
enjoy it, no-one forces me to do anything I dont want to do.
You enjoy violence?

Its not violence, its role play. She explained trying to put the right words together so that
he would understand it.
Havent you ever heard of pleasure through pain? Anyway, you should be pleased that Im
doing this.
Oh, yha? He sneered. Why is that exactly?
Because Im not fucking anyone. She paused and thought for a moment.
Its not about penetrative sex, right. If you cant get your head around it you might as well
walk right now.

Max shook his head and walked back inside the room to take a seat on the rack. He was deep
in thought when she added.
You can get your money back from Ruby; Ill make sure she pays you.
I dont want the money. He spat at her with an air of desperation in his voice. I want you.
You got me Max. she replied walking to him.
I want you like the first time we were together.

Max went quiet for a moment as he recollected that first night in the White Room.
We had fun, I enjoyed it; we just dont need all these props.

He thought about her body and they way she had quivered in his hands as they made love. It
had been a beautiful experience and all he wanted to do was go there once more. Mandy
rubbed her fingers through his thick mop of hair and smiled gently.
You enjoyed it too, didnt you?
Max. she sighed pulling away from him. If you want the truth Ill give it to you.
Yes? He replied looking up at her.

It was awful. She said looking away from him and playing with the chains suspended from
the ceiling.
Ive discovered that I can only really enjoy sex if it done like this. I might be a pervert in
your eyes but hay, all sex could be distasteful if its not your thing.
So I guess that means that we are through? Max said quietly. His brain was so full of ideas,
thoughts and feelings that it felt like it was going to explode.

No Max. she replied softly. We can stay and work things out. Our time can be different,
okay? It can be anything you want it to be.
Not here. He replied standing and heading for the door.
And you just said, the other way was awful.

Max. she called after him. Where are you going?

Home. He shouted as he began that long and lonely descent down the stairs.
Wheres home? she said catching him on the landing.
Tell me and Ill meet you away from here.
I live in Glendale. He replied avoiding eye contact. Its not too late to repair what we had,
but if you want to do it then it has to be away from this fucking house.

He turned and was gone. Mandy watching him disappear down the stairs and bit her lip
thinking about what he had said. It was nice having someone care about her but this was the
first time in her life that she felt in control of things. It was the first time that she had only
herself to answer too.
Okay, she was working for Ruby but even that relationship wasnt like anything she had
experienced before. The experience had made her grow up quickly and she liked being in
charge of her own life; did she really want a man interfering in it?

For some reason she felt a tear roll down her face and she sat on the stairs. Why now, she
thought? Why now, when everything seemed to be going her way did a serious relationship
come along that just wanted to take it away from her? It wasnt fair.

Whats up, babe? Mandy looked up and found Velta looking down at her. Supported on her
arm was a very fat, very bloated red-faced man who was obviously the worst for drink.
Im okay? Mandy lied.
Man trouble eh?

Yes, Mandy replied pulling herself together and standing.

We were going to use the splash room. Velta said nodding towards the man she was
supporting. But I think he couldnt hold it any longer.
Mandy looked down and saw a wet patch on the mans groin area. She pulled a face and
stood to one side.
Dont let the bastards grind you down. Velta said as she squeezed past pulling the man
behind her.

Im okay, really. Mandy said. Do you need a hand?

No, Velta replied pulling the mans cheek and talking in a babyish voice.
Were going to have a little clean up and Mommas going to empty babys diaper then shes
going to empty his wallet for him. Eh buster?
She held his chin and nodded the mans head up and down; laughing like a carefree child.
Go and get yourself a drink, Jos in the bar.

I will. Mandy replied surprised that Velta had spoken to her in such a civil way. She had
always been so abrupt before.
I will, thanks.
Come on buster. Velta said kicking the door closed. Let Momma get those pants off.

Chapter 12.
The long hot summer wore on and the steamy days seemed to last forever. Mandy became a
much sought after commodity as the news of her stunning beauty spread through the
grapevine.

She managed to keep her nightly quota of johns and Ruby was happy with the money this
brought into her coffers. Mandy would have done far more business if she was not solely
attached to the Black Room. Many men wanted to use her but most were unwilling to be
abused by her in that manner.

Ruby did not worry as those that were willing to play the adult games in that chamber paid
highly for the privilege; the extra profits being passed on to Mandy, of course. Each week
Ruby would set up the desk in her private office and the girls would enter one by one to
receive their wages.
Mandy opened her first banking account and passed herself off as a beauty consultant. This
allowed her to deposit two hundred dollars a week into it. This was half her weekly pay and
the other two hundred would go into an envelope and get posted off to her mother.

Mandy was walking through the park one day near the observatory when she saw a telescope
that had a slot to accept five-cent pieces. This payment allowed the viewer to look and see the
view across the San Fernando valley for about three minutes.

After this time a shutter would come down and more money would have to be deposited
before the view could be seen again. This gave Mandy an idea and on her return to the house
she suggested to Ruby that the cellar be split into partitioned areas which could be fitted with
shutters on a timer. A punter could place a silver dollar in a slot and allowed to view a naked
girl dancing on the other side of the shutter until their time ran out and they put more money
in the slot.

Ruby liked the idea and so did the girls because they only had to dance rather than have sex
with the punters. So, in the spring of 1965, Americas first peep-show opened in the basement
of Rose House.

This part of the house had its own entrance and was open 24 hours a day with the girls taking
turns to dance in the area surrounded by the cubicles. This meant that while the rest of the
house was quiet and the girls were sleeping money was still coming into Rubys bank
account and into the girls pay packet.

Within weeks each cubicle was making between ten and fifty dollars a day. The dancers
earned forty dollars a day and they worked a hour on and two hours off sharing the time with
two other girls each day.

As the year marched on and Thanksgiving came and went soon the feast of Christmas came
around again. This was the only day of the year that the basement was locked up and the
house opened later in the evening so the residents could come together for a lunch around a
beautifully decorated table.

The seating was always arranged by Ruby with the most important diners nearest her end of
the table. Beside Ruby, on her left hand side, sat the elderly man who often accompanied her
at the bar in the evenings.

He was a man who had known her since she was a young girl and had paid for her company
since then. His name was McIntyre although they all called him Pops. He was in his late
sixties, well built and very wealthy. He was, so Mandy had been told, madly in love with
Ruby. Pops had fought in the Second World War and had been given several medals for
valour which he wore on special occasions; Christmas and Thanksgiving were two of these.

After leaving the army Pops had become a high ranking police officer and it was in this role
that he first met Ruby. They were the original Star Crossed Lovers. He had used his powers
to get her off the hook and keep her in business ever since and so she could run a business
with impunity from the law.
Sam always sat on Rubys right hand side; dressed, as usual in black with a seasonal red
ribbon holding her hair from her face. On Sams right sat Carter; dressed in a stiff black suit
with a silk white shirt and tie.

He was drinking wine and made a point of holding the glass in such a way that the diamond
ring that decorated his pinkie sparkled in the candle-light. Sitting directly opposite Carter,
Mandy shimmered in a crimson and yellow taffeta gown that was decorated with a bright
orchid.

For some reason unknown to Mandy the place setting next to her was unoccupied and she
guessed that perhaps Liz was going to sit there for the main course; she was busy at present
serving the starters; fruit salad. Velta sat next to this setting and on her right was a young man
with long black hair called Marlon. Mandy had never seen him before and he said very little
except the occasional whisper to Velta.

Carol took the seat to Mandys left and she was very drunk. Her head slumped forwards for
most of the meal much to Rubys distaste and occasionally Carol mumbled something
unintelligible. If looks could kill Carol would have died the instant Ruby had first looked at
her.

Jayne sat next to her and next Roma sat with a young man who was introduced as Edward.
They both looked longingly into each others eyes for most of the meal and only joined in the
conversation when the meat was being carved by Pops.

The next place setting was occupied by one of the new dancers from the peep-show. This was
a young Indian girl called Sage. She was tall, slim and exceptionally beautiful. Spending
most of the day dancing kept her body in exceptional shape. She wore large silver rings on
each of her delicate fingers and around her neck was a bright green jade neck-lace; the stones
matched perfectly the green in her almond shaped eyes.

Beside Sage sat a tall, well dressed man in his fifties. Slightly overweight his jowl sagged
slightly over the top of his shirt collar and his thinning hair was flecked with grey.
Each of his thick stubby fingers were decorated with ugly gold rings which caught the light as
he shovelled huge forkfuls of food into his mouth. He had been introduced earlier as Christos,
a friend of Jaynes.

Everyone was listening to Carters repartee. His wide mouth flashed those flashing white
teeth as one jocular remark followed another; an endless stream of filth and fun. As the clock
in the hall struck nine a loud knock echoed down the hall from the street door.
I wonder who that could be. Ruby giggled looking around the room at the assembled
guests.
Perhaps Santas got lost...Carter quipped. ... unless there are any children here that have
been exceptionally good this year. He looked about the table and added.
Well, whos been an exceptionally good child?

I have. Carol replied wiping fruit salad from her chin. She didnt notice a piece of chopped
pear that was caught in her hair and it sagged there like an unconvincing decoration until her
eye lids sagged again and she fell forwards mumbling something else.
Yes dear Carter laughed. ...how very interesting.
The whole group laughed as he pulled a face at the woman.
Shes looking for the pineapple, poor love. Carter announced poking around in his starter.
Its done a bunk with the grapefruit.
Dont take the piss, mister. Liz said sternly pulling Carols head up from the table and
removing the fruit salad from under it.
There aint no pineapple. She remarked as she let go of Carols hair and the girls head
banged down hard on to the table; face first.
My point exactly. Carter replied with a bow.

Another knock came from the street door and Liz disappeared to answer it.
Ladies and Gentlemen. Ruby announced hearing the street door close and the sound of
footfalls approaching.
I believe our mystery guest has arrived.

Liz entered the room again and threw Mandy strange look; halfway between joy and
foreboding. As Mandy had got used to Lizs array of strange grimaces she did not find this
unusual. The door opened wider and a tall hunk of a man entered holding a bouquet of roses
that hid his face. Mandy screwed her nose up wondering what was going on and she leant
forwards as the man entered the room to a round of applause.

She gasped with excitement as the man flung back the spray of flowers and threw her a wide
smile.
I give you Ruby said proudly. ...Tom Farley.
Tom. Mandy screamed getting up from her seat and running around the table to hold him in
her arms.
You old fox; look at you.
Look at you babe, he replied smiling broadly. I left a young country girl and youve
turned into a city honey. Wow, what a difference.

It never crossed my mind, Mandy stuttered. I thought the place setting was for Liz.
Thatll be the day. Liz huffed collecting the first course dishes. Who else gonna skivvy
around you folks if it aint me?
Or even Mandy started to say before deciding to keep that thought to herself.
Oooh, Jayne sneered. Someones got a secret man.

Its not like that. Mandy said guiding Tom Farley to the empty seat. Come on Tom, what
have you been up to since we last met?
Hes a very good story teller. Velta whispered to Marlon as Liz placed a huge joint of beef
on the centre of the table.
With a good imagination.

Oh yha? Marlon whispered. So I should take it all with a pinch of salt?

Or a dollop of mustard.
I cant tell you anything about what Ive been up to. Tom said adjusting himself into his
seat.
Why is that? Ruby asked as Pops began to carve the joint.
If I did. Tom replied nodding towards Pops. The sheriff there would want to run me out of
town.
The ex-sheriff. Pops replied. I hung up my Stetson years ago.
The table exploded with laughter but through her laughter Mandy looked across the table and
saw that Sams face was icy and her expression harder than usual. She was watching Tom
Farley with a distinctly cool air as if she expected trouble.
All I have to say is that a couple of years ago I was driving a truck load of whiskey across
the country when just outside Carolina I spotted an ugly duckling at the side of the road.

He paused as Liz piled his plate with roast potatos and green vegetables. Pops placed some
sliced beef on the plate and Tom poured over it some thick brown sauce.
I pulled my truck over. Tom continued. ...just to give that little duckling a lift down the
road. On the way we had some good old tender love; and at the end of the journey I pointed
her in this direction. Now that little duckling has grown into the most beautiful swan Ive
ever seen.
Swan? Carol mumbled trying to lift her head from the table.
I dont like game poultry, can I have the beef, please? This was all she could muster before
her head dropped onto the table once more.

Tom reached out and took Mandys hand in his and squeezed it tenderly.
So youve stuffed your goose? Carter laughed. Now youre going to get stuck into some
beef flaps. You gotta love those beef flaps.
Mr Farley, Jayne asked as she poured gravy over her food. Do you always fuck your
hitch-hikers or only the black ones?

Hmm. Farley coughed. He looked across the table and snorted loudly before saying firmly.
Well I would have just driven straight on if I saw your sour face at the side of the road. I
cant stand rudeness in any form especially when it comes from someone who should know
better.
Oh, Jayne replied. There I was thinking we were getting on so well.

Carter heard this and thought hed have some fun so he reached out his foot and gently
stroked the inside of Farleys leg in a direction that hed believe was coming from Jayne.
Hmm. Farley coughed. I dont know about that young lady.

Sage? Velta asked passing the vegetables along the table. Who is your friend?
This is Mr Cristos. Sage replied looking around the table. Hes a very good friend of
mine.
How nice. Carter sighed. One big happy family.
Are you local? Velta asked the fat man as he stuffed food into his mouth.
Carter, smiling like a mischievous child bent his leg to touch Cristos on the ankle.
YES! Cristos replied with a shock. His eyes darted across the table toward Velta who
smiled and nodded in his direction.
Although my family are originally Greek.

I love going Greek. Carter laughed. Sam shot him a sharp look and he looked down at his
food trying not to laugh. The food you know.
Were famous for our FOOD! he shrieked as Carter stroked the inside of his leg.
Id love to eat something Greek. Velta replied with a lusty smile.
Ive heard Greek food is wonderful.

Are you okay? Sage asked her friend.

Fine, Im fine. He replied looking at Velta anxiously.
Have you travelled far? Sage asked Tom across the table.

No, no. Tom replied between gulps of meat. Last night I was in a hotel not far from here.
Thats a shame. Sage replied as Carter reached out and touched Farleys thigh.
You could have seen my show.
Really. Tom smiled leering at the girl across the table thinking it had been her playing
secretly with his foot.
Perhaps later.
Carter pushed his foot into Farleys groin as Sage replied
Ill look forwards to that.
So will I. The old man replied.

Am I missing something here? Sam asked looking around the table.

Is it desert time? Carol asked lifting her head off the table and letting everyone see a potato
stuck firmly to her forehead.

Oh, someone shut her up. Ruby cursed as Liz stepped up behind the woman and pushed her
face back down into the table cloth.
Would anyone like some of this? Edward asked holding up a bowel of sprouts.
Over here please. Marlon replied. Carter smiled to himself and stretched his foot over to
Marlons crutch, which he could just about reach with his toe.
Here you are, anything else youd like? Edward asked with a smile.
Perhaps later. Marlon replied rubbing Carters foot in return. Carter laughed under his
breath and nearly choked on a piece of meat.

Are you okay? Sam asked looking at him intently.

Excuse me, I have to visit the small room. He replied leaving the table and exiting the room
in a fit of laughter.

The others looked across the table either expectantly or in fear of what would happen next.
Marlon winked excitedly at Edward who looked down at his food and tried not to notice.
Well, I have a surprise. Farley announced looking around at Mandy.
Oh, I love surprises. Ruby cooed.

Farley took a small box from his inside pocket and passed it to Mandy, she opened the
wrapping and looked at the small gold ring that lay inside.
Oh, Tom. She sighed. You shouldnt have.
Happy Christmas. He smiled. Go on try it on.
Mandy did as she was told and looked at the ring with amazement.
Its beautiful. She smiled.

Rolled gold... Jayne snorted. ...I cant wear it, it makes your fingers go green. I dont
suppose that would notice on black skin.
Its not rolled gold... Farley said to no one in particular then throwing Jayne a freezing
grimace he turned to Mandy and smiled.
...Its eighteen caret gold, just like my Baby; how you been doing since I see you last?

Oh, good... She replied. ...Im no longer a naive country girl who dont know anything. I
have a bank account, a wardrobe full of pretty dresses and some good friends. I owe it all to
you, oh, and Ruby.
Please... Jayne gagged. ...excuse me, Ive had enough, any more of this shit and Im going
to puke. She got up and left the table.
Whats up with her? Farley asked watching the woman leave the room.
Shes just jealous. Mandy replied with a scowl. Just ignore her, everyone else does.

Do you know what... Pops announced sipping his wine gracefully.

...I was watching TV the other day and I saw a group of students. Kent State, I think it was,
a group of commie, long haired layabouts actually protesting about the war. Imagine, our
boys are dying out there and these commie bastards are protesting about it.
I support our boys. Farley said in a stone cold voice. But I dont agree with the
indiscriminate bombing of civilians.

You have to bomb civilians. Pops added. Its a way of grinding the population down;
getting them to think differently about the war.
Dropping napalm will not make them think differently about the war. Edward said timidly.
Itll just make them think differently about us.
During the second world war we had to bomb civilians Pops replied before Ruby cut him
short.
Lets not talk about war, its Christmas. She raised her glass and smiled broadly.
Happy Christmas. They all said raising their glasses.

Whats that youre up to? Jayne said catching Carter in the bar.
I was just having some brandy, Ruby doesnt mind. Carter replied.
What else?
Oh, just a little nose candy... He said with a smile. ...Want a toot?
I dont like cocaine. She sniffed.
I have some naughty, nice-nice... he smiled gently. ...I gave Carol a toot earlier and its
gone straight to her head.
Is that what shes on... Jayne smiled. ...now youre talking, hit me brother.

Carter took a small paper wrap from his waistcoat pocket and a credit card which he used to
take a small pile of white powder from the packet. He held it up to Jaynes nose and she
sniffed it in with a loud suck.

Thats the stuff, she said rubbing the side of her nose. Thats really hit the spot.
Its from Burma, a friend of mine brought it back after doing some reporting on the war.
Im sick of the bloody war. She snarled. Its all you ever hear about these days; we should
pull out and let the chinks get on with it.

What are you like? Carter smiled.

So, you and Little Miss Carolina are tight, yha? Jayne said looking at Carter with a half
smile.
What gives, I hate the bitch personally.
You hate everyone. He replied flashing her those sharp, little teeth.
... Why, I bet you dont even like yourself very much.

Youre wrong. She said with a huff looking at the floor.

Am I? he smiled leaning forwards and whispering softly in Jaynes ear.
Perhaps youre jealous of the fact that shes half your age and twice as pretty?
You cunt. She spat. Fuck you, asshole.
Oh, heres the real Jayne talking.
Thats the thing with people like you, she shouted. Youre full of shit.

And youre a middle aged slut with a face like a dried prune and a pussy like a bucket. No
wonder you got attitude problems.
Fuck you with tits on.. She shouted walking to the door.
And thank you, he smiled as she slammed the door behind her. Please come again.

So, is that right? Tom Farley asked with a chuckle. You suggested the peep show
downstairs and its earning loads of money?
Thats right. Mandy replied.
If it wasnt for her, Sage remarked across the table. Id still be earning a dollar an hour as
a waitress in a diner.
Well I hope Ruby there appreciates you good. Tom said giving Ruby a wink, she smiled
broadly and raised a glass to him.

Does that mean, he continued. That you dont have to work one of the rooms these days?
Oh, Mandy smiled coyly. I still gotta earn my keep.
Well, Farley said rubbing his chin. Let me guess what room youre in.
I bet you cant guess. Mandy replied sheepishly.

The others around the table were not paying too much attention to Mandy and Farleys game.
Talking amongst themselves and being entertaining for their guests, only one pair of eyes
watched and one pair of ears listened over the backdrop of chatter. Sam was aware of the path
this game was taking and all her senses were heightened because of it.

Let me see. Tom mused looking Mandy in the eyes.

It must be the red room, that being the colour of your underwear tonight.
You noticed? Mandy laughed.
Of course, he smiled. A man of my age sees things like that. Am I right?
No, she said softly. Not the red room.

Well, he sighed sipping from his glass again. I suppose it must be the white room that
matches your pure heart.
Oh, youre a sweetie. She smiled stroking his hand gently. But its not the White Room.
The Green Room. He said wide-eyed. The same colour of your eyes?
Nope. She sniffed. You must be getting closer now.

Then its the Brown Room? he said with an air of satisfaction. To match your beautiful
skin?
Nope. Mandy smiled.
No, baby. Farley said as his expression became confused. It must be the Brown room
because theres only one room left and it cant be that one.
Thats right. She laughed. Im working in the Black

Farleys hand slapped her cheek hard punctuating the word with a dull thud that echoed
around the room and caught everyones attention.
Youre telling me. He stuttered turning a puce colour with anger. Are you telling me you
are working in That Black Room?
The assembled company looked at the pair in shocked silence. Only Sam wasnt shocked and
had secretly expected the reaction from Farley, she bit her lip and shook her head from side to
side as her mind worked out what her reaction should be.
You put this young girl in the Black Room? Farley demanded to know from Ruby;
slamming his fist hard on the table.
She asked to work there, Tom. Ruby answered softly.

No! Tom stuttered. I dont believe it. Are you saying she asked to work in there with that,
with that thing? he threw a hard look at Sam.
Ask her. Sam replied standing, placing her fists on the table and leering across at him.
Shes sitting right next to you. Go on fucker, ask her yourself.
Is this true? he said turning to Mandy with tears welling up in his eyes. She was amazed by
his reaction and looked speechlessly back at him.
Is it true you asked to work with that monster?

Mandy smiled softly and looked firstly at Sam, then around the table and then back at Farley,
she nodded gently.
Jesus, H, Christ. He whispered under his breath. You disgust me.
What? she said softly.

Farley stood and threw his napkin across the table.

You all disgust me. He shouted.
Hang on fella. Pops said staunchly.
I sent this girl here to be looked after by you, Ruby. Farley said shaking his head. And you
have abused her, youve turned her into another freak, another monster.
Stop being so dramatic. Sam said loudly.

You think I dont know what goes on in that room? Farley hissed towards Sam. Well I do
and it turns my stomach. You have corrupted this girl, corrupted her, hear that? Jesus, what
would her mother say if she knew the perversions that go on in that room?
Your swan has become a goose, eh? Sam laughed.

Go on laugh. Farley shouted breathlessly. If she wants to play those sick, perverted games,
so be it; but I want no part of it.
He pulled on his jacket and walked out the door. Mandy stood with tears in her eyes and ran
after him but Ruby grabbed her arm.
Let him go. She said firmly. You have to let him go babe, hell destroy your confidence
otherwise.

Its true. Sam replied nodding towards Liz as if to instruct her to see if Farley had left the
building. Liz darted from the room as Ruby stood and placed Mandys head upon her
shoulder; she held her as a flood of tears came.
Thats it babe. She said motherly. Let it out, let it all out.

The others around the table looked amongst themselves awkwardly and pulled strained faces
before their drunken conversations picked up again.
Fucking commie bastard. Pops said knocking back a drink. If I was ten years younger Id
knocked the bastard out.

Chapter 13
The room was strangely dark for 8.30 in the morning. Mandy sat up and looked at the clock
beside her bed for a long time. Then, having folded back the bed sheets she hurled herself in
one leap from the bed and towards her dressing gown and carpet slippers.

Jesus, she moaned seeing her breath condensate into a white cloud. Its cold in here.
She made her way to the window and shielded her eyes from the daylight as she threw back
the curtains. Looking outside she saw it was raining and grey outside. The sun was shining
but it was a thin, diluted heat and a poor impersonation of its usual self.

Looking at the bare tree branches Mandy frowned. The passing of time was marked by the
destruction of all that beauty, the fullness of the trees, the singing of the birds, all gone until
the next birth of spring.

She tried to cheer herself up by remembering the garden as it was, how during the summer
the eucalyptus tree outside her window smelt and how the flower beds were full of blooms
and sweetly smelling scents. Those luscious green leaves and confusing sprays of fauna that
filler her room with the most wonderful aroma of summer heat no matter the time of day.

Looking now the trees and ground were naked and brown, immovable in the face of harsh
eastern winds. She viewed the destruction of winter in all its unsubtle motions with a sigh.
God damn. She spat realising that she was shivering. Just then a tap rang out as someone
knocked gently on her door.
Are you awake, Miss Mandy, are you decent honey? a soft voice called.

Yes Liz. Mandy replied turning to look in that direction. Im decent, why?
You wont believe what I got here Liz announced opening the door. The door way filled
with a massive spray of pink roses followed by Liz who was awkwardly carrying them.
Wow! Mandy whistled. Are they for me?

Aint they beautiful? Liz mumbled walking to the bed and laying the spray upon the sheets.
She immediately turned and headed towards the door again. Wait, she said. Theres
more.

A few moments later Liz entered the room again carrying another spray of roses, these were
white and green and were wrapped with a bright red ribbon.
Dont they smell fine, honey? the maid said as she laid the second spray alongside the first
and sucked in the scent through flared nostrils.
Theyre beautiful. Mandy sighed. But who has sent them?
Theres a card here somewhere. Liz replied looking among the flower heads and pulling
out a small white envelope.
Here he is. I told you so.

She handed the card to Mandy who screwed her nose up and squinted her eyes wondering
who had sent them; she opened the envelope and removed the card.
Mandy Darling, It read.

I cant stop thinking about you.

Very sorry about what happened.
Please marry me
Or let me take you to dinner
Im crazy about you.
Meet me tomorrow
The 18th at midday
Junction of Sunset and Vine.
MAX
p.s
Insurance bus is looking up.

MAX! Mandy gasped, she had expected them to have been from Tom and this news had
thrown her for a moment.
Liz, who brought them?
Oh, a delivery boy. The old woman answered. Yes, just a delivery boy, or was that the
postman? she tapped her chin in confusion.
Whoever he was he must think a lot of you.

Mandy and Liz turned to see Jayne standing in the doorway. Dressed in a blue dressing gown
with a toothbrush in one hand she stood with a hand on her hip and looked in.
Its amazing he can even say your name. she said with a smirk.
Considering how shit you treated him.

Can I help you? Mandy said firmly.

I was just saying Jayne replied with a half smile.
Well mind your own business. Mandy spat pushing the door closed.
Excuse me. Jayne shouted from the other side.
I hate that fucking black bitch.
That woman. Mandy snarled towards Liz.Shell be the death of me.
Then she turned and opened the door.
What did you call me, bitch? she shouted down the hall.

Leave it. Liz threatened. Please Miss, leave it; if the boss heard her talk like that shed
bounce her white ass all the way down Vine. You need to tell on that bitch. Suddenly Jayne
turned and headed back towards Mandys room.

Why, you got a problem? Jayne shouted back from a few feet away. I was only saying
I heard what you said, so Im black, what the fuck has it got to do with you?
I only said you get a pretty face... Jayne smile sarcastically. ...for a dumb nigger.

Mandy pounced and both women began to grapple on the floor.

You fucking bitch. Mandy screamed tearing her nails into Jaynes face.
Oh no Liz screamed. Not again. Miss Sammy, you better get yourself up here before
one these girls tear an eye out..

Thumbs were now sinking into Jaynes throat and although her hands were pulling great
lumps of hair from Mandys head her face had a shocked expression across it. Suddenly her
grip became limp and she began to let out a throaty gasp as Mandys thumbs became white
with the strain. Her face became a pale shade of pink and Mandy pushed harder into the
fleshy parts of the womans throat. A vein on Jaynes forehead started to throb relentlessly in
time with the pulse that Mandy could feel though her thumbs.
As Jaynes eyes began to protrude from their sockets Mandy saw the womans tongue swell
and poke out through those thin lips.
Die, you fucking whore. She spat feeling the pulse get slower and more pronounced. Jayne
let out one final gasp when a voice boomed out behind them.
Mandy! Sam shouted. Thats enough.

Upon hearing Sams voice Mandy loosened her grip and dropped Jaynes head upon the
wooden floor where it landed with a thump.
Shes had enough. Sam said softly. Let it go now.
She Mandy stuttered. She
Enough. Sam said again pulling Mandy up and shaking her.
She Mandy tried to speak but the words stuck in her dry throat. She called me a

Enough girl! Sam said. Liz, go and call Doctor Morgan.

Liz scuttled off again and Sam looked down at the lifeless body that lay stretched out on the
floor.
Fuck. She said abruptly shaking her head. Go to your room and leave this to me.

As Mandy went into her room Sam dropped to her knees and started to give Jayne the kiss of
life, blowing air into the womans lungs and then pumping on her chest frantically. After a
few moments Jayne was breathing on her own and Liz returned with a pillow and blanket.
What the fuck was all that about! Sam shouted a short while later towards Mandy who was
sitting on her bed still shaking. She had deep scratches across her forehead and cheek and
blood was clotted on her lip.
She called me a
Yes?
A fucking Mandy said softly.
What?
A fucking nigger.

So you thought youd strangle her for it, you stupid bitch. Sam said shaking her head.
You dont understand. Mandy said looking up towards Sam. Ive had that all my life and
Im not going to take it anymore.

Youve had it... Sam shouted. What about me, and Jo and what about Liz? Dont you
think we have all had to deal with that sort of mindless nonsense all our lives? But we dont
resort to violence every time we hear it; thats madness.
Silence filled the room for a moment as both women looked at each other.

What about me. Sam said again. Dont you think Ive had to put up with despicable cunts
like her too?
I guess so.

Well I have, she continued. You have to rise above it, remember white people are bred to
hate; thats what they do. You dont have to descend to their level. If you do then you become
a nigger, a stupid nigger at that. Do you understand what Im telling you?
I think so.
Youre just lucky that stupid bitch didnt die today; that could have meant the chair. Think
about that next time one of these whiteys try to get your goat. You are better than that.
Now, Ruby said looking about the room. Would someone kindly let me know whats been
going on round here?
She was sitting behind her desk in the Pink Office and in front of her the women stood in a
semicircle Velta, Carol, Jayne, Sam, Liz and Mandy all looked back with blank expressions.
Well! Ruby screamed lighting a cigarette. Am I talking to myself?
She glanced over at Mandys scratches and then at Jaynes black eye and red neck before
exhaling a cloud of tobacco smoke.

Im not angry. She said softly. Im not even mad, the last thing I want to do is scream and
shout at you all like a bunch of naughty school kids. All I want is some answers. Now, what
the fuck is going on in this house?
Can I say something? Velta said helpfully.

Thank you Velta, Ruby said. But No! The reason is youre probably just as much in the
dark as I am. Someones had a party and we didnt get an invite. Ive been in this business for
too long. She sighed taking a thoughtful moment to suck on her cigarette
.
Jesus, Ive had this house longer than most of you have been alive. I have seen hundreds of
bright eyed hopefuls like you lot come and go in that time. BUT! she slammed her fist down
hard upon her desk making everyone in the room except Sam jump.
Ive never had so much fighting, bitching, back stabbing and general hateful behaviour
before from any of them.

You all come to me in a mess and I feed you, clothe you, put up with your man problems,
your period pains, unwanted pregnancies and all that other shit. Do I moan, do I throw you
out, do I punch your faces in? No, hell Im the nearest to a mother some of you have ever had
and all I get in return is grey hairs. Not a card on my birthday or even a random thank you.
So, cut the bullshit, I want some answers. Lets start from the beginning. Jayne how did you
get the black eye?
It was her, Jayne said softly nodding towards Mandy. She tried to strangle me.
You fucking liar. Mandy spat.
Shut it you, Ruby said firmly. Youll get your turn, carry on Jayne.

She got these flowers and I was just saying how nice they were when she attacked me.
Shes a lying bitch. Mandy said softly.
Can you expand on that? Ruby asked.
This has been going on since I got here Mandy continued. Little digs here and there,
going on about my RACE and my COLOUR, I cant take it no more.

Is this true? Ruby asked looking directly at Jayne.

Ask Carol, Mandy interjected. She was with her a couple of nights ago when she started
on at me.
Please ladies... Carol huffed. ...dont involved me in this little war.
I heard the foul mouthed bitch... Liz interjected confidently. ...Im not afraid to say what
she said either ; she called the girl a black bitch and a nigger. I was there so I know.
Liar! Jayne shouted.

We could go on all day like this. Ruby announced after a while. Jayne, this is the second
time you have been found fighting and Ive had enough. Youre now on warning, anymore
and youre out. As for the rest of you I expect a little peace from now on or people are going
to start to look for work elsewhere, I cant have all this shit its bad for business. Now, get out
the lot of you.

Everyone stood and walked sheepishly towards the door.

Sam. Ruby said with a slight hint of annoyance.
Not you, we need to speak.

Chapter 14
The clock above the town hall struck the last stroke of twelve noon. Mandy stood in its
shadow anxiously counting the twelve strokes on the corner of Sunset and Vine. Her long
curly hair, ruffled by a slight breeze was pinned loosely behind her left ear by a brightly
coloured flower broach. She was wearing a beige fox fur jacket over a twenties style salmon
pink dress; holding, in one hand, a crocodile skin purse.

The breeze carried a sharp chill that made her raise her deep fox fur collar against it and peer
over the fur. She wondered if she was doing the right thing. Waiting, on an uncomfortable
day for an uncomfortable guy; she was confused as to what exactly her feelings were toward
him and guessed that this would be his last chance to bolster their relationship; or end it.

Mandy looked down the empty expanse of Vine St and saw a man approaching, as the man
got closer she was surprised to find that it was not Max. She was surprised, not because it was
not him, but that this made her feel disappointed. After all, she had not looked forwards to the
meeting, but now she was here, she guessed that it would be an anticlimax if he failed to turn
up.
Shit. She cursed under her breath. That motherfuckers not going to show.

She turned around and began to walk briskly down Sunset when she heard the toot of a car
horn. Mandy looked around and saw Max smiling from the drivers seat of a vintage white
convertible hed parked twenty feet away.
Hay Baby. He called.
Max. Mandy beamed turning and approaching him unsteadily on her 6 inch high stiletto
heels.
Way to go Max, where did you get the wheels?
Jump in Baby. He replied flashing that dazzling smile at her. Ill tell you all about it.

Mandy run to the other side of the car, climbed in and with a loud screech of rubber against
tarmac they were off.
This baby really moves. Max said as he pushed his foot hard on the gas; the indicator
quickly tore through 60 mph.
Slow down. Mandy said above the noise of the engine; she was sinking her fingernails into
the car seat as the scenery ahead flew by in a dusty blur.
Pease, slow down or youll kill us both.

Relax. He shouted back taking his eyes from the road for a second. Just enjoy the
sensation of speed.
The car flew through the city on the main drag out of town; eventually leading to the desert
and what became a dirt road.

Soon the wheels were kicking up a dust cloud in their wake and the car slowly came to a halt
in what seemed like the middle of nowhere.
Where the fuck are we max? Mandy asked looking around unimpressed. Ive got dressed
up for nothing.
You sure have a way with words. He replied with a smile.
What do you expect. She replied looked about and not seeing a person or a house in any
direction.

You asked me out for a meal and I took a lot of time getting ready; I shouldnt have
bothered.
Dont be like that. He laughed. We can eat later, I just thought youd enjoy a ride outside
town for a while; you know, in the country.

Mandy pursed her lips remembering that she hated the country having spent most of her life
in it. This, she thought, was typical of Max; juvenile and self centred. Max pressed a button
and the front seats began to recline.

Dont you like the car? he asked.

I guess so, she smiled laying back and looking at him.
You have to admit. He continued. This is one beautiful place?
If you say so. She replied looking about briefly
.
The rough flat countryside seemed so desolate and totally deserted, it was a view that was
hostile and fascinating at the same time.
I used to come here with my Pa as a kid. Max said thoughtfully. This was his quiet place,
somewhere he could go and think through a problem. Some people have a room in their
house or a special part of the garden; well Dad had this place.

If ever life got too difficult then hed stick me and the dog in the car and wed head out here;
sometimes wed come in the middle of the night. Ive been out here without him since he
died, when Ive needed to think. The place reminds me of him and being a kid at the same
time. If I come here at night I can sometimes hear his voice on the wind, like he is still out
here somewhere, in the soil, on the air. Does that sound mad?
Not at all Max. she said softly. Did you come here after she died?
You know me so well. He said with tears welling up in his eyes. Im sorry, just look at
me, blabbing like a baby.

She was touched by his display of tenderness and appreciated that hes brought her
somewhere that had so much meaning for him. All those miles away from the people and
places she was familiar with made her feel vulnerable too and this vulnerability made her feel
closer to him.

Max looked thoughtfully towards the sky before taking a cigarette from his jacket pocket and
lighting it. He turned to look at her with a serious expression.
There was another reason I brought you out her; beside the view and all.

Yes? Mandy replied guessing what he was going to say before hed actually said it.
Whats that? she asked nervously. Please, Mandy thought to herself, please dont do, or
say, something to spoil the moment; he had a habit of doing this so she prepared herself for
the worst.
Max sucked in a lung full of smoke and was silent for a moment contemplating the right
words to say.
Well? he said pausing again. Do you still work in that room?
Mandy sighed loudly and shot a firm look in his direction.
If youve driven me out here to give me another lecture Max, forget it.
No, calm down. He smiled. Honest, therell be no lectures. Just hear me out for a
moment.
Okay. She said. Whats all this about?

A deal. Max said trying to assert himself.

Youre talking in riddles Max, be straight with me, please. What are you getting at?
Oh, for Christs sake. He said after a long smoke filled pause. Mandy, I fucking love you,
Im nuts about you, I cant get you out of my head and its killing me not seeing you
regularly. Can you understand that?

Weve been here before. She sighed.

I know. He said slamming his fist down on the steering wheel to punctuate the sentence. I
know what you do in that room and you know Im not happy about it. I can see your bruises
today and that hurts me a lot.
Oh, these were

Its not important. He interjected. I know thats what you want to do and its how you earn
your money; you enjoy your work which is not something most people can say.
Max looked at the sky again and collected his thoughts before turning to face her again and
looking at her with an intensely personal stare.
I want you so much I have decided that if you married to me, if you became my wife, I
could turn a blind eye to your work. As long as you leave it in that house and came home to
me each day I could handle it. What do you think?

You are joking? she replied with a frowning grin; quite flabbergasted by the suggestion.
No, he replied squeezing his eyebrows together and frowning. Im deadly serious.
So you think that you could handle me doing what I do every day. Blowing you a kiss in the
morning before spending eight hours blowing off guys in the office; and then coming home
in the evening and doing supper; like I was some sort of secretary?

As long as you came home each night, yes... Max replied with an earnest tone in his voice
Max. Mandy sighed loudly. Im not a secretary Im a hooker. I could get fucked by a
different man every day, not that I do anymore, and youre saying you could handle that?

It would be hard. He said slowly. But if it meant being with you, then yes. Just try it out
for a while and see how it went; at least youd get out of that house each evening. It could
become just like a nine to five job.

She suddenly felt very anxious and isolated out there, alone with Max in that car in the
middle of nowhere. It felt like the world had ended and they were the only two people that
were left on this Earth, the feeling wasnt a pleasant one.

As the wind kicked up a cloud of dust she looked out at the barren landscape in silence.
When I was a kid... She said at last. ...we had dry desert landscape all around our house
just like this. It was like living on Mars, I had no friends and my life was so boring.
She turned to look at him and strained her face to emphasise her point.
I love where I am living at the moment, its the first time in my life Ive had people around
me, people who care about me, people who value me and respect my decision making.
Youre offer is very nice Max but Im not ready to walk away and become your wife; I dont
know what to say to you

Say yes? he replied.

I couldnt rush into something like that, anyway Max, she said. I have to think about your
proposal.
I understand. He smiled looking disappointed but smiling anyhow.
Let me think about what youve said and we can talk again tomorrow. Shall we head back
now?
If thats what you want? he replied pressing his hand into her leg.

They both stared into each others eyes for a moment as his fingers gently stroked the inside
of her thigh. Her eyes appeared to hypnotize him and he could feel her pulling him closer and
closer.

Maxs hand reached out and cupped the back of her head and their lips brushed against each
other momentarily and she bit him softly. Their tongues met as his hand felt under her dress
and touched the soft parts beneath her panties.
Please Max... she whispered softly. ...not here.

Mandy felt the hardness of his cock beneath his thin pants; it was like a warm, pulsating throb
begging for attention as he pressed his groin against her thigh.
Max, stop. She said confidently. It was not the request of an unsure schoolgirl, not the
suggestion of an unbalanced fool or wayward child; it was the demand of a fully formed adult
and had to be heeded.

If thats what you want Mandy? Max replied. He coughed and sat up, placing the seats in
their upright position.
Im sorry. She whispered, placing a gentle kiss on his iips.
Dont be... he replied stroking his fingers through her hair. ...I will do whatever you want;
anything.

They never did make it to a restaurant that afternoon. Leaving that empty, desolate place
Mandy placed her head in Maxs lap and he gently stroked her ear as he drove. The journey
back to the city, and Rose Avenue, was done in silence. They had formed a special
understanding that did not require small talk to give it validation; just experiencing skin
against skin was enough.

Mandy felt happy as the desert faded into the distance and the thick dust was replaced with
street signs and tarmac; she also had a feeling that perhaps it wouldnt last. For the time
being she was going to enjoy that elusive happiness and keep her fears hidden.

Of course, part of her had wanted to scream YES to Maxs proposal; scream yes at the top of
her voice, she wanted to shout about it out the car window and have it printed in the
newspapers.
She wanted to believe that it would be possible to live with Max as his wife and not have to
lie to him.

But the sensible part of her make-up held her back, perhaps it was the realisation that the
relationship would be built on unsound soil and would eventually come crashing down,
perhaps it was just the fear of the unknown; but something gave her grave reservations.

This could be the case, she thought, because she had never been that reckless or impulsive to
take a risk regardless of the outcome; except with Carter, of course. But at those times he,
Carter, was there to make sure she was safe.

Something else worried her. It was the knowledge that she didnt love Max, there was some
physical attraction, some desire but this wouldnt be enough to hold them together. She felt
like she needed more than just someones devotion, someones support and gentleness. It was
that something else that Max could never give her.

She also felt that no matter how much Max said he would accept her work in the long run this
would be untrue. He may start understanding, not minding the long nights she would spend
away, the company of other men that she kept but in the long term it would slowly eat away
at him.

He would never accept her coming home smelling of another mans sexual fluids or the small
bruises and that smell of lust. Somewhere in the back of his mind a festering abscess of anger
would grow. One day it would erupt into a torrent of frustration and hate. That frustration,
hidden in the dark corners of his ego, would spread like a cancer, slowly taking grip until it
exploded in a fit of violence.

This would eventually either destroy him or her or perhaps the both of them; it was
something she could never risk. The car eventually pulled up outside the house and he turned
to looked at her.
Well, youre home.

Mandy looked anxiously at her feet for a moment before saying softly.
Thanks Max, I really enjoyed this afternoon.
Dont thank me, he smiled tapping on the steering wheel with his fingers.
I should be thanking you after what happened last time when I was drunk. I never thought
youd speak to me again.

Dont be silly, it was nothing. She lied.

They both fell into an awkward silence as he tapped louder and louder on the steering wheel;
giving some insight into his inner turmoil.

Well, he said at last with a gasp. Have you thought any more about what I said earlier?
You were going to allow me to think about it.
Oh yah. He replied nervously; before smiling and trying to lighten the situation. Okay you
think about it; but I feel we are made for each other, you know, we are soul mates.

Soul mates? she laughed. Where did you get that from?
I read about it in a book. He leant forwards and whispered. Lovers from another time
separated by death always manage to meet again, theyre called soul mates. Its reincarnation
and all that shit.

You are funny. She smiled pulling her coat on and getting out the car. Ill see you
tomorrow.
Ill hold you to that. He shouted as he pulled the door closed behind her and watched
Mandy walk to the gate of the house. She pulled the gate open and looked behind with a
smile just as he was about to pull away and their eyes met briefly. She smiled and watched
him go.
Crazy bastard. She said under her breath.

Hi Mandy Ruby called from the office as the young woman walked into the house. Was
that the elusive Max I saw driving that motorcar?
Yep! Mandy replied with a coy frown. Sure was.
Jesus. I thought you two were spitting blood at each other?

That was then... Mandy called back as she made her way upstairs. ...only now Im his
fianc.
Fianc? Ruby exclaimed, her voice echoing up the stairwell from the office.
Young people these days change their minds faster than an actress with her clothes on fire.

Mandy was almost at the top of the stairs when Ruby called up to her from the bottom of the
stairs.
I hope youre not going to spend a whole lot of time dithering like some teenager in love
because I got a whorehouse to run and its opening in fifteen minutes.
Ill be there. Mandy called back cheerily.
Just go straight to your room honey and get ready for Mr Dog... Ruby called back.
...Sams left your costume laid out up there for you. Mr Dogs already in the bar waiting.

Mandy shook her head and went past her room toward the attic and the Black room where
she prepared herself for work. Sometime later she heard the door handle turn and a shadow
appeared in the open doorway.
Come in. she said abruptly bending a cane in her hands. Come now, dont be shy, shut the
door, come on, come on!
Yes, yes. Mr. Dog replied coyly with a pronounced nervous stutter.
I will pro,pro, proceed to change if youd kindly get my ba..baba

Your bag... Mandy spat impatiently pointing toward a corner of the room with her cane.
...Is there, where you always leave it.

She indicated towards a threadbare holdall that hung from a hook. The man grinned and
pulled his face into a pathetic smile. Mandy then crossed her arms while she watched the
little man proceed with his ritual of undressing, metamorphosing into his alter-ego.

Watching the stick insect of a man undress filled her with both disgust and curiosity. The
ritual was like a slow tango that got faster with the excited removal of each piece of clothing.
The ritual had four definite stages. The first began with the removal of his thick spectacles
which were placed on a nearby shelf and this was followed by the removal of his worn jacket.
Then one by one the buttons of his crumpled shirt were undone and the shirt removed; being
neatly folded upon a nearby stool.

Hurry now, she spat with increased impatience and abruptness. Silently Mandy wondered if
she was missing anything down at the bar, who may have been visiting and if she was wanted
by anyone?
Faster, you are boring me now. Mandy sighed loudly. She pulled back the rubber sleeve
of the rubber dress she wore to glance at her wristwatch and hoped this pantomime would end
soon.

The next stage of the Dogs ritual consisted of the removal of his stained suede shoes and the
belt from his trousers, he then popped his fly buttons, slid his trousers over his socked feet
and neatly folded them upon his shirt.

This left him standing in his patterned socks, thermal vest and underpants; ready to perform
the final stage of the ritual. He would begin by unzipping the holdall slowly.
Come now. She said slapping the cane against her rubber-clad leg.
You are beginning to irritate me.
Almost there, Madame. He replied breathlessly.

Her mind wandered to her bank account and she wondered how much money she had made
this month and what the interest rate was on her savings-account. She could only go through
this charade with a stupid, dirty moronic idiot if she contemplated the money it was making
her.

Mandy pondered how he could afford to spend so much on this type of hobby when he
obviously didnt, or couldnt spend much on clothing; not even underwear. The shorts he
wore under his pants were stained and threadbare; as if hed worn them for decades.

Blowing two hundred dollars in one night would be beyond most people; but the Dog was
unlike most people. He dressed like a tramp, smelt like a pig looked like a fish and, in
Mandys opinion, had the brain of a bird.

How she wished she were now being lavished by the boring and predictable love of Max or
succumbing to the vicious attentions of Carter. Now they were men who could make a
woman come in their panties. Just one look from Carter did more than all the fingers and
tongues in the world.

Instead of being brutally aroused she was watching this snail squeeze himself into a pair of
transparent plastic hot pants. Then the dog pulled on a pair of fishermens waders that were
made of black plastic before topping the ensemble with a head-covering, leather hood which
had zippers over the eyes; metamorphism complete the man had become a monster.

She listened to his breathing as it was constricted by the tightness of the hood before walking
around him slowly. Mandy was slapping the cane against her rubberised thigh with each step
and genuinely wanted to beat this dog into a pulp. Not because this was what she was being
paid to do, as part of a role-play but purely because she resented having to entertain him at
all.
How do I look, Madame? he asked as she faced him flexing the thin bamboo switch.
Like shit. Mandy shouted bringing the cane down across his bare thigh, it left a red welt in
its wake.
Sorry Madame... He stuttered. ...I should have waited until spoken to.

She noticed that he was looking over her shoulder at the full length mirror that hung on the
wall behind them; almost admiring his reflection. When she had grown tired of hearing his
breath being sucked into his lungs she whacked him again.
Do I have your attention?
Yes, madam. He stuttered rubbing the new , thicker red welt that the cane had left.
Totally, Madam.
Right, she shouted. Over to the harness, quickly, quickly, I havent got all day.

He turned and squelched and plodded his way to the parachute harness that hung from the
ceiling and once there she proceeded to ritually connect him to it via several straps, clips and
harness clasps. He enjoyed the time she took totally securing him to the ropes and leather
straps. When this was done she turned a huge handle and raised him off the ground a few
inches.

He made a strange sight hanging there, awkward and silly; so that Mandy could almost forget
that inside the layers of rubber, plastic and leather a little man lived and breathed; almost but
not quite. She lifted her stiletto heel and pushed him in the harness so that he swung a little.
You really are a filthy maggot. She sneered; slapping his bare flesh with the cane as he
swung towards her.
Yes madam. He replied. I am just a filthy worm and you are my glorious mistress.
Thats right. She shouted back angrily slapping the dog across his hooded face with the
back of her leather clad hand.
You are an insect who deserves no mercy.
Thats right madam. He replied as he swung away again. No mercy.

Mandy walked to the array of switches, canes and paddles that hung nearby and surveyed
them with interest. She selected a couple of items that interested her. A long leather whip
which had small sharp points inserted in its end and a long flat leather paddle that was
studded with chrome pins.

She played with them while he looked on; slowly swinging from side to side in the shadows.
These look painful. She whispered slowly before cracking the whip against his plastic clad
butt.
Are they? she shouted. Are they painful?
Oh, he murmured. Beautifully painful.

He was swinging back and forth and his shadow projected upon one wall increased in size
and shrunk with every cycle. His hot hood shed droplets of sweat that trickled down his chest
in long, salty streaks before cascading into his rubber waders.

Suspended like an evil puppet she realised that she hated this man.
Give it to me Mistress. He sighed in excited anticipation. Now, please, now.

Mandy smashed the paddle across his chest as hard as she could, leaving a thick red line of
pin pricks in the flesh.
You dog. She spat with real meaning.
Again she struck out at him and again, harder and harder until he was bleeding from the
wounds and blood mixed with sweat dripped to a crimson puddle below him.
You filthy scum. She shouted striking him again. You disgusting bastard, you revolting
animal, you are not fit to be called a man.
CRACK.
You are the filth in my toilet.
CRACK
The stench in the sewer.
CRACK
You are the bile in my vomit. She shouted. You are the vilest animal that ever ate
excrement; understand? You are shit, worse than shit, shit is too good for you.
CRACK

Mandys face was now flushed red and still she wanted to crash the paddle against his face
but instead stood back and cracked the whip against his butt again; causing him to shudder
violently like hes been electrocuted.
You fucking shit. She spat. You deserve no mercy, do you?
No madam. He replied softly; in almost a whimper. No mercy.

Chapter 15
Yessiree! Liz exclaimed as Mandy brushed past her on the stairwell. She had been dusting
and doing her morning chores and was surprised to see anyone up so early.
You sure are full of beans for 12 midday, girl. Whats up, house on fire or something?

No Liz... Mandy replied heading for the street door. ...I got a man to meet, thats all.
A date, eh? Liz smiled, wide-eyed.
Well bless my soul, I thought you girls would have had enough of men without seeing them
in your spare time.
Not this man. Mandy replied with a knowing grin. He aint like the fuckers you get in this
place.
You mean you didnt meet him here?

Mandy thought for a moment before answering, standing there with the front door ajar,
wondering if she had said too much already.
Well yes she looked at the street and then towards Liz. ...I did meet him here but
Oh get on Liz said seeing the girls anticipation. ...youre just working off the books
aint cha, either that or your mans getting some ass for free.

Mandy threw her a puzzled look and then left the building shaking her head.
Standing on the cold doorstep Lizs words rang in Mandys ears. She felt like turning and
going back to have it out with the old cow but decided it wasnt worth the hassle. Was that all
she was doing, she wondered, working after hours and giving Max a free service.

She pushed the thought out of her head but it lingered there like a nagging doubt, Was it
Maxs plan to enjoy her company for nothing and all this talk of love and marriage was just
bullshit. She crushed the idea once and for all and went to their pre arranged meeting point.
Later that afternoon, she pushed the half eaten meal away from her, and looked across the
table in a quiet restaurant on the other side of town. He noticed her pensive look and smiled
quizzically.

Tell me a little about yourself. He said with a fork in his hand. What dark secrets does
your past hold?
Nothing to tell really, she replied looking at the candle burning brightly in the centre of the
table. Looking at that flame made her realise that she didnt really want to explain anything,
not there and then, the past was something that should be forgotten. She was a different
person now, a woman about town, back then she was just a bare footed country girl who
knew nothing. Whereas now she had money, clothes, friends; she was a different person, a
professional woman.

The past lurked like an uncomfortable cupboard that she only wanted to reach into
occasionally. Sometimes she worried its contents would jump out and expose her as a fraud,
just a stupid country girl trying to be sophisticated. So she tried to keep that particular door
locked.

Are your parents still alive? he enquired lifting a wine glass to his lips elegantly. She could
see how at ease he felt in this place and although she felt different to the girl who she was,
places like this had a habit of disempowering her.

She looked at that twinkle in his eyes and wondered if it would still be there if her knew her
father had raped her mother. That she was the product of that violence and that her mother
scrubbed floors like a happy nigger; as the master had always called her.

What was that smile about, she pondered, did he realise that there was nothing of substance
under her seventy dollar frock; just the illegitimate daughter of a country house maid? Just a
whore whod made a pile of cash fucking every pervert who could afford it; was that what the
smile was about?

My fathers dead. She said slowly. His smile fell from his face and he put the wine glass
down abruptly.
Im so sorry, I shouldnt have

Dont worry, it doesnt matter to me. She lied. It was a long time ago.
What about your mother? Max asked offering her a cigarette. Mandy refused the offer and
looked about the room briefly. The place was empty except for a couple of business people
having some lunch.

Shes dead too. Mandy lied again. She looked up at him and forced a smile.
How about you... She asked enthusiastically. ...I bet you have some real fine folks, rich
an all with a big old house in Florida?
Not quite. Max replied pushing his eyebrows together as he wondered where she had got
that idea.

My family are very boring; far too boring to discuss in such beautiful company. Oh..., he
smiled blowing cigarette smoke across the room.
...They live in Montana, on a farm.
Shit! she laughed. Youre just a low born country boy like myself.
You got me. He laughed back.

They looked intently at one another and she wondered if his past had been as frightening as
her own. Perhaps thats why he didnt want to discuss it. He watched her take a sip from her
glass and sweep a stray lock of hair from her eyes and tuck it behind her ear. She was pouting
those ruby red lips and he realised he loved the little bump that she had where her top lip met
the bottom of her nose.

He craned his neck and leant forwards to brush his lips against hers, taking time to touch that
small bump with the tip of his tongue.
I cant get enough of you. He whispered in the ear she had tucked a loose curl behind.
I want to get you alone and suck your pussy till you come hard; would you enjoy that?
Max. she whispered back. Behave yourself.

If you knew how hard my cock was right now. He said softly.
Its throbbing like a jackhammer.
What are you like? She laughed.
Hay, A man behind the restaurants counter shouted. You two, go get a room.

They both laughed aloud and later that afternoon they lay together naked in a nearby hotel
room. The sheets had seen better days and still bore the stains of previous guests and a
symphony of worn springs had creaked along to their love making.

He rolled upon Mandy and pulled her legs apart by placing his forearms under her calves and
lifting. Then thrusting his hard cock inside her pussy, panting with each push, she banged
closed fists upon the bed and moaned loudly.

Arching her back to receive him as deeply as she could Mandy bit her bottom lip and felt a
giddiness rising within her body. She reached up, pinched his nipples between her thumb and
forefinger and looked up into his bloated face.

Ouch! He said momentarily stopping in mid action.

That hurts honey.
Pinch mine. She said pulling his hand over and placing it on an erect nipple. Go on, pinch
me.
No, baby. He replied pulling his hand back.

He began thrusting again and together they moved like savages on Vaseline; their groins
slippery and shiny, oozing lubrication. She pushed up and he beat down, thumping at the
groin, like pistons on a well-oiled machine; they danced together. Then breathless and
panting he pushed one last time and she felt him throbbing deep inside her. The come was
leaking from the bottom of her labia and she felt it drip, a sticky fluid, across her butt hole.

Max fell on top of her and breathed into her ear. She was being flattened by him and gently
eased him to one side waiting for his fingers to reach down and take her to orgasm.
She reached out for his hand and placed it upon her clitoris hoping that this would be all the
encouragement he would need but it just lay there, still and floppy, like his dick.

Max? she said softly. Then looking into his face she saw he was in a deep and sudden
sleep. She pursed her lips and shook her head realising just how selfish men could be; theyd
tell you anything to get into your knickers but as soon as theyd shot their load it was all
forgotten.

A few minutes later she was dressed and slipping on her shoes. Taking a pen and pad from
the side table she looked at him before writing in big letters across the face of the pad a
message that she hoped hed see when he woke.

Then she left the room and caught a cab back to the house. The message said simply.

Mx, The answer is NO!

Later that night she was prostrate on the rack in the black room. Carter was busy connecting
her to the clasps ensuring that her hands were tied at her side and her feet connected securely
to the end of the contraption. She could feel the pills she had taken earlier that night, slowly
entering her system, it was a hot, sticky buzz that made her feel drowsy. Now being with
Carter, naked and securely bound, with his eyes boring into her across that dark room; made
her feel incredibly vulnerable and perhaps slightly scared. It was so exciting she could feel
her juices flowing with anticipation.

His tattoos glistened in the half light and his thick black hair hung down into his eyes. He
tightened the cord clasp around her neck and started to turn the ratchet. The loud clicking
filled the otherwise silent room and she felt all the clasps tense. When she was fully extended
and utterly defenceless he leered at her naked body.
Someones been fucking you. He said pushing his fingers into her pussy.
I can see youve been fucked today.

Hmmm. She moaned.

Shut up, bitch! he said slapping her clitoris with the tips of one hand.
I need to get a better view here.

Mandy opened her eyes to see him go to the table that lay under the shelves of paddles and
whips. He was looking for something and began tossing items over his shoulder as he
searched frantically.
This will do. Carter said at last.

He came back to her and she saw in his hands a couple of lengths of long elastic that had
crocodile clips attached to the ends. He clipped one onto her left nipple and pulled the
elastic down before clipping the other end onto the left Labia minor . Then he did the same to
her right breast nipple and the other side of her pussy.

When Carter pulled the elastic her pussy lips parted and lifted her nipples into points at the
same time.
Thats better. He sighed taking a good look into her vagina. She felt his hot breath inside
her and the stubble on his chin rub against her thighs as he leant in to inspect her properly.

Carter pulled the elastic cords as hard as they could extend, lifting her nipples into the air and
crating cones of her breasts; she could feel the clips digging into her flesh and pinching her
tightly. Then he started.
Carters tongue shot from his mouth and entered her asshole, digging deep into her rectum she
let out a scream as the sensation hit her. Then he licked her slowly from the bottom of her
gaping pussy to the tip of her throbbing clitoris.
Come bitch. He spat biting into her and stimulating with his coarse chin.

The sensations were overwhelming as she tried to pull away but found the cords and clasps
holding her tightly. The harder he bit on her clit the more his chin rubbed her hole and the
tighter the elastics became, suddenly she couldnt hold it in any longer and a gush of warm
juice spurted from her cunt into his face.
Thats it bitch, he spat as his teeth ate into her pussy.
Come you fucker, come good; flush that other man out of your system. Tonight you are
mine.

Mandys screams of ecstasy filled the room and echoed down the stairs into the house below.
Downstairs in the bar Sam stopped what she was doing and looked towards the ceiling and
smiled for the first time that week.

FIVE,FOUR,THREE,TWO,ONE.
A tremendous roar filled the room and a chorus of Auld Lang Sine rose from the assembled
gathering.
Happy Nineteen Sixty Six. Liz shouted pouring drinks for everyone along the top of the
bar.
A New Year, said a fat Jewish man who was decked out in fancy gold jewellery.
Deserves a kiss.

He made a grab for Jayne but she laughed and ducked. Next to them an aging gangster
entertained a group of his cronies with tales of death and money from the old country while
looking intently at Carol. She was propped up between two obese politicians both of whom
had proud erections pushing their thin pants out obscenely.
Me and the boys went down to Mexico the gangster continued.
...We were supposed to collect a kilo of coke but just ended up catching crabs from a one
legged whore in Tijuana; that was some party.

Velta was pinched on the butt by a spotty collage boy from Texas and she reacted by
drunkenly slapping the boys face; almost knocking him off his feet.
What was that for? the boy whined as he rubbed the side of his face.
Hes just a spoilt brat. A bearded sailor grinned as he grabbed Velta on the rebound and
pulled her to his chest.
What you want is a real man. the seaman said rubbing a thick hand against his stained
crotch.
Velta smiled before kneeing the man hard in the balls laughing.
Well, Captain Kidd, youre not him. The rest of the room laughed riotously seeing the
sailor retch in agony.

Forty two stitches the gangster shouted in a thick Chicago accent as he stuck the dead
butt of a cigar between his thin lips.
I was lucky to be alive, Im telling you. But that bastard paid in the end; no-one fucks with
Chico Mastranormo and lives, no-one!
One night a year Ruby explained to a group of friends drunkenly. ...One night a year the
girls can drink what they like, take what they like and look at what happens; the place
becomes a fucking monkey house.

In the shadows, where they could observe the room without being too noticeable, a small
group stood. Carter, Sam, Mandy and Jo stood in silence watching what was going on
cautiously.
I had to stick it on the cunt. The gangster shouted as his friends belched with laughter.
That blade broke in his gut, Im telling you.

These must be the most unsophisticated bunch of cretins Ive ever seen in here. Carter
whispered to Sam through the side of his mouth.
Why on earth does the old girl let them in?
Money, honey. Sam said softly, her eyes darting around the room taking in everything.

Have you seen Max? Jo asked Mandy during a break in the noise. Mandy nodded to a dark
corner on the other side of the room and Jo saw him sitting on the edge of a sofa looking at
them. Max stood and walked over to join them.
I thought you were going to leave me and my work alone? Mandy said as he slid up beside
her.
I just wanted to see in the New Year here, thats all. Max replied looking across at Carter.
Ill leave if my company is upsetting you.

Do what you want Max. Mandy replied taking a sip from her glass. Just dont get in the
way.
Lady Mandrax. Carter called. Mandy turned to look at him and saw a pill on his tongue.
She went to him and sucked the small white chalky tablet into her mouth.

She turned to face Max a few feet away and saw his expression change into a fit of rage and
anger, oh, no, she thought. Carters fingers gripped around her wrist and she felt him pulling
her towards the door.
Let her go. Jo whispered in Maxs ear, Mandy had asked her to keep an eye on the situation
if he turned up; knowing how jealous he got.
If Ruby found out you were stopping her working thered be hell to pay.

Mandy looked back at him as Carter pulled her from the bar. His eyes were filling with tears
and he now looked like a small child that had lost a favourite toy. The room was full of
talking heads but her ears heard nothing, she felt blind and deaf beyond the look in his eyes.
Mandy mouthed Ill be back shortly, expecting him to return a smile but he just frowned and
shook his head as she left the room.

Chapter 16
A few days later she was in that same hotel room again. Mandy didnt really know why she
had taken up the invitation but thought perhaps she could end their relationship once and for
all if they had time away from the house. It wasnt possible while they had so many other
distractions.

He lay on the bed quietly smoking a cigarette and the smoke lit up in the thin streak of light
that came through a crack in the curtain.
Do you enjoy that man fucking you? Max said at last.
Mandy sighed and rolled onto her belly and sighed.
What are you on about now? she said abruptly.
You know who Im talking about. Max replied looking at her momentarily.
No I dont Max, she replied. What guy?

That Carter. Max said after a pause. He sucked on his cigarette and exhaled loudly.
What! Mandy exclaimed. She sat up and looked at him. I dont believe Im hearing this
shit.
Whats shit? Max replied. Im just asking a simple question.
Oh Max, youre full of crap.

Mandy began to swing her feet off the bed and look for her shoes when he reached up and
grabbed her hair, pulling her back down upon the bed as he tried to climb onto her.
Max, youre hurting me. She shouted as he pressed his face into hers.
Im hurting you? he laughed. Oh, Id better not do that, you might enjoy it or something.
Oh, fuck you. She spat trying to pull his fist from her hair.

Just tell me, what is it with the guy? Max said tightening his grip with one hand and
holding her chin with the other.
Youre hurting me Max. she said softly.
What is it? he continued. Has he got a big dick, long tongue hairy ass or what? Whats it
like when he fucks you? It must be good because every time Im at that house you and him
are together.

Stop doing this to yourself. She said as tears began to well up in her eyes. I told you
before, I dont fuck him.
Dont lie to me. He shouted.
Its true, we dont fuck, he just doesnt want to fuck, okay; its not his style.

Hes got style has he? Max replied screwing up his face. So, he fucks himself does he?
You dont understand. She replied trying to pull away from him.
What is it then? Max asked pushing his hand under her dress and grabbing at her panties.
Does he treat you rough, thats it isnt it?
Max, you are hurting me.

Dont you see. He gasped eventually as his grip relaxed and he sat up. Im trying to
understand what you want. Im so confused, I want to have a relationship with you and make
you happy but I just dont know what you want. All the mixed messages are making me so
confused I feel like my head is going to explode.
Max, please. She cried. Dont, please do this.
I mean... he said swinging his leg off the bed and allowing her to breathe at last. He sat on
the bed and put his head in his hands for a moment before continuing.
...why did you even come here today, why? It certainly wasnt to make beautiful love, so the
only other reason I can think is that you wanted to tell me it was over.

The room fell silent, a tense and expectant silence which was both uncomfortable and
necessary; it gave them time to figure out what they needed to say to each other.
Cant you give it up, for me? he said after a long pause. If not, then we may as well go our
separate ways. It is not worth all this heartache.
Its my job Max. she replied straightening her clothing and looking for her shoes.
So I guess that means NO.. Well what happens when youre old and grey and all your teeth
have fallen out; when you couldnt earn a pot to piss in?

Dont worry about me Max, Im a big girl. She started to pull on her shoes. By then Ill
have my own money and perhaps my own house. Ill be fine.
Youll have a house and money. He replied looking at her briefly. But youll be lonely.
I might own my own working house, like Rubys but black.
What a brothel? he laughed sarcastically. Catering for the perverted. The evil perverts of
this world who cant have sex unless its deviant sex?
No, I mean black as in black girls and black men only. She said throwing him a sharp look.
Youre so complicated Max, I cant handle you sometimes. Beside you only think theyre
perverts because you dont understand what they do.

Youre right there. He said quietly. I dont know if I could ever understand.
Try it. She said standing and looking down at him sitting on the bed looking truly pathetic.
What, beat you for kicks, no I dont think so.
Its not like that Max, just a little pain but controlled pain, thats all; nothing too serious.
Oh come on. He laughed.

You might enjoy it, I do. She smiled. They call it Roie-Play because its PLAY, play
where roles are acted out. But then, if youre frightened
Who said I was frightened? He said standing and looking into her eyes. Its not that at
all.

Well then, she said heading to the door. Why not take a risk and try it out with me; Ill
look after you, promise.
Ill have to think about it; but if it means seeing you for one last time, who knows..

Well, she said opening the motel room door and flooding the room with light.
You know where Ill be.
She closed the door behind her and had to stop after a few steps.
Fuck it. Mandy cursed as she looked down at the ugly welts around her ankles from her
session with Carter. They had turned black and red overnight and the straps from her shoes
were aggravating them.

Later she hobbled to the mirrored dressing table and sat in front of it as soon as she got home;
pushing a tangle of matted hair, where Max had grabbed her earlier, out of her face. It was
cold in that room again and she noticed the white dresser was stained with thumb prints, lip
stick smudges and that it looked decidedly filthy. She thought briefly about the previous
evening and she felt butterflies in her belly wondering what Max would have said if he had
been there.

Thinking about his face as she left him in the motel, that hang-dog expression he sometimes
had made her want to slap HIS face.
Fuck it. She said again, rubbing her sore wrists. She had a shower and got dressed before
going downstairs to see who was around. Liz was in the hall again dusting although the house
never seemed to look any cleaner.
Morning Miss. Liz smiled a wide toothless grin as Mandy walked past her; noticing that
her breath stank of brandy. Mandy held her hand up to her face and said hello, thinking the
old woman had been raiding the bar again, leaving her to get on with her work. Walking
down the stairs she noticed that the carpet was getting a little threadbare in places and that
long, dusty cobwebs hung from the ceiling here and there.

Mandy noticed some of the silk wallpaper was peeling from the walls and when she stopped
to look at the large ornamental vase she had noted on her first day in the house, it was also
stained with grease and had cobwebs inside.

Mandy knocked on the office door and heard Ruby call from within.
Good morning. Ruby said as she sat on a sofa with a trey of biscuits and coffee beside her.
A long cigarette burned in a holder between her stained fingers making the room smell
musty.
How are you today?
Mandy just raised an eyebrow and sucked her teeth in an expression of discontent.
Does that mean youre good, bad, or undecided? Ruby asked exhaling a lungful of cigarette
smoke.

She then sipped some coffee from a chipped cup. Mandy said nothing and poured herself a
coffee before joining the woman on the sofa. She looked around the room and saw that most
of the objects in it were worn and slightly tattered; she wondered why she had never noticed
before.

I think I know whats bothering you. Ruby said at last breaking the awkward silence.
I know a love triangle when I see one.
Its not like that. Mandy replied making Ruby burst into laughter, this caused her to cough
at the same time crating a cloud of cigarette smoke and ash.

Dont give me that shit. Ruby said suppressing her barking. Her sagging breasts jumped up
and down with every cough but she appeared to solve this with another suck on her cigarette
holder.
Ive seen the way you look at Carter.

Carter? Mandy smiled. No, me and Max are

Max, shit. Ruby interjected. Ill tell you about Max, hes nothing but a baby faced faggot
and youre only indulging him coz one day you hope hell become another Carter. Hes your
little project.

She poured more coffee while Mandy thought about this and then continued.
You know youll never really have Carter, that you mean nothing to him. So seeing as you
cant have the real thing youre hoping to make Max into a second rate edition of the original;
am I right or am I wrong?

Mandy thought about this and realised that everything Ruby had said was true. This did not
mean she could agree with her and instead sat there with her jaw hanging.
Dont worry honey. Ruby said taking another puff on the cigarette
I bet half the women in this city are thinking about someone else when their husbands are
fucking them. Its the way of the world.
I guess you are right. Mandy said at last. I guess it takes someone on the outside to see
whats really going on?
Thats right honey. Ruby replied in her thick New York accent. We all get confused,
sometimes we all mistake lust for love, desire for devotion and we end up going for the decoy
rather than the real McCoy. Dont let it get to you Kid, weve all been there in the past.

What shall I do? Mandy asked pushing a lock of hair from her eyes.
Thats the fifty four thousand dollar question. Ruby said with a sigh. She thought for a
while before looking into Mandys face and saying.
Follow your heart. Have a jolly jaunt with Max the bore and find out if hes just a substitute
for the real thing and if so, let him go. Men are like busses, you wait ages for one and then
half a dozen arrive at once.

Ive asked Max to try the Black Rooms toys... Mandy said after a long silence. ...you
know, open his mind a little.
Oh, honey Ruby sighed. Im not sure thats a good idea, hell never be a Carter. Men
like Carter are born mean; you cant beat a dog mean, theyre born that way.
I thought it may be fun.
Well, be careful. Ruby said shaking her head. You know what? Here I am approaching my
sixtieth birthday. I have money, a big old house, girls and maids and all; and Im still not
happy.

She sucked on her cigarette holder and then looked over Mandys shoulder towards a mirror
that hung on the far wall.
I dont know why Im still not happy, perhaps its this fucking house.

Mandy looked at her shocked, she then realised that they all had un-for filled lives really and
that the difference between her and Ruby was that she still had time to change it.
You know Mandy. Ruby said at last. Youre the first person Ive ever said this too, but
even Im lonely.

Youre kidding me? Mandy said looking at the old woman intently. Seeing her there with
no makeup and her hair undone made her realise just how old and frail she was.
What about Pops and all those other admirers?

Look honey. Ruby said in a whisper. Im a woman with needs and although Im getting on
theres still a fire burning in my box, if you catch my drift. Those impotent old bastards
couldnt get it up if you tied a balloon to their dicks.
Oh, Mandy smiled. Its like that?
Yes sweetie. Ruby sighed. Momma needs a fuck.

They both started laughing and then Rubys face lit up. See, I knew I could cheer you up.
Mandy left her in that room a few minutes later wondering if what she had said was true but
it didnt matter. She felt as if she knew what her plans were and she was going to get them
done with a new enthusiasm.

Chapter 17
Lights burned smoky red and cast blue shadows across the Bar room wall. The shadows
flickered like beacons upon the faces of the belching assembled; mostly business men away
from their wives for the night and the odd stranger or two looking for some excitement.
Look at these whores. A beer gutted Italian belched into the sallow face of his Greek
friend.
Hardly any of them are fuckable.

The Greek smiled back and flashed a row of green teeth, his jaundiced eyes looked about to
see what other meat was on offer in the room before swigging his drink back and farting
loudly. Ruby swayed in her usual place at the bar, her boozed up legs rubbery and her eyes
watery and panda smudged.

She looked at the fat Italian with an air of disgust before turning away to call Liz.
Get me another whiskey, honey.
The Greek turned to face his Italian friend.
Gino... he asked softly. ...have you seen that cast whore in here tonight?

His friend knocked back his short and banged his glass on the table trying to get Lizs
attention.
One whore looks just like any other. He replied with a slur. He scratched his crab ridden
pubic area and looked across the room at Veltas chest as she spoke to another punter on a
love seat.
Cept in dimensions I guess

Ay, but Gino The Greek whispered. ...this cast whore is different.
Different? his friend said taking his eyes from Veltas chest for a moment. How
different?
She is beautiful man, the Greek whispered as he looked about the room.
Do you mean the tall black chick?
No man... The Greek whispered through the side of his mouth. ...I mean that cast bitch,
the one with curly hair and green eyes.

Max opened the bar door and entered the room looking anxious. He looked about and then
walked to the bar taking a note from his wallet as he did so.
Gimmi a brandy and soda Liz, please. He said trying to catch the womans attention.

Why, if it isnt Max Ruby drawled raising her glass and then sipping on the glass with a
lipstick smudged mouth.
Fancy seeing you here tonight.
Mandy invited me. He replied trying not to make eye contact he guessed that if he did she
would have known instantly that he was scared to death.

She did mention something... Ruby hissed trying to act surprised, cracking the face powder
into lines as she forced a smile, Ruby flashed lipstick stained teeth and added..
Shell be down shortly.

He tried not to stand out too much and looked briefly at the two sleazy characters beside him
before focussing his gaze back behind the bar. Then he felt a gentle touch on his shoulder.
Hi. Mandy said softly. He turned to see those bright green eyes lighting up the room.
Wow... he stammered nervously. ...You look beautiful.

The Greek looked around and touched his friends arm as both of them stared at the vision in
the high leather boots and short leather hot-pants standing next to Max.
Heres your drink. Liz said placing a glass on the bar and taking the note he was offering.
Max picked it up and the ice rattled in the glass loudly as his fingers shook.

You look nervous. Mandy smiled.

Nervous, no. Max replied trying to suppress his nerves and look confident. Im absolutely
frantic.
You dont have to do this. She said softly with a coy grin. Not if you arent into it.
Im cool. He lied.

She fumbled in her pocket and removed two pills and dropped one in his glass before
swallowing the other.
What was that?
Itll help you relax. Mandy said as he swallowed the drink and pill with one gulp. Carter
had given her a couple of Mandrax the previous evening and she thought they may come in
handy sometime.

This seemed like the perfect occasion and Mandy hoped he would enjoy it, and cope with the
sensations, as well as she had her first time. Tonight seemed as good a time as any to
experiment. Mandy looked at Max quietly for a moment. There was a track on the record
player that reminded her of the first time she had met Carter. The words seemed to resonate
with her and the troubled voice of Billy Holliday felt full of sunken hopes and stifled dreams;
themes black women deal with regularly.
.
Southern trees bear strange fruit,
Blood on the leaves and blood at the root,
Black body swinging in the Southern breeze,
Strange fruit hanging from the poplar trees.
Pastoral scene of the gallant South,
The bulging eyes and the twisted mouth,
Scent of magnolia sweet and fresh,
Then the sudden smell of burning flesh!
Here is fruit for the crows to pluck,
For the rain to gather, for the wind to suck,
For the sun to rot, for the trees to drop,
Here is a strange and bitter crop.

Shall we go upstairs? She said softly. She felt confident that tonight would be a triumph for
her and for Max. She was once a novice but was now a teacher, she was the darkness that
would overcome his light. She felt like a scorpion and Max was her prey; that thought excited
her, it throbbed within her like a beating drum; passionate and deadly. Putting herself into a
dominant frame of mind she imagined Max as her victim, no longer a lover but an object
whos only purpose was to give her pleasure and obedience.

She looked into his eyes and she recognized no tenderness, only suffering, no beauty only
agony waiting for release. He was entering her world of slavery where she was his master; for
one night only.

Mandy glided him towards the door like a butcher leading a lamb for the slaughter. His face
was frozen in a mask of fearful expectation and this delighted her. When they reached the
door it appeared that all eyes were upon them, all minds fixed upon their terrible hopes. In
reality only Ruby and Sam watched them go with some reservations; the Greek shrugged and
looked around for another cunt to buy.

Sam had been watching them talk ever since he arrived. Her acutely perceptive intuition
aware that Mandys mood was somehow different to how it is generally. There was
something that she couldnt quite put a finger on that worried her about the arrangement
Mandy had arranged.

It may have been the way she had been talking to Max, or the way she held her shoulders
back too stiffly; or it may have been his reluctance which worried her. Whatever it was, Sam
was going to creep up to the attic after a while and keep a close eye on them. Sam had only
felt this way once before and it was the night Carter had taken Lorry to the Black Room.

Hay Mandy? Max called when they got to the bottom of the stairs. She tried not to answer
him as this would bring her out of character and it would have spoilt the whole experience for
them both.
Hang on will you? he called again. I want to say something.

She huffed and turned to face him, her expressionless face giving no indication of her inner
frustration. She expected him to say something but he just looked back at her in silence.
What Max? she said, eventually; feeling the character leave her totally.
Did you want to say something?
Yep. He stuttered. He looked at her and then the floor and then the walls and the ceiling
before saying softly.
I dont know if I can go through with this.
Fine. She said sharply. Lets go back to the bar and you can go home.
Dont be like that. He said softly.

She looked so beautiful to Max that just standing on the stairwell, away from all those
people, alone with her like that; may have been worth all the pain to come. She flicked away
a loose part of her hair so it wouldnt get in her eyes and pierced him with that bright green
glair.
Whats wrong Max? she asked tenderly breaking into a fake, reassuring smile.
I dont want to hurt you. He said quietly.
Im not sure if I want you to hurt me either.

Then come with me and say nothing. She said firmly.

I promise not to hurt you. Youll be safe with me. If there are any risks, Ill take them,
okay?

Okay. He replied like a small child. She turned and led the way again and although he
still felt uneasy, he was prepared to give this a go; just to spend some intimate time alone
with her. While he was with her no one else would be; surely that was worth some
discomfort.
Well try a little role play, you know Master and Slave... Mandy whispered as she took his
cold hand and led his up to the next landing.
...then we could change roles if you want; itll be fun, I promise.

As they stood outside the Black Room she felt his hesitation grip her fingers tightly. Mandy
reached inside the door and flicked on the light switch flooding the room in a dim red and
green hue. They stepped inside and she closed the door behind them. Like two magnet they
immediately fell into each others arms and she felt him reach around her to hold her tightly;
it was not the game she wanted to play but this was Max so she gave into his attentions.

The Mandrax was hitting her brain now and her vision became a little unfocussed but she
wanted to ensure he relaxed and enjoyed their time together; so, completely out of her usual
character, she kissed him and thrust her tongue into his mouth.
Hmm, he sighed. I feel really funny. Good funny, I cant explain.

Just relax. She whispered reaching down and unzipping his pants; she could feel his hard
cock under the soft fabric bursting to be free and she rubbed the palm of her hand against it
momentarily before pushing the pants to the floor.

He kicked them off with his shoes and she slid her hand under the soft fabric of his
underwear, touching that damp patch of pubic hair at the base of his hard cock. She pulled it
into a proud position and rubbed it up and down gently before falling to her knees and pulling
his underclothes down.

She was level with his navel and Maxs hard cock stood like a flag pole under her chin. She
looked up at him before slipping the tip of his cock into her mouth, massaging the ridge under
the glans with her tongue before sucking the whole cock deep into her throat.
Thats fucking beautiful. He sighed. Mandy cupped his tight scrotum and ran her fingers up
and down the inside of his leg as he swayed above her slowly.

Max reached down and pulled off her top so that she was bare from the waist up. The sight of
her sucking his cock made the passion within him rise like a fire in his belly. She could feel
him pushing into her now and had to stop; looking up at him.
Youre not gonna come yet. She smiled. It would spoil things.

He smiled back and she stood, taking his hand in hers she led him across the room to a piece
of equipment that she was familiar with.
Put your feet together. She said as he undid his shirt and slid it off his shoulders.

Mandy looked at his body, he was about six feet tall with broad shoulders and a flat stomach.
His chest muscles were not as developed at Carters and he didnt have the tattoos; but he
was still well defined, nice to look at.

His pubic hair was a soft light brown mound around his long thick cock and had a little path
of soft down that rose up to his navel. Other than that Max had no hair on his body, even his
legs seemed as soft as her own although she did notice that around his ankles more thick
blonde down sprouted.

Max placed his feet together and she strapped them with a short leather clasp.
Arms up. She said pushing his forearms toward the ropes that hung from the ceiling.
Whats this? he asked gingerly. I was really enjoying what you were doing; but whats all
this about?

Put your arms up. She said abruptly. Max did as he was told and she connected his wrists to
a cross bar that hung from the ropes. Then she turned a lever and the crossbar lifted his
body from the floor. When he was swinging freely she walked back and started to run her
nails over his chest.
Do you feel helpless? she said as her nails reached down to his balls and under them. She
ran her nails down the inside of his legs and back up over his balls.
Do you feel scared? she said softly giving him a fixed, intense glair.
Fuck, He snapped as her fingers probed his ass. That feels really funny. Im not sure if I
like it.

Max looked at her and in the semi darkness with the chemical in his blood she appeared like
someone else entirely. She was someone he didnt recognise. He saw her turn and reach out
for something laying on a nearby shelf before stepping back into the light with a paddle.

It was flat leather and around four inches wide. She bent it between her fingers and looked at
him wickedly.
Oh come on. He said with a half smile. What are you going to do with that?
Mandy said nothing and just tapped the tip of his cock with the paddle.
Ouch! he shouted. That hurt.

Maxs cock was shrinking away from her and she thought she was losing him.
Okay. She sighed. Try this.
She put the paddle down and twisted the frame that he was on until he was hanging upside
down, inverted, with his feet in the air and his head almost at floor level. Then she looked
down at his face and laughed.
Very funny... He said looking up at her. ...and whats this supposed to do?

She wiggled her hips and unzipped her hot pants before pushing them down past her knees
and then over the top of her boots.
Thats better. He said being perfectly level with her pussy. She pushed her pubis into his
face and Max found that he was at just the right height to eat her. Having the chemical laden
blood rushing to his head and her pussy in his face aroused him greatly. She saw his cock
twitching again furiously and she placed it back in her mouth.
Hmm. He slurped as he pushed his tongue between her lips and tasted the juices there.
This is more like it.

Max looked up and saw between the two mounds of her breasts his cock going into her
mouth, it was a sight that filled him with passion and although he couldnt thrust with his hips
he felt his thighs go tight as she pressed a finger into his ass.
Go on Baby. Mandy whispered as his cock rubbed against her cheek. Eat my cunt.

Just as he was about to come she reach out and pressed a small switch that automatically
undid his clasps. Max fell from the frame into a crumpled heap sprawled across the floor.
You bitch. He shouted with a slurred smile. I was enjoying that.
Theres plenty of time for enjoyment. She hissed. Now you do me up.

She helped hi stand and led him across the room to where the rack was situated. It stood there
majestically like a well made piece of furniture in the reddish, green glow from the dim
lamps.
Ill lay down and you can clamp me, okay? I will instruct you.
Okay. He smiled.
Mandy lay on the rack bed and pulled her legs wide apart before allowing him to clasp them
at the ankles in this unnatural position. He then strapped her wrists tightly at her side before
placing the final clasp around her neck.
Feel free to enjoy yourself. She said as he slowly adjusted the collar under her chin.
Turn that ratchet.

Max did as he was told and found it strangely erotic being able to look down at her strapped
up like that. His head was filing with the strange sensation of chemical arousal; a bizarre
feeling which shot up and down his spine like lightening.

Clink-clink-clink-

The slack on the collar began to tighten as he looked at her breasts and the soft mound of
pubic hair rising like an airstrip above her pussy; his cock began to get very stiff with
chemical thunder.
Tighter. She moaned.

Clink-clink-clink

Tighter. She gasped again. Max did as he was told and turned the handle three more times.
Her face flushed red and sweat dripped in fine strands down her clear, brown shin from the
tips of her curls. She closed her eyes and sucked air into her lungs, unaware that the neck
clasp had been incorrectly placed.

Max was eager, from the other end of the table, to push his throbbing cock into her pussy and
adjusted the leg mounts so her ankles were slowly pushed apart. Touching her furtively and
seeing her pussy gaping wide meant he couldnt resist pushing his hard cock into her.

Max closed his eyes and felt her tight cunt grip his cock as he slid up to her pubic bone. Now
that her legs were pulled so far apart he was able to really get some depth into each thrust and
it felt good to push as deeply as he could.

He could feel her vaginal muscles clamping down on his cock and her juices flowing over his
dick as he pushed in and out slowly. Placing his hands behind her hips Max pulled her
towards him and thrust deeper. It was impossible for him to stop as the violent chemical
diversions built within
his cock; he could feel an explosion brewing.

Pulling her towards him Max felt her struggle and thought he heard her say something but he
didnt respond to it or care. He was lost in that divine moment of pleasure she had said hes
experience.

Max was pushing in and out and pulling her hips up to meet him; frantically building up into
a climax. He heard that sound again gurgle from her quivering red lips. What was she saying,
was it something about a colour, but was unable to stop; nothing was going to prevent him
fucking her cunt until he exploded inside her.

Ahhhhhhhhhh. Max screamed as hot spurts of come spat from his throbbing dick like a
toothpaste tube that had been stamped upon. He fell forwards and his head came to rest on
her chest between her breasts. He lay there, on top of her hot breasts for a moment panting
wildly as he felt that warm liquid leak between her legs.

Then he noticed that he couldnt hear anything. The room was silent but it was an un-natural
silence that suddenly filled him with dread. He really could not hear anything and he held his
breath to ensure it wasnt an illusion.
Did you enjoy that? he asked simply. Pushing off with his hands Max stood and withdrew
looking down at her face Max noticed that Mandys tongue was poking out of her mouth in
an unnatural and odd manner which froze his blood instantly.
Mandy? he said concerned by her expression.Come on babe, stop messing around.

He walked along the frame to her face and looked down, her eyes looked strange, glassy and
empty.

Baby? he said softly. He was filling with terror looking at that lifeless and contorted face.
He reached out and pressed the release that made the ratchet spin freely.

She crumpled as the cords and clasps slackened and he frantically began to untie the clasps,
buckles and straps so he would be able to move her freely.
Come on baby, dont do this to me. He said, slapping her face and panting in a growing
sense of heightened anxiety.

She was lifeless and malleable to the touch as Max lifted her head and placed it on his lap. A
stray lock of hair was in her eyes, he pushed it to one side and stared at her speechless.
Come on baby, stop messing around... He whispered pulling her body towards him and
holding her close.
...You know I love you Mandy, Ive always loved you. I never wanted to hurt you, I never
wanted to do this...

He pulled her up and felt her still warm body press into his naked flesh as her limp arms fell
at his side. He had killed her, Max thought, taken her life when she had so much more to do
in this world.
He looked up to the ceiling and a strange cry filled the room. It was an animal cry, like a wolf
baying at the moon, if filled the hall outside the room and flooded down the stairs. In the bar
Ruby stopped
What she was doing and looked across at Sam; they had both heard similar cries before and
knew it meant trouble.
No! Max screamed in a long emotional howl, filling the house with the sound of his grief.
The howl became a scream and the scream became the wail of police sirens ringing out in the
night.

Epilogue
The long black limo rolled down the road at a slow and steady pace. It was an overcast day
and a veil of drizzle ran down the closed, tinted windows. The driver looked ahead and paid
no attention to the two soberly dressed women seated behind him. It was just another day,
another hire, another funeral.

Both women were dressed in expensive black raincoats and they wore veiled hats that
covered the redness in their eyes, peering out of their respective windows in silence,
remembering when things had been different, better.
Are you sure about selling the house? Sam said softly without taking her gaze from the
passing stone monuments that flashed past the tinted windows.
Yes. Ruby replied. After a pause, a pause in which her thoughts were filled with memories
of green eyes and vivacious looks she added.
Things like this can kill a business stone dead. Shit, I didnt mean it like that.

I understand. Sam replied. What with all the publicity; itll never be the same.
Sam thought about what had happened since the incident. All the questions from the police
and the media, how they had been camped outside the house for days on end photographing
everything and everybody, even the milk being delivered.

What are you going to do now? she asked looking at Ruby briefly.
I dont know Kid... she replied wringing her leather gloved hands briefly.
Im getting too old for this game; Pops has asked me to marry him of course.
Congratulations.
Dont rush out and buy us a toaster. Ruby replied with a small smile.
Ive had it with men. Ill pay the girls off and then sit on my rocks for a while, incubate
them a little; settle down and buy a small place in another town.

Ruby turned round and reached out to take Sams hand in her own.
Youll come with me I hope?
They made eye contact and Sam caught sight of the driver looking at them in the rear view
mirror. Seeing that glare of hers filled him with fear and his eyes fell back on the road
immediately.

Sam reached out and squeezed Rubys hand in her own for a moment before whispering.
You know I love you. Sam whispered softly. She even managed an expression which may
have appeared like a smile from a distance.
Ill never love anyone else.
Ruby nodded and looked back out her window.

Whats gonna happen to him? Ruby asked after a short pause. Her gaze fell on a particular
passing monument and a shudder rocked her visibly. The sight of a childs statue atop a well
maintained tomb was just too much for her. Sam thought for a long time before answering the
question Ruby had asked.

I guess there will be a trial. Theyre not charging you with anything are they?
No. Ruby hissed. The chief was very sure that he didnt want me anywhere near the
court.
Friends in high places eh?
Something like that.

The service was short and sweet only mentioning the death as a tragic accident which could
not have been foreseen. The coffin was carried to the grave by four unsmiling graveyard
attendants and lowered into the ground slowly; with the respect and grace one expects when
the promised tips are good.

Ruby had seen the frail old woman in the church during the service but didnt know who she
was. She was now at the graveside in a worn black coat wiping a tear from her eyes with a
small white hankie. She studied her lined face and thick fingers with interest, clearly worn
from years of hard work, before stepping over to the woman; once she had thrown the rose
she carried in on top of the coffin.
You must be Mandys mother? Ruby said as the old woman turned her red eyes up to face
her. Mandy spoke about you a lot. She loved you very much, Im so sorry

Oh, please Mam, The old woman replied dabbing the hankie against her nose.
Dont you worry about my little girl; death waits for us all and when the lord wants you, you
just have to go. Shes in the arms of Jesus now
Quiet. Ruby replied.

My little girl left home and made something of herself the old woman continued with
tears welling up in her eyes.
...Every week a letter would arrive with a few dollars in it for me; she was such a good girl.
Tell me, did she work for you?

Yes. Ruby replied simply. She looked into the grave and shook her head thinking of that
wasted life and withered dreams. Ruby looked at the old woman and saw herself reflected
back; the terrible and inevitable scars of age and grief visible in that worn face.
Such a grand lady. The old woman remarked looking at Rubys coat and shoes with
interest. When the police came and told me, told me she was gone, I was surprised. Mandy
never went anywhere without letting me know. She was thoughtful like that.

Ruby reached into her Hermes handbag and withdrew a thick envelope. She held it out to the
old woman. The old woman took it hesitantly from diamond-bejewelled hand and peered
within.
Holy Jesus! The old woman exclaimed upon seeing the thick wad of notes that the
envelope
contained.
What is this?
Its seven thousand dollars. Ruby replied softly as she closed the womans fingers around
the envelope.
It belonged to your daughter and Im sure she would want you to have it.

Oh, Lord. The woman cried clutching the envelope to her breast.
Ive never seen so much money before; whatever was she doing for you to earn this much
money?
Oh, she was my housekeeper. Ruby lied. She was my housekeeper thats all; and I pay
very well.

A maid. The old woman laughed through her tears as she shook her head in disbelief.
Can you credit that, earning all this money for being a maid. Theres been such a lot of evil,
viscous gossip about her and it was all wrong. Thank the Lord for that. Thank the LORD, my
girl was a maid.
Yes Ruby whispered.
She was the best, Goddamn maid I ever had.

THE END
David William Kirby July 2010
 The Dogbreaths Publishing

(from the original 91 MSS)

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David William Kirby, Hackney LONDON 2010
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