Island IV – Meetings · Part 8

Island IV – Meetings · Part 8 (8/21)
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It can’t be all that pleasant to be bound hand and foot, yet she never complained. He placed his hands on her bare shoulders. She didn’t flinch. In fact, he would have been shocked at any sign of an objection on her part. This was Erin’s version of being selfish, giving in to her guilty pleasures. She enjoyed the unyielding steel that forced her to obey him, the self-discipline required to hold still, and most of all meeting his accountability with her perfection.

Ralph slowly ran his hands down her arms, stopping when he reached the handcuffs. Taking the key out of his pocket, he unlocked her wrists. Free of the linked bracelets her hands went to her side, palms in, below her hips. Crouching down he removed the leg irons. The moment he stood up her feet were together, precisely lined up. Turning around he opened the hall closet and hung the cuffs on pegs.

“Okay, go soak. I’ll call you when supper is close to being ready.” Those were the magic words that freed her from the wall. Until he gave her permission she would stand there, facing the wall, all night if need be. He’d never understand just what it was that made this little homecoming ritual so important to her, but he’d learned early on if he ever attempted to skip it, or not give it his full attention, it left her upset, confused, and oddly, blaming herself for some imaginary failure.

She headed for the bedroom, stopping for a moment to look back and ask, “Sir, are you sure there’s nothing I can do for you first?”

Ralph shook his head. “No, now go. I do have some news but we’ll talk about it after we eat.”

The Excursion On the couch Erin stretched out while Ralph massaged her sore feet. “Oh, sir, you have no idea how good that feels. I was on my feet all day, and in heels. Why, oh why did I ever think managing a restaurant was my calling?”

The sighs of contentment were all the reward Ralph needed. “Because you’re so good at it?”

“You’re aware, sir, now that I have this,” she touched her collar, “I can’t process the overnight receipts, or tally the afternoon shift anymore. Just because I can’t handle money doesn’t let me off the hook though. I have to stand in front of the desk and watch my assistant while he counts out each register. I don’t understand why; I’m not allowed to fill out the deposit slips, as you know. Mr. Fu, the owner? He tells me my presence is enough to keep the employees honest.”

That was a concern when she signed the one-year ownership Agreement. As it turned out, her other skills were so valuable all it took were a few adjustments to accommodate her prohibition on handling money.

Ralph shifted to rubbing her other foot. There was a slight rattle of the chain linking the cuffs around her ankles. It was her idea to make sure she could only manage a slow shuffling walk around the house. Privately he had some concerns about her obsession with being restrained so often, but for now he’d let her proceed.

He’d given in to handcuffs too, but not behind her back. And he’d insisted on getting a pair with an extra-long chain. It was his way of tempering her tendency to excess.

“I bet you’re curious about my news?”

“You know very well I am, sir. I also know you will tell me when you’re ready, so I’m not going to ask, even though the suspense is driving me crazy.” Limiting her access to information, whether it was blocking websites on her laptop, prohibiting certain TV shows, or like tonight making an announcement without providing details, often left him feeling vaguely guilty. It didn’t stop him though; she was aware of his never-ending thirst for her need to depend on him. He was certain it was one of the most irritating restrictions imposed on her by signing away her freedom, yet she never complained, or showed any sign that it bothered her.

“I’ve been asked to provide legal advice for a group of investors, concerning a financial venture. These investors are all located on North Island. The meeting will be over two days, Monday and Tuesday, so it’s an overnight trip. Since those are your days off, would you like to come along? Keep in mind it is North Island, so you’ll be subject to local laws once you step off the ferry.”

Erin’s reaction was totally unexpected. It started with silence, a glare underlined with a frown, followed by her sitting up and turning away from him.

“This isn’t right, sir. You promised me. You promised….” She trailed off. He could see tears on her cheeks.

Ralph felt like he missed the “Bridge Out” sign after he’d driven halfway across the collapsing structure. What had upset her? All she had to do was decline to go along. What was she talking about, a promise?

“Erin, look at me.” Although clearly angry she could not disobey him. Slowly she raised her head, wiped away the tears and turned to face him.

“Look, I missed something here. Tell me two things. What isn’t right, and what promise did I break? You don’t have to go to North Island if you don’t like the idea.”

“No sir, it isn’t about North Island. I don’t mind coming with you. What isn’t right is you asking instead of ordering me. Should I go to the kitchen for a frying pan, so I can bang it over your head? Why are you asking me? It’s your job to decide what’s best for me. I thought we agreed I didn’t have to be concerned about those kinds of decisions. You promised, sir, you promised!”

I’m an idiot. I forgot she doesn’t see the world even remotely like I do. No question he had made a serious mistake once he’d heard her out.

“Erin? I owe you an apology. You’re right, although it was unintentional I broke my promise.” He took her hands in his. “Let’s start over. The news is you are coming with me for a two-day trip to North Island. You can see for yourself if all those stories are true. While I’m busy on Monday you are going to a meet and greet type reception, courtesy of some of the local women who belong to the investors. Sunday night you will pack two overnight bags, one for each of us. Plan on eating at a nice place Monday night; we have an invitation. I’ll finish with the business on Tuesday morning. We’ll catch the afternoon ferry across the Channel.”

The change was like flipping a light switch. “Yes, sir. May I spend some time reading about North Island? I’ve never been there,” she brushed her fingers against her collar. “That is, I’ve never had the opportunity before now.”

“Sure, and if you encounter any blocked websites, let me know. Aren’t you concerned about what happens once you’re there? Your status changes to unrestricted, permanently owned as long as you’re on that side of the Channel.”

Erin shrugged. “That? No, sir. Other than a few technicalities, as far as I’m concerned, we’re already there. It’s kind of exciting, actually. Only two days, but you can do as you please, sir, and it’s legal. I know that’s important, you being a lawyer.”

It was moments like this when Ralph began to comprehend just how unfathomable her priorities were, compared to his own. What he would think of as trivial extended to earth shattering levels for her. And conversely, issues he saw as of critical importance she dismissed with a wave of the hand.

Across The Channel Ralph and Erin sat on the ferry bench, watching the water churn in the wake of the boat. “How did it go with your exit interview?” he asked. South Island law required a private interview for all local women in an Agreement, where they were offered the chance to decline transport to North Island, along with cancelling their status as owned property.

“I wasn’t sure what to expect, sir. I knew I’d have to go through the motions. I must confess I might have been a bit on the disrespectful side in answering the official’s questions.” Ralph noticed she had a guilty look on her face.

“You’d better explain,” he demanded. If what she said was true it deserved a reprimand.

“When he asked me if I wanted to stay on South Island instead of crossing the Channel, well, the question bothered me. I told him only my owner could answer, and that I wasn’t permitted to make choices like that on my own. Then he demanded to know if I was being pressured to go to North Island, and if I really understood what it meant. That’s when I might have crossed the line, sir. I snapped back indignantly, saying I had always been obedient and it was an insult to imply I was being forced. I added insult to injury by ending with something like my master insists I should go, so it must be what’s best for me. At that point he told me the interview was over.”

Ralph swelled with pride, though he tried to hide it. His immediate problem was her belief she’d behaved badly. “Under other circumstances you’d be hearing a reprimand just now. However, you did answer the questions honestly, even if somewhat lacking in discretion. Next time, try to remember that guy is just doing his job, so don’t take it personally. The law says you have to be given the opportunity to refuse passage across the Channel.”

She looked relieved. “Yes, sir. I do understand it’s a formality; one you can’t ignore. Will there be a next time? Going to North Island?”

Ralph shrugged. “I’m sure there will be other meetings. This will be a good experience for you, sort of a glimpse into what the future holds for us.” He peered over the ferry railing. “We crossed the middle of the Channel. That means we’re in North Island jurisdiction now. Wave goodbye to the very last tiny bit of freedom you had. As of this moment your legal status is roughly equivalent to a kitchen appliance. My permanent property, to use as I see fit, and no recourse for you.”

Erin looked past Ralph, noticing for the first time the mid-Channel buoy marker bobbing back and forth in the wake of the ferry. “Sir?” she asked, the unease evident in her tone. “Will I be coming back with you?”

She watches too many of those movies about North Island. “Of course you will. Don’t worry, this isn’t some nefarious plan to sell you off at some sleazy brokerage. You’ll see for yourself. We’re not headed into some kind of nightmarish concentration camp. That does remind me…”

Ralphs reached into his jacket pocket and took out her travel permit. He slipped the cord over Erin’s head. “You’ll need this whenever we go out, even if I’m with you. Remember that kidnapping a while back, on North Island? There’s a new security regulation that went into effect a few months ago. Most all public places now have permit scanners at entrances and exits. There are also scanners at street corners You’ll see them; they’re clearly marked. Be sure you hold up your card as you go by.”

Erin held up her permit, studying it. “This keeps track of me?” she asked.

“That’s right. If you disappear, or reported missing, your last known location is where the search starts. It’s nearly always a false alarm, but there was a vote. The majority favored the expanded tracking system to be on the safe side.”

He put an arm around her shoulder and pulled her close. “It’s important to me I know where you are, as much as it’s possible. We’re not going to be separated while on our trip, but I like to plan for contingencies. Also, I’d like for you to get a feel of what life is actually like here, not the TV version.”

The ferry reached the North Island terminal dock and came to a stop. Ralph took out his phone to check his messages. “The rental car is ready and waiting at the baggage exit. We’ll check in at the hotel, rest for a little while, then head to the meeting.” He scrolled down a few more texts. “Dress code for the meeting and party is casual. Daytime rules, you will wear a skirt and blouse.”

Alex’s Story

At the Brokerage The guard held her arm while Róisín sat down in the chair. In front of her was a table and one other chair, in an otherwise bare room. She was still in shock, waking up in her bed one morning, and then suddenly finding herself shipped off to a brokerage after lunch, without a word of explanation from her now former owner. A week later and the disbelief still lingered.

“Sit up straight,” the guard warned her. “You know the drill. You will remain seated, facing that chair.” He emphasized his instructions by pointing to the empty seat across the table. “Do not look around. There’s nothing to see anyway. Keep in mind you will be judged on your conduct. It is to your benefit to be on your best behavior. You’ve been sold once before. You should know the routine; act accordingly.”

That much is true, she thought. I always knew this might happen. Their relationship had not been going smoothly yet she had no real warning, no hint her former master would go so far as to get rid of her. What had she done that was so terrible he didn’t want her around?

It didn’t really matter. She was here at the brokerage; the deed was done. Sooner or later, she would be the property of a stranger, sold to a man she had never met. Róisín was sure she’d be sent to the auction block, a degrading proposition but the choice wasn’t hers to make.

The guard walked away. She heard the door shut behind him, leaving her alone. The chair, I have to stay focused on that chair. Her instructions had been clear. This might be a test, to see if I’m obedient. She was determined not to disappoint whoever was watching her.

Idly Róisín ran her fingers over the handcuffs fastened around her wrists. They weren’t necessary, though like much of her life the choice wasn’t up to her. Causing trouble would gain her nothing, and definitely cost her plenty. The cuffs were attached to a chain that ran around her waist, held on with a padlock at her side, out of reach. Maybe it’s only company policy, she told herself, not a sign I can’t be trusted.

Róisín heard the door behind her open and shut once more. There were footsteps; someone had entered and was standing behind her. Curiosity tried to tempt her into turning around to see who it was, though she knew better. This really was a test; one she dare not fail.

After a long moment a man appeared, walking around her. Rather than sitting down he halted between her and the table, leaning back on it, arms folded. “Well done. You’d be surprised at how many can’t resist looking back. You can relax; you’re not destined to turn into the proverbial pillar of salt.”

Róisín recognized the familiar story from the Bible, about Lot’s disobedient wife turning into a pillar of salt after looking back at the city of Sodom. She breathed a sigh of relief. I can’t afford to make any mistakes. My future is on the line.

“Wondering who I am?” he asked. “My name isn’t important. I own this place, which means for the time being you belong to me. Why are you sitting there? Let’s say I sometimes take a personal interest in those unfortunates who wind up on the block. Or maybe it’s not such a terrible fate? I have no idea why you were discarded. Sorry about being so blunt, but I think you are the type who prefers reality to empty promises.”

So, she was destined to be auctioned off after all. It wasn’t exactly good news, yet Róisín was relieved to finally have some idea of what awaited her. “I wasn’t told the reason why either, sir. It seems I’ll never know. Did I understand you correctly? If I may ask, am I headed to the auction block?”

He shrugged. “Yes, and there’s not much I can do about that. In general, I don’t approve of the way you were treated, but I have limited resources, so I can’t afford great moral crusades. What I can do, and this is why you are here, is inform you that I’ve been working with a customer for several weeks, helping him to find what he’s looking for. He will be attending your sale.

“Now, this last week you’ve been through several interviews. Those were recorded, and they are available to anyone attending the auction. I can tell you this particular individual was the only one who asked to see them. Interpret that as you like; I can’t comment on it. However, what I can do, purely to maximize my profit you understand, is to encourage you to be on your best behavior this evening. You are on tonight’s list to be sold.”

So that’s it, the moment has arrived. At least I won’t have to go to bed worrying if tomorrow will be my last day here. Róisín asked, “Sir? Is there anything specific I should keep in mind? I would be grateful for your help. It seems to me we both share a common goal, you to profit from my sale, and in my own way I might also benefit if there is some way I could influence a potential buyer you have singled out?"

The man across from her didn’t answer. For a long moment he stared at her, with no expression on his face to give her a hint as to what he was thinking. Did I go too far? Something told her to leave that question unasked. This was one of those times patience was of paramount importance.

“Before I answer, let me pose a personal question to you. Those handcuffs,” he pointed at her hands, “tell me how you feel about being forced to wear them. I can assure you there is a reason, though I’m not going to disclose what it is. I will add that if you truly want my help, then you should answer honestly, without being evasive or simply telling me what you think I want to hear.”

She held up her hands off her lap, as high as possible given the restraints. “This, sir? I tend not to give much thought about being bound. As you said, sir, you own me, for the moment. I would never expect you to justify these,” she tugged at the chains, “or how you use the tools available to control me. How do I feel about it? I must believe, for my own sanity, that there is a sound reason for it. Even if this is only a way to demonstrate how powerless I am, perhaps to satisfy some control freak fantasy, that’s good enough. As I see it,” she dropped her hands and folded them in her lap, “if I can’t fend for myself that all but guarantees you’ll look out for me.”

The man smiled and nodded his head. “A man’s fatal weakness, the damsel in distress. Be patient, I’m getting to your question. I want to add that your…” he paused, searching for the word, “situation isn’t unique. In the years we’ve been in business, a number of women have passed through these doors under similar circumstances. Typically, we have to keep them for a month or more to give them time to adjust. You, however, have shown a remarkable resilience in accepting what has happened. That’s why I’m here talking to you now.”

Róisín wasn’t sure what to make of his last statement. Then a light turned on in her head. The color of the company uniform she had been given, the stern but courteous way she’d been treated, all the details triggered memories that led her to recognize the man facing her.

“Sir? You’re Mr. Madsen, am I correct? I heard about your Barbara’s story, so inspiring.” She mentally kicked herself for not identifying the distinctive color and pattern of her dress the moment she put it on. This was the Madsen Brokerage, and he was the sole proprietor; for the moment, her legal owner as well.

“You’re right, seems my infamous reputation precedes me. But this is about you, not me. I’m going to be frank. There will be someone special in the audience tonight. He knows all about you. Keep in mind this is information available to anyone who asks. My auctions are not rigged, and I can’t determine the outcome. I won’t go any further except to urge you to keep two things in mind for tonight. The first, be yourself, don’t overthink this and try to be someone else. And the second point, do exactly as you are told, without hesitation. Relax, don’t be distracted, focus on your instructions and don’t think about who’s watching you. You would be surprised at the number of women who can’t manage that. An auction is a stressful event, I won’t deny it, but you have an advantage, that resilience you’ve shown us. Concentrate on that and I’m sure it will all work out for the best.”

Priming The Pump On the display, Róisín was once again answering the question about her handcuffs. Alex paid close attention, hanging on every word. “Okay, Ray, I have to ask. Is she serious? Like I told you, I’m new to the Island. All my experience with women is based on the outside world. I’ve never come across anything like this before.” Alex Wolfe was a recent arrival to North Island society, having been recruited for his unique technical expertise in managing ferry operations. He had a basic knowledge of Island life but had not been present long enough to gain practical experience.

Ray Madsen leaned back in his chair. “Alex, given the years I’ve been in this business I’ve learned to spot the pretenders. Róisín is what we call ‘profoundly submissive’, meaning everything she said reflected how she thinks, how she sees herself, and most of all what she wants out of life. Don’t be fooled by her calm exterior. That ‘Damsel in Distress’ comment wasn’t a joke. In her own way she feels like she’s tied to the railroad tracks, the train is coming, and her only hope is a White Knight riding to the rescue, if you’ll excuse the mixed metaphors.”

Alex laughed. “And you want me to be that White Knight? I’m impressed by your selfless act of charity.”

Ray shook his head. “I’m a businessman first. I don’t do the Good Samaritan act, and I’ve yet to come across anyone who would describe me as anything but selfish. I’m betting you and Róisín are an ideal match, that you see it too, and you’re willing to gamble a substantial amount of money to find out if I’m right. I don’t know who will bid against you tonight, though I do guarantee all customers I never use shills to force up the price.”

Alex tilted his head to one side. “Fair enough, I can accept those conditions. Is that why you asked to see me, hedging your bet?”

“Think of it more as priming the pump. Nothing I’ve told you about Róisín is private; anyone who asks I’ll give them the same recordings. And I’ll tell them what I’m saying to you now. The auction is a level playing field. If you choose to put in some extra time for research, then perhaps you’ll benefit from it. My sole interest is to recover my investment and make a few dollars in profit.”

Alex began laughing. “I admire a man who can admit to a purely mercenary sales pitch. You’ve certainly put in your research on me. We’ll see if it pays off tonight.”

Fresh from the Block When the door opened Alex stood up. Admit it, I’m old-fashioned, he thought. Gentlemen stand when a lady enters the room. He’d won the bidding, although there had been few others who showed any interest. Even so, the amount he’d just transferred to the cashier was a significant percentage of his assets. Money is a means to an end, not a goal in itself. That’s what he kept telling himself, trying to justify what he’d done. And it helped to keep his mind off the moral implications that went with buying another human being.

Róisín waited at the doorway. The brokerage guard had one hand on her upper arm, holding her back in case she tried to enter without permission. It wasn’t necessary; she knew how to behave in a situation like this. Ray Madsen’s parting advice was foremost in her thoughts. The man who rose to face her, a stranger she’d never seen before, might very well be her lifetime companion from this moment on. All she had to rely on, to make that critical first impression, were her years of experience living on North Island. She felt safe in assuming he would be the type who fit the general stereotype of dominant men.

Alex wasn’t so knowledgeable. He’d only arrived on Isla Del Sur about six months ago. The job offer came with the option of working, and living, on either South or North Island. He had some idea from his contacts on what to expect if he chose what he thought of as “mainstream” Island society, on the much larger South Island. Alex still couldn’t explain why he opted for the North Island posting; maybe it was the sense of adventure.

Tonight, he had taken full advantage of the unique culture that set his new home apart. There she was, framed by the doorway, his very recently acquired possession. “Recent” defined as in a scant two hours ago, when he won the bidding for her at the auction sponsored by the brokerage house. If the outside world ever discovered what he’d done there was a nice long stretch behind bars in Alex’s future, where he could, in enforced solitary leisure, debate the moral arguments dealing with treating women as property, assuming he wasn’t lynched first.

He had to admire her poise. When Alex stood up, he saw that momentary, unguarded look of surprise mixed with curiosity. Considering what little he knew of her history his simple act of courtesy might not be a common occurrence in her life.

“Come in, please sit down.” He pointed to the chair across the table. “Thanks for bringing her. I’ll take custody now.” It was a bit on the formal side but a legal necessity; Alex was required to acknowledge her being in his custody.

Island IV – Meetings · Part 8 (8/21)
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