We sit around the table to eat an excellent boeuf bourguignon, chatting.

“So why the train station Charlotte?” asks my Master. “Don’t misunderstand. We’re both very happy to collect you, but, no car yet?”

I shrug. “Oh I’d like one but I’m trying to be sensible with my money, and a car is something I just can’t afford right now. I’m fine on the train.”

My Master looks puzzled. “Er, well, I’ve a pretty good idea of how much you earned with your, um, adventures, with us a few weeks ago. I know how much I paid for you, and how much the other guys contributed afterwards. Surely you must have plenty in the bank? You’re not dressing extravagantly, or wearing expensive jewellery. Where’s your money going?”

I am a little embarrassed. “I know you paid a lot of money for me Master, but of course, the auction house took fifty percent, and I’ve had to pay out for digs and tenants deposit, and everything. And that’s before I’ve bought textbooks and other stuff…”

Michael’s head has shot around at my words. “Fifty percent?” he says incredulously. “After what you did? Selling your own virginity?”

Now my Master looks embarrassed. “I’m sorry Charlotte. Yes, I did know that when I bid for you, but I’d forgotten. How long do you think your money will last?”

“Oh, I’ll be fine. I just have to be careful with what I spend.” I bite my lip and look away to hide the lie in my words. I don’t want to let them know that I am worrying about it.

I don’t think I have fooled my Master. He gives me a long look under lidded eyes, and I look for a way of changing the subject.

“Where are we going to go tomorrow, Master? Somewhere exciting?”

Both my Master and Michael are silent for a moment. I know that I have not deceived either of them. They know something is amiss.

Then my Master speaks. “I thought we might go walking. The countryside around here is beautiful, and there’s a circular trail around the lake.”

“Oh yes, that would be lovely.”

“That’s agreed then. I’ll make up some packs, and we can enjoy the Great Outdoors.”

*****

The following day, the walk is wonderful. The weather is perfect; bright sun, clear blue skies and a fresh breeze; ideal walking weather. We walk miles along the trail, enjoying glorious views, and feeding bagels to squirrels. By the time we return to the chalet, I am well exercised and weary, longing for a hot soak.

Stripping off heavy boots, tee-shirts and jeans, we lounge around in bathrobes by the fire, sipping hot coffee and rum.

“I’d really like to have a soak in that jacuzzi Master. It looked heavenly.”

My Master perks up. “Ah, glad you mentioned that. In fact, you took the words out of my mouth.copy right hot novel pub