The Cruise Companion - Tasha Pt. 01

The Cruise Companion - Tasha - Part I

Tasha needs a cruise companion

By Aoife

A/N - This chapter is specifically dedicated to my friend and editor NICOLE2023. I didn't allow her to see it in advance as she has in my previous stories. She inspired me to add this chapter to the series.

This chapter is broken into two parts; the second will follow very soon. This series features a Sapphic theme throughout and continues with our protagonist, Dr. Julie Anders. The series was initially posted in the Lesbian Sex category, though this chapter has a BDSM focus and does remain with a purely strong Sapphic theme.

If this style or subject matter isn't to your taste, I completely understand and appreciate you taking the time to stop by.

All characters, names, and events in this storyline are purely fictional. Any resemblance to real life is purely coincidental and unintentional.

~~~

The tiff between Maddie and Dawn, as well as Dawn's supposed need for a man's cock and what Maddie was able to provide seemed too much for them to overcome. They split amicably weeks after our cruise and went on dating others. Sabrina and I didn't interfere, we understood and were supportive, not all long distance relationships are successful.

And speaking of support, I came clean in a thirty minute video call with Sabrina telling her everything regarding Emma. She shared with me her recent fling with Becky, a younger woman trying to find her way. I giggled when Sabrina shared that Becky didn't truly enjoy the flood of her nectar when she came on her young face.

I quickly replied, "Sabrina, feel free to flood my face whenever you want." We both laughed.

We still love each other and will not commit to another woman but this distance thing is starting to get the best of both of us. We are trying but it's the life we have chosen. I swear I try and so does Sabrina.

Six Months Later - Wednesday afternoon

Last week, Emma, my dearest Cub, sent me a lovely thank you card and note. She's happily settled into a new townhouse and enjoying her new life in Maryland. As always, she teases me, saying if I ever found myself wandering the streets of Washington, D. C. or Crofton, MD I had better give her a call. And yes, I still have her number saved.

After the relaxing sabbatical and a surprisingly enjoyable trip with Emma, I completed my research and presented it to the committee; that was two months ago. It was very well received, and just a few hours ago, I got some exciting news. The committee invited me to present my findings to the NIH and NCI Cancer and Chemotherapy Commission on Standards and Practices at the spring conference.

If all goes well, the university might be considered for an NIH and NCI grant to explore new chemotherapy options. The prospect of that happening feels both humbling and thrilling.

After leaving the Chancellor's office with my co-chair, Dr. Michael Regnard, I turned my phone back on. I had received a text from my daughter, Madison. As you might recall, Maddie is a Physician Assistant in an emergency room in Philadelphia, and we both live in Abington.

'Mom, can Claire and I stop by after dinner? We need to chat.'

I replied, 'Of course! I'll make some tea. We can sit outside and enjoy the cool fall weather.'

Maddie and Claire started dating a few months ago. Their relationship has blossomed. They've recently talked about moving in together. Claire has yet to give up her City Center apartment which is just down the street from my office. Though I couldn't be happier for them it seems rather quick that they are talking about moving in together.

Maddie's been busy with long shifts, and Claire's schedule is just as hectic, so I'm always grateful for time with them.

On my way home from campus, I fought through the traffic, but it wasn't more than a thirty-minute drive. I called Sabrina and let her know that Maddie was coming over tonight and needed to postpone our call. She wasn't thrilled but I promised I would make it up to her, just like I had when I flew out to see her a few weeks ago.

I didn't propose nor did she but as she walked me to the airport terminal, just before checking my bag, she whispered in my ear that one day she would propose. I needed to be ready to say yes. I have a distinct feeling the tiff between Maddie and Dawn had something to do with our relationship set back and Sabrina withdrawing again.

I will wait for her, I swear I will but I will not live a celibate life which we both agreed to understand about the others needs. However, I will wait for Sabrina as long as needed.

When I turned onto Summit Avenue and parked in the garage, I sat for a moment, reflecting. Professionally, I was on cloud nine, but personally, I realized I'd been in a bit of a rut. I was too focused on work and slightly depressed about Sabrina and our long-distance, yes agreed upon, relationship. I smiled to myself, hoping that as I passed my middle to late fifties and as a single mom of a soon to be thirty year-old, I still had some fun left ahead.

I exited my car, closed the garage door and headed up to my room, slipping into a pair of blue flannel lounge pants. I ditched my bra, I pulled on my old Penn long-sleeved shirt.

I came downstairs and prepared a fresh kettle of water. I opened the cupboard and pulled down my teabloom and three cups and saucers. I turned to the pantry and looked at my options. I chose the lemon drop. I felt it would be a nice citrusy tea for our conversation.

Maddie sent a text saying they were just a few minutes away, there was a bit of a traffic snarl. I started to prepare my dinner. It was just a salad kind of evening but I wanted some fruit and cheese and crackers for our chat. I peeled a few oranges and prepared a kiwi as well. I love the combination of a very soft brier and some whipped cream cheese with thin crackers. I put things on a platter and set them in the fridge for later.

Fifteen minutes later, I heard the doorbell ring and just seconds later I heard them walking in, down the hallway and into my kitchen. I turned the flame on under the kettle and scooped the tea leaves into the bloom and set it up. I turned to hug my daughter and her girlfriend.

We sat in the kitchen a few minutes waiting for the water to boil. Once it boiled, I poured it into the bloom. I carried it over and placed it on the kitchen table. I walked over into the living room and rejoined the girls. They had stepped into the living room and sat on the antique looking Chesterfield Drop-Arm settee I have along the short wall. I sat in my recliner close to them.

"So, what's the good gossip about today Maddie?" I relaxed and smiled.

"Jules." Claire spoke. "This is a bit strange but I wanted to see if you had any plans for the second week of November."

She was right, that is a strange question. "Nothing that I am aware of. It depends on the week. Why what's up?" I looked at Maddie. She shook her head and discretely pointed at Claire.

I looked at Claire. "Okay spill the beans while the tea finishes steeping."

"Jules, I have a friend, let's call her Tasha. She and her friend were going on a cruise with us coming up in November. It sails out of Miami, the Symphony of the Seas. The umm cruise is, umm, a rather different one. You see..."

Maddie piped in. "Mom, she is just being coy. I will say it this way, this cruise is a different one and will have a different clientele on it."

She blushed slightly, "You see Claire will be my pet for this cruise."

My eyes widened and I asked. "Pet?" I am confused." I teased. I really wasn't confused. I just wanted to play along and see where I came into this plan of theirs.

Maddie continued, "Here is the deal. We are sailing on Symphony for an "Adult Only" like an adult activity and clothing optional type of cruise."

My eyes opened wide again. Maddie had paused and I chimed in. "I wasn't aware you girls were involved in the Bliss Cruise scene. And before you ask, I am well aware of what a Bliss scene usually entails, I am not that naive."

I paused and stood. "The tea is ready; will you join me in the kitchen? We can continue in the kitchen."

I walked into the kitchen, pulled the snacks from the refrigerator and handed the platter to Maddie. I then poured each of us a cup of tea. I removed the bloom so not to have any last bitter irritation of the leaves drop into the pot. I placed the bloom in the sink and then returned to my chair. I watched as Claire pulled Maddie's chair and assisted her in sitting.

"And how long has this behavior been going on?" I asked, thinking it is cute and kinky. "I am not judging, I am just wondering."

"You may sit and fix my tea." Maddie spoke. "She, my pet, has admitted to me that while at the firm as a new junior partner, the stress is high. She feels she wants zero decision making authority when at home or with me. Therefore we are currently engaged in a six month test of her absolute submission under my guidance." She paused, accepting her tea from Claire.

"You see the cruise is part of the six months trial; we will see where things lead from there." She finished and sipped her tea.

"Hmm, that sounds playful and fun." I looked at Claire, "Six months is a long time dear." I smiled, "Now tell me about this cruise and your friend... Tasha was it? And how I can be of assistance?"

"Jules, it isn't fun all the time. My... umm... Miss, has me on a tight leash of allowances at times." Claire spoke up.

I looked over at Maddie. She shrugged her shoulders then looked at Claire, "Well dearest, you did draw up and sign our agreement. You were flawed in your writing when you failed to limit a number of things in the agreement, including the number of spankings per day based on your behavior as well as failing to limit my authority over you."

Maddie glanced at me with a knowing smile and gave a quick wink. "Alright, now tell my mother about Tasha and everything she's been through lately."

I turned my attention to Claire as she began speaking; her tone was measured but heavy with emotion. "Tasha has recently faced some of life's most formidable challenges. Honestly, you could say she's been hit with three of the five most stressful events a person can experience."

I tilted my head, curiosity piqued. "Three out of five, what are we talking about here?"

Without hesitation, Claire replied, "The death of her mother, a relationship breakup, and unemployment." Her voice carried the weight of each word. As she continued, her tone was soft.

"Tasha's mother passed away recently after a long battle with illness. They were incredibly close. It was just the two of them; reflective of you and my Miss. They were living together in the same house for years; the loss shattered her. And as if the grief wasn't enough, Tasha took on the daunting task of clearing out the home. She spent months sorting through her mother's belongings, trying to empty the house of anything that would bring back painful memories." She paused and I could hear her voice cracking.

"It was every photo, every piece of furniture... It was like erasing a life while her heart was still breaking." Claire paused again for a moment, gathering her thoughts before moving on.

"All of that took such a toll on her. Tasha had used up every bit of her medical leave, vacation time, and personal days to care for her mom during those final months. When she finally returned to work, things weren't the same. The manager of her IT department, well, let's just say they didn't get along before, and it only got worse. Suddenly, nothing she did was good enough. Her work was 'substandard,' according to him, no matter how hard she tried."

I could sense the tension rising in Claire's voice as she continued. "It wasn't fair. Tasha took her concerns to HR. Sadly, things can be well mannish in a manly world and domain of the mostly male profession. Of course her manager had seniority, and in the end, she and the HR representative agreed that it was best to leave quietly rather than risk a messy firing. They called it an 'amicable separation,' but it didn't feel that way to her. She hasn't filed for unemployment yet, though. For now, she's been doing some freelance consulting as an IT developer to make ends meet."

I raised an eyebrow. "So, she's worried about finding steady work again?"

Claire nodded. "Yes, especially when it comes to reference checks. Her old manager might not outright sabotage her, but Tasha knows his opinion could be the deciding factor for future employers."

Claire took a breath before diving into the third part of the story. "And then, as if all of that wasn't enough, there's Jennifer, her ex-girlfriend. While Tasha was at home, dedicating herself to her mother's care, Jennifer was out with someone else. Can you believe that? Three or four days before Tasha's mother, Doris, passed away, Jennifer had the audacity to tell her it was over. Just like that. No compassion, no respect for what Tasha was going through. She didn't even wait for Doris to pass before flaunting her new fling. It was cold. Heartless, really."

As Claire finished, I sipped my tea, letting the weight of everything Claire shared settle over us. Tasha's story was undeniably tragic, but I couldn't ignore the question that had been brewing in my mind. Finally, I broke the silence.

"And this... involves me how?" My gaze shifted to Maddie, who suddenly seemed uneasy, shifting slightly in her chair under my scrutiny.

"Well Mom, Tasha needs a cabin mate, someone to go with her." Maddie looked at me as Claire lowered her head.

"Jules, she can not go as a single, you know the rules of a Bliss cruise."

"And what the hell am I supposed to do on this cruise with Tasha in my room." I paused, "I know the Bliss Cruise rules, no singles, no odd numbers of guests in rooms, and everyone must have a partner." Then I stressed, "A willing partner!"

I abruptly stood, playing my part, inside I was giddy, my mind going crazy with thoughts. I paced the kitchen, walking in a circle.

Suddenly, I thought of Sabrina and the fun we could have on a Bliss cruise, if she would ever consider one. I decided to flip the script. I wanted to see their commitment level to this. "Maddie, you know I love Sabrina, but this poor girl. What are you two going to do?"

"Claire, you better ask or your paddle will find your bare ass again." Maddie spoke.

"Could Mama Bear be interested in an alternative lifestyle cruise with a very interesting and submissive girl?" Claire asked her voice lowering as she spoke.

I opened my eyes wide, I paused and decided to dig deeper. "So she is in the lifestyle? What aren't you sharing with me?" I asked.

The two looked in between each other. I looked at Claire. "You young lady, you best tell all right now or I guarantee, your ass will be reddened by the hand of this old woman out of irrigation and not of sexual pleasure."

I pushed the envelope as I looked at Maddie, she smiled. "And yours as well young lady." I winked as did Maddie.

"Yes, speak to Miss Julie and tell her everything, pet." Maddie was harsh in her tone.

Claire swallowed then lowered her head and she mumbled. "Yes she is a submissive and lives the lifestyle. Her ex was her Miss, she is now without a Miss to lead, guide, and love her."

I scoffed. "And what makes you think I would be interested in this type of role and engagement with her?"

This time it was Maddie who spoke. "She is impressionable, broken and needs guidance Mom." She looked at me with sorrowful eyes, "even compassion Mom."

"Julie, she needs someone to come on the cruise with her. You aren't allowed on the cruise as a single. We aren't allowed three to a room either, it isn't really allowed, at least." Please assist my friend." Claire lowered her eyes, almost begging. "These cruises are non-refundable!"

I huffed as I sat back down with my tea. "I will consider it." I was smiling inside as my mind started racing. "Now let's enjoy the snacks I have prepared before they perish.

~~~

Three nights later I hung up from chatting with Sabrina. She thought it was a wonderful idea for me to assist a friend of Maddie's. Yet I could hear something else in her voice. I replayed the conversation in my mind.

"Sabrina what's on your mind." I had asked.

"Jules, I can't do this much longer without you. It has been months since we spent the weekend together." She paused for a second.

I interrupted her. "What are you saying Sabrina?" I asked cautiously as my voice broke.

"I really miss you Jules, and I am slightly jealous of you going on this trip with a younger woman but I understand. I just miss you... so much more than I thought I would."

"And I really miss you as well Sabrina; I really do!" I paused almost saying it, then I threw caution to the wind.

"Move here! Move to Philadelphia, come live with me. Hell bring Dawn, we will find her and you both amazing jobs and then we can be together!"

I paused and listened, she exhaled heavily, I could hear her clearly. "You mean that don't you? Jules, you really mean that."

"Yes! Move here, move in with me, you know I have plenty of room. Dawn can have the basement apartment until she gets on her feet or forever for all I care. Sabrina don't think about it, just do it. Move here with me, let's start a life together."

I meant every word of it. I really did. My heart was pounding. I wanted her in my life every day. Then I heard some of the most amazing words I had heard in a long time.

"OK Let me think about it and talk with Dawn. I can not move without her. You know that!"

I started tearing up. "I do know that Sabrina, I do and trust me, I get it I would never live away from Maddie. I know it is a lot to ask but you will thrive and so will Dawn here in our city."

We chatted for a few more minutes and ended the call, each of us supporting the other and sharing our love. I went to bed that night dreaming of what life could be with Sabrina in my life everyday.

~~~

That next morning I was sitting in my office preparing for a mid-morning lecture. I grabbed my phone and sent Maddie a text. 'I want to meet her.' I hit send and then started typing again. 'I want to meet her this weekend at the house, and have dinner on Saturday night for all four of us. 6:00!'

Saturday morning I was sitting on the back deck listening to Mother Nature as she spoke. The trees swayed, the leaves rustled and the wind was like a soft chorus. My coffee was amazing as always but my thoughts were interrupted when I received a text from Maddie. That all too familiar 'knock knock' sound from my phone.

I looked at it and smiled. 'How should we dress?'

I giggled and replied 'In clothing, I am not ready for anything yet. I want to meet her, nothing more, nothing less. I am getting Ralph's for diner'

'Ralph's? Are you kidding me? Who is she to deserve Ralph's? Geez Mom!' She responded.

I just laughed. Ralph's is an Italian restaurant. It opened in 1900 and has been a staple in Philadelphia since. It is one of the smallest but best places to eat in the city. It's one of those places where pictures of people hang on the walls from when they ate there, Presidents, actors, singers, and just real everyday people which makes it the best ever.

I pulled into the driveway just before six o'clock. Once inside, I removed the food from the containers and slid it into my warm oven. I set the table, arranging four settings with care. Two bottles of Chianti had been decanted and stood ready. Just as I heard the soft click of the electronic lock on the front door, my phone chimed with an alert from the Ring app. I turned, smoothing my dress, and walked toward the hallway.

Maddie stepped inside first, her usual confidence on full display as she greeted me with a warm smile. Claire followed close behind, but she seemed more reserved than usual. She stepped aside to assist Maddie with her light jacket before removing her own. That was when I noticed the third dinner guest, a strikingly beautiful black woman who radiated elegance.

I smiled, extending my hand. "Welcome to my home, Tasha. It's such a pleasure to meet you."

She returned the gesture with a soft, hesitant smile. "Thank you, Dr. Anders. The pleasure is mine." Her voice was quiet yet carried a warmth that made me instantly like her.

"Please, call me Julie." I said gently. "Come, let's sit and enjoy some food while we get to know each other." I gestured toward the kitchen and led the way.

As I approached the head of the table, Maddie caught my eye and gave a subtle shake of her head. I paused, unsure, until Tasha stepped forward. Her eyes met mine, and she smiled slightly.

"May I?" she asked, motioning to my chair.

I nodded, surprised by the gesture. She slid the chair out for me, offering her hand as I took my seat. Once I was settled, she pushed the chair forward gently. I noticed Claire mimicking the gesture for Maddie. Then a small smile splayed across Tasha's lips as she poured wine from the decanter.

Tasha then took her place beside me, and as we exchanged polite conversation, I found myself stealing glances. She was, without question, one of the most stunning women I had ever seen.

Her complexion was a warm, deep brown with a natural glow that seemed to emanate from within. Her short, tapered haircut framed her delicate features, emphasizing her cheekbones and graceful neck. Minimal makeup adorned her face, but her full lips were glossed to perfection, catching the light whenever she spoke.

The dress she wore was a pale yellow. A floral piece floated gracefully around her athletic frame, hinting at a balance of strength and femininity. Tasha exuded a quiet confidence, and her presence was both commanding and approachable.

I wondered how could a woman like this be so submissive.

I was brought back to reality when Tasha handed me my wine glass. She remained seated. I assured her that dinner would be served shortly. Maddie raised her glass, smiling brightly.

"To an amazing evening, filled with love and understanding," she toasted. "Cheers!"

The timer on the oven sounded. Before I was able to stand Tasha and Claire were up out of their chairs. They took control as Maddie and I sat there. Within a few minutes, the two of them had dinner served and on the table.

The main course passed in a blur of lively conversation, laughter, and subtle glances between the four of us. As Claire and Tasha prepared coffee and brought out the cheesecake, I decided to steer the conversation toward something more adventurous.

"Madison, dear," I began casually as Maddie rolled her eyes at me.

Madison? Really mother?"

"Alright, Maddie, what would you say if I called Stef tomorrow to see about upgrading us to a two-bedroom suite for the November cruise?" I smiled and winked, watching her reaction.

Maddie nearly dropped her glass. "Mom, as tempting as that sounds, I'm not sure my pet would appreciate it." She winked right back at me, her smile mischievous.

I turned my attention to Claire. "Claire, darling, surely you wouldn't mind? You know I prefer to cruise in style."

Before she could answer, I looked at Tasha. "Tasha, have you ever been on a cruise?"

Her expression shifted, and she lowered her gaze. Claire leaned in and whispered something to her before Tasha finally responded. "No, Miss Julie, I haven't. I... I had planned one as an anniversary gift for Jennifer, but... things didn't work out. I had been saving for months."

Her words broke my heart. Without thinking, I stood and wrapped her in my arms. She trembled slightly as I stroked her back, trying to comfort her. Over her shoulder, I caught Maddie and Claire exchanging sympathetic looks.

"Maddie," I said softly, "let's take our coffee to the living room." I gently lifted Tasha's chin so her eyes met mine. "Mama Bear has you, dear. You're safe now." Her sobs quieted as she nodded, murmuring soft thank you against my shoulder.

In the living room, the conversation turned lighter, and laughter filled the air once more. As we talked, I felt Tasha shift beside me. To my surprise, she slid off the couch and knelt at my feet, resting her head against my legs. Her arms wrapped around me, holding on as if I were her anchor.

I rested a hand on her head instinctively, brushing my fingers through her soft curls. When the conversation paused, I broke the silence. "I'll call Stef tomorrow and see about upgrading to adjoining balcony rooms or junior suites for the cruise. Does anyone have concerns?"

Maddie hesitated before responding so I asked. "Are you worried about what happened last time?" she asked her voice cautious.

She shook her head. "No, I worry that things might get too out of hand and... " She blushed, "I am not sure I want you to know everything that happens in my bed." She blushed a second time.

"Tasha, Let me ask you a question. Would you be offended, upset or embarrassed if you heard my daughter and your friend Claire while they were playing or making love, or even... you know, being lovers?"

"Miss, I would never be offended or upset at something you have decided for me on my behalf." Tasha spoke.

I smiled looking down at her and ran my fingers through her curls. "I love your hair Tasha; it has a certain fun and thrilling bind about it."

I looked up at Maddie. "It seems a decision has been made, I will call Stef in the morning and see what I can arrange." Maddie smiled and mouthed 'Okay?'

As the evening was coming to an end, and I walked Tasha down the hallway and out the door, I pulled her into a soft hug and let her know that I wanted her to come to dinner tonight before we left on the cruise. There were some things I wanted to discuss with her in private.

She laid her head against my shoulder and whispered in my ear, her sincere thanks for helping her out and saving her vacation. Then, in a slight surprising move, she lifted her head and kissed my cheek, just below my ear right on my jawline. I was moved both emotionally and physically.

I thanked Madison and gave her a mother-daughter hug and kissed her cheek. I turned to Claire and winked. As I hugged her and stepped back, I spoke rather plainly. "It seems my dearest darling that my daughter had kept you in check rather well. You seem so much better under her hand than you were by her side."

I looked at Maddie and winked. "Tasha will be along in a minute, you two will start the car." I nodded at them both and reached for Tasha's hand, holding her back a second.

"Tasha, realizing it has only been a few short hours, are you comfortable with me taking you on this trip?" I asked, looking directly into her eyes.

"Yes Miss. it is why I knelt and curled at your feet. I knew what I felt and knew what I needed as soon as I felt it. That is, if you will have me for this trip." She smiled and bowed her head slightly.

I lifted her chin and held it in my fingers. "Good, I will find you an appropriate black with a yellow banded "In Training" collar to wear. This way you will be identified as Mine and no others will come to touch you."

She beamed wide with a smile. "Oh yes Miss."

"Tasha, no more Miss, I am your Mama Bear."

She smiled wide, "Yes Mama Bear!" She kissed my cheek. "May this one go now Mama Bear?"

I leaned forward and softly kissed her cheek. I paused. "One more thing. I will be a second."

I returned to the kitchen and retrieved my cell phone. I handed her my phone, "Enter your number and save it." When that was complete, I sent her a text. 'Mama Bear'

"Now you may but until I say so, there is no playing, unless I direct you."

"Yes Mama Bear of course." She was smiling as she left the house nearly running down the sidewalk.

I cleaned up the house and then made my way to my bedroom. In the process I grabbed my laptop and was ready to do a little shopping. I sent a text. 'Maddie, I am going to do some shopping for her. Do you need anything for your pet?'

'Hmm, maybe a nice matching yellow lace camisole?'

I responded, 'I love your thought process. I have decided Tasha will only wear yellows and whites. I want to see her skin color brought to life and highlight her body.'

'Oh mom! Now I am jealous.' I giggled and let my mind wonder, I truly wondered if Dawn could have shaken that cock fetish she had. I closed the lid on my laptop and called Sabrina. I had a need and I needed my lover.

Five days later I sent Maddie a text. 'Spoke with Stef, no two bedroom suites available, she is watching for junior suites, we have connecting balcony cabins confirmed.'

I loved her reply

"❤️"

~~~

We had three weeks remaining until we had left for the cruise. I was getting excited. Not only for another cruise, but when I got home from the university and smiled wide when I saw two boxes sitting on my front door stoop. Bringing them inside, I was giddy when I opened the boxes pulling out the outfits which I purchased for Tasha. I sent her a text.

'Your packages have arrived; you should come by tomorrow for dinner.' I smiled as I saw her response asking what time, and if she would bring dinner. Her eagerness was a charm I just couldn't do without. There was something so special about this young woman. How could her previous lover walk away from her?

'No I will cook for us, or pick something. Up. Let's have you here for six o'clock.' This will be the second time I had her over to try on clothing, the first time I had her try a nice lace under bust corset. I loved how it displayed her breasts. That would be a formal dinner outfit; of course it was black and would go well with heels.

That night when she arrived for dinner, she was dressed in a nice long raincoat which covered nearly most of her calves. Tasha wore her black heels, having discussed with her previously what I loved her wearing when trying on clothing.

As I closed the front door, Tasha removed her raincoat and revealed her nearly naked and perfect body to me. She chose to wear one of the lavender body stockings I previously bought for her. Tasha turned to me and placed her hands behind her back, she bent her arms allowing for them to cross her middle back, in essence presenting herself to me while standing.

I stepped closer and kissed her cheek. I whispered in her ear. "If I didn't know better I would think you were trying to seduce me dearest."

She rubbed her cheek against mine. I felt the tenderness in her touch. "Mama Bear, your dearest is so excited for tonight and what will come in mere weeks. I shiver inside knowing what you will bring me and I to you."

"Shall we eat and then have you enjoyed trying on the other clothing I have for you?" I stepped back and took her hands and walked her to the kitchen where I had a light salmon salad dinner prepared.

As dinner finished, Tasha cared for the dishes. I stood and walked with her into the sitting room where I had three medium sized boxes filled for her to try on. I was giddy inside knowing the last item would send her for a loop.

We tried on three yellow and white camisoles, a very deep, down to her navel, V-neck lace dress. It barely covered the top half of her ass and fully exposed her legs, I loved it. Next she tried on a strappy leather g-string; this would be her bathing suit for walking the private beach we were going to. Second to last I had her try on three different bra, panty, and stocking sets, all were white or yellow.

When we finished with the last set, I spoke. "I would like for you to go and undress, returning to me wearing just your heels." Tasha nodded. It was then I walked to the last box and opened it. I withdrew the four inch tall thick black and yellow posture collar. The thin yellow leather band was sewn in the collar. The double metal buckles were brushed silver. It came with a three feet long matching leash which had a medium size loop at the end for me to hold.

Across the front was sewn into the leather "In Training". I was thrilled.

I was excited to place it around her neck. Also in the box were a white lace boudoir mask and a six inch leather paddle with the word 'pet' carved into it. Tasha returned to the sitting room. I stood holding her collar behind my back.

Tasha stepped into the room and she came to stop a few steps from me. "Please turn facing away and close your eyes."

As Tasha turned her naked body facing away from me I opened the collar. Carefully opening it wide enough to encase it around her neck, I tucked the posture collar fitting her chin where it belonged and then turned her slightly to secure it around her neck, closing both buckles tight and not choking her.

"Hmmm yes!" I stepped back smiling. "Tasha turn and show me please." I smiled wider and then looked into her eyes. "Is it too tight?"

"No Mama Bear."

"Are you able to turn your head at all or tilt it up and down?" I asked putting my fingers at the base of the collar.

"No Mama Bear, this fits perfectly." She whispered softly.

"Go look into the hall powder room mirror Tasha." I smiled as she turned and walked from the room.

I heard her sobbing but didn't react. I wanted to see what she would say when she returned to the room. It wasn't but a few seconds later when she stepped back into the room. Her hands were behind her back. Her elbows were bent fully, her hands grasping her upper forearm in a pure standing-present position.

"Mama Bear? " she spoke softly. "This is the most amazing I have felt in such a long time. I gladly accept this collar and give myself to you as you seem for our cruise."

The tears streamed down her face. I walked forward and pulled her into a hug. I kissed her wet and tear streaked cheeks. "You will spend the next nights and days here until we depart. We have packing to finish and much to cover and discuss."

Saturday - Before Embarkation

Maddie texted me to say she was pulling into the driveway. I glanced at my phone, looking at it I saw it was just after eight o'clock. I walked towards the kitchen and paused. I walked over to Tasha and placed my hand on her lace covered ass.

"Dearest, do not be alarmed at what you might or might not see. My daughter and I have very few secrets but we are not lovers. I promise that."

I kissed her cheek and rubbed my hand softly across her lace clad bottom. I moved through the kitchen and opened the mud room door, pressed the button for the garage door opening it.

I watched as she pulled in and turned off her car. I pressed the trunk release on my key fob, I popped it open as she and Claire got out of the car, each carrying a suitcase. I already had two in the trunk; one for me and another shared between Tasha and me. Tasha wouldn't need much for the week; we'd agreed on that. She packed a few essentials: an outfit for boarding tomorrow, another for the flight home, and the rest, mostly lingerie. I had a feeling Claire's attire would be similar.

Meanwhile, Tasha had been busy finishing with breakfast. She pulled the croissants from the oven and arranged them neatly in a basket. She then grabbed the cheese and ham from the fridge, along with cut fruit and jam, to finish setting the table.

Maddie walked in with Claire closely behind her. I detected a bit of fear in Claire's eyes. I looked at Maddie and she smiled.

"I thought I would start her early. I only have three weeks of my pet remaining." Maddie smiled again then stepped aside. She placed her hand on Claire's mostly bare ass cheek. "Don't worry I have clothes for her for our flight. She will dress later."

I was in awe when Maddie stepped aside revealing Claire's beautiful body on full display. She was wearing a strappy harness bra. The straps were held together attached to silver hoops at her nipples. The g-string was the thinnest I have ever seen.

"Oh Maddie, she looks gorgeous. I turned to Tasha. "You can remove the apron and show the girls what I have you wearing today." I said.

Tasha untied the apron and lifted it from her body allowing the strap over her hair. The pale yellow bralette and lace panties set showcased her lovely legs and firm ass. I took her hand and raised it allowing her to spin in a circle showing off her body.

Maddie was the first to speak. "Oh mom, she is beautiful! The yellow in contrast with her skin and the collar! Damnit Claire isn't she just scrumptious looking?"

All three of us looked at Claire for her response, she was blushing, she was really blushing. Then I watched as Maddie leaned over and whispered in her ear. Claire's eyes opened wide in surprise. I heard her distinctly "Yes Miss, of course Miss."

"Let's sit and eat please, Tasha has spent so much time preparing." I spoke and moved to my chair. Tasha had anticipated my comment and moved to assist in pulling my chair from the table.

I watched as Clair did the same but then excused herself to the powder room. When she returned we all sat and had a lovely breakfast. We chatted about the cruise and what we wanted to do first after sail away.

I turned to Tasha. She and I had discussed a few things and she wanted to discuss something with Maddie and Claire.

"Mama Bear and Miss Maddie, if I may?" We both nodded. "According to the rules of the Bliss Cruise, we are to be dressed until the Captain makes the announcement that we are in International Waters."

She paused, "Then we are allowed to proceed with the theme of the cruise." She blushed brightly. "There is a second sail away party, it is estimated to start at five o'clock. It is the "Parade of Pets". It is on the Promenade where the Masters and Mistresses may parade their pets for others to view. Some are even allowed to parade around on their own."

Tasha looked at me, I nodded and smiled. "I have asked Mama Bear to allow me to participate, which she has granted." She blushed and then turned to Maddie. "Would you and Claire consider joining us?"

Maddie looked at Claire who was smiling. "Of course we would love to join you Tasha."

It was settled, things were coming together for the cruise. Tasha asked to excuse herself and get her phone; she wanted to add this to the itinerary via the cruise ship app. As she left, Maddie and I discussed a few other details, specifically evening wardrobe and the minimalist dress while onboard.

I could see Claire fighting a bit. "Claire, should we consider something different? You seem to have something on your mind." She lowered her head shaking it. I continued. "Do not worry, I promise you will not be disappointed in the clothing I picked out for your friend Tasha."

I winked at Maddie as Tasha returned with the app. We spent the next two hours discussing different activities which were scheduled and actually registered for three more while sitting there. I was thrilled to see the excitement in Tasha's eyes.

When the time came to depart for the airport, we all dressed. It was just past one o'clock when we all piled into my SUV and drove to the airport. Our flight to Miami went without issues nor delays. We arrived at the hotel and after checking and getting settled we walked over to Biscayne Bay Area for a light dinner and drinks.

As we enjoyed one last glass of wine, I reminded Maddie that we would meet in the lobby for breakfast, if they wanted. Regardless if she and Claire joined us or not, I wanted to leave for the port at 9:30.

I stood and took Tasha by the hand. We strolled a bit along the bay before heading to bed. Tonight we were going to cuddle, starting tomorrow I was going to shift that paradigm and have my way with her.

~~~ End of Tasha Part I ~~~

I hope you enjoyed this story. Part II will be coming out very soon.

If you have the time, please share your thoughts in constructive feedback.

All my love,

Aoife