Belle Unbound Pt. 11

If you're just joining Belle's story, here's what you need to know:

Somewhere out past the dusty roads of 1990s Mississippi, far from curious neighbors or the safety of town, Billy's life was quietly stolen and replaced with someone new--Belle.

The change wasn't his choice, but over time, resistance gave way to survival, and survival began to feel a lot like desire. Now, Belle isn't just a pawn in her twisted neighbor Mr. Carver's game. She's learning to play along, using his obsession to carve out small freedoms wherever she can.

Through Carver, she was drawn into the Circle--a secretive criminal network of powerful men who collect and control girls like her. That's where she met Red: bold, sharp-tongued, and owned by the local police chief.

Red is more than just another trapped girl. She's vibrant, rebellious--someone who makes Belle feel seen. In just one day together, they found something Belle thought she'd lost: friendship, understanding, and maybe even something more. The deeper she sinks into this world, the blurrier the line becomes between pretending and becoming. But if there's any way out, Belle knows one thing for sure--she won't take it alone.

But escape won't be easy. Carver still holds the reins, and if Belle wants to survive, she'll have to keep playing his game. The difference now? She's done being his helpless doll. She's learning how to win.

And maybe her old friend from school Tyler can help her. But how will he feel about her transformation?

At the lodge, where the girls are trained and tested, Belle learned more than she ever wanted to know. Behind a locked door, she found a hidden surveillance room--walls of monitors, archives of tapes, each one capturing private moments meant to be secret. Seductions, humiliations, confessions. The Circle doesn't just take power--they record it. And they use it. Blackmail is the fuel that keeps their world turning.

When Belle and Red were ordered to seduce Senator Hargrove--Tyler's father--the betrayal felt personal. But it also brought clarity. That night, something in Belle broke. And something else hardened. With Red's help, they stole the senator's tape... and dozens of others. A fuse has been lit.

Now Belle knows what she has to do. She needs to warn Tyler, tell him the truth about his father, about the Circle, about everything. But to do that, she'll need a little more freedom--just enough to make the call. And that means one more performance.

Tonight, she must seduce Maxwell Tierney, a close associate of Carver's. Another man, another mask. She tells herself it's just one more act. But the lines are blurring again. Her body obeys too easily. Her smile comes too fast. The pleasure, when it comes, is real. And that scares her most of all.

This is a dark erotic thriller with twisted turns and fierce hearts. Belle may be broken--but she's never beaten.

All characters are over 18 and this is a complete work of fantasy and nothing more.

The audition

The bathroom filled with steam as I turned on the shower, the hot water pelting against the tiles like summer rain. I stood for a moment in front of the mirror, the fog blurring my reflection. My fingers hovered at the hem of my sundress before I pulled it over my head, letting it fall into a heap on the floor.

Naked, vulnerable, I stepped into the water and let it cascade over me. I leaned my head back, closing my eyes as the heat soaked into my skin. The tension that had been coiled tight between my shoulders slowly eased as I scrubbed away the day's grime with a bar of fragrant soap. Lavender. Soothing, clean. It didn't match the storm brewing inside me, but I clung to its gentleness all the same.

I let the water rinse the suds away before smoothing conditioner through my hair, combing it with my fingers until it was soft and sleek.

I toweled off carefully, patting my skin dry before smoothing a thin layer of moisturizer over my body--deliberate, slow strokes that made me feel each curve and hollow. My hands trembled only slightly as I massaged it into my arms, my stomach, my legs.

The makeup came next. I kept my usual face simple--barely-there foundation, a brush of blush, a swipe of gloss. But tonight called for more. Tonight, I needed glamour.

Foundation first, blended carefully until my skin looked flawless. A soft rose blush swept along my cheekbones, adding a hint of life to the porcelain mask. I lined my eyes with kohl, smudging it just enough to create a smoky effect, and layered dark mascara until my lashes fanned thick and dramatic. A deep red lipstick completed the look--bold, confident, impossible to ignore.

I styled my blonde bob with precision, pinning back one side with a gold clip, the other side swept forward to frame my face in a sleek, sharp curve. It wasn't the sweet, sun-kissed style that whispered girl next door. This was sophistication. A woman's look. A mask of elegance.

Next was the plug. Carver suggested it, and it would at least ensure anything that happened tonight would be easier. It was the same plug from my night with Mr Hargrove and Red.

Despite the shame I felt about betraying Tyler, that night with his father had been hot. Hargrove senior was surprisingly tender, and his cock was just delicious. For a moment I remembered it deep inside me, and then later plunging into Red while we kissed. And then the moment he showered us both with his cum. Despite being groomed into this life Carver was right. I was a natural slut.

As I fantasised about Hargrove senior my thoughts drifted and I allowed a naughty thought of what it would be like with Tyler's cock inside me.

Then I picked up the dreaded cock cage. Carver told me it was required for whenever I left the house now. Members of the Circle the only ones who had the key. After pouring some cold water on it and trying to expel my naughty thoughts it calmed down enough to fix the cage in place. The hormones Carver was pumping into me certainly helped damp things down. I clipped it around my shrunken penis, securing the ring around my scrotum.

Finally, I stepped into the lingerie. The black satin bra fitted like a second skin, pushing my growing breasts into a perfect swell. The matching panties hugged my hips, delicate lace edging grazing my thighs. I rolled the silk stockings up my legs slowly, feeling the whisper of fabric against my skin before fastening them to the garters. My heels clicked softly on the floor as I stepped into them--tall, sleek, commanding.

The dress slid over my head, the material cool and smooth against my bare shoulders. It was simple, a classic little black dress that clung to my body in all the right places. It ended just above the knee, modest in length but daring in how it shaped me.

When I emerged, Carver's eyes swept over me with a slow, possessive approval. He smiled that wolfish smile before lifting a black velvet choker from his pocket. My breath caught as he stepped close, the heat of his presence suffocating.

"Perfect," he murmured as he fastened it around my neck. The small gold heart dangled at my throat like a brand. "Now everyone will know who you belong to. Ol' Tierney's in for a treat tonight"

I swallowed, the weight of it heavy against my skin. "Thank you, Daddy," I whispered, the words tasting like ash on my tongue.

Carver asked me to turn, now with my back to him he lifted up my skirt, pulling aside my panties to inspect the butt plug nestled between my cheeks. He applied a playful smack to my ass before dropping the skirt, pleased with what he had seen.

"My god Belle, I've transformed a few girls for the circle, but you are my finest work by a mile. Finest girl in the Circle for my money."

I blushed at the comment. Despite hating Carver and his creepy group of blackmailers and groomers I liked who I'd become. I was a hundred percent Belle now.

With another playful smack on my ass I was free to go.

In the car, I gripped the wheel tightly as I drove. My heart raced, my pulse skittering between fear and something darker, something more dangerous--thrill. I'd betrayed this creep and his powerful group of friends and put in motion a plan to pull them all down. Such was my conditioning it felt insane, reckless even. But I couldn't deny the power humming through me, the sharp edge of danger, my brain switching to slut mode, that made the night feel alive.

The hotel loomed ahead, grand and glittering under the soft glow of streetlights. My beaten up second or third hand car looked out of place among the polished sedans and sleek sports cars, but I ignored the pang of self-consciousness as I parked.

I smoothed my dress, took a breath, and stepped inside the hotel lobby The entrance was a cathedral of marble and crystal, the air humming with soft, expensive music. People glanced my way as I walked through--some curious, some admiring, a few with envy sharpening their gazes.

For the first time, I felt it. Power. Not the kind Carver wielded, but something born of beauty and confidence, a weapon that could cut both ways.

I lifted my chin, let my hips sway, and smiled as if I owned the world.

At the bar, I slid onto a stool, crossing my legs slowly. Out the corner of my eye I could see men leaning in to see my stocking clad thighs. My pulse quickened as I waited, eyes scanning the room for Maxwell Tierney.

I felt like I didn't belong here, not really. But tonight, no one would know.

The bartender, a polished man with dark eyes and a knowing smirk, waited with polite patience as I considered the list of cocktails. It was all I could do to keep my fingers steady, the tension in my chest growing tighter with each passing second.

"A French 75, please," I said, my voice soft but clear. Sophisticated, elegant--the kind of drink a woman like me was supposed to order tonight.

He nodded and moved with smooth efficiency. I kept my eyes forward, forcing myself to ignore the glances from men seated farther down the bar.

The glass arrived, chilled and perfect. I lifted it carefully, watching the bubbles race to the surface before taking a small sip. The sharp citrus and champagne fizz hit my tongue, crisp and bracing. It steadied me.

Until a voice interrupted.

"Well, hello there."

I glanced sideways. He was tall, broad-shouldered, with a crooked grin that thought it was charming. His dark hair was slicked back just enough to make him seem like he belonged here, but his eyes roved with a hunger that made my skin prickle.

"Waiting for someone?" he asked, leaning in just enough that I could smell the faint spice of his cologne.

I smiled politely, thin and practiced. "Yes, I am."

"Then they're a lucky guy." he said, undeterred. His gaze swept over me, lingering where he had no right.

My fingers tightened around the stem of the glass. I tilted my head just slightly, letting my eyes cool to ice. "I'm on a date," I said, the words deliberate, cutting the air between us.

The grin faltered. He raised his hands in mock surrender. "Didn't mean to step on any toes. You have a good night, now."

I watched him retreat before letting out a slow breath. The tension in my shoulders remained, though. Always bracing, always ready.

I took another sip, the bitter tang of gin settling over the nerves curling in my stomach. My mind drifted. Tyler.

What would he think when he saw me here, like this? What would he do when he realized what I'd become?

I gripped the glass tighter. My chest squeezed as the fear I had tried to keep at bay surged forward, cold and relentless. Would he hate me? Would he see me as some kind of freak?

I closed my eyes briefly. No. Tyler was kind. He was good. He wouldn't hurt me, not physically. But disappointment... Disgust...

And then I'd have to tell him what I did with his father...

The weight of it pressed against my ribs, suffocating.

A flicker of movement caught my eye, dragging me back to the present.

Maxwell Tierney had arrived.

Tall and composed, with a predatory elegance that radiated power, he walked into the bar as if he owned it. His dark suit was tailored to perfection, his salt-and-pepper hair swept back with a precision that spoke of wealth and influence.

He spotted me immediately.

The corner of his mouth twitched into a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.

"Belle, I presume? I have to say it was easy to spot you in here. Easily the most beautiful woman here."

Maxwell bent down, picking up my hand. He kissed it gently, his lips barely brushing my skin as his eyes remained locked on mine. A small gesture, yet I felt the dominance in it, a silent assertion of control.

I tilted my body toward him, shifting my legs slightly. The movement was subtle, but his gaze caught it, trailing along the curve of my thighs and lingering just long enough to leave a pulse of heat behind. His attention was like a weight, deliberate and calculated. My pulse quickened, but I gave him a coy smile, slipping into the mask of confidence I knew so well.

"A pleasure to meet you, Mr. Tierney," I murmured, allowing a slight upward tilt of my lips. "You're very kind."

He slid into the seat beside me, his presence filling the space. "Not just kind. Observant. There's a certain art in knowing how to appreciate beauty, wouldn't you say?" He motioned to the bartender, signaling for a drink without breaking eye contact.

"Observation," I replied, swirling my drink lightly, "depends on perspective. Some people only see what they want to see."

Maxwell's smile widened. "Ah, but the clever ones--those like us--see beyond the surface. It's what makes life interesting." He leaned in, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial murmur. "Take my most recent ventures, for example. Acquiring certain assets, toppling those who thought they were untouchable. They underestimated me. They always do."

I listened, allowing just enough admiration to flicker in my eyes, a subtle touch of awe he would expect. He thrived on it, his words flowing easily as he recounted deals and victories that reeked of manipulation. Names fell from his lips, derisive and smug. Powerful men reduced to pawns. His voice was like silk, each word a weave in the tapestry of his ego.

"Business is a game," he continued, his fingers drumming lightly on the bar. "The trick is knowing when to play nice... and when to crush your opponent." His eyes narrowed slightly. "You strike me as someone who understands that balance."

I smiled slowly, a calculated response. "I understand many things."

The bartender returned with his drink--something amber and expensive. Maxwell lifted it in a toast. "To understanding." He clinked his glass against mine, the sound crisp and sharp.

As the alcohol warmed my throat, I let my mind sink into the role. Here, I was poised and captivating, a creature made of allure and shadows. It was a trick of the mind--a flicked switch that dulled the sharp edges of fear. I could play this game. I could even enjoy it.

His gaze grew heavier, more intimate. "And what brings you into this particular circle, Belle? A woman like you could turn heads anywhere."

I let the corner of my mouth curl. I picked up on the double meaning of what he had just said, but didn't let it show. "Sometimes, it's not about turning heads. Sometimes, it's about knowing which ones to avoid."

He laughed, a low, rich sound. "Wise beyond your years. I like that."

Flirting came easily, the words rolling off my tongue as I matched his banter. It was a performance--part seduction, part survival--and I let myself revel in the power of it, the thrill of being seen, admired, desired. A high class escort out to ensnare another victim.

His hand drifted to my leg, brushing the nylon of my thighs. I felt a shiver to his touch. As I shifted in my seat I could feel the silver plug nestled in my ass, and, for a moment, I was glad my cock was caged, swept up in the sexiness of the whole evening.

I was now revelling in the attention I was getting, imagining what the fantasies of the men in the room would have about me. If only they knew what I was wearing underneath, what Tierney was about to do to me.

I swirled my drink, my lips in a pout as my large eyes looked at Tierney. For once he was quiet. I could see that he gulped, his eyes lingering over me.

"So, are you staying her Mr Tierney?" I asked, my face a picture of innocence to this enquiry.

"Why yes young Belle, I have a splendid suite. You should see it, nice living room, balcony that looks out to the river. Huge bed."

I smiled at his last comment, my look full of suggestion. "I would love to see that, seems too good to be true. I hope you aren't planning on sleeping on your own in that big ol' suite of yours."

Tierney gulped again, his body shifted, I could tell he was getting hard and needed to adjust without attraction attention. I'd subtly shifted the power dynamic back to me.

"Well it is kind of lonely. Would you like to come up and see the room for yourself and maybe keep me company."

"Well if you're sure Mr Tierney, if I can keep you company then I will gladly help. As long as you don't find a young thing like me boring of course."

He led me into his suite with a hand at the small of my back, guiding without force but still keeping control. As the door clicked shut, I glanced around, my eyes taking in the opulence.

Polished wood floors gleamed under dim, warm lights. Plush furniture filled the living area, a rich leather couch set before a glass coffee table. Heavy curtains framed the windows, but I could already glimpse the balcony beyond, open to the night and overlooking the Mississippi River.

I stepped forward with confidence, my heels tapping softly against the floor, the nylon of wrapped around my thighs swishing quietly as a crossed one leg in front of the other as I stepped ahead of Tierney, walking in to the room, not waiting for my invitation. Without looking, I knew exactly where Tierney's eyes were locked.

The air smelled faintly of leather and scotch. A perfect setting for a man like Tierney.

The minibar was a sleek corner of temptation, stocked with the finest liquor. I didn't hesitate. Pouring a measure of amber whiskey into a crystal glass, I swirled it gently before bringing it to my lips. I let him watch me, knowing his eyes followed the sway of my hips as I walked to the balcony, pushing the double doors open. Presenting him with the perfect view of my body silhouetted against the soft glow of the lights of the hotel.

The cool night air kissed my skin as I leaned against the rail, the city's lights flickering below. The river stretched dark and wide, a ribbon of shadows and secrets.

Maxwell joined me a moment later. His arm slipped easily around my waist, pulling me just close enough to feel the heat of him.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" His voice was a low murmur, intimate.

I smiled, keeping my gaze on the horizon. "It is. The kind of view that makes you feel on top of the world."

"Power has its perks," he said. His hand tightened slightly at my hip. "But it's lonely at the top."

"Only if you choose to be alone," I whispered, turning just enough to meet his eyes. "Some people prefer it that way."

"Not me," he said, the words rich with meaning. "I prefer... company."

His hand went down my back, resting on my ass, before slipping under my skirt hitching it up, revealing the tops of my stockings and then soft curves of my behind. His fingers traced gently around the edge of one cheek. His light touch sending shivers up my spine.

I smiled at Tierney, a warm inviting smile, my eyes narrowing. I slipped from his touch, walking to the bedroom, swinging my hips as I went, my skirt still up around my waist revelling my panties and stocking tops. I could guess the light was catching the amber butt plug, glinting it from my within the soft curves of my ass cheeks.

I sat on the bed, hitching up my skirt a little more, spreading my legs apart, running my hand over my panties while swirling the whisky in my other hand.

I could see that Tierney was struggling to run over to me, trying to contain his eagerness. I took a long sip of my glass while he walked across the room, as if bored by having to wait for him to arrive.

Tierney started unbuttoning his trousers. I had to say I was a little disappointed, it wasn't a classy move, but pleased to see I was having a positive effect.

He stood in front of me, his pants dropped down to his ankles, his hard cock standing out proud waiting to be serviced. He'd given up on his efforts to seem suave, the horniness had taken over. But I was determined to keep things slow. I gently caressed his balls, before running my finger up the stem of his cock, my touch light, while I took another sip of my drink.

I stood up, slipping away from him again. Placing my drink down I slipped off my dress, revealing my black lingerie to him. I let him take me in for a moment, before I unclipped my bra and slipped off my panties.

For the first time, Maxwell spoke. "You are something else Belle. No wonder you are all the Circle can talk about."

For a moment hearing the Circle mentioned took me off my stride, snapping me out of the headspace I needed to be in. I quickly snapped back.

"Well Mr Tierney, you can't believe what you hear, you have to find out for yourself."

I walked over to him, his hand grabbing my thigh as his hand ran up to my thigh, before resting on my ass.

"Carver has found one in a million with you. Did he really transform you in just a few months? That's never been done before, certainly not so well. Just so perfectly elegant and beautifully. So amazingly feminine."

His fingers reached round to the plug, moving it gently. I moaned softly. I'd managed to ignore his comments about Carver, staying in the zone.

Slipping out of his grasp I bent down on my knees, my face inches from his cock. I leaned forward, licking my shiny lips before placing a gentle kiss on the tip, with the barest of touches. Then I extended my tongue, licking his member from top to bottom. I wanted to hold him on the edge as long as possible.

"Oh god, suck it you hot bitch. Please suck it!"

I smiled up at him. My tease was driving him crazy. Finally I gave him what he wanted, placing my mouth around his mushroom head, my lips bulging as they gently wrapped around his cock. Then I plunged my mouth down on him, taking him deep inside in one long deep throat.

I could hear his gasps of pleasure, feel his hand go to my head, holding my head down on his cock. One minute, then two. My eyes bulged, I started to gag, trying to breathe through my nose. Drool seeping out the sides.

Three minutes.

My hands started to rise to his legs. I wanted to beat them against his legs, get him to stop, but I also wanted to see how long I could go, determined to win at this game we were playing.

Finally he pulled me up, I gasped for air, my eyes watering, saliva drips connecting my open mouth to his penis.

"Oh wow! I can see we are going to have fun. You hot bitch."

He pushed me onto the bed, I turned and crawled along the large mattress, wiggling my behind at him. Following me he reached over and pulled on the plug. I gasped as the object moved inside of me. Slowly he pulled it out. I felt my ass tighten, trying to hold it in, then with a pop, it slipped out.

"So, how do you want me Mister?"

"On your back baby, I want to see that pretty face of yours as I stick my cock in you."

I really hoped he could do classier sexy talk than this. But all the same, the slut in me really did want his cock inside of me, so I did as I was told, opening my legs wide, moving my ass so he could gain entry into me.

His hand fell on my cock cage, teasing it with his fingers. I actually wasn't too bothered about having it set free, now I could easily get a stronger orgasm from a cock deep inside of me.

I looked at his penis as he gripped it, looking to plunge it into my tight hole. Yes, his cock would do. It was a good size and thickness. I imagined how it would feel inside of me as I yearned for him to fuck me.

It didn't take long for me to find out exactly how it felt. I felt his head push into the soft folds of my ass cheeks before pushing against my puckered bud. I gasped, yearning to have him inside me.

"That's it baby, fuck me."

I could see the words push him on, pushing hard against my hole, while I relaxed it as much as I could, welcoming the cock inside of me. His hand moved to my tits, pinching my nipples, making me wince with delightful pain.

"Oh fuck, oh you are so big! Oh please put it inside of me!"

I felt the delicious pain in my ass, his cock pushing hard to be inside me, squeezing at my sphincter. Then with pop, he slipped into me. I let out a gasp of air once he was inside. He fell on my chest, his mouth soon pressed against mine, his tongue eager to explore my mouth.

Soon his pelvis was rising up and down as I felt him deep within me. I could already feel the orgasm building. I thought about what I was doing. A high class whore, dressed in slutty outfit, for this man to dump his cum into. Looking at my stocking clad legs out wide, heels still on. The thought of being a slut just thrilled me. I could feel cum leaking from my caged penis, so small and pathetic next to his meaty man cock deep inside of me.

My legs wrapped around his waist, urging him deep inside of me. I held his head while I moved my head next to his, my tongue teasing his ear.

"Good god Belle, you are the best fuck I've had in years. Oh god! Oh! I'm cumming, I'm gonna fill up your little ass-cunt with all my juice baby."

"Well come on big boy. Fuck me like the little whore I am!" I dared him.

His ass moved up in the air, pushing down hard with all of his might, our body slapping together as he fucked me for all he was worth, frantic now, not holding back.

With a loud cry he came hard inside me. As soon as I could feel his sperm filling up my insides as he pushed his penis deep into me, I burst into an orgasm, crying as I held on tight to him, my nails digging into his back.

He stayed in me for a minute, before slipping out. Exhaustion and satisfaction across his face. This hard edged businessman, member of the Circle, now under my spell.

Finally he spoke. "You know this was one hell of an audition."

Audition, what did he mean by that? I rolled over onto his chest, my hand circling his stomach, before rising up and teasing a nipple.

"Audition? What audition baby?"

He turned to me, suddenly a little aware of what he had let slip out.

"Well Carver is auctioning your contract. I placed a large holding bid. I thought I might be overpaying, but good god, you are one hot piece of ass. I think we are going to really get to know each other sweetness. I can see you are going to help me with a lot of deals."

My emotions raged behind carefully neutral eyes.

This was always the truth of the Circle, wasn't it? Contracts dressed up as luxury, ownership draped in silk and champagne. But hearing it said aloud--hearing my name, my life, distilled into a commodity--struck me like a blade between the ribs.

I felt my stomach churn, a sickening whirl of revulsion and fury. My fingers twitched, wanting to throw the glass in my hand, to watch it shatter against the marble floor. But I held it tighter instead, the cold crystal grounding me in the moment.

A mask. I wore it well. I always had.

As much as getting away from Carver without causing harm to myself or Red had been my goal, I had no idea what Maxwell Tierney was like, and whether I was stepping out of the frying pan into the fire.

I offered a slow smile, softening the edges of my mouth as if the words "auction" and "ownership" hadn't clawed into my soul. "Interesting. I didn't realize Carver was quite so... creative with his business model."

Tierney chuckled, pleased with himself, as if he'd just shared an inside joke that only we could appreciate. "He's a visionary. And it's rare that we see something of your... quality come through. Just what he has achieved in such a short space of time..."

He ran his hand down my back, letting it rest on my hips. His eyes looked me up and down, as if I was his new sports car, one he'd just test driven before committing to owning.

"The bidding will be fierce for you. You are quite special." His hand tightened ever so slightly on my waist, a subtle claim. "But I'm a man who knows how to win."

The room seemed too small, the air too thick. My heartbeat quickened, the weight of a thousand unsaid things pressing against my lungs. Rage seethed beneath my skin, a beast clawing to break free. They would never own me.

I swallowed the fire rising in my throat, pushed it deep into the corners of my mind where it would burn unseen. There was too much at stake to let it show. Not now. Not here.

"Oh," I murmured, my voice a silken purr that belied how I felt inside, "I've always liked a man with ambition."

I tilted my head, letting my hair fall just enough to frame my face, watching his reaction through lowered lashes. His eyes darkened with desire, but the gleam of conquest was unmistakable.

"Ambition," he repeated, brushing a finger down my arm, "is what separates the wolves from the sheep."

Wolves and sheep. My smile never faltered. What an asshole.

I would remember every word. Every smirk. Every breath.

Meeting Tyler

I waited till Tierney was asleep. I'd had to give him another blowjob to finally satisfy him that evening. He hadn't taken that long, though my jaw ached from the throat fuck he'd given me at the end. He had said he wanted to cum over my face, but I didn't want to leave looking completely indecent.

I now knew how to get a man to cum when I wanted them to, making him spill his load into my mouth. What buttons to press, how to use my tongue, how to look in their eyes. Truth was I enjoyed sucking cock as well. Enjoyed the smell, the taste and even the cum in my mouth.

I padded out to the bathroom, cleaning myself up and slipping on my dress. I'd packed a second pair of stockings, assuming correctly the ones I wore would be stained or ripped. I clipped them on, pulling down my skirt, then reapplied my makeup, making myself decent again.

I sneaked out of the room. I was still angry at Tierney, but I had enjoyed the sex. But I sincerely hoped I wouldn't see him again. Contract or not.

As soon as I was in the hall I slipped on my heels and made my escape back to Carver's.

Carver was fast asleep when I came in. Thankful for small mercies I took a quick shower and slipped into bed. My thoughts drifted to tomorrow.

----

The morning light spilled through the gauzy curtains, brushing the room in soft gold as I stirred, the edges of sleep still clinging to me. A shadow moved in my periphery. My breath caught as my eyes flew open.

Carver.

He sat in the chair by the window, the same wicked grin curving his lips, his eyes gleaming like a cat that had just cornered its prey.

"Good morning, Belle," he drawled, his voice a low purr of satisfaction. "I must say, you were magnificent last night. Maxwell Tierney couldn't stop talking about you."

I pushed myself up on my elbows, heart racing but expression carefully composed. "I'm glad you're pleased."

"Pleased?" His grin widened. "Over the moon. You exceeded all my expectations. A true prize."

The words curdled in my stomach, but I let the mask of demure acceptance settle over my face.

"That's what I wanted. To make you proud."

He stood, smoothing his polo shirt as he walked closer. "And you have. I'll be thinking of ways to reward you properly. But in the meantime, is there anything you want? Good girls who do what they are asked get 'treats.'"

My pulse quickened. This was it. My chance.

I tilted my head, letting my hair cascade over one shoulder. "Actually... I was hoping to take the day for myself. A little time to enjoy my new car and... clear my head."

His eyes narrowed, considering. I held my breath, heart thudding like a trapped bird. For a terrible moment, I thought he would say no.

Then he nodded. "You've earned it. Take the day. Enjoy yourself, Belle. But don't forget where you belong."

Relief surged so strongly I felt lightheaded. "Thank you," I murmured, keeping my voice soft. "I won't forget."

He chuckled as he left, his footsteps receding down the hall. The door clicked shut, and I exhaled, tension draining from my body.

------

I swung my legs out of bed, bare feet touching the cool floor. What to wear? This was going to be a shock for Tyler. I couldn't be dressed as Billy. With all the changes I'd look odd now in boy clothes. Billy was gone for good. Besides, best Tyler knew the truth of who I was, for good or ill.

But I had to look... perfect. Not too much, not too little--just enough to show him who I was now without pushing him away.

I chose a fitted blouse in a soft lavender hue, pairing it with a skirt that brushed just above my knees. Feminine. Approachable. The kind of look that whispered confidence but left room for warmth. I brushed my blonde bob into smooth perfection and applied makeup with a delicate hand, enough to accentuate my features without overwhelming them.

I looked, well, normal. Pretty, but nothing outrageous. Just a young girl out for the day.

As I slid into my car, butterflies swarmed my stomach. I gripped the wheel tightly, staring down the road. Tyler's face filled my mind, his smile, his voice. My heart ached with longing. But beneath the excitement, fear coiled tight. Would he see me--truly see me--and accept what I had become?

I couldn't know. But I had to try.

I called Tyler at a payphone near town, before I'd driven too far, telling him I was headed out to Jackson. I said I'd have a red cap on, which confused Tyler. "Man, you can't have changed that much buddy, I'd pick you out in a crowd no problem."

We'd agreed to meet at a diner or some sort. Neither of us knew Jackson at all, so we arranged to meet at a Howard Johnson I'd found in the directory.

I had told Tyler what my car looked like. There was a faded "American by Birth, Southern by the Grace of God" sticker on the bumper from the previous owner, so he could be sure it was mine and he'd got the right place.

It was going to take Tyler longer to get to Jackson than it would me, so I pulled up near the river, watching the boats sailing up and down the mighty Mississippi while I gathered myself. I checked my watch after an hour or so--time to go.

I parked up at a slightly beaten-up Howard Johnson, walked into the diner, and ordered a large cup of coffee that I didn't intend to drink, my stomach doing flips over what was to come. The smell of breakfast food actually made me slightly queasy. I asked for a quiet booth in the corner.

I was glad to see the diner was busy. Less likely Tyler might make a scene this way, though it was no guarantee. My coffee arrived, and I thanked the waitress, staring at the steam lifting from the oversized mug. Out of my bag, I pulled out a red cap I'd bought at a service station that morning, placed it on my head, and awaited my fate.

"Hey, buddy! Oh, sorry, Miss, I was looking for someone else."

It was Tyler. He looked different--more grown-up, muscles larger from a term of college football no doubt. He looked fantastic.

"Tyler, you better sit down," my voice almost cracked as I spoke.

Tyler looked confused, but he slid into the seat opposite me.

"Sorry, Miss, I don't quite understand. Do you know Billy? How do you know me?"

Here we go.

"Tyler, it's me. Billy. Or rather, that's who I used to be."

Tyler blinked, then laughed--until his gaze locked on mine, searching. Recognition flared in his eyes. I took off the cap, shaking my hair loose. He leaned back, stunned, his head shaking slowly.

I braced myself for him to lose it--to walk away, turn the table over, shout and scream. Finally, his mouth moved as his mind processed what he was seeing.

"Goddamn, Billy," he whispered, a smile creeping up, "you make a much better girl than you ever did a guy."

Tears welled up before I could stop them. I wanted to sob, but I wouldn't make a scene.

"I'm sorry, Tyler. I know this is... a lot."

He chuckled, shaking his head in amazement. "A lot? Fuck yeah, maybe it is. But, Billy you're stunning. Not like a dude in a dress or anything. I mean..." He laughed again, rubbing the back of his neck. "You're beautiful, plain and simple. I would never have known."

Relief flooded my chest so powerfully, I thought I might float.

"You're taking this better than I thought," I said, voice trembling with gratitude.

"Bud-- I think I always knew you were different. Didn't bother me then. Sure as hell doesn't bother me now. I mean, damn, I think I figured it out before you did."

I smiled. "I think you did, too."

Of course he was ok with it. He was Tyler. He looked like every other high school jock, but he was much deeper than that. More caring. More thoughtful.

Our conversation drifted naturally after that--about how and why, the changes I had made and the things that stayed the same. He asked the questions I expected, teasing without cruelty. Did I like girls (yes, mostly)? Men (same answer)? Had I "cut anything off?" (fuck no!). Were my boobs real? (yes). Did I play with them? (sometimes).

He saw how much more at ease I was. And as for me? I saw Tyler. Just Tyler. My truest friend.

"So, what do I call you now? Are you still Billy, I mean if you stick an 'i' on the end the kinda works."

"I'm Belle now."

"So Belle, are you happy?"

I took a moment to think about my answer.

"I'm happy you are here. Happy you didn't punch me or storm out. Over the moon in fact."

"Like I'd ever. Don't you know me? If I didn't know you, I'd have no idea you had, ahem, extra bits. Not in a million years. Hell, when you called my name, my first thought was, 'when did I get that lucky?'" His smile broadened. "You could run for Miss America."

We fell into our old rhythm like we'd never been apart. I started to feel hungry again, and we split a stack of pancakes, laughing over old memories.

The waitress reappeared with a smile. "Can I get you lovebirds anything else?"

I blushed furiously. "Oh, no, we're just friends," I stammered. "Good friends."

She smirked leaning over to Tyler while gesturing to me. "Well, boy, you're a fool if you let her stay in the friend zone. Good-looking couple like you two..."

We laughed until our sides hurt. I couldn't tell Tyler that I'd thought about it. Thought about it a lot.

We left and made our way to his pickup. He drove us out to an old trail a buddy from university had recommended. The autumn sun hung bright in a clear, endless sky.

I was surprised by how easily Tyler settled into the outdoors with me--how natural it felt. Every now and then, he'd stop, turn toward me, and shake his head with a grin.

"God damn!" he'd say, as if he still couldn't believe his eyes.

We walked the path while he talked about university life--his love for football still strong, though he was beginning to understand his limits. His focus had shifted to law school now, maybe even following in his father's footsteps.

As soon as he mentioned his dad, I knew there was no avoiding the real reason I'd sought Tyler out.

I took a breath and then started to tell him the unsayable.

"Tyler, I need to talk to you about something. It's serious--something that affects you and your family."

He smiled like he thought I was teasing. But the weight in my voice turned his grin into a furrowed brow. We found a park bench, far from any eyes or ears.

"It's about your dad," I said. "He's mixed up in something bad. Something that could ruin his career--or worse."

"There's an organisation, something I've got involved in. They aren't nice people Tyler, and they have something on your father. Something he did, something bad. Something that could ruin his career. Ruin your family Tyler."

His face went pale, then flushed red as fury surfaced beneath the shock.

"What sort of thing?"

I hesitated answering him, but Tyler guessed.

"He's been fucking around hasn't he? How fucking stupid can you be!"

"Listen Tyler. These people... the people he's mixed up with, they don't just control you. They can destroy you, there's no running away. They have connections everywhere. And they want to have leverage on him, which they have. Add him to their web."

"Goddamn it. I knew it." His fists clenched, voice a bitter snarl. "Son of a bitch. Ma keeps pretending things are fine--like the distance, the fights, all of it, are just normal. But I've known for a long time he can't keep his pants zipped."

My stomach clenched, but I pressed on. "It's more than that. The Circle... they aren't just thugs or ordinary criminals. They're businessmen, police, judges--men with power. It's a whole conspiracy. If they can't recruit you, they'll control you. They use women--girls to get people to do what they want."

Tyler's jaw tightened. His eyes flicked up to meet mine. I could see a thought start to germinate in his mind.

"Use them how?"

I felt my throat tighten. Every word hurt. "They buy them. Sell them. Use them however they want. No consequences. They're... slaves." I drew a ragged breath. "That's how they trapped your dad."

"Jesus," he whispered, the word a breathless curse. His eyes darkened, and his voice dropped.

"Billy..."

I flinched.

"Girls like how you are now?"

The tears started before I could hold them back. I stared down at our hands, unable to speak.

After a long beat, I nodded.

I expected anger or revulsion. Disgust. Coming out to him as a girl was one thing, but owning up to what I'd been doing was another. I had braced myself for the worst--for him to pull away and break what little remained of my heart.

But instead, his hand covered mine.

"Billy..." His voice softened as he corrected himself. "Belle. I've always cared for you. Loved you. Always. That hasn't changed. It never will."

"But I've done--" My voice cracked. "I've done terrible things, Tyler. Shameful, degrading things...."

I paused for second. "You know I was one of those girls. With your--"

Before I could finish, he pulled me into his arms. His embrace was strong, solid. A place I hadn't known I could still belong.

"Listen," he murmured, his voice low, steady. "I know. I know. And I'm still here."

I broke apart--completely, utterly shattered--but his arms held me together. His hands were sure as I clung to him, the sobs wracking my chest.

Then everything poured out: how Carver had groomed me, sold me, shaped me into something I couldn't recognize. How I survived. The Circle. The soirees. The lodge. I didn't give him every detail--I couldn't--but I gave him enough.

He never flinched. Never let go.

When I spoke of Red, my feelings for her, I searched his face for judgment. Instead, he smiled--a warm, genuine smile that broke me all over again.

"I'm glad you found someone. You needed that."

"I did," I whispered. "But now... now I have to go back."

Tyler's face hardened. His knuckles went white, and for a moment, I saw the fierce protector he had been when we were kids.

"Back to him? To Carver?" The name seethed from his lips like poison. "Hell no."

"I have to." My voice was barely above a whisper. "It's the only way to stay safe. If I run now, he'll find me."

His breath came hard, shoulders heaving. Then his hand cupped my cheek, his eyes burning into mine. "I'm going to fix this. I swear to God, Belle. I'll fix it. You just... stay alive. Promise me you'll stay safe."

I nodded, tears welling again. He pulled me close one last time, his arms a fortress around me. His warmth, his strength--God, how I needed it.

His lips pressed to my forehead. I lifted my gaze. For a heartbeat, we stayed like that, my breath hitching as his eyes searched mine.

And then--soft, sure--he kissed me. A kiss that was everything: fierce, tender, real.

"You're beautiful," he whispered against my lips. "You've always been beautiful. We'll get through this. Together."

The kiss left me breathless. Light. Whole, if only for a moment.

When I skipped back to my car, my heart was full.

Thank you for continuing Belle's story with me. Ongoing series like this don't always get the love that one-shots do, so if you're enjoying the journey, a kind word or comment really does mean the world. I'd love to hear from you.

With love,

Tania x