Travel Day

“Time to wake up, honey.” Robert hears, just before he feels a cold hand on his foot.

“Nooo….” He hears another voice whine.

Sitting up and opening his eyes, he sees Jane at the foot of the bed, and Reyna struggling with waking up while it is still dark outside.

“Thanks, sweetie.” He says, sliding off the bed to give Jane a kiss, before moving into the bedroom for a very quick shower to help him wake up.

“Don’t make me get some cold water.” Jane threatens the girls.

“I’m awake.” Taylor says, rolling out of the way.

“Ugh…” Reyna grumbles, as she sits up.

“Once you are awake enough, please carry Robert’s bags down, and put them by the door to the garage.” Jane says. “I’m going to make sure everyone is up and moving.”

Stepping out of the master bedroom, Jane moves onto the first bedroom, opening the door to find the girls already up, and getting dressed.

“Good job, girls.” Jane says. “Go ahead and put your bags by the door to the garage. Robert should be down in ten or fifteen minutes.”

Moving into the bunk bed room, Jane finds the going a bit slower. Waving at Samira, who is already moving, she moves onto Lindsey’s bunk. “Lindsey, time to get moving.” She says, gently shaking her foot.

Lindsey responds by pulling her foot tighter to her body, and curling up into a ball.

Stepping in between the rows of beds, Jane reaches out and grabs her through the blanket, shaking her a bit more roughly. “Lindsey, wake up.”

“Don’t want to.” Lindsey murmurs.

“Life is full of things we don’t want to do, but still have to be done.” Jane says, shaking her again. “Welcome to real life.”

Raising her voice a bit, she says. “Girls, it’s time to wake up. Robert and the other girls are leaving in twenty minutes, and when I get back, we are leaving for the new house.”

Lindsey curls up even more, putting her head under the blankets.

“I’ll take care of this.” Samira says. “We’ll be down in ten minutes.”

Looking around, she noticed that Layne’s bunk was empty. “Did Layne not come to bed?” Jane asks.

“I’m not sure.” Samira admits. “She got up after she finished her exploration last night, and I went straight to sleep. I haven’t seen her since.”

Stepping out of the bedroom, Jane goes down the stairs, finding Layne in the breakfast area, passed out in a chair, two finished collars in front of her, and a third partially finished one in her hands.

“She looks so peaceful.” Jane thinks. “Maybe we can let her rest for a few more minutes.”

Hearing a few girls tromping down the stairs behind her, she turns back, “Hush.” Jane says, finger over her lips. Stepping closer to the stairs, she says. “Layne fell asleep at the table working on the collars last night. Try to keep it down; I’d like to let her rest as long as she can.”

Taylor nods, and walks more softly down the stairs, while Jane sees Reyna slip back up the stairs, presumably to tell the other girls to keep it down.

“She is so cute when she’s asleep.” Taylor says, gesturing towards the sleeping girl with her head.

“And so quiet.” Jane says with a grin. “You should have heard her last night.”

“What happened last night?” Taylor asks curiously.

“After she watched the three of you last night, she was curious, so we did a quick anatomy lesson.” Jane says. “Let’s just say that once she found her clit, she couldn’t get enough of it.”

Taylor laughs, holding her hand in front of her mouth to muffle the noise.

“I’d like you, Reyna, and Megan to keep an eye on her.” Jane says quietly. “She’s probably going to have lots of questions, I was hoping that you three can guide her a bit, and keep her out of trouble.”

“I think we can do that.” Taylor says.

*****

When the van pulled out of the driveway, it contained at least one thoroughly miserable girl.

“It’s too early.” Lindsey complains. “Couldn’t we have done a later flight?”

“Lindsey, you were literally sitting there while we worked on this.” Jane says. “There were limited options where the seats were all together. And I doubt you wanted to be put next to a stranger, halfway across the plane from Robert, where God knows what could happen.”

“Umm… No…” Lindsey admits.

“Good, then let’s not do any more whining.” Jane says. “We’ll be at the airport in thirty minutes, and then we will see how the new TSA process for concubines goes.”

“I’m a bit nervous.” Lucia admits. “I’ve never flown before. I heard TSA was bad before, I can’t imagine how bad it is going to be now.”

“Make sure you stay near me.” Robert says, looking back to reassure her. “I want all five of you as close to me as you can get. If anyone does anything to you that I don’t see, tell me immediately, and I’ll handle it. That includes TSA. Don’t do anything that will get you in trouble.”

“And Amber, if Robert isn’t around for some reason, you are going to have to speak up for the girls.” Jane adds.

“I won’t let anyone mistreat the other girls, Mistress.” Amber says. “They are doing this trip because of me, and I plan to do my best to make sure they don’t regret it.”

“Good.” Jane says, briefly making eye contact with her in the mirror, and offering her a smile.

When they pull into the airport, Jane says. “Ok girls, time to wake up and get ready. When I stop the van at the curb, get out, and start unloading your bags. If anyone speaks to you, let Robert or Amber answer for you, unless they give you permission to speak. Any last questions?”

Robert looks back, fully expecting Lindsey to have something to say, but when his gaze meets her, she simply shakes her head.

“Good.” Jane says. “Don’t forget to get breakfast before you get on the plane. Everything on the plane costs money, even a bottle of water, or a tiny bag of pretzels. If you eat before you get on, and the plane is on time, you may be able to skip paying the insane pricing on the plane. And make sure to use the restroom before you get on too.”

“We’ve got it, honey.” Robert says, as the van comes to a stop at the terminal. “I love you.”

“Please be safe.” Jane says, expression suddenly worried. “I can’t do this without you.”

“We’ll be fine.” Robert says, leaning over to give her a kiss.

As the kiss breaks, Jane says. “I love you.”

When Robert exits the van, he is pleasantly surprised to see the girls are all on the sidewalk, lined up with the luggage. “Well done, girls.” He says. “Wave goodbye to Jane, and then we can see how bad TSA is going to be today.”

The girls do, moving single file past the passenger window, ending with Amber, who takes up the rear. As Jane pulls off, Robert begins walking into the terminal, followed by his girls.

Looking around, Robert spots the airline desk, and walking up to it, eventually manages to get the attention of one of the middle-aged women working it.

“Hi, we are on the eight A.M. flight out to San Francisco.” Robert says.

The woman looks at him oddly, and then stepping to the side, appears to count the women behind him. “Are all.. five… of these women with you?” She asks.

“Yes.” Robert answers curtly.

“And they are concubines?” She asks.

“Four of them are.” Robert says. “Amber, the young lady at the end, is an authorized handler.”

“Will you be checking your concubines?” The woman asks. “Or will they be accompanying you in the cabin?”

“Checking them?” Robert asks incredulously.

“Oh, yes.” The woman asks. “If you wish, we can put them in the cargo hold. It’s pressurized and climate controlled, they will be perfectly fine down there.”

“They are all staying with me.” Robert says, taking out his phone, and opening up the email Jane forwarded to him that morning, containing the ticket information. “Here is the ticket info.”

With a disapproving look, the woman scans the six tickets, before looking up. “I take it you didn’t print your boarding passes? I can do it now, but it’s a twenty-dollar fee per pass.”

“We didn’t.” Robert says. “I can’t just use the ticket email?”

“Not unless you have TSA precheck.” The woman asks. “Did you by chance do that for all of you?”

“No.” Robert sighs. “Fine, we’ll pay for the passes.”

“Here you go, sir.” The woman says a minute later, handing over the passes, and taking his credit card. After swiping it, she hands it back, saying. “Did you plan on checking your bags?”

“Yes, one for each of us.” Robert says, setting his up on the platform. Turning around, he grabs Lucia’s bag, and puts it next to his, motioning for the girls to each bring theirs up.

“Let me check your tickets, and make sure you already added the checked baggage option.” The woman says, clicking through her system. “Ah, yes, you did. That’s good, otherwise it would be an extra Forty-nine dollars per bag.”

“Is there anything that isn’t extra?” Robert asks, frustration getting the best of him.

“This is a budget airline, sir.” The woman responds, fake smile plastered on her face.

Robert sighs, and doesn’t respond as the woman scans each of the bags, adding the next to the platform as she removes the previous one.

“All done.” The woman says a few minutes later. “Security is up the escalator, to the right.”

Robert begins moving in that direction, slowing for a moment to look behind him, verifying that the girls are right behind him.

As they reach the TSA line, an agent approaches them. “Sir, are these concubines with you?” The agent asks.

“Yes.” Robert answers.

“Please come with me.” The agent responds, gesturing off to the side, and without waiting to see if Robert is following, moves in that direction, not stopping until he reaches a door. Opening it, he holds it open, waving Robert and the girls through.

Once inside, they see a metal detector, and a small group of TSA agents waiting. “Hand your bags to this agent, and then step through the detector one by one.” The agent says. “Then follow the directions of the agents on the other side.”

Robert steps through, his belt setting off the detector. The agents swarm him, yelling for him to put his arms up, and stand against the wall, while they wave wands over him, eventually being satisfied that he was clean. As he turns around, flustered and angry, he sees an agent pawing through his laptop bag, and Lucia about to step through the metal detector.

“STOP!” Robert says loudly, and Lucia freezes. “Lucia, take off anything that might set off the metal detector. Jewelry, collar, ANYTHING. The rest of you girls too.”

Looking over at the agent, he asks. “What the hell is this about? You guys have always been gropy, but this is ridiculous. I don’t believe for a second that you didn’t expect that I had some metal on me.”

“It’s the new policy.” The agent replies in an unapologetic tone. “After the bombing in Boise last night, security has been heightened, especially for concubines and their supposed owners.”

“Bombing?” Robert asks. “I didn’t hear anything about a bombing.”

“A man and woman traveling as an owner and concubine blew up a TSA checkpoint. Forty people died.” The agent informs him. “I deeply apologize for the tiny inconvenience you are suffering, but it’s necessary to stop more people being blown up.”

“That still doesn’t explain why you aren’t having people remove metal before going through the detector.” Robert insists, the agent’s attempt at shaming him failing completely.

“New policy.” The agent says. “We are working out the kinks still.”

Lucia and Emily manage to pass through without issue, but Lindsey sets off the detector. The agents swarmed her, slamming her to the ground, pinning her while they waved the wand around, getting excited when it went off near her lower stomach.

As one of the agents jabbers into his radio, the agent Robert had been questioning about procedure stays between Robert and Lindsey. “Stay still sir, or you will be restrained.”

Watching the men paw at Lindsey, Robert flushes, but manages to stop himself from pushing past the man to try to help Lindsey.

As they flip Lindsey over, one of the men asks another. “Full strip and cavity search?”

“Absolutely not. She is my property, and you’ve already potentially damaged her.” Robert snaps. “Lindsey, what is setting off their detector?”

“Belly button.” She gasps, eyes wide, and face incredibly red.

“Pull up her shirt enough to see her belly button.” Robert tells them. “My wife must have let her put in a ring without telling me.”

The men do, reluctantly letting her up when they use the wand again, finding nothing except the ring.

Stepping over to help her up, Robert quietly asks. “Why didn’t you mention that?”

“I forget that I have it.” Lindsey hisses, while she puts her collar back on. “That doesn’t give them an excuse to grab my pussy.”

“Do you usually let your slaves talk to you like this?” One of the agents asks. “We can give her a crash course in obedience if you’d like.” He pulls a handheld taser from his belt, setting it off to show sparks.

“I can handle my girls just fine.” Robert says, looking back at Lindsey, and giving her a warning look.

“I’m sorry, Master.” Lindsey mumbles.

When the rest of the girls make it through the metal detector, they were directed down a side hallway, before being seated on a bench. “Your bags will be brought to you when they are done being searched.” The agent says. “Stay here.”

“Are you ok?” Emily asks Lindsey in as quiet of a tone as she can manage.

“No!” Lindsey says, not nearly as quietly as Robert would have liked. “That asshole felt me up. He’d already felt the belly button ring; he just wanted a bonus grab.”

“Lindsey, control your volume.” Robert says. “I’m sorry it happened, and even more sorry that I couldn’t do anything to stop it. When we get to California, maybe you can try to find us a way home that doesn’t involve TSA.”

“I will.” Lindsey insists, glowering at him. “I’d rather stay there than go through that again.”

“What about your grandmother?” Amber asks her.

Lindsey doesn’t respond, just crossing her arms and glowering.

A few minutes later, two agents arrive with their carry-ons. “We had to seize a few suspicious items, sir.” The man says. “Here is your claim ticket, if you wish to file to get them back once they are inspected at our security facility.”

“How long will that take?” Robert asks, glancing down at the ticket.

“A few months, most likely.” The man says. “Assuming that the testing isn’t destructive, and they come back as innocuous, they can be reclaimed at that point.”

Robert reads the ticket, seeing that the confiscated items included an encrypted thumb drive, as well as two ‘suspicious’ metallic cylindrical objects from the girl’s baggage.

“I need that thumb drive back now.” Robert insists. “It’s the property of my company.”

“Sorry, can’t do that.” The agent says. “Anything encrypted is seized until the contents can be decrypted. Be glad we are allowing the laptop and your phones through.”

“It’s not a data drive.” Robert explains. “I have to put it in the computer in order to use it, to prove it’s me.”

“Our system says to seize it.” The agent says, turning to leave.

As the agents begin to walk away, Robert asks. “Are we free to go?”

Turning back to him, the agent says. “No. Someone will be here in a moment to speak to you.”

“Fuck.” Robert says, pulling out his phone. “Girls, make sure nothing else is missing. Lucia, can you keep hold of this ticket?”

Lucia takes the ticket, holding onto it tightly as Robert begins to dial his phone. When it connects, he says. “Marsha, sorry for calling so early. Did you see the email I sent last night?”

“I did.” Marsha says. “What about it? It’s five A.M. where I’m at.”

“Well, we are at the airport now, and TSA has already abused one of my girls, and now they’ve seized my two-factor authentication drive.” Robert says.

“That’s not good.” Marsha says. “Did you explain that the key just lets you into the laptop? And did they take that too?”

“I’ve still got the laptop, and yes, I explained, until the guy walked away.” Robert says. “They don’t seem interested in listening to anything we have to say.”

Marsha yawns, loudly enough that Robert moves the phone a bit away from his ear. “I’ll make a call. If they don’t return the key before you get on your flight, text me.”

With that, the line goes dead.

“Is everything going to be ok?” Lucia asks, voice slightly shaky.

“I don’t know.” Robert says. “I hope so.”

*****

“Sir, we need you to come with us.” Another agent says, surprising Robert, who has been absorbed in his own thoughts.

He stands up, followed by his girls, when the agent says. “Just you.”

“If I’m not back in twenty minutes, call Jane.” Robert tells the girls, before turning to follow the agent.

Reaching a doorway, Robert follows the man into a room that is empty, with the exception of a table and two chairs. Motioning at one chair, the agent sits in the other.

“What is the purpose of your travel today?” The agent asks.

“We are heading to the Northern California Children’s Education Camp.” Robert says. “To pick up an eight-year-old girl named Isabel Torres. My authorized handler is her biological mother. Our local BAA representative has arranged for us to adopt her, so Amber can get her daughter back.”

“And what is the purpose for bringing four concubines with you on that task?” The agent asks, eyebrow raised.

“My wife insisted.” Robert says, forcing a smile and a small chuckle. “You know how it is, I’m sure.” Robert nods at the man’s wedding ring.

The man relaxes a bit. “Oh, I do. Mine isn’t as accepting of my concubines as yours is though. She’d probably insist I DIDN’T take them on a trip.”

“Look, your guys seized a USB drive I had on me.” Robert says, seeing an opening. “It’s not a regular USB drive; it just lets me log into my laptop. I really need that back.”

“Can’t do anything about that.” The agent says. “How long are you going to be in California?”

“Hopefully less than a week.” Robert answers. “Why?”

“Just questions we have to ask.” The agent asks. “And where are you staying?”

“My wife booked an Airbnb near the camp.” Robert says. “I don’t remember the exact location. I can have her send me the booking information, I guess.”

“And who is your point of contact at the camp?” The agent asks.

“I honestly don’t know.” Robert says, exasperation creeping into his voice. “Look, my wife sent the girls, in large part, to keep up with this stuff.”

“So, when we ask them, they will all know the details?” The agent asks.

“Each of them will know something.” Robert says. “I don’t know who was handling what. Look, why don’t I just call my BAA rep, and he can vouch for us?”

“Write down his name and number.” The agent says, pulling out a small notepad and pen, and handing it over.

Robert pulls out his phone, getting Tom’s number, and writing it down. “What else do you need from us? We’d like to be on our way.”

“If this all checks out, you’ll be on your way soon.” The agent says.

*****

Half an hour later, the agent finally returns.

“Good news.” The agent says. “Your concubines and handler corroborated your story, as did your BAA rep. If you want to follow me, I’ll take you to your concubines, and then you will be free to go.”

Robert stands immediately, eagerly following the agent back the way they initially came, past the bench where they had waited, until they reached double doors leading back to the public area of the airport. “Your concubines and handler were released a few minutes ago.” The agent says, nodding at the double doors. “They should be waiting through there.”

Robert eagerly pushes through the doors, looking around, until he spots the girls huddled up about fifty feet away. Walking quickly towards them, Lucia spots him first, turning and running to him. As she reaches him, she doesn’t stop, thudding into his chest with enough **** to knock the wind out of him, and holding onto him far more tightly than he imagined she was capable of doing.

He feels tears soaking into his shirt, and looking up, he sees the rest of the girls approaching, many in a similar emotional state. “Are you girls ok?” Robert asks, one hand rubbing the back of Lucia’s head comfortingly.

“I think so.” Amber says, stepping closer, and lowering her voice. “They didn’t hurt any of us, but they made threats. Some of the girls are a bit freaked out.”

Looking around, Robert surveys the faces looking back at him. Lindsey’s face is even redder than when she had been restrained, Emily is even paler than usual, and Samira looks almost green.

“Master, can I go home, please?” Samira asks. “I don’t think I can do this again.”

Looking at Emily, she reluctantly nods in agreement.

Lindsey helpfully adds. “We aren’t getting on the plane.”

“I’m really sorry.” Amber says. Robert isn’t sure if she is talking to the girls, or to him. “I…”

“Ladies, we are through the worst of it.” Robert says. “There is no TSA when we get off the plane. If we turn around now, not only are we letting Amber and Isabel down, but it means that what we all just went through was pointless.”

This is met with some sullen glances, and mutters from Lindsey.

Robert tries to pull Lucia away, but she clings to him even tighter. “Amber, did you tell Jane what was going on yet?”

“Not yet, Master.” Amber says. “I was waiting a few minutes, to make sure they were actually releasing you.”

“Ok.” Robert says. “Why don’t we find somewhere to get breakfast, and take a minute to figure things out?”

“I don’t think I can eat after that.” Samira says. “I feel sick.”

“I’m so sorry.” Robert says, reaching out with his free arm to give her a side hug. “To all of you. I had no idea things were going to be this bad.”

“That restaurant is open.” Amber says, pointing to one nearby that appears mostly empty. “Would any of you like to go to the bathroom first?”

Samira nods, everyone except Lucia follows Amber.

“Lucia, honey, please let go and look at me.” Robert says after they are gone. When she does, her face is scrunched up, tears still running down her face. “What happened?”

“They said I was being seized.” Lucia says, in between sobs. “That you’d confessed to being part of a plot and I would never see you again. That if I didn’t tell them everything, that I would be sent to an ‘entertainment’ camp, and I wouldn’t last long.”

Robert allows her to bury her head back in his chest as her sobs wrack her entire body, glaring through the small windows in the double doors, almost hoping the agent would come back out.

Suddenly, Lucia’s body stiffens, and she pulls away, running in the direction that Amber had gone. “Lucia?!?” Robert says, following her at a quick walk, but stopping when she enters the bathroom.

“Shit.” Robert says. Taking a moment to think, he pulls out his phone, dialing Jane’s number.

“Honey?” Jane’s voice says. “Sorry, one second.”

“Ok, I’m back, I had to set down what I was carrying to the van.” Jane says. “Everything going ok at the airport? Are you through security?”

“We are through, but the girls are very shaken up.” Robert says. “Most of them are asking to go back.”

“What happened?” Jane asks. “And who wants to come back?”

Robert explains what he knows about the TSA experience. “So far, Samira begged to go back, Emily reluctantly agreed with her, and Lindsey is saying they won’t board the plane.”

“What about Lucia and Amber?” Jane asks.

“Amber is holding it together.” Robert says. “But she has endured worse than this, and she has a strong motivation to make the trip work. Lucia is… broken…” With this last, his voice cracks.

“Where are they now?” Jane asks.

“Amber took them to the bathroom.” Robert says, doing his best to keep his emotions together. “Lucia wouldn’t stop crying, and a minute after they left, she ran after them. I think she was sick.”

“I’ll text Amber.” Jane says. “Do you think I should come get the other girls?”

“We are already through TSA.” Robert says. “I think it should be smooth sailing from here, at least, if I can get them on the plane. Getting home is going to be a problem though, I don’t think we can fly again.”

“We will find another option.” Jane says. “Are you ok?”

“I’m a little shaken up, but I’ll be ok.” Robert reassures her. “Although if I saw one of those TSA agents again, the girls might have to hold me back.”

“I’m going to let you go, and text Amber now.” Jane says. “If you want me to come get the girls, or all of you, let me know.”

“I love you.” Robert says, trying not to sound miserable.

“I love you too.” Jane says, before disconnecting the call.

Robert looks up, and seeing that the girls were still in the bathroom, walks slowly over to the restaurant Amber mentioned. As he approached the hostess, she asks. “Just one?”

“Six.” Robert says. “The others will be here in a moment.”

“Right this way.” The hostess says, grabbing menus, and leading him to a table.

“Is there any way we can sit in the corner booth?” Robert asks, pointing at the booth that is farthest from anyone else in the restaurant.

“Sure.” The hostess says, picking back up the menus, and walking over to the circular booth.

“There should be five young ladies joining me.” Robert says, after he is seated.

“I’ll be on the lookout.” The hostess promises, and Robert sits back, breathing heavily for a moment, before looking at his phone.

There are two new texts. Amber’s says, “We will be a few minutes.”

Robert replies. “Take your time. I got a table at the restaurant you pointed out.”

She replies with a thumb’s up emoji, and Robert opens his next message.

“TSA called. Everything ok?” Tom’s message asks.

“They let us go, but the girls are VERY shaken up. I don’t think we can fly again after this. I don’t know if it will help, but maybe you could suggest that the BAA put pressure on the TSA to not be enormous dicks to people in the program?” Robert messages back.

“I’ll mention it. I doubt they will listen to me though. If they hassle you again, call me directly, and I’ll at least try to see if I can reason with them.” Tom texts back.

“Thanks.” Robert responds, setting down the phone as the waitress came up to get his order. He decides to wait, just asking for a water while he waits for the girls.

After another fifteen minutes, they finally arrived, looking slightly more put together. Most of the girls slid into the other opening to the circular booth, but Lucia insists on him moving over enough that she can sit on the end next to him.

“Are you ok?” Robert asks.

Lucia just nods, before putting her head on his shoulder. “I’ll be ok.” She eventually says.

“Samira?” Robert asks. “What about you?”

“Still a little queasy.” Samira says. “I brought nausea medication, but it’s in my checked bag.”

“We can look around on the way to the gate.” Robert says. “Maybe the waitress will know of somewhere that sells meds too.”

“Emily? Lindsey?” Robert asks next. “Are you two doing any better?”

“I’ll get on the plane, as long as we don’t get hassled again.” Lindsey says. “But I won’t go through TSA again. If it comes to that, you can leave me in California.”

Robert looks at Amber with an inquisitive expression, but she just shrugs.

“I will continue on the trip, Master.” Emily says, leaning closer to Amber. “Mistress Amber may need me.”

“Thank you.” Robert says. “I talked to Jane; we are going to try to find some other way home.”

“Good.” Lindsey says. “That was awful.”

“It was.” Lucia says, sniffling a bit.

“Amber, are you ok?” Robert asks.

“I’ll be fine, Master.” Amber says, though her usual blank expression appears to be cracking under the stress of the trip. Looking around at the other girls, she adds. “Thank you. And I’m sorry you had to go through that for me. And I’m sorry to you too, Master. I promise I’ll find a way to make it up to you.”

Reaching across the table, Robert takes her hand. “None of this is your fault. I’d go through it as many times as necessary to help you get Isabel. Although I’d leave the other girls at home if ...”

The sound of a clearing voice interrupts Robert’s speech. Turning his head, he sees a new TSA agent standing there, holding a bag.

“Robert Wolfe?” The man asks, and Robert feels Lucia tense and squeeze closer to him.

“Yes.” Robert says, managing to keep his voice deadpan at first, but failing when he adds. “If you’ve come to drag us back to interrogation, I’m afraid I’m going to have to insist on making a few calls first.”

“Please verify that this is your property, and then sign here.” The man says, pulling a piece of paper out of the bag, and then putting both on the table.

Robert rummages through the bag, finding his two-factor thumb drive, as well as the two ‘suspicious’ objects mentioned on the original ticket. Passing the bag to Lucia, he asks. “Is one of these yours?”

Trembling, she shakes her head, and Robert passes it the other direction to Samira. “Pass it around, and let me know if these aren’t the right ones.”

When the bag reaches the end, Lindsey says. “That’s mine. I don’t think I want it back, no telling…”

Her rant is interrupted by a yelp, and a glare at Amber, who says. “These are the correct items, Master.”

Robert reads and then signs the paper, which just states that their property that was seized has been returned. Turning back to the agent, he hands it over. “Are we done?”

“I need the property slip as well.” The agent says, holding out his hand.

After Robert hands it over, the agent turns and quickly leaves.

“What the fuck? Why did you pinch me?” Lindsey hisses at Amber. “That fucking hurt.”

“Lindsey, that’s enough.” Robert says, cutting off the reply Amber was about to make. “If you had smarted off, we would probably have been right back in the shit. You should be thanking Amber for saving you from yourself.”

“We all know they probably did something nasty with those, they probably were hoping to get a reaction out of us, so they could drag us back into interrogation.” Lucia says. “What the hell is going on with you? You went from quiet and easy to get along with to bitch mode in the past week.”

“I’m going to hit the bathroom.” Robert says. “Can one of you just order me a ham and cheese omelet?”

“Of course, Master.” Amber pipes up, as Lucia moves to let Robert out.

Once Robert is out of earshot, Amber looks at Lindsey. “Whatever is going on with you, out with it now. Mistress Jane asked you to come along to help, not cause more problems.”

Lindsey looks around, hoping to find an ally, but instead finding all of the other girls looking expectantly at her.

“I miss my husband.” She finally says, looking down at her hands, where a few tears are beginning to fall. “It’s starting to get real. I’m never going to see him again.”

Amber reaches over to put her arm around her, holding her tightly. “I can’t say that I know what you are going through. But I am sorry for what you are going through. Can you get your shit together for the next few hours, until we are in a rental car, on the way to the Airbnb?”

“I’ll try.” Lindsey chokes out.

“Maybe just don’t talk.” Lucia says. “Unless someone addresses you directly, just keep quiet. You brought a book in your carry-on, right?”

Lindsey nods, glancing at Lucia.

“Bury your nose in the book then, and try to ignore the rest of the world.” Lucia suggests. “After breakfast, of course.”

*****

“I thought we would never get out of there.” Lindsey says when they finally get into their rental van. “I’m starving.”

“I’m sure we are all hungry.” Robert says, glancing around the van. “It’s still morning here, so it’ll have to be breakfast for lunch.”

“We should just get fast food.” Lucia suggests. “It’s a long drive to the town with the camp and Airbnb.”

“Sounds good to me.” Robert says.

“Master.” Amber says. “May I suggest we dispose of the items that TSA returned, and get replacements after lunch?”

“Oh, yeah.” Robert says, feeling a bit abashed that he didn’t think of that. “We definitely don’t want to keep them if there is any chance they did anything to them.”

Entering the address for the Airbnb in the GPS, Robert pulls out of the airport parking lot. “We’ll grab food as soon as we see something.” Robert says. “I’m not sure if we will pass a toy store on the way, one of you may want to look on your phones to see if you can find one that isn’t too far out of the way.”

“I’ll find one.” Lindsey says hurriedly. “I want to make sure I get a good one.”

“So, you plan to go in?” Robert asks. “I wasn’t sure if you would want to do that, after the airport.”

“Unless you think the local sex shops have TSA at the front doors.” Lindsey replies in a flippant tone, before yelping again. “That hurt! Stop!”

“I will, when you stop with the attitude.” Amber says. “I will not sit here and listen to you be rude to my Master.”

“I sat quietly like I was supposed to in the airport and on the plane.” Lindsey says huffily. “I didn’t realize I was never allowed to talk again.”

“You are allowed to talk.” Robert says. “I would suggest practicing deference when it’s just our group though, so you don’t mess up in public. If we attract the wrong kind of attention, I will have **** but to punish you, to keep the authorities from interfering.”

“And attracting that kind of attention could jeopardize our mission.” Lucia adds. “We are here for a reason. We’d rather you act like a normal person, but if you can’t, Amber and I will do what is necessary to prevent you from causing problems.”

Lindsey just huffs, crossing her arms, and shifting on the seat a bit further from Amber.

*****

“We are almost there.” Robert says.

Turning around in her seat, Lucia repeats the news in a louder voice. “Wake up, we are almost to the Airbnb.”

Amber leans forward, not having been able to sleep. “Master, are we going to go to the camp today? It’s still early, at least in this time zone.”

Robert looks at the clock, and nods. “Let’s get checked into the Airbnb first, and then you and I can go to the camp. We need to figure out if we are all going, or if we want to leave the other girls to get settled in.”

“I’d rather stay with you, Master.” Lucia says. “I’d feel anxious staying in an unfamiliar house without you or Amber there to deal with strangers.”

“What about the rest of you?” Robert asks. “I’d rather this be all or nothing, leaving one or two girls alone at the house doesn’t feel like a great idea. Emily, I’m guessing you want to stay with Amber?”

“Yes, Master.” Emily says, reaching over to squeeze Amber’s hand.

“I guess that means we are coming with you.” Samira says. “I guess seeing an education camp will be… educational?”

“Interesting, at the very least.” Robert says. “I just hope they are treating the children ok.”

“I’m sure they are.” Emily says, squeezing Amber’s hand again.

“Definitely.” Lucia says, giving Robert a look.

“Oh, sure.” Robert says. “I mean, it takes a real monster to be mean to kids.”

“You haven’t spent enough time around kids.” Lindsey murmurs. “Some of them are monsters.”

“Then why did you become a teacher?” Samira asks.

“I taught elementary school on purpose.” Lindsey says. “First and second graders aren’t so bad. And when I got my master’s degree, I was going to teach honors classes in high school. The trick is to avoid teaching middle school. Observing the few middle school classes I did when I was in school convinced me of that.”

“Ok, this is it.” Robert says, making the last turn before slowing as they switched from pavement to the gravel driveway.

“Ok, same drill as we did last weekend.” Lucia says, as Robert pulls up to the house. “Walk through first, make sure there are no problems. After we are happy, we unload, hit the bathroom, and then get moving towards the camp.”

“Can’t we take a minute to breathe?” Lindsey asks.

“I’m sure Amber is anxious to finally meet Isabel.” Robert says. “If it was your daughter, I don’t think she would be suggesting taking a few minutes.”

Lindsey flushes, but doesn’t say anything. When the car comes to a stop, they all pile out, and Robert pulls out his phone to get the code to the door. Opening the door, he says. “After you, ladies.”

The girls wander around the house, peeking into bedrooms, inspecting the bathrooms, and finally meeting up in the living room.

“Any complaints?” Robert asks.

“It’s fine.” Lucia says. “The kitchen is a bit small, so I won’t be doing much cooking here, but I can at least make breakfast, once we get some groceries.”

“We can always order pizza.” Robert says. “You can **** Alexia by sending her photos.”

“Good idea.” Lucia says, flashing him a grin. “She’ll hate that.”

“Who gets what bedroom?” Lindsey asks.

“How many are there?” Robert asks.

“Three.” Lucia responds. “You get one, with whichever girls you are having for the night. For now, Lindsey can have her own, and the other girls who aren’t sleeping with you can have the last one. Once we get Isabel, we can re-evaluate based on how she is doing. She may want her own space, or she may want someone with her.”

“Sounds fine to me.” Robert says. “Let’s get the van unloaded, so we can get moving.”

When the group pulls up to the camp, Amber is shaking nervously. “It’s going to be ok.” Emily whispers to her. “I’m so excited for you. And I’m sure Isabel is going to be thrilled.”

“What if she doesn’t even know I exist?” Amber asks. “Or she hates me?”

“You are impossible to hate.” Robert says. “Ok, everyone quiet.”

Robert rolls down the window, hitting the call button at the gate.

“You are entering the NCCEC. Please state your business.” A robotic voice says.

“I’m Robert Wolfe.” Robert says. “I’m here to see…”

“Administrator Hunter.” Lucia says softly.

“Administrator Hunter.” Robert repeats loud enough for the microphone to pick him up.

After nearly a minute of uncomfortable silence, the gate begins to open.

“Pull ahead. Do not exit the vehicle.” The voice said.

As Robert does this, Lucia asks. “This feels a bit weird.”

“A bit.” Robert agrees. “I honestly have no idea what’s normal anymore though.”

“So true.” Lindsey says, and then shifts away from Amber, as if she is afraid of getting another pinch.

Eventually, an older woman comes out of the large building they are stopped at, and comes to Robert’s window.

“Mr. Wolfe?” The woman asks.

“Yes.” Robert says. “And you are?”

“Claire Crawford. I’m Administrator Hunter’s executive assistant.” She said. “The Administrator will see you now, please follow me.”

“Ok, girls, get out, and follow Amber and I.” Robert says, after he rolls up his window. “Please try to keep quiet and not get into any trouble.”

As they get out of the van, Claire says. “Just citizens. Concubines can wait in the car. Camp rules.”

Tossing Lucia the key, Robert says. “Turn on the van if you need to. We’ll be out as soon as we can. Don’t leave the van. Call me if you have any problems.”

Turning to Claire, he says. “Ok, lead the way.”

Robert can’t help but notice Amber’s eyes going in every direction as they walk towards the administrator’s office, as if she was certain that she might find an eight-year-old girl anywhere. When they finally enter the office, they find only a middle-aged woman sitting at a desk.

“Take a seat.” Claire says, before taking her own seat off to the side, and pulling out a notebook and pen.

“Mister Wolfe, I am Administrator Hunter.” The woman behind the desk began. “I’m told you wish to remove one of the students from my care.”

“Yes, we are looking for Isabel Torres.” Robert says. “This is Amber Jones, her biological mother. We understand that Isabel’s adoptive mother was unable to take Isabel to her new home, and Amber and I would like for her to live with us.”

“And what is your relation to Isabel?” Administrator Hunter asks.

“None.” Robert says. “Amber is my authorized handler, and also helps to train my girls. As such, she is a valuable member of my household.”

“We don’t simply give children to anyone who shows up.” Administrator Hunter says. “These children are all potentially valuable. When they turn eighteen, they are auctioned, and a girl like Isabel could bring the State tens of thousands of dollars.”

“Amber isn’t a random stranger.” Robert says. “She is her biological mother. It’s our understanding that the local BAA Administrator and Magistrate judge have already discussed this with you.”

“We did discuss it, and I am still not happy about this.” The Administrator says. “First, we need to establish whether Ms. Jones’ claim of maternity is even valid. The test will take a few days to come back. Once that is established, we can determine whether this should move forward.”

“Fine.” Robert says, realizing that the Administrator is merely attempting to throw up obstacles, in hopes they will go away. “We’d like to meet Isabel now.”

“That won’t be possible.” The Administrator says. “Meeting strangers is disruptive. You may meet her if, and only if, we receive a court order to release her to your custody.”

“Administrator, I understand that you don’t wish for these children to leave your custody.” Robert says. “But I want to make something clear. We aren’t leaving California without Isabel. Your bureaucratic games aren’t going to chase us away.”

“Games?” The Administrator asks, cheeks flushing red. “Rules and regulations exist for a reason. Claire, please take Ms. Jones for her DNA sample collection, and then make sure both of these people leave my camp.”

Standing, Robert walks to the door, waving Amber ahead of him, before stepping into the hallway.

“Are you ok?” He asks quietly.

Amber just nods, only her slightly trembling hands showing the stress she is under. Robert reaches out, taking her hand in his, and squeezing it. “Keep your head up. We’ll call Tom when we leave, and see if he can do anything.”

The sound of a clearing throat brings Robert around.

“If you will follow me, we will have the nurse get the DNA sample, and then you can go.” Claire says, not waiting for a response before going down the hall.

Catching Amber’s glance, Robert nods after Claire, and once Amber begins to follow her, he does as well, lagging behind a bit as he looks around. The walls are bare, dark paneled wood, the carpet worn, and the windows partially blocked with metal mesh.

When they finally arrive at the nurse’s office, Robert asks. “What was this place originally?”

Claire ignores him, instead speaking to the nurse. “We need a DNA sample for a maternity test. Quickly. Administrator Hunter would like these two off the property ASAP.”

“Of course.” The nurse, a woman in her mid-thirties says. Reaching into a drawer, she pulls out a few items, before saying. “Please open your mouth, I’m just going to swab your cheek.”

“Oh.” Amber says, a tiny amount of relief entering her voice. “I thought this would involve needles.”

“Thankfully we’ve moved past that.” The nurse says, swabbing the inside of her cheek, and then breaking off the end, and putting it into a sealed container. “Now, I just need your name and ID card number.”

After Amber supplies it, the nurse turns to Claire. “Who are we comparing against? We have the children’s DNA on file already.”

“667-943-4256.” Claire says flatly. “We aren’t in a rush.”

“We are.” Robert interjects. “Amber has been waiting to finally see her daughter for eight years, and we’ve flown across the country for this.”

“She can wait a bit longer.” Claire says. “Even if the test comes back the way you hope, there is no guarantee she will be granted the child. Allowing yourself to get pregnant by a red card certainly shows poor judgment. Besides, she gave the child away once. That is hardly something a good mother would do. Administrator Hunter will make sure the judge considers that.”

Catching Amber’s glance, Robert shakes his head, and she stops whatever she is about to say. “You have no idea of the circumstances surrounding any of that. Administrator Hunter can protest all she wants, but when this test comes back positive, Isabel will leave this camp. Rest assured, I plan to ask her how she was treated here, especially since you found out that we were coming. Both you and Administrator Hunter had better hope she has only good things to say, or I will be filing as many complaints, formal and informal, as I can before I leave.”

“Isabel?” The nurse asks, stepping closer to Amber. “Oh, I see it now. It’s the eyes. And the ears. She’s such a sweet girl.”

“She is?” Amber asks eagerly. “Please, tell me about her.”

“That’s enough!” Claire says sharply. “You’ll be contacted with the results of the test whenever we get them back. Now it’s time for you to leave.”

“What do you really think you are gaining by keeping her from Isabel?” Robert asks as they are shepherded out of the nurse’s office. “Test results could be back later today, tomorrow at the worst, if you put them in now. Surely you’ve pulled up the adoption records, and her original birth certificate. You know Amber is her mother.”

“Even if that were the case, we would contest her removal.” Claire says. “With any luck, the judge will see sense, and Isabel will remain here until she turns Eighteen.”

“So it’s all about the money?” Robert asks incredulously. “Is that what this is? A shakedown? You want us to pay you to release her to our custody?”

“Of course not.” Claire says, in a very unconvincing voice. “This is about what is best for the state. We are far better equipped to turn out a well trained concubine than a woman who has already made several questionable life choices.”

“Master, please.” Amber says quietly, reaching out to squeeze his hand. “We should just go.”

Robert looks over at her, seeing the slightly panicked expression on her face, and, turning back to Claire, says. “Fine, we will go. I’ll be contacting the local Magistrate judge and our BAA reps immediately. And I will be calling first thing in the morning for the results. I recognized the equipment in there, if the results aren’t in by the morning, I’ll make sure they know you are deliberately slowing down the test.”

Claire doesn’t answer, just watching until they get back in the van, and drive out of the camp.

*****

“Did you get to see her?” Lucia asks eagerly as they climb into the van.

“No.” Robert says as he throws the van into gear. “They are doing everything they can to obstruct us.”

“Oh…” Lucia says. “I’m sorry, Amber.”

“The nurse said she looks like me.” Amber says in an introspective tone. “And that she’s a sweet girl.”

“Of course she is.” Emily says, reaching into the front seat to pat her shoulder. “She’s your daughter, after all.”

When the group reaches the Airbnb, Robert says. “Girls, if you could get us unpacked, and figure out meals, I’d appreciate it. I need to make some phone calls, and then get some work done, before they forget why they pay me.”

“Of course.” Lucia says. “Is there anything else we can do to help?”

“Amber, if you could, text Jane an update. Tell her I’ll call later this evening.” Robert says. “Other than that, I can’t think of anything.”

Stepping out of the van, Robert dials Tom first.

“You made it to the left coast safely?” Tom asks with a laugh.

“We just left the camp.” Robert responds, ignoring the attempt at humor. “Hunter and her assistant are a real piece of work. I think they are just obstructing us as much as possible hoping for a bribe.”

“Don’t do it.” Tom says. “Even if it’s not a trap, it’s unnecessary. Did they get the DNA sample?”

“They did, but how do we know they aren’t going to try to fudge the results?” Robert asks. “They could easily contaminate the sample, or just run someone else’s DNA.”

“I raised that concern already.” Tom says. “If it comes back negative, the local BAA can redo the test. If it’s negative again, you’ll have to pay for the second test. I think you can trust the local BAA office though; they don’t seem to get along well with the camp employees.”

“How does that even work?” Robert asks. “Does the BAA Administrator not have input on who runs the camp?”

“Not out there, apparently.” Tom says. “It makes no sense to me. In our county, the camp reports to the county commission in theory, but in reality, that means they report to me.”

“Wait, we have an education camp?” Robert asks.

“Where did you think all of the detained kids went?” Tom asks. “Or did you think we just didn’t have any local kids?”

“I guess I didn’t think about it.” Robert says.

“We’ve requisitioned a few of the summer camps, and the kids are up there for now, with a few of the local teachers and other volunteers keeping an eye on them.” Tom says. “We are actually having a bit of success getting families to take some of the kids. With any luck, we’ll have the vast majority placed in a home by summer. You know, you’ll have lots of room in your new place when the renovations are done. You could take a dozen or so and barely notice it.”

“Tom, this isn’t the time for this discussion.” Robert says. “Look, I’ve got a lot to do here, but I was wondering if you could give me the contact info for the magistrate? And the local BAA rep out here? Or if you’d prefer, maybe you can let them know we are here, and the DNA sample has been submitted. I’d like to have as many eyes, and as much pressure, on Hunter as possible.”

“I’ll send them an update.” Tom says. “And I’ll see if the Magistrate can keep something open for tomorrow afternoon, in case the results are back by then.”

“Thanks.” Robert says. “I’d love to have this wrapped up by then.”

“Very welcome.” Tom says.

When Robert walks into the house, Lucia asks. “Is there anything we can do for you, Master? Perhaps you need to let off a bit of steam before you start work?”

Robert sighs. “I probably just need to focus on work. I need to cram eight hours of work into as little time as possible. Did you ladies figure out dinner?”

“We decided to go with your pizza idea.” Lucia says. “And we need to swing by a few stores while we are in town.”

“That’s fine.” Robert shrugs. “I’m going to take the dining room for work, just let me know when we need to head towards town.”

“Master?” Robert hears an hour later. Looking up, he sees Amber standing a few feet away.

“How are you holding up?” Robert asks.

“I’m fine, Master.” Amber says. “Nervous about finally meeting Isabel, of course. I wanted to thank you again for doing all of this for me. I know it’s been a long day already, and from what Lindsey tells me, the tickets weren’t cheap.”

Pushing back his chair, Robert stands up and hugs Amber. “Anything for my girls.” Robert whispers. “You are all special to me, and you needed this.”

“I did.” Amber says, melting into his embrace. “The debt I owe you and Mistress Jane can never truly be repaid, but I would like to thank you properly, if you will allow me.”

“What did you have in mind?” Robert asks curiously.

“I am yours to command, Master.” Amber says. “But if I might make a suggestion…”

“Why not?” Robert says.

“Please, sit and continue your work.” Amber says. When Robert has retaken his seat, Amber gets on the floor, sliding under the table, and between his legs. Reaching up, she gently rubs his pants, before pulling down the zipper.

“I like your suggestion.” Robert says, leaning back just enough to allow her to see the smile on his face.

“I live to please you, Master.” Amber says, before reaching into his pants, and pulling out his dick. She starts by giving it a little kiss on the head, before surprising Robert by taking him all the way down her throat, not stopping until her face is mashed against his pants.

“Fuck.” Robert moans, as Amber continues this for several minutes, fucking her throat with his dick quite aggressively.

Amber slams her head down even faster, seemingly determined to get him off. After another minute, Robert reaches down, grabbing her head. “Don’t stop.” He grunts, guiding her head up and down in the perfect rhythm for him. Pulling her head down one final time, he freezes, holding her head while he pumps his cum down her throat.

After a few moments, he pulls back on her head, and looks down to make sure she is ok, before slumping in his chair, closing his eyes and breathing heavily. Amber swallows hard, before fixing his pants. Climbing out from under the table, she kneels next to Robert’s chair.

“Thank you, Master.” Amber croaks, throat still sore from the beating it took up until a few moments before. “I am yours, in every way, any time you wish me.”

Opening his eyes, Robert reaches down to pat her on the head. “I know.”