Two months later

"Good morning Lucy," Chelsea strode into the kitchen where Lucy was sitting at the table and enjoying a plate of eggs and bacon. "I finally got approval to have that gaudy collar replaced. You'll love the new one. It still has a leash attachment in case I ever need to take you outside, but other than that it just looks like a cute black choker, and your name is embroidered onto it so we can get rid of that tag. "

Lucy jumped for joy before embracing Chelsea, her bare skin tickled by the hem of Chelsea's dress. She found that she didn't miss being dressed nearly as much as she'd expected. Not being allowed to wear clothes had been degrading when it meant anyone could grope her most intimate areas, but walking around nude knowing she wouldn't be touched unless she initiated contact made her feel safe and in control.

Laurel had supported Chelsea as expected, but had balked when she found out the extent of their arrangement. Her protective feelings toward Lucy and her friendship for Chelsea meant she'd agreed to keep quiet, but she did not want to be involved. Chelsea had been distraught enough that she almost went back on her word too, but Lucy's silver tongue had been effective in more ways than one. And so it was that they had moved into a small apartment together. She gradually moved on from her crush on Laurel and played the role of protective owner well, fending off any questions about Lucy by explaining that that she was still adapting to her new reality and public attention would only harm her progress.

As for Lucy, she settled into a quiet life and recovered from her traumatic ordeal, content to spend her days curled up with a good book and her nights snuggled against a kind owner.