Bara Produktions

The Houseboys

Chapter 1

As fears over crime, vandalism and general anti-social had increased, the authorities had been allowed to pass increasingly draconian measures that had, in all but name, reintroduced slavery. As had happened throughout the whole of history, the people who had made it and were comfortably off needed people to blame for the troubles of the world and their favourite targets were the young. It was also true that the young did get into more trouble than older folk but again it had always been that way because youngsters are more adventurous and less experienced than their elders.

So apart from the obvious, murder, armed robbery and so on, the authorities could always drum up a few votes by getting tough on vandalism, graffiti and other small time crime. Juveniles and the homeless could be rounded up easily. As 'power was returned to the people', so it became harder for these groups to protect and defend themselves.

Compulsory Social Care was supposed to be an umbrella organisation that dealt with cases according to need and a radical alternative to prison. The theory was that everyone who needed help could be placed in the care of suitable organisations and individuals. Many aspects of csc worked well. Churches and charities ran genuine programs that helped many people turn their lives around and leave the scheme. Medical care had improved beyond recognition and generally everyone's health had improved.

Since there were obvious benefits to the scheme, no one noticed or worried about the complete loss of civil and citizen rights of participants, as they were officially called until the abuses started becoming obvious.

An 'Age of Adulthood' was established and was deemed to start at 25. Everyone below that age were automatically participants in the scheme. It was popular with parents and official bodies as it gave them a lot more control. In effect youngsters were guilty until they could prove their innocence and had to show that they were supported by their family, in full time education or had a job and that they were responsible enough to support themselves.

Over 25s could only enter csc through the courts.

Not everyone one approved of the scheme and there was now powerful opposition to it. This opposition did more for the well being of participants than anything else. At least those seen in public. If a slave was seen to be malnourished or injured or harmed in any way, someone was bound to report it and there would be a public outcry, and so, guardians applied a certain amount of pressure on each other to see that complaints were far and few between. What happened to slaves not seen in public was another story. Unofficially the authorities liked occasional incidents of abuse to be exposed to boost the deterrent value of the scheme.

On the other hand csc had a high profile where it was seen to be doing it's job. Beggars and the homeless had disappeared. Crime had dropped dramatically. The compulsory labour force meant the streets were always clean, parks and gardens well tended and even the moderately well off could afford domestic staff.

Craig was only too aware of the csc scheme because he was desperately trying to keep his younger brother and himself out of it. Their parents had died in a car crash five months earlier. They had no close relatives and no one to take responsibility for them. csc was legally obliged to find them appropriate care. Since it was not their fault that they were in need of help, they should be fostered with a suitable family at least while they were in education. In practice there were few suitable places and so they would be expected to 'rough it' for a while in a home for 'less deserving' children. That was often the start of a downward spiral that was difficult to get out of.

Their father who had been driving was held partly to blame for accident and so there had been no compensation, just some modest life insurance payouts. They had no living relatives and no one willing to take responsibility for them. Craig was nearly 16 when his parents had died. Their estate had been simple. Insurance policies, a couple of bank accounts and that was all. They had lived in rented accommodation, had no investments, debts or anything else.

Luckily for Craig, their landlord was a kindly man who helped him through all the paperwork. On his suggestion they had moved from their house into a cosy flat, cheaper and much easier for two boys to maintain.

He had given Craig a part time job cleaning and tidying his properties and the two boys had managed to keep going on Craig's earnings and the insurance money.

Things were not going well though. Craig's brother was not much help. At thirteen Ethan meant well but had little sense of urgency and still thought that the adults would sort everything out. Craig had tried his best but he could not keep up with looking after the flat, his school work and his job. A csc worker would be visiting in a few of weeks to see that the boys were meeting all the necessary criteria. The state of the flat and Craig's exhaustion would be enough to show that they needed Social Care.

Craig had talked things over with Mr Crosis, his landlord and they had come up with a plan. Craig would quit school and work for Mr Crosis full time. Mr Crosis needed help in the office and he would train Craig to become his manager and Craig could continue with his studies at night school. It would take him longer to gain his certificates but he would get them.

The final part of the plan saw them entering the local csc placement centre. For placement centre read slave market.

"No!" Mr Crosis was saying as they entered, "We don't want the Youth section. You couldn't afford the fees."

"But aren't they all criminals in there?" asked Craig pointing at the Senior section. "I don't want a murderer or a kiddy fiddler hanging around Ethan."

"It's a bit like hunting for a cheap car," replied Mr Crosis. "Most are wrecks and complete dogs but occasionally you find a real bargain. This is a bit of a long shot, but you never know."

He was disappointed at Craig's 'kiddy fiddling' jibe as he was was attracted to Craig. He would have to be content with just looking for a while but he still hoped Craig might be willing.

"I'm still not sure," muttered Craig.

"Look!" snapped Mr Crosis, "You don't have many options. You've got a job and you've got a place to live. In spite of your age you'll probably be OK.

"Ethan is a different matter. Can you prove that you can look after him properly? The csc need feel good stories. They can say that they're looking after Ethan while you find your feet."

Mr Crosis continued in a kinder manner, "My offer still stands. You can both come and live with me. I'll look after you."

"I know and thanks," replied Craig, "It's just… you know…"

"You know I'd want to get my hand inside your pants. Ethan's as well. I'm going to see what's in the Youth section or will that make me a kiddy fiddler as well?"

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to be rude. You wouldn't kill or torture your boys, would you? I know they'd they'd have to do sex with you but you'd give them a chance like you've given me.

"If it came to it, I'd rather sign Ethan over to you rather than let him go through the system."

Mr Crosis laughed.

"I think that was a compliment." he said, "Off you go. We'll meet back here."

As Craig entered the senior section he was greeted by a teenager only a couple of years older than himself. He wore shorts and sandals. He wore a stainless steel chain around his neck. It had been welded shut and had four fixing rings spaced evenly around it. Also fixed to the chain was a plate which read 'Registered G2 2054 hfr 4760' and on the next line 'Warner St. Placement Centre.'

Craig and Ethan were grade 5 and would have started out in care at that grade. G2 meant that this boy had been in trouble and had slipped down 3 grades. 2054 was the year he had been registered at this grade and the other letters and numbers made the rest of his registration number. The chain also carried a tracker so that satellites could pinpoint his position at any time.

It was now 2059 and Craig realised with a start that he had been about Ethan's age when he had been graded.

"May I help you, sir," the youth asked, "Or do you wish to wait for your parents, sir?"

"My parents died six months ago," replied Craig harshly, "I need help to look after my younger brother and keep him out of csc. Someone who can do the housework for me." Have you got anything?"

"Yes, I understand completely. I'm sorry! I meant no offence, sir."

The servant had been terrified by the tone of Craig's voice, expecting to be punished for his rudeness.

"You didn't offend me," replied Craig quietly. "I need someone to keep house so I can work and study. A csc worker is visiting soon and it must look as if I can cope."

"Again may I ask sir. Do you realise this is the male placement centre? Wouldn't a female housekeeper be more appropriate?"

"It doesn't matter too much in this day and age. If I can't find anything here I'll try the female centre," Craig had been brought up to be polite and courteous especially towards women. The idea that he might have to discipline a female slave terrified him.

"I don't suppose you want me, do you?"

"Can you cook and do the housework?"

"We're taught the basics, sir," the boy replied, " and I'm a quick learner."

"I need someone who knows what to do. Sorry!" said Craig.

"I understand, sir" said the slave, "Your brother is very lucky to have you looking out for him."

"So what happened to you?"

"I was twelve and my Uncle tried to fuck me. He bent me over the kitchen table. There was a knife on it. I panicked and grabbed it. As I swung round, the knife slashed his cheek. You know how it is. I'd wounded an adult and no one helped me."

He paused for a moment with a look of sadness on his face. "My parents had always said I'd been an accident and looking back, they wanted rid of me. They didn't help me. My Uncle denied trying to rape me and I was found guilty of assault. I was graded 2 and because it was such a serious conviction I was sent to the Main adult section."

He paused again trying to hold back tears. "I wish you'd been my brother. I wish someone had cared about me."

"What's your name?"

The boy looked sad again. "It was Paul. Now it's 4760 or just 'Boy'."

"I'm sorry, Paul," said Craig, "but I do need someone who knows what to do."

The boy nodded, "I understand, sir. I'll do my best to help. If you'd like to take a seat at this console, I'll call up some files."

While they had been talking Paul had led Craig to one of interview rooms. The room was divided in two. The end that Craig was shown into was carpeted, had a small table equipped to serve drinks. There was a large desk with a computer console, notepad and a large luxurious chair facing the far end of the room. The other half of the room was bare except for a punishment horse; two A-frames connected by beams. Craig remembered pictures of wooden saw horses but this was metal with various securing rings attached. There were various whips and canes on the wall behind it. There were various securing rings fixed to the walls, ceiling and the bare concrete floor.

As the the boys looked through the files, Craig asked Paul questions and for the first time that Paul could remember someone was listening to his opinion. They quickly identified a likely candidate. He was a Grade 4 member who had been convicted of embezzlement. According to his profile he'd lived in a nice house with a couple of slaves to look after him.

"That doesn't mean he knows how to do the jobs himself," said Craig.

"No sir, that's right," replied Paul, "but he knows what's needed and you should interview him to see what he does know."

Paul suddenly became rigid with fear staring at the punishment horse, "I'm sorry sir, I shouldn't have been so disrespectful. I'm sorry, I forgot my place."

"No, you didn't," replied Craig, "I asked you for help, you're giving it and I will interview him like you suggested."

"Thank you, sir," said Paul relaxing slightly.

Following the instructions on the screen Craig filled out the application form. He typed in his own ID number and reason for wanting a slave and that was it.

A resume of his circumstances was called up from Central Records together with an announcement that he could take on five members.

Going to the next screen he typed in the Registration number of the one he wanted to see and as an afterthought typed in Paul's number as well. Paul had discretely taken up a position at the far end of the room out of the line of sight of the monitor so he could not look at Craig's details while they were displayed and so did not see Craig ask to formally inspect him.

An idea was going through Craig's mind and he needed time to work on it but he did not want to get Paul's hopes up.

The csc still wanted to give the illusion that participants were properly treated and so prospective owners were expected to behave with the utmost decorum while in the centre. Craig had signed an agreement to that effect before they even been allowed inside the building. The room was monitored by cctv and had Craig tried to molest or abuse Paul in any way he would have been in deep trouble.

A prospective owner rights to physically handling a Centre inmate depended solely on it's purpose. For example an owner wanting a manual labourer would be allowed to feel a slave's muscles. The Centre's goal was not to protect the inmate. It was to prevent an undercover reporter proving that abuse happened on Government property. A security officer was always present during the interviews and the recordings from the cctv were kept.

Slaves were displayed naked and could be shackled in any position the buyer wanted. The result was a quaint 'look but don't damage the goods' policy that protected the csc's image but humiliated the slave in order to demonstrate his new relationship with his owner.

Ethan had a close friend, Jake Sanders. They were both getting into more trouble and Mrs Sanders was as worried about Jake as Craig was about Ethan. While waiting for the slave to be brought up for inspection Craig slipped out into reception and called Mrs Sanders on his mobile.

He outlined the scheme he had in mind and she readily agreed to allow Craig extend it to Jake. He also rang Mr Crosis about the second part of his plan who also seemed willing to give it a try. As he finished his calls an attendant approached him.

"Excuse me sir," he said, "but I understand you wish to inspect hfr 4760. Could you explain why you want to make a more thorough examination of him, please? You've already spent time with him. You could just put in an order for him."

"I didn't know that," replied Craig. I just filled in the form on the console. I do maintenance work and I'm thinking that he may be able to help me. I would like to inspect him though if someone could help me. I need to know my brother is safe if I take him."

"Yes of course. If you'd wait her for a couple of seconds I'll see what I can do. I'll take the boy and see that he's prepared."

"No!" said Craig, "I know he's not cleaned up ready for display. That's OK. Like you say I've already spent time with him."

The attendant walked away satisfied that Craig had a genuine interest in Paul and returned a few minutes later with a small earpiece.

"You will be monitored automatically on the cctv," he said, "This will allow us to make suggestions without the participants knowing. It will make you seem more authoritative."

"Thank you!" replied Craig, "I'll wait inside."

He had been seated at the desk for just a few minutes before a naked man in his fifties was led into the far end of the room. The man had no body hair and the hair on his head had been cropped short like Paul's hair. Where Paul was blond this man was grey. He had a slight paunch but he looked fairly fit for his age. It was the first time he had seen a man of this age naked and so Craig studied the man's cock and balls carefully. Like the rest of him they seemed pretty average.

His hands were handcuffed behind his back

The attendant who had brought him came and stood behind Craig adopting a military 'At Ease' position. He obviously was not graded as he had no chain around his neck so he was standing on the carpet without permission and he had a relaxed air about him, adjusting his position every so often.

Remembering a trick that he had seen on television Craig snapped his fingers and pointed to just in front of the desk.

The man paused before saying, "Oh! Do you want me to come closer, lad?"

Craig did not need the whisper from the earpiece to know the man was being insolent but he would not have plucked up the courage to punish him if he had not received advice from his adviser.

"No!" replied Craig after a pause of his own, "I want you to bend over that horse while I find a suitable cane."

Craig enjoyed seeing the shocked look that appeared on the man's face. He felt his cock stir slightly.

The man looked desperately at the attendant hoping that he would intervene.

"Would you like him shackled, sir?" the attendant asked.

"If he doesn't move soon, I'll want him tied up for a whipping."

The man jumped to obey.

"Can we have his hands held further up his back? He's trying to cover his backside."

"Yes, of course, sir."

The attendant picked up a length of cord made a loop at one end which he slipped over the man's neck. Pulling the handcuffs up as far as possible he tied the other end of the rope to them.

"Thank you," said Craig as the attendant stood back.

He swished the cane he had chosen through the air a couple of times watching as the man tightened his muscles trying to prepare for the blow. The third time Craig landed the blow with all his force. There was a brief pause before the man let rip with a deafening scream. Craig watched fascinated as the red weal developed. Spots of blood appeared along the injury.

"You're due another five of those," said Craig, "I'll do them at the end of the inspection. I'll add more or knock some off according to how you behave. Do you understand?"

"Yes sir. I'm sorry if I was rude. I'll behave. I promise. Please don't hit me again."

"I wanted a simple 'yes sir' or 'no sir' so you've just earned another one. Now go and stand where I told you."

The man struggled to his feet and ran to the desk. Craig looked uncertainly at the attendant. He nodded approvingly and Craig felt more comfortable. Craig sat down behind the desk and glanced at the man's profile displayed on the console.

"So! Your name name used to be Timothy Edward James Everington. From now on it's Tom. Any questions?"

"No sir. Whatever… No Sir."

"You're learning. I need a housekeeper. What can you do?"

"Sir, when I was younger I lived alone a lot. I had a small house which I looked after and kept tidy. I learned how to cook. Nothing fancy but it was nourishing, sir."

"Were you married?"

"Yes sir. For twenty years until the divorce."

"So what happened?"

"My wife and my business partner accused me of fraud and here I am, sir."

"You will be looking after my brother and me in our flat. You will obey me first and then you will obey my brother. You don't speak unless you are spoken to first. You obey without question."

He remembered another line from a television show.

"Look at your cock and balls. Keep them hairless and remember that you are the little boy in this set up. Respect your betters. Understood?"

"Yes sir."

Tom was completely demoralised. His wrists hurt from the angle of the cuffs and his arms ached from the effort of keeping their weight from the loop around his neck His delay approaching the desk had been his last attempt to keep some control of his life. He had also resented the way a mere boy had expected him to obey a snap of his fingers. All that had changed. He understood the power that Craig had over him and he had no answer to the suggestion that he was just a little boy.

His friends had called him Tim. He had not dared question Craig's decision to call him Tom and so another part of his identity had slipped away.

In fact, it had been a slip of the tongue on Craig's part. He had been distracted by the growing pressure in his underwear. He thought he was straight and even now thoughts of the girl he desperately wanted to date crowded his mind. But, there was no doubt that he had enjoyed his mastery of Tom and was looking forward to it even more with Paul. His next command sent Tom scuttling over to stand in a corner once again emphasising that Tom's status was that of a naughty child.

Craig now turned his attention to Paul who had been watching events carefully. The same snap of the fingers brought Paul hurrying to stand before the desk as Tom had done. Paul stood nervously as Craig looked him over.

"OK! Now strip."

Paul was startled at the command but immediately obeyed. Uncertainly he dropped his shorts on the floor."

Craig examined Paul's well muscled body. Like Tom he had no body hair but unlike Tom the fine crop on his head was a light blond. Also, unlike Tom, he sported a slight erection. Stiff enough to point away from his body but still pointing towards the floor. Craig was slightly jealous of Paul's physique, forgetting the difference in their ages.

"My brother is curious about sex," began Craig curtly, "He may think he can use a slave to experiment with. How would you react to that?"

"Do you mean, would I lash out and hurt him,sir? I wouldn't do that, sir."

"So you say. How can I believe you?Are you used to it now?"

"No sir! I've never had sex with anyone."

Had Paul been sent to the Youth section, he probably would have ended up in the sex industry so the Judge had done him a favour by sending him to the adult section. He was sent to work in the kitchens and so was out of sight to prospective buyers. By the time he turned sixteen his youthful strength and his Grade 2 status made him seem threatening. Yet he was not developed enough to do heavy manual labour and since machines did most of the heavy work, there was not that much demand. Now that he was eighteen he was being inspected for labouring work now and again, but there were plenty of others who weren't classified violent.

The authorities did not care about how teenagers were used after being placed outside their Centre but were paranoid about abuse in their establishments and any sort of sexual behaviour was prohibited.

"So if I was to play with you, you'd panic and lash out at me."

"No sir! My Uncle took me my surprise. I was a free boy then and I panicked. I wouldn't do it now. I know I have to obey my guardian."

"Go and bend over the horse!"

Again Paul looked scared but did not hesitate to obey.

"Spread your cheeks."

Paul grabbed his buttocks and pulled them apart exposing his hole. Craig raised a couple of fingers and looked at the camera. Listening to a response from the earpiece he approached Paul.

Craig was in scary territory. If he had wanted to, he could have fucked Paul. It would have been allowed because Craig had a legitimate reason to test Paul's reactions but Craig was not going to drop his trousers in front of the attendant nor was he going to perform on camera. At sixteen, he was still very shy. He was nervous and uncertain about using his hands to play with Paul sexually but he had to be sure Paul would behave.

Paul shuddered as Craig's hands touched and explored his skin gradually approaching his crack. He experienced wonderful new sensations as Craig's touch stimulated his body. He felt a gentle pressure at his hole and then a finger enter him. At the same Craig's other hand played with his balls. His cock lay trapped between his stomach and the cold metal of the horse. His every movement stroked and stimulated it. He could not help it. Suddenly he shuddered and shot streams of cum in short convulsive jerks.

Craig withdrew his hands and stood back.

"Stand up." he ordered.

Paul obeyed and stood, embarrassed at the sticky mess on his stomach and the horse. He was also scared at how he would be punished for causing the mess.

"I think he passed that test OK," said Craig smiling.

The attendant laughed and nodded.

"I'll take him as well," said Craig, "The prices are right aren't they?"

"Yes sir," replied the attendant. "That one is too old to be valuable and at G2 the boy is officially too dangerous for him to be worth much. I probably shouldn't say this but we all like Paul and think he had a rough deal from his family. I'm glad you're' giving him a chance."

"I can apply to have his grade changed, can't I?"

"Yes, but not yet. You'd have to show your training has improved him."

"Five years in csc has done that, hasn't it?"

"You still have to own him for three months but put in an application today and you can include it in his processing. Otherwise you'll have to pay for a second processing later."

The csc would be only too please to assist Craig in upgrading Paul. It would be a real success story for them and excellent PR. Paul was in turmoil. He had liked Craig from the the first moment that he had met him. He had not really expected to be taken on by Craig and he had offered himself without thinking. While Paul genuinely admired the way that Craig was trying to look out for his brother, Craig's treatment of Tom had shown him another side of Craig and made Paul more wary of the younger boy but at the same time, Tom should have behaved better and Craig had to establish his authority.

It had been a shock to realise that Craig was thinking of taking him on as well and a part of him had been delighted. He also found it strange and uncomfortable to be naked in front of Craig. He had spent most of the last six years naked and was used to it but it had been in front of adults and it was a new experience for Paul to show deference to a boy two years his junior.

When Craig had fingered him it had felt wonderful and he had shot one of the biggest loads of his life although he also resented the fact that he had no choice in the matter. Craig's conversation about raising his grade stunned him. He'd understood that he had to show he was not a threat to Craig's brother but now he realised that his situation could improve dramatically with Craig and so a desire to please Craig was mixed in with the resentment.

Tom had heard most of what had been said. He was still in shock because of the way his life had changed in a few months. He knew he had underestimated Craig and the consequences of that mistake were costing him dear. He was at the mercy of some punk kid and could do nothing about it and Craig's' treatment of Paul had emphasised his despair. When Craig ordered him back to the horse he felt nothing. He did not even care when he realised that he was going to lie in Paul's drying cum.

He reacted to the three agonising blows by screaming then bursting into tears for the first time in forty years. He waited in dread anticipation for the fourth blow not understanding Craig's instruction to release his handcuffs.

He finally realised that his ordeal was over when Craig ordered him to stand up. He tried to wipe his face but responded instantly when Craig ordered him to stand still with his hands behind his back. It dawned on him that he had been let off some strokes and actually felt grateful to Craig for his kindness.

Craig was feeling proud of himself. He was now an Owner and he had bought two slaves for less than he had expected to pay for one.

"Shall I take them out to Collections while you sort some clothes for them and settle your account?" asked the Attendant.

"You can take Tom but Paul was my attendant when I arrived. Could he carry on until I'm done?"

"No problem. He knows where to go. Send him through when you're done."

Paul followed Craig out of the Interview room.

"I need some stuff from the shop. First I need to talk to you."

Paul waited quietly while Craig continued, "When your upgrade comes through you'll be working for my boss. You'll be helping me maintain his properties. You can't do it yet because a Grade 2 slave would scare his tenants half to death. When Ethan is safe I'll do what I can about you.

"Yes sir. Thank you sir," replied Paul. It was not a standard slave response because Craig heard the real feeling Paul had put into it.

"Don't thank me until you hear about the next three months," Craig retorted, "I'm going to give you shit."

Paul stared at Craig as he continued, "I've got to give Ethan a fucking great jolt. He thinks any problem can be sorted later. If he skips school he'll catch up later. We've got a csc worker coming to check up on us but we can sort it nearer the time. Do you get the idea?"

"Yes sir."

"I'm going to be the worst sort of master to you that I can be. I want him to understand what could happen to him. Give me any excuse and I'll beat you half to death. OK?"

Paul had gone pale as Craig talked but replied, "Excuse me sir but it almost seems as if you want me to give you that excuse."

"I can't ask you to misbehave but it would be useful."

Paul was silent for a moment. "May I speak openly, please sir?"

Craig nodded.

"I feel good being with you. I've never felt like this with anyone else. Even if you are just a kid I'll serve you as best I can because I want to, not because you'll make me. Do what you need to do to help your brother even if you have to have me crucified in the town centre."

"Wow!" gasped Craig, "it sound as though you love me."

Paul giggled, "I don't know about that, Master."

"Thanks for what you said but if you ever call me a kid again I'll whip the skin off your back."

For a few moments they stood and giggled like typical teenage friends then Craig became serious again.

"Ethan is going to get a bit of a shock tonight and I need to get to the shop here to buy his surprises. I've still got to pay for you."

Just then Mr Crosis appeared looking a bit disappointed. "It's all so expensive in there. How did you get on?"

"I got myself a housekeeper. He's fifty eight and I can get that other project under way."

"You're not going to get much work out of a fifty year old labourer." interrupted Mr Crosis, "but I said you can give it a go and I meant it."

Craig gave Paul a sly wink as they headed for shop. After gathering the things he needed he settled his account and gave the bag to Paul.

"See that my slaves put on the shorts and they can look after the rest of this stuff while they're waiting for me."

"Yes sir. I'll see everything's ready for you," replied Paul and headed off.

"Slaves? How many did you get?" asked Mr Crosis.

"I got two. The other one's for the labouring work. He's a Grade 2 but he seems harmless enough. The csc are backing a regrade."

"It seems a bit risky to me." Mr Crosis noticed a glint in Craig's eye. "OK! What's the story?"

"You'll see," Craig replied.

When they reached the collection point they found Tom and Paul standing side by side waiting for them. Tom was still in shock and Paul was visibly frightened. Over the years he had become thoroughly institutionalised and up to a couple of minutes ago, if he had been caught in this outer area of the Centre, he would have been severely punished. In his turn Craig was startled to see that Paul's ankles were manacled the connecting chain being just long enough to allow him to walk but not run and his wrists handcuffed behind his back.

There were five grades. A grade 5 simply meant that the participant could be stopped, searched or have his ID checked at any time by a policeman, security guard or owner of the premises the participant was on. Grade 4 meant that the participant needed a pass from his Guardian to be away from home. Grade 2 meant that the participant had to be restrained and supervised in public while Grade 1 meant 24 hour restraint and supervision. Grade 3 was used for temporary and voluntary grading. For example, parents could volunteer to have their children graded 3 as a punishment for up to a year.

Craig completed the paperwork and signalled Tom and Paul to follow him.

"How on earth can you afford the young one?" asked Mr. Crosis.

"I listened to his story," Craig replied, "And checked the records. Even the Judge at his trial seemed to believe him but he had no family support. He's nearly developed enough for the labour gangs but he still wouldn't fetch much at auction. I was surprised. The staff seemed to like him and thought he'd have a better chance with me."

"That flat of yours is going to be crowded. How will you manage?"

"Putting Paul to work straight away and using the income he generates to get somewhere bigger."

"Decorating the flat above yours?" asked Mr Crosis, "I wondered why you phoned about it just now."

Craig nodded, "The repairs have been done but it needs clearing up and decorating. It's dry and the water's on. The workers can sleep up there."

They had reached Mr Crosis' car by then and were heading home. Tom and Paul were sitting in the back, listening to the conversation. Tom was still in shock but Paul was content with what he was hearing until Mr Crosis asked Craig whether he could use Paul sometimes.

Craig smiled, "I might give him a go a few times first, but I don't see why not."

"You?" asked Mr Crosis, surprised, " I thought you could only think of the Lindsay girl."

"I've never had a slave before," Craig replied, "It could be fun."

As his owner, Craig had absolute power over Paul. The csc might call Craig a Guardian whose job was to train and guide him but Master and Slave fitted their relationship far more accurately. The puritanical regime of the Placement Centre had left Paul with little experience with sex and he found Craig's and Mr Crosis' conversation something of a shock. Paul was beginning to realize just how much his life was changing.

His Uncle had startled and frightened him with the fierceness of his his attack which had made him lash out with a knife. The irony was that if his Uncle had been gentler in his approach then Paul would have been a very willing partner.

Mr Crosis dropped Craig off at the flat and headed off. Craig led his two new servants into the flat that he and Ethan shared.

Paul was used to the disciplined order of the Centre while Tom was used to a house kept tidy by his own servants. They looked in horror at the mess that only boisterous teenagers can make as Craig released Paul's handcuffs.

"Tom! Start tidying up," Craig snapped feeling embarrassed as he looked around at his failure to keep order. "Paul, you will follow Tom's orders and help him. Ethan is in from school by 4.20 and I'm having visitors at five. I expect this room to be ready for them and the kitchen ready for you to start the evening meal.

"I'll be in my bedroom. Paul, bring me a can of coke from the fridge."

People tended to forget that Craig was only sixteen. He was mature and capable but the trip to the csc had pushed that maturity to the limits. More than anything now he wanted time to himself. He threw himself on the bed and would have fallen asleep if Paul had not knocked on the door carrying a large plate on which stood a can of Cola and a glass.

"Tom says that he's sorry that he couldn't find a tray, sir," said Paul, "Shall I pour it for you?"

Craig reached out and placed his hand on Paul's crotch. He felt Paul's cock begin to stir. He smiled to himself as he lay back with his hands behind his head.

"No! You can give me a blow job though."

Paul was too used to obeying orders to argue so he knelt down beside the bed and undid Craig's trousers. He stopped when he saw Craig's boxers. He had not worn underwear since he was arrested and had to think what to do. Craig helped by lifting his hips off the bed so that Paul could pull them down.

"You're not very good at this, are you?" Craig said, "I thought you Graders knew all about sex."

"No sir," Paul replied, "It's not allowed in the Centre. I've only done this a couple of times before."

"You mean you broke the rules?" Craig trying not to laugh, "And I thought you were such a well trained boy."

Paul felt a sudden surge of panic at admitting to his bad behaviour and was humiliated by his inexperience in front of the younger boy. Craig could see the devastating effect his comment was having.

"Didn't you get teased in the Centre either?" he asked.

"Sometimes, sir!" Paul answered relieved that he was not in trouble.

"Just relax and try not to bite it off." laughed Craig.

Paul bent down to his task. It was not the best blow job ever but as Paul's tongue and lips worked their magic Craig's cock stiffened, becoming rock hard. It was not only Paul's clumsy ministrations that was stimulating Craig. He was enjoying the power he exerted and the freedom his new circumstances gave him. If he had brought a girl friend into his bedroom, or even another boy he could get into a lot of trouble if their parents complained.

Encouraged by his success Paul plucked up the courage to gently play with Craig's balls. As Craig tensed and bucked violently Paul felt the salty streams fill his mouth. He swallowed making room for more, impressed with the strength and force of the younger boys climax and Craig descended from the highest peak he had ever ascended to a state of complete relaxation and sense of peace.

Sending Paul to work for Tom, Craig fell asleep listening to the chink of the chain still clamped to Paul's ankles.

Paul could feel his own hard on straining to escape his shorts. He surreptitiously adjusted himself when he had the chance while doing the tasks Tom set him. He needed the toilet and was waiting to be told to go. Tom noticed his increasing discomfort and with it he felt his own need to relieve himself. Tom was not sure what to do. A few months ago, taking a piss had been no big deal and he still had not got used to the idea that he could only go when ordered.

Craig's instructions had been vague and for the first time since his arrest he was having to organise his time and make decisions. He was feeling panicky as he made his mind start working again.

"We've done the living room, and I can get more of the kitchen done. If we go together, you can start on the bathroom so that it's clean and ready for Master Craig and his brother. Just piss but wait for Master Craig to tell you what to do about your hard on."

Paul nodded relieved he had been told what to do, hoping that Tom would not be in trouble. Paul had to flick his cock so that the sting deflated it enough so that he empty his bladder.

They worked steadily until just after four when Tom realised he had another decision to make. Craig had not stirred since he had laid down. Should he wake his young master ready for Ethan's arrival or let him sleep on? In the end he sent Paul to wake Craig.

Paul was unaware of a problem and simply followed his orders. Craig was already stirring and opened his eyes to the sound of Paul's ankle chain. The first thing he saw was Paul's shorts tented outwards almost pointing at him.

"Is that thing likely to go off," Craig asked lightly.

"No sir," Paul replied, "It's waiting for your command to fire."

Craig laughed.

"So! How's the cleaning going? Any problems?"

Craig frowned as Paul hesitated.

"Tell me!"

"We needed to piss, sir"

"And?"

"We had not been told to go. We used your bathroom, sir but I cleaned it afterwards, sir"

Craig was puzzled by Paul's behaviour and could see Paul was genuinely upset.

"That's OK," Craig replied, "You're not at the Centre now and the rules are different. I'm surprised you didn't take care of that at the same time."

"Tom said that I should wait for your orders, sir."

Craig nodded. "I like that. Fetch me the keys to the cuffs."

Craig unlocked the manacles and bade Paul to remove his shorts before replacing the leg cuffs. Being naked all the time was one of the humiliations that Ethan had to expect.

"Now you can show me what you and Tom have been up to."

Craig was delighted with the transformation of the apartment. His two houseboys had worked hard and the place was almost ready for the csc inspection.

Tom looked nervous when Craig queried piles of bags stacked against the kitchen wall.

"I'm sorry, sir," he replied, "Some are rubbish that needs to be taken down. I need permission to leave the flat. The rest is dirty clothing. If you could give me a pass I'll take them to the laundrette."

"No! Not today," Craig replied, "There's no time. Ethan's already late and I'm going to need your help with him. Tom, forget about obeying Ethan like I said earlier. You only obey me. When Ethan does finally get home I want you to stand by the front door so that he can't leave. Do you understand.

I think so!" replied Tom mystified.

But Ethan did not show up. Tom and Paul became more and more frightened of Craig's growing anger. Finally the doorbell rang.

Craig was still angry as he snapped, "Tom answer that. Paul find a towel and rap it round your waist."

Craig greeted Mrs Sanders who looked puzzled.

"Where's Jake?" she asked, "I thought he was here doing a project with Ethan."

"No! I told Ethan to come straight home after school."Craig replied. "Tom. Make a drink for my guest."

Craig and Mrs Sanders sat and chatted while they waited for Ethan and possibly, Jake to show up. Finally they heard the boys at the door and Mrs Sanders slipped into the kitchen.

"Where have you been?" Craig asked angrily, "I needed you home early today?"

"Jake and I had this project for school. We went to his place and Mrs Sanders made us tea. I tried phoning but this crap phone doesn't work."

The two boys had been staring curiously at Tom and Paul but before they could change the subject and distract Craig, Mrs Sanders stepped into the room.

"You are going to tell me the truth about where you've been," Craig said, "but first, you are going to strip."

"No way," exclaimed Ethan.

"Paul over there has spent the last five years in a csc centre. He knows about discipline. Strip or I tell Paul to do it for you."

Craig looked questioningly at Mrs Sanders who nodded.

"Jake. You strip as well."

Jake looked despairingly at his mother and then at Paul and began removing his clothes. Ethan was almost in tears as he followed suit.

At thirteen both boys were almost hairless. Jake had the makings of a bush around his cock and was a little chubby. Ethan was far more muscular but he only a few hairs on his body.

"Turn and face Paul," Craig commanded.

As the boys obeyed Craig slipped an ID chain around Ethan's neck. The joining link consisted of a male and female halves. The surfaces had millions of tiny burrs all lying in the same direction. They slid together easily but jammed solid if they were pulled apart.

"Stand still," snapped Paul who immediately looked terrified as he turned to Craig for approval. Ethan had raised his arms to feel the collar but had dropped them at Paul's command.

Craig nodded approvingly and fitted the second collar around Jake. Craig then used his mobile to activate the trackers and make the grading official. The plates read 'Registered G3. Temporary.'

"Face me," Craig ordered. The grading did not need all the theatricals but Craig was not sure how to do things so again he was relying on scenes he had watched on television.

"You're both regraded to Grade 3 for three months," Craig said, "If your school work and your behaviour improves it won't make much difference to you. If I have to I'll extend it to the full twelve months and keep you under Grade 2 or even Grade 1 supervision."

"Fuck you!" Ethan yelled, "You can't do this. I'm out of here."

Ethan started for the front door and saw Tom standing there and then remembered he was naked. Helplessly he turned back to Craig.

"Please Craig." he cried, "Don't do this to me."

Craig felt tears in his eyes and he nearly gave in. He wanted to be playing football with his brother or something, not punishing him like this.

"You've done it to yourselves," Mrs Sanders said firmly, "I want to know what you've been up to today and you are going to tell us. Do you have a cane or anything, Craig?"

"Yes. I bought one today."

Mrs Sanders pointed at Paul. "Could he take Jake out into the kitchen and question him?"

"No! Craig please!" Ethan sobbed, "We were at the library."

"Excuse me sir," Paul said, "Should I separate them before they say anything else as Mrs Sanders requested?"

Craig noticed the emphasis that Paul put on 'separate".

"Good idea," Craig handed Paul the bag of goods he bought at the placement centre. "Don't stand any nonsense from him.

Mrs Sanders and the boys had noticed that Paul's ankles were shackled but it only really impacted on their consciousness as he stepped forward and the chain rattled. As he reached forward, the towel came loose and fell to the floor leaving Paul standing naked before them. He froze, not out of embarrassment but out of fear that he would be punished for allowing it to happen.

"Sorry about that," Craig said to Mrs Sanders, "I'm still getting things organised."

"Don't worry about it." Mrs Sanders replied, "I've seen naked graders before though maybe not so young. The place I work for has got a couple of 4s for heavy lifting. They've got tunics but no one really cares whether they wear them or not.

"Are you sure it's safe for you to have a G2 here?"

"His upgrade's being processed," Craig replied, "I checked him out before I got him."

"Fair enough." Mrs Sanders said, "OK Jake. Move it. Get to the kitchen."

As Paul and Jake disappeared, Craig tipped Ethan's school bag onto the table then picked his clothes up, one by one checking the pockets and emptying them onto the pile of school stuff. Mrs Sanders did the same with Jake's things.

"Where's the work you were doing at the library?" she asked.

"Er… It was just reading." Ethan muttered nervously.

"I don't know how Craig intends punishing you for lying but you're only making it worse. Were you at the library?"

Perfectly on cue they heard a groan and a yelp from the kitchen. The noise ended all resistance in Ethan and he shook his head.

"Good! Where did this come from?" Craig asked picking up a pile of money from Ethan's things."

All the colour drained from Ethan's face.

Since the first caveman left images on a cave wall porn has flourished. With the advent of the csc, the most basic of tastes could be catered for. The one exception was 'fresh meat'. Pictures of Graded youngsters were so commonplace that they were worthless. It was virtually impossible to remove the grade chain for a photo shoot and those that tried often ended up Grade 1. It was also rare for a teenager graded 4 or lower not to bear any punishment marks. Paul carried faint marks on his backside that would be there for the rest of his life.

Jake and Ethan were doing very nicely posing for photographers wanting the fresh unsullied look. Ethan mumbled disjointedly so it took a while but in the end they had the full story. Craig headed for the kitchen to discover what Paul had learned. The sight that was revealed when he opened the door stopped him dead. Jake was bent over the table while Paul knelt behind him. Paul was holding Jake's buns apart exposing Jake's hole.

Paul stood up turning respectfully towards his master.

"Having fun?" Craig asked quietly.

"Yes sir," Paul answered smiling but the smile faded as he saw the anger in Craig's eyes.

"Explain."

"He squeezed my balls." Jake yelled out in an outraged voice.

"Craig. Can I have a word in private, please." Mrs Sanders asked.

Sending Tom through to the kitchen Craig and Mrs Sanders stood in the living room.

"I'm sorry," Craig said, miserably, "I shouldn't have brought Paul home. I've messed up, haven't I?"

"Not really." Mrs Sanders replied gently, "I didn't think about the sex implications of a regrade either but I should have done. I'd been thinking about some sort of short sharp shock for Jake for a while. The pamphlets I got did mention it but somehow I never thought it would affect my little boy."

"Paul still shouldn't have touched him there without permission. I am sorry about that."

"Don't be." Mrs Sanders said, "Let's get Paul in here and see what he has to say for himself.

Paul was desperately unhappy and wished he was back at the Centre. He knew the rules there but here he just kept messing up. He wanted to please Craig but did not know how to go about it.

"Did you play with Jake's balls?" Craig asked.

Paul nodded, "Yes sir. And with his cock, sir."

"You were supposed to be finding out what he had been up to not having fun."

"Please sir, they do it like that in the Centre's inductance zone. It teaches new members that they've got no control any more and you reward them with nice feelings if they're answering properly and you hurt them if they're not."

"l see," said Mrs Sanders, "So what about his backside?"

"When Jake told me what they had been doing I wondered if it had gone any further. I've seen boys come into the adult section after being sold on by a brothel. He seems tight enough, sir. I don't think he's been fucked, sir."

"Thank God," Mrs Sanders sobbed in relief.

"You shouldn't have touched Jake like that without his Mother's say so," Craig said.

"Don't worry about it," Mrs Sanders said, "Maybe he'd better check Ethan though. Is something bothering you?"

"Yes ma'am," Paul replied, "I'm doing things wrong and I don't know what."

Paul was getting hysterical, "I'm sorry sir. I'm trying to be good, I really am."

Craig stepped forward to put his arm round Paul but Paul flinched as if he was going to be beaten.

"Easy." Mrs Sanders said quietly and each boy wondered if she was talking to him."Temporary grading is to warn youngsters what might happen to them if they're graded by the courts."

Attitudes had changed over the years. As the authorities got increasing rights to stop and search youngsters so they in turn became more adept in concealing things resulting in increased powers of search. Any csc participant could be strip searched in the street including internal examinations. It only became possible because of a carefully orchestrated change in attitudes.

It was now commonplace for boys to do physical training in the nude in schools. That had been fairly easy to introduce. Gymnasium was Ancient Greek for a 'place to be naked' and nude swimming was commonplace in Europe well into the 1980s. Nudity in young people had been easy to promote as being traditional and healthy.

Sexual contact had proved harder to justify and most people still had an ambivalent attitude towards it. The attitude was that Grades 1 to 4 deserved anything they got but people became uneasy when it became too blatant, hence the csc's approach. Grade 5 were treated more carefully but it was still difficult for them to make any complaint about an adult. Mrs Sanders accepted these ideas as normal. She was at alarmed at how Jake and Ethan had put themselves in danger by going with strange men. She also needed to get used to Jake's temporary status. Like countless mothers throughout history she was having to accept that she could no longer protect her son.

"I don't like what you've done to Jake but I know it's necessary," she said, "Just don't do any permanent damage. Do you understand?"

"Yes ma'am," Paul replied, "Thank you."

"Go and check Ethan," Craig ordered, "Like Mrs Sanders said, show him what could happen to him but don't do anything permanent. You and Tom are shaved. Maybe they should be as well."

"It's getting on a bit so could they do their homework first." Mrs Sanders asked.

Craig was so relieved that Mrs Sanders was there to help him. Mrs Sanders was impressed with what Craig was trying to do but his youth and inexperience was obvious. Tom was summoned from the kitchen. He explained that he could knock a meal up for the boys but the old and stale food, supplemented with tinned food would not be suitable for Craig and his guest. He needed to stock the kitchen.

Tom had been a successful business man all his life. His biggest mistake had been to miss the developing affair between his wife and his business partner. Rather than murder him, they had framed him and his life had been in a steady downward spiral ever since. The worst point was receiving a caning from a sixteen year old boy and realising he was completely in Craig's control.

He felt a little more confident about the future as he began to understand Craig's problems and his desire to keep Ethan safe.

Tom liked Paul and they had worked hard and well together that afternoon clearing the flat but he had mainly been a spectator while the boys were regraded. He had been frightened of admitting that there would be difficulties in preparing a meal. He was delighted that not only was his explanation accepted and that his master and Mrs Sanders would order in a pizza but he would be given a pass and some money to go shopping the next day. After three months detention, the prospect was a daunting and exciting one. He fussed around preparing the boys food and even laid the table in the living room for Craig and Mrs Sanders warming plates for their food.

Jake and Ethan worked at the kitchen table. Ethan was sulky, seeing Tom as an adult and therefore an enemy. Jake was upset and thoroughly humiliated at his treatment in front of his mother but was bright enough to realise that Tom was not much better off than them. Tom talked about his life and his experiences in the centre while Jake listened with increasing alarm. When the conversation switched round to the posing the boys were surprised that Tom was horrified.

"You're lucky to be alive." he said, "Did they want pictures of you bent over showing your tight little holes?"

Jake nodded.

"And were they going to pay more if you did something a bit more exciting?"

Again Jake nodded. "Something like that."

"That something would be opening up your hole. If it was their cock or their fingers it would hurt like mad but you'd get over it. The nastiest thing I heard about was a red hot poker.

This time Ethan stared at him with as much horror as Jake.

"Don't talk shit," he snapped.

"I'm not," replied Tom, "Sex is cheap nowadays. If someone wants something a bit unusual then they need to grab a virgin or someone innocent. There's a craze for finding new ways to take their cherry. In this case the two guys responsible had a thing about the murder of the English king, Edward ll. He had a lot of favourites that the nobles didn't like but they needed a way of killing him that wouldn't be too obvious once he was in his coffin. They reckoned he was gay and the poker up his arse was their form of gay bashing."

"You mean that could have happened to us?" asked Jake in a terrified voice.

"Probably not that extreme but it could have been very unpleasant. Do you understand why your families are so worried about you?"

Even Ethan nodded thoughtfully before they all returned to their work.

Tom had not mentioned that incidents like this were extremely common because the official police position was that if the child was not safely home with his guardian then he was running wild and could not be trusted and so complaints were rarely believed.

Meanwhile Craig and Mrs Sanders had also discussed the topic as well as working out various other details of the next few months. It was the sort of day to day trivia that Craig had not considered.

Paul's ankle shackles had also been mentioned. Mrs Sanders now agreed with Craig that Paul was not violent. She was more uncomfortable with Paul's nudity than she was ready to admit to. She found him very sexy.

Craig was unaware of this but had been uncertain what to do about the chain. As Grade 2 Paul was supposed to be restrained but as Mrs Sanders pointed out, Paul had everything to lose and nothing to gain by running away. Craig had been unhappy at shackling Paul and sent him to the bedroom to free his ankles and don his shorts.

Inevitably the conversation turned to the sexual use of the boys. Outside the csc attitudes to sex were hopelessly confused. There was the same mix of prejudice and tolerance against gays, sex outside of marriage that we see, plus the debate whether graders deserved everything they got or whether they should have some protection. Usually anything that increased the deterrent value or had a sense of punishment was acceptable.

Mrs Sanders had been brought up with these attitudes and so apart from another request not to do any permanent damage, Craig had a free hand.

Before Mrs Sanders took Jake home, his and Ethan's body hair was removed. Paul placed a chair beside the sink and in turn Jake and Ethan were made to stand on it while Paul shaved them. Craig, Mrs Sanders and Tom looked on while Paul freely handled them with his head at times, inches from their cocks. Both boys were in tears at the humiliation unable to look at the adults.

"What happens to you stays in this flat. No one else need know," Craig said, "Just remember, if you don't sort yourselves out this is how it will be for the rest of your lives. Your entire class, their parents or just about anyone else could be watching."

Ethan and Jake nodded, neither one daring to speak until a thought struck Jake. "At least you're not taking photographs and putting them on the Internet."

Jake faced another humiliation. It was a cool night and Mrs Sanders first reaction was to have him wrapped up warm. Fussing like that was not appropriate and Jake headed out into the night wearing nothing but a pair of shorts and trainers with his hands cuffed behind him. He been made to wear his school bag on his back and as he trotted home behind his mother he looked just like any other servant carrying his mistresses things.

He told Tom and Ethan to tidy up and then they could sleep on the kitchen floor. With final instructions for the following morning Craig headed for the bathroom and then to his bedroom where Paul had been sent to wait for him.

Craig was tired in spite of his sleep that afternoon. He hated being the 'responsible adult' and having to discipline Ethan and the evening's events had completely drained him. The one bright spot was Paul. His acceptance of Craig's authority and eagerness to help Craig did more to encourage Craig than Paul could ever realise.

Paul admired Craig and was concerned about the strain Craig was under. As he stood in the bedroom respectfully awaiting his master he was, in his turn, worried about the mistakes he had made. At the Centre, a stressed guard and a servant's mistakes meant severe punishment so he wondered what was in store for him when Craig returned. Strangely, as well as being nervous, he looked forward to the chance to please Craig. He had slipped out of his shorts and stood at the 'at ease' position as he had been taught at the csc.

When Craig returned to the bedroom he immediately became hard again. Although his fantasies centred around his possible girlfriend, seeing Paul waiting meekly for his his master was a definite turn on.

"OK slave. Undress me," Craig ordered. He half expected Paul to protest but his servant knelt down and began removing his shoes and socks. Craig's shirt followed and then his trousers and shorts. The erotic experience aroused Craig so that Paul had trouble working the shorts over Craig's manhood. Finally Craig was naked and Paul waited for his next orders.

Paul's cock also pointed stiffly upwards and he hoped Craig would allow him a chance to get relief.

It was a tense moment for both boys as they pondered the next move.

"You can't have Ethan's bed. That wouldn't be right," Craig said, "You'll sleep on the floor unless I have you in mine."

"Yes sir," Paul replied, "Whatever you say, Master."

Craig was still uncertain and just stood.

"Shall I make the bed for you, sir" Paul asked showing a rare initiative.

Craig and Ethan had single beds on either side of the room. It was the only room that had not been tidied and so Paul's question could have been considered criticism leading to a severe punishment.

"Yes," Then lay down on top of it."

Craig cautiously sat down on the edge of the bed then laid down against Paul. As Craig's back spooned into Paul's chest, Paul hesitated before wrapping his arm around his owner but as Craig nestled in even closer to him Paul relaxed. He felt his own cock hardening and tunnelling it's way between their two bodies and felt Craig push more tightly into him then Craig slid round so that he was on his back. Craig gripped Paul's wrist and pulled it down onto his cock.

"Do something with that," Craig whispered "Or I won't get any sleep."

Paul began gently stroking and Craig's cock immediately hardened until it was almost solid. Craig's muscles contracted and his cream shot over his chest. Like the blow job Paul had given him that afternoon it was not the best of jerk offs but Craig was content to have pressure released from his balls.

Craig looked at the mess on his chest. He was lying on one of Paul's arms, pressed up against Paul and did not feel like moving. He glanced down at Paul's rigid member.

Still curious about how far he could push Paul he said, "I don't want you stabbing me with that all night. Do something about it. Then you can clean us up. I'm not moving so you'll have to scoop it it up and swallow it."

Paul had managed to sneak the odd jerk off with guys at the Centre but they had been hurried sessions with the fear of being caught and severely punished. Now he was acting under orders. He almost trembled with excitement as his fingers drifted over Craig's torso and groin. Craig stirred as Paul rubbed his nipples and Paul hastily scooped some of the cum and swallowed it.

He need not have worried for Craig was asleep. The stresses and worries of the last few months had exhausted him. With Paul laying beside him, he felt safe and protected and he had fallen into deep and contented slumber.

Paul slowly stroked himself to his own wonderful climax. Somewhere deep in his sub-conscious Craig felt Paul's own pleasure and happiness when his balls released their load. As Paul gently explored his body again he absorbed the sensations turning them into dreams of happy times and fun with his friends.

Chapter 2

"That felt good," Craig said softly, "But shouldn't graders wait for permission?"

Paul burst into tears.

"I'm sorry sir," he sobbed, "I've let you down again."

"I don't know about that," Craig replied, deliberately talking at crossed purposes, "I'm still well up."

Sitting up to give Paul some space he snapped, "Over on your stomach."

Craig sat and admired Paul's muscular body for a few moments before landing a heavy slap on Paul's arse cheeks. Paul grunted, more with surprise than pain. Craig straddled Paul, nestling his cock in Paul's crack and began a rocking motion rubbing his cock between Paul's cheeks and his own stomach. Paul's cock, sandwiched between his stomach and the bed became hard again as his body moved under Craig's motion. Craig speeded up his stroke until the action became convulsive and and his mind could only feel the pressure squirting from his cock. As the warm sticky fluid spread around his stomach he collapsed onto Paul in contented exhaustion. Dimly he became aware that Paul was sobbing again.

"What's wrong?" he asked.

"Please sir, I've cum again," Paul replied, "I couldn't stop myself and it's all over the bed clothes."

Craig slid his hand under Paul feeling the familiar wetness and then rubbing Paul's cock.

"Until I say differently, you are responsible for this room," Craig said softly. "You will see that it is always ready for me. OK?"

"Yes sir," replied Paul nervously.

"Do a good job because if you give me an excuse, I'll put you over my knee and spank you. It could be fun – for me anyway."

"You don't need an excuse, sir," Paul answered, "You could do it anyway even if I wasn't behaving so badly."

Craig sat up and gently stroked Paul's arse cheeks.

"Maybe you should punish me for being a bad master," Craig said thoughtfully, "I haven't made it clear what I want from you have I?"

Paul had no idea how to reply. When he was at the Centre, if he had made the slightest hint of a criticism of a guardian, he would have been severely punished. He remembered something Craig had said the day before about wanting Ethan to see how a grader can be punished. Maybe he wants an excuse to punish me for being rude, he thought.

Aloud he replied, "Maybe you're trying to do too much at once, sir. New graders always take time to get used to the new discipline."

He tensed, waiting for Craig's anger. Instead he felt Craig kiss his neck.

"You could be right," Craig answered. Hearing a buzzer from the kitchen he continued, "Tom'll be bringing me a cup of coffee soon." I think I'll get washed and dressed before the rush."

"You don't rush, Craig. You're the master," Paul said without thinking.

He panicked as Craig tensed and climbed from his back. He had definitely gone too far that time.

"Careful about calling me Craig when the others are around," Craig said, "I need a piss so I'll wash while I'm there. You get this bed sorted then I can lie back down.

When Tom politely knocked he found Craig laying on his back with Paul kneeling on the floor sucking on Craig's cock.

"I'll be getting up in half an hour," Craig said, "See that you three are washed and ready and have had your breakfast. Come back then Paul."

"Yes sir," Paul replied.

"Craig looked at Tom until he also replied, "Yes sir. I'll see to it."

Craig relaxed and listened to the noise outside. He wondered how Ethan was coping with a communal bathroom. He thought he had heard some squeals of protest then a sharp tone in Paul's response and everything went quiet. Right on time Paul returned.

"How did it go," Craig asked.

"Paul smiled, "We only had time for cereal, sir. I'd forgotten how good they tasted but Ethan said he didn't like them. Tom says your scrambled eggs will be ready in twenty minutes. He hopes you'll make do with them followed by cereal. He's a bit worried that he can't cook properly for you still."

Craig grinned.

"Am I more like a Master now?"

"Yes sir," Paul said, also grinning before he became serious. "I've sorted out the cleanest clothes I can find for you. We do need to get some washing done for you, sir."

Craig nodded. He dressed and headed for the living room. The table was old and badly scratched but it looked cleaner than it had ever done and there was a meal setting ready for Craig. Beside the setting were a couple of envelopes and passes already made out for Craig to sign. The mail was uninteresting, an advert and a letter from the csc confirming the time and date of their inspection.

There were three passes for Tom. The first allowed him to take Ethan and Jake to school, the second allowed him to shop at the nearest supermarket and the third allowed him to go to the laundrette. The fourth pass allowed Ethan to walk between home and school if he was accompanied by Tom, Craig or Mrs Sanders.

Craig added Mr Crosis to the list and added an amount of money to Tom's pass that he was allowed to carry while shopping.

Tom was nervous as he brought Craig his breakfast and was relieved when Craig did not complain. He'd been uncertain about presenting the paperwork as he had but when he had been free he had trained his own servants in this way.

Craig felt shy and self conscious as he ate. Tom joined Paul and Ethan who were lined up along the wall waiting their Master's pleasure Paul and Ethan were still naked but Tom wore shorts and an apron because of his cooking. Craig was enjoying his role as head of the household. He and Paul had talked that morning and both had a clearer idea how they should behave.

Paul had also spoken to Tom and Ethan about their attitudes reminding Ethan that he was long overdue for a spanking. Ethan was more worried about Paul's willingness to grab his cock and was not going to give him an excuse.

Where Craig was straight but able to enjoy Paul's subservience to him, Ethan was gay. At thirteen his sexuality was developing and he found contact with a good looking boy like Paul very arousing and he hoped to have sex with him soon but that did not mean that he liked the control Paul exerted over him. Paul and Tom's talk of how they were treated at the centre frightened him more than he would ever admit. He resented standing there waiting for his brother's pleasure just as he had hated being left to sleep on the cold hard kitchen floor but realised he had little choice if he was going to stay out of the csc's clutches.

Tom was straight but had allowed Ethan lie beside him with Ethan resting his head on his arm.

Tom still saw Craig as a child and still had trouble accepting his change in status. It did not help that Paul seemed to be in charge or at least, number one in the pecking order. Paul warned him that if their present positions did not work out, Paul would end up on a work gang while Tom spent countless hours cooking the porridge based gruel that heavy workers ate.

Like Ethan, Paul was gay and falling in love with Craig. He admired Craig for the way he was trying to make a better life for them all, was flattered at how Craig listened to his opinions and ideas. He was still confused by the difference in attitudes between Craig and the Centre but it was a fantasy come true that he could now explore his new sexuality with such a handsome and gentle young man.

Ask most people and they would say that graders were only allowed shorts. In fact the law only required the grade chain to be clearly visible. Although Jake and Ethan could go to school in uniform apart from the chain around their necks, it would attract a lot of unwelcome attention. The school was more than happy to cater for the more humiliating custom since it was the greater deterrent but insisted that all students wear school uniform in school. Graders were faced with the prospect of changing in full view just inside school grounds.

Grade chains had little impact in class. Schools had always banned jewellery and the like on the grounds that in the boisterous world of youngsters, a ring in the face or a chain pulled tight could cause serious injury and so it was during breaks and sports that their effects were most felt. Graders spent most of their exercise time doing drills. Ethan was dreading his first day at school.

After clearing the table Tom set off first with Ethan reluctantly in tow. Once they were alone, Craig gently kissed Paul on the cheek and they hugged.

"You acted like a real master, sir," Paul said, "Just like we said."

"You can call me Craig now we're alone."

"No sir," Paul replied, "I'll be your friend with what I say but I am your slave with how I say it."

"I think I get that," Craig laughed, "and you're right as usual. Maybe I should punish you for being a smartass all the time."

"Yes sir. Whatever you say," Paul replied nervously. He thought that Craig was teasing but was not that certain of things yet. He yelped and bent forward as Craig squeezed his cock tight. It was more surprise than pain. Craig pushed his chest back with his free hand back then kissed him again letting the hand around Paul's cock begin a gentle stroking.

"I've got to go now, slave," Craig said with the smile still on his face, "Make sure you're ready for me when I get back."

"Yes, oh great and glorious Master," Paul said finally accepting Craig's mood. "It is always an honour to serve."

Paul looked wistfully as Craig left trying to remember what it felt like to be able to go outside without needing permission or restraints. Craig's first port of call was the school. He needed to inform them of the situation with Ethan and Jake.

He arrived before Tom, Ethan and Jake and headed for the office. He explained that he was more concerned that the men that the boy's had posed for might come looking for them which was why Tom had to chaperone them to and from school. The school was very sympathetic and thoroughly approved of Craig's efforts to look after Ethan. Craig and Ethan had been good students. With Craig seeming to drop out and Ethan's behaviour deteriorating, the schools position in the league tables was slipping. The school was more than willing to hear of Craig's new plans for his own education and give him the help he needed to catch up and then return for the run up to his exam year.

He left with a pile of work to get started and appointments to visit teachers who would be willing to tutor him.

As Craig left the school he saw Ethan blushing furiously, changing into his school uniform. Ethan tried to call out to Craig but all he got for his trouble was a teacher yelling at him inches from his face before dropping to the ground doing press ups. There were about a dozen or so other graders in the group. Since his activities with Paul he found himself looking at them with more interest than before. As Ethan's muscles strained with the exertion Craig realised that he was becoming an attractive young man and his bubble butts especially alluring.

Craig was uncomfortable at the idea others might look at his brother in the same way and decided that in future he could wear his school uniform shorts to save him the ordeal of getting naked in public each day. Craig knew that someone was bound to complain that Ethan was not wearing standard cotton shorts but he would face that when the time came.

Mr Crosis was surprised to see Craig arrive at the office so early. He was pleased for Craig that his plans seemed to be working out so well.

"So you don't want to work for me after all." he said, "I'll have to start looking for someone."

"How about Tom?" Craig asked, "He'll have the flat under control today and he's had experience."

"You lend him to me, would you?"

"Hire him out to you," Craig corrected, "I've got to earn some money so while he works in the office I'll go back to the maintenance work I used to do. Paul can start on the flat upstairs. He can't work in public but he could work in other empty properties even if I have to sit in there with him and do my school work there."

"You've got it all worked out as usual, haven't you." laughed Mr Crosis, "but it makes sense. I'll do it on one condition. You lend me Paul when I need him."

Mr Crosis laughed as he saw the worried look on Craig's face.

"Don't worry," he said, "I just thought that he's got inside info. I wondered whether he could find me a couple of cheap ones."

Craig was flustered, uncertain what to say. Mr. Crosis had never made it a secret that he liked boys but he would never force himself on Craig or Ethan. Craig knew that he liked the look of Paul but Craig was not ready to share him yet.

"It the least I can do," Craig finally managed to say, "I'm sorry. I thought you meant something else."

"You thought I wanted to ravish your property and leave you with the left overs."

Craig blushed, realizing that Paul had become special and he wanted to divert the conversation.

"If the csc visitor isn't happy, you'll probably have me, Ethan and Paul to choose from." he said.

"I'm sure everything will be OK." Mr Crosis replied. "You've done a fantastic job over the last six months. You can be really proud of yourself."

With that they settled down to work, catching up on the files and checking the books. With two of them it did not take long even with Mr Crosis explaining the different procedures to Craig. Mr. Crosis took Craig to lunch and then they discussed how best to use Paul and Tom.

Mr Crosis had bought a couple of buildings that he wanted to convert into apartments. Somehow he had been caught out and they had needed a lot more work than he intended and so he was having his own financial problems. It was not desperate yet but he needed to concentrate on the project. He was satisfied with the contractors he had hired and would normally leave them to get on with it but he had to monitor their work closely to ensure they stayed in budget.

It was something of a relief that he would be able to hand over some of the day to day routine.

Craig was home by early afternoon. Under Tom's instruction, Paul had transformed the bedroom. It was now neat and tidy without the piles of clothes waiting to be sorted and the two beds were clean and fresh. There was a change of clothing laid out for Craig on Ethan's bed. There was a box on Ethan's bed as well. It rested neatly at the foot of the bed against the wall. When Craig examined the contents he found the manacles, canes and other equipment a 'slave owner' needed.

The kitchen was spotless and the cupboards were fully stocked. The receipts for the shopping and the change from the money that Craig had given Tom were on the table waiting for Craig to check them. Mrs Sanders worked during the day and so Tom was going to collect Jake from school with Ethan. Tom was slightly flustered because he was about to set off.

Craig was quite happy to spend some time alone with Paul and sent Tom on his way. While Tom had been allowed shorts and t-shirt, Paul had stayed naked. Having Craig's undivided attention was a turn on for him and Craig watched as Paul's cock swelled and pointed outwards.

"That's what I feel," Craig said huskily, "Bedroom."

Whatever Paul needed, he dutifully undressed his Master and as Craig lay down on the bed he took Craig's cock into his mouth and began to suck. Craig was getting more confident with the situation and allowed his servant to lay beside him in a 69 position. It did not occur to Craig to suck on Paul but he explored his slave's body with his hands working his way down Paul's crack to his anus. Paul lifted his leg in submissive cooperation enjoying the touch of another boy.

Craig was on the border of new territory. They both accepted Craig's ownership of Paul but Craig could take that ownership to a new level by claiming rights to this new virgin entrance.

Sixteen year olds are not always as confident or as worldly wise as they seem and he hesitated. Paul took the initiative and pushed slightly onto Craig's finger. Craig took the hint and pressed against the lips.

They resisted until Paul relaxed and Craig penetrated that final sanctum. As Craig realized, that soon now, he would fuck Paul, his own muscles began to tighten and convulse as he shot stream after stream of cum into the back of Paul's throat. Paul gagged as his mouth and throat filled so completely and pulled off. He immediately grabbed Craig's cock and pumped the last of Craig's cream onto his chest.

Craig's finger had done it's own pumping, almost without Craig realizing and had penetrated deep inside Paul. There was a little soreness and discomfort from the unaccustomed stretching but spreading out from that source of discomfort were sensations he could not believe possible. His cock felt as if it was bursting in its desire to shoot its own cream trying to swamp Paul's training to wait for permission. Craig's finger won and he looked on in amazement as wad after wad shot past Paul's head. It landed on his legs and on the bed but he would sworn that some disappeared over the edge of the bed onto the floor.

For a time, Paul was lost in the ecstasy of the moment but as he descended from the heights he waited for Craig's reaction to his behaviour.

"I wonder if Tom will want you spanked for messing up the bed clothes."

Paul caught the mischievous tone in Craig's voice and replied, "It was your finger that did it. Maybe, he'd want you spanked as well."

"Maybe," Craig agree laughing, "The least you can do is lick my legs and feet clean."

Craig lay back lost in the sensual pleasure of Paul's gentle ministrations. Paul started with his feet, sucking each toe before working his way up his body to clean his own spunk off his stomach.

"That felt real good," Craig said as he allowed Paul to relax beside him resting his head on Craig's chest.

"Aren't you angry with me?" Paul asked, "I couldn't finish sucking you, came without permission and made the bed dirty. I'm not a good servant, sir."

"That's for me to say," Craig retorted, "I've loved this afternoon so you've pleased your Master. How does that make you a bad servant?"

"I don't know, sir."

"The others'll be back soon," Craig said, "I'd better get dressed. Sort the bed out."

Their lives settled quickly into a routine.

Tom was kept the busiest. He was up first to get the others ready for the day. After taking the boys to school he would head for Mr Crosis' office and work there until it was time to collect Jake and Ethan from school. After the first day they would head for Jake's home. He would prepare a meal for Mrs Sanders and Jake while the boys did housework. When he and Ethan got home he would check to see that everything was in order before giving Paul his instructions the next day.

Craig had allowed him to buy sleeping bags for Ethan and himself. He had loved his wife up to the moment he was arrested and had been blind to the difficulties and stresses in the marriage. His arrest and time at the Centre had been traumatic and had nearly destroyed him.

From the moment that he had arrived at the flat he had began to relax. He understood the role he was to play and felt the care and concern that Craig offered to all his charges, especially the love he felt for his brother, Ethan.

It had been frightening to go out unsupervised at first. The police and Neighbourhood Patrol had been suspicious and he had been constantly stopped to show his passes. On one occasion Jake, Ethan and Tom had all been strip searched with the boys having to empty their bags out onto the ground. Tom had rapidly become part of the scenery and now they would even stop and chat especially on weekends when he and Ethan did the shopping.

Ethan was more confused than anything by his change in status. He hated the highly regimented life he now endured and had been thoroughly humiliated by Paul's treatment of him the first night. In the evenings he was allowed to spend time with Craig. They would watch television, play games and sometimes Craig would take him to the park where they would kick a ball around or something until curfew. It was wonderful to bond with his brother again and be part of a family.

He accepted now that he had made a bad mistake posing for the photographs and took the risks of getting into the csc's clutches far more seriously.

At first he had been scared that he would be raped or forced into some sort of sexual activity and then disappointed when nothing had happened. Paul had handled his genitals and even examined his hole. As his new life settled down he remembered the pleasant effects of the contact started to want more. He knew that Paul belonged to Craig and would not look twice at him unless Craig approved. Tom was straight and had a thing about breasts. Tom had comforted him and tried to make him more comfortable on the hard floor but it had been paternal instincts for Tom not sexual.

Paul was happier than he could ever remember. It was as if he had a new family. He worked on the new flat upstairs, kept the present flat clean and tidy under Tom's directions and even learned how to prepare some of the meals. Craig had caught him looking sadly at the people in the street below wishing he could go outside.

When csc had first started there had been a craze for rickshaws. It had not lasted long. In terms of speed, stamina or maintenance an electric car was superior and pollution free but they had not disappeared completely. Mr Crosis had one stowed away in an old shed. On his first walk in the open air in five years Craig took him to the shed and had him clean it up. The rickshaw was wide enough for two people and Craig had one of the seats removed.

When Craig visited Mr Crosis' properties he could carry far more tools than before and did not need to keep returning to the office.

Although he could only stand, handcuffed to the push bar and only wearing shorts, no matter what the weather, Paul was spending time outdoors with Craig which was heaven.

Not everyone was happy with a Grade 2 being so lightly restrained until an elderly tenant asked if Paul could take her to the shops. She had been most indignant when Craig had agreed but had wanted to walk beside the rickshaw. She may not be able to walk far but she still had her faculties. Craig was going to be a while cleaning the hallways and clearing rubbish so he relented.

She got ready and climbed into the rickshaw carrying a light whip. As they set off she landed a lash on Paul's bare back and yelled, faster. When they returned, Paul was exhausted, breathing in painful gasps, and his back was covered in welts. They were accompanied by a policeman and an irate lady who was evidently a passionate anti-slaver and was determined to bring cruelty charges.

When Craig appeared, the anti-slaver demanded that Paul's handcuffs be removed, the old lady was yelling that Graders got what they deserved, the policeman was struggling to keep the two women apart and it was not until a couple of the Neighbourhood Patrol arrived that he was able extricate himself and speak to Craig.

"The boy insisted on bringing her home," the policeman said, "He was done in by then and I would have got a taxi for her but he didn't want to let you down."

"She's a vicious old cow," a neighbour who had popped out to watch the fun said, "She'll just use you. You won't get a word of thanks and she'll slag you off behind your back to anyone who'll listen. Bring the boy into my place. He can sit in the kitchen and have something to drink. I haven't got anything for his back though."

At a nod from the policeman Craig released Paul from the rickshaw. He was about to cuff Paul's hands behind him when the neighbour said, "Forget those things. He's in no state to cause trouble."

No one seemed inclined to argue with the man except for the old lady who saw a new target for her venom.

"You ought to be graded yourself," she screamed, "God damned liberals pandering to that scum."

When they reached the neighbours kitchen he guided Paul to a chair and made him sit. He went to the fridge and fetched a can of beer which he handed to Paul.

"Drink that," he ordered, "It'll put hairs on your chest."

He paused, "I'm sorry, I forgot. You'll only to have shave them off again. By the way, I'm Harry Smith."

Craig shook the hand that Harry offered and introduced himself.

One of the Neighbourhood Patrol joined them. Seeing the uniform, Paul tried to stand but Harry put a hand on his shoulder. The Patrol member introduced himself as James.

"Giving a grader alcohol are we, Harry? You'd better bribe me into silence with one as well. You'd better give him one as well."

"They all sat down round the table. Paul waited for Craig's say so then opened his can.

"Don't worry about Mrs Tibbs." James said, "She's a bloody nuisance. I know your story Craig. You won't get any problems from me over all this. You're Ethan Ryder's brother, aren't you?" And you've got another servant, Tom?"

"Yes sir," replied Craig nervously.

"It's OK." James said, "This is a small town and we tend to know people. I've spoken to Ethan and Tom on their way to school and I know about this one's Grade 2 status."

"His name is Paul," Craig said, "I didn't realize we're being watched."

"Well, your situation is unusual but we like what we see. So don't worry about it. Actually, Harry here was going to ask you for some help but I don't think you'd be interested now."

"My help?" Craig asked, "What could I do?"

"Your rickshaw." Harry answered, "There are a number of people in our Patrol area who are housebound. You can't help with the shopping because you couldn't go into the shops but some would really like to visit the park and see the flower displays."

Paul looked worried and as if he wanted to speak but James spoke first.

"Mrs Tibbs won't be one of them," he said firmly, "and we'd see that it was properly supervised. We've got another rickshaw and if we can find another boy to pull it, then we could make an afternoon of it."

"Maybe I could I could do that," Craig said, "What do you think, Paul?"

Paul's chest still hurt and he was still shocked by events but if Craig thought it was a good idea, he would not argue.

"I don't think they should be allowed to use whips on Master Craig," he said.

"They won't be allowed to use whips on you, either," James said firmly, "Mrs Tibbs had no right damaging Craig's property."

They discussed plans for the old peoples outing and set a date which happened to be the Sunday before the csc visit.

"Are you fit to haul that rickshaw again?"James asked as he spoke he was checking on his hand held computer.

"Yes sir," Paul replied.

"Harry! Have you got those cuffs with the long chain and waist chain?"

"Yes, Somewhere. Why do you want them?"

"His upgrade has been approved but it can't be fully implemented until the three month ownership qualification has been met." James said, "In the circumstances I'm approving Craig's application for minimal restraint."

Craig looked puzzled.

"What application?" he asked.

There was twinkle in James' eyes as he replied, "The one you'll make when you sign here. Normally these orders are to force slack owners to control their boys more. If you agree we'll get it sorted."

Craig happily nodded and at a command from James, Paul stood up. First Harry gave Paul a red arm band to put on. This meant that the Neighbourhood Patrol had issued special instructions. Paul held out his hands as he was manacled. The chains were fixed to a third chain which was padlocked around his waist. His arm movements were restricted but he would be able to carry out a variety of tasks.

"If you file a travel plan he can travel unsupervised." James continued.

Craig looked puzzled again and James continued, "We've taken up too much of your time already and you'll want to get home to meet Ethan from school. The travel plan is like a pass and it must be registered first and it has to be for a useful purpose. You can't send him to play football in the park or anything."

While he had been talking, he had gone to the relevant web site address and shown Craig how to fill in the form.

"There you are," James said, "Travel plan approved. Do you want to cancel it?"

"No," Craig replied, "Does that mean Paul can do the property maintenance with me."

"It does," James confirmed handing Paul a printout. "Tuck that in your armband and listen to your Master's instructions."

"Take the rickshaw back to Mr. Crosis' office then go home."

The colour drained out of Paul's faced and he started trembling.

"Please sir," He asked in a panic stricken voice, "Do you mean alone?"

"Yes! What's wrong?"

"What happens if I mess up again or there's a problem. What would I do? I'm not allowed outside."

Craig looked at James. He was unnerved at Paul's panic. James seemed surprised as well.

"Take a look at the pass. Can you see Craig's phone number?"

Paul nodded.

"If there's a problem hand someone that pass and ask them to call your Master. Say that you can't do or say anything without his permission."

"Yes sir," Paul replied uncertainly, "But do I have to go out alone?"

Harry used to work at the Placement Centre before taking early retirement and working part time for the Patrol. He had an idea of the problem.

"I'll walk you out and see you to the end of the road. Will that help?"

"Can I come back in if I want to, please?" Paul asked.

"Only if you want to disobey your Master," Harry replied a little impatiently. "You'll be all right once you're away."

When he led Paul away it was almost as if he was taking the boy to be executed.

"Five years in the Centre will do that," he said when he returned, "Stepping through the wrong door is one of the biggest crimes there. It's OK if he's cuffed or with someone but I bet he has trouble with some doors at home.

"I haven't noticed anything," Craig replied, "I hope he's all right."

Craig hurried home. It was Mrs Sanders' day off and she had collected Jake herself. As James had guessed, he was always glad to see that Ethan was OK but today he was worried about Paul. Ethan wondered why he was so distracted and became concerned himself when he discovered the reason. They did not have long to wait before he appeared and stood staring at the outer door to the flats. They watched as he took a deep breath and gingerly pressed the bell.

When he got into the flat he was trembling with excitement as Craig removed the chains and had him strip. Normally, no self respecting teenager would admit to be thrilled by a little adventure. It just would not be cool but Paul was not allowed secrets and had to account for his time out. He had been a little uncomfortable with everyone staring at his chains and red armband but he accepted that as part of his life.

The sense of being on his own and responsible for himself had been wonderful, if overwhelming. The first real test had been at the end of the road. He had almost stopped to await instructions. He had to choose which to go and as he turned the corner he tensed and his skin prickled as he waited for an angry shout or even a taser shock.

Mr. Crosis had been surprised to see him and had checked his pass. It had been difficult for Paul to leave the office. His chest had tightened and he had nearly been sick. His back had tingled as it desperately strained to detect the blow or bullet that an escaper could expect. The feelings had passed and he felt a sense of achievement

His real fun had started as he walked past the row of shops that he had taken Mrs Tibbs to. One of the shop keepers recognised him. She had experience of Mrs Tibbs and all her sympathies had been with Paul. She insisted on him coming into the shop and putting an ointment on the marks on his back and then gave him an ice cream.

People had really stared then at the sight of a Grade 2 strolling along in his chains licking a large cornet.

The town of Defborough where they lived was a small provincial town. Since fuel prices had risen so high the trend had been for people to work nearer and nearer to where they lived and so in places like Defborough a real community spirit was developing. Everyone knew about Craig, his brother and his new servants.

The armband meant that his status was officially sanctioned and Mrs Tibbs was universally disliked which overrode their disapproval of Paul's lax treatment. He even found people smiling at him, bidding him 'Good Afternoon' or asking after his back.

The final challenge of his adventure had been the door bell. Training dictated that he stand and wait until someone dealt with him but he knew he should complete his journey and not loiter outside. Greatly daring, he pressed the bell.

Once in the flat, Paul excitedly described his adventures. Craig seemed pleased for him until he mentioned the ice cream.

"I did not give you permission to eat ice cream," Craig said in a stern voice, "I'll punish you later."

"You can't do that." Ethan cried out, "He didn't do anything wrong."

"Did you have permission to accept gifts?" Craig asked.

"No sir," Paul replied. "I'm sorry sir. It won't happen again."

"No. It won't," replied Craig, "And six strokes of the cane will remind you."

"Craig! That's not right." Ethan yelled, "He's not done anything wrong."

"Drop it or I will have to punish you."

"No! It's not fair."

"Two strokes of the cane. Do you want to try for four?"

Ethan looked defeated, "No."

"Then go and start your homework. Paul. Come with me."

Craig took Paul up to the flat that they were decorating and set him to work.

"I don't mind you accepting treats," Craig said, "I was thinking of Ethan and strangers. I shouldn't punish you because I'm worried about him. I'm a bad Guardian to you, aren't I?"

"Yes Craig. You are."

Before Craig could recover from the shock of Paul's reply, Paul continued, "You took me in so that you could show Ethan what being graded could really mean but you're too kind and gentle. A good guardian has to be strict and in charge. He doesn't explain things and if he wants to fuck his servant then he does it. He doesn't worry about hurting him."

"I don't like this Master/Servant business. I just want to be friends with you."

"Friends look out for each other and help each other, don't they?"

Craig nodded.

"I'd like to see you get your certificates and get a good job and I want to help you protect Ethan. Does that make us friends?"

Still unable to speak Craig nodded again.

"You've saved me from the labour gangs and I can go outdoors alone so you've done the same for me. That makes us friends as well."

Paul left the painting he had started and stood before Craig, legs apart and with his hands behind his head.

"I'm not your servant. I'm your slave. It's what I want, sir."

"Get back to work, boy," Craig said. He nearly added 'thank you' but realized that it would be against what Paul had said.

Craig checked the front door then went over to Paul.

"The front door is locked and I have the only key," Craig said, "Which means no one can catch us. When that happens I wouldn't mind if you were the Master and I was the slave."

Paul smiled.

"In that case, strip."

Craig hesitated for a moment then obeyed. He stood uncertainly and as Paul stared at him, Craig adopted the stance that Paul had taken before a few moments ago. Paul's cock swelled as he admired the boy in front of him. He leaned forward and grabbed Craig's pubic hairs.

"Ouch!" Craig yelped, "Be careful, Paul."

"A Guardian at the centre used to tell us to be careful what we asked for because we might get it," Paul said softly, "So if you want me to be careful there…"

It was Craig's pits that Paul yanked and twisted next. It hurt and Craig brought his arms down to trap Paul's hands. Paul pulled his hands free and waited until Craig resumed the position. Craig sweated nervously and a bright sheen appeared on his body as Paul walked behind him. He jumped as Paul's finger slid into his crack and found his cherry. Paul's finger jerked upwards. Craig stumbled forward trying to avoid the invasion.

Paul moved round in front of Craig.

"Are you sure you want to be my slave, Craig."

"Craig shook his head. "I'm sorry Paul. I just wanted someone to take care of me for a while but that's the wrong way, isn't it?"

"Like I said, Be careful what you ask for," Paul said, then knelt in front of Craig taking his cock into his mouth, gently massaging it with his tongue. Craig groaned losing himself in the glorious feeling.

Paul pulled back.

"Wait here." he commanded.

He disappeared into the hall returning with an old mattress that had left with a pile of rubbish waiting to be thrown out.

"It's not really suitable for my Master but it's better than getting splinters from the floorboards. Lay down on your back, put your hands behind your head and let your slave do the work."

Paul knelt down between Craig's legs and took his cock into his mouth again sucking more insistently as Craig's member became engorged and erect. Paul shifted his position so that he straddled Craig's waist. He guided Craig's cock and carefully adjusted his position until the head grazed the opening to his love chute.

He pushed down against the rigid member allowing it to open him up. He winced as a burning pain seared through him but almost instantly it was gone and he pushed down further.

Craig was staring wide-eyed at him, not daring to move and spoil the magic of the moment.

Paul could feel Craig's pubes brushing his cheeks and paused for a moment to adjust to the intrusion and then savour the incredible feelings spreading through his body. He lifted up slightly then settled down again, repeating the action so that it developed into a steady pumping action.

Craig could not restrain himself and grabbed Paul's thighs to control the movement and began his own pumping action with his hips.

Suddenly Craig tensed and dug his fingers deep into Paul's flesh. His hips convulsed violently as wad after wad of his cream spurted into Paul. The moment was just as intense for Paul and he shot his own load over Craig's chest and face.

Craig relaxed and collapsed into the mattress. Paul just knelt back leaving himself impaled on his master. He waited, as respectfully as he could, with his hands behind his back. Emotionally he was soaring. The glorious physical feelings accompanied the ecstasy of them being created by someone he loved. As he looked down on the Craig's smiling face he knew that he had pleased his Master and the full feeling from Craig's penetration seemed to confirm his willing submission to Craig.

True, he had taken the lead briefly but Craig had been shy and nervous. Craig had entered him with his fingers but they had been brief tentative excursions, not the confident thrusts Paul had expected from his master. They had exercised him and stretched him which had helped him today.

All the stresses and tensions of the last few months had been squeezed out of Craig with his jism. He had never experienced such an intensely powerful moment before. As he gripped Paul's thighs Craig knew he was hurting Paul. There were traces of blood where his nails had dug in. He could not stop himself. For that brief moment he had no control over his convulsing muscles and the only thing in the universe was his pulsating cock.

As the moment passed he felt a contentment that he could not have believed possible.

"Wow." he whispered when he found enough energy to speak, "That was fantastic. I'm sorry that I hurt you."

"You shouldn't be, Master," Paul replied, "I'm just a slave."

Legally Grade 1 to 4 and under 25s are participants in the csc scheme. Those in the care of an individual were known as wards. The person in charge was their guardian. At grade 5 Craig had some rights. Craig was a ward of the state and was under constant scrutiny, hence the forthcoming inspection but he had a place to live, a job and education opportunities and had never been in trouble so he had a right to try and make a go things and that included looking after his brother. Unofficially grades 1 to 4 were known as graders, servants or even slaves. Since they had no rights slave was probably the most accurate description.

Officially graders were made wards because they had shown that they could not manage their affairs properly and needed the guidance of a guardian. Unofficially they were troublemakers who got what they deserved. Although extreme, Mrs Tibbs attitude was common.

The difference between the legal and unofficial lines provided endless debate and argument which neither side could win and left Craig less and less certain about how to deal with Paul.

Paul's reply reminded Craig of some of the uncertainties he had to face.

"You're more of a friend than a slave." he said softly.

Paul thought for a moment before asking, "Would you do something for your friend?"

"Yes of course. Anything I can do."

"When I can go out without chains, Ethan is out of trouble and your inspection is over can I go to that shop again and have another ice cream?"

"Definitely," Craig answered, "Every day for a month, if you like. Is that all you want?"

"If it's going to happen then you need to be a tough master. People will want to see you in control, not being friendly."

"Spare the rod and spoil the child," Craig added, "Is that what you mean?"

"One of the guards used to say, if a grader got raped, who fucking cares?"

"OK! You've made your point," Craig said. "Now come here."

Craig had stretched his arms out and as Paul leant forward, Craig pulled him down in a hug. They both felt a little lost as Craig's, now soft, cock slid out but enjoyed the feel of Paul's pole sandwiched between them.

"You know," Craig said half teasing but wanting reassurance, "You've convinced me that when I cane you later I mustn't hold back."

Paul shuddered.

"Your friend agrees. Your slave begs for mercy."

"How do you do that?" Craig asked, "You almost seem to be two different people."

Paul shrugged.

"I hadn't thought about it. You need a friend and a slave so I tried to imagine what a friend could do for you. You don't need him now that's he shown you how to use your slave."

"Thank you friend. I'll see you again soon. Slave, get on with your work or I'll add more strokes of the cane.

"Yes sir," Paul replied politely and got up to obey.

Craig lay quietly on the mattress thinking about their conversation watching Paul get on with the painting.

He was finally disturbed by a tap on the door. Paul immediately put down his brush and answered it, showing Ethan into the room. Ethan was startled to see his brother naked sprawled out on a mattress. He had already seen the marks on Paul's thighs and was mature enough to have guessed what had been happening causing his own cock to swell.

Paul had taken it for granted that he would be naked most of the time and Craig had fallen in with it and so Ethan also found himself naked. When Craig had first mentioned getting a servant both Ethan and Jake had seen the chance for some sexual adventures but in reality their temporary grading had cut their opportunities to play around and not expanded them.

"Tom says that dinner will be ready in fifteen minutes." Ethan said, "I've done my homework and it's on the table ready for you to look at."

"I'll be there shortly," Craig replied, "Get the cane and put it on the table as well."

Craig saw Paul and Ethan stiffen and Ethan's friendly smile was replaced by a much more hostile look as he turned away. Craig got dressed and headed back to the flat followed by Paul. He examined Ethan's homework and was pleased to see that even in just a few days there was a marked improvement.

"Ethan. I am very proud of you," Craig said, "You really are knuckling down and making an effort.

Ethan smiled happily. He knew he had caused Craig a lot of worry and was pleased to get some praise.

"I'm also glad you stuck up for Paul," Craig continued, "but you went too far. Do you want him to be Grade 2 for the rest of his life?"

"No! Of course not."

"Paul had been told to say that he shouldn't say or do anything without permission and should have got that shopkeeper to phone me first. He has to be extremely careful how he deals with members of the public."

"That shopkeeper was wrong to offer him anything, wasn't she?" Ethan asked, "She interfered with his training."

"That's right," Craig replied, "And so did Mrs Tibbs. I made a mistake with her and we can't afford any more."

Ethan nodded.

Craig picked up the cane and told Ethan to hold his hand out. Aiming carefully Craig brought the cane down across the palm. Ethan yelped and jerked his hand back. He was trembling as he followed Craig's order to hold out his other hand. Ethan cried out again as the cane struck.

Ethan stood hunched with his hands pressed to his body by the opposite arm trying to ease the pain. He watched as Paul bent over a chair. If it had not been for his own pain he would have got hard watching Paul's buttocks clenching as he waited for the first blow. He gasped as it landed and the red stripe appeared. Specks of blood appeared with the second blow which landed beside the first and Paul cried out. The next three were just as fierce and his eyes were watering on the verge of tears. The final stroke landed on his thighs just above his knees and would be visible even if he was wearing his shorts.

At Craig's command he stood up and walked stiffly to stand beside Ethan. His face was drawn, his wet eyes were obvious as he desperately walked and stood to keep the pain to the minimum.

Craig was deeply upset at having to hurt Paul so much. He sat down at the table as Tom brought his meal out to him but just stared at it. Tom shepherded the other two into the kitchen to have their food. He returned with a glass of water.

"Did I over react to this ice cream thing?" Craig asked.

"I suggest you forget about the ice cream, sir," Tom replied, "Ask yourself whether Paul trusts people a little too much and whether you had to teach him to be more careful."

"I'd have thought that five years with csc would have made him cautious enough."

"Yes but he's a naturally friendly person and has had to be very reliant on others. Don't worry. We all know you're doing your best for us. We may not like it but if you say jump, the only question we should ask, is, 'can I jump high enough'. May I offer some advice about something else, sir."

Craig nodded.

"Don't feel bad if you get a hard on while punishing us, sir. It's even OK to enjoy the feel of it. I did when I had to deal with my boys. Just make sure it's your head that controls discipline and not your cock."

Craig was not only startled by Tom's comments but by Tom understanding one of his major problems. He knew that Paul would disapprove of this conversation but he felt better for the older man's opinion and tucked hungrily into his food.

After the meal he settled down in front of the television and called Ethan in to join him. They sat with Ethan cuddled into him and his arm round Ethan's shoulder. For the first time they talked about their parents and their sense of loss. Craig talked about his fears and uncertainties and Ethan finally realised how much Craig really loved him and needed him.

"I'm sorry I've been an arsehole," Ethan said, "You should see some of the boys at school. Their dads really lay into them so you're not so bad."

"Thanks."

"Craig. There's something I've got to tell you. I'm gay."

"I thought so," replied Craig, "You and Jake an item?"

"He's too shy. He doesn't want to do much stuff. Could we play around some?"

"I'm not gay," Craig replied hastily trying to close the conversation.

"Go on!" Ethan laughed, "Tom and I have both heard you and Paul. Why were you naked in the new flat?"

"Paul's available and I use him instead of giving myself hand jobs all the time," Craig said, "I still want to date Lindsay."

Ethan was thoughtful for a while.

"What would you say if I did stuff with Paul or Tom?"

"While you're a grader, I wouldn't say anything but I'd cane your backside raw."

"Why?"

"You could get hurt," Craig replied carefully, "When that chain comes off your neck you'll have a completely different relationship with Tom and Paul. And you can't even think about doing anything wrong until that fucking inspection is over."

"You swore. That's not like you. Is the inspection really worrying you?"

Craig nodded, "I'm terrified. I don't want us ending up like Paul or Tom."

"I'll behave." Ethan said, "I promise. I just hope I haven't fouled things up already."

"You haven't done that," Craig replied, "We'll probably be OK and I'm worrying about nothing. Let's just play safe."

When Craig decided it was time for bed he sent Paul through to the bedroom as usual. No matter how hard he tried, Paul could not hide his exhaustion. It had been a long day of emotional peaks and troughs as well as full of physical demands.

Craig was full of the advice he had received, not to be soft. With a cheeky grin on his face he made Paul undress him and insisted that everything be tidied up and put away. He then made Paul kneel in front of him to give him a long sensuous blow job. When he felt himself getting close he would make Paul lick his balls, the sensitive insides of his thighs or anywhere else until he directed his boy's mouth back onto to his sensitive pole. He held out for as long as he could but finally, his hips convulsed and he sent strings of cum down Paul's throat.

Contentedly he got into bed telling Paul to sleep on the floor.

As he settled down for the night he whispered, "Good night, Friend," but Paul was already asleep.

The rest of their days in the run up to the inspection were comparitively quiet. Craig and Ethan found themselves getting closer as brothers. Paul enjoyed his new freedoms and Tom was content with his role of housekeeper.

Even taking the old folks round the park was an anti-climax. Craig dressed in shorts like Paul and they met groups at an outdoor café in the middle of the park. Their passengers were delighted to be out and about. Much to Paul's amusement, both boys were given little treats by the pensioners and warned not to tell their master.

Paul was nervous that a number of James and Harry's colleagues were there ferrying the old folks to and from their homes. There was one particularly fierce looking man who seemed to glare angrily at Paul. Discovering from Craig that ice cream was a real treat the man bought Paul, Craig and himself the largest scoops available and amused the two boys with some of the corniest jokes they had ever heard.

After that day, if a member of the public complained about a Grade 2 wandering about with scarcely any restraint, Paul could always rely on a Neighbourhood Patrol coming to his defence.

Chapter 3

At 11 o clock sharp the door bell rang. Tom answered the door and ushered the unsmiling woman into the flat. She scarcely accepted Craig's hand before asking to be shown around. Craig also showed her the new flat they hoping to move into.

She studied various reports especially Ethan's school record which had shown a marked improvement over the last few weeks.

"Craig," she finally said, "I am far from satisfied. I think we need to make new arrangements."

"Why?" Craig gasped, "What's wrong?"

"First! it was highly irresponsible of you to bring a Grade 2 into such close contact with your brother. You're failing to keep him properly restrained and from how you've described the sleeping arrangements, you're more interested in your sexual pleasure than Ethan's well-being."

As Craig tried to protest, Mrs Jones held up her hand for silence.

"Second. You appear to have lost control of your own life. You had to drop out of school, you then threw away employment with good prospects for a dead end caretaker's job while claiming to be trying to catch up enough to return to school. Consistency is most important for study and you seem to be directionless. There are grants you could have applied for if you were having financial problems. It was your responsibility to find out, not wait to be told."

As Craig again tried to protest she snapped, "Will you be quiet? It's seems to me that you're letting yourself run riot. No wonder you can't control Ethan."

"My final concern is that you're putting the public at risk by your handling of the Grade 2. I know you say he was recommended by the Placement Centre. They would. They make targets by contracting participants out to guardians. The Neighbourhood Patrol are just volunteers. They are not experienced csc workers. It seems to me that you've handed over responsibility to inappropriate authorities."

Craig was close to tears. He sat shocked at Mrs Jones attitude. The other three were equally stunned.

"The sooner this mess is sorted out the better. I'll arrange for the two graders to be returned to the Placement Centre. Then we'll get you and Ethan to more suitable accommodation. Please sign there that you agree."

Craig very nearly did sign the proffered form. Only a loud cough from Tom broke the spell.

"I'm not going to sign anything until I know my rights." he said firmly.

"Don't be foolish. Just sign and stop wasting time."

"You said it was my responsibility to find out about grants so I assume it's my responsibility to find about my rights. I will not sign."

"You are well on your way to a grading yourself, young man. This is your last chance."

"A court gave me custody of Ethan and myself. So I wonder if a court has to end it.

"When this is over you'll be graded and I'll see to it that you get the whipping of your life. You've got yourself another day or so while I file this report with the court. Make the most of them."

Mrs Jones flounced angrily out leaving Craig with his head in his hands crying. Paul and Ethan rushed over to comfort him but Tom hesitated for a moment.

"Sir, may I use the phone please?"

Craig managed a nod, too distraught to care what Tom was doing.

Tom disappeared into the kitchen and dialled the number of an old friend.

"Bannister and Povey," the voice at the other end of the line said, "May I help you?"

"I used to be Tim Everington. Would Mr Baxter be willing to speak to me?"

"They've found you at last. Thank heavens. Mr Baxter is in court. Could you get to our office by three?"

"I don't think that's possible. Why were you looking for me?"

"Haven't you heard the news? I'm sorry but I think Mr Baxter should talk to you about it."

"No I haven't heard anything. I wanted to speak to Mr Baxter about a matter that involves my Guardian. I was wondering if he could visit briefly."

Tom gave the receptionist their address and she suggested a time that her boss could be there. Before confirming he approached Craig.

"Sir, would you mind if a lawyer visited us tonight at about three thirty this afternoon." Tom asked, "I thought he might help."

Craig stared at Tom.

"I can't afford a lawyer," Craig said, "But thanks for the thought."

"He's an old friend of mine. He always promised to help me if he could. It might be worth talking to him."

"OK! Tell him to come."

Tom spoke into the phone then hung up with a puzzled look on his face.

"He's bringing a Wilberforce lawyer as well. I don't know what's going on."

The Wilberforce Foundation was an institution set up to fight the csc system and to give Graders some human rights. So far it had been singularly unsuccessful in getting the law changed. An off shoot of the Foundation was the Wilberforce Estate. It was a weird establishment intended to help Graders who had been wrongfully graded. It obtained the contracts but allowed its wards to live as they pleased with the estate simply taking care of the administration.

The Estate had earned a grudging respect and even a few legal concessions but in return it was limited in what it could do.

None of this helped Tom work out what was happening and the four of them could only wait around until Mr Baxter arrived.

"Tim! How are you?" Mr Baxter greeted him when Tom answered the door to him. "You look well."

"It's good to see you again, sir," Tom replied, "My Guardian is expecting you."

"Er, yes of course," Mr Baxter said, "Lead the way."

Tom introduced Craig to Mr Baxter. There was an awkward silence. Mr Baxter was confused by Craig's youth and embarrassed at treating his old friend like a servant. He was also conscious of the worried and gloomy atmosphere.

"I've got some good news for you Tim and you wanted to see me for something. I've got a colleague who wants to talk to you so while we're waiting for him why don't we discuss your problem?"

Craig tried but became hopelessly confused. Tom tried to sort out the detail and gradually Mr Baxter came to understand the problem.

"It sounds to me as if this Jones woman was falling outside her target band."

Seeing the blank expression on everyone's face Mr Baxter added, "Nationally a certain percentage of these interviews result in people entering the csc programs. It's assumed that interviewers will keep to within a band around this percentage. If Mrs Jones passes or fails too many people then she will be investigated and it may be suggested she be retrained. To avoid that she's going to try and fail some to get back in the band."

"That doesn't sound fair." Ethan said.

"It's not fair but it happens. Let's stick to your interview. We'll come up with a long term plan for your education or job training and take it from there and in return we'll concede her arguments about Paul and send him back. "

"No!" replied Craig firmly, "She was wrong about Paul as well. I don't see why he should suffer. He's part of my plan to get back to school."

"The csc only has to show cause for worry. The judge will have to order appropriate help. They will argue that Mrs Jones' comments show that cause. You'll have to get rid of Paul or else you'll lose everything. Another problem is that you are going to lose Tim as well."

"OK Graham," Tom said, completely forgetting himself in his exasperation, "What's this all about me."

"Mavis and Lewis were investigated for tax evasion." Graham replied, "While the Inland Revenue examining the books they'd found how they'd framed you. They've been charged with perverting the course of justice. Your affairs have been handed over to the Wilberforce Estate and they've been trying to find you."

Tom collapsed onto the nearest chair as all the colour drained from his face. As the others rushed to help he held up his hand.

"I'm OK." he said, "What about the business and my home."

"The business is ticking over. With all the uncertainties, it's lost a lot of ground. You may have to let staff go soon. The Wilberforce Estate hired a manager to run your home. You could move back in today."

"My two wards?"

"They're still there. Mavis and Lewis treated them pretty badly but they're OK."

Tom struggled to his feet and turned to Craig.

"Shall I make tea for you and your guest, sir? It would give me time to think."

After Tom had disappeared into the kitchen Craig said, "I'm glad for Tom but it doesn't help me much, does it?"

"I do apologize." Graham said, "I should have said. Mr Davis, he's the Wilberforce solicitor, can't get here before about six. He's got a long way to come. He's more experienced in this field of law than I am. I'd like to discuss some ideas I have with him first."

Tom fetched their tea and disappeared back into kitchen. Ethan just stood shocked and confused by the days events. Paul was not much better off. The last few weeks had been wonderful for him. His world had opened up so much and had looked as though it could expand even more. Now his future looked bleak and he would end up with nothing.

Craig and Graham talked in a desultory fashion, just filling in time until Mr Davis arrived. he had been delayed and it was nearer seven when he finally rang the bell. He talked with Graham for a time then asked to speak to Tom on his own.

He disappeared into the kitchen for a time and when he returned he looked curiously at Craig.

"You seem to have made quite an impression on Mr. Everington, young man." he said, not unkindly. "Would you object if he waited in the kitchen? His wife is likely to end up Grade 4 and he has a considerable amount of emotional adjustment to make."

"That's OK!" Craig replied, "We'll leave him alone."

"We do what we can for our clients but at the end of the day they are still graders. There's no appeal process and the best they can hope for is Grade 1. We've been campaigning to allow a regrade to five but it's going nowhere. The best Mr. Everington can hope for is a bill going through now that will allow a revue when he is seventy."

Mr Davis paused before continuing, "If he came to us, we would try to treat him like an ungraded client but at the end of the day he would still have to ask for a pass if he wanted to go for a walk and he would need one of our agents with him to sign business cheques or confirm any sort of deal.

"Mr. Everington understands this and his alternative plan has a lot of merit. He would like to stay under your guardianship. That means you will inherit his estate. His one condition is we set up a trust to help you manage it until you are twenty five."

"How would this affect the court case?" Craig asked.

"This is substantial information that you were unable to offer before." Graham replied, "At the very least the review would have to be done again."

"And Paul?"

"He should go back. It would help the csc save face and they might concede other points." Mr Baxter said.

"They could also present it as another gut reaction and lack of consistency. Mr Davis replied, "We need to show that Craig has good judgement and is a steady influence on his brother."

They were silent for a time.

"So what do think of Mr. Everington's offer?" Mr Davis asked, "It would help if you walked into court worth four or five million."

"Five million what?" Craig asked feeling very stupid as it sank in what the lawyer had meant.

It was nearer fifteen but some's gone for good and we may recover another three or four."

"And Tom wants me to have it?" Craig asked incredulously.

"Like I said, he holds you in very high esteem and he's come to think of you all as family. Do you accept?"

Craig nodded, "Does that mean Tom – er - Mr Everington is my boss now?"

"Oh no! He will remain your ward. If this goes through he will have to sign away all his rights. The Trust will be your boss, or rather, your guardian."

Craig had not eaten since breakfast. He had been too worried. Now that things seemed to be looking up his body started to react.

"I'm hungry," Craig announced, "Paul, Ethan go and sort a meal out for us. Tom can lie down on my bed if he likes."

Ethan and Paul returned almost immediately.

"Tom says he's not seventy yet and he's not letting us loose in his kitchen," Paul said grinning, "Dinner will be in half an hour but it will just be frozen meals."

"Tim always did like cooking," Graham laughed, "but frozen meals? I didn't think even the csc could persuade him to cook them."

Finally the two lawyers took their leave. Craig was ready for bed. He wasn't tired but had got used to time with Paul. Sometimes Paul would just hold him, they might talk or Craig might fuck him.

That night Craig just lay back while Paul ran his tongue and fingers over every part of his body. Craig shuddered as the sensuous feelings relaxed him and stroked the tension out of his body.

Understanding Craig's needs, Paul directed his caresses more and more towards Craig's cock which inevitably began to swell. Paul straddled Craig and impaled himself on Craig's rigid pole. Craig bucked his hips thrusting firmly and confidently into Paul. As Craig took control Paul began stroking his own cock. As he became hard and rigid, Paul eased his stroking. He was far more confident as well with their relationship but he would never cum before his master. As Craig shot deep into Paul, Paul allowed his own cream to spray over Craig's chest and stomach.

Craig pulled Paul down onto him and they fell asleep in each others arms.

The following day was something of an anti climax. They all tried following their usual routine but nobody's heart was in it. Craig phoned the school and explained the situation. He also went into work with Paul and Tom as usual and had a long talk with Mr. Crosis. Mr Crosis sent Paul and Craig home with instructions to work on the new flat if they felt like it. Tom and Mr. Crosis also spent most of the day chatting rather than working.

The evening was a quiet, gloomy affair and that night Paul was unable to comfort Craig. Craig had received a phone call from Graham saying they had to be at the court by ten o clock the next day.

Graham also wanted Paul and Tom to be in the court as well as Mr Crosis, James, Harry and Mrs Sanders, if any of them could make it at such short notice.

They all filed in and stood for Judge Winters. There were the usual formalities and then they were ready.

"I'm happy to keep this informal. I've read the briefs so I know the basics on both sides. Now I notice a couple of graders here. Is one of them hfr 4760? If so I'd like him to step forward."

Paul was trembling as he obeyed the judge. He remembered his last experience in front of one.

"Why are you wearing that red armband?"

Paul managed to stammer out a confused reply then relaxed as Judge Winters gently questioned him trying to understand.

"Mrs Jones, I see no mention of this permit nor any mention of this park event in your report."

"No Your Honour. I didn't think it relevant. I was concerned about the lax security.

Not relevant? This boy is central to your application. Did you obtain a report from the officer concerned?"

"No, Your Honour."

"You say in your account that he is completely unrestrained indoors?"

"Yes Your Honour and in close company with the defendant's young brother."

"Ethan, you mean. I said I want this hearing to be informal. I assume you mean Craig when you say defendant?"

"Yes, Your Honour."

Turning back to Paul, "You were working as an attendant at the Placement Centre. How were you restrained when Craig first saw you?"

"I wasn't restrained, sir. I was a trustee. There were guards standing around and I didn't have the codes for security doors."

"Did any member of public object to this freedom?"

"No sir. Not that I know of."

"And that's the restraint your guardian makes you wear in public?"

Under the judges directions Paul extended his his arms demonstrating the amount of movement he had.

"Have you had any trouble with members of the public?" Judge Winters asked.

Paul started trembling again.

"Yes sir." he whispered looking desperately at James.

"Tell me about it." ordered Judge Winters.

Paul tried to tell him about Mrs Tibbs but it was obvious he was just too frightened. James stood up and offered to explain events and the Judge almost looked grateful.

"OK! Just one more thing Paul. Has anyone spoken to you about a regrade?"

Paul looked surprised. "I thought it had gone through, sir. I thought I was just waiting for the three months to be up."

"Something else, you didn't think relevant, Mrs Jones?"

"With respect Your Honour, it is irrelevant. hfr 4760 is Grade 2 because of violent behaviour and he is a risk to Ethan and to the public. Those restraints are useless."

"Craig will you unlock those manacles and bring them to me to look at."

"You're right Mrs Jones. They are useless." Judge Winters said after examining them, "You may as well leave them off. Let me have your permit."

Paul handed him the permit tucked into the armband and he wrote on it before applying a court stamp and handing it back.

"Thank you Paul. I wish I'd known you were referred to by a name. I get confused by all these numbers."

He was glaring at Mrs Jones as he spoke.

"If your guardian doesn't object would you run an errand for me, please?"

Surprised, Paul looked at Craig who, looking equally surprised nodded.

"I was running a bit late and missed out on a caffeine fix. Would you go up to the canteen and fetch me a cup of coffee, please?"

Judge Winters handed Paul some coins leaving him to walk across the courtroom and walk out the door.

"Now let's deal with the school reports. Both boys have had a difficult time with the loss of their parents. Some falling off of standards is to be expected. Mrs Jones, your report seems to suggest that Craig should have anticipated Ethan's behaviour and stopped it before it began. As a parent I would be very interested to learn the secret of that little trick. Would you be so kind as to enlighten me?"

"Your Honour. I did not mean to imply that." Mrs Jones answered angrily, "I was merely demonstrating an area of concern."

"An area of concern that's already been noted and is being successfully dealt with." retorted Judge Winters, "At least you included the school report even if you did not bother to refer to it."

Judge Winters turned to Craig.

"I have a few questions for you."

He was interrupted as the door opened and Paul re-entered. Paul quickly put the coffee on the bench leaving the change beside it and sat down again beside James. He was bright red and breathing heavily with the excitement of his moment of freedom and the fact that everyone was watching him.

"How do you expect to return to school if you haven't been in contact with them."

"I have spoken with them. They've given me coursework to catch up on and they've arranged for it to be marked. My marks are on target so far."

"Sorry Craig. This seems to be another irrelevancy. I think I've heard enough. These boys have been badly treated and I am not going to make things worse by keeping them waiting any longer for a decision. I will make a verbal ruling now, adjourn for two hours to allow both parties to request any changes to the detail and then issue the full written version in due course. Are there any objections?"

Every body could see the anger in Judge Winters eyes and could hear it in his voice. No one objected.

"Very well. I fail to see why Craig and his household were given an adverse report. I can only assume it served other interests and egos. The omissions in the csc case amount to contempt of court or perversion of justice and the appropriate will authorities will be asked to investigate.

"The only real issue concerns Craig's education and prospects and I agree that some supervision is needed in that area."

The judge looked at Craig.

"Before Craig panics I have to say that the csc has demonstrated a complete inability to help this household and I order they are not to be involved.

"I'm not sure that it is right to congratulate a grader who has just discovered that he shouldn't have been graded but I did read the appeal for a new assessment plus the request for time to establish the trust. In the circumstances I have to deny that appeal as I have already barred further involvement by the csc. The trust founders will report directly to this court and will include provision for Craig's training and development in their plans.

This court is adjourned until 2 p.m. If no objections are lodged by two then you can all go home."

The csc lawyer walked across and spoke to Graham. They chatted for a few minutes then parted.

"That's it." Graham said, "The csc are not appealing. At least not in in any major way."

"Oh yes we are," shouted Mrs Jones across the room, "I'm not going to be treated like this."

The csc lawyer spoke quietly to her but she grabbed her phone and started speaking furiously into it. The lawyer shrugged and signalled for Graham to get his clients away. Once outside everyone crowded around Graham. The adults seemed as excited as the boys.

"There's a pub across the road." Graham said, "It allows graders providing they stay away from the bar."

The other customers looked curiously at the strange party. James and Graham bought the drinks. Only Craig and Ethan were restricted to soft drinks because of their age.

"Reg Lyons had warned the csc against presenting their case." Graham said, "The judge knew everything was being done in a rush and would have tolerated a few mistakes. Mrs Jones was probably trying to rely on that but when Reg got our defence yesterday afternoon he knew they were in trouble.

He took me into Judges Chambers this morning because he was so worried about it. He even phoned Mrs Jones from there. We heard the conversation on the speaker. I think we'd won the case when she said something about courts doing as they're told and shouldn't be interfering in csc affairs."

"Is she mad or something?" Ethan asked.

"No! She's had a lot power and courts do tend to rubber stamp csc recommendations. It's gone to her head a little."

At that moment Reg walked into the bar. Graham called him over. After the usual greetings Reg announced that Mrs Jones had been arrested.

"I don't think it'll come to trial." he said, "A good defence lawyer will argue that they were all oversights due to overwork but she'll be sacked and lose her pension. There'll probably be a shake up in the csc as well."

"If you thought it was so wrong why were you helping them?" snapped Ethan.

"We both agreed to let Judge Winters handle the case. Reg could have insisted on a much more formal hearing and it would have been harder on Paul and Craig."

"Sorry." Ethan muttered. "Thanks for your help."

"By the way. I'd like to know what he wrote on your permit." Reg said trying to change the subject.

Everyone turned to Paul who blushed at the sudden attention. He handed Reg the permit.

"No restraint needed." Reg read out, "And it's properly signed and sealed. That woman certainly riled the Judge. I've never heard of that on a Grade 2 pass before."

"Things are moving pretty fast at the moment. The powers that be are grateful that I kept the shit away from from the organisation. They want me to prepare an opinion for an appeal though."

There was a stunned silence.

"Let me explain." Reg continued, "It's just my advice they're asking for. Mrs Jones was trying to railroad you. She fast tracked everything thinking you wouldn't have time to find help. Luckily Graham was on the ball and emailed his defence yesterday afternoon. Once I'd read it, I knew the csc was in trouble. I contacted my superiors and they took it seriously as well. I got a call from a very high ranking director at two o clock in the morning. He was high enough to sort any rivalries between the Inspectorate and the Placement Department.

"The csc wants this settled before the press gets wind of it. They don't want a scandal and the judge agreed to keep the spotlight off csc procedures. All this means that they don't want to do anything that will stir things up.

"Normally this conversation would be most improper but I've been told to protect the csc's interests with 'quote' the same tact and diplomacy that I've already shown 'unquote'.There are two issues where we could challenge the decision."

Everyone was quiet, concerned about the possibility of an appeal.

"Altering Paul's permit was out of order." Reg continued after taking a sip of his drink, "Craig had not made an application and the Judge couldn't have been more insulting if he tried. Sending Paul for a coffee was incredible. It was complete contempt for Mrs Jones opinions."

Reg looked at James and Harry.

"As representatives of the Neighbourhood Patrol, do you have any objections to the changes?"

They looked at each other and shook their heads.

"No. We're happy with it." James replied.

"If you'd make statements to that effect it would be difficult to proceed. Placement might argue that it's undermining the three month probationary period but my recommendation would be that any gain would be outweighed by the fuss it could cause. Besides Placement will be quite happy to put one over on the Inspectorate.

"The main objection is the order barring any csc involvement. Judge Winters let his temper get away with him there. By law Craig is a participant of the csc scheme until he is twenty five therefore the csc cannot be excluded.

"What I propose is that you allow the csc to appoint a trustee. Assuming you set the trust up to need a quorum of least four members then the csc will always be outnumbered but they're doing their legal duty."

Reg took another sip from his drink waiting for a response.

"I don't like it." Ethan said, "Keep the fuckers out."

"Careful with the language, Ethan. You could be thrown out." Graham said, "I think the csc would make a big issue of this. Once they make a big deal of one thing, they may as well go for everything. If we do this voluntarily we keep their involvement under control with the Trust Deeds."

"Precisely." Reg said, "Graham and I will talk to the Judge and get him to vary the order. Is that OK with you, Craig. You're the defendant."

"No, I don't think it is," Craig replied. "I came close to getting a chain round my neck. I was lucky that I could get a lawyer. How many kids have been unlucky?"

He looked determinedly at Reg. "I don't want the csc involved in my affairs unless we can do something about all the others."

"That goes for me too!" Ethan added.

"They don't want bad publicity," Craig said, "Covering up kids wrongly graded would be pretty bad."

"I've been asked to get you to sign a non-disclosure agreement." Reg said, "I take it that would be conditional on a full investigation of Mrs Jones' cases."

"No! Everyone's cases," Craig said firmly.

"You can't take on the csc like this. You'll put it on the defensive and it will try to crush you." Reg said, "Even if there is an investigation it will take time and you're threatening to keep your case open while it's going on. Supposing you agree to a temporary non-disclosure and the terms we propose for your case and in return we'll set up an investigation."

"I think that's the best deal you're going to get, Craig." Graham said, "I advise you to accept."

"Providing I can talk to the Wilberforce people about it."

Reg could see the determination in Craig's eyes as he spoke. Time was running short and the deal would buy the csc time so he held out his hand.

"We agree." he said, "Graham and I will go and see the Judge now. You can carry on celebrating. You've earned it. Don't forget. Ethan and Craig are allowed to drink with a meal."

"Instead of eating here, why don't we all go back to my place?" Mr Crosis said, "I think a party is called for."

No one objected and after leaving a voice mail message for Graham and Reg to join them, they headed off.

The party expanded. James' family and some of Craig and Ethan's school friends were invited as well. Some of the parents would show up as well. In the current climate, supervision was an obsession. Mr Crosis had a servant; a Grade 4 in his thirties called Mark. At first, he could not take his eyes off Paul but he switched his attention when he learned how Craig had stood up to the csc.

The party was remarkable for the way that Graders and others mixed freely. James' wife, a couple of mothers and Tom took over the kitchen preparing snacks with Tom enjoying some much needed female attention. Mr Crosis and Mark ran the bar. Mrs Sanders sat quietly keeping a discrete eye on Jake and Ethan but increasingly she left that job to other parents and spent more time talking with Harry.

There were girls amongst the guests and they all took a great deal of interest in Paul. Traditionally dressed in just shorts he could not avoid looking sexy but they quickly decided that Craig and some of the other boys were just as attractive and much better catches.

The boys found themselves divided by interest in the girls and fascination with Paul's tough, bad guy image. His grade 2 chain added mystery to the power of his well defined, muscular body.

Paul was disconcerted by one boy's interest and tried staying close to Craig while glancing nervously at the boy's father but Craig was too busy flirting with the girls and keeping a watchful eye on various parents chaperoning the party.

The boy's father noticed his son's eager attention and joined them, listening to the boy's chatter. The boy talked excitedly about the strict drill and physical training participants undergo at the Placement Centre. Just as he was about to send the boy for a drink, the boy disappeared to the bathroom.

"I'm Allan." James said, "I hope Adam's not annoying you."

"No. He's a nice boy, sir."

Allan smiled, "And you'd put up with him because you're a grader, right?"

"Yes sir but I'm not just putting up with him. It's nice talking to him. I'm a bit worried about some of his questions though."

"Like what?"

"He wanted to know how it felt to have my cock shaved, sir."

Allan laughed covering his embarrassment as Adam returned.

"Dad, can you stop Paul calling me sir." Adam said, "I want to be his friend."

"You can't be his friend like you can be with a boy at school." Allan replied, "If Paul called you Adam, you could complain to Craig that he was rude and have him punished."

"So Paul can't have friends."

Allan found himself beginning to flounder. He was not sure how to answer.

"Craig can punish me and I have to serve him," Paul explained, "I want to help him make his life better and he wants to help me in the same way so I think of him as my friend as well."

"Some of the boys at school say it's OK to do things with Graders because they're property and not citizens. That's not right, is it?"

"You should know from your Citizenship lessons that's wrong. Graders are people who cannot handle citizenship and so they have a guardian. In return they have to help their guardian. If you want Paul to do anything for you, then you must Craig's permission first."

"So how do I know what Paul wants?"

"It would help if we stopped talking about Paul as if he wasn't here." Allan said, "Paul's glass is empty and he won't walk away from us to go to the bar without permission. I'm sorry Paul. I'm talking about you again. Would you like another drink?"

"Yes please sir."

"I'll get it." snapped Adam, rushing off.

"Sorry again about all that. We didn't mean to be rude."

"He's trying to understand, sir," Paul replied, "I'm still not used to people caring about my feelings. It's nice."

"You also seem to be getting a bit of hero worship. Enjoy that too!"

Adam returned. He stood holding a small tray with a drink for Paul and another one for his father.

"Is this how a grader would do it?" he asked.

Seeing the amused look on Allan face, Paul replied, "No! A grader would stand there so that he could be seen without disturbing his betters. He would stand with his feet apart and hold the tray higher so it was at a comfortable height to take the glasses. He would stand still and not speak ,looking forward and downwards slightly."

Adam shifted his stance in compliance with Paul's instructions and waited quietly.

"Of course, a grader would only be wearing shorts and we might start talking about his body," Paul added, "One of us might even feel him up."

Adam blushed deep red but kept still.

"You're usually naked indoors aren't you, Paul?" Allan asked.

"Oh yes," Paul replied, "A grader shouldn't have any secrets from his betters."

Adam's embarrassment was not helped by the room going quiet as everyone watched the little game developing. He could never have put it into clear thoughts but he had instinctively wanted to show his respect for Paul and acting as waiter was something Paul would have understood.

It seemed that Paul and his father understood only too well and he was being teased by it. If he ended his act he would lose face but he was nervous about where the conversation was leading.

"Do you think he understands what I meant about talking about a person as if they weren't there?" Allan asked.

"I doubt it," Paul replied, "Graders don't learn anything unless it's beaten into them."

"Maybe this one should strip off." Allan suggested.

"There are ladies present so he should wear something," Paul replied. "He looks as though he might do a runner so he should manacled."

"No way!" Adam exclaimed putting the tray on the nearest table. "You're not tying me up. Were you chained up much in the Centre?"

"Hardly ever," Paul replied, "The guards had pacifiers. You only had to look at a guy being shocked with one and you do as you're told. Today's the first time I've been outdoors without restraints though."

"Was that the worst thing?" Adam asked, fascinated by Paul's ordeal.

"No," Paul replied, "The worst thing is when you first arrive. You strip naked and they start handling your cock, balls and anus. It's horrible, even if you do something right and they stroke it as a reward. It really does show that you're no longer in control. I've never forgotten the first few days."

"That's enough Adam." Allan said, "Paul's here to enjoy himself. Maybe we should get back to teasing him, Paul."

Most of the guests who had watched Adam's teasing had lost interest when Adam dropped his pose and lost the game but some of the boys were distinctly jealous of Adam.

There may have been a sexual element to that envy but there is a primeval survival instinct where youngsters attach themselves to a successful adult to learn their skills. Paul was tough, a survivor and flourishing, not to mention good looking and intelligent and he had chosen Adam as his initiate. All this was bubbling through Adam's sub-conscious as well and it helped that he was gay.

Allan saw Paul as a disciplined and polite young man. James had told him how Paul got graded and assumed he would have no sexual interest in his son. Paul had been uncomfortable to start with by being treated like a guest and not expected to do anything. Talking to Adam and answering his questions was more familiar territory and he had genuinely liked Adam's naive innocence.

No one rebuked him when he had asked for a beer and so he'd had a couple more which had relaxed him enough to play along with Allan.

Adam had been embarrassed by the way his father and Paul had talked about him in front of others, especially his school friends. They had tried pulling his leg about it but he replied that Paul had suffered worse. Then they started teasing him for backing out. The teasing turned into a dare that he could not serve Paul for the evening.

That was enough for Adam. What young man can refuse a dare? He grabbed the tray and fetched more drinks for Paul and Allan, standing as he had been told.

"I thought you'd had enough," Paul said after ignoring Adam for a suitable time, "How come you're back?"

Adam described the dare. He had been uncertain whether he should say anything but he remembered what Paul had said about not being allowed secrets. Paul looked at Allan who shrugged.

"It's up to you." he said, "He knows what to expect. Just make sure you enjoy yourself."

"No one cares about my grade. I don't have to ask to take a piss. I could walk away from you and Adam if I wanted," Paul replied, "And I can just walk up to the bar and get another drink. I've even got a slave of my own. This is the best night of my life."

Paul looked at Adam.

"Are you wearing underwear, boy?"

"Yes sir." Adam replied nervously.

"Put the tray down. Go to the bathroom. Strip naked then just put those trousers back on. Get a carrier bag from Mark put the rest of clothes in it and hand it to your dad."

When Adam had gone, Paul turned to Allen and said, "Was that going too far."

"No!" Allan replied, "He gets into all sorts of scrapes and the school's mentioned temporary grading. It's nothing serious yet but maybe you can get through to him and calm him down before we have to do anything formal."

"Yes sir. I'll do my best," Paul blushed as he realised how he had answered and added, "I know that was a request but I do like Adam and I'll try to help."

By now Paul and Allan had grabbed a chair each and Paul had learned not to leap up if someone spoke to him though his back still tingled ready for the whipping.

Adam returned causing a stir dressed as he was. He stood in front of Paul putting his hands behind his head. Adam was slim. As he raised his arms his ribs became visible and enhanced the tapering shape to his torso. His muscled were nicely developed for a boy of his age and Paul's cock swelled at the sight. He leaned forward and removed Adam's belt and popped the buttons so that only the zip fly stood between Adam and disaster. Also at Adam's bidding he rolled up the trouser legs to just below his knees which was as far as they would go. Paul then told him to go and wait on everyone in the room starting with his friends. With the legs rolled tight around his legs, they tended to pull his trousers down and without them secured around his waist they slid easily downwards.

One way or another Adam was going to lose his dignity. Either by his trousers slipping so far that he would reveal all or by a constant struggle to hold the tray and his trousers at the same time.

Graders spent most of their time naked, especially when newly chained. Paul had not wanted to humiliate Adam completely, just make him a little uncomfortable and remind him what could happen.

The party was going well and everyone seemed to enjoying themselves. Harry and Mrs Sanders were well past the chatting stage, much to Jake's embarrassment and several of the youngsters were enjoying some one to one company. Mr Crosis and Mark looked benignly across the room, pleased with the success and looking forward to their own private party in bed. They still planned ways to include some fresh young bodies in their bed but they were happy with each other and could wait until a chance presented itself.

One of the ladies in the kitchen was the grandmother of one of the younger guests and a widow. Tom was wondering whether Craig would let him accept her invitation to go home with her for the night.

Jake and Ethan spent the night close together. They'd managed some quick gropes but had spent most of their time making wilder and wilder plans to sneak away together. The other guests were all having fun doing their own thing and the adults had dropped their guard enough to allow couples to sneak into the garden alone including one obvious lesbian couple.

Craig had exchanged kisses with Lindsay and was wondering about their own trip outside into the dark shadows.

More than anything it was Paul's night. He was not drunk but the alcohol had left him with a strange sense of well being. He could see that Adam was gay and enjoyed the boy's attention.

He was having a fine time talking to Allen. They were both passionate about football and Allen was happily filling him in on the last five years of games. One of Paul's biggest regrets was that he would never play again but it was still exciting hearing about his favourite teams progress.

Adam was not exactly enjoying himself, especially when one of his friends pulled on his trousers exposing his buttocks and some pubic hair. He'd dropped the tray and sent a couple of glasses flying much to everyone's raucous amusement. He sensed that Paul was keeping an appraising eye on him and wanted to pass the test that Paul had set him so he said nothing.

Graham Baxter and Reg arrived at about seven after the party had been going on for around three hours. They both stared at Adam when he took their orders for drinks but Craig and Ethan were anxious for news.

The judge had happily approved the variations to his decisions and they would have arrived sooner if Reg had not been fielding calls about Paul fetching the coffee.

Mrs Jones had stated that Paul was a risk to the public and Judge Winters had immediately sent him unrestrained through a very public area. It was an incredibly blatant insult to Mrs Jones and the csc Inspectorate. The Placement Department loved it as a vindication of their decisions and the judiciary were treating Judge Winters like a hero for standing up to the csc and challenging the rubber stamp policy they had been expected to follow.

Reg did not know what the csc would do but it was stuck with a massive damage limitation exercise.

"They'll make Mrs Jones the scapegoat and try and focus attention on her activities but Judge Winters is supporting Craig's demand for an investigation." Reg said, "And I think some other Judges are going to speak up as well. It looks as though the Inspectorate is in for a major shake up and you're going to get one hell of an investigation, Craig."

The party continued, in an even more festive mood. Paul called Adam over to him. Taking the tray from the boy turned the boy around and leaning over his shoulder Paul re-buttoned Adam's trousers. Standing with Paul's hands held across Adam's chest, he whispered, "No more dares. Just enjoy yourself."

Adam gently pressed back into Paul twisting his head upwards to grin at Paul. His own hand pressed onto Paul's thighs. For the rest of the evening Adam stayed close to Paul. If Paul sat down Adam would either sit on his lap or on the arm of the chair. Allan watched and a few others noticed their behaviour. Adam had not actually come out but from then on it was accepted that he was gay.

As the party drew to a close Mr Crosis looked around at his tired but contented guests. He was especially glad that Craig and his household had enjoyed themselves. They had got through a difficult time and could make a new start. When the last guest had gone and he headed up stairs for bed, he was still thinking of Craig, wondering whether his life would settle into a quiet normalcy or whether there were new challenges ahead.

Chapter 4

No one stirred in Craig's flat until he began to wake up late in the morning Although he was lying curled up on the floor Paul had slept well and was enjoying the luxury of just laying there. Ethan was still asleep in his sleeping bag in the kitchen. Tom had got his pass and had gone home with the glamorous grandmother.

Craig lay, relaxed in his bed, going over the events of the last few days. The one thing he understood was that his life was going to change and he and Ethan were safe from the csc. He heard a slight chink of the chain around Paul's neck as Paul shifted position.

"Paul," he said, "Get Ethan up. Sort out breakfast for you two then get Ethan started on his school work. He's got homework and the work they sent him to cover the day he missed yesterday."

"Don't you want me to do anything for you first, sir," Paul asked.

"No thanks," Craig smiled, "I just want to be alone this morning."

Paul shrugged and went off to do his jobs.

Much to Craig's surprise and joy Lindsay had proved far more willing than he had expected and they had enjoyed time alone in Mr. Crosis' garden. As he relived the moment of passion he stroked his cock not needing Paul's help to bring it to a climax, shooting sperm over his stomach, chest and even onto the pillow beside his head.

He lay back and dozed for a while until rumblings from his stomach reminded him he was hungry. He got up and worked through his morning routine and headed for the living room. It had been an effort but Tom had remembered his duties but had only just managed to return in time to lay a place for Craig. Tom, appeared as soon as he heard him, with a glass of fresh orange juice. As he ate his breakfast he told Tom that he wanted to talk to him, Paul and Ethan.

When Craig was ready, Tom quickly cleared the breakfast things and fetched the other two sitting them all down around the table. The others looked at Craig expectantly, waiting for him to speak.

"Things are going to change," he began nervously, "We need to make plans but… er …"

He faltered to a stop unsure what to say. Tom came to his rescue.

"Excuse me, sir," Tom said, "but you haven't been fully briefed yet. May I suggest an agenda?"

"No!" Craig replied, "You know more about this stuff than me so you handle this talk."

"Yes sir," Tom replied, "I think the first priority is to move. We could move into my old place but it would be very difficult for me. There'd be too many memories. Moving to a different town like that would be very disruptive for Ethan as well."

"I'm going to take on the flat upstairs, "Craig replied.

"With respect, sir, that won't be big enough either. We'll need office space to run my… I mean your business interests. You need to buy a house locally, sir."

"Don't you want anything from your old place?" Ethan asked.

"Only my cellar. And the two houseboys. I'd got them well trained and they'd be useful running a bigger place."

"Your cellar?" Ethan queried, "Why do you want to move a hole in the ground?"

"My wine collection." Tom explained, "I hope there's something left."

"Could we get something big enough so that you could have your own apartment?" Craig asked.

"Oh yes," Tom beamed, "That would be marvellous."

"What's wrong, Paul?" Craig asked.

"I'm pleased that things are going so well for you, sir," Paul replied, "but you don't need me any more, do you?"

"Yes, we do," Tom replied, "I said my boys could run a large place but they don't have much initiative. They need someone to keep an eye on them. I suggest Master Craig makes you his steward."

"That's cool," Craig said watching a big smile fill Paul's face. Steward was a mediaeval title that had been revived to describe a servant or grader in overall charge of the running of a household.

"We also need transport. Graders can get driving licenses. I don't know what happens about mine but Paul should get his and start lessons. Some schools do cater for graders. Maybe you should get another grader to act as your chauffeur. Once you're seventeen you can start your own lessons. I suggest a Mercedes or a BMW to start with and some sort of utility carrier. You can get your Porsche or Ferrari or whatever when you've passed your test."

Craig just nodded. He was being overwhelmed by Tom's suggestions and the money involved. Two days ago he could hardly afford the bicycle that Ethan wanted.

"Where do we start with all this?" he asked helplessly.

"The first step is to upgrade your computers. We need one each. Ethan and you for your school work. In fact you need two. I'm not sure if it would be a good idea taking a computer with business information to school. Paul and I need them for work. Perhaps you'd like to go to the store while I begin lunch. Then this afternoon we could start getting details from local Estate Agents."

Tom excused himself to fetch something from the kitchen. "Mr. Davis told me to think overnight about staying with you. If I was still sure this morning then I should give you this. It's the card for the current account. Mr Davis arranged for you to be able to draw on it."

You're doing all this and I treated you so badly at the Centre," Craig said, "I'm so sorry."

"You shouldn't be, Master," Paul broke in, emphasising the word, Master, "Some would have whipped the skin off his back for the way he behaved. I like the way you're looking after us. You're in charge and if we misbehave then we have to take the consequences."

Much to his surprise Ethan found himself agreeing with Paul and when he looked he saw Tom nodding as well.

"That's right!" said Tom, "You're the boss and we do as you say or else. Now get down to the store and get those computers. Spend some money like a rich young man should."

Craig shrugged and grinned. He decided to take Paul and Ethan to carry the goods home. They were all cheerful and excited until they were stopped by a security guard in the shopping precinct. He did not like the idea of two graders and another youngster playing around and possibly causing trouble.

He studied the passes Craig had written out for Ethan and Paul and verified that Paul's pass had been logged properly but he still insisted that they leave telling Craig that he did not need a couple of graders to help him choose some games.

Craig was getting angry but dare not challenge the guard directly. Luckily he could see the computer store and their phone number on the sign so he phoned them.

"Good Morning." he said, "How much is your top of the line laptop?"

"I may want five of them plus a printer and some other stuff. Do you expect me to carry them myself or do you think my servants should carry them?"

"Would you explain that to this guard please?"

Craig handed the phone to the guard who spoke briefly into it and then led the boys over to the store.

"Good Morning, sir," the salesman said, "I'm sorry about this misunderstanding. If I could just check your credit rating it will all be sorted."

Craig handed the salesman his new card who ran it through the machine. When he saw the available balance he somehow became even more respectful and dismissed the guard.

From then on it was an exciting time for the boys. Even the salesman caught the infectious mood and seemed to be enjoying himself. Craig had never been particularly interested in games but Ethan got so excited at being able to choose what he liked he nearly started hyperventilating. Paul was nearly as bad scarcely able to believe he could make his own selection.

When all the purchases had been made and paid for the salesman divided it up into two piles for Ethan and Paul to carry.

"As they were about to leave Craig whispered, "Best behaviour. Let's annoy that guard."

The salesman overhead him and said, "Allow me, sir. He's rude to all our young customers."

he beckoned the guard over saying, "Would you arrange transport for this gentleman and his party, please. His purchase is very valuable and we all have to take security seriously, don't we?"

An electric cart was arranged driven by the guard, with very ill grace, to take Craig and his purchases to the taxi rank. Ethan and Paul had to jog along behind. On their way out they passed a cycle shop. Watching the guard become more and more irritated they stopped so Craig could go in. He knew which one Ethan wanted but on impulse called the boys in. While Ethan drooled over his dream machine, Craig and Paul looked over the motor bikes. The shop assistant explained the legal requirements and Craig reluctantly decided that it would be easier to wait until they could apply for a full license. While all this was being explained the guard came storming into the shop complaining about some brat wasting his time.

Again it was the assistant who came to Craig's and the guard had to make a humiliating retreat.

Cycling had become fashionable again and it was easy to get around Defborough, the small market town where they lived. Craig bought himself a bike and had Paul choose one for himself. He not only paid for them but left a hefty deposit on another so that Tom could come in and choose one.

As he left the shop Craig was confronted by the guard.

"I have reason to believe you have taken something from that shop without paying, son," he said, "I have to search you. May I see your I.D. please?"

Craig laughed thinking it was a joke but seeing the look on the guards face shrugged and handed over his card.

"Thank you. Now would you remove your jacket, please."

The guard made a show of going through the pockets before handing it to Paul who had followed Craig out. As the guard slowly made Craig strip while pretending to search the clothes a crowd gathered. Craig was blushing bright red with embarrassment as he stood with his arms outstretched and his legs apart while the guard looked for anything on his body.

"That's enough," the salesman snapped as the policeman snapped on gloves ready to do a body search, "What makes you think he stole anything?"

"I thought I saw him pick something from the display and put it in his pocket," the guard replied, "I have to check."

"I was standing next to him all the time. I didn't see anything."

"I have a duty to check these things," the guard muttered sulkily.

"Do you know how much this young gentleman has spent in this precinct today?"

"Yes and he'll need to go to the office to verify that his card is in order. I'm not at all happy that it's genuine."

"Since you've finished searching him, I suggest you let him get dressed."

"He'll get dressed when I say he can," the guard snapped back, "He'd better get used to it because the way he behaves it's not going to be long before he's graded."

"The shop assistant smiled, "A csc inspector thought that. She's under arrest for contempt of court. I saw the news this morning and I recognised this young gentleman's name. I really think you should let him get dressed."

Craig was not ashamed of his body. It was slim, muscular and well proportioned but standing there naked, feeling like a criminal, with everyone staring at him was a terrible experience for him. It was a relief when the guard seemed a lot less confident and nodded to the assistants request.

During the commotion the precinct manager arrived. At his request, Craig, Ethan and Paul returned to the shop with the sales assistant. After speaking to the guard the manager came in to speak to the assistant. He phoned the computer store before turning to Craig.

"The guard behaved absolutely correctly," he said, "He says he thought he saw something and he was concerned at your behaviour when you first came into the precinct. It's not the first time that shops have complained about his heavy handed attitude and I do tend to agree with them."

"I want to make a complaint as well." snapped Craig.

"You can't. Like I said he acted within the regulations," the Precinct Manager replied, "However the two shops you visited have complained about him so I will have to take some action."

"Maybe I should cancel my orders here and shop somewhere else," Craig retorted still very angry.

"That is your privilege, young man but graders, even 5s are treated much the same everywhere," the manager replied, "What I can do is put you and your servants on the white list. That's the list of known and trusted shoppers. I understand you have a transport problem can we help with that?"

"I've got all that computer stuff which I've got to take in a taxi and a bike which I need to get home. One of my servants hasn't ridden a bike for a long time so he needs to practice before going on the road. That's why I went to speak to the guard. To see if he could help."

"As a white list preferred customer I think we can solve your problems. Would you prefer to cycle home or ride?"

"Cycle I think."

"Then I'm sure we can rustle up a couple of graders to take your purchases on ahead. We have a car park that's been closed ready for tarmacing on Monday. We'll take the bikes through to that. Would that be satisfactory?"

Craig nodded. He was was still angry and embarrassed at his treatment. He realised that the precinct staff were interested in his bank card, not in him and if it had happened a couple of days ago, he would have just been quietly thrown off the precinct.

Paul and Ethan's excitement riding their new machines was infectious and Craig calmed down to join in the fun. They need not have worried. Paul rode as if he had been riding every day and they could have set off for home almost immediately but it was too much fun riding around the deserted car park.

The manager watched them for a while before heading back to his office. He'd had a lucky escape. The guard would probably have brought Craig to his office for 'further questioning'. Normally the boy and his family were only too happy that the allegation had been proven unfounded. They did not want it re-investigated by claiming sexual abuse.

The guard should have left Craig alone. Moving in on him in full view of a shop where he had made such a large purchase was stupidity. The manager pulled up the guard's file and fired him.

Tom was beside himself with worry when the boys got home. The computers had been delivered and the graders had mentioned something about a security problem but did not know much else.

"Never do that again." Tom had said sternly completely forgetting himself, "Don't leave me here worrying about where you are. Do you understand?"

Craig could see the concern in Tom's face.

"I'm sorry Tom," he replied, "I had enough hassle from that security guard. I don't want any more from a grader. Understand?"

They looked angrily at each other for a moment until Tom relaxed.

"I'm sorry sir. I was rude," Tom said, "but I was so worried about you. Lunch is ready. May I serve it up now?"

Craig nodded, glad that he would eat his lunch alone in the living room. The incident with the guard had upset him more than he cared to admit. He was more determined than ever to keep Ethan and himself out of the csc and away from any other official body.

As he sat digesting his meal, he called Tom in.

"I'm sorry you were worried," he said, "We were having fun playing around on the bikes and I forgot the time."

"Paul told me what happened." Tom replied, "Some of those security firms are real cowboy outfits. While I was preparing lunch, I checked some property websites. Are you up to visiting the estate agent this afternoon or have you had enough for today?"

"It's a bit of a rush, isn't it?" Craig asked a touch petulantly, "I thought I'd go for a bike ride. I haven't had one for years. It was OK getting those bikes, wasn't it?"

"It's your money," Tom smiled, "It was a good idea. It'll make a good stop gap while we sort out the cars."

"That's good," Craig said, "because there's a bike on order for you. Go down to the shop and pick it up and meet us at the estate agents."

As Craig wrote out his pass, Tom had the feeling that he been out-manoeuvred. He had not ridden a bike for thirty years and did not really want to start again. While Ethan and Paul cleared up after the meal Craig looked at the details Tom had obtained via the old computer. The one Tom particularly liked was a large ancient farmhouse complete with stables and a barn around a courtyard just outside of town with a price that made Craig gasp.

Craig was still brooding about the events of the morning. It was more about how people's attitudes changed when they discovered the size of his bank account. Calling on Paul to follow him and leaving Ethan to finish clearing up, he entered the bathroom and stripped, telling Paul to shave him.

Paul was surprised but obeyed enjoying the chance to explore his masters body. Paul worked quickly knowing there was not much time but he was still able to savour the moment enough to get a raging hard on. Craig had a light dusting on his arms but was smooth apart from his legs and the job was soon done. To Paul's regret Craig decided to keep his pubes denying Paul the chance to play with them and since Craig's chest was hairless anyway he could not play with his nipples except in the images which crowded his mind.

Craig put on a pair of shorts and trainers and was ready. Neither Paul or Ethan were happy about the way Craig looked but there was something in his attitude which stopped them questioning them.

Tom was equally startled when they met up but like the others caught Craig's mood.

They entered the estate agents where they were met by a severe looking man about Tom's age.

"I think you've come into the wrong place," he said haughtily, "I don't think there's any way we'll be able to help you."

"If you're selling this property then you can help us," Craig retorted a little of his anger showing in his voice.

"Mr Jameson, see what these graders want then get them off the premises."

Mr Jameson approached them smiling and said, "How can I help you? Is it for some sort of school project?"

"No not school. We're looking for somewhere to buy," Craig answered.

"Ah!" Mr Jameson said, "The problem is you don't look like our usual clients and I have to be sure that you're serious. I take it you have a reason for dressing like that. You must remember that other clients will see you as a grader and they may be worried if we seem lax in how we treat you. Is there a problem if I behave accordingly?"

"No! I understand completely," Craig replied.

"Then if you'd all line up in front of that desk over there, I'll see how I can help you."

When they were all settled Mr Jameson asked Craig to introduce himself and the others.

"My name is Craig Ryder and I'm guardian to these three," Craig said, "This is Ethan. He's my brother and he's got temporary status because he's had a lot of problems to sort out including the death of our parents. This is Paul. He might be a grader but I also find him a good friend and someone I can trust. And this is Tom. He used to be Timothy Everington before he was wrongly convicted and graded. His wife and business partner have been arrested for framing him and I am inheriting his estate. This is a letter from the Wilberforce Foundation confirming my status and that the money is available."

"And you've dressed down because you want me to give equal consideration to your graders as well as yourself."

"Something like that."

Mr Jameson excused himself and went to speak with older man who had spoken to them first showing him the letter.

They both came hurrying back.

"I'm so sorry for the misunderstanding when you first arrived. Please take a seat, your er colleagues too if you wish. I'm the senior salesman here so I handle deals of this size."

"No thank you, sir" replied Craig, "I would like Mr. Jameson to serve me."

"It's my place to serve such an important client and I certainly wouldn't have left you standing like a grader once you'd offered your credentials."

"You wanted nothing to do with me until you discovered I had money. Mr Jameson has been polite and helpful from the start. He explained the problem with me being dressed like this and I'm happy to cooperate. All you're doing is being polite to my money. I want to deal with Mr. Jameson."

Reluctantly the senior salesman stalked off leaving Mr Jameson to take his seat.

"Thank you for that, sir." he said, "When would you like to look over the place?"

"Now?" suggested Craig, "We've got bikes so we can cycle there."

"Unfortunately I don't have one and it's a bit far to walk. We've got a rickshaw but the graders are out putting up signs. We'd have to wait until they get back."

"Paul and I will pull you if you like," Craig said then in a quieter voice added, "Just make sure he's watching when we leave."

Mr Jameson laughed, "It'll be an interesting project in customer relations. I'm not sure I know how to whip you politely."

Another salesman had been dealing with another client at the next desk.

The customer leaned across and said, "I think you say 'Excuse me sir' before each stroke."

He continued in a more serious tone, "I read about you in the paper today and I couldn't help overhearing everything in here. I just wanted to say 'Good Luck'."

Thanking the stranger Craig followed Mr Jameson outside to organise themselves for the trip to see the property. It turned out that the Estate Agents had a tricycle version of the rickshaw which meant a much easier time for Paul.

As they set off Tom rode beside Craig. Tom was concerned about Craig's attitude. He agreed that Mr Jameson was the better salesman to deal with and also agreed with Craig's opinion of the senior salesman. Craig saw the concerned look on Tom's face.

"There was something wrong at the mall this morning," Craig said, "and it was something about that guard and manager."

"How do you mean?" Tom prompted.

"I don't know," Craig replied, "The guys in the shops were like that senior salesman. They had cash signs in their eyes but there was something else with the other two."

"Is that why you're dressing like a grader?"

"Maybe. I suppose you think I'm stupid doing it but I thought it would help me understand."

"It's probably not the best idea you've had but it does have a sort of logic to it. Be careful though."

"I've been strip searched before. This was different. I don't even know what I was supposed to have taken and he didn't seem to look at my clothes, just at me."

Tom was quiet for a moment.

"You're just about the most sensible person I've ever met. If you think something was wrong I believe you. I also appreciate the point you made to Mr Jameson about having to listen to Ethan, Paul and myself. There's nothing wrong with being incognito sometimes. Don't forget though, if there is something wrong, people are more likely to listen to a rich kid.

"Thanks!" Craig smiled, "We'll go out tomorrow and you can help me buy some new clothes."

Ethan had listened carefully to their conversation. He was thinking of a couple of his classmates. It had happened at different times but they had both gone from being cheerful pals to being sullen and withdrawn. One was facing trial and would probably end up Grade 4 because he become so aggressive. Ethan had tried to cheer the him up by suggesting they go to the Mall to buy a new game and had been startled by the way the boy almost freaked out.

When the second boy changed, Ethan made a point of mentioning the Mall and again saw a hunted look in the boy's eyes. He understood now why Craig worried about him so much and was proud of his brother for standing up for him as he did. On Monday he was going to see what he could find out.

They all fell in love with the farmhouse as soon as they saw it. It was situated a short way down an unmade lane. They had all struggled uphill on the last part of the journey and the opposite side of the lane fell away downhill giving a view over the town.

The house itself was like a gatehouse. An arch linked the courtyard with the lane splitting the ground floor. The previous owners had used one side as offices and the other side as living quarters. The first floor was unbroken.

A garage stood on one side of the courtyard with a drive leading to the lane. There were stables on the opposite side. More recently they had been used as store rooms and workshops and in good repair.

Craig and Paul were nearly excited as Ethan when they discovered that the barn on the far side of the courtyard now housed a swimming pool.

The property had been built on the top of a ridge rather than the side of a hill and the on the other side of a barn was a patio and garden overlooking farmlands and woods.

"You should look at other properties." Tom said, "We may find something better."

"Can we spend money altering it?" Craig asked.

"It's your money, you can spend it how you like." Tom replied, "Instead of that, let's see if there's a place better suited."

"I was thinking of the stables for a start. Maybe we could convert them for the graders accommodation and your apartment. You'd be more like a neighbour than a servant. What do you think?"

"They're big enough and it's a nice thought." Tom replied, There's a wine cellar under the kitchen. If I could use that I'd be grateful."

Craig nodded.

"We'll take it. Let's start moving."

"Easy." laughed Tom, "We're not buying a chocolate bar. It takes a bit longer than that."

As Tom explained what needed to be done Craig said in a petulant voice, "It doesn't sound as if we'll ever be able to move in."

"We'll give Graham's number to Mr Jameson and let our lawyer sort it. If you're willing to pay for it, it can be done quick."

Craig nodded and left Tom to talk to Mr Jameson who wasn't sure whether to call Tom sir or not. Tom was back on familiar ground and Mr Jameson found the negotiations heavy going. When Tom was finally satisfied Mr Jameson found Craig.

"You've got quite a set up here, Craig." Mr Jameson said, "Your graders obviously respect you and and you're right, I would have found it harder to negotiate with Tom instead of you if you didn't look a grader yourself. When you come into the office properly dressed it'll be strange calling you sir or Mr Ryder but it's a privilege to serve you."

"Thanks," Craig replied, "I had a bad experience at the Mall this morning. I think I came out this afternoon defying everyone to treat me right. You're the only sales guy whose been honest with me today."

"You've been swindled, do you mean?"

"No. I was a useless kid until they saw my bank card then I was a rich, important customer. You treated me the same before and after you knew."

"You didn't mind when I made you stand at the my desk instead of asking you to sit. I was treating you like a kid then. It was certainly no way to treat a client."

"You took the trouble to explain. That other guy would have dumped all the other clients just to keep me happy when he found out how rich I am."

Mr Jameson was quiet and thoughtful as they made their way back. Craig had made a impression on him. As they parted at the office Mr Jameson handed his card to Tom and said, "If your organisation ever needs more staff I'd be grateful if you'd consider me."

Graham Baxter would have to complete the rest of the sale and he knew that Tom would expect fast service. His office had already been informed of the purchase and they would get onto it, first thing on Monday. Strictly speaking, it was Craig who expected the speedy completion but both Mr Jameson and Graham understood their relationship enough to know that Tom would be the driving force.

Once they were home while Paul and Ethan loaded the new games onto their computers and relaxed. Tom insisted that Craig understood the processes involved in buying property and settled in front of their machines for a far less interesting session. When Tom was satisfied that Craig knew what was happening, he made his way to the kitchen to begin dinner.

Craig finally felt able to relax with some of the games he had bought. His phone rang.

"Hi! This Allen. I'm sorry to bother you but Adam has been asking if he can visit Paul. I've tried telling him that Graders don't have social visits like that but he wouldn't leave it until I asked."

Putting the phone on mute, Craig asked Paul who nodded eagerly saying, 'Yes Please'.

"That's fine. I'll tell Tom there's one extra for dinner."

"Thanks! I've told him he'll be treated like a grader or it wouldn't be fair on Paul." Allan paused, "I know this is an imposition but could he sleep over? Miriam and I are planning a night out. It would be nice if we didn't feel as if we should hurry back."

"I'm not sure where he could sleep. It's pretty cramped here."

"I've had a long talk with Adam today. I hope his hormones settle down enough to give us grandchildren at some stage but at least I'm not going to have to deal with a teenage pregnancy and a shotgun wedding."

Allan paused but before Craig could say anything he continued, "Sorry, I'm a bit uncomfortable about all this. Paul and Ethan didn't say anything deliberately but I did get an idea of some of Paul's duties."

Allan hesitated again, "As I've said, I've made it clear to Adam that if he visits Paul then he'll be treated like a grader. He won't be able to pick and choose what he does.

"I hope I've made myself clear. Paul's a fine young man and he seems to be doing well with you. Just treat Adam the same way if you let him stay."

Allan and Adam arrived about twenty minutes later. Allan had loaded Adam's bike into the car and it took some time before Adam had finished admiring Craig household's new models and had found a place for his so that no one tripped over it.

Once in the flat Adam tried to greet Craig who shook his head and pointed to Ethan and Paul who were standing naked against the wall. Craig had put on a shirt and a pair of jeans.

Adam blushed and dropped the shorts he had been wearing and stood beside Paul. Allen and Craig spoke briefly but Allen was anxious to get back to his wife.

Once his guest had gone, he allowed the others to relax again but almost immediately Tom announced dinner was ready. Although Tom always tried to ensure that Craig be given space in the morning and had his breakfast in the living room while the others ate in the kitchen, they often had other meals together. It was Tom's way of ensuring that Craig had time to himself when he needed it.

Craig sat at the head of the table and had just a little extra space while the others fetched and carried to the kitchen as needed. They chatted excitedly telling Adam about the day's events.

Towards the end of the meal Craig turned to Adam.

"I know you're willing to behave like a grader and be punished if necessary but could you behave like a guardian and punish Paul and Ethan if you had to?" he asked.

Everyone was silent while Adam thought about it.

"I don't know." he replied, "I don't want to hurt Paul. I don't want to be his guardian and order him around."

"Not even if it meant that you take them to the park for an hour or two on your bikes?"

Adam desperately turned to Paul for advice.

"Supposing we were playing football there and I kicked the ball so that it hit someone by mistake," Paul said, "That person would complain to you. If you beat me enough then that person might be satisfied and drop it. If you didn't take his side and he complained, I could lose my regrade."

"Yes but you're talking about an accident. It wouldn't be fair."

"It's not fair," Ethan said, "but you could take us out when Craig is busy. We could even show you our new house but our passes would say that you're in charge and you might have to behave like it."

"I'm only fifteen." Adam said, "I can't order someone around as old as Paul."

"Paul, get me a glass of water," Craig snapped.

As Paul jumped up to obey Craig said, "I'm only a bit older than you and I do it."

Turning to Paul he said, "Take that glass back and wash it up."

"Yes Master," Paul replied with just a touch of sarcasm. "As you can see Adam I'm used to taking orders from kids… er… I mean youngsters."

Paul remembered a threat Craig had made in the Placement Centre. He did not believe that Craig would whip him for calling Craig a kid but he was not going to push it.

There was an amused glint in Craig's eyes as he remembered the threat as well.

"Do you understand now, Adam?" Craig asked.

"I think so." Adam replied, "It's what dad calls give and take. If I'm willing to act the boss then I can do more things with Paul. Can we cycle out to your new house? Would you like to do that, Paul."

"Yes sir," Paul replied, "I'd love to serve you while you visit."

Adam stared at Paul as understanding slowly dawned. He thought about how Craig gave orders as he plucked up courage to take on his new role.

"Go and get the bikes out and wait for me."

He spoke nervously waiting for someone to complain. Instead Paul and Ethan simply replied 'yes sir' and headed off.

"Take this tawse with you," Craig said as he prepared the passes and handed them to Adam "You can give them up to ten strokes each if you have to but more than that phone me for permission.

"Ethan might try and push you a bit. The first time you have to repeat an order land one on his thighs so it's visible."

Adam nodded uncertainly.

"It'll be OK. You'll probably just have a fun ride without any problems."

Adam smiled and nodded. As he headed for the door, he carefully adjusted his shorts. Like Craig he found having a little bit of authority something of a turn on.

Craig banished Tom to the kitchen and for the first time in ages found himself alone. He enjoyed a quiet couple of hours playing computer games and watching television until a commotion at the front door heralded the arrival of three tired and happy teenagers. the first thing Craig noticed was a vivid red stripe on Ethan's leg.

"Tell me about it, Ethan," Craig said.

Ethan blushed, "Adam was worried about the curfew but I thought we had plenty of time. Besides it would only mean a Patrol escorting us home."

"And Adam could be barred from taking charge again," Craig replied showing his annoyance.

"That's what Adam and Paul said. I'm sorry."

"As long as you understand now. You are home before curfew, so that's OK. Do you want me to punish him, Adam?"

"No sir," he replied, "I should have explained why I was in a hurry but I was getting worried."

"It's a good idea to explain if you can but he must obey you first. If you want to leave Ethan behind the next time you go out, I'll understand."

Craig pulled Ethan down onto his lap and looked at him.

"You're an idiot," he said before hugging him. Ethan was embarrassed by the incident. It was almost second nature to him to challenge authority and he had spoken without thinking. He just hoped that Paul and Adam would forgive him as easily as Craig.

Tom sat contentedly in the kitchen reading a book his lady friend from the previous night had lent him. Ethan stayed on Craig's lap as they explored their new computers together while Paul and Adam sat on the floor in a corner playing on Paul's machine.

A routine had developed whereby Ethan and Paul were sent to get ready for bed first.

When they were done Craig would get himself ready and when he had settled down for the night it would be Tom's turn.

When Craig entered his bedroom he found Adam waiting nervously for him as well as Paul. He sent Paul to wait in the living room.

"I'm into girls, not boys," Craig said, "but Paul is better than my left hand all the time. Do you understand?"

Adam stared wide-eyed and nodded. His cock swelled and pointed stiffly outwards.

"I've got one of those as well," Craig said as he peeled off his jeans freeing his own fully hard member, "If you were really a grader you would be sucking me off by now."

Adam's eyes grew even wider.

"I've never done that before." he whispered.

"Paul had to learn on me and one is enough. You can practice on him before you blow me. Now, are you going to sleep in here with Paul and me or are you going to sleep on the couch?"

Craig watched as Adam relaxed when he realised Craig was not going to touch him and then tense up again as he realised the implications in Craig's options. He had played around with a class mate and had briefly sucked him in spite of what he had just said to Craig but this could go a whole lot further.

Craig had got into bed and pushed the duvet back so his rampant cock was still visible. He lay back quietly waiting for Adam to make up his mind.

"I'll sleep in here, if that's all right." Adam said. The nervousness in his voice was obvious.

"OK! You're not a grader so you can sleep in Ethan's bed. Get Paul to clear it off for you."

Adam fetched Paul back in then as soon as he could, he dived under the bedclothes. He had not been embarrassed at being naked but he had being displaying his excitement and his nervousness and if he could not control his emotions then he wanted a degree of modesty to hide them.

Paul did not have that privilege. He had no choice but to kneel down and relieve the pressure in Craig's balls. Normally he enjoyed this intimacy with Craig but tonight he was also embarrassed at being so submissive in front of Adam. Adam did not care though. He watched fascinated as Craig tensed, bucked his hips and forced Paul's head further down onto his cock.

"He's all yours now," Craig said turning to the wall and almost immediately falling asleep. Gingerly Adam stretched his arm out and touched Paul's cock. Paul groaned in pleasure and took the chance to step closer.

"Where do you sleep?"

"Wherever I'm told to, sir," Paul replied.

Paul did not often call Adam, sir. While they had been out, he had done so when other people had been around. While Ethan was arguing with Adam about when to head for home he had stood and spoken like a grader should. Adam realised that Paul had agreed to being treated like a slave by Adam when he agreed that Adam could visit but Adam was still dealing with the notion that Paul expected him to behave like a guardian at times.

"Supposing I told you to get into bed with me?"

"Then I would obey, sir."

Adam pushed the covers back and beckoned Paul. Paul ended up laying on his back with Adam nestled in the crook of his arm and his cock pressed against Paul's hip. Paul briefly patted Adam's backside then pulled his hand away only for Adam to reach out and firmly replace his hand.

For a time they lay there with Adam's free hand resting on Paul's chest. After a time Adam became more confident or more inquisitive and gently explored Paul's body. He paused at Paul's nipples before rubbing them between between his fingers, feeling them become firm.

"Is this all right?" Adam asked.

"Don't talk, Adam," Paul whispered, "Just enjoy."

Paul was already hard and sensitive by the time Adam reached his cock. His muscles tensed and his hips moved rubbing Adam's cock in their turn. Without realising it Adam flexed his own body so that his cock was stimulated until Adam could no longer control it. The flexing became harsher and faster and Adam shot his load between Paul and himself.

He squeezed Paul's member tightly as the climax took over making Paul gasp with pain but Adam did not notice. Briefly he wondered if he had done something wrong but was reassured by the pressure on his butt from Paul's hand.

Adam was completely relaxed and ready to go to sleep but curiosity got the better of him and he started stroking Paul's cock and watched as Paul's stomach tensed and cum spurted across Paul's chest. He idly spread the strings across Paul's chest trying to decide whether to taste it or not. He knew he would soon but tonight he was content.

Soon he and Paul were asleep and the apartment was silent.

Chapter 5

Tom set the pace. He was worried about his business interests. They had suffered under all the uncertainties of his arrest and then business partners subsequent detention. The trust was gradually being organised but his business needed some clear and immediate leadership.

Tom also felt responsible for the two graders he had owned. It was doing them no good having no idea what would happen to them.

Craig felt guilty at the way he had messed Mr. Crosis around. Mr Crosis had his own business problems and no sooner had Craig offered to help him than things had changed.

The problems with csc were still there but the investigations were going slowly and Craig was not involved directly.

After breakfast on that first Sunday Craig called a meeting like he had the previous day. Tom outlined what needed to be done. It was only when Tom insisted that Craig begin catching up with his school work that day that Craig spoke sharply to him, reminding him that he was just a grader.

"No one else is at school today so I'm not going to be." he added, "I'm going to see Lindsay or I'm going out on my bike. Ethan can go to Jake's and after you've sorted a schedule starting tomorrow you can do what you like. Adam and Paul can do what they like as well. We all need a break."

Adam watched fascinated. Tom was the adult so it seemed natural that he was in control. He could see how angry Tom was to start with and watched as he calmed down.

"I'm sorry, sir." Tom finally replied, "I forgot myself and you're quite right. A day off will do us all good."

"I know you're worried about your business," Craig said, "but we agreed yesterday that I'm in charge. Please don't forget again."

Things were a little strained when they moved onto the next topic, Mr Crosis' problems. Tom had seen most of their ex-landlord's accounts and surprised Craig that they invest in the business. Although Craig did not fully understand the accounts Tom's appraisal seemed to agree with his own opinions. Extra capital would buy Mr Crosis time and allow him to employ a proper assistant. Craig felt a little guilty at messing Mr Crosis around as much as he had and was only to glad to be able to help his friend.

Despite the way Jake had settled down, Mrs Sanders was determined that he complete his grading under maximum surveillance. It had more to do with her fears and worries than any desire to punish him and since Craig had started it he felt obliged to support her and so Ethan would stay under the same control. The big difference would be that Paul would do most of the supervision and not Tom.

Ethan found the prospect strangely exciting. School life was a lot tougher but he found he could now talk to Craig about things. He had forgotten his resentment at his brother taking control and was discovering that Craig could be a wonderful big brother. A big tough grade 2 turning up at school for him would be more macho than Tom or Craig and would not do his reputation any harm.

Ethan asked Adam whether he would like to be collected after school and Adam had nodded enthusiastically until he realised that technically, as the only non grader, he would be charge. Tom suggested a letter from his father asking Craig if Paul could supervise his homework and it all seemed settled. It sounded complicated but it was Craig's household and the buck stopped with him.

Adam was happy with the arrangement because he could spend more time with Paul. Allan willingly wrote the letter because he knew of the improvements in Jake and Ethan's school work.

Craig could not speak to Lindsay. According to her father she had gone to her cousin for the day. Craig wondered about the tone of her father's voice but assumed he was cautious about her getting to involved with someone at their age or something like that. He had Tom make him some sandwiches and headed off on his bike.

Defborough was about twelve miles from the sea. Craig headed for a beach he knew and planned to spend the day sunbathing and swimming.

Paul and Adam played games on the computer because Paul did not have a pass to go out. They spent a lot of time in the bedroom cuddling each other. They did not do much else because Tom looked in on them every so often. He was not trying to spoil their fun but he needed to know that Adam was all right.

Adam liked just laying with Paul just talking about their dreams and hopes. He accepted that everyone knew that he and Paul were doing stuff and like any normal teenager sex was always on his mind. Like tasting cum the night before, he knew that sooner or later he would feel Paul's cock inside him and his cock inside Paul. Paul could sense that Adam might be willing but he was also nervous. Paul was worried about scaring Adam away and hesitated about making any move.

Tom had guessed right and both boys were secretly glad of his intervention. For both of them just gently exploring each others body was a wonderful new experience. They did jerk each other off and both were surprised at the intensity and power of their climaxes.

Adam headed for home shortly after leaving Paul relaxing alone in a warm and comfortable bed, for the first time in five years. Bunks at the placement centre were hardly comfortable and laying in one after morning call would earn him a beating. Tom left him for a while before getting him up to change the beds.

Ethan and Craig arrived home at the same time just before curfew.

Ethan had excitedly told Jake and his mother all about their new house and shown off his new bike.

Craig had enjoyed his day of solitude. There had been a family with a brother and sister about his age. They had swam and played beach games together under the parents watchful eyes. It was a complete break from all his responsibilities and he returned far happier than he left.

He was beginning a busy period in his life where school work and business studies competed with each other. The trust would never allow him full control of the business without him gaining the necessary qualifications and for those he needed to start with his school exams. While he studied, Tom would connect up to the business computers, gradually resuming control. Towards the end of the day he would take Craig through all the decisions he had made. Tom was never sure whether he was irritated or pleased when Craig began questioning his actions and it was even worse on the day he realised Craig had come up with a better plan than him.

Paul took over the nearly all the running of the house from Tom. The one exception was cooking. Tom had been very modest at the placement centre. Cooking was his passion and he did more than prepare nourishing meals. No one argued with him except when Craig rebelled and insisted on hamburgers and chips or some other teenage junk as Tom called it.

Paul was happy with doing the housework but before long he found himself becoming involved in other things.

Parents tended to take their children to school even when they were in their late teens. Stories abounded of kids being wrongfully graded and both children and parents were a little scared of the csc Inspectorate.

When Paul arrived with Jake and Ethan on the first day he caused quite a stir. The parents who had been at the party greeted Paul affably enough and he was confident enough to be able to chat with them.

Others shared Mrs Tibbs' views and looked at him with open hostility. They had refused to let their children come to the party because they saw the reason for it as an attack on discipline and they did not want their children mixing with a grade 2. There had been a certain amount of tension when Tom took the the boys but at least he was grade 4 and an adult.

When he returned to the school to collect his charges the parents seemed to have split into two groups, standing each side of the gates. Undecided parents milled around waiting to see how things developed.

Although they were in different years Adam, Ethan and Jake arrived together. Ethan and Jake lined up at ease in front of Paul while Adam went to hug him. Paul remained impassive and Adam took the hint and lined up with the other two. They then walked quietly off together leaving the parents impressed with their behaviour.

The following day the pro Paul side seemed slightly larger and the anti Paul faction had definitely lost ground. It soon got around that Adam's worked had shown an almost immediate and marked improvement. The anti faction tried to counter attack by saying that they spent the evenings cycling around or playing football in the park, disturbing people taking a quiet stroll, breaking Paul's pass regulations and generally running wild. They lost a lot of ground when a story got around that Adam was firmly in charge and had even beaten Craig for misbehaviour. Besides, the respective parents and guardians approved of the boys getting exercise and fresh air.

Not long after they had moved Paul was approached by a stern looking member of the anti faction.

"Is it true you're being regraded," she asked without any preamble or greeting.

"Yes ma'am," Paul answered pulling himself straight, "The probationary period is up in about three weeks."

"It looks as if you've been behaving yourself. I assume you've learnt your lesson."

"Yes ma'am," he replied keeping all traces of anger out of his voice.

"You do seem to act as a warning to these boys. I want you to take my son on."

"My guardian would have to agree, ma'am," Paul replied, "and I'm sure he'd like to meet your son first."

"Arrange it," she snapped handing him a card before stalking off.

Ethan had overheard the conversation. He had tried talking to the two boys who were so scared of the mall but had made little headway beyond discovering that it was the manager they were terrified of. From the bits they had let slip, Ethan was sure that they had been molested. Grabbing a rare moment of freedom he phoned Craig and asked if he could invite them to join their group as well.

Craig was unsure but it sounded important to Ethan so he agreed.

The two boys, Rick and Danny, were actively hostile to Ethan's offer.

"I'm going to get graded soon enough," Danny retorted, "I'm not going to play at one now."

"Yeah, You can't help us, can you?" Rick added angrily, "What do you think you can do?"

"My brother Craig got a csc inspector arrested and he thinks there's something wrong at the mall. Tom is a multi-millionaire, or rather he was until he was framed. He'll not want you graded if it's wrong. Paul is graded and knows what it's like to get fucked by strangers."

Rick and Danny stared at Ethan. They could not figure how Ethan knew what had happened to them. They had trouble talking to each other. They just understood that they were both scared of the mall. It took them time to understand that Ethan wanted to help them and they would not be branded as liars and they were not just sluts.

Ethan waited for as long as he dared for their answers but had to report back to the drill instructor. He was late enough to have earned a beating which seemed to convince Danny and Rick that he was serious. When Adam, Jake and Ethan lined in front of Paul, Rick self-consciously stood beside them while Danny fetched their parents.

Not only were the parents only too happy to allow their sons to go with Paul but when a senior teacher realised they were having trouble with transport he offered to loan them the school bus.

The new house was about a forty five minute cycle ride from the school. Rick and Danny lived much closer and were expected to walk. Jake and Ethan had improved dramatically over the last couple of months which had boosted the school performance rating. Craig had always been a promising student and if he returned to complete his studies that would be another plus. Adam's performance was also encouraging in the short time he had been involved with the Ryder household.

The school had a good performance rating and if Rick and Danny were turned around it would be close to qualifying for a target related grant.

As energy problems had got worse so people tended to travel less and car ownership had dropped dramatically. Rick's father could drive so he took them all the bus including the bikes and would collect Rick and Danny later before returning the bus.

When they got to the house Paul took the boys to the barn. Rick and Danny looked with awe at the massive swimming pool but followed Paul's directions to settle down at one of tables to do their work. There were garden chairs, loungers and tables scattered around the poolside and patio. Paul ensured there were enough tables and chairs inside so they could work out of the sun.

Tom was not too happy about cooking more 'teenage junk food'. Once Tom had complained a little bit too loudly about cooking for teenagers and Craig had taken over the kitchen and done the cooking, leaving Tom to clear the horrendous mess that Craig had deliberately created.

Tom changed tactics and was quietly introducing new tastes and ingredients to Craig. Craig tolerated his passion for food and although he would not admit it, he looked forward to Tom's creations.

When homework was completed everyone piled into kitchen for dinner. The previous owners had left behind a massive table and with so many people sitting down, it was the only one big enough.

During the meal Tom asked what they planned on doing that evening.

"Swimming," Adam replied, "Craig is having a visitor and Paul might be needed as well. Rick and Danny don't have bikes so we may as well all stay here. I'm sure Tom expects us to rest before swimming so we'll do that on the patio."

Rick and Danny were a little surprised that Adam had taken the lead. It's said that delegation is the sign of good leadership but Craig took it to extreme. At only sixteen he felt overwhelmed by his responsibilities and at times he was more than willing to hand over control. Tom, Paul and Adam had come to understand this. He deferred to Tom when it came to the work he had to get through during the day but Tom was used to the boss being the boss and was uncomfortable when he felt things were going too far.

Being young, it was more like a game to Adam and Paul but one they took seriously. On one occasion Adam had been given extra essays as a punishment which should have meant him doing work after dinner while the others were playing.

Paul could see he was rushing his assignments. He did not fully understand the subject matter but he recognised Adam's impatient attitude and overall poor quality. When he queried it Adam came up with an excuse about the teacher knowing there was a lot of work and would understand.

The following night, it was obvious from the marks and the teachers comments that they had not understood.

Adam stood nervously in front of Paul.

"You lied to me last night," Paul said, "Do friends do that to each other?"

Adam blushed furiously and shook his head.

"If you let your work slip when you coming here, how will that effect Craig and Ethan?"

"The csc could say they're worried," Adam mumbled, "They could send you away."

"If you were in charge, what would you do now?"

"Punish me." Adam replied, "I'm sorry Paul. I didn't think."

"Fetch the tawse and bend over the table."

The colour drained from Adam's face but he quickly obeyed Paul. The tawse is a leather belt with two slits in it. It was very popular in Scottish schools until the twentieth century as the slits allowed the impact to be spread over a much wider area, increasing the pain region while doing less deep damage and had become very popular again.

Adam cried out as the first blow landed. Ethan and the others could see that Paul had not held back. With the second blow Adam was wriggling desperately trying to ease the fire in his buttocks. By the fourth blow all dignity had gone and he was in tears. Paul landed the last two blows across his thighs low enough to be visible even when he was wearing shorts. Adam's humiliation was completed while he was made to stand in front of Paul while Paul phoned his father to explain what he had done and why.

Things were a bit strained between Paul and Adam until, a few days later, they were all kicking a ball around in the park. Craig had joined them and as he tried to intercept a pass he stumbled and nearly fell. In frustration he kicked the ball as hard as he could and slammed it into the back of a passer by. It was a complete accident. Craig had not looked where he was kicking it.

The passer by was, understandably, annoyed and as Craig ran over to apologise, Adam ran over to join them. Adam had also noticed a park keeper approaching which could mean real trouble.

"Craig," he asked, "Who's in charge while we're out like this?"

"I've said, you are."

"And what happens to Ethan, Paul and Tom if you get into trouble?"

"I know where this is going, Adam. If this gentleman would be satisfied with it, I'll accept a punishment from you."

Adam looked at the man who shrugged.

"I'm sure it was an accident," he said, "but he needs a reminder to be more careful in future."

"These boys are in here quite often, sir," the park keeper said, "We were a bit worried about the grade 2 but they're usually very well behaved."

Pointing to Adam he continued, "That one does try to keep them in check."

"Fair enough. Convince me you take this seriously and I won't take it further."

On Adam's instructions Craig fetched the tawse which Adam always brought with him on these trips from his bike, headed over to a picnic table and dropped his shorts. It did not help Craig that a small crowd was gathering and as he bent over the table he could hear them discussing his body.

Adam was not as strong as Paul but Craig could not help yelling out as the blows landed. He only just managed to hold back the tears. Like Paul, Adam landed the last two blows on Craig's lower thighs. Also like Paul he came up with one last humiliation.

He sent Craig over to the man to ask him if he would like to examine the welts and if the punishment was enough. Craig even had to stand with his hands behind his head so as not to hide the marks. All Craig wanted to do was jump around rubbing his injuries. He was relieved when the man simply said, well done, and shook his hand before saying Craig could go.

Adam rushed over and hugged Paul desperately sorry about his attitude over the last few days. Adam was worried about Craig's reaction when they got home but he also saw his own punishment from Paul's point of view which killed any last resentment with Paul.

Back indoors, Tom could see that Craig was very sore and listened carefully to their account of events.

As Adam was about to leave with his father, Craig hugged him and said, "You were right. If he had complained to the park keeper it would have become official. The csc and the police could have been involved."

On the night that Danny and Rick first visited, Danny asked about why Adam seemed to be in charge, Ethan described the incident in the park. It had made a deep impression on all the boys and everyone who heard the tale were equally impressed.

Danny in particular began to see Craig differently. Since Craig was head of the household, he was of 'them', an adult who never listened to kids but if he got punished then he had to be one of 'us', a kid who never got listened to. It only began to make sense if he believed Ethan when he said that Craig would do anything to look after him or help anyone who needed it.

Craig sat with the others while they rested beside the pool. He saw Danny and Rick watching him or talking earnestly to Ethan and wondered what the problem was but he had to ready to meet Mrs Brassom. She was the lady who had been so rude to Paul that morning.

Craig had spoken to her on the phone and taken an instant dislike to her. She had complained about Paul's behaviour to her, asking why graders were always so stupid then gushing about how a successful young man like Craig would be such a good influence on her son.

Craig knew her son, Liam from school. He was seventeen, in the year above Craig and about to start his final year. Liam was quiet and easy going which was about all that Craig knew about him.

Craig was aware of the hostility of some of the parents and thought that cooperating with them might make things easier for Paul but he had told Mrs Brassom that he would talk to Liam and that would be the decider. He felt a bit sorry for Liam as Craig assumed he would spend most of the evening being told how to behave.

About a quarter of an hour before they were due to arrive, Craig decided to put some clothes on and as he headed for the house he saw a car draw up. Liam got out accompanied by Mr and Mrs Brassom.

"Boy," she shouted, "Boy get over here now. Not now Liam."

Liam had tried in vain to warn his mother who she was talking to. He looked at Craig and shrugged. Mr. Brassom caught the exchange and grinned. Craig was thoroughly irritated by her behaviour but ambled over and stood sloppily at ease.

"I'll be talking to your master about your behaviour," she snapped, "Don't just stand there, you idiot. We're the Brassoms. Announce us."

"I don't have to," Craig retorted angrily, "With that voice you could announce yourself at a foghorn convention. I'm Craig Ryder."

He turned and offered his hand to Mr. Brassom who was just about controlling his laughter.

"I'm sorry to greet you naked but I was just coming up to the house to dress."

"We're a bit early," Mr Brassom replied, "My wife was insistent that you should not be kept waiting. How's Tom? I've spoken to him a couple of times at the school when we were collecting the kids.

"Really dear, I'm sure Mr. Ryder has had enough of graders for now. Liam, you really should have told me. That was a wicked prank you played. I wouldn't be surprised if Mr. Ryder refused to help you now."

"Tom mentioned you and he liked wine. He hasn't fetched his cellar yet."

"I've got a couple of bottles in the car. I wondered if Tom and I could share a glass.

"What on earth are you thinking, Brian." Mrs Brassom shrieked, "What will Mr Ryder think of this family if you go and get his servants drunk."

Craig pointed, "If you go round there to the living room doors and call out, you should find him. Liam and I will head down to the barn."

He turned to Mrs Brassom, "It's going to be men's talk all evening. Maybe you'd prefer to return later and collect them."

"How very thoughtful of you." Mrs Brassom answered, "I could visit my sister."

"As they walked to the barn Liam said, "Sorry about mother. She thinks that if I become your friend there'll be some good prospects for me. I know you're fighting for your family and so is she. The difference is, she's such a terrible snob."

"What about you?"

Liam shrugged.

"Dad's delighted that he's met another connoisseur. Your servant could be grade 1 for all he cares. I think I take after him."

"That's cool."

"Mum's not all that bad. She works as a volunteer at a children's home our church runs. I've seen her on her knees scrubbing the sick off the floor before now. And she's given the csc hell if they they don't treat the kids right. She's just got it into her head that we're one of the good families and deserve to be treated that way."

They had reached the barn and had gone out onto the patio. Liam looked suitably impressed.

"Something you should know." Liam continued, "She knows Mrs Jones. They meet at one of their social groups. Mum mentioned that she was going to ask if I could join your homework group and Mrs Jones asked if I would keep an eye out for her to help her investigations. Mum really let fly at her. She told that her if she had done her job right in the first place she wouldn't be in this mess.

Liam continued, "She said that you've done a marvellous job with Ethan, Jake and Adam and even your graders are a cut above rest. She wants me to get ahead not sort Mrs Jones mess out."

Craig was impressed and realised he had underestimated Mrs Brassom.

"I'm sorry about the foghorn remark."

"Don't be," Liam replied, "It was priceless. I thought dad was going to choke trying not to laugh. She's got this thing about the right people and how to behave. She'll never accept graders are anything but trash."

"Do you want to join the homework group?"

"I think so." Liam replied carefully, "I'm being pushed which I don't like but I've been finding studying difficult so I guess I need some help. I wouldn't mind going for a swim though."

"Go for it."

Craig found that he noticed boy's bodies far more than he used to and found himself looking at Liam as he stripped off. Liam was not fit, chubby rather than fat and hairier than the others. His legs were covered in a black growth and there was a patch on his chest. His cock and balls seemed enveloped in further luxuriant growth.

Although he was a strong swimmer he lacked stamina and tired quickly, contenting himself with sitting on the edge of the pool. He talked with Paul and Adam and Craig could see them laughing and joking.

Craig dived in and swam laps until he was exhausted then sat back in one of the loungers. Danny sidled up to Craig and tried talking to him but was impossibly shy though he did manage to mumble out a question about the 'guy at the mall'

"The security guard, you mean?" Craig asked.

"No! The boss." Danny whispered, "Forget it, I'll only get into more trouble."

He almost ran off and sat sulkily in a corner until Ethan joined him.

Craig sighed. The swim had been great. There was nothing like physical exercise to blow away stresses and strains but Danny was a new problem and he did not know how to handle it. Danny was sixteen, the same age as he was, but acted much younger. It was not the way Craig remembered him from school.

Paul sat next to Craig for a time. He loved Craig as his master and was always there for him. With the informality around the pool Paul would not stand attentively as a good servant should, it would be too obvious but he was still there to serve. Craig was aware of Paul's devotion and relaxed.

Adam also understood the pressures that Craig was under. Craig was only a year older than him and seemed to be there for everyone. Under any other circumstances, Adam would have been extremely jealous of their relationship but he knew that he was part of it and took his duties very seriously so when it became time for the visitors to be collected he started clearing the pool.

Danny had the dreadful feeling that the last chance to save him was slipping away and just sat while the others dressed. He was still naked when his father who had got a lift on the bus arrived.

"Come on, Danny." he said quietly, knowing how volatile his son had been for the last few weeks, "Craig'll think you want to move in."

To everyone's surprise Danny burst into tears and ran to Craig falling on him almost winding Craig. Craig was briefly aware of their two cocks grinding together before focusing on Danny's whimpering pleas for help and for Craig to believe him.

Craig looked helplessly at Danny's father who looked equally bewildered as Craig wrapped his arms around the boy and held him.

Paul and Adam shepherded everyone out of the barn and across to the living room. To Paul's dismay Mrs Brassom arrived at that moment and was relieved, that when she realised that there was some sort of crisis, stayed quiet.

Tom and Mr Brassom had enjoyed a little too much wine and were the worse for wear leaving Paul to take charge.

After seating the adult visitors as best he could he turned to Ethan.

"Do you or Rick know what this is about?"

The two boys looked at each other not wanting to commit themselves.

"Danny is asking for help and maybe Craig will need some too," Paul said sharply, "In this household you give that help."

Out of the corner of his eye he could see Mrs Brassom. She was definitely unhappy about a grader being in charge and winced when Paul called Craig by name. Rick was not a grader and Paul should be a lot more respectful to him but she stayed quiet as curious as everyone else to know what's going on.

"Go on, Rick. Tell them." Ethan muttered unhappily.

Slowly and reluctantly at first Rick told his story. As he saw that he was not in trouble so a dam burst in his mind and the words just flooded out. It took the listeners some time to sort out the confused version that Rick gave but gradually they understood.

Rick had gone to the mall and had been stopped, probably, by the same guard and searched in much the same way Craig had been. Since he was just a kid, spending pennies rather than pounds, no one came to his defence and he was hauled off to the managers office. The manager had bent Rick over his desk and fucked him. Rick trembled when he remembered the pain and his terror when the guard had taken his turn.

Afterwards Rick was told that he was banned from the mall and that there was enough evidence to get him graded if he ever mentioned his disgraceful behaviour.

By the end of his story, his father was in tears and hugging him.

"And Danny?" Paul asked quietly.

"The same thing. It was weird. I could see him freaking out every time someone mentioned the mall the same as I did. We got talking."

"What do we do now?" Danny's father asked desperately. He wanted to rush out and comfort his son and found it difficult to accept that Danny had turned to a stranger.

"A couple of the orphans have told similar stories." Mrs Brassom said, "It's difficult not to believe them but the man is very respectable.

"Private Investigator," Tom mumbled.

"Good idea." Mr Brassom replied, his speech just as slurred.

"Be quiet, you drunken idiots," Mrs Brassom snapped. "That's for Mr Ryder to decide."

"Adam and Jake usually cycle home alone but it's getting very close to curfew," Paul said, "I'll phone their parents and see if they can stay the night."

"Liam! Make some coffee and pour it down those two. Paul's got enough to deal with. He doesn't need to handle a couple of drunks."

If Paul was surprised that Mrs Brassom knew his name he was amazed at the change in her attitude when there was a crisis to deal with.

Paul set Ethan and Jake to looking after the adult guests and sent Adam down to the barn. He had instructions to stand where Craig could see him but just wait for until he was needed.

Danny was asleep in Craig's arms. He had told a similar story to Rick but he had been unable to accept what had happened to him and began a campaign of vandalism against the mall. He had been caught and was waiting on his court appearance where it was likely he would be graded. He had panicked when the police had grabbed him and lashed out striking one of the officers in the face and so he was facing grade one or two.

Craig was getting very uncomfortable having a boy the same size as him laying on him. He coaxed Danny awake and together walked to the living room where they were both surprised to see everybody still there. Adam followed with Danny's clothes.

Tom had sobered up rapidly. He knew he was needed and was determined not to let Craig down. Craig had them all sit as best they could round the kitchen table. Ethan, Jake, Adam and Rick found themselves standing at the foot.

"There was no excuse for that behaviour," Mrs Brassom said to Danny when Craig explained his court case.

"It's done," Craig said firmly, "Danny did not create this situation and we are going to help him deal with it. The question is, how?"

"Tom said something about a Private Investigator," Ethan giggled, "but he was drunk at the time."

"Tom?"

"We need to find hard evidence against him. These boys aren't enough, even with those from the orphanage. The defence would yell collusion and we couldn't prove it's not true."

"It is true." Rick yelled, " I thought you believed us."

"We do believe you." Tom said quietly, "That's why we're sitting round this table instead of going to bed. Sometimes we'll have to play devils advocate and talk or even question you as if we're the other side."

"And you think an investigator could get hard evidence?" Craig asked.

"I don't know." Tom replied, "All I can think of is putting a wire on a kid up and sending him into the mall hoping he'll get picked up."

"I'll do it," Adam said.

"No you won't," said Paul, "No one is going to rape you while I'm here."

Mrs Brassom nearly spoke out against Paul's disrespectful attitude but remembered things were done differently here.

Instead she said, "If a boy was about to be graded, could he volunteer in exchange for a lighter sentence?"

With some difficulty at being polite she finished off, "What do you think, Paul?"

"I don't know much about voluntary grading," he replied, "I know everyone assumes that Craig has volunteered when he's dressed in just shorts but that's about all."

"How old are the two at the orphanage," Craig asked.

"Coming up sixteen." Mrs Brassom replied, "Why?"

"I thought guys like that preferred them much younger."

"They probably do." Mr Brassom replied, "but below fifteen they have to have a guardian or parent present if they're questioned in private. That might cramp their style a bit and what strapping sixteen year old is going to shout rape?"

"So we need a sixteen year old boy who will be voluntarily graded so that he can get a couple of dicks up his arse." Liam said.

"Liam! I know this subject is an unpleasant one but we must maintain standards. Please be more circumspect."

"My Dear, I think you'll find that we are in the company of people who set standards, not keep them. Mr. Brassom said, "It may be that putting clear, lucid statements above polite, delicate banalities will become quite fashionable."

He continued, "I'm a company secretary, not a lawyer but our firm does use graders. It seems to me that you need a lad like Danny who's been thoughtless rather than wicked and needs to concentrate on keeping his grading as high as possible. Voluntary grading in a tough environment might show enough remorse to help."

Danny heaved convulsively as he sobbed with relief. He was still in deep trouble but suddenly he was not alone and people were talking positively about his situation.

"Thank you for everything," Danny's father said, "but all this is going to cost money. I've got Danny's brother and sister to worry about. I've already talked to Danny about this and he knows that I've got to let him go."

"That man made me feel dirty just by looking at me," Craig replied, "I'm going to stop him. Tom. First thing tomorrow, get hold of Graham Baxter. Get him to find a good P.I. I don't care if it costs more but get things started immediately."

"Yes sir," Tom replied.

Craig may not have been comfortable with his position as head of the household but there were some occasions when he slipped into role and no one would dare challenge him. This was one of those moments and Tom, like the others, had recognised it.

"I'd like Danny to stay tonight and tomorrow. If he volunteers I'll start him off as a grade one until Graham can advise us. If he wants to stay five I'd still like him to stay so that he's available to talk to Graham. Either way we'll do our best for you, Danny."

"Thank you, Craig… I mean sir," Danny replied, "How do I get voluntary grading?"

Ethan grabbed his computer which he'd left lying on the cupboard and connected to the internet.

"It says here Danny must state clearly that he wishes to be graded and Craig must clearly state he accepts. Craig can't have had any previous connections with Danny or be a relative. The statements can be written, in front of two witnesses or video recorded. Oh! Danny must be seen by a csc inspector within one week."

"What about grade levels and time?" Craig asked.

"Danny can back out any time but he's listed as grade one."

"Which means there is no comeback however you treat him." Mr Brassom said.

"I don't know." Danny sobbed, "I'm scared."

"Look at Tom, Paul, Jake and Ethan." his father said, "Are they better off or worse off for being with Craig?"

"Better off. What do you think I should do, Paul? You've been through it."

"I don't think Craig can go easy on you." he replied, "If you're sentenced G1 you might be able to stay with Craig if he can show that he can treat you appropriately. That means hard labour and the severest punishments. If you stay with him he might be able to get you up to grade four in time. If you go through placement, you'll end up in a work gang and forgotten."

"Dad?"

"I'm sorry, son. You hit a policeman and you will be punished. You could volunteer, listen to what this lawyer has to say. If he says it won't help then come home until the hearing."

"That makes sense," Craig said quietly.

"I'll do that then if Craig wants to."

"Tom. Have we unpacked the shackles and whips yet?"

"No sir but I can find them easily."

"Fetch ankle and wrist restraints and a cock cage. Then see if there's a hook somewhere so we can stretch him up up for a beating. We need a gag as well."

Craig looked at Danny.

"Understand what you are letting yourself in for. You'll be permanently restrained and only have enough movement to do your work. You won't be beaten as a punishment, you'll be beaten because I think it's a good idea. If Mr. Baxter says I can lighten up then I will but I'm trying to keep a grade one chain off your neck."

Danny nodded.

"I understand, sir." he replied, "I want to become a volunteer grader."

"I accept you as a grader," Craig replied. "Go and stand in that corner, hands behind your head and wait."

It was getting late and the meeting began breaking up. Danny's father was almost weeping. He had not fully understood why Danny had gone off the rails and headed for grade 1 until tonight but at least he had some sort of chance now.

"My friends will be so jealous that I've spent the evening with such an important young man." Mrs Brassom said as she left.

"You and Paul are on the same committee so you will be doing it again, won't you?" Craig asked with a big grin.

Mrs Brassom looked confused for a moment then laughed.

"Thank you, Craig. I'll do my best to help."

"I'll try to be dressed next time you call," Craig said.

"Oh! Don't worry. I've got you down as an eccentric millionaire," she laughed, "That means you're allowed to dress strangely."

"He's not dressed and he doesn't look strange, mother." Liam said, "What is strange, is that you tried to be nice to Paul."

"The right people can make or break you, Liam," she snapped irritably, "If Danny had known Craig soon enough he might not be facing grading. We need to be in with the right people to see that you do well."

"Tom said once that dressing as a grader is OK but you'll get listened to more if you look rich and powerful."

She looked surprised then nodded.

"Thank Tom for me, will you, please?" she asked, "My husband thoroughly enjoyed the first part of the evening."

It was getting late especially for a school night and some extra sleeping arrangements needed to be sorted out. They had not been in the house for long and most of the rooms were still empty. The main living room had been decorated and furnished as had Craig's bedroom. The kitchen had been ready for immediate use. The stables were being converted but were not ready. Tom was excited about his apartment and looked forward to inviting the glamorous grandmother, as the boys cheekily called her, for the night.

They were getting a room ready for Ethan for when his temporary grading was over. In the meantime, Paul had a room of his own, furnished with old furniture from the flat but he often slept on the floor in Craig's bedroom and had been given a sleeping bag of his own which he shared when Adam slept over. Craig still liked Paul to drain his balls but he now felt a bit of a sissy when Paul thought he should comfort him. Everyone else slept in sleeping bags in one of the empty rooms.

Tom and Craig had visited Tom's old home. It had been extremely distressing for Tom because of the memories it invoked but he had managed to arrange for his wine to be moved. His two houseboys had been delighted to see him if confused by his grader status.

They had been half starved and badly beaten by Tom's wife after his arrest and they were only just returning to full health and still on light duties. They looked warily at Craig but were reassured by Tom's relaxed attitude towards him and eventually Craig was just about able to get replies of more than one syllable. They had been mainly left alone over the last couple of months with the manager popping in once a day to check on them.

Finding links to his old life was harder for Tom than his arrest. Tom and Craig agreed to keep on having the property managed until Tom's apartment and grader bunk room were completed in the stables and then decide what to do with the property.

For now dealing with Danny was going to be the biggest problem. Except for Paul he sent the others to bed. By the time he had dealt with Danny the house would be quiet. It was one of his perks that he could do things at his own pace while the others had to rush around to give him space.

He sat quietly for a few moments. As his eyes drifted between Danny and the whips and canes that Tom had unpacked, he remembered how much he had enjoyed punishing Paul, Ethan and Tom. He'd had to hold back, remembering that he needed them. There were no constraints with Danny.

Chapter 6

Grade ones do not sleep in the house. After some thought Craig took Danny to the garage. There was a block and tackle hanging from the roof. It was used to lift engines out of cars. The hook had a bar that opened inwards. Craig could push the chain of the handcuffs against the bar and onto hook but the bar would not let the chain slip off. Craig released the belt securing Danny's arms and pulled on the hoist until Danny was stretched upwards standing on tiptoe.

Danny was terrified wondering what was going to happen. Craig, in his turn was becoming very hard. He might be straight but having another male in his power was a definite turn on. He was ashamed to admit, even to himself, that he looked forward to these opportunities. He turned to Paul.

"We'll have to get that hair off him, tomorrow." he said, "What about his pubes before we fit the cock cage?"

"We could trim it back tonight and and get some depilatory tape to do a thorough job tomorrow.

"What tape?" Craig asked.

"Depilatory," Paul replied, "It's like band aid but designed to stick to hair more than skin."

"Whoa! That sounds painful."

"It is sir," Paul replied with feeling, "At the centre they use it on you once and you don't forget to use the cream regularly afterwards."

Danny was staring at them wide-eyed with horror. His nerve was fading fast and if he could speak he would probably have backed out of the voluntary grading.

Paul sensed this and said, "I'm in charge of discipline. Nothing will happen to you that won't happen at the centre. I survived it and I'll make sure you do."

Danny calmed down and nodded. He hung there, arms beginning to ache, while Paul trimmed the bush around his cock and then fitted the cage. He looked vaguely ridiculous because Paul had left most of the spread of hair across his abdomen alone which emphasised the trimmed ring around his cock.

Nowadays chastity devices were something of a joke except, of course, for the wearer. Amongst the many put downs adults used against teenagers was the comment that their brains were inside their underwear. Seeing a grader restrained in this way always produced cracks about getting them to think straight or it's better soft there than in the head. The gags, which had been around since grading began or even before, had stayed just as unfunny but added to the embarrassment of the wearer.

People could be uncomfortable seeing a grader with an erection but it was seen as a normal bodily function. The grader was seen to have accepted his situation and was reacting normally to the world around him. Naturally a well behaved grader should be concentrating on his duties and not worrying about his own pleasure so chastity restraints were seen as a sign of weakness and immaturity.

While Paul was working on Danny, Craig picked up the belt and doubled it up before swishing it through the air making the other boys jump giving Craig a strange thrill. The conversations that evening about how to handle Danny and the possibility of finding a boy that might get raped had shown him how far his power over graders went.

He swished the belt through the air again. He was disappointed the boys did not react so much. He swung the belt again and this time it landed with a satisfying thwack across Paul's back. He swung again and a second stripe appeared next to the first. Craig was breathing heavily and spoke hoarsely as he told Paul to go stand by the wall.

Craig turned his attention to Danny's back. Danny yelled and bucked as blow after landed leaving his back, buttocks and thighs bright red. Every scream, every jerk and every movement in Danny's body seemed to make the fire in Craig's cock more intense until he could take no more.

Dropping the belt, he grabbed Paul and bent him over the bench and rammed his pole into the defenceless grader. There was no tenderness or love, just a release of pressure. He had no thoughts, just the sensations of the moment.

As he exploded into his boy and his seed forced it's way deep into Paul, he watched, almost as an onlooker as his fingers dug into Paul's back until red spots appeared.

As the raging sensations faded and he calmed down after the violence of the moment he began to realise what he had done. Ashamed and in tears he ran to the house and collapsed into a chair.

Paul followed him. He was sore and humiliated but he knew that Craig probably needed him and that was enough. He sat on the arm of the chair and put his arm around Craig.

"I'm so sorry," Craig wailed, "What have I done?"

"Discovered something about yourself I think," Paul replied quietly, "It's OK."

"No it's not fucking OK!" Craig yelled, "I hurt you. God knows what I've done to Danny."

"Danny will be all right. You warned him to expect a tough time and I'll talk to him. He'll get worse if he's graded one."

Adam appeared at the door. He had been waiting for Craig and Paul and had heard the noise. Craig could see Adam's shocked look as he saw Paul's back.

"What's happened? What have you done to him?" Adam yelled.

"Quiet, Adam," Paul snapped, " Don't worry. Craig's had a few problems but they're being sorted. Come and sit with him. I have something to do."

Paul headed back to the garage. Danny's arms ached mercilessly now and tears were flooding down his cheeks with the pain of his beating. Paul lowered the hoist until Danny's hands were chest height and examined Danny's back. He removed the bit.

"You speak without permission and I'll beat you. Your back is OK. It should be clear in a few days.

Paul had fetched a dust sheet from the decorating materials scattered all over the place. He laid it on the floor for Danny then lowered the hoist until Danny's hand could reach the floor if he laid down. He fingered the chain around his neck.

"Craig will do everything in his power to stop you getting one of these." he said, "I've got a future and a boyfriend because of him. You will be better off for knowing him as well but at times, he needs to remind himself and us that he's in charge. Understood?"

Danny nodded.

"If you try, you could get yourself off that hook. I promise you, it would not be a good idea."

Danny's eyes widened with fear again but he did not dare speak. Paul left him, turning the light off and leaving Danny to look after himself.

Back in the living room, he found that Adam had moved away from Craig and was looking at him in horror.

"I told you to hold Craig," Paul said quietly.

"I told him what I did," Craig sobbed.

"Like I said to Danny, because of you I have a future and a boyfriend whom I love dearly. I love you too but you're my master not my boyfriend and Adam has to remember that. You could whip me for saying this but you should remember that as well."

"Don't tempt me, Paul or you'll be over that table. You and Adam sleep in your room tonight. I want to be alone."

Craig slept fitfully that night and the next morning found it difficult to get on with his school work.

The builders had a delivery that morning. Paul had handcuffed Danny to a wheelbarrow and he spent the day shifting the load from the road to the stables. One of the workman loaded and unloaded the wheelbarrow but enjoyed strolling beside the struggling boy occasionally giving him an encouraging swat. The bruises had darkened and his back and thighs looked a real mess though Paul was satisfied that they would heal without a trace. Every time Danny saw Craig looking at him he speeded up a little, staring desperately ahead.

Craig was in love with Lindsay. He thought she was in love with him but ever since the party she had become colder and more distant. He wondered what he had done wrong and being a typical teenager with typical teenage hangups worried whether his sexual performance had disappointed her.

Ever since the time at the placement centre when he had caned Tom and finger fucked Paul he had become fascinated with the power he had over his graders. He was not naturally cruel or vicious and he had every intention of seeing that Danny was not graded but it excited him to see the fear in Danny's eyes when he looked at him.

Craig was also aware of the quiet masculine toughness that Paul exuded. Like Adam and some of the other boys he wanted to impress Paul with his own physical prowess. If he had stayed at school he would have been the football captain but since leaving school he had not found a way of expressing himself physically.

Last night all his doubts and frustrations had come to a head and not only had he enjoyed every moment of his assaults on Paul and Danny, he knew that he was looking for an excuse to repeat the experience.

He completed his school work then went through the days business transactions with Tom. Tom had seen Paul's and Danny's backs and could see that Craig was distracted.

Graham phoned in the early afternoon. He explained that just treating Danny as grade one was bad for his case. If that was all he was fit for now, what would be be fit for after the hearing? Danny needed to do some sort of community service to show he had the right attitudes in public. Impose strict discipline by all means but show that it was constructive

He further explained that Danny needed to speak to the csc Inspectorate. He would be taken into a room with just him and an inspector and be asked to confirm that he had volunteered. He also suggested that the voluntary grading be altered to state that it was to last until Danny was twenty five.

He had already contacted a private investigator who would not only look into the matter himself but approved of their plan to find another volunteer grader and send him to the mall, wired.

He had sent for the documents and would contact them again after he had read them.

Craig was still upset and it barely registered when Paul asked permission to use the phone. He became more aware when Paul said he had spoken to James who would be willing to help and had him explain.

"You promised that we would help the Neighbourhood Patrol with the old folk. We haven't had the time but Danny could do it for us. Patrol Officer Macliney would like to come round this evening and discuss it.

"Who?" Craig asked.

"James," Paul replied, "I'm sorry, sir. I know I've been told to call him James but I'm still a bit scared of his uniform."

"I'll punish you later," Craig retorted. It was meant as a joke but his cock stirred at the thought.

"Yes Master," Paul replied. Craig was never sure whether Paul was being sarcastic or afraid when he called him 'master'. In fact it was a bit of each. As Paul had just said, his time in the placement centre still haunted him, even though he had got used to Craig's humour.

Craig and Tom had just about finished so Craig wandered out for some fresh air. The first thing he saw was Danny standing, waiting to be taken for the next load. Danny was filthy and exhausted from his uncomfortable night and physically demanding work.

Craig was naked as well. He spent as much time as possible at the barn and the entire property was so secluded he did not bother dressing. Even Paul dressed more often than he did taking the boys to and from school. Often when Craig did go out he rarely dressed more than a grader. Tom had convinced him that it was good manners to dress appropriately if he was meeting people but otherwise, if anyone wanted to jump to conclusions about him, that's their problem.

Danny became increasingly nervous under Craig's stare while once again Craig found a perverse excitement at the other boy's fear.

"You been sent out to do proper grader work or you just wasting time?" a workman asked. He had just finished unloading a barrow load and had taken a quick break. "Your boss likes his pretty boys, doesn't he? We've got one more load then he can share you two with me."

He slapped Danny on the rump with a harsh, 'move it' then grabbed Craig by the arm and pulled him along. The man was strong and Craig was caught off balance. By the time he had recovered they were out on the road. The workman pointed at the remaining bags of cement and told Craig to start loading the wheelbarrow.

Just at that moment the foreman arrived.

"Everything OK?" he asked.

"No, it's not OK," Craig snapped angrily, "I want that man off my premises and he's not to come back."

"Your premises?" the man snapped, "Who the fuck do you think you are? You might be your bosses favourite pretty boy but that's all you are."

"He is the boss," the foreman replied, "He owns this place."

The workman stared, taking in what the foreman had said.

"It was a misunderstanding." he cried, "He was wandering around like a grader."

"I was going swimming," Craig retorted angrily, "That wasn't the problem. He was talking about my boss, your customer, liking his pretty boys and he was threatening to share us with him. This boy has already had to deal with this type of behaviour and I expect him to feel safe on my property."

"You're a lying little fucker," the workman snarled, "A free boy wandering around naked with all your naked little friends. Who's going to believe a pervert like you?"

"I am and you're fired," the foreman snapped, "With a graders help you should have got this job done by now so I'm firing you for laziness as well."

A couple of other builders had paused to see what the fuss was about. The foreman had them escort the fired workman while he got his stuff together and see him down the lane to the main road.

During the time they were there, Craig had become popular with the contractors. He allowed them to use the barn during their lunch break. He'd permitted a bricklayer to bring his young children with him when there had been a family problem and Craig, Paul or Tom looked after them while they played happily in the barn.

He would listen to them as they explained the different stages in the building work trying out the various jobs involved in the conversion. His attempts at plastering had been a notable failure but nobody seemed to mind that his efforts caused more work than it saved.

It had been the second day of employment for the man who had been sacked and he had made himself thoroughly disliked. The rest of the crew had heard of Danny's problems and why he was being treated the way he was and somehow, during the day there had always been someone nearby keeping an eye on him which is why the foreman had been on the scene so quickly.

The foreman was extremely apologetic and when Craig asked if they could fit in an extra job, they were only too happy to help. The main work was winding down and it was a fairly simple job to fit a plasterboard wall and door across the upstairs passageway isolating the last two rooms. It would not be a finished job because their would not be time but Craig was adamant that the basic structure was good enough as long as it was done in time.

Danny had heard a few comments about Craig while he had been working and knew how the builders felt about him. The previous night, Craig had scared him and his life had dropped to new depths so the comment to the workman about feeling safe did not make sense. Paul had said that he would be able to cope with everything. He had survived last night, got through today and that man had been stopped. It all seemed confused and muddled and he did not understand the contradictions in his treatment.

It was at that moment he felt that everything would be all right. People had promised to protect him in the past but even his parents had failed to save from the man at the mall. Craig had promised to do his best for him but it would be tough. Danny had expected the tough part but Craig had delivered on the help part as well. From that moment on he belonged to Craig.

The incident had made an impact on one of the builders. His name was Rob and he wondered whether he dare talk to Craig about his own problems.

It was the last week for the builders. Tom's apartment and the grader bunkhouse were just about complete. The final delivery had been to lay a new drive to the garages. Tom would not have made a fuss. To him it was just workmen completing a job they were being paid to do but it was a new experience for Craig. He made Tom set up a table with drinks and food for the crew while he, Tom and the foreman made a final inspection.

Later as everyone was chatting Rob sidled up to him.

"I'm gonna get graded." he blurted out, "Will you help me, please?"

Later in life a doctor would tell him how he always waited for a patient to put their hand on the door as they left. Patients would often spend the whole consultation talking about other things rather than face the problem they had come for. It was when their hand was on the door that they and it was their last chance to say anything that they explained the real problem.

Like Danny, Rob had been scared to talk to Craig but knew that his last chance was slipping away.

About six months ago just after his sixteenth birthday he had got drunk on his step-father's whiskey. He had staggered outside, fell against a car breaking the mirror and had been sick over the officer arresting him.

His step-father declared him unmanageable and refused to help him in any way. The csc had no choice. They had to deal with it and in fairness they did the best they could. They recognised it was just teenage stupidity and placed him in a foster home until his hearing. He liked the people he was staying with. They had accepted that he was unhappy at school and found him this job and they had made him feel welcome.

The only problem was, they would not contact or deal with the csc unless it was absolutely necessary. When he tried to talk about his hearing they would simply say he should leave it to the csc. As an apprentice he had just about managed to pay for the mirror and the officers cleaning bill but he was scared that he was heading for grading because the fostering would end with the hearing and the court would decide what to do with him.

The csc had to supply guardianship for the next nine years and there was no way he could afford accommodation.

"Come and see me before you go," Craig had replied before finding the foreman and asking him about the boy.

"You've seen for yourself, he's quiet and a good worker," the foreman replied, "Has he told you about his problems?"

Craig nodded.

"You know the csc and how it works better than I do," the foreman said, "He doesn't deserve to be graded. He shouldn't have asked you for help though. He's no business bothering customers like that. If I were to report it, he'd get fired."

"Then don't report it," Craig retorted. "I won't. We've got a lot of moving to do and some decorating this weekend. I could do with an extra pair of hands. Do you have anyone who could help?"

The foreman laughed.

"By a funny coincidence I think Rob might be available. You should ask him. We should be moving. You're still paying for our time."

"I can afford it. I want time to think and talk to Rob. I know some of your gang would prefer to start the weekend early but I wish things didn't get dumped on me at the last minute."

"They all feel sorry for Rob," the foreman said, "If you can keep the booze coming they won't mind being paid to get drunk."

Paul had left to fetch the boys. They were becoming excited because the next week would be their last complete one at their current gradings. When they got home they found a party in full swing with the work crew in no real hurry to move.

Craig explained Rob's problems to Paul and they discussed the possibilities. Craig then sent for Rob before heading to the office. When Rob entered the office he became aware of a completely different mood. Instead of the usual relaxed attitude it was obvious that he was expected to stand respectfully in front of the desk awaiting Craig's pleasure. His eyes were inevitably drawn to the shackles canes and other paraphernalia lying on the desk.

"Tom and Paul keep reminding me that I'm in charge," Craig said, "I've beaten Paul, Tom and Ethan. You saw Danny's back the day he worked for you. If you were to stay here, I would probably give you a beating just to let you know I mean it."

Craig paused. Rob went to speak but Craig stopped him.

"I said much the same thing to Danny before I worked him over," Craig continued, "The most important thing for me is keeping my brother away from the csc. I think you can see that but it means I have to prove that I can run this place. Do you understand?"

"Yes sir," Rob replied, subconsciously following Craig's demeanour. "I do understand what you're saying but I can't stay here, can I?"

Rob had seen Craig dealing with Paul and the other boys and he'd seen them together in the barn. It would be marvellous if he could join them, even if it was only until the hearing.

"You're staying until Sunday evening at least," Craig said, "That gives us the weekend to plan long term. Is that a problem?"

"My guardians might object. They worry about anything that upsets the csc."

"You've been hired to work for me. You can phone your guardians and tell them. Your boss will confirm it."

"Do I have a choice?"

"Of course you do. You can refuse and I'll still try to help you," Craig replied, "You just sprung this on me at the last minute and it would be easier if you were nearby until things are sorted."

"Sorry, I didn't mean to sound ungrateful. I'd love to stay."

"OK! I'm going to phone my lawyer. He can get your papers and start getting your case sorted."

"I can't afford a lawyer," Rob said wide eyed.

"I love saying this – I can."

Craig managed to reach Graham before he left his office for the weekend and passed on Rob's details. Graham would get back to him Monday but agreed that residency with Craig and a job should keep him ungraded. Legally that meant grade 5 but it was generally called ungraded.

"You've got to decide if you're happy with me being your guardian until you're twenty five," Craig said, "If you've got a relative or can think of someone you'd prefer then I'll arrange it. Just make sure you know what you want when Graham calls on Monday."

"Thanks!" Rob said, "You've not said anything about Danny yet and what you want in return."

"Who's said anything about Danny?"

"It's all round the crew. Your graders talked to them as well as you especially when we were in the pool. You want me to be taken to that sleaze bag in the mall and catch him fucking me, don't you."

"No. I mean yes, we're looking for someone but you should remain five without doing that."

"You want me to volunteer?"

"No but I think you should take your clothes off then stand with your hands behind your head."

Rob looked startled then worried as Craig picked up his favourite instrument, a tawse.

"I'm waiting," Craig said quietly.

For once Craig was dressed. He was wearing jeans and shirt and he looked relaxed if a little excited as he sat back in his chair waiting for Rob who still had not moved.

"If you're going to stay this weekend or for longer then you will be treated like my other wards which means I am going to punish you for disobeying me. If you want to go and come back on Monday to see Graham then that's fine. I promise you I will try to help you."

As if on cue there was a knock on the door and the foreman entered the office.

"I'm sorry to bother you but we do need to get going now."

"Decision time, Rob," Craig said quietly, "Leave or strip."

The foreman watched the scene, fascinated. He knew that Craig could enforce discipline when he had to but had only ever seen the confident, affable side to him. He understood the principle of starting off hard and easing off when new guys had proved themselves but he had not expected Craig to be using it.

Rob shrugged and took off his shirt. Craig took the foreman outside and they shook hands. The rest of the crew were already asking about Rob as Craig went back into the office. He sat on the front of his desk, inches from Rob.

Rob's torso was hairless but starting with an ample bush around his cock a dark fur spread down his legs. Craig had developed an interest in the male body. Not quite sexual, his fantasies still centred on Lindsay and other girls but he had already decided that Rob would be shaved. When he had first inspected Paul and Tom, he had understood that being hairless was a part of being a grader. Now he wanted his boys to have less hair than him so that even when they were naked in the pool his own pubic bush acted as a badge of rank.

Without thinking, he grabbed Rob's balls and felt them idly running a finger back towards his anus. Rob tensed, unready for the sudden loss of privacy but his cock swelled pointing accusingly at Craig. Craig wrapped his hand round it and stroked a few times making it even firmer.

"Maybe I should put it in a cage for the weekend." he teased, "Something up your arse as well so no one can fuck you. Just to make sure you know that you're not here for sex. What do you think?"

Craig had not let go of Rob's cock and stroked it gently while he waited for Rob to answer.

"I can put you on a train and send you home if you wish. You'll still have a lawyer and my help on Monday."

Rob could not think how to answer. He had assumed that he would be expected to show his gratitude in some way but Craig kept giving him chances to back away but he could not believe that Craig was simply willing to help.

The sensations from his groin were overpowering his thinking and using his last ounce of will power he stepped backwards breaking free from Craig's caresses. Craig looked at him amused.

"I'm still waiting for an answer," he said.

"What do you want me to say?" Rob asked desperately, "Fuck me, Master? You're messing with my head and I don't like it."

"I want a volunteer to help get that evidence for Danny," Craig said, "Not someone doing it because they think they have to. I was messing with you and I enjoyed it but I was deliberately pushing you until you reacted. You can do that, you know. Say no, I mean. If I become your guardian then you will have to be honest with me and that starts now."

"Who said I want a kid my age as a guardian?"

"Better but don't call me a kid. I don't know if I want to be your guardian yet. You still haven't told me what you want to do this weekend."

"What's in it for you if you help me?"

"I don't know," Craig answered, "The csc came close to getting Ethan and me. Tom saved us and here we are. I was so lucky that I got Tom and that was on Paul's advice. Adam kept me out of trouble once. I guess I need mates who are on my side."

Apart from stepping back, Rob still had his hands behind his head. He knew that if it had not been for Craig, Paul and Danny would have been headed for the labour gangs. Rob had recognised Craig the first day he was there as the boy who had taken on the csc. He had tried to find out as much as he could about Craig since then and had liked what he had discovered. Danny's back had been a shock but he had seen Danny's attitude change into the same friendly respect the others showed towards Craig.

He came to his decision and taking a deep breath to calm himself stepped forward.

"I guess I'm yours this weekend." Rob said, "Can we talk about the mall later though. We've got other stuff to deal with first."

As he spoke he thrust his hips forward slightly, almost inviting Craig to hold it again. Instead Craig grabbed some of pubes and pulled.

"We do things the traditional way here. Graders aren't supposed to have body hair. Craig said quietly, almost menacingly, "Go and find Paul. Tell him you need help removing your hair. Ask him to use the tape."

Rob looked puzzled so Craig continued, "Placements centres use it to pull hair out by the roots when a grader forgets to keep himself smooth and like the creams we normally use, it prevents stubble.

Craig was gratified to see Rob turn white. He had psyched himself up for a beating only to be confronted with a far worse ordeal. He guessed that Craig was testing him again but boyish pride prevented him from admitting that he was scared. To buy a little time he asked what had happened to Danny as he had not seen the other boy since the first day.

After the incident with the workman, Craig had taken Danny to the barn so they could talk. Craig told Danny what the lawyer had said and he had decided that Danny should go back to school the next day. After school he would do community service with the Neighbourhood Patrol. Apart from that he would be treated like the rest.

Danny was grateful to Craig but rebelled against being in the control of a boy who was his age and had muttered something about being asked first. Craig was upset by the comment and angrily reminded Danny that he was in charge and that he would sleep in the garage until he remembered it. Craig had stalked off leaving Danny scared of the coming night and feeling guilty at upsetting the first person to believe him and help him.

That evening when James arrived, Danny was on his best behaviour. When James asked about his back, Danny replied that he had trouble obeying someone his own age as if he was an adult. He added that he felt bad about it as he had slipped up again today. He was really sorry and wouldn't question his punishment. Danny had been answering James' questions but he was looking at Craig as he spoke. James was impressed and agreed that after school each day he should report to James, be allowed time to do his homework then set to work. Tom would pack him sandwiches to tide him over and have a meal ready for him when he got home at curfew. It was a long day for Danny but when Graham heard about it, he thought it ideal.

They were having trouble finding a suitable boy for the sting. The csc was sympathetic but pointed out they could not put grade fives under their care in such a situation. They could go to a placement centre and take on a boy already graded but not a grade five. Many parents would have gladly handed over their dear little boys to get them out of trouble but the ones they had seen so far turned out to be spoilt nasty little monsters who Craig would having the greatest trouble dealing with. Without the csc's help, tracking down suitable cases was proving difficult.

"Which means you need me." Rob interrupted, "Why don't you say so?"

"We've time to find someone better before it starts getting urgent. Let's see what happens. You might find a long lost uncle or something."

"With my luck he'll send me down the coal mine he owns. What did you do to Danny that night?"

"It was strange," Craig replied, "When the others started getting ready for bed he headed straight over to the garage. When I got there, he was standing like you are now under the hoist and he was rock hard. If I'd stared too hard he'd have cum. All the chains and stuff I'd used the night before were laid out on a folding bench beside him."

"Fucking hell." exclaimed Rob.

"No! I enjoy it. I don't think it's hell but I didn't do anything then," Craig replied, "I asked him what was going on."

Danny had not only been dealing with being gay but with a strong submissive streak. Deep down he wanted a master but he thought it was sick to want to be treated like a grader or worse. He knew that had it been a different workman Craig would have allowed himself to be worked just as hard as he had been. It had cleared some of the confusion in his mind and shown him that he could choose his master. Being submissive did not mean that he did not want to test the limits hence the moment of sulkiness when Craig had acted so adult, planning his future. It had also cleared the last of the doubts in his mind and he had chosen Craig as his master.

Craig was not aware of everything as he tried explaining to Rob what he did know but it still made some sense to him.

"Yes but what did you do to him that night?"

At that moment Adam stuck his head round the door to say dinner was ready.

Craig grinned, "Let's eat. Then you have to report to Paul."

Craig swatted Rob on the thigh until he gave up waiting for an answer to his question and headed for the door. They were playful blows which stung rather hurt but they reinforced Rob's own change of attitude. Like Danny and the others he accepted Craig as the master and he would stay if Craig allowed it.

Whatever had happened that night, Craig had been more relaxed than usual. He had chosen to wear jeans and shirt rather than stay naked. The others had put it down to excitement at some of the changes that were about to happen.

Tom had already chosen the furniture for his apartment so Paul was mystified when Craig had taken him out to buy some furniture. Paul had his room next to Craig. He had been grateful for some of the old furniture from the flat. Paul enjoyed helping his master choose furniture for his new quarters though he wondered why Craig was moving out of the massive master bedroom.

For once Craig dressed the part as a rich customer leaving Paul the role of servant. The real shocks for everyone began that Friday night when a puzzled Adam announced that his family would be visiting so they would have to stay in for a swimming session. Craig began to look uncomfortable when both Ethan and Adam announced that Craig should join them and relax.

"Come on Craig." Ethan exclaimed, "You've been getting all snooty on us the last few days."

"Maybe Craig realises that he can't stay all matey with you and maintain discipline," Tom said.

"He's done all right so far." Ethan replied, "Besides he takes discipline as well as gives it 'cos he's got to behave like we do.

Just as they had finished eating, Allan and Miriam arrived. Craig surprised everyone by taking them to the improvised apartment after seeing that Paul and Adam were waiting for them just outside. Finally they were called in.

"This is Paul's new apartment," Craig said looking at Adam, "If your father signs these papers he will give me full guardianship over you and you will move in with Paul.

"The only rule is that they become your rooms and Paul is your servant. We're going downstairs and wait for you while you talk it over."

They had barely reached the living room before a pounding on the stairs heralded the arrival of two very excited boys. Adam did not know who to hug first and even Paul forgot his usual reserve and not only hugged Craig but kissed him full on the lips.

"I take it you want me to sign?" Allan asked.

"Yes please. Are you sure you don't mind me moving out. I'm going to miss you."

"You hardly see us now." Allan replied, "You spend more time here than at home. We thought we might see more of you if we visited you here some evenings. You know how your mother likes painting. She says there are some lovely scenes around here. Craig says she's welcome to use this place as a base.

"When Paul is regraded, you can visit us for the day more easily. We could even go out as a family."

Adam nodded happily as Allan signed the papers.

"Adam and I should head for the barn and see how the others are getting on," Paul said, "Would you care to wait in the young master's rooms?"

It took a moment for it to sink in what Paul had just said. Craig was the undisputed master of the household. The title master did not have any master/slave connotations. It simply meant head of the household. Since Adam now had his own apartment and household, Paul, he was entitled to be called master as well. Young master meant that Adam was junior to Craig. Tom might have a larger apartment but he was a grader.

Craig's mix of family, graders and strangers living with him was not unusual. Neither was it that unusual for the Master of the house to be younger than some of his dependants. Legally the master was responsible for his dependants' behaviour and could be fined or graded himself if they persistently got into trouble. The csc almost certainly became involved in running the house.

As Craig's steward, it was down to Paul to see that Craig's wishes were carried out. That would include ensuring that Adam and Ethan kept up with their school work and that would include punishing them if they slackened off even though Ethan was Craig's brother and therefore second only to him. It worked because everyone understood Craig's basic aim, keeping clear of the csc. It also worked because they realised they had better prospects with Craig than with most people.

Paul's reference to the young master made the new relationships between them all very clear.

"No thank you, Paul. We'll leave you in peace. We'll visit Sunday afternoon if that's all right with you Adam and see how you're settling in."

After making his slightly tearful farewell to his parents, Adam rushed over to the barn to tell the others. Paul ran just as excitedly after him halfway across the yard he slowed, turned and jogged back to Craig.

"How am I going to be there for you at nights, sir." he asked.

"I've got a new boy for the bedroom," Craig replied, "You don't have that job any more."

"It's my duty to look after you," Paul snapped with unusual passion.

"You're my steward," Craig replied, "It's your job to run this place and with all the new boys you're going to be busy. You've got the homework gang in the evenings and there's Adam to consider. Like I say, I've got another boy for my bedroom."

They had reached the barn by now and saw the six other boys talking excitedly. Jake, Liam and Rick all wanted to stay the night. Ethan and Rob would be sleeping in the new bunkhouse and the other three wanted to share the event.

Part of the stables had been converted into the bunkhouse. Apart from being warm and dry it had few comforts. Triple level bunks were arranged around the walls, two were lined against the far wall head to head or foot to foot, depending which way round you laid with another two against the side walls. In all twelve people could sleep there. On one side of the entrance was a shower area. The floor simply sloped to a drain and a screen fixed to the adjacent bunks stopped them being splashed. There was a room opposite with two toilets side by side and there was no lock on the door. The only concession to comfort was a powerful extractor fan drawing air outside.

The stables were a large building because they had not only been comprised of stalls but had tack rooms, feed stores and space for various horse drawn carts. Much to everyone's surprise, they had found another cellar under the stables. It seemed the stables had been the site of the original farmhouse. Some time in the distant past the new house, that Craig had bought, had been built before pulling the old one down. To Tom's immense delight the cellar had been incorporated into his apartment which comprised of bedroom, living room and a massive kitchen.

In between putting the finishing touches to his rooms he was inaugurating his kitchen by cooking Danny's meal and preparing snacks for the others.

When Danny arrived, just before curfew, he was surprised to find everyone still in the barn. He ate and impatiently sat until Tom gave him permission to join the others.

Somehow Craig had managed to stay dressed. He chatted to various parents about their boys sleepover. He'd told Mr. Brassom that Tom would be delighted to have help sorting his collection and he'd talked to Adam and Paul about the work that needed to be done to finish their new quarters. He had impressed on Adam that his status as young master was very important. Fifteen year olds having sex was a contentious subject. If there was any suggestion that Adam was being coerced then Paul and Craig could end up grade one but what Adam did to a grader was his own affair.

Now he could relax and everyone assumed he would take a swim. Very self-consciously he stripped to the gasps of amazement as his friends saw his back. It was as bruised as Danny's and being a day fresher that much more livid.

In answer to Rob's question earlier he had not done anything to Danny that night. He had been so intrigued by Danny's willingness to submit himself that he had got Danny to swap roles with him. It had taken some doing but in the end he had told Danny either to do as he was told or be punished for disobedience. Once committed, Danny got firmly into his role and if anything laid into Craig far harder than Craig had beaten him. Danny did not let him down immediately and as his body fought to deal with the pain he felt his cock harden until he felt it would explode. Danny stroked it occasionally adding to Craig's frustration. They might have been there all night but Danny wanted that beautiful cock inside him. He had stretched himself with his fingers hoping to meet the right person and he had taken the men at the mall without too much pain though it had been an unpleasant humiliation so he released Craig and bent over the bench as Paul had been the night before.

It was enough of an invitation for Craig. He was too near the edge to think about what he was doing. As Danny clamped down on Craig's first thrust so he came, spurting deep into Danny. Although the climax had been over all to quickly both boys seemed to understand each other and a bond was formed between them.

Craig had taken Danny up to his bedroom though Danny had slept on the floor.

Ethan had been partly right at the dinner table. Craig was far happier now that he knew he could take as well give. He had not said anything before because of his embarrassment at being fascinated by such things.

"I don't want to take things too far if I have to punish anyone." he said, "so I guess I'm experimenting."

Craig's revelation had one useful effect. They would all take more care to see that they didn't experience the results of those experiments.

That night Adam fell asleep contentedly and firmly impaled on Paul's cock. Although Paul had been given a room, Adam had not had many chances to share it with him. During those few intimate moments Paul had gently fingered him, stretching him and preparing him for the invasion to come. That night they had been relaxed more than ever. Even the worry of parent's and Craig's disapproval were gone and the moment had just felt right.

Paul had spent five years of his life terrified of ending up on some labour gang. Instead he was lying with the boy he loved, in his own bed, in his own quarters. He shuddered at his memories. When he had first seen Craig in the placement centre he had tried to get out of his way. He had not wanted to serve a kid younger than himself. If a guard had not noticed and tapped on his whip, Paul's life would now be very different.

Adam stirred and Paul's thoughts drifted from bad memories to the happiness of the present.

Danny was also asleep though with his hands stretched over his head, handcuffed to the headboard he was a lot less comfortable. Craig was lying against him, cock against his hip, one leg sprawled across his legs and arm across his chest. Craig had fallen asleep pinching his nipples, poking his ribs and generally exploring the other boy discovering what places got a reaction.

Immediately after his assault, Danny had got panicky if a grown man looked at him. It was one reason why he had lashed out when he had been arrested. He could not get close enough to an adult to ask for help. If Craig had realised this he would never have made him work for the builders. It could have been a bad mistake except for Craig's intervention when the man had threatened to rape him.

Danny's reaction to Craig was a complete rebound, from mistrusting everyone, he had complete trust in Craig and he dreamt happily of his slavery to his master and the cruel and strange ordeals he could face.

Craig's dreams were normally a strange mix of Lindsay and the naked girls he found on the Internet. He enjoyed having his toy/slave beside him and could get hard watching him wriggle and writhe in pain but he rarely thought about it unless there was a victim there in front of him. That night Craig dreamt of being tied up like Danny except it was the girls torturing him not Danny.

Tom was dreaming of sitting outside of his apartment with his lady friend for company enjoying a glass of wine in the evening sun before they retired to his new bedroom.

In the bunkhouse, Ethan was dreaming of sleeping in his own bedroom for the first time since they'd had to give up there parents house. In his dream Jake was beside him ready to be fucked again.

Jake was content to be sleeping with the boys. He loved his mother but she tended to be over possessive. The rules at Craig's were probably stricter than at home but less fussy. For example, he did not have to dress 'in case he got cold' but if Craig said do something Jake would dare not argue like he did with his mother.

Rick had been as badly affected by his rape as Danny. He had bottled it up more and still panicked at the thought of going to the mall. He did not like adults looking at him when he was naked any more and had trouble with the sports teachers at school. Discovering people who would listen sympathetically to him had made a difference though he still hated being touched. The others respected this, even allowing him to shower alone while they mixed in as best they could. For the first time he slept without nightmares and woke feeling better than he had done for ages.

Liam was content. He finally had friends that he liked and his mother approved of. For now he was satisfied with that.

Rob slept restlessly. At least he had been comfortable in his last home. He liked the vibrant atmosphere and had been amazed at Craig's immediate response to his problem so he felt a little guilty at disliking his new quarters.The threat of the csc hung over them all to some extent, Rob and Danny in particular, and their problems far from over.

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