Note: This story was dynamically reformatted for online reading convenience. Mf,MF,Ds,exh,D/d,role This is the second chapter of an older man who finds himself thrust in the midst of new sexual experiences. He is so alarmed to learn all the twists and turns to all the different sexual things out there, especially the proclivity of so many younger Ladies. I do recommend that if you haven't, read the first installment of View Across the Alley already posted. I hope you enjoy the story. As always, I look forward to hearing from you. Any feedback is appreciated. You can email me at blade19545@yahoo.com with comments. Again, I look forward to hearing from you. This story is in no way based on any actual events, and is completely fictional, as are the names and places, and should not be confused with any person, living or dead. This story is a fantasy; fantasy is fantasy, reality is reality, please know the difference. In no way is this story meant to condone or encourage actual behaviors. VIEW ACROSS THE ALLEY Chapter TWO by Blade C September 2015 Pulling into the almost deserted parking lot I easily spotted her. Jamie was leaning against a flower bed and staring into the stars it appeared. Then as I pulled up alongside of her she walked around the truck and got in, staring directly into the windshield in front of her. About half way back to my place she finally blurted out, "I am so sorry but I could not think of anyone else to call." Then she broke down and went to crying. I reached over the steering wheel and grabbed a couple of napkins from the burger place and handed them to her. This time I heard a muffled, "Thank You." Parking my truck in the driveway she seemed to be getting her composure back. We both got out and went into the house. Once in the kitchen I could see her black eye and a lot of scratches. Now I was really pissed. Who had taken the liberty to beat this young Lady and what provoked it? I wondered. Without looking at me she spoke again. "May I please take a shower? I really need to wash off this filth that is on my body." I gently took her hand and lead the way. Once she had walked in I turned and went and got some extra towels. Returning to the bathroom I could already hear the water running and saw her clothes lying on the floor. I picked them up and didn't know what to do with them. Her panties, if one would call them that were the thong type. Judging from her bra she must only be an A or possibly a B cup. I folded everything neatly and placed her clothing by the bathroom sink. Standing in the hallway I was now faced with the simple what do I do? dilemma. The spare bedroom was out of the question. It was now more of a storage room than anything and very cluttered. I went and got a couple of blankets and thought well I can sleep on the couch I guess. Jamie seemed to have stayed in the shower forever. Surely by now she would have run out of hot water. About the time I sat in my chair I heard the water turn off. A couple of minutes later I heard her brushing her teeth. Well I did have a spare toothbrush and the only one who ever used it was Cathy. I heard the bathroom door open and saw her come out. I got up and went towards my bedroom. Without saying a word she followed me. I pointed to the bed and told her, "There go ahead and make yourself comfortable and get some sleep." I looked at her and noticed how she only had a towel wrapped around her. I started to turn and walk out when she called out to me. "Where are you going?" "To the couch to get some sleep," I responded. "No don't do that, please don't. I want you in the same bed with me. I want the security of knowing I have some protection nearby." Before I could respond she allowed the towel to fall and pulled back the sheets on the bed. She got in and patted a spot near her as if saying lay here please. I turned and shut off the light. Getting undressed in the dark I was not sure what would be happening next. Crawling into bed I heard her again. "Hold me please." I draped an arm around her and she pulled herself tighter against me. In about a minute I could hear her softly sleeping. I had best do the same, I thought. The next morning I awoke with a raging hard on. My arms were tightly wrapped around this very young girl. Slowly I pulled away as I almost felt embarrassed as to all of it. I slipped on a pair of pants and a T shirt and quietly left the room. Unsure as what to do next I booted up the computer. Three emails were from Cathy and there were a couple of business related ones. Cathy was basically saying she had arrived and the condition of her sister and such. Then followed by how badly she had wanted us to spend the weekend together. We went from a little role play to spending the weekend together? Then now with Jamie here how that would have all gone off? I responded to her as best I could. I took care of a couple of other emails. As I was getting ready to shut the computer down I heard a bit of noise beside me. There was Jamie standing there, wearing one of my shirts with only the two bottom buttons snapped. Gawd! I thought to myself, I never pictured one of my shirts being so desirable. At a bit of a loss I finally spoke, "Ready for some breakfast?" "Actually that sounds great. Then only if you let me fix it." "You got a deal young Lady." I got up and we both went to the kitchen. I told her how I only drank tea and she said good as she liked tea as well. Jamie asked a few questions as to the skillet and utensils and such. As far as the food she went about her merry way. Watching her parade around the kitchen half naked I was finding it hard not to get hard. After she asked I told her I wanted my eggs over easy. A couple of minutes later I found myself sitting in front of a plate of eggs, hash browns, bacon, and toast. This looked so very good, I thought to myself. Jamie broke the silence in the kitchen. "May I serve myself Sir?" I really felt bad as I had not noticed that she did not have a plate of food. "Yes please, I'm sorry," I told her. She turned and fixed herself a plate and asked if she could be seated. This all struck me a bit odd and I was wondering again what kind of asshole would beat a Lady like this. Then I heard her voice again, "May I speak Sir?" I looked at her and nodded yes. She went on to tell me as to how she had worked the double shift and how she had made almost $200.00 in tips and how excited she was as she really needed the money. How the place closed at eleven but it was near midnight when everything was cleaned up and ready for the morning crew. Talking as they cleaned up one of the cooks and a dishwasher and she decided to go get a nightcap at a small bar in a nearby hotel. They had been sitting in a booth just making idle chat when her boyfriend walked in and found them. She said she was not sure if he was stoned or drunk or both but he began making a scene right away. Quickly the bouncer intervened and escorted him out. They had another drink and she decided to call it a night. Getting into her car she felt the door jerked away from her. Apparently her boyfriend had decided to wait outside until she exited the hotel lobby. Anyhow she felt a fist on the side of her face as he blindsided her. Guess that is where the shiner came in, I told myself. Well she went down and he got on top of her and began punching her and pulling her hair and calling her all kinds of names. She was screaming out and must have gotten the attention of the night security guard. He quickly subdued her boyfriend and restrained him. Before she knew it the police were there and her friends from the bar as well. Jamie told the police what had happened, and she was backed up by other witnesses as to him being thrown out of the bar and such. The policeman handcuffed him and put him in the backseat giving him a free one way ride to get booked. Then an ambulance arrived to get her. She did not want or need medical help she kept telling them. Over her protests she was put in the ambulance after she gave her keys so that the cook could take her car and it not be towed away. At the hospital they ran the usual tests. Told her where she had a couple of busted blood vessels around her eye and how the swelling might get worse along with a couple of bruised ribs. By the time she finished her story I was on my third cup of tea and our plates had been finished off. Jamie got up and began to run some hot water in the sink and stack the dishes in. From where I was sitting I was staring at her nice legs and thinking what a great girl this would be for a decent guy. How do these girls find themselves with all of these losers? I excused myself and went to the bathroom to take a piss. Flushing the toilet I went into my bedroom. The bed was made and my side pulled back. Everything seemed to have been straightened out already. I returned to the kitchen and she was leaning over and wiping the table down. My shirt opened and her titties were giving me a show of sorts. She already had the kitchen spotless and in order. This girl was not only hot but she was diligent as well. She was definitely a keeper in my books. We went to the front room and she asked if she could use her phone. She called work and told them that she could not go in because of the black eye. They already knew about the incident and assured her it was not a problem. She also got the cook's phone number and called him. He gave her the address to his place and said he would be around until about three. We talked a bit more and she shared where she needed to get a few things done and if I could run her by her place and then to get her car. We got into my truck she had all her stuff in a plastic bag and was still only wearing my shirt. She gave me directions in getting to her place. She went on to tell me how excited she was as to going back to college and so forth. Once arriving at her apartment complex she asked if I would please go in with her. Only a fool would have told her no, and then I know she was seeking some security of some sorts. Once we got to the front door I could see where it was not really shut so I suspected something may be amiss here. Jamie got a scared look on her face and I went by her and opened the door. The place had been ransacked and looked horrible. Jamie sat down and began to cry. There was a knock on the open door. It was her next door neighbor and he began to tell us how her boyfriend had been there about an hour earlier and how he was acting crazy. He looked around the room and said yes he might be crazy. I called the police and gave them the address. Two cars soon arrived. One of the officers took a statement from the neighbor while the other spoke with Jamie. He assured her that an arrest warrant would be put out on him. He also suggested that she change locks because he had a key for this one. He also told her to make a list of possible missing items and to give it to the police. He handed her a card and said if anything came up to call him. The neighbor asked if they were going to do fingerprints, and both cops agreed that it would do no good as he had basically been living there and they would be everywhere. The cops left and the neighbor returned to his apartment. Jamie and I tried to straighten everything up. She had started a list of missing jewelry and an Ipad and so forth. She was still wearing my shirt. What did the cop really think? I called the locksmith and he said it would be one o'clock at the earliest. We decided to go get her car. Arriving at the address she got down and knocked. I stayed in the truck and who I would assume is the cook gave her a set of keys. We had agreed to go back to my place so that she could leave the car there. We got down, and once in the kitchen I grabbed myself a beer. Jamie took bottled water. We talked a bit more and returned to her place. We continued tidying up everything. It was basically done when the locksmith arrived. When everything was finished and making sure the new keys worked, I paid him. He could not accept cash, a company rule, and Jamie did not have a credit card. Because we still didn't know anything in regards to her boyfriend she asked if she could spend another night at my place. She went into her bedroom and came back out with a large bag containing her clothes I assumed. On the way back to my place my mind was racing for a couple of reasons. I told Jamie that I would need to pick up a few groceries. Then the thought again returned as to the pizza girl coming over on Sunday for a BBQ cookout and some Mexican beer. Once we arrived at the grocery store Jamie assured me she would wait in the truck. I had to laugh to myself at that comment. I went and bought a lot of things for a decent salad. I got some steaks as well as ribs and chicken. I also bought me another thirty pack of beer and found a twelve pack of mixed Mexican beer which I thought was my best buy. Basically destroying another hundred dollar bill I paid the cashier who happened to be a male this time. Thank you Lord, I thought. True to her word Jamie was still waiting in my truck. We soon found ourselves back at my place. Jamie put up what she could and I did the rest. She asked to be excused and grabbed her bag and went to the bedroom. I opened another beer and went and sat in the front room. Soon I could hear the click of heels and looked in that direction. All I could see was a fantasy out of a movie. Jamie was standing there in what looked like five inch pumps. She had on thigh highs that went all the way up to her ass. There was a lace like collar around her neck and a couple of bows in her hair. "Maid Jamie, reporting for service and duty, Sir. I do hope that you approve," Jamie told me. I was a bit more than floored then my cock told me that I was very much enjoying the view. I was totally thrown off base as well as baffled here. It was kind of like a fantasy plus. Hell no way! I told myself. No way could the "Merry Maids" been as exciting as Jamie. "Please excuse me Jamie but in all honesty you look good enough to eat." Jamie went from a slight smile to almost beaming. One could see such definite pleasure in her eyes. "So I gather you approve Sir?" What was it with this Sir stuff? I asked myself. "Approve is not the word. Find yourself a seat so we can talk a bit." "Sir if you do not mind I would rather kneel by your side." I nodded yes, still confused plus, then she continued. "Sir would you like me to bring you another beer?" I could not really answer her so I simply nodded yes. She looked at me and said, "Thank You Sir," and turned and walked into the kitchen. Returning she knelt down and opened my beer removing the tab and presenting it before me. Talk about service with a smile. I still was very lost. I took a slow drink of my beer and put it on the side table. "May I ask what is up with this Sir stuff and your maid outfit and the kneeling and such?" "I am sorry Sir I did not mean to offend you." Meekly she looked down at the floor. "I am not offended! Nobody has ever done anything like this before. I guess I could find someone to do this but I would have to pay them." Jamie smiled and looked at me. "Sir the only pay that I ask for is that you allow me the pleasure of submitting to you." "What is it with this submitting BS?" I asked her. "Sir since I was a young girl I always felt I needed to submit and be of service to others. Although you are not the one I will eventually find, I do find so many positive qualities in you that are very reassuring." I shook my head and took another drink of my beer. "You still have me baffled. So you do this with your boyfriends as well?" "I have tried Sir but they just do not get the mental connection that I seek and need. To them this is like a game. To me this is the life I would love to live. My last boyfriend use to laugh at me when I tried to be of service and please him. So have a couple of others. About a year ago I thought I had found an older man who could appreciate me. It turned out he was a user and a predator. So luckily I got out of that situation before it got too ugly." "OK this last idiot boyfriend that you had. You tried the same thing with him." Jamie nodded and then continued. "Yes Sir it was nice the first day and then quickly he started taking advantage of me. Well advantage in my mind anyhow. Soon he believed that if I was his submissive and possibly would be his slave that I would do anything for him. Truth is that initially I did. Then quickly it became the more I gave the more he took and I was with no source of finding what I needed either mentally or physically. Then by now you do know the final outcome of it all." I looked at Jamie and was still so very confused. I had never heard of this before nor was I aware that such Ladies do exist. "So what do you want with me?" "Sir if allowed when I am here I wish to be your submissive and provide for you and your needs." "What needs, provide how?" "Well Sir right now I would like to ask if I could remove your boots and make you more comfortable. Also peeking into your spare bedroom... I do apologize for having done such Sir; it could use a mega cleaning. Your shelves are dusty and more. I wish to be able to provide you with some services and make you proud if you follow me Sir?" Well no one had ever offered to take my boots off before. So yes she did have my curiosity to a point. "You may remove my boots," I told her. Quickly she scooted over a bit and began taking my boots off. Once that was done she asked, "Socks on or off Sir?" Now this was getting to be too much, I told myself. "On." was my simple reply. "May I bring you your house slippers, Sir?" I nodded yes and dutifully she rose up and went into my bedroom. When she returned she knelt and looking up at me, she asked, "Sir if you do not have anything specific for me to do, may I attend to the many chores in your home?" Again I nodded yes. "Of course Sir please allow me to bring you another beer." I thought my neck might break with so much nodding yes. Jamie took the empty can and returned with another full beer. Again kneeling and presenting it to me I took my beer. Then she asked to be excused and went into the spare bedroom. I was beyond confused, but now I liked it as well. A guy could easily get use to this, I told myself. Then thinking back to what Jamie had shared if one was not careful one could take advantage of it as well. So doing the balancing of all this new stuff in my mind I knew that there is a fine line to be dealt with there. Over the next couple of hours I did some computer work and replied to another email from Cathy. Jamie did "interrupt" me a couple of times, should one wish to call them interruptions. Mostly she came to make sure that I had a fresh beer and to ask as to cleaning supplies and rags and so forth. Then she also asked for a piece of paper as well as a pen to make a list. By now I was reading another magazine when I heard Jamie enter the room. "Sir would you like me to begin preparing dinner and is there anything special you would like?" Special? Hell I had been cooking far too long on my own, "anything" would be special, I told myself. "Well what are you good at cooking?" I asked Jamie. "I have been told I make an excellent Alfredo plate." Now my mind went back to about a month ago at the Italian restaurant and how much like a can all the food tasted like. I knew I would not have all of the ingredients to fix what she wanted. Looking at "my" maid I wanted to jump her bones. Geesh, how could all of those other idiots ever have let her go? "Well get dressed and we will go to the grocery store to get what we may need. Get the paper and pen so that we may add to the list as we go." "Yes Sir, Thank You Sir." She turned and went back into my bedroom. For about a minute I stared at the wall my mind a bit blank. I leaned over to grab my boots when Jamie suddenly appeared. "Excuse me Sir I apologize." Quickly she knelt and began putting my boots on for me. I stood up and told her, "Well we had better get going." "Yes Sir, may I take some chicken breasts out to thaw while we are gone?" Well she was thinking ahead, I told myself. I nodded yes and as we went through the kitchen she took some chicken breasts out and put them on a plate to thaw. We went and got in the truck and as I backed out she began with her questions. Do we have Parmesan cheese, Italian bread, and this sauce and that and so forth. By the time we got to the grocery store her questions were basically over and her list long. Walking into the store I went for a grocery cart. "Please allow me Sir." I stood back and she took the cart and stayed on my left side and then handed me the list. I went through it and mentally tried to place everything. We went up and down the aisles, her sometimes making comments and me asking her as to a particular brand and such. We were about finished with yet another full basket. Then most of it was cleaning supplies and paper towels and so forth that I had neglected to keep on hand. I went to the liquor department and found a nice red wine that I felt we should share for supper. Paying the young clerk it was basically another hundred dollar bill. Then I knew it was needed for various reasons. I allowed a young man to take out the grocery cart. I had noticed a couple of looks as we had shopped then I felt most likely people simply thinking as to a dad and his daughter shopping on a Saturday afternoon. Which just brought up the idea of Cathy and I and the play we had missed... On the way home we continued to talk. The more we shared the more I liked this girl. She was far smarter and more mature then I would have realized. For the most part I was just seeing a cut hottie and never considering what she might have between her ears. Once home we quickly put everything in its place. It was already after five so yes my stomach was starting to growl a bit. I excused myself to take a shower. She started putting the food together. In the shower I was still trying to figure this entire thing out. I liked it but I was still confused. I turned the water off and opened the shower curtain and reaching over I grabbed a towel to dry off. Just then the door opened and Jamie came in and went to her knees. "I apologize, Sir, I did not realize the water had turned off." I could see where she had taken the "liberty" of putting on her maid's uniform again. She took the towel and starting at my feet worked her way up until I was totally dried. That done, she excused herself and went back into the kitchen. Getting dressed I went back to the kitchen as well. She turned and opened the door to the fridge and had a beer before me before I could finish sitting down. "Thank you," I told her and smiled. I could smell the Alfredo sauce in the pot as well as the chicken and more. I knew this would be a real meal and I could hardly wait. Jamie took me the wine bottle opener along with the bottle of wine. As I was uncorking the bottle of wine I could see her filling a plate with some great Italian food. She put the plate of food in front of me and I quickly noticed where she already had out two wine glasses. I took one and filled it half way. Putting the bottle down I took a slow sip. I smacked my lips and nodded my head yes. Jamie smiled and seemed pleased. Then remembering the "ritual" from this morning I told Jamie, "You may serve yourself." "Thank You, Sir," she replied as she picked up a plate. I picked up my fork and took a taste of some of the best Alfredo I had eaten in a very long time. Glancing at Jamie I saw her holding her plate and standing behind her chair. "You may sit." Scooting the chair back she replied, "Thank You, Sir," as she sat herself down. "Excellent food young Lady, you may eat as well." "Thank you Sir, I am glad that you found my cooking pleasing." With light chit chat we ate and I soon found myself stuffed plus the wine bottle empty. Then I knew that I had probably consumed three fourths of it as well. Asking permission Jamie cleaned the table off and began washing the dishes. I excused myself and went to boot my computer up. As it was loading up I remembered the girl across the alley and thought of her a bit. Then seeing my emails, there was yet another one from Cathy. Basically more of the same and how much she had missed me and how much she was looking forward to next weekend. I am in deep trouble, I told myself. Then what was a normal man suppose to do? I replied to her email and shut the computer down. About that time Jamie appeared before me. "Sir may I check my phone for messages?" That seemed like a reasonable reply so what else other than a simple, "yes"? She told me Thank You and went to find her phone. Returning she said where she had an urgent message from a call at work and if she could call them back. I told her sure and she excused herself to go into the kitchen, for a bit of privacy I assumed. In no time she was back and was kneeling beside me. "May I speak Sir?" I nodded yes and she went on. "The prep guy quit and one of the dishwashers called in sick for tomorrow so they want me to fill in. It will all be in the kitchen so no need to worry about my black eye." I mentally shook my head as I had basically forgotten as to her black eye. No wonder we may have been getting so many looks at the grocery store, I thought. "Then it sounds like I might need to pull a double as well. Then I do need the extra money Sir." With a bit of selfish joy in myself I thought Thank You Lord as now my dilemma with the pizza girl may be solved. Was she asking me permission to call them back or was she simply stating a fact? "I can understand you needing to go back to work along with the extra money. No reason to be asking me." "May I call my boss back Sir?" Again why would she feel a need to ask me something so basic? "Of course you may take care of your business," I told her. She dialed the number back and spoke with someone and said she would be in at ten in the morning. Once off the phone she asked if she may be allowed to charge her phone and as well to be able to take a shower thus allowing herself to being more presentable to Sir. Naturally I agreed and she excused herself. I sat back as I had a lot to think about, a lot more than I cared to admit. I heard the shower go on and a few minutes later the water being turned off. I had noticed that she had brought some personal supplies so when she began brushing her teeth I had no reason to think it was the community toothbrush. I heard the bathroom door open and her going into the bedroom. A couple of minutes later she presented herself totally nude. Kneeling she addressed me. "Sir, your bed is prepared for when you are ready to go to sleep." It was now after eight I figured but I was lazy because I had stuffed myself so much and was fatigued from all I had on my mind. "That sounds like a good idea. I do believe I need to hit the sheets about now." Jamie stood and moved to the side of me. I slowly walked to my bedroom. I went to unbuckle my pants and Jamie was on her knees "taking" over. Once my pants were undone and pulled down I sat at the edge of the bed. As she removed the rest of my clothing I took off my shirt. I rolled over and crawled into bed. Looking at the other side of my bed I could see Jamie standing there hands behind her back. "You may join me," I told her. "Thank you Sir" and she pulled the covers back and slid in next to me. How soft and wonderful she felt next to me. Then I knew that I could not make this sexual, well at least not right now anyhow. I pulled her tighter and she nudged more against my swelling cock. Again the next morning I was up before Jamie. Going to the computer I looked online and answered yet another email from Cathy. About this time Jamie appeared and apologized for having slept so long and then Thanking me for allowing her to sleep in. She went into the kitchen and began fixing us breakfast. I could smell the hot tea and she soon brought me a cup and said breakfast would be ready in a couple of minutes. With that I got up and went into the kitchen. Again we went through what I would now call the rituals and we both ate breakfast and discussed a few things. Basically it all boiled down to how grateful she was that she was allowed to be my submissive and serve me. That most likely she would be going home from work after midnight and that she would have a trying day on Monday. After she had everything cleaned up and things in order she got dressed and grabbed her bags. Then she did ask if she could leave her maid uniform in case there was a next time. Well why not? I thought to myself and agreed, telling her in what drawer to put everything. I walked her to the door and she turned and gave me a light but not passionate kiss on my lips and bid me goodbye. I stood at the door until I could no longer see her car. Going back to the kitchen I took some food out of the freezer. Looking at the clock I told myself that the pizza girl would be here in a few hours. Looking around the kitchen everything was clean and neat. Wandering back into my bedroom the bed was made and the covers pulled back like I liked. Peeking into the bathroom all the towels were hung and the mirror sparkling. I went to the front room and booted my computer up. Sitting there waiting for it to come to life my mind went back to Jamie. A guy could easily get spoiled having her around. You know think about it basically a free maid for life and a piece of ass to boot... who wouldn't want that? Then I had to rethink that. Jamie was not just a piece of ass and they didn't get it. Then really neither did I. Then I would look more into this submissive stuff. Checking my emails there were two from Cathy plus a small assortment of others. My spam box was bulging at close to two hundred then I had not emptied that in a couple of days either. Reading Cathy's emails a lot of the same and how next weekend would be so special. Then she closed off by saying that she planned on leaving her sister's in the early evening so she would be arriving back home rather late. I responded as best I could and told her to be careful in her drive. Pressing the Google button I typed into the blank box SUBMISSIVE. In about the amount of time it took to press enter close to a million options came up. I opted to start with the definition of submissive. My cup of tea long gone I decided to get myself a beer. It must be noon somewhere, I told myself. Then looking at the clock I could see where it was almost noon here. I had been reading and exploring this submissive stuff for well over an hour and had learned a lot yet I was still very confused. Grabbing a beer I went out the backdoor and straightened things out a bit. Soon I would be having another female visitor and yes this one was quite young as well. I could not believe the direction that my life was taking. I was not sure if I should be enjoying it or if I should be scared as hell. I went back inside and took a nice cool shower. I changed into some clean clothes and shaved and thought I would patiently await my next "guest". By now it was a bit after one. I pulled on the chain and went up the stairs. What if? I asked myself. I will have to admit as to being a bit disappointed and the girl across the alley not putting on a private show for me. Then it was Sunday and I was in great hopes of her displaying herself tomorrow. Then my thought went to the vibrator and more. I went back downstairs and started looking at some more of the young girl magazines I had bought. In a lot of the pictures they had girls using dildos and vibrators of various sizes. I thumbed through page after page and my cock was now growing and starting to swell. Just what does the pizza girl want or expect? I asked myself. I heard the doorbell ring and knew the "answer" had arrived. Quickly I put the magazines back where they belonged. I tried to straighten my stiff cock and went to get the door. Opening the door I saw a big broad smile and wanted to melt. "Well good afternoon sunshine!" was about all I could muster up. She had on the shortest of denim skirts and a pair of what appeared to be four inch pumps. Her white top was a spaghetti type that went to about her navel area. Did I mention that she forgot to wear a bra as well? Her breasts were bigger than those of Jamie and her nipples quite perky as well. I stepped aside and motioned her in. She just grinned more and walked past me. I went to the kitchen and opened the fridge and pulled out the twelve pack of Mexican beer. "Any brand preference?" I asked. "No, not really, I will let you decide. I asked for Mexican beer and it looks like I got a variety of flavors as well." I did not know one Mexican beer from another. I grabbed a bottle of Modelo, uncapped it and handed it to the pizza girl. She took a drink and kind of looked around the kitchen. I grabbed myself a "boring" domestic beer and suggested we go out back and sit a while. We had a good bit of shade and the sun was not beating down on us. I grabbed two chairs and she took one and sat down opposite me and almost forgot to close her legs. This was going to be a long afternoon, I thought. Finishing our third beer I fired up the grill and went in to bring out the food. The pizza girl was more than happy to help although I thought she might be becoming a bit tipsy as well. I went to get us another beer and heard her call me out. "Hey I want to have fun, but I want to remember it as well. Do you have any bottled water?" I nodded yes and went inside. From the steamed vegetables to the chicken breasts everything came out very much to our likings. As we ate I asked a couple questions of her and she answered and then began to "volunteer" some information. Basically much of what she was sharing was aligned with what Jamie had shared as well. Going from one boyfriend to another and how they all had basically found a way to use her one way or another. Then when I was on my sixth or seventh beer, hey who's counting, the pizza girl was still on water. Then she went to sharing and shocked me in a way to really make sure I stayed sober. "So anyhow some guy at the bar sent me a drink and my boyfriend went all ballistic. Hey I had no clue who this guy was that had bought me a drink. So he starts calling me names and more and we went to arguing in front of the whole bar. Then he just got up and left and there I was stranded and basically with no money. I did not know what to do other then try and relax and figure out a plan to getting myself home. So there I am staring at my glass and I still had not figured out a way to get home. Well yes I could walk I had told myself but five or six miles at this time of night? About that time the waitress, who already knew I was broke walked up to the table again. I said 'no' and she said 'Yes I know not a problem. You see the man over there with the tan jacket on?' "I looked at the bar counter and saw him. Not at all sure what was going on, I nodded yes. 'Well he wants to know if he can buy you a drink and sit down with you.' Again I looked at the man, from my view I could not get a really good look at him but I also thought yuck! He seemed to be like my dad's age why would I want to drink with an old fart like that? Then I told myself how I was basically marooned at the bar right now. Without much thought I shrugged my shoulders at the waitress and nodded yes at the same time. A few minutes later he walked up to my table with two drinks in hand and placed one in front of me. Very smoothly he asked, 'May I join you?' "Again here I am telling myself this is so gross this guy has to be in his fifties. Then he started with some small talk and gently the night went on. I was probably on my forth drink when he hit me with the question. 'I would like for you to spend the evening with me at my motel room.' So I told myself what the fuck do I look like some cheap hooker to you? Then I replayed the question back in my mind. He had more told me than asked me yet it wasn't forceful. Before I could reply or maybe laugh or possibly puke he spoke again. "'I will give you one hundred dollars if you go to my room with me.' "I thought this is like adding insult to injury. I think if I would have had a full glass I would have thrown it in his face. Then he just sat there so calm and so self assured, when suddenly I felt a slight tingle almost like an urge. My mind quickly replayed the events of the night. I thought had I gone home with my boyfriend he would have gotten a quick fuck, rolled over, and went to sleep, then in the morning bummed another twenty off me for gas or something. Without thinking twice I nodded yes avoiding eye contact with him. He stood up and put a twenty on the table. I got up and we walked out of the bar into the brightly lit parking lot. "Hey I think I'm ready for another beer, maybe with a chaser if you have one?" Well my beer was long gone and night was quickly approaching. "Sure, you have a few left then it is getting late, let's go inside and have that drink." We both got up and gathered a couple of things and went inside. I asked the pizza girl to sit at the couch. I went to the kitchen and found an old half filled bottle of whiskey, and poured a glass about a quarter full. Opening the fridge I grabbed myself a beer and blindly got one for her as well. This time it was a Dos Equis. I went into the front room and sat her drinks down along with a coaster. I took a seat opposite her and my lust was growing in so many ways. Then she continued with her story. "Well he had some kind of really neat foreign car, I don't remember the name or brand. We drove to a really nice hotel where he had a neat suite rented. I had never slept in a room that nice and now here I was with a complete stranger. We were both kind of just standing in the middle of the room looking at each other. I had no clue as to what I was supposed to do. He started unbuckling his pants and pulling his shirt tails out. I undid my jeans and squirmed out of them. He must have known how nervous I was so he turned off the lights. In the dark we finished undressing and I made my way to the bed where he was already waiting. "He had a really nice soft caress. There was no rushing in him like all the younger guys. His touch was gentle and soft. I really felt comfortable with him which I kept trying to tell myself that I shouldn't. Anyhow he went down on me and slowly started to eat my, well you know what. He took his time and slowly got me into a nice spot until he gave me an orgasm. Gawd I was so content that I wanted to go to sleep! Then I thought that is what my boyfriend would do and hey I was supposed to be getting a hundred dollars for this whatever. "I pulled the sheets back and felt for his cock. He was not hard nor was he soft. Slowly starting at his neck I began kissing him and worked my way down between his legs. By the time I got there he was fully erect. He wasn't big nor was he small either. Not that I've had that many. Anyhow as I was working his cock I could feel his hand gently caressing my back and running smoothly through my hair. I don't think he lasted five minutes when I could feel him cumming in my mouth. Hey I am not like some girls! Yes I do swallow. So once I had him cleaned off I crawled back up and into his embrace. Nothing was said as we both drifted off to sleep. "Waking the next morning I heard the shower running and saw where it was almost seven. Darn I told myself I have to be at work by nine. I was up on my elbows when he came out of the bathroom half dressed. "'You don't have a car here,' he told me. Reaching into his wallet he pulled some money out. He walked to the phone and called the front desk and told them to call for a cab. Then he turned and looked at me and handed me the money saying the twenty ought to cover the cab. Then it was $170.00 so I was getting paid 150.00 for a simple blow job? As I was getting dressed we talked some more and he kind of explained his situation and how he was in town once every two or three months and how he would like to meet up again. So I went ahead and gave him my number. For whatever reason, I did not feel cheap at all. Hey I felt a lot cheaper giving it away to all the other ungrateful guys. "Tell you what one more beer and I am taking you to bed." Well I wasn't sure if I really needed another beer. Then looking at her I could have taken her right there on the couch. She finished off her whiskey as I was standing. I got our empties and went back for refills. Just as promised once her beer was done she stood and reached out for me and then led me to my bedroom. The light never went on even though I did want to see her naked. I undressed myself and she did the same. When I got to bed she was already waiting for me. This was much unlike Jamie and her undressing me and asking for permission and such. Then this one was a bit more aggressive and it really felt great. It didn't take her long and she was between my legs and sucking away. This girl had a definite way with her tongue and more. Trust me I have had my fair share of blow jobs and this was in the top three list of all times. Much like the older man she had described, I quickly found myself cumming and yes in her mouth. In all these years I had never cum in a Lady's mouth and damn did it feel good. She came up, we cuddled and went to sleep. Waking up I could see where she was already gone. I was a bit confused but knew that I had had one great afternoon and evening. Getting up I took my morning piss and wandered into the kitchen. On the table I saw where she had left me a note. 'Sorry but I have to go in early to work. Thanks for a great afternoon and then dessert in bed. I hope we can get together again.' This was followed by her phone number as well as email address. Then it was simply signed, 'Pam'. I shook my head as my stomach growled. I shouldn't really be all that hungry, I thought as I filled up the tea kettle. Placing it on the stove and turning on the burner I took some eggs and bacon out of the fridge and opted to fry a potato as well. I kept myself busy cooking and my mind was busy with all this confusion. Where had all the Ladies come from suddenly out of the blue? I was asking myself. After a decent breakfast I went into the front room and booted up the computer. As it was booting I went back to retrieve the note on the kitchen table. Seated in the front room I checked my emails. At least the junk porn emails seemed to be slowing down. I had three from Cathy. They basically boiled down to 'I will be leaving and heading home in a bit to my home at last.' Did I mention she also hinted as to the coming weekend? I responded and said 'happy you are home safe and yes looking forward to the weekend as well.' Then there was a short one from Jamie that really tested my conscious if that is the right term? 'Hey just got home. Work was a long one but like I said I needed the money. Anyhow I imagine that you are fast asleep by now. Wish I would have been able to be there and prepare your bed properly. Anyhow I am beyond tired, hope you had sweet dreams. Jamie.' I really did not know how to answer that one so I thought, well I will pass for now. I went through the rest of my emails and before shutting down I sent one to Pam basically saying testing one two, that way I would know if it went to the right email address. I shut the computer down and wandered back into my bedroom. It looked "normal" then it didn't either. Two different nights, two different girls, and both of them far too young for me. Looking at the unmade bed I knew that Jamie would never leave it looking like that. Then there was nothing against Pam as she left early. Then I thought on the few occasions where Cathy spent the night she never made the bed. Why was I comparing these people? I wondered. I stripped down and went and took myself a cool morning shower. After getting dressed and such I went to the backyard and finished picking up from the BBQ with Pam. Moving the two chairs I could picture her sitting in a not so lady like way. Then I thought back on the blow job and the expertise that she seemed to have and I knew I wanted to get between her legs the next time. Then would there be a next time? I asked myself. Back in the house it seemed like time was just creeping on; it was barely a little past ten. Which that thought also reminded me of the girl across the alley. Would I be having another private show at one today? Did I really need another female in my life? At least even though quite young I knew that both Jamie and Pam were legal where the girl across the alley could very well be jailbait. Sitting back down I rebooted my computer. Another email from Cathy: she was at work and dead tired. Well I expected as much. Still nothing from Pam. Then I sent Jamie a short response of sorts. 'You have really put my mind to work on all this submissive stuff. I will readily admit that yes I am very confused as to it all. You have opened up my eyes to a world that I never knew existed. In time and through you, I hope to learn a lot more as to what you seek and who you are.' I signed it off and sent it. Then I thought what a fool I am! Did I really need to share that with her? I shut the computer down, took off my boots, and sat down and tried to read. Everything basically that I tried to read seemed to trigger off someone as of late. Even in the National Geographic magazine the Ladies from the lost tribe in the Amazon's made me compare breasts and nipples. Just how much further into the gutter could my mind drift? Looking at the clock it was finally noon. There was some chicken breast left over so I thought I would heat that up so a quick lunch and yes have a beer to "relax" me. Although I didn't taste it I ate my food and drank my beer. I still had another forty minutes before the "show", assuming there would be one. I went to the bedroom and pulled out the magazines and again began thumbing through them to kill a bit of time. At five minutes of one I put the magazines back, grabbed myself a couple of beers, and pulled the chain down. Just like clockwork out of the house she came. Nothing at all seemed to have changed so I felt a bit of relief there and yes more excitement as well. The same routine as she put her tote bag down by the lawn chair as well as her mug. I watched as she reached in to pull out another magazine, only she didn't. She turned around with a white envelope in her hand and with her other hand she was looking all around as if seeking someone or something out. Then she put on a bit of a grin and went to waving to an imaginary someone and starting walking to her left. There was a plastic tortoise looking yard ornament of sorts that one would either put small tools on or roll up a water hose. She bent down and picked it up and placed it back on the ground with the tortoise facing the alley. She opened up the door to the tortoise and put the envelope inside. Closing the door she smiled and waved again. I watched her as she walked back to her lawn chair. She basically began her routine only this time with her dildo/vibrator in hand. She probably didn't thumb through the magazine for two or three minutes. She had put the magazine away and pulled her bikini bottom to the side and quickly began working the dildo in and out of her slit. The binoculars were fantastic but I still wanted to see more. Then like she had read my mind I watched as she pulled the bottoms off as well as her top. There she was lying stark naked. Well maybe not stark naked as she was wearing a big ol' smile. Now she went to running the vibrator from one nipple to the other. She did not seem to have much in the tit department but it appeared that her nipples were erect. Of course a lot of this could merely be my imagination, I told myself. With her other hand she was massaging around her clit. My cock was now throbbing in my pants so I decided to release it. As my cock popped out and my hand started to stroke it she ran the vibrator down past her belly and into her tight slit of a cunt. We were both in unison as she worked the vibrator in and out of her cunt lips and I stroked my very rigid cock. Then suddenly without warning she pulled the vibrator from her cunt and put it to her lips and she began sucking on it and licking it like a little bitch in heat. Fuck! I told myself as I released my cock. I was so VERY close to exploding. Then I knew I needed to wait to see the rest of the "show". My mind slowing down and the thinking process returning to semi normal I thought as to how well and hard I had cum last night for the first time in a young Lady's mouth. Then here I am just a few hours later like a high school teenager wanking off at some dirty magazine. She easily slid the dildo back into her awaiting cunt and this time was working it in and out with a fury. That was all the invitation that I needed as I went to jacking off again. She began to lift her ass and point it to the sky as she fucked herself. What a precious little gem this girl is! I told myself. She was fucking the sky like there was someone really there or was she fucking the sky so her "audience" could see and approve? Slowly I could see her hips starting to do a bit of bucking. I knew that the girl was very close to reaching her orgasm. Then I was right in tune with her and knew mine was very near as well. I couldn't hold off any longer and apparently neither could she as once again we reached our climax at the same time. I was totally spent as I tried to catch my breath. I reached back and grabbed a beer. Heck! I told myself, I had not even opened the first one but I knew it would soon be gone and into my belly. Wiping the sweat off my brow I took two big swallows from the can. The girl slowly dropped her hips back into the chair and pulled the vibrator out of her young but not so virgin cunt. Again, as if in an effort to please and show appreciation she put the vibrator to her mouth and licked and sucked it clean. Once that was done she got up and gathered her bikini top and bottom and stuffed them into her tote bag. Picking up everything and walking naked to the door I continued to spy on her. Opening the back door she turned and waved again. As she walked in and shut the door behind her I said to myself, "just when you think it can't get any better it does." I put my binoculars up and finished off the beer. Grabbing the other one I went downstairs and headed for the shower. I was a bit drenched in sweat and decided I needed to cool off as well. Sticking my head under the stream of water my mind was going in twenty different directions at the same time. Where is all this insanity coming from? I kept asking myself. Then did I want this joyride to ever end? Once I was dried off I didn't even bother to get dressed. I replaced the warm can of beer for a cold fresh one and popped it open. I eased my way back to the front room and sat at the computer, a bit of a daze that I was in but that I needed to shake out of as well. Once the computer was up I looked at my emails and saw where I had three from my "fan club". Opening up Cathy's I read where she was really hoping to make it through the day as she was dead beat tired. I sent her some simple encouragement and went to the next one. This one was from Jamie and how she was on her way to the police department as they may have found some of her stolen things and she needed to identify them. Good for you, I told myself. Then she ended up by saying how excited she was that I was looking into submission and such and how she wanted to share more with me there. I emailed her back and said glad to hear about maybe recovering your things and yes I am eager to share more as to you being a submissive and such. Again I sent the reply and again I had that twang in my stomach asking if this was OK? Opening the third one it was from Pam. Her reply was yes your "test" did come through and glad that it did as well. She went on to Thank me for a great day and into the evening in so many areas. That hopefully I would let her return as she wished to talk more and would not mind some more dessert in bed. Now how does one refuse that invitation? I replied, 'yes would like to visit more with you as well. As far as breakfast in bed I would enjoy tasting some too.' I sent her the reply and knew that for sure my ass was fried in so many areas. I shut the computer down and decided to take my long walk to get the mail. Well the exercise is not hurting, I tried to convince myself. I had a lot on my mind and figured this was a good way to sort things out. Again going by the one house I was so very tempted to stop and knock on the door and tell the young girl, "I am your perverted neighbor and guess what?" I shook my head as I knew that would never happen but yes the temptation was definitely there. Luckily when I got to the mailbox no one was standing around. Being a Monday there was the usual assortment of junk mail and little else. Walking home the one Lady was trimming her rose bushes and waved hello and went to talk with me. I still didn't know her name or anything else about her. She made small talk about her passion for roses and such. I nodded and agreed, me knowing virtually nothing other than they are beautiful. As I excused myself she commented on how one afternoon I might stop by for some iced tea or lemonade. I told her that sounded good and walked back towards my house. Throwing the junk mail into the trash I asked myself, just how many more females do you "really" think you can handle? It was almost five and the idea had been gnawing on my mind the last couple of hours. Finally I decided why not and made the phone call. As I suspected I got the answering machine and left Kaylee a message. It was maybe a five minute wait and she called me back. After a simple hello from me she spoke. "I had actually been expecting you to call me, how is it going?" I am thinking to myself you had "expected" me to call you? And then I verbally asked her the same. "Yes," she said with a slight laugh. "When you were in the shop you looked so very confused but intrigued as well. Then I thought I had caught your interest when we talked and I showed you the different toys and such. So how can I be of service?" OK now this is getting deeper, how can I be of service? "Well you are right I am now lost, very lost, much more than when we first met. I would like to see if maybe we could get together and talk and I ask questions and you answer them?" "Sounds good, then I have to work tonight. How about we meet up for breakfast in the morning?" So we made plans and decided on meeting at IHOP's not to far from my house. Hanging up the phone I "really" was realizing just how confused I was and how I was again digging myself deeper into self destruction. Booting up the computer I checked my emails and opened the one from Jamie. She said that she didn't go into work until eight and if she could stop by for a short visit around six. I emailed her back and said 'see you then.' Cathy's email was basically I am exhausted and headed to bed. I responded sweet dreams and opened up another beer. Promptly at six Jamie was knocking at the door. I let her in and she knelt in front of me. "May I make myself presentable Sir?" I really had no clue what she was referring to by "presentable". I looked down at her and said, "Yes you may." She stood up and said "Thank You Sir," followed by an, "Excuse me Sir," as she left the room. I grabbed my beer and went into the other room and sat at the couch. I was taking a sip of my beer when she walked in completely naked. Oh how I was starting to lust for her body. She knelt before me and asked, "How may I be of service to you Sir?" I wanted to tell her that you can start by servicing this, but knew better than to go there. "Well maybe we need to slow down a bit and you do some explaining." "Yes Sir, I agree Sir, shall I start Sir?" I nodded yes and she began to talk and briefly explain as to how badly she needed to be of service and of use as well this evening. It sounded like she was stressed out on several levels and I could understand that. She really needed money to buy books to go back to school. Yes the things the police confiscated were hers but she would have to wait a while before she would get them back. It appeared that her ex boyfriend was trying to pawn them in town when the police got tipped off. He got arrested. The police got a search warrant and went by his place. Seems he had a lot of stolen property as well as drugs and drug paraphernalia. So now he has to go before the judge in the morning to be arraigned and see what his bond setting would be. Worse was the fact that he had called her from the jail house asking that she bail him out? She never answered the calls or replied but now was scared that when he did get out he would go after her. She then finished off by telling me how being of service and of use was a real stress reliever for her and how grateful she was that I understood. When in truth I did not. It was a bit after seven now and she asked to be excused. As she prepared to leave she gave me a warm hug and a kiss on my lips that was probably a bit longer than it needed to be. After she left I grabbed myself another beer and walked to my bedroom. Spotless and organized and the sheets pulled back. What a great girl she was everything neat and in order my sheets even pulled back. How many idiots had no clue as to what they were screwing up? I asked myself. Well it was almost dark outside and yes I was itching. Just what all might be in that envelope that the girl across the alley had put into the tortoise box? I slowly sipped my beer and was trying to do some deep thinking. At eight thirty I thought it was worth taking the risk. Quickly I found myself with my pocket knife jimmying the wooden gate open. What a poor thief I would make but my adrenaline was running. The lights were still on in the house making this all the better or worse if I got caught. Arriving at the tortoise box I opened it and pulled out the envelope and slowly crept away. Back in the house I could not wait to open the envelope and I felt my cock pulsing as well. I liked that idea but was wondering how many times can it get excited in a 24 hour span? I sat down and pulled the sheet of paper out. Unfolding it I began to read. "Hello whoever you are, THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!! I so love the dildo. My mom has one a bit bigger that I used to "borrow". Think she got suspicious as I can't find it anymore. So anyhow I am so very appreciative as to the gift as I will call it. Then it sounds like I might have a Peeping Tom or two which actually excites me as I love exposing myself as well as being a bit nasty or slutty. Sorry that is just the way that I am. BTW should you want to leave me something, this is my plan. You saw where I used the hose hider to put the envelope in I assume? Anyhow if you want to send me something put it in there. Then turn it around so that his head is facing the house. If I have something to send you I will put it facing the alley. Once one of us picks up the whatever put the tortoise sideways. If my mom ever caught me she would kill me, I hope you understand that part. Again Thank You, this is so much fun! Carly" I am thinking, OK so she was receptive in a positive way and even gave me her name even if it is a fake one. I took out a sheet of paper and started to write. "Carly, So glad that you are enjoying your gift. I am beyond pleased in watching you pleasure yourself with it. I was not sure as to what size of a dildo to buy you but it looks like it is going to good use. Would you like a bigger one, and if so how much bigger? I see the magazines that you are reading so I am going to send one to you as well. I hope that you enjoy it. I am looking forward to many more shows and yes THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU as well." I folded the sheet of paper and put it in the envelope. I went to my bedroom and looked at how neat and clean and organized it was and brought out all the teen porn magazines I had bought and took out the oldest one and thought I would start there. I took it and the "letter" and found myself sneaking back into their yard. The lights were out in what I would assume was the front room or kitchen so yes a bit darker. I opened the door of the tortoise's back and placed the magazine inside along with the "letter". Then remembering I turned the tortoise around so it was facing the house and crept back to my place. Once inside I went to the kitchen and grabbed myself a beer. It was already after ten and way past my bedtime. I took the beer with me and stripped and went to bed. Taking one last sip, I laid down to a perfectly made bed and was quickly sound asleep. Waking up the next morning I stared at the ceiling and tried to organize a couple of things in my head. The most obvious was that I was going to meet Kaylee at nine. I got up and heated up some water for tea. I took a shower and shaved and basically bumbled around until it was time to leave. I dared not turn my computer on as I was already in enough hot water. Driving up to the IHOP's I got out and went in and sat in the waiting area. Kaylee was about two minutes behind me and we went to be seated. We asked for a booth in the far corner and we were seated. We both ordered hot tea, she was surprised that I did not drink coffee but said she was glad that I didn't. After the waiter took our order I just kind of looked at her not sure where to start. Geesh, I thought to myself, here I needed to ask her so many serious questions and she is in ultra short shorts and definitely not wearing a bra from the looks of her nipples. "Well I am here to listen and offer advice if I can, so go ahead and start." I did not know where to start. At the beginning I thought. So I told her all about the girl across the alley even the "show" from yesterday. Then I went on and explained as to Cathy and these fantasies and such. She told me that she has done role play and the why and the if's about it. She assured me that I would love the experience. I went on and tried to explain Jamie and what had happened in her visits and as to her sharing what she did last night. Kaylee told me that she was neither a submissive nor a slave but she understood what Jamie was trying to express. Then to really shock me she said as to how she had a friend who was a slave and suggested I might try talking to her. Laughing I told Kaylee this is 2015 and there are not any slaves anymore, well at least not in this country. She smiled back and said you would be surprised and you will understand once you meet her, that she is a slave of her own desire and was not forced into slavery. This was all getting way too deep for me. Next I told her about Pam and what all that had gone on. She laughed and said well she sounds more like me. I could get her plenty of safe work if she wants it. I had a good feeling as to what Kaylee was referring to and told her I would mention it. Then a bit as to Shelli who worked the bar and for good measure the neighbor Lady who wanted to maybe meet for a glass of iced tea. When I was finished sharing all with Kaylee she grinned and shook her head. "Well buddy you definitely have a full plate and I think it is now overflowing. A lot you need to think about and a lot to consider. Then my thought is go slowly and savor all of these good times. With a bit of luck it will all work out." It was getting close to eleven and we had been there almost two hours. We got up and I left a ten dollar tip as I had used their booth way too long in my opinion. Paying the bill we both went out and I walked her to her car. She got in and said she really enjoyed the chat and more. Then that she would see about setting up a meeting of sorts with her slave friend. As she started up her car I bid her goodbye. Turning around I was walking to my truck. Then I heard a light beep of a horn. Turning back I saw her window going down. "Hey do you mind if I sit in and watch the girl across the alley with you?" I was basically floored with the question but what could one say? I told her sure, and then gave her my address. She said that she would be by a little before one. Walking back to my truck I remembered how she had said my plate was overflowing plus. Now what is my plate doing? I thought. I hope you enjoyed the story. As always, I look forward to hearing from you. Any feedback is appreciated. You can email me at blade19545@yahoo.com. I look forward to hearing from you.