Bara Produktions

The Houseboys

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 3; er 3;"

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 3; 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 3; er 3; 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.

NEXT PART