“Good boy, that’s better. You learn quickly. Isabelle is very lucky.” A smile plays on her lips as she exits her car.
I walk into the school reception, signing in and being escorted to Rebecca's office, the receptionist looking sheepish when she explains I have to be escorted whilst
Yes, Miss
on premises. Vic trails behind me, holding her coffee and talking into her phone, as we enter Rebecca's office. Vic walks past me and holds her hand out; Rebecca takes it, shaking it firmly, welcoming us both.
“Good morning. I’m Victoria Stapleton, and I am James’ representative for this morning. If you could furnish me with the agenda for the meeting, it would be much appreciated”. She holds her hand out to the gentleman across the desk. He passes a sheath of papers to Victoria, and she takes her seat. I sit as instructed.
As they go around the table making introductions, I look down at my lap and fidget with the end of my tie, wishing I were anywhere else. I know I haven’t done anything wrong. But I also know, deep down, I’d say anything to protect Isabelle.
“As a formal introduction to the meeting, I’d like to introduce myself. My name is Steven Hunter, and I am the safeguarding officer assigned to this case. I work for the County Council, and I’m here to discuss an allegation that has been made against you. James, do you understand the nature of the allegation?”
My breath catches, ready to speak, but Vic’s hand lands on my arm, silencing me.
"My client understands. He would also like to refute all allegations."
"Thank you, Victoria—" Mr. Hunter starts.
Alexandra Ravensbrook
"It’s Ms. Stapleton. And you will address me as such henceforth, if you don’t mind." She sits back, leaving no room for argument.
Mr. Hunter asks me to give a history of my involvement with Isabelle. I tell them the truth. I taught her, had no contact after she left, and we only got together when she came back to work here. Despite it being the truth, the fact we are here talking about it still makes it seem sordid and dirty.
"And what is the nature of your relationship now? As you can appreciate, with relationships between teachers and students, or recent students, we are concerned about abuse of power dynamics here."
Vic doesn’t even let me answer. "There is no abuse of power within their relationship."
I keep reminding myself that this man doesn't know me, and anyone who did would know I couldn't do that to her, but then I think of Daniel and how they think I’m like him, and I feel nauseous.
Mr. Hunter clears his throat. "Mr. Wentworth, we’ve also had allegations of a sexual nature. The complainant is concerned that your interests may influence this and put students at risk."
Yes, Miss
My heart stops momentarily. She actually went there, the bitch. She’s told them about my kinks. Shame washes over me as I feel my skin get hot, and I shuffle in my seat.
"My client," Vic cuts in, her voice sharp as steel, "does not engage in any illegal sexual activity. He does not engage in sexual activity with underage participants, and certainly no students. Outside of those parameters, Mr. Wentworth’s proclivities are nobody’s business. I trust this concludes the interview?"
With that, she rises, extending her hand.
"James. Get up. We’re leaving. Mr. Hunter, I believe we’ve covered the information you required."
Mr. Hunter stands, hesitates, then takes her hand. "Ms. Stapleton, I think we have what we need." He dips his head, breaking his eye contact with Vic.
Isabelle’s interview is this afternoon. The thought twists my stomach. She’ll be facing similar questions, won’t she? But she’s the supposed victim here. Surely they’ll be gentler with her?
As I’m escorted off-site, the receptionist gives me a small hug. She smiles at me, giving my arm a brisk rub. “We’ll see you again soon. Don't fret. We don't believe it.” She turns and walks back inside.
Alexandra Ravensbrook
Her words leave me feeling empty. They may not, but it's the Council that has to believe me. They hold my future in their hands.
“James, places to be!” Vic shouts from across the car park as she leans against her BMW, tapping her wrist. I stroll to her, laughing to myself, thinking it would take a special kind of sub to enjoy her domination. Thankfully, Isabelle is a softer Domme and not always barking orders.
Yes, Miss
Chapter 40
