Chapter 1
I grew up in a very conservative family. My father was the boss in the family business, which was created by his father, which was my grandfather. My mother took care of the house and the children, whatever else she wanted to do the approval had to be given by my parent. A wife was to be her husband's adornment and calling card; I, my sisters and brothers were brought up with this motto.
- Cecily? Father is calling you. * I was pulled out of the activity by the voice of one of the brothers, Arthur.
- I am on my way. * I nod as I put my knitting aside. I run it over the fabric of my blue dress a few times to smooth it out and present myself impeccably in front of my father.
My father was a traditionalist. Together with our mother they took care of our impeccable dress. Especially the girls. Our dresses, because that was all we could wear, usually reached our ankles or mid-calf. Anything shorter was inappropriate. Tights were also compulsory. My family believed that ladies from good homes should always have them.
- Father. * I nod in respect as I enter my father's study. He sits in his swivel leather-covered chair, looking as perfect as ever in his suit trousers and white shirt, ironed by my mother.
- Cecily. * He said in a cordial tone, indicating a chair for me to sit down. * Mother praises you immensely, you have become a great help to her. I am extremely pleased about that.
- Thank you, Father. Praise always makes me happy.
- Therefore... * Father puts the stack of papers aside. * I thought you were mature enough to think about your homestead.
- My household? * I repeated in surprise. I felt my face turn white.
- This is what awaits every woman. I thought my mother and I had instilled this in you all. * The man walks around the desk and sits on its edge almost beside me so that he can brush his fingertips against my cheeks. * You are our great pride. You will be the same for your husband. Lucky him.
- So... who will it be? * I ask timidly.
- You will find out in time. You will like it. Of that I am certain. * Father blinks one eyelid at me. * First the engagement and a few... procedures involved.
- Procedures?
- Your mother will prepare you. You have nothing to fear. Well... That is all. You may return to your duties, my child.
- Thank you, father. * I bow my head before I leave my father's office.
***
My preparations for the nuptials began almost immediately... although I did not know to whom I would be married. I also still didn't know anything about the procedures I was to go through and my father had mentioned them.
- The doctor will be with you shortly, lie still, my lady. * The maid instructed me.
In fact, there was nothing wrong with me, but it was necessary for the engagement to be announced. That is what your mother and one of brothers said.
So I was fulfilling a commitment. I lay in my huge bed, dressed in something like a nightdress, but much shorter than a standard one, for here the linen material ended above my knee.
I didn't wait too long as the door to my room soon opened. I saw a man with blond hair and at first sight two heads taller than me.
He placed his brown leather bag on the table that was next to the bed.
- Lady Cecily? I'm doctor Mason. I am here to confirm your readiness for the sacrament of marriage. I understand that this is your first examination of this kind, but I assure you that you have nothing to fear. * The young doctor sent me a weak smile. * At first, I ask you to lie down and spread your legs
- What?! * I could not believe what I had just heard. Red was on my cheeks almost immediately.
- Lady Cecily. It would be far better for yourself to do it voluntarily. Neither of us wants it to be unpleasant, do we?
I obediently lay down flat and spread my thighs. I seek solace in looking at the ceiling of my bedroom. It was decorated with hierubines that were supposed to watch over the cleanliness and good conduct of the girls.
- Wider. Lady Cecily, I will have to say a word to your father and husband-to-be. Nowe of them will be pleased.
- Excuse me... I never... * I'm at a loss for words, but I spread my legs as he asks me. This contributes to the material of the petticoat falling over my stomach and the man can see my femininity.
- It's very nice... * I feel the touch of a stranger's single fingers on me. In a place so carefully hidden. The blond man takes a seat on the stool between my legs. * I can see the hymen. It is not too thin That's good. Your spouse will be pleased with this gift. Are you sinning?
- Am I sinning? * I ask almost in a whisper.
- Have you ever touched yourself in a sinful way? In places... that you shouldn't have? Don't lie. I'm a representative of the church. God listens and can punish.
- No, no, never! I swear. * I plead terrified, but almost immediately I let out a shrill scream. I feel something inside me.
- Relax, it's a good sign... Your husband will have something to work on. * I see as the doctor slides one of his fingers out of the copper. * With God's Grace, you will not be a less fruitful woman than your mother. Undress.
I untied the 3 bows on the front of the shirt without protest. I didn't want my future spouse to think I was a troublemaker. I am far from it. I rose to a sitting position when asked to do so.