The girls, Vonda, Mary, and Angela, reached the boutique, got out of the car, and went inside. Vonda had several things she wanted to buy especially for Mary. She wanted Mary to have a new look. They searched up and down the aisles for things. She explained what she wanted in a succinct manner, "Mary you were hired as a maid, but owing to some changed circumstances I think we need to reevaluate your role. I'm sure Angela will agree we can't have you running around in the uniform of a domestic when your duties will have changed so significantly. For instance there will be times when you'll need to take Angela out, perhaps to go shopping or maybe to visit a doctor. We can't have you out and about in black dresses all the time. Angela now being more your ward than mistress you'll need to dress the part."
Mary answered, "I'm comfortable in the things I have."
Vonda responded, "I'm not. I want you to look smart and sharp all the time, not like some drudge. You represent the family. In fact, you're a part of the family now."
"Yes ma'am."
"Stop the yes ma'am. The only yes ma'am I want to hear had better come from her." She pointed to Angela; taking her right hand she lightly tickled the back of Angela's neck, "That right dear?"
Angela looked down and away, "Yes ma'am."
Vonda stood a little taller, "That's how I want it. Now let's buy Mary some new things." Collectively Vonda arranged the purchase of a dozen dresses, a dozen more skirt and blouse outfits, and numerous other items of apparel. When they were finished and had everything in bags she instructed Angela to make several trips from the store to the car until all the packages were safely locked away in the trunk. "OK girls let's go the deli and get something to eat."
They went to the same delicatessen where Angela had played the exhibitionist not so long before. They even sat at the same table, only on this occasion it was Vonda running the show, "Angela you sit over there by the window. Cross your legs nicely so everyone passing by can see your pretty panties." Angela, mortified, did as she was told. "There that's a good girl. Now keep your hands folded on the table."
When the waitress came Mary ordered a BLT on toast and some French fries. Vonda got a bowl of crab soup and a salad. Vonda ordered for Angela as well, "Angela darling I see they have a menu for children. Would you like a hot dog or would you prefer some chicken nuggets?"
Angela stiffened, "I want a BLT and fries like Mary."
"Don't be silly," Vonda replied. "You'll eat from the children's menu until I think you're mature enough to handle grown up food."
"OK. I'll, take the nuggets."
"You'll take the nuggets what?"
Angela knew what Vonda wanted and this time was determined not to give in to her, "I'll take the nuggets with an order of fries and some honey mustard."
Vonda knew what was up. Angela was betting nothing would happen out in public, "Darling. You're either going to answer me politely or I'm going to have to spank you right here in front of everyone." She smiled sweetly, "Now what will it be?"
"Spank me. I dare you."
Before the words were even completely out of Angela's mouth Vonda left her seat, grabbed Angela by the arm and threw her over her knee, "All right. We'll do it the hard way."
Angela was genuinely flummoxed, "You can't do this! I'm a grown woman! You're crazy!"
By then Vonda had already let go with her first slap across her left cheek.
"Ouch!" shouted Angela.
Vonda leveled a second, a third, and then a fourth slap across the woman's perfect cheeks.
Angela yelped and yelped again, "OK! OK! I'm sorry."
"You're what?"
"I'm sorry ma'am. May I please have some nuggets, fries, and honey mustard?"
By then a small crowd had gathered to see what the commotion was about. Most everyone knew Vonda, and by then, thanks to Angela's own misconduct earlier and thanks to the McCardle's wagging tongues, everyone knew there was something wrong with the new girl living with Brandon and Vonda.
Angela was stricken as she heard the hushed comments, "My Vonda has her hands full. I never would have believed it. How can Brandon put up with it?"
Vonda turned Angela back over and helped her back in her seat, "You hear everyone don't you?"
Angela nodded.
"They all think you're emotionally disturbed," Vonda rubbed it in. In a low threatening tone of voice, "There isn't a single person in this town who would raise a single finger to help you. Brandon and I own this town. The people living here all in one way or another are dependent on our good will. You knew that when you came here," She leaned even closer, "You're mine you little idiot. You'll do what I say, when I say it, or I'll ship you off to an asylum."
Angela tried to defend herself, "Brandon."
Vonda stopped her cold, "Brandon does what I say. He already thinks you're off your rocker," She smiled evilly, "you'll do everything you're told, understand?"
Angela looked at Mary for help.
Vonda took her hand and turned Angela's face back, "Mary works for me. She'll be good to you as long as I allow it. If Mary offers any opposition I'll have her fired and turn you over to Dorothy and Marge. They're drooling at the chance to take you over."
Mary reached across with her hand. She wanted to show Angela she cared, partly because she really did, partly because she wanted to keep her job, but mainly because she liked the idea of having her very own living doll, "Angela please hold it together. I'll never hurt you, and in time things will get back to normal. You'll see."
Vonda volunteered, "You better listen to Mary. She's got your best interests at heart."