Kate could not believe what just happened. In losing the hand she did not just lose $60 million, but she also lost her freedom. Dean Richards pushed the contract and a fountain pen in her direction. It was a fairly straightforward agreement. Kate agreed to sign her freedom away to this man for one calendar year, and in return he would control her life and mold her into a slave. A special clause in the contract stated that when the year was over she was to be given a choice before returning to her old life.
Kate wondered about that choice. What would it entail? Would Dean use this as a way of gaining a foothold in US markets? Dean had other papers for Kate to sign. Kate signed over Power of Attorney giving Dean, and anyone acting on his behalf, access to her accounts. Dean also was given temporary ownership over her company. A letter that he drafted and Kate signed stated that she was taking a sabbatical.
One of Dean's body guards handed him a box that contained a leather collar. It was black leather with silver grommets for the buckle which was also silver. The collar also came with a lock and key that Dean held in his right hand. He gave orders to his female assistant in Greek and she went over and gathered up Kate's hair while Dean placed the collar around her neck. She felt it cinch against her throat, but not choke her. Dean locked the lock in place then placed the key upon a chain and drew it over his bald head.
He turned his gaze upon Kate and finally removed the large framed sunglasses that he wore throughout the poker game. Dean's eyes were green and had a golden ring around the dark irises. He licked his full lips and began explaining to her exactly what was expected.
"You have given up all of your rights to me. I am to be referred to as Sir, Master or Afendi, which is Master in Greek. Since you are new you have no rights whatsoever. You will not be allowed to speak, look at me, or anything without my permission. All of these must be earned. I will provide a list of chores for you to do. Since you are nothing you will likely get the most odious tasks."
As he spoke she was alternately lulled by his voice, and repulsed by his words. Who did this foreigner think he was?
"You no longer have a name; I will refer to you as koukla or slave. Now, koukla, since you do not have the right to wear clothing or the earrings you are wearing. The first order I will give is for you to remove all of your clothing and give them to my assistant."
Kate's eyes grew wide. She had enough of this. The game was going way too far and she had to say something.
"Now look here! I think you're pushing this way too..."
