The Tale Of The Torch Singer's Wife free porn video

THE TALE OF THE TORCH SINGER'S WIFE by enduringshades PROLOGUE Linda James was driving home in her husband's, Leo, SUV. She was distressed. She had been invited to the BRITs the night before, but her name was not on the guest list. Her husband's agency was supposed to have made the arrangements, but all they had done was book her a hotel room, just for her, and she had had to pay and she really couldn't afford it. She had thought the hotel room had been booked for her and Leo. She was half listening to the radio when she heard 'And now for some entertainment news. At last night's BRIT Awards, Sharon Diamond, who won best newcomer award, was escorted by Anton Black, the actor starring in the current series of Superman movies. When it was announced she had won, she turned to Anton, hugged him tightly and they kissed passionately before she went to collect her reward. Insiders at the afterparty told us that the celebrity couple left the party early arm- in-arm. This reporter says, wow, did the country's most celebrated trans woman and a leading icon of the gay world spend a night of passion together? Or did they just share a taxi?' Linda cried out, turned the wheel and drove the SUV off the road and down a slope. The car was stopped by a tree, air cushions exploded and Linda's world went dark. COMING ROUND I opened my eyes, but I couldn't see anything. I was bewildered and felt groggy, but gradually my mind cleared. I realised I was lying in a bed and could hear a beeping sound and distant noises. I groaned. I tried raising my arm, but it wouldn't move. I could feel someone holding my hand. A woman's voice called out, "Nurse, she's awake!" I heard a door open and then footsteps. I could feel someone checking me out. The nurse? Was I in hospital? "Hello Mrs James, or would you prefer Linda?" a second woman asked. "My name is Tracy, I am a nurse and you are in hospital. By some miracle you have survived a terrible road accident. Can you say something for me, but please do not strain yourself." I whispered, "Hello nurse, please call me Linda." Someone else entered the room. Tracy said, "Doctor, Linda's awake and her vital signs are getting stronger, but still weak." "Hello Linda, I'm Dr Green," said a man, "you have been unconscious since the day before yesterday. You have a head injury and a broken leg. I'm sorry you cannot move and we don't want to remove the bandages covering your eyes just yet, but you will recover. Please rest, but it is fine if you want to talk. The nurse and I will leave you now." I heard them go. The woman then asked, "What happened Linda? The police accident investigators said you drove deliberately off the road and in their view they believe you attempted suicide. It was the car's safety systems that saved you." I replied, "I don't remember" and I started crying. The woman squeezed my hand and said, "there, there, rest for awhile." I fell asleep. I woke up having had a disturbing dream about Leo. I called out, "Are you there?" I felt someone take my hand and then the woman said, "Yes, I'm here, is there anything you need?" "I have been dreaming and I need to tell you a story. I have a feeling it relates to my attempt to end it all, the memory of which is coming back to me, and telling someone may help." I recounted my tale while the woman listened in silence, which suited me as I didn't want to make small talk or answer any questions. MY STORY My dear husband Leo had an amazing voice, he often sang along to songs on the radio. His incredible ability was his vocal range, he could sing with both male and female voices. One day a leaflet came through the door announcing a series of events to raise money for repairs to the village hall, one of them was called 'Little Hampdean's Got Talent'. I suggested to Leo that he should enter into the community spirit and take part. He reluctantly agreed, but later threw himself in with a spurt of enthusiasm. He sang a duet, singing both the male and female parts. The audience loved it and so did the judges and he won. Lower Hampdean did have talent. A month later we were shopping in our local town centre and I saw a poster outside a club announcing a talent night and inviting people to take part. But this time there were cash prizes, the winner would get ?1000. I told Leo, we could do with that money. I worked in our village shop and between ourselves we only just made ends meet. Leo agreed and I went inside to fill out an entry form for him. His entry was accepted and a week later Leo was on the stage repeating his talent show performance. We jumped up and down when it was announced he had won. The club manager invited us to join him for a drink and presentation of the cheque. He told us that the talent night was something they organised every now and again to discover potential entertainers for their clubs. The privately owned company, Jack of Clubs Enterprises or JCE, was an agency that represented and supported artists. They also owned a chain of clubs, mainly cabaret, and a successful drag review. He wanted to take on Leo and train him as a cabaret singer. He offered a starting wage more than what Leo was currently earning as a self- employed delivery driver and that was just for training. Leo accepted with my encouragement, it would mean that we would be more financially secure. The manager was pleased and then told us he had a surprise. He wanted to sponsor Leo for an upcoming TV talent show, he was confident in Leo's future success and said his TV appearances would help draw customers into the clubs when Leo was on the bill. Leo wound up his business referring his customers to another driver, but he kept the SUV. The following week he reported to the venue they used for training and rehearsals. Leo was put through the paces to evaluate his singing and dancing abilities, dancing seemed to be a hidden talent of Leo's, and his stage craft. They were disappointed that he could not play a musical instrument, but they were pleased with his potential to be a cabaret singer. But there was a condition. They said that his duet act was very good, but too gimmicky and their regular customers would soon tire of it. What they wanted Leo to do was to become a female entertainer. They wouldn't hide the fact he was a man, that was what would make the act special and stand out. Leo wasn't happy about their proposal, we talked about it and decided not to break the contract just yet and we could do with the money. On hearing Leo had agreed, they applied to the TV Show, which was due to go on the air in about six months time. Leo was to report to the JCE's drag venue where the expert staff there would put together Leo's stage presentation as a female. JCE ran an intensive month-long drag residential course which Leo was going to join. The course finishes with a revue. it was to be the next time I was going to see him. I wasn't sure I wanted to be the proud spouse of a graduating drag queen. But what I didn't know then was it would be the last time I would see Leo as Leo, as my man. I arrived at the club in time to take my seat at a reserved table. The manager asked one of their young artists to sit with me. She told me her stage name was Tinkerbelle. She wasn't in stage costume and make up, but was in mufti as she called it. She wore a simple silver sleeveless mini dress and she was gorgeous. She told me that her boyfriend was also on the course and would be taking part in the revue. We talked about Leo, amongst other things. Leo had got on well with the other girls, I wasn't sure about ''other' girls, and he was a natural performer. He had not taken part in the drag queen specific parts of the course and instead had had solo sessions focussing on natural female behaviour and mannerisms. The revue started and we watched a series of performances involving dance routines each featuring one of the students, usually miming to a song. There was some standup, although the audience enjoyed the jokes I didn't find them particularly funny. Tinkerbelle thought it was because I wasn't familiar with the culture. Every now and again she would point out one of the dancers and said it was Leo, but I couldn't recognise him; and I thought I would recognise him anywhere. The show was nearly over when the over-the-top compere made an announcement. Tinkerbelle told me she was the course supervisor. The compere said that tonight we were in for a special treat to end the show. She announced that one of JCE's discoveries was going to perform her solo stage debut. She asked us to give a special welcome to Sharon Diamond. A troupe of dancers ran onto the stage formed up and held up their arms as a tall woman wearing a long flowing red gown glided on to the stage in time to the music. She and the dancers broke into a routine. The male dancers took it in turns to dance with her, some took her into their arms, some lifted her up, and she flirted with them. She moved around the stage as if she owned it and with the dancers as if they were her lovers. And then I got the surprise of my life. She started to sing with a relaxed but passionate contralto voice 'Cry Me a River." It was our song. It was Leo. After Leo's performance, all the course performers came on stage and gathered around him. While waiting a man in a suit came to our table and whispered into Tinkerbelle's ear, she nodded acknowledgement and then glanced at me with a brief show of pity. I was expecting Leo to go home with me or at least to see him after the show. But Tinkerbell said it was not possible. Apparently, they do not allow anyone behind the stage, even on a night like tonight, to protect the safety of the performers. Occasionally a star performer would come out and mingle with the customers, but not tonight. Tinkerbelle told me I would see Leo soon. I drove home alone, I really missed him and was looking forward to making love after his month-long absence from our bed. But now I was worried about what I saw. I didn't hear anything from Leo, I didn't know how to contact him and my messages for him I left with JCE were never replied to. Then about a month after the drag revue, I received an email from JCE informing me that their new sensation, the trans singer Sharon Diamond, would be appearing at the cabaret club in town and my name had been added to the guest list. I arrived at the club with a mixture of excitement and dread. When I gave them my name, it was ticked off a list and a young man was waved over. His name was David and he was to look after me that night. I recognised him as the man in the suit who spoke to Tinkerbelle. He took me to a table towards the back and sat down with me. He told me that they were very excited about Sharon and had great plans for her depending on how well she did on the TV talent show. Tonight was a low key event in preparation for the TV show and JCE had invited a number of special guests for a preview. I think he knew I was 'Sharon's' wife, but he didn't show it. Needless to say I was kept on a tight lead and I didn't get to see Leo before the show. Leo, or rather Sharon, was a sensation. His show was in two parts with a costume change during the interval. He sang and danced to a variety of songs. There was a chemistry between him and the dancers, who he introduced as her Diamond Boys. His costume for the first part was in the style of a showgirl. I couldn't believe his long legs and lissome figure, in fact I did wonder if it was Leo, I couldn't see his face from where I was sitting but there was no mistaking the richness of his sultry feminine singing voice, he had obviously had voice training as his singing was now full of power. For the second half he changed into a sparkling little black dress with heels that I couldn't possibly wear. His blond hair was now cascading down his back. He did come off the low stage and mingled amongst the VIP tables at the front. Several men received a kiss or caress from him and he sat across the lap of one very excited gentleman. He returned to the stage and received thunderous applause and an encore was called for. He sang a torch song, another favourite of ours, which was particularly moving. He ignored the VIPs in the front and sang to the back of the club with a searching gaze. I went home alone again, it was two months now. I really was missing him. For the next three months I heard nothing of Leo or indeed Sharon. I was lonely and missed him. I went to work at the village shop and returned home to an empty house. Leo's money from JCE was paid into our account regularly, but there were no withdrawals by him, I assume JCE must be paying his expenses. At least with both our incomes, and that I wasn't spending any money socialising, I had no financial worries. The trailers for 'The British Talent Show' started to appear on TV. I wondered if that was the show Leo was supposed to be appearing in. I had heard nothing from JCE, so I watched the show just in case. It wasn't until the third week when Leo was featured. Seeing him being interviewed and watching the short video profiling Sharon left me dumbfounded. They introduced him as a trans woman, as JCE had already described him. In the video he was wearing a white dress with a tiered skirt and a matching bardot top, looking very much like the girl next door. His blond hair fell down his back in gentle curls and the tight bodice showed off his trim waist and ample breasts. He had a more womanly figure than when I last saw him. What really shocked me was he was walking hand-in-hand with a handsome fit man through a park gazing at each other. The video cut to them sitting on a bench with Leo snuggled up to him with his hand resting on the man's lap. The voiceover talked about Sharon's journey from a little boy dreaming to be a girl, her troubled teenage years and the final fulfilment of her desires by transitioning to a woman. She had now found love and happiness. There was no mention of being married. Sharon's voice then finished the video with a message that she was going to try her best to win in recognition to all those who supported her in preparing for the contest. And then the camera cut to the man who said that Sharon wanted to dedicate her first song to her Gran, who was now in a nursing home. Gran had stood by her throughout her difficult times encouraging her to come out to family and friends. Both Leo's grandmothers had died some years ago. Leo sang one of songs from his cabaret show, he danced but without the Diamond Boys. He wore his sparkling little black dress and those towering heels. The audience applause was appreciative but not rousing. The judges praised him but thought he needed more confidence, but he was going through to the semifinal, just. The online voting was a little more supportive than the judges. After the show I was proud of what Leo had achieved but upset about the whole situation. I missed him and I was lonely and now I wondered about his sexuality and whether our marriage was on shaky ground or even if it just existed in name only; it had been nearly six months now. I started to speculate that perhaps JCE enterprises were managing a public relationship campaign that bore no resemblance to the truth and if so how acquiescent had been Leo. I had no one to talk to and I couldn't bear revealing Sharon Diamond was my husband Leo to anyone. During the lead up to the semi-final, I realised there was a lot of interest on social media which leaked over into the mainstream entertainment and the tabloid press. Many people were questioning Sharon's earlier life. No one had been able to verify the information put out by JCE or whether Sharon was truly trans and not a real woman. They also could not track down her boyfriend featured in the video or Sharon's Gran. There were a number of fake reports, I don't know about the boyfriend, but do know about Leo's family and background. JCE clearly knew their market. More and more people were accepting trans celebrities, especially the BTS fans, but apparently celebrity crossdressers were not in vogue. The recent popularity of drag queens on TV with their over-exaggerating feminine looks, style and body language was a different thing altogether. So Sharon became trans and not a female impersonator or drag artist. The semi-finals arrived, the first one featured Leo so I had to watch. He sang another one of his cabaret songs and wore the showgirl's costume this time and gave an accomplished dance routine. The audience applauded enthusiastically and the judges were more generous with their praise. He was through to the final. The online voting made Sharon the favourite, the media activity had no doubt had an influence and I wondered if JCE had been planting stories and comments. The final was a week later. Sharon Diamond was all over the tabloid press and they were supporting her. The final was on live TV. When it came to his turn, the compere asked what song he was going to perform, he answered 'Cry me a River'. The compere asked why that song and he replied it was for a very special person who he had lost contact with and missed very much, the audience exploded with applause. What they didn't know was that it was our song, we danced to the Julie London version at our wedding reception, our first dance as a married couple. He sat on a high stool, wearing a fifties style dress, strapless with a sweetheart bodice and a full mid length skirt over layers of petticoats. He wore long gloves, a diamond necklace and mules with stiletto heels and had a shoulder-length fifties hairstyle. He was Julie London. There were no dancers, no backing music, he sang a cappella under a spotlight. He won. I cried a river throughout his performance. What I didn't understand was why they kept switching to a camera view of an older couple and a younger man as if they were his parents and partner. I recalled JCE had intended that Leo's appearance on the talent show would launch his career singing in their clubs. But with the triumph of the win, the agency appeared to have set their sights higher. It wasn't long before a studio recording of 'Cry Me a River', with music, was released. It was a huge success, and had regular plays on the radio and streaming services. The video showed Sharon, dressed in his TV show costume performing the song, intercut with romantic scenes with him dressed in a primrose fifties summer dress enjoying the company of a debonair man. Later an album of torch songs was recorded and released. Leo was at his best, singing with a depth of passion that was exceptional. The album was a great success and highly praised by the critics and on the strength of the album alone Sharon Diamond was short-listed as best newcomer for the BRITs. Sharon never did live shows or interviews, but there were an endless succession of music videos and recorded interviews and she was all over social media, especially her entanglements with men, both romantic and more raunchy. With the frisson of excitement of once being a boy. It was about a week before the BRITs when I received an invite to attend the awards ceremony, my name was on the guest list and JCE had booked a hotel. I decided I couldn't face going, then I changed my mind. If I went I might be able to make contact with Leo and surely the hotel booking was for the both of us. I was extremely embarrassed when I was refused entry. I was originally down as one JCE's guests, but apparently somebody, when reviewing the list, had struck me off. I retreated back to the hotel to watch the show on TV. There was another video celebrating Sharon's journey to the nomination. It focused on her burgeoning celebrity status, her party going, her dating and her increasingly revealing wardrobe, I was astonished with his figure. He was not the Leo I knew, I found it difficult to watch. The gown he wore was provided by an up-and-coming London designer. It was long and flowing, like a Greek goddess. A slit in the skirt revealed his legs and the minimal material covering his very real breasts defied gravity. I cried myself to sleep, I had lost Leo to his new life, she was now Sharon Diamond. He was now a woman. The following morning I heard a distressing report on the radio about my husband sleeping with a celebrity gay actor. That was too much so I decided to end it all, but I failed and ended up here. The woman who had sat with me and listened to my tale was still holding my hand. "Thank you for listening to me without interrupting or judging me. It was very kind of you. I am pleased I have told somebody my tale. I now feel unburdened and can move on. I can't see you but I'm sure you are a kind woman and I am sorry to have taken up your time and burdened you with my woes. I'm going to close my eyes now and let go. Goodbye." MY HUSBAND'S STORY "No! Please don't go, it's me Leo and I don't want to lose you again," he said in his normal voice before bursting into tears. I thought I was hearing things, I was hallucinating. Was Leo the hospital volunteer I had let my heart out to? He doesn't usually cry, but it was him. "Leo, it is you! I can't believe it." I could feel his hand squeezing mine. "I wish I could see you." "I don't know if you would want to, I do look like a woman. But please don't be distressed because underneath I'm still a man where it counts, despite what you have been seeing and hearing." Leo was now sobbing with joy. "The nurse told me that they are planning to remove the bandages from your eyes tomorrow morning." "I now realise I have been thoughtless and stupid," cried Leo. "I got carried away with the attention and praise I was getting. I believed what they told me about you but I wasn't in a position to question them, even though it didn't seem like you. I convinced myself I was doing it for us, but I was putting money and fame before our happiness." "Now, I'll tell you my story," said Leo, "we both did not know the full truth and there is much misunderstanding." "Let me begin with the day I left for the residential course at the drag venue, the time I last saw you. I was told there wasn't time to go back home during my stay, but you had been invited to the end-of-course review. It was knowing you would be there that inspired me in choosing to sing 'Cry Me a River'. I tried to spot you in the audience and I think I saw you at the back sitting with Tinkerbell. After the show I started to come and find you and I was stopped and told not to bother. They held me back saying they did not want to create a scene in the club. Apparently you were disgusted with my performance and you had called me a detestable pervert and you never wanted to see me again. That wasn't like you, but I looked at myself and realised I had crossed a line, partly through wanting to do my best and partly spurred on and pressured by JCE. During the days and weeks after, I desperately wanted to talk to you but I was told that you were not responding to my messages. I was devastated and it took some time for me, with much cajoling, to return to some semblance of normality. I decided the best thing I could do was to focus on winning BTS, it was the easiest path." Leo paused. "It is now clear to me JCE were deliberately keeping us apart after just one week," I said, "we were innocent fools and fell for it." "But I was not expecting to enjoy what they wanted me to do," continued Leo, "I was thrilled that I had talent in singing and dancing. I had never been good at doing anything before and entertaining people was immensely satisfying. I relished the applause and the praise, but later I regretted that, with the absence of wise counsel, I let it go to my head. Being dressed and presenting as a woman on stage was a pleasure, I enjoyed the glamour and the grace." "But the enjoyment made me blind to my lack of freedom. I had accepted having no private life and I gradually realised that I was virtually a captive. But it didn't bother me, I had my singing." Leo then went silent and I slipped in a question that I had been wanting to ask. "Leo, I have to ask you. How do you look now so I can picture you. I couldn't help noticing that you look like a real woman on TV with not much left for the imagination. But I don't mind, I just want you back," I said. "I'm afraid I do look like a woman," answered Leo sympathetically. "I did not have a choice, it is nearly two years now since JCE took control. I knew of what I believed to be reversible changes that enhanced my stage appearance, even to having implants, but I had not realised that they had been administering hormones and by that time I had accepted my new career, and the secret feminisation of my body only helped. I had no other life, so I had no pressing reason not to accept it for the time being. My changing emotions helped me empathise with women and improved the quality of my singing." "But to be honest, I came to enjoy, and was proud of, being a woman. JCE encouraged me to dress more and behave as a woman, not just on stage. They said it was more for convenience and to protect my identity, but I now realise that it was to add credence to their trans woman narrative." Leo continued. "I have come here straight from my quarters, I never call it home, home is with you, and I am just dressed in a T-shirt and jeans." said Leo. "But that is what you always wear, or used to wear. What no glamorous designer dress?" I laughed. "I only dress as a woman when I am performing or need to be Sharon, otherwise I'm Leo. Except I am, actually, still dressed as a woman. With my figure I need to wear women's jeans, men's don't fit me anymore or are uncomfortable. Underneath I wear a T-shirt bra, I need the support. Unfortunately, you can see the outline of my bra under the white T- shirt, which rather draws attention to my breasts. I rushed out without stopping to change into a darker one. And I am wearing knickers, because they are more comfortable with these jeans. And I am wearing heels. I never go out as Leo, so I don't have any sensible shoes, these are the shoes I wear for rehearsals. I am not wearing makeup, I don't need to. I no longer have a beard, my skin is softer and my brows are shaped and I had some minor procedures, so my face is quite femine. So even in my off duty mode as Leo, I still look like a woman. Nobody gave me a second look as I walked through the hospital, well I did get some admiring glances, but thankfully I was not recognised as Sharon. So what do I look like? I look like my twin sister, if I had one that is." said Leo. "I thought you would be dressed as Sharon, because Sharon was you. But I think I like the way you described yourself, and I am flattered you are copying my usual casual style, more Primark than Chanel!" I said. "Well I would like to think I could do better than Primark! The Sharon Diamond wardrobe is all owned by JCE and what I'm wearing, including my underwear, belongs to them. I don't own a stitch, even my male clothes I was wearing when I turned up at the drag club have long gone, they wouldn't fit me anymore anyway." "I have kept all your things. What about your hair?" I asked, it always looked so long, too long to be your own." "You are right, in public I have always worn extensions or hair pieces and sometimes a full wig. But in private I wear my own. It has grown to shoulder length now and I have a simple cut. It has been dyed blond to match the Sharon look. Today is the first time I have been in public, albeit I'm incognito, with just my own hair, and I am wearing it in a ponytail as suggested by my stylist." "You have a stylist!" I remarked. "I have a whole dedicated full time team provided by JCE. A stylist, a beautician, a dresser and a dressmaker, and they have assistants. I also have a personal assistant, who is with me all the time, she is outside, and a minder. This is the first time I have been allowed to be with someone on my own without JCE staff present." Leo explained. "Even when you are on a date?" My heart skipped a beat in anticipation of hearing Leo's answer. "Or having sex?" "Yes, I mean no," said a confused Leo, "that is I have not been on a date or had sex, you are the only one I wish to be with, even though I thought you had left me. I wanted to wait until, at least, I knew our marriage had broken down irretrievably. I'm here because I love you and not out of a sense of duty." "But what about all those media reports?" I asked. "I have never been allowed access to the media, so I'm not sure what you have read or believe," he replied, "and JCE does not allow media access to me. The exception was on BTS when I was interviewed by the judges and the compere." "What about pictures of you out on dates and with lovers?" I asked incredulously. "I was often asked to pose for marketing photos and images to promote my songs, which usually portrayed romantic themes, perhaps that is what you have seen," replied Leo. Not being able to see Leo, I was focussed on what he was saying. With unease it began to dawn on me that Leo's life as Sharon was not as we both believed. "Leo, I am going to describe to you the Sharon that I believed you were, from my early contacts with your agent, but more my perception of the public face of Sharon Diamond as portrayed in the media." "Sharon Diamond is a trans woman, a trans woman who loves men, both straight and gay. A desirable easy woman who oozes rauncy sex appeal and is making up for lost time. She is always being seen on the arm of the latest celebrity heart-throb. She had the reputation of dropping her knickers at every opportunity and jumping in and out of bed, and never her own. And the public lapped it up and she became more and more popular, and because she was a great singer they bought more and more of her records, downloaded more and more of her songs and bought more and more of her merchandise." As I spoke I began to realise the enormity of it all. "That was not my life. Where did I go wrong? How did I miss out?" Leo said with a giggle. "I would hit you, if I could see you," I laughed. "Seriously, was that really how the public saw me?" Leo said with dismay. "That was how JCE wanted them to see you, they obviously controlled your public image to maximise their revenue! Do you know why I tried to kill myself?" I asked. "No, but I didn't want to ask you about it until I thought you were ready," he replied. "It was because I thought you had humiliated me by inviting me to the BRITs and then rejecting me. And then sleeping with Anton Black that night and then hearing about it on the radio." I said with tears in my eyes. "No, no, no, that's not true!" he said with alarm. "They took me straight back to my quarters after the ceremony, I didn't even attend any parties. I did ask my PA if you could be my guest, as it was a big night for me being shortlisted for an award, but I didn't cancel your invite. I had also asked them to book a hotel room for us, I had hoped you may have changed your mind about what I was told you thought of me." "After that first week with JCE, after I last saw you, my life has been one of work. I worked hard with my singing and dancing and at presenting myself as a convincing female entertainer. When I wasn't working or performing, I was in my quarters usually resting. I never spent time with anyone but JCE staff. They said, as I was a man pretending to be a woman and a celebrity, I would be hounded by the tabloid press and the media and be a target for enraged homophobes and rapists. I needed to be shielded to protect my privacy and safety. They even said that you would also be unsafe if my true identity was discovered." "If it wasn't so impractical and indeed painful, I would want a very close hug with you right now," I interjected. "A hug with my true husband, who is not the person who I had thought he had come." He gave my hand an extra squeeze. "However, I am not so innocent and I do have a confession. I have come to love being Sharon. Not just the stardom, being loved by my fans and the centre of attraction, but also the dressing up, the wearing of fabulous clothes, showing off my figure, tottering around on heels and all the trappings of presenting as a woman. I even think like a woman now. For two years I have been totally immersed and coerced, driven even, into becoming Sharon. But I am still Leo, I am still a man, I'm still your husband and I want to still be your partner if you can accept me as I am now. If not I will go back to being the Leo I used to be, if that is what you want." "I want you, whatever flavour. And I see some distinct advantages to you being a successful singer rather than a courier!" I laughed and then said quietly. "Leo, I'm so sorry, but I am very tired now and I need to rest." TOGETHER AGAIN? I woke up after a night's sleep feeling much better, I now wanted to live. I still couldn't see because of the bandages, or move my limbs, but I turned my head to listen to the sounds of the hospital. Then I heard Leo's voice, "Good morning love, did you sleep well. Do you need anything? Do you need a nurse?" "Leo, you are here!" I called out with joy. "I never left," he said, "I spoke to my PA and said I wanted to stay with you. I pointed out I couldn't go anywhere, I have no cards, no money. She saw my anguish, so she agreed and left for the night." "Oh Leo," I sighed, "Where did you sleep?" "In the chair, beside the bed. The one intended for you when you are out of bed, so it wasn't too uncomfortable. I freshened up in your bathroom, did you know you had one? At least I don't have to worry about make up or indeed shaving." "You should have left and slept in a bed, but I'm glad you stayed so you were here when I awoke. Too bad I can't see you!" I said. "I think we can do something about that!" I recognised the voice of the doctor, he must have entered the room while we were talking. "The nurse is going to remove your bandages, and if everything is fine she will apply new dressings, but not over your eyes. But please do not open your eyes until I say so, okay?" "Yes, doctor," I confirmed as I closed my eyes in readiness. The bandages were removed. After a short while, the doctor said, "very good, you can open your eyes now." I slowly opened them, getting used to the light and a figure in front of me came into focus, it was Leo grinning. I gasped, although he looked exactly as I expected, it was not only the shock of seeing him after such a long time, but also that I was seeing a woman, a very attractive woman and I thought I wish I could look like him or do I mean her. "Hello, Leo," I said with affection. "Hello, Linda," he replied. "More good news, Linda," said the doctor. We are going to remove your constraints. Your arms are fine, we didn't want you disturbing your bandages. But your left leg is in a splint, you will be able to stand and walk, but with crutches. As you were unconscious for a while, I want you to have a scan, just in case, and if you check out you can be discharged to go home in the company of a family member or friend. I have to continue with my rounds now, I will see you later." Leo and I beamed at each other as we both said 'thank you' as he and the nurse left. "I must come home with you, but I have to speak to my PA first. She will be here soon to take me back to my quarters. First I should tell you about my relationship with her and her role," said Leo. I had a sinking feeling. He continued, "she is not my personal assistant, as such, she is actually my supervisor, effectively my boss. I was assigned to her when I reached the finals of the BTS. She told me that I was something special and the agency had exciting plans for me now I was a BTS finalist. Her name is Siobhan Diamond. She was the one I asked to invite you to the BRITs, she agreed as she knew all about you. She had asked me about my dedication at BTS final and I told her about you and the last time I saw you was a week after I started with JCE. Later she told me she had made the arrangements as I had asked. She is with me nearly all the time, except when I'm in my quarters. She lives in the penthouse above. I'll go and see if she has arrived. Would you like to meet her?" "Yes, I think I would," I replied as I said to myself 'she has shared my husband's life for nearly two years, of course we had to meet!'. Leo left and about ten minutes later came back with a smartly dressed slim young woman, probably in her late twenties. You could not help notice her magnificent mane of red hair. Leo introduced us. She sat in the visitor's chair while Leo went back to the patient's chair. "Hello, Linda, it is nice to meet at long last, but I wish it was under better circumstances. How are you? Sorry, I didn't bring any grapes as I was not expecting to visit you. Well perhaps not grapes," she laughed. I thought she was quite charming. "Leo has told me you can go home today on crutches, but you need somebody to be with you. He wants, and should be, the one and he tells me there is no one else," said Siobhan. "Yes, that's right since I saw Leo in that drag review I have been alone and I have missed him. I withdrew into myself and didn't socialise, I just went to work. So there is really nobody I can turn to in such short notice." I replied. "There is something not quite right here. I was told you refused to see Leo after seeing him in the drag review and you wanted no further contact." she said. "No that's not true!" I cried, "I was expecting to see him after the review, but I was told it was not possible to see any of the performers. I did see him again in cabaret at one of your clubs as preparation for BTS, but again I was not given the opportunity to see him. Yesterday was the first time I have seen for two years, well today to actually see him!" "There is something that Leo does not know about me," she said. , "I am the daughter of Jack Dymond, the owner of Jack of Clubs Enterprises. So I have some influence with the staff. I arranged for the BRITs invitation, but when my father found out he had you removed from the guest list and cancelled the hotel account." "It was the manager of the club in your town, the one who discovered Leo's talent, who told me about your accident, he had seen it on the local TV news and he knew you were Leo's wife. I rushed Leo here yesterday, my father doesn't know anything about this," explained Siobhan. "I am very grateful you did, reuniting with Leo has literally saved me. What you don't know is when I woke up yesterday, I was determined to try again to end my life. It is being with him and finding out about the truth about each other that has changed my mind and made me determined not to let him go again," I replied. Leo added, "I don't want to leave Linda now we are reconnected and she nearly died because of me. I have had blinkers on and have believed too easily what I have been told. I have been behaving like a diva. Now she needs me more than ever before." "I have an idea, but I need to get my father's agreement and there are some details that I need to sort out. Provided nobody finds out you are Sharon, or takes your photo, take a few days off and go home with Linda. I have enough material on video to keep your public presence going without an apparent break. During your time off, agree between the two of you whether you want to stay together or not. If you decide to live apart, then I will fetch Leo and that will be the end of it." Shioban paused and then said, "to stay together there is only one option. Linda has to come and live with Leo and no one must know. Linda will need to leave your job and move out of your house. You cannot bring anything with you except other than essential and cherished personal belongings. No one must know where you went. It must never be known that Sharon Diamond is married." "Why can't I just resign and go back to my old life? Or even embark on a singing career as a man?" Leo asked. "I was afraid you would ask me that," sighed Siohban. "There was only one standard break clause in your contract, and that was at the end of the first week in case it didn't work out. Only JCE can terminate your contract now. My father makes too much money out of you for him to agree to change your contract and he has longer term plans for you once your singing career is over." "What if I challenged the contract in court? It must be illegal," asked Leo. "I am sure you are right, but my father has other ways to enforce a contract. JCE controls all of Sharon's social media accounts, they created Sharon's public image and they can destroy you and Linda. You do not want to know about the other ways." "Could we change our identities and live together away from all this?" I asked, after all we should have enough savings and there will be royalties on Sharon's recordings." "Leo's only income is as stated in the contract which has been paid regularly into your joint bank account. I'm afraid JCE keeps all the revenue and owns all assets relating to Leo as Sharon," explained Siobhan. Leo and I looked at each other in shock and were speechless. "Linda will be able to live with you in your JCE quarters with all her needs met, including as an invalid for the time being as we have a company nurse." "So what do we do now?" Leo asked me. "I just want to go home with you and let it all sink in. Then we will let Siobhan know our decision, although I'm afraid it is going to be Hobson's Choice," I replied. "Siobhan, how can we contact you?" "You can't contact me, but if you give me a phone number I'll keep in touch. I will stay here today with you, if you don't mind, I would like to get to know you both better. When the hospital gives the all clear, I'll take you both home. My father is going to be furious, I'll try and give you as much time as possible before I come to collect Leo with or without you. I'm truly sorry." The nurse then entered the room to get Linda ready to go home. BACK HOME It was bliss having Leo at home. The village shop owner was happy for me to take a week off at short notice, we were never really that busy. I didn't mention Leo, I never said anything, and nobody ever asked, but the rumours were that he had left me. We just spent our time together at home, Leo couldn't go out in case he was recognised. We talked, we made love, we enjoyed each other's company again, we talked, we made love. Despite my broken leg being an impediment. Leo would spend periods exercising, to keep fit and supple for his dance routines and, he rather sheepishly admitted, to keep his figure toned and trim. They were women's routines, but he told me that was what he was taught. They were quite different from the exercises he used to do when he played rugby. On the second day I joined in. He also exercised his voice, always his female singing voice. In the hospital he had used a feminine speaking voice, in case someone overheard, but when talking at home he used his normal voice. He joked that he needed to still talk as a man in case he lost his vocal range. He wore his old clothes. When he exercises he wears his rugby shirt and shorts, which he had always looked sexy in, but with his narrower waist and breasts he looks even more sexy, but as the opposite gender. One evening I decided to confront the elephant in the room by broaching the questions of our future and Leo's gender and sexuality. His love making and peformance in bed left little room for doubt about his sexuality but he could be a born again bisexual. "Leo," I said in a serious tone, "I handed in my notice to the shop this morning. I know we haven't discussed it, but I'm coming with you to JCE; I am never going to be apart from you again. But I want to ask you, about you as Sharon, and what you feel and want. I'm willing to accept whatever you wish to be, but it would be easier for me to adjust if I knew and understood. I have made my decision so you do not need to worry and can tell me how you really feel inside." "I feel like a man inside! And, as for staying together, we are of the same mind, as we have always been. I don't want to leave you, even if it means running away together. But as for the second part, I too need to better understand myself and our relationship. The changes I have been through the past two years were not of my choosing, I am conflicted as I do enjoy what I have become." "I have noticed! When you look at yourself in the mirror it is just like a woman admiring her appearance and with pride in her body." I commented. "But when I look at you, outwardly I see the woman you have become, and I am no longer attracted to you." Leo looked crestfallen. "That came out wrong! What I meant is that I would not have found you sexually attracted if we had just met. But I can see the inner you, I see Leo the man I fell in love with and married. And of course you retain your number one asset, something I would recognise as yours anywhere!" I took his hand. "So you have nothing to worry from me about you looking and presenting as a woman, especially as you are more successful as a female entertainer than you were as a courier driver." "Well that is a comfort," sighed Leo. "I have come to like the way I am, but I am happy to go back to the old me. The trouble is that I would need a magic wand to do so! Although being with you as a weird looking guy would be my choice over not being with you." "Do you want to be a woman, that is to go all the way and have the op?" I asked with a firm but quizzical look. "What gender do you want to be, now or in the future?" "That is an easy question. I do not consider myself transgender and I am, and wish to remain a man. I wouldn't rule out physical changes to improve or maintain my looks, but only to keep up appearances to avoid embarrassment and unwelcome questioning." "Are they the only reasons? Be truthful to yourself Leo," I queried. Leo was silent for a while, as if I had just made him think. He then spoke. "I have spent the last two years being groomed and cajoled into being a woman. The focus was on my femine looks and behaviour. So I, yes I suppose, have been conditioned to behave and think just like a woman and want to do and look the best I can." "I'm no behavioural expert, but it is clear to me you now have a female persona," I commented. "But I am a Leo expert, and I can see you still have your original male persona, it has been coming to the fore since you got home and being treated as Leo again." "So I am perhaps best described as a professional female entertainer who behaves and thinks like a woman, enjoys being a glamorous woman and in her appearance, and being treated as a woman," announced Leo. "But also I am a husband who is a man in private, keeps to his wedding vows, enjoys a normal sexual relationship with his wife, wears items of women's clothing as an expediency or because it is practical, but not for sexual pleasure. In a nutshell, I am a straight, married, non- compulsive crossdresser." Leo looked at his nails, which I found amusing, and continued. "So to answer your question, my gender is occupationally female and privately male and my sexuality is male. Does that make sense? Oh, and I am not drawn to men." "I can go with that," I smiled. "I never really thought about it until now. For two years the only contact I had with other people was as a woman, I was only ever referred to as 'she' or 'her' and called 'Sharon', 'Miss' or 'Madam', 'dear' or 'love', though after a while I did like being called Madam. The only compliments I received were about my femine appearance or performance and I was only ever dressed as a woman. In my quarters, I reverted to being a man, but I was on my own and I still had to wear women's clothing. And my only sexual activity was relieving myself while thinking of you, even though I had been told you didn't want anything more to do with me. I am pleased that this week our sex life has returned near normal, even if more intensive. It has been reassuring that my sexuality has not been influenced, making love with you is what I enjoy and I'm looking forward to your full recovery, but I'm not looking to try new horizons!" We had been home a week when my phone rang, I looked at the caller ID and it said 'private number', it must be Siobhan I thought. "Hello," I answered, too nervous to say who I was. "Hi Linda, it's Siobhan. I held out as long as possible but I need to come and pick up Leo. Am I picking you up as well?" "We have discussed it and yes I'm coming too. I do not want to be separated from Leo ever again," I replied. "I'm pleased you are staying together and I hope we can be good friends, as Leo's supervisor I am going to be around all the time! See you later," she said. WE MEET THE OWNER We arrived at JCE's corporate building, where Leo's quarters were, and made our way up to near the top of the building. The security was tight and extensive. Leo's quarters were large enough for two and I quickly settled in. I was surprised there were no signs of Sharon. Leo said his quarters were for his time off and not for work. There was a knock on the door, it was Siobhan. "Hi Linda, my father would like to meet you and Leo in the penthouse in about an hour. I will come down and fetch you." An hour later we were being introduced to Jack Dymond. "Hello Mrs James, a pleasure to meet you, I am so sorry about your accident. I hope you will recover soon," he said before turning to Leo, "Mr James, at long last we meet. Sharon Diamond is our most profitable revenue stream so we have to take special care of you!" "Thank you sir, I didn't even know you existed until a week ago. I do enjoy working with your daughter and I hope we can work well together too," Leo said in response. Jack didn't seem to hear what Leo was saying. And my mind was full of evil thoughts, this was the man who kept us apart in case it stopped him making him money, and it was his actions that lead to my suicide attempt. "I will tell you this. I was angry with what my daughter had arranged for you, Mrs James, but I then saw an opportunity," said Jack abruptly and then he looked at me in the eyes with a smirk. "You being here has changed the dynamic and allows me to move Sharon Diamond's career to a new level. When she went off script at the BTS final and dedicated her song to a very special person who she had lost contact with, it caused all sorts of headaches for us. We managed to clamp down on speculation, especially on social media. We had to stop at all costs you being discovered and exposed as Miss Diamond's wife. So we decided that Miss Diamond would not make any further public experiences, although we had to chance it for the BRITs as she had to be there in person. When I discovered that you had been invited I stopped it, it was too big a risk." "But now we can move onto a new phase and allow public appearances. We will be able to make money from shows and performances, appearances and promotions and lastly as a celebrity escort." He remained silent for a moment. Siobhan looked puzzled. "Mrs James you will remain here in this building, you will stay in your quarters unless being escorted. You are effectively a captive for the foreseeable future. While you behave, I'll honour my daughter's foolish promise and you can be with your husband in your quarters and when he is working in the building for rehearsals, wardrobe, and so on. But that is not all." He turned to Leo. "Miss Diamond, I've just greeted you as Mr James, but it is Miss Diamond as far as I am concerned. I own you and you will do exactly as I tell you. You would not want to behave or say anything out of line; I will be holding Mrs James here as a hostage. As a final sanction, I can always arrange another suicide attempt and it will be successful this time. I am sure you will do your best to maximise your worth and not to upset me." Jack said with a smirk. "I've left the best bit to last. Sharon Diamond will now be seen dating for real, you will escort clients for publicity purposes or if they pay for the privilege. Certain clients and friends of mine like to have a famous star on their arm at an event or party, but they don't go for real girls and they want someone like you to enjoy afterwards. In private you will provide whatever services they pay for or I generously offer. Not only are you a famous female singer, you will become a scandalised socialite, an A-list hoar. I have my daughter to thank for this gift," gloated Jack. "I have read your file, Miss Diamond. I see you were originally spotted at one of our talent shows as a potential cabaret act for our clubs. But at the drag review, my personal staff realised you had greater potential as one of our special drag queens. That's when we started you started on hormones, a concoction that preserved your manhood which I am sure your wife is very pleased to hear," chuckled Jack. "It is standard procedure, so that we can pimp our drag queens when they lose their audience appeal, and if they disappoint we can get a good price for shemales through our dark web online auction site." Jack then turned to me. "We can also get a good price for you too, Mrs James, as a slave." "But with Miss Diamond winning BTS, we became more ambitious and decided to upgrade you to a trans female entertainer, you are a unique asset in my organisation. You're in the capable hands of my daughter, but bear in mind what I said." "Come with me please," Siobhan told us. We followed her out of the penthouse and down to our quarters. When we were inside, she said to us in tears, "I'm so sorry" and left. It was late, so we crawled into bed and hugged each other, we cried with joy being together again and we cried because we were horrified by what might happen. In the morning Leo turned to me and said, "I've been thinking about it all night, I just have to do what I have to do and learn to live with it. Most of the time I do expect to be Sharon the singer and not Sharon the courtesan." "I'm sure someone will come to our rescue, darling. We'll get through this somehow together," I reassured him. OUR LIFE AT THE AGENCY We settled into a routine. Leo would go off to work, as it were, and I was the stay-at-home wife, albeit I had no choice. When he got back, which could be at all hours, depending if he was performing a show or not, I would ask how his day was. He would usually tell me what he had been doing and it was clear he was enjoying himself which made me happy. If he was rehearsing or having a costume fitting in the building I would join him. Then one day Siobhan came and sat with me in the staff restaurant, I could use staff facilities if I behaved myself, I was too scared not to toe the line. We chatted and then she became serious. "Linda, do you mind if I ask you a question?" I shook my head. "Would you like to be my assistant? With the shows and the public experiences Leo is now doing, I am finding it difficult to cope. I can't pay you under the circumstances, but I expect you are bored and would like to be more involved in Leo's career. I have noticed that you are helping to choose his outfits when you have been with him. What do you think?" "Oh, I would love too, it is almost like a dream job, except for the bits about my husband being a famous trans woman and not being paid. When Leo and I graduated from university it was the middle of a financial crisis and we missed out on graduate jobs, I really would like the opportunity to start realising my potential," I replied enthusiastically. "Great, you can start now! Come with me to my office. And if there is anything you are going to find difficult to deal with, just let me know, and I'll take over, we will be working as a team. And don't worry my father never comes into my office. He summons me!" Leo and I didn't enjoy any freedoms, we had no choices, I couldn't leave the building, but we enjoyed our roles. We were closer now than we would have been if we were still living our normal lives. Sharon received her fist invite to a public engagement. All Leo's costumes were for his performances, on stage or video, he had very few clothes suitable for being in public, he had never needed a handbag for example. So we had to decide what Sharon's public persona was going to be. We went for an elegant society look, with exclusive clothes and accessories as befitting Sharon's status as a diva and her apparent wealth. We decided Leo would wear a matching dress and jacket made by JCE's dressmaker to a design inspired by Chanel. We teamed it with court shoes with iconic red soles and a bag that was worth more than I used to earn in a month. We added discrete diamond and gold jewelry; a pendant, earrings, two rings and a bracelet, and a Cartier watch. He looked the part and was stunning. He was nervous at first at meeting members of the public, but he soon relaxed and his outgoing stage persona spilled over into public life. Leo had been in the studio recording a new album of Bond movie songs. Today he had been on set shooting the first of the videos. When he got back home, it was clear he wanted to get something off his chest. "Hi, honey, how was your day?" I said mimicking a housewife. "We have been filming the first video for the Bond album," he answered, "it was 'Under the Mango Tree' from 'Dr No'." "Was that the scene where Ursula Andress walks out of the ocean?" I asked sheepishly. "Yes," he then paused, "they are recreating the scene with me in a bikini just like her, and not only that, they then cut to me on the beach in a wet shirt tied at my midriff hand in hand with Anton Black playing James Bond! I am so embarrassed." I gave him a reassuring hug, not telling him I had made the arrangements, after Siobhan had put my mind at rest and said Anton would be the perfect gentleman. "Not only that, we are also doing the theme from 'Goldfinger'. I was thrilled with my interpretation of the Shirley Bassey classic, but for the video I'll be wearing a gold bikini and covered in gold body paint just like Shirley Eaton," said Leo anxiously. "I hope they will leave a bare patch so your skin can breathe," I laughed. MY HUSBAND A COURTESAN It had to happen one day, a request came into the office from upstairs for Sharon to be Anton Black's escort to the BAFTAs. He was shortlisted for Best Actor, so it was going to be the awards ceremony, the official afterparty and then as Anton wished. Siobhan said she would take care of the arrangements, but thought I would like to be there for the fitting of the gown. It was from the designer who lent the dress for the BRITs and he had a tremendous boost. He was keen for Sharon to wear another of his creations, this time especially designed for her. Apparently, he worked up some ideas some time ago hoping Sharon would be on the red carpet again. "I know you know about the BAFTAs," Leo said to me later. "As you also know I have no choice. I'll have to take it as it comes. Apparently, a condition for such a service is that I must not be harmed in any way, I'm still worth more as a singer. But I have to say, I'm looking forward to trying on the gown!" I was fully onboard with Leo's uncovered passion for women's clothes, the more glamorous the better. I think I enjoyed it as much as he did. The day of the BAFTAs arrived, but it was also the day of another significant event for me. It was the day my leg splint was to be removed and I could discard the crutches. The significant event was that I could now have full sex with Leo. We had both gone without since the night before Leo was separated from me a long time ago. I went down to the company medical centre, I couldn't return to the hospital. They removed the splint, checked me over and gave me the all clear. We didn't discuss that I could now have pentrative sex, but it was knowingly implied. I made my way to where Leo was getting dressed to help get him ready. As I entered, I gave him the thumbs grinning from ear to ear. He had just stripped down to his bra and knickers, but the dresser said, "everything Leo!" She was one of the very few insiders who knew us as Leo and Linda, bringing on her on board made it so much easier. "Strapless bra tonight," she said as she handed him a bra and a very skimpy thong, but roomy where it needed to be. Leo then put on a robe and sat down so his hairdresser could do his hair. We had decided that it was time for Sharon's first public appearance with his own hair, it was now long enough. His stylist out did herself with an elegant and rather complicated updo. After being made up, Leo slipped on his shoes. They had slender five inch heels, I don't know how he could walk, let alone dance, in them. When I tried on a pair I had difficulty standing. His gown was of a simple design. It was an off-the-shoulder column gown in blush pink silk with a deep plunge. The hem of the skirt fell to the floor and that was with those heels. The critics were later to praise Leo as the best dressed woman on the red carpet. I went upstairs to our quarters. The BAFTAs were being shown live on TV and I wanted to catch Leo's appearance with Anton Black. The cameras caught the limousine arriving. The door was opened and Anton emerged and waved to the excited crowd. He then turned and offered his hand as Leo gracefully got out of the car beaming at Anton and then at the crowd who became more excited. Leo took Anton's arm and they started down the red carpet to the interview area. I was amazed how graceful Sharon, she was Sharon now, glided down the carpet, she was the star. They stopped so that Anton could be interviewed, he was the favourite to win best actor. As he answered questions about his chances and an upcoming new film release, Sharon stood there holding on to his arm and gazing at him with a look that said 'this is my man'. I became emotional as feelings of jealousy came over me. I wanted to be there, I wanted to be wearing that fabulous gown, I wanted to be hanging to my husband's arm. I wanted to be seen with Sharon. When it came to the ceremony and the announcement of the best actor nominees, the camera focussed on Anton and Sharon. And when Anton was announced as the winner, they turned to each other and hugged, Anton gave Sharon a kiss on the lips before heading for the dias to receive his award. I had no idea when Leo would be home, but I was determined to stay up and wait for him. I chose 'Brief Encounter' to watch, I wanted a romantic film but forgot that the plot follows a passionate extramarital affair which awoke my irrational fears of Leo and Anton. But it had been a long day and I dropped off to sleep on the sofa. I felt a kiss on my lips and I woke with a jolt to see Leo's grinning face. "Sorry to wake you darling, but we need to get to bed," whispered Leo. He had changed, all Sharon's things had to go back to Wardrobe and the gown to be ready to return to the fashion house. "But I want to hear all about tonight," I pleaded with some apprehension. "Then I want you! You were sensational on the red carpet, the attention was on you and not Anton. There was a chemistry between you two, which the commentators picked up on and declared you an item. I am quite jealous." Leo looked horrified, "You should know me by now! There's nothing to be jealous about." "Oh yes there is," I relied, "I wanted to wear that gown!" We both laughed, Leo with relief. "So what was Anton like? What happened at the afterparty?" I asked, "or should I say, after the afterparty." "He was a charming gentleman. He asked me if I was pre-op, and given what Jack had threatened, I said yes. He then asked if my manhood was diminished or still firing, and I admitted to still firing. He looked pleased," I replied. "At the afterparty we behaved like a couple who were comfortable with each other and it was for real, I wasn't pretending for the other guests and gossip columnists. He was romantic and thoughtful and very touchy- feely, but he wasn't groping or being over intimate. But he is gay and now knew I was man underneath," said my husband. I was starting to feel for Leo as he carried on. "As guests started to go on elsewhere, he gave me a kiss on the cheek and took my hand and said it was time to leave. We left through a back exit and to another car, not the limo we came in. When in the car, he turned to me and told me that he had enjoyed the evening and my company. He had had pleasure accompanying me to the BRITs and wanted to return the favour. I wasn't paying much attention to where we were going, I was wondering what personal service Jack had promised Anton I would deliver, when we drew up outside the JCE building. He leaned over and gave me a kiss on the cheek and said that he hoped I would enjoy the rest of the night and winked. As the driver helped me out of the car, Anton said that he wished that one day we could all become good friends." "So, Sharon is still a virgin! But is Leo ready to end his two years of famine?" I asked with a grin. "You bet he is, but what about you?" he replied. We consummated our reunion that night. Over the next few months Leo finished his new album and the videos. I really enjoyed working with Siobhan and him. Even though I am confined to the JCE building, I wouldn't want to go back to working in the village shop, but I do miss chatting to some of the regulars. DARK CLOUDS One morning we had just finished breakfast when there was a knock on our door. This was unusual, Siobhan usually rang if there was a change in the schedule. I opened the door and there was a young man who I vaguely recognised. Then I remembered he was the man who chaperoned me when Leo performed his first cabaret act in the run up to the TV talent show. "Hello David," I said, he looked surprised, "How are you?" "I'm good thanks," he replied without emotion, "Miss Diamond and you are to come with me now. Miss Dymond has been informed you will not be available today." "Okay, I call Leo. Can you give us ten minutes?" I asked. "There is no need to get ready, just come as you are," he replied. Leo then appeared, he was dressed in 'male' mode, which of course for him was T-shirt and jeans, no makeup and hair pulled into a low ponytail and still looking more woman than me! We followed David to a part of the building that was unfamiliar and had very few people about. We entered a dressing room. "Both of you, take off all your clothes and somebody will be with you shortly to do your hair and make up." Leo looked as if was about to say something but David said, "Now!" and left the room. "What is going on?" Leo asked me as he pulled off his T-shirt. "I have no idea, but I think we better do what he says. I have met him before, he was the one who would not let me come and see you when you did that cabaret show in the club, the last time I saw you before the hospital. He wasn't particularly friendly then, his role appeared to be more of a minder than a host. I suggest we just do as they ask," I replied. We stripped down to our underwear. It still amused me that Leo wore the same plain modern style that I wear and today we were both wearing dark grey. He can now choose his own off-duty clothes and I wonder if it is because I'm his only role model or we just have similar tastes like couples do. I was flattered. David reentered the room with a young woman. "Miss Diamond, take off your knickers and lie down over there," he said pointing to a bed. "You will both be having your pubic hair shaved off. " Leo I did as he told. "Hello," he said to the woman as she prepared Leo, "How are you Kate?" Leo turned to me, "Kate was one the team at the drag review who feminised me, I haven't seen her since." Kate didn't respond and quickly shaved Leo, who now had no body hair at all. David then turned to me and said, "your turn." I gave him a puzzled look. "This is not up for discussion. But I will let you know what is going on and you will cooperate. Both of you are to have videos and stills taken. Mr Dymond has decided it is time for Miss Diamond to prepare to be a courtesan. For her first 'service', Mr Dymond will be able to charge a premium. She will always be a major asset while she is a celebrity, but she is something extra, a virgin, a virgin that is for the sex she will be providing. A video, showing her assets, will be put together and uploaded to our special services dark web site. Punters will make a nonrefundable bid to take part in an auction. The six highest bidders will be invited to the auction, which will also be streamed, and they will be able to examine you and ask questions. Mr Dymond will then decide who the lucky winner will be, based on what they are proposing and the final fee. The more damage they could do to you and the longer the time you will be away from your entertainment work with JCE, the more they will have to pay." Leo and I looked at each other in dismay and to seek comfort. "Mrs James, you will be offered as an option. Some of our clients may like the idea of a threesome or have their way with the wife before moving on to the main course," David chuckled, briefly encroaching into his otherwise authoritative demeanor. "But, the main reason, Mrs James, is that you are a hostage to Miss Diamond's cooperation and good behaviour. As a punishment, we will be able to act quickly and offer you on our website, to provide a special service or to sell you depending on the seriousness of the disobedience." I was now in the same hairless state as Leo. Kate applied makeup to both us, in an erotic style but not overdone. "Please take off your bras and put these on and follow me," said Kate when she had finished our hair. She handed both of us a pair of shoes with six-inch heels that would do a courtesan proud. Perched on those heels, I struggled to match Leo's grace. We passed through a door into a photo studio. We both went through a series of shots, mainly views to show off our completely nude bodies than poses for portraits. Most were of Leo, but some of us together and some on my own. Only the photographer's directions broke the silence. , "You are known as a famous and glamorous singer, but as a courtesan you will also be known as a desirable she-male," said David smirking at Leo. "We now want to shoot you showing an erection. Mrs James, assist your husband." I was embarrassed, David saw this. "Do not be bashful, privacy no longer belongs to you. Just get used to it." The atmosphere was threatening and Leo was also embarrassed. This was intimate between the two of us, not to be seen by or shared with others. But worse was yet to come, literally. "Now I want you to bring your husband to a climax. We wish to show that, despite the wonderful effect hormones have had on her body, she is not damaged goods. Just to get on with it and allow the semen to sprout freely, but be careful not to block the camera view." I was so embarrassed that I just stroked Leo like an automaton. He was slow to come, which was not surprising given the circumstances. But David looked please, too quick would not be good. We dressed and were led back to the main JCE offices, we were apparently in an area where unauthorised persons had to be escorted. We got back to our quarters, it was nearly lunchtime but we weren't hungry and we wondered what we should do, when the phone extension rang. Leo answered it, he knew I wouldn't be able to talk to anyone. He listened to the call and then replied, "Yes, of course, we will see you later," and put down the receiver. "It was Siobhan," Leo said to me, "she heard that we were called away by her father's private office. Her plans for us today had been cancelled and we can take the rest of the day off. But she would like to have dinner with us this evening, but here in our quarters. She has asked the canteen to prepare something simple for us and it would be casual. I agreed, she was insistent and she is our boss." The food arrived, it may have been simple, but it looked and smelt delicious; well it had been ordered by the boss's daughter. Talking of whom, she arrived a few moments later. We had become close enough now that when alone we would greet each other with a hug, air kiss for me but kiss on the cheek for Leo. He only did air kisses as Sharon, he said it was a male female thing. We laid the food on the table and sat down. After some small talk, Siobhan said, "Anything we talk about tonight will and must remain between the three of us and cannot be talked about later if there is a chance we can be overheard. I am serious, our safety may depend on it." "After today, you can be sure of it," said Leo. "Can you tell me what happened?" she asked. "Please don't leave anything out however embarrassing." Leo told her everything, looking at me now and again for confirmation. "It is what I was expecting and fearing. I am not privy to my father's affairs, but I have the impression that he was under pressure to make you available. He has been putting it off because Sharon is making him a lot of money as an entertainer. The only good news is that he is going to auction Leo off as a virgin, which will take time and means you are safe until it is time to deliver. We need to fill up Sharon's diary with personal appearances and commitments. The most affluent clients are overseas which could mean being away for some time, it is unlikely to be a one-night stand, and a full diary may delay the inevitable for a little longer" Leo and I just sat there in silence, unconsciously sipping our wine. So Sharon continued. "My father's private office is not part of JCE, but he uses the organisation to hide his dark operations and to source its assets, as it likes to call them. These assets are the drag queens from the review, commandeered when they cease to be as valuable as entertainers. They are transferred from JCE to a separate company, called QCS, or Queen of Clubs Services, a legal entity for show but with a large illegal hidden part just like an iceberg. As far I am aware, Leo became a special project since his success at the drag review. I was responsible for Sharon's development with JCE and I suspect David for Leo's future role for QCS. It has been fortunate that Leo, as Sharon, has been a public success beyond all expectations." "It was David who came up and spoke to Tinkerbelle at the end of Leo's performance at the drag review. I got the impression he had told Tinkerbelle not to let me see Leo as expected," I said. "Quite frankly there is little we can do, my father's people are very powerful and have cranked up Linda's potential as a hostage. JCE's security report directly to my father's office, so please do not take chances, the risks are too high. I'll do what I can, but I can't promise anything. I did need to go now, I don't want my father to start asking questions. I'll see you both tomorrow, and hopefully it will all be a normal day. Good night and try to get some sleep." CLEAR SKIES We had heard nothing about the auction for a couple months. We were just finishing a dress fitting, when Siobhan asked both of us to come with her to her office. "I have some news for you," she said as we sat down, "last week we were informed that my father had been officially declared dead while on a business trip to eastern Europe. The rumour, which I can easily believe, is that he had crossed some rather unpleasant business associates and they faked his death for revenge and as a lesson for others. Apparently he is well under way to being feminised and transformed into a bimbo and grotesque sex slave for their personal pleasure. We have been told we will never hear from him, or her, again." We were shocked, Leo said, "We are so sorry." "Don't be," she responded, "he was my stepfather and we didn't get on, but my mother insisted he employed me. The proposal to promote you as a recording artist, and not just a club singer, had just been put to him so he decided to put me in charge of your legitimate career, to keep me away from the seedier side of his business. I am relieved he is no longer around." "Over the last week, the new ownership and management of the company has been approved," she paused for a moment. "My mother has inherited his estate, including JCE. She is now the Chair of the Board and they have agreed to appoint me Chief Executive, so I now run this company with my Mum's help." "Congratulations," I said but I wondered what would now happen to us. Siobhan had occasionally gone out a limb for us, but I wasn't sure where she stood. "Thank you," she said before continuing. "Mum now knows about the both of you two and your background, who Sharon Black really is and the control her husband had exerted over you, your servitude with JCE and the obscene amount of money he personally made out of you. We have discussed your positions and we are going to rectify past unfairness and offer you new contracts." "I have asked our finance director to assess your net earnings, Leo as a contracted artist and Linda as my assistant, and we are going to add a sum as compensation for the lack of freedom, assault, forced feminisation and grief you suffered. You are both going to become very well off," she said with a grin. "That's an amazing thing to do," Leo said with astonishment. "Mum and I think it is the least we can do, don't forget a good part of the fortune left by Jack was down to you and we still retain a fair share. It makes good business sense and is the moral thing to do. We want JCE to be an ethical business. We have closed my father's private office, closed QCS and made all non-JCE employees and those close to my father with no real job descriptions redundant. We have retained a few we think we can trust to help find QCS victims and provide help and rehabilitation depending on the circumstances. Fortunately most of JCE's businesses, as well as staff and clients, are above board, but we are taking steps to make sure the company is clean. Of course, you can sue us for more compensation and retribution, but we hope you help us pull through." "By the way, you need not worry about the promo pictures for the auction. Some editing had taken place, but they had never left the studio. We have deleted all of them," said Siobhan. "If you believe the stories you read on the internet, there is probably a surplus of shemales on the market which probably dampened down demand, so there was no urgency." "Oh that's a pity. I was going to use the one with Linda holding my prick for our Christmas Card this year," said Leo chuckling. Both Siobhan and we were silent for a moment and I burst out laughing and the other two joined in. I didn't think it was that funny, but is more the relief of not having the Sword of Damocles hanging over us. "And now your future. Leo's contract is unenforceable and Linda doesn't have one. So you're free to leave with your compensation and go back to your old life. And I hope we can stay friends. Or I can sign up Leo as one of our artists, our star artist actually, and employ Linda to be his personal manager. Of course, it could be as Leo, as himself, or even the novelty act that brought you to JCE's attention. But with an album coming out I am hoping it will be Leo as Sharon." We both looked at each other and grinned. We know each other so well so without discussion, I looked at Siobhan and said, "as Sharon." "Excellent, I'm really pleased. I think we have a long future ahead, successful torch singers don't fade away. I am very conscious of your privacy, how open we are is up to you, I would favour being open about Leo and your marriage, it makes things easier. It is a long tradition for an artist of one gender to play the other, but in this case as Leo is something special and he does have the voice, body, looks and natural grace of the other gender!" "As his manager and hidden away wife, I agree with you. My first task as personal manager is to discuss this matter with my client," I said looking at a buoyant Leo, "and let you know how we want to play this." "Well to help you decide, I will tell you that I'm going to divide the penthouse into two. The part I already live in will be the basis of one residence, which I will continue to live in, and the second residence will be yours, if you wish, to give you security and keep you away from prying eyes." "Wow," said Leo. "Now, I have another surprise for you," said Siobhan, "I have arranged a small celebratory dinner in the penthouse tonight. My Mum, who is now your big boss after all, knows all about Sharon, her company's top artist, but now she wants to know the real you and she would really like to meet the both of you. And I have a surprise guest. Shall we say eight o'clock? Dress casual and, Leo, come as yourself." AFTERPARTY Leo wasn't sure what Siobhan meant when she said 'come as yourself'. Did she mean dressed in his usual T-shirt and jeans? Not quite the right impression when meeting the new owner for the first time. Luckily, we had bought some of his old clothes from home that still fitted him of sorts, so he decided to wear a shirt, chinos and loafers. He looked much smarter. We couldn't go out to buy anything to take as guests, well not yet anyway as security may not yet know of our new status, so I made some chocolates to enjoy after the dinner. Just after eight we rang the penthouse doorbell and Siobhan welcomed us in and we walked through to the living area. "Mum, this is Leo and his wife Linda," said Siobhan. A lady who looked too young to be Siobhan's mother embraced us in turn and she said she was looking forward to getting to know us. "Anton, this is Linda and you know Leo, or rather his alter ego." You should have seen the surprise on our faces. Anton gave me a kiss on the cheek and shook Leo by the hand. "I pleased to meet you Linda, at long last, and to meet the real Leo." An excited Siobhan chipped in, "I have known Anton since he was an up- and-coming actor on our agency's books, he became my BGF. It was me who asked him to escort you to the BRITs, being up for an award you couldn't go without a companion and Anton was a safe pair of hands." "Siobhan's right, Leo's not actually my type, as Sharon or Leo! I was delighted to help out and Siobhan told me that she had also invited Linda so I could react accordingly when we met, which regrettably never happened. We had to put on a show, Jack demanded it, but I was horrified with the media speculation and Linda's subsequent suicide attempt. I am so so sorry, I hope you can forgive me," said Anton. "I was really upset with what I heard on the radio, and I had not seen my husband for so long. I never blamed you, you have nothing to be sorry about." I said to Anton. "I appreciate your sentiments. With Leo I was always acting, my kisses were only acting. Linda, there were no tongues, I promise! And Leo, when I asked about your manhood it was because Siobhan had told me you were a straight crossdresser and not trans, but I did wonder. You showed a perfect figure when wearing your bikini on the Dr No shoot! And she did hint that you both were hoping for a long-awaited special occasion on the same day as the awards ceremony." "When Anton was nominated for a BAFTA," said Siobhan, "I thought I would deflect Jack's intentions for Sharon, by asking Anton to take you to the awards. The idea was to protect Leo and make sure he could get you back home early for that special night for you two." "As I said when I dropped you back here after the BAFTAs, I hope we can all be friends," said Anton. "I'm sure we will," we both said together and then laughed. "I hear you will be moving up here into a new residence," said Anton. "Yes," I replied, "it is very generous and thoughtful of Siobhan." "I second that," chipped in Leo, "it means we will have a secure, private residence where we can live as husband and wife away from my public life as Sharon. We can be Mr and Mrs James. And at home I will always be Leo." "But how will you dress?" Siobhan's Mum asked Leo. "There's no hiding you are a woman." "I'll answer that love," I said to Leo. "We have decided as our private life will be more open, that Leo will dress as a woman full time. Although at times he may go for a more androgynous look. Frankly, it makes life simpler. Leo can't hide his appearance, so we are going to live openly as two women, as a married couple. We are not going to try and change the trans woman narrative, but Sharon Diamond will just be his stage name and personna. Leo's emerging feminine persona is less glamorous than his Sharon's, I glad to say. A diva he is not." "Does that mean Leo the man no longer exists?" asked Anton. "I was looking forward to having a straight but sympathetic mate who was not trying to get off with me!" "Oh no, Leo will still be a husband to me," I replied, "and he will dress as a man when appropriate or when in the mood. So you two can go off to the pub, if you want!" "You mean that Leo will be a man who looks and dresses as a woman but sometimes dresses as a man?" laughed Siobhan, "a double cross dresser?" For some reason we all thought that was hilarious, probably because we knew our new friendships were going to work out. My tale ends with us having new close friends; our boss and a celebrated actor, and my husband a celebrated singer. And rich. A far cry from our life when this tale started.